Suicidal Ideation Therapists in Potomac West, Alexandria, VA
Hello, and welcome. My name is Deborah Berkley, and I have provided mental health services as a Licensed Professional Counselor for 30 years. During these years, I have been privileged to work with children, adolescents, and adults in the school, outpatient, clinic, and community settings. As a clinician, I believe the therapeutic relationship to be sacred, and have the utmost respect for anyone seeking mental health support. Afterall, it takes great courage to walk through those doors or make that call, and that courage must be valued.
Hello, and welcome. My name is Deborah Berkley, and I have provided mental health services as a Licensed Professional Counselor for 30 years. During these years, I have been privileged to work with children, adolescents, and adults in the school, outpatient, clinic, and community settings. As a clinician, I believe the therapeutic relationship to be sacred, and have the utmost respect for anyone seeking mental health support. Afterall, it takes great courage to walk through those doors or make that call, and that courage must be valued.
Individuals aren't defined by their diagnosis or symptoms. You possess the potential for full recovery and relief from overwhelming behavioral health symptoms is fully achievable. In a non-judgmental atmosphere, we'll work together to identify and focus on areas of existing strengths to instill new skills, hope, resiliency, and sustainable recovery. Specifically, I have expertise in suicidality, trauma related disorders, and management of symptoms related to depression, anxiety, and psychosis.
Individuals aren't defined by their diagnosis or symptoms. You possess the potential for full recovery and relief from overwhelming behavioral health symptoms is fully achievable. In a non-judgmental atmosphere, we'll work together to identify and focus on areas of existing strengths to instill new skills, hope, resiliency, and sustainable recovery. Specifically, I have expertise in suicidality, trauma related disorders, and management of symptoms related to depression, anxiety, and psychosis.
Are you or your child dealing with issues such as anger, behavioral problems, suicidal ideation, depression, anxiety, impulse control difficulties, or grief?
I employ an integrated approach tailored to the needs of my clients, primarily focusing on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I am convinced that by confronting and altering negative thoughts, beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors, each person can enhance their capacity to manage emotions and cultivate effective coping mechanisms.
Are you or your child dealing with issues such as anger, behavioral problems, suicidal ideation, depression, anxiety, impulse control difficulties, or grief?
I employ an integrated approach tailored to the needs of my clients, primarily focusing on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I am convinced that by confronting and altering negative thoughts, beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors, each person can enhance their capacity to manage emotions and cultivate effective coping mechanisms.
Understanding the causes of anxiety, depression, and other types of psychological suffering by increasing self-awareness is the key to navigating life's challenges. With years of experience in clinical practice and academia, I've had the privilege of assisting individuals from various walks of life in navigating their psychological challenges. My approach to therapy is based on empathic attunement, fostering self-awareness, and empirically supported approaches tailored to the needs of each person. I am committed to fostering a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings openly.
Understanding the causes of anxiety, depression, and other types of psychological suffering by increasing self-awareness is the key to navigating life's challenges. With years of experience in clinical practice and academia, I've had the privilege of assisting individuals from various walks of life in navigating their psychological challenges. My approach to therapy is based on empathic attunement, fostering self-awareness, and empirically supported approaches tailored to the needs of each person. I am committed to fostering a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings openly.
I have an extensive background working with adolescents & adults providing psychotherapy. I have worked in private practice, community clinics, and residential treatment centers. My training includes psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), trauma-focused CBT, mindfulness-based, interpersonal, and narrative therapy. I use an integrative approach that focuses on both understanding deeper emotional and relational patterns and developing practical tools for change. I also have experience conducting educational and neuropsychological evaluations.
I have an extensive background working with adolescents & adults providing psychotherapy. I have worked in private practice, community clinics, and residential treatment centers. My training includes psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), trauma-focused CBT, mindfulness-based, interpersonal, and narrative therapy. I use an integrative approach that focuses on both understanding deeper emotional and relational patterns and developing practical tools for change. I also have experience conducting educational and neuropsychological evaluations.
Lenée N. Essig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP, LFYP-1, RYT200, LLC
1 Endorsed
Potomac West, Alexandria, VA 22301
Sometimes we just need a safe space to collect our thoughts, name our hurts, explore our desires and work through our fears. I can offer you a space of hope and reprieve. Together, you and I, will work through the anxiety and sadness that is overshadowing your life, and not allowing you to live the full and authentic life that you desire. I work from a somatic (body-centered) approach, while emphasizing mindfulness and eastern philosophy, as well as incorporating cognitive behavioral therapy.
Sometimes we just need a safe space to collect our thoughts, name our hurts, explore our desires and work through our fears. I can offer you a space of hope and reprieve. Together, you and I, will work through the anxiety and sadness that is overshadowing your life, and not allowing you to live the full and authentic life that you desire. I work from a somatic (body-centered) approach, while emphasizing mindfulness and eastern philosophy, as well as incorporating cognitive behavioral therapy.
