Therapists in Washington, DC
Emma Nowicki
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
We all go through difficult times in life when we feel stressed or unfulfilled. Sometimes we are able to manage challenges on our own and other times it can be beneficial to talk to a professional. It takes courage to reach out for support. You may be struggling with anxiety, perfectionism, or low self-esteem. Therapy can help you manage intense emotions, feel more confident, foster deeper connections in relationships, and thrive in your professional pursuits. With a non-judgmental and caring listener, you can overcome obstacles and accomplish the changes you want to see.
We all go through difficult times in life when we feel stressed or unfulfilled. Sometimes we are able to manage challenges on our own and other times it can be beneficial to talk to a professional. It takes courage to reach out for support. You may be struggling with anxiety, perfectionism, or low self-esteem. Therapy can help you manage intense emotions, feel more confident, foster deeper connections in relationships, and thrive in your professional pursuits. With a non-judgmental and caring listener, you can overcome obstacles and accomplish the changes you want to see.
Peter Simon Walsh
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006 (Online Only)
I work with create space for BIPOC, AAPI, Latinx, LGBTQ+ (diverse) clients toprocess their experiences and identify ways to advocate for themselves and manage the impact of their experiences. We'll identify cognitive, emotional and behavioral patterns and your strengths as we work to alleviate or eliminate sex or intimacy related challenges, identity related distress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, pressure or overwhelm, discrimination or privilege, shame, transitions, self-esteem and more. We'll work to manage or reduce the adverse impact relationships and experiences on current cognitive, emotional and behavioural functioning.
I work with create space for BIPOC, AAPI, Latinx, LGBTQ+ (diverse) clients toprocess their experiences and identify ways to advocate for themselves and manage the impact of their experiences. We'll identify cognitive, emotional and behavioral patterns and your strengths as we work to alleviate or eliminate sex or intimacy related challenges, identity related distress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, pressure or overwhelm, discrimination or privilege, shame, transitions, self-esteem and more. We'll work to manage or reduce the adverse impact relationships and experiences on current cognitive, emotional and behavioural functioning.
Gloria Myers Beller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20007
It is my privilege to guide individuals, couples and groups to find their own way. You may experience vitality and despair, triumph and struggle, fulfillment and longing. However, when the "self" becomes impoverished it is vulnerable, emotionally scarred and injured. Are you self aware and in search of a deeper sense of self and the ultimate meaning of life?
It is my privilege to guide individuals, couples and groups to find their own way. You may experience vitality and despair, triumph and struggle, fulfillment and longing. However, when the "self" becomes impoverished it is vulnerable, emotionally scarred and injured. Are you self aware and in search of a deeper sense of self and the ultimate meaning of life?
Viva Goettinger
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
In each of us there is a wise and compassionate Self. It is already there, and does not have to be created or developed. Too often, however, our access to this Self is obscured by protective and sometimes conflicting thoughts and emotions. These protections were put in place for a reason, but can become outdated and even dysfunctional as we mature. In our therapy together we will uncover what is being protected, release old patterns and emotions, and create space for this wise Self to take a larger role in your life.
In each of us there is a wise and compassionate Self. It is already there, and does not have to be created or developed. Too often, however, our access to this Self is obscured by protective and sometimes conflicting thoughts and emotions. These protections were put in place for a reason, but can become outdated and even dysfunctional as we mature. In our therapy together we will uncover what is being protected, release old patterns and emotions, and create space for this wise Self to take a larger role in your life.
Iona Counseling & Psychotherapy Services
MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
PLEASE NOTE THAT DUE TO HIGH DEMAND AND LIMITED AVAILABILITY, WE ARE NOT ABLE TO ACCEPT NEW THERAPY CLIENTS AT THIS TIME. Iona Senior Services' staff of compassionate licensed clinical social workers helps older adults and their families cope with the emotional challenges of aging. Are you an older adult feeling depressed or anxious? Having difficulty dealing with memory loss, a medical condition, or increased dependence on others? Experiencing grief or loss? Are you a caregiver for your spouse or partner, aging parents, or other loved one and are seeking support to deal with the stress and other emotional aspects of caregiving?
