Therapists in Washington, DC
Stuck? Frustrated or overwhelmed? You want to do better at work or school. Maybe relationships are strained. You know you’d like something to change. Everyone else seems to have their life together. Come as you are to counseling. There is nothing you have to do, or be, in order to feel better. Together, we’ll discover what would be a rich and meaningful life for you, and how to get there. I work frequently with clients wanting to discover whole mind and body connection. During our initial consultation we'll discover if I'm the best fit for your needs, and if not, help you find the right one. Let's chat.
Stuck? Frustrated or overwhelmed? You want to do better at work or school. Maybe relationships are strained. You know you’d like something to change. Everyone else seems to have their life together. Come as you are to counseling. There is nothing you have to do, or be, in order to feel better. Together, we’ll discover what would be a rich and meaningful life for you, and how to get there. I work frequently with clients wanting to discover whole mind and body connection. During our initial consultation we'll discover if I'm the best fit for your needs, and if not, help you find the right one. Let's chat.
Seeking help for yourself or a child can be daunting and requires courage. I want to partner with you as you work to gain the life that you envision, help open possibilities and promote a mindset of strength, resilience and competence to tackle what may be getting in your way. As a Licensed Psychologist, with 20 years of experience as a school psychologist and counselor, I am dedicated to helping others understand and potentially change behavior and mindsets for improved functioning in settings, including work and school, and in relationships with others.
Seeking help for yourself or a child can be daunting and requires courage. I want to partner with you as you work to gain the life that you envision, help open possibilities and promote a mindset of strength, resilience and competence to tackle what may be getting in your way. As a Licensed Psychologist, with 20 years of experience as a school psychologist and counselor, I am dedicated to helping others understand and potentially change behavior and mindsets for improved functioning in settings, including work and school, and in relationships with others.
New Group Open! We lose sight of what we truly want for ourselves. Megan’s goal is to empower you to focus on your own experiences rather than on what others expect of you. Born and raised in the Washington Metro area, Megan understands firsthand how the stress of the DMV lifestyle can affect one’s personal life, work life and home life. Clients describe Megan as being creative, quirky, empathetic and reliable. Megan has seven years of experience helping children and adults work through behavioral and emotional struggles related to depression, PTSD, grief, substance abuse, eating disorders, body image, anxiety, family and sexuality.
New Group Open! We lose sight of what we truly want for ourselves. Megan’s goal is to empower you to focus on your own experiences rather than on what others expect of you. Born and raised in the Washington Metro area, Megan understands firsthand how the stress of the DMV lifestyle can affect one’s personal life, work life and home life. Clients describe Megan as being creative, quirky, empathetic and reliable. Megan has seven years of experience helping children and adults work through behavioral and emotional struggles related to depression, PTSD, grief, substance abuse, eating disorders, body image, anxiety, family and sexuality.
Evans Counseling & Consultation, PLLC, is focused on providing individualized service and satisfaction. As your therapist, my hope is to meet your expectations as you seek to have your needs resolved through counseling. My goal is to build an alliance with you that promotes your dignity and respect while preserving your trust. Deeply rooted in faith and spirituality, I relate to my clients with genuine caring, sensitivity, and a keen listening ear. These basic principles will create a strong foundation to ensure your comfort and emotional safety, as I assist you on your journey toward healing and return to optimal living.
Evans Counseling & Consultation, PLLC, is focused on providing individualized service and satisfaction. As your therapist, my hope is to meet your expectations as you seek to have your needs resolved through counseling. My goal is to build an alliance with you that promotes your dignity and respect while preserving your trust. Deeply rooted in faith and spirituality, I relate to my clients with genuine caring, sensitivity, and a keen listening ear. These basic principles will create a strong foundation to ensure your comfort and emotional safety, as I assist you on your journey toward healing and return to optimal living.
"Picking up the telephone to make an initial appointment to see a psychologist, can be difficult for many people for various reasons. One may be feeling wounded, lost, or stuck. I am dedicated to helping children, adolescents, adults, and families begin to heal and get "unstuck" by freeing themselves of distressing and sometimes debilitating feelings such as depression, anxiety, and feeling out of control. I believe awareness and insight into your child's feelings and behaviors, and your feelings and behaviors, is the great gift of psychotherapy. At its best, psychotherapy is a rewarding, productive, and at times, fun experience."
"Picking up the telephone to make an initial appointment to see a psychologist, can be difficult for many people for various reasons. One may be feeling wounded, lost, or stuck. I am dedicated to helping children, adolescents, adults, and families begin to heal and get "unstuck" by freeing themselves of distressing and sometimes debilitating feelings such as depression, anxiety, and feeling out of control. I believe awareness and insight into your child's feelings and behaviors, and your feelings and behaviors, is the great gift of psychotherapy. At its best, psychotherapy is a rewarding, productive, and at times, fun experience."
