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: 10/3/2026
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.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Direct
Specialties
Anxiety
Couples Counseling
Coping Skills
+9
I am a compassionate therapist dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s transitions with grace, resilience, and purpose. I specialize in supporting those experiencing grief, loss, and personal transformation, offering a safe and supportive space to heal and rediscover meaning. My approach blends empathy, practical tools, and reflective guidance to help clients rebuild confidence, gain clarity, and move forward with intention. I believe that even in life’s most difficult seasons, growth and renewal are possible.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Authentic
Warm
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
Warm
Empowering
Specialties
Child or Adolescent
Coping Skills
Depression
+4
Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here. As a licensed therapist, my priority is to create a safe, supportive space where you can feel truly heard and understood. My approach is compassionate and culturally responsive, honoring your unique story and life experiences.
I work with people of all ages, but I have a special passion and training in supporting youth and families. I help children and teens navigate the ups and downs of growing up, whether it’s stress, anxiety, grief, trauma, or behavioral challenges, while also supporting parents and caregivers along the way.
No matter where you are on your journey, we’ll work together to build healthy coping skills, strengthen resilience, and create space for healing so you can find balance and well-being in your life.
💚 Click “Book Session” to take the first step toward healing and better mental health. I’d be honored to walk alongside you.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Empowering
Authentic
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Health/Medical Issues
+1
Hi and welcome, I'm Mary and I'm a Licensed Social Worker providing virtual psychotherapy services in DC and VA. I'm 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 working with individuals and caregivers who have experienced life-changing events as well as daily hardships that include higher levels of anxiety and depression. These experiences have helped me realize that we all can grow, expand our resilience and obtain our goals. With the guidance of a qualified therapist, this process may be a bit smoother.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+3
I am a down-to-earth, compassionate therapist who believes that real, lasting change happens when people feel truly heard, understood, and accepted. I create a space where you can feel comfortable being yourself—without judgment—and explore your thoughts and feelings at your own pace. Humor is a natural part of how I connect with others, and I’ve found that it often helps lighten the emotional load, making it easier to open up. It’s not just about laughter—it’s about creating safety and trust so we can dive into those difficult conversations that can often feel overwhelming. Whether you’re navigating a specific challenge or simply seeking personal growth, I’m here to help you develop the tools to manage life’s ups and downs with more clarity, confidence, and resilience. Together, we’ll build a path that feels right for you, using a combination of insight, support, and yes, even a little laughter when it’s needed most.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Addiction
+7
Hello, my name is Brendette, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 12 years of experience supporting individuals on their path to healing and growth. My work is grounded in empathy, compassion, and inclusiveness, and I believe every person deserves to be seen, heard, and valued.
My approach is both goal-oriented and person-centered. I often work with clients navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions, and I use evidence-based techniques to help them find healthier ways to cope and move forward. Together, we focus on building on your strengths while developing tools that will support long-term change.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Direct
Empowering
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
Direct
Empowering
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
Warm
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Family Conflict
+16
Welcome, I am Feven!
Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I help individuals manage anxiety, depression and burnout. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a whole self approach; addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit.
I am passionate about helping individuals navigate the different challenges they face and build coping skills to create more fulfilling and holistic life experiences. From my journey, I can personally attest to the power of support, in its many forms. This support goes beyond clients I service but also to their families and communities. I believe that mental wellness isn’t just individualistic; but includes the ecosystem surrounding the person. My praxis acknowledges and aims to support the village needed by all.
I’m also passionate about the transformative impact of safe and brave spaces for those who often experience exclusion. My career has afforded me opportunities to build trust with LGBTQ+, Black, Indigenous, Latina/o/x, and Refugee communities across the nation. It is a personal privilege to center wellness and holistic care for all as ‘self-care is a radical form of resistance.’
Whether you're dealing with overwhelm, relationship issues or cycles of anxiety and depression, trauma, PTSD, self-acceptance, I'm here to help. Seeking therapy can feel scary but you're making the right choice. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion, empathy and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the hangups and habits holding you back.
Let's work together!
VirtualAvailable
Empowering
Intelligent
Solution oriented
Specialties
Addiction
Anger Management
Bipolar Disorder
+10
Hi there, I'm Dawit.
A Licensed psychotherapist with a master’s degree in clinical social work and Master Addiction Counselor with a total of 16 years of experience with adult population challenged with Substance dependence and any addiction.
Every day-to-day life pulls us in many directions, and sometimes when we feel overwhelmed lose focus. You may have tried to deal with your problems, and your way may not be enough and you may not be able to deal with them on your own. Let's work together to develop a more effective plan so you can achieve your life goals.
Are you struggling with your life directions due to addiction? Is it hard for you to be positively selfish and focus on your own problems as a priority?
