Washington, DC. The capital of the United States of America. Filled with beautiful monuments and government buildings, it’s a city worth visiting. Your mental health can be like a government. Sometimes, it feels like it’s running smoothly enough. Other times, you wonder who in the world is running your mind, because they aren’t doing a good job. 

A counselor can help you vote out the people who are making your mind a disaster, and replace them with those who are willing to work for you. Washington needs a sweeping of mental health, and a counselor based in Washington, DC can be able to help you.

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Ellen Walker

Offering therapy in DC
License: LICSW
Family conflictsParenting issuesCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
30 years of experience

Hello! I am a licensed clinical social worker in Washington, DC. I am a little older than most, in my early 60s, but am an open-minded optimist. I have over 20 years of experience working in Mental Health and Child Welfare settings so there aren’t too many issues that I haven’t dealt with. I have worked with couples, families, individuals, and children with a variety of issues to include physical and emotional trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, addiction, relationship challenges and life transitions. I would describe my approach to therapy as eclectic, drawing on a variety of modalities to best serve a client’s needs and goals. The modalities that I feel have proven most useful are: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. I typically meet with my clients once weekly for 45 minutes. We begin by getting to know each other so that I can learn about the issues that brought them to seek counseling. You can expect me to walk with you through whatever difficulties you are facing and help you learn more about yourself and the way you interact with the world. I view the therapeutic alliance as a partnership requiring mutual trust, respect, honesty, communication, and commitment to do the work. I can interact with you in whatever manner you are most comfortable. I find it helpful initially to participate in video sessions so that we can get to know each other better; however, I am also available to you via phone and text if that is more comfortable for you. Much of my availability is in the mornings and on the weekends, although I do have a high degree of flexibility. I check messages at least once during each weekday. Taking the first step in seeking help can be challenging, however it is important to find a therapist that you feel comfortable with and can trust. I look forward to working with you and your journey! SPECIALTIES • Trauma and abuse • Grief • Self esteem • Depression Also experienced in: Relationship issues , Family conflicts , Intimacy-related issues , Parenting issues , Anger management , Career difficulties , Coping with life changes , Compassion fatigue , Caregiver Issues and Stress , Commitment Issues , Communication Problems , Child abuse and neglect, Emptiness , Family Problems , Forgiveness , Guilt and Shame , Hospice and End of Life Counseling , Mid Life Crisis and Posttraumatic Stress Clinical approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy Years of Experience: 29 SERVICES OFFERED ________________________________________ LICENSING LICSW #LC300783 (Expires: 07/31/2021)

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Jessica Goodman

Offering therapy in DC
License: LCMHC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

My childhood dream of talking to people all day has finally come true as a counselor. My mission is to intentionally empower others to thrive in whatever situations they experience or choose. I am particularly passionate about helping clients feel more engaged with life and encouraging them to make values-based decisions. I have experience with clients as young as 3 (and as old as 78) in community, college, court, and school settings. When not working, I volunteer, walk my pup, Sammy, and stay on the move as much as possible.

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Samantha Morrell

Offering therapy in DC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I contend 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 nearly 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. My focus is on individuals who have experienced trauma as well as those who struggle to navigate today's high-pressure, fast-paced environment. I have worked in a multitude of clinical settings, offering therapy for traumas related to suicide, rape, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, self-injurious behavior and major life adjustments. My clients can feel assured of a respectful, confidential, and judgment-free space. I am a deeply empathetic and emotionally aware person. I am dedicated to my client's well being and their capacity to heal.

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Dr. Elva Anderson

Offering therapy in DC
License: PhD, ATR-BC, LPC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteem
20 years of experience

Hello. I am Dr. Elva Anderson. Thank you for taking the time to review my profile, as well as seeking out to getting "better help." Your emotional and mental health is important. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), health / wellness educator, and a Certified Mindfulness Meditation teacher located in the DMV area. My therapeutic mission is to assist in empowering people from the inside, out -providing attentive listening, assisting in finding ways to better enhance one's mental health and lifestyle. My therapeutic approach is an eclectic approach. For I believe there is not a “one-size fits all” approach to self-care. As you may know, the human healing journey is a personal one and no two people can navigate the same situation the same. I have a treatment style that blends psychotherapy, Positive Psychology, and DBT. I am here to listen, create a holding space, and to provide clinical input when requested. If you have struggled in the past with getting therapy and now giving it another try, I will strive to suggest and provide ways for self-healing in a safe holding environment. I am here to assist and support you as you travel on the life's journey of self-exploration and authentic self-care. I look forward to meeting you, assisting you with your therapeutic needs and achieving your goals. Until then, do take care.

