Photo of Dr. Michelle R Cook, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in District of Columbia
Dr. Michelle R Cook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, PhD, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
I have developed a high skill level in several modalities including; Psychodynamic, Relational and Attachment-based Therapy, Trauma Informed, Marriage and Family Therapy/Family Systems Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Forensic Therapy and Addictions.
Hello and thank you for having the courage and strength to learn more about YOU. Psychotherapy is a process and a process that I will take with you. About me: I began my career over 20 years ago, and have worked in several grassroots organizations with the common mission of empowering individuals. I have a love for service and advocacy particularity for the most vulnerable and disenfranchised groups.
I have developed a high skill level in several modalities including; Psychodynamic, Relational and Attachment-based Therapy, Trauma Informed, Marriage and Family Therapy/Family Systems Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Forensic Therapy and Addictions.
Hello and thank you for having the courage and strength to learn more about YOU. Psychotherapy is a process and a process that I will take with you. About me: I began my career over 20 years ago, and have worked in several grassroots organizations with the common mission of empowering individuals. I have a love for service and advocacy particularity for the most vulnerable and disenfranchised groups.
(202) 714-3369 View (202) 714-3369
Photo of Mali G Parke - Life Coachmediator in District of Columbia
Mali G Parke - Life Coachmediator
Coach, CPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
I support what wants to emerge with approaches from Systemic Family Constellations, Attachment-Based and Trauma-Informed, Brain-Informed Empathic Coaching & Training, Body-Based Somatic and Polyvagal Applications, Collaborative and Change-Making Communication Skills, Restorative Practices, Positive Discipline, Systemic Transformative Justice and Change.
Are you longing for vitality, a sense of choice or self-love/confidence in your life? Are you looking for authenticity, courageous conversations, resonance or deep trust repair in your relationship/s? Are you hoping to find how to live a meaningful and impactful life? I support authentic, compassionate and empowered relating to yourself and others with courageous journeying opening your full expression, connection and power for change. My clients are individuals, partners, co-parents, educators, caregivers or leaders, teams or groups who want to achieve greater trust, connection, resonance, collaboration and systemic resilience.
I support what wants to emerge with approaches from Systemic Family Constellations, Attachment-Based and Trauma-Informed, Brain-Informed Empathic Coaching & Training, Body-Based Somatic and Polyvagal Applications, Collaborative and Change-Making Communication Skills, Restorative Practices, Positive Discipline, Systemic Transformative Justice and Change.
Are you longing for vitality, a sense of choice or self-love/confidence in your life? Are you looking for authenticity, courageous conversations, resonance or deep trust repair in your relationship/s? Are you hoping to find how to live a meaningful and impactful life? I support authentic, compassionate and empowered relating to yourself and others with courageous journeying opening your full expression, connection and power for change. My clients are individuals, partners, co-parents, educators, caregivers or leaders, teams or groups who want to achieve greater trust, connection, resonance, collaboration and systemic resilience.
(202) 760-2780 View (202) 760-2780
Photo of Dr. Aliza Goldberg, Psychological Associate in District of Columbia
Dr. Aliza Goldberg
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20037  (Online Only)
My approach is active, identity-affirming, trauma-informed, and attachment-based.
Thanks for taking a look at my profile! I provide individual and couples therapy to adults and enjoy helping clients work through anxiety, trauma, attachment and relationship challenges, life transitions, and identity-related concerns. As your therapist, I will strive to understand your challenges and symptoms in the context of your personal history, biology, relationships, and intersectional identities. We will work collaboratively to develop an individualized treatment plan informed by our shared understanding of your presenting concerns and goals, my knowledge of psychology and evidence-based treatments, and your feedback.
My approach is active, identity-affirming, trauma-informed, and attachment-based.
Thanks for taking a look at my profile! I provide individual and couples therapy to adults and enjoy helping clients work through anxiety, trauma, attachment and relationship challenges, life transitions, and identity-related concerns. As your therapist, I will strive to understand your challenges and symptoms in the context of your personal history, biology, relationships, and intersectional identities. We will work collaboratively to develop an individualized treatment plan informed by our shared understanding of your presenting concerns and goals, my knowledge of psychology and evidence-based treatments, and your feedback.
