Meet the Team
Adama Sow
MSW, Supervisee in Social Work
*Not Accepting Clients At This Time*
Compassion for impact and change was Adama's driving force in pursuing her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology at Christian Brothers University in Memphis, TN, and her Masters in Social Work at Norfolk State University in Norfolk, Virginia. With five years of social work experience, Adama has worked in mental health skill building with adults in the community. She worked with ages 25+ with engaging clients in educational, behavioral, and life skills activities. In addition, Adama has worked in the acute care hospital in leadership as a medical social worker with completing continuity of care planning, direct patient/family counseling with education, and championing patients' health care rights through advocacy at the policy level. Adama has facilitated services for individuals and families by providing dignity, respect, and compassion while addressing mental health affected by social determinants. Adama's social work background can help address transculturation challenges, stress management, anxiety, generational trauma, depression, self-esteem issues, communication gaps, and mental health. Adama's treatment modalities include psychoeducation, motivational interviewing, coping skills, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, crisis intervention, and task-centered practice. Adama strives to guide clients through a journey of discovery that the depths of their purpose have no limitations. Adama's personality can be described as free-spirited, person-centered, and uplifting. A few interesting facts about Adama are her love for traveling, shopping for patterns that leave a bold statement, nature/beach walks, writing poetry, attending empowerment events, and meditation.
Gisselotte Ventura, LMSW
Outpatient Therapist
*Currently Accepting Virtual and In-Person Clients*
Gisselotte Ventura, a native of the Dominican Republic, began her social work journey a few months after enlisting in the New Jersey Army National Guard at the age of 17. After her enlistment, she became more involved in the welfare of fellow Service Members and her community. Gisselotte began her pursuit of a Bachelor's in Social Work at Ramapo College in Mahwah, NJ, and a Master's in Social Work at Rutgers State University in New Brunswick, NJ. Since 2011 she has been committed to working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. As a citizen soldier, Gissolette maintains a balance between her military and civilian career. Early in her military career, she volunteered as a first responder during Hurricane Sandy and Irene in NJ. As a result, she was awarded the Humanitarian Service Medal for her selfless service. Before transitioning to Virginia Beach, VA, Gisselotte worked with several nonprofit organizations providing trauma-informed care, life skills, crisis intervention, and behavioral modification to adolescents, adults, and families with intellectual and developmental disabilities, social anxieties, depression, and PTSD. Gisselotte lives by the quote, “leave people, places, and things better than how you found them,” empowering individuals to be their best version. She enjoys traveling, mentoring & educating, finding unique places to try new foods with nice views, and working out. Balancing her military and civilian career comes with challenges, and she uses fitness as her therapy.
Javanna Freeman, BS
Administrative Assistant
Javanna Freeman, a native of Chesapeake, Virginia, carries with her a strong desire to help in any form possible. She lives by the quote “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” Javanna earned her Bachelor of Science in Sociology at Hampton University, VA. Since earning her undergraduate degree she has had a myriad of experiences working in healthcare and volunteering within her community. As the Administrative Assistant, she is very conscientious about helping I-Thrive Therapy and Wellness run smoothly for all, in a caring and compassionate manner. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, authentic cultural foods, DIYing and wood working.
What People Are Saying
“In March of 2020 I quickly began to feel the stress and pressure of Covid-19. I reached out to Mrs. Ewa and received a prompt reply. She also respected my decision to communicate mainly through email and text for questions. Shortly after I began virtual therapy and it has been life changing! I leave each session with a little more “life” in me and a lot more knowledge about what I want, need, and desire for myself. At times while I may feel challenged by her ability to force me to dig deep, afterward I find a new sense of pride, hope and understanding. I’ve sought counsel a few times but it was always short lived. However, the value I find in the iThrive methods are worth it. If you’re looking for someone with an amazing personality, timely, professional, and with a true passion for what she does please reach out. You won’t be disappointed.”
“I've been able to reflect real time with Natasha on my choices and produce action items after each session. It’s been a horrific and yet humbling time. Natasha provides a safe space to support reflection and participates through a dialogue approach - something I know that’s needed to work through self doubt, anxiety, depression, and critical healing.”
“Natasha has been a life saver for me. She listens to my issues/concerns and she offers guidance. She has helped me understand things I’ve been trying to figure out for years. She is very responsive and makes sure I understand her advice. I am so thankful that I have her to talk to.”
“Natasha has been great! I have felt so much better about life and less depressed since starting my sessions with her.”
“Mrs. Ewa is called to do this. She turns tragedy into triumph. My life, mind, and perspective has been transformed.”
“I’ve seen so much growth that started literally day one. She does not rush or make you feel anything but listened to.”
“I’ve seen so much growth that started literally day one. She does not rush or make you feel anything but listened to.”
“Missed an appointment and Mrs. Ewa is still kind.”
“Tragic for me when I miss any time to grow.”
“Natasha has been great! I have felt so much better about life and less depressed since starting my sessions with her.”
“Ms. Kiah, my therapist has given me the vibe to feel comfortable speaking!”
“We have had great experiences with our therapist, Tuesdai. She has worked with us for over 4 years and there is a significant difference for our son. Before we started therapy, our son wouldn’t talk to you unless he really knew you for a long time. Now he is a leader in Scouts and participates in clubs after school. He has no problem talking to authority figures and is an advocate for himself and others.”
“Natasha has been an amazing addition to my life since 2019. She’s helped me grow sooo much! I’m beyond thankful to have her in my life!”
