Hela Baer

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and am passionate about providing integrative, trauma-informed, and person-centered therapy to teens and adults. I work with individuals experiencing challenges related to anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, identity development and exploration, stress/burnout, intercultural relationships/families, complex family dynamics, and big life transitions. I specialize in mind-body practices, equine-assisted therapy, and LGBTQIA+ affirming care for individuals and families.

I am dedicated to creating a supportive, authentic, and compassionate space in which individuals can engage in meaningful exploration and healing. I incorporate multiple therapeutic modalities and work together with my clients to map out opportunities for growth and change, while also honoring and nurturing their inherent resilience. As a therapist with a diverse cultural background, I use an intersectional lens that recognizes the cultural, intergenerational, and sociopolitical factors that impact our experiences, relationships, and overall well-being.

I am independently licensed in the Commonwealth of Virginia. My clinical experience includes working in outpatient, residential, and community mental health settings, and with challenges relating to community violence, combat, traumatic loss, addiction recovery, and contact with the justice system. Prior to becoming a therapist, I worked as an intercultural facilitator in various settings, including youth organizations and the military.

Certifications and Training

I have specialized training and experience in Trauma Informed Yoga and Mindfulness, Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy, Nature-Based Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Gestalt, Grief Counseling, Relational-Cultural Therapy, and Psychodynamic Therapy.

I am passionate about helping clients find joy, relief, and meaning in their lives through nurturing relationships, increased mind-body-nature connection, and radical compassion.

Specialized Services

• Individual, Group, and Family Therapy
• LGBTQIA2+ Affirming Therapy and Parent Coaching
• Experiential Therapies (Yoga, Equine-Assisted, and Nature-Based)
• Grief Counseling and Trauma Therapy
• Professional Presentations and Workshops

Professional Affiliations

• National Association of Social Workers
• Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship (PATH Intl.)
• Yoga Alliance