Life can feel heavy when the same struggles keep repeating whether in relationships, in your thoughts or even in the way you see yourself. Therapy gives us the chance to pause, get curious about why these cycles show up and decide what’s ready to change.
A lot of my clients express feeling exhausted of carrying it all on their own. They may feel stuck in anxiety, caught in relationship dynamics they don’t fully understand or frustrated that insight hasn’t yet translated into real relief. They want to feel better, but they also want to understand why things feel so hard and how to finally do something different.
Life can feel heavy when the same struggles keep repeating whether in relationships, in your thoughts or even in the way you see yourself. Therapy gives us the chance to pause, get curious about why these cycles show up and decide what’s ready to change.
A lot of my clients express feeling exhausted of carrying it all on their own. They may feel stuck in anxiety, caught in relationship dynamics they don’t fully understand or frustrated that insight hasn’t yet translated into real relief. They want to feel better, but they also want to understand why things feel so hard and how to finally do something different.
I offer a collaborative, compassionate, and gently challenging space for individuals and couples seeking fulfillment, flexibility, and deeper connection. My clients often reach out because they are struggling to find peace within themselves and in their relationships. My practice is designed to help those who have been managing intense anxiety, carrying depression and self-loathing, or lacking intimacy and emotional safety in their relationships.
I offer a collaborative, compassionate, and gently challenging space for individuals and couples seeking fulfillment, flexibility, and deeper connection. My clients often reach out because they are struggling to find peace within themselves and in their relationships. My practice is designed to help those who have been managing intense anxiety, carrying depression and self-loathing, or lacking intimacy and emotional safety in their relationships.
Are you suffering from the end of a relationship? A job? Do you feel like you are in crisis, or no longer feel like yourself? Maybe you’re realizing that your life as it is in this moment is not working for you. Perhaps you feel alone, lost, or at a loss for what to do. Congratulations on taking the first step to finding relief and taking control. Life is too short to surrender to bad relationships, hold grudges, let trauma control us, or to be anxious or angry all the time. You may feel stuck, but there is hope.
Are you suffering from the end of a relationship? A job? Do you feel like you are in crisis, or no longer feel like yourself? Maybe you’re realizing that your life as it is in this moment is not working for you. Perhaps you feel alone, lost, or at a loss for what to do. Congratulations on taking the first step to finding relief and taking control. Life is too short to surrender to bad relationships, hold grudges, let trauma control us, or to be anxious or angry all the time. You may feel stuck, but there is hope.
Too often, we feel we can't connect to our lives as we'd like to - anxiety, low mood, and hurts from the past can block our enjoyment of experiences and people. We can achieve so much, but still feel unsure of ourselves or wish that we could feel more grounded, more joyful, more present in the moment. We definitely benefit from talks with friends, reading, podcasts, and all the ways in which we can learn - but I believe there's no substitute for a great relationship with a therapist. If you haven't tried therapy, or tried and not clicked with the therapist, I hope you'll try or try again!
Too often, we feel we can't connect to our lives as we'd like to - anxiety, low mood, and hurts from the past can block our enjoyment of experiences and people. We can achieve so much, but still feel unsure of ourselves or wish that we could feel more grounded, more joyful, more present in the moment. We definitely benefit from talks with friends, reading, podcasts, and all the ways in which we can learn - but I believe there's no substitute for a great relationship with a therapist. If you haven't tried therapy, or tried and not clicked with the therapist, I hope you'll try or try again!
Many people find their way to me after traditional treatments haven’t brought the relief they hoped for. If that’s your story, you’re not alone — and there’s hope. At my practice, we focus on sustainable goals for mental health, chronic pain, and metabolic wellness using evidence-based care. I offer FDA approved off label use of ketamine and GLP-1 therapies, both used in integrative treatments that support mind and body. Whether you’re managing persistent pain, seeking weight loss support, or ready to break free from silent suffering, you’ll find care here in a safe, non-judgmental environment.
Many people find their way to me after traditional treatments haven’t brought the relief they hoped for. If that’s your story, you’re not alone — and there’s hope. At my practice, we focus on sustainable goals for mental health, chronic pain, and metabolic wellness using evidence-based care. I offer FDA approved off label use of ketamine and GLP-1 therapies, both used in integrative treatments that support mind and body. Whether you’re managing persistent pain, seeking weight loss support, or ready to break free from silent suffering, you’ll find care here in a safe, non-judgmental environment.
