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Our Vision
Welcome to the Family Refuge Center of Southwest Virginia, where individuals and their families find support, resources, and healing. We specialize in providing short-term services aimed at addressing immediate concerns and fostering positive change within family and relational dynamics. Our team of experienced counselors is dedicated to guiding individuals and their families through challenges, offering practical strategies, and empowering them to navigate life's complexities together.
Every individual is unique, which is why we tailor our approach to meet each person's specific needs. Whether you're facing communication barriers, conflict resolution issues, parenting challenges, or family transitions (divorce/blending families/reunification) or other individual concerns, we are here to help you achieve your goals.
We believe in the strength of family bonds and the potential for growth and resilience, even in the face of adversity. Our goal is to provide a safe and supportive environment where individuals and their families can explore their strengths, learn new skills, and cultivate deeper connections with one another. If you're ready to embark on a journey, we invite you to reach out!
Our Story
The Family Refuge Center of Southwest Virginia was founded by Victoria Evans-Fulton and her husband, David. Victoria started a private practice as a mental health counselor specializing in trauma and psychological assessment in 2022 and has served in various mental health capacities since 2009. She also has utilized her doctorate degree to engage in research focused on mental health in Appalachia and serves as a professor for master's level clinicians at Grand Canyon University. David has over 10 years of experience in data analysis and engineering in education and for non-profit organizations focusing on restorative justice and family reconciliation for incarcerated populations.
The story of the Family Refuge Center began in 2023, when they were joyously anticipating their first child. Their journey took an unexpected turn when Victoria developed HELLP Syndrome, a rare and serious pregnancy complication. As a result of the life-threatening situation, their son, Charlie, made his early arrival into the world 10 weeks premature. The next 56 days were spent by Charlie's side in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).
Through the ups and downs of Charlie's NICU journey and Victoria's health recovery, Victoria and David found solace in the love and support of their family and friends, as well as their unwavering faith. Due to the resources provided for families in these situations, David and Victoria could remain with their son, out of state, at the Southern Appalachian Ronald McDonald House in Johnson City, Tennessee. However, they quickly discovered that there were limited mental health resources to support them in addressing the birth trauma, NICU journey, or the subsequent significant life changes. Due to Victoria's background in the field, they were fortunate to have resources to address the gaps in support and services but were soberingly aware that was not the case for others.
Today, Charlie is a thriving and resilient little boy! Victoria and David's journey has fueled their drive to serve as advocates for Southwest Virginia families. Their story serves as an inspiration to others facing similar challenges or other life difficulties, reminding them that even in the darkest moments, there is hope, love, and the power of resilience. It is their vision to ensure that all families are supported and empowered to thrive, regardless of the challenges they may face. No one should have to endure hardship without support!
Our Leadership
Victoria Evans-Fulton, Ph.D, LPC-S, NCC
Victoria Evans-Fulton, Ph.D, LPC-S, NCC
Director of Clinical Services
Virginia License #0701011564
Victoria is a licensed professional counselor in the Commonwealth of Virginia. She holds various degrees, including a B.S. in Biology (Chemistry Minor) from Emory and Henry, a B.S. in Psychology from King University, an M.A. in Human Services: Crisis and Trauma Response, an M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision from Liberty University.
Victoria has worked in the mental health field in various positions and volunteer work since 2009. She has a passion for crisis and trauma intervention and has worked in Central Appalachia as a victim’s advocate, a crisis interventionalist, and a youth/adult crisis counselor. She has several years of experience working with individuals who are experiencing unforeseen life events and chronic trauma. These issues commonly include poverty, homelessness, abuse/domestic violence, general life setbacks, and general mental health concerns.
As the Clinical Director, Victoria plays a pivotal role in shaping the center's therapeutic programs and services. She is dedicated to ensuring that every individual and family who walks through the doors of the center receives the highest quality of care tailored to their unique needs and circumstances.
Victoria is known for her compassionate leadership style, her ability to inspire and motivate others, and her unwavering commitment to upholding the highest ethical standards in her practice. She believes in the power of healing and transformation and is honored to walk alongside individuals and families as they navigate their path toward wholeness and well-being.
David Fulton, M.S.
David Fulton, M.S.
Director of Operations
David is a data analyst and engineer. He holds various degrees and certifications, including a B.A. in Geographic Information Systems from the Indiana University of Pennsylvania and a M.S. in Data Analytics from Southern New Hampshire University. He has over 10 years of experience in data analysis and engineering in education settings and for non-profit organizations focusing on restorative justice and family reconciliation for incarcerated populations.
David's journey in the field of restorative justice began with a desire to use his technical skills for social good.David recognizes the power of data-driven solutions to address systemic issues and advocate for marginalized communities. He played a pivotal role in developing innovative programs and initiatives aimed at promoting rehabilitation, reducing recidivism, and facilitating family reunification among incarcerated individuals.
Now, as Director of Operations, David brings his expertise in data analysis and his commitment to family-focused mental health to the forefront. He is dedicated to ensuring that the center's programs and services are informed by data-driven insights tailored to meet the unique needs of families in Southwest Virginia.
With his compassionate leadership, strategic vision, and unwavering dedication to social justice, David is poised to make a profound impact in his role at the Family Refuge Center, empowering families to heal, thrive, and rebuild their lives together.
Our Staff
Katie Thompson, B.S., PMP
Katie Thompson, B.S., PMP
Manager of Operations and Marketing
Katie is a certified project manager and has billing and office experience in various capacities. She holds a B.S. in Nutrition (Culinary Dietetics Minor) from the Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Katie. has over 10 years of experience working in non-profit organizations, centering on community well-being and ministry.
