Psychobiological Approach Couple Therapy in Washington, DC

Photo of Stacy Notaras Murphy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Stacy Notaras Murphy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, EMDR-C
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
I am passionate about helping people facing relationship struggles that manifest as anxiety, depression, and difficulty with intimacy. My experience and training (EFT: Emotionally-Focused Couples Therapy, Imago, PACT) taught me that most emotional challenges are tied to how we function in our personal relationships. I've been told that my real strength is helping people feel safe and reflective enough to recognize, think through, and either accept or change the way they approach the relationships that matter most. I enjoy a collaborative with my clients and couples, working together to make meaningful changes.
I am passionate about helping people facing relationship struggles that manifest as anxiety, depression, and difficulty with intimacy. My experience and training (EFT: Emotionally-Focused Couples Therapy, Imago, PACT) taught me that most emotional challenges are tied to how we function in our personal relationships. I've been told that my real strength is helping people feel safe and reflective enough to recognize, think through, and either accept or change the way they approach the relationships that matter most. I enjoy a collaborative with my clients and couples, working together to make meaningful changes.
(202) 760-2121 View (202) 760-2121
Photo of Cara Depp Dehghan, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Cara Depp Dehghan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20015
I treat couples through PACT, an intensive relationship therapy based in neuroscience.
My passion is in working together with my clients to help them overcome anxiety and panic, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, relationship problems, grief and loss, problems with motivation, medically unexplained symptoms, behavior issues, and inattention. I enjoy helping people develop self-compassion and live more authentically so they can go from surviving to thriving. I integrate evidence-based techniques into treatment that I tailor to meet the unique needs of each individual with whom I work. I am able to provide services remotely to clients physically located in Maryland, DC, and Virginia and in-person in DC.
I treat couples through PACT, an intensive relationship therapy based in neuroscience.
My passion is in working together with my clients to help them overcome anxiety and panic, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, relationship problems, grief and loss, problems with motivation, medically unexplained symptoms, behavior issues, and inattention. I enjoy helping people develop self-compassion and live more authentically so they can go from surviving to thriving. I integrate evidence-based techniques into treatment that I tailor to meet the unique needs of each individual with whom I work. I am able to provide services remotely to clients physically located in Maryland, DC, and Virginia and in-person in DC.
(202) 750-3425 View (202) 750-3425
Photo of Sheri A Rosenfeld, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Sheri A Rosenfeld
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
I am a client-centered therapist whose speciality is couple and family work . I am attachment and psychodynamically trained but as a dancer I also use the body signals as information to guide me towards creating a workable creative partnership and family unit . I work with the language we use in our relationships and our past family interactions to guide us toward a workable and balanced way of living in partnership with others . My training in trauma, anxiety, sexual concerns guide my work with my patients .
I am a client-centered therapist whose speciality is couple and family work . I am attachment and psychodynamically trained but as a dancer I also use the body signals as information to guide me towards creating a workable creative partnership and family unit . I work with the language we use in our relationships and our past family interactions to guide us toward a workable and balanced way of living in partnership with others . My training in trauma, anxiety, sexual concerns guide my work with my patients .
(202) 335-3907 View (202) 335-3907
Photo of Erika L Bond, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington, DC
Erika L Bond
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LCMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
The number one regret of the dying is "I wish I had the courage to be authentically me". Our experience of giving and receiving love in childhood, is the position from which we all begin- and also where people can get stuck. If you have read this far, you feel the pull to invest in improving the quality of your life, and put energy into where you can productively stretch and grow. The most important work of our lifetime is discovering how to accept, and deeply love ourselves.
The number one regret of the dying is "I wish I had the courage to be authentically me". Our experience of giving and receiving love in childhood, is the position from which we all begin- and also where people can get stuck. If you have read this far, you feel the pull to invest in improving the quality of your life, and put energy into where you can productively stretch and grow. The most important work of our lifetime is discovering how to accept, and deeply love ourselves.
(833) 602-2213 View (833) 602-2213
