Dissociative Disorders (DID) Therapists in Washington, DC
I view therapy as an invitation to bring awareness to the here and now. For many of us, we press forward, through, and over difficult feelings when they arise in our daily lives. Often they show up as unwanted thoughts or images. They not only fill us with dread, but we will go to great lengths to avoid them. On the other hand, what if moving toward our feelings actually reduces the influence they have over us, allowing us to attend to the very things we value, thereby creating meaning and purpose in our lives.
I view therapy as an invitation to bring awareness to the here and now. For many of us, we press forward, through, and over difficult feelings when they arise in our daily lives. Often they show up as unwanted thoughts or images. They not only fill us with dread, but we will go to great lengths to avoid them. On the other hand, what if moving toward our feelings actually reduces the influence they have over us, allowing us to attend to the very things we value, thereby creating meaning and purpose in our lives.
Hi! I'm a psychologist who has lived in the Washington DC area for nearly thirty years. I know that life in this region can be stressful, with traffic, high-pressure jobs, and interpersonal demands. I help people find ways to cope with these pressures and life's many challenges, including relationship concerns, self-esteem issues, self-defeating behaviors, emotional reactivity, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and life transitions. I believe that a therapeutic relationship offering confidentiality, safety, curiosity, and a little humor, provides the most fertile soil for self exploration, healing, and growth.
Hi! I'm a psychologist who has lived in the Washington DC area for nearly thirty years. I know that life in this region can be stressful, with traffic, high-pressure jobs, and interpersonal demands. I help people find ways to cope with these pressures and life's many challenges, including relationship concerns, self-esteem issues, self-defeating behaviors, emotional reactivity, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and life transitions. I believe that a therapeutic relationship offering confidentiality, safety, curiosity, and a little humor, provides the most fertile soil for self exploration, healing, and growth.
Now accepting new Aetna clients! Being a human can be really hard sometimes. Maybe it’s hard because there’s an area in our lives where we struggle, like in our careers or relationships. Perhaps, we’ve experienced some painful times that we haven’t fully healed from or find ourselves engaging in problematic behaviors. Whatever our struggles, I’ve found that psychotherapy can help reduce our suffering and help connect us to the joy of being alive.
Now accepting new Aetna clients! Being a human can be really hard sometimes. Maybe it’s hard because there’s an area in our lives where we struggle, like in our careers or relationships. Perhaps, we’ve experienced some painful times that we haven’t fully healed from or find ourselves engaging in problematic behaviors. Whatever our struggles, I’ve found that psychotherapy can help reduce our suffering and help connect us to the joy of being alive.
I began doing therapy as a masters-level clinician in the community with justice-involved youth in 2005. Over the last twenty years, I have worked with all kinds of people in communities, schools and in outpatient settings. The one common theme was always trauma.
If you are looking for someone to help you dig into your past trauma and finally get those demons out of you, I am here to help! My specialties are PTSD and DID, working with people with complex trauma and survivors of human trafficking and sexual exploitation.
I began doing therapy as a masters-level clinician in the community with justice-involved youth in 2005. Over the last twenty years, I have worked with all kinds of people in communities, schools and in outpatient settings. The one common theme was always trauma.
If you are looking for someone to help you dig into your past trauma and finally get those demons out of you, I am here to help! My specialties are PTSD and DID, working with people with complex trauma and survivors of human trafficking and sexual exploitation.
I believe that the therapeutic relationship is the central component to successful psychotherapy and I bring special attention to the ongoing process of relational safety. I also believe that self-harmful behaviors always have roots in past experiences of threat and it can be life-changing to discover these connections. I work to help individuals establish goals, explore their experiences, gain self-awareness, develop resources and skills, cultivate self-compassion, and find greater self-empowerment so they can create a more fulfilling and meaningful life for themselves.
I believe that the therapeutic relationship is the central component to successful psychotherapy and I bring special attention to the ongoing process of relational safety. I also believe that self-harmful behaviors always have roots in past experiences of threat and it can be life-changing to discover these connections. I work to help individuals establish goals, explore their experiences, gain self-awareness, develop resources and skills, cultivate self-compassion, and find greater self-empowerment so they can create a more fulfilling and meaningful life for themselves.
Paws2Heal Mental Health Counseling/EMDR
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CCTP II, NCC
Serves Area
Choosing to begin therapy is a deeply personal and meaningful decision, and we are dedicated to making your experience warm, supportive, and effective. Our focus is creating a safe, welcoming space where healing can take root. We offer a variety of therapeutic approaches—including EMDR, IFS, and somatic therapies—carefully tailored to each client’s individual needs and goals. For those who benefit from animal-assisted therapy, our therapy animals are available to offer added comfort and support. Every person who comes to our practice is seen, heard, and valued, and we collaborate closely to identify the path that feels most aligned.
