Photo of Arielle Mesa, LICSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Arielle Mesa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, RYT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
Life often places obstacles on our path, which can leave us feeling stuck, in pain, uncertain of how to move forward. I specialize in guiding those who arrive here by creating a nurturing and curious space to help you explore, unearth, and effectively heal untended internal wounds. My passion and expertise lie in supporting people in healing from childhood abuse and neglect, sexual violence, complex loss, and ancestral and identity-based trauma. Many also turn to me to better understand with who they truly are, their roles within relationships, and their unique purpose, or to prepare for and integrate psychedelic healing journeys.
Life often places obstacles on our path, which can leave us feeling stuck, in pain, uncertain of how to move forward. I specialize in guiding those who arrive here by creating a nurturing and curious space to help you explore, unearth, and effectively heal untended internal wounds. My passion and expertise lie in supporting people in healing from childhood abuse and neglect, sexual violence, complex loss, and ancestral and identity-based trauma. Many also turn to me to better understand with who they truly are, their roles within relationships, and their unique purpose, or to prepare for and integrate psychedelic healing journeys.
(202) 759-2290 View (202) 759-2290
Photo of Megan K Doherty, PhD, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan K Doherty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
Do you feel “stuck” in repeating patterns? Do you long for a change but can’t seem to make it happen? Or have you recently made a big transition and need help adjusting? Has trauma – either a one-time life event, or an ongoing stressful situation – stopped you from living fully? I help individuals and couples identify goals and the barriers to reaching them. With a collaborative and supportive approach you will find purpose, confidence, and belonging. My approach emphasizes self- determination and collaboration, drawing on evidence-based talk therapies and mind-body approaches like EMDR, mindfulness meditation, and yoga.
Do you feel “stuck” in repeating patterns? Do you long for a change but can’t seem to make it happen? Or have you recently made a big transition and need help adjusting? Has trauma – either a one-time life event, or an ongoing stressful situation – stopped you from living fully? I help individuals and couples identify goals and the barriers to reaching them. With a collaborative and supportive approach you will find purpose, confidence, and belonging. My approach emphasizes self- determination and collaboration, drawing on evidence-based talk therapies and mind-body approaches like EMDR, mindfulness meditation, and yoga.
(202) 952-2134 View (202) 952-2134
Photo of Thea Van Hemert, LGPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Thea Van Hemert
Pre-Licensed Professional, LGPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
Clients work with me to learn to form a positive relationships, manage overwhelm, adjust to marriage, process guilt and shame, process and cope with trauma, explore their identities, navigate family and relationship stress, address decreased interest or sleep challenges. We'll use solution-focused, dialectical behavior therapy, trauma informed care and cognitive behavioral frameworks to improve communication, regulate mood, implement new behaviors and decrease symptoms of anxiety, PTSD, depression, ADHD and more. We'll explore and understand your thoughts, behaviors, relationship and mood patterns and make incremental change.
Clients work with me to learn to form a positive relationships, manage overwhelm, adjust to marriage, process guilt and shame, process and cope with trauma, explore their identities, navigate family and relationship stress, address decreased interest or sleep challenges. We'll use solution-focused, dialectical behavior therapy, trauma informed care and cognitive behavioral frameworks to improve communication, regulate mood, implement new behaviors and decrease symptoms of anxiety, PTSD, depression, ADHD and more. We'll explore and understand your thoughts, behaviors, relationship and mood patterns and make incremental change.
(202) 860-1323 View (202) 860-1323
Photo of Elissa Gross, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elissa Gross
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20005  (Online Only)
Life can be overwhelming and you are not alone in your struggles. Though reaching out for help can feel scary, making this choice is often transformative. You deserve support and to have hope in your life. Therapy with me is a process where this happens and I find it an honor to walk beside and gently guide you through whatever you may be experiencing. I believe in basing our therapeutic relationship on acceptance, genuineness, and empathy. I work with all types of people--children, adolescents, and adults--who are struggling with the external, internal, or both in a non-judgmental, strengths-based, trauma-informed manner.
Life can be overwhelming and you are not alone in your struggles. Though reaching out for help can feel scary, making this choice is often transformative. You deserve support and to have hope in your life. Therapy with me is a process where this happens and I find it an honor to walk beside and gently guide you through whatever you may be experiencing. I believe in basing our therapeutic relationship on acceptance, genuineness, and empathy. I work with all types of people--children, adolescents, and adults--who are struggling with the external, internal, or both in a non-judgmental, strengths-based, trauma-informed manner.
(202) 831-0229 View (202) 831-0229