(202) 915-7459 View (202) 915-7459
Photo of Adi Goldberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in District of Columbia
Adi Goldberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20002  (Online Only)
I am accepting new clients! I am a therapist that believes in meeting clients where they are and building sessions based on what the Client feels interested in focusing on. If you’re struggling with understanding how your past has impacted your current thoughts and actions, navigating through oppressive systems while maintaining pride in your identities, or interrupting unwanted thoughts and patterns- I can support you in building a life where you feel equipped to face the unexpected and feel present in your joyous moments. We will work together to find your inner strengths and support system to get you to your best life.
I am accepting new clients! I am a therapist that believes in meeting clients where they are and building sessions based on what the Client feels interested in focusing on. If you’re struggling with understanding how your past has impacted your current thoughts and actions, navigating through oppressive systems while maintaining pride in your identities, or interrupting unwanted thoughts and patterns- I can support you in building a life where you feel equipped to face the unexpected and feel present in your joyous moments. We will work together to find your inner strengths and support system to get you to your best life.
(202) 937-2698 View (202) 937-2698
Photo of Paul M Higgins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in District of Columbia
Paul M Higgins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW, LMSW, JD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
My therapeutic approaches include psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), strengths-based, client-centered, humanistic, mindfulness, and attachment-based models.
I am a psychotherapist in a private practice in the Dupont Circle neighborhood of Washington, DC, where I provide individual, couples, and group therapy. I work with adults experiencing a variety of challenges, including depression, anxiety, trauma, difficulties coping with life stressors, emotion regulation, self-esteem issues, and relationship difficulties. I bring a warm, supportive, non-judgmental, and collaborative style to therapy.
My therapeutic approaches include psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), strengths-based, client-centered, humanistic, mindfulness, and attachment-based models.
I am a psychotherapist in a private practice in the Dupont Circle neighborhood of Washington, DC, where I provide individual, couples, and group therapy. I work with adults experiencing a variety of challenges, including depression, anxiety, trauma, difficulties coping with life stressors, emotion regulation, self-esteem issues, and relationship difficulties. I bring a warm, supportive, non-judgmental, and collaborative style to therapy.
(202) 804-8096 View (202) 804-8096
Photo of Patricia Parra Moreno, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in District of Columbia
Patricia Parra Moreno
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20007  (Online Only)
My approach to therapy includes EMDR processing, attachment-based resourcing and CBT techniques.
Do you ever feel like an imposter or struggle with feelings of inadequacy? Perhaps you lean towards perfectionism and feel like nothing you ever do is quite enough. Is it sometimes hard for you to set boundaries or take care of your needs? Many people with childhood trauma grapple with these difficulties and more. It may be hard for you to feel connected with others or to shake off feelings of loneliness. Sometimes you might even feel like it's hard to enjoy the good things in your life.
My approach to therapy includes EMDR processing, attachment-based resourcing and CBT techniques.
Do you ever feel like an imposter or struggle with feelings of inadequacy? Perhaps you lean towards perfectionism and feel like nothing you ever do is quite enough. Is it sometimes hard for you to set boundaries or take care of your needs? Many people with childhood trauma grapple with these difficulties and more. It may be hard for you to feel connected with others or to shake off feelings of loneliness. Sometimes you might even feel like it's hard to enjoy the good things in your life.
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Photo of Ana Cristina Ponce @ Modern Balance Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in District of Columbia
Ana Cristina Ponce @ Modern Balance Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002  (Online Only)
I offer a multicultural, relational, trauma-informed, and attachment-based approach to therapy.
Modern Balance Counseling is a bilingual virtual therapy practice for folks living in Texas, Michigan, DC, Virginia, and Florida. If you are navigating changes in your relationship, if you are navigating parenthood (in the teen years or the early years), if you are ready to own the healing of your inner child, if you are ready to discover more about yourself and heal from the scripts of the past... then this is the space for you! The name of the practice evokes its "why" as well as what I hope will be its offering for all that work with me. More than work-life balance, something relevant and practical... Modern Balance.
