Washington, DC. The capital of the United States of America. Filled with beautiful monuments and government buildings, it’s a city worth visiting. Your mental health can be like a government. Sometimes, it feels like it’s running smoothly enough. Other times, you wonder who in the world is running your mind, because they aren’t doing a good job. 

A counselor can help you vote out the people who are making your mind a disaster, and replace them with those who are willing to work for you. Washington needs a sweeping of mental health, and a counselor based in Washington, DC can be able to help you.

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Stephanie Nash

Offering therapy in DC
License: LICSW,LCSWC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
29 years of experience

Hello! My name is Stephanie. Thank you for your contact and your courage to take a first step toward your personal wellness. For over 25 years, I have provided therapeutic counseling to adults and children in the Washington DC and Maryland area.I have worked with clients that were experiencing a myriad of diagnoses and personal issues including anxiety, trauma and abuse, mood disorders, stress, and relationship conflicts. I understand that sometimes just navigating one's day to day circumstances may raise challenges that need talking through with someone who will listen with empathy and support and without judgement. My approach to treatment is to use a strength-based perspective that combines solution focused therapy, cognitive behavioral interventions, use of trauma informed care, and mindfulness. The collaborative journey of therapy will allow us to gain insight from your choices, embrace your competence, contemplate tough questions, and set goals and intentions for new possibilities. I believe it is important to respect the person as well their perspective. With your help, I will tailor our work together to meet your unique and specific needs. I would value the opportunity to learn more about how I could encourage and empower you to persevere toward personal fulfillment and well being. When you are ready, I look forward to working with you!

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Jessica Canty

Offering therapy in DC
License: LICSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefCareer difficultiesCompassion fatigue
11 years of experience

Hey there! I am Jessica Canty, a licensed clinical social worker licensed in Washington DC with over 11 years of experience. If you have experienced generational trauma, grief and loss, career challenges, work life balance challenges, and self-esteem issues, you need a therapist who is committed to supporting you in changing the narrative of your life. When we work together you will discover and pursue your life’s passions. I believe that therapy is a partnership to unlock and what hurdles you may face to living a more satisfying life. My approach combines client centered therapy, motivational interviewing, solution focused and trauma focused therapy. We will tailor our dialog, partnership, and your treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I look forward to working with you!

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Misty Walsh

Offering therapy in DC
License: MA, LPC, LPCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

My formal journey in psychology began in 1992, with one of my college majors, human communication. I went on to study Marriage & Family Therapy at Antioch New England before finishing a masters degree in Counseling Psychology at Webster University. Throughout my life I have traveled within 49 states; of those, I lived in the Midwest, the south, New England, the east coast & the west coast. Some of the places I lived were urban, some of them rural. Most of my last two decades have been urban. My roots though are rural. Very rural. During the last twenty years, I have traveled within over sixty countries. Prior to laying down roots in Oregon summer 2015, I had lived in four “foreign” countries, on three separate continents as an adult. This offers me a unique perspective in culture, values, religion, and life. Every person, every story, is unique. Every person is simultaneously simple on the surface, yet incredibly complicated underneath. I will see you - all of you - beneath the surface that you must maintain. I will respect how complicated you are, and where you are “coming from”… the complexities of your life; your history, the inter generational trauma, as well as what you have been and are currently living through. This is your safe place. Therapy is where you can let those heavy weights & feelings go. Choosing the “right” therapist means so very much in your healing. In first consultation, we will discuss your needs, and my scope of practice, and you can feel out if it’s a good fit for you. I have studied, and have been certified in, several modalities; but find that I lean in most to acceptance & commitment therapy. When we meet, I may draw upon this, or pieces of other modalities, depending on where you are in the moment. Therapy is about, and for, you … I have the education, experience, and tools to adapt to where you are and shift as needed. I am licensed for individual, couples, child, & family therapy in Oregon, California, Washington DC & Georgia. I am approved as an associate by Oregon Board of Licensed Professional Counselors to supervise LPC & LMFT associates. I have also achieved E- RYT internationally and completed two semesters masters level coursework at the Arizona School of Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine. I continue to study holistic & “alternative” approaches to health. I firmly believe that mental health is “health”. Every part of you is connected, all of your history is connected. The mind feels the body and the body feels the mind. One cannot be “healed” without the other. … they work together. I am here to aid that togetherness with you … and help you find peace & joy in your life.

