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.

This is Curtrice Scott's avatar and link to their profile

Curtrice Scott

Offering therapy in DC
License: MA, LPC,LCPC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepression
14 years of experience

I am a seasoned and compassionate therapist licensed in Maryland and Washington, DC. I have worked in the mental health field for over 14 years. I have a passion for helping others improve their overall wellbeing and have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, substance use, parenting issues, career challenges, neglect, physical abuse, trauma, and more. I have also worked with individuals who were formerly incarcerated. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with dignity and respect. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, and psychodynamic therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and healthier life and to take the first steps towards that change. If you are ready to make that change, I am here to support, encourage, and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

Get started View profile
This is Brittany Bordonaro's avatar and link to their profile

Brittany Bordonaro

Offering therapy in DC
License: LICSW
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
15 years of experience

I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with over 13 years of experience providing direct mental health services. I obtained a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree in 2008. I have worked with individuals with a variety of presenting issues; including self esteem, stress, anxiety, work-related issues, problems with peer group, issues related to the military life style, family issues, relationship issues, infidelity and trust issues, intimacy issues, trauma and family violence. I comfortable working with clients from all backgrounds and always approach the therapeutic relationship with a sensitivity towards cultural issues. My experience is varied across multiple settings and populations, as I have provided direct services to families in the community and through the military system. I currently work for the U.S. Military providing counseling to service members and their dependents on a daily basis. I approach every therapeutic relationship with a foundation of trust, openness and respect. I believe in a client-centered approach and will empower and motivate you through the therapeutic process. I will work to understand you and how your personal experiences and environment may be impacting you at this time. My clients describe me as a kind, caring and empathic counselor, whom they immediately feel comfortable with. My counseling style draws influences from Strengths Based Solution-Focused Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I believe that we all have strengths within us, but that sometimes it takes support to help recognize and build on them. I will help you find solutions to your problems and provide techniques that can provide symptom relief if necessary. Many of my clients report that they experience quick relief once working with me, as I focus specifically on the issues most important to you. By logging on to this site you have already taken an important first step towards becoming a better, happier, version of yourself. My hope is that with my support and encouragement, we can work together to achieve your goals.

Get started View profile
This is Enrique Simmons's avatar and link to their profile

Enrique Simmons

Offering therapy in DC
License: LPC,LCPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesBipolar disorderDepression
7 years of experience

Welcome I am a mental health counselor with more than 7 years experience working with individuals of diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. My focus is to help you develop skills and strategies to address marriage and relationship issues, lifestyle challenges, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, addiction and addictive tendencies. My counseling style is integrative and geared towards empowering each individual with self-discovery and self-correction skills. Integrative therapists don’t subscribe to any one therapeutic approach. Instead, they treat each client as an individual and pull from a variety of therapeutic approaches based on what the client seems to need in the therapy session. We will look at different approaches to help you develop routines and useful strategies to strengthen your ability to implement and practice change in daily living. As in all counseling relationships a solid foundation is essential and at times necessary to explore, review and process underlying issues in order to learn how to rid oneself of emotional and psychological baggage, improve thinking and behavior patterns and become the expert in your life. I am looking forward to our first session where we can collaborate on developing the skills to address areas of concerns and provide you with the support in achieving your goals. Things to expect during the initial visit are as follows; to work collaboratively towards development of a treatment plan, not necessarily during the first session but soon after. The treatment plan is a road map used as a guide and consists of goals, objectives and intervention. The length of the session is 45 minutes long, the goal of the session is to help you learn how to implement and practice coping and stress management skills in daily living via education, role-play, problem solving, communication and self-assessment strategies and homework.

Get started View profile
This is Alec Spergel's avatar and link to their profile

Alec Spergel

Offering therapy in DC
License: MSEd,LPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
3 years of experience

My name is Alec Spergel and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor in D.C. with 5 years experience in the field. I work with children and adults facing a wide range of mental health issues from anxiety and depression to complex trauma. The approach I take to counseling is through the lense of Narrative Therapy, which focuses on evaluating our values and beliefs and restructuring our "story" to fit the people we are and the people we want to be. I also utilize solution focused and cognitive behavioral techniques to help readjust our thoughts and behavior. Ultimately, I like to get to know my clients and find out what works best for each and every individual. Reaching out and asking for help is always difficult. It's a process that asks us to be vulnerable which, at it's core, takes unbelievable courage. I hope we can do that together and find ways to achieve your desired outcome.

