Art Therapy in Capitol Hill, Washington, DC
Dona Paknejad
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, EMDR
1 Endorsed
Capitol Hill, Washington, DC 20003
We offer CBT / Solution Focused / EMDR / Art Therapy / LGBTQ Affirming / Marriage and Family Therapy / Substance Abuse Counseling
Ms. Paknejad has been practicing in the Washington, D.C. area for fifteen years, focusing on supportive services that integrate cultural sensitivity, physical, and psychological support. Ms. Paknejad has extensive experience working with domestic and international families living and working in the DC/MD/VA area, including addressing changes in mood and overall functioning plus focusing on issues and stressors around assimilation and acculturation due to changes in one's personal and professional settings. Through the use multi-modality techniques, Ms. Paknejad's clients are able to achieve measurable improvements.
We offer CBT / Solution Focused / EMDR / Art Therapy / LGBTQ Affirming / Marriage and Family Therapy / Substance Abuse Counseling
Ms. Paknejad has been practicing in the Washington, D.C. area for fifteen years, focusing on supportive services that integrate cultural sensitivity, physical, and psychological support. Ms. Paknejad has extensive experience working with domestic and international families living and working in the DC/MD/VA area, including addressing changes in mood and overall functioning plus focusing on issues and stressors around assimilation and acculturation due to changes in one's personal and professional settings. Through the use multi-modality techniques, Ms. Paknejad's clients are able to achieve measurable improvements.
SMYAL's LGBTQ+ Clinical Therapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Capitol Hill, Washington, DC 20003
SMYAL’s mental health counseling services offer FREE therapy and provides a safe and inclusive space for you to explore your emotions and experiences. We know that finding a therapist who understands you and your community can be frustrating, expensive, and nerve-wracking. At SMYAL, we’re working to remove these barriers. Our team of therapists are well-versed in the challenges that LGBTQ+ youth face, and we are here to help you navigate those challenges with confidence and resilience. Whether you’re you’re struggling with self-acceptance, coming out, or dealing with discrimination, SMYAL is here for you!
SMYAL’s mental health counseling services offer FREE therapy and provides a safe and inclusive space for you to explore your emotions and experiences. We know that finding a therapist who understands you and your community can be frustrating, expensive, and nerve-wracking. At SMYAL, we’re working to remove these barriers. Our team of therapists are well-versed in the challenges that LGBTQ+ youth face, and we are here to help you navigate those challenges with confidence and resilience. Whether you’re you’re struggling with self-acceptance, coming out, or dealing with discrimination, SMYAL is here for you!
Kimberly Brammer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR-BC®
2 Endorsed
Capitol Hill, Washington, DC 20003
I have additional experience as an art therapist and that can be explored if you are interested.
I believe that resiliency is in each of us. You may have tried multiple ways to create change for yourself and found it difficulty to break out of unhealthy patterns. These feelings may be affecting your work, relationships, or health. I have worked with many individuals and couples who struggle with creating change long term. Whether you've tried therapy before or this is your first time, deciding to step outside your comfort zone and try something different is the first step to a more fulfilling life.
I have additional experience as an art therapist and that can be explored if you are interested.
I believe that resiliency is in each of us. You may have tried multiple ways to create change for yourself and found it difficulty to break out of unhealthy patterns. These feelings may be affecting your work, relationships, or health. I have worked with many individuals and couples who struggle with creating change long term. Whether you've tried therapy before or this is your first time, deciding to step outside your comfort zone and try something different is the first step to a more fulfilling life.
Virtual therapy & in person Art or Walking Therapy sessions available upon inquiry.
I specialize in two areas: 1) I help working professionals manage chronic anxiety, self-doubt, procrastination, and reduce overthinking to increase professional success. My clients work in politics, health, mental health, law, upper management, business owners, creatives, or PhD/graduate students. 2) Interpersonal stress. Understanding family dynamics, reducing social conflict, improving romantic relationships, and friendships. I work best with high functioning people who are introspective, motivated, and want change in their life.
