Therapists in Washington, DC
Dr. Kenya A. Ford
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about working with all minorities in society, including LGBTQ+ folx. I have experience working through taboo topics, trauma, racial identity and women's issues, and am vocal about my stance on social justice when necessary. I use an integrative approach to therapy to tailor sessions to the specific needs of each of my clients. I am humanistic, person-centered in my approach and facilitate interpersonal relational work. I am always strength based and really enjoy working with Black folx & people of color, but I am willing to work with anyone who is ready to work through current life stressors in non judgmental space.
I am passionate about working with all minorities in society, including LGBTQ+ folx. I have experience working through taboo topics, trauma, racial identity and women's issues, and am vocal about my stance on social justice when necessary. I use an integrative approach to therapy to tailor sessions to the specific needs of each of my clients. I am humanistic, person-centered in my approach and facilitate interpersonal relational work. I am always strength based and really enjoy working with Black folx & people of color, but I am willing to work with anyone who is ready to work through current life stressors in non judgmental space.
Xanthia Bianca Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
My clinical areas of specialization and interest include but are not limited to: Women & Women of Color Issues, Urban Play Therapy, Expressive Arts, Sandtray Therapy, Grief & Loss, LGBTQ+ Folk, TF-CBT, Broad Spectrum Couples & Family Work.
Everyone deserves a chance to become their best selves. During defining transitions, I provide a safe place for you to be who you are. Whether you are 2 years old or 85 years young, you will enjoy a transformative experience. I know DC Metro folk and am experienced in the nuanced issues they face. If you are in a proactive self-seeking stanz, I can help you discover the panacea for which your heart has always desired. Thank you for considering me to be apart of your journey. I look forward to meeting you.
My clinical areas of specialization and interest include but are not limited to: Women & Women of Color Issues, Urban Play Therapy, Expressive Arts, Sandtray Therapy, Grief & Loss, LGBTQ+ Folk, TF-CBT, Broad Spectrum Couples & Family Work.
Everyone deserves a chance to become their best selves. During defining transitions, I provide a safe place for you to be who you are. Whether you are 2 years old or 85 years young, you will enjoy a transformative experience. I know DC Metro folk and am experienced in the nuanced issues they face. If you are in a proactive self-seeking stanz, I can help you discover the panacea for which your heart has always desired. Thank you for considering me to be apart of your journey. I look forward to meeting you.
Dr. Shaqueal Stevens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20059 (Online Only)
Examples include LGBTQ+ identities, ADHD, depression, anxiety, trauma, social skills, self-esteem, etc.
My name is Dr. Shaqueal Stevens, LCSW-C, and I am pleased to guide you and your child in the therapeutic process. Children experience various life changes that are sometimes hard for them to understand and work through. They may have difficulty identifying or expressing their feelings about life changes, such as divorce or separation, death, or going to a new school. They may have challenges with attention or focus, following instructions to complete tasks, or making friends. All of these experiences are very real, important and impactful in a child's life. I'm here to help your child reach individualized goals we set together.
Examples include LGBTQ+ identities, ADHD, depression, anxiety, trauma, social skills, self-esteem, etc.
My name is Dr. Shaqueal Stevens, LCSW-C, and I am pleased to guide you and your child in the therapeutic process. Children experience various life changes that are sometimes hard for them to understand and work through. They may have difficulty identifying or expressing their feelings about life changes, such as divorce or separation, death, or going to a new school. They may have challenges with attention or focus, following instructions to complete tasks, or making friends. All of these experiences are very real, important and impactful in a child's life. I'm here to help your child reach individualized goals we set together.
Ashley C. Whiteside
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20002
Again, I center and prioritize Black and Brown Femmes! Our space is unapologetically Black, Queer, and Loving (PERIODT).
My name is Ashley and I am a healer, therapist, doula, and educator. I am fueled by my charge: to walk alongside Black and Brown femmes as they continue on the ever-evolving process of self-discovery, making adjustments to live in alignment with their desires and express themselves the most authentically. I believe that choosing to heal is a radical act of self-love. I am a Licensed Social Worker and in my practice, I center and prioritize the experiences and healing of Black and Brown Femmes (women, girls). I serve as a guide as clients navigate back to a space of remembering the inherent truths of who they are and desire to be.
