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.

This is Sara Duckery's avatar and link to their profile

Sara Duckery

Offering therapy in DC
License: LICSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteem
15 years of experience

I am a licensed independent clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience providing counseling services to adolescents, adults and families. I work a great deal with adolescents and young adults dealing with anxiety, learning issues, depression, ADHD, OCD, self-esteem, anger issues and experience working with military families. I have a Master's Degree from the University of Maryland-Baltimore in Social Work. I completed internships in the school system and hospital system working with children with complex medical needs. I currently am a school social worker in the Washington, DC area. I use a variety of therapy techniques helping my clients reach their goals that are set in a collaborative process. I strongly believe that it is a team approach in helping my client's achieve success in their treatment. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I strive on being honest with my clients and providing a safe environment to express their needs and feelings. My integrative approach combines cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavioral therapy and solutions-focused approach. I will also ask for you open feedback about how you feel our sessions and goals are progressing. I have training in EMDR, TF-CBT and sand tray therapy. In my free time I enjoy spending time with my family, body combat and boot camp classes, searching for new instant pot recipes and traveling. It is hard to ask for help and you have taken the first step in doing so, so that is one step towards achieving your goals. I am here to support you in your journey to happiness. I look forward to working with you!

Get started View profile
This is Alexis Alton's avatar and link to their profile

Alexis Alton

Offering therapy in DC
License: LICSW
AddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the District of Columbia with over 10 years experience working as a Psychotherapist. I have worked with various clients with a broad range of concerns including: anxiety, depression, parent-child conflict, substance use, relationship issues, behavior challenges, and suicidal ideations. In addition, I have worked in the social work field for 8 years providing care in the home, school, and community settings. Such care included, crisis intervention, family therapy, substance abuse treatment, and collaborating with service providers for continuity of care. My counseling style is client-centered with an emphasis on being solution oriented. I believe in treating you with respect and dignity, starting where you are and working with you to create long-lasting change. Be proud of yourself for taking the steps to seek help. It takes great courage and an ability to want something different. I would love to be a part of helping you achieve your goals and live the life you deserve. I look forward to working with you, Thank you!

Get started View profile
This is Dr. Elena Felipe-Valera's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Elena Felipe-Valera

Offering therapy in DC
License: PhD,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTGriefCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
23 years of experience

Looking for solutions to transition into your best life? Are conflict, trauma, anxiety, depression, chronic illness, relationships, and/or grief getting in your way of a balanced life? Are you a healthcare worker or first responder struggling with compassion fatigue and post-traumatic stress? If so, invest in you! Find your voice and your power and live your best life! Elena Felipe is a psychotherapist and coach who utilizes a holistic approach, using EMDR, Brainspotting, solution-focused therapy, and life coaching to positively impact the lives of her clients. She has accrued a range of experiences that give her a unique perspective of what it takes to help people achieve real growth and healing.

Get started View profile
This is Robert Staaf's avatar and link to their profile

Robert Staaf

Offering therapy in DC
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesAnger management
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia and Washington, DC. I have extensive experience in family and child welfare, specifically in helping with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. Come chat and let's see how I can help you or your family! My goal is for you to feel like you're speaking with a friend or someone you've known for a long time, with no feelings of judgment or things feeling "too professional".

Get started View profile
This is Tina Allen's avatar and link to their profile

Tina Allen

Offering therapy in DC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
10 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker in Maryland, DC and Virginia with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Get started View profile
This is Amanda Hopkins's avatar and link to their profile

Amanda Hopkins

Offering therapy in DC
License: LCSW-C
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefIntimacy-related issues
15 years of experience

Greetings sunshine! There is nothing more intimate and important than choosing a person to share your inner thoughts, feelings, and aspirations. I believe wholeheartedly that it's a gift for one to allow me to be a part of their lives. I will not take you for granted should you choose me as your therapist. My name is Amanda Hopkins, L CSW-C, and I have over 17 years of experience as a Social Worker. I began my career as a Social Worker in the Department of Social Services in the Foster Care/Adoptions unit. I have assisted with reunification between mothers and their children and have been instrumental in walking biological mothers through the adoption process. After recognizing my passion in listening, processing, and helping people with their inner fears, depression, and anxiety, I became a therapist. I appreciated my years as a School-based therapist because of the diversity, helping teenagers with their emotional health, and promoting the importance of self-worth to young ladies. I facilitated family sessions and couples intervention for those who needed the tools for communication, managing grief, processing loss, infidelity, and blended family conflicts. My therapeutic methods utilized in sessions are client-centered, solution-focused, and trauma-focused. Please know that I have an active relationship with and for Christ; therefore, I am willing and able to provide Christian counseling. License #MD20121