Virtual therapy & in person Art or Walking Therapy sessions available upon inquiry.
I specialize in two areas: 1) I help working professionals manage chronic anxiety, self-doubt, procrastination, and reduce overthinking to increase professional success. My clients work in politics, health, mental health, law, upper management, business owners, creatives, or PhD/graduate students. 2) Interpersonal stress. Understanding family dynamics, reducing social conflict, improving romantic relationships, and friendships. I work best with high functioning people who are introspective, motivated, and want change in their life.
Here we go again, another day of feeling overwhelmed, on edge, tense in your stomach, aches & pains in your body with intrusive, racing thoughts that feel like they have hijacked your brain. Are you frustrated that you can't seem to reach your goals and dreams in career or relationships despite your best efforts & intentions, like something is blocking you? Feel like you don't fit in, "too sensitive or overly emotional"? Do you absorb the energy around you? Do you want to help others with their pain, yet you neglect your own problems? You are at war with an invisible enemy, tired of watching life go by while you are missing out.
Here we go again, another day of feeling overwhelmed, on edge, tense in your stomach, aches & pains in your body with intrusive, racing thoughts that feel like they have hijacked your brain. Are you frustrated that you can't seem to reach your goals and dreams in career or relationships despite your best efforts & intentions, like something is blocking you? Feel like you don't fit in, "too sensitive or overly emotional"? Do you absorb the energy around you? Do you want to help others with their pain, yet you neglect your own problems? You are at war with an invisible enemy, tired of watching life go by while you are missing out.
Restoration 1:99
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, C-DBT, NCC
Capitol Hill, Washington, DC 20002
Because we know that trauma lodges itself somewhere in the body, R1:99 offers sensorimotor and expressive therapies such as art, music, drama, and movement in addition to psychotherapy.
We have therapist in DC, MD, and VA ready to walk alongside you on your journey to wholeness from complex trauma. Our therapist are trained in a variety of modalities such as EMDR, DBT, sensorimotor, and expressive therapies that will give you the tools so that you can experience life to its fullest.
Because we know that trauma lodges itself somewhere in the body, R1:99 offers sensorimotor and expressive therapies such as art, music, drama, and movement in addition to psychotherapy.
We have therapist in DC, MD, and VA ready to walk alongside you on your journey to wholeness from complex trauma. Our therapist are trained in a variety of modalities such as EMDR, DBT, sensorimotor, and expressive therapies that will give you the tools so that you can experience life to its fullest.
My approaches to therapy include art therapy, psychoeducation, person-centered, CBT faith, strengths-based, compassion focused, & solution focused.
As an Asian, Christian mom of two kids, living with ADHD from Northern VA I have experienced life in both the big cities and small suburbs. I’ve navigated the challenging expectations stemming from diverse cultural, generational, and societal influences which taught me that being confined by limiting beliefs and labels can create a narrative that leads to distress and isolation. I believe that curiosity, compassion and creativity with a bit of humor in a safe space foster both acceptance and commitment toward meaningful growth. My natural passions led me to using observation, learning from failure, and using imagery for healing.
My approaches to therapy include art therapy, psychoeducation, person-centered, CBT faith, strengths-based, compassion focused, & solution focused.
As an Asian, Christian mom of two kids, living with ADHD from Northern VA I have experienced life in both the big cities and small suburbs. I’ve navigated the challenging expectations stemming from diverse cultural, generational, and societal influences which taught me that being confined by limiting beliefs and labels can create a narrative that leads to distress and isolation. I believe that curiosity, compassion and creativity with a bit of humor in a safe space foster both acceptance and commitment toward meaningful growth. My natural passions led me to using observation, learning from failure, and using imagery for healing.
Beginning therapy can feel like a big step, but it’s often the first toward meaningful insight and lasting personal growth. We understand that therapy is not a one-size-fits-all process. Our approach is tailored to you—whether you’re working through past experiences, navigating present challenges, or seeking greater balance in your life. You don’t have to do it alone.
