Relational Therapists in Washington, DC

Photo of Jamie Steele, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington, DC
Jamie Steele
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
Welcome! I primarily work with clients who are struggling with life transitions or relational concerns. This may include leaving a faith tradition, gaining or losing a partner, exploring sexuality, dealing with old "stuff," working through identity 'stuff,' or getting unstuck. I work with clients from traditional to alternative and everything between, regardless of gender, sexuality, ethnicity, race, orientation, spirituality or relational preferences. I am committed to a social justice practice of anti-racist and affirming care. I tend to see many clients who have had negative experiences with therapists in the past.
Welcome! I primarily work with clients who are struggling with life transitions or relational concerns. This may include leaving a faith tradition, gaining or losing a partner, exploring sexuality, dealing with old "stuff," working through identity 'stuff,' or getting unstuck. I work with clients from traditional to alternative and everything between, regardless of gender, sexuality, ethnicity, race, orientation, spirituality or relational preferences. I am committed to a social justice practice of anti-racist and affirming care. I tend to see many clients who have had negative experiences with therapists in the past.
(202) 831-2975 View (202) 831-2975
Photo of Emily West, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Emily West
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
My foundation is in Relational Psychotherapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, including elements of Positive Psychology.
Sometimes we worry that coming to therapy means something is wrong. I believe it means something is right. Often, my clients find themselves facing more decisions and questions about who they are and what they want out of their lives and relationships than ever before. My clients experience a range of concerns including depression, anxiety, career challenges, loneliness, trauma, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, adjusting to life changes, difficult family dynamics, and generally feeling overwhelmed by life. This is an important time when many people ask themselves: How can I feel like what I do matters?
My foundation is in Relational Psychotherapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, including elements of Positive Psychology.
Sometimes we worry that coming to therapy means something is wrong. I believe it means something is right. Often, my clients find themselves facing more decisions and questions about who they are and what they want out of their lives and relationships than ever before. My clients experience a range of concerns including depression, anxiety, career challenges, loneliness, trauma, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, adjusting to life changes, difficult family dynamics, and generally feeling overwhelmed by life. This is an important time when many people ask themselves: How can I feel like what I do matters?
(202) 519-6813 View (202) 519-6813
Photo of Conscientious Coupling: Center for Relationships, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington, DC
Conscientious Coupling: Center for Relationships
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CIRT
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20037  (Online Only)
I can help you explore and heal from trauma, depression, anxiety, feeling stuck, and other forms of relational and interpersonal distress.
I understand the unique healing path necessary to overcome racial, gender, and sexuality-based oppression because of my own personal and professional experiences navigating these challenge. I know how rewarding it is to invest in your personal growth through therapy that offers a space to be nurtured and challenged. I look forward to getting to know you and finding the right balance to explore what’s possible in your life right now. I love working with individuals, couples and families to help them heal past traumas, become more authentic, and maintain better relationships with the self and others.
I can help you explore and heal from trauma, depression, anxiety, feeling stuck, and other forms of relational and interpersonal distress.
I understand the unique healing path necessary to overcome racial, gender, and sexuality-based oppression because of my own personal and professional experiences navigating these challenge. I know how rewarding it is to invest in your personal growth through therapy that offers a space to be nurtured and challenged. I look forward to getting to know you and finding the right balance to explore what’s possible in your life right now. I love working with individuals, couples and families to help them heal past traumas, become more authentic, and maintain better relationships with the self and others.
(888) 410-9396 View (888) 410-9396
Photo of Emily M. Bauman, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Emily M. Bauman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
If you experience symptoms stemming from sexual assault, rape, abuse, incest, neglect, relational trauma, accidents, crime, natural disasters, birth trauma, or other traumatic experience, I may be able to help.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or overwhelmed? Do you have trouble sleeping? Have you been through a traumatic experience or painful loss? Are you struggling to cope with stressful relationships? Then contact me today to move one step closer to feeling better tomorrow. I provide individual psychotherapy for anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, adjustment concerns, perinatal/postpartum issues, and I specialize in treating PTSD and associated conditions. It takes courage to look inward, make changes, and begin to heal. Together we'll develop a personalized treatment plan to help you feel better and reach your goals.
