
Jonathan Evans, Counseling Intern, Old Dominion University
My approach to therapy is calm, conversational, and focused on helping you create meaningful change. I believe in providing a comfortable, judgment-free space where you can be yourself, explore your experiences, and gain a better understanding of your thoughts and emotions. While I'm patient and supportive, I'll also encourage you to challenge unhelpful patterns and recognize your strengths. Whether you're navigating anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, or major life transitions, my goal is to help you develop practical tools, build confidence, and move forward with greater clarity and purpose.
Therapist Profile
1. How would you describe your therapy style in everyday language?
My therapy style is calm, conversational, and goal-oriented. I believe therapy should feel like a safe, comfortable space where you can speak openly without fear of judgment. I enjoy asking thought-provoking questions that encourage self-reflection while helping you identify practical solutions to life's challenges. My goal is to help you gain clarity, build confidence, and make meaningful progress.
2. What type of client do you tend to connect with best?
I enjoy working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, particularly those navigating anxiety, emotional regulation, self-confidence, and major life transitions. I also connect well with people who struggle to express their emotions or understand their reactions to certain situations. I appreciate helping clients make sense of their experiences and discover healthier ways to respond to life's challenges.
3. What do clients usually appreciate most about working with you?
I believe clients appreciate my patience, nonjudgmental approach, and ability to offer a fresh perspective. I take the time to listen and understand their experiences while helping them recognize strengths they may not see in themselves. I also encourage clients to challenge unhelpful thought patterns, develop healthier coping strategies, and recognize their ability to create positive change.
4. How do you help clients feel comfortable when they are nervous, guarded, or unsure about therapy?
I believe building a genuine connection is the foundation of effective therapy. I often begin with casual conversation to help clients feel at ease and allow them to share their experiences at their own pace. I remind clients that there are no right or wrong answers in therapy and that they don't have to share everything at once. I also incorporate humor when appropriate because sometimes a little laughter can help make difficult conversations feel less overwhelming.
5. What topics, life experiences, or mental health concerns do you feel especially called to support?
I'm particularly passionate about supporting individuals navigating anxiety, trauma, emotional regulation, family relationships, and significant life transitions. With my military background, I also have a personal interest in working with service members, veterans, and military families. I understand that military life can bring unique challenges involving adjustment, relationships, identity, and emotional well-being. My goal is to help individuals work through these experiences while building resilience and finding a healthier sense of balance.
6. What should a new client know about what it feels like to sit in session with you?
Sessions with me are conversational, supportive, and collaborative. You don't have to walk into therapy with everything figured out or even know where to begin. We'll work together to explore what's happening in your life, identify patterns, and develop strategies that support your goals. I encourage honesty, self-reflection, and personal growth while respecting your comfort level and pace. Therapy is a partnership, and I'm here to support you throughout the process.
7. Outside of your clinical work, what are 2–3 things that show your personality?
Outside of counseling, I enjoy working out, staying physically active, and spending quality time with my family. I value personal growth and enjoy learning new things that challenge me to become better both personally and professionally. I believe maintaining balance in my own life helps me appreciate the importance of wellness beyond the therapy room.
8. Do you use humor, pop culture, storytelling, faith/spirituality, homework, journaling, or practical tools in your sessions? If so, how?
I enjoy incorporating humor, storytelling, and real-life examples to make therapy relatable and engaging. I believe therapeutic concepts become more meaningful when clients can connect them to everyday experiences. I also incorporate practical techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), including identifying unhelpful thoughts, reframing perspectives, and developing coping strategies. My goal is to help clients leave sessions with tools they can apply in their daily lives, not just insights discussed during therapy.
9. What is one misconception people may have about therapy that you wish you could clear up?
One misconception I'd like to challenge is the idea that therapy is only for people experiencing serious mental health concerns. Therapy can be beneficial for anyone who wants to better understand themselves, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or navigate life's challenges. You don't have to be in crisis to seek support. Sometimes therapy isn't about fixing something that's wrong; it's about discovering what's possible when you begin to understand yourself on a deeper level.
10. Complete this sentence: "You might be a good fit for me if you're looking for a therapist who…"
You might be a good fit for me if you're looking for a therapist who is approachable, patient, and willing to challenge you when needed. I believe in creating a space where you feel genuinely heard, respected, and supported while also encouraging you to step outside your comfort zone. Together, we'll focus on recognizing your strengths, developing practical skills, and making meaningful changes that support your personal growth and emotional well-being.
