Aetna - Medicare Therapists in Washington DC

Finding mental health care with Aetna Medicare can sometimes feel limiting due to provider availability and complex coverage options. With 27 verified therapists in Washington DC who accept Aetna Medicare, you have access to professionals skilled in working with Medicare clients, providing therapeutic approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy, supportive counseling, and interpersonal therapy to address challenges like depression, anxiety, and grief. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist listed below is accepting new clients and has sessions available soon, offering timely, compassionate care tailored to your needs within your Aetna Medicare plan—without the common delays Medicare recipients often face.

Availability updated: 2/4/2026

Often rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Health/Medical Issues
+1
Hello and welcome, My name is Mary and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in VA and a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in DC. I am dedicated to assisting in your journey to find support and encouragement to process life’s challenges. I commend you for your willingness to seek available resources and welcome the opportunity to work together. During my career, I've had the pleasure of being involved with individuals (and their families) who have experienced life-changing events as well as daily hardships. These experiences have helped me realize that we all can grow, expand our resilience and obtain our goals. With the guidance of a trained therapist, this process may be a bit smoother.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
ADHD
+4
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.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Open-minded
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Grief
Hello! My name is Garland Nichols and I am a Clinical Social Worker licensed in Washington, DC and North Carolina. My journey began as a Foster Care Social Worker, where I used case management skills to rehabilitate and reunify families. My passion and belief in rehabilitation eventually led me to pursue Clinical Social Work, where I am now aim to empower my clients each session.
VirtualAvailable
Open-minded
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Grief
+8
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Therapist who is dedicated and committed to transforming lives by instilling hope in my clients and empowering them to maintain psychological well-being in the face of adversity. I am passionate about meeting the emotional and mental health needs of my clients. I have a genuine interest in making a meaningful impact on individual's lives, by supporting them through emotional challenges and personal growth. I enjoy being a positive force in someone’s life by providing guidance and support.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Authentic
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.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Empowering
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Grief
Parenting
+5
Have you hit a bump on the road of your life and feel that you are either emotionally paralyzed or moving in slow-motion? Are you feeling overwhelmed and is your mind constantly racing? Do you miss feeling like your old self? As a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW-C) I am passionate about helping individuals overcome anxiety, depression and other feelings that might be posing a burden on you. Issues such as life transitions/adjustments, toxic family relationships, loss and trauma can leave you feeling hopeless and stuck in life. By using a variety of treatment modalities such as: psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral and solution-focused therapy I want to support you to get to the root of your struggles. Using a strength-based approach I will work to help you understand what aspects of your past have shaped your present behavioral and thinking patterns until you have a broader and deeper understanding of yourself and start finding solutions to feel better. You are the expert of your needs and wants but I am here to provide you with warm support and clinical expertise as you go through this process. I provide psychotherapy in English and Spanish. I congratulate you for taking the first step in your journey towards healing!
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Intelligent
Authentic

Specialties

Addiction
Depression
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.
VirtualAvailable

Specialties

ADHD
Anxiety
Depression
+10
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker - Supervisor, I have over 9 years of experience treating mental health issues. My background includes inpatient, outpatient, and individual therapy. Also, I have worked in the medical field as a BSN RN and feel comfortable treating individuals with physical conditions. I am based in Texas and have licenses in Washington and DC. I have worked with children to geriatrics.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Authentic
Intelligent

Specialties

ADHD
Anxiety
Depression
+7
My name is Janet Muta and I am a Licensed Clinician with over 17 years of experience in mental health, behavioral issues and relationships. I treat individuals from diverse backgrounds. My approach is treating the whole person because most of the time our problems are the outcome of more than just one thing and when I get to know you I am able to address different issues that could be contributing to that one specific problem. We all experience some difficulties in our lives sometimes and we all cope differently. What works for one person/couple who are experiencing a similar situation may not work for another and so I personalize your treatment to fit you. Being in therapy is like being on a journey, I make sure you are in the driver’s seat and I become your great working GPS, guiding you to your desired destination. I also hold a degree in finance which sometimes comes handy when helping those who are stressed due to financial needs. Among the treatment modalities I use are: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Positive Parenting, Contingency Management...
VirtualAvailable
Intelligent
Warm

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.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Direct
Authentic

Specialties

Anger Management
Anxiety
Depression
+10
My name is Arega Gera. I always work to strive to create a safe and welcoming environment that allows clients to explore obstacles with concerns related to anxiety, depression, and/or . I focus on helping clients develop assertive communication & boundaries with themselves and those around them that can help improve their quality of life. Counseling can foster personal development in whatever way you may be seeking and help build the life you so deeply deserve. If that's what you're looking for, I'm here when you're ready to share.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Empowering
Intelligent

