EAP:United Healthcare Optum Therapists in Washington DC

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.

Hello and welcome! I'm Magda. Do you find that even after you've done all that you can think of to bring calm and quiet to your thoughts you still feel anxious and down? Do miss feeling unburdened from thoughts that cause you to judge yourself, and your choices? Do find yourself questioning your choices--even when you feel sure of yourself? Do you consistently find yourself in relationships that don't make you feel safe or loved? I'm a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in the District of Columbia. I have experience working with adults living with various forms of anxiety, depression and life changes. I help adult women and men who are managing life changes, transitions, and relationships. Changes often are accompanied by high levels of anxiety and can make it difficult to make sound decisions. It often helps to explore the feelings and thoughts that often cause depression and anxiety.

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.

I’m a trauma-informed, culturally responsive therapist who works with adults navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and substance use. I specialize in supporting individuals during life transitions, including community reintegration and recovery. My goal is to create a safe, structured space where you feel heard, empowered, and supported as you work toward meaningful change. Together, we’ll build on your strengths, explore new strategies, and move toward the life you envision.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with vast experience in mental health and health sciences in multiple settings for over sixteen years. I am licensed in the state of Virginia, Washington, District of Columbia, and Georgia. I obtained my Bachelor's in Psychology at North Carolina State University, and my Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a specialization in Crisis and Trauma from Walden University. My certifications are as follow; National Certification in Counseling (NCC), Sexual offender treatment provider (CSOTP), Clinical trauma adolescent provider (CTAP), Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCTAP) and Certified Advanced Grief Counseling Specialist (CAGCS). Prior to establishing MentalMorphosis, LLC, I worked as a therapeutic independent contractor for multiple organizations. My experiences include the following: providing therapy in a residential psychiatric facility, intensive in-home counselor, clinical coordinator, forensic interviewer and foster care case manager. In addition to, I am a proud Veteran of the United States Armed Forces where I serviced honorably for 8 years as a Medical Laboratory Technician also known as a 68K.

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.

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

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.

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.

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 Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Washington, DC but I am also licensed in Maryland and Virginia. I received my Masters of Social Work from North Carolina State University in North Carolina. I have worked in mental health and substance abuse field since 2005. I enjoy working with young adults and up. My clinical focus is centered around those that have concerns with anxiety, depression, sexual aggression and substance use. My therapeutic orientation is psychodynamic which includes aspects of Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral, Solution Focused and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I tailor to the needs of each individual client.

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.

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.

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.

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.

You took the hardest step today; your healing journey can begin. The space I hold for you is individualized to acknowledge you, support you, and encourage you to be your greatest advocate and to help you figure out what you need. My style is open and educative. I work to help you become independent in your healing journey. I am versatile in the range of clients that I take ( age and lifestyle, or issue). Persons with pelvic pain disorders please feel free to consult with me ( pain with sex, Pudendal Neuralgia, Vulvodynia, resistance/anxiety towards pelvic physical therapy exercises). I have sex therapy training specifically in this area.

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 15 years of independent clinical experience providing, private practice services, counseling services for the federal government and counseling individuals and families in non-profit and medical settings, military members and their families.   I have provided psychoeducation groups, professional development consultations/presentations, psychosocial assessments and multi-therapeutic counseling to clients with a variety of mental health and substance abuse disorders.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

Hi, I'm Bryna Hackett, a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW). I strive to create a collaborative, supportive therapeutic environment where we can work together to build on your strengths and access your inner resources. My goal is to help reduce emotional distress and foster a renewed sense of hope and perspective. My clinical focus includes working with adults navigating chronic medical conditions, anxiety, depression, and various psychosocial stressors. I am especially committed to providing affirming care for individuals within the BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities.

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 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!

As a mother of five, wife, and career educator, I have a wide range of experience from which to guide, advise, and assist clients in their personal pursuit of happiness and self-fulfillment. I take an integrative approach with clients as partners in their own care. A strong therapeutic relationship is at the core of my practice, with a healthy dose of cognitive behavioral therapy, a person-centered approach, and mindfulness training. Providing a space of warmth and compassion offers the safety clients need to confidently make changes. I believe that the right fit must be a significant consideration before moving forward with establishing a therapeutic relationship.

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.

Hey Everyone! My name is Danielle and I am one of the most down to earth therapist you will ever meet. I provide therapy services for humans of all shapes and sizes. I believe that everyone deserves a chance to feel good about their lives. I am passionate about helping others start and continue their mental health journey. I believe in the beauty of humanity and make my it my mission to provide culturally competent care to all that chose to work with me.

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.

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.

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.

I’m Jessica Oyefusi, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, wife, and mother who is passionate about supporting individuals as they navigate life’s challenges and create meaningful change. I love spending time outdoors, going on adventures, exploring creative hobbies, and discovering new places in the city. I also enjoy slowing down with a good mystery book or watching documentaries on health and wellness. These personal joys keep me grounded and inspire the warmth, curiosity, and authenticity I bring to my work with clients.

I’m a licensed mental health counselor with over 30 years of experience helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and grow into their best selves. My approach is compassionate, client-centered, and grounded in evidence-based practices. I specialize in supporting people through anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions, always with an emphasis on personal growth and resilience. I believe that with the right support and tools, everyone has the capacity to heal, thrive, and create a life that feels meaningful and authentic.

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.

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.

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.