Willetta M. Wilson, MA, SAP: Willetta is one of the most experienced and highly regarded substance abuse professionals (SAP) in the DC Metropolitan area. She grew up in a military family and always knew she would work in the healthcare field.

“I initially went to college to be a nurse and wanted to do something in the science field. As time went on, I realized I was more interested in how people think and why they do things. I always asked, “Why?”

Trying to understand and help other people understand the “why?” led her to a lifelong journey of helping people with a wide variety of issues.

Ms. Wilson currently serves as the Clinical Director of the Army Substance Abuse Program at DeWitt Army Hospital, Fort Belvoir, VA. She has over 25 years experience “in the trenches” working with military personnel and their family members in military behavioral healthcare settings. Her extensive experience working as a substance abuse counselor for the military gives her a depth and experience par none. Substance abuse counseling is arguably the most challenging issue for any mental health care professional. Persons suffering from drug and alcohol problems are likely to have other behavioral or mental health issues.

“Many of my patients have suffered post traumatic stress disorder or other painful recurrent issues and have used substances to mask the past. Using all the tools in my tool belt and my years of experience, I work with them on the change process. I focus on solutions rather than focusing on problems. I get the greatest pleasure working with recovering addicts and their family and seeing them move beyond their beginning struggles to growth. I learn from them as much as they learn from me. Every time I work with someone it is an exchange of Spirit. I am just a guide to help them pull out what they already have inside.”

Ms. Wilson is a member of the following professional associations: American Psychological Association, American Mental Health Counselors Association, American Counselors Association / Virginia Counselors Association, Healthcare Providers Service Organization, National Association of Forensic Counselors, National Association for Addiction Counselors, Northern Virginia Licensed Professional Counselors Association.

Ever energetic and enthusiastic, Ms. Wilson will soon be Dr. Wilson. She is currently writing her doctoral dissertation in order to obtain a Ph.D. in Industrial Organizational Psychology.

“Please contact me by phone 703-437-6311 or email me at info@centerforlifestrategies.com if you are interested in learning more about how we can work together to solve your problems and improve your quality of life. I provide a free 30 minute consultation in person or by telephone. I will be glad to schedule an appointment for a time that is convenient to you, including evenings or weekends.”