Photo of Jo Pittman, Pre-Licensed Professional in Washington, DC
Jo Pittman
Pre-Licensed Professional, MT-BC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
Expressive arts help establish and maintain strong therapeutic alliances that help humans feel seen, heard, and understood.
Hi! I’m Jo, a Graduate Counseling Intern at Urban Playology, a mental health private practice based in DC. I work under the direct clinical supervision of Xanthia Johnson, LPC, LCPC-S. I am a graduate counseling student at the University of Pennsylvania. I believe that healing, albeit challenging at times, is a beautiful and attainable experience. My compass for social justice holds my belief that everyone deserves to have a high-quality therapy experience with a compassionate and skilled psychotherapist. It is an honor to partner with human beings who come from diverse backgrounds on their journey toward mental health wellness.
Expressive arts help establish and maintain strong therapeutic alliances that help humans feel seen, heard, and understood.
Hi! I’m Jo, a Graduate Counseling Intern at Urban Playology, a mental health private practice based in DC. I work under the direct clinical supervision of Xanthia Johnson, LPC, LCPC-S. I am a graduate counseling student at the University of Pennsylvania. I believe that healing, albeit challenging at times, is a beautiful and attainable experience. My compass for social justice holds my belief that everyone deserves to have a high-quality therapy experience with a compassionate and skilled psychotherapist. It is an honor to partner with human beings who come from diverse backgrounds on their journey toward mental health wellness.
(888) 689-4339 x100 View (888) 689-4339 x100
Photo of Alyssa Louise McCall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Alyssa Louise McCall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002
In the past, I have supported clients through utilizing Problem Solving Therapy, DBT, CBT, Mindfulness Practices, Trauma-Informed Care, Expressive Arts Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Being our best selves is attainable when we allow ourselves to be on a path of peace, fulfillment, and self-awareness. I hold a passion for helping clients do just that. I work with clients through a holistic & individualistic approach to support them in moving closer to their personal & professional goals. I am here to help you on your journey to finding yourself, being in tune with your needs, and overcoming any trauma that may be hindering this. I specialize in supporting clients overcome anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, workplace & relationship challenges, low career self-efficacy, discrimination, and so much more.
In the past, I have supported clients through utilizing Problem Solving Therapy, DBT, CBT, Mindfulness Practices, Trauma-Informed Care, Expressive Arts Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Being our best selves is attainable when we allow ourselves to be on a path of peace, fulfillment, and self-awareness. I hold a passion for helping clients do just that. I work with clients through a holistic & individualistic approach to support them in moving closer to their personal & professional goals. I am here to help you on your journey to finding yourself, being in tune with your needs, and overcoming any trauma that may be hindering this. I specialize in supporting clients overcome anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, workplace & relationship challenges, low career self-efficacy, discrimination, and so much more.
(202) 914-1107 x701 View (202) 914-1107 x701
Photo of Renu K. Aldrich, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington, DC
Renu K. Aldrich
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20037  (Online Only)
Under an integrative umbrella, I employ methods including mindfulness, CBT, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and experiential and expressive arts therapies.
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.
Under an integrative umbrella, I employ methods including mindfulness, CBT, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and experiential and expressive arts therapies.
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 Erin Elizabeth McCarthy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Erin Elizabeth McCarthy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008
People of all ages and walks of life have felt comfortable opening up in my presence, and many find our work together to be the foundation and structure for new areas of self knowledge and profound emotional growth. I connect with people that are in pain or who have been hurt, people that are confused, overwhelmed or just feeling bad. Through our work, we will facilitate a stronger sense of who you are and a greater ability for relational engagement -- discovering and building a full, desired life. I balance softness and smiles with challenge, deep curiosity and playfulness.
People of all ages and walks of life have felt comfortable opening up in my presence, and many find our work together to be the foundation and structure for new areas of self knowledge and profound emotional growth. I connect with people that are in pain or who have been hurt, people that are confused, overwhelmed or just feeling bad. Through our work, we will facilitate a stronger sense of who you are and a greater ability for relational engagement -- discovering and building a full, desired life. I balance softness and smiles with challenge, deep curiosity and playfulness.
