Therapists for college students near Washington, DC

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.

Amy strives for clients to feel supported and guided as they work towards growth and change. She specializes in anxiety, depression, relationships, self-criticism, perfectionism, and life transitions (e.g., graduation, parenthood and career changes). Amy's style blends tangible tools with broader insight, all while strengthening a sense of agency so that clients can feel empowered to make and sustain meaningful change. Areas of specialization: -Anxiety -Depression -Low self-esteem -Perfectionism -Family and relationship challenges -Life and career transitions I specialize in working with clients who feel anxious, depressed, or disempowered, and struggle with cycles of self-criticism, perfectionism, difficult relationships, or life transitions (e.g., graduation, parenthood or career changes). My therapeutic approach blends evidence-based methods from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic psychotherapy, ACT, and DBT, with goals to help clients understand and tangibly improve their symptoms. I aim for therapy to be a place where they can feel supported and guided as we work together towards growth. I seek to help strengthen clients' sense of agency, so they feel empowered to make and sustain meaningful life changes. I hold a Master’s Degree in Clinical Social Work, and have advanced postgraduate training in perinatal mental health care, including postpartum anxiety and depression, as well as training in trauma-informed clinical care. Prior to becoming a therapist, I previously worked as an attorney with the US Department of Justice, and draw upon this experience in my work with clients in demanding professional and academic careers. I welcome clients from all backgrounds, and am committed to creating a collaborative, non-judgmental therapeutic experience where both practical strategies and emotional understanding can flourish. Licensed Clinical Social Worker Master of Social Work, The Catholic University of America Juris Doctorate, The University of Chicago Law School Offering sessions in person in Washington, DC, and via telehealth to clients based in: DC, Maryland, and Virginia

I work with clients from a wide variety of backgrounds, who have all come to a shared realization: that their way of life is no longer working for them. Whether they are struggling with addiction or depression or find themselves experiencing relationship difficulties, they all aspire to something new; something more. Together we identify the nature of their particular dissatisfaction, discover how they got there, and develop a more desirable and sustainable reality. I believe that my role is to be a nonjudgmental companion to my clients on their unique journey of self-discovery and profound change. People who seek my help often feel stuck, anxious, depressed, unfilled, or otherwise dissatisfied with life. They are often experiencing relationship difficulties or suffering from the disease of addiction. Together we bring clarity to the particular dilemma they are facing and from there we can work to identify and resolve core issues. I look forward to hearing how I might be of help to you.

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.

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.

Finding the right support can be the turning point that changes everything. As a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor, my work centers on helping children, adolescents, adults, and older adults navigate anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and the emotional challenges that can make everyday life feel unmanageable. Whether you're struggling to regulate overwhelming emotions, coping with loss, or searching for a greater sense of clarity and control, I'm here to walk alongside you. Together, we'll work to build the coping strategies and emotional tools you need to feel more grounded, confident, and empowered as you move forward in your healing journey. Creating a warm, nonjudgmental space where you feel genuinely heard and understood is at the heart of everything I do, because meaningful progress begins when you feel safe enough to be yourself. That’s why sessions are always tailored to your unique experiences and goals. Drawing on a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and person-centered techniques, we'll work together to help you better understand your emotions, develop healthier coping strategies, and feel more in control of your life. Whatever you're carrying, my commitment is to meet you exactly where you are and support you with compassion and empowerment every step of the way. My path to becoming a therapist was shaped, in part, by my own lived experience with anxiety and depression. This journey gave me a firsthand understanding of how overwhelming mental health challenges can feel, and how transformative it is to have the right support in your corner. That perspective deepened my empathy and strengthened my passion for helping others navigate similar struggles. It's what drives me to show up for you with insight, genuine care, and a presence that is always open and free of judgment. 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.

Renae Mittelmeier is a National Certified Counselor, Certified Personality Disorder Treatment Provider, and a Licensed Professional Counselor, licensed in the District of Columbia. Renae treats individuals with bipolar, depressive, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive, substance use, and personality disorders, as well stress disorders, life transitions, interpersonal issues, and self-esteem concerns. Renae provides a unique variety of interventions to support a client’s individual needs but specializes in the use of cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavioral approaches.