Choosing to begin therapy is a deeply personal and meaningful decision, and we are dedicated to making your experience warm, supportive, and effective. Our focus is creating a safe, welcoming space where healing can take root. We offer a variety of therapeutic approaches—including EMDR, IFS, and somatic therapies—carefully tailored to each client’s individual needs and goals. For those who benefit from animal-assisted therapy, our therapy animals are available to offer added comfort and support. Every person who comes to our practice is seen, heard, and valued, and we collaborate closely to identify the path that feels most aligned.
You wake up in the morning feeling heavy and thinking you do not want to face another day feeling like your mind is controlling you. Anxiety, panic attacks, no energy, feeling disconnected from the world and from yourself is exhausting. You wonder, “is something wrong with me?” “Am I crazy?” You feel like people around you do not really understand your suffering and sometimes, you are afraid to share how you really feel.
You wake up in the morning feeling heavy and thinking you do not want to face another day feeling like your mind is controlling you. Anxiety, panic attacks, no energy, feeling disconnected from the world and from yourself is exhausting. You wonder, “is something wrong with me?” “Am I crazy?” You feel like people around you do not really understand your suffering and sometimes, you are afraid to share how you really feel.
I have spent the past few years working with clients addressing pain points around C-PTSD, Dissociative Disorders including DID, stress around the presentation of their personality disorders, chronic illness, and overwhelming anxiety and depression. I strive to work together with my clients to create a plan that feels authentic to who they are, and the life they hope to live, to help them identify the dynamics of their past and how it is impacting their 'now'. We then work together to move forward in creating healthier relationships and experiences.
I have spent the past few years working with clients addressing pain points around C-PTSD, Dissociative Disorders including DID, stress around the presentation of their personality disorders, chronic illness, and overwhelming anxiety and depression. I strive to work together with my clients to create a plan that feels authentic to who they are, and the life they hope to live, to help them identify the dynamics of their past and how it is impacting their 'now'. We then work together to move forward in creating healthier relationships and experiences.
Ehrhardt Therapy and Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LPC
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006
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.
I’m delighted that you’re here. The pain you may be carrying in your relationships, within yourself, or from past experiences can feel overwhelming, isolating, and deeply exhausting.
I’m especially passionate about working with adults and couples who feel stuck in painful patterns, overwhelmed by anxiety or trauma, or disconnected from themselves. You may be longing for deeper connection, healing, and a greater sense of safety and grounding in your body.
I offer a space where you can slow down, feel truly seen, and learn new ways of relating, so you can live with more authenticity, connection, peace, and aliveness.
I’m delighted that you’re here. The pain you may be carrying in your relationships, within yourself, or from past experiences can feel overwhelming, isolating, and deeply exhausting.
I’m especially passionate about working with adults and couples who feel stuck in painful patterns, overwhelmed by anxiety or trauma, or disconnected from themselves. You may be longing for deeper connection, healing, and a greater sense of safety and grounding in your body.
I offer a space where you can slow down, feel truly seen, and learn new ways of relating, so you can live with more authenticity, connection, peace, and aliveness.
Everyday life can feel like a constant balancing act—managing deadlines, caring for others, and trying to keep up with expectations. In the quiet moments, you might notice anxiety, disconnection, or the sense that you're stuck in survival mode, unsure how to slow down or start caring for yourself. You may be longing to feel more grounded, whole, and at peace but unsure where or how to begin. I offer a therapy space that is warm, collaborative, and focused on meaningful change. As a clinical psychologist, I use strategies grounded in research and tailor them to fit your real life, your values, your goals, and your cultural context.
Everyday life can feel like a constant balancing act—managing deadlines, caring for others, and trying to keep up with expectations. In the quiet moments, you might notice anxiety, disconnection, or the sense that you're stuck in survival mode, unsure how to slow down or start caring for yourself. You may be longing to feel more grounded, whole, and at peace but unsure where or how to begin. I offer a therapy space that is warm, collaborative, and focused on meaningful change. As a clinical psychologist, I use strategies grounded in research and tailor them to fit your real life, your values, your goals, and your cultural context.
