Therapists in Washington, DC
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.
Gotel & Thrive, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, RPT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
Gotel & Thrive is the restorative space for queer and heterosexual men of color, women of color, and children & youth of diverse backgrounds to undo the thinking and behaviors that block joy and provide tools to cope when life forces you to pivot.
You are trying to shine bright like a diamond and have the things most of us desire for a good life. But there is something dimming your brilliance—it constricts you. You know, those feelings of doubt, dread, disgruntlement, desperation, or despair. Like that constant wondering about whether you are viewed as competent at work; like that disappointment you cover up with food, drink or overachieving because you haven’t met “the one;” like that hurt you carry from a past that shamed you or the depths of grief; or like the helplessness feel when your child is struggling.
Gotel & Thrive is the restorative space for queer and heterosexual men of color, women of color, and children & youth of diverse backgrounds to undo the thinking and behaviors that block joy and provide tools to cope when life forces you to pivot.
You are trying to shine bright like a diamond and have the things most of us desire for a good life. But there is something dimming your brilliance—it constricts you. You know, those feelings of doubt, dread, disgruntlement, desperation, or despair. Like that constant wondering about whether you are viewed as competent at work; like that disappointment you cover up with food, drink or overachieving because you haven’t met “the one;” like that hurt you carry from a past that shamed you or the depths of grief; or like the helplessness feel when your child is struggling.
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.
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.
Dandelion Counseling & Care
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, LCSW-C, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
At Dandelion, we have therapists with various specialties ranging from maternal wellness, to LGBTQIA issues, to work with children and teens.
We a group psychotherapy practice comprised of clinicians who provide compassionate counseling and therapy services, using a team approach, to meet the diverse needs of busy Washingtonians. We love to support families or people individually in their journeys to live healthier and more well lives. Our team includes graduate student interns, provisionally-licensed clinicians, fully licensed clinicians, and an executive leadership and life coach.
At Dandelion, we have therapists with various specialties ranging from maternal wellness, to LGBTQIA issues, to work with children and teens.
We a group psychotherapy practice comprised of clinicians who provide compassionate counseling and therapy services, using a team approach, to meet the diverse needs of busy Washingtonians. We love to support families or people individually in their journeys to live healthier and more well lives. Our team includes graduate student interns, provisionally-licensed clinicians, fully licensed clinicians, and an executive leadership and life coach.
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 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.
I provide psychotherapy/counseling to children/teens experiencing anxiety (separation, social, excessive worry, panic, and phobias), depression and/or ADHD. In addition, I specialize in anxiety, stress & depression that is specifically tied to (1) health/medical problems (e.g., type 1 diabetes, picky eating/ARFID, food allergy, chronic pain, GI, sleep, etc) and/or (2) identity concerns (race/ethnicity, LGBTQIA+, religion). Lastly, I have a specialization in preschool mental health through providing Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) for anxiety and temper tantrums/moodiness in young children.
I provide psychotherapy/counseling to children/teens experiencing anxiety (separation, social, excessive worry, panic, and phobias), depression and/or ADHD. In addition, I specialize in anxiety, stress & depression that is specifically tied to (1) health/medical problems (e.g., type 1 diabetes, picky eating/ARFID, food allergy, chronic pain, GI, sleep, etc) and/or (2) identity concerns (race/ethnicity, LGBTQIA+, religion). Lastly, I have a specialization in preschool mental health through providing Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) for anxiety and temper tantrums/moodiness in young children.
Steve is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with adolescents young adults, adults, couples and families. Steve specializes in Anxiety, Depression, Substance/addiction, Trauma, and personal/interpersonal issues. With over 15 years of experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings, Steve has extensive experience with cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and is trained in EMDR Steve’s treatment approach is rooted in respect, while using evidence-based approaches. Steve graduated from the University of Utah in 2009 and obtained his master's degree in Social Work.
