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 29 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: 6/25/2026

Authentic
Empowering
Solution oriented

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
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
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
Warm
Open-minded
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Grief
+8
I am a passionate and dedicated therapist with over 20 years of experience providing compassionate, client-centered care to individuals, couples, and families. Throughout my career, I’ve helped clients navigate a wide range of emotional, relational, and behavioral challenges by creating a safe, supportive space for healing and growth. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, with a strong focus on building trust, fostering resilience, and empowering clients to make meaningful changes in their lives.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Self Esteem
+6
Hello and welcome! I am a Licensed Individual Clinical Social Worker in DC (LICSW); and also a Clinical Social Worker in MD (LCSW-C). 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 DC in 2002. In December 2025, 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
Authentic
Open-minded
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Life Transitions
+2
My name is Cha Peterson, a Licensed Professional Counselor. I work with children, teens, and adults navigating anxiety, life transitions, and challenges with emotions like anger and feeling overwhelmed. I take a person-centered and practical approach, blending understanding with tools you can use in your day-to-day life. My goal is to create a space you feel heard, respected, and supported-while also helping you build skills to move forward with confidence. Starting therapy can feel like a big step, and you don't have to have everything figured out to begin. We'll work together at your pace to understand what's going on and what meaningful changes looks like for you.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Authentic
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
Chronic Illness
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Hi, I’m a bilingual (English and Spanish) social worker from Puerto Rico. I work with children, teens, and young adults, and I’m passionate about creating a safe and supportive space where my clients can feel seen, heard, and valued. I’ve had the privilege of working in both school and clinical settings, supporting clients facing challenges such as PTSD, depression, anxiety, self-esteem struggles, self-harm, and suicidality. I know that reaching out for help can be difficult, especially when life feels overwhelming. My goal is to walk alongside you through those tough moments and help you build the tools to heal, grow, and reconnect with your strengths. I believe that everyone has the capacity for change, and therapy can be a powerful space to rediscover hope and confidence. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and culturally sensitive. Being bilingual allows me to connect deeply with clients in both English and Spanish, helping you express yourself in the language that feels most natural to you. I draw from approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Strength-Based Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Trauma-Focused CBT, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy to meet your unique needs. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, recovering from trauma, or simply trying to find your place in the world, I’m here to offer support, understanding, and guidance. Together, we’ll work toward healing and building the life you want — one step at a time.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Warm
Direct

Specialties

Depression
Grief
Addiction
+9
Hello, i am EMDR trained, certified alcohol and other drugs (CADC) counselor and certified clinical trauma therapist based in Illinois. I received my master's degree in social work from the University of Illinois Chicago. I have 15 years experience providing evidence-based practice and care to a diverse group of clients. I work collaboratively with clients redefining mental healthcare and teaching skills to independently manage symptoms for long-term wellness.
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
Warm
Empowering
Authentic

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
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
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
Solution oriented
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+5
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) practicing across six states Georgia, Oregon, New Hampshire, Maine, Alabama, and Washington, DC and the founder of Method Ivy, a holistic, integrative therapeutic approach rooted in compassion, intentional growth, and mind-body wellness. I am deeply passionate about supporting mental health and helping clients build lives that feel grounded, meaningful, and authentic. Through Method Ivy, I blend evidence-based therapies with reflective and values-driven practices, creating a warm, collaborative space where clients can heal, gain clarity, and move toward personal alignment and wellbeing.
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
Authentic
Intelligent
Solution oriented

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
Warm
Authentic
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
Hello! I am a bilingual (Spanish) speaking therapist with over 20 years experience. I am licensed in the state of New Jersey and Florida. I love working with adolescents and young adults. I also have extensive experience working with the elderly. I always like to meet my clients where they are and trying to provided a safe environment for them to meet their goals.
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
Warm
Open-minded
Authentic

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
Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Coping Skills
Health/Medical Issues
Mood Disorders
+10
Hello, Welcome, and Congratulations on taking the step to become your best self! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-C Maryland and LICSW Washington, DC) with over 10 years of experience working with teens, adults, and older adults in need of support in order to go from surviving to thriving! Using mindfulness-based and/or motivational interviewing techniques, I look forward to connecting and supporting you on your therapeutic journey!
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
Authentic
Warm
Solution oriented

Specialties

Depression
Life Transitions
Women's Issues
+4
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
Authentic
Direct
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Grief
Trauma and PTSD
+3
For more than twenty years, I’ve supported individuals and families across the Washington, DC region as a dedicated psychotherapist. Many clients know me as “Mr. Mike,” a name that reflects the trust, comfort, and partnership I work to build with every person who walks through my door. I specialize in helping people navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship challenges. My approach is grounded in respect, empathy, and a belief that meaningful change is possible at any stage of life. As both a therapist and a behavioral transformationalist, I focus on practical, prosocial strategies that help clients move forward with clarity and confidence. Outside the therapy room, I’m energized by reading, nature, the fine arts, travel, and great food. My large, loving family fuels my passion for youth advocacy, entrepreneurship, and community service. My studies across California, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and Virginia have shaped a therapeutic style that is both compassionate and deeply informed. If you’re seeking a space where you can be heard, understood, and supported as you work toward healing and growth, welcome to RedemptionTriple‑C. You don’t have to navigate this alone.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Women's Issues
+10
You’re the one people depend on. The strong one. The capable one. But even strong women deserve a space to fall apart and rebuild without judgment. I’m a licensed clinical social worker with 13+ years of experience helping high-achieving women navigate anxiety, burnout, fertility, motherhood, grief, and identity shifts. Whether you're in college, early in your career, or building a life that looks great on paper but feels exhausting to maintain, therapy with me is a space to breathe. Together, we untangle what’s heavy so you can feel lighter, clearer, and more like yourself. My approach is warm, direct, and collaborative. I use evidence-based tools like CBT and solution-focused therapy, but also bring humor, real talk, and heart. You don’t have to carry it all alone. I’m here when you’re ready.
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
Empowering
Open-Minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Perinatal Mental Health
Women's Issues
+9
Hi, my name is Shaquila, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 12 years of experience in mental health counseling. I am passionate about helping women in every season of life, from young adults navigating identity and purpose to women balancing the complexities of relationships, work, and personal growth. I have additional training in helping during their pregnancy and postpartum journey. My clients often come to me feeling overwhelmed, or struggling in daily life, and I provide a compassionate, judgment-free space to help them find healing and clarity. For those seeking a faith-based approach, I offer Christian counseling that integrates biblical principles with evidence-based therapeutic practices. Whether you’re seeking spiritual guidance or a clinically focused approach, I’m here to help you on your journey toward emotional and spiritual well-being.
VirtualAvailable
Direct
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

ADHD
Anxiety
Depression
+10
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker - Supervisor, I have over 10 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
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
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
Frequently asked questions

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.