Your past can be valuable, or it can be something that has haunted you to this day. In life, we can’t control our pasts, but it can sure control us. It can be hard to move on from trauma or tragedy, or just deal with the consequences of what our past has done to us. A counselor based in Alexandria can help. 

Alexandria is known for being the antique capital of the world. Antiques and old theaters cover the town. A counselor can help you find the valuable parts of your past and display them to the world, all while sweeping away the parts of the past holding you back. 

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Dr. Trygve Trosper

Offering therapy in VA
License: LPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
20 years of experience

Hi, I am Dr. Trygve B. Trosper, a skilled and well-informed therapist. I am based in Chicago, IL but I’m licensed as a LPC in Illinois, Virginia, and Washington D.C. My psychotherapy experiences expand over two decades from hospital settings to private practice. Treatment specialties include; parenting, PTSD, depression, anxiety, conduct disorder, anger management and couple/relationship problems. As an eclectic therapist, I know that individuals are unique and he/she/they warrants an individualized treatment plan to meet their specific needs. Lastly, I am a retired military veteran. Your Choice The freedom of choice is a great characteristic that all individuals possess as they aim to navigate the different environments encountered throughout their lifetime. Therefore, understanding our life choices can bring freedom to the mind, that will not only strengthen one's self resolve but help to cultivate healthier relationships as well. Thanks, I look forward to hearing from you soon.

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Tangela Francis

Offering therapy in VA
License: LCSW
AddictionsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

Dear New Client, Thank you for beginning this journey. No matter what the response has been from your immediate friends, families, or inner critic, I believe you are making a good decision. Therapy is an inviting place where every single part of you is welcome, even the parts that are uncomfortable to share. am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker currently licensed in the state of Virginia with over 10 years of experience working with the mentally ill population. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, . I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse and domestic violence. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My area of expertise lies in working with couples who are in relationships both traditional and non-traditional. I am versed at working with those in alternative lifestyles seeking an open safe space to explore their nontraditional relationships including polyamory, polyandry and non-monogamy. I am also well versed in working with individuals in arears related to the fetish community My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and rational-emotive 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 happier life and to take the first steps towards change. 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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Jennifer Cabe

Offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

Aloha! I am licensed in Virginia and Hawaii, with over a decade of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. I've worked with adolescents, young adults, and adults of all ages in several different settings. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and your goals 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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Bryan McHenry

Offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, bipolar disorder, & depression. 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.

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Cecilia Bueno

Offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
23 years of experience

Let’s be real. Everyone has problems, and no life is devoid of problems. Perhaps this will be your time to figure it out. What can be done to reduce the quantity of your troubles.? I am here to support, bear witness to, & empower you to do just that. How, you may ask? Let’s start with my age. 60 years old. You may be shocked that I actually told you my age, but I think of it a positive observation. I have been through many valleys and stood on mountaintops. I have raised a family. I have been divorced. I have been heartbroken. I have felt extreme joy. Just like you, I am an individual seeking to understand, and teach individuals the basic tenets of healing. I combine a variety of well researched, and clinically proven therapies such as Internal Family Systems, EMDR, person centered psychotherapy, somatic psychology, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Attachment Theory. If you like we may discuss each, and then formulate a plan forward. However, if you are confident that you know the way forward, yet really could use someone who will listen and not offer instruction/recommendations, then I am still here for you. My education consists of : BA / Addiction studies; MA /Psychology; MA /Somatic Psychology; Ph.D. / Philosophy & Depth Psychology & chemical dependency counselor. I am licensed in the state of TX and CA as an MFT, and in TX as an LCDC. Lastly, I am a certified Ketamine integration coach. If you have received Ketamine therapy and have NOT had the opportunity to integrate your experience, I will assist you in that growth process. I have experience in helping clients overcome the impact of stress and anxiety. I also assist people in discovering what can be done about their addiction, unproductive coping mechanisms, trauma, abuse, and difficulties connecting deeply with those you love. Lastly, my healing philosophy is that Jesus Christ is the healer. He uses people, so this is why I became a psychotherapist. I have no greater privilege, than witnessing firsthand, how God heals people. The first step is the hardest, because it involves showing up in a space that is unknown. Take the chance. Do it for yourself and see what happens.