When relationships begin to struggle, partners often find themselves caught in the same painful conversations, leaving both feeling blamed, misunderstood, or emotionally alone. In our work together, we gently slow down and explore the patterns beneath these moments. As deeper emotions and attachment needs begin to surface, partners can start to see each other not as adversaries, but as two people longing to feel safe, valued, and connected. As a trauma- and Polyvagal-informed therapist, I support couples in learning the dance of co-creating safety between them as a foundation for their relationship to thrive.
When relationships begin to struggle, partners often find themselves caught in the same painful conversations, leaving both feeling blamed, misunderstood, or emotionally alone. In our work together, we gently slow down and explore the patterns beneath these moments. As deeper emotions and attachment needs begin to surface, partners can start to see each other not as adversaries, but as two people longing to feel safe, valued, and connected. As a trauma- and Polyvagal-informed therapist, I support couples in learning the dance of co-creating safety between them as a foundation for their relationship to thrive.
Ann K Ewing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Washington, DC 20016
Waitlist for new clients
Do you feel like you're stuck in in any of your current relationships - spouse or partner, family, friends, or with work? Are you still seeking healthy relationships? Would you like to improve your relationship with yourself? Do you have sexual orientation or gender identity concerns, either for yourself or for someone you care about? Are you working to adjust to a significant change in your life - navigating a break-up, divorce, or move, grieving a loss, or becoming a parent? Do you strive to live authentically while struggling with the vulnerability needed to do so? Whatever your relational concerns or issues are, I can help.
Do you feel like you're stuck in in any of your current relationships - spouse or partner, family, friends, or with work? Are you still seeking healthy relationships? Would you like to improve your relationship with yourself? Do you have sexual orientation or gender identity concerns, either for yourself or for someone you care about? Are you working to adjust to a significant change in your life - navigating a break-up, divorce, or move, grieving a loss, or becoming a parent? Do you strive to live authentically while struggling with the vulnerability needed to do so? Whatever your relational concerns or issues are, I can help.
As a relationally focused and trauma informed therapist, I have a passion for helping clients feel more connected, grounded and safe in their lives and relationships. Every person has the ability to move toward connection and healing, even in the face of difficult, challenging or traumatic experiences. I work with couples, individuals and families to help them reconnect with the healthiest and most grounded parts of themselves and to restore and rebuild connection and safety within themselves and with others. I use research based, experiential models to keep us focus on your goals and healing process.
As a relationally focused and trauma informed therapist, I have a passion for helping clients feel more connected, grounded and safe in their lives and relationships. Every person has the ability to move toward connection and healing, even in the face of difficult, challenging or traumatic experiences. I work with couples, individuals and families to help them reconnect with the healthiest and most grounded parts of themselves and to restore and rebuild connection and safety within themselves and with others. I use research based, experiential models to keep us focus on your goals and healing process.
Welcome. I'm so glad you're here. Reaching out for support takes courage, and beginning therapy may be your first meaningful step toward change. If you're longing to feel more grounded in your body, more regulated in your emotions, and more connected in your relationships, we might be a good fit. I value collaboration and safety as foundational to our work. Therapy is a co-created process where your sense of choice and embodied voice deeply matter. Together, we'll listen closely to the signals of your nervous system and begin to shape a new path toward healing.
Welcome. I'm so glad you're here. Reaching out for support takes courage, and beginning therapy may be your first meaningful step toward change. If you're longing to feel more grounded in your body, more regulated in your emotions, and more connected in your relationships, we might be a good fit. I value collaboration and safety as foundational to our work. Therapy is a co-created process where your sense of choice and embodied voice deeply matter. Together, we'll listen closely to the signals of your nervous system and begin to shape a new path toward healing.
I am committed to providing a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. I am passionate about helping clients navigate through anxiety, depression, life shifts, relationships, dating, sexuality, gender, and trauma. I advocate for a sex-positive atmosphere, believing that sexuality is a vital part of human identity. Together, we will explore the stories that have shaped your life, allowing you to better understand yourself and the patterns that may be holding you back.
I am committed to providing a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. I am passionate about helping clients navigate through anxiety, depression, life shifts, relationships, dating, sexuality, gender, and trauma. I advocate for a sex-positive atmosphere, believing that sexuality is a vital part of human identity. Together, we will explore the stories that have shaped your life, allowing you to better understand yourself and the patterns that may be holding you back.
I am a Couple, Family and Sex Therapist specializing in Gender Identity, Sexual Identity, Low Sexual Desire and Mood disorders . I have over 15 years of experience providing individual, couple, group and family psychotherapy. As a social justice driven therapist, I have expertise in working with the LGBTQ community, Heterosexual couples, non-monagamous individuals/couples, communities of color, health issues,grief & loss, trauma survivors, and couples dealing with a variety of issues from infidelity to sexual dysfunction.