Madison Murphy is an experienced clinician who prioritizes creating an open, safe environment while empowering clients on their therapeutic journeys. Madison takes a strengths-based approach while primarily utilizing CBT, DBT, and mindfulness skills.
Madison Murphy is an experienced clinician who prioritizes creating an open, safe environment while empowering clients on their therapeutic journeys. Madison takes a strengths-based approach while primarily utilizing CBT, DBT, and mindfulness skills.
I love supporting and empowering clients to care for their whole selves as they reach their wellness goals. Through compassionate reflection on relationships with self, family, friends, and society, I work with clients to heal patterns of self-talk and behavior that can make us feel stuck and overwhelmed. I specialize in anxiety, depression, and trauma and have served diverse clients of all races, genders, and sexual orientations. As a mixed race Korean-American who has worked domestically and abroad, I also welcome the opportunity to work with clients facing challenges related to culture, identity, and intergenerational issues.
I love supporting and empowering clients to care for their whole selves as they reach their wellness goals. Through compassionate reflection on relationships with self, family, friends, and society, I work with clients to heal patterns of self-talk and behavior that can make us feel stuck and overwhelmed. I specialize in anxiety, depression, and trauma and have served diverse clients of all races, genders, and sexual orientations. As a mixed race Korean-American who has worked domestically and abroad, I also welcome the opportunity to work with clients facing challenges related to culture, identity, and intergenerational issues.
The Meltzer Center–located at GWU near Foggy Bottom–GWU Metro–provides low-fee therapy and assessments to children, teens, and adults in the Washington, DC area. As a training clinic, services are provided by clinical psychology doctoral students under close supervision of licensed clinicians, with care tailored to each person’s needs. We provide comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological evaluations for children, teen and adults. Assessment referrals may include ADHD/attention, learning differences (reading, writing, math), test anxiety, entrance testing (school admissions), and IQ/achievement (placement, giftedness).
The Meltzer Center–located at GWU near Foggy Bottom–GWU Metro–provides low-fee therapy and assessments to children, teens, and adults in the Washington, DC area. As a training clinic, services are provided by clinical psychology doctoral students under close supervision of licensed clinicians, with care tailored to each person’s needs. We provide comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological evaluations for children, teen and adults. Assessment referrals may include ADHD/attention, learning differences (reading, writing, math), test anxiety, entrance testing (school admissions), and IQ/achievement (placement, giftedness).
Hi, I'm Elsa Mendez, a bilingual Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) based in DC and the DMV region. My aim is to create a safe, supportive, and culturally responsive environment where you can heal and grow. If you are having issues with anxiety or feeling kind of down, we can work on how to address those feelings in healthier ways. I want to help you navigate the challenges of managing everyday stressors in today’s world or maybe stressors from the past that effect you today.
Hi, I'm Elsa Mendez, a bilingual Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) based in DC and the DMV region. My aim is to create a safe, supportive, and culturally responsive environment where you can heal and grow. If you are having issues with anxiety or feeling kind of down, we can work on how to address those feelings in healthier ways. I want to help you navigate the challenges of managing everyday stressors in today’s world or maybe stressors from the past that effect you today.
Infinite Zen Holistic
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ABS, LICSW, LCSW-S, CCATP, CST
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Is your relationship experiencing frequent conflict/arguing, issues with sex and intimacy or differences in sexual desire? Let's work together! I am a sex-positive, non-monogamous, BDSM/KINK, LGBTQIA+ affirming relationship therapist. Perhaps you want to improve intimacy, or maybe you're unsure about the future of your relationship. An important aspect of therapy is examining our inner world, relationships, thoughts and feelings in a safe non-judgmental space. Using an integrative approach, I aim to create a positive therapeutic relationship that promotes healing with compassionate self-exploration. IFS therapist. Let's Chat!
Is your relationship experiencing frequent conflict/arguing, issues with sex and intimacy or differences in sexual desire? Let's work together! I am a sex-positive, non-monogamous, BDSM/KINK, LGBTQIA+ affirming relationship therapist. Perhaps you want to improve intimacy, or maybe you're unsure about the future of your relationship. An important aspect of therapy is examining our inner world, relationships, thoughts and feelings in a safe non-judgmental space. Using an integrative approach, I aim to create a positive therapeutic relationship that promotes healing with compassionate self-exploration. IFS therapist. Let's Chat!
Accepting PCIT referrals! Dr. Renee DeBoard-Lucas is a licensed psychologist with over 15 years of experience treating trauma and anxiety in children, teens, and adults. She is passionate about using evidence based treatments because these treatments work and instill hope that people can get better! She is certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and is trained in Prolonged Exposure therapy. Dr. DeBoard-Lucas provides Exposure and Response Prevention and Habit Reversal Training for OCD & Tic Disorders. Dr. DeBoard-Lucas currently has openings for PCIT, for children age 2-7 years with behavioral concerns.
Accepting PCIT referrals! Dr. Renee DeBoard-Lucas is a licensed psychologist with over 15 years of experience treating trauma and anxiety in children, teens, and adults. She is passionate about using evidence based treatments because these treatments work and instill hope that people can get better! She is certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and is trained in Prolonged Exposure therapy. Dr. DeBoard-Lucas provides Exposure and Response Prevention and Habit Reversal Training for OCD & Tic Disorders. Dr. DeBoard-Lucas currently has openings for PCIT, for children age 2-7 years with behavioral concerns.
As a compassionate and engaging therapist, I provide a culturally responsive space where you can feel seen and empowered. My collaborative approach is rooted in person-centered therapy and incorporates mindfulness, trauma-informed care, and cognitive-behavioral techniques to address anxiety, depression, identity exploration, life transitions, and relationship challenges.
As a compassionate and engaging therapist, I provide a culturally responsive space where you can feel seen and empowered. My collaborative approach is rooted in person-centered therapy and incorporates mindfulness, trauma-informed care, and cognitive-behavioral techniques to address anxiety, depression, identity exploration, life transitions, and relationship challenges.
Relationships are HARD! I offer a safe and supportive space to explore the underlying patterns affecting your relationship. You and your partner may want to create a deeper, more secure bond and need the tools to overcome recurring conflicts. Maybe you are struggling with communication or feeling emotionally disconnected from your partner. Together, I can help you better understand each other’s needs and learn healthier ways to respond. Whether you’re navigating conflict, rebuilding trust, or simply seeking closer connection, I can help you strengthen your partnership so that both of you feel heard, valued, and supported!
Relationships are HARD! I offer a safe and supportive space to explore the underlying patterns affecting your relationship. You and your partner may want to create a deeper, more secure bond and need the tools to overcome recurring conflicts. Maybe you are struggling with communication or feeling emotionally disconnected from your partner. Together, I can help you better understand each other’s needs and learn healthier ways to respond. Whether you’re navigating conflict, rebuilding trust, or simply seeking closer connection, I can help you strengthen your partnership so that both of you feel heard, valued, and supported!
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who works with adults and older adolescents seeking a deeper understanding of themselves and lasting emotional change. I work from a psychoanalytic perspective, which is grounded in the belief that our early relationships and unconscious patterns shape how we experience the present. I work with people navigating anxiety, depression, identity questions, relationship difficulties, and experiences of trauma. I welcome individuals of all backgrounds and identities and strive to be culturally sensitive in my work as a therapist.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who works with adults and older adolescents seeking a deeper understanding of themselves and lasting emotional change. I work from a psychoanalytic perspective, which is grounded in the belief that our early relationships and unconscious patterns shape how we experience the present. I work with people navigating anxiety, depression, identity questions, relationship difficulties, and experiences of trauma. I welcome individuals of all backgrounds and identities and strive to be culturally sensitive in my work as a therapist.
I work with a wide variety of clients in individual, couples, group and consultation formats.I provide a relationship that promotes respectful, direct expression of our unique human frailties and strengths be they happy, angry, fearful or sad. Psychotherapy is a potent elixir for change. The 'contents' of life provides for each of us at times a 'wild-ride', a 'lazy day', or somewhere in between. I help my clients with the 'process' of life to stay connected with their Self and others. If all goes well in the individual or couples therapy, most of my clients matriculate into a group psychotherapy process to further their growth.
I work with a wide variety of clients in individual, couples, group and consultation formats.I provide a relationship that promotes respectful, direct expression of our unique human frailties and strengths be they happy, angry, fearful or sad. Psychotherapy is a potent elixir for change. The 'contents' of life provides for each of us at times a 'wild-ride', a 'lazy day', or somewhere in between. I help my clients with the 'process' of life to stay connected with their Self and others. If all goes well in the individual or couples therapy, most of my clients matriculate into a group psychotherapy process to further their growth.
From a base of acceptance of your whole self, I work together with you to identify your potential and strengths, knowing how capable you already are. I come alongside you to reach your goals, and to live a whole and fulfilling life with deep, meaningful relationships. I approach therapy as a collaborative effort between you and me to create goals, gain new skills, and overcome challenges. I work to empower you with compassionate listening, psychoeducation and tools, and empowerment (listening to your voice and planning how to confidently express it) - I have complete confidence in you to direct your life and reach a place of joy!