If you experience symptoms stemming from sexual assault, rape, abuse, incest, neglect, relational trauma, accidents, crime, natural disasters, birth trauma, or other traumatic experience, I may be able to help.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or overwhelmed? Do you have trouble sleeping? Have you been through a traumatic experience or painful loss? Are you struggling to cope with stressful relationships? Then contact me today to move one step closer to feeling better tomorrow. I provide individual psychotherapy for anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, adjustment concerns, perinatal/postpartum issues, and I specialize in treating PTSD and associated conditions. It takes courage to look inward, make changes, and begin to heal. Together we'll develop a personalized treatment plan to help you feel better and reach your goals.
(202) 540-0845 View (202) 540-0845
Photo of Nickesha Riggins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Nickesha Riggins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
In addition to my relational approach, I can use EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) to uncover and heal your wounds.
Do you notice unhealthy patterns in your relationships? Do you find it difficult to build or maintain close relationships. Do your feelings and behaviors match your intentions? Lets work together, to uncover and more deeply understand how your past has brought you to this point. Through my relational approach, you’ll grow in your ability to heal from deep hurts and set strong healthy boundaries. I will work to understand you: your culture, faith, and generational trauma/family history to help you with depression, anxiety and challenging stages of life.
In addition to my relational approach, I can use EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) to uncover and heal your wounds.
Do you notice unhealthy patterns in your relationships? Do you find it difficult to build or maintain close relationships. Do your feelings and behaviors match your intentions? Lets work together, to uncover and more deeply understand how your past has brought you to this point. Through my relational approach, you’ll grow in your ability to heal from deep hurts and set strong healthy boundaries. I will work to understand you: your culture, faith, and generational trauma/family history to help you with depression, anxiety and challenging stages of life.
(202) 875-6042 View (202) 875-6042
Photo of Stephanie O'Brien, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Stephanie O'Brien
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
In my practice, I incorporate training in grief and trauma-focused therapies, mindfulness and somatic techniques, and relational psychodynamic approaches.
Loss is the universal human condition. At times, all of us move with a sense of "lostness" - be it around a death, a relationship, our sense of safety, hopes for the future. Yet as a culture, we have a hard time being with loss and accompanying grief. I believe that loss and grief deserve attention. You may know exactly why you are seeking therapy, or you may something may just feel off. My role is to help you learn about yourself and your losses. I hold special interest and skill supporting people with experiences of infertility/pregnancy loss, relationship loss, trauma, illness and death and dying.
In my practice, I incorporate training in grief and trauma-focused therapies, mindfulness and somatic techniques, and relational psychodynamic approaches.
Loss is the universal human condition. At times, all of us move with a sense of "lostness" - be it around a death, a relationship, our sense of safety, hopes for the future. Yet as a culture, we have a hard time being with loss and accompanying grief. I believe that loss and grief deserve attention. You may know exactly why you are seeking therapy, or you may something may just feel off. My role is to help you learn about yourself and your losses. I hold special interest and skill supporting people with experiences of infertility/pregnancy loss, relationship loss, trauma, illness and death and dying.
(202) 804-9592 View (202) 804-9592
Photo of Jennifer Mostafa, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Jennifer Mostafa
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
I thoroughly enjoy working with traditional and non-traditional couples on understanding their relational dynamics and achieving lasting changes in their relationships.
Hi there! Congratulations on taking the first step toward engaging in therapy. I have been practicing the art of therapy for over 10 years and believe wholeheartedly in the process of therapy. I utilize an integrative, holistic and practical approach toward achieving client goals and incorporate a variety of techniques such as Person-Centered, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Attachment Theory, and Internal Family Systems (IFS), combined with a reality-based approach that encourages self-acceptance and insight.