Photo of Adrian J Connolly, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Adrian J Connolly
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, SEP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
I view therapy as an invitation to bring awareness to the here and now. For many of us, we press forward, through, and over difficult feelings when they arise in our daily lives. Often they show up as unwanted thoughts or images. They not only fill us with dread, but we will go to great lengths to avoid them. On the other hand, what if moving toward our feelings actually reduces the influence they have over us, allowing us to attend to the very things we value, thereby creating meaning and purpose in our lives.
I view therapy as an invitation to bring awareness to the here and now. For many of us, we press forward, through, and over difficult feelings when they arise in our daily lives. Often they show up as unwanted thoughts or images. They not only fill us with dread, but we will go to great lengths to avoid them. On the other hand, what if moving toward our feelings actually reduces the influence they have over us, allowing us to attend to the very things we value, thereby creating meaning and purpose in our lives.
(202) 813-1485 View (202) 813-1485
Photo of Roberta Eisen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Roberta Eisen
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
Being a parent can be one of life’s greatest rewards. It also is one of life’s most challenging responsibilities. My goal is to assist parents and children through the transitions of divorce and beyond to achieve the best outcomes possible.
Being a parent can be one of life’s greatest rewards. It also is one of life’s most challenging responsibilities. My goal is to assist parents and children through the transitions of divorce and beyond to achieve the best outcomes possible.
(202) 517-7639 View (202) 517-7639
Photo of Karen J. Osterle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Karen J. Osterle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
Waitlist for new clients
Most people have mixed feelings about starting individual therapy or couples counseling, and yet you may remember happier times when life and relationships felt easier. You might be finding that everyone's friendly advice, self-help books, podcasts, and all of your existing coping mechanisms haven't worked sufficiently for you of late. By now, you want to get to the root of your present-day struggles and to come up with new endings to the same old stories. I can help. I also help couples to strengthen their connection (or to part amicably, if need be) by articulating the dynamic and teaching effective conflict-resolution skills.
Most people have mixed feelings about starting individual therapy or couples counseling, and yet you may remember happier times when life and relationships felt easier. You might be finding that everyone's friendly advice, self-help books, podcasts, and all of your existing coping mechanisms haven't worked sufficiently for you of late. By now, you want to get to the root of your present-day struggles and to come up with new endings to the same old stories. I can help. I also help couples to strengthen their connection (or to part amicably, if need be) by articulating the dynamic and teaching effective conflict-resolution skills.
(202) 643-0971 View (202) 643-0971
Photo of Ela Perra, Psychological Associate in Washington, DC
Ela Perra
Psychological Associate, PsyD, LPA, CTA
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007  (Online Only)
I am accepting new clients at the moment via secure app. Sending that first message can be hard, but is also so empowering. I'll be excited to work with you towards your goals. Anywhere you are in your life. Therapy changes lives. My approach is integrative, humanistic, short, strategic with focus on Transactional Analysis. The ultimate goal of TA is Autonomy (freedom from a childhood script) that is achieved when 3 skills are released or recovered: Awareness, Spontaneity, and Intimacy. Cure as an ideal rather than merely making progress and learning new choices. We share a contract of change. Therapy has a beginning and an end.
I am accepting new clients at the moment via secure app. Sending that first message can be hard, but is also so empowering. I'll be excited to work with you towards your goals. Anywhere you are in your life. Therapy changes lives. My approach is integrative, humanistic, short, strategic with focus on Transactional Analysis. The ultimate goal of TA is Autonomy (freedom from a childhood script) that is achieved when 3 skills are released or recovered: Awareness, Spontaneity, and Intimacy. Cure as an ideal rather than merely making progress and learning new choices. We share a contract of change. Therapy has a beginning and an end.
(844) 708-4543 View (844) 708-4543
Photo of Brigit Van Widenfelt, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Brigit Van Widenfelt
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20015
Hello. In my practice I work with clients on relationship issues, anxiety, depression and related difficulties. I am a Clinical Psychologist and have worked at the University my entire career doing clinical research, mentoring, supervising, teaching, training and doing therapy. I keep up with empirically based approaches in the field of Psychology/ Psychiatry and integrate new developments into my work. I am licensed in Washington, DC and have a PSYPACT license for video therapy in most states. I look forward to meeting you!