Specialties

Bipolar Disorder
Depression
LGBTQ
+10
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.
VirtualAvailable
Challenging
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Spirituality
+6
Hi, I’m Darlene Alexia Gardner, LCSW-C, LICSW, and founder of Destined for Healing. I’m a licensed therapist with nearly a decade of experience supporting individuals and couples through life transitions, emotional pain, trauma recovery, and relational struggles. My work is trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and rooted in clinical best practices. I specialize in helping clients navigate anxiety, depression, identity concerns, faith-related pain, childhood trauma, and emotionally unavailable relationships. While I welcome clients of all backgrounds, I also offer Christian-integrated therapy for those who wish to include their faith. I specialize in trauma informed, faith-sensitive therapy that honors your story and makes space for healing at your pace. Together, we'll explore how early family dynamics, spiritual wounds, or unhealed relational patterns may be shaping your present struggles and help you break free from cycles of silence, performance, or self-neglect. I believe healing is sacred work and I see therapy as a safe and collaborative space to process grief, anxiety, complex family ties, and major life transitions without shame. If you're looking for a therapist who honors both your clinical needs and your spiritual journey, I invite you to connect. Let's build something rooted in truth, safety and restoration.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic

Specialties

Coping Skills
Crisis Intervention
Self Esteem
+8
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.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Authentic
Warm

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Bipolar Disorder
+2
Hello! My name is Justin. I have been a licensed social worker for 8 years and I have over 10 years of experience serving our community. Social Work has always been my calling and I have a true passion to provide client/patient care in any capacity possible. The best ways to describe me would be patient, positive, and supportive. I am not here to judge you. I am not here to criticize you. I am here to help you recognize your value. You will get to know that I am here to provide support and also to learn from you in this process. Let's work together and create a new pathway to recovery!
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Open-minded

Specialties

ADHD
Anxiety
Depression
+1
Hi! I’m Christina Fals, LCSW (she/her/hers) — a bilingual Hispanic American Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Washington, D.C., offering virtual therapy for clients in D.C. and Maryland. I provide a compassionate, culturally affirming space for individuals navigating life’s transitions, identity exploration, and emotional healing. I work with older children and teens (ages 12–17), as well as young adults and professionals in their 20s to 40s who are balancing multiple roles — student, partner, caregiver, or professional — while striving to feel more grounded, confident, and emotionally balanced. Many of my clients identify as Latino/a/x, multicultural, or queer, seeking a therapist who truly understands the intersection of culture, identity, and emotional well-being.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Humorous
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+8
I am joining Grow Therapy coming from Mainspring Recovery, where I had been serving as the Clinical Supervisor. I have 17 years of experience in behavioral health, with a concentrated focus on mental health and substance abuse. My extensive experience in dealing with and treating substance abuse has placed me at the frontlines of mental health care. My career has been marked by clinical leadership positions, including roles as a Team Lead providing clinical supervision to behavioral health practitioners and as a highly sought-after mental health consultant and advisor. My leadership and expertise have been instrumental in improving the quality of care in various settings. I hold both a master’s and bachelor’s degree in social work from the University of Missouri-Kansas City and the University of Central Missouri. Additionally, I possess numerous certificates and training in mental health, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia, Maryland, DC and Missouri.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Addiction
Depression
Family Conflict
Carl Jung once said, “The world will ask you who you are. And if you don’t know, it will tell you.” Here’s the truth: the story you tell about yourself will shape the next chapter of your life—whether it’s full of courage and clarity, or stuck in old loops of powerlessness and shame. But you have the pen. You get to choose a new narrative—one built on healing, accountability, and real self-worth. I believe our active choices create our emotional confidence, our sense of belonging, and our capacity to thrive. When you change your story, you change your life. So the question becomes: Will you keep rehearsing survival? Or will you rise into a life you actually designed? Empower your voice. Redesign and refine. Choose freedom.
VirtualAvailable
Empowering
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Couples Counseling
Trauma and PTSD
I work with clients to help restore balance, wellness by identifying troublesome patterns, dynamics, issues and work in a wholistic manner addressing cognitive, emotional and behavioral and historical/cultural factors. I also find body/somatic work as a necessary component of managing stress, quality of life and explore how lifestyles impact one's wellness. I have a long history of work with addictions, trauma, anxiety, depression, relationships, identity issues, health and aging issues.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Empowering
Solution oriented

Specialties

Career Counseling
Coping Skills
Life Transitions
+3
Hi! I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) based in the DMV (D.C., Maryland, Virgina) area. I am a compassionate and dedicated therapist committed to helping you navigate life's challenges and achieve your personal goals. My approach is grounded in empathy, respect, and collaboration, providing you with a safe and supportive space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Recognizing that culture plays a significant role in shaping beliefs, behaviors, and coping mechanisms, I am dedicated to providing interventions that are culturally responsive as well. I deeply value diversity and understand that each individual's cultural background informs their worldview and healing journey. By integrating cultural perspectives into our work together, I aim to honor your unique identity and experiences, ensuring that our interventions resonate with your cultural context. Together, we will work towards fostering positive change, building resilience, and enhancing your overall well-being. My goal is to empower you to live a more fulfilling and meaningful life, equipped with the tools and insights needed to thrive.
VirtualAvailable
Empowering
Direct
Authentic

