Photo of TrueYou Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
TrueYou Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002
We specialize in Couples Therapy, Individual Therapy, Family Therapy, and Trauma therapy.
You have come to this site to ask for help. That takes courage, strength, and a willingness to look at yourself, to lean into your fears, sadness, isolation, anger, and remove these roadblocks from your life, forever. Our therapists here at TrueYou Center are authentically here for you, supporting you as you unpack all the stories of your life that have lead up to this moment, and helping you rewrite your outcome. Together, we will gently, at your own pace, find the blocks that are preventing you from having the relationships and life you imagine having.
We specialize in Couples Therapy, Individual Therapy, Family Therapy, and Trauma therapy.
You have come to this site to ask for help. That takes courage, strength, and a willingness to look at yourself, to lean into your fears, sadness, isolation, anger, and remove these roadblocks from your life, forever. Our therapists here at TrueYou Center are authentically here for you, supporting you as you unpack all the stories of your life that have lead up to this moment, and helping you rewrite your outcome. Together, we will gently, at your own pace, find the blocks that are preventing you from having the relationships and life you imagine having.
(301) 918-5812 View (301) 918-5812
Photo of Giselle Ruzany, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Giselle Ruzany
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, R-DMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008
My goal is to facilitate your healing with joy. I come from a trauma-informed, body-centered, and experiential training. So, my ideal clients are often open-minded and interested in mindful movement practices and the arts. I work with individuals seeking transformation, recovering from trauma, interested in embodied healing, working through life transitions, and unpacking family and relationship dynamics. I help individuals heal from traumatic events, panic, insomnia, grief, boundary ruptures, depression, and blocks in creativity. Together, we will be having laughter and tears while discovering new paths that are healing and whole.
My goal is to facilitate your healing with joy. I come from a trauma-informed, body-centered, and experiential training. So, my ideal clients are often open-minded and interested in mindful movement practices and the arts. I work with individuals seeking transformation, recovering from trauma, interested in embodied healing, working through life transitions, and unpacking family and relationship dynamics. I help individuals heal from traumatic events, panic, insomnia, grief, boundary ruptures, depression, and blocks in creativity. Together, we will be having laughter and tears while discovering new paths that are healing and whole.
(703) 468-8906 View (703) 468-8906
Photo of Laura DiCesare, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Laura DiCesare
Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
Follow Dr.Laura.D on Instagram for Psychology Tips...While 20% of Americans have a diagnosed mental health illness, 100% of us have Mental Health! As a Positive Psychologist I, Dr. Laura DiCesare, and my Associates empower our clients with the tools to tap into their internal strengths and resources. Learning about our brains and how they work is necessary to finding more balance in life. Are you experiencing stress, anxiety, or sadness? Are you feeling alone or like no one truly listens or understands? Is there trauma from your past that is holding you back from the life you want? Then let's get started (licensed in 34 States!
Follow Dr.Laura.D on Instagram for Psychology Tips...While 20% of Americans have a diagnosed mental health illness, 100% of us have Mental Health! As a Positive Psychologist I, Dr. Laura DiCesare, and my Associates empower our clients with the tools to tap into their internal strengths and resources. Learning about our brains and how they work is necessary to finding more balance in life. Are you experiencing stress, anxiety, or sadness? Are you feeling alone or like no one truly listens or understands? Is there trauma from your past that is holding you back from the life you want? Then let's get started (licensed in 34 States!
(610) 285-1193 View (610) 285-1193
Photo of Carla Carreira in Washington, DC
Carla Carreira
MA, MS, SEP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20011  (Online Only)
I am especially versed in issues regarding somatic therapy techniques for increased trauma recovery and resiliency.
I am a somatic experiencing practitioner and clinical sexologist committed to diversity and accessibility and offer a holistic therapeutic approach targeted to fit client needs. I am dedicated to trust-building and co-creation and enjoy worksheets/ post-session exercises that reinforce and assist integration. I enjoy working with clients with traditionally limited access to care. I also appreciate curiosity for self-awareness and commitment to growth.
I am especially versed in issues regarding somatic therapy techniques for increased trauma recovery and resiliency.
I am a somatic experiencing practitioner and clinical sexologist committed to diversity and accessibility and offer a holistic therapeutic approach targeted to fit client needs. I am dedicated to trust-building and co-creation and enjoy worksheets/ post-session exercises that reinforce and assist integration. I enjoy working with clients with traditionally limited access to care. I also appreciate curiosity for self-awareness and commitment to growth.
(240) 226-2577 View (240) 226-2577
Photo of Kate Kelly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Kate Kelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
I also work with clients of all ages with depression, ADHD, self-regulation challenges, distinct learning styles, chronic illness, grief and loss, trauma, and issues of identity.
I’m the founder and director of The Center for Family Well-Being, where we aim -- through our groups, individual therapy, and classes -- to help kids, teens, adults, couples, and families fully realize their potential with confidence, understanding, and an open heart. We're a group of highly-trained holistic therapists who integrate Western psychotherapy with the wisdom of Eastern mindful awareness practice, as well as other mind-body healing methods, for greater awareness, connection, and well-being for our clients -- within themselves and with others in their lives.
I also work with clients of all ages with depression, ADHD, self-regulation challenges, distinct learning styles, chronic illness, grief and loss, trauma, and issues of identity.
