Family Therapy in Washington, DC

Patricia Gershefski
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
Clients come to me when they are dissatisfied with their lives and/or overwhelmed by a situation or stressor. I view therapy as a collaborative endeavor and work together with you to develop a treatment which incorporates your strengths, needs and life experiences. I also respect your wish to work on a specific area of concern short-term and/or to address a variety of complex issues over time. During the treatment, my clients report that they feel safe, supported and challenged by me, and that their lives are highly enriched by the experience. (See actual reviews by clients at Healthgrades.com.)
Clients come to me when they are dissatisfied with their lives and/or overwhelmed by a situation or stressor. I view therapy as a collaborative endeavor and work together with you to develop a treatment which incorporates your strengths, needs and life experiences. I also respect your wish to work on a specific area of concern short-term and/or to address a variety of complex issues over time. During the treatment, my clients report that they feel safe, supported and challenged by me, and that their lives are highly enriched by the experience. (See actual reviews by clients at Healthgrades.com.)
(240) 813-4351 View (240) 813-4351
Photo of Shonda J Pertilla, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Shonda J Pertilla
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
We all carry within us a dream, a purpose, a strength that flows, like water through our veins and every part of our being. It even flows through fear, pain, disappointment and all sorts of perceived failure. It gives meaning to life. It heals. It inspires. DreamWell LLC was born out of my dream to facilitate healing and to positively impact the lives of others. I hope to empower and support you in addressing the issues that have interrupted the flow of your personal and professional life and dreams.
We all carry within us a dream, a purpose, a strength that flows, like water through our veins and every part of our being. It even flows through fear, pain, disappointment and all sorts of perceived failure. It gives meaning to life. It heals. It inspires. DreamWell LLC was born out of my dream to facilitate healing and to positively impact the lives of others. I hope to empower and support you in addressing the issues that have interrupted the flow of your personal and professional life and dreams.
(202) 510-9742 View (202) 510-9742
Photo of Megan Flood, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Megan Flood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
For more than 22 years I have been working with individuals and couples coping with depression, anxiety, grief, relationship struggles, infertility and pregnancy loss, and post-partum anxiety and depression. In a supportive and confidential environment I help my clients develop their strengths to manage more effectively challenging situations, feelings, and relationships.
For more than 22 years I have been working with individuals and couples coping with depression, anxiety, grief, relationship struggles, infertility and pregnancy loss, and post-partum anxiety and depression. In a supportive and confidential environment I help my clients develop their strengths to manage more effectively challenging situations, feelings, and relationships.
(202) 851-8367 View (202) 851-8367
Photo of Ruth Wittersgreen, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Ruth Wittersgreen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20007
I've been providing psychotherapy for over twenty years. I am passionate about this work and have helped many people change their lives for the better. I believe in a person's ability to make their life as full and rich as they want it to be. Therapy can help you get what you need and want in your relationships, work, and other areas of life. I am easy to talk to and bring a lot of warmth and caring to therapy. I sometimes use innovative approaches including walking in nature with clients, hypnotherapy, pet therapy, and writing/art therapy.
I've been providing psychotherapy for over twenty years. I am passionate about this work and have helped many people change their lives for the better. I believe in a person's ability to make their life as full and rich as they want it to be. Therapy can help you get what you need and want in your relationships, work, and other areas of life. I am easy to talk to and bring a lot of warmth and caring to therapy. I sometimes use innovative approaches including walking in nature with clients, hypnotherapy, pet therapy, and writing/art therapy.
(202) 670-2900 View (202) 670-2900
Photo of Dr. Claudette Kirkman, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Dr. Claudette Kirkman
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
The key ingredients for a positive experience in therapy are having a counselor that is genuine, listens well, and provides support without judgment. I address many concerns but focus mainly on the following: toxic and stressful workplaces, stress, identity development and exploration, adjustment and major life transitions, work-life balance, family conflict, and racial trauma/racism.
The key ingredients for a positive experience in therapy are having a counselor that is genuine, listens well, and provides support without judgment. I address many concerns but focus mainly on the following: toxic and stressful workplaces, stress, identity development and exploration, adjustment and major life transitions, work-life balance, family conflict, and racial trauma/racism.
(443) 233-0955 View (443) 233-0955
Photo of Susan Gross, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Susan Gross
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20001
You have survived the pandemic, congratulations! But..are you thriving now? If you're here on this site, something is going on that you want to change. I am a unique therapist who is goal oriented. You can't get back what you have lost these last 2 years, but you can figure out how the rest of your life should look. That is what I offer. I will help you look at the narratives you have about yourself. Some may be helpful and some may keep you locked up, ashamed, fearful, lonely. Let's change that. You are never more than 1 thought away from a new way of life.