We all are navigating life, some of it can feel heavy difficult to do alone —whether its entering a new phase of life, adjusting to a career shift, or healing after the end of a relationship, or starting a new one. You may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or disconnected from themselves and others. When we are feeling these things, we often appear high-functioning on the outside but internally struggle with self-doubt, perfectionism, or emotional exhaustion. Some of our needs often include learning how to manage stress, set healthy boundaries, improve emotional regulation, and strengthen relationships.
We all are navigating life, some of it can feel heavy difficult to do alone —whether its entering a new phase of life, adjusting to a career shift, or healing after the end of a relationship, or starting a new one. You may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or disconnected from themselves and others. When we are feeling these things, we often appear high-functioning on the outside but internally struggle with self-doubt, perfectionism, or emotional exhaustion. Some of our needs often include learning how to manage stress, set healthy boundaries, improve emotional regulation, and strengthen relationships.
As a therapist, I believe you are your own expert, and I will use each session to support your journey and provide a safe place for therapy. I have experience working with individuals and couples navigating life transitions and everyday challenges. With over 15 years’ experience working in college admissions, I also bring a deep understanding of the needs of high school and college students. I work with adults and adolescents in individual settings.
As a therapist, I believe you are your own expert, and I will use each session to support your journey and provide a safe place for therapy. I have experience working with individuals and couples navigating life transitions and everyday challenges. With over 15 years’ experience working in college admissions, I also bring a deep understanding of the needs of high school and college students. I work with adults and adolescents in individual settings.
I am a Resident in Counseling with a Master’s degree in Art Therapy from The George Washington University. I work with children, adolescents, and adults seeking support with emotional challenges, life transitions, and personal growth.
My approach is collaborative and trauma-informed, centered on creating a warm, supportive environment where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered. I also have experience supporting military service members and their families as they navigate the unique stressors of service, deployment, and reintegration.
I am a Resident in Counseling with a Master’s degree in Art Therapy from The George Washington University. I work with children, adolescents, and adults seeking support with emotional challenges, life transitions, and personal growth.
My approach is collaborative and trauma-informed, centered on creating a warm, supportive environment where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered. I also have experience supporting military service members and their families as they navigate the unique stressors of service, deployment, and reintegration.
Managing stress (school, work, relationships, transitions), anxiety, phobias, OCD, or a traumatic event? You or your child/teen may be looking to better navigate life and work towards relief from these challenges. I am here to help build important skills to manage difficult feelings and experiences and be a partner in having hard but important conversations. I see therapy as a way of having a better understanding of oneself, learning strategies for new ways of thinking and acting, and developing and working toward meaningful goals. I work with children, adolescents, and young adults.
Managing stress (school, work, relationships, transitions), anxiety, phobias, OCD, or a traumatic event? You or your child/teen may be looking to better navigate life and work towards relief from these challenges. I am here to help build important skills to manage difficult feelings and experiences and be a partner in having hard but important conversations. I see therapy as a way of having a better understanding of oneself, learning strategies for new ways of thinking and acting, and developing and working toward meaningful goals. I work with children, adolescents, and young adults.
I have a BA from Radford University and an MS in Professional Counseling from Grand Canyon University. I enjoy working with a broad spectrum of individuals from diverse backgrounds. I am bilingual, English and Spanish, and I offer a sliding fee scale. Providing tools, emotional support, and education to those in need is a passion of mine. I have experience working with adolescents and adults suffering from complex traumas as well as providing a variety of community support resources to individuals and families.
I have a BA from Radford University and an MS in Professional Counseling from Grand Canyon University. I enjoy working with a broad spectrum of individuals from diverse backgrounds. I am bilingual, English and Spanish, and I offer a sliding fee scale. Providing tools, emotional support, and education to those in need is a passion of mine. I have experience working with adolescents and adults suffering from complex traumas as well as providing a variety of community support resources to individuals and families.
Do you feel stuck, misunderstood, overwhelmed, or out of sync? Do you struggle with intrusive thoughts or impulses? Maybe you struggle with managing emotions, navigating life transitions, or building trusting relationships. Past trauma and neurodivergence can show up in many ways and make it harder to find relational safety or create a life that honors your needs. I help neurodivergent individuals (kids, teens, & adults), trauma survivors, and neurodiverse couples to understand themselves and heal. Together we can seek healing that feels safe and authentic and to create a life that honor your unique strengths and needs.
Do you feel stuck, misunderstood, overwhelmed, or out of sync? Do you struggle with intrusive thoughts or impulses? Maybe you struggle with managing emotions, navigating life transitions, or building trusting relationships. Past trauma and neurodivergence can show up in many ways and make it harder to find relational safety or create a life that honors your needs. I help neurodivergent individuals (kids, teens, & adults), trauma survivors, and neurodiverse couples to understand themselves and heal. Together we can seek healing that feels safe and authentic and to create a life that honor your unique strengths and needs.
