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. 

This is Erin Smith's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Alexandria, VA
Type Of Therapy License(s): LCSW
Therapy Specialties: Family conflicts, Parenting issues, Self esteem, Coping with life changes, Compassion fatigue
Years of Experience: 15

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia with over 10 years of experience working as a counselor with children, adults, and families. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting stressors, OCD, relationship difficulties, and ADHD. I also helped many individuals who have experienced physical, verbal or emotional abuse as a child or adult. I would describe my counseling style as empathetic, open, and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with upmost respect, empathy, sensit...

This is Susan Wismer's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Alexandria, VA
Type Of Therapy License(s): LCSW
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse, Depression, Coping with life changes, ADHD
Years of Experience: 8

Hi! I am a licensed clinical social worker in Virginia and Colorado, and I have made my home in both places in recent years. Nearly eight years of experience has afforded me the opportunity to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds who range in age from five to over 90 years old. Early on I expected to find a preferred population; however, it turns out that I just like working with humans. Commonalities and strengths are always evident to me, even in the face of struggle and adversity. Seeking health and wellness is admirable. Mental health diagnoses c...

This is Vincenza Bonarelli's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Alexandria, VA
Type Of Therapy License(s): LCSW
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Anger management, Depression
Years of Experience: 23

Hello and Thanks for visiting my page. Sometimes life can bring challenges. Intense feelings of anger, loneliness, anxiety, and grief can overwhelm us. During such times it is important to reach out to a caring professional for support. I have been providing help to individuals in private practice for over 20 years. I am often asked what therapeutic perspective I am skilled in using. As an LCSW I utilize a wide range of models from cognitive behavioral therapy(CBT) to short term psychodynamic interventions. It mostly will depend on you an...

This is Katherine Briggs's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Alexandria, VA
Type Of Therapy License(s): MA,LPC
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse, Self esteem, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Years of Experience: 20

Hello, my name is Katie Briggs, I have been working in the mental health field since 1995. The majority of my work has been with seriously mentally ill adults who are managing symptoms of depression, Bi-Polar disorders, schizophrenia, co-occurring disorders, substance abuse, trauma, PTSD, personality disorders who are trying to regain their lives.

This is Esther Dubique's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Alexandria, VA
Type Of Therapy License(s): LCSW,DSL
Therapy Specialties: Relationship issues, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Self esteem, Depression
Years of Experience: 4

I enjoy seeing people do well. Life can be challenging and navigating turbulent times, daunting. It seems like our world is in a state of unrest-are you questioning who you are, and where you belong. Coping with it all is no easy task. Whatever the source of your unrest, be it emotional distress, anxiety, employment/relationship issues, and trauma/tragedy, I can help. I approach counseling from a Christian perspective. I believe the word of God has many remedies for improved quality of life. Let's collaborate creative strategies to turn your life experiences into ...

This is Diane Witmer's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Alexandria, VA
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Self esteem, Depression
Years of Experience: 12

I am an LCSW in the states of Tennessee, New York and Virginia, with over 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in several therapy modalities including Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral therapy, Trauma focused Treatment and EMDR. I am here to help clients with stress and anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet yo...

This is Phyllis McLaurin's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Alexandria, VA
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, Relationship issues, Trauma and abuse, Depression
Years of Experience: 20

I am licensed in Virginia with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. 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.

This is David Southall's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Alexandria, VA
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Self esteem, Compassion fatigue
Years of Experience: 3

I am licensed in Virginia with 3 years of professional work experience. I take a grounded, transparent approach to counseling, and work with people to explore their underlying emotions and patterns of thinking that cause people to struggle. I feel that someone does not need to be struggling to seek counseling. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, PTSD, anger, substance use, self-harm, suicidality, grief, personality disorders, families, and couples. I am certified to diagnose and treat personality disorders.

This is Brian Ede's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Alexandria, VA
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Anger management, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 26

I am licensed in Virginia with 26 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Dr. Bradley (Brad) Bull's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Alexandria, VA
Type Of Therapy License(s): MDiv,PhD,LMFT
Therapy Specialties: Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Intimacy-related issues, Parenting issues, Depression
Years of Experience: 20

Yes, family therapists work with individuals. In fact, most of the work I have done has been with individuals. It helps to hear “family therapy” as “systemic therapy.” Systemic therapists focus on how “big picture” factors (family, work, society) influence us and, thus, how we have to cope with them. My training has been both academic and from “the school of hard knocks.” In 2005, at age 40, I completed my PhD in child at family studies with an emphasis in counseling at the University Tennessee. I was taking a heavy course load, working two part-time jobs, and ...