Hello. In my practice I work with clients on relationship issues, anxiety, depression and related difficulties. I am a Clinical Psychologist and have worked at the University my entire career doing clinical research, mentoring, supervising, teaching, training and doing therapy. I keep up with empirically based approaches in the field of Psychology/ Psychiatry and integrate new developments into my work. I am licensed in Washington, DC and have a PSYPACT license for video therapy in most states. I look forward to meeting you!
(202) 868-8575 View (202) 868-8575
Photo of Dr. Jeff J. Rocker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Dr. Jeff J. Rocker
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, NCC, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 14 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 14 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
(786) 526-0294 View (786) 526-0294
Photo of EMDR, Brainspotting & Psychotherapy of DC & MD, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
EMDR, Brainspotting & Psychotherapy of DC & MD
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, EMDR-C, BSP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20005
Your treatment has a beginning, middle & end. I am trained and certified in many of the latest breakthrough treatments including EMDR and Brainspotting. I use these modalities because I have found them to be the most effective. The field of psychotherapy has come a long way since it began. We now know that it doesn't have to take as long as previously believed for permanent healing and change to take place. The term "neuroplasticity" refers to the brain's ability to change and rewire itself at any age or stage of life. Too often, clients participate in years of talk therapy and medication management without results.
Your treatment has a beginning, middle & end. I am trained and certified in many of the latest breakthrough treatments including EMDR and Brainspotting. I use these modalities because I have found them to be the most effective. The field of psychotherapy has come a long way since it began. We now know that it doesn't have to take as long as previously believed for permanent healing and change to take place. The term "neuroplasticity" refers to the brain's ability to change and rewire itself at any age or stage of life. Too often, clients participate in years of talk therapy and medication management without results.
(202) 804-9954 View (202) 804-9954
Photo of Desire Lines Psychotherapy , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Desire Lines Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
A "desire line" is a foot path made by us – people walking over time, as we discover that the path made for us isn't the easiest, safest or most fun route to walk. Desire lines remind us that we are not alone with our longing, frustration or irritation, nor are we alone in our search for fulfillment, peace or pleasure. Desire lines are also a good metaphor for life. Maybe you and your partner are on an unchosen or changing path and you need a therapist to help you navigate new territory.
A "desire line" is a foot path made by us – people walking over time, as we discover that the path made for us isn't the easiest, safest or most fun route to walk. Desire lines remind us that we are not alone with our longing, frustration or irritation, nor are we alone in our search for fulfillment, peace or pleasure. Desire lines are also a good metaphor for life. Maybe you and your partner are on an unchosen or changing path and you need a therapist to help you navigate new territory.
(410) 936-3666 View (410) 936-3666
Photo of Regina Rhoades, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Regina Rhoades
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20427
Waitlist for new clients
Do you need a positive change? Do you wish you experienced more joy and fulfillment? Are you feeling overwhelmed by life’s stress or grief? Do you imagine your relationships being deeper? Whether you are overwhelmed with current problems, or your past experiences are interfering with your current life, there is true hope for the life of purpose and fulfillment that you have dreamed of! It is my life calling to validate your struggles and empower you to live a wholehearted life, even in the face of great difficulty. I provide tele-therapy, individual, group, family/couples therapy, all in a nurturing & nonjudgmental environment.
Do you need a positive change? Do you wish you experienced more joy and fulfillment? Are you feeling overwhelmed by life’s stress or grief? Do you imagine your relationships being deeper? Whether you are overwhelmed with current problems, or your past experiences are interfering with your current life, there is true hope for the life of purpose and fulfillment that you have dreamed of! It is my life calling to validate your struggles and empower you to live a wholehearted life, even in the face of great difficulty. I provide tele-therapy, individual, group, family/couples therapy, all in a nurturing & nonjudgmental environment.
(941) 214-4841 View (941) 214-4841
Photo of Loretta Clarise Pettiford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Loretta Clarise Pettiford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, CP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
If you are struggling with sadness and emotional pain, help is available. I am a Clinical Social Worker and a Creative Arts therapist. I am a Certified Sand Tray therapist, and Psychodramatist. As a Clinician with the Department of Defense, I have treated all branches of the military and their family members for over 20 years, both in the states and overseas. I currently have a private practice in Washington D.C. and Maryland. I also provide Online Video Therapy, texting, and Skype. As your therapist, my role is to help you navigate through emotional pain while obtaining workable solutions.
