Black and African American Therapists in Dulles, VA
Navigating a new phase of life, transitions / disruptions, loss of a loved one, maintaining peer and romantic relationships while 'figuring life out' can be tough and you don't have to go through that alone. The thought of initiating therapy can add to those stressors as well as be overwhelming. I would love the opportunity to speak to you to see if I am the right fit for you.
Navigating a new phase of life, transitions / disruptions, loss of a loved one, maintaining peer and romantic relationships while 'figuring life out' can be tough and you don't have to go through that alone. The thought of initiating therapy can add to those stressors as well as be overwhelming. I would love the opportunity to speak to you to see if I am the right fit for you.
Hi! My name is Dr. Melissa Woods. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 13 years of experience in the mental health field. As a clinician, I enjoy the collaborative navigation of lived experiences in service of cultivating a better quality and more fulfilling life. In therapy, I utilize a holistic understanding of presenting issues and the unique needs of each individual to guide my therapeutic approach. I am deeply rooted in psychodynamic and interpersonal theory, and specialize in CBT, ACT, DBT, Relational Therapy, and Attachment-based Therapy.
Hi! My name is Dr. Melissa Woods. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 13 years of experience in the mental health field. As a clinician, I enjoy the collaborative navigation of lived experiences in service of cultivating a better quality and more fulfilling life. In therapy, I utilize a holistic understanding of presenting issues and the unique needs of each individual to guide my therapeutic approach. I am deeply rooted in psychodynamic and interpersonal theory, and specialize in CBT, ACT, DBT, Relational Therapy, and Attachment-based Therapy.
Feeling emotionally depleted? Stuck in repeating patterns? Or disconnected from yourself or your relationships? You may be sensing that something needs attention. Therapy can be a space to pause, gain clarity, and begin meaningful change.
I work with individuals and couples to identify the mindsets, and emotional cycles that feels overwhelming. Together, we focus on increasing self-awareness, strengthening communication, and uncovering the inner resources needed for healing and growth.
15 years of ministry experience and five clinical training in psychotherapy, I offer a compassionate, grounded, and supportive approach.
Feeling emotionally depleted? Stuck in repeating patterns? Or disconnected from yourself or your relationships? You may be sensing that something needs attention. Therapy can be a space to pause, gain clarity, and begin meaningful change.
I work with individuals and couples to identify the mindsets, and emotional cycles that feels overwhelming. Together, we focus on increasing self-awareness, strengthening communication, and uncovering the inner resources needed for healing and growth.
15 years of ministry experience and five clinical training in psychotherapy, I offer a compassionate, grounded, and supportive approach.
Hi there if your life looks great on the outside and on paper but you feel like a stressed-out raccoon on the inside, you’re in the right place.
I work with ICU, ER, and night-shift healthcare professionals experiencing anxiety, burnout, overwhelm, depression, and work-related stress. Many of my clients work in high-acuity hospital settings and carry intense responsibility while putting their own needs last. I offer early and non-traditional therapy appointments to accommodate rotating shifts, overnight schedules, and demanding hospital work.
Hi there if your life looks great on the outside and on paper but you feel like a stressed-out raccoon on the inside, you’re in the right place.
I work with ICU, ER, and night-shift healthcare professionals experiencing anxiety, burnout, overwhelm, depression, and work-related stress. Many of my clients work in high-acuity hospital settings and carry intense responsibility while putting their own needs last. I offer early and non-traditional therapy appointments to accommodate rotating shifts, overnight schedules, and demanding hospital work.
Coalesce Family Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-CP, MSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client is someone navigating life's complexities, seeking to overcome challenges like anxiety, depression, or relationship issues. They desire understanding, coping mechanisms, and personal growth. Their goal is to achieve emotional balance, self-awareness, and improved relationships. They seek therapy to find inner peace and develop resilience, aiming to transform their lives for long-term fulfillment.
