Adoption Therapists in Columbia Heights, Washington, DC

Photo of Alexandra Friedman, LCSW-C, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexandra Friedman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Columbia Heights, Washington, DC 20009
Waitlist for new clients
Hi! I’m Alex and I am an Online Therapist. I meet with clients via Zoom or my secure patient portal on Simple Practice for Individual Therapy and Diagnostic Assessments, allowing you to work with me without having to leave your home. It is my intention to help you develop a heightened sense of your own worth and ability to better manage feelings of distress and difficult life-challenges. I will support you in uncovering your inner strength with genuine kindness and compassion. Online Therapy is convenient, effective, and empowering.
Hi! I’m Alex and I am an Online Therapist. I meet with clients via Zoom or my secure patient portal on Simple Practice for Individual Therapy and Diagnostic Assessments, allowing you to work with me without having to leave your home. It is my intention to help you develop a heightened sense of your own worth and ability to better manage feelings of distress and difficult life-challenges. I will support you in uncovering your inner strength with genuine kindness and compassion. Online Therapy is convenient, effective, and empowering.
(202) 849-7704 View (202) 849-7704
Photo of Adriana Salcedo, MSW, MPH, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adriana Salcedo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MPH, LICSW
Verified Verified
Columbia Heights, Washington, DC 20010  (Online Only)
I am only taking telehealth appointments. I use a strengths-based, solution-focused approach in working with children, families and adults. I have more than 20 years of experience in school, community and private practice settings throughout DC and New York City. I specialize in family work, grief and loss, anxiety, panic and depression, and behavioral problems. I also help clients work through life changes and achieving their goals.
I am only taking telehealth appointments. I use a strengths-based, solution-focused approach in working with children, families and adults. I have more than 20 years of experience in school, community and private practice settings throughout DC and New York City. I specialize in family work, grief and loss, anxiety, panic and depression, and behavioral problems. I also help clients work through life changes and achieving their goals.
(202) 851-9262 View (202) 851-9262
Photo of Jo Pittman, MT-BC
Jo Pittman
MT-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia Heights, Washington, DC 20009
Hi! I’m Jo, a Graduate Counseling Intern at Urban Playology, a mental health private practice based in DC. I work under the direct clinical supervision of Xanthia Johnson, LPC, LCPC-S. I am a graduate counseling student at the University of Pennsylvania. I believe that healing, albeit challenging at times, is a beautiful and attainable experience. My compass for social justice holds my belief that everyone deserves to have a high-quality therapy experience with a compassionate and skilled psychotherapist. It is an honor to partner with human beings who come from diverse backgrounds on their journey toward mental health wellness.
Hi! I’m Jo, a Graduate Counseling Intern at Urban Playology, a mental health private practice based in DC. I work under the direct clinical supervision of Xanthia Johnson, LPC, LCPC-S. I am a graduate counseling student at the University of Pennsylvania. I believe that healing, albeit challenging at times, is a beautiful and attainable experience. My compass for social justice holds my belief that everyone deserves to have a high-quality therapy experience with a compassionate and skilled psychotherapist. It is an honor to partner with human beings who come from diverse backgrounds on their journey toward mental health wellness.
(888) 689-4339 x100 View (888) 689-4339 x100
Photo of Stacey Karpen Dohn, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stacey Karpen Dohn
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Columbia Heights, Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
I work with children, adolescents, and adults facing whatever challenges that arise in the many different chapters of our lives. In addition to general psychotherapy I also provide specialized care in the exploration of sexual orientation and gender identity with youth, teens, adults and their families as they navigate through the social and emotional aspects of life.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults facing whatever challenges that arise in the many different chapters of our lives. In addition to general psychotherapy I also provide specialized care in the exploration of sexual orientation and gender identity with youth, teens, adults and their families as they navigate through the social and emotional aspects of life.
(202) 759-4046 View (202) 759-4046
Photo of Elana Hoffman, PhD, Psychologist
Elana Hoffman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia Heights, Washington, DC 20010  (Online Only)
I love working with couples and individuals with difficulty in romantic relationships (i.e. sexual issues, communication, infidelity, divorce), adults who come from dysfunctional childhoods, as well as those with anxiety, impulsivity, and addiction. I also enjoy working with those in non-traditional romantic relationships (i.e. ethically non-monogamous, polyamorous). I am LGBTQIA- affirming and sex positive. I work best with clients who are engaged, thoughtful, and motivated for change. My style is empathic and direct, with a sense of humor. I believe strongly in the therapeutic alliance and the client/therapist fit.
I love working with couples and individuals with difficulty in romantic relationships (i.e. sexual issues, communication, infidelity, divorce), adults who come from dysfunctional childhoods, as well as those with anxiety, impulsivity, and addiction. I also enjoy working with those in non-traditional romantic relationships (i.e. ethically non-monogamous, polyamorous). I am LGBTQIA- affirming and sex positive. I work best with clients who are engaged, thoughtful, and motivated for change. My style is empathic and direct, with a sense of humor. I believe strongly in the therapeutic alliance and the client/therapist fit.
(202) 793-8669 View (202) 793-8669
Photo of Playfulleigh Home - PlayfulLeigh Psyched, LLC, PhD, LCPC, MS/MA, LGPC, Counselor
PlayfulLeigh Psyched, LLC
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, MS/MA, LGPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Columbia Heights, Washington, DC 20010  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
