Golden Rule Therapists in Washington DC

I’m a licensed clinical therapist with over 20 years of experience supporting individuals and families through life transitions, grief, and healing. My approach blends compassion, cultural awareness, and evidence-based strategies to help clients rediscover their voice and reclaim joy. I believe therapy is a collaborative process where you can heal, grow, and feel empowered to live with purpose and peace

I am a licensed clinical social worker and practice in the District of Columbia, Maryland and Virginia. I have been providing therapy for close to 15 years to help my client address mental health symptoms including depression, trauma, life transitions and anxiety. I believe people are inherently capable of managing their circumstances but sometimes require some assistance from a therapist to succeed.

I am eclectic with my therapy approach and start with where you are at and what best suits you! I often work with clients dealing with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, or people coping with change. I’m body positive and LGBTQ+ friendly. I hope you will be able to find Ease to Flourish in your day to day experiences and find what can bring you joy.

Hello and welcome! I’m a licensed clinical professional counselor with over 25 years of experience in the mental health field. Much of my career has been spent in healthcare in crisis response, giving me deep understanding of the unique, emotional toll faced by healthcare professional professionals, first responders, and others working in high stress environments, I specialize in supporting individuals who are coping with trauma and PTSD, and I also work with women navigating infertility, prenatal and postpartum challenges. These experiences can be incredibly isolating, and my goal is to offer a safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space where healing and connection can begin. My therapeutic approach is grounded in trauma informed care as well as evidence -based practices. I am certified in EMDR (Eye movement desensitization, and reprocessing). IFS, (Internal family systems), and CBT (Cognitive behavioral therapy, I understand the impact of chronic stress, grief, and unresolved trauma on both mental and physical health. Whether you’re coping with burnout, navigating complex personal emotions or working through traumatic experiences, my goal is to provide a safe and collaborative space for healing and growth. I offer in person as well as telehealth appointments to accommodate your schedule and comfort level.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) based in Maryland. I received my Masters from the Howard University and have been practicing for 5 years. I specialize in helping individuals and couples manage anxiety, anger, grief, and life stressors. My approach is straightforward and supportive—offering a non-judgmental space where you can explore challenges, gain new perspectives, and build healthier ways of coping.

My name is Cha Peterson and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 4 years of experience working with diverse populations. I have worked with different ages from older adults to children ages 3 and up, different cultures, religions, ethnicities, and sexual orientation. I have experience working with a wide ranch of problems such as anxiety, depression, anger management, and significant changes. I understand the significant step signing up for therapy is.

I am passionate about helping others explore emotional, spiritual, and behavioral wellness in a way that connects mind, body, and soul. With years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and outpatient settings, I’ve dedicated my career to encouraging and empowering individuals on their journey toward healing and recovery. My goal is to help clients leave sessions with a sense of relief, greater clarity, and renewed hope for their journey ahead.

Hi, I’m Dominique Austin! Outside of the therapy room, I find joy in creativity, connection, and lifelong learning. I love to explore new perspectives through travel, yoga, and museums in the city—and at home, I find peace in caring for my plants while enjoying a neo soul playlist. Friends and family often describe me as empathetic, loving, and comical at times, qualities I like to carry into all areas of my life. Professionally, I began my career in social work after receiving my bachelors from The University of North Texas. Initially serving as an advocate for underprivileged communities, I took pleasure in fundraising and connecting individuals to resources that improved their lifestyle. I furthered my education at Texas Woman's University where I received my Masters in Counseling and Human Development and continued my passion for healing work through trauma and grief therapy for individuals impacted by homelessness, sexual assault, and domestic violence.

Hi! I am a Licensed Individual Clinical Social Worker in DC (LICSW). I received my Master's degree in Counseling Psychology in 1985 and my Master's degree in Social Work in 1999. I earned my LICSW in 2002. This past December, I earned my Clinical license in Maryland (LCSW-C). I like talking with people--but more importantly, listening to people. To me, therapy is a block of time. It is an opportunity for people to talk to someone who is not a parent, brother, sister, spouse or even best friend. My goal is to listen to you and to help you consider options in your life.

Hello, I am a licensed therapist with more than 10 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families. I work with adults and teenagers who seek help with depression, anxiety, trauma and relationship concerns. I also have experience working with those in crisis and those looking for support in tough times. I also work with clients of diverse cultural backgrounds. I am a male therapist of Asian Indian background and work with clients from various backgrounds. My style of therapy is centered around your preferences and can be tailored to meet your needs. I work with you so that you can set the agenda and goals and pace of therapy.