I offer a multicultural, relational, trauma-informed, and attachment-based approach to therapy.
Modern Balance Counseling is a bilingual virtual therapy practice for folks living in Texas, Michigan, DC, Virginia, and Florida. If you are navigating changes in your relationship, if you are navigating parenthood (in the teen years or the early years), if you are ready to own the healing of your inner child, if you are ready to discover more about yourself and heal from the scripts of the past... then this is the space for you! The name of the practice evokes its "why" as well as what I hope will be its offering for all that work with me. More than work-life balance, something relevant and practical... Modern Balance.
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Photo of The Barker Adoption Foundation, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in District of Columbia
The Barker Adoption Foundation
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20011
I utilize my expertise in adoption-competency, attachment-based therapy, sensory-integration interventions, and trauma-informed therapy to provide interventions that are tailored for your unique child/teen and/or family.
Touched by Adoption? The Barker Foundation recognizes that adoption is a lifelong journey, with normal developmental challenges and tasks. We will walk with you through and support you through your journey. Whether you are an adoptive parent with a child that is struggling emotionally or academically; a birth parent who is seeking understanding, reflection, or search and reunion; or an adoptee looking for support- we are here for you.
I utilize my expertise in adoption-competency, attachment-based therapy, sensory-integration interventions, and trauma-informed therapy to provide interventions that are tailored for your unique child/teen and/or family.
Touched by Adoption? The Barker Foundation recognizes that adoption is a lifelong journey, with normal developmental challenges and tasks. We will walk with you through and support you through your journey. Whether you are an adoptive parent with a child that is struggling emotionally or academically; a birth parent who is seeking understanding, reflection, or search and reunion; or an adoptee looking for support- we are here for you.
(240) 245-2720 View (240) 245-2720
Photo of Caroline Sahr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in District of Columbia
Caroline Sahr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008  (Online Only)
I take an integrated approach to treatment drawing from my training in polyvagal, cognitive-behavioral, somatic, EMDR, mindfulness, and attachment-based modalities.
Ever since I was young, I knew I wanted to pursue a career path that would make a difference in people’s lives. This interest led me to study psychological science, social work, and social justice. I care deeply about human rights, cultural humility, and integrating anti-oppressive practices. As a LCSW, I am committed to the well-being of all my clients to cater to their holistic needs. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults regarding various issues, including: anxiety, depression, stress, complex trauma, oppression, relationships and intimacy, sexual assault and domestic violence, and LGBTQ+ dynamics.
I take an integrated approach to treatment drawing from my training in polyvagal, cognitive-behavioral, somatic, EMDR, mindfulness, and attachment-based modalities.
Ever since I was young, I knew I wanted to pursue a career path that would make a difference in people’s lives. This interest led me to study psychological science, social work, and social justice. I care deeply about human rights, cultural humility, and integrating anti-oppressive practices. As a LCSW, I am committed to the well-being of all my clients to cater to their holistic needs. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults regarding various issues, including: anxiety, depression, stress, complex trauma, oppression, relationships and intimacy, sexual assault and domestic violence, and LGBTQ+ dynamics.
(571) 378-5113 View (571) 378-5113
Photo of Inma Iglesias, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in District of Columbia
Inma Iglesias
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, RPT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20011  (Online Only)
I am trained in Trauma-Informed, Psychodynamic therapies, and CBT, and I offer an attachment-based approach in therapy.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in attachment, conflictive relationships, life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD and executive functioning deficits. I have experience working with children that struggle with behavior and emotional dysregulation. I provide family therapy to support parents in managing behavioral challenges at home and can also provide coaching to their teachers. As a Play Therapist Supervisor and board approved supervisor in Maryland, I offer clinical consultation and trainings to other mental health professionals.
I am trained in Trauma-Informed, Psychodynamic therapies, and CBT, and I offer an attachment-based approach in therapy.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in attachment, conflictive relationships, life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD and executive functioning deficits. I have experience working with children that struggle with behavior and emotional dysregulation. I provide family therapy to support parents in managing behavioral challenges at home and can also provide coaching to their teachers. As a Play Therapist Supervisor and board approved supervisor in Maryland, I offer clinical consultation and trainings to other mental health professionals.