My ideal client is someone navigating life's complexities, seeking to overcome challenges like anxiety, depression, or relationship issues. They desire understanding, coping mechanisms, and personal growth. Their goal is to achieve emotional balance, self-awareness, and improved relationships. They seek therapy to find inner peace and develop resilience, aiming to transform their lives for long-term fulfillment.
I work best with adults who are carrying a great deal internally while still trying to function well in their daily lives. Many of my clients are thoughtful, capable people who appear strong on the outside, yet privately feel overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, relationship strain, grief, life transitions, self-doubt, or the weight of unresolved past experiences. Some come to therapy feeling emotionally exhausted. Others come because they are tired of repeating the same patterns and want a healthier, more grounded way to move forward.
I work best with adults who are carrying a great deal internally while still trying to function well in their daily lives. Many of my clients are thoughtful, capable people who appear strong on the outside, yet privately feel overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, relationship strain, grief, life transitions, self-doubt, or the weight of unresolved past experiences. Some come to therapy feeling emotionally exhausted. Others come because they are tired of repeating the same patterns and want a healthier, more grounded way to move forward.
More Therapists Nearby
Hello! My name is Ms. Tawanda McPhatter, and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Virginia. I received my Master's Degree from Virginia Commonwealth University, and I have been providing therapy services for 12 years. I allow my clients a safe space to discuss their issues, concerns, and needs for themselves using behavioral approaches. I am a very avid listener, and I feel that listening is very important when assisting my clients, as it helps identify their feelings and thoughts on things, so that I can identify ways that I can be of assistance in helping to work through and/or address these issues and/or concerns.
Hello! My name is Ms. Tawanda McPhatter, and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Virginia. I received my Master's Degree from Virginia Commonwealth University, and I have been providing therapy services for 12 years. I allow my clients a safe space to discuss their issues, concerns, and needs for themselves using behavioral approaches. I am a very avid listener, and I feel that listening is very important when assisting my clients, as it helps identify their feelings and thoughts on things, so that I can identify ways that I can be of assistance in helping to work through and/or address these issues and/or concerns.
Hi, I’m Jasmine Ricks, LMFT at Inclusive Therapy. I provide online therapy accepting insurance for individuals, couples, and families in Arlington, Alexandria, Fairfax, VA, and Washington DC. My goal is to help clients improve communication, navigate life transitions, strengthen relationships, and manage stress—all in a supportive, virtual space.
Hi, I’m Jasmine Ricks, LMFT at Inclusive Therapy. I provide online therapy accepting insurance for individuals, couples, and families in Arlington, Alexandria, Fairfax, VA, and Washington DC. My goal is to help clients improve communication, navigate life transitions, strengthen relationships, and manage stress—all in a supportive, virtual space.
You may look like you’re holding it all together—but inside, something feels off. Maybe you’re exhausted from giving too much in relationships that leave you drained. Maybe your self-worth has taken a hit, and you’re not sure how to rebuild it. Or maybe you just feel stuck, disconnected, or unsure of who you are anymore.
I’m Imani Hagans, a licensed professional counselor in Virginia with over 17 years of experience supporting adolescents, adults, and couples. I specialize in helping people heal from toxic relationship patterns, rebuild self-esteem, and create healthier, more fulfilling connections—with others and with themselves.
You may look like you’re holding it all together—but inside, something feels off. Maybe you’re exhausted from giving too much in relationships that leave you drained. Maybe your self-worth has taken a hit, and you’re not sure how to rebuild it. Or maybe you just feel stuck, disconnected, or unsure of who you are anymore.
I’m Imani Hagans, a licensed professional counselor in Virginia with over 17 years of experience supporting adolescents, adults, and couples. I specialize in helping people heal from toxic relationship patterns, rebuild self-esteem, and create healthier, more fulfilling connections—with others and with themselves.
Hello! I am an LPC with a Master of Arts degree in Agency Counseling from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Maxine has a genuine passion and love for listening to people’s problems/issues and helping them become their best selves. I have over 25 years of diverse experience working in the mental health field. I enjoy collaborating with individuals struggling with substance abuse, depression, stress, anxiety, self-esteem, family issues and more. She uses an eclectic blend of therapeutic modalities to include cognitive behavior therapy, Rational Emotive Behavior therapy, Client Centered Therapy, and mindfulness practices.
