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Sunlight Counseling offers in-person and virtual therapy with a specialization in trauma (including EMDR), anxiety, addictions, depression and grief/loss. Located in Virginia Beach, VA In-Person and Online Therapy Areas of Expertise Stress Management Grief/Loss Substance Abuse Self-Esteem Trauma Anxiety Adulting Caregiving Relationship Problems Addictions ADHD Depression Anger Management Self-Care Work/Career Concerns Coping Strategies Conflict Resolution Assertiveness Training EMDR Therapy Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based treatment approach that helps individuals heal from traumatic events utilizing eye movements or bilateral stimulation to reduce distress levels associated with traumatic memories and allow the brain to activate it's natural healing process. Originally used in the treatment for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, (PTSD), EMDR has been shown to be an effective treatment modality for a variety of mental health concerns, such as anxiety, depression, panic disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and other adverse life events, including other forms of trauma and adjustment-related issues. Burnout Mood Disorders Emotional Regulation Mindfulness/Relaxation Personal Growth Compulsive Behaviors and Addictions Insurance In-network with Anthem, Blue Cross/ Blue Shield (HMO, PPO and PAR), Aetna and Sentara (HMO, PPO and POS) commercial health plans. Self-pay Our fee is $185 for the initial assessment and $165 for subsequent sessions. Sunlight Counseling PLLC accepts all major credit cards. If you would like to receive possible partial or full reimbursement from your insurance carrier by submitting a claim directly to them, please request a super bill at the time of your appointment. Online/ Virtual therapy is provided using HIPPA compliant technology to protect your privacy. Contact Us

Our therapists are specially trained in areas such as EMDR, CBT, Addictions, CSAC and DBT. We use an empathic and trauma-informed approach to align with our clients and support them throughout their mental health journey. Nicole Sirko, LPC Allison Russell, LPC Megan Colon, LPC Colin Brady, LPC Amber Hill, LPC, CSAC, CSOTP Meet Our Therapists My educational background includes a BA in Psychology from Duquesne University and a Master's Degree in Counseling from Old Dominion University. I have participated in several specialized trainings in the areas of anxiety, mindfulness, trauma, self-regulation, cognitive-behavioral therapy, mood disorders, acceptance and commitment therapy, and self-compassion. I have also worked in a supervisory capacity as both clinical supervisor for counselors seeking licensure and clinical director positions in the community setting. I use a person-centered and strengths-based approach to create a nonjudgmental space in which people are able to gain insight into their life circumstances. I also draw on a variety of evidence-based practices such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and solution-focused therapy to help clients expand their personal skills set and navigate their way through difficult times. I believe that it takes more courage to seek help than it does to avoid our challenges and we often find our motivation after taking the first step. I strongly value the importance of emotional health and I work collaboratively with each person to assist them along their healing journey. My educational experience includes a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a Bachelor of Science in psychology from Old Dominion University. I am committed to providing a safe place for individuals to feel heard, understood, and encouraged to make satisfying lifestyle changes. My approach to treatment is client-centered and collaborative, as I believe in meeting individuals where they are in the therapeutic process to create positive change and develop effective coping strategies to implement in everyday life. My approach to therapy combines different treatment modalities; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy, EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Trauma Informed Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. Setbacks are not failures, but an opportunity to learn and grow from these experiences and have an increase in life satisfaction by meeting your needs. I am passionate about supporting clients by helping develop healthy strategies to cope and experience growth in emotional, mental, and physical wellness. Together, we will work collaboratively to explore your challenges, increase social connections, and promote empowerment. Therapy can help guide you to find your inner strength and I look forward to joining you on this journey to live a happier and healthier life. I recognize that each individual holds a unique story and set of strengths and that they are the true experts in their own lives. My passion lies in guiding individuals to heal and discover personal growth even in the face of life’s most difficult challenges. Together, we will work collaboratively to foster personal growth and navigate the path to positive change. My