If you are struggling with sadness and emotional pain, help is available. I am a Clinical Social Worker and a Creative Arts therapist. I am a Certified Sand Tray therapist, and Psychodramatist. As a Clinician with the Department of Defense, I have treated all branches of the military and their family members for over 20 years, both in the states and overseas. I currently have a private practice in Washington D.C. and Maryland. I also provide Online Video Therapy, texting, and Skype. As your therapist, my role is to help you navigate through emotional pain while obtaining workable solutions.
(301) 338-6067 View (301) 338-6067
Photo of Dodini Behavioral Health, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Dodini Behavioral Health
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD, LCSW, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007
Dodini Behavioral Health is a multidisciplinary private group practice for personal growth, healing, and development currently open to virtual and in person. We help individuals, couples, and families get beyond symptoms and into living the fullest version of their life and self. Our clinical providers are among the top in their fields and have a variety of areas of interest and expertise, and all are devoted to exceptionally good psychotherapy, therapeutic alliance, and continual education. We often work as a team and as co-therapists to give the absolute best in personalized and expert care for you and those you love.
Dodini Behavioral Health is a multidisciplinary private group practice for personal growth, healing, and development currently open to virtual and in person. We help individuals, couples, and families get beyond symptoms and into living the fullest version of their life and self. Our clinical providers are among the top in their fields and have a variety of areas of interest and expertise, and all are devoted to exceptionally good psychotherapy, therapeutic alliance, and continual education. We often work as a team and as co-therapists to give the absolute best in personalized and expert care for you and those you love.
(703) 844-9909 View (703) 844-9909
Photo of Jen Hackler, LCSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Jen Hackler, LCSW, SEP
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, SEP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20015
In a non-judgemental, respectful atmosphere I accompany people along their journey to living richer, more meaningful life. I encourage people to broaden their awareness into their thoughts, feelings, reactions and behaviors to identify strengths and whats working and challenges and how they are getting in the way. Recognizing the the mind-body-spirit connection, understanding healthy and antiquated defenses and increasing capacity for feeling a greater range of emotions at a deeper level is an important focus of the psychotherapy process. Identifying feelings, understanding reactions and learning better, more effective means of communicating with others is integral as well.
In a non-judgemental, respectful atmosphere I accompany people along their journey to living richer, more meaningful life. I encourage people to broaden their awareness into their thoughts, feelings, reactions and behaviors to identify strengths and whats working and challenges and how they are getting in the way. Recognizing the the mind-body-spirit connection, understanding healthy and antiquated defenses and increasing capacity for feeling a greater range of emotions at a deeper level is an important focus of the psychotherapy process. Identifying feelings, understanding reactions and learning better, more effective means of communicating with others is integral as well.
(301) 684-8137 View (301) 684-8137
Photo of Lev Grotel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Lev Grotel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients! Are you struggling in your relationship? Do you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or just stuck? It is easy to become annoyed with your partner or yourself, during these difficult times. Maybe you are concerned about communication, parenting, infidelity, or intimacy. Perhaps you want to learn from the previous relationships to improve current or future ones. If you are struggling with any of these types of issues, therapy and counseling can help. My approach, in working with couples and individuals, is empathic, non-judgmental, insightful, collaborative, engaging, and supportive.
Accepting New Clients! Are you struggling in your relationship? Do you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or just stuck? It is easy to become annoyed with your partner or yourself, during these difficult times. Maybe you are concerned about communication, parenting, infidelity, or intimacy. Perhaps you want to learn from the previous relationships to improve current or future ones. If you are struggling with any of these types of issues, therapy and counseling can help. My approach, in working with couples and individuals, is empathic, non-judgmental, insightful, collaborative, engaging, and supportive.
(240) 293-3603 View (240) 293-3603
Photo of Afshan Mohamedali, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Afshan Mohamedali
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
