Sex Therapists in Washington, DC
Expressions Therapy offers a wide array of therapeutic modalities for individuals, groups, and couples. Our approach is eclectic and flexible, founded in empathy and curiosity, where your unique needs and goals are centered. We are a practice that understands that support is vital even outside of prescribed session times, and while healthy boundaries are established and respected, so is an atmosphere of support and radical acceptance. Anxiety and trauma can live in our bodies. Together, we will create a relationship that fosters dynamic and lasting growth, tapping into undiscovered reserves of resiliency you didn't know you had.
Expressions Therapy offers a wide array of therapeutic modalities for individuals, groups, and couples. Our approach is eclectic and flexible, founded in empathy and curiosity, where your unique needs and goals are centered. We are a practice that understands that support is vital even outside of prescribed session times, and while healthy boundaries are established and respected, so is an atmosphere of support and radical acceptance. Anxiety and trauma can live in our bodies. Together, we will create a relationship that fosters dynamic and lasting growth, tapping into undiscovered reserves of resiliency you didn't know you had.
I have been practicing for over 6 years and have a focus on working with individuals and couples, including individuals throughout the pregnancy and postpartum phase. I have experience working with clients facing issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma history, ADHD, and more. I believe in creating an open and supportive space for all clients, regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation, race, and religious practices.
I have been practicing for over 6 years and have a focus on working with individuals and couples, including individuals throughout the pregnancy and postpartum phase. I have experience working with clients facing issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma history, ADHD, and more. I believe in creating an open and supportive space for all clients, regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation, race, and religious practices.
I believe that all clients deserve space to be seen and supported to reach their goals, and I work hard to meet clients where they are at. That being said, my ideal client is the person who struggles with anxiety, depression, and/or ADHD (and maybe working on/ maintaining sobriety) who just needs some extra support and guidance to manage the symptoms of those illnesses, as well as all of the emotions of recovery and re-entry (structure, support, etc.). These clients are the ones who often benefit most from stabilization, goal-oriented treatment, and support with emotional regulation and/or building healthy routines.
I believe that all clients deserve space to be seen and supported to reach their goals, and I work hard to meet clients where they are at. That being said, my ideal client is the person who struggles with anxiety, depression, and/or ADHD (and maybe working on/ maintaining sobriety) who just needs some extra support and guidance to manage the symptoms of those illnesses, as well as all of the emotions of recovery and re-entry (structure, support, etc.). These clients are the ones who often benefit most from stabilization, goal-oriented treatment, and support with emotional regulation and/or building healthy routines.
Are you a young professional in your twenties or thirties who is uncertain about where you're headed? The many changes during this time of life, like graduation, launching a career, moving to a new city, and dating, are exciting, but they also can be very overwhelming. Life transitions are an inevitable part of life, and much of our happiness depends on how we navigate these times of change. If you're struggling, you might be experiencing a quarterlife crisis. You are not alone, and we are here to help! Our therapists and career coaches specialize in helping young adults survive their quarterlife crisis and thrive in their lives.
Are you a young professional in your twenties or thirties who is uncertain about where you're headed? The many changes during this time of life, like graduation, launching a career, moving to a new city, and dating, are exciting, but they also can be very overwhelming. Life transitions are an inevitable part of life, and much of our happiness depends on how we navigate these times of change. If you're struggling, you might be experiencing a quarterlife crisis. You are not alone, and we are here to help! Our therapists and career coaches specialize in helping young adults survive their quarterlife crisis and thrive in their lives.
I love helping individuals and couples achieve their goals and aspirations. I offer a caring, safe, and healing environment that allows clients the opportunity to explore, experience, work through problems, and create solutions that expand their potential for growth and wellness. As a proponent of integrative and holistic therapy that honors the mind-body connection and its impact on well-being, health, and happiness, I attend to the whole person, not just a set of symptoms or problems. I emphasize teaching skills that develop inner resources for successful coping in life. I use a variety of methods, but the method has to meet your needs.
