Therapists for college students near 20057

I am a dual board-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with 11 years of combined clinical experience in working in the outpatient settings. I earned my post master’s certificate as a PMHNP from the University of Cincinnati in 2021 following 9 years of practice as a family nurse practitioner. I have worked in the FQHC settings caring for the underserved population, detention center, nursing homes and community mental health centers in several states. These diverse experiences have shaped me into a well-rounded and adaptable provider. I take a holistic, patient-centered approach, focusing on the whole person rather than just their symptoms. By integrating the latest evidence-based practices with a strong emphasis on patient education and advocacy, I strive to empower individuals to take an active role in their well-being. My passion lies in delivering compassionate, high-quality care to patients from diverse backgrounds and communities. I provide medication management and supportive therapy, as needed, for the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD and other mental health conditions. I recognize that everyone is unique, and I dedicate time to understanding each patient’s individual needs in order to equip them with the skills and tools necessary for a fulfilling and successful life.

Adulting can feel exciting, overwhelming, confusing, and all things in between. Whether you're navigating college, career stress, family dynamics, relationships, or simply trying to figure out who you are and where you're headed, I'm here to provide support. I specialize in working with teens and young adults who are feeling stuck, anxious, disconnected, or unsure about their next steps. I have extensive experience working with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, suicidal ideations, relationship challenges, low self esteem, and personality disorders. I recognize the importance of building a therapeutic relationship, as I believe it is the foundation for effective therapy. I aim to hold a space that's non-judgmental and real, where you can bring in what's hard, what's confusing, and what's hopeful. If you’re looking for a therapy space where you can both cry & laugh, I’m here when you’re ready!

If you’re struggling in your relationships, navigating a major life transition, or feeling stuck in patterns related to substance or behavioral addictions, you’re not alone. Many of the people I work with are thoughtful, capable adults who find themselves repeating painful relational dynamics or feeling disconnected from the life they want to be living. Therapy can be a powerful place to understand why—and to begin doing something different. I specialize in working with adults from diverse cultural backgrounds who want more fulfilling relationships and a stronger sense of self. Together, we explore the patterns that may be contributing to your needs not being met. I help you to increase awareness of how these patterns developed and how they continue to show up in your life today. My approach is deeply informed by my professional training and my personal experience as a consumer of high-quality therapy. I know what it’s like to sit on the other side of the room and wrestle with whether change is possible. If you’re ready to take the next step forward, I’d be honored to work with you.

Some clients arrive feeling the weight of their anxiety. Others are in the middle of a transition—navigating changes in relationships, family dynamics, or adjusting to a new diagnosis or ongoing health condition. These transition moments can bring a level of uncertainty that’s hard to tolerate and often lead to second-guessing, especially when your body or health begins to feel unpredictable or outside of your control. I also work with individuals who experience intrusive thoughts or feel caught in patterns meant to prevent something bad from happening. These thoughts can feel unsettling or even at odds with who you are—making them confusing, distressing, and difficult to talk about. For some, these experiences are connected to obsessive-compulsive patterns (often referred to as OCD), even if that’s not a term you’ve used for yourself before. There are effective, evidence-based ways to work with OCD patterns, and we can talk through what that might look like for you. At the heart of my work is the belief that therapy is a collaborative process. You should want to talk to your therapist, and from the very beginning, I focus on creating a space where you can talk openly about what’s actually on your mind. The relationship between therapist and client matters deeply. Meaningful change tends to happen when people feel understood, respected, and able to show up honestly— even when what they’re bringing to session feels messy, confusing, or hard to put into words. Therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all, and no single approach works for every person or every situation. I draw from a range of approaches and tailor the work to each client’s needs, goals, and experiences. Depending on what feels most helpful, this might include building a clearer understanding of the patterns you’re caught in, exploring where those patterns come from, or finding new ways to respond to them. Across all of this, my focus is on helping you make sense of what you’re experiencing and shift the patterns that are keeping you stuck so they begin to have less of a hold on you over time.

I help individuals enhance their mental health. My approach is based on the premise that nutrition, physical activity, and how we recover are foundational to our well-being. We will optimize your life with thoughtful prescriptions, psychotherapy, nutritional and supplement counseling, and prescriptive exercise.

Healing begins with feeling truly seen, heard, and understood. As a bilingual (English/Spanish) Mental Health Clinician, I provide a compassionate, judgment-free space where you can explore life's challenges and reconnect with your authentic self. I work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families facing anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, relationship challenges, self-esteem concerns, grief, life transitions, ADHD, OCD, anger management, substance use, parenting concerns, and more. My approach is personalized, integrating Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Couples Therapy, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, and Music Therapy.  You don't have to have it all figured out to begin. Wherever you are in your journey, I'm here to help you build resilience, find balance, and create meaningful, lasting change—one step at a time.  My passion for this work is deeply personal. Having navigated my own mental health journey, I understand the courage it takes to ask for help and the hope that healing can bring. That lived experience, combined with evidence-based clinical training, allows me to meet each client with empathy, authenticity, and genuine compassion.  Outside of the therapy room, I believe that taking care of yourself is an ongoing practice, not a destination. Reading, listening to music, and spending quality time with family and friends all help me stay connected and grounded.

My website is the best way to learn about me and how I work. My website is at www.lisakays.com. You may also complete my inquiry form on my website to learn more about my practice and so that I can determine if my practice is a good fit in terms of your scheduling and treatment needs. If you're not sure, please ask!

As a trauma-informed clinician with nine years of experience in mental wellness, I support adolescents and young adults navigating anxiety, depression, safety concerns, trauma, social injustice, and LGBTQ+ identities. My experience spans some of the most underserved communities, including runaway and homeless youth, BIPOC communities, survivors of sexual violence, and queer and transgender folks, and I've found that many young people who were initially resistant to traditional therapy have found real success through nontraditional, experiential approaches. I believe in meeting you where you are, working toward goals together to achieve emotional regulation, trauma processing, and healthier relationships. Central to how I practice is the understanding that many of the thoughts, emotions, or behaviors we most want to change initially helped us survive — and that deserves acknowledgment, not judgment. I look forward to the honor of building trust and a safe, or even brave, space in our work together. Cultural humility, social justice, and breaking down systemic barriers to basic needs and mental wellness are things I'm deeply passionate about. I believe that simply validating others' experiences holds the power to de-escalate, empower, and enlighten, which is why I always ensure a nonjudgmental, authentic, and strengths-based approach to your care. You can expect our sessions to feel open and genuinely validating, drawing on elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and psychotherapy to help you reduce anxiety, process trauma, improve depression symptoms, build self-esteem, decrease post-traumatic symptoms, and practice healthy relationships. My path to becoming a therapist began with my own mental wellness challenges in adolescence. But, it was when I graduated college and worked on a residential unit for adolescents with mood disorders that I discovered the joy of working with youth. These experiences deepened my commitment to providing unconditional positive, validating, and strengths-based support to teenagers simply needing someone in their corner. Now, I remain dedicated to bringing an openness and sense of humor to each session that allow for space to share truth and create healing. I fill my cup outside of work with live music, dancing, knitting, hiking, and spending time outside whenever possible.

I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, including generalized anxiety, social anxiety, OCD, health anxiety and phobias, such as fear of needles, vomiting (emetophobia), flying, heights, illness or contamination. I also work with clients in challenging professional and academic environments, who may feel anxious or overwhelmed to the point of avoidance, struggle with self-criticism, or fear they won’t be successful without a punishing level of perfectionism. Many clients find themselves holding back from social situations, dating, public speaking, or professional opportunities due to a fear that something will go wrong, and uncertainty feels intolerable. My approach is warm, collaborative, and highly practical, helping you live a life not constrained by fear. I draw primarily from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)—two of the most effective evidence-based treatments for anxiety, OCD, and phobias. I also integrate Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), psychodynamic thinking, and supportive psychotherapy when helpful. Many clients understandably fear facing their worries or phobias. In our work together, you can expect to feel seen, supported and encouraged as we pursue your goals at a pace that feels manageable to you. I hold a doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from George Washington University, and have more than a decade of clinical experience with clients across the lifespan. I am board certified by the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP) in Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology, and have trained in a range of academic medical centers and university clinics, including the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Children’s National Hospital, the Kennedy Krieger Institute, and George Washington University. Licensed Clinical Psychologist PsyD in Clinical Psychology Offering sessions via telehealth to clients based in: DC, Maryland, Virginia and all 40+ PSYPACT participating states. I offer convenient morning and evening appointments.

Finding the right support is the first step, and you don't have to take it alone. As a Licensed Graduate Social Worker, I’m dedicated to helping people navigate anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and life transitions with compassion and care. Whether you're working to manage difficult emotions, strengthen your coping skills, or move toward personal goals that feel out of reach, we'll build something meaningful together. My commitment is to meet you exactly where you are, as a steady and supportive partner throughout your care as you work toward greater clarity and confidence, while empowering lasting growth and a stronger sense of well-being. Fostering self-awareness and a real sense of agency in the people I work with is at the heart of what I do. In our time together, you can expect a warm, grounded environment where you feel genuinely heard. Sessions are collaborative by design, drawing on evidence-based techniques and thoughtful exploration to help you build insight and develop practical skills you can carry beyond our work together. My style is compassionate and flexible; every person brings a unique set of needs and goals, and the approach we take will reflect yours. A deep curiosity about people and a genuine desire to support others through life's challenges brought me to this work, and this foundation continues to shape the compassionate, patient-centered care I offer every day. To each session, I bring patience, empathy, and authentic presence, because you deserve a therapist who is truly invested in your progress, not just going through the motions. Outside the therapy room, you can usually find me curled up with a good book, exploring new restaurants, watching a great show, or heading to the movies. Running and ice skating are also fun outdoor hobbies that help me stay active and recharge.

As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), my focus is on helping adults ages 18 and older navigate depression, anxiety, OCD, mood disorders, and other mental health concerns. Whether you're looking for relief from persistent symptoms, greater emotional balance, or practical strategies to improve your daily life and relationships, you've come to the right place. Every patient deserves to feel heard, respected, and supported, and that belief shapes everything about the care I provide. Together, we'll take the time to understand what you're experiencing, build a personalized treatment plan, and work toward lasting wellness that fits your life. Care that's compassionate, collaborative, and evidence-based isn't just how I work; it's what I believe you deserve from the start. In your first appointment, I'll conduct a thorough psychiatric assessment so we can develop a treatment plan that's truly tailored to you, whether that involves medication management, ongoing support, or a combination of approaches. My style is warm and patient-centered, and I strive to create a space where you feel comfortable being open about what you're going through. There's no judgment here, only a genuine commitment to understanding your goals and helping you move toward them. Becoming a psychiatric nurse practitioner was a natural path for me, because I've always been drawn to work that creates real, meaningful change in people's lives. Building authentic therapeutic relationships, seeing patients grow, and walking alongside someone as they move toward their goals is what makes my work so fulfilling. This passion continues to shape how I show up for every person I have the privilege of caring for. Yoga, reading, traveling, and exploring new cities are where I find balance and inspiration. Each keeps me curious, present, and connected to the world around me, qualities I bring with me into every patient relationship.

Whether you suffer from anxiety or depression, if you’re angry or sad, when you experience low self-esteem, or your relationships do not work out — as a highly trained therapist, I can help you with these and other difficulties. I have helped many people to take charge of their lives, to reduce their symptoms, and to make positive and lasting changes. My approach is focused on helping you learn how your mind works and empowering you to identify and to change your emotional patterns. As a therapist who has worked in a variety of settings (non-profit clinic, college campus, crisis program, psychiatric setting) and with diverse populations (children, adolescents, young adults, older adults of different races and different cultures), I am more likely to be able to relate to your unique life situation and to help you with a wide array of issues. Having experienced immigration, I enjoy working with and have expertise with race- and culture-related individual and family matters. Another area of my expertise is lifespan development issues — from child and adolescent to young, middle, and older adulthood.

Please visit my profile to learn more about my services.

As a Licensed Graduate Social Worker, I'm here to help women and girls navigate life's stressors, trauma, anxiety, and relationship challenges. Whether you're working to better understand your emotions or exploring how your past experiences have shaped the way you move through the world, this is a space built on integrity, care, and a genuine commitment to your growth. You deserve a therapist who shows up for you fully, and that's exactly what I strive to be. Together, we'll work toward deeper self-understanding and the tools to help you live more fully and authentically. In our time together, you can expect a welcoming, nonjudgmental environment where you feel genuinely heard and empowered to grow. Therapy with me is casual, conversational, and always centered on you. Drawing on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and psychodynamic therapy, we'll work together to unpack anxious thoughts, identify triggers, and explore how your history connects to your present experiences. Your autonomy throughout this process matters deeply to me, and every aspect of our work is tailored to your unique needs and goals. The road to becoming a therapist was shaped by my own meaningful experiences in therapy. The strong, trusting relationships I built with my therapists showed me firsthand what effective, ethical care can look like and deepened my commitment to offering that same experience to the people I work with. That foundation continues to inform every session. A conversational approach, a genuine investment in your well-being, and an unwavering dedication to compassionate care are what you'll find here. When I'm not in session, you can find me knitting, reading, hitting the gym, or diving into my newest hobby: spinning my own yarn.

Reaching out for support can feel like a big step, but you don’t have to take it alone. As a trauma-focused EMDR therapist, I work with teens, college students, young professionals, adults, parents, and menopausal women who are navigating relational trauma, sexual assault, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and questions of identity. I value honest communication and emotional safety, which help me to be fully present, respectful, and genuinely curious about your experiences. Our work is a collaborative partnership, one that allows me to get to know you deeply, see the patterns shaping your life, and help you make sense of the tapestry you’re weaving. If you’re looking for a thoughtful, compassionate environment to explore and heal, please reach out today. In our work together, you can expect a warm, accepting space where your emotional needs and self-selected objectives guide the process. I prioritize empathy, acceptance, and active listening, while thoughtfully integrating EMDR and trauma-informed Mindfulness to develop skills that help you access a rich emotional life that feels safe, grounded, and led by your core self. Through this relational and empathetic approach, you’ll learn to make meaningful, lasting changes as you move toward a healthier future. My path to becoming a therapist was shaped early on as a parentified child in a dysfunctional home, where I learned to create harmony in difficult circumstances. This experience fostered a natural empathy and flexibility that guide my work today, while strengthening my commitment to offering thoughtful, personalized care that honors each person’s unique story. I bring the fullness of myself into each session, meeting you with compassion, presence, and respect. Outside of the office, I enjoy a creative and active lifestyle. I’m a painter who loves spending time outdoors, whether that’s hiking, walking, or biking, and am also an avid plant enthusiast with more than 50 houseplants. I practice yoga regularly and previously worked as a yoga instructor, which continues to influence how I approach balance and well-being. At home, I share space with two cats and a dog, and value quality time with friends and family. I’m also a mom to four (now adult!) children.

My specialty is working with people with anxiety, depression, and a history of interpersonal trauma. I bring over 20 years of clinical experience, including three university counseling centers, hospitals, and community clinics, including one specialized in caring for the LGBTQ+ community, before establishing my practice in 2011. I value working with those exploring the impact of gender and race on their identity and life experiences, and those living between cultures and languages. My goal is to help you understand yourself at a deep level, own your body, and live more fully and meaningfully. Please feel free to check out my website and contact me for more details.

Catherine has a warm and collaborative style, creating a space where you feel supported, yet gently challenged. Her approach prioritizes understanding you as a whole person, and incorporating your unique experiences, needs, values, and strengths into treatment. Catherine specializes in working with college students, professionals and executives struggling with depression, anxiety, confidence/self-esteem, career concerns, life transitions and trauma. She finds particular joy in untangling personal questions from systemic challenges and inequities. Areas of specialization: -Depression -Anxiety -Confidence and Self-esteem -Career Challenges -Life transitions -Trauma You may feel like those around you have it figured out, or wonder why everything just feels harder than it should. Maybe you feel confused and stuck when you want to be moving forward. Strategies that worked in the past may not be helping anymore, and fighting through things on your own has started to feel like a lot. Together, we'll sort through what's getting in the way, identify how to remove barriers, and find your spark again. I work in a warm and collaborative style, with a focus on helping you to feel safe, supported and gently challenged. While I draw from several treatment modalities, the core of my work is influenced by humanistic and person-centered perspectives that see you as a whole person with unique needs, values and experiences, and are grounded in the belief that we all have an innate drive and capacity for growth. I am comfortable sitting with people in some of their toughest times, both holding space for the current pain and finding ways forward into the light, so I hope you’ll show up exactly as you are. We may even find some humor, too, since it can be a lot to feel so heavy all the time. I specialize in working with college students through established adults, with a particular emphasis on individuals struggling with depression, anxiety or self-esteem, career or leadership challenges, navigating complex life transitions, or working to untangle personal questions from systemic challenges and inequities. In addition to my work as a psychotherapist, I am an experienced organizational development consultant, coach, facilitator and trainer. I regularly work with corporations, educational institutions and non-profits on leadership development, strategic planning, performance management, and diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives. I hold a Masters in Psychology, and am working towards my PhD with a concentration in social justice and diversity with a research specialty in moral injury. I am actively affirming and welcoming to individuals of all gender identities, ethnicities, sexual orientations, and religions, and am committed to providing supportive, trauma-informed care. I look forward to working with you in-person, or with DC-based clients virtually via secure telehealth. Psychology Associate, Licensed in Washington, DC Masters in Psychology with an emphasis in Clinical Psychology Clinical Supervisors: Dr. Ashley Alderette, PsyD; Dr. J. Dawn Johnson, PsyD Offering sessions both in person and via telehealth to clients based in: DC.

