Robert Viney

I’m someone who believes deeply in the power of transformation. I became a counselor because I’ve seen how unhealed trauma can shape lives, families, and entire communities. Growing up as the son of a homicide detective, I was exposed early on to the realities of generational pain and systemic violence. That experience planted a sense of justice in me—but over time, I learned that real justice starts with healing, not just accountability.

My journey has had many layers. I’ve been a student-athlete, a creative professional working in video editing, and most importantly, a father. Becoming a dad at a young age while still in college challenged me in ways I never expected—it taught me humility, resilience, and how to lead with vulnerability. The trials I faced didn’t break me—they gave me purpose.

I have a deep passion for addressing childhood trauma and understanding how it connects to adult criminology. I see trauma not just as an individual issue but as something that affects entire communities. My mission is to be a bridge—between pain and healing, between cycles of struggle and new paths forward. I want to go back into underserved communities, create space for real conversation, and help dismantle toxic narratives that keep people stuck.

I’m here because others poured into me, and now it’s my responsibility—and honor—to do the same for others. I move with intention, knowing that I carry the hopes of my family, my ancestors, and my future in everything I do. Healing is real. Change is possible. And I’m committed to being part of that change.

My professional journey in behavioral health began in 2019 when I served as a Relief Counselor at Crossroads Community Youth Home. There, I supported at-risk youth in a residential setting, helping them develop coping skills and emotional regulation strategies. In 2021, I joined Riverside Behavioral Health Center as a Psychiatric Technician, where I gained hands-on experience working with individuals navigating acute mental health challenges.

That same year, I was recognized as a Champion of Caring, a title that reflected my commitment to compassionate, client-centered care. Currently, I’m working as a Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC-T) at Pyramid Healthcare, where I lead individual and group therapy sessions focused on addiction recovery, trauma healing, and relapse prevention.

I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Criminal Justice, with a concentration in Early Childhood Trauma and Adult Criminology. My studies were deeply rooted in understanding how early adverse experiences shape long-term behavioral outcomes and interactions with the justice system. I further advanced my training by completing the Clinical Mental Health Counseling curriculum at Hampton University, where I focused on therapeutic interventions, trauma-informed care, and holistic approaches to mental health treatment.