Child Therapists in Washington, DC

Photo of Kristin Pillay, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Kristin Pillay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20015
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive experience working with kids, adolescents, and families and use a strengths based approach to meet children where they are. You can show up now and be seen, known, and valued at our new office. As a former school counselor, I know that children have varying school experiences and show up with you to build community, partner with you, and to meet each child where they are. I am curious, not all knowing, and consider the impact of words and actions. Our creative therapeutic interventions to support and to increase self understanding for kids across developmental stages
I have extensive experience working with kids, adolescents, and families and use a strengths based approach to meet children where they are. You can show up now and be seen, known, and valued at our new office. As a former school counselor, I know that children have varying school experiences and show up with you to build community, partner with you, and to meet each child where they are. I am curious, not all knowing, and consider the impact of words and actions. Our creative therapeutic interventions to support and to increase self understanding for kids across developmental stages
(202) 933-8243 View (202) 933-8243
Photo of Dr. LaNail R. Plummer, Counselor in Washington, DC
Dr. LaNail R. Plummer
Counselor, EdD, LPC, NCC, ACS, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20045
I value & support parent education/counseling especially as parents navigate through the school system while raising a child with mental health concerns.
Accepting new clients- Life is hard. Most of us want to think that it gets easier but that only occurs when our skills (emotional, mental, physical, spiritual) improve. Therapy is the perfect place to learn and practice new skills while getting the encouragement to make it through life's toughest moments. And I am ready for you. I work with all clients and specialize in the Black/Brown communities, LGBTQ population, couples, and adolescents. I value intersectionality, solutions-focused work, and holistic practices.
I value & support parent education/counseling especially as parents navigate through the school system while raising a child with mental health concerns.
Accepting new clients- Life is hard. Most of us want to think that it gets easier but that only occurs when our skills (emotional, mental, physical, spiritual) improve. Therapy is the perfect place to learn and practice new skills while getting the encouragement to make it through life's toughest moments. And I am ready for you. I work with all clients and specialize in the Black/Brown communities, LGBTQ population, couples, and adolescents. I value intersectionality, solutions-focused work, and holistic practices.
(202) 803-8556 View (202) 803-8556
Photo of Gotel & Thrive, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Gotel & Thrive, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, RPT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
Gotel & Thrive is the restorative space for queer and heterosexual men of color, women of color, and children & youth of diverse backgrounds to undo the thinking and behaviors that block joy and provide tools to cope when life forces you to pivot.
You are trying to shine bright like a diamond and have the things most of us desire for a good life. But there is something dimming your brilliance—it constricts you. You know, those feelings of doubt, dread, disgruntlement, desperation, or despair. Like that constant wondering about whether you are viewed as competent at work; like that disappointment you cover up with food, drink or overachieving because you haven’t met “the one;” like that hurt you carry from a past that shamed you or the depths of grief; or like the helplessness feel when your child is struggling.
Gotel & Thrive is the restorative space for queer and heterosexual men of color, women of color, and children & youth of diverse backgrounds to undo the thinking and behaviors that block joy and provide tools to cope when life forces you to pivot.
You are trying to shine bright like a diamond and have the things most of us desire for a good life. But there is something dimming your brilliance—it constricts you. You know, those feelings of doubt, dread, disgruntlement, desperation, or despair. Like that constant wondering about whether you are viewed as competent at work; like that disappointment you cover up with food, drink or overachieving because you haven’t met “the one;” like that hurt you carry from a past that shamed you or the depths of grief; or like the helplessness feel when your child is struggling.
(202) 980-2433 View (202) 980-2433
Photo of Karen Garman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Karen Garman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20015
I have extensive experience working with children and adolescents, and provide services tailored to the child or adolescent’s developmental level and needs.
I work with adults, adolescents and children to create a safe space in which to explore and understand struggles, develop healthy coping skills, and cultivate fulfilling relationships. I bring my understanding of development across the life span, listening skills, and a commitment to help each individual feel understood, supported, and challenged to move toward healing, growth, and the change they desire.
I have extensive experience working with children and adolescents, and provide services tailored to the child or adolescent’s developmental level and needs.