Get started View profile
This is Jennifer Lawrence's avatar and link to their profile

Jennifer Lawrence

Offering therapy in DC
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

My name is Jennifer Lawrence and I am a licensed professional counselor. I grew up in rural Virginia with a large “village.” From a very young age, I was known to be a helper by my family and friends. I have worked with youth, adults, and families through providing academic, career, and mental health counseling. I am passionate about helping people of all ages, from diverse backgrounds through offering encouragement and support as they pursue their goals. I have served in a variety of settings, including educational institutions and a residential treatment facility. I operate from a person-centered approach with a mixture of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma Focused counseling techniques. You are the expert about you. My focus is to assist you with deciding the path that you would like to follow, acknowledging the reasons that you are motivated to follow that path, identifying and learning the steps to follow that path, and supporting you as you continue on your life’s journey. I completed my undergraduate degree in Psychology, a Master of Education in Higher Education Administration, and a Master of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling. I also hold a Certification in Rehabilitation Counseling (CRC) that focuses on working with individuals with chronic illnesses and disabilities. In my free time, I enjoy kettlebell workouts, traveling and spending time with family and friends. I am elated and honored to be able to work in a virtual therapeutic setting that provides services that positively impact the lives of others. I look forward to working with you.

Get started View profile
This is Amy Smith's avatar and link to their profile

Amy Smith

Offering therapy in DC
AddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington, DC with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping persons who struggle in their recovery from substance misuse , sex-drug fusion , LGBTQ related issues, relationship issues, and family conflict. I work with clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Get started View profile
This is Donald Willis's avatar and link to their profile

Donald Willis

Offering therapy in DC
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am licensed in District of Columbia and Maryland with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Get started View profile
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!

Get started View profile

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 20541 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:

20001, 20002, 20003, 20004, 20005, 20006, 20007, 20008, 20009, 20010, 20011, 20012, 20013, 20015, 20016, 20017, 20018, 20019, 20020, 20022, 20024, 20026, 20027, 20029, 20030, 20032, 20033, 20035, 20036, 20037, 20038, 20039, 20040, 20041, 20042, 20043, 20044, 20045, 20047, 20049, 20050, 20052, 20053, 20055, 20056, 20057, 20058, 20059, 20060, 20061, 20062, 20063, 20064, 20065, 20066, 20067, 20068, 20069, 20070, 20071, 20073, 20074, 20075, 20076, 20077, 20078, 20080, 20081, 20082, 20090, 20091, 20189, 20201, 20202, 20203, 20204, 20206, 20207, 20208, 20210, 20211, 20212, 20213, 20214, 20215, 20216, 20217, 20218, 20219, 20220, 20221, 20222, 20223, 20224, 20226, 20227, 20228, 20229, 20230, 20232, 20233, 20235, 20237, 20238, 20239, 20240, 20241, 20242, 20244, 20245, 20250, 20251, 20252, 20254, 20260, 20261, 20262, 20265, 20266, 20268, 20270, 20277, 20289, 20299, 20301, 20303, 20306, 20307, 20310, 20314, 20317, 20318, 20319, 20330, 20340, 20350, 20355, 20370, 20372, 20373, 20374, 20375, 20376, 20380, 20388, 20389, 20390, 20391, 20392, 20393, 20394, 20395, 20398, 20401, 20402, 20403, 20404, 20405, 20406, 20407, 20408, 20409, 20410, 20411, 20412, 20413, 20414, 20415, 20416, 20417, 20418, 20419, 20420, 20421, 20422, 20423, 20424, 20425, 20426, 20427, 20428, 20429, 20431, 20433, 20434, 20435, 20436, 20437, 20439, 20440, 20441, 20442, 20444, 20447, 20451, 20453, 20456, 20460, 20463, 20468, 20469, 20470, 20472, 20500, 20501, 20502, 20503, 20504, 20505, 20506, 20507, 20508, 20509, 20510, 20511, 20515, 20520, 20521, 20522, 20523, 20524, 20525, 20526, 20527, 20528, 20529, 20530, 20531, 20533, 20534, 20535, 20536, 20537, 20538, 20539, 20540, 20541, 20542, 20543, 20544, 20546, 20547, 20548, 20549, 20551, 20552, 20553, 20554, 20555, 20557, 20559, 20560, 20565, 20566, 20570, 20571, 20572, 20573, 20575, 20576, 20577, 20578, 20579, 20580, 20581, 20585, 20586, 20588, 20590, 20591, 20593, 20594, 20597, 20599, 56901, 56902, 56904, 56908, 56915, 56920, 56933, 56935, 56944, 56945, 56950, 56965, 56967, 56972, 56998, 56999

Popular cities near Washington, DC

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist