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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Kim Jackson

Offering therapy in DC
License: MSW,LICSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

Hello and Welcome: Congratulations on taking the first steps toward the enhancement of your better self. This step never more important than this very moment in time, as we collectively endure the harsh realities of the Coronavirus pandemic. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of California and the District of Columbia, with over 20 years of counseling and field experience. I specialize in crisis-counseling, Attachment Disorder, emotional trauma, depression, grief & loss work. If you are an individual looking for a robust, roll up your sleeves and, get-down-to-the-business of truth, healing, and personal advancement, I welcome you to contact me directly for immediate support. As your Therapist I will utilize a client-centered approach with a mutual commitment to yielding strong, meaningful, and lasting results. This is all about reaching complete success as a result of determination, increased self-awareness, intentional thinking, and positive self-messaging. These shaping tools can and will help support the change you seek. Using Mindfulness coupled with classic, psychodynamic interventions, you will begin to build awareness around the impact of your thinking. You will also learn self-messaging correction. More plainly, I will endeavor to help you identify and integrate useful thoughts and behavior patterns. You will also grow confident in your ability to identify and let go of those thoughts and behaviors not supporting the highest sense of your authentic self. We, all of us, behaves within the self-consciousness system we have developed over time. This known also as, ego functioning. Understanding our individual, ego functioning will enhance your ability to develop healthy and fulfilling intimate, social, and professional relationships. Integrating into your holistic, biopsychosocial system healthy behaviors, while learning how to let go of behavior patterns not producing good results, is key to living a self-fulling life. Indeed, it is all about the gentle balance. In my therapeutic approach, I combine Mindfulness and Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) as a Cognitive Approach to addressing issues surrounding self-confidence, feelings, regulating thoughts, actions, and unwanted behaviors. Together we will hone in on the source, the power, and the usefulness of your thinking. Most importantly, with intentional devotion to the work, you will grow with a sense of purpose and come to achieve the change you seek. I look will forward to hearing from you. Kimmeth E. Jackson, MSW, LCSW, LICSW

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Shamar Rouse

Offering therapy in DC
License: LICSW,LCSW-C
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
14 years of experience

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have over 14 years of experience working with forensic services, adolescents, adults, and the LGBTQ community providing individual mental health therapy or through social services. . My experience has given me the opportunity to work with clients dealing with a broad range of issues to include, stress management, anxiety, depression and family problems just to name a few. I feel that all situations are unique and will do my best to provide you with the guidance and feedback that is best suited for you. My counseling style is easygoing and interactive. My philosophy is that everyone should be treated with empathy and respect. I don’t believe in judging and or using stigmatizing labels on others. My approach to therapy is a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic and a humanistic approach. I tend to be very welcoming in my therapeutic approach however, will meet the client where they are in dialog. I believe that therapy is based upon the resilience of the individual and use a client centered approach with my clients including adolescents, adults, and families. My goal is to help foster the individual’s strengths by creating a trusting environment where they can feel safe and make purposeful changes in their lives by utilizing a mindfulness approach.

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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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Demonica Tuggles

Offering therapy in DC
GriefSelf esteem
5 years of experience

When life comes at you fast and you’re unsure on what to do next, you may start to experience anxiety, depression, stress, or just need someone to offer support during life’s obstacles. During those times, it is beneficial to seek support and create an outlet to start your journey to healing, growth, and success. I am passionate about providing a safe and supportive space to assist you, the normal everyday person, in overcoming life’s obstacles through developing a non-judgmental therapeutic collaboration. I utilize a number of therapeutic modalities including motivational interviewing, solution-focused, cognitive-behavioral and acceptance and commitment therapies to help clients understand the root of their symptoms in order to accurately identify appropriate coping mechanisms. I hold a Masters Degree in Social Work from Howard University and a clinically licensed social worker in the District of Columbia with years of professional work experience. I bring a wealth of knowledge of child welfare, gerontology, helping clients coping with grief and loss, motivation, self-esteem issues, and confidence. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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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Mary Lynn Millsaps

Offering therapy in DC
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Hi there, my name is Mary Lynn. I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 14 years of experience in coaching and therapy. I am passionate about helping others to unwind, observe, and possibly change thoughts and behaviors that are barriers to living a joyful life. Offering a patient-centered approach, I blend therapeutic styles to what is most helpful and productive for each individual. Whether it is adjusting to a life change, managing anxiousness, or dealing with trauma or loss, let’s work together to observe what is happening in and around us and move forward with intention. A bit more about my background: I graduated from the University of Tennessee with a Masters in Science in Social Work, specializing in Trauma and Interpersonal Practice. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, Motivational Interviewing, and Integrative Therapies. My professional experiences include working in settings of trauma, healthcare, and international social work providing clinical counseling to individuals and groups. Please reach out if you'd like!

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This is Ann Chauvin's avatar and link to their profile

Ann Chauvin

Offering therapy in DC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in District of Columbia with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Eliza Niemann

Offering therapy in DC
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am a clinical social worker and am licensed in Maryland and Washington, D.C. I have over 20 years of professional work experience providing counseling to adults and families. I received my Bachelor of Arts degree from The University of Virginia and a Master of Social Work degree from Catholic University in Washington, D.C. I use a collaborative, compassionate, solution-focused, and strength-based approach to counseling in an effort to foster healing and resilience. I have experience in helping clients with a variety of concerns including stress and anxiety, grief and loss, adoption issues (for adoptive parents, birth parents, and adoptees), motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, and depression. I also have additional experience facilitating workshops, trainings and support groups on a variety of subjects. I believe in starting counseling where you, the client, are. You have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Counseling is a valuable resource when facing challenges. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process and help you navigate your questions, worries, and concerns so you can meet your goals.

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Kim Barsella-Williams

Offering therapy in DC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Maryland with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, conflicts, coping, & single lifestyle issues. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Spring Richardson

Offering therapy in DC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesSleeping disordersCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I am licensed in District of Columbia, Hawaii, Maryland, South Carolina and Virginia with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, LGBTQ+ related issues, relationship issues, & sleeping disorders. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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This is Donald "Joe" Hupp's avatar and link to their profile

Donald "Joe" Hupp

Offering therapy in DC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

I am licensed in over 10 States with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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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 20470 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

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