PLEASE NOTE THAT DUE TO HIGH DEMAND AND LIMITED AVAILABILITY, WE ARE NOT ABLE TO ACCEPT NEW THERAPY CLIENTS AT THIS TIME. Iona Senior Services' staff of compassionate licensed clinical social workers helps older adults and their families cope with the emotional challenges of aging. Are you an older adult feeling depressed or anxious? Having difficulty dealing with memory loss, a medical condition, or increased dependence on others? Experiencing grief or loss? Are you a caregiver for your spouse or partner, aging parents, or other loved one and are seeking support to deal with the stress and other emotional aspects of caregiving?
Jessica N Canty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20003 (Online Only)
If you have experienced generational trauma, grief and loss, career challenges, work life balance challenges, and self-esteem issues, you need a therapist who is committed to supporting you in changing the narrative of your life. When we work together you will discover and pursue your life’s passions.
If you have experienced generational trauma, grief and loss, career challenges, work life balance challenges, and self-esteem issues, you need a therapist who is committed to supporting you in changing the narrative of your life. When we work together you will discover and pursue your life’s passions.
Hyacinth Wellness Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MHS, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
Our goal at Hyacinth Wellness is to help clients identify obstacles and understand their needs and strengths to achieve personal growth and success within relationships and life goals. We assess current life circumstances, family and medical history, and the larger social context to promote self-awareness and a collaborative plan of growth and change.
Our goal at Hyacinth Wellness is to help clients identify obstacles and understand their needs and strengths to achieve personal growth and success within relationships and life goals. We assess current life circumstances, family and medical history, and the larger social context to promote self-awareness and a collaborative plan of growth and change.
Sherell Hebert
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036 (Online Only)
Life is a field of unlimited possibilities. Are you ready to begin exploring? I believe we are all here to help one another learn and grow. I would be honored to be a part of your journey. I specialize in anxiety disorders because this is an area that I know intimately. I once had really bad anxiety and panics attacks. I learned to overcome them and they are now a distant memory. I would like to show you how this can be true for you as well. I offer flexible scheduling with options that include evenings and weekends for my DC clients. Go to the scheduling link to get started.
Life is a field of unlimited possibilities. Are you ready to begin exploring? I believe we are all here to help one another learn and grow. I would be honored to be a part of your journey. I specialize in anxiety disorders because this is an area that I know intimately. I once had really bad anxiety and panics attacks. I learned to overcome them and they are now a distant memory. I would like to show you how this can be true for you as well. I offer flexible scheduling with options that include evenings and weekends for my DC clients. Go to the scheduling link to get started.
Naveed Khan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MPH
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
The most immediate benefit of one-on-one work is that it pulls you out of the automaticity of life. It is only when we choose to step out of our regular schedules, that we are able to reflect, assess, reorient, plan, and finally pivot. Whether you are experiencing a lack of motivation, crying spells, racing thoughts, and/or other symptoms of stress, depression, or anxiety - I will support you through this period. Although I am trained in a number of therapy modalities, my initial focus is to understand your experiences at the present moment.
The most immediate benefit of one-on-one work is that it pulls you out of the automaticity of life. It is only when we choose to step out of our regular schedules, that we are able to reflect, assess, reorient, plan, and finally pivot. Whether you are experiencing a lack of motivation, crying spells, racing thoughts, and/or other symptoms of stress, depression, or anxiety - I will support you through this period. Although I am trained in a number of therapy modalities, my initial focus is to understand your experiences at the present moment.
David Pellegrini
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007
I draw on 40+ years of experience in the practice of individual, group, and couples therapy. I work with a diversity of adult clients from varied circumstances and backgrounds. Nevertheless, they generally share a common aspiration to discover a more vital, passionate, and creative approach to meeting life's challenges. My intention is to establish a safe and authentic collaboration in pursuit of your aspirations and goals. I bring compassion, humor, insight and engagement to the therapeutic work. My approach integrates elements of the best, well-established therapeutic approaches, tailored to your unique needs and challenges.
I draw on 40+ years of experience in the practice of individual, group, and couples therapy. I work with a diversity of adult clients from varied circumstances and backgrounds. Nevertheless, they generally share a common aspiration to discover a more vital, passionate, and creative approach to meeting life's challenges. My intention is to establish a safe and authentic collaboration in pursuit of your aspirations and goals. I bring compassion, humor, insight and engagement to the therapeutic work. My approach integrates elements of the best, well-established therapeutic approaches, tailored to your unique needs and challenges.