(202) 796-7585 View (202) 796-7585
Photo of Amber Lynn Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Amber Lynn Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
I'm a licensed therapist with a specialization in ADHD, trauma, and anxiety. My role is to provide compassionate support, structure, validation, and tools to help you improve your mental health and accomplish your goals.
I'm a licensed therapist with a specialization in ADHD, trauma, and anxiety. My role is to provide compassionate support, structure, validation, and tools to help you improve your mental health and accomplish your goals.
(202) 902-6320 x602 View (202) 902-6320 x602
Photo of Alysa Ain, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Alysa Ain
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, LGSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
Therapy is a creative space where we collaborate to help you discover what you need to live a satisfying, joyful life, and develop the freedom and courage to make choices that honor these needs. As a former corporate lawyer, I have a special interest in working with professionals (particularly lawyers!) who feel stressed and stuck in their careers. I also love working with anyone else urgently asking: What do I actually want? How can I feel more at home in my life and in the world?
Therapy is a creative space where we collaborate to help you discover what you need to live a satisfying, joyful life, and develop the freedom and courage to make choices that honor these needs. As a former corporate lawyer, I have a special interest in working with professionals (particularly lawyers!) who feel stressed and stuck in their careers. I also love working with anyone else urgently asking: What do I actually want? How can I feel more at home in my life and in the world?
(202) 335-4433 View (202) 335-4433
Photo of Keltie Hawkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Keltie Hawkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
I specialize in the treatment of unresolved trauma and difficult life experiences. But I also believe therapy is a comfortable space to get to know yourself better—and a vehicle for hope, whether you are in acute crisis, or simply feeling stuck. Through an integrative approach, I help you identify patterns of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that may have begun early in life and continue to affect your relationships or your work.
I specialize in the treatment of unresolved trauma and difficult life experiences. But I also believe therapy is a comfortable space to get to know yourself better—and a vehicle for hope, whether you are in acute crisis, or simply feeling stuck. Through an integrative approach, I help you identify patterns of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that may have begun early in life and continue to affect your relationships or your work.
(202) 918-4218 View (202) 918-4218
Photo of Thérèse Aline Verley Strodel, Counselor in Washington, DC
Thérèse Aline Verley Strodel
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20011
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! Congratulations on taking this important first step in your healing journey! If you're struggling with depression, stress, anxiety, trauma, grief or other life transitions, I’d be honored to work collaboratively with you. When we better understand our patterns of behavior, we can then make small changes, that have great impact. This is how we find peace and equanimity. I will assist you in understanding what is getting in the way of living your best life, creating a non-judgmental and supportive space to discover your strengths and what is most important to you. Your healing journey awaits!
Hello! Congratulations on taking this important first step in your healing journey! If you're struggling with depression, stress, anxiety, trauma, grief or other life transitions, I’d be honored to work collaboratively with you. When we better understand our patterns of behavior, we can then make small changes, that have great impact. This is how we find peace and equanimity. I will assist you in understanding what is getting in the way of living your best life, creating a non-judgmental and supportive space to discover your strengths and what is most important to you. Your healing journey awaits!
(202) 759-8573 View (202) 759-8573
Photo of Diana Gorbunova, Pre-Licensed Professional in Washington, DC
Diana Gorbunova
Pre-Licensed Professional, LGPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
Managing or eliminating sadness, relationship challenges, immigrant experiences, trauma, LGBTQIA+ identity, intrusive thoughts, work stress, family stressors, isolation, difficulty concentrating and little interest or pleasure in activities are reasons why clients come to me. We'll use solution-focused, dialectical behavior therapy, trauma informed care and cognitive behavioral to improve communication, regulate mood, implement new behaviors and decrease symptoms. We'll discuss the impact experiences have on you, identify emotions related to these experiences, identify mood regulation techniques and implement behavioral change.