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
+7
Tileda Brown, LCSW, CSAC Licensed Clinical Social Worker | Certified Substance Abuse Counsel | Individual Therapy Welcome! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 8 years of experience supporting individuals through life’s most challenging transitions. I specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, substance abuse and self-esteem. My approach is warm, collaborative, and rooted in evidence-based practices, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy , Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and mindfulness-based interventions. I work with adults navigating issues such as: Struggling with Depression Anxiety and panic disorders Grief and loss Relationship and attachment issues Life transitions (divorce, career change, etc.) In our work together, I strive to create a safe and nonjudgmental space where you feel heard and empowered. Healing isn’t linear, and I believe therapy should move at your pace. Whether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply seeking deeper self-understanding, I’m here to support you.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Open-minded
Direct

Specialties

Anxiety
Couples Counseling
Depression
+12
Hi, I’m Tiffany. I work with individuals and couples experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma-related stress, and relationship challenges, as well as those seeking structured support and accountability to reach their full potential. My approach integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), trauma-informed therapy, and Gottman Method–informed couples therapy to help clients better understand the connection between thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and relational patterns. I provide a supportive, goal-oriented space with a strong focus on resilience, emotional regulation, and meaningful personal growth.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Direct
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Self Esteem
+3
Hello and welcome. My name is Michaelle Desruisseaux and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in the State of Florida, Washington DC and Massachusetts. Are you emotionally tired and just feel stuck? Life can get overwhelming so I commend you on taking this courageous step towards feeling better. My goal as your therapist is to join forces with you to develop new strategies and skills to help you cope with life stressors. I have over 15 years experience working with teens, adults and elderly. I am passionate about working with people who struggle with Depression, Anxiety, Anger Management, Low Self Esteem/Self Image, and Grief.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
Hi! I'm Veronica, a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW-C) with over 11 years of experience providing therapy. Many of us yearn for a sense of peace, connection, and well-being in our lives. However, life circumstances and internal struggles can often hinder our ability to experience these deeply fulfilling states. I believe in creating a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your challenges and emotional pain. My goal is to support your growth and healing journey, empowering you to cultivate greater self-awareness, develop effective coping mechanisms, and live a more fulfilling life. Outside of my practice, I enjoy spending time with my family (two teenagers and three dogs), practicing Pilates, and cheering on the Celtics. I am licensed in Maryland, DC, Virginia, Minnesota and Ohio.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Bipolar Disorder
+1
It sounds like you're describing feelings that can be incredibly tough to deal with. Experiencing sadness, low energy, negative thoughts, and isolation can be overwhelming. When physical symptoms like shaking, increased heart rate, or tightness in the chest appear, they can amplify feelings of embarrassment and shame, making it even harder to cope. I want you to know that you're not alone in feeling this way, and it's okay to seek help. Together, we can explore the underlying causes of these emotions and work towards finding ways to regain your interest in the activities you once enjoyed.
VirtualAvailable
Direct
Warm

Specialties

ADHD
Anger Management
Anxiety
+10
Hello, My core belief is that all people are created equal; therefore, everyone has equal right to leave to their fullest potential. I earned my master’s in social work from University of Maryland, School of Social Work, Baltimore, MD in 2010. I have Licensed Certified Social Worker - Clinical (LCSW-C) in MD, Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in DC and Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW) in VA. For more than 10 years, I have utilized Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), humanistic, person-center, strength-focused therapy and other psychotherapy Intervention to assess, plan, implement and evaluate individual or family in diverse therapy environment. I am commented to assist people to live life to their fullest potential because we all have one life to live, and we deserve to be in peace with ourselves. I have worked with people in LGBTQ+ community both in individual and couple session. I am WPATH qualify to write gender affirming surgery letter.
VirtualAvailable
Intelligent
Solution oriented

Specialties

Child or Adolescent
Parenting
Trauma and PTSD
+9
Meet Tara Zandi, LICSW – a compassionate and highly skilled therapist with over a decade of experience supporting adults, children, and families. Tara holds a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and an MSW in Clinical Social Work, blending deep academic knowledge with practical expertise. She’s trained in a powerful range of evidence-based approaches, including CBT, DBT, PCIT, EMDR, and even yoga for children—offering a holistic and personalized approach to healing. Whether working through depression, anxiety, or behavioral health challenges, Tara meets her clients with empathy, insight, and culturally sensitive care. Fluent in English and Farsi, Tara creates a welcoming space for diverse communities to feel seen, heard, and supported on their journey toward wellness.
VirtualAvailable
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 District of Columbia. 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 Aetna - Medicare?

Yes! If you use Aetna - Medicare you’ll be asked to verify your Member ID at the time you book the appointment. However, if you don’t have Aetna - Medicare 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.

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 happens during the first therapy 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.