Palesa Nthako, with long braided hair and a black top, smiles while standing outdoors in a park surrounded by green grass and trees.

Palesa Nthako

Clinical Social Work Student Intern, Military Spouse

Online & In-Person Sessions
Mon.: 2:30 PM - 8:30 PM EST
Wed.: 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM EST
Fri.: 2:30 PM - 8:30 PM EST

*Even when a therapist accepts insurance for individual counseling, couples and family therapy is offered on a private-pay basis only, with the option of a superbill for clients who wish to pursue insurance reimbursement.

**Please note all counseling services require a weekly commitment.

My Story

Evening Appointments Available. Online and In-Person. Works with individuals, couples, and families who may feel emotionally overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure how to move forward.

 

Hi, I’m Palesa, and I’m passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families work through emotional and relationship challenges. I support people who may be struggling with anxiety, stress, life changes, family conflict, or feeling disconnected from themselves or the people they care about. Many of the clients I work with feel stuck in unhealthy patterns, have difficulty communicating their needs, or feel emotionally exhausted from trying to handle everything on their own.

In our work together, I focus on creating a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, respected, and understood. I believe therapy should feel collaborative and safe, allowing people to openly explore their experiences and emotions. Using Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Family Systems approaches, and trauma-informed care, I tailor therapy to each client’s unique needs and goals. My goal is to help clients strengthen relationships, improve communication, build emotional balance, and create healthier ways of connecting with themselves and others.

I offer discounted sessions exclusively through Open Path for clients facing financial hardship. My goal is to provide quality care at a more accessible price point, ensuring those in need can still receive support.

Outside of the Therapy Office:

Outside of work, I enjoy cooking, baking, and traveling, especially experiencing different cultures through food. One of my favorite things to do while traveling is learning how to cook traditional dishes and exploring the stories, traditions, and connections that food brings to people and families.

Types of Therapy

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
Family Therapy
Trauma Informed Counseling

Specialty Areas

Communication Issues
Couples Therapy
Depression
Parenting
Relationships
Self Esteem Concerns
Trauma and PTSD

Education

Masters in Social Work Student, Virginia Commonwealth University - Expected Graduation December 2026
Bachelor of Arts in Health Sciences and Social Services, University of South Africa - 2020

Training

Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy Externship - Expected Completion June 2026
I believe therapy should be a compassionate and collaborative space where clients feel safe to explore, heal, and reconnect with themselves and others.
- Palesa Nthako
Your First Step Towards Healing

You don’t have to keep feeling lonely in your relationships.

We can help you feel close, comfortable, and connected again.