Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Washington, DC

Photo of Suzanne Dunn - A Therapeutic Alliance, LICSW, LCSW, LMSW, CST, LGSW
A Therapeutic Alliance
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006
Using a client-centered approach, our Clinicians help Clients understand and work through problems of everyday living, including relationship issues, work-life balance and self care issues, the impact of traumatic experiences past and present, and issues which affect day-to-day living. Connecting the dots of your inner experience and your outward struggles can be a powerful motivator for change. Together, we keep close track of your goals for therapy and your satisfaction with the results.
Using a client-centered approach, our Clinicians help Clients understand and work through problems of everyday living, including relationship issues, work-life balance and self care issues, the impact of traumatic experiences past and present, and issues which affect day-to-day living. Connecting the dots of your inner experience and your outward struggles can be a powerful motivator for change. Together, we keep close track of your goals for therapy and your satisfaction with the results.
(855) 915-5391 View (855) 915-5391
Photo of Giovanna Di Lauro, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Giovanna Di Lauro
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Online Only
Safety and trust are key components to the working alliance between my clients and me. By creating a space of nonjudgement, compassion, empathy and unconditional positive regard, we work together to develop a safe and trusting environment to explore life's struggles and victories.
Safety and trust are key components to the working alliance between my clients and me. By creating a space of nonjudgement, compassion, empathy and unconditional positive regard, we work together to develop a safe and trusting environment to explore life's struggles and victories.
(202) 849-9844 View (202) 849-9844
Photo of Erin K McCleary, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Erin K McCleary
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
5 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
She specializes in trauma offering strengths-based therapeutic services to both individuals and groups and is currently in practice in the Dupont Circle area.
Erin is a licensed clinical social worker who believes in our innate ability to heal if offered support, compassion, and empowering information. As a licensed body-worker for nearly a decade with a passion for wellness, she brings to her practice the importance of the mind-body connection and uses mindful strategies to promote emotional health. With a sense of humor and warmth, she is adept at creating a comfortable environment where tools for growth and desired change are attainable.
She specializes in trauma offering strengths-based therapeutic services to both individuals and groups and is currently in practice in the Dupont Circle area.
Erin is a licensed clinical social worker who believes in our innate ability to heal if offered support, compassion, and empowering information. As a licensed body-worker for nearly a decade with a passion for wellness, she brings to her practice the importance of the mind-body connection and uses mindful strategies to promote emotional health. With a sense of humor and warmth, she is adept at creating a comfortable environment where tools for growth and desired change are attainable.
(202) 760-4468 View (202) 760-4468
Photo of Stephanie Yee, Psychologist, PhD
Stephanie Yee
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My other areas of focus include relationship difficulties, family-of-origin, and trauma.
I am committed to helping my clients understand themselves as deeply as possible and I work best with individuals who are curious and driven to better understand their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I believe that when we gain insight into ourselves and how we relate to others, we have taken the first essential step towards making meaningful changes in our lives that can lead to a reduction of psychological distress. My clients would describe me as genuine, engaged, and curious.
My other areas of focus include relationship difficulties, family-of-origin, and trauma.
I am committed to helping my clients understand themselves as deeply as possible and I work best with individuals who are curious and driven to better understand their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I believe that when we gain insight into ourselves and how we relate to others, we have taken the first essential step towards making meaningful changes in our lives that can lead to a reduction of psychological distress. My clients would describe me as genuine, engaged, and curious.
(202) 804-2624 View (202) 804-2624
Photo of Karen Apsel, Psychologist, PhD
Karen Apsel
Psychologist, PhD
Washington, DC 20036
Using individual talk therapy and/or EMDR for trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues.
Although only one part of my practice, compulsive use of internet pornography is a painful issue for many individuals as well as their significant others. Recent studies of divorce attorneys have indicated that pornography use is cited as one of the major contributors to divorce for 50% of divorcing couples.
Using individual talk therapy and/or EMDR for trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues.
Although only one part of my practice, compulsive use of internet pornography is a painful issue for many individuals as well as their significant others. Recent studies of divorce attorneys have indicated that pornography use is cited as one of the major contributors to divorce for 50% of divorcing couples.