My name is Lisa McIntosh. I am a Licensed Substance Abuse Treatment Practitioner, Licensed Professional Counselor, and an EMDR Trained Therapist. I am also the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Second Chance LLC in Martinsville, Virginia since 2020. I come to you with more than 20 years of experience working with children and adults with substance abuse issues, mental health illnesses and dual diagnosis. My goal has always been to help individuals through a holistic approach by focusing on their emotional, psychological, and social well-being.
My name is Lisa McIntosh. I am a Licensed Substance Abuse Treatment Practitioner, Licensed Professional Counselor, and an EMDR Trained Therapist. I am also the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Second Chance LLC in Martinsville, Virginia since 2020. I come to you with more than 20 years of experience working with children and adults with substance abuse issues, mental health illnesses and dual diagnosis. My goal has always been to help individuals through a holistic approach by focusing on their emotional, psychological, and social well-being.
Everyone experiences loss. Seldom do we allow ourselves to fully experience loss or it's impact. When someone dies, we change jobs, or even have a child, there is loss. When we choose to address these losses, past or present, we can begin to heal, and with healing comes unlimited possibility. I work with families/individuals/children and the impact family dynamics have on their lives; adoptees and their families as they deal their losses; bereaved individuals and groups after the death of a loved one; transitional loss and role adjustment included "empty nest"; corporate downsizing; career counseling; and relationship issues.
Everyone experiences loss. Seldom do we allow ourselves to fully experience loss or it's impact. When someone dies, we change jobs, or even have a child, there is loss. When we choose to address these losses, past or present, we can begin to heal, and with healing comes unlimited possibility. I work with families/individuals/children and the impact family dynamics have on their lives; adoptees and their families as they deal their losses; bereaved individuals and groups after the death of a loved one; transitional loss and role adjustment included "empty nest"; corporate downsizing; career counseling; and relationship issues.
Hello, I'm Vernon. As a Clinical Social Worker licensed in Maryland and Virginia, I bring over 30 years of professional practice experience to our sessions. My journey in mental health has been driven by a deep commitment to treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I understand that each person’s path is unique, and I am dedicated to customizing services and treatment to meet your specific needs. My expertise spans a variety of areas including stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self-esteem, career development, confidence, and depression.
Hello, I'm Vernon. As a Clinical Social Worker licensed in Maryland and Virginia, I bring over 30 years of professional practice experience to our sessions. My journey in mental health has been driven by a deep commitment to treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I understand that each person’s path is unique, and I am dedicated to customizing services and treatment to meet your specific needs. My expertise spans a variety of areas including stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self-esteem, career development, confidence, and depression.
See more therapy options for Potomac West, Alexandria
Nearby Suicidal Ideation Therapists Searches for Potomac West, Alexandria
- Braddock Road Metro
- Eisenhower East
- King Street Metro
- Landmark
- Northeast
- Old Town
- Southwest Quadrant
- Taylor Run
Nearby Searches for Potomac West, Alexandria
- Braddock Road Metro
- Eisenhower East
- King Street Metro
- North Ridge-Rosemont
- Northeast
- Old Town
- Old Town North
- Potomac Yard-Potomac Greens
- Southwest Quadrant
- Taylor Run
Suicidal Ideation Therapists
How does therapy for suicidal ideation work?
Stress, depression, anxiety, or upsetting circumstances can give rise to suicidal thinking. Therapy can address the events at the core of an individual’s suffering. Understanding why a person may be suicidal can help the therapist and the patient discover alternative methods of coping. A person with suicidal ideation may be mired in catastrophic thinking, and treatment like cognitive behavioral therapy is a good choice for breaking such patterns. In addition, treatment such as acceptance and commitment therapy can help a person manage their distress through better emotion regulation.
Which therapies are best for suicidal ideation?
Specific approaches used by professionals include cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavior, psychodynamic, acceptance and commitment therapies, among others. Cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavior therapies are two widely used therapies that can help individuals with painful thoughts and past traumas. These therapies help an individual tolerate distress, regulate emotions, and not act on dangerous urges.
Are there specific medications to be combined with therapy?
The use of medication for suicidal thoughts must be aligned with the underlying cause; conditions such as depression, anxiety, and psychosis may be at the root of suicidal ideation. A psychiatrist may prescribe medications for symptoms, which may include antipsychotics such as aripiprazole or antidepressants such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.
How often and how long are therapy sessions for suicidal ideation?
As with any type of therapy, sessions depend on the individual. Patients may see improvement within 15 to 20 sessions, at an average of 50 minutes per session, while others may opt for 20 to 30 sessions over, perhaps, a six-month period. Still other patients, especially those with co-occurring conditions like major depression and anxiety, may need to continue sessions for up to 12 to 18 months. In some cases, residential treatment may be recommended for an individual who is judged to be at high risk of self-harm.