I love helping individuals and couples achieve their goals and aspirations. I offer a caring, safe, and healing environment that allows clients the opportunity to explore, experience, work through problems, and create solutions that expand their potential for growth and wellness. As a proponent of integrative and holistic therapy that honors the mind-body connection and its impact on well-being, health, and happiness, I attend to the whole person, not just a set of symptoms or problems. I emphasize teaching skills that develop inner resources for successful coping in life. I use a variety of methods, but the method has to meet your needs.
I’m Marissa Nelson, an award-winning, Relationship and Sex Therapist, TEDx speaker, and educator dedicated to helping couples and individuals thrive.
My specializations and experience allow us to work together with a purpose: To help committed couples dedicated to making their love last, learn how to effectively communicate their emotional and sexual wants and needs so that they can thrive in connection, grow in desire, and deepen intimacy. This applies to pre-marital all the way through the golden years.
I’m Marissa Nelson, an award-winning, Relationship and Sex Therapist, TEDx speaker, and educator dedicated to helping couples and individuals thrive.
My specializations and experience allow us to work together with a purpose: To help committed couples dedicated to making their love last, learn how to effectively communicate their emotional and sexual wants and needs so that they can thrive in connection, grow in desire, and deepen intimacy. This applies to pre-marital all the way through the golden years.
I have been in the field since 2013 providing psychotherapy regarding LGBTQ+ issues, addiction, sex, couples therapy, trauma, anger management, grief, adjustment issues, mood disorders, and military life.
Life's journey can be layered and unpredictable, often leaving us overwhelmed by anxiety and depression, unsure of how to move forward. As a Psychotherapist with a PhD in Clinical Sexology I specialize in helping individuals, as well as couples, regain control and find fulfillment in the diverse facets of their lives (poly/kink positive). You drive the treatment process, and we holistically explore your goals and hopes for the future. With a trauma-informed and integrative approach, including EMDR and cognitive-based therapy, I empower you to transform your life. Let's embark on a journey of healing and self-discovery together.
I have been in the field since 2013 providing psychotherapy regarding LGBTQ+ issues, addiction, sex, couples therapy, trauma, anger management, grief, adjustment issues, mood disorders, and military life.
Life's journey can be layered and unpredictable, often leaving us overwhelmed by anxiety and depression, unsure of how to move forward. As a Psychotherapist with a PhD in Clinical Sexology I specialize in helping individuals, as well as couples, regain control and find fulfillment in the diverse facets of their lives (poly/kink positive). You drive the treatment process, and we holistically explore your goals and hopes for the future. With a trauma-informed and integrative approach, including EMDR and cognitive-based therapy, I empower you to transform your life. Let's embark on a journey of healing and self-discovery together.
We all need support at different times in our lives. Navigating relationships, grief, life transitions, anxiety, loss, and trauma can be complex and overwhelming. If you are feeling stuck, lost, or unsure of what your next step should be, my approach to therapy focuses on helping you understand what troubles you and gain insight toward change that is positive and lasting. In my work with individuals and couples, I take a caring and collaborative approach to therapy to help you discover healing and meaning in your life and in your relationships.
We all need support at different times in our lives. Navigating relationships, grief, life transitions, anxiety, loss, and trauma can be complex and overwhelming. If you are feeling stuck, lost, or unsure of what your next step should be, my approach to therapy focuses on helping you understand what troubles you and gain insight toward change that is positive and lasting. In my work with individuals and couples, I take a caring and collaborative approach to therapy to help you discover healing and meaning in your life and in your relationships.
With a Master’s in Social Work and a Master’s in Education in Human Sexuality from Widener University, I bring a deeply informed, trauma-sensitive, and sex-positive approach to therapy.
Clients seek therapy with me because they want a compassionate, knowledgeable professional who offers a balance of clinical expertise, empathetic support, and practical guidance. They seek a therapist who creates a safe, affirming space, empowers them to overcome challenges, and helps them make meaningful changes for greater well-being and personal growth.
With a Master’s in Social Work and a Master’s in Education in Human Sexuality from Widener University, I bring a deeply informed, trauma-sensitive, and sex-positive approach to therapy.