I thoroughly enjoy working with traditional and non-traditional couples on understanding their relational dynamics and achieving lasting changes in their relationships.
Hi there! Congratulations on taking the first step toward engaging in therapy. I have been practicing the art of therapy for over 10 years and believe wholeheartedly in the process of therapy. I utilize an integrative, holistic and practical approach toward achieving client goals and incorporate a variety of techniques such as Person-Centered, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Attachment Theory, and Internal Family Systems (IFS), combined with a reality-based approach that encourages self-acceptance and insight.
(202) 304-1180 View (202) 304-1180
Photo of Ean Lischin-Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Ean Lischin-Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
I have over fifteen years of psychotherapy experience working with individuals, couples and families utilizing a combination of DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), MBCT (Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), Psychodynamic and Relational techniques among other modalities.
My approach to therapy is compassionate, collaborative, holistic and individualized, meeting you where you are. I am passionate about the process of therapy and will help you to develop insight, identify and reach your goals and enhance wellness. I specialize in treating couples and individuals coping with mental health and relationship concerns. My aim is to engage in collaboration to illuminate, foster insight and clarify what is within as well as the path ahead.
I have over fifteen years of psychotherapy experience working with individuals, couples and families utilizing a combination of DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), MBCT (Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), Psychodynamic and Relational techniques among other modalities.
My approach to therapy is compassionate, collaborative, holistic and individualized, meeting you where you are. I am passionate about the process of therapy and will help you to develop insight, identify and reach your goals and enhance wellness. I specialize in treating couples and individuals coping with mental health and relationship concerns. My aim is to engage in collaboration to illuminate, foster insight and clarify what is within as well as the path ahead.
(202) 960-4579 View (202) 960-4579
Photo of Zachariah Stutman, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Zachariah Stutman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
Grounded in the alliance between the patient and clinician, psychotherapy provides a forum to communicate, organize, and manage thoughts and feelings. Treatment focuses on the expression and examination of emotion, exploration of avoidances, and identification of recurring themes and patterns. In addition to the cathartic impact, psychotherapy engenders flexibility of thought, tolerance, and opportunities to make more informed choices. I provide individual, couples, and family therapy for a variety of concerns, including: • Depression • Anxiety • Trauma • Relational difficulties and interpersonal conflict • Life transitions • Loss and grief • Stress management.
Grounded in the alliance between the patient and clinician, psychotherapy provides a forum to communicate, organize, and manage thoughts and feelings. Treatment focuses on the expression and examination of emotion, exploration of avoidances, and identification of recurring themes and patterns. In addition to the cathartic impact, psychotherapy engenders flexibility of thought, tolerance, and opportunities to make more informed choices. I provide individual, couples, and family therapy for a variety of concerns, including: • Depression • Anxiety • Trauma • Relational difficulties and interpersonal conflict • Life transitions • Loss and grief • Stress management.
(202) 999-3194 View (202) 999-3194
Photo of Joseph Kosowsky, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Joseph Kosowsky
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20005
I predominantly draw on psychodynamic, attachment, and relational approaches to guide my work.
Do you feel like life has become more challenging? Have you begun to feel less fulfilled or feel like something is wrong? People seek therapy at various stages of their life to address their challenges. Sometimes you might know why, and other times it can be confusing or difficult to pinpoint. Therapy not only can help you understand your sources of stress but also to improve symptoms that prevent you from feeling your best. Together, we will work to support you, face challenges within yourself, work towards your goals, and, most importantly, improve your own sense of a life that is meaningful and fulfilled.
I predominantly draw on psychodynamic, attachment, and relational approaches to guide my work.
Do you feel like life has become more challenging? Have you begun to feel less fulfilled or feel like something is wrong? People seek therapy at various stages of their life to address their challenges. Sometimes you might know why, and other times it can be confusing or difficult to pinpoint. Therapy not only can help you understand your sources of stress but also to improve symptoms that prevent you from feeling your best. Together, we will work to support you, face challenges within yourself, work towards your goals, and, most importantly, improve your own sense of a life that is meaningful and fulfilled.
