Hi, I am Crystal, and I specialize in working with neurodivergent teens and adults. 

As a neurodivergent person myself, I understand the struggles of living in a neurotypical world.

In my late 20s, I learned self-acceptance and practical ways to manage my own executive dysfunction and trauma with the help of a coach much like myself. That experience shaped the way I support others today.

For the past 12 years, I have worked with neurodivergent teens and young adults through mentoring, executive functioning support, positive behavioral support, social groups, and community-based experiences. I also provide parent coaching to help parents better understand and support their neurodivergent children, especially those transitioning into adulthood.

With a B.A. in Theatre, an M.S. in Psychology, and training as a HealthRHYTHMS facilitator, I bring creativity, humor, patience, and real-life experience into my work.

At Soluna, my focus is on Social Lab groups and HealthRHYTHMS drumming experiences that bring people together through conversation, creativity, music, games, and real-life activities.

Experience:

• Qualified Mental Health Professional

• Community-based care for youth and young adults

• Therapeutic Mentoring

• ABA trained

• Positive Behavior Supports

• Acceptance and Commitment

Certifications & Specialized Training:

• Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP)

• Remo Health Rhythms Certified

• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills Training

• Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS)

Training in:

• Trauma-informed care

• Executive functioning

• Emotional regulation

• Sensory processing

• Mental health supports for neurodivergent youth

• Parent supports focused on supporting neurodivergent children

Hi, I am Jess! 

I am a dedicated social work professional with a strong academic foundation and a passion for supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (ID/DD) as well as those with mental health needs. I earned both my Bachelor of Science (B.S.) and Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Longwood University, and I am currently pursuing my Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), where I continue to expand my knowledge and commitment to serving diverse communities.

With more than six years of experience working with the intellectual and developmental disabilities (ID/DD) population, I have developed expertise in person-centered care, advocacy, and empowering individuals to achieve greater independence and improve their quality of life. My professional experience is complemented by my work as a Counseling Intern with WHOA Behavioral Health in Richmond, Virginia, where I provide compassionate support while continuing to strengthen my clinical counseling skills.

I am committed to promoting mental wellness, fostering meaningful relationships, and advocating for equitable access to quality behavioral health services. I am passionate about making a lasting impact through compassionate care, evidence-based practice, and lifelong learning.

Jessica Real, B.S, M.B.A

Social Lab Facilitator