(202) 602-2282 View (202) 602-2282
Photo of Karen L Hahn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in District of Columbia
Karen L Hahn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20007
I have completed specialized training in Trauma Focused Therapy, Attachment-based Therapy, Child Centered Play Therapy, and Sand Tray Therapy.
My work with adults includes those with a trauma history, depression, anxiety, grief, relational issues, somatic symptoms with no medical explanation, feeling stuck or sensing that something is just “not right”, as well as healthcare providers & other first responders who have experienced increased stress during the COVID crisis. My experience with children includes those with a trauma history, adoption, depression, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, divorce, school refusal, low self-esteem, difficult peer & family relationships, immigration, & cross-cultural adjustments.
I have completed specialized training in Trauma Focused Therapy, Attachment-based Therapy, Child Centered Play Therapy, and Sand Tray Therapy.
My work with adults includes those with a trauma history, depression, anxiety, grief, relational issues, somatic symptoms with no medical explanation, feeling stuck or sensing that something is just “not right”, as well as healthcare providers & other first responders who have experienced increased stress during the COVID crisis. My experience with children includes those with a trauma history, adoption, depression, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, divorce, school refusal, low self-esteem, difficult peer & family relationships, immigration, & cross-cultural adjustments.
(571) 487-7202 View (571) 487-7202
Photo of Heidi Mattila, Psychologist in District of Columbia
Heidi Mattila
Psychologist, PhD, MBA
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
Feeling stuck or experiencing life and relationships as old or frustrating? Life can at times be over-whelming, but it does not need to stay that way. Through a collaborative process, I help my clients to both understand themselves and effectively transform their lives and live more fully. I work with my clients as partners, and my sessions are interactive and productive. While the work can be deep and transformative, the approach is strength-based and pragmatic. We are all unique, and there is no method that fits everybody. Our work together is a joint and respectful discovery tailored to meet your specific goals and needs.
Feeling stuck or experiencing life and relationships as old or frustrating? Life can at times be over-whelming, but it does not need to stay that way. Through a collaborative process, I help my clients to both understand themselves and effectively transform their lives and live more fully. I work with my clients as partners, and my sessions are interactive and productive. While the work can be deep and transformative, the approach is strength-based and pragmatic. We are all unique, and there is no method that fits everybody. Our work together is a joint and respectful discovery tailored to meet your specific goals and needs.
(202) 866-2966 View (202) 866-2966
Photo of Jenny Lloyd, Psychologist in District of Columbia
Jenny Lloyd
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20010  (Online Only)
I provide therapy to adults 18yrs+. My practice is trauma-informed, and I have particular experience working with LGBTQ+ individuals. I’m a generalist, and therefore can help those who are dealing with a variety of concerns, such as constant worry, difficulty in relationships, struggles with instances of violence or discrimination, self-critical thinking, emptiness, panic attacks, low mood, disconnection, identity development, life transitions, etc. While there are many methods of healing, therapy can be an important piece of your wellbeing, and I can help guide you towards a more self-aware, satisfying, and meaningful life.
I provide therapy to adults 18yrs+. My practice is trauma-informed, and I have particular experience working with LGBTQ+ individuals. I’m a generalist, and therefore can help those who are dealing with a variety of concerns, such as constant worry, difficulty in relationships, struggles with instances of violence or discrimination, self-critical thinking, emptiness, panic attacks, low mood, disconnection, identity development, life transitions, etc. While there are many methods of healing, therapy can be an important piece of your wellbeing, and I can help guide you towards a more self-aware, satisfying, and meaningful life.
(202) 933-3359 View (202) 933-3359
Photo of Binita Amin, Psychologist in District of Columbia
Binita Amin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
I work with individuals who experience a wide range of challenges. My primary specialties include depression, anxiety, and life transitions. I also address job stress, relationships, grief/loss, and sleep concerns. My approach to therapy is integrative and collaborative. I primarily incorporate education with a cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, and mindfulness approach.