We work with individuals, families, and children. We specialize in trauma including generational trauma, perinatal, immigrants, parent-child relationship issues, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and family conflict. Our greatest intention is to help you understand yourself better and improve your quality of life and relationships. We tailor our approach to the needs of each person or family, responding to your unique problems, identities, and realities. This is not a one-size-fits-all practice because we are trauma-informed and social-emotional focused practices from a social justice framework.
We work with individuals, families, and children. We specialize in trauma including generational trauma, perinatal, immigrants, parent-child relationship issues, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and family conflict. Our greatest intention is to help you understand yourself better and improve your quality of life and relationships. We tailor our approach to the needs of each person or family, responding to your unique problems, identities, and realities. This is not a one-size-fits-all practice because we are trauma-informed and social-emotional focused practices from a social justice framework.
(301) 835-2610 View (301) 835-2610
Photo of Sarah Levy, LICSW, LCSW-C, RYT, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Levy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, RYT, SEP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Columbia Heights, Washington, DC 20010
I believe all people have the capacity to grow and heal from trauma, anxiety, and stress given the right conditions and environment. It is overwhelming when painful memories, emotions and sensations disrupt our ability to participate in our professional and personal lives. I offer a warm, compassionate and authentic space where we'll connect with your strengths and resources so that you can create meaningful long term change.
I believe all people have the capacity to grow and heal from trauma, anxiety, and stress given the right conditions and environment. It is overwhelming when painful memories, emotions and sensations disrupt our ability to participate in our professional and personal lives. I offer a warm, compassionate and authentic space where we'll connect with your strengths and resources so that you can create meaningful long term change.
(202) 793-6808 View (202) 793-6808
Photo of Kiami Bibb, LMHC, LPC, LPCC, Counselor
Kiami Bibb
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Columbia Heights, Washington, DC 20009
I am a Licensed Clinician and Certified Coach with 15+ years of experience. I provide support for clients of various ages and cultural backgrounds and a broad range of clinical and personal concerns. I possess an innate ability to establish trusting and healing relationships, with core values and passion for connecting with genuine compassion and gentle care. I can confidently help to guide you to become "unstuck" from mental/emotional/behavioral burdens, to be able to experience significant relief, even during such intense world crises. Let's start by clarifying which support tools we need to help you to feel and be at your best!
I am a Licensed Clinician and Certified Coach with 15+ years of experience. I provide support for clients of various ages and cultural backgrounds and a broad range of clinical and personal concerns. I possess an innate ability to establish trusting and healing relationships, with core values and passion for connecting with genuine compassion and gentle care. I can confidently help to guide you to become "unstuck" from mental/emotional/behavioral burdens, to be able to experience significant relief, even during such intense world crises. Let's start by clarifying which support tools we need to help you to feel and be at your best!
(808) 500-5345 View (808) 500-5345
Photo of Ellen D Mazer, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellen D Mazer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Columbia Heights, Washington, DC 20010  (Online Only)
The decision to enter therapy often coincides with a desire to make changes in one's life. We posses a keen internal radar system that can lead us to realize that the quality of our lives can improve. Your radar may point toward your readiness to enter therapy as suggested by your visit to this site. I provide patients a nonjudgmental safe space to examine potential changes they desire or issues they need to explore. My therapeutic approach emphasizes the examination of significant relationships, including the therapist and client and exploring various unhelpful though patterns. I am accepting new patients as of 9/18/23.
The decision to enter therapy often coincides with a desire to make changes in one's life. We posses a keen internal radar system that can lead us to realize that the quality of our lives can improve. Your radar may point toward your readiness to enter therapy as suggested by your visit to this site. I provide patients a nonjudgmental safe space to examine potential changes they desire or issues they need to explore. My therapeutic approach emphasizes the examination of significant relationships, including the therapist and client and exploring various unhelpful though patterns. I am accepting new patients as of 9/18/23.
(202) 999-3478 View (202) 999-3478
Photo of David O. Avruch, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David O. Avruch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia Heights, Washington, DC 20010
Hi, I'm David. Mostly I am a couples therapist, but I also serve individuals. I practice Emotionally Focused Therapy (an evidence-based practice for couples), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and psychedelic-assisted therapies. In my career I've seen a lot and worked with many different kinds of people; hence, I'm professional and nonjudgmental. I enjoy being a social worker and therapist for all types of humans, but I specialize in serving queer and trans couples. Additionally, I am now offering ketamine-assisted psychotherapy for individuals and couples. My belief is, being a person is hard, but good relationships heal.
Hi, I'm David. Mostly I am a couples therapist, but I also serve individuals. I practice Emotionally Focused Therapy (an evidence-based practice for couples), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and psychedelic-assisted therapies. In my career I've seen a lot and worked with many different kinds of people; hence, I'm professional and nonjudgmental. I enjoy being a social worker and therapist for all types of humans, but I specialize in serving queer and trans couples. Additionally, I am now offering ketamine-assisted psychotherapy for individuals and couples. My belief is, being a person is hard, but good relationships heal.
(410) 734-2020 View (410) 734-2020
