Robert Lester, MA
Therapist

Practice Location:
Patterson & Virtual
Ages Treated:
Adults: 18+
Primary Areas of Clinical Interest & Expertise:
• Issues affecting members of the LGBTQIA+ community
• Racial and ethnic identity & historical trauma
• Depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma & life transitions
• Couples and family
Background:
Robert (he/him) is obtained his Masters in Couples and Family Counseling from Virginia Commonwealth University. After receiving a bachelor’s degree in biology in 2016, Robert worked in multiple clinical research, medical diagnostic, and environmental labs. Following a period of challenging life transitions and self-discovery, Robert found his way to his true passion for mental health and helping others navigate the inherent difficulties of life.
Robert predominantly relies on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, mindfulness-based approaches, Internal Family Systems, and Existential philosophies to empower clients to overcome challenges and foster acceptance and hope. Additionally, Robert focuses on how early childhood experiences and trauma can affect the body and the quality of our relationships. Understanding the body and its connection to our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors can help to improve connection and intimacy in our relationships with others and self.
Robert believes that the world today brings great challenges to individuals and couples, but with the help and support of a trusted therapist, we have the capability to overcome these difficulties, endure, create moments of joy, and find meaning in the process.
When not at work, Robert enjoys reading at local coffee shops, exercising, practicing yoga, traveling and experiencing different cultures, and taking hikes with his golden retriever, Gladys.
Education:
Virginia Commonwealth University: Masters of Counseling Education – Couples and Family Counseling; Virginia Tech: Bachelors of Biology
Licenses and Certifications:
Gottman Method Couples Therapy Level 1
Hunter Greer, LPC
License VA #0701009906
Contact: 804-592-6311
While Robert will be able to bill the following insurances under the supervision of Hunter Greer, LPC, we recommend contacting your insurance company to determine if your plan has any restrictions or limitations:
- Anthem (Commercial and Medicaid)
- Aetna (Commercial)
- Aetna Better Health (Medicaid)
- Cigna
- Humana Healthy Horizons Medicaid
- Sentara/ Optima (Commercial and Medicaid)
- United Healthcare Medicaid (no Commercial United/ Optum)
