Washington DC Therapists who take CareFirst
Finding a therapist who accepts CareFirst can make accessing mental health care more convenient and affordable. With 54 verified therapists in Washington DC who take CareFirst, you can filter by therapy approach (CBT, DBT, EMDR) and specialties such as anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship challenges. Each provider is Grow Therapy-verified, welcoming new clients, and has availability in the next 30 days, ensuring you can find quality mental health care covered by CareFirst.
Availability updated: 7/16/2025
Miraf Kebede
(she/her)
LICSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
I'm bilingual independent Clinical social worker with background public health. Working in physical and mental health sector for about 17 years. I specifically working on mental health therapy for the last 6 years. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them increase self-awareness, understand the interpersonal and emotional aspects of change and growth, and identify patterns of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that impact their day-to-day activities. I will help you in building better coping skills to overcome difficulties that have impacted your life. I speak Amharic language.
Katie Piura
(she/her)
LICSW
11 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I’m a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) based in Washington, DC, with over 11 years of experience. I earned my Master’s in Social Work from The Catholic University of America. I support individuals navigating life transitions, emotional challenges, and relationship issues, helping them build insight, resilience, and meaningful change to become their most authentic selves. I will be your collaborative clinician in the pursuit of your goals.
Find therapists experienced in these areas
Roberto Cruz
(he/him)
LICSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
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.
Emily Simonian
LMFT
11 years of experience
Virtual
Whether you’re looking to improve your emotional wellbeing or find help for specific life challenges, therapy is a great place to start. I have 11 years of direct training and experience working with anxiety and depression as well as relationships, self-esteem issues and general self-improvement goals.
My approach is compassionate and interactive, tailoring therapy to each individual while providing support and feedback to reach goals.
I consider it a privilege to work in this field and to have worked with diverse populations across California, the Hawaiian Islands and most recently, Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C.
Licenses & Credentials:
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist,
Virginia, and Washington, D.C.
Certified Guided Meditation Instructor
Contact Line: 646-687-9932
Mary Lynn Millsaps
LICSW
12 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and certified Health Coach. Over the last 15+ years, I've helped women struggling with life changes, anxiety, depression or chronic illness overcome barriers to living a joyful life. My style is collaborative, using a variety of evidence-based techniques customized to what is most helpful and productive for each individual. I enjoy incorporating Christian values and practices where there is alignment in beliefs.
Mary Durso
(she/her)
LICSW
23 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I am a Licensed Individual Clinical Social Worker (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. 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.
Patrice Griffin
(she/her)
LICSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over two decades of experience, I’ve worked in diverse settings, from primary care to inpatient psychiatric hospitals, urgent care, child welfare, the criminal justice system, and community-based treatment facilities. My approach to therapy is centered around you, focusing on your unique strengths and circumstances. I believe in the power of collaboration and value your feedback as we work together to create a personalized treatment plan. I draw from various therapeutic frameworks, always aiming to build a trusting, trauma-informed relationship that supports your journey towards recovery and overall well-being.
Sara Mackey
(she/her)
LPC
9 years of experience
Virtual
I am a licensed professional counselor in DC and a counselling psychologist in the UK. I have master's degrees in mental health counseling, social anthropology, and the psychology of mental health, as well as a doctorate in counselling psychology. I help couples struggling in their relationships. I also help individuals struggling with trauma and general difficulties thriving in their lives.
Tiffany Williams
LPC
18 years of experience
Virtual
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.
Efraim Eshaghian
LMFT
5 years of experience
Virtual
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.
Nakia Watson
LICSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Maryland but currently serving clients in multiple states. I received my Bachelor's degree from North Carolina A&T State University and Masters at Hunter College School of Social Work. I have been practicing for over 10 years. I help women and young adults work through stress, anxiety, depression, conflict, goal setting, and life transitions.
