Photo of Dr. Sadaf Lotfalian, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Dr. Sadaf Lotfalian
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20017  (Online Only)
To aid with this process, I use somatically-informed interventions (eg relational, sensorimotor, emotion-focused, mindfulness- & acceptance-based, dialectical- & cognitive-behavioral) geared toward your unique concerns and needs.
At times the road to your fullest life is found by moving through trauma, rage, loss, and betrayal. How we cope with those hardships is important. Therapy can help you become more aware of suffering, the sources that are causing it, and tools to help you overcome it. I invite us to imagine a life beyond fear, shame, and regret. One where you feel your innate wisdom, compassion, and capacity, to live life more fully despite all of its complexities.
To aid with this process, I use somatically-informed interventions (eg relational, sensorimotor, emotion-focused, mindfulness- & acceptance-based, dialectical- & cognitive-behavioral) geared toward your unique concerns and needs.
At times the road to your fullest life is found by moving through trauma, rage, loss, and betrayal. How we cope with those hardships is important. Therapy can help you become more aware of suffering, the sources that are causing it, and tools to help you overcome it. I invite us to imagine a life beyond fear, shame, and regret. One where you feel your innate wisdom, compassion, and capacity, to live life more fully despite all of its complexities.
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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 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 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
Photo of Ginger M Sullivan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Ginger M Sullivan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CGP, FAGPA
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
I use my laser-sharp emotional precision, my practical depth which works from the bottom while instilling tools from the top, my advanced skills in both Relational Life Therapy, the Gottman Method and group psychotherapy to mature human beings and their relationships.
I am your last stop. If life has disappointed you. If you are depleted. If you are lost. If your relationship is hopelessly leaving you unsatisfied. If your partner is complaining about your internal emotional desert. If you are one step from calling it quits or calling the lawyer. If you are out of ideas at how to make life and relationship work. If therapy has not worked for you in the past ... ... get ready. Your story can take a different turn. Give me a call and let's get started giving you the life - and the relationship - you desire and you deserve. I can help you have more and better.
I use my laser-sharp emotional precision, my practical depth which works from the bottom while instilling tools from the top, my advanced skills in both Relational Life Therapy, the Gottman Method and group psychotherapy to mature human beings and their relationships.
I am your last stop. If life has disappointed you. If you are depleted. If you are lost. If your relationship is hopelessly leaving you unsatisfied. If your partner is complaining about your internal emotional desert. If you are one step from calling it quits or calling the lawyer. If you are out of ideas at how to make life and relationship work. If therapy has not worked for you in the past ... ... get ready. Your story can take a different turn. Give me a call and let's get started giving you the life - and the relationship - you desire and you deserve. I can help you have more and better.
(202) 656-9995 View (202) 656-9995
Photo of Pen Mims, Counselor in Washington, DC
Pen Mims
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20001  (Online Only)
I practice from the lenses of relational-cultural theory, narrative therapy, and attachment theory.
I believe in the transformative power of expressing who you are and how you truly feel. My intention is to create a warm, relaxed, judgment-free space that gives you the freedom to just be yourself and feel your feelings. My style as a therapist is open-minded, collaborative, and flexible. I prioritize getting to know you and what’s important to you in order to build a secure foundation for our work together. Within the safety of the therapeutic relationship we will work together to make sense of your experiences and build confidence to move forward in your life the way you want to.
I practice from the lenses of relational-cultural theory, narrative therapy, and attachment theory.
I believe in the transformative power of expressing who you are and how you truly feel. My intention is to create a warm, relaxed, judgment-free space that gives you the freedom to just be yourself and feel your feelings. My style as a therapist is open-minded, collaborative, and flexible. I prioritize getting to know you and what’s important to you in order to build a secure foundation for our work together. Within the safety of the therapeutic relationship we will work together to make sense of your experiences and build confidence to move forward in your life the way you want to.
(206) 741-0841 View (206) 741-0841
Photo of Cindy Bollman, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Cindy Bollman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20015
My continuing education is through the Center for Group Studies in New York and Relational Life Institute in Boston.
