Amanda LaRose, Founder and President of of RHODE ISLAND OAK COUNSELING & WELLNESS

Amanda LaRose, the Founder and President of RHODE ISLAND OAK COUNSELING & WELLNESS (RIOCW) exemplifies resilience and dedication in the mental health field. From her early career in eldercare to the establishment of thriving mental health wellness centers in Portsmouth and North Kingstown, Amanda’s journey reflects an unwavering commitment to fostering mental and emotional well-being in the communities she serves.

With a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Bay Path University and a Master of Social Work from Simmons University, Amanda spent a decade specializing in eldercare. In October 2022, she opened RIOCW in Portsmouth, creating a comprehensive mental health wellness center that combines mental health counseling with holistic wellness practices such as Acupuncture.

In 2016, Amanda founded Virginia Oak Counseling, LLC, in Leesburg, Virginia, to address the community’s growing mental health needs. Under her leadership, the practice expanded to four locations across Northern Virginia, employing nearly 20 licensed mental health counselors.

As her Virginia practice flourished, Amanda relocated with her family to Rhode Island to align her professional goals with personal aspirations. In October 2022, she opened RIOCW  in Portsmouth, creating a comprehensive wellness center that combines mental health counseling with holistic wellness practices. This multi-state initiative expands mental health capacity while offering an integrative approach to wellness.

Since its launch in 2022, RIOCW – Portsmouth, and since October 2024, RIOCW – North Kingstown (a second Rhode Island office location), have welcomed and supported thousands of clients. Each office location has a growing staff of licensed professionals, including mental health counselors, acupuncturists, and integrative wellness specialists ready to support the needs of the communities they are in. “I want people to know there is a path they can take to overcome their challenges,” Amanda says. Her centers provide a sanctuary where individuals can address anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationships, parenting, and grief (to name a few), supported by a team that prioritizes compassion and responsiveness.

Peers describe Amanda as a driven leader who excels professionally while raising two toddlers, prioritizing time with her supportive husband, and maintaining space for self-care. Known for her organizational skills, Amanda ensures the seamless operation of RIOCW, enabling her team to focus on delivering exceptional care. “People reach out to us in moments of difficulty, and they deserve prompt, attentive support,” she emphasizes, underscoring her commitment to accessibility.

Among her proudest accomplishments are the long-term therapeutic relationships she and her team have built with clients, helping thousands improve their lives. To meet growing community demand, she has led efforts to expand RIOCW, hire additional well-qualified therapists, and implement new business technology to streamline client access. “We strive to eliminate waitlists because everyone deserves timely support,” she explains, highlighting her dedication to ensuring immediate care.

Amanda’s journey from eldercare, to founding VA and RIOCW, highlights her profound impact on mental health services in a multi-state effort. Her ability to create supportive environments where individuals can heal and thrive underscores her leadership in the mental health and wellness community.

Beyond her professional achievements, Amanda remains deeply committed to her mission of empowering others. “At the core of everything we do is the belief that people deserve to feel whole and supported,” she says. As her practice expands, Amanda continues to inspire those around her, proving that resilience and compassion can transform not just lives but entire communities.

2984 East Main Rd, Portsmouth, &
7 Main St, North Kingstown, 401-366-2426,
www.RIOakCounseling.com