(202) 969-2276 View (202) 969-2276
Photo of Dr. Malachi Richardson, Psychologist, PhD, MEd
Dr. Malachi Richardson
Psychologist, PhD, MEd
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20004
I have a passion for work with clients who experience issues with self-esteem, grief, loss, anxiety, stress, and trauma.
I utilize a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approach that integrates an understanding of early childhood experiences and family dynamics in explaining and modifying behavior. I focus on helping clients to identify the connections between their thoughts, feelings, and actions and collaborate with them to disrupt maladaptive behavior patterns.
I have a passion for work with clients who experience issues with self-esteem, grief, loss, anxiety, stress, and trauma.
I utilize a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approach that integrates an understanding of early childhood experiences and family dynamics in explaining and modifying behavior. I focus on helping clients to identify the connections between their thoughts, feelings, and actions and collaborate with them to disrupt maladaptive behavior patterns.
(443) 339-8645 View (443) 339-8645
Photo of Victoria Griffin, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CPCS
Victoria Griffin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CPCS
Online Only
I provide elevated therapy and coaching for individuals and couples navigating relationship trauma, intimacy challenges, burnout, shame, and worthiness issues.
Elevated Therapy for Emotional Mastery and Relational Depth— The journey to wholeness and intimacy is not always a linear path—but it can be a transformative one. For high-achieving professionals and couples, external success often coexists with internal strain—disconnection, emotional fatigue, or unresolved relational wounds. My work is centered on helping you move beyond performance and perfectionism into deeper connection, emotional mastery, and authentic living.
I provide elevated therapy and coaching for individuals and couples navigating relationship trauma, intimacy challenges, burnout, shame, and worthiness issues.
Elevated Therapy for Emotional Mastery and Relational Depth— The journey to wholeness and intimacy is not always a linear path—but it can be a transformative one. For high-achieving professionals and couples, external success often coexists with internal strain—disconnection, emotional fatigue, or unresolved relational wounds. My work is centered on helping you move beyond performance and perfectionism into deeper connection, emotional mastery, and authentic living.
(202) 412-9922 View (202) 412-9922
Photo of Dr. Rahel Pearson, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Rahel Pearson
Psychologist, PhD
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, intrusive thoughts, or the weight of past trauma, you've reached a point where pushing through on your own isn't enough.
My approach is collaborative and evidence-based, drawing on cognitive behavioral therapy for anxiety and depression, exposure therapy for intrusive thoughts and trauma, and targeted work with perfectionism. I also bring an active research background to this work, which informs how I think about what keeps people stuck and what actually moves them forward.
Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, intrusive thoughts, or the weight of past trauma, you've reached a point where pushing through on your own isn't enough.
My approach is collaborative and evidence-based, drawing on cognitive behavioral therapy for anxiety and depression, exposure therapy for intrusive thoughts and trauma, and targeted work with perfectionism. I also bring an active research background to this work, which informs how I think about what keeps people stuck and what actually moves them forward.
(202) 816-4388 View (202) 816-4388
Photo of Adriana P. Robertson, Psychologist, PhD
Adriana P. Robertson
Psychologist, PhD
7 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
I have a specialty in relationship difficulties, intimate partner abuse, trauma and cultural adjustment.
My therapy work is focused on emotional health and wellbeing. I work individually with clients and tailor treatment to best fit each person's concerns, character and goals. I do this by integrating insight-oriented treatment and establishing new ways of being in the present. This combines the exploration of long-standing maladaptive patterns and a focus on present-day functioning. I help also people examine and improve relationship dynamics.
I have a specialty in relationship difficulties, intimate partner abuse, trauma and cultural adjustment.
My therapy work is focused on emotional health and wellbeing. I work individually with clients and tailor treatment to best fit each person's concerns, character and goals. I do this by integrating insight-oriented treatment and establishing new ways of being in the present. This combines the exploration of long-standing maladaptive patterns and a focus on present-day functioning. I help also people examine and improve relationship dynamics.