(202) 831-4943 View (202) 831-4943
Photo of Kathy A. Johns, Counselor in Washington, DC
Kathy A. Johns
Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20012
My approach to therapy relies on a psychodynamic, psychoanalytic, relational framework.
Life presents us with pain and conflict that we have trouble navigating alone. Why is it that we often find ourselves in scenarios that seem to repeat themselves, even though we want differently?
My approach to therapy relies on a psychodynamic, psychoanalytic, relational framework.
Life presents us with pain and conflict that we have trouble navigating alone. Why is it that we often find ourselves in scenarios that seem to repeat themselves, even though we want differently?
(206) 309-6260 View (206) 309-6260
Photo of Alex Swales, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Alex Swales
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
Life can be messy, chaotic, and complicated; therapy reminds me of spring cleaning. Similar to spring cleaning, therapy can be slow, overwhelming, & messy. Throughout the therapeutic process, it is my goal to support clients to embrace all the parts of them in healing from trauma. Together, we will work to unpack and find meaning, connection, understanding, and even humor. I work with individuals that have experienced sexual trauma, relational trauma, eating disorders, and struggle with the impacts of trauma. I deeply enjoy working with individuals that want to deepen their connection to self and community.
Life can be messy, chaotic, and complicated; therapy reminds me of spring cleaning. Similar to spring cleaning, therapy can be slow, overwhelming, & messy. Throughout the therapeutic process, it is my goal to support clients to embrace all the parts of them in healing from trauma. Together, we will work to unpack and find meaning, connection, understanding, and even humor. I work with individuals that have experienced sexual trauma, relational trauma, eating disorders, and struggle with the impacts of trauma. I deeply enjoy working with individuals that want to deepen their connection to self and community.
(855) 922-4373 View (855) 922-4373
Photo of Dr. Delishia Pittman, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Dr. Delishia Pittman
Psychologist, PhD, MPH, ABPP, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008  (Online Only)
I'm Dr. Delishia Pittman, Founder & Clinical Director of The Wellness Collective. I applaud you for taking this brave step toward finding support to work through the issues that concern you most. It is my personal belief that humans have an innate capacity to heal and orientation toward growth. I subscribe to an integrative multicultural orientation and rely heavily on the language and interventions of relational cultural, feminist and psychodynamic theories. I work to establish a sense of felt security and empowerment with the goal of managing presenting concerns and fostering growth and wellbeing.
I'm Dr. Delishia Pittman, Founder & Clinical Director of The Wellness Collective. I applaud you for taking this brave step toward finding support to work through the issues that concern you most. It is my personal belief that humans have an innate capacity to heal and orientation toward growth. I subscribe to an integrative multicultural orientation and rely heavily on the language and interventions of relational cultural, feminist and psychodynamic theories. I work to establish a sense of felt security and empowerment with the goal of managing presenting concerns and fostering growth and wellbeing.
(202) 930-9820 View (202) 930-9820
Photo of Tatyana Suares, Counselor in Washington, DC
Tatyana Suares
Counselor, MA, LGPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
I have experience and specialized training in the assessment and treatment of individuals struggling with substance use, depression, anxiety, trauma, relational issues, grief and loss. Additionally, I have worked with neurodivergent children, including those diagnosed with autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, in addressing socio-emotional challenges. I have worked in a variety of settings including juvenile detention centers, rehabilitation centers, community agencies and outpatient mental health clinics, providing me with exposure to a broad range of cultural/socio-economic backgrounds and mental health issues.
I have experience and specialized training in the assessment and treatment of individuals struggling with substance use, depression, anxiety, trauma, relational issues, grief and loss. Additionally, I have worked with neurodivergent children, including those diagnosed with autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, in addressing socio-emotional challenges. I have worked in a variety of settings including juvenile detention centers, rehabilitation centers, community agencies and outpatient mental health clinics, providing me with exposure to a broad range of cultural/socio-economic backgrounds and mental health issues.
