Therapists in Au-Tenleytown, Washington, DC

I am a health psychologist with expertise in the treatment of chronic fear/anxiety and health conditions (pain, substance use, etc.) I have extensive research experience (95 scientific articles and book chapters; National Institutes of Health funding) which I draw upon to provide innovative and up-to-date psychological care. My practice is rooted in scientific evidence of what works, and I stay informed on the latest treatment advancements. My goal is not for you to be in therapy forever. I want to help you learn tools so that you become your own therapist. You cannot redo your past; you can make changes now for a better future.

People seek therapy when they are unhappy with how they are feeling or functioning. Sometimes you can identify the experiences connected to your suffering. Other times, the reasons for suffering are more elusive, but the associated symptoms (depression, anxiety, unfulfilling relationships, for example) are nevertheless extremely distressing. In both cases, talking to understand the deeper reasons for suffering can help. The self-awareness you discover this way is the most powerful tool to create a more fulfilling life. It can take time to build the trust required to talk and think in a freer way.

I help parents who are struggling with challenges with their young child (0-6 years) around any number of issues, including: sleep, feeding, potty learning, cooperation, getting through daily routines, discipline, challenges functioning in a group setting, developing positive peer relationships, learning to develop self-regulation, and managing sibling rivalry. I help parents understand what makes their child tick and how to meet their needs, especially when it comes to how to discipline using positive, not punitive approaches.

I specialize in working with depression, interpersonal relationships, parenting concerns, the motherhood transition, college transitions, loss and grief. I help clients think through strategies to enable them to better navigate transitions and the difficult circumstances they encounter. I also work with individuals to identify and interrupt patterns that are preventing them from succeeding, building and maintaining satisfying relationships and experiencing happiness. It is my experience that working hard in therapy, with honesty and openness, can lead to lower stress, better relationships and rewarding changes in your life.

In psychotherapy, the therapist and client commit to work together to facilitate change. My goal is to provide a safe and nonjudgmental space as we focus on issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, adjustment, sexual identity/LGBTQ concerns, and traditional/non-traditional relationships. My approach to therapy is both holistic and mindful. I view the client as a whole, focusing on the need to bring the mind, body, and spirit into harmony while each element plays a role in healing and the creation of change.

Thank you for visiting my profile page on Psychology Today! It takes strength and courage for you to reach out for help. You took the first step. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who is National Board Certified in Counseling. I provide a safe and supportive environment for you to explore challenges that are present in your life. You may be dealing with loneliness, inner-conflict, anxiety, depression, sadness, grief, anger, or other feelings that come along when dealing with life transitions and I can help you. Whatever the feelings are, I can help you with processing your emotions and guiding you through living a more authentic life. The therapeutic relationship is an opportunity for you to build the blocks you need to get through whatever problems you are encountering and envisioning and seeing hope that will help you live a more prosperous life.

I take a serious approach to serious problems. Behaviors you've tried to stop, such as anger outbursts, self-criticism, and self-doubt, damage your life, work, and relationships. My therapy approach is collaborative, interactive, and intensive. As a partnership, we work to get to the root of the problem and give you relief as quickly as possible. We use your strengths to heal the broken parts and achieve the goals you identify, in an atmosphere of safety and acceptance in which you can be yourself without fear of shame, blame, or judgment. Take charge of your life -- contact me today!

I believe healthy, trusting, connected relationships are the cornerstones of strong mental strength. Whether you’re coming in for couples counseling or individual therapy, I approach everything from a relational lens. When you feel fulfilled and empowered in your interpersonal relationships, you’re better equipped to handle the many stressors life presents.

I work with adults struggling with relationship issues, addiction, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Many of my clients are high performers who have become successful despite a difficult childhood. If you are curious how therapy can help you reduce your suffering, improve your relationships, and help you heal from past traumas, I encourage you to reach out for a free consultation. I use elements of EMDR therapy in my approach. I am kink allied and sex positive. I invite you to come as you are. I will respect, support, and encourage you during our time in therapy.

My ideal clients are adolescents or young adults who need a safe place to explore issues relating to school, family, relationships, anxiety and depression, including gender identity. They may be dealing with high school or college stressors that are impacting their ability to function successfully. They want to be better equipped to manage the challenges that are disrupting their ability to have a satisfying personal/family life.

Overwhelmed?? Looking for a compassionate and experienced practitioner whose focus is on practical and creative solutions to life's everyday work/life problems? Whether your issues are personal or professional, large or small, unique or universal, I can make a thorough assessment based on your individual needs and through an integrative and collaborative approach bring you to a higher level of self regulation, empowerment and awareness.

I am passionate about the work I do to assist individuals and couples to become the best versions of themselves. After 20 plus years, I believe difficult relationships can become better, I believe people who are feeling stuck can achieve forward momentum, and I believe learning and gaining knowledge about human behavior can improve self worth and improve all important relationships. With my extensive knowledge about the brain, I love teaching people to achieve sustainable change, and develop an in depth understanding of themselves that assists them in becoming happier and more productive.

“The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction not a destination.” Do you find yourself wondering what you can do to feel better—less anxious, more confident, even happy? It seems like you’ve tried everything but nothing seems to work, at least not for very long. You may be able to support others yet you fall short on supporting yourself. You no longer feel like yourself and worry that it could get worse. Imagine what it would feel like not to constantly worry and to be confident in your ability to handle challenging situations. Therapy is a step in practicing self-awareness and self-care.

​Trauma does not discriminate. It can happen to anyone no matter their circumstances. Fortunately, there are also treatments that can help. In my 18+ years of experience, I have born witness to the incredible resilience of individuals who have experienced trauma and firmly believe that recovery is possible. I have expertise in working with survivors of all forms of trauma including (but not limited to) service members, veterans, journalists (awarded certificate through JTSN), childhood abuse, chronic invalidation, developmental trauma, intergenerational trauma, race-based trauma, and interpersonal violence.

"Lives, hopes and dreams can be actualized." My approach is open minded and non-judgmental, embracing individuality and strength while assisting the development of understanding and acceptance. In my 33 years of experience providing psychotherapy, I have developed expertise in individualized treatment of anxiety, depression, mood disorders, substance use and trauma. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectic Behavioral Therapy. Working with young adults and adults, I offer individualized specialized therapy. Treatment offered targets understanding and management of emotions, surviving and managing crisis, being present and mindful, interpersonal effectiveness, and learning to think and behave in ways that enhance life and building a better future.

My work as a clinical social worker has taught me that thoughtful and compassionate reflection through therapy can help individuals grow and change. We all have blind spots and obstacles in our lives, and a warm, understanding, and non-biased perspective can be immensely helpful. Therapy can be a powerful tool in relieving distress, learning about oneself, and living a more fulfilled life. My approach is warm and inviting, and I prioritize building strong connections with my clients. I pair the process of building relationships with learning and internalizing new skills to help clients live a more meaningful and fulfilled life.