Our goal is to create a safe, supportive, and compassionate environment where you feel comfortable sharing openly and working toward change.
Beginning therapy can feel like a big step, but it’s often the first toward meaningful insight and lasting personal growth. We understand that therapy is not a one-size-fits-all process. Our approach is tailored to you—whether you’re working through past experiences, navigating present challenges, or seeking greater balance in your life. You don’t have to do it alone.
Our goal is to create a safe, supportive, and compassionate environment where you feel comfortable sharing openly and working toward change.
You may hear about body spa, but have you heard about "mind spa"? I will change your perspective in therapy and you will find the therapy is not just talk about your problem. I am experienced in assisting clients to reach their self-realization and help them find peace of their minds again. Yes! That's why we called it's a "mind spa"!
I am a person-centered therapist who use holistic approach as my goal is to empower and motivate clients. I draw a variety of modalities (CBT, mindfulness, and Ericksonian hypnosis) to meet clients' needs.
You may hear about body spa, but have you heard about "mind spa"? I will change your perspective in therapy and you will find the therapy is not just talk about your problem. I am experienced in assisting clients to reach their self-realization and help them find peace of their minds again. Yes! That's why we called it's a "mind spa"!
I am a person-centered therapist who use holistic approach as my goal is to empower and motivate clients. I draw a variety of modalities (CBT, mindfulness, and Ericksonian hypnosis) to meet clients' needs.
I am trained in anti-oppressive, trauma-informed therapy and yoga, which supports my holistic approach to care, integrating mindfulness, somatic embodiment, and spirituality. My work centers queer people of color and adult children of immigrants through grief, intergenerational and attachment trauma, and cultural identity exploration.
I am trained in anti-oppressive, trauma-informed therapy and yoga, which supports my holistic approach to care, integrating mindfulness, somatic embodiment, and spirituality. My work centers queer people of color and adult children of immigrants through grief, intergenerational and attachment trauma, and cultural identity exploration.
Thus, I often find great value in utilizing expressive and/or sensorimotor interventions (for example: art interventions, sandtray, writing, play therapy
Being trauma-informed is a cornerstone of my therapeutic approach and presence, which for you would feel like an approach that considers “what has happened to you/what have you experienced?" rather than "what is wrong with you?" I actively recognize your strengths you have built to make life work up until this point.
Thus, I often find great value in utilizing expressive and/or sensorimotor interventions (for example: art interventions, sandtray, writing, play therapy
Being trauma-informed is a cornerstone of my therapeutic approach and presence, which for you would feel like an approach that considers “what has happened to you/what have you experienced?" rather than "what is wrong with you?" I actively recognize your strengths you have built to make life work up until this point.
I specialize in supporting clients in navigating transition and change while developing coping strategies for managing anxiety, stress triggers, new health diagnosis, interpersonal conflict, and relationship management.
I specialize in supporting clients in navigating transition and change while developing coping strategies for managing anxiety, stress triggers, new health diagnosis, interpersonal conflict, and relationship management.
Accepting New Patients - Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or major life transitions? Do these challenges feel like they’re holding you back from the life you want? At TrueYou Center, we provide compassionate, personalized care to help you find balance and move forward with confidence. You don't have to navigate life's toughest challenges alone. Our compassionate therapists will help you find clarity and build resilience. We offer a safe, nonjudgmental space. We will help you unpack the experiences that brought you to this moment and support you in creating the life you want..
Accepting New Patients - Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or major life transitions? Do these challenges feel like they’re holding you back from the life you want? At TrueYou Center, we provide compassionate, personalized care to help you find balance and move forward with confidence. You don't have to navigate life's toughest challenges alone. Our compassionate therapists will help you find clarity and build resilience. We offer a safe, nonjudgmental space. We will help you unpack the experiences that brought you to this moment and support you in creating the life you want..
