Lesbian Therapists in Reston, VA

Photo of Marian Calle, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCMHC
Marian Calle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCMHC
Online Only
Do you struggle with trauma, relationship issues, and low self-esteem? Do you feel insecure, or unsure of who you are as a result of your past? As a board-certified therapist, I help women with a history of trauma/codependency build confidence; reduce self-harming behaviors; and heal their relationship with themselves. I use strengths-based approaches to help you leverage your unique qualities and reach your goals. I also use relational therapy to help you identify patterns, address attachment wounds, and safely practice vulnerability and boundaries.
Do you struggle with trauma, relationship issues, and low self-esteem? Do you feel insecure, or unsure of who you are as a result of your past? As a board-certified therapist, I help women with a history of trauma/codependency build confidence; reduce self-harming behaviors; and heal their relationship with themselves. I use strengths-based approaches to help you leverage your unique qualities and reach your goals. I also use relational therapy to help you identify patterns, address attachment wounds, and safely practice vulnerability and boundaries.
(571) 410-7118 View (571) 410-7118
Photo of Emily Laing, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Emily Laing
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Online Only
As a therapist, I hold a compassionate, non-judgmental space for clients 1. to explore their inner lives and 2. to learn how to make their day-to-day lives better, one step at a time. I use a variety of evidenced-based approaches to help you gain clarity about your thoughts and feelings. We will also spend time figuring out what coping skills help you feel and function better. At the end of the day, I want our work together to support you in being more at home in your mind and body and to empower you as you take action on your goals.
As a therapist, I hold a compassionate, non-judgmental space for clients 1. to explore their inner lives and 2. to learn how to make their day-to-day lives better, one step at a time. I use a variety of evidenced-based approaches to help you gain clarity about your thoughts and feelings. We will also spend time figuring out what coping skills help you feel and function better. At the end of the day, I want our work together to support you in being more at home in your mind and body and to empower you as you take action on your goals.
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Photo of Ellison Spencer-Helms, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Ellison Spencer-Helms
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling overwhelmed, disconnected form yourself, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve you? Are you having increased difficulty navigating daily life and relationships because of your marginalized identity and/or body? As a queer and nonbinary therapist, I both specialize in and relate to these issues, and I have several years of experience with children and adults alike. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, attachment wounds, religious trauma, identity issues, or chronic overwhelm, I support clients in working WITH their bodies - not against them - so that healing can happen from the inside out.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, disconnected form yourself, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve you? Are you having increased difficulty navigating daily life and relationships because of your marginalized identity and/or body? As a queer and nonbinary therapist, I both specialize in and relate to these issues, and I have several years of experience with children and adults alike. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, attachment wounds, religious trauma, identity issues, or chronic overwhelm, I support clients in working WITH their bodies - not against them - so that healing can happen from the inside out.
(804) 376-8492 View (804) 376-8492
Photo of Katheryne Schmidt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Katheryne Schmidt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Online Only
I'll help you build skills you can use outside of session—how to pause before reacting in an argument, set boundaries without feeling consumed by guilt, tolerate uncomfortable emotions without shutting down or escaping them, challenge the inner critic, communicate your needs more clearly, and become less driven by fear and more guided by your values. Maybe you're constantly waiting for the other shoe to drop, struggle to quiet your mind, or feel disconnected from the person you used to be after a loss, trauma, chronic illness, or major life change. Together, we explore the "why" behind these patterns.
I'll help you build skills you can use outside of session—how to pause before reacting in an argument, set boundaries without feeling consumed by guilt, tolerate uncomfortable emotions without shutting down or escaping them, challenge the inner critic, communicate your needs more clearly, and become less driven by fear and more guided by your values. Maybe you're constantly waiting for the other shoe to drop, struggle to quiet your mind, or feel disconnected from the person you used to be after a loss, trauma, chronic illness, or major life change. Together, we explore the "why" behind these patterns.
(571) 506-5069 View (571) 506-5069
Photo of Carla Carick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C
Carla Carick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C
Online Only
Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, isolated, uncertain, or simply in need of extra support during a time of change, you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m here to help you (re)discover your inner strength, regain your footing, and reimagine what’s possible. Together, we’ll explore the thoughts, emotions, and patterns shaping your experience—and work to make sense of how they influence the way you see yourself and move through the world. With curiosity, imagination, and openness guiding us, we’ll uncover new perspectives and create space for transformation and renewed hope.
Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, isolated, uncertain, or simply in need of extra support during a time of change, you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m here to help you (re)discover your inner strength, regain your footing, and reimagine what’s possible. Together, we’ll explore the thoughts, emotions, and patterns shaping your experience—and work to make sense of how they influence the way you see yourself and move through the world. With curiosity, imagination, and openness guiding us, we’ll uncover new perspectives and create space for transformation and renewed hope.
(571) 496-8958 View (571) 496-8958
Photo of Pamela Powers, Resident in Counseling, MA, CCTP, NCMHCE
Pamela Powers
Resident in Counseling, MA, CCTP, NCMHCE
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My ideal clients are the ones that are navigating life through trauma, grief and hard transitions. I specialize in trauma, and I am EMDR and Brainspotting trained, which are great modalities for healing trauma. I have personal and professional experience with the LGBTQi community and people with ADHD and autism. My goal is to empower others as they heal. In addition, I work with clients that are struggling with depression, anxiety, body dysphoria, and suicidal ideation.
My ideal clients are the ones that are navigating life through trauma, grief and hard transitions. I specialize in trauma, and I am EMDR and Brainspotting trained, which are great modalities for healing trauma. I have personal and professional experience with the LGBTQi community and people with ADHD and autism. My goal is to empower others as they heal. In addition, I work with clients that are struggling with depression, anxiety, body dysphoria, and suicidal ideation.
(571) 200-7115 View (571) 200-7115
Photo of Elaine Powell, Pre-Licensed Professional
Elaine Powell
Pre-Licensed Professional
Online Only
My adult and teen clients gain the ability to understand and use strategies to limit self-incrimination, break down overwhelming tasks into small, actionable steps; tolerate emotional discomfort without acting on compulsions or seeking reassurance; challenge negative beliefs that cause distress; interrupt rumination and replace it with productive thinking. These long-term and short term strategies have been helpful to diverse individuals, living with major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, trauma related disorders, mood disorders, including bipolar disorder, ADHD, autism, spectrum disorder, and OCD tendencies.
My adult and teen clients gain the ability to understand and use strategies to limit self-incrimination, break down overwhelming tasks into small, actionable steps; tolerate emotional discomfort without acting on compulsions or seeking reassurance; challenge negative beliefs that cause distress; interrupt rumination and replace it with productive thinking. These long-term and short term strategies have been helpful to diverse individuals, living with major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, trauma related disorders, mood disorders, including bipolar disorder, ADHD, autism, spectrum disorder, and OCD tendencies.
(571) 506-5533 View (571) 506-5533
Photo of Simran P., Pre-Licensed Professional, LGPC
Simran P.
Pre-Licensed Professional, LGPC
Online Only
I provide a supportive, compassionate space to explore, understand and address distress and mental health disorders related to life transitions, strengthening relationships, regulating emotions, or developing greater self-compassion. Life transitions, stress, and uncertainty can feel overwhelming, especially when paired with anxiety, ADHD, or self-esteem challenges are my clinical interest. I tailor each session to meet your unique needs, drawing from approaches such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, psychodynamic and interpersonal work, motivational interviewing, and multicultural perspectives.
I provide a supportive, compassionate space to explore, understand and address distress and mental health disorders related to life transitions, strengthening relationships, regulating emotions, or developing greater self-compassion. Life transitions, stress, and uncertainty can feel overwhelming, especially when paired with anxiety, ADHD, or self-esteem challenges are my clinical interest. I tailor each session to meet your unique needs, drawing from approaches such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, psychodynamic and interpersonal work, motivational interviewing, and multicultural perspectives.
(240) 257-7470 View (240) 257-7470
Photo of Tychera Mayfield, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Tychera Mayfield
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Online Only
Are you feeling lost, overwhelmed, or like you’re just not enough? Maybe you’re carrying the weight of expectations—your own, other people’s—and it’s exhausting. You try to be everything to everyone, but somewhere along the way, you start wondering… what about me? I get it. As someone who’s had my own struggles, I know what it’s like to feel unseen and unsure of where you fit. Life piles on responsibilities—relationships, family, work, identity—expecting you to keep moving, even when it’s too much. But you don’t have to do this alone. We all need to be seen, heard, and supported. Let’s connect. You're not alone!