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James Campbell

Offering therapy in DC
License: LICSW and LCSW-C
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
10 years of experience

James S. Campbell MSW, LICSW and LCSW-C I am a veteran social worker. I graduated from Howard University with a Liberal Arts degree in Sociology in 1987. I received my master’s degree in Social Work from Howard University in 1989. I spent 23 years working with children and families at Child and Family Service Agency in the District of Columbia. While at Child and Family Service Agency, I served as a Supervisor, Program Manager and an Administrator. I spent the last 6 years in the District Government working with the Department of Behavioral Health in the School Mental Health Program. I retired from the District of Columbia government after 30 years. Currently, I serve as a Clinic Director for a Mental Health agency and as a contract therapist. I also present my fatherhood initiative (Boys to Men and Men to Gentleman) around the country at different conferences and workshops.

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Adrian Thompson

Offering therapy in DC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am licensed in New Jersey, Pennsylvania and District of Columbia with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Asha HENSON

Offering therapy in DC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

My name is Asha Henson, LICSW and I am a Humanistic therapist in Washington, DC. Humanistic therapy is a therapeutic approach that considers each person as an individual and believes that everyone has ability to find wisdom, growth, healing, and fulfillment within themselves. I specialize in supporting clients achieve self mastery in a judgment-free and culturally inclusive environment. I do this through the use of an integrative approach that includes person centered, CBT, solution focused, metaphysics (Astrology & Human Design), and coaching techniques. In addition, I have 13 years of professional work experience in helping clients with stress/anxiety, trauma/abuse, motivation, self esteem/confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs.

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Jennifer Lawrence

Offering therapy in DC
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

My name is Jennifer Lawrence and I am a licensed professional counselor. I grew up in rural Virginia with a large “village.” From a very young age, I was known to be a helper by my family and friends. I have worked with youth, adults, and families through providing academic, career, and mental health counseling. I am passionate about helping people of all ages, from diverse backgrounds through offering encouragement and support as they pursue their goals. I have served in a variety of settings, including educational institutions and a residential treatment facility. I operate from a person-centered approach with a mixture of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma Focused counseling techniques. You are the expert about you. My focus is to assist you with deciding the path that you would like to follow, acknowledging the reasons that you are motivated to follow that path, identifying and learning the steps to follow that path, and supporting you as you continue on your life’s journey. I completed my undergraduate degree in Psychology, a Master of Education in Higher Education Administration, and a Master of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling. I also hold a Certification in Rehabilitation Counseling (CRC) that focuses on working with individuals with chronic illnesses and disabilities. In my free time, I enjoy kettlebell workouts, traveling and spending time with family and friends. I am elated and honored to be able to work in a virtual therapeutic setting that provides services that positively impact the lives of others. I look forward to working with you.

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Reiko Berman Shingu

Offering therapy in DC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changes
19 years of experience

I am Reiko Berman Shingu, LCSW-C/LCSW, a bicultural clinical social worker with 19 years of professional experience, licensed in MD and VA. As a psychotherapist, I have worked with clients with depression, anxiety, trauma and abuse, relationship issues, difficulties with life transitions, cross-cultural challenges, and grief and loss at an outpatient mental health clinic as well as through EAP (Employee Assistance program) with corporate employees and families. My style is collaborative and goal-oriented, treating everyone with respect and compassion without judgment. I listen to your challenges and tailor to use a variety of treatment approaches to support you toward the goals that we set together, to meet your specific needs. I always welcome your input, questions, and feedback. There are many stages in the change process, and I think you have already started the journey by seeking the first step. If you are ready, I will support your growth in this journey. "In the Middle of Every Challenge, Lies Opportunity."

