About River Lily Counseling Inc

River Lily Counseling has been open for business since July 2020, and I have been offering individual therapy full-time at this practice since January 2021. In 2025, River Lily Counseling LLC, had the honor of becoming River Lily Counseling Inc.

Our goal at River Lily Counseling is to empower marginalized people by providing compassionate and accessible mental health services. 
River Lily Counseling’s vision is to become a known resource for neurodivergent and LGBTQ individuals to receive quality mental health services.

About Laura Szyikowski

My name is Laura. I was in 8th grade when I realized I could help people by providing counseling. I grew up in Central New York, and I obtained my Bachelor’s of Psychology in North Carolina, then my Master’s in Counseling in New York. I have three lovely adult children. I have lived and worked in Virginia since 2007. I love it here because of the beautiful rivers, amazing hiking, and wonderful people. I love to travel.

  • I have offered individual counseling part-time throughout my career, from peer counseling in high school and college to professional counseling in community-based settings (homes, schools, college), prison, private offices, and state employee offices.

    Now, it is currently the main focus of my work week.

  • From 2008-2011 I worked providing Intensive In-home family therapy primarily using the structural family therapy technique, and also behavioral therapy strategies with the New River League of Therapists.

    Then from 2012-2014 I worked with children and teens with Autism Spectrum Disorder or combined ID/DD/MH, and their families with New River Community Services Board. This rewarding work also incorporated family therapy and behavioral therapy techniques..

  • Throughout my career I have had the honor of facilitating group trainings. Often this effort has been rewarding in many ways, including gaining additional training and developing community relationships.

    Specifically, I have facilitated the following group trainings:

    • CIT officer training on the topic of juveniles in crisis for Northwestern Community Services Board, 2019.

    • Meditation Techniques, Festival Workshop, 2019.

    • Therapeutic Options Trainer for Goochland Powhatan Community Services Board, 2016.

    • Parenting Together Separately Instructor for Virginia Courts 2010-2011.

    • Freshmen Orientation for Northern Virginia Community College, 2007.

    • Adjunct Professor, Drugs and Society class, Morrisville State College, 2006.

    • Peer Educator Training, Morrisville State College, 2004.

    • Anger management, NC DOC, 2000-2001.

    • Listening Skills, Big Brothers Big Sisters, monthly 1999-2000.