From a base of acceptance of your whole self, I work together with you to identify your potential and strengths, knowing how capable you already are. I come alongside you to reach your goals, and to live a whole and fulfilling life with deep, meaningful relationships. I approach therapy as a collaborative effort between you and me to create goals, gain new skills, and overcome challenges. I work to empower you with compassionate listening, psychoeducation and tools, and empowerment (listening to your voice and planning how to confidently express it) - I have complete confidence in you to direct your life and reach a place of joy!
My therapy practice is ideal for children and adults wanting support and guidance as they navigate general life stressors. I work with neurotypical, neurodivergent, and LGBTQ+ clients alike who are wrestling with clinical concerns as well, including depressive symptoms, anxiety, and executive functioning differences. Clients struggling to build self-confidence, develop their identity, achieve consistency in pursuit of their goals, and manage their emotional wellness are met with compassion, patience, solutions, and integrated strategies backed by research. Contact me for more information about in-person neuropsychological testing.
My therapy practice is ideal for children and adults wanting support and guidance as they navigate general life stressors. I work with neurotypical, neurodivergent, and LGBTQ+ clients alike who are wrestling with clinical concerns as well, including depressive symptoms, anxiety, and executive functioning differences. Clients struggling to build self-confidence, develop their identity, achieve consistency in pursuit of their goals, and manage their emotional wellness are met with compassion, patience, solutions, and integrated strategies backed by research. Contact me for more information about in-person neuropsychological testing.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Washington, DC, I have over eight years of experience working with children, adults, and families. I believe every person has the potential to rediscover themselves, achieve their full potential, and create a life that feels meaningful and authentic. My role as a therapist is to provide a supportive, nonjudgmental environment where you feel empowered to explore your emotions, challenges, and aspirations.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Washington, DC, I have over eight years of experience working with children, adults, and families. I believe every person has the potential to rediscover themselves, achieve their full potential, and create a life that feels meaningful and authentic. My role as a therapist is to provide a supportive, nonjudgmental environment where you feel empowered to explore your emotions, challenges, and aspirations.
One of the initial reasons I wanted to specialize in working with people with OCD is that there are effective, evidence-based treatments for the disorder. This meant I knew I would be working with people who truly had the opportunity to have relief and freedom from their OCD. After working with this population for years I can truly say I feel lucky every single day to work with people with OCD. My patients are smart, driven, funny, caring, and creative. For me, having the opportunity to help these people live their best lives is nothing short of a privilege.
One of the initial reasons I wanted to specialize in working with people with OCD is that there are effective, evidence-based treatments for the disorder. This meant I knew I would be working with people who truly had the opportunity to have relief and freedom from their OCD. After working with this population for years I can truly say I feel lucky every single day to work with people with OCD. My patients are smart, driven, funny, caring, and creative. For me, having the opportunity to help these people live their best lives is nothing short of a privilege.
In Washington, DC, many religious trauma survivors quietly carry the weight of pressure woven into family life and faith communities. Some grew up in local churches where scripture was used as a tool of control, often by mothers or parental figures meant to nurture them. Others found themselves in high-demand groups or cultic systems tied to the city’s many religious institutions. The Beyond Belief Alliance is for survivors of mother-induced childhood religious trauma and coercive faith settings who want more than survival. They want to heal, reclaim their voice, and define for themselves what God, family, and belonging mean.
In Washington, DC, many religious trauma survivors quietly carry the weight of pressure woven into family life and faith communities. Some grew up in local churches where scripture was used as a tool of control, often by mothers or parental figures meant to nurture them. Others found themselves in high-demand groups or cultic systems tied to the city’s many religious institutions. The Beyond Belief Alliance is for survivors of mother-induced childhood religious trauma and coercive faith settings who want more than survival. They want to heal, reclaim their voice, and define for themselves what God, family, and belonging mean.
See more therapy options for Washington
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Washington, DC
3,000+
Average cost per session
$185
Therapists in Washington, DC who prioritize treating:
| 93% | Anxiety |
| 87% | Depression |
| 79% | Relationship Issues |
| 74% | Self Esteem |
| 69% | Stress |
| 67% | Trauma and PTSD |
| 66% | Life Transitions |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 66% | Aetna |
| 63% | Cigna and Evernorth |
| 61% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Therapists in Washington, DC see their clients
| 50% | In Person and Online | |
| 50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
| 80% | Female | |
| 18% | Male | |
| 2% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Washington?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.