Photo of Luisa Villagomez, MSW, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Luisa Villagomez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20002  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Washington D.C., California, and Florida. I enjoy helping individuals from all walks of life with challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, grief, stress, life transitions, relationship issues, and much more! I offer dedicated support and you don't have to face these challenges alone. I know starting therapy can feel scary, I get it I've been there. But it can be the best decision you ever make.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Washington D.C., California, and Florida. I enjoy helping individuals from all walks of life with challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, grief, stress, life transitions, relationship issues, and much more! I offer dedicated support and you don't have to face these challenges alone. I know starting therapy can feel scary, I get it I've been there. But it can be the best decision you ever make.
(833) 829-0289 View (833) 829-0289
Photo of undefined - Dandelion Counseling & Care , MSW, LICSW, LCSW, LCSW-C, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dandelion Counseling & Care
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, LCSW-C, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
We a group psychotherapy practice comprised of clinicians who provide compassionate counseling and therapy services, using a team approach, to meet the diverse needs of busy Washingtonians. We love to support families or people individually in their journeys to live healthier and more well lives. Our team includes graduate student interns, provisionally-licensed clinicians, fully licensed clinicians, and an executive leadership and life coach.
We a group psychotherapy practice comprised of clinicians who provide compassionate counseling and therapy services, using a team approach, to meet the diverse needs of busy Washingtonians. We love to support families or people individually in their journeys to live healthier and more well lives. Our team includes graduate student interns, provisionally-licensed clinicians, fully licensed clinicians, and an executive leadership and life coach.
(202) 999-3684 View (202) 999-3684
Photo of Trina Dolenz, MA, PGrad
Trina Dolenz
MA, PGrad
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002
I am a British Couples Psychotherapist specializing in relationship and sexual issues. If you want positive change in your communication, conflicts, sexual difficulties, an affair and its aftermath, divorce or separation or loss of intimacy, I can help you. I truly understand the need for a safe, confidential and empathic environment, to be able to trust your therapist, to be listened to and understood, so that together we are able to resolve or manage the problems and issues you are having with your partner. Take the first step to getting the relationship you deserve - call me to make an appointment.
I am a British Couples Psychotherapist specializing in relationship and sexual issues. If you want positive change in your communication, conflicts, sexual difficulties, an affair and its aftermath, divorce or separation or loss of intimacy, I can help you. I truly understand the need for a safe, confidential and empathic environment, to be able to trust your therapist, to be listened to and understood, so that together we are able to resolve or manage the problems and issues you are having with your partner. Take the first step to getting the relationship you deserve - call me to make an appointment.
(202) 759-8167 View (202) 759-8167
Photo of undefined - Kris O'Shee, LPC, MFA, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kris O'Shee, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MFA, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
I think of therapy as a way of freeing ourselves from the obstacles which prevent us from moving forward in our lives. Frequently these obstacles present themselves to us in the challenges of the outer world--in problems at work, in difficult relationships, in adapting to life changes, or in the sudden impact of a traumatic event. And sometimes what stands in the way of our freedom and happiness lies within us, as negative thought patterns, conflicting or confusing emotions, and unexpressed feelings--all of which can result in depression, anxiety, chronic illness, low self esteem--burdens we often carry alone.
I think of therapy as a way of freeing ourselves from the obstacles which prevent us from moving forward in our lives. Frequently these obstacles present themselves to us in the challenges of the outer world--in problems at work, in difficult relationships, in adapting to life changes, or in the sudden impact of a traumatic event. And sometimes what stands in the way of our freedom and happiness lies within us, as negative thought patterns, conflicting or confusing emotions, and unexpressed feelings--all of which can result in depression, anxiety, chronic illness, low self esteem--burdens we often carry alone.
(202) 213-5505 View (202) 213-5505
Photo of undefined - Pat Webbink, PhD, MA, Psychologist
Pat Webbink
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
With 50 years of clinical experience, a Duke U. Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, I am an empathic, results-oriented psychologist. My specialties: relationships, anxiety, depression, stress reduction, intimacy, trauma & abuse. I work with adults, adolescents, & children in individual, couple, family & group therapy. I counsel in Spanish, French & Japanese. I've authored 4 books on intimacy & relationships & hold FREE monthly Zoom workshops on Mindfulness, Creative Movement & Relationships using guided imagery & music. My licensed associates and I serve MD, D.C. & VA. My interactive audio flyer is available at AacCounseling.com. Call me.
