EAP:United Healthcare Optum Therapists in Washington DC

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.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) based in Maryland. I received my Masters from the Howard University and have been practicing for 5 years. I specialize in helping individuals and couples manage anxiety, anger, grief, and life stressors. My approach is straightforward and supportive—offering a non-judgmental space where you can explore challenges, gain new perspectives, and build healthier ways of coping.

I am a licensed professional counselor and a licensed clinical addictions specialist in the state of Colorado D.C., Virginia, New Mexico and North Carolina. I have been in the field of mental health since 2007. I have enjoyed working with a variety of clients including active-duty military, couples, teens, families, professionals, hospice and he medically compromised. Throughout my career, I have had the chance to help clients struggling with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, stress management, marital problems, parenting concerns, family issues, PTSD, military reintegration, addictions, abuse and trauma. Counseling is conducted for a variety of reasons, but everyone has one commonality in their reason for seeking counseling – change. counseling is the gateway to making personal changes and can assist in solving particular problems or learning to lead a healthier life. The counseling process can be interesting and exciting. It can also, at times, be very challenging, difficult and even painful. However, the goal will always be to bring about positive changes.
I look forward to taking this journey with you.

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. 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.

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

Greetings! My name is Dr. Nya and I use a holistic, eclectic, strengths based approach when working with clients. This entails embracing the "whole person" and making efforts to understand how all aspects of each person's life impacts their daily functioning. It is important to identify strengths and interest in order to draw upon these components, enabling the development of a comprehensive approach to treatment, which is custom and unique for each individual. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC and VA. ✅ I am also an Internationally Certified Employee Assistance Professional (CEAP), Certified Case Manager (CCM) and DOT SAP. ✅ I am able to provide consultation to assist with; FMLA, ADA accommodations, STD/LTD and EEOC claims. ✅ I am a disability advocate as well as employee rights advocate✅ I have worked with diverse populations to include; military members and their families via Military OneSource EAP, survivors of sexual assault/domestic violence, addiction (SAP) and various life transitions. Individuals should feel empowered to live their best lives, while continuing to build skills to help them overcome life's challenges with confidence. It would be my honor to assist you in further defining your goals as well as supporting you as you work towards achieving your best life!

I am from Washington, DC. I have 14 years of experience in the therapy field. I am passionate about creating a safe space to begin your healing journey. I am able to meet you where you are and empowers healthy decision making. I am innovative, creative and uses cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness, solution-focused, and strengths-based approaches to provide a therapeutic experience with my clients.

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.

Patrice is a licensed clinical social worker with experience providing mental health services to children, teenagers, and adults affected by psychological trauma, HIV/AIDS, and chronic mental illness. Patrice received further training in trauma-focused CBT for children and adolescents while a therapist at a DC mental health agency. She also was trained in mental health practice for human trafficking survivors through the Maryland Human Trafficking Task Force.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Therapist with over 11 years of professional experience. I work with teens, adults, and seniors to address a wide range of issues, including alcohol use, addictions, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, poor coping skills, family conflict, men's issues, narcissism, racial identity issues, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, and substance use issues.

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.

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.

My name is Cha Peterson and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 4 years of experience working with diverse populations. I have worked with different ages from older adults to children ages 3 and up, different cultures, religions, ethnicities, and sexual orientation. I have experience working with a wide ranch of problems such as anxiety, depression, anger management, and significant changes. I understand the significant step signing up for therapy is.

My name is Dr. Olushola Bakare, and I'm a board-certified Psychotherapist. I attended St Joseph College. I'm happy to help you today with any of your concerns. I enjoy empowering people and digging out their strengths. I don't ask fish to fly, neither do I ask birds to swim. I respect everyone's strengths and help my client recognize them. I love to highlight my client's strengths. I offer a safe, warm, therapeutic, judgment-free space for Adults (18+) and Older Adults (65+). I am sorry, but I do not accept clients who pay in cash. Also, every late cancellation or no-show accrues a late charge fee. It is my ethical duty to officially terminate our therapeutic relationship when it is reasonably clear that the client is no longer beneficent, services are no longer required, counseling no longer serves the client's needs and interests, or Dr. Olushola Bakare, LMFT limits do not allow the provision of further counseling services. It is the policy of Dr. Olushola Bakare, LMFT, that our professional relationship will be terminated after a one-month consistent lapse of meeting with a client. Dr. Olushola Bakare, LMFT, will attempt to notify you of this change in status as soon as possible after one month. My ethical duty is identifying, being available, and caring for current clients. It could feel awkward for our relationship to end, yet it is not meant to be discourteous in any way. I do not complete disability forms (Social Security, work excuse, FMLA, Court papers/legal papers, emotional support letters, etc). NO COUPLE THERAPY OR MEDICATION MANAGEMENT, PLEASE!