Photo of Teresa E. Doniger, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Teresa E. Doniger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia Heights, Washington, DC 20010
I have been working with young to mid career professionals since 2012. Since then, I have become a therapist that Gen X, Y, and Z clients seek out to address various types of life challenges. I enjoy providing support and encouragement to people who are facing life stage transitions and change with all of the stress, anxiety, as well as the excitement that these events may bring. My training is in family therapy and I work within the frameworks of family systems, attachment theory, as well as grief/loss and living with loss.
I have been working with young to mid career professionals since 2012. Since then, I have become a therapist that Gen X, Y, and Z clients seek out to address various types of life challenges. I enjoy providing support and encouragement to people who are facing life stage transitions and change with all of the stress, anxiety, as well as the excitement that these events may bring. My training is in family therapy and I work within the frameworks of family systems, attachment theory, as well as grief/loss and living with loss.
(202) 335-7347 View (202) 335-7347
Photo of Ana Radakovic - Ana Radakovic, LPC, CGP, ATR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ana Radakovic
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CGP, ATR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Columbia Heights, Washington, DC 20009
I am a psychotherapist located in Washington, DC offering individual, group, and couples therapy. I enjoy helping people live authentically and thrive in all areas of their lives. I pull from a variety of therapeutic approaches and techniques, but collaborate with each individual to create a space that best suits one’s unique set of needs and goals. My therapeutic style is warm, compassionate, and appropriately challenging. I am also a 200-Hour Registered Yoga Teacher, and incorporate mindfulness and body-based approaches in therapy where its appropriate.
I am a psychotherapist located in Washington, DC offering individual, group, and couples therapy. I enjoy helping people live authentically and thrive in all areas of their lives. I pull from a variety of therapeutic approaches and techniques, but collaborate with each individual to create a space that best suits one’s unique set of needs and goals. My therapeutic style is warm, compassionate, and appropriately challenging. I am also a 200-Hour Registered Yoga Teacher, and incorporate mindfulness and body-based approaches in therapy where its appropriate.
(202) 915-3003 View (202) 915-3003
Photo of DeLandria Ankrah, MS, LPC, LCPC, NCC
DeLandria Ankrah
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Columbia Heights, Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor with experience working with diverse individuals including children, teens, adults, and families. As a trained cognitive-behavior and trauma-focused therapist I have worked with individuals that have been affected by both childhood and adult trauma, substance abuse, relationship issues, anxiety, and depression. I utilize an integrative approach and tailor each client based on their situation. I enjoy helping clients gain a deeper understanding of their resiliency and purpose. I encourage my clients to gain more self-confidence, stronger sense of identity, and trust their own decisions.
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor with experience working with diverse individuals including children, teens, adults, and families. As a trained cognitive-behavior and trauma-focused therapist I have worked with individuals that have been affected by both childhood and adult trauma, substance abuse, relationship issues, anxiety, and depression. I utilize an integrative approach and tailor each client based on their situation. I enjoy helping clients gain a deeper understanding of their resiliency and purpose. I encourage my clients to gain more self-confidence, stronger sense of identity, and trust their own decisions.
(240) 376-5221 View (240) 376-5221
Photo of Kristin Gonzalez, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristin Gonzalez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia Heights, Washington, DC 20010
Not accepting new clients
Do you feel alone or misunderstood? Are some days especially hard to feel hopeful? I believe every person has strength that can sometimes feel difficult to find. I approach therapy in a way of helping you identify your strengths and make sense of your past experiences so that you can live more fully in the present and begin building the future that you want. I specialize in providing trauma-focused psychotherapy to adults who have experienced or are experiencing trauma/PTSD, are having relationship issues, and/or facing low self-esteem.
Do you feel alone or misunderstood? Are some days especially hard to feel hopeful? I believe every person has strength that can sometimes feel difficult to find. I approach therapy in a way of helping you identify your strengths and make sense of your past experiences so that you can live more fully in the present and begin building the future that you want. I specialize in providing trauma-focused psychotherapy to adults who have experienced or are experiencing trauma/PTSD, are having relationship issues, and/or facing low self-esteem.
(202) 858-0727 View (202) 858-0727
Photo of Peggy L Miller, MEd, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Peggy L Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia Heights, Washington, DC 20010
Not accepting new clients
Welcome to my therapy practice! I am a therapist with over 25 years of experience helping individuals and couples achieve a greater sense of well being and fulfillment in their lives. I believe my role as therapist is to provide a safe, supportive, non-judgmental, and confidential relationship in which we can work collaboratively to understand your current concerns and challenges,then identify and work toward goals and steps for achieving positive change. I am devoted to the individuals I work with and consider it a privilege to have an active role in their pursuit of a more gratifying life.
Welcome to my therapy practice! I am a therapist with over 25 years of experience helping individuals and couples achieve a greater sense of well being and fulfillment in their lives. I believe my role as therapist is to provide a safe, supportive, non-judgmental, and confidential relationship in which we can work collaboratively to understand your current concerns and challenges,then identify and work toward goals and steps for achieving positive change. I am devoted to the individuals I work with and consider it a privilege to have an active role in their pursuit of a more gratifying life.
(202) 831-9574 View (202) 831-9574

