Anxiety Therapists in Washington, DC

Photo of Michelle Marsh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Michelle Marsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Online Only
I serve individuals who are experiencing Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Grief, and Loss, Romantic relationships, Career issues, Anger Management, LGBTQIA+ identity.
My approach is short-term solution-focused and is implemented with respect and compassion. I utilize a cognitive behavioral modal with a behavioral activation component along with a body-mind-soul integrative approach that speaks to the whole person. CBT is an evidence-based therapy that helps people understand the relationships among their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors as well as identify and change patterns of thoughts and behaviors that may not be helpful. It is solution-focused and helps people to quickly achieve desired changes and live a more satisfying life.
I serve individuals who are experiencing Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Grief, and Loss, Romantic relationships, Career issues, Anger Management, LGBTQIA+ identity.
My approach is short-term solution-focused and is implemented with respect and compassion. I utilize a cognitive behavioral modal with a behavioral activation component along with a body-mind-soul integrative approach that speaks to the whole person. CBT is an evidence-based therapy that helps people understand the relationships among their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors as well as identify and change patterns of thoughts and behaviors that may not be helpful. It is solution-focused and helps people to quickly achieve desired changes and live a more satisfying life.
(888) 983-6281 View (888) 983-6281
Photo of Krystin Harper, Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Krystin Harper
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Online Only
I offer both individual and couples therapy and have a special interest in anxiety, parenthood, relationships, women's health, and life transitions.
Together, with kindness and a bit of humor, I will help you sort through the messiness of life, empower your resilience, and find light in dark times. The process begins with exploring your own story – what brought you to this point, how you see yourself in the world, and the thought patterns that create your internal narrative. I believe that self-compassion provides the foundation for growth and strive to help you find comfort in being your authentic self and the "you" that you want to be.
I offer both individual and couples therapy and have a special interest in anxiety, parenthood, relationships, women's health, and life transitions.
Together, with kindness and a bit of humor, I will help you sort through the messiness of life, empower your resilience, and find light in dark times. The process begins with exploring your own story – what brought you to this point, how you see yourself in the world, and the thought patterns that create your internal narrative. I believe that self-compassion provides the foundation for growth and strive to help you find comfort in being your authentic self and the "you" that you want to be.
(202) 866-5172 x2 View (202) 866-5172 x2
Photo of James U. DeFrancis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
James U. DeFrancis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
In today’s stressful and uncertain world, each of us can experience challenges with depression, anxiety, major life transitions, and trauma.
My clinical interests include depression, anxiety, major life transitions, relationships, drug and alcohol addiction, trauma and PTSD, recovery from religious-based trauma, and coming out as LGBTQIA. I take a collaborative approach to therapy, empowering my clients to identify their own goals and develop concrete skills to achieve them.
In today’s stressful and uncertain world, each of us can experience challenges with depression, anxiety, major life transitions, and trauma.
My clinical interests include depression, anxiety, major life transitions, relationships, drug and alcohol addiction, trauma and PTSD, recovery from religious-based trauma, and coming out as LGBTQIA. I take a collaborative approach to therapy, empowering my clients to identify their own goals and develop concrete skills to achieve them.
(202) 873-9292 View (202) 873-9292
Photo of Aprille Frett, Psychologist, PsyD
Aprille Frett
Psychologist, PsyD
7 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Because if you’re honest, feelings of frustration, loneliness, and anxiety are setting in and you’re in need of some support.
Let’s be honest and talk about why you’re here… On the outside, everything is in its place and yet, something still feels off. Maybe you’re emotionally exhausted from constantly pouring into others and struggling to maintain healthy boundaries or asserting your needs. Or perhaps you’re mentally exhausted from overthinking and trying to balance all the moving pieces in your life.
Because if you’re honest, feelings of frustration, loneliness, and anxiety are setting in and you’re in need of some support.
Let’s be honest and talk about why you’re here… On the outside, everything is in its place and yet, something still feels off. Maybe you’re emotionally exhausted from constantly pouring into others and struggling to maintain healthy boundaries or asserting your needs. Or perhaps you’re mentally exhausted from overthinking and trying to balance all the moving pieces in your life.
(202) 519-0581 View (202) 519-0581
Photo of Dr. Jeff J. Rocker, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, NCC, LPC, LMHC
Dr. Jeff J. Rocker
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, NCC, LPC, LMHC
Washington, DC 20006
Rocker works with clients who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, or trauma related to their relationships or family.
With 14 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 25 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.
Rocker works with clients who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, or trauma related to their relationships or family.
With 14 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 25 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 Najiya Shanaa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Najiya Shanaa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Online Only
I have two decades of experience working with people affected by trauma and assault, childhood abuse, PTSD, loss and grief, LGBTQ+ issues, substance abuse, depression, anxiety and other mood disorders.