academic experience includes a Bachelor of Psychology and a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Old Dominion University. I also have additional training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectal Behavioral Therapy. My approach is rooted in empathy, open communication, and collaboration. I employ evidence based therapeutic interventions tailored to each person’s unique needs such as solution focused therapy, motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and various trauma informed approaches to empower individuals in meeting their personal and emotional goals. I firmly believe in the value of therapy as a powerful tool for personal growth and healing and eagerly anticipate the opportunity to walk alongside you on your personal journey to well-being and self-discovery. My educational experience includes a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a Bachelor of Science in psychology from Old Dominion University. I bring over 10 years of experience working with diverse populations in various clinical settings such as working in crisis intervention, substance abuse, community mental health centers, and residential treatment facilities, where I have had the privilege of supporting individuals facing some of life's most difficult challenges. I specialize in anxiety, depression, substance abuse, trauma, and relationship issues. Through our therapeutic relationship, I aim to cultivate an environment of trust, acceptance, and empathy, where you can feel empowered to explore your innermost thoughts and feelings at your own pace. I believe that you are the expert on your own life, and my role is to provide empathetic understanding, unconditional positive regard, and genuine authenticity as we collaborate to navigate your journey toward growth and self-discovery. My therapeutic approach is rooted in evidence-based practices, including person centered, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness-based techniques. I believe in creating a safe and nonjudgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I received a Master of Science Degree with a focus in Mental Health in 2003. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC) and a Certified Sex Offender Treatment Provider (CSOTP). I specialize in various areas of addiction with over 20 years of experience counseling in diverse environments with clients with varied backgrounds and presenting issues including residential treatment, community settings and the private sector. My interventions are primarily cognitive behavioral therapy, identifying how clients’ thoughts and feelings are manifested in behaviors resulting in both positive and negative consequences. As perception makes an event real, we can often think in a manner which is counterintuitive to our values, principles, and beliefs. By identifying alternative ways of thinking resulting in a change in our feelings, we can change our responses to the outside world to change our behaviors, thus maximizing positive outcomes. I work with clients struggling with compulsive behaviors, depression, anxiety, gambling addiction, pornography addiction as well as issues surrounding sexual and gender identity. We can work together to change your perception of yourself and the world in which you are currently navigating. If you're ready to embark on this journey of self-discovery and growth, I invite you to reach out. Let's work together to help you thrive. Contact Us Nicole Allison Megan Colin Amber

At Sunlight Counseling in Virginia Beach, we promote resiliency and well-being with our compassionate approach of meeting our clients where they are and using evidenced-based practices to help them heal. Our Mission Sunlight Counseling strives to establish a person-centered foundation to allow individuals to increase resiliency through development of self-worth, acceptance and awareness using evidence-based and compassionate treatment. We understand how difficult it can be to open up to someone new (life is hard enough sometimes!). Our clients are often surprised by the ease at which they are able to share information upon meeting, and we strive to create a trusting relationship and confidential space for you to do the same. Meet Our Therapists Cats and Counseling Sylvester As fellow animal lovers know, pet ownership has many health benefits, such as reducing stress, anxiety and improving your well-being. Our animal friends are also important reminders of how to live in the present moment and practice the art of mindfulness skills. Studies have shown that simply petting an animal can reduce our heart rate and promote relaxation. I'd like to introduce you to Sylvester and Sadie. Sylvester enjoys being present during virtual sessions and is a calming companion to both me and my clients. Sadie occasionally makes a brief appearance, then goes back to doing important kitten things! Sadie "To shine your brightest light is to be who you truly are." --Roy T. Bennett Contact Us