Katie's journey began with a desire to use her skills to address social issues and create meaningful change. As a project manager, she plays a pivotal role in planning, implementing, and evaluating initiatives that serve the organization's beneficiaries and advance its mission
With a background in project management and a heart for serving others, Katie brings a unique blend of organizational skills and empathy to her role. She thrives in fast-paced environments, adeptly juggling multiple projects and priorities while always keeping the mission and values of the business at the forefront of her work.
With her unwavering dedication, strong work ethic, and compassionate spirit, Katie is an invaluable asset, driving positive change and empowering others to create a brighter future for all.
Catherine Cotter, LCSW
Catherine Cotter, LCSW
Manager of Clinical Services and Mental Health Therapist
Virginia License #0904011054
Catherine (Catie) Cotter holds a license in clinical social work in Virginia. She received her Master of Social Work from Radford University, and Bachelor of Social Work from King University. Catie has been working in the mental health field since 2014 and has been an outpatient therapist since 2016.
Catie enjoys working with children, adolescents, and adults. Catie has experience working with clients experiencing various mental health challenges and has a special interest in working with youth, and with trauma-related issues and offers EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing). Catie uses an integrative therapeutic approach to help meet individual needs of each client.
Catie believes that all clients bring unique strengths to build on. Catie believes that support and connectedness are important for healing, and seeks to provide empathetic listening and a supportive environment.
With her exceptional clinical skills and her warm, empathetic approach, Catie has a proven track record of building strong, trusting relationships with her clients, empowering them to find restoration and hope. She brings an invaluable skill set to the team.
Jonathan Hicks, M.Ed., Resident in Counseling (VA)
Jonathan Hicks, M.Ed., Resident in Counseling (VA)
Mental Health Therapist
Virginia License #0704014757
Jonathan Hicks is a Resident in Counseling in the state of Virginia, where he has been working in mental health since 2018. Jonathan obtained a BS in Psychology from University of Virginia’s College at Wise, and a Master’s of Education, Counseling and Human Development, from Lindsey Wilson College in 2021. Jonathan utilizes a variety of clinical approaches with individual and group therapy such as Psychoanalysis, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing (MI). Additionally, Jonathan has a keen interest in Neuropsychology and the role that brain chemistry has on cognition and the understanding of how individuals both navigate and understand their existence or issues they may be experiencing in day-to-day life.
Jonathan has worked with a variety of populations in various stages of human development, ranging from early childhood to late adulthood. Jonathan transitioned to working with a treatment foster care agency, providing intensive in-home services with teens. He also had the opportunity to provide psychoeducation and life skills coaching in an independent living program, designed to assist teens aging out of foster care. began his career working with individuals with severe mental illness providing psychoeducation and teaching activities of daily living in both clinical settings and within assisted living facilities from 2018 until 2021. Jonathan then began working in foster care setting providing intensive in-home services with a local foster care agency and with teens transitioning out of foster care in an independent living program, providing psychoeducation and teaching life skills.
Jonathan has spent the last several years providing treatment for substance use disorders at a local office that provides medication-assisted treatment. There, he has learned about the profound impact addiction has on individuals and their families, friends, and communities, which has created a passion for aiding in recovery, and supporting the rebuilding/building of relationships that are damaged by addiction.
“To care of another individual means to know and to experience the other as fully as possible.”
-Irvin D. Yalom
Lindsey Arnold, MSW, Registered Supervisee (VA)
Lindsey Arnold, MSW, Registered Supervisee (VA)
Mental Health Therapist
Virginia License # 0906016818
Lindsey Arnold is a Registered Clinical Social Work Supervisee in the state of Virginia. She holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Social Work from King University and has worked with individuals facing a wide range of mental health challenges. In her most recent role, Lindsey supported young adults navigating the stress and uncertainty that often come with major life transitions.
Her therapeutic approach is person-centered and rooted in the belief that every individual holds resilience and the capacity to grow. Lindsey views therapy as a collaborative space where clients can uncover inner strength, build confidence, and move toward meaningful change.
She is currently working toward clinical licensure in Virginia and is committed to creating a supportive, empowering environment for every client she serves.
Lindsey is an asset to the Family Refuge Center of Southwest Virginia, bringing both skill and compassion to her work. Her dedication to empowering clients, combined with her collaborative spirit, enriches the center’s mission of providing hope, healing, and resilience to individuals and families in the community.
Lindsey Bowles, BS, Counseling Intern
Lindsey Bowles, BS, Counseling Intern
Mental Health Intern
Lindsey is a graduate student in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Emory & Henry University and a proud native of Abingdon, Virginia. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Exercise, Sport, and Health Education from Radford University and has worked in the healthcare field since completing her undergraduate studies.
Her previous experience includes providing preventative care in the form of education, developing individualized health and wellness plans, and has involved working with diverse populations, gaining valuable insight into the varying needs of individuals and communities. This background inspired her passion for mental health, decision to pursue mental health counseling, and commitment to providing empathetic, person-centered care.
She is grateful for the opportunity to enhance her counseling skills while serving the beautiful community she calls home. In her free time, Lindsey enjoys spending time with family and being outdoors.
Shalissa Smith, Undergraduate Intern
Shalissa Smith, Undergraduate Intern
Non-Clinical Mental Health Intern
Shalissa is an undergraduate intern pursuing her bachelor’s in Human Services and Counseling at Lindsey Wilson University. After obtaining this degree, she plans to obtain her Master’s in Education and Counseling as well.
She is excited for the opportunity to grow her knowledge of the field and learn new skills that will help her in her future career as a therapist. In her free time she loves to spend time with her daughter and adventure outdoors. She will be interning with us through December 2025!
Our Office Location
Family Refuge Center parking is located to the right of the building. Unless previous accommodations have been made for accessibility, all clients will enter through the front door to the waiting room.
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