(202) 499-6057 View (202) 499-6057
Photo of Sandra L Francis, Psychologist, PsyD
Sandra L Francis
Psychologist, PsyD
Washington, DC 20037
I have particular expertise in the treatment of trauma and dissociative disorders, chronic somatic pain (TMS), and perinatal mood/anxiety disorders.
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.
I have particular expertise in the treatment of trauma and dissociative disorders, chronic somatic pain (TMS), and perinatal mood/anxiety disorders.
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.
(202) 831-0310 View (202) 831-0310
Photo of Kathryn Wagner, Psychologist, PhD
Kathryn Wagner
Psychologist, PhD
9 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20010
My integrative approach is informed by psychodynamic, behavioral, and trauma informed theories.
I hold a PhD in Clinical Psychology from Duquesne University. I have expertise in working with neurodivergent clients who have experienced PTSD and developmental trauma. I also specialize in providing partners therapy, including for LGBTQ+ and/or Deaf and Hard of Hearing. I also provide client centered psychological assessments for ADHD and Autism Spectrum.
My integrative approach is informed by psychodynamic, behavioral, and trauma informed theories.
I hold a PhD in Clinical Psychology from Duquesne University. I have expertise in working with neurodivergent clients who have experienced PTSD and developmental trauma. I also specialize in providing partners therapy, including for LGBTQ+ and/or Deaf and Hard of Hearing. I also provide client centered psychological assessments for ADHD and Autism Spectrum.
(202) 729-9130 View (202) 729-9130
Photo of Elizabeth Hadorn, Psychologist
Elizabeth Hadorn
Psychologist
Washington, DC 20007
I'm a trauma-informed psychologist who combines cutting-edge, evidence-based treatments with the profound depths of psychoanalysis.
Feeling stuck or fed up with your current therapist? Let's get real – life can be tough. It’s especially hard on ambitious people, parents & perfectionists who are expected to have it all together. The more successful you are (or are expected to be), the more difficult it is to keep it all together. Add anxiety, depression, & relationship issues – forget it. And the more that you achieve, the harder it becomes to find a therapist of your caliber or solutions that work for your complex issues. But I'm not here to hand out generic advice or quick fixes. I'm here to help you uncover the root of your challenges & build lasting changes.
I'm a trauma-informed psychologist who combines cutting-edge, evidence-based treatments with the profound depths of psychoanalysis.
Feeling stuck or fed up with your current therapist? Let's get real – life can be tough. It’s especially hard on ambitious people, parents & perfectionists who are expected to have it all together. The more successful you are (or are expected to be), the more difficult it is to keep it all together. Add anxiety, depression, & relationship issues – forget it. And the more that you achieve, the harder it becomes to find a therapist of your caliber or solutions that work for your complex issues. But I'm not here to hand out generic advice or quick fixes. I'm here to help you uncover the root of your challenges & build lasting changes.
(855) 694-1093 View (855) 694-1093
Photo of Secquana Flowers, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Secquana Flowers
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Have you been experiencing discomfort from what is happening in the world. Dealing with life on life terms should not have to be done alone. With over 15 years of experience in the mental health field, my primary focus has been to walk beside my clients as we navigate the journey to mental wellness. You are the expert of your life and I am just here to assist you with seeing your blind spots. Congratulations on your journey to a healthier you. You do not have to go through this alone! Through collaboration, communication and openness we can work together. It is about time that you start taking care of you first! You owe it to you!
Have you been experiencing discomfort from what is happening in the world. Dealing with life on life terms should not have to be done alone. With over 15 years of experience in the mental health field, my primary focus has been to walk beside my clients as we navigate the journey to mental wellness. You are the expert of your life and I am just here to assist you with seeing your blind spots. Congratulations on your journey to a healthier you. You do not have to go through this alone! Through collaboration, communication and openness we can work together. It is about time that you start taking care of you first! You owe it to you!
(202) 838-5280 View (202) 838-5280
Photo of Schwanna Qualls, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Schwanna Qualls
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Washington, DC 20036
I specialize in working with individuals through life transitions, desire for greater understanding of self, trauma and relationship issues.