I work with adults, adolescents and children to create a safe space in which to explore and understand struggles, develop healthy coping skills, and cultivate fulfilling relationships. I bring my understanding of development across the life span, listening skills, and a commitment to help each individual feel understood, supported, and challenged to move toward healing, growth, and the change they desire.
(202) 729-9092 View (202) 729-9092
Photo of N.E. Beautiful Mind, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
N.E. Beautiful Mind
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20037
Are you a parent of a child who is experiencing a change in their mood, level of stress or anxiety? Maybe you are a young adult who is uncertain about the future. Perhaps you are an athlete or entertainer that is experiencing performance anxiety. If that is the case, you've found the right place. N.E. Beautiful Mind has been established as a dedicated mental health organization, unwavering in its commitment to normalizing the profound benefits and transformative impact that therapeutic support can have on individuals.
Are you a parent of a child who is experiencing a change in their mood, level of stress or anxiety? Maybe you are a young adult who is uncertain about the future. Perhaps you are an athlete or entertainer that is experiencing performance anxiety. If that is the case, you've found the right place. N.E. Beautiful Mind has been established as a dedicated mental health organization, unwavering in its commitment to normalizing the profound benefits and transformative impact that therapeutic support can have on individuals.
(202) 335-7140 View (202) 335-7140
Photo of Samuel Julius Schor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Samuel Julius Schor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
The populations with whom I work are adults, children, and couples. My primary modalities are Two-Person Psychology & Relational Theory, with which I focus on the importance of the therapist being a part of the therapeutic process, and working with folks from the beginning of treatment until the end; never wanting the client to feel they are alone on this journey. I hope my process helps my clients feel confident in themselves so that they can find the courage and fortitude to change, which is the hardest thing a person can do.
The populations with whom I work are adults, children, and couples. My primary modalities are Two-Person Psychology & Relational Theory, with which I focus on the importance of the therapist being a part of the therapeutic process, and working with folks from the beginning of treatment until the end; never wanting the client to feel they are alone on this journey. I hope my process helps my clients feel confident in themselves so that they can find the courage and fortitude to change, which is the hardest thing a person can do.
(202) 972-6268 View (202) 972-6268
Photo of Rhetya Kelly Thompson, Counselor in Washington, DC
Rhetya Kelly Thompson
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20001
I specialize in therapy for children and teens facing behavioral and emotional challenges, as well as supporting their parents. If your child's intense emotions or behaviors are overwhelming, or if your teen is struggling with defiance, social challenges, or managing their feelings, know that you're not alone. My balanced approach focuses on helping your child or teen express and regulate their emotions positively, while equally empowering you as a parent with effective strategies for guidance and support. Together, we'll work towards building stronger family dynamics and individual emotional resilience.
I specialize in therapy for children and teens facing behavioral and emotional challenges, as well as supporting their parents. If your child's intense emotions or behaviors are overwhelming, or if your teen is struggling with defiance, social challenges, or managing their feelings, know that you're not alone. My balanced approach focuses on helping your child or teen express and regulate their emotions positively, while equally empowering you as a parent with effective strategies for guidance and support. Together, we'll work towards building stronger family dynamics and individual emotional resilience.
(833) 657-4006 View (833) 657-4006
Photo of Shamara Howze, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Shamara Howze
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20002
I hope to support you as a caregiver and your child on your journey. No matter how you got here, whether through adjustments, trauma, grief, attachment, divorce, anxiety or other mental health related challenges. I work with both caregiver and child/teen to establish realistic goals that don't lead to a perfect road but one that feels safe enough to travel. This means caregiver presence is important throughout the process as you both explore new ways of being.
I hope to support you as a caregiver and your child on your journey. No matter how you got here, whether through adjustments, trauma, grief, attachment, divorce, anxiety or other mental health related challenges. I work with both caregiver and child/teen to establish realistic goals that don't lead to a perfect road but one that feels safe enough to travel. This means caregiver presence is important throughout the process as you both explore new ways of being.
(202) 952-5678 View (202) 952-5678
Photo of Meredith Gardner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Meredith Gardner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families on a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, communication, divorce, grief, relationships and behavior management. I am primarily cognitive behavioral and take an active role in therapy, challenging clients to explore alternative ways to deal with their issues while creating a trusting and caring environment. I am the founder and clinical director of District Therapy Associates, a psychotherapy practice with several diverse therapists who focus on child, adolescent, adult, family, marriage, and group therapy.