Managing or eliminating sadness, relationship challenges, immigrant experiences, trauma, LGBTQIA+ identity, intrusive thoughts, work stress, family stressors, isolation, difficulty concentrating and little interest or pleasure in activities are reasons why clients come to me. We'll use solution-focused, dialectical behavior therapy, trauma informed care and cognitive behavioral to improve communication, regulate mood, implement new behaviors and decrease symptoms. We'll discuss the impact experiences have on you, identify emotions related to these experiences, identify mood regulation techniques and implement behavioral change.
(202) 860-1323 View (202) 860-1323
Photo of Kate Kelly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Kate Kelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
I’m the founder and director of The Center for Family Well-Being, where we aim -- through our groups, individual therapy, and classes -- to help kids, teens, adults, couples, and families fully realize their potential with confidence, understanding, and an open heart. We're a group of highly-trained holistic therapists who integrate Western psychotherapy with the wisdom of Eastern mindful awareness practice, as well as other mind-body healing methods, for greater awareness, connection, and well-being for our clients -- within themselves and with others in their lives.
I’m the founder and director of The Center for Family Well-Being, where we aim -- through our groups, individual therapy, and classes -- to help kids, teens, adults, couples, and families fully realize their potential with confidence, understanding, and an open heart. We're a group of highly-trained holistic therapists who integrate Western psychotherapy with the wisdom of Eastern mindful awareness practice, as well as other mind-body healing methods, for greater awareness, connection, and well-being for our clients -- within themselves and with others in their lives.
(202) 804-8054 View (202) 804-8054
Photo of Rola Jawdat, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Rola Jawdat
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
Welcome to my practice and thank you for considering me as a companion on your journey towards healing and growth. Are you looking for a compassionate therapist who will listen deeply and attentively to your concerns whether they stem from difficulties coping with relationship issues, work stressors, past traumatic events or simply feeling that your life could have more meaning and depth?
Welcome to my practice and thank you for considering me as a companion on your journey towards healing and growth. Are you looking for a compassionate therapist who will listen deeply and attentively to your concerns whether they stem from difficulties coping with relationship issues, work stressors, past traumatic events or simply feeling that your life could have more meaning and depth?
(202) 858-0395 View (202) 858-0395
Photo of Christina Fals, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Christina Fals
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
I am a bilingual Hispanic American Licensed Clinical Social Worker, offering virtual counseling services in Washington D.C., Maryland, and Puerto Rico. With a holistic approach to mental health, I provide personalized treatment for a diverse range of challenges. My focus is on offering compassionate support to individuals navigating life's obstacles. I specialize in helping clients with disruptive behaviors, adjustment difficulties, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, ADHD, gender identity exploration, and provide affirming care for LGBTQ individuals.
I am a bilingual Hispanic American Licensed Clinical Social Worker, offering virtual counseling services in Washington D.C., Maryland, and Puerto Rico. With a holistic approach to mental health, I provide personalized treatment for a diverse range of challenges. My focus is on offering compassionate support to individuals navigating life's obstacles. I specialize in helping clients with disruptive behaviors, adjustment difficulties, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, ADHD, gender identity exploration, and provide affirming care for LGBTQ individuals.
(202) 915-1422 View (202) 915-1422
Photo of Lisa Smith-Couples Counselor, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Lisa Smith-Couples Counselor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CST
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
Are you experiencing relationship issues? Working together, I can help you resolve problems and feelings that may seem overwhelming. Whether you're seeking couples counseling or individual therapy, I'll listen deeply and will help you forge a path towards your goals. You'll find an affirming, supportive environment and strategies to enable you to live your life more fully and joyfully. Clients have told me that my warm, non-judgmental, and collaborative approach helps them feel comfortable working through difficult issues.
Are you experiencing relationship issues? Working together, I can help you resolve problems and feelings that may seem overwhelming. Whether you're seeking couples counseling or individual therapy, I'll listen deeply and will help you forge a path towards your goals. You'll find an affirming, supportive environment and strategies to enable you to live your life more fully and joyfully. Clients have told me that my warm, non-judgmental, and collaborative approach helps them feel comfortable working through difficult issues.