Steve is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with adolescents young adults, adults, couples and families. Steve specializes in Anxiety, Depression, Substance/addiction, Trauma, and personal/interpersonal issues. With over 15 years of experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings, Steve has extensive experience with cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and is trained in EMDR Steve’s treatment approach is rooted in respect, while using evidence-based approaches. Steve graduated from the University of Utah in 2009 and obtained his master's degree in Social Work.
Elaina Vasserman-Stokes
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
My clinical expertise is in issues related to emotional regulation, trauma, loss, and early life attachment experiences. I have a particular interest in supporting parents of young children (particularly at this time and in relationship to COVID-related school and care transitions). My approach can broadly be described as insight oriented and rooted in attachment, relational, and interpersonal theories as well as self-psychology. My expertise rests on meaningful personal experiences and on continuing rigorous training and teaching.
My clinical expertise is in issues related to emotional regulation, trauma, loss, and early life attachment experiences. I have a particular interest in supporting parents of young children (particularly at this time and in relationship to COVID-related school and care transitions). My approach can broadly be described as insight oriented and rooted in attachment, relational, and interpersonal theories as well as self-psychology. My expertise rests on meaningful personal experiences and on continuing rigorous training and teaching.
Emily Griffin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20012 (Online Only)
My practice prioritizes helping families to get off to a strong start, with a special focus on new parents and their babies. In-home services include: couples counseling, individual support around perinatal mental health for moms AND dads (aiming to prevent Postpartum Depression & Anxiety when possible), hands-on parenting support including my direct observation & modeling.
My practice prioritizes helping families to get off to a strong start, with a special focus on new parents and their babies. In-home services include: couples counseling, individual support around perinatal mental health for moms AND dads (aiming to prevent Postpartum Depression & Anxiety when possible), hands-on parenting support including my direct observation & modeling.
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The DC Center for Neurocognitive Excellence
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006
The Center for Neurocognitive Excellence integrates assessments, counseling, and neurofeedback to best identify the source of your stress and effectively treat it so that we can reduce the intensity, duration, and frequency of your most stressful moments. We are experts at integrating approaches to best suit your needs. Listening and working with you is a huge source of joy!
The Center for Neurocognitive Excellence integrates assessments, counseling, and neurofeedback to best identify the source of your stress and effectively treat it so that we can reduce the intensity, duration, and frequency of your most stressful moments. We are experts at integrating approaches to best suit your needs. Listening and working with you is a huge source of joy!
I am a seasoned clinician with 30+ years of working both nationally and internationally with children, families and educational programs. I am licensed and credentialed in both the US and the UK. I have spent my career supporting children, parents, individuals, and couples. I am known for building strong collaborative relationships with families, schools, and allied professionals. The scope of my practice includes early childhood education and mental health, child development, parenting support, couples counseling, adolescent mentoring, women’s health, and expert collaboration with educational institutions.
I am a seasoned clinician with 30+ years of working both nationally and internationally with children, families and educational programs. I am licensed and credentialed in both the US and the UK. I have spent my career supporting children, parents, individuals, and couples. I am known for building strong collaborative relationships with families, schools, and allied professionals. The scope of my practice includes early childhood education and mental health, child development, parenting support, couples counseling, adolescent mentoring, women’s health, and expert collaboration with educational institutions.
Kristin Pillay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MEd, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20015
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive experience working with kids, adolescents, and families and use a strengths based approach to meet children where they are. You can show up now and be seen, known, and valued at our new office. As a former school counselor, I know that children have varying school experiences and show up with you to build community, partner with you, and to meet each child where they are. I am curious, not all knowing, and consider the impact of words and actions. Our creative therapeutic interventions to support and to increase self understanding for kids across developmental stages
I have extensive experience working with kids, adolescents, and families and use a strengths based approach to meet children where they are. You can show up now and be seen, known, and valued at our new office. As a former school counselor, I know that children have varying school experiences and show up with you to build community, partner with you, and to meet each child where they are. I am curious, not all knowing, and consider the impact of words and actions. Our creative therapeutic interventions to support and to increase self understanding for kids across developmental stages
I offer an integrative approach to therapy, incorporating Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), psychodynamic psychotherapy and mindfulness to achieve the change you seek. I am also trained in Play Therapy, SPACE for parents of anxious children, adolescents and young adults, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
I offer an integrative approach to therapy, incorporating Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), psychodynamic psychotherapy and mindfulness to achieve the change you seek. I am also trained in Play Therapy, SPACE for parents of anxious children, adolescents and young adults, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
Justine Kalas Reeves
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, DPsych
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
In addition to my work with creative and ambitious adults, I work with young children and adolescents to increase harmony, pleasure and satisfaction in life. I treat people who are underachieving in work or school despite clear talent; overachieving in work or school yet at a high price; people who are highly anxious; people who feel hopeless about change; people who are trying to achieve greatness in sports or career; and people who know they deserve so much more but for whom it feels elusive. Let's strengthen your capacity to hear yourself better so your relationships and creativity can continue to flourish.
