Trauma Therapist in Newport News

Reclaim Control of Your Life.

If you're feeling trapped by your own mind, like you are looking for a way out of emotional turmoil caused by trauma, you've found the right place. I'm Katherine Illgen, a trauma-informed therapist specializing in breaking through the walls of OCD, anxiety, and past trauma, helping you find the peace you deserve.

A woman wearing glasses and a watch is smiling with her arms crossed
A black and white silhouette of a cell phone on a white background.

Break Free

Proven methods to conquer anxiety, OCD, or trauma and reclaim your life.

A black and white icon of a brain with a swirl in the middle.

Feel Understood

A safe, judgment-free space where you can be your true self.

Three black hearts are floating in the air above a white background.

Lasting Tools

Practical strategies to confidently navigate life beyond therapy.

Are You Feeling Stuck or Overwhelmed?


Life can feel like an endless maze. Maybe OCD is causing you to show up late to work because you have to drive around the block repeatedly. Anxiety might hold you back from going to that party with your friends. Or past trauma makes the world feel unsafe causing you to isolate.


  • These struggles are real.
  • They’re exhausting.
  • They can leave you feeling stuck.


I help clients facing burnout, anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, relationship challenges, obsessive or intrusive thoughts, and trauma. Using evidence-based approaches, I tailor therapy to your specific needs. I use a combination of CBT, ICBT, DBT, mindfulness, and trauma informed care to create a treatment plan for you. I also offer Prolonged Exposure therapy (PE), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Exposure Response Prevention therapy (ERP), the gold standards for treating trauma and OCD.


You don’t have to navigate this alone. Let’s find your way forward.

Why Choose Manifest Wellness Counseling?


I'm not just another therapist. I'm your partner in transformation. I know what it's like to feel like you don't fit in. Growing up I felt awkward, and struggled with anxiety and trauma. As a neurodivergent entrepreneur, I have dealt with imposter syndrome, anxiety, and rejection sensitivity. Now, I'm dedicated to helping you break free from the invisible chains that hold you back, like I did.


I understand how hard it can be to seek help. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 12 years of experience, I specialize in treating anxiety, phobias, trauma, and OCD. I’ve seen firsthand how evidence-based approaches like ERP, PE, ICBT, EMDR, and DBT can bring real, lasting relief.


What Sets Me Apart:


  • Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and Certified DBT Specialist


  • One of the few therapists in the area trained in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE)



  • Trained in EMDR


  • A compassionate, solution-focused approach that prioritizes your growth and healing


  • LGBTQIA+ affirming and committed to providing inclusive care
More About Me
A woman in a floral dress and glasses is standing next to a palm tree.

Services

How It Works:

Your Path to Wellness in 3 Steps


A black and white icon of a person holding a lotus flower.

Step 1: Schedule Your Free Consultation

Let’s connect and talk about what’s going on in your life.

A black and white logo of a lotus flower with a heart and a heartbeat.

Step 2: Comprehensive Assessment & Goal Setting

Together, we’ll set clear goals and map out a plan that works for you.

Step 3: Start Your Journey to Healing

Start sessions designed to help you find relief, rebuild, and move forward.

Endorsements


A woman with curly hair is smiling for the camera.

Whitney McElhone - Counselor, MS, LPCC

Katherine is an amazing clinician that provides a space in which each client can feel comfortable and safe to discuss the most vulnerable topics. She has experience, education, and skills that help you enhance your ability to navigate life's challenges!

A woman wearing glasses and a blue shirt is smiling for the camera.

Angela Bailey - Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW

Katherine is a dedicated clinician who takes a holistic approach to her clients, consistently demonstrating her warm personality and commitment in every interaction, while creating a safe space for clients to heal.

A woman is smiling for the camera while wearing a blue and white floral shirt.

Tania Stolfa - MA, LPC

Katherine is a skilled therapist specializing in PTSD and OCD. Certified in two Gold Standard Trauma treatments, she helps clients achieve symptom relief and reclaim their lives, offering significant and lasting healing within their desired timeframe.

Anita Clark - MSW, LISW-S, LCSW

Highly Recommend! Katherine is very compassionate and great to work with!

Megan Randall - Clinical Social Work/Therapist

Katherine is a skilled therapist with a focus on PTSD and OCD. She is dedicated to her clients care to help ease their symptoms and improve their quality of life!

Jessica Russo - Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW

Kat is a dedicated and compassionate therapist. Her empathetic approach and professional expertise create a supportive environment for clients. Highly recommend Kat for those seeking effective and caring mental health support.

Matt Mullenix -MA, LPC

Katherine is an extremely talented and empathetic clinician whose warm inviting personality creates a setting in which client(s) can thrive and start the process of healing from past trauma, maladaptive behaviors, anxiety and depression.

Jennifer Velazquez - Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW

Katherine's dedication to her clients is reflected in her thoughtful, empathetic approach and her commitment to fostering a supportive therapeutic environment. Her clinical acumen is matched by her ability to stay abreast of the latest research and innovat

Kymberlee Blackford - MSW, LCSW

Katherine is a dedicated and highly skilled clinician who shows up prepared to work with each individual on their needs. Katherine's diverse skill set allows her to provide treatment tailored to the needs of many. Highly recommend working with Katherine!

Youhung Her-Xiong - PhD, LICSW, LCSW

Kat uses gold standard treatments for trauma and OCD - what better way to address these conditions than with someone who is gentle, compassionate, and caring? Kat listens with an open heart and is able to create a safe and welcoming environment for you.

Whitney McElhone - Counselor, MS, LPCC

Katherine is an amazing clinician that provides a space in which each client can feel comfortable and safe to discuss the most vulnerable topics. She has experience, education, and skills that help you enhance your ability to navigate life's challenges!

Angela Bailey - Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW

Katherine is a dedicated clinician who takes a holistic approach to her clients, consistently demonstrating her warm personality and commitment in every interaction, while creating a safe space for clients to heal.

Trauma Therapy That Helps You Break Free, Heal, and Thrive


I see you. I know how heavy it feels when anxiety starts to whisper that your world is getting smaller. Those intrusive thoughts aren't just background noise, they're exhausting you. Your past trauma isn't something you can just push away, no matter how hard you try.


What you're experiencing isn't a personal failure, it's a human experience that many people struggle with, and there's absolutely no shame in seeking support.


My goal isn't to be your lifelong therapist. I'm here to walk alongside you, to help you discover the incredible strength that's already inside you. Together, we'll develop tools that empower you to write a new story, one where you're not defined by your struggles, but by your resilience and courage.

Take the first step toward a brighter, healthier future today.

Reach out now to schedule a consultation and explore how we can work together to achieve your goals.

Share by: