About Blue Oak Wellness
Strengthening individuals and organizations through resilience, clarity, and evidence-based support.
Who We Are
At Blue Oak Wellness, we believe that those who serve others deserve meaningful, compassionate support. Founded by professionals with decades of experience in law enforcement, emergency medical services, active-duty military, and clinical mental health, our mission is to bridge the gap between service and self-care.
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We understand the unique challenges faced by first responders, veterans, and helping professionals — the long hours, high stakes, and emotional demands that come with a life of service. That understanding shapes everything we do because we have been where you have been.
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Our services include:
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Counseling: Individual therapy specializing in trauma, stress, transition, and resilience.
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Consulting: Organizational wellness programs, peer support development, and leadership coaching for agencies and nonprofits.
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Training: Evidence-based workshops on resilience, communication, crisis response, and trauma-informed leadership.​
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Our culture is one of authenticity, respect, and shared mission. We honor your commitment by offering an environment where professionalism and compassion meet — a place to learn, grow, and recover strength. At Blue Oak Wellness, we don’t just treat symptoms; we help you build the foundation for operational durability and lasting resilience.
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Blue Oak Wellness — Professional strength. Personal support.
“We deliver professional strength and personal support through counseling, consulting, and training that meet people where they are and help them grow stronger — not just in their work, but in their lives."
Meet Wayne Handley
Wayne Handley is a values-driven executive leader and Licensed Professional Counselor with more than three decades of combined experience in public safety, military service, emergency medical operations, and mental health counseling. Recognized for integrating trauma-informed practices and resilience-focused leadership into modern organizational culture, he blends clinical expertise with strategic executive insight. His work spans crisis intervention, wellness program design, peer support development, and leadership coaching across large public safety systems. Wayne is committed to strengthening individuals, teams, and communities through evidence-based practice and compassionate leadership.
Wayne Handley, Ph.D, LPC
Wayne Handley, Ph.D., LPC, is a values-driven leader and Licensed Professional Counselor with more than 35 years of combined experience in public safety, military service, emergency medical operations, and mental health. His work bridges counseling, consulting, and training to help individuals and organizations strengthen resilience, leadership, and overall well-being.
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As a former executive law enforcement leader, Wayne is recognized for integrating trauma-informed practices, wellness strategies, and evidence-based leadership into high-performance organizations. He has directed large-scale wellness initiatives, developed peer support and training programs, and led cultural change efforts that foster trust and sustainability.
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Wayne earned his Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision from Old Dominion University, where his research focuses on trauma, resilience, and leadership in high-stress professions. A published author and national presenter, he is known for helping people and organizations thrive through clarity, compassion, and purpose-driven leadership.
Education & Professional Credentials
Doctor of Philosophy — Old Dominion University (2024)
Specializing in counselor education and supervision, Dr. Wayne Handley is a Licensed Professional Counselor with extensive experience addressing trauma, resilience, and mental health in public safety and other high-stress professions. He has led military intensive outpatient programs, consulted on wellness initiatives for first responders, and presented nationally and internationally on trauma and resilience in policing. A published co-author on vicarious traumatization, his ongoing research explores how evidence-based counseling and leadership practices can strengthen resilience and performance in high-demand environments
Master of Science — Old Dominion University (2018)
Concentration in mental health counseling with additional coursework in public administration, emphasizing both clinical expertise and organizational leadership. Established and directed a community-based mental health clinic in partnership with Sentara Health Care, providing culturally responsive counseling and therapeutic services to more than 200 clients from historically underserved populations. Developed and implemented treatment plans, supervised service delivery, and ensured access to quality mental health care for individuals who previously faced barriers to counseling support.
Bachelor of Science — Old Dominion University (2010)
Major in Political Science, Minor in Economics. Graduated cum laude
Licensed Professional Counselor
Hold a current, unrestricted license to provide counseling services in the Commonwealth of Virginia (License #0701015047).