Again, I center and prioritize Black and Brown Femmes! Our space is unapologetically Black, Queer, and Loving (PERIODT).
My name is Ashley and I am a healer, therapist, doula, and educator. I am fueled by my charge: to walk alongside Black and Brown femmes as they continue on the ever-evolving process of self-discovery, making adjustments to live in alignment with their desires and express themselves the most authentically. I believe that choosing to heal is a radical act of self-love. I am a Licensed Social Worker and in my practice, I center and prioritize the experiences and healing of Black and Brown Femmes (women, girls). I serve as a guide as clients navigate back to a space of remembering the inherent truths of who they are and desire to be.
Christina R. Phelps
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, QMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20330
Do you find yourself feeling lost, overwhelmed, or stuck? Are you experiencing anxiety, grief, sadness, loneliness, or other difficult, overwhelming emotions? Have you experienced trauma? You do not have to struggle alone. In working with clients, I use an integrative approach to help adolescents and adults develop coping skills and improve their mental health while both identifying and accomplishing their goals. I particularly enjoy working with the LGBQ+ and trans and disabled communities. I believe that anyone can truly thrive with the proper support, understanding, and resources throughout the therapeutic journey.
Do you find yourself feeling lost, overwhelmed, or stuck? Are you experiencing anxiety, grief, sadness, loneliness, or other difficult, overwhelming emotions? Have you experienced trauma? You do not have to struggle alone. In working with clients, I use an integrative approach to help adolescents and adults develop coping skills and improve their mental health while both identifying and accomplishing their goals. I particularly enjoy working with the LGBQ+ and trans and disabled communities. I believe that anyone can truly thrive with the proper support, understanding, and resources throughout the therapeutic journey.
M&K Counseling Associates Inc
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-DC, LPC-VA, LCPC-MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20010
We specialize in the use of evidence-based practices within a phase model of trauma-informed treatment for people with adverse childhood experiences; systemic trauma; LGBTQIA+ social issues and challenges; and distress and functional problems associated with anxiety disorders, mood disorders, depressive disorders, and bipolar disorders.
Hello everyone! I’m Carolyn a junior partner at M&K Counseling Associates inc. We are a group private practice offering office and video psychotherapy sessions. Our staff are highly trained professionals who operate from a holistic, trauma-informed, and systemically aware perspective. We partner with our clients by providing a safe comfortable space so they can explore their life challenges, and collectively establish goals that foster self-empowerment and self-betterment.
We specialize in the use of evidence-based practices within a phase model of trauma-informed treatment for people with adverse childhood experiences; systemic trauma; LGBTQIA+ social issues and challenges; and distress and functional problems associated with anxiety disorders, mood disorders, depressive disorders, and bipolar disorders.
Hello everyone! I’m Carolyn a junior partner at M&K Counseling Associates inc. We are a group private practice offering office and video psychotherapy sessions. Our staff are highly trained professionals who operate from a holistic, trauma-informed, and systemically aware perspective. We partner with our clients by providing a safe comfortable space so they can explore their life challenges, and collectively establish goals that foster self-empowerment and self-betterment.
Darby Integrative Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LCADAS
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20011
Our practice is allied with our communities including the: LGBTQIA+, minority and immigrant, and kink/poly.
Currently accepting new clients at Darby Integrative Counseling. We offer in-person and/or video sessions to accommodate your needs. We welcome you to the next courageous step on your journey walking through life's challenges. Are you struggling with fear, grief, sadness, anxiety, or stress? Have anger, shame or guilt been preventing you from the joys of life? Do your relationships at home or work feel strained? Let us awaken your best self and find solutions for the problems you face on your path to wellness.
Our practice is allied with our communities including the: LGBTQIA+, minority and immigrant, and kink/poly.
Currently accepting new clients at Darby Integrative Counseling. We offer in-person and/or video sessions to accommodate your needs. We welcome you to the next courageous step on your journey walking through life's challenges. Are you struggling with fear, grief, sadness, anxiety, or stress? Have anger, shame or guilt been preventing you from the joys of life? Do your relationships at home or work feel strained? Let us awaken your best self and find solutions for the problems you face on your path to wellness.
