UnitedHealthcare/Optum Therapists in Washington DC

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.

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.

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.

I am a bi-lingual and bi-cultural Licensed Certified Social Worker who received her Masters in Social Work from Boston College. I provide effective, transformative, and lasting life changes in children, adults, and families. I've worked with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, stress disorders, adjustment, relationship challenges, trauma, and mood disorders. I am passionate about providing a counseling environment that encourages respect, safety, trust, and honesty while tailoring each session to the clients' need.

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.

Personal growth doesn’t follow a single path, so together we’ll find what works best for you. I help clients navigate life’s challenges with understanding, fresh perspectives, and practical skills. I provide an open, down-to-earth, and at-times humorous space, where you can explore thoughts and feelings without judgment. Using evidence-based approaches, we’ll uncover patterns, address root causes, and build skills to help you thrive. I work with clients to create tailored strategies for improving well-being in a supportive, no-judgment zone—yep, swearing is totally allowed. Expect practical insights, research-backed skills, and strategies that have worked for other clients. I provide a supportive, empathetic space to help you navigate your challenges and create lasting change. Through personalized strategies and proven methods, we'll work together to build self-awareness, confidence, and growth. If you're ready to take the next step, reach out—I'm here to support you on your journey.

With over 25 years of experience working with adult, seniors and children. I have worked in a variety of settings with clients from diverse background and experiences. My approach is strength base allowing my clients to build on their strengths. I believe everyone has some strengths. Together we will use training and experience in different modalities to make lasting changes.

My clinical experience has been providing individual therapy services to adolescents, adults and seniors. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, grief and family issues. My goal is to create a space where clients can authentically express themselves without fear of judgment or misunderstanding and to empower individuals to present their true selves confidently to the world. I aim to help clients embrace all parts of themselves as they heal and grow. You are the narrator of your story and I am here to guide and help support you through your journey.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Maryland. I am also licensed in VA, WV, DC, and NJ. I received my Master's from The University of Maryland and have ten years of experience. I support individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma,stress, peer relationships, and life transitions. I am certified in trauma focused treatment and have a background in working with the military/military family population.

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.

Greetings! You are taking the first step to become a better version of you and that takes courage. I commend you for taking this first step and I am honored that you are considering me to help you with achieving this goal! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in Maryland, D.C. , and Virginia. I received my Masters degree from University of Maryland, Baltimore with a specialization in mental health and sub specialization in substance use. I have been practicing for 12 years and have helped adults, adolescents, and children better manage anxiety, depression, relationships, stress, and trauma.

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.

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.

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.

Hey Everyone! My name is Danielle and I am one of the most down to earth therapist you will ever meet. I provide therapy services for humans of all shapes and sizes. I believe that everyone deserves a chance to feel good about their lives. I am passionate about helping others start and continue their mental health journey. I believe in the beauty of humanity and make my it my mission to provide culturally competent care to all that chose to work with me.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has worked in the mental health field for over 15 years providing an array of mental health services to clients. I currently provide therapeutic services for adults, couples, and families. I am also trained as a forensic interviewer and work with victims of Sexual Abuse. I also work with clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, and personal crises. I have been trained in various psychotherapy models such as Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive-Behavioral, and Trauma therapies. I make every effort to understand my clients' needs and to help them work through challenging situations. I strongly believe in the value of therapy and the impact it has on helping heal past traumas and anxieties. I am here to support and guide you through the healing process so that you can live the life you choose to live. Joy-Ann also utilizes faith-based methods for clients who prefer therapy from a Christian perspective