Online Therapists

Photo of Jonathan Christophel, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jonathan Christophel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
My clinical areas of specialization and interests include, but are not limited to, adoption, depression, self-esteem, anxiety, and grief and loss.
I look forward to working with you, or your children, in overcoming current obstacles and life challenges. In my experience in working with adults, children, and families, they have all the strengths and resources they need within themselves, and can reach their full potential within a safe, empathic therapeutic relationship.
My clinical areas of specialization and interests include, but are not limited to, adoption, depression, self-esteem, anxiety, and grief and loss.
I look forward to working with you, or your children, in overcoming current obstacles and life challenges. In my experience in working with adults, children, and families, they have all the strengths and resources they need within themselves, and can reach their full potential within a safe, empathic therapeutic relationship.
(202) 902-8779 View (202) 902-8779
Photo of Carolyn Bell, LPC, NCC, MA, MBA, Counselor
Carolyn Bell
Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA, MBA
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
Are you seeking deeper attachment? I collaborate with couples and individuals to increase your inner awareness of self to share with others. I help clients process life-changing events including job growth and relocation, loss and grief, chronic health diagnoses, and adoption. I offer support for couples who want to strengthen their relationships and resolve issues preventing emotional and sexual intimacy. Where appropriate, I offer intensive therapy to bring clarity and begin the healing process of life experiences. I'm licensed in DC/MD/VA. My diverse background includes working in Silicon Valley, Wall Street and Main Street.
Are you seeking deeper attachment? I collaborate with couples and individuals to increase your inner awareness of self to share with others. I help clients process life-changing events including job growth and relocation, loss and grief, chronic health diagnoses, and adoption. I offer support for couples who want to strengthen their relationships and resolve issues preventing emotional and sexual intimacy. Where appropriate, I offer intensive therapy to bring clarity and begin the healing process of life experiences. I'm licensed in DC/MD/VA. My diverse background includes working in Silicon Valley, Wall Street and Main Street.
(833) 283-9669 View (833) 283-9669
Photo of Julia Rosenfield, LICSW, LCSW-C, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia Rosenfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
Welcome to my practice, conveniently located in the heart of Dupont Circle. I offer therapy for individuals of all backgrounds experiencing a range of concerns, including: anxiety, depression, life transitions, identity issues, relationship challenges, grief and loss, chronic health conditions, adoption-related concerns, and more. My style is warm, nonjudgmental, and collaborative. I will work with you to help you increase your insight, enhance your relationships, build on your strengths, develop new coping skills, and live a more fulfilling life.
Welcome to my practice, conveniently located in the heart of Dupont Circle. I offer therapy for individuals of all backgrounds experiencing a range of concerns, including: anxiety, depression, life transitions, identity issues, relationship challenges, grief and loss, chronic health conditions, adoption-related concerns, and more. My style is warm, nonjudgmental, and collaborative. I will work with you to help you increase your insight, enhance your relationships, build on your strengths, develop new coping skills, and live a more fulfilling life.
(202) 831-0918 View (202) 831-0918
Photo of Brenda Edmonds - Brenda Edmonds – Addictions, Anxiety, Depression, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brenda Edmonds – Addictions, Anxiety, Depression
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20005
Brenda Edmonds is a Licensed Graduate Social Worker in DC that specializes in Addiction, Adoption, Alcohol Use, Alzheimer’s, Anxiety, Behavioral Issues, Bipolar Disorder, Career Counseling, Child & Parenting Needs, Coping Skills, Depression, Domestic Violence & Abuse, Dual Diagnosis, Intellectual & Learning Disabilities, Medication Management, Self-Harming, Stress, Trauma & PTSD, Mental Health, Mood Disorders, and many other areas. Brenda’s 20 years of clinical experience has been widely dedicated to working with children and adults experiencing low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance abuse.