(202) 803-7244 View (202) 803-7244
Photo of Ehrhardt Therapy and Associates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Ehrhardt Therapy and Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006
Welcome! Beginning therapy can be a difficult first step, but it often leads to important insights and tremendous personal growth. Therapy is not a one size fits all model. Our approach ensures you will receive the treatment that is right for you. Whether you're looking to address issues from the past or current life challenges, you don't have to do it alone. Our goal is to create a safe and warm therapeutic environment that makes you comfortable sharing.
Welcome! Beginning therapy can be a difficult first step, but it often leads to important insights and tremendous personal growth. Therapy is not a one size fits all model. Our approach ensures you will receive the treatment that is right for you. Whether you're looking to address issues from the past or current life challenges, you don't have to do it alone. Our goal is to create a safe and warm therapeutic environment that makes you comfortable sharing.
(202) 642-6661 View (202) 642-6661
Photo of Kris O'Shee, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
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 Community Counseling Services Center, Pre-Licensed Professional in Washington, DC
Community Counseling Services Center
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20052
The Community Counseling Services Center (CCSC) is a training clinic located at The George Washington University, near the Foggy Bottom metro. We provide affordable mental health counseling services to individuals within the Washington, DC metro area. We offer evidence-based individual, family, career, and couples counseling to address a wide variety of mental health concerns, relationship issues, and interpersonal challenges. Our clinicians are master’s students in our Clinical Mental Health and Rehabilitation Counseling programs and doctoral students in our Counseling and Supervision Ph.D. program.
The Community Counseling Services Center (CCSC) is a training clinic located at The George Washington University, near the Foggy Bottom metro. We provide affordable mental health counseling services to individuals within the Washington, DC metro area. We offer evidence-based individual, family, career, and couples counseling to address a wide variety of mental health concerns, relationship issues, and interpersonal challenges. Our clinicians are master’s students in our Clinical Mental Health and Rehabilitation Counseling programs and doctoral students in our Counseling and Supervision Ph.D. program.
(202) 968-3320 View (202) 968-3320
Photo of Jessica Cetoute, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Jessica Cetoute
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
Congratulations on taking this next step towards achieving your wellbeing goals! Life is filled with various turning points and anxiety provoking situations, especially during a global pandemic and televised racial inequality. Are you tired of living the day to day grind without much motivation? Do you feel stressed or overwhelmed from all the pressure to perform from family, friends, your child, partner, society, and/or work? Perhaps you’re feeling stuck, need advice about a problem, or a motivational push to reconnect with your whole self, and finally accomplish that goal you have been holding off?
Congratulations on taking this next step towards achieving your wellbeing goals! Life is filled with various turning points and anxiety provoking situations, especially during a global pandemic and televised racial inequality. Are you tired of living the day to day grind without much motivation? Do you feel stressed or overwhelmed from all the pressure to perform from family, friends, your child, partner, society, and/or work? Perhaps you’re feeling stuck, need advice about a problem, or a motivational push to reconnect with your whole self, and finally accomplish that goal you have been holding off?
(202) 894-9447 View (202) 894-9447
Photo of Aubrey A Rainbow, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Aubrey A Rainbow
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LCPAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016  (Online Only)
You’re here because something’s not working. Whether it’s a specific event or just life piling up, I can help. Therapy with me blends visual arts with Internal Family Systems (Level 1 trained) parts work to explore your strengths and your stuck spots. You might find my approach beneficial if you relate to any of the following: you see yourself as an overachiever or perfectionist, find it hard to set boundaries, spend a lot of time in your head, struggle to sit with intense emotions, feel lonely despite being surrounded by people, have faced loss or trauma, or want to take up more space in your own life.