Hello! I am an LPC with a Master of Arts degree in Agency Counseling from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Maxine has a genuine passion and love for listening to people’s problems/issues and helping them become their best selves. I have over 25 years of diverse experience working in the mental health field. I enjoy collaborating with individuals struggling with substance abuse, depression, stress, anxiety, self-esteem, family issues and more. She uses an eclectic blend of therapeutic modalities to include cognitive behavior therapy, Rational Emotive Behavior therapy, Client Centered Therapy, and mindfulness practices.
Now accepting Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, & United Healthcare Insurance • My ideal client is someone who feels weighed down by life—whether that is depression, anxiety, trauma, or substance use—and is ready to take steps toward change, even if they’re unsure where to begin. I draw from my experience working with U.S. Veterans and others facing complex challenges to offer a safe, nonjudgmental space to process experiences, gain insight, and build practical tools for coping. Many I work with seek not only relief from symptoms, but also growth in self-understanding, healthier relationships, and a stronger sense of purpose.
Now accepting Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, & United Healthcare Insurance • My ideal client is someone who feels weighed down by life—whether that is depression, anxiety, trauma, or substance use—and is ready to take steps toward change, even if they’re unsure where to begin. I draw from my experience working with U.S. Veterans and others facing complex challenges to offer a safe, nonjudgmental space to process experiences, gain insight, and build practical tools for coping. Many I work with seek not only relief from symptoms, but also growth in self-understanding, healthier relationships, and a stronger sense of purpose.
Court-required VASAP or DOT-SAP assessment? Struggling with anxiety, trauma, depression, ADHD, or autism-related questions? You do not have to figure it out alone. I help clients who feel overwhelmed, misunderstood, stuck, or unsure where to begin. My practice is affirming, culturally responsive, and especially welcoming to LGBTQ+ clients, people of color, and those navigating identity, discrimination, relationship stress, or court-mandated requirements.
Court-required VASAP or DOT-SAP assessment? Struggling with anxiety, trauma, depression, ADHD, or autism-related questions? You do not have to figure it out alone. I help clients who feel overwhelmed, misunderstood, stuck, or unsure where to begin. My practice is affirming, culturally responsive, and especially welcoming to LGBTQ+ clients, people of color, and those navigating identity, discrimination, relationship stress, or court-mandated requirements.
Katrina (she/they) is a Black queer therapist offering affirming, trauma-informed care for BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and marginalized individuals.
I provide affirming, trauma-informed therapy for BIPOC and LGBTQ+ individuals navigating anxiety, depression, identity exploration, relationship challenges, boundaries, and racial or intergenerational trauma. My approach integrates Relational Cultural Therapy, mindfulness, and solution-focused care to support healing, resilience, and self-trust.
Katrina (she/they) is a Black queer therapist offering affirming, trauma-informed care for BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and marginalized individuals.
I provide affirming, trauma-informed therapy for BIPOC and LGBTQ+ individuals navigating anxiety, depression, identity exploration, relationship challenges, boundaries, and racial or intergenerational trauma. My approach integrates Relational Cultural Therapy, mindfulness, and solution-focused care to support healing, resilience, and self-trust.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Certified Personality Disorder Treatment Provider (C-PD), as well as a Certified Mood Disorder Professional (CMDP). I specialize in woman’s issues, life transitions, as well as working with individuals who are diagnosed with personality disorders, mood disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression (as well as treatment resistant depression), suicidal and self-harming behaviors. I’m committed to helping individuals learn how to start, or get back to, living their best life.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Certified Personality Disorder Treatment Provider (C-PD), as well as a Certified Mood Disorder Professional (CMDP). I specialize in woman’s issues, life transitions, as well as working with individuals who are diagnosed with personality disorders, mood disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression (as well as treatment resistant depression), suicidal and self-harming behaviors. I’m committed to helping individuals learn how to start, or get back to, living their best life.