Are you feeling lost, overwhelmed, or like you’re just not enough? Maybe you’re carrying the weight of expectations—your own, other people’s—and it’s exhausting. You try to be everything to everyone, but somewhere along the way, you start wondering… what about me? I get it. As someone who’s had my own struggles, I know what it’s like to feel unseen and unsure of where you fit. Life piles on responsibilities—relationships, family, work, identity—expecting you to keep moving, even when it’s too much. But you don’t have to do this alone. We all need to be seen, heard, and supported. Let’s connect. You're not alone!
(571) 568-9781 View (571) 568-9781
Photo of Kathleen Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LCMFT
Kathleen Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LCMFT
3 Endorsed
Reston, VA 20191
Keeping up appearances while feeling secretly exhausted? I’m Kathleen (she/they), and as an LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent therapist, I provide a celebratory space for high-achievers navigating identity development, life transitions, & complicated couple or family dynamics. In therapy with me, you can expect to find tools that actually work for you. I also aim to address concerns directly in session together through creating opportunities for new experiences of emotions, thoughts, & partners or family members.
Keeping up appearances while feeling secretly exhausted? I’m Kathleen (she/they), and as an LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent therapist, I provide a celebratory space for high-achievers navigating identity development, life transitions, & complicated couple or family dynamics. In therapy with me, you can expect to find tools that actually work for you. I also aim to address concerns directly in session together through creating opportunities for new experiences of emotions, thoughts, & partners or family members.
(571) 740-1227 View (571) 740-1227
Photo of Meghan Kolcum - Meghan Kolcum: EMDR Certified, IFS Level 1, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, EMDR, NCC
Meghan Kolcum: EMDR Certified, IFS Level 1
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, EMDR, NCC
Reston, VA 20191
Waitlist for new clients
You may have spent years wondering why anxiety, overwhelm, or relationship struggles continue to resurface despite your best efforts. Perhaps you have tried therapy, but still feel stuck in similar patterns that no longer serve you. If you're living with the effects of trauma, dissociation, or stress, you don't have to navigate it alone. I specialize in working with adults experiencing PTSD, complex trauma, anxiety, and dissociation. My approach is compassionate and collaborative. We will explore your symptoms with curiosity rather than judgment, helping you create a greater sense of self-understanding and connection with others.
You may have spent years wondering why anxiety, overwhelm, or relationship struggles continue to resurface despite your best efforts. Perhaps you have tried therapy, but still feel stuck in similar patterns that no longer serve you. If you're living with the effects of trauma, dissociation, or stress, you don't have to navigate it alone. I specialize in working with adults experiencing PTSD, complex trauma, anxiety, and dissociation. My approach is compassionate and collaborative. We will explore your symptoms with curiosity rather than judgment, helping you create a greater sense of self-understanding and connection with others.
(540) 625-1890 View (540) 625-1890
Photo of Jessica Cedeno, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Jessica Cedeno
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I’m originally from Seattle, WA, and now live in Alexandria, VA. I’m an Army veteran, a mom to two sons (ages 11 and 18), and I share my home with a chocolate tabby cat. I’ve worked in the mental health field for eight years—six as a psychotherapist, one as a substance abuse counselor, and one in a psychiatric inpatient setting. Currently, I provide telehealth counseling and am licensed in both North Carolina and Virginia. Personality-wise, I bring a mix of motivation and energy, balanced with an easygoing and nonjudgmental approach.
I’m originally from Seattle, WA, and now live in Alexandria, VA. I’m an Army veteran, a mom to two sons (ages 11 and 18), and I share my home with a chocolate tabby cat. I’ve worked in the mental health field for eight years—six as a psychotherapist, one as a substance abuse counselor, and one in a psychiatric inpatient setting. Currently, I provide telehealth counseling and am licensed in both North Carolina and Virginia. Personality-wise, I bring a mix of motivation and energy, balanced with an easygoing and nonjudgmental approach.
(571) 999-7247 View (571) 999-7247
Photo of Cary Lee Hanes, Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Cary Lee Hanes
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
1 Endorsed
Reston, VA 20190
Hi, I'm a resident in social work under the supervision of Sarah Duffy, LCSW. I have worked with clients with bipolar, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and substance use issues. I have experience in trauma-informed care with all ages.
Hi, I'm a resident in social work under the supervision of Sarah Duffy, LCSW. I have worked with clients with bipolar, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and substance use issues. I have experience in trauma-informed care with all ages.
