Matt Sims, MSW, LCSW, LCSWC, C-DBT
Therapist/Owner
**NOW LICENSED IN MARYLAND**
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Although my mom, who is also a therapist, said I'd always end up here, it was a rather circuitous route... After graduating from JMU with degrees in Spanish and Justice Studies, I was working at a juvenile detention center intending for that gig to be a stepping stone into federal law enforcement. While working there, my curiosity about the lived experiences of the detainees combined with my innate ability to be present and nonjudgmental resulted in the inmates calling me "tio". I realized I was not meant to be in law enforcement and left that post to get my MSW from Catholic University. My mom resisted the urge to say, "I told you so."​Prior to starting Sunny Ridge Counseling, PLLC, I worked in the public school setting (Arlington Public Schools and Fairfax County Public Schools) for six years, and have worked in the private practice setting at Cabush, Paul & Associates since 2018. I am also an adjunct professor at George Mason University in the School of Social Work, having taught courses like Psychopathology and Clinical Work with Children, Youth, and Families, among others. ​In my free time I enjoy being outside, playing/coaching/watching soccer (though these days I don't particularly enjoy watching Everton), and spending time with my wife and sons (two human, one tuxedo cat).
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Contact Matt at matt@sunnyridgecounseling.com
or (703) 863-2745
Chris Smith, MSW, LCSW
Therapist/Co-owner
From a young age, I have always had a strong sense of empathy, finding it difficult to see others in pain. This natural inclination led me to become a mediator in disputes and a supportive listener for friends. I truly feel I have found my calling in the field of psychotherapy. I am a graduate of Lynchburg University and Catholic University of America. I began my clinical journey counseling youth in troubled areas of Washington, DC, through various non-profit organizations. This experience paved the way for my role as a clinical social worker with Loudoun County Public Schools, where I supported the social and emotional needs of students through individual and group counseling, parental support and education, and assistance with IEPs.
I believe that successful therapy is built upon a trusting therapeutic relationship. My goal is to make my office space feel like your own—a safe place for you to explore anything you wish. To work towards solutions, I combine my academic knowledge with my natural ability to meet clients where they are.
Therapy doesn’t have to fit a traditional mold. Some of my most effective sessions have taken place during walks, while shooting hoops, or even playing video games. I am open to adapting our sessions in ways that make therapy more accessible and comfortable for you.
I utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques, with a foundation in Cognitive Behavioral Theory, Psychodynamic Theory, Mindfulness, and a Strengths-Based Approach. My approach is always tailored to meet your unique needs and preferences.
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Contact Chris at chris@sunnyridgecounseling.com
or 202- 569- 8780
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Melissa Jackson, MSW
Therapist/Supervisee in Social Work
Life’s challenges can often leave us feeling fragmented, with our physical, spiritual, emotional, and social aspects in disarray. It is easy to lose sight of our authentic selves when faced with life’s hardships and as a therapist, I will act as your co-captain throughout your therapeutic journey. My goal is to guide you toward the equilibrium that fosters your well-being. Each person’s path is unique, and I am committed to tailoring evidence-based techniques that will suit your individuality best. I am passionate about working with individuals who are driven to make positive changes in their lives and are willing to push through even when it’s hard.
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Contact Melissa at mjackson@sunnyridgecounseling.com or (703) 493-0261.
Lauren Kranz
MSW Intern
I am currently finishing my master’s in clinical social work from Virginia Commonwealth University. My passion lies in helping individuals, particularly adolescents, navigate the complexities of mental health. With a 20-years as a swim coach in Northern Virginia, I have had the privilege of working with children of all ages, including many teenage swimmers grappling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and various special needs. This experience has deeply impacted my desire to make a meaningful difference beyond the pool deck. I understand firsthand the immense pressure teenagers face today, not only academically but also within the competitive world of athletics.
My goal is to provide an individualized approach to the needs of each client. Utilizing CBT and DBT methods, I aim to create a safe and supportive environment where individuals can explore their challenges, develop coping mechanisms, and cultivate greater self-awareness and resilience. I believe in the power of empathy and collaboration to guide individuals in understanding and addressing their mental health concerns.
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Contact Lauren at kranzl@vcu.edu or (571) 252-9763
Sarah Miller, MSW, LCSW
Therapist
From 10 years old and on, I knew I wanted to be a social worker. I was lucky to know that I was drawn to helping people after watching my best friend's mom, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, love her job so much. I attended George Mason University where I earned both my Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Social Work. During my college years, I did internships in the fields of international adoption, memory care, juvenile detention, and School Social Work. For the past twelve years, I have worked as a School Social Worker with Loudoun County Public Schools in the middle school setting providing individual and group counseling, advocacy, and mental health services. I am certified in Restorative Practices and Language and have been trained in helping students with school anxiety/avoidance. It is my goal to establish a connection with all of the young people I work with so our relationship can be built on trust and respect. I like to spend my free time with my family (husband, son, and 2 dogs) or doing one of my many eclectic hobbies!
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Contact Sarah at sarahemiller02@gmail.com
or 571-252-9313
Kristin Brocke LCSW
Therapist
I believe that healing starts with feeling seen, heard, and totally accepted—just as you are. I firmly believe your story matters. All of it. The parts you share easily, and the parts you’ve kept quiet. I’m here to help you explore what’s been weighing you down, what you’re curious about, and who you want to become—with empathy, curiosity, and a few well-timed jokes along the way. In my approach, I bring a blend of collaborative therapeutic techniques with a focus on helping clients be more mindful of the connection between mind and body. We will create treatment options tailored to your unique needs - whether that's developing coping strategies, identifying triggers, or finding solutions. Often sprinkled with a little humor (because sometimes, if we don’t laugh, we cry—and sometimes we do both, and that’s okay too).
I work primarily with older teens and young adults who are navigating the messiness of life transitions, identity, relationships, anxiety, and everything in between. I've spent over 10 years as a high school social worker. Prior to that, I worked in a shelter supporting youth with diverse needs. These experiences have given me a deep understanding of the challenges young people face, the importance of holding space for underrepresented communities—and just how much strength, resilience, and potential they carry. I know it can be hard to open up, which is why I focus on creating a space that feels safe, relaxed, and judgment-free. Therapy doesn’t have to happen on a couch under fluorescent lights. Sometimes the best conversations happen while walking outside or while your hands are busy making something. I am open to adapting our sessions in ways that make therapy less scary and more productive for you.
I show up as a real person, just as you are, ready to walk alongside you (literally, if that’s your thing) as we make sense of your story and all that you bring to the table. Looking forward to starting this journey together and finding ways to help you take control and owning your story.
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Contact: KristinQuimblyLCSW.com
Phone: 571-252-9821