Immigration Psychological Evaluations- Dr.
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Navigating the immigration process can be overwhelming. Your lawyer is handling the legal side, but you’re left feeling anxious, confused, and scared. The stress of this process it’s taking its toll, and you’re searching for support, that’s where I come in. An Immigration Psychological Evaluation can provide critical support for your case. This could be the key factor in keeping your family together rather than torn apart. Whether you're seeking asylum, facing hardship, applying for a waiver, or proving the emotional impact of separation, I take the time to provide a comprehensive evaluation. You don’t have to do this alone.
Navigating the immigration process can be overwhelming. Your lawyer is handling the legal side, but you’re left feeling anxious, confused, and scared. The stress of this process it’s taking its toll, and you’re searching for support, that’s where I come in. An Immigration Psychological Evaluation can provide critical support for your case. This could be the key factor in keeping your family together rather than torn apart. Whether you're seeking asylum, facing hardship, applying for a waiver, or proving the emotional impact of separation, I take the time to provide a comprehensive evaluation. You don’t have to do this alone.
Have you ever thought – what distinguishes healthy relationships that are able to thrive from unhealthy ones that tend to be full of stress? Is it self-will? Determination? As a couples and family therapist, I believe the one distinguishing factor is "attachment". Attachment is the ability to connect with others. Depending on our ability (or inability) to attach interpersonally, determines the overall satisfaction we experience within our intimate relationships. Also, having been a victim of racism, I opened this practice as a place that people of color can heal from the impact of both blatant and systemic oppression.
Have you ever thought – what distinguishes healthy relationships that are able to thrive from unhealthy ones that tend to be full of stress? Is it self-will? Determination? As a couples and family therapist, I believe the one distinguishing factor is "attachment". Attachment is the ability to connect with others. Depending on our ability (or inability) to attach interpersonally, determines the overall satisfaction we experience within our intimate relationships. Also, having been a victim of racism, I opened this practice as a place that people of color can heal from the impact of both blatant and systemic oppression.
I use the foundations of CBT, DBT, ACT, solution focused, motivational interviewing to support clients from Black/ African-American, Asian, Latinx, Middle Eastern and other backgrounds
I have a particular interest in working with individuals and couples struggling with recurring patterns of infidelity, emotional disengagement, and chronic dissatisfaction in relationships. My work is centered on helping individuals and couples understand and change relational patterns that seem to repeat across generations. Many of the people I work with find themselves recreating aspects of their parents' relationships—or the broader dynamics of their family of origin—in their own intimate partnerships, often despite a conscious desire to do something different.
I use the foundations of CBT, DBT, ACT, solution focused, motivational interviewing to support clients from Black/ African-American, Asian, Latinx, Middle Eastern and other backgrounds
I have a particular interest in working with individuals and couples struggling with recurring patterns of infidelity, emotional disengagement, and chronic dissatisfaction in relationships. My work is centered on helping individuals and couples understand and change relational patterns that seem to repeat across generations. Many of the people I work with find themselves recreating aspects of their parents' relationships—or the broader dynamics of their family of origin—in their own intimate partnerships, often despite a conscious desire to do something different.
My ideal client is self-aware, emotionally insightful, and ready for real growth, not surface-level conversations. They often feel stuck in patterns around relationships, boundaries, or emotional overwhelm and want clarity and lasting change. I provide structured support and psychological insight to help you understand how you function and move forward with intention. I work best with clients who value depth, accountability, and honesty. This is for those ready to do deep, truthful work, not passive support or quick fixes.
My ideal client is self-aware, emotionally insightful, and ready for real growth, not surface-level conversations. They often feel stuck in patterns around relationships, boundaries, or emotional overwhelm and want clarity and lasting change. I provide structured support and psychological insight to help you understand how you function and move forward with intention. I work best with clients who value depth, accountability, and honesty. This is for those ready to do deep, truthful work, not passive support or quick fixes.