Many first-time therapy clients are looking for answers as to why they struggle with everyday life experiences that most others "seem" to easily handle. With 20 years of experience, I am skilled at addressing an individual's therapeutic needs using the field's gold standard in treatment. I have enjoyed working with young adults on managing, minimizing, and even eliminating their symptoms when it comes to the full spectrum of anxiety disorders. In recent years, I've obtained certifications in treating ADHD, Autism, OCD, addiction, and CPTSD (complex trauma), as these are very often underlying anxiety and relational challenges.
Many first-time therapy clients are looking for answers as to why they struggle with everyday life experiences that most others "seem" to easily handle. With 20 years of experience, I am skilled at addressing an individual's therapeutic needs using the field's gold standard in treatment. I have enjoyed working with young adults on managing, minimizing, and even eliminating their symptoms when it comes to the full spectrum of anxiety disorders. In recent years, I've obtained certifications in treating ADHD, Autism, OCD, addiction, and CPTSD (complex trauma), as these are very often underlying anxiety and relational challenges.
Life is full of transitions—some chosen, others unexpected—and I’m passionate about supporting people through these in-between spaces. Whether you're moving through grief, betrayal, life changes, or cultural identity shifts, I offer a grounded, compassionate presence.
My specialty areas include trauma healing, anxiety and depression, intimacy and betrayal, kink and alternative lifestyles, LGBTQ+, love and sex addiction, and family and relationship conflict. I welcome the unique qualities that make up each individual and believe that these qualities are strengths that can be honed to navigate life in a healthy, manageable way.
Life is full of transitions—some chosen, others unexpected—and I’m passionate about supporting people through these in-between spaces. Whether you're moving through grief, betrayal, life changes, or cultural identity shifts, I offer a grounded, compassionate presence.
My specialty areas include trauma healing, anxiety and depression, intimacy and betrayal, kink and alternative lifestyles, LGBTQ+, love and sex addiction, and family and relationship conflict. I welcome the unique qualities that make up each individual and believe that these qualities are strengths that can be honed to navigate life in a healthy, manageable way.
Limitless Possibilities provide clients the respect, privacy, and confidentiality that every human being deserves. We seek to create a safe and nurturing environment, free of judgment and criticism. We provide a safe atmosphere where one can search within themselves to find answers through greater self-awareness and self-directed growth.The goal is to empower our clients to work towards improving their decision-making skills and practices through reflection, targeted insight, and strategic goal setting. We are excited to assist our clients with taking the next steps in finding their way towards healing, and peace.
Limitless Possibilities provide clients the respect, privacy, and confidentiality that every human being deserves. We seek to create a safe and nurturing environment, free of judgment and criticism. We provide a safe atmosphere where one can search within themselves to find answers through greater self-awareness and self-directed growth.The goal is to empower our clients to work towards improving their decision-making skills and practices through reflection, targeted insight, and strategic goal setting. We are excited to assist our clients with taking the next steps in finding their way towards healing, and peace.
Kristin Pillay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MEd, LCSW-C
2 Endorsed
Capitol Hill, Washington, DC 20003
Waitlist for new clients
Our creative therapeutic interventions utilize movement, mindfulness, play, art, and a therapy dog-all there to meet kids and adolescents where they are.
I have extensive experience working with kids, adolescents, and families and use a strengths based approach to meet children where they are. You can show up now and be seen, known, and valued at our new office. As a former school counselor, I know that children have varying school experiences and show up with you to build community, partner with you, and to meet each child where they are. I am curious, not all knowing, and consider the impact of words and actions. Our creative therapeutic interventions to support and to increase self understanding for kids across developmental stages.
Our creative therapeutic interventions utilize movement, mindfulness, play, art, and a therapy dog-all there to meet kids and adolescents where they are.
I have extensive experience working with kids, adolescents, and families and use a strengths based approach to meet children where they are. You can show up now and be seen, known, and valued at our new office. As a former school counselor, I know that children have varying school experiences and show up with you to build community, partner with you, and to meet each child where they are. I am curious, not all knowing, and consider the impact of words and actions. Our creative therapeutic interventions to support and to increase self understanding for kids across developmental stages.
