Grief Therapy Therapists in Washington DC

I am a bilingual, independent clinical social worker with a background in public health and more than 18 years of experience in both physical and mental health care. Over the past seven years, my focus has been on providing mental health therapy to individuals seeking meaningful change and personal growth. In my practice, I work collaboratively with clients to deepen their self-awareness, explore the emotional and relational aspects of their experiences, and identify patterns in thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that influence daily life. My goal is to empower clients to build effective coping skills, navigate life’s challenges with confidence, and enhance their overall well-being. I am fluent in Amharic and offer therapy in both English and Amharic to best support the needs of my clients.

My name is Rica Avery, I am a licensed professional counselor. I graduated from Trinity Washington University where I received a Master's of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling; in addition to receiving a Bachelor's of Interdisciplinary Studies in Social Sciences from The Catholic University of America. My mission is to educate, empower and elevate individuals within my community to develop the necessary skills required to effectively promote community development, mental health awareness and spiritual growth.

Therapy is your space. A space to pause. To exhale. To say the things you’ve been holding in. It’s yours—whether you’re working through a tough transition, feeling overwhelmed, carrying old pain, or just trying to make sense of what’s next. As a therapist with over 20 years of experience, I offer a safe, affirming space to grow through what you're going through. In a world that can feel overwhelming—especially in times of political and societal change — you don’t have to navigate it alone. Choosing the right therapist is an important decision. Please book a free, 15-minute consult call so we are both sure our connection is a good fit. If my posted availability doesn't fit your schedule, visit SunriseLCSW.com and send me a message. I accept new clients on a case-by-case basis based on therapy goals and scheduling availability. I work with individuals aged 16-60(ish) who are looking to: ✔ Manage everyday stress and anxiety ✔ Explore life and career goals. ✔ Heal from trauma or grief, including suicide loss ✔ Build confidence and overcome feeling "stuck" ✔ Find affirming therapy as part of the LGBTQIA++ community ✔ Better understand and support Trans/NB loved ones ✔ Cope when loved ones struggle with addiction or mental health challenges ✔ Navigate the uncertainties and stress of today’s political and social climate I am committed to inclusive, culturally responsive care that respects your identity and lived experience. I also recognize and honor the unique challenges faced by military service members, veterans, and their families. Whether navigating the demands of military life, the stress of transitions, or the impact of service-related experiences, I provide a space for healing, resilience, and growth.

I am a graduate of Virginia Union University with a Bachelors degree in Criminal Justice and I later went on to receive my Master's degree in Social Work with a concentration in Mental Health from Howard University. Throughout my studies, my practicum experience consisted of working with the Maryland Truancy Court Reduction Program and Outpatient Behavioral Health Services at MedStar Washington Hospital Center. I received post-graduate, intensive training at the Immigration Evaluation Training Center in the area of extreme hardship waivers, domestic violence (VAWA) & asylum immigration evaluations in Virginia and Washington, DC. Thereafter, I later went on to work in a variety of settings that have afforded me the opportunity to diversify my work and skill set with different populations and individual needs. This includes addiction, foster care & adoption, community support and residential treatment. My experience has afforded me the opportunity to learn from and support individuals who struggle with everyday life stressors, those that are impacted by mild, moderate, severe and chronic mental illness. My background includes adolescents, young adults, adults, and geriatrics who are struggling with mental health challenges. In 2017 I began working in leadership at Gateway Homes, Inc. where I gained expertise with serving individuals with serious and persistent mental illness. My practice opened in 2020 and I continue to provide direct services to individuals in the community who are struggling with different social, emotional and behavioral issues that are causing discomfort.

I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. My approach is rooted in warmth, compassion, and respect. I work with individuals who are navigating a wide range of challenges, whether they stem from the past or are part of everyday life. My areas of specialty include anxiety, depression, and addiction. Whether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of where to start, my goal is to provide a safe, supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and emotions, build resilience, and begin to heal.

I’m a Licensed Therapist and Certified Grief Informed Professional with over 17 years of experience providing therapy and community-based services to adolescents, adults, and families. I’ve had the privilege of supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds, ages, and life experiences—and I approach every client with genuine respect, openness, and care. Clients often describe me as warm, trustworthy, accepting, and empathetic. I’m also a great listener who believes in fostering hope and healing through compassion and collaboration. My goal is to create a safe, judgment-free space where you can explore what’s weighing on your heart and begin your journey toward feeling whole again. I help clients work through grief and loss, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship issues, and communication barriers. My approach is person-centered, which means our sessions will focus on your unique experiences and goals. I also use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you reframe unhelpful thought patterns, along with trauma-informed interventions to support your emotional safety and healing.

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.