Ozlem Yazar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW, ADS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
In psychotherapy, the therapist and client commit to work together to facilitate change. My goal is to provide a safe and nonjudgmental space as we focus on issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, adjustment, sexual identity/LGBTQ concerns, and traditional/non-traditional relationships. My approach to therapy is both holistic and mindful. I view the client as a whole, focusing on the need to bring the mind, body, and spirit into harmony while each element plays a role in healing and the creation of change.
In psychotherapy, the therapist and client commit to work together to facilitate change. My goal is to provide a safe and nonjudgmental space as we focus on issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, adjustment, sexual identity/LGBTQ concerns, and traditional/non-traditional relationships. My approach to therapy is both holistic and mindful. I view the client as a whole, focusing on the need to bring the mind, body, and spirit into harmony while each element plays a role in healing and the creation of change.
She has a particular passion for working with LGBTQ identifying-youth and their families.
Dr. Hannah Sugarman is a licensed psychology associate in Washington, DC. Dr. Sugarman specializes in providing engaging, empathetic, evidence-based treatment and psychoeducational evaluations that address a child’s needs at home and at school. She specializes in treating children and adolescents with emotional disorders and behavioral disorders, as well as youth who have experienced trauma. In addition to her work with Maven Psychology Group, Dr. Sugarman is a practicing school psychologist and has extensive experience understanding how a child’s traumatic experiences may impact their ability to thrive in the school setting.
She has a particular passion for working with LGBTQ identifying-youth and their families.
Dr. Hannah Sugarman is a licensed psychology associate in Washington, DC. Dr. Sugarman specializes in providing engaging, empathetic, evidence-based treatment and psychoeducational evaluations that address a child’s needs at home and at school. She specializes in treating children and adolescents with emotional disorders and behavioral disorders, as well as youth who have experienced trauma. In addition to her work with Maven Psychology Group, Dr. Sugarman is a practicing school psychologist and has extensive experience understanding how a child’s traumatic experiences may impact their ability to thrive in the school setting.
As a neurodivergent, queer, biracial woman with many other identites, I understand how limiting and unsafe it can feel for those with diverse backgrounds seeking support, honest expression, relatability, and genuine understanding in a non-judgmental environment.
We all receive labels and messages from society and our upbringing that attempt to dictate how we operate in relation with others, what we’re worth, and how we perceive ourselves. I understand that the labels we receive from others, and the way we see ourselves are often times conflicting. These messages and attention or lack thereof can have a negative impact on our self-esteem, relationships, communication capabilities, perception of those around us, and self-worth. I offer a space to unpack these inconsistencies to discover contentment and congruence of self.
As a neurodivergent, queer, biracial woman with many other identites, I understand how limiting and unsafe it can feel for those with diverse backgrounds seeking support, honest expression, relatability, and genuine understanding in a non-judgmental environment.
We all receive labels and messages from society and our upbringing that attempt to dictate how we operate in relation with others, what we’re worth, and how we perceive ourselves. I understand that the labels we receive from others, and the way we see ourselves are often times conflicting. These messages and attention or lack thereof can have a negative impact on our self-esteem, relationships, communication capabilities, perception of those around us, and self-worth. I offer a space to unpack these inconsistencies to discover contentment and congruence of self.
, our clinicians are experts in various therapeutic modalities including CBT, DBT, IFS, motivational interviewing, LGBTQIA affirmative therapy, and trauma-informed therapy.
Hello there! I'm Joanne, co-owner of M&K Counseling Associates Inc. We are a welcoming practice that embraces diversity and serves a wide range of individuals in the DMV area. Our team of skilled therapists are committed to forming meaningful connections with each and every person we work with. Let us help you boost your confidence and enhance your emotional and social well-being. We look forward to supporting you on your journey to personal growth and fulfillment.
, our clinicians are experts in various therapeutic modalities including CBT, DBT, IFS, motivational interviewing, LGBTQIA affirmative therapy, and trauma-informed therapy.
Hello there! I'm Joanne, co-owner of M&K Counseling Associates Inc. We are a welcoming practice that embraces diversity and serves a wide range of individuals in the DMV area. Our team of skilled therapists are committed to forming meaningful connections with each and every person we work with. Let us help you boost your confidence and enhance your emotional and social well-being. We look forward to supporting you on your journey to personal growth and fulfillment.