Personal growth isn’t one-size-fits-all, so we’ll figure out what actually works for you. Drawing on similar client experience and research-based approaches, I help you move through life with both understanding and practical, actionable skills. You can be yourself here—yes, you can absolutely swear. I specialize in ADHD (ADHD-CSSP certified) and LGBTQ+ concerns, and I also work extensively with clients navigating depression, phone addiction, anger and coping skills, relationship issues, life or career transitions, and Autism Spectrum support, along with other areas listed in my profile.

Hello, My name is Dr. Angela Butler. I am not a provider who has not met my own challenges in life. I was a client before I was a provider and have been in your shoes. I hear you, I see you, and I am here to help. I have been abused, in foster care, domestic violence, among other things in my past and I was able to pull myself up, get back on track, get through school, and am here helping others to walk that same path. I completed my undergrad in psychology, my Masters in developmental psychology, completed all courses in mental health counseling and human behavior, received all available autism training, and my Doctorate is in Developmental Psychology. I have been licensed since 2019 and continue to attend school to evolve my skills and capabilities.

My name is Rica Avery, I am a licensed professional counselor. I graduated from Trinity Washington University where I received a Master's of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling; in addition to receiving a Bachelor's of Interdisciplinary Studies in Social Sciences from The Catholic University of America. My mission is to educate, empower and elevate individuals within my community to develop the necessary skills required to effectively promote community development, mental health awareness and spiritual growth.

Hi, I’m Jessi Gholami, a licensed clinical social worker in Maryland, Michigan, and Washington, DC. I earned my Master of Social Work from the University of Michigan and hold a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of supporting children, teens, and adults as they navigate challenges such as ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, parenting stress, and major life transitions. I like to keep therapy structured enough to give you direction, but flexible enough to meet you where you are. I pull from approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, organizational skill-building, and Internal Family Systems—but I won’t just hand you a textbook strategy. I want us to figure out what actually works for you. Our sessions aren’t just about talking; they’re about finding tools you can use in real life so you feel more confident outside of our time together. Being a parent can be both rewarding and overwhelming. As a certified PCIT therapist, I provide live-coaching positive parenting strategies to caregivers in order to boost their child’s self-esteem, attention span, parent-child attachment, prosocial behaviors, and listening and compliance. This treatment also decreases negative attention-seeking behaviors, tantrums, & aggression. At the heart of my work is a simple belief: every person has inherent worth and dignity. Life doesn’t come with a manual, families are messy, and everyone has struggles. I don’t believe therapy should come with judgment, rigid rules, or strings attached. Instead, I aim to create a space where you feel safe, understood, and equipped to grow. Patterns from the past often show up in our present—whether in relationships, families, or work. I believe healing is possible when we recognize our inner strengths, challenge unhelpful patterns, and practice skills. Outside of my work, I love hiking, swimming, baking, and walking my dog, Teddy.

Chinelo Okpalobi is a Licensed Mental Health Therapist with over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. Let's celebrate this first win of many, deciding to embark on your therapy journey. I'm here to be your teammate, but most importantly, your accountability partner. I take a client-centered, collaborative approach to therapy, tailoring each session to your unique needs and goals. There isn't a manual on how to start; once you feel ready, I'm here to guide you through conversation. I’m here to provide a safe and supportive environment where you can be yourself and learn more about yourself.

Hello, my name is Stephen Pleasant, and I'm a psychotherapist for men. Why therapy for men? Well, because sometimes a man just needs a pork shoulder to cry on. That being said, I will also work with women as well. It’s a recognized human tendency for men to get “stuck” in their lives and to end up “settling” for the status quo when deep down they know they are capable of a great deal more. Here’s the truth; You are never “stuck” with your present circumstances. The Game of Life is a psychological and spiritual journey and winning at this game requires you to change your play and learn to think differently and do things in a new way. I help men break out from being “stuck” in life, resigned to producing results that are disappointing to them and others. My goal is to see transformative progress in men’s confidence, clarity, and self-expression, so that they may gain the fuller personal and work life they thought was beyond them.

My energy and creativity set me apart from others. I used evidence-based practices to guide my work. In addition to traditional talk-therapy, I take a holistic approach to therapy by incorporating all parts of the individual (mind, body, and spirit). Many find value in my holistic approach to therapy. The creative arts may also be integrated into the sessions as a form of expression to enhance the therapeutic experience.

Hello, I'm Jose L. Diaz, a Licensed Counselor in Virginia with 16 years of experience, I have had the privilege to to meet a variety of people in some of the most challenging times of their lives. Being able to be an intimate part of their lives, and connecting with their challenges, pain and suffering has allowed me to understand individuals beyond my clinical abilities. I have always remembered the human component that we all possess and the resiliency possessed, is what we use to leverage the recovery and healing towards your well-being. I sincerely appreciate and respect being allowed into your vulnerability.

