Robyn E Brickel MA, LMFT, LLC

10/26/2025

We’re excited to share that Brickel and Associates in Old Town Alexandria, VA, is currently accepting new clients! Our trauma-informed psychotherapy practice provides compassionate, personalized support for adolescents, adults, couples, and families through in-person therapy.

At Brickel and Associates, we understand how trauma affects the mind and body. Our team is committed to helping you create lasting, positive change by fostering emotional safety, resilience, and self-awareness. Through a supportive and proactive approach, we guide clients toward stronger self-compassion and worth, healthier relationships, and meaningful growth.

We help you build the foundation and tools needed for a safe and stable life, both in therapy and beyond. You’ll gain skills to set and maintain healthy boundaries, navigate life’s challenges with confidence, develop new coping strategies, and strengthen your inner resilience.

No matter where you are in your healing journey, our team is here to meet you with compassion, respect, and the guidance you need to thrive. If you’re ready to start therapy and are in Old Town Alexandria, VA, schedule an appointment with us today.

10/24/2025

Traumatic events can leave a lasting impact on both the mind and body, often keeping the nervous system in a constant state of “alarm.” Everyday stressors can trigger overwhelming reactions, even when the danger has passed. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy is a trauma-informed approach that helps the brain create new neural pathways, allowing the nervous system to process and integrate traumatic memories safely. This approach enables clients to feel grounded in the present while gradually reducing the intensity of past trauma.

EMDR uses gentle, bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements, tapping, or alternating sounds, to activate both sides of the brain. These techniques mimic the rapid-eye-movement stage of sleep and support the brain’s natural processing system. When combined with a safe, supportive therapeutic relationship, EMDR helps the higher thinking parts of the brain “soothe” the trauma-altered survival responses, giving clients the ability to respond more calmly to triggers.

We have several therapists trained and experienced in EMDR, providing care as part of our inclusive, trauma-informed approach. Whether working with single-incident trauma, complex trauma, or C-PTSD, EMDR helps clients reprocess memories and reclaim a sense of safety and stability in their lives. If you’re curious whether EMDR could support your healing, our Alexandria, VA team is here to answer your questions and help you explore this transformative therapy. https://ow.ly/YRlo50Xcayk

10/23/2025

A recent NPR article shares data showing encouraging signs for teen mental health: between 2021 and 2024, the prevalence of serious suicidal thoughts among teens dropped from nearly 13% to 10%, and su***de attempts fell from 3.6% to 2.7%. Rates of major depression also declined, from 21% to 15%. Experts attribute some of this progress to more teens seeking help, opening up about their struggles, and increased access to targeted su***de prevention programs.

However, challenges remain, about 2.6 million teens still experience suicidal thoughts, and only 60% of those with depression received treatment. Learn more, https://ow.ly/sh4z50XcawQ.

The 2024 National Survey on Drug Use and Health report found that in recent years, depression and suicidal thoughts and behaviors in teens have declined.

10/23/2025

The term ‘addiction’ is often misunderstood. Many people see someone struggling with drugs or alcohol and label them an “addict,” but this word doesn’t nearly capture the full story. At Brickel and Associates, we see the person behind the behavior—someone coping with pain, trauma, and difficult emotions. Substance use or addiction is often a way to survive, not a choice for pleasure.

Understanding addiction through a trauma-informed lens is essential. Addiction doesn’t discriminate—it affects people of all ages, backgrounds, and walks of life. Recovery isn’t instant, and it isn’t easy, and with the right support, healing is possible. Compassion, not judgment, is key.

To families and loved ones also needing support – we see you. Watching someone struggle with using substances or addiction can feel overwhelming and powerless. Remember: your care and well-being are just as important as the person you love. Learning about addiction, setting boundaries, and seeking guidance can help.

Learn more by visiting our blog, Do You Use Drugs and Alcohol to Manage Your Emotions. Recovery is possible, and you are not alone on this journey. https://ow.ly/KX0O50Xcavw

10/22/2025

October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on an issue that affects countless individuals and families. This month is about more than awareness, it’s about education, action, and honoring the strength of survivors. It’s about hoping for a time that is safe – for everyone!

Domestic or interpersonal violence can take many forms, including physical, emotional, and financial abuse. Recognizing the signs and understanding the dynamics of abuse is a critical step in supporting those impacted and preventing further harm.

Communities play a vital role in prevention. Whether it’s learning the signs, offering support to survivors, or advocating for safer environments, every action counts. By coming together, we can help break cycles of abuse and promote healing. Everyone deserves safety!

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, know that help is available. Reaching out is a courageous step, and trauma-informed support can make a meaningful difference.

10/21/2025

According to a recent World Health Organization (WHO) article, adolescent mental health is more important than ever—one in seven 10–19-year-olds experiences a mental health disorder, with depression, anxiety, and behavioral disorders among the leading causes of illness and disability, and su***de the third leading cause of death for those 15–29. Early support, trauma-informed care, and safe, nurturing environments are critical for helping young people build resilience, navigate challenges, and thrive. Programs like WHO’s Helping Adolescents Thrive Initiative highlight the global need to prioritize mental health and prevention efforts for this vulnerable population. Learn more, https://ow.ly/YhNa50XcatH.