(571) 568-9752 View (571) 568-9752
Photo of Farifteh Emamghorashi, Counselor, MEd
Farifteh Emamghorashi
Counselor, MEd
Reston, VA 20191
Life is full of changes. If the simple pleasures of the life feel out of reach. You are not alone.I am trained working with clients in transition such as Divorce, Loss, Critical illness, PTSD due to catastrophic accident, rape, violence and war. I am known as therapist by Fairfax Courts for Anger and Abuse prevention and treatment, as well as helping Undocumented Immigrants for Psychological Assessment and Anxiety Treatment. I am successfully working with couples to solve their issues and having healthy relationship with children, relatives and themselves .
Life is full of changes. If the simple pleasures of the life feel out of reach. You are not alone.I am trained working with clients in transition such as Divorce, Loss, Critical illness, PTSD due to catastrophic accident, rape, violence and war. I am known as therapist by Fairfax Courts for Anger and Abuse prevention and treatment, as well as helping Undocumented Immigrants for Psychological Assessment and Anxiety Treatment. I am successfully working with couples to solve their issues and having healthy relationship with children, relatives and themselves .
(571) 540-9146 View (571) 540-9146
Photo of Earta Norwood, Psychologist, PhD
Earta Norwood
Psychologist, PhD
Reston, VA 20194
I specialize in using videotherapy to help you reclaim your peace, your motivation, and your confidence. Feeling stressed, stuck, or overwhelmed doesn't have to be the norm. Therapy can help! My style is warm, non-judgmental, and flexible. Having lived in three countries on two continents, I have experienced a wide range of cultural backgrounds and I use that experience in therapy. My approach is informed by my research and my constant study of the latest developments and findings on diagnosing and treating behavioral, cognitive, and emotional distress.
I specialize in using videotherapy to help you reclaim your peace, your motivation, and your confidence. Feeling stressed, stuck, or overwhelmed doesn't have to be the norm. Therapy can help! My style is warm, non-judgmental, and flexible. Having lived in three countries on two continents, I have experienced a wide range of cultural backgrounds and I use that experience in therapy. My approach is informed by my research and my constant study of the latest developments and findings on diagnosing and treating behavioral, cognitive, and emotional distress.
(703) 972-1328 View (703) 972-1328
Photo of Carly Pollack, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Carly Pollack
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you exhausted, overwhelmed, or close to burning out? Dealing with betrayal trauma, complicated grief, or emotionally immature parents? Maybe you've tried therapy before or maybe this is your first venture into it. You can't "just relax" because if you stop anticipating everything, it will fall apart. What looks like control, anxiety, or irritation is often a need for safety underneath, shaped by old patterns, painful loss, or unresolved trauma. As an EMDR specialist, I help you process the root, not just manage it. Less background resentment. More clarity, presence, and energy in your life, your relationships, and with yourself.
Are you exhausted, overwhelmed, or close to burning out? Dealing with betrayal trauma, complicated grief, or emotionally immature parents? Maybe you've tried therapy before or maybe this is your first venture into it. You can't "just relax" because if you stop anticipating everything, it will fall apart. What looks like control, anxiety, or irritation is often a need for safety underneath, shaped by old patterns, painful loss, or unresolved trauma. As an EMDR specialist, I help you process the root, not just manage it. Less background resentment. More clarity, presence, and energy in your life, your relationships, and with yourself.
(571) 489-0711 View (571) 489-0711
Photo of Scarlet Lovejoy - Prism Counseling & Wellness, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Prism Counseling & Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Prism (noun)- a prism represents a perspective, viewpoint, or filter that changes how we see or understand something. Much like a physical prism splits light into colors, it reveals hidden aspects or altering perceptions which leads to clarity and new insights.
Prism (noun)- a prism represents a perspective, viewpoint, or filter that changes how we see or understand something. Much like a physical prism splits light into colors, it reveals hidden aspects or altering perceptions which leads to clarity and new insights.
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Photo of Rebecca Hunter, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Rebecca Hunter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Online Only
Hi, I’m Rebecca Hunter, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Virginia. I work with children, teens, and adults who may be feeling stuck, misunderstood, or emotionally overwhelmed. My approach is gentle, grounding, and centered on creating a space where people feel safe, seen, and supported. I also have a strong appreciation for working with veterans and members of the military community and feel honored to support those who have served.
