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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Curtrice Scott

Offering therapy in DC
License: MA, LPC,LCPC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepression
14 years of experience

I am a seasoned and compassionate therapist licensed in Maryland and Washington, DC. I have worked in the mental health field for over 14 years. I have a passion for helping others improve their overall wellbeing and have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, substance use, parenting issues, career challenges, neglect, physical abuse, trauma, and more. I have also worked with individuals who were formerly incarcerated. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with dignity and respect. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, and psychodynamic therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and healthier life and to take the first steps towards that change. If you are ready to make that change, I am here to support, encourage, and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Brittany Bordonaro

Offering therapy in DC
License: LICSW
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
15 years of experience

I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with over 13 years of experience providing direct mental health services. I obtained a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree in 2008. I have worked with individuals with a variety of presenting issues; including self esteem, stress, anxiety, work-related issues, problems with peer group, issues related to the military life style, family issues, relationship issues, infidelity and trust issues, intimacy issues, trauma and family violence. I comfortable working with clients from all backgrounds and always approach the therapeutic relationship with a sensitivity towards cultural issues. My experience is varied across multiple settings and populations, as I have provided direct services to families in the community and through the military system. I currently work for the U.S. Military providing counseling to service members and their dependents on a daily basis. I approach every therapeutic relationship with a foundation of trust, openness and respect. I believe in a client-centered approach and will empower and motivate you through the therapeutic process. I will work to understand you and how your personal experiences and environment may be impacting you at this time. My clients describe me as a kind, caring and empathic counselor, whom they immediately feel comfortable with. My counseling style draws influences from Strengths Based Solution-Focused Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I believe that we all have strengths within us, but that sometimes it takes support to help recognize and build on them. I will help you find solutions to your problems and provide techniques that can provide symptom relief if necessary. Many of my clients report that they experience quick relief once working with me, as I focus specifically on the issues most important to you. By logging on to this site you have already taken an important first step towards becoming a better, happier, version of yourself. My hope is that with my support and encouragement, we can work together to achieve your goals.

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Donna Jessen

Offering therapy in DC
License: MSW,LICSW
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issues
24 years of experience

I have been a social worker for over 24 years, initially with a focus on medical social worker in a hospital setting and then in a clinical setting working with people diagnosed with HIV/AIDS. Since that time, I have been in the field of child welfare, working in CPS and the Child Abuse Hotline in Washington, DC. This has provided me with a wealth of experience in crisis intervention, depression, child abuse and trauma, anxiety, substance use, emotional abuse, domestic violence and parenting issues. When working with clients, I believe in allowing them to take the lead with interaction throughout the process and a collaborative approach. I believe in treating everyone with respect, compassion and sensitivity. My approach is somewhat eclectic, based on the client's needs, using solution focused and cognitive behavioral techniques as well as other techniques as needed. The first step to change is recognizing the need, so congratulations on taking that first step! I look forward to partnering and empowering you to make the changes you want to see in your life.

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Maria ("Mali") Jimenez

Offering therapy in DC
License: MSW,LICSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker with 10 years experience helping individuals through various hardships and stages of life. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, relationship issues (co-dependency, attachment wounds), trauma, and other conditions. I am currently licensed in Washington DC and Colorado, with plans to obtain licensure in other states. I have worked in a variety of non profit and hospital settings, as well as in private practice. My therapy style is compassionate and precise, yet I also challenge clients to come up against their growth edges so that they can experience the breakthroughs that they came to therapy for. I apply a mindfulness based somatic approach with my clients to allow them a chance to develop skills to bring greater awareness to their thoughts, emotions and bodily experience. I also combine a cognitive behavioral approach with a psychodynamic perspective because I believe that looking into family system dynamics as well as early life attachment wounding helps to be able to transform any dysfunctional patterning into beliefs and behaviors that serve you. I will allow you as the client to take the lead on your process, while providing collaboration and support every step of the way to ensure that you meet your goals. I look forward to working with you!

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Sheila Green

Offering therapy in DC
License: LICSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflicts
8 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and therapist in the District of Columbia. I have experience working with Child and Family Services, as social work for over 25 years and Department of Behavioral Health as a Mental Health Clinician. I have experience with working with substance abuse, domestic violence, stress, anxiety, depression, anger management, parenting issues , LGBT issues and adjusting to life transitions. My therapy approaches are treating individuals with respect, authenticity and compassion. My treatment modalities are a combination of cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, motivational therapy, psychodynamic, solution focus and rational-emotive therapy. Each individual needs are their own. Therapy is not a cookie cutter and individuals will receive treatment as it relates to their own specific needs. Therapy is challenging, difficult at time and rewarding . Therapy is moving forward to a better understanding of you and and the world around you. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Lisa Stanford

Offering therapy in DC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Maryland with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience with working with women. I provide support in helping clients with postpartum depression, stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.

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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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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

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Charlene Mahan

Offering therapy in DC
License: LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
14 years of experience

Are you having a difficult time and need someone to talk to who will provide positive constructive feedback? Regardless of your feelings or concerns, I am here to help you achieve the clarity you need to continue moving forward to achieve your goals. Your therapeutic journey is yours to define. Let me help you by providing an objective and nonjudgmental environment where you will feel encouraged and free to share your burdens. I am a licensed mental health counselor with twelve years of experience assisting others in realizing their potential and implementing effective changes to improve their lives. I believe we all have the power to achieve our goals to elevate our lives to the next level. A little effort daily will help to produce great achievements in your life. I became a counselor because I love and enjoy empowering and supporting others on their journey to achieve success. I am a firm believer that repeating the same behavior will bring about the same results. Cognitive Behavioral therapy and Solution Focus therapy are the two prominent approaches that I utilize to promote healing and change. Ask yourself if you are ready to implement effective changes? You have already taken the first step towards being whole again. Let’s work on the next step together.

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Dr. Alicia Moran

Offering therapy in DC
License: PhD,LPCC-S,LCADC-S
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
21 years of experience

"There can be no transforming of darkness into light ... without emotion." -Jung Emotional Intelligence (EI) is the core of my training. It embraces the belief systems of the past that affect your present. It's a state-of-mind that defines thinking that affects emotional awareness. To become aware is not to change, but to understand and accept. Carrying guilt or shame of the past, triggers the conflict of now. I don't offer advice - I offer choices - a chance to choose your own method of healing that fits you - not something others feel 'should' be. Come. Sit. Talk. Let's wander your path together. I am specialized/certified in trauma, addictions, and adolescent disorders (Behavioral and ADHD). I use an integrated approach incorporating rational emotive behavioral therapy, reality theory, psychodynamic, and person centered. I offer members of KY, SC, FL, AZ, DC, and OH communities a Conservative choice for a new clinical perspective. With over 21 years of experience, change is merely a button away.

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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 20043 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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