With 50 years of clinical experience, a Duke U. Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, I am an empathic, results-oriented psychologist. My specialties: relationships, anxiety, depression, stress reduction, intimacy, trauma & abuse. I work with adults, adolescents, & children in individual, couple, family & group therapy. I counsel in Spanish, French & Japanese. I've authored 4 books on intimacy & relationships & hold FREE monthly Zoom workshops on Mindfulness, Creative Movement & Relationships using guided imagery & music. My licensed associates and I serve MD, D.C. & VA. My interactive audio flyer is available at AacCounseling.com. Call me.
(240) 435-4843 View (240) 435-4843
Photo of Brianna Luna Pendleton, PhD, LCPC
Brianna Luna Pendleton
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
As a PhD clinical depth psychologist and pastoral counselor, I am skilled at identifying underlying patterns of behavior that contribute to self-defeating ways of living. If you are tired of repeating patterns of behavior and disturbed by chronic symptoms that interfere with work, love relationships, intimacy, physical health, and spiritual wellness than you are ready to begin a journey of healing and recovery. Depression, anxiety, overwhelming stress, re-occuring dreams, traumatic memories, and difficulty with intimacy are symptoms I am best suited to treat.
As a PhD clinical depth psychologist and pastoral counselor, I am skilled at identifying underlying patterns of behavior that contribute to self-defeating ways of living. If you are tired of repeating patterns of behavior and disturbed by chronic symptoms that interfere with work, love relationships, intimacy, physical health, and spiritual wellness than you are ready to begin a journey of healing and recovery. Depression, anxiety, overwhelming stress, re-occuring dreams, traumatic memories, and difficulty with intimacy are symptoms I am best suited to treat.
(443) 295-6103 View (443) 295-6103
Photo of undefined - Dr. Catchings Women's Emotional Wellness Center, PhD, LCSW-S, CFTP, EMDR, LCSWC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Catchings Women's Emotional Wellness Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-S, CFTP, EMDR, LCSWC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008  (Online Only)
Emotional issues are a community matter that affects us all. I am dedicated to meeting your needs through support, education, and direct services. I believe in a new high standard of response, helping you at the earliest stage and preventing unnecessary impairment and suffering for you and your family. I specialize in relationships, depression, anxiety, and family violence. I also assist with immigration and home studies. My main goal is to ensure you live a happy life, free of pain and negativity. You are not alone. We can walk together until you feel ready to fly. Cynthia V. Catchings, LCSW-S, CMHIMP, CLYL, CFTP, CMS, EMDR-T
Emotional issues are a community matter that affects us all. I am dedicated to meeting your needs through support, education, and direct services. I believe in a new high standard of response, helping you at the earliest stage and preventing unnecessary impairment and suffering for you and your family. I specialize in relationships, depression, anxiety, and family violence. I also assist with immigration and home studies. My main goal is to ensure you live a happy life, free of pain and negativity. You are not alone. We can walk together until you feel ready to fly. Cynthia V. Catchings, LCSW-S, CMHIMP, CLYL, CFTP, CMS, EMDR-T
(571) 253-7505 View (571) 253-7505
Photo of Camilla Hendren, LCSW, LICSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Camilla Hendren
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Do you want to cultivate self-compassion? Improve your relationships, set healthy boundaries and be more assertive? I can help you! Get relief from depression, anxiety, ADHD, and past trauma. Awaken to your own insights, get in touch with your feelings, and practice acceptance of difficult situations. I can guide you on how to unhook from unhelpful thoughts/patterns and reframe/shift your perspective. We can explore effective coping skills, techniques for relaxation and how to get organized and motivated. Let’s reconnect with your values and rediscover what is meaningful to you.
Do you want to cultivate self-compassion? Improve your relationships, set healthy boundaries and be more assertive? I can help you! Get relief from depression, anxiety, ADHD, and past trauma. Awaken to your own insights, get in touch with your feelings, and practice acceptance of difficult situations. I can guide you on how to unhook from unhelpful thoughts/patterns and reframe/shift your perspective. We can explore effective coping skills, techniques for relaxation and how to get organized and motivated. Let’s reconnect with your values and rediscover what is meaningful to you.
(703) 810-7065 View (703) 810-7065
Photo of Carla Carreira, MA, MS, SEP
Carla Carreira
MA, MS, SEP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20011  (Online Only)
I am a somatic experiencing practitioner and clinical sexologist committed to diversity and accessibility and offer a holistic therapeutic approach targeted to fit client needs. I am dedicated to trust-building and co-creation and enjoy worksheets/ post-session exercises that reinforce and assist integration. I enjoy working with clients with traditionally limited access to care. I also appreciate curiosity for self-awareness and commitment to growth.
I am a somatic experiencing practitioner and clinical sexologist committed to diversity and accessibility and offer a holistic therapeutic approach targeted to fit client needs. I am dedicated to trust-building and co-creation and enjoy worksheets/ post-session exercises that reinforce and assist integration. I enjoy working with clients with traditionally limited access to care. I also appreciate curiosity for self-awareness and commitment to growth.
(240) 226-2577 View (240) 226-2577
Photo of Sandhya Sharma, LPC, CAC II, EMDR, Counselor
Sandhya Sharma
Counselor, LPC, CAC II, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20004
