Meet S. Vanessa Howard

Relationship centered, identity empowering virtual therapy for individuals and couples navigating personal, relational, and cultural challenges in MD

You’ve Identified the Need for Change—Now Let’s Turn It into Action.

Hello! I’m Vanessa. If you’re looking for a therapist who will honor your complexity and walk with you toward meaningful change, I’d love to connect.

Clients often describe me as compassionate, patient, and deeply attuned. I aim to create a space where you feel seen, heard, and valued—especially when navigating parts of yourself that may have been silenced or overlooked.

In our work together, I draw from psychodynamic, multicultural, and process-oriented frameworks, allowing us to slow down and explore the deeper layers of your experience. Whether you're untangling relationship dynamics, adjusting to a new cultural landscape, or coming into fuller alignment with who you are, I’ll support you in making sense of it all—with clarity and care.

My own experience as an immigrant with Francophone West African roots deeply informs my work. I understand how culture shapes identity, belonging, and connection. I often work with individuals and couples navigating cross-cultural dynamics, including those in interracial or intercultural partnerships, or adjusting to life between cultures. There is no one way to “fit in”—only your unique way of becoming whole.

I also enjoy working with clients at a crossroads—those who know change is necessary but feel stuck in how to move forward. You might be struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, grief, or unhelpful relationship patterns. Together, we’ll uncover what’s been holding you back, reconnect you to your values, and help you build the life you want.

Therapy with me is not just about symptom relief. It’s about coming home to yourself—bit by bit, part by part.

I am a registered Psychology Associate under the supervision of Oluwatofunmi Oni, PsyD, Licensed Clinical Psychologist, providing virtual therapy to clients across Maryland.

therapy Approach

I approach therapy as a space for reflection, connection, and growth. My style is warm, collaborative, and thoughtful. I draw from interpersonal therapy, psychodynamic theory, relational cultural therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to support meaningful, lasting change.

For individuals, our work will explore the patterns that shape your relationships—with others and with yourself—and how your history, identity, and environment have influenced how you move through the world. I believe healing happens in relationship, so I pay close attention to the therapeutic connection as a space where insight and transformation can begin.

For couples, I specialize in working with those navigating the layered dynamics of intercultural and interracial relationships. These partnerships often bring both rich strengths and real challenges. Whether you're facing cultural disconnects, communication breakdowns, or family pressures, I help you slow down, truly listen, and move forward with more empathy, clarity, and connection.

Your cultural identity and lived experience matter here. Whether you're adjusting to change, trying to feel more like yourself again, or building stronger relationships, I offer a space where you don’t have to explain the parts of you that are too often misunderstood elsewhere.

This space is for anyone—individuals or couples—ready to deepen self-understanding and move toward a more authentic, connected life.

FAQs

  • Relational Concerns & Interpersonal Challenges: Whether it’s family dynamics, friendships, or romantic partnerships, I help clients understand their relationship patterns and build deeper, more secure connections with others.

    Interracial & Intercultural Relationships: I offer a culturally attuned space to explore the complexities of partnerships across racial, cultural, or geographic differences. Together, we can unpack how your backgrounds and values influence your connection.

    Identity Exploration
    Together, we’ll explore the parts of you you’ve suppressed or the strengths you’re curious about, so you can become your most whole and authentic self.

    Anxiety

    You might feel on edge, overwhelmed, or stuck in constant overthinking. Anxiety can make it hard to rest, connect with others, or feel like yourself. In therapy, we’ll explore what’s beneath the surface, so you can find relief, regain your sense of calm, and move through life with more clarity and confidence

    Trauma: I support clients in safely processing both acute and longstanding emotional wounds. Whether you're navigating the impact of relational trauma or past experiences that still feel present, we'll work together to promote healing and reclaim your sense of self.

    Acculturation & Immigrant Experiences
    If you’re building a life in a new society, we’ll navigate the unique challenges of acculturation—helping you adapt while honoring your heritage.

  • We may be a right fit if: You’re ready to explore parts of yourself you once felt too nervous to face. You may feel afraid of the unknown but are willing to try. If you’re open to gaining new perspectives, building self-trust, and creating more connected, fulfilling relationships, I would be honored to walk with you on this journey.

  • I currently offer virtual therapy to adults who are physically located in Maryland. All sessions are conducted online, allowing you to access support from the comfort and privacy of your own space.

    Whether you’re navigating the demands of work, school, caregiving, or simply prefer the flexibility of remote sessions, virtual therapy can be just as powerful and personal as meeting in person.

    If you’re in Maryland and looking for a space to explore who you are and what’s weighing on you, I’d be honored to walk alongside you in that process.

  • Clinical Psychology, Doctoral Candidate at Loyola University Maryland

    Master of Science in Clinical Psychology, Loyola University Maryland. Graduation Date: January 2023

    Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology, Towson University. Graduation Date: August 2019

    Bachelor of Science in Psychology/Biology, Virginia Commonwealth University. Graduation Date: May 2015

    I am under the supervision of Dr. Oluwatofunmi Oni.

  • Individual Therapy-$170

    Couples Therapy-$185

Ready to work together? Click the button below to schedule a consultation with me. We’ll discuss your goals, make sure we’re a good fit, then we’ll start the work to achieve your goals.

There’s no commitment, pressure, or obligation.