We all want to feel valued, safe, connected and be loved for our authentic selves. Using a blend of psychodynamic approaches, including Brainspotting if wanted, we will address issues that hold you back. With more self awareness of why you are who you are, you are able to move forward authentically and intentionally - and shape the future that you want.
I have two decades of experience working with people affected by trauma and assault, childhood abuse, PTSD, loss and grief, LGBTQ+ issues, substance abuse, depression, anxiety and other mood disorders.
We all want to feel valued, safe, connected and be loved for our authentic selves. Using a blend of psychodynamic approaches, including Brainspotting if wanted, we will address issues that hold you back. With more self awareness of why you are who you are, you are able to move forward authentically and intentionally - and shape the future that you want.
(202) 915-7827 View (202) 915-7827
Photo of Regina Lawson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Regina Lawson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Online Only
At Thriveworks, we specialize in helping with issues like anxiety, depression, grief/loss, stress, life transitions, and more.
Hello, I am Dr. Regina Lawson, an inclusive, affirming, and accepting Licensed Clinical Therapist in the District of Columbia. I have over 17 years of experience providing individual and family therapy. I am passionate and committed to assisting clients on their path to living their best life. I practice a person-centered approach, recognizing and valuing that my clients are the experts in their own lives. My role is to listen, understand, and provide you with the tools to help you achieve your desired outcomes. I utilize various evidence-based approaches and interventions tailored to your specific needs and concerns.
At Thriveworks, we specialize in helping with issues like anxiety, depression, grief/loss, stress, life transitions, and more.
Hello, I am Dr. Regina Lawson, an inclusive, affirming, and accepting Licensed Clinical Therapist in the District of Columbia. I have over 17 years of experience providing individual and family therapy. I am passionate and committed to assisting clients on their path to living their best life. I practice a person-centered approach, recognizing and valuing that my clients are the experts in their own lives. My role is to listen, understand, and provide you with the tools to help you achieve your desired outcomes. I utilize various evidence-based approaches and interventions tailored to your specific needs and concerns.
(202) 929-1102 View (202) 929-1102
Photo of Julie Colatrella, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Julie Colatrella
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
As a queer person who has struggled with my own depression and anxiety, I find joy in helping others through their journeys of identity development, self-love, and achieving greater inner peace.
I am a queer therapist specializing in supporting teens and young adults (ages 14-40) as they navigate life transitions and stressors. Together, we explore the roots of personal identity and consider tools to help you achieve your mental health goals. My approach is client-centered, and my role is to empower and support you as you create the life you want to live. I incorporate techniques from cognitive behavioral, mindfulness, solution-focused, and expressive arts approaches.
As a queer person who has struggled with my own depression and anxiety, I find joy in helping others through their journeys of identity development, self-love, and achieving greater inner peace.
I am a queer therapist specializing in supporting teens and young adults (ages 14-40) as they navigate life transitions and stressors. Together, we explore the roots of personal identity and consider tools to help you achieve your mental health goals. My approach is client-centered, and my role is to empower and support you as you create the life you want to live. I incorporate techniques from cognitive behavioral, mindfulness, solution-focused, and expressive arts approaches.
(240) 424-0690 View (240) 424-0690
Photo of Brendan A Rich, Psychologist, PhD, MS
Brendan A Rich
Psychologist, PhD, MS
Online Only
Although my expertise is with youth with mood disorders, including anxiety and depression, I also have extensive experience with youth with social and behavioral struggles.
I also conduct comprehensive assessments in: 1) psychological functioning: deficits in social, emotional, and/or behavioral ability 2) educational functioning: intelligence, achievement, learning disabilities. These assessments are ideal for informing school placement decisions, obtaining academic accommodations, and determining domains of difficulty that require intervention.
Although my expertise is with youth with mood disorders, including anxiety and depression, I also have extensive experience with youth with social and behavioral struggles.
I also conduct comprehensive assessments in: 1) psychological functioning: deficits in social, emotional, and/or behavioral ability 2) educational functioning: intelligence, achievement, learning disabilities. These assessments are ideal for informing school placement decisions, obtaining academic accommodations, and determining domains of difficulty that require intervention.
(240) 258-2384 View (240) 258-2384
Photo of Robert G Hartford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, CSW, LSCP, EFT
Robert G Hartford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, CSW, LSCP, EFT
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
In a supportive, safe environment, you'll learn methods to reduce anxiety, depression and identify patterns that likely served you at one time but are no longer effective.
As 1 of the few ICEEFT, certified EFT therapists in DC - I practice , Emotionally Focused Therapy, a couples method developed by Sue Johnson, a research driven model, with findings that 70-75% of couples move from distress to recovery with approximately 90% showing significant improvements.
In a supportive, safe environment, you'll learn methods to reduce anxiety, depression and identify patterns that likely served you at one time but are no longer effective.
As 1 of the few ICEEFT, certified EFT therapists in DC - I practice , Emotionally Focused Therapy, a couples method developed by Sue Johnson, a research driven model, with findings that 70-75% of couples move from distress to recovery with approximately 90% showing significant improvements.