(202) 519-9290 View (202) 519-9290
Photo of Laura Reid Harris, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Laura Reid Harris
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
My therapeutic style is very relational, and I welcome discussions of any and all aspects of your identity in our work together.
Licensed in the District of Columbia, Virginia, Colorado, New Mexico, and PSYPACT member. Therapy can be helpful at anytime in your life, but it could be particularly important for you now, when so many of us are experiencing heightened emotions. Whether you're suffering from trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, loss, relationship struggles, or other concerns, we can work together to understand the underlying causes for your symptoms and help you pursue your inner truth and liberation.
My therapeutic style is very relational, and I welcome discussions of any and all aspects of your identity in our work together.
Licensed in the District of Columbia, Virginia, Colorado, New Mexico, and PSYPACT member. Therapy can be helpful at anytime in your life, but it could be particularly important for you now, when so many of us are experiencing heightened emotions. Whether you're suffering from trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, loss, relationship struggles, or other concerns, we can work together to understand the underlying causes for your symptoms and help you pursue your inner truth and liberation.
(202) 519-0335 View (202) 519-0335
Photo of Ann K Ewing, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Ann K Ewing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
Waitlist for new clients
We'll identify relational patterns-both healthy and harmful.
Do you feel like you're stuck in in any of your current relationships - spouse or partner, family, friends, or with work? Are you still seeking healthy relationships? Would you like to improve your relationship with yourself? Do you have sexual orientation or gender identity concerns, either for yourself or for someone you care about? Are you working to adjust to a significant change in your life - navigating a break-up, divorce, or move, grieving a loss, or becoming a parent? Do you strive to live authentically while struggling with the vulnerability needed to do so? Whatever your relational concerns or issues are, I can help.
We'll identify relational patterns-both healthy and harmful.
Do you feel like you're stuck in in any of your current relationships - spouse or partner, family, friends, or with work? Are you still seeking healthy relationships? Would you like to improve your relationship with yourself? Do you have sexual orientation or gender identity concerns, either for yourself or for someone you care about? Are you working to adjust to a significant change in your life - navigating a break-up, divorce, or move, grieving a loss, or becoming a parent? Do you strive to live authentically while struggling with the vulnerability needed to do so? Whatever your relational concerns or issues are, I can help.
(202) 670-4933 View (202) 670-4933
Photo of Elaina Vasserman-Stokes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Elaina Vasserman-Stokes
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
My clinical expertise is in issues related to emotional regulation, trauma, loss, and early life attachment experiences. I have a particular interest in supporting parents of young children (particularly at this time and in relationship to COVID-related school and care transitions). My approach can broadly be described as insight oriented and rooted in attachment, relational, and interpersonal theories as well as self-psychology. My expertise rests on meaningful personal experiences and on continuing rigorous training and teaching.
My clinical expertise is in issues related to emotional regulation, trauma, loss, and early life attachment experiences. I have a particular interest in supporting parents of young children (particularly at this time and in relationship to COVID-related school and care transitions). My approach can broadly be described as insight oriented and rooted in attachment, relational, and interpersonal theories as well as self-psychology. My expertise rests on meaningful personal experiences and on continuing rigorous training and teaching.
(240) 607-5480 View (240) 607-5480
Photo of Keith A Erickson, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Keith A Erickson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
I approach therapy from a relational psychodynamic approach and also incorporate mindfulness, and relaxation/visualization techniques.
I strive to bring a sense of acceptance, compassion, insight,sometimes humor as well as challenge to the therapeutic relationship. I see the aim of therapy to explore and address those issues that block you from reaching your goals and experiencing a more satisfying and productive life. Whether you are facing challenges in your career, relationships, or in your emotional well-being, we can address specific situations that you are facing today, as well as long-standing patterns or history of painful experiences. I offer a free phone consultation to help you find the right therapist.
I approach therapy from a relational psychodynamic approach and also incorporate mindfulness, and relaxation/visualization techniques.