I am a Couple, Family and Sex Therapist specializing in Gender Identity, Sexual Identity, Low Sexual Desire and Mood disorders . I have over 15 years of experience providing individual, couple, group and family psychotherapy. As a social justice driven therapist, I have expertise in working with the LGBTQ community, Heterosexual couples, non-monagamous individuals/couples, communities of color, health issues,grief & loss, trauma survivors, and couples dealing with a variety of issues from infidelity to sexual dysfunction.
The key to successful therapy is a relationship with a caring, nonjudgmental therapist there to respond sensitively and patiently to whatever comes up. In my work, I offer that to my clients, as we collaborate in developing an understanding of your emotional states and how they drive your thoughts and actions. We’ll learn together what you need to strengthen and grow. My work with children and adolescents informs my understanding of development over the life span, and how those relationships and experiences that shape us are alive in the present moment.
The key to successful therapy is a relationship with a caring, nonjudgmental therapist there to respond sensitively and patiently to whatever comes up. In my work, I offer that to my clients, as we collaborate in developing an understanding of your emotional states and how they drive your thoughts and actions. We’ll learn together what you need to strengthen and grow. My work with children and adolescents informs my understanding of development over the life span, and how those relationships and experiences that shape us are alive in the present moment.
Although it is a journey, you are worthy and capable of the healing you envision. I'm here to hold the mirror while you uncover the power within you and build a loving relationship with yourself. For many, a safe healing space is the first step in that journey back home to self. One that is full of grace while you become the next best version of yourself. My intention is to co-create the space you need to celebrate your inherent wisdom; to explore your existing stories & patterns; to integrate new ways of thinking & being; and to nurture the joys that bring more healing and ease into your life. And to reflect, you're heard and seen.
Although it is a journey, you are worthy and capable of the healing you envision. I'm here to hold the mirror while you uncover the power within you and build a loving relationship with yourself. For many, a safe healing space is the first step in that journey back home to self. One that is full of grace while you become the next best version of yourself. My intention is to co-create the space you need to celebrate your inherent wisdom; to explore your existing stories & patterns; to integrate new ways of thinking & being; and to nurture the joys that bring more healing and ease into your life. And to reflect, you're heard and seen.
I create an environment that helps clients explore both the internal and external barriers to their healing and growth. As a psychologist I pull from working with diverse groups of people and assist on issues of trauma, grief, loss, relationship difficulties, wellness and health. To me, therapy is best when it's a mix of approaches that are used strategically to create a nonjudgmental and empathic atmosphere. My style is both warm and thought-provoking, and I actively collaborate with and support those with whom I work.
I create an environment that helps clients explore both the internal and external barriers to their healing and growth. As a psychologist I pull from working with diverse groups of people and assist on issues of trauma, grief, loss, relationship difficulties, wellness and health. To me, therapy is best when it's a mix of approaches that are used strategically to create a nonjudgmental and empathic atmosphere. My style is both warm and thought-provoking, and I actively collaborate with and support those with whom I work.
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Dissociative Disorders (DID) Therapists
How does therapy for dissociative disorders work?
Dissociation may be triggered by stress or other upsetting circumstances, and therapy can address the traumatic events at the core of an individual’s dissociation. Understanding why a person may dissociate can help the therapist and the individual come up with alternative methods of coping. A person with a dissociative disorder may get stuck on negative thinking, for example, and treatment like Cognitive behavioral therapy is a gold standard for breaking such thinking. And dialectical behavior therapy, for example, can help a person manage their anguish through better emotion regulation.
Which therapies are best for dissociative disorders?
Specific approaches used by professionals include cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavior, psychodynamic, schema therapies, among others. Cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavior therapies are two widely used therapies that can help individuals with painful memories and past traumas. These therapies work to integrate an individual's different identities into one person.
Are there specific medications for dissociation?
There are no specific medications prescribed for dissociative disorders. However, psychosis, depression, anxiety, and/or panic often co-occur in dissociative disorders. A psychiatrist may prescribe medications for any accompanying symptom—which may include antipsychotics like aripiprazole, antidepressants like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or anti-anxiety drugs like benzodiazepines.
How often and how long are therapy sessions?
Like any type of therapy, sessions depend on the individual. Patients may see improvement within 15 to 20 sessions, at an average of 50 minutes per session, others may opt for 20 to 30 sessions over, perhaps, a six-month period. There are still other patients, especially those who have co-occurring conditions like depression and anxiety, who may need to continue sessions for up to 12 to 18 months.