Brenda Edmonds is a Licensed Graduate Social Worker in DC that specializes in Addiction, Adoption, Alcohol Use, Alzheimer’s, Anxiety, Behavioral Issues, Bipolar Disorder, Career Counseling, Child & Parenting Needs, Coping Skills, Depression, Domestic Violence & Abuse, Dual Diagnosis, Intellectual & Learning Disabilities, Medication Management, Self-Harming, Stress, Trauma & PTSD, Mental Health, Mood Disorders, and many other areas. Brenda’s 20 years of clinical experience has been widely dedicated to working with children and adults experiencing low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance abuse.
(202) 998-4725 View (202) 998-4725
Photo of Katalin Vladar, MD, CGP
Katalin Vladar
MD, CGP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
As a psychiatrist and therapist, I offer both medication management and psychotherapy, fitting best mental health needs. I work with adolescents, adults and couples. I can help with the effects of traumatic experiences, with troubles of everyday living, interpersonal difficulties, sexuality, or infertility/ adoption issues. I can help if you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief or with not reaching your goals. I assist couples in resolving painful, conflicted relationship issues. I also provide long-term therapy for self-exploration, and for changing complex personality patterns that make everyday life difficult.
As a psychiatrist and therapist, I offer both medication management and psychotherapy, fitting best mental health needs. I work with adolescents, adults and couples. I can help with the effects of traumatic experiences, with troubles of everyday living, interpersonal difficulties, sexuality, or infertility/ adoption issues. I can help if you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief or with not reaching your goals. I assist couples in resolving painful, conflicted relationship issues. I also provide long-term therapy for self-exploration, and for changing complex personality patterns that make everyday life difficult.
(202) 949-3037 View (202) 949-3037

See more therapy options for Columbia Heights, Washington

Adoption Therapists

Does my adopted child need therapy?

Not every adopted child needs therapy. However, many can benefit from seeing an adoption-informed therapist, especially if they were victims of abuse or neglect, appear withdrawn or disconnected, have behavioral or developmental issues (which may or may not be related to their adoption), are struggling with feelings of grief or loss surrounding their birth parents, or find it difficult to establish an identity, a challenge that often becomes most apparent during adolescence.

When should adoptive parents seek therapy?

Prospective parents can benefit from therapy even before an adoption—for example, to voice worries and fears; to reconcile infertility struggles, if relevant; or simply to prepare themselves for parenthood. After the adoption, parents who are struggling to bond with their child; are unsure how to talk about adoption or related issues, such as race; or whose child is dealing with developmental, behavioral, or psychiatric concerns can address these and other issues with the help of an adoption-competent therapist.

Is family therapy appropriate for adoptive families?

Family therapy can be invaluable for strengthening the bond between adoptive parents and children, helping the latter feel more secure in their place in the family. Family therapy can also help adoptive families navigate complex communication issues—for example, parents who feel uncomfortable discussing race with their child, who in turn feels invalidated by their silence, or a child who has questions about his birth parents but avoids asking them out of fear of hurting his adoptive parents’ feelings.

What therapy is not appropriate for adoption issues?

A discredited therapy known as “attachment therapy” (sometimes called “holding therapy” or “rebirthing therapy”) should not be used to treat adopted and foster children, though it was largely designed for this population. Attachment therapy involves restraining, coercing, and punishing the child in order for them to “release” negative emotions and attach to their new caregivers—techniques that are abusive and dangerous and have even proven fatal in some cases.