This is Dr. Brent Womble's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Alexandria, VA
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Sleeping disorders, Depression, Coping with life changes, ADHD
Years of Experience: 5

I am licensed in Virginia with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, sleeping disorders, depression, & coping with life changes. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Maria Grimshaw-Clark's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Alexandria, VA
Type Of Therapy License(s): LCSW
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Depression
Years of Experience: 28

I work with clients in transforming their emotional pain into opportunity for growth. Clients work with me in reducing anxiety, depression, relationship challenges. I help my clients in replacing old coping skills with better and insightful new methods, creating new connections and mindsets. I have been working with individuals, couples and families for three decades and have enjoyed being present for many incredible “Aha” moments. My training in family mental health, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and Zen meditation ( to name a few) has been instrumental in m...

This is Deleshia Williams's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Alexandria, VA
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, Anger management
Years of Experience: 10

I am licensed in Virginia with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, & anger management. 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. 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.

This is Michael Noel's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Alexandria, VA
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, Relationship issues, Trauma and abuse, Self esteem
Years of Experience: 6

I believe that there are reasons why we are the way we are. I enjoy helping others identify their strengths and values while processing through their traumas. I use a mindfulness centered approach and I specialize in working with addiction, anxiety, trauma, OCD, and purpose in life.

This is Victoria Rosenberg's avatar and link to their profile
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Alexandria, VA
Therapy Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Parenting issues, Self esteem, Depression, ADHD
Years of Experience: 12

I am licensed in Virginia with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our sessions and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Having A Hard Time Selecting A Mental Health Professional In Alexandria?

Finding the right therapist can feel intimidating. However, there are a few methods you can try to narrow your search for a counselor in the Alexandria area if you find it challenging to find therapists accepting new clients.

First, research what type of therapy you'd like to pursue before finding a therapist or psychologist. You might be interested in psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), group therapy, marriage and family therapy, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits. If you're still unsure, consider asking your prospective counselors which methods they practice.

When you're ready to search, search for 'therapist near me in Alexandria and scroll through the options. Next, consider your goals for the gender of your psychotherapist, the type of therapy they're most experienced with, and their specialty. Finally, choose a therapist located near you in the city of Alexandria or elsewhere in Alexandria (city) or the state of Virginia.

Mental health professionals working through their own practice or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships and communication skills, working through life's obstacles, or changing negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a listening ear and validation. Verified Alexandria therapists can provide licensed marriage and compassionate counseling, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

What Is The Cost Difference Between Conventional Therapy And BetterHelp With A Alexandria Therapist? 

Forbes reports that the average price of an in-person therapy session with a counselor in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Alexandria due to a higher cost of living.

Some counselors 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 therapists serving the city of Alexandria and elsewhere throughout the state of Virginia you can expect significantly more affordable options, with counselor sessions ranging from $60 to $90 per week (billed every four weeks).


Did You Know BetterHelp Therapists Are Not Limited To In-Person Visits?

Online therapists, including the US-based therapists above, can work with people like you in or around Alexandria to offer creative forms of communication and treatment. You do not have to commute to a therapist's office to meet with one of these counselors.

Through BetterHelp, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, receive worksheets, and sign up for mental health webinars. Additionally, the BetterHelp app offers a journaling feature.

Suppose you're struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy with a counselor. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists specializing in behavioral health and relationships. You can also try a provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. Look through the available counselors above and consider which might work for you.

Alexandria has many professionals who provide client-centered individual counseling in person and through online therapy. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with therapists all over the US. Many individuals gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy. In Alexandria, therapy can be easily to use and a click away.


How To Know If Therapy Is Right For You?

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 they may struggle to provide objective guidance as a psychotherapist can. Therapists are also professionals trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist may support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health or life concerns. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another benefit of therapy with a licensed counselor is having a 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 can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With almost one million people in Alexandria, VA, finding a therapist can be costly, and therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of counselors above and others through BetterHelp, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching for a nearby psychotherapist close to 22304 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp therapist page.

Stay Up To Date With The Leading Online Therapy Platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and FacebookFor mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time to learn more about BetterHelp therapists to understand the services available to you clearly. If you have any questions, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

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

Emergency Situations

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:

·      National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

·      National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

·      Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

·      Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.

·      Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386 

·      SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357

·      National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)

·      Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature

·      National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293) 

·      Physician Crisis Support Line: Call 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19

·      Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673

Zip Codes Around Alexandria Served By BetterHelp Therapists

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

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

How Do I See A Therapist Taking Alexandria Sessions For The First Time? 

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading about the counseling process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist. 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 why you're attending therapy.

Should I Attend Therapy If I Feel Fine? 

If you don't feel the need to see a psychologist, you don't have to. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although therapists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend counseling. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general advice. A therapist 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 with a counselor.

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 Crying In Therapy A Breakthrough?

Crying can be a breakthrough for some individuals who struggle to express emotions. Others might find that they often cry during sessions with their counselor. Crying can be normal and healthy, so whether you cry or not may be a personal aspect of sessions.

Are Therapists Worth It?

We may all be on different paths in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, therapists are trained to meet you where you're at. Counseling can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy each year, showing it's a popular option and may be often effective when working with a licensed counselor.

Do Therapists Judge You? 

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Therapists are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. Their job as your counselor is to support you and make you feel safe and respected. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.