(202) 600-8157 View (202) 600-8157
Photo of James Dubry, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CTP
James Dubry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CTP
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
Therapy can help when you're navigating anxiety, burnout, grief, life transitions, or identity questions.
Clients deserve therapy that feels safe, intentional, and empowering. I draw from trauma-informed and integrative approaches to help adults build resilience, navigate emotional challenges, and reconnect with themselves. Sessions are grounded in compassion, collaboration, and real tools for growth.
Therapy can help when you're navigating anxiety, burnout, grief, life transitions, or identity questions.
Clients deserve therapy that feels safe, intentional, and empowering. I draw from trauma-informed and integrative approaches to help adults build resilience, navigate emotional challenges, and reconnect with themselves. Sessions are grounded in compassion, collaboration, and real tools for growth.
(202) 980-4408 View (202) 980-4408
Photo of Ekene Veronica Elumelu-Ogoli Not Currently Taking Clients, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, SIFI, LCSW
Ekene Veronica Elumelu-Ogoli Not Currently Taking Clients
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, SIFI, LCSW
Online Only
These individuals are at times experiencing cognitive, behavioral and emotional presentations such as sadness, worry, avoidance and withdrawal, irrational thoughts, sleep/wake issues, appetite difficulties and more.
I utilize my background in CBT, Person Centered Therapy, Trauma-Informed Care (TIC), along with motivational therapy, support of self-determination, and a strengths-based approach, to positively influence and encourage each client in serving their treatment. I'll listen until I understand your needs and together we'll find solutions that fit your life.
These individuals are at times experiencing cognitive, behavioral and emotional presentations such as sadness, worry, avoidance and withdrawal, irrational thoughts, sleep/wake issues, appetite difficulties and more.
I utilize my background in CBT, Person Centered Therapy, Trauma-Informed Care (TIC), along with motivational therapy, support of self-determination, and a strengths-based approach, to positively influence and encourage each client in serving their treatment. I'll listen until I understand your needs and together we'll find solutions that fit your life.
(202) 980-1961 View (202) 980-1961
Photo of Philip Rizzo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Philip Rizzo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Washington, DC 20009
Waitlist for new clients
Many of my clients come to me feeling stuck - overwhelmed by anxiety, weighed down by stress, or navigating life changes they weren’t expecting.
My style is warm, collaborative, and down-to-earth. I use practical tools from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness to help you manage emotions, set boundaries, and reconnect with what matters most. I want therapy to feel like a real conversation - supportive, honest, and centered on your goals.
Many of my clients come to me feeling stuck - overwhelmed by anxiety, weighed down by stress, or navigating life changes they weren’t expecting.
My style is warm, collaborative, and down-to-earth. I use practical tools from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness to help you manage emotions, set boundaries, and reconnect with what matters most. I want therapy to feel like a real conversation - supportive, honest, and centered on your goals.
(866) 684-0649 View (866) 684-0649
Photo of Kelly G. Ezickson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Kelly G. Ezickson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20007
I work with adults, couples, and families around issues of depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and addictions.
I have been practicing in Boston and Washington, D.C. for over 25 years and bring a very personal understanding to the struggles of identity, parenting, and the martial relationship. I have 4 children, have been married 25 years, and have lived overseas.
I work with adults, couples, and families around issues of depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and addictions.
I have been practicing in Boston and Washington, D.C. for over 25 years and bring a very personal understanding to the struggles of identity, parenting, and the martial relationship. I have 4 children, have been married 25 years, and have lived overseas.
(774) 221-6105 View (774) 221-6105
Photo of Emily Harter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Emily Harter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Washington, DC 20008
Depression, anxiety and relationship issues are frequently what bring people to therapy with me, but those are broad terms that mean different things to different people.
Together you and I will reflect honestly on the challenges you face and work collaboratively to navigate a meaningful path forward. I work with a range of individuals, some of whom are brand new to therapy and others very familiar with the process. Clients who are self-reflective and curious about themselves often are a good fit. Significant progress happens when clients are motivated (at least on most days) and have enough insight to know that something significant needs to change in their lives, even if they don't know what exactly or even where to begin.
Depression, anxiety and relationship issues are frequently what bring people to therapy with me, but those are broad terms that mean different things to different people.
Together you and I will reflect honestly on the challenges you face and work collaboratively to navigate a meaningful path forward. I work with a range of individuals, some of whom are brand new to therapy and others very familiar with the process. Clients who are self-reflective and curious about themselves often are a good fit. Significant progress happens when clients are motivated (at least on most days) and have enough insight to know that something significant needs to change in their lives, even if they don't know what exactly or even where to begin.
(202) 517-2465 View (202) 517-2465
Photo of Diane Reis, Psychologist, PsyD, PLLC
Diane Reis
Psychologist, PsyD, PLLC
Washington, DC 20008
My clients work on issues like anxiety, depression, workplace problems, self-esteem, marital/family/relationship problems, separation/divorce, parenting, work-family balance, reproductive problems, postpartum stress, grief/loss, and chronic illness.
