Golden Rule Therapists in Washington DC

Finding a therapist who accepts Golden Rule insurance can make mental health care more affordable and accessible. With 56 verified therapists in Washington DC who accept Golden Rule insurance, you can filter by therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and motivational interviewing to address concerns like anxiety, mood disorders, or personal growth. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist is currently welcoming new clients and has availability within the next 30 days, ensuring timely access to quality support that aligns with your Golden Rule insurance coverage.

Availability updated: 10/30/2025

Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 81 ratings

Michael McLin

LPC, 15 years of experience

Authentic
Direct
Humorous

Specialties

Anxiety
Grief
Trauma and PTSD
+3
I am a highly skilled psychotherapist who has served the educational and mental health communities in the greater Washington, DC metropolitan area for 20 years. “Mr. Mike” as I am affectionately known, brings a wealth of experience and professional acumen to the clients of Growtherapy. As an effective clinician, I understand the importance of treating each of you with respect. I specialize, but not limited to the treatment areas of anxiety, depression, PTSD, and strained relationships just to name a few. As a skilled life coach and behavioral transformationalist, I believe that prosocial paradigms fused with progressive initiatives produce the very best outcomes in people and in people-driven environments alike. I'm an avid reader, who loves nature, fine arts, international travel, and culinary delicacies. lastly, I hail from a large, loving family who supports this fine vocation. Further, I'm a big proponent of youth advocacy, entrepreneurship, and community service. I was educated in the states of California, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 69 ratings

Nalini Anderson

LICSW, 10 years of experience

Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Life Transitions
Women's Issues
Anxiety
+3
Hi! I am a clinical social worker (LCSW-C) based in Maryland. I am also licensed in DC. I received my MSW from Adelphi University in NY and I have been a practicing therapist for 10 years. I help adults process life transitions, complex trauma, and difficult relationships to develop self-understanding and new ways of coping with the challenges that life can throw at us. I only provide individual therapy.
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 16 ratings

Cha Peterson

LPC, 1 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Open-minded

Specialties

Anger Management
Anxiety
Child or Adolescent
+2
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.
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Rated 4.8 stars out of 5, 17 ratings

Angela Joo

LICSW, 10 years of experience

Warm
Authentic
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Family Conflict
Life Transitions
+10
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I received my Masters from the University of Michigan and have been practicing for 10 years. I help adults struggling depression, anxiety and negative thoughts to become the best versions of themselves. I also provide resources such as handouts and introduce materials as needed to help you in our progress.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 32 ratings

Stephanie Wachs Makanga

LICSW, 10 years of experience

Authentic
Warm
Solution oriented

Specialties

ADHD
Anxiety
Foster Care/Adoption
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.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 31 ratings

Ellis McComb

LICSW, 5 years of experience

Solution oriented
Authentic
Direct

Specialties

Career Counseling
Coping Skills
Couples Counseling
+10
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.
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 10 ratings

Aneesa King

LPC, 20 years of experience

Authentic
Solution oriented
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+8
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.
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 198 ratings

Stephen Pleasant

LICSW, 23 years of experience

Authentic
Solution oriented
Direct

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Men's Issues
+6
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.
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 20 ratings

Debra Turkat

LICSW, 10 years of experience

Solution oriented
Authentic
Direct

Specialties

Anxiety
Career Counseling
Depression
+8
You’ve taken a big step towards a better life. My goal will be to work with you and guide you towards achieving your best outcome. Let’s see if we’re a good fit. As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, LICSW, I bring to the table a wide range of experience and perspectives on life. This is my second career, and I chose it because I strongly believe that I can help individuals improve their quality of life. Depression, anxiety, relationships, career difficulties, life transitions, burnout… these are some of the issues that cause us to lose our equilibrium. To reestablish equilibrium, we will use cognitive behavior therapy, my principle area of expertise. We will look at behaviors that aren’t working for you and replace them with behaviors that improve your daily life. I believe wholeheartedly in a holistic approach to therapy and foremost is the importance of self-care. You will learn how self-care enhances self-respect, and how important these two factors are for establishing a firm foundation for the new, improved you. And there will be homework assignments each week related to current goals: the harder you work, the greater your progress. You have to be “in it to win it.” My first career was in business, and I utilize some basic business principles in my psychotherapy, most notably organization skills and the allocation of your inner resources. This has worked well in my psychotherapy with chronic illness clients, with clients in the military, with business executives and retirees, new careerists, and parents, just to name a few. Are you ready to work hard and bring your best game? I’m ready to work with you and show you how, together, we can build a better path forward. Visit me at http://linkedin.com/in/dturkat to see my unique dual career path and experience.
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 217 ratings

Dr. Olushola Bakare

LMFT, 18 years of experience

Authentic
Solution oriented
Empowering

Specialties

Anger Management
Sex Therapy
Women's Issues
+10
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!
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Rated 4.8 stars out of 5, 35 ratings

Crystal Scurr

LMFT, 30 years of experience

Empowering
Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Self Esteem
+2
I am licensed in Hawai'i, Arizona, and Washington DC with over 30 years of professional work experience. I've been highly effective in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. I believe you are the expert of your story and you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
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Rated 4.8 stars out of 5, 122 ratings