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Tony Lee

Offering therapy in DC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTGriefDepressionCompassion fatigue
3 years of experience

Hello. My name is Tony Lee. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of professional work experience, including suicide prevention service, crisis intervention, and general counseling. I received a master’s degree in Social Work from the University of South Florida. I have worked with individuals of all ages dealing with chronic medical conditions, end-stage illnesses, and physical disabilities. Also, I have experience helping clients with general stress, anxiety, self-esteem/self-confidence, motivation, coping with loss/grief, and LGBT-related issues. I use Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy with Client-Centered and Solution-Focused approach. If you're interested in mindfulness techniques, I can guide your practice. I believe in treating everyone with respect, empathy, and compassion. I will tailor the treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs while being mindful of cultural values. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage, and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Lisa Ford

Offering therapy in DC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am licensed in District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania and Virginia with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, career difficulties, & 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. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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How to find counseling in Washington

Finding the best therapist close by in Washington can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Washington. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Washington, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Washington or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Washington area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Washington, elsewhere in District of Columbia, or in the greater state of District of Columbia.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Washington therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Washington due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Washington may not take health insurance, some in the state of District of Columbia may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of District of Columbia you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Washington, District of Columbia working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Washington above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Washington helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Washington therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Washington therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Washington therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in DC, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 20410 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Washington counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Washington licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Washington, District of Columbia can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Washington has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

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

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Washington.

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

20001, 20002, 20003, 20004, 20005, 20006, 20007, 20008, 20009, 20010, 20011, 20012, 20013, 20015, 20016, 20017, 20018, 20019, 20020, 20022, 20024, 20026, 20027, 20029, 20030, 20032, 20033, 20035, 20036, 20037, 20038, 20039, 20040, 20041, 20042, 20043, 20044, 20045, 20047, 20049, 20050, 20052, 20053, 20055, 20056, 20057, 20058, 20059, 20060, 20061, 20062, 20063, 20064, 20065, 20066, 20067, 20068, 20069, 20070, 20071, 20073, 20074, 20075, 20076, 20077, 20078, 20080, 20081, 20082, 20090, 20091, 20189, 20201, 20202, 20203, 20204, 20206, 20207, 20208, 20210, 20211, 20212, 20213, 20214, 20215, 20216, 20217, 20218, 20219, 20220, 20221, 20222, 20223, 20224, 20226, 20227, 20228, 20229, 20230, 20232, 20233, 20235, 20237, 20238, 20239, 20240, 20241, 20242, 20244, 20245, 20250, 20251, 20252, 20254, 20260, 20261, 20262, 20265, 20266, 20268, 20270, 20277, 20289, 20299, 20301, 20303, 20306, 20307, 20310, 20314, 20317, 20318, 20319, 20330, 20340, 20350, 20355, 20370, 20372, 20373, 20374, 20375, 20376, 20380, 20388, 20389, 20390, 20391, 20392, 20393, 20394, 20395, 20398, 20401, 20402, 20403, 20404, 20405, 20406, 20407, 20408, 20409, 20410, 20411, 20412, 20413, 20414, 20415, 20416, 20417, 20418, 20419, 20420, 20421, 20422, 20423, 20424, 20425, 20426, 20427, 20428, 20429, 20431, 20433, 20434, 20435, 20436, 20437, 20439, 20440, 20441, 20442, 20444, 20447, 20451, 20453, 20456, 20460, 20463, 20468, 20469, 20470, 20472, 20500, 20501, 20502, 20503, 20504, 20505, 20506, 20507, 20508, 20509, 20510, 20511, 20515, 20520, 20521, 20522, 20523, 20524, 20525, 20526, 20527, 20528, 20529, 20530, 20531, 20533, 20534, 20535, 20536, 20537, 20538, 20539, 20540, 20541, 20542, 20543, 20544, 20546, 20547, 20548, 20549, 20551, 20552, 20553, 20554, 20555, 20557, 20559, 20560, 20565, 20566, 20570, 20571, 20572, 20573, 20575, 20576, 20577, 20578, 20579, 20580, 20581, 20585, 20586, 20588, 20590, 20591, 20593, 20594, 20597, 20599, 56901, 56902, 56904, 56908, 56915, 56920, 56933, 56935, 56944, 56945, 56950, 56965, 56967, 56972, 56998, 56999

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