Evan Tokarz
LICSW
4 years of experience
Virtual
If you're dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, or relationship challenges, know that you're not alone. I work with people from all walks of life, including those navigating life transitions, relationships, ADHD (ADHD-CSSP certified), Autism Spectrum Disorder, LGBTQ+ issues, and more. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, and together, we’ll find what works best for you. My goal is to understand you deeply, uncover any patterns holding you back, and explore the root causes of your challenges. Using research-backed approaches like CBT and PCT, we’ll work on building self-awareness, enhancing skills and confidence, and creating lasting change that empowers you to move forward.
Pablo Rodriguez
(he/him)
LICSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome! I'm a DBT Therapist and treat teens/adults struggling to regulate intense emotions; abandonment; self-harm; suicidality; intense relationships; and impulsivity. I use a mindful, curious, and a feedback-informed approach to support outcomes and your goals. Mindful humor is also used and can be so helpful for balancing emotional intensity. As a certified trauma therapist, I also support teens/adults overcome trauma symptoms.
We are social beings and mental health is a social process. I invite you to reach out to the process of therapy to help improve the relationship between yourself, things, and others.
Charlene Mahan
(she/her)
LPC
13 years of experience
Virtual
Hi there,
I am a license mental health counselor licensed in Florida, Georgia, New York and DC. I obtained my degree from Troy University in Orlando, Florida. I have 14 years of experience working with clients. I have experience helping teens (13-17 years) and adults (18 years and older) manage their feelings of anger, anxiety, depression, career exploration/change, increase their self-esteem and others.
Dr. Alicia M Moran
LPC
28 years of experience
Virtual
"There can be no transforming of darkness into light ... without emotion." -Jung
Emotional Intelligence (EI) is the core of my training. It embraces the belief systems of the past that affect your present. It's a state-of-mind that defines thinking that affects emotional awareness. To become aware is not to change, but to understand and accept. Carrying guilt or shame of the past, triggers the conflict of now. I don't offer advice - I offer choices - a chance to choose your own method of healing that fits you - not something others feel 'should' be.
Come. Sit. Talk. Let's wander your path together.
Licensed in Ohio, South Carolina, Washington DC, Arizona, Virginia, and Florida
Safia Omar
LICSW
9 years of experience
Virtual
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.
Arega Gera
(he/him)
LICSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
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.
Kia Batiste
(she/her)
LICSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome, I'm Kia!
Life can present you with a million and one ups, downs, flips, and turns. All of this, understandably so, can take a toll on your mental health and relationships.
Although we have these challenges, seeking support can be difficult. So, congrats on taking this step! You deserve a safe space to express yourself, heal, and grow to your full potential.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker and the founder of Free Your Mind Therapy LLC. I obtained my Master’s Degree in Social Work with a concentration in Interpersonal Practice, through The University of Tennessee. I started my career working with At-Risk Youth and fell in love with the field. Since then, I have worked with clients of different demographics, backgrounds, and ages.
I'm eager to join you on this journey. Let's work together to restore YOU.
Eric Ndichu
(he/him)
LICSW
15 years of experience
Virtual
I am a licensed clinical social worker and practice in the District of Columbia, Maryland and Virginia. I have been providing therapy for close to 15 years to help my client address mental health symptoms including depression, trauma, life transitions and anxiety. I believe people are inherently capable of managing their circumstances but sometimes require some assistance from a therapist to succeed.
Beverly Toussaint
LICSW
14 years of experience
Virtual
I am a licensed independent clinical social worker in the District of Columbia and a licensed certified clinical social worker in the state of Maryland. I have over ten years of independent clinical experience providing EAP counseling services for the federal government, case management services and counseling individuals and families in non-profit and medical settings, and also with military members and their families.
I provided psychoeducation, consultations, and solution-focused counseling to clients with a variety of mental health and substance abuse disorders. Additionally, I have expertise in performing psychosocial assessments, a crucial step in providing effective counseling.
Mr. Marcel Harris
(he/him)
LICSW
7 years of experience
Virtual
As the late Dr. Maya Angelou says, there is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you. It’s Mr. Marcel Harris, focus to help you, help you! Cultivating a safe space, where you are free to be your authentic self and to empower the unique individual within you. A graduate of Morgan State University, Mr. Harris received his Masters of Social Work (MSW) degree with a concentration in Urban Youth and Families. Since graduating, Mr. Harris has been providing clinical services to vulnerable populations with a non-judgmental approach assisting clients to self-actualize and manage their symptoms.