Efraim Eshaghian

LMFT, 5 years of experience

Solution oriented
Authentic
Intelligent

Specialties

Anger Management
Peer Relationships
Self Esteem
+6
Hi, my name is Efraim Eshaghian. I have been in therapy myself, and I have come to realize what allows one to live the life he would like to live. We work on allowing the client recognize his/her own solutions and path to greatness. Together, we create the amazing experience of being empowered, which is so powerful. Self discovery and self awareness of one's strengths is the key to open a world that one never knew existed. We try to find that hidden key and access this unbelievable world which is filled with one's positive qualities which ultimately allows one to change around his/her life. The experience is unbelievable.
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Rated 4.7 stars out of 5, 11 ratings

Dr. Tiara McIntosh

LPC, 11 years of experience

Empowering
Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Self Esteem
+5
Tiara McIntosh is Licensed Professional Counselor for VA, MD, DC and TX. She received a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and then a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She received a Doctorate degree in Education and Community Care and Counseling with a cognate in Marriage and Family from Liberty University. Tiara serves adults in the following areas: anxiety, depression, and ADHD. For nearly 10 years, She empowers individuals to overcome personal challenges and to improve themselves, create healthy boundaries and relationship challenges.
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Rated 4.7 stars out of 5, 49 ratings

Yasir Ahmed

LPC, 8 years of experience

Authentic
Intelligent
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Suicidal Ideation
+3
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.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 1 ratings

Cordelia Holbert

LICSW, 28 years of experience

Warm
Intelligent
Solution oriented

Specialties

Depression
Military/Veterans
Racism
+1
My career began with a strong community focus, including service at the first free health clinic dedicated to supporting the HIV-impacted community and early work in community mental health. In my 28 years of clinical experience I have maintained a child and family-centered approach while broadening my expertise across a wide range of settings, including inpatient residential care, hospital social work, nephrology, crisis and trauma counseling for children and adults, military social work, and academia. My practice includes supporting individuals through transitions, grief, depression, chronic pain, and complex social service needs. I hold postgraduate training in social welfare and psychology, which has enriched my skills and informed my integrative, client-centered approach aimed at fostering resilience and healing.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 8 ratings

Toni Bell

LPC, 1 years of experience

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+7
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.
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 30 ratings

Dr. Sophia Sills-Tailor

LPC, 12 years of experience

Empowering
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

ADHD
Anger Management
Child or Adolescent
Hi, I am Dr. Sills-Tailor as your therapist I provide support, guidance, and encouragement on your journey to change. I work with you in the exploration of your life so that you can make sense of your past, experience your present and look hopefully toward the future. We will work on identifying patterns of thinking and behaviors outside of your awareness and use this knowledge to create lasting change. I received my training and education at Norfolk State University, Old Dominion University and Harvard Medical School .
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 32 ratings

Rebekah Philippart

LICSW, 20 years of experience

Authentic
Humorous
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Parenting
Trauma and PTSD
+1
Hi there and welcome! My name is Rebekah. I am a clinical social worker with over twenty years of experience in the field. I am honored to participate in the lives of so many interesting people and feel fortunate to have such fulfilling work. Much of my therapy practice involves clients with a history of traumatic experiences; this can include isolated experiences (assaults, accidents, natural disasters) or more ongoing issues (childhood abuse/neglect, domestic violence). Other times I am meeting with folks who have experienced losses or life changes; this may include things like deaths, loss of identity, relationship changes, new parenthood, etc.. In addition to providing talk therapy, I am also a university professor, provide supervision to new practitioners, and occasionally serve as an expert witness in child maltreatment matters. The rest of my life is comprised of friends, family and community. I enjoy spending time with my 5-year-old son as well as our extended family. I am a dog lover; our sweet pup is 16-years-old and a joy to have around. (You may occasionally hear her tapping around my office during our sessions.) In my spare time you might find me socializing with friends, spending time in nature (despite being a city dweller), being a tourist in my hometown (there's a LOT to do in Chicago!), or getting "crafty."
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 17 ratings

Roberto Cruz

LICSW, 5 years of experience

Warm
Solution oriented
Empowering

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
+10
I’m a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) with a focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). As a cognitive-behavioral therapist, I specialize in helping individuals understand the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Through evidence-based techniques, I work with clients to identify and challenge unhelpful thinking patterns, develop healthier coping strategies, and make meaningful changes in their lives. My goal is to create a supportive and collaborative environment where you can gain insight, build resilience, and achieve your personal goals. Whether you're seeking to manage stress, overcome addiction, anxiety or depression, or improve your overall well-being, I am here to support you on your journey toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 51 ratings