Hi, I’m Rebecca Hunter, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Virginia. I work with children, teens, and adults who may be feeling stuck, misunderstood, or emotionally overwhelmed. My approach is gentle, grounding, and centered on creating a space where people feel safe, seen, and supported. I also have a strong appreciation for working with veterans and members of the military community and feel honored to support those who have served.
(434) 722-3228 View (434) 722-3228
Photo of Kennise Baker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kennise Baker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Reston, VA 20190
Hi, I'm Kennise, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker passionate about helping people navigate life's challenges. I earned my Master of Social Work from Radford University and have spent the past five years providing compassionate, evidence-based therapy to individuals from a variety of backgrounds. I work with adolescents, adults, and older adults, and I believe that everyone deserves a safe, supportive, and judgment-free space where they can feel comfortable being themselves. Whether you're struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, or other challenges, I'm here to help.
Hi, I'm Kennise, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker passionate about helping people navigate life's challenges. I earned my Master of Social Work from Radford University and have spent the past five years providing compassionate, evidence-based therapy to individuals from a variety of backgrounds. I work with adolescents, adults, and older adults, and I believe that everyone deserves a safe, supportive, and judgment-free space where they can feel comfortable being themselves. Whether you're struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, or other challenges, I'm here to help.
(571) 444-8764 View (571) 444-8764
Photo of Erin Kardel, Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Erin Kardel
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Reston, VA 20190
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in Virginia who specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Areas of expertise include Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Specific Phobias, Panic Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Adjustment Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Depression, and Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in Virginia who specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Areas of expertise include Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Specific Phobias, Panic Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Adjustment Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Depression, and Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
(703) 997-6283 View (703) 997-6283

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Lesbian Therapists
What is lesbian-affirming therapy?
Lesbian-affirming therapy is a type of mental health support that fully affirms and reflects a client's lesbian identity. It is rooted in acceptance and does not attempt to change or question an individual's sexual orientation. In this type of therapy, clients work with a therapist who understands the unique experiences of lesbian women. This support is especially important, as research shows that lesbian individuals face higher rates of anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges compared to heterosexual populations. Lesbian-affirming therapy acknowledges that lesbian individuals may encounter specific stressors—such as coming out challenges, family rejection, workplace discrimination, and minority stress—that require specialized understanding and intervention. Lesbian-affirming therapists often work with clients across all age groups, from adolescents navigating their emerging identity to adults and older individuals addressing life transitions and relationship concerns. Many therapists also provide couples therapy for lesbian partners, helping them navigate relationship dynamics, communication challenges, or external stressors that may impact their relationship. It is important to note that therapists provide talk therapy and counseling services but do not prescribe medication—if medication is needed for conditions like depression or anxiety, they will coordinate care with a psychiatrist or primary care physician who can provide psychiatric medication management alongside therapeutic support.

Why should I see a lesbian therapist?
Some clients prefer to work with lesbian therapists who may bring personal lived experience to the therapeutic relationship. Choosing to work with a lesbian therapist can offer a deeper sense of connection, comfort, and shared understanding. A therapist who identifies as lesbian may require clients to give less background explanation—whether it’s about navigating romantic relationships, feeling unseen in certain spaces, or processing the impact of past relationship challenges. However, a non-lesbian therapist with strong training and a sincere commitment to LGBTQ+ affirmation can be equally effective. The most important factor is finding a therapist who respects your identity and fosters trust, safety, and understanding. However, a non-lesbian therapist with strong training and a sincere commitment to LGBTQ+ affirmation can be equally effective. The most important factor is finding a therapist who respects your identity and fosters trust, safety, and understanding. Additionally, many lesbian-affirming therapists can connect clients to other providers or community-based resources—such as bisexual support groups or LGBTQ+ organizations—that offer additional affirming spaces for connection.

How do I find a lesbian therapist?
The Psychology Today online directory is a helpful tool for finding lesbian-affirming therapists. You can use search filters to identify therapists who specialize in LGBTQ+ care and work specifically with bisexual clients. You can also filter by clinical specialties, therapeutic approaches, accepted insurance, session costs, and languages spoken to find the right fit. Look for profiles where therapists explicitly mention working with lesbian clients, or where they describe their approach as identity-affirming, inclusive, or trauma-informed. Many providers will also list their own identities, which may help you find someone with shared lived experience if that is important to you. You can also look for credentials or continuing education in areas such as LGBTQ+ mental health, trauma-informed care, and intersectionality.