If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, marital or relationship issues, it is important to find a therapist with whom you feel safe and comfortable....a good fit for you. I have been in practice for over 20 years and my approach is to get to the problem, find the solution, and work collaboratively toward these goals. I welcome feedback, positive and negative!
My continuing education is through the Center for Group Studies in New York and Relational Life Institute in Boston.
If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, marital or relationship issues, it is important to find a therapist with whom you feel safe and comfortable....a good fit for you. I have been in practice for over 20 years and my approach is to get to the problem, find the solution, and work collaboratively toward these goals. I welcome feedback, positive and negative!
(949) 520-7958 View (949) 520-7958
Photo of Devon C King, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Devon C King
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
I have tremendous respect for people who make the difficult decision to enter in to psychotherapy. I work collaboratively with older children, adolescents, and adults, in individual, couples, and family therapy. My goal is to explore collaboratively the troubles that have led them to seek treatment at this time. I try to provide a safe, non-judgemental environment, where one can develop insight to better understand and ultimately change behavioral and relational patterns that get in the way of happiness and fulfillment. I have extensive experience working with depression, anxiety, and trauma, as well as relationship difficulties and life transitions.
I have tremendous respect for people who make the difficult decision to enter in to psychotherapy. I work collaboratively with older children, adolescents, and adults, in individual, couples, and family therapy. My goal is to explore collaboratively the troubles that have led them to seek treatment at this time. I try to provide a safe, non-judgemental environment, where one can develop insight to better understand and ultimately change behavioral and relational patterns that get in the way of happiness and fulfillment. I have extensive experience working with depression, anxiety, and trauma, as well as relationship difficulties and life transitions.
(240) 262-4455 View (240) 262-4455
Photo of Avi Margolies, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Avi Margolies
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
Many people suffer under the weight of their sadness, fear, anger, and pain; others struggle to feel anything at all. Our self-esteem, relationships, or work can suffer as old cognitive, emotional, and behavioral paradigms are applied to new situations, often outside of our awareness. While it may seem daunting, exploring your thoughts, feelings, and experiences within the context of a safe therapeutic relationship can increase your access to, your awareness of, and your sense of control over your internal world. Through this process, you will find your strength, resilience, agency, and, ultimately, your freedom to more effectively shape your external world.
Many people suffer under the weight of their sadness, fear, anger, and pain; others struggle to feel anything at all. Our self-esteem, relationships, or work can suffer as old cognitive, emotional, and behavioral paradigms are applied to new situations, often outside of our awareness. While it may seem daunting, exploring your thoughts, feelings, and experiences within the context of a safe therapeutic relationship can increase your access to, your awareness of, and your sense of control over your internal world. Through this process, you will find your strength, resilience, agency, and, ultimately, your freedom to more effectively shape your external world.
(202) 765-3806 View (202) 765-3806
Photo of Diane Miller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Diane Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20017  (Online Only)
Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or struggling in a relationship? Are you stuck and wondering what is keeping you stuck? Are you considering couples therapy and whether you want to remain together or begin the process of separation? Are you searching for lasting and tangible results in therapy? Together, we will work to uncover and undermine what is driving your symptoms of anxiety and/or depression, relationship and communication issues, medically difficult to explain symptoms, & self-sabotaging behaviors. I enjoy working with individuals and couples, and have had significant success working with men.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or struggling in a relationship? Are you stuck and wondering what is keeping you stuck? Are you considering couples therapy and whether you want to remain together or begin the process of separation? Are you searching for lasting and tangible results in therapy? Together, we will work to uncover and undermine what is driving your symptoms of anxiety and/or depression, relationship and communication issues, medically difficult to explain symptoms, & self-sabotaging behaviors. I enjoy working with individuals and couples, and have had significant success working with men.
