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.

Break Free
Proven methods to conquer anxiety, OCD, or trauma and reclaim your life.
Feel Understood
A safe, judgment-free space where you can be your true self.
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

Services
How It Works:
Your Path to Wellness in 3 Steps
Step 1: Schedule Your Free Consultation
Let’s connect and talk about what’s going on in your life.
Step 2: Comprehensive Assessment & Goal Setting
Together, we’ll set clear goals and map out a plan that works for you.
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.