Sunlight Counseling specializes in mental health treatment for anxiety, trauma (EMDR) grief and addictions. We offer in-person and virtual therapy in Virginia Beach, VA Welcome to Sunlight Counseling Our therapy sessions provide a secure and nurturing environment to promote healing and resiliency, regardless of past or present circumstances. Whether you're new to therapy or returning after a recent event, our goal is to accompany you on your journey to gain a deeper understanding of yourself, identify any obstacles, and develop better coping mechanisms for change. We offer in-person and virtual therapy for your convenience and accessibility. View Services Meet the Therapists Nicole Sirko, LPC/ Owner I have over 20 years of experience helping adults better understand and manage anxiety, adjustment related difficulties, depression, career/work concerns, and grief/loss. I combine a person-centered and cognitive-behavioral approach to promote resiliency and help clients develop coping mechanisms personally tailored to work for them. Allison Russell, LPC My passion is supporting adults with overcoming challenges related to trauma, life transitions, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and difficult relationships. I am also trained in EMDR. I am here to support you with improving communication, building healthier relationships, and creating lasting change. Megan Colon, LPC I am dedicated to providing a safe and non-judgmental environment where clients can embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing. I also have additional training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectal Behavioral Therapy. Colin Brady, LPC I offer a warm and empathic approach to therapy which is rooted in the belief that everyone has the capacity for personal growth and self-actualization given the right conditions. Whether you're grappling with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, relationship issues, or simply seeking greater self-awareness and fulfillment, I am here to support you every step of the way. Amber Hill, LPC, CSAC, CSOTP I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC) and Certified Sex Offender Treatment Provider (CSOTP) with over 20 years of experience. Utilizing a primarily cognitive-behavioral approach, I work with clients struggling with compulsive behaviors, various addictions, depression, anxiety, and concerns related to sexual and gender identity. Contact Contact Us In-person and virtual openings available. Please send a message below or reach out by email or phone. We look forward to connecting with you soon! Submit Thanks for submitting! Email: admin@sunlightcounselingvb.com 316 Office Square Ln. Suite 101 Virginia Beach, VA 23462 Tel: 757-279-8058 Existing clients may access the client portal by clicking below. Portal If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room. You may also call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-8255. Sunlight Counseling does not offer crisis counseling or emergency services.

Good Faith Estimate Disclaimer This Good Faith Estimate shows the costs of items and services that are reasonably expected for your health care needs for an item or service. The estimate is based on information known at the time the estimate was created and does not include any unknown or unexpected costs that may arise during treatment. If you are billed for more than this Good Faith Estimate, you have the right to dispute the bill. Throughout your treatment, the provider may recommend additional items or services as part of your treatment that are not reflected in this estimate. These would need to be scheduled separately with your consent and the understanding that any additional service costs are in addition to the Good Faith Estimate. If your needs change during treatment, your provider should supply a new, updated Good Faith Estimate to reflect the changes to treatment, and the accompanying cost changes. You may contact the health care provider or facility listed to let them know the billed charges are higher than the Good Faith Estimate. You can ask them to update the bill to match the Good Faith Estimate, ask to negotiate the bill, or ask if there is financial assistance available. The Good Faith Estimate is not a contract between provider and client and does not obligate or require the client to obtain any of the listed services from the provider. You may also start a dispute resolution process with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). If you choose to use the dispute resolution process, you must start the dispute process within 120 calendar days (about 4 months) of the date on the original bill. There is a $25 fee to use the dispute process. If the agency reviewing your dispute agrees with you, you will have to pay the price on this Good Faith Estimate. If the agency disagrees with you and agrees with the health care provider or facility, you will have to pay the higher amount. To learn more and get a form to start the process, go to www.cms.gov/nosurprises or call HHS at (800) 985-3059. For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate or the dispute process, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises or call (800) 985-3059. Keep a copy of this Good Faith Estimate in a safe place or take pictures of it. You may need it if you are billed a higher amount.