Elsa Mendez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20005 (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Elsa Mendez, a bilingual Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) based in DC. I hold a bachelor's degree in psychology from Towson University and a master's in Social Work from Catholic University. My professional journey has led me to collaborate with diverse populations across the DC and Maryland regions. These experiences have enriched my perspective and equipped me with valuable insights into the diverse challenges individuals face from all walks of life. My goal is to provide you with a safe, compassionate, and culturally sensitive space where your journey towards healing and growth can flourish.
Hello, I'm Elsa Mendez, a bilingual Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) based in DC. I hold a bachelor's degree in psychology from Towson University and a master's in Social Work from Catholic University. My professional journey has led me to collaborate with diverse populations across the DC and Maryland regions. These experiences have enriched my perspective and equipped me with valuable insights into the diverse challenges individuals face from all walks of life. My goal is to provide you with a safe, compassionate, and culturally sensitive space where your journey towards healing and growth can flourish.
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Frances K Wu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, LCSW-C, JD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008
Finding your voice is a journey of empowerment. From a shy child, to a lawyer who became a voice for others, to becoming a clinical social worker after a period of personal exploration, I am someone who has come full circle in finding my voice. As such, I have a deep interest in helping others find theirs.
Finding your voice is a journey of empowerment. From a shy child, to a lawyer who became a voice for others, to becoming a clinical social worker after a period of personal exploration, I am someone who has come full circle in finding my voice. As such, I have a deep interest in helping others find theirs.
Stacie Ain
Psychologist, PhD, MS
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
Waitlist for new clients
You and your partner feel stuck and don’t know how to make things better. Arguments can go in circles and never feel resolved. Sometimes the smallest disagreement can escalate quickly. You don’t know why it has to be this hard when both of you want to feel understood and cared for. Maybe major life transitions and changes have made it hard to feel as connected as you used to. You miss feeling close, and like they have your back. Talking about your issues doesn’t seem to help, but avoiding them isn’t working either.
You and your partner feel stuck and don’t know how to make things better. Arguments can go in circles and never feel resolved. Sometimes the smallest disagreement can escalate quickly. You don’t know why it has to be this hard when both of you want to feel understood and cared for. Maybe major life transitions and changes have made it hard to feel as connected as you used to. You miss feeling close, and like they have your back. Talking about your issues doesn’t seem to help, but avoiding them isn’t working either.
Rachel Bradley Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008
Not accepting new clients
Upon entering each new developmental phase of our lives, there is often a momentary pause, an unsettling of the ship as we adjust to new demands, challenges and desires (and this is true no matter our age). Perhaps the Terrible Twos, Tween or Teen years have hit? Could it be that your child is struggling at school and you'd like to support him or her to feel better and have more success? Maybe you are an adult who is feeling overwhelmed by stress and the demands of life. These moments are great opportunities for growth and I believe I can help.
Upon entering each new developmental phase of our lives, there is often a momentary pause, an unsettling of the ship as we adjust to new demands, challenges and desires (and this is true no matter our age). Perhaps the Terrible Twos, Tween or Teen years have hit? Could it be that your child is struggling at school and you'd like to support him or her to feel better and have more success? Maybe you are an adult who is feeling overwhelmed by stress and the demands of life. These moments are great opportunities for growth and I believe I can help.
Anna Kathryn Griffith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20011 (Online Only)
Asking for support can be a challenging and important way to honor yourself and your needs. Let’s build on that courage, curiosity for change and motivation. For many people, trauma, anxiety and/or depression can impede connecting and living fully. Experiences of loneliness, burnout and hopelessness can be overpowering. I believe change is possible and trust - with your therapist, with yourself and your loved ones - can be a key part of healing. I want therapy to be a space where you can express yourself and feel empowered and grounded. We can balance between time to use coping skills and space for reflection or exploration.
Asking for support can be a challenging and important way to honor yourself and your needs. Let’s build on that courage, curiosity for change and motivation. For many people, trauma, anxiety and/or depression can impede connecting and living fully. Experiences of loneliness, burnout and hopelessness can be overpowering. I believe change is possible and trust - with your therapist, with yourself and your loved ones - can be a key part of healing. I want therapy to be a space where you can express yourself and feel empowered and grounded. We can balance between time to use coping skills and space for reflection or exploration.