(202) 875-5480 View (202) 875-5480
Photo of Rachel Kaplan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Rachel Kaplan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSWC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
Emotional suffering, whether from depression, anxiety, grief or harm and betrayal by others, is often invisible. While you may urgently desire help, shame and fear of exposure may make it difficult to get the help you want. In over thirty years of psychotherapy practice, I have learned to help patients find ways to face their worst fears and feel safer. Even desired change can bring fear of losing yourself. I think honestly confronting loss and limitaion can lead to freer decisons about living your life.
Emotional suffering, whether from depression, anxiety, grief or harm and betrayal by others, is often invisible. While you may urgently desire help, shame and fear of exposure may make it difficult to get the help you want. In over thirty years of psychotherapy practice, I have learned to help patients find ways to face their worst fears and feel safer. Even desired change can bring fear of losing yourself. I think honestly confronting loss and limitaion can lead to freer decisons about living your life.
(202) 618-5562 x2 View (202) 618-5562 x2
Photo of Helena (Mimi) Martin, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Helena (Mimi) Martin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
Life can and often does present us with challenges which create distress and make it difficult for us to feel satisfied. It can be very helpful to speak with a well-trained, experienced, and supportive person when facing such challenges. Whether you are looking for extra support during a stressful period of time or you are interested in focusing on longstanding difficulties, I offer to create a space that promotes symptom relief and results in greater awareness, satisfaction, confidence, and fulfillment.
Life can and often does present us with challenges which create distress and make it difficult for us to feel satisfied. It can be very helpful to speak with a well-trained, experienced, and supportive person when facing such challenges. Whether you are looking for extra support during a stressful period of time or you are interested in focusing on longstanding difficulties, I offer to create a space that promotes symptom relief and results in greater awareness, satisfaction, confidence, and fulfillment.
(202) 999-3362 View (202) 999-3362
Photo of Michael Garber, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Michael Garber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006
I stress the importance of a strong, caring therapeutic relationship with my clients. My approach depends on each person's goals. My approach is exploratory and less structured for those with general concerns about identity issues, transitions, or relationships. For those seeking a resolution of a particular problem (e.g., depression, PTSD, OCD), I take a structured, goal-oriented approach. I have advanced training in the treatment of depression, anxiety disorders, trauma, and personality disorders. I often utilize EMDR for trauma, DBT for emotional dysregulation, and exposure therapy for anxiety disorders.
I stress the importance of a strong, caring therapeutic relationship with my clients. My approach depends on each person's goals. My approach is exploratory and less structured for those with general concerns about identity issues, transitions, or relationships. For those seeking a resolution of a particular problem (e.g., depression, PTSD, OCD), I take a structured, goal-oriented approach. I have advanced training in the treatment of depression, anxiety disorders, trauma, and personality disorders. I often utilize EMDR for trauma, DBT for emotional dysregulation, and exposure therapy for anxiety disorders.
(202) 925-8545 View (202) 925-8545
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 Anne Brennan Malec, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Anne Brennan Malec
Psychologist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002
Please note that all sessions are via tele-medicine. I believe that clients seeking counseling services desire tools for living a better life, and I strive to provide those tools. I do not push change on clients, but rather helps them articulate how they want their lives to be, and then collaboratively set out to put the foundation in place to create that life. I feel that clients gain the most from the counseling experience when they feel supported, encouraged, and understood by their therapist. This process works best in a warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental space, which I provide.
Please note that all sessions are via tele-medicine. I believe that clients seeking counseling services desire tools for living a better life, and I strive to provide those tools. I do not push change on clients, but rather helps them articulate how they want their lives to be, and then collaboratively set out to put the foundation in place to create that life. I feel that clients gain the most from the counseling experience when they feel supported, encouraged, and understood by their therapist. This process works best in a warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental space, which I provide.
(312) 626-9612 View (312) 626-9612
Photo of Rosebud Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Rosebud Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CEAP, NCC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
I'm Donna Inman, a Licensed Professional Counselor, Certified Employee Assistance Professional, and a Nationally Certified Counselor working in downtown Washington DC... With 25 plus years in the mental health field, I've developed a very practical approach to life and the difficulties it can sometimes bring. I use short-term solution focused approaches and I try and assist people with setting and meeting goals. I firmly believe that most answers we seek are already within us, and I believe counseling can sometimes help bring those answers to the surface. Feel free to email me to schedule an appointment.
