Jill Soyka, LCSW
Co-founder and Certified EFT Therapist & Supervisor
How I work
After decades in the field of mental health, I am honored to say that I have encountered folks at their very best and during their most painful times. We all face different challenges…but each of us has struggles. I emphatically believe that no one should face their struggle alone. By specializing in relationships, I have the skills to help both individuals and couples to change what can be changed, and to endure together—not separately-- the things that can’t be changed.
I excel at creating safety and comfort in my office. These are critical elements to our ability to take risks, learn about ourselves and our loved ones, and grow. Because I work with my close, trusted colleague and friend, our entire office environment is warm and inviting. My clients get the benefit of my whole being-- my years of training, laser focus on the issues, as well as my deep empathy and understanding. I wouldn’t have it any other way. I am committed to providing excellent, research-based care to you and your loved ones. It is important for you to know the quality of your provider, given the importance of our relationship.
My genuine interest in you is borne from my life experience as a Mom to 3 kids and 2 dogs, a wife of (gulp!) 20 years, a daughter, sister and friend. The importance of these relationships in my life constantly drives me to understand how to navigate the ups and downs that are natural to all bonds. I’m a lifelong learner, fascinated by how our heads, hearts, and behaviors contribute to our quality of life.
I am always happy to answer any questions about myself or the process of therapy or EFT, so please don’t hesitate to contact me.
About me
I am an endlessly curious person who loves irony, humor, and poignancy—especially when they co-occur. I love my family- my husband of 20 years, 3 kids ages 17, 13 and 11, and two dogs. My biggest challenge as a parent is negotiating life-threatening health issues-- type 1 diabetes and food allergies. I know what it’s like to be part of a blended family, as my parents divorced when I was 10. My relationship with my sister is close and protective. When I need to recharge, I read fiction, watch Netflix, or go on long walks and listen to podcasts. I have varied musical tastes from classic rock to rap to classical, depending on my mood and the situation. I sing loudly and with abandon, but never well! I love what I do for a living, and love that I get to practice with Melissa- one of my favorite humans of all time. Like many of you, my life is complicated, messy and endlessly rich. I am always humbled and respectful to be invited into my client’s lives and enjoy hearing from former clients as they reach important milestones.
Professional training and experience
BA in psychology, UVA, 1992
Masters in Social Work, Child and Family Specialization, VCU, 1994
License to practice as a Clinical Social Worker in VA (LCSW), 1997
Years of experience working with families in inpatient/residential, intensive outpatient, and outpatient services
Clinical Supervisor since 1997
Advanced training in EFT began 2013
Certification as an Emotionally Focused Therapist (EFT), 2016
Certification as an EFT Supervisor, 2017
EMDR trained, 2022