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Dr. Cheryl Mansfield

Offering therapy in DC
License: PhD,LCSW,CSAC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
20 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Virginia with 20+ years experience in the mental health field providing psychotherapy to individuals and couples in a variety of settings including outpatient, hospital, and the military. My job is to help you explore your stressors in life, to build awareness around how those stressors affect you, and work with you to build some techniques and coping skills to alleviate the intensity of that stress and pain. Whether your challenges come from within, your environment, or both my major focus is to help you identify and overcome any obstacles that you may be experiencing. Successful treatment outcomes often depend on a combination of approaches to resolve problems, therefore, I use a variety of evidence- based approaches aimed at giving my clients efficient, long-standing relief. I emphasize a strength based perspective while providing therapeutic services utilizing a holistic, eclectic approach that includes techniques from cognitive-behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, and solution-focused therapy. I am committed to working with individuals to successfully overcome their specific life challenges that led them to seek out therapeutic services. I am passionate about working with individuals and strive to offer a warm, welcoming environment that allows you the ability to relax while sharing your thoughts and feelings. Most of all the emphasis is on providing a positive, safe, supportive and confidential environment.

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Stephen Murphy

Offering therapy in DC
License: MSW,LICSW,PIP
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
9 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of Alabama, Virginia, Georgia, the District of Columbia, and Maryland. My experience includes clinical social work, risk management, regulatory compliance, quality assurance, case management, crisis intervention, advocacy, brokerage, education, and facilitation working with diverse groups of children, adolescents, and adults in medical social work, child welfare, mental health/chemical dependency, corrections, HIV/AIDS, and Veteran Affairs. While working with these clients, I have acquired necessary clinical skills relevant to culturally diverse practice and effective outcomes. I am a well-organized, highly motivated, and an energetic team player dedicated to meeting my clients where they are through both micro and macro level social work interventions. Working in Mental Health for over 12 years, I've learned that people are literally trying to put the pieces of their life together just to make it through the day. Being sensitive to this, I've developed my practice model around the following quote, "We're only as strong as our weakest link; therefore do your best to strengthen someone today!" My goal every day is to strengthen someone (self-included) in some area. Let's Live in Purpose so we can Win on Purpose!

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Doreen Sanabria

Offering therapy in DC
License: LCSW
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

Greetings! I am a bi-lingual Eng/Span Licensed Clinical Social Worker LCSW in both Florida and Texas. I am a therapist that believes in a holistic approach to healing by combining a faith based approach along with clinical modalities. I am passionate and dedicated in guiding individuals on a journey to find balance and purpose in their lives. My goal is to help those I work with see their strengths and tell their story from a victorious and empowered position. I want to encourage and walk alongside those who have the desire to connect to their "Higher Power", that source of love, peace and joy we all need. I am fluid in employing different modalities of clinical practice to tailor to my client's needs as they strive to overcome the many demands of life. I have worked 10 plus years with families and their children and/or adolescents on the challenges of communication, generational trauma and co-dependency. As a therapist I appreciate the privilege it is to assist families in breaking communication barriers and fostering a nurturing environment to thrive as a family unit. I also have worked in the areas of Grief and Bereavement, Anxiety and Anger Management, Suicide Prevention and Post Partum Depression. I am looking forward to being a part of your growth and newfound awareness as you uncover the marvelous creation you are!

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Marie Elanus

Offering therapy in DC
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
9 years of experience

My name is Marie Elanus and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Florida. I have many years of experience working with people of all age groups to overcome behavioral and emotional barriers. As a Christian, I believe in the gift of freedom. I provide individual and couples counseling. My therapeutic approach is with compassion, care, and understanding. I love to serve my clients through diverse therapeutic techniques to gain insight into their behaviors. My goal as your therapist is to create a safe place where you feel open enough to be vulnerable and discuss your feelings, aspirations, and frustrations. Thank you for considering your mental health as a priority to seek support. I would love to work alongside you and empower you in accomplishing your goals.

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Charity Dzieketey

Offering therapy in DC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

Charity Dzieketey, MA-Social Work and a Licensed Clinical Social Work; LCSW-C, LICSW. I have a master’s degree majoring in Children and Families. I am licensed in the District of Columbia, Maryland and Virginia with over a decade of social work experience and over eight years of clinical work. My experience includes helping people with depression, stress and anxiety, relationship and parenting issues, motivation, self-esteem and confidence. I utilize the eclectic approach in mental health counseling with more focus on CBT. I am authentic, person-centered, culturally sensitive and believe in meeting people where they are in the journey of life. I have a heart for people, am tenacious and passionate about empowering and helping others enhance their quality of life. I enjoy helping people navigate the challenges of life and become the best version of themselves. My mission of being a clinician is to fulfill my purpose in life and be the bridge that connects people to their destination. “What We Do In Life, Echoes In Eternity”, Marcus Aurelius

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This is Sheryl Beckett's avatar and link to their profile

Sheryl Beckett

Offering therapy in DC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
28 years of experience

I am licensed in District of Columbia with 29 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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How to find counseling in Washington

Finding the best therapist close by in Washington can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Washington. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Washington, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Washington or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Washington area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Washington, elsewhere in District of Columbia, or in the greater state of District of Columbia.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Washington area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Washington therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Washington due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Washington may not take health insurance, some in the state of District of Columbia may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of District of Columbia you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Washington, District of Columbia working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Washington above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Washington helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Washington therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Washington therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Washington therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in DC, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 20404 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Washington counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Washington licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Washington, District of Columbia can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Washington has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Washington.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Washington:

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