I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families on a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, communication, divorce, grief, relationships and behavior management. I am primarily cognitive behavioral and take an active role in therapy, challenging clients to explore alternative ways to deal with their issues while creating a trusting and caring environment. I am the founder and clinical director of District Therapy Associates, a psychotherapy practice with several diverse therapists who focus on child, adolescent, adult, family, marriage, and group therapy.
(202) 609-8914 View (202) 609-8914
Photo of Next Level Up Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Next Level Up Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016  (Online Only)
At Next Level Up Counseling, we specialize in services to children, caregivers and families navigating behavioral challenges and anxiety disorders in childhood. We believe that progress is not made by jumping to the top. It is made by doing the work to get to the next level up from where you were, and celebrating that as the moment of growth that it is.
At Next Level Up Counseling, we specialize in services to children, caregivers and families navigating behavioral challenges and anxiety disorders in childhood. We believe that progress is not made by jumping to the top. It is made by doing the work to get to the next level up from where you were, and celebrating that as the moment of growth that it is.
(202) 816-7480 View (202) 816-7480
Photo of Andrea Mattison Fisher, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Andrea Mattison Fisher
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008
I have post doctoral training in psychodynamic and psychoanalytic psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults.
"Picking up the telephone to make an initial appointment to see a psychologist, can be difficult for many people for various reasons. One may be feeling wounded, lost, or stuck. I am dedicated to helping children, adolescents, adults, and families begin to heal and get "unstuck" by freeing themselves of distressing and sometimes debilitating feelings such as depression, anxiety, and feeling out of control. I believe awareness and insight into your child's feelings and behaviors, and your feelings and behaviors, is the great gift of psychotherapy. At its best, psychotherapy is a rewarding, productive, and at times, fun experience."
I have post doctoral training in psychodynamic and psychoanalytic psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults.
"Picking up the telephone to make an initial appointment to see a psychologist, can be difficult for many people for various reasons. One may be feeling wounded, lost, or stuck. I am dedicated to helping children, adolescents, adults, and families begin to heal and get "unstuck" by freeing themselves of distressing and sometimes debilitating feelings such as depression, anxiety, and feeling out of control. I believe awareness and insight into your child's feelings and behaviors, and your feelings and behaviors, is the great gift of psychotherapy. At its best, psychotherapy is a rewarding, productive, and at times, fun experience."
(202) 559-4850 View (202) 559-4850
Photo of Claire Lerner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Claire Lerner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
I help parents who are struggling with challenges with their young child (0-6 years) around any number of issues, including: sleep, feeding, potty learning, cooperation, getting through daily routines, discipline, challenges functioning in a group setting, developing positive peer relationships, learning to develop self-regulation, and managing sibling rivalry. I help parents understand what makes their child tick and how to meet their needs, especially when it comes to how to discipline using positive, not punitive approaches.
I help parents who are struggling with challenges with their young child (0-6 years) around any number of issues, including: sleep, feeding, potty learning, cooperation, getting through daily routines, discipline, challenges functioning in a group setting, developing positive peer relationships, learning to develop self-regulation, and managing sibling rivalry. I help parents understand what makes their child tick and how to meet their needs, especially when it comes to how to discipline using positive, not punitive approaches.
(202) 759-4480 View (202) 759-4480
Photo of Active Psychotherapy Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Active Psychotherapy Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
I have an extensive and unique clinical experience with more than 15 years in inpatient and outpatients settings. I have helped many individuals with assorted emotional problems, including PTSD, mood and adjustment disorders, grief, anger, ADHD, and borderline personality disorder. I also serve as a mental health consultant for childhood and early childhood programs in Fairfax where I provide play therapy for young children with emotional and behavioral problems and parents' consultations.
I have an extensive and unique clinical experience with more than 15 years in inpatient and outpatients settings. I have helped many individuals with assorted emotional problems, including PTSD, mood and adjustment disorders, grief, anger, ADHD, and borderline personality disorder. I also serve as a mental health consultant for childhood and early childhood programs in Fairfax where I provide play therapy for young children with emotional and behavioral problems and parents' consultations.