Hello hello! I'm Gabbey :)
I am honored to walk alongside my clients, seeking to help them feel more grounded, connected, and understood. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults across both inpatient and outpatient settings. These experiences strengthened my passion for helping individuals navigate life’s challenges. While I enjoy working with clients across the lifespan, I am especially passionate about supporting adults navigating depression, anxiety, grief and loss, life transitions, LGBTQ+ identities, and immigration and first-generation experiences.
Hello hello! I'm Gabbey :)
I am honored to walk alongside my clients, seeking to help them feel more grounded, connected, and understood. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults across both inpatient and outpatient settings. These experiences strengthened my passion for helping individuals navigate life’s challenges. While I enjoy working with clients across the lifespan, I am especially passionate about supporting adults navigating depression, anxiety, grief and loss, life transitions, LGBTQ+ identities, and immigration and first-generation experiences.
Let's graciously work through these challenges using a variety of approaches including art therapy, psychoeducation, person-centered cognitive behavioral therapy, faith, strengths-based therapy, compassion-focused therapy, and solution-focused therapy.
The journey to ourselves can look like a lot of things. Using authenticity, creativity, introspective investigation and a safe space to explore, I can help you navigate the path - sometimes leading, walking besides, or following behind. No art experience necessary for art therapy- just openness to express and explore.
Let's graciously work through these challenges using a variety of approaches including art therapy, psychoeducation, person-centered cognitive behavioral therapy, faith, strengths-based therapy, compassion-focused therapy, and solution-focused therapy.
The journey to ourselves can look like a lot of things. Using authenticity, creativity, introspective investigation and a safe space to explore, I can help you navigate the path - sometimes leading, walking besides, or following behind. No art experience necessary for art therapy- just openness to express and explore.
Welcome! My name is Shiann, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC.
I specialize in working with adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and major life transitions. I also have a clinical focus on supporting Black mental health, understanding attachment patterns, and addressing the unique needs of high-achievers striving to balance success with overall well-being.
Welcome! My name is Shiann, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC.
I specialize in working with adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and major life transitions. I also have a clinical focus on supporting Black mental health, understanding attachment patterns, and addressing the unique needs of high-achievers striving to balance success with overall well-being.
See more therapy options for Capitol Hill, Washington
Nearby Art Therapy Searches for Capitol Hill, Washington
See More Art TherapyNearby Searches for Capitol Hill, Washington
- Chinatown
- Downtown
- H Street Corridor
- Kingman Park
- Mount Vernon Square
- NoMa
- Penn Quarter
- South West
- Stadium-Armory
- Trinidad
- Waterfront
Art Therapy
How does art therapy work?
The process of making art allows people to express themselves. Art-making can take many forms, such as painting, collage, or sculpting. The therapist asks questions that the work elicits, such as how the person felt while creating their piece, or if any memories surfaced that they can discuss. The therapist will then work with the patient to process their experience, understand themselves better, and work toward change.
Does art therapy help with trauma?
Art therapy can be a valuable treatment option for those suffering from trauma. Traumatic experiences such as combat, rape, or childhood abuse can be so painful that articulating them can be too scary or painful; creating art allows people to express themselves without words, and tell their story in a different way. The physical nature of creating art can also help people feel rooted in the body, which may benefit those who feel disconnected from their body in the aftermath of trauma.
How long does art therapy last?
The duration of art therapy varies, but a common length for treatment is 10 to 15 weekly sessions. Some people may see improvement in just a few weeks, while others may choose to remain in therapy longer term. Patients should periodically discuss their goals with their therapist to make sure the two are aligned on process and progress.
What are the limitations of art therapy?
Art therapy is helpful for many people, but a limitation is that it doesn’t have as robust an evidence base as other forms of therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy or acceptance and commitment therapy. The evidence on art therapy is mixed; some research demonstrates its benefits, while other research suggests that it has little impact on patients.