You have survived the pandemic, congratulations! But..are you thriving now? If you're here on this site, something is going on that you want to change. I am a unique therapist who is goal oriented. You can't get back what you have lost these last 2 years, but you can figure out how the rest of your life should look. That is what I offer. I will help you look at the narratives you have about yourself. Some may be helpful and some may keep you locked up, ashamed, fearful, lonely. Let's change that. You are never more than 1 thought away from a new way of life.
(434) 201-4302 View (434) 201-4302
Photo of Mary Randall Ingate, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Mary Randall Ingate
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
Not accepting new clients
We all have periods of struggle navigating life; work; and relationships. In my practice I focus on helping individuals and families identify troubling issues while increasing self understanding; coping skills and compassion for themselves and others with the goal of improving relationships and moving forward in life in accordance with their individual goals and values. In my 30+ years of practice I have worked with people from many different cultures including the LGBTQ+ community who are struggling with anxiety; mood disorders; and addiction issues. I am committed to helping and working collaboratively with my clients.
We all have periods of struggle navigating life; work; and relationships. In my practice I focus on helping individuals and families identify troubling issues while increasing self understanding; coping skills and compassion for themselves and others with the goal of improving relationships and moving forward in life in accordance with their individual goals and values. In my 30+ years of practice I have worked with people from many different cultures including the LGBTQ+ community who are struggling with anxiety; mood disorders; and addiction issues. I am committed to helping and working collaboratively with my clients.
(301) 850-6846 View (301) 850-6846
Photo of Dr. Sherrill McMillan Duckett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Dr. Sherrill McMillan Duckett
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20017  (Online Only)
I work with clients to help them through difficult issues involving marriage and family relationships, depression, anxiety, sexual assault and other trauma. My goal is to help my clients achieve the best results in the shortest amount of time so that they can get on with their lives.
I work with clients to help them through difficult issues involving marriage and family relationships, depression, anxiety, sexual assault and other trauma. My goal is to help my clients achieve the best results in the shortest amount of time so that they can get on with their lives.
(202) 759-6585 View (202) 759-6585
Photo of Alexis Moreno in Washington, DC
Alexis Moreno
PsyD, MS, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20002  (Online Only)
Whether you're aiming to enhance overall well-being, navigate dating/relationships, or achieve life goals, you're in the right place. I specialize in solution-focused wellness, dating/relationships, and performance coaching. Incredible individuals globally choose my services for meaningful self-reflection, knowledge, and skill-building. Many lead busy lives with frequent travel, finding traditional therapy limitations challenging. Our online meetings offer privacy and convenience. With flexible scheduling and chat messaging, I adapt to demanding schedules. Whatever you're facing, I'm here to support you according to your needs.
Whether you're aiming to enhance overall well-being, navigate dating/relationships, or achieve life goals, you're in the right place. I specialize in solution-focused wellness, dating/relationships, and performance coaching. Incredible individuals globally choose my services for meaningful self-reflection, knowledge, and skill-building. Many lead busy lives with frequent travel, finding traditional therapy limitations challenging. Our online meetings offer privacy and convenience. With flexible scheduling and chat messaging, I adapt to demanding schedules. Whatever you're facing, I'm here to support you according to your needs.
(562) 414-4423 View (562) 414-4423
Photo of Jolie Golomb, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Jolie Golomb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20015
I believe in creating a safe, supportive space to understand oneself more deeply. As connection and trust evolve between myself and the client, a frank discussion about their identity, wishes, feelings, conflicts can be facilitated and understood. This can enable them make informed decisions regarding how to better navigate their lives. When a patient comes in crisis, I am also available as support, to help them return to a previous level of functioning. We try to learn the significance of this event, so as to use it as an opportunity to enrich the client's life.
I believe in creating a safe, supportive space to understand oneself more deeply. As connection and trust evolve between myself and the client, a frank discussion about their identity, wishes, feelings, conflicts can be facilitated and understood. This can enable them make informed decisions regarding how to better navigate their lives. When a patient comes in crisis, I am also available as support, to help them return to a previous level of functioning. We try to learn the significance of this event, so as to use it as an opportunity to enrich the client's life.
(301) 685-0908 View (301) 685-0908
Photo of Jennifer Spatzer, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Jennifer Spatzer
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
I have 10+ years of experience working with clients who are in the acute phase of psychosis or a mood episode as well as moderate and mild phases of mental health issues, major life stressors, challenges and transitions. I offer a collaborative approach to therapy and provide an environment of acceptance, warmth and respect that allows my clients to gain insight, self-efficacy, and empowerment while working toward an ultimate goal of well-being, growth and healing.
I have 10+ years of experience working with clients who are in the acute phase of psychosis or a mood episode as well as moderate and mild phases of mental health issues, major life stressors, challenges and transitions. I offer a collaborative approach to therapy and provide an environment of acceptance, warmth and respect that allows my clients to gain insight, self-efficacy, and empowerment while working toward an ultimate goal of well-being, growth and healing.
(202) 851-2776 View (202) 851-2776