I'm Donna Inman, a Licensed Professional Counselor, Certified Employee Assistance Professional, and a Nationally Certified Counselor working in downtown Washington DC... With 25 plus years in the mental health field, I've developed a very practical approach to life and the difficulties it can sometimes bring. I use short-term solution focused approaches and I try and assist people with setting and meeting goals. I firmly believe that most answers we seek are already within us, and I believe counseling can sometimes help bring those answers to the surface. Feel free to email me to schedule an appointment.
(202) 946-5399 View (202) 946-5399
Photo of Sabrina Martinez, Pre-Licensed Professional in Washington, DC
Sabrina Martinez
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LMHP-S
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20001  (Online Only)
Struggling to function at work and at home, meet deadlines, as well as the expectations of relationships, while also experiencing anxiety, depression or substance abuse-whatever the challenge may be-can be hard to explain to friends and family. At times explaining what's happening in our heads actually feels more exhausting than what's really happening and can lead us to isolation and loneliness.
Struggling to function at work and at home, meet deadlines, as well as the expectations of relationships, while also experiencing anxiety, depression or substance abuse-whatever the challenge may be-can be hard to explain to friends and family. At times explaining what's happening in our heads actually feels more exhausting than what's really happening and can lead us to isolation and loneliness.
(912) 217-7224 View (912) 217-7224
Photo of Bryce W Phillips, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Bryce W Phillips
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
I realize that for an individual to take the first steps toward looking inward at various psychological conflicts may be an anxiety-provoking process in and of itself, may even be a sense of relief, or a combination of the two. Through my professional training and experience in various treatment settings, I have had the honor to work with individuals and provide them the respect, privacy, and confidentiality that I believe every human being deserves. I focus on providing a safe, trusting, and confidential environment in which one may gain insight and understanding and ultimately grow through this therapeutic relationship.
I realize that for an individual to take the first steps toward looking inward at various psychological conflicts may be an anxiety-provoking process in and of itself, may even be a sense of relief, or a combination of the two. Through my professional training and experience in various treatment settings, I have had the honor to work with individuals and provide them the respect, privacy, and confidentiality that I believe every human being deserves. I focus on providing a safe, trusting, and confidential environment in which one may gain insight and understanding and ultimately grow through this therapeutic relationship.
(202) 455-6915 View (202) 455-6915
Photo of Cherian Verghese, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Cherian Verghese
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
My aim in individual and couple therapy is to help you with your life challenges - whether it is with anxity, depression, self-esteem, conflictual and/or less than satisfactory relationships and intimacies, understanding and overcoming the limiting, even crippling, effects of early life traumas on your life at present. I believe that the safety of a confidential therapeutic environment is ideal for us to explore problems together and find ways to move forward to a more rewarding and satisfying life.
My aim in individual and couple therapy is to help you with your life challenges - whether it is with anxity, depression, self-esteem, conflictual and/or less than satisfactory relationships and intimacies, understanding and overcoming the limiting, even crippling, effects of early life traumas on your life at present. I believe that the safety of a confidential therapeutic environment is ideal for us to explore problems together and find ways to move forward to a more rewarding and satisfying life.
(202) 670-3905 View (202) 670-3905
Photo of Deardre McGuire, LICSW, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Deardre McGuire, LICSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PLLC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
Beginning therapy can be a difficult step. But if you find yourself stuck, repeating the same ineffective, undermining coping mechanisms and unable to manage your emotions, then it might be time to start working together to help you identify more effective and constructive approaches to achieve your goals.
Beginning therapy can be a difficult step. But if you find yourself stuck, repeating the same ineffective, undermining coping mechanisms and unable to manage your emotions, then it might be time to start working together to help you identify more effective and constructive approaches to achieve your goals.
(202) 370-7078 View (202) 370-7078

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.