Hello! I'm Dr. T. Sutton, a licensed clinical social worker covering VA, NC, and DE. My ideal client is navigating life transitions, feeling stuck or overwhelmed by anxiety, sadness, or relationship challenges. They seek a safe, supportive space to explore their emotions, uncover patterns, and develop strategies for lasting change. Their goals include healing from past pain, building resilience, and creating a life filled with purpose and connection. They want to feel empowered, confident, and at peace, ready to take meaningful steps toward growth and fulfillment with compassionate guidance. Are you prepared to take the next step?
Hello! I'm Dr. T. Sutton, a licensed clinical social worker covering VA, NC, and DE. My ideal client is navigating life transitions, feeling stuck or overwhelmed by anxiety, sadness, or relationship challenges. They seek a safe, supportive space to explore their emotions, uncover patterns, and develop strategies for lasting change. Their goals include healing from past pain, building resilience, and creating a life filled with purpose and connection. They want to feel empowered, confident, and at peace, ready to take meaningful steps toward growth and fulfillment with compassionate guidance. Are you prepared to take the next step?
Are you a young adult or person of color carrying the weight of past trauma, and
ready to start healing? Are life transitions, relationships, or identity questions
harder to navigate than they should be? I help clients move from surviving to living fully - with compassion, cultural understanding, and practical tools that actually fit your life.
Are you a young adult or person of color carrying the weight of past trauma, and
ready to start healing? Are life transitions, relationships, or identity questions
harder to navigate than they should be? I help clients move from surviving to living fully - with compassion, cultural understanding, and practical tools that actually fit your life.
See more therapy options for Dulles
Nearby Black and African American Therapists Searches for Dulles
See More Black and African American Therapists FAQ - Black and African American Counselling
As an African American, why might I wish to see a therapist who is African American?
Working with an African American therapist can often mean that you start from a place of shared understanding with a therapist rather than having to explain your experience from scratch. A therapist who shares your racial identity is more likely to understand the specific pressures shaping your mental health, including navigating racism, cultural identity, and the overall experience of being Black in the United States. They are also more likely to understand the role that family, community, and cultural expectations play in your life without requiring a lengthy explanation. This shared foundation can create a greater sense of safety in the therapeutic relationship and make it easier to open up at the start of therapy.
Are there Black therapists who specialize in working with Black men or Black women?
Yes, many Black therapists have specific experience working with Black men or Black women. While therapists who work with Black clients broadly address concerns relevant to all genders, like anxiety or depression, those with a gender-specific focus are equipped to work with you on the particular ways that race and gender may intersect. For example, some therapists may specialize in working with Black women on topics like body image or maternal mental health, while other therapists may work with Black men on topics such as relationships or masculinity.
Do Black therapists offer marriage and couples counseling?
Yes, many Black therapists are trained in couples and marriage counseling and can work with partners navigating a wide range of relationship challenges. Therapists who identify as Black may have a better understanding of the cultural dynamics surrounding marriage, family roles, and conflict that are specific to African American communities and can work with you and your partner without making assumptions about your background.
How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with Black clients?
The initial consultation, which is typically a brief phone or video call, is the right time to raise a therapist’s experience working with Black clients. You can ask specific questions, such as "Do you have experience working with Black clients?" or more broad questions, such as "How do you approach cultural identity in your practice?". During the initial consultation, you can also ask whether they have undertaken training in cultural competence and how they would handle a situation where a cultural misunderstanding arose in therapy. A therapist who responds to these questions thoughtfully and without defensiveness is a good sign they are equipped to work with you effectively.
Who is included in Psychology Today's directory of Black therapists?
The directory of Black therapists includes therapists who have self-identified their ethnicity in their profiles. Psychology Today uses this information to assist clients in finding a therapist who can provide a cultural match. However, not all therapists choose to disclose their ethnicity in their profile, and they may not appear in search results for this reason. In situations where the number of therapists who have identified as Black is limited, the directory will also show therapists who have undergone specific multicultural training or have extensive experience working with clients from relevant cultural backgrounds.