Photo of Lassandra Purnell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Lassandra Purnell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20011  (Online Only)
On a "good day," do you feel exhausted? Perhaps you feel like your past is interfering with your present life. Perhaps you are juggling everything and everyone else while barely making time for yourself. If that's the case, let's see if we can get you out of your funk. Life's difficulties are not always predictable. As your therapist, I will guide you through these difficulties in order to improve your ability to live a happier and more emotionally stable life.
On a "good day," do you feel exhausted? Perhaps you feel like your past is interfering with your present life. Perhaps you are juggling everything and everyone else while barely making time for yourself. If that's the case, let's see if we can get you out of your funk. Life's difficulties are not always predictable. As your therapist, I will guide you through these difficulties in order to improve your ability to live a happier and more emotionally stable life.
(919) 372-3956 View (919) 372-3956
Photo of Jasmin Alostaz, Counselor in Washington, DC
Jasmin Alostaz
Counselor, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008
If you want to thrive, let loose of guilt and shame, and have deep, meaningful relationships, I can't wait to work with you! Our work together will help you know yourself better and improve your relationships with others. Using a collaborative approach, I will guide you to new ways of thinking, skills, and experiences that can enhance your life. Our work together will be light hearted and non-judgmental. This allows us to face challenging topics like cultural differences, shame, depression, and anxiety.
If you want to thrive, let loose of guilt and shame, and have deep, meaningful relationships, I can't wait to work with you! Our work together will help you know yourself better and improve your relationships with others. Using a collaborative approach, I will guide you to new ways of thinking, skills, and experiences that can enhance your life. Our work together will be light hearted and non-judgmental. This allows us to face challenging topics like cultural differences, shame, depression, and anxiety.
(202) 991-1019 View (202) 991-1019
Photo of Harumi Sanchez-Yoza, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Harumi Sanchez-Yoza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20011
Hello! Welcome to my practice! What do I believe about you in 2024? I believe that you are innately good. Life circumstances, self-doubt, and negative thoughts can convince us otherwise. This is the moment to turn things around. I provide a safe, therapeutic space for people who are experiencing life-transitions, self-esteem problems, relationship struggles, cultural challenges, anxiety, and or stress. My approach is integrative and inclusive drawing upon your unique strengths and intentions.
Hello! Welcome to my practice! What do I believe about you in 2024? I believe that you are innately good. Life circumstances, self-doubt, and negative thoughts can convince us otherwise. This is the moment to turn things around. I provide a safe, therapeutic space for people who are experiencing life-transitions, self-esteem problems, relationship struggles, cultural challenges, anxiety, and or stress. My approach is integrative and inclusive drawing upon your unique strengths and intentions.
(571) 470-5564 View (571) 470-5564
Photo of Helen DeVinney, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Helen DeVinney
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
If you're looking for a therapist, there's a good chance you feel like "something" in your life isn't working -- perhaps within yourself, a relationship, or your career. Sometimes it's hard to know what that "something" is, and, other times, the feeling may be directly connected to a specific event, relationship, or personality trait. As your therapist, I will work with you at a pace that feels manageable, and together we will reflect on what feels like it's not working and identify possibilities that may bring relief or change.
If you're looking for a therapist, there's a good chance you feel like "something" in your life isn't working -- perhaps within yourself, a relationship, or your career. Sometimes it's hard to know what that "something" is, and, other times, the feeling may be directly connected to a specific event, relationship, or personality trait. As your therapist, I will work with you at a pace that feels manageable, and together we will reflect on what feels like it's not working and identify possibilities that may bring relief or change.
(410) 793-1307 View (410) 793-1307
Photo of Samantha Morrell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Samantha Morrell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
Each individual is unique and resilient. My goal in therapy is to find and respect those qualities, and to work together in identifying coping tools that will promote profound and lasting changes. I have been practicing for over ten years. My training has covered trauma-informed care, crisis intervention and psychodynamic therapy. I earned my bachelor's degree in psychology at the University of Maryland and my master's degree in clinical social work at the University of Pennsylvania. I earned my independent clinical social work license in Washington, DC.
Each individual is unique and resilient. My goal in therapy is to find and respect those qualities, and to work together in identifying coping tools that will promote profound and lasting changes. I have been practicing for over ten years. My training has covered trauma-informed care, crisis intervention and psychodynamic therapy. I earned my bachelor's degree in psychology at the University of Maryland and my master's degree in clinical social work at the University of Pennsylvania. I earned my independent clinical social work license in Washington, DC.
(202) 335-5319 View (202) 335-5319
Photo of Dr. Leyla Mansur, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Dr. Leyla Mansur
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20057  (Online Only)
College students and young adults experiencing big life changes: does it ever feel like despite having your "life together", you still feel stressed and overwhelmed? As far as your friends and family can tell, you're keeping it together. But, deep down you’re feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, or maybe even a little lost in terms of direction. We will work together to help you get back on track and to learn to prioritize your well-being, develop insight, strengthen your relationships, and find greater life balance and fulfillment.