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Jermaine Boston (Graves)
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPC, BCPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) serving children, adolescents, individuals, couples, college/graduate students, and LGBTQ clients. I have specialized in providing services to adolescents and their families for more than 25 years. I am licensed in Maryland and the District of Columbia. I have been practicing as a Mental Health Clinician for 14 years providing services in group homes, communities, educational, and private practice settings. At Peace of Mind Therapy, LLC, we offer services by other Licensed Professional Counselors or Licensed Social Workers that are Qualified, Capable, & Culturally Competent.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) serving children, adolescents, individuals, couples, college/graduate students, and LGBTQ clients. I have specialized in providing services to adolescents and their families for more than 25 years. I am licensed in Maryland and the District of Columbia. I have been practicing as a Mental Health Clinician for 14 years providing services in group homes, communities, educational, and private practice settings. At Peace of Mind Therapy, LLC, we offer services by other Licensed Professional Counselors or Licensed Social Workers that are Qualified, Capable, & Culturally Competent.
Accepting new clients- Life is hard. Most of us want to think that it gets easier but that only occurs when our skills (emotional, mental, physical, spiritual) improve. Therapy is the perfect place to learn and practice new skills while getting the encouragement to make it through life's toughest moments. And I am ready for you. I work with all clients and specialize in the Black/Brown communities, LGBTQ population, couples, and adolescents. I value intersectionality, solutions-focused work, and holistic practices.
Accepting new clients- Life is hard. Most of us want to think that it gets easier but that only occurs when our skills (emotional, mental, physical, spiritual) improve. Therapy is the perfect place to learn and practice new skills while getting the encouragement to make it through life's toughest moments. And I am ready for you. I work with all clients and specialize in the Black/Brown communities, LGBTQ population, couples, and adolescents. I value intersectionality, solutions-focused work, and holistic practices.
I am a licensed Psychologist in Washington DC and in Maryland. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, specifically child sexual abuse. I have extensive experience in the utilization of evidenced based treatment in the area of trauma with children as young as 3 years old. I also provide psychological and psycho-educational evaluations. I have worked with children impacted by the foster care system, multiple traumas, grief and loss, gay, lesbian, and transgendered youth . I strongly believe in creating a warm and accepting amotsphere and that this is a neccessary condition for successful treatment.
I am a licensed Psychologist in Washington DC and in Maryland. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, specifically child sexual abuse. I have extensive experience in the utilization of evidenced based treatment in the area of trauma with children as young as 3 years old. I also provide psychological and psycho-educational evaluations. I have worked with children impacted by the foster care system, multiple traumas, grief and loss, gay, lesbian, and transgendered youth . I strongly believe in creating a warm and accepting amotsphere and that this is a neccessary condition for successful treatment.
M&K Counseling Associates Inc
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
Our staff are trained in evidence-based practices including the following therapeutic approaches: Phase Based Trauma Focused Therapy, DBT, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Internal Family Systems, and LGBTQIA+ Affirmative Therapy.
Hello everyone, I'm Emarie! I am a therapist at M&K Counseling Associates inc., which is a group private practice offering office and video psychotherapy sessions in DC and Virginia. Our staff are highly trained professionals who operate from a holistic, trauma-informed, and systemically aware perspective. We partner with our clients by providing a safe comfortable space so they can explore their life challenges, and collectively establish goals that foster self-empowerment and self-betterment. We specialize in working with young adults and professionals in the DMV area.
Our staff are trained in evidence-based practices including the following therapeutic approaches: Phase Based Trauma Focused Therapy, DBT, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Internal Family Systems, and LGBTQIA+ Affirmative Therapy.
Hello everyone, I'm Emarie! I am a therapist at M&K Counseling Associates inc., which is a group private practice offering office and video psychotherapy sessions in DC and Virginia. Our staff are highly trained professionals who operate from a holistic, trauma-informed, and systemically aware perspective. We partner with our clients by providing a safe comfortable space so they can explore their life challenges, and collectively establish goals that foster self-empowerment and self-betterment. We specialize in working with young adults and professionals in the DMV area.
