River Grove Therapy
107 Oronoco Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
Meet Our Amazing Team
Compassionate. Knowledgeable. Collaborative.
Our therapists wholeheartedly believe in resilience and growth, and work to individualize treatment for each unique person and family.
Finding the right therapist is all about finding a comfortable, easy connection. The best way to get a feel for that is to schedule a no-cost consultation. It’s easy, and we love hearing from folks who are about to make positive changes in their lives.
Melanie Froemke (she/her)
LCSW, RPT-S, e-RYT200
Founder & Team Developer, River Grove Therapy
Children, Adolescents, & Adults
Hi! I’m Melanie Froemke and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor, and experienced Yoga Teacher. I help children, adolescents, and adults with all different kinds of struggles. I am constantly curious to learn more about my clients and the amazing resilience and strength they possess. I am passionate about the work I do and grateful to be part of your courageous journey! I truly believe in the value of therapy, the power of the therapeutic relationship and the healing we can do together. I would love to have you learn more about my work and how I may be able to help you.
Cindy Hanig, LMSW (she/her)
Children, Adolescents & Adults
Hello! My name is Cindy Hanig, and I am a Licensed Master's Social Worker who works with teens and adults who may be struggling with depression, anxiety, life transitions, or traumatic experiences. Whether you are experiencing crisis in your life, or working to manage daily stressors, I can provide the help you need to feel successful and fulfilled. I look forward to helping you on your journey toward healing and growth!
I currently specialize in working with individuals who have struggles with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, difficulty managing stress, life adjustment, trauma, grief and loss, and familial conflict.
Leah Young, MSW (she/her)
Children & Adolescents
Hi there! I'm Leah Young, MSW. My training in EMDR, Play Therapy, Expressive Arts (Sand Tray & Art), and DBT, among other evidenced-based techniques, allows me to tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of each client. I aim to provide a welcoming space where your authentic self feels valued, open, and ready to embark on the healing journey. Rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future, let me help you in fully embracing your life in the present moment. I am honored to serve as a helper in your journey towards healing and growth and look forward to supporting you in achieving your goals.
Katie Volante, LMSW (she/her)
Children, Adolescents & Adults
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Hi! I'm Katie Volante, MSW. I have experience working with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, substance abuse, identity conflicts, mood disorders, post-traumatic stress, grief, and interpersonal violence. My trauma-informed, integrative approach to therapy promotes an adaptive and personalized environment that supports each client's individual strengths, needs, and goals.
As a member and ally of the LGBTQIA+ community, I intimately understand the complex challenges its members face and am dedicated to providing inclusive, affirming care that celebrates diversity.
Rob Krupicka, MSW (he/his)
Families, Adults/Older Adults, & Children
Hi, I'm Rob Krupicka, MSW. It is a privilege to build relationships with clients so that they can strengthen their mental health and improve their quality of life. I particularly like working with older adults, families, and children. I emphasize the importance of client-therapist connection, setting clear goals, and empowering clients to move towards resolution and management of their concerns. I have experience and enjoy supporting diverse populations that include older adults, LGBTQIA+, as well as different ethnicities and cultures.
Robyn Gearey, MSW (she/her)
Teens, Adults, Couples, & Parenting
Support
Robyn will be joining the team at River Grove Therapy in October 2024. We are currently maintaining a waiting list for potential clients at until October.
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We encourage you to read her current cover story in Arlington Magazine, "Parenting Through Divorce."
Hi! I'm Robyn. I'm committed to providing compassionate, strengths-based therapy for teens, adults, couples, and families using techniques drawn from cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic psychotherapy, and solution-focused therapy.
Laura Beth Williams (she/her)
Client Intakes & Administrative Assistant
Hey there! I am Laura Beth Williams, the administrative assistant. I have worked for years in administrative roles as well as 10 years as an elementary teacher. I provide assistance to all front office responsibilities. I pride myself in creating a warm and welcoming environment so that all clients know and feel they are taken care of in a timely and thoughtful manner. I am passionate about the work I do and am thankful to play even the smallest part in my clients' journeys so they feel safe and valued.
I am available to answer any general inquiries about our practice, give assistance to new clients, and support current clients.
Uma Gupta, Student Intern
Psychology Undergraduate, NYU
Hi! I'm Uma! I’m currently serving as an intern at River Grove Therapy, behind the scenes. I am a rising undergraduate senior year student at New York University (NYU), pursuing a Bachelor’s of Arts degree in Psychology with minors in both Child and Adolescent Mental Health and Anthropology. Although I spend most of my time in New York City, I was born and raised in Northern Virginia and come back often to visit. I am passionate about mental health and holistic approaches. As a committed, engaged, and motivated student, I am dedicated to contributing research and analytical skills to assist in any way possible. My goal is to make a positive impact on the lives of others through compassionate, effective, and affordable psychological care.
Fluffy & Teddy
Therapy Dogs Extraordinaire!
Fluffy and Teddy are 12- year old miniature bichon/poodle mixes. Fluffy and Teddy were adopted from a shelter at 5 years old, and have been volunteering with People Animals Love (PAL) ever since. With their love for engaging with people, gentle demeanor, and unconditional positive regard, they are wonderful therapy dogs. They visit River Grove Therapy and love to meet people (Fluffy and Teddy are also able to keep space as needed- just let us know)!
There are many benefits associated with working with therapy animals. Some benefits that have been found in utilizing therapy animals include promoting relaxation, emotional support, humor and fun. Research has demonstrated that petting an animal can help lower blood pressure, heart rate, and increase oxytocin (a feel-good chemical in the brain), and can help clients to develop empathy, nurturance, and responsibility, and model other skills like forgiveness and patience.
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