I think therapy is like a puzzle, you put the pieces together to create a full picture. I focus on helping you develop a deeper exploration of who you are and how you can feel whole again. By understanding what's working and what's not working, we will be entering a deeper exploration of the self. The ultimate goal of therapy with me is to develop greater self knowledge, self acceptance and be able to change the things that need changing. Bring your patience, this is hard work and it takes time. I welcome the opportunity to work with you.
I specialize in working with individuals through life transitions, desire for greater understanding of self, trauma and relationship issues.
I think therapy is like a puzzle, you put the pieces together to create a full picture. I focus on helping you develop a deeper exploration of who you are and how you can feel whole again. By understanding what's working and what's not working, we will be entering a deeper exploration of the self. The ultimate goal of therapy with me is to develop greater self knowledge, self acceptance and be able to change the things that need changing. Bring your patience, this is hard work and it takes time. I welcome the opportunity to work with you.
(202) 759-2116 View (202) 759-2116
Photo of John Hardenbergh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
John Hardenbergh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Washington, DC 20036
When we experience trauma, memories of these events remain with us as unprocessed memories, affecting our moods, behaviors, sense of self, and our body.
In addition to EMDR, I also help clients overcome issues related to anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and relationship conflict utilizing Mindfulness based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (mbCBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, and attachment informed Mentalization Based Treatment (MBT). I have experience working with a highly diverse client base.
When we experience trauma, memories of these events remain with us as unprocessed memories, affecting our moods, behaviors, sense of self, and our body.
In addition to EMDR, I also help clients overcome issues related to anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and relationship conflict utilizing Mindfulness based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (mbCBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, and attachment informed Mentalization Based Treatment (MBT). I have experience working with a highly diverse client base.
(202) 873-8912 View (202) 873-8912
Photo of Henry A. McKinnon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW, JD
Henry A. McKinnon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW, JD
Washington, DC 20037
Living as your true, authentic self can be challenging. You may feel stuck, confused, or overwhelmed by life experiences. Together we can discover the motivations, tools, and skills which will allow you to be content, more-productive, and less anxious. In a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental space, you and I can explore your patterns of thinking and feeling, and the meanings behind them. We will remove obstacles which get in your way. Client's often tell me that my warm, non-judgmental approach and careful listening help them to feel safe, freeing them to understand themselves in ways they've never considered.
Living as your true, authentic self can be challenging. You may feel stuck, confused, or overwhelmed by life experiences. Together we can discover the motivations, tools, and skills which will allow you to be content, more-productive, and less anxious. In a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental space, you and I can explore your patterns of thinking and feeling, and the meanings behind them. We will remove obstacles which get in your way. Client's often tell me that my warm, non-judgmental approach and careful listening help them to feel safe, freeing them to understand themselves in ways they've never considered.
(202) 803-8464 View (202) 803-8464
Photo of Ashley A Badgley, Counselor, MA, LGPC
Ashley A Badgley
Counselor, MA, LGPC
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in counseling those who have experienced a life-changing trauma.
Accepting new clients in-person and via Telehealth. I strongly believe everyone deserves access to support in their own way, in their own time. I am a provider who encourages clients to address their concerns and heal in a supportive space. Starting or returning to therapy is brave, and I admire your choice to be here. Sometimes the thing we need most is to be heard, and I am honored that you might choose me to listen.
I specialize in counseling those who have experienced a life-changing trauma.
Accepting new clients in-person and via Telehealth. I strongly believe everyone deserves access to support in their own way, in their own time. I am a provider who encourages clients to address their concerns and heal in a supportive space. Starting or returning to therapy is brave, and I admire your choice to be here. Sometimes the thing we need most is to be heard, and I am honored that you might choose me to listen.
(202) 953-2560 View (202) 953-2560
Photo of Deborah Perlman, Psychologist, PhD
Deborah Perlman
Psychologist, PhD
Washington, DC 20036
I work with clients facing relationship struggles, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
Perhaps a loss, heartbreak, or impending change has you shaken. Maybe you have checked all the boxes and reached all the milestones but still feel the dull ache of something missing. Maybe you feel stuck at work, or alone, even in your relationships. Choosing a therapist isn't easy but research consistently shows that the therapist-client relationship is central in determining the effectiveness of therapy. As a graduate psychoanalyst, I have had extensive training and experience in understanding how to harness the power of the therapy relationship to effect the greatest relief from suffering and promote the greatest growth.