If you are feeling stuck but want to move forward in life, or are in emotional pain, or seeking to work on mental health issues, I am happy to speak with you about individual psychotherapy or couple's therapy. I work with adults of all ages and backgrounds on problems in their relationships, workplace, family life, and at times of difficult life transitions. I offer a safe environment to talk comfortably and work collaboratively to improve a client’s well-being. I specialize in helping lawyers and medical professionals under stress. And having had a past involvement in politics, I enjoy working with elected/government officials.
My clients work on issues like anxiety, depression, workplace problems, self-esteem, marital/family/relationship problems, separation/divorce, parenting, work-family balance, reproductive problems, postpartum stress, grief/loss, and chronic illness.
If you are feeling stuck but want to move forward in life, or are in emotional pain, or seeking to work on mental health issues, I am happy to speak with you about individual psychotherapy or couple's therapy. I work with adults of all ages and backgrounds on problems in their relationships, workplace, family life, and at times of difficult life transitions. I offer a safe environment to talk comfortably and work collaboratively to improve a client’s well-being. I specialize in helping lawyers and medical professionals under stress. And having had a past involvement in politics, I enjoy working with elected/government officials.
(202) 738-5745 View (202) 738-5745
Photo of Dr. Bernadette Boozer-Madison - Tranquillium, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MSW, LCMFT, LMFT, ACSW
Tranquillium, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MSW, LCMFT, LMFT, ACSW
Online Only
My ideal client is an adult, young adult, or elder ready to be honest about what brought them to therapy—whether it's overwhelming anxiety, past trauma affecting the present, or draining relationship stress.
I work with clients in DC, VA, AZ, OR, NV, and WA, offering a personalized clinical approach with evidence-based treatments and reflective conversations. I help clients address trauma, relationship dynamics, and anxiety, providing practical strategies and tools to foster growth and emotional resilience.
My ideal client is an adult, young adult, or elder ready to be honest about what brought them to therapy—whether it's overwhelming anxiety, past trauma affecting the present, or draining relationship stress.
I work with clients in DC, VA, AZ, OR, NV, and WA, offering a personalized clinical approach with evidence-based treatments and reflective conversations. I help clients address trauma, relationship dynamics, and anxiety, providing practical strategies and tools to foster growth and emotional resilience.
(202) 929-2942 View (202) 929-2942
Photo of Nikki Ford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW, MPH
Nikki Ford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW, MPH
Washington, DC 20009
Waitlist for new clients
I primarily work with adults experiencing difficulties related to depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, trauma, grief, or coping with stress and change.
As a clinical social worker, I work from a strengths-based, person-centered, and deeply collaborative perspective. We become a team in your therapy journey. My approach to therapy is integrative, and I draw from cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and humanistic frameworks to support individual needs and goals. I also believe humor can play an important role in the therapeutic process. Clients work hard in therapy, and moments of levity can help reframe and normalize struggles in a positive or relieving manner.
I primarily work with adults experiencing difficulties related to depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, trauma, grief, or coping with stress and change.
As a clinical social worker, I work from a strengths-based, person-centered, and deeply collaborative perspective. We become a team in your therapy journey. My approach to therapy is integrative, and I draw from cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and humanistic frameworks to support individual needs and goals. I also believe humor can play an important role in the therapeutic process. Clients work hard in therapy, and moments of levity can help reframe and normalize struggles in a positive or relieving manner.
(202) 972-6801 View (202) 972-6801
Photo of Shavon Warrick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Shavon Warrick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
She specializes in self-esteem, depression, relationships, anger management, and anxiety.
The most effective therapeutic approaches that I typically use in sessions are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a skill-based treatment that focuses on the interconnection of one’s thoughts, behaviors, and emotional experiences.
She specializes in self-esteem, depression, relationships, anger management, and anxiety.
The most effective therapeutic approaches that I typically use in sessions are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a skill-based treatment that focuses on the interconnection of one’s thoughts, behaviors, and emotional experiences.
(202) 952-3760 View (202) 952-3760
Photo of Garland Nichols, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Garland Nichols
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Online Only
I am best positioned to serve clients struggling with acute anxious and depressive symptoms.
Hello! My name is Garland Nichols and I am a Clinical Social Worker licensed in Washington, DC and North Carolina. My journey began as a Foster Care Social Worker, where I used case management skills to rehabilitate and reunify families. My passion and belief in rehabilitation eventually led me to pursue Clinical Social Work, where I am now aim to empower my clients each session.
I am best positioned to serve clients struggling with acute anxious and depressive symptoms.
Hello! My name is Garland Nichols and I am a Clinical Social Worker licensed in Washington, DC and North Carolina. My journey began as a Foster Care Social Worker, where I used case management skills to rehabilitate and reunify families. My passion and belief in rehabilitation eventually led me to pursue Clinical Social Work, where I am now aim to empower my clients each session.
(877) 919-6084 View (877) 919-6084