I’m the founder and director of The Center for Family Well-Being, where we aim -- through our groups, individual therapy, and classes -- to help kids, teens, adults, couples, and families fully realize their potential with confidence, understanding, and an open heart. We're a group of highly-trained holistic therapists who integrate Western psychotherapy with the wisdom of Eastern mindful awareness practice, as well as other mind-body healing methods, for greater awareness, connection, and well-being for our clients -- within themselves and with others in their lives.
(202) 804-8054 View (202) 804-8054
Photo of Dona Paknejad, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Dona Paknejad
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
Paknejad works to help individuals who have suffered traumatic experiences through the use of trauma informed practices that can help in alleviating symptoms of such traumas.
Ms. Paknejad has been practicing in the Washington, D.C. area for a decade, focusing on supportive services that integrate cultural sensitivity, and physical, and psychological support. Ms. Paknejad has extensive experience working with domestic and international families living and working in the DC MD VA area, including addressing changes in mood and overall functioning and focusing on issues and stresses around assimilation and acculturation due to changes in one's personal and professional settings. Through the use of solution focused techniques, Ms. Paknejad's clients are able to achieve measurable improvements.
Paknejad works to help individuals who have suffered traumatic experiences through the use of trauma informed practices that can help in alleviating symptoms of such traumas.
Ms. Paknejad has been practicing in the Washington, D.C. area for a decade, focusing on supportive services that integrate cultural sensitivity, and physical, and psychological support. Ms. Paknejad has extensive experience working with domestic and international families living and working in the DC MD VA area, including addressing changes in mood and overall functioning and focusing on issues and stresses around assimilation and acculturation due to changes in one's personal and professional settings. Through the use of solution focused techniques, Ms. Paknejad's clients are able to achieve measurable improvements.
(202) 335-0328 View (202) 335-0328
Photo of Élison Silva Santos, Psychological Associate in Washington, DC
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.
(202) 858-1784 View (202) 858-1784
Photo of Shawn Parell, Counselor in Washington, DC
Shawn Parell
Counselor, RYT, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
We create a supportive container to move through and to the other side of regressive patterns, trauma, and loss - and to open new possibilities for growth and healing.
We have a lot in common. As human beings, our nature is to be resilient and wholehearted. Presence is fundamental to our wellbeing. We want the freedom to define ourselves on our terms and also to sense our belonging to the world around us. We live in an era when antiquated paradigms are giving way to new possibilities and, as humanity grapples with its place among the family of things, more equitable, sustainable, and intra-connected models for healing are emerging.
We create a supportive container to move through and to the other side of regressive patterns, trauma, and loss - and to open new possibilities for growth and healing.
We have a lot in common. As human beings, our nature is to be resilient and wholehearted. Presence is fundamental to our wellbeing. We want the freedom to define ourselves on our terms and also to sense our belonging to the world around us. We live in an era when antiquated paradigms are giving way to new possibilities and, as humanity grapples with its place among the family of things, more equitable, sustainable, and intra-connected models for healing are emerging.
(505) 240-8476 View (505) 240-8476
Photo of Leticia Lopez, Counselor in Washington, DC
Leticia Lopez
Counselor, LGPC, MA
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
At times, we can feel that something is not working as well as it was. It could be a feeling that you are not functioning as you were before, or life became harder or even boring. Therapy and psychoanalysis is a singular process and I believe that your treatment is unique, that´s why I tailor treatment to the desires and needs of each of my clients
At times, we can feel that something is not working as well as it was. It could be a feeling that you are not functioning as you were before, or life became harder or even boring. Therapy and psychoanalysis is a singular process and I believe that your treatment is unique, that´s why I tailor treatment to the desires and needs of each of my clients
(202) 361-5498 View (202) 361-5498
Photo of Danielle Blessing Taylor, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington, DC
Danielle Blessing Taylor
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
We see individuals, families and couples in DC, MD, VA, PA, and FL. We provide an encouraging, warm and open environment to help learn more about yourself and heal from the root up. We identify when negative patterns began and guide you to lead a happier and more peaceful life.
We see individuals, families and couples in DC, MD, VA, PA, and FL. We provide an encouraging, warm and open environment to help learn more about yourself and heal from the root up. We identify when negative patterns began and guide you to lead a happier and more peaceful life.
(202) 569-8845 View (202) 569-8845
Photo of Emily Maynard, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Emily Maynard
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20002
I specialize in working with people who have complicated relationships with their bodies. My patients come to me because they are interested in: addressing disordered eating and body image issues; learning to live better with medical problems; reconsidering their use of alcohol and drugs; or learning to live in their bodies as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or non-binary individuals. Many of my patients have also been through difficult or even traumatic events, that at times have made their bodies feel unsafe. I help my patients to reestablish a sense of trust and safety in their bodies.
I specialize in working with people who have complicated relationships with their bodies. My patients come to me because they are interested in: addressing disordered eating and body image issues; learning to live better with medical problems; reconsidering their use of alcohol and drugs; or learning to live in their bodies as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or non-binary individuals. Many of my patients have also been through difficult or even traumatic events, that at times have made their bodies feel unsafe. I help my patients to reestablish a sense of trust and safety in their bodies.