You’re here because something’s not working. Whether it’s a specific event or just life piling up, I can help. Therapy with me blends visual arts with Internal Family Systems (Level 1 trained) parts work to explore your strengths and your stuck spots. You might find my approach beneficial if you relate to any of the following: you see yourself as an overachiever or perfectionist, find it hard to set boundaries, spend a lot of time in your head, struggle to sit with intense emotions, feel lonely despite being surrounded by people, have faced loss or trauma, or want to take up more space in your own life.
(202) 851-8281 View (202) 851-8281
Photo of Dana Goldenberg, Counselor in Washington, DC
Dana Goldenberg
Counselor, LPC, LCPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
I have immediate telehealth availability to begin working with new clients. I am a psychotherapist licensed in the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia with over 8 years of experience. I enjoy working with adults and young adults from diverse backgrounds who may be experiencing challenges related to: anxiety, depression, perinatal mental health, fertility, work-life balance, life transitions, and issues stemming from low self-worth. I believe that the right therapeutic relationship can guide and empower clients towards healing and strengthening resilience.
I have immediate telehealth availability to begin working with new clients. I am a psychotherapist licensed in the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia with over 8 years of experience. I enjoy working with adults and young adults from diverse backgrounds who may be experiencing challenges related to: anxiety, depression, perinatal mental health, fertility, work-life balance, life transitions, and issues stemming from low self-worth. I believe that the right therapeutic relationship can guide and empower clients towards healing and strengthening resilience.
(202) 968-1746 View (202) 968-1746
Photo of Sheva Melmed, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Sheva Melmed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20037
It is brave to choose how you want to craft your life. Many people are struggling through big life transitions, are unhappy in their relationships, or they want to move past anxiety and depression. Therapy is a place to understand what is happening now, and how to create something different and better to feel more satisfied. If this is you, I offer a space to look at and understand what is happening in your life, and how you can regain a sense of agency to create what you want. I am warm and engaging, and together we find patterns in your life that keep showing up and getting in your way. We look at how to cultivate what you want.
It is brave to choose how you want to craft your life. Many people are struggling through big life transitions, are unhappy in their relationships, or they want to move past anxiety and depression. Therapy is a place to understand what is happening now, and how to create something different and better to feel more satisfied. If this is you, I offer a space to look at and understand what is happening in your life, and how you can regain a sense of agency to create what you want. I am warm and engaging, and together we find patterns in your life that keep showing up and getting in your way. We look at how to cultivate what you want.
(202) 952-8507 View (202) 952-8507
Expressive Arts Therapists

What happens in expressive arts therapy?

In an expressive arts therapy session, the therapist will provide the space and materials necessary to encourage the client to express themselves creatively. These can include art supplies, musical instruments, a journal, a camera, and more. The therapist offers careful guidance throughout the creative process, often noticing and talking about psychological issues as they arise. Many clients also benefit from the mind-body connection—the physical act of making art can help them feel more grounded and present.

How long does expressive arts therapy take?

An expressive arts therapy session will typically last between 50 minutes and an hour. Group sessions may run longer. Sometimes, a client might only need one or two sessions of expressive arts therapy in conjunction with talk therapy to resolve a psychological issue. Others might find a fixed number of sessions over the course of either weeks or months to be beneficial. The duration depends on the client and their individual needs and goals for therapy.

How does expressive arts therapy help children?

Creativity is an important part of normal child development. Expressive arts therapy proves a safe outlet for child clients to learn to identify their emotions and express them in healthy ways. In expressive arts therapy, children can build their self-esteem, discover more about their personality and strengths, and feel a sense of normalcy in an otherwise chaotic world. This therapeutic approach can be particularly helpful for children with developmental disabilities, autism, ADHD, speech impairments, and other conditions.

What are the limitations of expressive arts therapy?

Sometimes individuals have physical limitations that can affect their ability to express themselves artistically in certain mediums. For example, someone with hearing problems might find it difficult to make music. Sickness and mobility issues can make some types of art physically inaccessible (e.g., sculpting, dancing, etc.). Sometimes, clients are overly skeptical and have trouble letting go and engaging with the creative process. Individuals who require a higher level of care may be better served with other types of therapy.