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.

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.

We are located near many colleges and univiersities in NW Washington, DC! Of note, we are very close to American University and their shuttle stops across the street from our practice. We are also across the street from The Washington College of Law. We are a short metro or bus ride from Georgetown University and The Catholic University of America. Our therapists enjoy working with college students and young professionals, and we frequently partner with students from our local colleges. If you’re interested in learning more about our therapy services for college and university students, you can find more details on our website, and our team members are always happy to answer questions. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to learn more!

My website is the best way to learn more about me and how I operate. Please feel free to schedule a free introductory call so that you can decide if we're a good fit. Briefly, I work with adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use, grief and loss, life transitions, burnout, identity exploration, parenting stress, and raising neurodivergent children.

Dr. McNeill is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) specializing in family medicine and psychiatry, with expertise in various mental health conditions such as anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and eating disorders. Her educational background includes a PhD in Human Services with a focus on Health Care Administration from Capella University, an MSN in family practice from the University of South Alabama, an MBA and BsIT from AIU, and a BSN from Emory University. With over a decade of experience as an assistant professor, she has taught across various healthcare programs at both the bachelor's and master's levels, covering fields such as Gerontology, Healthcare Administration, Management, and Nursing. Professionally, Dr. McNeill has dedicated over a decade to healthcare leadership, serving as a practicing clinician and educator. She has received recognition as Director of the Year from the International Nurses Association (INA) for her outstanding contributions to community care.

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We are a fully remote group psychotherapy practice located in Washington, DC. We are also licensed to practice in Maryland, Virginia, and Florida. We provide individual therapy and couples therapy. Our mission is to ensure that individuals of every race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, and political and religious affiliation are provided a safe space to receive high quality mental health care. We utilize a variety of evidence-based treatment modalities such as psychodynamic psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and motivational interviewing to support and empower a diverse client population. We specialize in anxiety and mood disorders, LGBTQ issues, career counseling, relationship issues, grief and loss, life transitions, and substance use disorders. Please reach out to us by using the 'Contact Us' form on our website or email at info@compassrosecounselingdc.com. If we do not have scheduling availability, we will provide you with the option to be placed on our waiting list.

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Find the non-judgmental support you need as you navigate life’s challenges. If you're struggling with self-criticism or feeling overwhelmed, you don’t have to face it alone. I offer a compassionate, safe space where we explore your concerns together and press toward meaningful change. Imagine watching your teenager grow in areas that once felt impossible. I work with both teens (and preteens) and adults, walking alongside individuals during difficult seasons. Whether your teenager is navigating the pressures of adolescence or you’re dealing with personal challenges, you’ll find a steady, supportive presence here. Together, we’ll take a strengths-based approach, drawing on evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and traditional talk therapy. Our work will be collaborative and uniquely tailored to your needs—because no two journeys are the same. I practice from a Christian perspective, offering faith-based counseling for those who desire it. Let’s talk. I would love to connect with you! I offer a free 15-minute phone consultation to see if we’re a good fit.I ’d be honored to support you or your teen on this path toward healing and growth. You don’t have to face life’s challenges alone.

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In my therapy work, it's important that I first learn who you are, and what strengths and values you possess. We then work together to identify how patterns of thought, emotion, and behavior may be holding you back from being the best version of yourself. I use evidence-based interventions (strategies proven successful through research) within a cognitive behavioral model. My style as a therapist is warm, nonjudgmental, and active. Whether you are hoping to improve your mood, develop more meaningful relationships, or learn skills to manage emotions, I'm here to support you through the ups and downs.

Hi, I'm Eileen Persichetti, a clinical social worker based in Washington, D.C. I specialize in providing compassionate, evidence-based therapy to individuals navigating life's challenges, from anxiety and depression to relationship struggles, trauma, and life transitions. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can feel heard, supported, and empowered to make meaningful changes in your life. My practice is rooted in a mix of evidenced based approaches, and mindfulness-based therapies, all of which can be tailored to your unique needs and goals.