Sandhya Sharma is a South Asian Indian LPC and certified addictions specialist who works with: Adults, Teens, LGBTQ community, and International Communities. Sandhya will help create a safe and supportive therapy environment and work with you collaboratively to both accurately assess your strengths as well as areas of struggle. She will develop a treatment plan with you to help you facilitate behavioral changes that more successfully meet your goals. Sandhya will help you look at the ways you have been currently coping with life’s problems and help you to develop new strategies from a strengths-based perspective. 
Sandhya Sharma is a South Asian Indian LPC and certified addictions specialist who works with: Adults, Teens, LGBTQ community, and International Communities. Sandhya will help create a safe and supportive therapy environment and work with you collaboratively to both accurately assess your strengths as well as areas of struggle. She will develop a treatment plan with you to help you facilitate behavioral changes that more successfully meet your goals. Sandhya will help you look at the ways you have been currently coping with life’s problems and help you to develop new strategies from a strengths-based perspective. 
(703) 828-0647 View (703) 828-0647
Photo of Renu K. Aldrich, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Renu K. Aldrich
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20037  (Online Only)
Therapy can benefit you wherever you are in life, whether it's in the midst of a crisis, if you're feeling distant from a partner or your parents, or if you simply want to know yourself better. Providing therapy is a sacred calling for me, and I am honored to empower either individuals, couples, families, or groups to reach goals or explore the unknown. I use a systemic approach to help clients in the context of environments and identities. Together, we can grow and become the authors of our own stories. By accepting who we are and our imperfections, we increase our ability to love ourselves and connect more deeply with others.
Therapy can benefit you wherever you are in life, whether it's in the midst of a crisis, if you're feeling distant from a partner or your parents, or if you simply want to know yourself better. Providing therapy is a sacred calling for me, and I am honored to empower either individuals, couples, families, or groups to reach goals or explore the unknown. I use a systemic approach to help clients in the context of environments and identities. Together, we can grow and become the authors of our own stories. By accepting who we are and our imperfections, we increase our ability to love ourselves and connect more deeply with others.
(571) 570-3897 View (571) 570-3897
Photo of undefined - Integrative Psychotherapy & EMDR, PhD, Psychologist
Integrative Psychotherapy & EMDR
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
Trauma/EMDR Therapist, Harvard-trained: PTSD, Grief & Loss, Childhood Abuse, Medical/Dental, Military, Police/EMS Critical Incident, Hospital Staff/ICU. Psychological Evaluation for Adults 18+. Holistic Approach: Mind-Body-Spirit. Member, Harvard University Healthcare Professionals Group.
Trauma/EMDR Therapist, Harvard-trained: PTSD, Grief & Loss, Childhood Abuse, Medical/Dental, Military, Police/EMS Critical Incident, Hospital Staff/ICU. Psychological Evaluation for Adults 18+. Holistic Approach: Mind-Body-Spirit. Member, Harvard University Healthcare Professionals Group.
(540) 609-2579 View (540) 609-2579
Photo of Shelley Annaís Karliner, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shelley Annaís Karliner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002
Not accepting new clients
"I have spent the last 30 years helping thousands of people from all walks of life address their emotional pain and find intimacy with the people they love. Whether you are looking to increase your self-esteem, improve your relationship skills, manage stress and anger, handle work conflicts, cope with depression and anxiety, or handle other complex personal issues, you can expect to grow and feel better as a result of working with me. I am now also seeing clients online which offers the comfort and privacy of doing sessions from your home or office.
"I have spent the last 30 years helping thousands of people from all walks of life address their emotional pain and find intimacy with the people they love. Whether you are looking to increase your self-esteem, improve your relationship skills, manage stress and anger, handle work conflicts, cope with depression and anxiety, or handle other complex personal issues, you can expect to grow and feel better as a result of working with me. I am now also seeing clients online which offers the comfort and privacy of doing sessions from your home or office.
(202) 681-5925 View (202) 681-5925
Photo of Dr. Martina E. Efodzi, DMin, MA, ATR-BC, LCPAT, LCPC, Counselor
Dr. Martina E. Efodzi
Counselor, DMin, MA, ATR-BC, LCPAT, LCPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges? Are your emotions, or a complicated relationship, weighing you down? Are you interested in finding creative solutions to your problems? If so, perhaps counseling, art therapy, or some combination of the two might be right for you! I offer a supportive and non-judgmental space where you will learn to take charge of your thoughts, emotions, and actions while practicing better self-care and improving insight. My areas of expertise include trauma, HIV, diabetes, depression, anxiety, multicultural and LGBTQ+ concerns, existential dilemmas, spiritual concerns, and grief and loss.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges? Are your emotions, or a complicated relationship, weighing you down? Are you interested in finding creative solutions to your problems? If so, perhaps counseling, art therapy, or some combination of the two might be right for you! I offer a supportive and non-judgmental space where you will learn to take charge of your thoughts, emotions, and actions while practicing better self-care and improving insight. My areas of expertise include trauma, HIV, diabetes, depression, anxiety, multicultural and LGBTQ+ concerns, existential dilemmas, spiritual concerns, and grief and loss.
(202) 759-2328 View (202) 759-2328