I strive to bring a sense of acceptance, compassion, insight,sometimes humor as well as challenge to the therapeutic relationship. I see the aim of therapy to explore and address those issues that block you from reaching your goals and experiencing a more satisfying and productive life. Whether you are facing challenges in your career, relationships, or in your emotional well-being, we can address specific situations that you are facing today, as well as long-standing patterns or history of painful experiences. I offer a free phone consultation to help you find the right therapist.
(202) 684-8412 View (202) 684-8412
Photo of Angelica Garcia-Ditta, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Angelica Garcia-Ditta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002  (Online Only)
Are you ready to increase your self-awareness from a relational-cultural framework in addition to implementing tailored coping strategies in your everyday life outside of sessions? If you're new to therapy, you are also encouraged to try short-term care and can expect a welcoming and compassionate environment. Individual tele-therapy services are available during evenings and weekends for individuals 16 years and older who are located in the District of Columbia, Maryland or Virginia.
Are you ready to increase your self-awareness from a relational-cultural framework in addition to implementing tailored coping strategies in your everyday life outside of sessions? If you're new to therapy, you are also encouraged to try short-term care and can expect a welcoming and compassionate environment. Individual tele-therapy services are available during evenings and weekends for individuals 16 years and older who are located in the District of Columbia, Maryland or Virginia.
(202) 946-8971 View (202) 946-8971
Photo of Mindy Jacobs, PhD, ABPP,PC, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Mindy Jacobs, PhD, ABPP,PC
Psychologist, PhD, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
The main ones being relational, psychodynamic, and cognitive.
I am a diplomate in counseling psychology with over 30 years experience.I work with a variety of issues. At the core, I connect with my patients empathically. I am intuitive and skilled with regard to interpreting feelings and thoughts. I readily connect the heart and thoughts, and help people get unstuck and translate internal changes into behavioral changes.I am passionate about my work. Please view my website at www.drmindyjacobs.com or my blog at grouptherapydc.wordpress.com. To make an appointment in New York, please go to www.drmindyjacobsny.com.
The main ones being relational, psychodynamic, and cognitive.
I am a diplomate in counseling psychology with over 30 years experience.I work with a variety of issues. At the core, I connect with my patients empathically. I am intuitive and skilled with regard to interpreting feelings and thoughts. I readily connect the heart and thoughts, and help people get unstuck and translate internal changes into behavioral changes.I am passionate about my work. Please view my website at www.drmindyjacobs.com or my blog at grouptherapydc.wordpress.com. To make an appointment in New York, please go to www.drmindyjacobsny.com.
(202) 236-6365 View (202) 236-6365
Relational Therapists

How does relational therapy work?

Relational therapy was developed by psychologist Jean Miller, whose ideas stressed that having strong connections with others encourages better health and well-being when compared with a lonely existence. Conversely, poor interpersonal relationships do not foster growth and learning. Relational therapy also encourages trust in others and patience with others, along with better communication and less conflict.

Is relational therapy evidence-based?

Relational therapy is not well-studied, and it may not be as effective in treating certain mental health conditions when compared with evidence-based treatments like cognitive behavioral or acceptance and commitment therapy. However, relational therapy uses techniques found in cognitive behavioral therapy as well as psychodynamic therapy, which are both well-studied with empirical research.

How long are people typically in relational therapy?

Clients may see improvement after a few weeks or months of therapy. Like cognitive behavioral therapy, relational therapy can reduce symptoms within 10 to 20 weeks, at 45 to 50 minutes once a week. But like any type of therapy, improvement depends on the person and the severity of the problem.

Does relational therapy work?

While no therapy type will work for everyone, some evidence suggests that this therapy can be effective. Relational therapy can help a person manage problematic relationships as well as the mental health conditions that accompany difficult relationships like depression or anxiety. This therapy type may offer benefits that are hard to measure but can be just as valuable—including feelings of higher self-worth or healthier connections with others.