We are so excited to welcome Mercedes Alonso, LCSW, as our new Executive Director at Great Falls Wellness! Her arrival brings years of experience in the behavioral health field, deep expertise in trauma recovery, and an empathetic spirit to every corner of our program.
With a Master of Social Work degree from Rutgers University, Mercedes has over fourteen years of experience supporting individuals, families, and groups through many challenges. She started as an Admissions Coordinator and Substance Use Counselor at Recovery Unplugged where she learned the industry first hand. Nine years working for the Fairfax County Government has given her countless opportunites to work with individuals and families suffering from anxiety, mood disorders, OCD, anger, substance-use disorder, ADHD, disordered eating. At the root of all of these issues is deeply embedded trauma, an area of recovery in which she shines.
Mercedes believes therapy should feel safe, creative, and honest. She blends Internal Family System therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, strength-based work, and expressive play. In addition to her skills as a therapist, she is also fluent in Spanish.
Mercedes has worked with statewide groups that seek to end domestic violence. She proposed recommendations that help children who witness abuse heal and thrive. Her front line understanding of trauma mirrors our vision for recovery at Great Falls Wellness, which is to look for the roots of addiction and bring them into the light for healing. Learn more about her background in her full bio: Mercedes Alonso, LCSW.
What Sets Great Falls Wellness Apart
Great Falls Wellness is a locally run, family focused outpatient drug and alcohol treatment center in Northern Virginia. Our team offers a concierge style path to recovery in peaceful Great Falls, Virginia. Clients enjoy privacy, small groups, and staff who care about them like family. We combine traditional therapeutic practices with evidenced-based equine therapy, trauma informed yoga, and art therapy. This whole-person approach supports body, mind, and spirit.
We are the first and foremost drug treatment center in Northern Virginia to feature equine assisted therapy, which has clinically shown to be an effective way to safely treat trauma. These unique therapies are the cornerstones of our approach to treating addiction and substance use disorders. We pride ourselves in offering clinically sophisticated addiction care in a warm, homelike environment.
Programs for Modern Life
We are the only intensive outpatient program in Northern Virginia that meets in the evenings, allowing participants to work or study during the day while in treatment. Ideal for both young adults and professionals, our approach to recovery is flexible and personalized. Clients practice new skills in real life, then return to group sessions for guidance and support.
Moving Ahead Together
Mercedes Alonso centers her work on creating a safe, trusting space. In her new role as Great Falls Wellness Executive Director, she brings clinical experience, creativity, and humor to support the evidence based care we provide.
If you or someone you care about would like information about our programs, call Great Falls Wellness. You can also find us on Google for directions and contact details.
We are pleased to welcome Mercedes Alonso, LCSW, and look forward to continuing our work in Great Falls, Virginia!
