Challis Russell , LPC, LCMHC

Challis Russell approaches counseling with the conviction that mental health is an essential part of overall wellness. She uses a holistic lens to support the physical, social, and emotional aspects of a client's life, offering empathetic guidance while listening carefully to each person's unique circumstances. After earning a master of arts in clinical counseling from Johns Hopkins University, she has worked with a varied caseload that includes adults, couples, families, and adolescents.

Her practice has served individuals affected by anxiety, depression, trauma, domestic violence, and immigration-related stressors, and she is prepared to provide counseling to these populations. Challis combines encouragement with steady support, learning about clients' goals before tailoring care to their needs. She holds LPC and LCMHC credentials - that is, Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor - reflecting formal training and state licensure to practice counseling.

Clients seeking a clinician who prioritizes whole-person well-being and offers experience across life stages and relationship dynamics may find her style grounded, compassionate, and practical. Challis focuses on understanding each client's story and working collaboratively to identify steps toward greater balance and resilience.

Therapeutic Approaches and Online Care

Challis Russell integrates client-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and mindfulness practices into her online work to address a range of concerns. Client-centered therapy emphasizes understanding the client from their own perspective and creating a supportive environment that helps people explore feelings and goals - this approach is often helpful for relationship concerns, self-esteem, and life transitions.

Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors. CBT is commonly used for anxiety, depression, and stress management because it provides practical tools for coping and problem solving.

Mindfulness therapy teaches present-moment awareness and gentle acceptance of thoughts and sensations, which can reduce reactivity and support emotional regulation after trauma or during periods of high stress.

Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process. Challis works with clients to identify which methods best match their needs, goals, and preferences, and she adapts strategies as therapy progresses. Online sessions - including video calls, phone appointments, live chat, and text-based messaging - offer flexibility for scheduling and make it easier to fit therapy into busy lives while connecting with licensed professionals and therapists from different locations.