Notice of Privacy Practices THIS NOTICES DESCRIBES HOW HEALTH INFORMATION MAY BE USED AND DISCLOSED AND HOW YOU CAN GET ACCESS TO THIS INFORMATION. PLEASE REVIEW IT CAREFULLY. I. MY PLEDGE REGARDING HEALTH INFORMATION: I understand that health information about you and your health care is personal. I am committed to protecting health information about you. I create a record of the care and services you receive from me. I need this record to provide you with quality care and to comply with certain legal requirements. This notice applies to all of the records of your care generated by this mental health care practice. This notice will tell you about the ways in which I may use and disclose health information about you. I also describe your rights to the health information I keep about you, and describe certain obligations I have regarding the use and disclosure of your health information. I am required by law to: Make sure that protected health information (“PHI”) that identifies you is kept private. Give you this notice of my legal duties and privacy practices with respect to health information. Follow the terms of the notice that is currently in effect. I can change the terms of this Notice, and such changes will apply to all information I have about you. The new Notice will be available upon request, in my office, and on my website. II. HOW I MAY USE AND DISCLOSE HEALTH INFORMATION ABOUT YOU: The following categories describe different ways that I use and disclose health information. For each category of uses or disclosures I will explain what I mean and try to give some examples. Not every use or disclosure in a category will be listed. However, all of the ways I am permitted to use and disclose information will fall within one of the categories. For Treatment Payment, or Health Care Operations: Federal privacy rules (regulations) allow health care providers who have direct treatment relationship with the patient/client to use or disclose the patient/client’s personal health information without the patient’s written authorization, to carry out the health care provider’s own treatment, payment or health care operations. I may also disclose your protected health information for the treatment activities of any health care provider. This too can be done without your written authorization. For example, if a clinician were to consult with another licensed health care provider about your condition, we would be permitted to use and disclose your personal health information, which is otherwise confidential, in order to assist the clinician in diagnosis and treatment of your mental health condition. Disclosures for treatment purposes are not limited to the minimum necessary standard. Because therapists and other health care providers need access to the full record and/or full and complete information in order to provide quality care. The word “treatment” includes, among other things, the coordination and management of health care providers with a third party, consultations between health care providers and referrals of a patient for health care from one health care provider to another. Lawsuits and Disputes: If you are involved in a lawsuit, I may disclose health information in response to a court or administrative order. I may also disclose health information about your child in response to a subpoena, discovery request, or other lawful process by someone else involved in the dispute, but only if efforts have been made to tell you about the request or to obtain an order protecting the information requested. III. CERTAIN USES AND DISCLOSURES REQUIRE YOUR AUTHORIZATION: Psychotherapy Notes. I do keep “psychotherapy notes” as that term is defined in 45 CFR § 164.501, and any use or disclosure of such notes requires your Authorization unless the use or disclosure is: a. For my use in treating you. b. For my use in training or supervising mental health practitioners to help them improve their skills in group, joint, family, or individual counseling or therapy. c. For my use in defending myself in legal proceedings instituted by you. d. For use by the Secretary of Health and Human Services to investigate my compliance with HIPAA. e. Required by law and the use or disclosure is limited to the requirements of such law. f. Required by law for certain health oversight activities pertaining to the originator of the psychotherapy notes. g. Required by a coroner who is performing duties authorized by law. h. Required to help avert a serious threat to the health and safety of others. Marketing Purposes. As a psychotherapist, I will not use or disclose your PHI for marketing purposes. Sale of PHI. As a psychotherapist, I will not sell your PHI in the regular course of my business. IV. CERTAIN USES AND DISCLOSURES DO NOT REQUIRE YOUR AUTHORIZATION. Subject to certain limitations in the law, I can use and disclose your PHI without your Authorization for the following reasons: When disclosure is required by state or federal law, and the use or disclosure complies with and is limited to the relevant requirements of such law. For public health activities, including reporting suspected child, elder, or dependent adult abuse, or preventing or reducing a serious threat to anyone’s health or safety. For health oversight activities, including audits and investigations. For judicial and administrative proceedings, including responding to a court or administrative order, although my preference is to obtain an Authorization from you before doing so. For law enforcement purposes, including reporting crimes occurring on my premises. To coroners or medical examiners, when such individuals are performing duties authorized by law. For research purposes, including studying and comparing the mental health of patients who received one form of therapy versus those who received another form of therapy for the same condition. Specialized government functions, including, ensuring the proper execution of military missions; protecting the President of the United States; conducting