Greetings to you and all With a wish for good health and peace in your life. My name is Sherby John. I have been working and learning along this journey, we call life, just as you have. It can be a journey filled with joy and struggle. Have you reached a point where it seems there is more struggle than joy or feel stuck in the muck that seems to only get deeper or harder to transgress? Then maybe it is time to find new paths and options by having a guide on this journey. Therapy can be a vehicle for change and development of workable tools to assist in continuing with this journey. Whether you are dealing with Depression, Life changes, Anxiety, Relationships, Trauma, or a new medical or mental health diagnosis, therapy can be a useful mechanism for support, discernment, and information. I would like to provide you with a safe and welcoming environment and space to relieve yourself of these stressors through working on alternatives to current reactions to triggers or stressors in the way of continuing your journey, your way and at your own pace. Come in. Lets Talk. Lets get to work.

My name is Dr. Olushola Bakare, and I'm a board-certified Psychotherapist. I attended St Joseph College. I'm happy to help you today with any of your concerns. I enjoy empowering people and digging out their strengths. I don't ask fish to fly, neither do I ask birds to swim. I respect everyone's strengths and help my client recognize them. I love to highlight my client's strengths. I offer a safe, warm, therapeutic, judgment-free space for Adults (18+) and Older Adults (65+). I am sorry, but I do not accept clients who pay in cash. Also, every late cancellation or no-show accrues a late charge fee. It is my ethical duty to officially terminate our therapeutic relationship when it is reasonably clear that the client is no longer beneficent, services are no longer required, counseling no longer serves the client's needs and interests, or Dr. Olushola Bakare, LMFT limits do not allow the provision of further counseling services. It is the policy of Dr. Olushola Bakare, LMFT, that our professional relationship will be terminated after a one-month consistent lapse of meeting with a client. Dr. Olushola Bakare, LMFT, will attempt to notify you of this change in status as soon as possible after one month. My ethical duty is identifying, being available, and caring for current clients. It could feel awkward for our relationship to end, yet it is not meant to be discourteous in any way. I do not complete disability forms (Social Security, work excuse, FMLA, Court papers/legal papers, emotional support letters, etc). NO COUPLE THERAPY OR MEDICATION MANAGEMENT, PLEASE!

My name is Jasmine Ricks, and I am a Licensed Therapist in Texas, Virginia, and the District of Columbia. My mission is to empower individuals by equipping them with practical tools, insight, and support that make a meaningful difference in their everyday lives. I’m committed to creating a nonjudgmental, welcoming space where you can show up as you are and explore the challenges and stressors that are impacting your mental health and overall well-being. Together, we’ll work toward greater clarity, resilience, and a stronger sense of self as you move through life.

I’m a trauma-informed, culturally responsive therapist who works with adults navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and substance use. I specialize in supporting individuals during life transitions, including community reintegration and recovery. My goal is to create a safe, structured space where you feel heard, empowered, and supported as you work toward meaningful change. Together, we’ll build on your strengths, explore new strategies, and move toward the life you envision.

Hello! My name is Samantha Miller, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been practicing in the mental health field for six years. I specialize in treating individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, barriers in communication, self-esteem issues, anger management, parenting skills, and stress management. I feel it is very important to meet individuals where they are when seeking treatment. I strive to assist you with addressing your needs and enhancing your overall quality of life.

Hi!, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Maryland. I received my Masters from Howard University in Washington DC and have been practicing for the last 13 years. I help people struggling with life issues cope and overcome their struggles and continue to function as best as they can.

Hi, I'm Tiffany. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 18 years of experience helping women navigate the emotional complexities of life, relationships and motherhood. My passion lies in walking alongside women as they move through personal transitions-especially the powerful, often overwhelming journey into and through motherhood. This is a safe and judgement free space. I specialize in perinatal and postpartum mental health— Whether you're preparing for a baby, adjusting to postpartum life, managing anxiety, or feeling lost in your identity, my goal is to help you feel seen, supported, and empowered to reconnect with yourself. I specialize in perinatal and postpartum mental health, but I also work with women navigating: -Relationship challenges -Parenting stress and burnout -Career shifts and identity confusion -Everyday anxiety and emotional overwhelm My approach is grounded in empathy, clinical expertise and practical strategies. My engagement is warm, real, and rooted in understanding of the unique pressures' women face. I create a space where you can be fully yourself-messy, vulnerable, questioning, strong-and know you are not alone. You're not "too emotional." You're not "too much." You're human-and I'm here to help you make sense of it all. Let's find your footing together.