Meet Vinaya Na Champassak, LPC
Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Virtual Practice Specialist
Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Virtual Practice Specialist
A Decade of Compassionate, Systemic Care
I am Vinaya Na Champassak, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and National Certified Counselor (NCC) dedicated to helping adults, teenagers, and family systems grow, heal, and thrive. With over ten years of experience spanning partial hospitalization programs, public school systems, juvenile justice diversion, and community agencies, I have developed a deep expertise in navigating highly complicated systems. My goal is to bring that wealth of knowledge directly to your screen, providing high-impact virtual therapy that empowers you to advocate fiercely for yourself and your family from the safety of your own space.
Advanced Clinical Modalities & Expertise
Traditional talk therapy is only one piece of the puzzle, especially for creative brains or analytical "overthinkers." My practice bridges the gap between deep logic and creative healing by utilizing a specialized menu of virtual alternatives:
Virtual EMDR: Certified in trauma-informed approaches, I utilize online Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing to help the brain safely process and release the grip of past trauma and deep anxiety.
Neurodivergent-Affirming Therapy: As a Certified AutPlay Therapy Provider with extensive experience in neurodivergent care (including the Center for Resilience Prism Program and school-based settings), I offer a zero-judgment, zero-masking space for ADHDers and autistic individuals.
Teen & Family Advocacy: Drawing from my extensive background within the juvenile justice system and Children’s Hospital of New Orleans (ThriveKids program), I specialize in helping adolescents navigate school burnout, identity, and crisis management, while coaching parents using evidence-based systemic models like Child-Parent Relationship Training (CPRT).
Academic Foundations & Professional Contributions
My clinical framework is grounded in deep academic rigor. I earned both my Bachelor of Science in Psychology (2015) and my Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (2019) from Loyola University New Orleans. During my time at Loyola, I was honored with the Mimi Heebe Excellence in Play Therapy Award, received the Strength in Diversity Grant, and was inducted into the Chi Sigma Iota Counseling Honor Society.
I believe that exceptional therapy requires constant clinical evolution. I am a frequent research presenter and professional educator, training fellow mental health clinicians and community organizers on trauma-informed care, systemic structures, and the therapeutic powers of creative modalities. My past research presentations span regional and international conferences, focusing on adapting systemic care for diverse, immigrant, and justice-involved youth.
Community Leadership & Connection
True healing extends beyond the therapy room and into the community. Outside of my clinical practice, I have dedicated years to local leadership and advocacy in the Greater New Orleans area. I have served as the Executive Board Secretary and Outreach and Equity Committee Chair for Upturn Arts, the Assistant Director and Advisory Board Member for the Loyola Play Therapy Center, and an accountability council member for local community organizations. When I am not working with clients, I can be found volunteering, supporting local arts equity, or fostering animals with Take Paws Rescue.
My therapeutic style blends deep, warm compassion with direct, active challenge. Together, we will safely explore the patterns that no longer serve you and build a sustainable path toward the life you envision.