(805) 865-7569 View (805) 865-7569
Photo of Purposeful Life Therapy - Carolyn Watson Phd, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Purposeful Life Therapy - Carolyn Watson Phd
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
You have the power to heal, grow, and thrive. & I can help! As a clinical therapist, it’s my privilege to hold space for clients as they unpack areas of concern, increase self-awareness, restore balance, and identify strengths they can cultivate to create sustainable change. My clientele come from diverse walks of life. Many are working professionals who are struggling to keep up with the busy demands of life and now feel ready to explore areas they are stuck.
You have the power to heal, grow, and thrive. & I can help! As a clinical therapist, it’s my privilege to hold space for clients as they unpack areas of concern, increase self-awareness, restore balance, and identify strengths they can cultivate to create sustainable change. My clientele come from diverse walks of life. Many are working professionals who are struggling to keep up with the busy demands of life and now feel ready to explore areas they are stuck.
(202) 831-4486 View (202) 831-4486
Photo of Dr. Kerley Perminio Most, Pastoral Counselor in Washington, DC
Dr. Kerley Perminio Most
Pastoral Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
Hello, it is so good to connect with you! Welcome to my practice! You may be ready to explore your life in an intentional environment. To engage in a space where you can fully embrace yourself, your journey, and your gifts. I believe in your ability to process, validate, and overcome life's unexpected events, such as grief, breakups, career or academic setbacks, relationship disconnection, and loneliness. Let's work together to uncover your inner strength and build a foundation for your well-being.
Hello, it is so good to connect with you! Welcome to my practice! You may be ready to explore your life in an intentional environment. To engage in a space where you can fully embrace yourself, your journey, and your gifts. I believe in your ability to process, validate, and overcome life's unexpected events, such as grief, breakups, career or academic setbacks, relationship disconnection, and loneliness. Let's work together to uncover your inner strength and build a foundation for your well-being.
(202) 733-6475 View (202) 733-6475
Photo of Teresa E. Doniger, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Teresa E. Doniger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
I have been working with young to mid career professionals since 2012. Since then, I have become a therapist that Gen X, Y, and Z clients seek out to address various types of life challenges. I enjoy providing support and encouragement to people who are facing life stage transitions and change with all of the stress, anxiety, as well as the excitement that these events may bring. My training is in family therapy and I work within the frameworks of family systems, attachment theory, as well as grief/loss and living with loss.
I have been working with young to mid career professionals since 2012. Since then, I have become a therapist that Gen X, Y, and Z clients seek out to address various types of life challenges. I enjoy providing support and encouragement to people who are facing life stage transitions and change with all of the stress, anxiety, as well as the excitement that these events may bring. My training is in family therapy and I work within the frameworks of family systems, attachment theory, as well as grief/loss and living with loss.
(202) 335-7347 View (202) 335-7347
Photo of Cauthen Counseling and Consulting, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Cauthen Counseling and Consulting, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20001
Is your child or teen acting out? Do you feel like an emotional mess? Are you coping with feelings of anxiety, depression, fatigue, or defeat that just won't seem to go away? Are your emotional issues so serious that you believe that you don’t know which direction to go? Are you grieving a loss? Are you feeling burned out at work, searching for clarity, or trying to find meaning in life? We will work together and empower you to help yourself! We have over 14 years of experience in individual counseling and consultation. We have a diverse group of professionals to assist you in seeking clarity and improving your peace.
Is your child or teen acting out? Do you feel like an emotional mess? Are you coping with feelings of anxiety, depression, fatigue, or defeat that just won't seem to go away? Are your emotional issues so serious that you believe that you don’t know which direction to go? Are you grieving a loss? Are you feeling burned out at work, searching for clarity, or trying to find meaning in life? We will work together and empower you to help yourself! We have over 14 years of experience in individual counseling and consultation. We have a diverse group of professionals to assist you in seeking clarity and improving your peace.
(704) 850-6479 View (704) 850-6479
Photo of Lily Anderson LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Lily Anderson LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20018  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Research also confirms that we can heal from our symptoms through trauma therapy.
Hello! I currently do telehealth therapy for DC, IL and SC. As an EMDR Certified Therapist and EMDR Approved Consultant, I understand our struggles are not about "what's wrong with us" but "what happened to us." Looking to resolve current symptoms sometimes means healing from the past, while strengthening resources in the present and preparing for the future. I work with children, adolescents, and adults - individually and in caregiver-child dynamics - and invite you to reach out for a free consultation!
Research also confirms that we can heal from our symptoms through trauma therapy.
Hello! I currently do telehealth therapy for DC, IL and SC. As an EMDR Certified Therapist and EMDR Approved Consultant, I understand our struggles are not about "what's wrong with us" but "what happened to us." Looking to resolve current symptoms sometimes means healing from the past, while strengthening resources in the present and preparing for the future. I work with children, adolescents, and adults - individually and in caregiver-child dynamics - and invite you to reach out for a free consultation!
(844) 524-0902 View (844) 524-0902
Trauma and PTSD Therapists