I am passionate about helping others explore emotional, spiritual, and behavioral wellness in a way that connects mind, body, and soul. With years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and outpatient settings, I’ve dedicated my career to encouraging and empowering individuals on their journey toward healing and recovery. My goal is to help clients leave sessions with a sense of relief, greater clarity, and renewed hope for their journey ahead.

Hello, my name is Yoland Ugorji. As a dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience, I am extremely passionate about helping individuals search within themselves and recognize that they already have what it takes to achieve growth and healing. I will provide support in a safe space that will allow you to comfortably explore your thoughts and feelings. I am trained in various evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), which will be utilized to provide you with the tools and strategies to begin the healing process. With a strength-based perspective, and offering warmth and nonjudgemental insights, I offer support of improving self-care to individuals with a history of trauma and anxiety. Together we will explore the best treatment option that would enable you to make life’s challenges manageable. I welcome the opportunity to be on this journey with you of finding relief and healing.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 15 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.

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.

I believe in collaboration and I don't have a set agenda for each session. My specialties are religious trauma and relationships. I use a solution focused approach to help you identify the steps needed for wellness and growth. I believe that therapy should be a space to have hard conversations and my clients always have my full attention. Life is tough and sometimes you just need a space where you can talk freely without being judged or talked down to. I don't have any set agenda and I want clients to feel comfortable sharing what they're thinking.

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

Hello, my name is Luiza and I am the owner/therapist of FIT MIND counseling services. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in FL and a Licensed Professional Counselor in DC, GA & VA. I am from Brazil, and I speak Portuguese as well :) FIT MIND counseling services enjoys empowering clients finding a more meaningful way to live their lives and assisting them learning about the importance of self-love. Helping clients to focus on themselves and on their self-care is a precious thing. When they learn to embrace and unconditionally love for being themselves, they become stronger in the face of negativity and more able to hold onto positive thoughts when faced with challenges. Mental illness is as real as any physical illness. We talk normally about cancer and diabetes, although the same should apply to mental illness. Emotional and mental health are just as important as the physical health of a human being. The emotional trauma that a brain endures in various of the human life cycle can be damaging and in the long run, just as detrimental as a psychical illness. People donate their organs, but they cannot donate their brains. Some people live with human-made hearts, but there is no such thing as human-made brains. I believe that our brain is the most important organ in our human body, so why don’t we start taking good care of it? Therapy is not only for people with mental illness. Therapy is for everyone. We all have faced or currently face some hardships in life. Talking to a therapist can help you deeply in improving your mental health, decrease your stress and live with more joy and intention! Make your appointment today!

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.

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.

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...

I am a licensed psychotherapist in Washington, DC who has practiced as a social worker, spiritual director, and bereavement counselor for over 15 years. I have a Masters of Divinity from Duke University and a Masters of Social Worker from Catholic University of America. I specialize in supporting individuals through the grief journey, whether it is associated with the transition of a loved one, an ending of a relationship, relocation, or loss of a sense of self or unrealized dream. Grief is grief and it deserves to be honored, seen, and healed.

I am a highly skilled psychotherapist who has served the educational and mental health communities in the greater Washington, DC metropolitan area for 20 years. “Mr. Mike” as I am affectionately known, brings a wealth of experience and professional acumen to the clients of Growtherapy. As an effective clinician, I understand the importance of treating each of you with respect. I specialize, but not limited to the treatment areas of anxiety, depression, PTSD, and strained relationships just to name a few. As a skilled life coach and behavioral transformationalist, I believe that prosocial paradigms fused with progressive initiatives produce the very best outcomes in people and in people-driven environments alike. I'm an avid reader, who loves nature, fine arts, international travel, and culinary delicacies. lastly, I hail from a large, loving family who supports the this fine vocation. Further, I'm a big proponent of youth advocacy, entrepreneurship, and community service. I was educated in the states of California, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Hi there, my name is Mimi! I am a licensed clinical social worker/therapist licensed in Maryland and the District of Columbia with over 15 years of experience. I have been truly blessed to work with clients ranging from preteens to the elderly dealing with varying issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, family issues and physical and emotional abuse to name a few. I have been especially proud of working with young adults who were formally in the foster care system transitioning emotionally and mentally to adulthood and society as a whole. The above issues often interrupt our daily lives and can feel debilitating. However, when one has a trusting therapeutic relationship with someone who cares, one can work towards a path to emotional freedom. My counseling style is interactive, empathetic and warm. I believe that listening is the key to success in a therapeutic relationship and every client that I am blessed to serve will feel heard. Being treated with dignity, respect and compassion are also the tenets that I abide by and will display in every interaction and intervention. The courage it takes to decide to seek help to experience a healthier, happier life is no small feat but will derive high dividends through our work together. Throughout this process, and through your accomplished goals, you will soon realize that this was the best decision you ever made for yourself. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and help you empower yourself. I look forward to working with you!