The recent FDA expert panel focused largely on the risks of SSRIs during pregnancy but ignored or diminished the risks associated with untreated depression in the mother.

10/21/2025

The world feels increasingly unpredictable right now. From global events to personal challenges, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, anxious, or drained. In times like these, prioritizing your mental health isn’t just important, it’s essential.

Taking care of yourself doesn’t have to be complicated. It can be as simple as checking in with your emotions, setting boundaries, practicing mindfulness, or reaching out for support when you need it. Every small step you take matters.

Self-care isn’t just a fad. It’s a way to build resilience, maintain perspective, and protect your well-being in a world that often feels chaotic. By caring for your mental health, you’re equipping yourself to handle challenges with clarity and compassion.

If you’re in the Old Town Alexandria, VA area and ready to start therapy, schedule an appointment with our team at Brickel and Associates. Prioritizing your mental health today is an investment in your future self, you deserve it.

10/20/2025

Therapists hold space for deep pain, healing, and transformation every day. This work is profoundly meaningful – and also demanding. To offer safe, ethical, and compassionate care, therapists need spaces of their own for reflection, support, and renewal.

That’s where clinical consultation comes in. While supervision is required for new therapists, consultation is a vital, ongoing process for licensed clinicians. It’s a collaborative space to process complex cases, deepen trauma-informed skills, and strengthen the quality of care we offer our clients. Consultation helps therapists stay grounded, connected, and thoughtful, so they can show up fully for the people they serve.

When therapists engage in consultation, everyone benefits. Clients receive care that’s more ethical, current, and attuned. Therapists gain clarity, confidence, and connection. And the field of trauma-informed care continues to grow stronger through shared learning and community.

Or team believes consultation is essential. We offer Virginia Board Approved Supervision and trauma-informed consultation, including EMDRIA Approved Consultation and TIST Consultation, to support clinicians at every stage of their careers. Because therapists can’t pour from an empty cup, and those who care for others deserve care, too.

Learn more in our latest blog: Why Clinical Consultation Is Essential for Every Therapist. https://ow.ly/ILR750XcaqV

10/19/2025

Even the most skilled and experienced professionals need support. That’s where clinical consultations come in. Whether you’re a counselor, social worker, psychologist, healthcare provider, or family/youth services professional, consultations offer a space to reflect, gain insight, and strengthen your work.

Our Clinical Director, Robyn Brickel, MA, LMFT, brings her extensive expertise in trauma, family-of-origin issues, and substance abuse, along with many other dissociative mechanisms to support professionals through both individual and group consultations. These sessions provide practical tools to navigate complex cases while also addressing the impact that client work can have on the therapist (countertransference).

Consultations can be one-time, ongoing, or as-needed, flexible to meet the demands of your caseload. Many professionals find that consultation groups also provide an invaluable sense of community and shared learning.

When we invest in our own professional growth, we enhance the care we provide to clients. Clinical consultation is about strengthening both the therapist and the work in clinical practice. Learn more by visiting our website and when you’re ready to begin, Contact Robyn Brickel at Robyn@robynbrickel.com or 703-518-8883 for professional support tailored to your needs.

10/17/2025

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to honor the strength and resilience of those whose lives have been touched by this disease. Breast cancer impacts far more than physical health, it can shape emotional well-being, relationships, and entire families. The journey never has to be walked alone - community support can play a powerful role in healing.

This month, we pause to recognize and celebrate the courage of survivors (as we know many!). We want them to know that we stand alongside those currently in treatment, and extend compassion to the loved ones who walk this path beside them. Their stories remind us of the importance of hope, strength, and solidarity.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month also reminds us of the practical steps we can all take, raising awareness, encouraging one another to prioritize health screenings, and remembering the value of self-care. Early detection saves lives, and nurturing your own well-being matters deeply.

10/16/2025

A new study from the University of Portsmouth and University of Surrey finds that young adults who stay up late scrolling on their phones are more likely to struggle with smartphone and social media addiction. Stating that this is mostly because they often feel lonely or anxious and use their phones to cope. Though, instead of helping, this can make those feelings worse. This is worth a read - Learn more, https://ow.ly/8po550XbSoN.

Eveningness and mental health issues contribute to problematic technology use among young adults.

10/16/2025

It’s natural to want relief right away, when you are ready to dig in and heal from trauma.. Many trauma survivors come to therapy asking, “How long will this take?” The answer is I don’t know - true healing can’t be rushed. Trauma recovery requires time to build safety, and move at a steady pace to create lasting change.

Jumping into the details of your story too quickly can actually make things harder. Reliving painful memories before you have the skills and stability to hold them can leave you feeling triggered or disconnected, reinforcing old patterns. Instead, trauma-informed therapy begins with building safety, stability, and trust, both in the therapy space and in your daily life.

Healing starts with learning to stay present, developing new coping tools, and slowly widening your “window of tolerance” for difficult emotions. This foundation allows you to process your story in a way that fosters true resolution, not re-traumatization.

So, yes - healing trauma takes time, AND every step matters. It’s about creating a life where safety, connection, and resilience replace or at least walk alongside fear and overwhelm.
Our blog explores why slowing down is essential to trauma recovery and how a trauma-informed approach can guide you toward lasting healing. Visit our blog to learn more, https://ow.ly/2NnN50XbPfW.