Clients seek therapy with me because they want a compassionate, knowledgeable professional who offers a balance of clinical expertise, empathetic support, and practical guidance. They seek a therapist who creates a safe, affirming space, empowers them to overcome challenges, and helps them make meaningful changes for greater well-being and personal growth.
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.
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.
I have been providing psychotherapy for over 30 years to individuals, couples, and groups.Throughout one's life, feelings such as depression and anxiety can create a sense of loss of control. Life events such as the death of a loved one, divorce, or interpersonal conflict can feel overwhelming. My clients would say that I treat every one according to their particular issues, with respect, and with great support and understanding. I also teach at George Washington University Medical School and I am on the National Council of the Brown School of Social Work at Washington University. I provide supervision, as well, to other psychotherapists.
I have been providing psychotherapy for over 30 years to individuals, couples, and groups.Throughout one's life, feelings such as depression and anxiety can create a sense of loss of control. Life events such as the death of a loved one, divorce, or interpersonal conflict can feel overwhelming. My clients would say that I treat every one according to their particular issues, with respect, and with great support and understanding. I also teach at George Washington University Medical School and I am on the National Council of the Brown School of Social Work at Washington University. I provide supervision, as well, to other psychotherapists.
I focus on the impact of culture, gender, race, and sexuality on wellbeing.
It's courageous and wonderful that you are interested in starting therapy. As a psychologist, my goal is to provide you with a compassionate and empowering therapeutic experience to help you improve your mental health, reach your goals, and achieve your potential. I see therapy as a place for you to gain insights about your personal patterns, process difficult experiences, overcome obstacles, and improve your relationships.
I focus on the impact of culture, gender, race, and sexuality on wellbeing.
It's courageous and wonderful that you are interested in starting therapy. As a psychologist, my goal is to provide you with a compassionate and empowering therapeutic experience to help you improve your mental health, reach your goals, and achieve your potential. I see therapy as a place for you to gain insights about your personal patterns, process difficult experiences, overcome obstacles, and improve your relationships.
Navigating life's stresses, dealing with relationship disappointments and regaining self confidence and hope are issues that we can confront together. I will help you become aware of your harmful patterns of behavior and replace them with new healthier ones. Through awareness learned in therapy, you will develop a new sense of comfort and satisfaction with your life.
Navigating life's stresses, dealing with relationship disappointments and regaining self confidence and hope are issues that we can confront together. I will help you become aware of your harmful patterns of behavior and replace them with new healthier ones. Through awareness learned in therapy, you will develop a new sense of comfort and satisfaction with your life.
I am currently co-leading a study group for the Institute on Sexuality
30+ years practicing clinical psychotherapy /psychoanalysis, I especially love working with: young adults, couples, adolescents & their families .....I am French bi-lingual and work in French with some clients; I have lived, and loved living in, France and in the Third World , including W Africa and Haiti ... Two offices: DC and Falls Church, VA...... Work some evenings....
I am currently co-leading a study group for the Institute on Sexuality
30+ years practicing clinical psychotherapy /psychoanalysis, I especially love working with: young adults, couples, adolescents & their families .....I am French bi-lingual and work in French with some clients; I have lived, and loved living in, France and in the Third World , including W Africa and Haiti ... Two offices: DC and Falls Church, VA...... Work some evenings....
I also specializes in working with adults who have been marginalized by their body, gender, and sexuality.
My therapeutic style is process based, collaborative and challenging without judgment. I view psychotherapy through a sex positive, body positive/HAES, feminist, and culturally humble lens. Her focus is not on pathologizing but of discovering and embracing aspects of yourself and the way you live your life.
I also specializes in working with adults who have been marginalized by their body, gender, and sexuality.
My therapeutic style is process based, collaborative and challenging without judgment. I view psychotherapy through a sex positive, body positive/HAES, feminist, and culturally humble lens. Her focus is not on pathologizing but of discovering and embracing aspects of yourself and the way you live your life.
