Carmen Phelps
I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW-C/LICSW) with over 12 years of experience supporting adults through trauma, anxiety, depression, and major life transitions. My practice is rooted in creating safe, culturally responsive spaces for Black women, queer adults and healers to rest, restore, and be fully seen. I integrate evidence-based methods like Trauma-Focused CBT and Motivational Interviewing with somatic, mindfulness and expressive arts practices - so healing happens not just in the mind, but also in the body and spirit.
My practice is rooted in creating safe, culturally responsive spaces for Black women, queer adults and healers to rest, restore, and be fully seen.
Whether you’re healing from trauma, navigating identity, or seeking greater presence in your daily life, our work will unfold at a pace that feels safe and sustainable. Sessions emphasize compassion, embodiment, and choice—helping you restore a sense of connection and ease. I currently accept Cigna, Humana-Medicare, and EAP clients, with additional insurance panels in progress. Private-pay and out-of-network clients are warmly welcome. Superbills are available for reimbursement. Learn more about my practice at: www.littlebirdhealingcollective.com
First session
In our first session, we’ll slow down and get to know each other. I’ll invite you to share what brought you to therapy and what you hope to gain. Together, we’ll set goals that feel realistic and empowering. I’ll also explain how I work, including somatic grounding and mindfulness techniques we might use, so you know what to expect. My goal is for you to leave the first session feeling understood and with a clearer sense of next steps.
Strengths
My greatest strengths as a therapist are my ability to combine cultural attunement with evidence-based care. I bring deep experience in trauma-focused therapy and motivational interviewing, while also integrating somatic and creative approaches that allow clients to access healing beyond words. Clients tell me they value my warmth, authenticity, and ability to hold space for both pain and joy. My role is to help you reconnect with your inner strength and build the life you want.
Ideal clients
I work best with adults (18+) who are seeking a therapist that understands the layered impact of trauma, identity, and cultural experiences. Many of my clients are Black women or LGBTQ+ adults who want a space where they don’t have to explain or defend who they are. My clients are often navigating stress, burnout, relationship challenges, or the long shadow of childhood experiences—and they are ready to invest in their healing and growth.
Treatment methods
Trauma-Focused CBT
I am certified in TF-CBT, an evidence-based treatment that helps clients understand the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I use this approach to support adults in processing traumatic experiences, building coping skills, and regaining a sense of control in their lives.
Person-centered (Rogerian)
My practice is grounded in person-centered therapy, which emphasizes empathy, authenticity, and unconditional positive regard. This approach allows clients to feel fully seen and supported while working toward their own goals.
Motivational Interviewing
I use motivational interviewing to help clients explore ambivalence and strengthen their internal motivation for change. This collaborative approach is especially effective when working through challenges like substance use, lifestyle shifts, or difficult transitions.
Somatic
I integrate trauma-informed somatic practices such as grounding, mindful breathing, and gentle body awareness into sessions. These methods help clients reconnect with their bodies, reduce stress, and release stored tension in a safe, supportive way.
Location
Virtual sessions
Identifies as
Top specialties
Other specialties
Serves
Licensed in
- District of ColumbiaLicense LC200003295
- MarylandLicense 19598