I work with individuals who experience a wide range of challenges. My primary specialties include depression, anxiety, and life transitions. I also address job stress, relationships, grief/loss, and sleep concerns. My approach to therapy is integrative and collaborative. I primarily incorporate education with a cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, and mindfulness approach.
(202) 759-5435 View (202) 759-5435
Photo of Meg Cusack, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in District of Columbia
Meg Cusack
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
My clients are often facing a full range of personal and professional challenges - I offer them a space for processing with dignity, strength and maturity. I bring to my clients objectivity, insight, candor, resourcefulness, commitment and compassion so that they work safely to relieve anxiety or stress, improve mood and physical health, re-examine career goals, enhance personal relationships, address and heal from trauma injuries, resolve serious impairment of work performance and emotional stability from addictive behaviors, strengthen personal interests and reengage in life.
My clients are often facing a full range of personal and professional challenges - I offer them a space for processing with dignity, strength and maturity. I bring to my clients objectivity, insight, candor, resourcefulness, commitment and compassion so that they work safely to relieve anxiety or stress, improve mood and physical health, re-examine career goals, enhance personal relationships, address and heal from trauma injuries, resolve serious impairment of work performance and emotional stability from addictive behaviors, strengthen personal interests and reengage in life.
(202) 751-3044 View (202) 751-3044
Photo of Barbara L E Cristy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in District of Columbia
Barbara L E Cristy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I believe the most important thing about therapy is empowering you so that you can make conscious choices about your life. My style is active and involved. Working collaboratively, I can help you define your goals and see what is causing your pain, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and problems in relationships. As a child, you learned ways of coping with your environment that were safe for you at the time. Those coping behaviors became habitual but, as an adult, no longer work for you and interfere with your happiness and your ability to function at your highest level.
I believe the most important thing about therapy is empowering you so that you can make conscious choices about your life. My style is active and involved. Working collaboratively, I can help you define your goals and see what is causing your pain, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and problems in relationships. As a child, you learned ways of coping with your environment that were safe for you at the time. Those coping behaviors became habitual but, as an adult, no longer work for you and interfere with your happiness and your ability to function at your highest level.
(301) 684-5173 View (301) 684-5173
Photo of Community Counseling Services Center, Pre-Licensed Professional in District of Columbia
Community Counseling Services Center
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20052
The Community Counseling Services Center (CCSC) is a training clinic located at The George Washington University, near the Foggy Bottom metro. We provide affordable mental health counseling services to individuals within the Washington, DC metro area. We offer evidence-based individual, family, career, and couples counseling to address a wide variety of mental health concerns, relationship issues, and interpersonal challenges. Our clinicians are master’s students in our Clinical Mental Health and Rehabilitation Counseling programs and doctoral students in our Counseling and Supervision Ph.D. program.
The Community Counseling Services Center (CCSC) is a training clinic located at The George Washington University, near the Foggy Bottom metro. We provide affordable mental health counseling services to individuals within the Washington, DC metro area. We offer evidence-based individual, family, career, and couples counseling to address a wide variety of mental health concerns, relationship issues, and interpersonal challenges. Our clinicians are master’s students in our Clinical Mental Health and Rehabilitation Counseling programs and doctoral students in our Counseling and Supervision Ph.D. program.
(202) 968-3320 View (202) 968-3320
Photo of Dr. Ziva Benezra, Psychologist in District of Columbia
Dr. Ziva Benezra
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
You and your partner are not in sync, and are having trouble hearing and understanding each other. You feel sad, scared and angry because you remember how happy you were and this relationship is so important to you. No matter how clear the issues are for you as you try to address them, your partner somehow sees the issues differently. Disagreements aren't getting fully resolved. Or you are dealing with: difficult family, work or social relationships, persistent worries, identity questions, life transitions and adjustments, thinking that you aren't "good enough” for yourself or others, perfectionism, grieving, or healing from trauma.
You and your partner are not in sync, and are having trouble hearing and understanding each other. You feel sad, scared and angry because you remember how happy you were and this relationship is so important to you. No matter how clear the issues are for you as you try to address them, your partner somehow sees the issues differently. Disagreements aren't getting fully resolved. Or you are dealing with: difficult family, work or social relationships, persistent worries, identity questions, life transitions and adjustments, thinking that you aren't "good enough” for yourself or others, perfectionism, grieving, or healing from trauma.