As a Psychoanalyst and Psychotherapist, my expertise is working with adults experiencing depression and anxiety stemming from feelings of anger and sadness often related to loss. Issues of self esteem can result in one feeling left out and isolated from others. Hard work in Individual Psychotherapy or Psychoanalysis can bring an acute awareness of how unconscious life is causing one to repeat painful dynamics. What a relief it is to get to know everything about the most important person in the world, yourself, and create balance and contentment.
As a Psychoanalyst and Psychotherapist, my expertise is working with adults experiencing depression and anxiety stemming from feelings of anger and sadness often related to loss. Issues of self esteem can result in one feeling left out and isolated from others. Hard work in Individual Psychotherapy or Psychoanalysis can bring an acute awareness of how unconscious life is causing one to repeat painful dynamics. What a relief it is to get to know everything about the most important person in the world, yourself, and create balance and contentment.
The Healing Collective Therapy & Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20002
We all reach moments when the weight we carry feels too heavy, when old patterns no longer serve us, or when we’re simply longing for more peace, connection, or clarity. Sometimes we feel stuck between who we’ve been and who we’re becoming. At The Healing Collective, we honor these moments as sacred turning points. We walk this path too; navigating healing, holding space for each other, and creating room to breathe, feel, and begin again. Healing is a shared process, and you don’t have to do it alone.
We all reach moments when the weight we carry feels too heavy, when old patterns no longer serve us, or when we’re simply longing for more peace, connection, or clarity. Sometimes we feel stuck between who we’ve been and who we’re becoming. At The Healing Collective, we honor these moments as sacred turning points. We walk this path too; navigating healing, holding space for each other, and creating room to breathe, feel, and begin again. Healing is a shared process, and you don’t have to do it alone.
You’ve spent years surviving on autopilot—showing up for work, family, and everyone else, while anxiety, stress, or old trauma sit under the surface. You feel overwhelmed, irritable, or shut down, and you’re tired of repeating the same patterns. You want relief, real coping tools, and space to heal so you can feel more present, connected, and in control of your life—not just going through the motions.
You’ve spent years surviving on autopilot—showing up for work, family, and everyone else, while anxiety, stress, or old trauma sit under the surface. You feel overwhelmed, irritable, or shut down, and you’re tired of repeating the same patterns. You want relief, real coping tools, and space to heal so you can feel more present, connected, and in control of your life—not just going through the motions.
I believe that people can transform their thoughts, feelings, lives and relationships when provided with the right support. Newfound strength, resilience and growth often emerge from places where deep hurt and pain once existed. My therapeutic style incorporates compassion, kindness, hope, humor and spirituality. I strive to create a welcoming and safe environment which may reduce fear and make sharing easier. Seeking help is a sign of strength and courage that I acknowledge and celebrate. Therapy involves honesty, self-discovery, empowerment and accountability. It can help shift your perspective and supply relief and freedom.
I believe that people can transform their thoughts, feelings, lives and relationships when provided with the right support. Newfound strength, resilience and growth often emerge from places where deep hurt and pain once existed. My therapeutic style incorporates compassion, kindness, hope, humor and spirituality. I strive to create a welcoming and safe environment which may reduce fear and make sharing easier. Seeking help is a sign of strength and courage that I acknowledge and celebrate. Therapy involves honesty, self-discovery, empowerment and accountability. It can help shift your perspective and supply relief and freedom.
Sometimes the world can feel impossibly heavy, and it is exhausting to cope with underlying challenges like chronic stressors, depression, anxiety, or trauma. Having a space to fully vent your worries and frustrations without fear or guilt is so important for mental health, but often so difficult to find. I approach my clients with warmth and without judgment. I work to cultivate a collaborative connection with clients, while empowering them to make sustainable, long-term changes, beyond our time together.
Sometimes the world can feel impossibly heavy, and it is exhausting to cope with underlying challenges like chronic stressors, depression, anxiety, or trauma. Having a space to fully vent your worries and frustrations without fear or guilt is so important for mental health, but often so difficult to find. I approach my clients with warmth and without judgment. I work to cultivate a collaborative connection with clients, while empowering them to make sustainable, long-term changes, beyond our time together.