Janet Muta
LICSW
15 years of experience
Virtual
My name is Janet Muta and I am a Licensed Clinician with over 15 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...
Joy Phillips-Schwartz
(she/her)
LICSW
13 years of experience
Virtual
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
Asha Henson
(she/her)
LICSW
13 years of experience
Virtual
Asha Henson, LICSW, LCSW-C is a compassionate and empathetic Transpersonal Therapist with a deep-rooted passion for helping individuals embrace their inner potential and find purpose in their lives. Asha implements an integrative approach that seamlessly combines metaphysics and clinical interventions, providing a holistic healing experience for clients.
I hold a Bachelors of Arts in Psychology from Spelman College and a Master of Social Work from the University of Maryland-Baltimore, specializing in mental and behavioral health. While pursuing my master's, I engaged in a personal study focused on the intersection of consciousness, self-awareness, and spirituality. My academic journey sparked an intense interest in the vast realms of metaphysical and spiritual practices, which I continue to explore extensively.
Rashid Jalloh
(he/him)
LICSW
13 years of experience
Virtual
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.
Katrina Carter
(she/her)
LICSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
I am a licensed clinical social worker who provides therapy to adults. I have over 10+ years working with various clients across the life span. I am affirming and inclusive of all and seek to support others in their life journey. Utilizing my foundational training in psychodynamic psychotherapy, I support clients to develop insight into the ways their past experiences influence them in the present and to learn how to utilize a compassionate presence to heal and grow.
Yvette Brown
(she/her)
LICSW
17 years of experience
Virtual
With over 25 years of experience as an educated and trained social worker, I have dedicated my career to supporting individuals, couples, and families. As a licensed therapist for 17 years, I initially began working with children and families within the foster care and the educational system. Throughout my professional journey, I have taken pride in offering guidance and support to individuals, couples, and families, striving to empower them to overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
In 2013, I transitioned to private practice with the goal of providing personalized empowerment through individual, couples, and family counseling. My commitment to serving the diverse needs of adults, children, and families remains at the forefront of my practice, as I continue to advocate for their well-being and facilitate positive change in their lives.
Kassandra Barry
LICSW
4 years of experience
Virtual
Greetings, I'm Kassandra Barry, a licensed clinical social worker available in Maryland, Virginia, and DC. Specializing in trauma, I help individuals navigate life's challenges, addressing concerns like mood, anxiety, relationships, and self-care. While many clients face PTSD, my support extends to anyone seeking understanding, seeking to enhance their lives, and fostering a sense of value and respect. I prioritize creating a space where you can be heard and supported. Your journey to improved well-being begins here.
Charity Dzieketey
(she/her)
LICSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-C). I graduated from University of Maryland, School of Social Work, with a master’s degree majoring in Children and Families. I have over fifteen years of social work experience and over eight years of clinical work. My greatest joy is to assist children, adults and couples struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues and life transitions, among others, to become better versions of themselves.
Yasir Ahmed
LPC
8 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I am a licensed therapist with more than 9 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.
Gary Gregory
(he/him)
LICSW
27 years of experience
Virtual
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.
Jonathan Lam
(he/him)
LP
25 years of experience
Virtual
I am a psychotherapist and life coach with over 25 years of experience practicing in the Washington, DC, area. I specialize in human potential, relationship health, life transitions, and coping with stressful situations. I have trained extensively with professional and master coaches and I work with a diverse clientele that include young professionals at the beginning of their careers as well as executives and corporate leaders in the financial industry. I believe that clarity enables us to take a stand for what we want in life. It allows us to make a commitment to take action to create a meaningful and purposeful life.
Sharon Hardy
(she/her)
LICSW
19 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I am a licensed clinical social worker who received my Bachelor 's degree from South Carolina State University and graduate degree from Howard University. My field of concentration is in mental health. I have experience working in the following settings ( child welfare, domestic violence, psychiatric hospital setting, and schools). I have been providing therapy to adolescents, adults, couples, and families for over 15 years.