FIT MIND counseling services

LPC, 10 years of experience

Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Self Esteem
+10
Hello, my name is Luiza and I am the owner/therapist of FIT MIND counseling services. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in FL and a Licensed Professional Counselor in DC, GA & VA. I am from Brazil, and I speak Portuguese as well :) FIT MIND counseling services enjoys empowering clients finding a more meaningful way to live their lives and assisting them learning about the importance of self-love. Helping clients to focus on themselves and on their self-care is a precious thing. When they learn to embrace and unconditionally love for being themselves, they become stronger in the face of negativity and more able to hold onto positive thoughts when faced with challenges. Mental illness is as real as any physical illness. We talk normally about cancer and diabetes, although the same should apply to mental illness. Emotional and mental health are just as important as the physical health of a human being. The emotional trauma that a brain endures in various of the human life cycle can be damaging and in the long run, just as detrimental as a psychical illness. People donate their organs, but they cannot donate their brains. Some people live with human-made hearts, but there is no such thing as human-made brains. I believe that our brain is the most important organ in our human body, so why don’t we start taking good care of it? Therapy is not only for people with mental illness. Therapy is for everyone. We all have faced or currently face some hardships in life. Talking to a therapist can help you deeply in improving your mental health, decrease your stress and live with more joy and intention! Make your appointment today!
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 18 ratings

Andreana Yancey

LICSW, 15 years of experience

Warm
Open-minded
Direct

Specialties

Anxiety
Life Transitions
Parenting
+4
I am a licensed clinical social worker in the jurisdictions of Maryland, DC, and Virginia. I have 20 years of experience in the field working with adolescents, adults, and families. I specialize in anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationships and parenting. I strive to assist my clients through the processes of embracing change, accepting, and healing. I utilize a holistic person centered approach to therapy. I offer a safe and compassionate space to process the challenges that may stand in your way of becoming your best self.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 26 ratings

Tiffany Williams

LPC, 18 years of experience

Authentic
Empowering
Warm

Specialties

Perinatal Mental Health
Post Partum
Women's Issues
+2
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.
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Rated 4.7 stars out of 5, 226 ratings

Shae Travis

LPC, 12 years of experience

Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Coping Skills
Couples Counseling
Family Conflict
+4
I spent many years as an educator in public schools and as a counselor. Now I have the privilege to devote my full time to mental health counseling. My focus is to help families and individuals navigate through life's challenges. I'd love to be your counselor - whether you would like to do pre-marital/couples counseling, to consciously uncouple/improve co-parenting dynamic, or focus on self-work.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 2 ratings

Barbara Hanson

LPC, 13 years of experience

Solution oriented
Direct
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
Grief
Life Transitions
Hello, I'm Barbara. With extensive experience working with individuals facing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and loss, I am here to support you through your journey. I believe in an approach that leverages your strengths and resilience, helping you develop effective coping techniques and strategies. This framework is designed to empower you, equipping you with the skills needed to meet life's challenges both today and in the future.
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 73 ratings

Melisha Harris

LICSW, 15 years of experience

Authentic
Warm
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+10
Hello, I am Melisha Harris a licensed clinical social worker. As a therapist, I create a safe and compassionate space where you can explore your story, heal, and grow. Whether you’re dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, life transitions, or simply seeking greater clarity and peace, I’m here to support you. Counseling can help you rediscover your strengths and build the life you deeply deserve. If you’re ready to take that next step, I’ll walk with you to create a safe and welcoming environment that allows clients to explore, heal and improve your quality of life.
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Frequently asked questions

Why filter by District of Columbia rather than a neighborhood like Adams Morgan?

When looking for online therapy, you can see anyone that is credentialed in the state. We want you to find the best fit, therefore, Grow Therapy shows available therapists across District of Columbia from The Navy Yard to Georgetown! If you’d rather see someone in-person, you can change the filter from virtual and find a therapist near you in District of Columbia.

Will my therapist take Golden Rule?

Yes! If you use Golden Rule you’ll be asked to verify your Member ID at the time you book the appointment. However, if you don’t have Golden Rule you can select cash. Our therapists will have their cost of appointment on their profile. Individual session costs will vary.

How does the Specialty Filter work? Can I find a therapist that focuses on a specific issue?

The specialty filter is optional. You don’t need to check any boxes to see a provider. However, fit is very important when selecting an online therapist. If you have knowledge or experience to recognize what specialties you may need.

What are the "Clients say I'm" badges?

Grow Therapy asks patients about their experience with therapists after they have had a certain number of sessions. After enough responses, we add those characteristics to their profiles to help you find the best online therapists for you. We're still working on collecting this information from all our therapists.

Why use Gender, Age, and Identities filters?

Finding a provider with a similar life experience can be beneficial because it can be easier to establish rapport and potentially be understood quicker and clearer.

What to expect during your first session?

Your first therapy session is for you and your therapist to meet each other and to ask any questions that you have about the counseling process. This is where you can expect your therapist to do the same as they will ask questions to gain insight into your specific situation. In this first session the therapist is doing their part to gather as much information so they can better assess if they are able to meet your therapeutic needs.

Depending upon your provider's specialty, you may also discuss the methods the therapist will use. For additional information on therapy methods, please visit the Grow Therapy Help Center. Some people feel nervous before their first appointment, and that is totally normal! Coming prepared with a list of questions for your therapist may help. Remember, you're taking a brave step by seeking therapy, and it is okay to be nervous as you try something new.