I grew up in South Africa and later moved to the United States, where I earned my Master’s in Counseling from Georgia State University. I have been a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) since 1999.

My early work included church-based and pastoral counseling, experiences that continue to shape my trauma-informed approach. I have been in private practice since 2010.

I work with adults seeking trauma-informed therapy for anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship concerns. My approach is evidence-based, trauma-informed, and focused on creating a safe, respectful space for healing and meaningful change.

Treatment Approach

With over 20 years of experience as a Licensed Professional Counselor, my work began with a strong foundation in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and has evolved to focus on trauma-informed care. While CBT-based talk therapy remains part of my work, I encourage clients to explore deeper, integrative approaches that support lasting emotional healing and nervous system regulation.

My clinical approach is informed by training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) through the Center for Excellence in EMDR, as well as IFS-informed therapy through the IFS Institute. I am also influenced by the narrative-based work of Dan Allender and his model of Story Engagement.

These evidence-based, trauma-informed approaches help clients process trauma, increase self-awareness, and move toward greater resilience, clarity, and emotional freedom.

“Not everything that is faced can be changed; but nothing can be changed until it is faced.”

– James Baldwin

Education & Credentials:

  • Education: Georgia State University, MS in Counseling (1996).
    Richmond Graduate School (diploma in Christian Counseling).
    Training and supervision in providing EMDR therapy.
  • License #: MH26196 (FL), LPC 3018 (GA), LPC 701013259 (VA), LCMHC 16577 (NC)
  • License States: Florida, Georgia, Virginia, North Carolina
  • Practicing Since: 1999

 

Reviews posted on Zocdoc:

Richard is very intuitive and intentional in his approach. His presence is very inviting and calming. He specifically helps you work through your trauma at a deep level. He’s well informed and constantly learning and refining his methods and thought process. I can’t recommend him enough! (by JB)

Richard Forde has been a wonderful counselor. My experience before him with counseling was that I recalled traumatic experiences and was left feeling vulnerable and raw. But working with Richard each session I feel as if I have gained something precious whether it be a new perspective, tool, or awareness. I leave my sessions feeling good and curious instead of depressed and down. His approach to trauma work was much different than I had previously experienced and I had to be more open, I quickly began to enjoy the work better. His approach style allows me to process things that presently come up instead of just recalling what I know to have been traumatic experiences. I have found many things that I didn’t realize I had been holding onto through our work. He is also the first male counselor I have worked with personally and I feel very comfortable working with him even revisiting birth trauma. (by BG)