Get started View profile
This is Sandhya Wilhelm's avatar and link to their profile

Sandhya Wilhelm

Offering therapy in DC
License: MS, LPC, NCC
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

Seeking help is the most challenging thing that most of us will ever do. Armed with life skills, information, and knowledge, we are expected to have all the right answers. Even if we have endured familial, racial, or socio-economic struggles and barriers, we hesitate to seek assistance because of our conditioning to perfection. This pressure makes it that much harder to speak with an absolute stranger and pour out all our life’s troubles. However, if that stranger is a genuine listener, makes us feel safe, and compassionately transitions us from pain to healing, it becomes easier to let that person in on our helplessness. One step at a time toward feeling whole is where it all begins. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the District of Columbia, National Certified Counselor (NCC), Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP), Certified Mindfulness Informed Professional (CMIP), and a Certified YOGABODY Breathing Coach (Yoga Teachers College, American Council of Exercise). At Georgetown University, I offer mental health counseling to employees and their immediate family members and significant others. From bus drivers, housekeepers, administrative professionals to chaplains, academics, international scholars, and more I have engaged a diverse population. Clinically, I have worked on reproductive, relationship, addiction, small (t) and big (T) trauma, mood, personality, developmental disorders, and more. The focus of my therapeutic intervention is an eclectic and integrative approach to holistic health and wellbeing. Integrating and incorporating different treatment modalities, I engage your biological, cognitive, emotional, social, and prosocial self to empower you towards healing. Whether you prefer talk therapy or need energetic behavior change, I will help you start from where you are now. Be confident that you will experience a kind and non-judgmental space for your struggle. I invite you to come to meet with me.

Get started View profile
This is Hayward Mouton's avatar and link to their profile

Hayward Mouton

Offering therapy in DC
LGBTTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

My name is Hayward Mouton, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in Washington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia. As an experienced licensed practitioner (therapist) since 2016, I am highly skilled in providing Trauma Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy to adults, children, families, couples, and (LGBTQI) experiencing mental health and emotional challenges to include: anger management, self-esteem, daily life stressors, life transitions, and disruptions in marriages and families. I pride myself on providing a warm, safe, and non-judgmental environment, which fosters a healthy therapeutic relationship, in which allows you the space to address your experiences that are impacting your life’s journey, gain new skills, techniques, and perspectives, in coping with them. As your therapist, you will receive quality therapy through evidenced practices with culturally sensitivity perspectives.

Get started View profile
This is Teoletta West's avatar and link to their profile

Teoletta West

Offering therapy in DC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for the past 12 years, I have worked with people experiencing challenges largely related to anxiety. Anxiety presents itself for different reasons, but it is not something you need to be afraid of. Our thought life impacts our well-being at the core of who we are and every aspect of how we see life starts with a thought. In your thoughts about therapy, I imagine you are desiring support and guidance to navigate a specific challenge in your life at this time. I am here to support and empower you in this moment of life as we work together to unlock, transform, and release what is needed so that you can move beyond the wall.

Get started View profile
This is Ausha Whitehead's avatar and link to their profile

Ausha Whitehead

Offering therapy in DC
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in the District of Columbia with 10 years of professional experience in providing support for individuals of all ages. I have experience in helping clients with strengthening motivation, self esteem, and confidence, coping with grief and loss, depression, anxiety, trauma, and abuse. I treat my clients with respect, and I admire the courage it takes to seek a fulfilling life. It is my priority to provide compassion and support while developing a treatment plan that is unique to each client's specific needs.

Get started View profile
This is Coranda Wims's avatar and link to their profile

Coranda Wims

Offering therapy in DC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesDepression
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & intimacy related issues. 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.

Get started View profile
This is Dr. Alicia Moran's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Alicia Moran

Offering therapy in DC
License: PhD,LPCC-S,LCADC-S
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
21 years of experience

"There can be no transforming of darkness into light ... without emotion." -Jung Emotional Intelligence (EI) is the core of my training. It embraces the belief systems of the past that affect your present. It's a state-of-mind that defines thinking that affects emotional awareness. To become aware is not to change, but to understand and accept. Carrying guilt or shame of the past, triggers the conflict of now. I don't offer advice - I offer choices - a chance to choose your own method of healing that fits you - not something others feel 'should' be. Come. Sit. Talk. Let's wander your path together. I am specialized/certified in trauma, addictions, and adolescent disorders (Behavioral and ADHD). I use an integrated approach incorporating rational emotive behavioral therapy, reality theory, psychodynamic, and person centered. I offer members of KY, SC, FL, AZ, DC, and OH communities a Conservative choice for a new clinical perspective. With over 21 years of experience, change is merely a button away.

Get started View profile

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 20597 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

Popular cities near Washington, DC

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist