Photo of Laura Niver, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Laura Niver
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20004
I work with adults experiencing the impact of trauma, depression, anxiety, chronic illness, phase of life adjustment, and relationship issues.
We all have unique stories. Our pasts form us into who we are today, and oftentimes what once worked for us, no longer does. Therapy can help us gain the insight to understand our stories, but more importantly, help us to choose new ways of living and engaging with ourselves, others, and the world. In the context of a supportive relationship, we will work together to move towards a life that is more meaningful, satisfying, and free.
I work with adults experiencing the impact of trauma, depression, anxiety, chronic illness, phase of life adjustment, and relationship issues.
We all have unique stories. Our pasts form us into who we are today, and oftentimes what once worked for us, no longer does. Therapy can help us gain the insight to understand our stories, but more importantly, help us to choose new ways of living and engaging with ourselves, others, and the world. In the context of a supportive relationship, we will work together to move towards a life that is more meaningful, satisfying, and free.
(202) 217-4924 View (202) 217-4924
Photo of Andrea Miller, Resident in Counseling in Washington, DC
Andrea Miller
Resident in Counseling, LGPC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002
I have worked with various groups such as first responders, medical staff, veterans, international humanitarian workers, law enforcement, journalists, and individuals struggling with fertility, prepartum, postpartum, chronic illness, and couples.
Are you in search of support? Are you struggling with symptoms of trauma, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, personal growth, life transitions, relationship conflict, multicultural issues, religion, spirituality, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or bipolar/mood disorders?
I have worked with various groups such as first responders, medical staff, veterans, international humanitarian workers, law enforcement, journalists, and individuals struggling with fertility, prepartum, postpartum, chronic illness, and couples.
Are you in search of support? Are you struggling with symptoms of trauma, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, personal growth, life transitions, relationship conflict, multicultural issues, religion, spirituality, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or bipolar/mood disorders?
(571) 946-6525 View (571) 946-6525
Photo of Victoria Tripp, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Victoria Tripp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, OSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20064
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in clients over 18, and am passionate about counseling young adults who are suffering from disabling anxiety, depression, and grief, or otherwise needing counsel due to chronic illness, caregiver burden, end of life issues, or spiritual distress.
Individuals suffering from cancer and chronic illnesses are often overwhelmed with numerous challenges, including family system dynamics, and the tumult of intense and fluctuating emotions of fear, anxiety, depression, anger and anticipatory grief. These challenges can bring up existential questions regarding the meaning of life and personal faith. My experience as a therapist havs inspired my counseling style as one where there is space for client’s to process these important questions without judgment.
I specialize in clients over 18, and am passionate about counseling young adults who are suffering from disabling anxiety, depression, and grief, or otherwise needing counsel due to chronic illness, caregiver burden, end of life issues, or spiritual distress.
Individuals suffering from cancer and chronic illnesses are often overwhelmed with numerous challenges, including family system dynamics, and the tumult of intense and fluctuating emotions of fear, anxiety, depression, anger and anticipatory grief. These challenges can bring up existential questions regarding the meaning of life and personal faith. My experience as a therapist havs inspired my counseling style as one where there is space for client’s to process these important questions without judgment.
(540) 274-0289 View (540) 274-0289
Photo of Angela Sarafin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington, DC
Angela Sarafin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20004
Do you keep asking yourself "When is this going to get better?" or "Why can't I figure this out?" or "Why does this keep happening?" Your past experiences might be causing you to be fearful or angry or defensive and negative feelings often get us stuck in unhelpful repetitive patterns. When those feelings and patterns are interrupting your productivity at work or are causing communication or connection problems with friends, family members, and romantic partners, counseling can help.
Do you keep asking yourself "When is this going to get better?" or "Why can't I figure this out?" or "Why does this keep happening?" Your past experiences might be causing you to be fearful or angry or defensive and negative feelings often get us stuck in unhelpful repetitive patterns. When those feelings and patterns are interrupting your productivity at work or are causing communication or connection problems with friends, family members, and romantic partners, counseling can help.
(202) 883-4941 View (202) 883-4941
Photo of Amanda Roberts Emdr Therapy, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Amanda Roberts Emdr Therapy
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
My all virtual practice serves MD, VA, DC, MA and NM. I studied psychology at Harvard University, and earned a Masters in Marriage, Family Therapy from the University of San Francisco. I obtained my doctorate in Clinical Psychology from The California Institute of Integral Studies in San Francisco. I bring thirty-seven years of deep clinical experience, having worked in diverse settings including inpatient, outpatient, community mental health and crisis services. I have a particular interest in global mental health issues, have lived in many different cultures/countries and have worked extensively with the expatriot community.
My all virtual practice serves MD, VA, DC, MA and NM. I studied psychology at Harvard University, and earned a Masters in Marriage, Family Therapy from the University of San Francisco. I obtained my doctorate in Clinical Psychology from The California Institute of Integral Studies in San Francisco. I bring thirty-seven years of deep clinical experience, having worked in diverse settings including inpatient, outpatient, community mental health and crisis services. I have a particular interest in global mental health issues, have lived in many different cultures/countries and have worked extensively with the expatriot community.
(413) 519-1788 View (413) 519-1788
Photo of Grace & Hope for Families in Washington, DC
Grace & Hope for Families
MA
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20001  (Online Only)
The life you are living might not feel like the life you want. Do you feel controlled by your emotions instead of being in control of them? Do you feel like a prisoner of your circumstances? Are you overwhelmed and frustrated but can't find a way out? As soon as you deal with one thing, something else would happen and just bring you down. All this would leave you feeling emotionally, mentally, and spiritually depleted. Sounds familiar?
The life you are living might not feel like the life you want. Do you feel controlled by your emotions instead of being in control of them? Do you feel like a prisoner of your circumstances? Are you overwhelmed and frustrated but can't find a way out? As soon as you deal with one thing, something else would happen and just bring you down. All this would leave you feeling emotionally, mentally, and spiritually depleted. Sounds familiar?
(717) 502-9314 View (717) 502-9314
Photo of Christine H. Wang, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Christine H. Wang
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
I provide psychotherapy/counseling to children/teens experiencing anxiety (separation, social, excessive worry, panic, and phobias), depression and/or ADHD. In addition, I specialize in anxiety, stress & depression that is specifically tied to (1) health concerns (e.g., type 1 diabetes, picky eating/ARFID, food allergy, chronic pain, GI, sleep, etc) and/or (2) identity concerns (race/ethnicity, LGBTQIA+, religion). Lastly, I have a specialization in preschool mental health through providing Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) for anxiety and temper tantrums/moodiness in young children.
I provide psychotherapy/counseling to children/teens experiencing anxiety (separation, social, excessive worry, panic, and phobias), depression and/or ADHD. In addition, I specialize in anxiety, stress & depression that is specifically tied to (1) health concerns (e.g., type 1 diabetes, picky eating/ARFID, food allergy, chronic pain, GI, sleep, etc) and/or (2) identity concerns (race/ethnicity, LGBTQIA+, religion). Lastly, I have a specialization in preschool mental health through providing Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) for anxiety and temper tantrums/moodiness in young children.
(301) 205-5209 View (301) 205-5209
Metropolitan Family Connect PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LICSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
Are you having a hard time dealing with the struggles and adversity in your life? Do you have a difficult time handling stressful situation and anxious moments? Are you in need of someone to speak one but are unable to articulate your feelings? If so, then perhaps therapy or some combination of different approaches might be right for you! We offer supportive and non - judgmental spaces to provide a client centered and strength based session. Our areas of expertise include: experiencing loss, depression, trauma, anger management, anxiety, low self esteem, medical and other mental health behavioral health challenges.
Are you having a hard time dealing with the struggles and adversity in your life? Do you have a difficult time handling stressful situation and anxious moments? Are you in need of someone to speak one but are unable to articulate your feelings? If so, then perhaps therapy or some combination of different approaches might be right for you! We offer supportive and non - judgmental spaces to provide a client centered and strength based session. Our areas of expertise include: experiencing loss, depression, trauma, anger management, anxiety, low self esteem, medical and other mental health behavioral health challenges.
(202) 519-1238 View (202) 519-1238
Photo of Spiritbody Movement and Wellness Center Inc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Spiritbody Movement and Wellness Center Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20017
I am a psychotherapist in private practice. I had to establish this wellness center in response to feedback from my clients that they want a more holistic approach to their treatment. Some even asked for alternative to talk therapy. These are people who are dealing with more difficult and chronic issues like trauma history, weight loss issues, addictions issues, issues around impulse control difficulties, issues around difficulty with concentration as in ADHD, those dealing with chronic stress, and others who just want to improve their overall wellbeing and they are looking for support.
I am a psychotherapist in private practice. I had to establish this wellness center in response to feedback from my clients that they want a more holistic approach to their treatment. Some even asked for alternative to talk therapy. These are people who are dealing with more difficult and chronic issues like trauma history, weight loss issues, addictions issues, issues around impulse control difficulties, issues around difficulty with concentration as in ADHD, those dealing with chronic stress, and others who just want to improve their overall wellbeing and they are looking for support.
(202) 335-0867 View (202) 335-0867
Photo of Jenna Budreau, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Jenna Budreau
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007
Feeling stuck or fed up with your current therapist? Let's get real – life can be tough. It’s especially hard on ambitious people, parents & perfectionists who are expected to have it all together. The more successful you are (or are expected to be), the more difficult it is to keep it all together. Add anxiety, depression, & relationship issues – forget it. And the more that you achieve, the harder it becomes to find a therapist of your caliber or solutions that work for your complex issues. But I'm not here to hand out generic advice or quick fixes. I'm here to help you uncover the root of your challenges & build lasting changes.
Feeling stuck or fed up with your current therapist? Let's get real – life can be tough. It’s especially hard on ambitious people, parents & perfectionists who are expected to have it all together. The more successful you are (or are expected to be), the more difficult it is to keep it all together. Add anxiety, depression, & relationship issues – forget it. And the more that you achieve, the harder it becomes to find a therapist of your caliber or solutions that work for your complex issues. But I'm not here to hand out generic advice or quick fixes. I'm here to help you uncover the root of your challenges & build lasting changes.
(855) 694-1093 View (855) 694-1093
Photo of Stephanie O'Brien, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Stephanie O'Brien
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
Loss is the universal human condition. At times, all of us move with a sense of "lostness" - be it around a death, a relationship, our sense of safety, hopes for the future. Yet as a culture, we have a hard time being with loss and accompanying grief. I believe that loss and grief deserve attention. You may know exactly why you are seeking therapy, or you may something may just feel off. My role is to help you learn about yourself and your losses. I hold special interest and skill supporting people with experiences of infertility/pregnancy loss, relationship loss, trauma, illness and death and dying.
Loss is the universal human condition. At times, all of us move with a sense of "lostness" - be it around a death, a relationship, our sense of safety, hopes for the future. Yet as a culture, we have a hard time being with loss and accompanying grief. I believe that loss and grief deserve attention. You may know exactly why you are seeking therapy, or you may something may just feel off. My role is to help you learn about yourself and your losses. I hold special interest and skill supporting people with experiences of infertility/pregnancy loss, relationship loss, trauma, illness and death and dying.
(202) 804-9592 View (202) 804-9592
Photo of Dwayne Phillips-McNamee, Pre-Licensed Professional in Washington, DC
Dwayne Phillips-McNamee
Pre-Licensed Professional, LGSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20037
Dwayne Phillips-McNamee is a Licensed Social Worker who works to provide a culturally sensitive, inclusive, equitable internal and external space for all clients regardless of age, sexual orientation, gender identity, religious background, or any other factor. Dwayne works with adult individuals surrounding a variety of issues, including issues related to race and ethnicity, religion, sexuality, gender identity, and relationships. He is particularly interested in working with black adults, those in and around the LGBTQ+ community, and those navigating issues related to building and maintaining relationships.
Dwayne Phillips-McNamee is a Licensed Social Worker who works to provide a culturally sensitive, inclusive, equitable internal and external space for all clients regardless of age, sexual orientation, gender identity, religious background, or any other factor. Dwayne works with adult individuals surrounding a variety of issues, including issues related to race and ethnicity, religion, sexuality, gender identity, and relationships. He is particularly interested in working with black adults, those in and around the LGBTQ+ community, and those navigating issues related to building and maintaining relationships.
(833) 658-9654 View (833) 658-9654
Photo of Maury L. Joseph, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Maury L. Joseph
Psychologist, PsyD, MPsy
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
Anxiety, depression, and the other experiences that bring us to therapy are some of life's greatest challenges, but in therapy they become valuable opportunities for growth. Through therapy our struggles become an opening to deeper self-understanding, to new ways of living, and even to new beginnings. Our suffering asks us to seek help and to find a place where we may learn to better help ourselves. In the supportive context of therapy we begin to see our symptoms and difficulties in a new way- as the first difficult steps on a journey of learning and growth.
Anxiety, depression, and the other experiences that bring us to therapy are some of life's greatest challenges, but in therapy they become valuable opportunities for growth. Through therapy our struggles become an opening to deeper self-understanding, to new ways of living, and even to new beginnings. Our suffering asks us to seek help and to find a place where we may learn to better help ourselves. In the supportive context of therapy we begin to see our symptoms and difficulties in a new way- as the first difficult steps on a journey of learning and growth.
(202) 968-2530 View (202) 968-2530
Photo of EMDR, Brainspotting & Psychotherapy of DC & MD, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
EMDR, Brainspotting & Psychotherapy of DC & MD
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, EMDR-C, BSP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20005
Your treatment has a beginning, middle & end. I am trained and certified in many of the latest breakthrough treatments including EMDR and Brainspotting. I use these modalities because I have found them to be the most effective. The field of psychotherapy has come a long way since it began. We now know that it doesn't have to take as long as previously believed for permanent healing and change to take place. The term "neuroplasticity" refers to the brain's ability to change and rewire itself at any age or stage of life. Too often, clients participate in years of talk therapy and medication management without results.
Your treatment has a beginning, middle & end. I am trained and certified in many of the latest breakthrough treatments including EMDR and Brainspotting. I use these modalities because I have found them to be the most effective. The field of psychotherapy has come a long way since it began. We now know that it doesn't have to take as long as previously believed for permanent healing and change to take place. The term "neuroplasticity" refers to the brain's ability to change and rewire itself at any age or stage of life. Too often, clients participate in years of talk therapy and medication management without results.
(202) 804-9954 View (202) 804-9954
Photo of Dr. Jeff J. Rocker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Dr. Jeff J. Rocker
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, NCC, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 14 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 14 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
(786) 526-0294 View (786) 526-0294
Photo of Teresa Harris, Counselor in Washington, DC
Teresa Harris
Counselor, LPC, LMHC, MBA, CPT
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20037  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My work begins with a very person-centered approach, recognizing my role as one to listen and empower a client as they create the life they want to live. I often incorporate techniques from solution-focused, narrative, cognitive behavioral, and dialectical behavioral approaches. After 10 years in the fitness/wellness industry, I’ve worked with those struggling with unhealthy relationships with food and their bodies. Working with these clients often utilizes elements of mindfulness and self-compassion toward a life of more self-love.
My work begins with a very person-centered approach, recognizing my role as one to listen and empower a client as they create the life they want to live. I often incorporate techniques from solution-focused, narrative, cognitive behavioral, and dialectical behavioral approaches. After 10 years in the fitness/wellness industry, I’ve worked with those struggling with unhealthy relationships with food and their bodies. Working with these clients often utilizes elements of mindfulness and self-compassion toward a life of more self-love.
(202) 769-0591 View (202) 769-0591
Photo of Blessing E. Dawson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Blessing E. Dawson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20024  (Online Only)
I provide therapy to millennial individuals and couples, equipping them with tools they can use to reach their personal and relational goals. I help millennials heal from difficulties related to life transitions, conflicts in their relationships, stress management, interpersonal trauma, and so much more. In our work together, we can take a deeper look into what you need to feel more satisfied in life and happier in your relationships.
I provide therapy to millennial individuals and couples, equipping them with tools they can use to reach their personal and relational goals. I help millennials heal from difficulties related to life transitions, conflicts in their relationships, stress management, interpersonal trauma, and so much more. In our work together, we can take a deeper look into what you need to feel more satisfied in life and happier in your relationships.
(202) 630-3165 View (202) 630-3165
Photo of Debra Cruz Counseling, LLC., Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Debra Cruz Counseling, LLC.
Licensed Professional Counselor, CEAP, CEC, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016  (Online Only)
Debra Ann Cruz is a speaker, author, psychotherapist, and executive coach, and romantic intimacy specialist. Over the past 20 years, I have worked hard to create an innovative blend of psychotherapy, spirituality, and executive coaching to help clients reach breakthroughs and emotional healing to level up to own the success and prosperity they desire and deserve. Her specialty is helping high-functioning professionals, executives, and leaders to stop holding themselves back due to a negative internal dialogue of fear, anxiety, and self-doubt from their past.
Debra Ann Cruz is a speaker, author, psychotherapist, and executive coach, and romantic intimacy specialist. Over the past 20 years, I have worked hard to create an innovative blend of psychotherapy, spirituality, and executive coaching to help clients reach breakthroughs and emotional healing to level up to own the success and prosperity they desire and deserve. Her specialty is helping high-functioning professionals, executives, and leaders to stop holding themselves back due to a negative internal dialogue of fear, anxiety, and self-doubt from their past.
(202) 929-5570 View (202) 929-5570
Photo of Karin S Tovar, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Karin S Tovar
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006
It may be that life deals us the unexpected, or perhaps things just slowly begin to feel “off”—whatever the case may be, we can find growth and healing by exploring the ways our past affects our present. Scary? Definitely! But accessing these versions of ourselves that have been dormant is what helps us shift from surviving to thriving. Whether you’ve been experiencing anxiety, depression, life transition, trauma, or feeling burned out, I can help become a truer version of yourself. For your convenience, I offer online appointments for clients located in DC and MD, or in person appointments at my office in Farragut Square, DC.
It may be that life deals us the unexpected, or perhaps things just slowly begin to feel “off”—whatever the case may be, we can find growth and healing by exploring the ways our past affects our present. Scary? Definitely! But accessing these versions of ourselves that have been dormant is what helps us shift from surviving to thriving. Whether you’ve been experiencing anxiety, depression, life transition, trauma, or feeling burned out, I can help become a truer version of yourself. For your convenience, I offer online appointments for clients located in DC and MD, or in person appointments at my office in Farragut Square, DC.
(202) 968-2649 View (202) 968-2649
Photo of Debra Reed, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Debra Reed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20005  (Online Only)
I have over twenty years offering psychotherapy, supervision, training, and consultation. I'm committed to those who have experienced childhood trauma, grief and loss, and domestic violence. My desire is to help those who are struggling with the stresses of overwhelming problems life can often present, as well as those wishing to enter therapy on a journey of deeper self-"innerstanding" and purpose.
I have over twenty years offering psychotherapy, supervision, training, and consultation. I'm committed to those who have experienced childhood trauma, grief and loss, and domestic violence. My desire is to help those who are struggling with the stresses of overwhelming problems life can often present, as well as those wishing to enter therapy on a journey of deeper self-"innerstanding" and purpose.
(301) 453-4575 View (301) 453-4575
Chronic Illness Therapists

How does therapy for chronic illness work?

Many people living with a chronic illness may feel they cannot speak honestly about their experience out of embarrassment or fear of being a burden, or because those close to them do not understand, for example, that they may “look good” even if they do not feel good. Therapy sessions are an opportunity to speak openly with someone who knows their symptoms are not in their head and who can offer practical, proven suggestions for managing feelings of grief, shame, or fatigue, such as techniques to challenge unhelpful thoughts about symptoms and develop new ways to respond to them, such as distraction or calming breathing practices.

Can therapy help with physical symptoms of chronic illness?

Yes, especially if an individual with chronic illness has developed depression. People with depression are less likely to maintain their health treatment regimens or to take positive steps to manage physical symptoms when they arise, thereby potentially complicating their medical prognosis. Treatment of depression, through talk therapy, medication, or both, will often improve one’s physical state as it eases the emotional burden of illness.

What are the most effective treatment options for chronic illness?

No one living with a chronic illness, or their loved ones, should see depression as an unavoidable result of their condition. Instead, they should actively seek treatment. Research shows that people with depression are less likely to devote the required time and effort to maintaining or monitoring their health, and so therapy to limit the risk of depression can be vital for physical health as well. Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based stress reduction have been found to help individuals reduce stress and anxiety.

How long does therapy for chronic illness take?

There is no set timeline for therapy for people living with chronic illnesses, but many will see a therapist for a number of weeks or months, typically spanning at least 12 weekly sessions. Some people feel that they experience progress faster than others but even some who quickly feel improvement may continue with sessions for months or years. Some people may benefit from maintenance therapy if their symptoms change or they experience a decline in physical health. Others find that the skills learned in short-term therapy can be used on an ongoing basis, even after therapy has concluded.