Are you considering a major life change or looking for something different for yourself? Perhaps this brings about increased levels of stress and anxiety. I work with many people trying to do the same and have found that process of realizing goals and figuring out the next steps can lie in the smaller moments of your past. I can help you identify and leverage those experiences to discover your own inner resources and strengths. Together, we can explore how to apply those skills to meet new challenges and move forward. Whether you need to practice a bit more or adapt to a new task, therapy with me is a safe space to do just that.
Are you considering a major life change or looking for something different for yourself? Perhaps this brings about increased levels of stress and anxiety. I work with many people trying to do the same and have found that process of realizing goals and figuring out the next steps can lie in the smaller moments of your past. I can help you identify and leverage those experiences to discover your own inner resources and strengths. Together, we can explore how to apply those skills to meet new challenges and move forward. Whether you need to practice a bit more or adapt to a new task, therapy with me is a safe space to do just that.
(516) 667-1961 View (516) 667-1961
Photo of The Carter Psychotherapy Group , Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
The Carter Psychotherapy Group
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, NCC, LPC, LMHC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20011  (Online Only)
Therapy is a process and just starting is an accomplishment. It can be difficult because you may address topics that you have avoided. The Carter Psychotherapy Group provides a place for you to fully engage in treatment so that you leave every session needing therapy less and less. My goal is to create a safe space for individuals and families to access mental health services without barriers to treatment
Therapy is a process and just starting is an accomplishment. It can be difficult because you may address topics that you have avoided. The Carter Psychotherapy Group provides a place for you to fully engage in treatment so that you leave every session needing therapy less and less. My goal is to create a safe space for individuals and families to access mental health services without barriers to treatment
(571) 470-5708 View (571) 470-5708
Photo of Dr. Mirta Innis-Thompson Psychotherapist, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Dr. Mirta Innis-Thompson Psychotherapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20500
Not accepting new clients
At Elite Behavioral Therapy, I believe you are the author of your own experience and the expert on your own life. But sometimes even experts need advice. Perhaps you have wondered why there isn’t a how-to manual for your own life. Or thought that others seem to know the secret ingredient to the recipe for a successful relationship. There is no magical formula for happiness. But I can be your guide, and help you dispel the myths and negative stories that you have told yourself that's getting in the way of your happiness. Worries, stresses, joy, and hopes? I can help you better manage the conflicts everyone struggles.
At Elite Behavioral Therapy, I believe you are the author of your own experience and the expert on your own life. But sometimes even experts need advice. Perhaps you have wondered why there isn’t a how-to manual for your own life. Or thought that others seem to know the secret ingredient to the recipe for a successful relationship. There is no magical formula for happiness. But I can be your guide, and help you dispel the myths and negative stories that you have told yourself that's getting in the way of your happiness. Worries, stresses, joy, and hopes? I can help you better manage the conflicts everyone struggles.
(301) 690-0336 View (301) 690-0336
Psychobiological Approach Couple Therapy

How does the psychobiological approach to couples therapy work?

The psychobiological approach to couples therapy combines research in three domains—attachment theory, developmental neuroscience, and arousal regulation—to address relationship challenges. Couples learn about their underlying emotional and physiological responses to different situations so as to identify these responses and then shift them with the help of practice exercises in sessions.

Is the psychobiological approach to couples therapy evidence-based?

While some research has been conducted by its creator, there is little peer-reviewed research to support the efficacy of the psychobiological approach to couples therapy. It’s not as evidence-based as other forms of therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy, or acceptance and commitment therapy.

How long does the psychobiological approach to couples therapy last?

The psychobiological approach to couples therapy is a relatively short-term therapy, typically less than 12 sessions. However, individual sessions can be much longer. A typical couples therapy session lasts 45 minutes, while these sessions often last for two to three hours, and sometimes three to six hours. Some couples may opt to attend two or three sessions per week.

What are the limitations of the psychobiological approach to couples therapy?

A limitation of the psychobiological approach to couples therapy is that the evidence is much more limited than it is for other forms of therapy, such as cognitive behavioural therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, or acceptance and commitment therapy. Additionally, the psychobiological approach to couples therapy only applies to couples in relationships, so keep in mind that it cannot treat mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety.