Grief Therapy Therapists in Washington DC

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.

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 bilingual, independent clinical social worker with a background in public health and over 18 years of experience in both the physical and mental health sectors. For the past seven years, my work has focused primarily on mental health therapy. I collaborate closely with my clients to support them in increasing self-awareness, understanding the emotional and interpersonal aspects of change and growth, and recognizing patterns in their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that affect daily life. My goal is to help clients develop stronger coping skills to overcome challenges and improve their overall well-being. In addition, I speak Amharic and am able to provide therapy in the language.

Hi, I’m Ashley—therapist, animal lover, creative soul, and lifelong daydreamer. I bring a warm and down-to-earth approach to my work, and I believe that connection, curiosity, and authenticity are at the heart of healing. When I’m not in session, you can usually find me lost in a good book—especially fantasy, romantasy, or dark romance (yes, I’m a proud BookTok girly). Some of my favorite reads have come straight from client recommendations, and I always love hearing what’s on your bookshelf. I’m also a big fan of all things crafty. Paper crafting is my go-to—especially junk journals and mini albums—but I’ve dabbled in wreaths, t-shirts, tumblers, and just about anything that lets me work with my hands. My creativity also spills into my love of music, which spans from Sleep Token to George Strait to Eminem. I’m always up for discovering new bands or catching a local show. On slower days, I love wandering through antique stores and thrift shops. Most of my home is decorated with pieces that have a story—either found secondhand or passed down through family. I find comfort in giving old things new life. Animals have always been a grounding force in my world. I’ve been riding horses since I was four, and my heart horse, Kirby, is my trail buddy and snack-sharing best friend (she’s a big fan of applesauce and cupcakes). My two dogs, Oliver and Dottie, are certified therapy dogs who’ve joined me in visits to hospices, hospitals, nursing homes, and children’s reading programs. Together, Kirby, Oliver, and Dottie inspired the name Free to Wander Counseling—a reflection of my belief that healing often begins when we allow ourselves to explore, play, and connect in gentle, open-hearted ways. Wherever you are on your journey, you are welcome here—just as you are.

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.

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.