Johneshia Riley
LPC
6 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counsellor (LPC) in DC. I have been counseling for 9 years. I help empower individuals to cultivate better relationships with themselves and others through teaching tangible coping skills, I offer support for spirituality concerns.
I primarily work with anxiety, ADHD, life transitions, stress-related issues, burnout, digital nomads, along with spirituality concerns. I use an integrative therapeutic approach including person-centered, solution-focused, and CBT modalities. I work with clients are ready to do the work and committed to their process of reaching their goals.
Marian Robinson
(she/her)
LICSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome! My name is Marian Robinson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Virginia, Maryland, and the District of Columbia with over 20 years of professional mental health experience. I have experience in helping clients with low motivation, relationship issues, self-esteem and confidence, career difficulties, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, grief, and end of life issues. I take an eclectic, person-centered approach, CBT and psychodynamic approach where you are in the driver seat in your own recovery. I am here to support you in that process and will meet you where you’re at, without judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage and I would be proud to help you get started.
Christina Fals
LICSW
7 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm Christina Fals (she/her/hers) a bilingual Hispanic American licensed social worker based in Washington D.C. I am available to serve clients in DC, and MD through online therapy sessions. Those who come to see me are generally older children, teenagers, (ages 8 to 17). I assist young adults working professionals in their 20s-40s who are going through life transitions. I have dedicated my past years of mental health experience assisting individuals of walks of life and ages through various issues such as mental health crisis, chronic illness, major life transitions, career change, substance abuse and gender identity.
Taleisha Ellerbe
LPC
18 years of experience
Virtual
With over 15 years of experience in Behavioral Health, I pride myself on being able to engage , provide a non-judgmental space and show my genuine investment in your wellness.
Can you really Feel Better, Think Better, and Sleep Better by taking the time to talk to someone and process your thoughts and feelings? Well... The short answer is YES! Yes you can gain peace of mind participating in individual therapy. Learn to cope, manage your emotions and develop positive ways to respond to negative emotions.
- I work constantly to break the stigma surrounding Mental Health. I don’t believe in crazy, I believe there is rhyme and reason behind everything. Mental health doesn’t have to be scary, it doesn’t have to be shameful, it doesn’t have to be a life sentence of turmoil; there is relief.
- Combat the thought " I’m not talking to anyone about my problems" and allow yourself an opportunity to take some weight off your shoulders. Give yourself an opportunity to gain another perspective and an opportunity for validation. I look forward to working with you
* Confidential * Safe * Licensed Professional
Shae Travis
(she/her)
LPC
12 years of experience
Virtual
I spent many years as an educator in public schools and as a counselor. Now I have the privilege to devote my full time to mental health counseling. My focus is to help families and individuals navigate through life's challenges.
I'd love to be your counselor - whether you would like to do pre-marital/couples counseling, to consciously uncouple/improve co-parenting dynamic, or focus on self-work.
Tiffany A. Richburg
LICSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I'm Tiffany. I understand that talking about your personal challenges can be overwhelming! My therapy style is relaxed and very client-focused. I have experience helping clients learn healthy tools for managing stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, and anger management.
I like to focus on identifying your strengths and helping you to maximize them to overcome your obstacles. I'm here to help you sort through your "stuff" and offer you a safe place to be open and honest. We will work together to teach you coping skills to promote positive change!
Stephen Pleasant
(he/him)
LICSW
23 years of experience
Virtual
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.
Crystal Soto
(she/her)
LICSW
4 years of experience
Virtual
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.
Erin Price
(she/her)
LICSW
9 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I'm Erin! The one thing I love about being a therapist is being able to help individuals break the cycles in their lives that cause them feelings of "being stuck." I utilize a mix of tools/ interventions from Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy that allow clients to explore unresolved issues, challenge their thoughts, and develop insight into barriers that can be blocking their growth. My main job as a therapist is to teach my clients how to regain control over their lives whether it's from anxiety, depression or stress; we will work together to come up with a therapeutic style that helps clients progress towards their goals.