College students and young adults experiencing big life changes: does it ever feel like despite having your "life together", you still feel stressed and overwhelmed? As far as your friends and family can tell, you're keeping it together. But, deep down you’re feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, or maybe even a little lost in terms of direction. We will work together to help you get back on track and to learn to prioritize your well-being, develop insight, strengthen your relationships, and find greater life balance and fulfillment.
(202) 831-2598 View (202) 831-2598
Photo of Linda P Smith, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Linda P Smith
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
Not accepting new clients
Welcome to my practice. I look forward to getting to know you and hearing about what's troubling you, while you get a sense of what it will be like working with me. After an assessment of 1 or 2 sessions, we will arrive at an initial understanding of your situation and the issues and/or symptoms you'd like to address. We'll look at treatment options and agree on a plan, which may include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), insight-oriented psychotherapy, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, or couples therapy, as indicated by your particular problem.
Welcome to my practice. I look forward to getting to know you and hearing about what's troubling you, while you get a sense of what it will be like working with me. After an assessment of 1 or 2 sessions, we will arrive at an initial understanding of your situation and the issues and/or symptoms you'd like to address. We'll look at treatment options and agree on a plan, which may include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), insight-oriented psychotherapy, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, or couples therapy, as indicated by your particular problem.
(202) 609-7469 View (202) 609-7469
Photo of George H. Johnson, MSS, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
George H. Johnson, MSS, LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
What's wrong with this relationship? The same problems keep on repeating time after time. So what does a study of psychology reveal? A well-trained and experienced psychotherapist can help to shine a light into the dark unconscious places which shroud the mysteries. This helps to bring the issues into consciousness, and once there, allows you to work with them. This work involves change. There may be many underlying issues including: mental states of anxiety and depression, an addiction, anger, lack of trust, various stressors, poor communication, extended family interferences, and more.
What's wrong with this relationship? The same problems keep on repeating time after time. So what does a study of psychology reveal? A well-trained and experienced psychotherapist can help to shine a light into the dark unconscious places which shroud the mysteries. This helps to bring the issues into consciousness, and once there, allows you to work with them. This work involves change. There may be many underlying issues including: mental states of anxiety and depression, an addiction, anger, lack of trust, various stressors, poor communication, extended family interferences, and more.
(215) 345-5175 View (215) 345-5175
Photo of Ilana Sterman, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Ilana Sterman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
When a particular area of life is less rewarding or is problematic, you may seek assistance rediscovering your path to mental health. Understanding that therapy is more likely to be helpful when you feel comfortable with your therapist, and hopeful about the therapy, my approach emphasizes accessing each person’s unique strengths and resources in order to facilitate growth, new learning, and fulfillment. I use a person-centered integrative approach drawing from psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and somatic theories to work collaboratively with you toward mutually agreed-upon goals.
When a particular area of life is less rewarding or is problematic, you may seek assistance rediscovering your path to mental health. Understanding that therapy is more likely to be helpful when you feel comfortable with your therapist, and hopeful about the therapy, my approach emphasizes accessing each person’s unique strengths and resources in order to facilitate growth, new learning, and fulfillment. I use a person-centered integrative approach drawing from psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and somatic theories to work collaboratively with you toward mutually agreed-upon goals.
(202) 309-2048 View (202) 309-2048
Family Therapy

What do family therapists do?

A family therapist facilitates the process of understanding and improving how a family functions. The therapist will help family members develop empathy for one another. They’ll seek to understand existing patterns, misunderstandings, and conflicts that arise, in order to help the family arrive at a realistic, unified understanding and develop the coping skills they need to build stronger relationships.

How long does therapy for families take to work?

Therapy manifests differently in every family; a common time frame is 12 weekly sessions, but some families may see improvement after just a few weeks. Families should discuss their goals with the therapist at the beginning of the process and periodically revisit those goals to assess their progress together.

How can you encourage a family member to attend family therapy?

You can encourage family members to attend therapy by expressing with both love and concern the challenges you see and explaining how a therapist could help the family navigate those challenges together. An outside perspective can help everyone feel heard, get on the same page, and develop new skills. If family members are still hesitant, it may be helpful to emphasize that family therapy is short-term—it won’t last forever.

Is therapy for families effective?

Family therapy can significantly improve family dynamics and relationships. Research suggests that family therapy can help individuals understand their role in the family, communicate and solve problems together, reduce conflict and draw boundaries when necessary, and develop coping skills for stressors, major life changes, and mental or physical illnesses within the family.