Visit my website below for additional available therapists. Welcome! I am a psychotherapist/Clinical Social Worker and have been in practice for 17 years. I received my Master of Social Work degree from The Ohio State University. I believe that everyone deserves someone to talk to who is non-judgmental or biased. You are the expert on you! I am here to work as a team with you to establish and meet your goals. Together we can create change and improve your symptoms. I have experience working with individuals who are having difficulty adjusting to new life situations/transitions, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and grief/loss.

If you feel anxious, sad, overwhelmed or stuck, if you are frustrated by your family or relationships, or are worn out by disordered eating, my practice may be a good fit for you. My therapy style is collaborative, warm, and nonjudgmental, with room for humor. Together, we will work to improve your symptoms, gain a deeper understanding of your concerns and bring about lasting change. As a former clinician at George Washington University and the University of the District of Columbia, I have extensive experience with students, emerging adults and others navigating life transitions. With experience in global recruitment for the international development industry, I work well with clients who are working to establish or move up within their professional careers, struggle with work/life balance, or are considering a career change. My practice is open and affirming. I welcome clients of all sexualities, gender identities, ethnicities and national origins. My office is conveniently located on Farragut Square, directly above the Farragut West Metro stop (blue/orange/silver), across from Farragut North (Red Line) and walking distance to GWU. I also offer sessions via telehealth/video.

Feeling more like yourself is possible, and that's exactly what we'll work toward together. As an integrative therapist with three years of experience in mental health and career counseling, my work is rooted in helping people navigate the strong emotions, mood states, and behavioral concerns that can get in the way of living their most desired or authentic life. Whether you're an emerging adult finding your footing or a seasoned adult seeking a reset, I'm here to help you move through whatever is causing disruption or discontent in your life so you can feel more like yourself. With a specialization in nervous system regulation and discernment counseling, I’m passionate about providing counseling in a modern world. I believe in compassionate awareness, which helps me be fully present while supporting you in becoming more grounded and free. What I look forward to most are those “aha” moments, however brief yet meaningful, that last far beyond what is created in our weekly/bi-weekly sessions. Therapy, at its best, should feel like a space you can breathe in. My approach is built on balance: it doesn't need to be an experience that wrecks you, it shouldn't leave you emotionally exhausted, and it certainly doesn't need to stop you from moving forward. Being in touch with your more vulnerable parts doesn't mean becoming consumed by them. Rather, I am passionate about making counseling accessible, welcoming, safe, and, above all, balanced within the unique confines of your life. Together, we'll identify the patterns and biofeedback loops already present in your life, use parts work to understand how and why they show up, and draw on that understanding to guide a more integrated, grounded way of living. Drawing from Internal Family Systems (IFS), mindfulness training, and an understanding of how body, mind, and environment work in tandem, sessions are designed to feel flowing, steady, and reliable. My style is like me – warm and compassionate, but not without confrontation once that feels helpful. Every approach is tailored to your unique life and circumstances, because while no therapist can know the full extent of a patient's experience, showing up each week to work with what you bring to the room is something I take seriously. My path to becoming a therapist began at summer camp. Though I come from an athletic and social family, I was never much for either! On one warm afternoon at recreation time, I found myself right where I wanted to be: sitting on the bench, watching, talking, and offering important verbal evidence on whether that ball was in or out at Four Square. That summer, and many more that followed, helped me understand something essential about myself. One of my greatest strengths is my ability to appreciate a person or experience for exactly what it is. Not for their potential. Not for their past. For precisely where they are right now. This perspective has shaped everything about how I show up as a therapist. The present moment holds more than enough to explore, and in my experience, that exploration is not just adequate, but unending. Movement and the outdoors are my strongholds. I enjoy yoga, weight-lifting, and long walks, and am also a passionate cook who loves to try out and create new recipes. And, I am a lifelong learner – I enjoy reading, history, and anything to do with the brain and body.