Licensed clinical social worker recordVirginia
Richard Sumner, LCSW
Virginia
Licensed clinical social worker - stress and mood concerns
Continue with RichardCredentials check
- Credentials
- LCSW
- Licensed in Virginia
- LCSW, licence 0904006675
- NPI
- 1457588097
- Experience
- 25 years
- Languages
- English
- Location
- Virginia
These details come from information Richard supplied to BetterHelp. A licence can be checked with the social work board of the state that issued it, and an NPI with the national registry.
AAbout
- Stress and anxiety
- Self esteem issues
- Life changes
About Richard
Richard Sumner is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensed in Virginia with 25 years of professional experience. He works with common concerns such as stress, anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, and coping with life changes. He also addresses issues related to aging and geriatric concerns, substance use, men's issues, midlife transition, mood disorders, and self-harm.
He begins by listening to each person's story and looking for practical strengths to build on. Sessions focus on clear goals and steps people can use between meetings. Conversations are straightforward and aimed at reducing daily pressures that get in the way of functioning and relationships.
Richard draws on evidence-based therapeutic techniques to help people manage symptoms and adjust to change. He helps people sort what matters most, try small experiments in behavior, and track what works. This is often useful for improving motivation, confidence, and mood.
People who want a direct, pragmatic approach will find the work centers on real-life problems. He asks about routines, supports, and habits and then helps set manageable tasks. The emphasis is on what can change now to make life feel more manageable.
To get started he asks people to describe their current concerns and goals. That information shapes an initial plan and the next steps for sessions. Sessions are conducted in English and follow Virginia licensure standards for an LCSW.
BHow sessions work
Evidence-based approaches and online sessions
Richard relies on brief, evidence-based therapeutic techniques that focus on behavior and thinking patterns. Cognitive-focused work includes identifying unhelpful thoughts and testing alternative ways of thinking to reduce anxiety and low mood. Behavioral strategies involve setting small, achievable tasks to rebuild routines and motivation, which can help with depression and midlife transitions.Finding the right approach is part of the work. He collaborates with each person to decide which techniques fit their goals and daily life. Together they review what helps, adjust methods, and set clear next steps so the approach evolves as progress is made.
The biography does not list specific session formats, so confirm the available online options before booking. Online sessions can make it easier to fit meetings around work, caregiving, or medical appointments. They also allow for shorter check-ins when needed and reduce travel time, which can help keep momentum between sessions.
CAreas of focus
Areas of expertise
Additional focus areas
Experience
25+ years
Listed in
Virginia
Languages
English
DQuestions
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of issues does he help with?
He works with stress, anxiety, self-esteem, depression, and coping with life changes, plus related areas such as aging concerns, substance use, men's issues, midlife crisis, mood disorders, and self-harm.
What is his therapeutic style?
He uses straightforward, evidence-informed techniques focused on practical steps. Sessions tend to identify strengths, set simple goals, and track changes between meetings.
How much experience does he have?
He has 25 years of professional experience working in clinical social work settings and related practice.
Where is he licensed to practice?
He is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW, licensed in Virginia.
In which language are sessions offered?
Sessions are offered in English only.
Can I work with him from outside the United States?
He does not accept international clients at this time.
How are session formats handled?
The original biography does not list specific session formats; please confirm the current session options before booking.
How does cost and scheduling work?
Rates vary by location and services use a subscription that can be canceled at any time. To begin, complete the short matching questionnaire and schedule a first session.
Online talk therapy is not emergency care. If you are in danger, call 911, or call or text 988. More crisis numbers