intelligence or counter-intelligence operations; or, helping to ensure the safety of those working within or housed in correctional institutions. For workers’ compensation purposes. Although my preference is to obtain an Authorization from you, I may provide your PHI in order to comply with workers’ compensation laws. 10 Appointment reminders and health related benefits or services. I may use and disclose your PHI to contact you to remind you that you have an appointment with me. I may also use and disclose your PHI to tell you about treatment alternatives, or other health care services or benefits that I offer. V. CERTAIN USES AND DISCLOSURES REQUIRE YOU TO HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO OBJECT. Disclosures to family, friends, or others. I may provide your PHI to a family member, friend, or other person that you indicate is involved in your care or the payment for your health care, unless you object in whole or in part. The opportunity to consent may be obtained retroactively in emergency situations. VI. YOU HAVE THE FOLLOWING RIGHTS WITH RESPECT TO YOUR PHI: The Right to Request Limits on Uses and Disclosures of Your PHI. You have the right to ask me not to use or disclose certain PHI for treatment, payment, or health care operations purposes. I am not required to agree to your request, and I may say “no” if I believe it would affect your health care. The Right to Request Restrictions for Out-of-Pocket Expenses Paid for In Full. You have the right to request restrictions on disclosures of your PHI to health plans for payment or health care operations purposes if the PHI pertains solely to a health care item or a health care service that you have paid for out-of-pocket in full. The Right to Choose How I Send PHI to You. You have the right to ask me to contact you in a specific way (for example, home or office phone) or to send mail to a different address, and I will agree to all reasonable requests. The Right to See and Get Copies of Your PHI. Other than “psychotherapy notes,” you have the right to get an electronic or paper copy of your medical record and other information that I have about you. I will provide you with a copy of your record, or a summary of it, if you agree to receive a summary, within 30 days of receiving your written request, and I may charge a reasonable, cost based fee for doing so. The Right to Get a List of the Disclosures I Have Made.You have the right to request a list of instances in which I have disclosed your PHI for purposes other than treatment, payment, or health care operations, or for which you provided me with an Authorization. I will respond to your request for an accounting of disclosures within 60 days of receiving your request. The list I will give you will include disclosures made in the last six years unless you request a shorter time. I will provide the list to you at no charge, but if you make more than one request in the same year, I will charge you a reasonable cost based fee for each additional request. The Right to Correct or Update Your PHI. If you believe that there is a mistake in your PHI, or that a piece of important information is missing from your PHI, you have the right to request that I correct the existing information or add the missing information. I may say “no” to your request, but I will tell you why in writing within 60 days of receiving your request. The Right to Get a Paper or Electronic Copy of this Notice. You have the right to a copy of this Notice. If you feel your privacy rights have been violated, you may file a complaint with the Department of Health and Human Services by visiting their website at www.hhs.gov/ocr/hippa. You will not be penalized for filing a complaint.

Website Disclaimer The content of this website, including text, images, audio, video, and other material is provided only as general information and is not medical or mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment of any kind. The information provided is not intended to be a substitute for obtaining treatment from a licensed professional. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical or mental health condition. Transmission of information on this website does not create a therapist/patient, supervisor/supervisee, or any other type of professional relationship between you and Sunlight Counseling PLLC. Any information, narratives, examples or testimonials presented on this website do not constitute a warranty, guarantee, or prediction regarding the outcome of using any such material contained herein for any particular purpose or issue. Information, resources, and recommendations are provided in good faith, and the accuracy, validity, effectiveness, completeness, or usefulness of any information herein, as with any publication, cannot be guaranteed. Sunlight Counseling PLLC disclaims all warranties and responsibilities of any kind, whether expressed or implied, for the accuracy or reliability of any information contained in this site, and for the suitability, results or effectiveness for any particular purpose of the content. You are solely responsible for your use or reliance on any information contained on this site and any foreseeable or unforeseeable consequences arising out of such use or reliance. Sunlight Counseling PLLC reserves the right to change or update this disclaimer notice, or any other of our policies or practices, at any time without notice. Any changes or updates will be effective immediately upon posting to this website. Under certain circumstances, we may also elect to notify you of changes or updates to our disclaimer notice by additional means, such as posting a notice on the front page of our website or sending you an e-mail. We encourage you to review this disclaimer notice often for changes. If you have any questions or comments regarding our disclaimer notice, you may contact us at: Sunlight Counselling PLLC 316 Office Square Ln. Suite 101 Virginia Beach, VA 23462 Phone: 757-279-8058 Email Address: admin@sunlightcounselingvb.com