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Monica Neal

Offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesBipolar disorderDepression
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & bipolar disorder. 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. 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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Tempest Pritchett

Offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

Hello!! I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia that has 8 years of experience providing therapy to children, adolescents, families, and adults. I have provided individual and family therapy sessions in both outpatient and inpatient settings. I have an extensive history in crisis management and helping clients work toward achieving their treatment goals. I believe in using a person-centered approach, individualizing treatment goals, and meeting clients where they are. I have experience in helping both adults and adolescents with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma-related symptoms, work-related stress, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I believe in providing a safe and supportive environment for clients with an understanding that everyone's journey is unique. It takes courage to seek help while navigating the journey toward healing and growth. I am here to support and empower you throughout that journey.

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Christen Moseley

Offering therapy in VA
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
4 years of experience

Welcome! I’m so glad you’re taking this opportunity to commit yourself to growth and development. Reaching out for help takes an immense amount of courage and strength. I applaud you! Breathe easy, the hardest part is over. Because therapists walk alongside you as you navigate life, sometimes at your lowest point, it’s important to take time to find a therapist who fits you best. Let me start by telling you a little bit about myself. I graduated with my M.A. in Counseling in 2015. Since graduation, I have become a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Tennessee. I have worked mainly in community mental health settings. Recently, I have been working with addiction in an outpatient facility. In my career, I have worked with clients on several presenting issues. Specifically: trauma, PTSD, comorbid conditions, anxiety, depression, domestic abuse/violence, relationship/family topics, self-worth/esteem, and life change issues. I am passionate about working with domestic abuse survivors as they work to reclaim their true selves once again. My therapeutic approach can best be defined as eclectic. As mentioned earlier, every therapeutic relationship is unique and requires a different set of tools. I ascribe to a person-centered, humanistic, holistic approach to wellness. I aim to guide you towards your goals through an attentive and accepting atmosphere. I think of myself as a ‘directive, non-directive’ therapist. I will follow where you lead while offering thoughtful challenges and suggestions along the way. Awareness and mindfulness practices are also a large part of my approach professionally, as well as personally. Simply put, you cannot change what you cannot see. Being part of your journey towards healing and wellness is an honor. Because vulnerability can often feel scary, creating a warm and caring environment is my number one goal. I appreciate and respect your willingness to commit to your health and well-being. If this sounds like a good fit for you, I look forward to starting our journey together. Remember, you are not alone!

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Luz Rivera

Offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
18 years of experience

I'm here to offer professional support and guidance. I am a compassionate and an insightful counselor. I have a Bachelor's Degree and Master's Degree in Social Work. I have been a social worker for 20 years and worked in many different settings in the social work field.

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Natalie McCorey

Offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

I am a board certified Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia. I am not a native of Virginia and was born abroad which allows me to be multiculturally aware. I specialize in assisting my clients to overcome anxiety, depression, and trauma. My own life experiences and challenges connects me to my clients on a humanistic level and my many years of clinical education allows me to provide the professional help they seek. I work to provide clients with tailored treatment plans that can be integrated into their daily lives. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT). In our sessions, I will assist you on identifying patterns and learning more about how they might negatively affect you. Together we will explore ways to replace those negative thought patterns or behaviors with ones that are more helpful and accurate. I use this approach, combined with my empathy and unconditional positive regard, to assist you in making changes of various categories. I have worked with a diverse population that includes children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly. I provide individual, couples, marital and family counseling to meet assorted mental health needs.

How to find counseling in Alexandria

Finding the best therapist close by in Alexandria 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 Alexandria. 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 Alexandria, 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 Alexandria 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 Alexandria 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 Alexandria, elsewhere in Alexandria (city), or in the greater state of Virginia.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Alexandria 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 Alexandria 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 Alexandria may not take health insurance, some in the state of Virginia 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 Virginia 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 Alexandria, Virginia 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 Alexandria 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 Alexandria 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 Alexandria 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 Alexandria 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 Alexandria 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 VA, 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 22331 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 Alexandria 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 Alexandria 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 Alexandria, Virginia 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.

Alexandria 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 PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, 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 Alexandria.

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

20598, 22301, 22302, 22304, 22305, 22311, 22313, 22314, 22320, 22331, 22332, 22333, 22334

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