(202) 933-6238 View (202) 933-6238
Photo of Monica Leonie Meerbaum, Psychologist in District of Columbia
Monica Leonie Meerbaum
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
There is nothing like being listened to and understood on a deep level, with genuine interest and acceptance. This is what I strive to offer in therapy or analysis, as we explore together your hopes and dreams, your losses and regrets, your longings and fears. Many people come to therapy to free themselves from self-defeating patterns and the legacy of past traumas, so they can be more truly themselves in relation to others and live with greater satisfaction and meaning. My analytic training enables me to work intensively, and I enjoy incorporating experiential techniques like journaling, psychodrama, and art.
There is nothing like being listened to and understood on a deep level, with genuine interest and acceptance. This is what I strive to offer in therapy or analysis, as we explore together your hopes and dreams, your losses and regrets, your longings and fears. Many people come to therapy to free themselves from self-defeating patterns and the legacy of past traumas, so they can be more truly themselves in relation to others and live with greater satisfaction and meaning. My analytic training enables me to work intensively, and I enjoy incorporating experiential techniques like journaling, psychodrama, and art.
(240) 813-9612 View (240) 813-9612
Photo of Will Hayden, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in District of Columbia
Will Hayden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
Being in distress and discomfort is hard, tiring, and sometimes discouraging. "I'm struggling with something, but what can I do about it?" "Why is it so easy for everyone else?" "I just want out of my head, and back into my life." I believe successful therapy is a collaborative effort that helps you build a real, authentic, and happy life. Therapy can be helpful when sensitive topics and difficult challenges feel intimidating and overwhelming. As your therapist, I will listen to and learn about your challenges. We'll find a pace that works for you and I'll help you keep your goals in focus. 
Being in distress and discomfort is hard, tiring, and sometimes discouraging. "I'm struggling with something, but what can I do about it?" "Why is it so easy for everyone else?" "I just want out of my head, and back into my life." I believe successful therapy is a collaborative effort that helps you build a real, authentic, and happy life. Therapy can be helpful when sensitive topics and difficult challenges feel intimidating and overwhelming. As your therapist, I will listen to and learn about your challenges. We'll find a pace that works for you and I'll help you keep your goals in focus. 
(202) 999-3137 View (202) 999-3137

See more therapy options for District of Columbia

Attachment-based Therapists

Is attachment-based therapy the same as attachment therapy?

Attachment-based therapy may be confused with what is called “attachment therapy” (sometimes called “holding therapy”), a discredited and dangerous approach to treating children with attachment disorders, autism, or other mental health concerns. Attachment therapy—not attachment-based therapy—may involve restraining a child, forcing eye contact, and other coercive or abusive techniques. None of these practices are used in attachment-based therapy and the two modalities are in no way related.

What should I expect from attachment-based therapy?

Attachment-based therapy is based on attachment theory, which posits that children’s early relationships with their caregivers strongly influence their ability to navigate the world later in life. Thus, adults who seek attachment-based therapy should expect to deeply explore their childhood, identifying the dynamics or experiences that disrupted their attachment and the steps necessary to overcome challenges that arose as a result. Parents and children should expect to explore the possible factors that disrupted the parent-child relationship and work toward restoring trust and connection.

How long does attachment-based therapy last?

Certain forms of attachment-based therapy, especially those designed for parents and children, last for a set number of sessions; for example, Attachment and Biobehavioral Catch-Up, a specific attachment-based approach for young children who have undergone early adversity, unfolds over 10 one-hour sessions. When attachment-based therapy is practiced on adults or combined with other modalities, it may not last a specific length of time; clients may wish to ask prospective therapists how long they expect treatment to take.

Does attachment-based therapy work?

Most of the research on attachment-based therapy focuses on children and adolescents. Some of this research shows a positive effect, especially for attachment-based family therapy (ABFT). Other studies, however, have found that attachment-based therapy is no more effective than other approaches to childhood depression, anxiety, or suicidality. Less is known about the therapy’s efficacy on adult populations.