(202) 796-5839 View (202) 796-5839
Photo of L. B. Hodge, Psychologist in Washington, DC
L. B. Hodge
Psychologist, PsyD, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
I am a licensed Psychologist in Washington DC and in Maryland. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, specifically child sexual abuse. I have extensive experience in the utilization of evidenced based treatment in the area of trauma with children as young as 3 years old. I also provide psychological and psycho-educational evaluations. I have worked with children impacted by the foster care system, multiple traumas, grief and loss, gay, lesbian, and transgendered youth . I strongly believe in creating a warm and accepting amotsphere and that this is a neccessary condition for successful treatment.
I am a licensed Psychologist in Washington DC and in Maryland. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, specifically child sexual abuse. I have extensive experience in the utilization of evidenced based treatment in the area of trauma with children as young as 3 years old. I also provide psychological and psycho-educational evaluations. I have worked with children impacted by the foster care system, multiple traumas, grief and loss, gay, lesbian, and transgendered youth . I strongly believe in creating a warm and accepting amotsphere and that this is a neccessary condition for successful treatment.
(240) 428-6697 View (240) 428-6697
Photo of Brendan A Rich, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Brendan A Rich
Psychologist, PhD, MS
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20015  (Online Only)
I specialize in providing individual psychotherapy to children and adolescents with a wide-range of emotional and behavioral difficulties. Although my expertise is with youth with mood disorders, including anxiety and depression, I also have extensive experience with youth with social and behavioral struggles. My approach is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in focus, as it is best supported by research, children and adolescents respond to it very positively, and because I have found it to produce immediate and long-lasting improvements in functioning.
I specialize in providing individual psychotherapy to children and adolescents with a wide-range of emotional and behavioral difficulties. Although my expertise is with youth with mood disorders, including anxiety and depression, I also have extensive experience with youth with social and behavioral struggles. My approach is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in focus, as it is best supported by research, children and adolescents respond to it very positively, and because I have found it to produce immediate and long-lasting improvements in functioning.
(240) 258-2384 View (240) 258-2384
Photo of Lisa S Oakley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Lisa S Oakley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20015
I provide a positive and supportive approach to helping children, adolescents, adults and families who are navigating a variety of emotional or transitional challenges, including anxiety, mood disorders, school issues, family conflict and other sources of stress or disruption that may affect daily functioning or emotional well-being. I apply a person-centered and strength-based approach which involves respecting and encouraging a client's own goals and perspectives. I also work closely with parents to help identify practical and personalized strategies and interventions to address the many challenges that come with raising children and teenagers.
I provide a positive and supportive approach to helping children, adolescents, adults and families who are navigating a variety of emotional or transitional challenges, including anxiety, mood disorders, school issues, family conflict and other sources of stress or disruption that may affect daily functioning or emotional well-being. I apply a person-centered and strength-based approach which involves respecting and encouraging a client's own goals and perspectives. I also work closely with parents to help identify practical and personalized strategies and interventions to address the many challenges that come with raising children and teenagers.
(202) 759-3472 View (202) 759-3472
Photo of Tesalyn Hill-Felton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Tesalyn Hill-Felton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20002
Got a little one struggling with behavior issues? Perhaps you have a bigger one and you're not sure what the problems could be? I've worked with toddlers, young children, and teens experiencing challenges with depression, anxiety, problems with social media, and academic issues. I am consistent, honest, and work hard to ensure kids are gaining what's needed to enjoy both social and emotional success. I even work with teachers and daycare staff. If you need assistance with a challenging student, I can provide specialized school support to help determine next best steps.
Got a little one struggling with behavior issues? Perhaps you have a bigger one and you're not sure what the problems could be? I've worked with toddlers, young children, and teens experiencing challenges with depression, anxiety, problems with social media, and academic issues. I am consistent, honest, and work hard to ensure kids are gaining what's needed to enjoy both social and emotional success. I even work with teachers and daycare staff. If you need assistance with a challenging student, I can provide specialized school support to help determine next best steps.
(202) 933-9836 View (202) 933-9836
Photo of Michal Berkson Powell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Michal Berkson Powell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
I have been providing individual and group therapy to children, adolescents and adults in a variety of settings including schools, camps, and community mental health for over 15 years.
