About

My name is Lori M. Kroener, Ph.D.; SCC-C, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist/Therapist with a history of 17+ years of professional experience working with individuals of all ages in a local school system in the State of Virginia. Although one of my primary job responsibilities was conducting psychoeducational evaluations to determine a student's eligibility for Special Education Services and/or 504 Plans under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), I also worked with students exhibiting a wide range of social and emotional concerns, including anger management, depression, low self-esteem, anxiety, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, relationship/peer difficulties, parental and family conflicts, and career planning. In addition, I devoted a sizable portion of my weekly schedule to completing parent and teacher consultations in order to develop strategies, interventions, and accommodations to optimize each student's level of learning and to help "level the playing field," so that every student could have equal access to the curriculum, and therefore, receive the same educational opportunities and benefits as the other students. I believe the most rewarding aspect of career was serving as a student and parent advocate by educating them regarding their parental rights and introducing them to all of the technological services now available to them. An important aspect of being diagnosed with any type of disability is that receiving a diagnosis does not necessarily mean that one is "functionally" disabled. In other words, everyone demonstrates his or her own pattern of strengths and weaknesses that interact with environmental variables, which determines one's potential level of functioning. As a therapist, my skills include, helping clients reduce stress and anxiety, improve clients relationships with others, reducing family and peer conflicts, and developing anger management skills. I work with clients to create an open and safe environment in which thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment and help clients become more mindful and aware of the maladaptive or unhealthy patterns in their lives that are preventing them form reaching their goals. Furthermore, I am dedicated to helping clients energize their motivation for change and growth. I realize that taking the first step to begin counseling often requires a great deal of courage. As your therapist, I am here to support and empower you on that journey!
Lori M. Kroener, Ph.D; SCC-C