I work with clients facing relationship struggles, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
Perhaps a loss, heartbreak, or impending change has you shaken. Maybe you have checked all the boxes and reached all the milestones but still feel the dull ache of something missing. Maybe you feel stuck at work, or alone, even in your relationships. Choosing a therapist isn't easy but research consistently shows that the therapist-client relationship is central in determining the effectiveness of therapy. As a graduate psychoanalyst, I have had extensive training and experience in understanding how to harness the power of the therapy relationship to effect the greatest relief from suffering and promote the greatest growth.
(844) 714-4125 View (844) 714-4125
Photo of Michael A Giordano, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CST
Michael A Giordano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CST
5 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
In a world full of judgment, you need to trust that your therapist is affirming and ready to hear your "deep, dark secrets." With that, you can then talk about what's really going on and address your true concerns. I have experience helping people with all kinds of issues, including relationships, sex and sexuality, addictions, gender identity, physical/emotional/sexual abuse, as well as general questions of self-worth. Together, we will explore any issue that is important to you. We will discuss how past experiences shape what you're currently thinking and feeling.
In a world full of judgment, you need to trust that your therapist is affirming and ready to hear your "deep, dark secrets." With that, you can then talk about what's really going on and address your true concerns. I have experience helping people with all kinds of issues, including relationships, sex and sexuality, addictions, gender identity, physical/emotional/sexual abuse, as well as general questions of self-worth. Together, we will explore any issue that is important to you. We will discuss how past experiences shape what you're currently thinking and feeling.
(202) 559-4269 View (202) 559-4269
Photo of Nutan Nathoo, Psychological Associate, PsyD
Nutan Nathoo
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Washington, DC 20036
Therapy offers a unique opportunity to explore, understand and clarify our thoughts, feelings and experiences, with the goal of achieving a healthier and happier balance in our lives. I offer you a safe and supportive therapy experience where you can move forward in achieving your goals and living the life that you choose and deserve.
Therapy offers a unique opportunity to explore, understand and clarify our thoughts, feelings and experiences, with the goal of achieving a healthier and happier balance in our lives. I offer you a safe and supportive therapy experience where you can move forward in achieving your goals and living the life that you choose and deserve.
(202) 873-9531 View (202) 873-9531

See more therapy options for Washington

Trauma and PTSD Therapists
When should I seek treatment for trauma?
Not everyone who undergoes trauma needs therapy to heal, but many do. If, after experiencing a traumatic event, you find yourself struggling with symptoms such as nightmares, dissociation, irritability, or emotional numbness—especially if these symptoms last more than a month and are severe enough to interfere with your daily functioning—you may benefit from seeking out therapy with a trauma-informed provider.

How long does trauma therapy take?
Different types of therapy for trauma unfold on different timelines. Prolonged exposure therapy and cognitive processing therapy, for example, each take about three months, while trauma-informed CBT may last anywhere from 8 to 25 sessions. Other approaches, especially those that are less structured or that incorporate elements from multiple modalities, may be more open-ended, though many patients report feeling better within the first few months of treatment.

What happens if trauma is left untreated?
Unaddressed trauma can have serious—even devastating—effects on relationships, career, and day-to-day functioning. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can lead people to distrust or lash out at others, making it difficult to maintain intimate relationships; it can also trigger symptoms such as flashbacks or hyperreactivity that can interfere with a person’s ability to function effectively, personally and/or professionally. Some sufferers turn to drugs to find relief. Symptoms may lessen on their own with time, but there is no guarantee that PTSD will resolve on its own.

Can PTSD come back after treatment?
It is possible for PTSD symptoms to recur months or years after successful treatment. This is because, like most mental health disorders, it is not possible to “cure” PTSD, and stressful life events may cause symptoms to recur in even the most resilient individuals. There is no shame in re-experiencing PTSD symptoms nor in returning to therapy when such relapses occur; indeed, many forms of trauma therapy explicitly encourage periodic “maintenance sessions” to reinforce coping skills and ensure that symptoms stay manageable.