Life has its ups and downs. You want to have the skills, resources, and supports to weather whatever the world throws at you and you want that for your family too. As strong and resourceful as we are, no one has the ability to manage everything, all the time. Every now and then, any one of us could use a little extra help. Maybe you have been feeling more stressed. Maybe you are going through a major life change. Maybe there have been concerns about your child’s development or behavior. Maybe you or your loved one has been diagnosed with a learning or developmental disability, or you want to know more about ADHD, Autism, or Anxiety.
I have been providing individual and group therapy to children, adolescents and adults in a variety of settings including schools, camps, and community mental health for over 15 years.
Life has its ups and downs. You want to have the skills, resources, and supports to weather whatever the world throws at you and you want that for your family too. As strong and resourceful as we are, no one has the ability to manage everything, all the time. Every now and then, any one of us could use a little extra help. Maybe you have been feeling more stressed. Maybe you are going through a major life change. Maybe there have been concerns about your child’s development or behavior. Maybe you or your loved one has been diagnosed with a learning or developmental disability, or you want to know more about ADHD, Autism, or Anxiety.
(202) 601-3395 View (202) 601-3395
Photo of Jeffrey Selman, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Jeffrey Selman
Psychologist, PsyD, BCBA-D
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults presenting with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, anxiety, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, mood disorders, and academic needs related to giftedness and twice exceptionality (2e).
My name is Dr. Jeff Selman and I am a licensed psychologist, Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), and a certified school psychologist. I offer evidence-based telepsychology services to individuals across the lifespan and their families. These services include autism screening and assessment, individual and family therapy, parent behavior management training and coaching, and consultation and training for schools and community agencies. My approach is grounded in cognitive behavior therapy and behavior therapy. My sessions tend to be active, goal-oriented, and engaging. I love the work and welcomes complex and challenging cases.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults presenting with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, anxiety, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, mood disorders, and academic needs related to giftedness and twice exceptionality (2e).
My name is Dr. Jeff Selman and I am a licensed psychologist, Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), and a certified school psychologist. I offer evidence-based telepsychology services to individuals across the lifespan and their families. These services include autism screening and assessment, individual and family therapy, parent behavior management training and coaching, and consultation and training for schools and community agencies. My approach is grounded in cognitive behavior therapy and behavior therapy. My sessions tend to be active, goal-oriented, and engaging. I love the work and welcomes complex and challenging cases.
(202) 221-4370 View (202) 221-4370
Photo of Elizabeth Adams, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Elizabeth Adams
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007
I am a clinical psychologist practicing in the Washington, DC area who specializes in working with children and families. Common themes addressed in therapy include anxiety, behavior challenges, parenting and co-parenting concerns, ADHD, learning disorders and peer relationships. I work collaboratively with the family and allied services to best understand the unique needs of the child. Cognitive-behavioral, behavioral, and family systems approaches are most commonly utilized. Therapy is delivered through play therapy for young children, individual therapy for older children, parent coaching (Parent-Child Interaction Therapy).
I am a clinical psychologist practicing in the Washington, DC area who specializes in working with children and families. Common themes addressed in therapy include anxiety, behavior challenges, parenting and co-parenting concerns, ADHD, learning disorders and peer relationships. I work collaboratively with the family and allied services to best understand the unique needs of the child. Cognitive-behavioral, behavioral, and family systems approaches are most commonly utilized. Therapy is delivered through play therapy for young children, individual therapy for older children, parent coaching (Parent-Child Interaction Therapy).
(202) 337-3554 View (202) 337-3554

Child Therapists
Child psychologists in Washington, DC provide mental health therapy to children and are experts in child development.

Every comprehensive review of therapy with children shows that all credible approaches, when performed by a competent mental health clinician, produce almost the same results. About half of all kids will get better. Of those that improve, 80% will show progress in a relatively short time, while the remaining 20% will need longer-term support.

The best child therapists in Washington build great relationships with the child and the parent. They also see the child's strengths and are open to hearing the child's possible solutions to the challenges the child faces. Finally, a good therapist appreciates the child's culture and is sensitive to the values of the child's community.