Tanisha T Richardson
LICSW
9 years of experience
Virtual
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.
Caitlin Eshelman
(she/her)
LICSW
15 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker based in Washington, DC. I received my Masters in Social Work from The Catholic University of America and have been practicing for 15 years. I help individuals and couples who are experiencing issues related to trauma, anxiety and depression be the best versions of themselves. I also specialize in humans who identify as LGBTQ+ and polyamorous. I am a kink and sex positive therapist.
Cierra Edmonds
LICSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
Greetings, I am a licensed mental health clinician licensed in Maryland, DC and Virginia with over seven years of experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds and life experiences. My approach to therapy is holistic and strength-based, focusing on helping clients navigate and resolve a wide range of life’s challenges. By drawing upon each individual’s unique strengths, I work to foster resilience and encourage a continuous journey of healing, growth, and self-discovery. My goal is to create a supportive environment that empowers clients to uncover deeper insights, develop effective coping strategies, and enhance their overall well-being.
Amy Bradley
(she/her)
LICSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
Holding space is the practice of providing a safe and supportive environment for someone to express their thoughts, emotions, and experiences without judgment or interruption. It involves being fully present and attentive, allowing the other person to explore their feelings and navigate their own process. My 20 years of experience have allowed for a diverse background of traditions and practices that clients can implement in their personal journey. I value transparency in the therapist/client relationship.
Brenda Ferguson
Frequently rebooked
LPC
8 years of experience
Virtual
Hi there! I'm a Licensed counselor for CO, NC, and DC. I received my Master's Degree in 2007 and have spent a good bit of my career in crisis and residential settings before transitioning to direct care. I help adults who have experienced adverse events and or trauma to heal and begin to live their lives in a more peaceful way.
Vanessa Okechukwu
(she/her)
LICSW
15 years of experience
Virtual
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.
Melisha Harris
LICSW
15 years of experience
Virtual
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.
Angela Joo
LICSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
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.
Frequently asked questions
Why filter by District of Columbia rather than a neighborhood
like Adams Morgan?
When looking for online therapy, you can see anyone that is credentialed in the state. We want you to find the best fit, therefore, Grow Therapy shows available therapists across District of Columbia from The Navy Yard to Georgetown! If you’d rather see someone in-person, you can change the filter from virtual and find a therapist near you in District of Columbia.
Will my therapist take CareFirst?
Yes! If you use CareFirst you’ll be asked to verify your Member ID at the time you book the appointment. However, if you don’t have CareFirst you can select cash. Our therapists will have their cost of appointment on their profile. Individual session costs will vary.
How does the Specialty Filter work? Can I find a therapist that focuses on a specific issue?
The specialty filter is optional. You don’t need to check any boxes to see a provider. However, fit is very important when selecting an online therapist. If you have knowledge or experience to recognize what specialties you may need.
What are the "Clients say I'm" badges?
Grow Therapy asks patients about their experience with therapists after they have had a certain number of sessions. After enough responses, we add those characteristics to their profiles to help you find the best online therapists for you. We're still working on collecting this information from all our therapists.
Why use Gender, Age, and Identities filters?
Finding a provider with a similar life experience can be beneficial because it can be easier to establish rapport and potentially be understood quicker and clearer.
What to expect during your first session?
Your first therapy session is for you and your therapist to meet each other and to ask any questions that you have about the counseling process. This is where you can expect your therapist to do the same as they will ask questions to gain insight into your specific situation. In this first session the therapist is doing their part to gather as much information so they can better assess if they are able to meet your therapeutic needs.
Depending upon your provider's specialty, you may also discuss the methods the therapist will use. For additional information on therapy methods, please visit the Grow Therapy Help Center. Some people feel nervous before their first appointment, and that is totally normal! Coming prepared with a list of questions for your therapist may help. Remember, you're taking a brave step by seeking therapy, and it is okay to be nervous as you try something new.
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.