See more therapy options for District of Columbia

Sexual Abuse Therapists

How do therapists treat sexual abuse?

A good therapist will be nonjudgmental and possibly demonstrate active listening, repeating back what the client says to show that they have understood. These skills allow people to feel comfortable discussing their traumatic experiences openly. Some important treatment goals are to restore a sense of safety and to rebuild confidence. In addition to working one-on-one with the patient, a therapist might bring in supportive family members to assist the client.

Do you have to talk extensively about sexual abuse in therapy?

Survivors frequently find it difficult to describe what happened to them out loud. They can even still be in a state of denial if the sexual abuse occurred recently. It is important for survivors to acknowledge that what happened isn’t their fault and to challenge and reappraise any unhealthy feelings or thoughts as they arise. Art therapy and play therapy are useful non-verbal means of communication for some survivors.

How long does treatment for sexual abuse take?

Recovery from sexual abuse can be a long and difficult process. Some survivors are able to move on naturally on their own, given time, while others require the guidance of a trained therapist. Therapy needs vary and can range from a few sessions to months or even years. Healing from sexual abuse takes time, and everyone’s journey will look a little different.

Can trauma symptoms caused by sexual abuse come back after treatment?

As occurs in many cases of trauma, survivors of sexual abuse may experience PTSD-like symptoms long after the abuse has ceased or after an initial round of treatment has occurred. In such a case, there is evidence that prolonged exposure therapy is a useful treatment for survivors, and may be more efficacious than supportive counseling alone. While triggers may continue to cause distress, the idea is that, with time and repeated exposure, their power will fade, allowing survivors to move on with their lives.