When should I seek treatment for trauma?

Not everyone who undergoes trauma needs therapy to heal, but many do. If, after experiencing a traumatic event, you find yourself struggling with symptoms such as nightmares, dissociation, irritability, or emotional numbness—especially if these symptoms last more than a month and are severe enough to interfere with your daily functioning—you may benefit from seeking out therapy with a trauma-informed provider.

How long does trauma therapy take?

Different types of therapy for trauma unfold on different timelines. Prolonged exposure therapy and cognitive processing therapy, for example, each take about three months, while trauma-informed CBT may last anywhere from 8 to 25 sessions. Other approaches, especially those that are less structured or that incorporate elements from multiple modalities, may be more open-ended, though many patients report feeling better within the first few months of treatment.

What happens if trauma is left untreated?

Unaddressed trauma can have serious—even devastating—effects on relationships, career, and day-to-day functioning. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can lead people to distrust or lash out at others, making it difficult to maintain intimate relationships; it can also trigger symptoms such as flashbacks or hyperreactivity that can interfere with a person’s ability to function effectively, personally and/or professionally. Some sufferers turn to drugs to find relief. Symptoms may lessen on their own with time, but there is no guarantee that PTSD will resolve on its own.

Can PTSD come back after treatment?

It is possible for PTSD symptoms to recur months or years after successful treatment. This is because, like most mental health disorders, it is not possible to “cure” PTSD, and stressful life events may cause symptoms to recur in even the most resilient individuals. There is no shame in re-experiencing PTSD symptoms nor in returning to therapy when such relapses occur; indeed, many forms of trauma therapy explicitly encourage periodic “maintenance sessions” to reinforce coping skills and ensure that symptoms stay manageable.