See more therapy options for Washington

Anxiety Therapists

When should I seek treatment for anxiety?

Everyone feels anxious at times, but when anxiety causes disruption to your daily life, it may be time to seek help. Such disruption can be mental, physical, or both: having fear dominate your thoughts, avoiding situations or objects that bring on feelings of anxiety, or experiencing shortness of breath, sweating, dizziness, or panic attacks. When these symptoms are recurrent and distressing, it may be time to talk to someone.

What are the most common types of treatment for anxiety?

Talk therapy, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy, is the most common treatment for anxiety. Studies have shown it is equally effective as medication. Other popular forms of therapy are popular, depending on a patient’s experience. Exposure therapy, for instance, can be useful for people dealing with fears and phobias, or who have experienced traumatic events. Dialectical Behavioral Therapy may be useful for patients who need help with emotion regulation. Anxiolytic medications, like benzodiazepines, can also help with calming a person enough to focus on the skills they’ve learned, and physical exercise has been shown to help symptoms of anxiety across the board.

How long does therapy for anxiety take to work?

The amount of time needed to alleviate symptoms depends on the severity of a person’s condition. Some therapies may take 5-20 weekly sessions to show results. Anti-depressant medications typically take two to four weeks before a benefit is felt. Anti-anxiety medications are felt typically within 20-30 minutes. Medications are best used to offer a patient a better headspace in which to work on techniques learned in therapy. Exercise, improved sleep habits, and meditation are effective, but takes weeks or months to show results.

How effective is treatment for anxiety?

Treatment for anxiety has been shown to be moderately to highly effective, according to a large body of psychology studies and analyses. For some people, treatment using CBT or exposure therapy alone is effective. Others respond best to a combination of medication and therapy.