Emily L Rizzo
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20017
I am passionate about working with the LGBTQ population and with people from diverse cultural backgrounds. I consistently work with clients regarding depression, anxiety, motivation, trauma, grief, understanding their identity, familial relations, gender identity, sexual identity, sexual/relationship needs, polyamorous relationships, kink, communication in relationships, and self-integration. Extensive background in working with people of color. Assist parents/families through their child's gender transition. Experience in college counseling and high school counseling.
I am passionate about working with the LGBTQ population and with people from diverse cultural backgrounds. I consistently work with clients regarding depression, anxiety, motivation, trauma, grief, understanding their identity, familial relations, gender identity, sexual identity, sexual/relationship needs, polyamorous relationships, kink, communication in relationships, and self-integration. Extensive background in working with people of color. Assist parents/families through their child's gender transition. Experience in college counseling and high school counseling.
I am especially skilled in working with persons of diverse identities including cultural and LGBTQIA+.
Are you tired of not living up to your potential? Are situations from your past not allowing you to live in the moment or prepare for your future? Do you feel misunderstood and unappreciated? Do you want to learn to value "you"? You are an unique individual, and you deserve therapy that is tailored to your specific needs. I will work with you to try to help you achieve your goals and address your concerns in a manner that is effective for you within a warm and nonjudgmental atmosphere. We will work as a team as you are the expert on you!
I am especially skilled in working with persons of diverse identities including cultural and LGBTQIA+.
Are you tired of not living up to your potential? Are situations from your past not allowing you to live in the moment or prepare for your future? Do you feel misunderstood and unappreciated? Do you want to learn to value "you"? You are an unique individual, and you deserve therapy that is tailored to your specific needs. I will work with you to try to help you achieve your goals and address your concerns in a manner that is effective for you within a warm and nonjudgmental atmosphere. We will work as a team as you are the expert on you!
I specialize in working with families, couples, groups, and individuals. I treat children as young as three, have experience with school phobia, adoption, blended families, gender issues, gay, lesbian, and transgender individuals, and the challenges of elderly. I am experienced working with psychoses, severe post traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, body dysmorphic disorder, and problems of every day life. I have special expertise working with the LGBTQ+ population, with adolescents, sexual development, severe mental illness, post traumatic stress disorder, and physical illnesses.
I specialize in working with families, couples, groups, and individuals. I treat children as young as three, have experience with school phobia, adoption, blended families, gender issues, gay, lesbian, and transgender individuals, and the challenges of elderly. I am experienced working with psychoses, severe post traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, body dysmorphic disorder, and problems of every day life. I have special expertise working with the LGBTQ+ population, with adolescents, sexual development, severe mental illness, post traumatic stress disorder, and physical illnesses.
Adriana Scott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006 (Online Only)
Hi! I am Adriana and I am happy to serve you. My ideal client ranges between the ages of 18-35 years old. They may suffer from low-self esteem, establishing their identity, or looking to overcome their traumas in life. These individuals are looking to become happier, healthier versions of themselves!
Hi! I am Adriana and I am happy to serve you. My ideal client ranges between the ages of 18-35 years old. They may suffer from low-self esteem, establishing their identity, or looking to overcome their traumas in life. These individuals are looking to become happier, healthier versions of themselves!
Family-of-origin, chronic illness, career, caretaking, trauma and childhood experiences may cause mental health disorders or distress that affect relationships, education or career, general perception, body image and self-worth. My clients identify their natural strength to support the ability to enhance emotion regulation, increase resilience, focus, distress tolerance, communication, rational thinking and emotional safety. You'll process, gain insight and learn new patterns that are true to your identity, values, goals and more. While we talk about the past to understand root causes, our work is future focused.
Family-of-origin, chronic illness, career, caretaking, trauma and childhood experiences may cause mental health disorders or distress that affect relationships, education or career, general perception, body image and self-worth. My clients identify their natural strength to support the ability to enhance emotion regulation, increase resilience, focus, distress tolerance, communication, rational thinking and emotional safety. You'll process, gain insight and learn new patterns that are true to your identity, values, goals and more. While we talk about the past to understand root causes, our work is future focused.
See more therapy options for Washington
LGBTQ+ Therapists
Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?
Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialized training, either during their degree program or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.
Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalization in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.
How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.
How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?
Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.
Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?
While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialized training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.