In addition to my work with creative and ambitious adults, I work with young children and adolescents to increase harmony, pleasure and satisfaction in life. I treat people who are underachieving in work or school despite clear talent; overachieving in work or school yet at a high price; people who are highly anxious; people who feel hopeless about change; people who are trying to achieve greatness in sports or career; and people who know they deserve so much more but for whom it feels elusive. Let's strengthen your capacity to hear yourself better so your relationships and creativity can continue to flourish.
Tesalyn Hill-Felton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20002
Got a little one struggling with behavior issues? Perhaps you have a bigger one and you're not sure what the problems could be? I've worked with toddlers, young children, and teens experiencing challenges with depression, anxiety, problems with social media, and academic issues. I am consistent, honest, and work hard to ensure kids are gaining what's needed to enjoy both social and emotional success. I even work with teachers and daycare staff. If you need assistance with a challenging student, I can provide specialized school support to help determine next best steps.
Got a little one struggling with behavior issues? Perhaps you have a bigger one and you're not sure what the problems could be? I've worked with toddlers, young children, and teens experiencing challenges with depression, anxiety, problems with social media, and academic issues. I am consistent, honest, and work hard to ensure kids are gaining what's needed to enjoy both social and emotional success. I even work with teachers and daycare staff. If you need assistance with a challenging student, I can provide specialized school support to help determine next best steps.
“Warm and compassionate with a no-nonsense approach” is how my clients describe me. I have been working with children and adolescents for over 25 years and as a licensed clinical social worker for 15 years. I provide therapy to children, adolescents, adults and families. My broad range of experience includes helping clients struggling with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, gender identity & issues related to sexual orientation. I have the unique experience of guiding families through grief and issues related to chronic illness such as HIV and cancer. Often, I engage the whole family to address communication barriers.
“Warm and compassionate with a no-nonsense approach” is how my clients describe me. I have been working with children and adolescents for over 25 years and as a licensed clinical social worker for 15 years. I provide therapy to children, adolescents, adults and families. My broad range of experience includes helping clients struggling with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, gender identity & issues related to sexual orientation. I have the unique experience of guiding families through grief and issues related to chronic illness such as HIV and cancer. Often, I engage the whole family to address communication barriers.
Carolyn Hoffmann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with individuals of all ages who have experienced relationship trauma. I also have a passion for working with adults & couples who feel stuck or overwhelmed by daily responsibilities & life transitions. I'm a true believer in the therapeutic power of dialogue. Life can often be complex & messy, but with a supportive environment to talk things through, it can feel much easier to tackle. I strive to provide an inclusive, empathic, & non-judgmental space to manage your emotions & stressors as we work to nurture your personal relationships.
I specialize in working with individuals of all ages who have experienced relationship trauma. I also have a passion for working with adults & couples who feel stuck or overwhelmed by daily responsibilities & life transitions. I'm a true believer in the therapeutic power of dialogue. Life can often be complex & messy, but with a supportive environment to talk things through, it can feel much easier to tackle. I strive to provide an inclusive, empathic, & non-judgmental space to manage your emotions & stressors as we work to nurture your personal relationships.
Stacey Karpen Dohn
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
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.
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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.