Kim Small, LPC

Co-Founder

Kim Small (she/her) is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and an EMDR trained clinician by the EMDR International Association (EMDRIA). Kim is also a Certified Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider, as well as, a Certified Integrative Medicine and Nutrition for Trauma Treatment Provider. Additionally, she is a registered Supervisor with the Virginia Board of Counseling. After completing undergraduate studies at Belmont University, Kim earned a Master’s degree in Counseling from Dallas Theological Seminary

Kim finds Western Medicine’s approach to emotional, mental, and physical health fragmented. She believes the brain, body, heart, and spirit are intimately connected. As such, Kim believes people find freedom from the distressing symptoms that bring them to counseling as all aspects of personhood are considered. Personally, Kim’s integrative approach strengthened following the diagnosis of a chronic illness. In pursuit of her healing, she developed a deeper understanding of the importance of addressing the mind-body connection.

Kim primarily works with individuals recovering from Complex Trauma. Over time, she has established a focus on working with Survivors of sexual, spiritual, narcissistic abuse and unhealthy family systems. Defining trauma as a “wound,” she also believes everyone has experienced trauma in their lives, whether acute or long-standing. Kim finds a client’s presenting symptoms and stuck patterns are outdated coping mechanisms, unconsciously and naturally developed as a source of survival.

Kim takes a trauma-informed, integrative approach in her therapeutic practice. She employs an eclectic array of theories and treatment modalities, utilizing methods from EMDR, and ego state work, such as Internal Family Systems, somatic processing, and Psychodynamic Theory to assist her clients in their journey toward health and healing. Drawing from Interpersonal Process Theory, Kim also understands that the therapeutic relationship is a core ingredient in the process of change.

Kim founded Connected Wellness Group because she recognized a gap in Hampton Roads concerning the treatment of mental health. Kim desires to build a place in the community where people can easily access integrative, (w)holistic, trauma-informed care, as well as a place where they will learn to embrace their true, authentic selves.

When not in the office, Kim enjoys travel, podcasts, baking cakes, and long walks through Norfolk.