McKenna Polak
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20001 (Online Only)
My name is McKenna Polak and I am a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor (LGPC) working at a private counseling practice, MBS Performance Counseling in Frederick, MD. We provide counseling services to adolescents with a specific focus on athletes; helping them manage anxiety, doubt, and fear in their sport, in the classroom, and in their lives. Student-athletes deal with specific challenges and demands which, as a former college athlete and coach, I understand. The MBS Performance Counseling approach is specifically geared to build resilience, grit, and self confidence in athletes age 10-24!
My name is McKenna Polak and I am a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor (LGPC) working at a private counseling practice, MBS Performance Counseling in Frederick, MD. We provide counseling services to adolescents with a specific focus on athletes; helping them manage anxiety, doubt, and fear in their sport, in the classroom, and in their lives. Student-athletes deal with specific challenges and demands which, as a former college athlete and coach, I understand. The MBS Performance Counseling approach is specifically geared to build resilience, grit, and self confidence in athletes age 10-24!
Bridget L Burke
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
A psychotherapist and Licensed Professional Counselor, I received my Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The George Washington University. Prior to becoming a therapist I lived and worked in various countries in West Africa, Haiti, and the Middle East and bring a unique cross-cultural lens to my work. My specialty areas include anxiety, depression, people-pleasing, codependency, trauma, adult children of alcoholics, career issues, dating/relationship struggles, life transitions, and cultural identity development.
A psychotherapist and Licensed Professional Counselor, I received my Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The George Washington University. Prior to becoming a therapist I lived and worked in various countries in West Africa, Haiti, and the Middle East and bring a unique cross-cultural lens to my work. My specialty areas include anxiety, depression, people-pleasing, codependency, trauma, adult children of alcoholics, career issues, dating/relationship struggles, life transitions, and cultural identity development.
Élison Silva Santos
Psychological Associate, MS, LPA
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20037
With over 16 years of dedicated service to clients, I have had the privilege of working with individuals of all ages, including adults, adolescents, couples, and groups. Throughout my career, my primary focus has been on providing support to those struggling with a wide range of emotional difficulties such as depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, suicidal ideation, and OCD.
With over 16 years of dedicated service to clients, I have had the privilege of working with individuals of all ages, including adults, adolescents, couples, and groups. Throughout my career, my primary focus has been on providing support to those struggling with a wide range of emotional difficulties such as depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, suicidal ideation, and OCD.
Corinne Partelow
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20011 (Online Only)
I believe that the foundation of therapy starts with a trusting relationship characterized by honesty, warmth, and empathy. Once this foundation is established, we will work together to confront personal challenges, explore your strengths, and set therapeutic goals. I will use a variety of techniques tailored to your specific needs in order to guide our sessions. My hope is that our work together will leave you feeling a greater sense of empowerment and self-compassion and provide you with a useful set of tools that you can implement outside of the therapeutic setting.
I believe that the foundation of therapy starts with a trusting relationship characterized by honesty, warmth, and empathy. Once this foundation is established, we will work together to confront personal challenges, explore your strengths, and set therapeutic goals. I will use a variety of techniques tailored to your specific needs in order to guide our sessions. My hope is that our work together will leave you feeling a greater sense of empowerment and self-compassion and provide you with a useful set of tools that you can implement outside of the therapeutic setting.
Rachel Margolis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20003 (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm Rachel. Are you feeling depressed, anxious, or stressed? Are you struggling with your relationships or a major life transition? Do you feel stuck or overwhelmed? Everyone deserves a safe space to address these challenges, to heal, and to grow. I am a licensed clinical social worker with 15 years of experience providing non-judgmental, compassionate support to individuals from a variety of backgrounds and with a range of issues.
Welcome! I'm Rachel. Are you feeling depressed, anxious, or stressed? Are you struggling with your relationships or a major life transition? Do you feel stuck or overwhelmed? Everyone deserves a safe space to address these challenges, to heal, and to grow. I am a licensed clinical social worker with 15 years of experience providing non-judgmental, compassionate support to individuals from a variety of backgrounds and with a range of issues.
See more therapy options for Washington
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Washington, DC
2,000+
Average cost per session
$180
Therapists in Washington, DC who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
89% | Depression |
81% | Relationship Issues |
77% | Self Esteem |
68% | Trauma and PTSD |
68% | Stress |
65% | Coping Skills |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
63% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
57% | CareFirst |
53% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Therapists in Washington, DC see their clients
55% | In Person and Online | |
45% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
19% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Washington?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.