Casey Kelahan

Casey Kelahan, MSW (she/her) earned her Master of Social Work degree from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2024, and is currently working toward her clinical licensure (LCSW). Curious, warm, and knowledgeable, she is passionate about creating safe and non-judgmental spaces where people can embody their authentic selves, share their stories of loss, and honor the complexity of their grief. She also believes that, when appropriate, humor can be a powerful and humanizing part of the healing process.

Casey brings a trauma-informed and humanistic approach to her work, companioning clients as they navigate the cognitive, emotional, behavioral, social, and spiritual impacts of grief. She supports her clients in identifying meaningful coping strategies, reconstructing life narratives, and exploring the profound existential questions that often arise in the aftermath of loss. In addition to incorporating principles from foundational grief theories, she often draws from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to provide holistic support.

At Full Circle, Casey has facilitated a variety of support groups, including the Perinatal Loss Group, Parenting After Loss Group, and Hands on Healing Family Group. She also developed and currently facilitates the Young Adult Loss Group, reflecting her commitment to meeting the unique needs of diverse grieving populations. 

Before entering the field of social work, Casey earned her B.A. in Environmental Studies from McDaniel College in 2016 and worked as an environmental educator and trip leader for student groups in the U.S. and abroad. These experiences deepened her appreciation for the healing power of group connection, mutual support, and the natural world- elements she continues to integrate into her grief work. Outside of her professional life, Casey enjoys hiking local trails, discovering new poetry, exploring Richmond’s music scene, and teaming up with friends at trivia nights. 

Education

M.S.W., Social Work, Virginia Commonwealth University

B.A., Environmental Studies, McDaniel College

Training

Supervisee in Social Work, Virginia

Connect Suicide Postvention Certified

Media and Articles Authored

Returning to Work after Loss (Blog)

Anticipatory Grief (Video)

Grief During The Holidays (Video)