Whether you're dealing with any substance addiction or negative behavioral dependence, I'm here to help. Understanding that your way was not working and Seeking therapy is the first crucial step to make the change. You're making the right choice now. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the hangups and habits holding you back. Let's work together!
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Warm
Authentic
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
Warm
Solution oriented
Authentic
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
Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented
Specialties
Coping Skills
Military/Veterans
Women's Issues
+8
Hello! My name is Ebony Jackson and I am a Clinical Licensed Social Worker with over 23 year of experience. I have provided therapy services in various settings including domestic violence shelters, schools, hospitals, AIDS service organizations and private practice. I am passionate about working with members of communities who experience systemic disadvantages, and I am dedicated to helping individuals empower themselves and connect with their inner resilience.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Open-minded
Authentic
Specialties
ADHD
Anxiety
Depression
+1
I am Christina, a bilingual LCSW offering warm, culturally affirming virtual therapy. I work with teens and adults navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, relationships, life transitions, and identity, with a special focus on Latino/a, multicultural, and LGBTQ+ communities. I especially support Latino/a, multicultural, LGBTQ+, and neurodivergent clients, including teens, young adults, professionals, caregivers, and people navigating cultural identity, family expectations, relationships, and major life changes.
VirtualAvailable
Empowering
Warm
Solution oriented
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
Direct
Solution oriented
Authentic
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
Intelligent
Empowering
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
Solution oriented
Direct
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
LGBTQ
+8
I am a psychotherapist who works with a diverse population of people. My goal is to collaborate with individuals to assist them in achieving their therapy goal(S). My treatment modalities are cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based therapy, and Ericksonian hypnotherapy approaches. Although I used these modalities, I do not use a one size fits all approach. I am a think-out-of-the-box clinician that will often challenge clients to try approaches that may be out of their comfort zone. Some examples of my experience include working with individual clients on developing skills in coping with mental health conditions/diagnosis, life stress, finding balance, and improving self-esteem. Although I use these approaches, my clients tell me it feels like we are having a conversation as opposed to feeling like they are in a therapy session. I have a specialization in working with Veterans, LGBTQI, men, and people of color populations. However, I work with all people who are seeking mental health services. I am licensed in DC (LICSW), VA (LCSW), MD (LCSW-C), and PA (LCSW). I have BS in Human Ecology, BA in Humanities from The Ohio State University, MSW from San Jose State University and Post Masters fellowship in mental health from Stanford University.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Direct
Intelligent
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
Often rebooked
Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented
Specialties
Grief
Spirituality
Anxiety
+2
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.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Direct
Solution oriented
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
Authentic
Warm
Solution oriented
Specialties
Life Transitions
Postpartum
Women's Issues
+5
Hi! I'm Veronica, a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW-C) with over 12 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
Direct
Authentic
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Hi there, I'm Ladonna, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker supporting clients in Virginia, Washington DC, and Maryland. I have experience providing crisis intervention for a crisis line and providing psychotherapy services to children, adults, and families in private practice, schools, nonprofit outpatient clinics, and a local government agency. I meet my clients where they are at using an eclectic approach, pulling from multiple evidence-based therapy practices.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Solution oriented
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
Authentic
Warm
Empowering
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+4
Tanisha Richardson is devoted to those who want to improve their mental health. She supports and guides individuals who are facing mental anguish. Together with you, she develops a restorative approach through the use of interventions, tailored coping techniques, and personalized methods that move you forward. The therapeutic process is an intimate process to go through as we share sensitive information. It is my goal to build a great comfortable relationship with you.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Humorous
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Hi, I’m Tiffany, a licensed clinical social worker who provides individual therapy for adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma-related stress, grief, major life transitions, emotional overwhelm, low self-confidence, relationship difficulties, and challenges with boundaries or communication.
My goal is to provide a welcoming and nonjudgmental space where you can speak openly, feel understood, and explore the experiences that have shaped how you think, feel, cope, and connect with others. I understand that many people come to therapy after spending years taking care of everyone else, pushing through difficult situations, minimizing their own needs, or trying to hold everything together. You may appear strong and capable to others while privately feeling exhausted, disconnected, anxious, or unsure of what to do next.
My approach is supportive, collaborative, and practical. We will make room to process difficult emotions while also identifying patterns, developing coping strategies, strengthening communication, and creating meaningful steps toward change. I believe therapy should provide more than a place to talk—it should help you understand yourself more clearly and use that understanding in your everyday life.
Whether you are experiencing a recent challenge or working through patterns that have developed over many years, we will begin where you are and move at a pace that respects your needs. I currently provide individual psychotherapy for adults and am not accepting new couples or family therapy clients.
VirtualAvailable
Frequently asked questions
Why filter by District of Columbia rather than a neighborhood like Adams Morgan?
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?
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?
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?
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?
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.