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315 verified Psychologists in Arlington, VA
Zocdoc verifies all providers before they can appear in Zocdoc search results. Every provider that appears in search is open to new patients.
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Availability last updated 05/01/2026
Availability last updated 05/01/2026
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Douglas Rizzo is a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in individual psychotherapy and also acts as parent consultant with respect to parent-child concerns and issues. He maintains a private practice in Alexandria, VA. A graduate of The College of William and Mary, Mr. Rizzo specializes in...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 7
Psychotherapist
5.00
·4 reviews
- Jan 7, 2026 by Steven B.Click to read more
5 mi · 3307 Duke St, Alexandria, VA 22314
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield + 5 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Ms. Nelva Hernandez is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) currently living and providing services in Northern Virginia. She was raised in Washington, DC, where she completed her studies, including her Master’s in Social Work at Howard University. Ms. Hernandez is a native Spanish speaker an...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, May 11
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
3.00
·2 reviews
This provider has canceled twice - Jan 1, 2026 by Jamie B.Click to read more
McLean, VA
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield + 4 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Dr. Laura Granato is a psychotherapist specializing in family and marriage therapy. She operates her practice, Verathy, through virtual services, making her expertise accessible to clients regardless of location. Dr. Granato earned her PhD in Counselor Education from Virginia Polytechnic Institut...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, May 11
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
1.00
·1 review
McLean, VA
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield + 4 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Cassandra Enriquez is a Resident in Counseling with a Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology I bring a unique perspective to my practice, shaped by my upbringing in Washington, DC, and my biracial identity. Growing up in a culturally rich, ...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, May 5
Adult Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
5.00
·24 reviews
Mariam is a wonderful professional who is kind and empathetic. She listens and makes you feel like you are not alone. - May 13, 2025Click to read more
6 mi · 5454 Wisconsin Ave, Ste 1275, Chevy Chase, MD 20815
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Mariam Kashani is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner whose career spans 23 years. Her experience started at the Washington Hospital Center and led to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center where she was Associate Medical Director of Clinical Programs and Associate I...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, May 6
Psychiatrist
4.95
·43 reviews
Very caring. Should have reviewed earlier. Appreciate all Dr. Ratner does for his patients. - Dec 10, 2014Click to read more
5.5 mi · 5028 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time · Expertise in depression ·
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**A deposit will be collected prior to the initial appointment. The office will contact you to make arrangements for the deposit. If this is not suitable, please cancel any appointment you have made within 24 hours** Initial consultation is $500. After that 45-minute appointments are $360 and 30-min...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, May 8
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.86
·7 reviews
Vienna, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 68 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Welcome Thank you for taking your valuable time to look into starting therapy. Are you feeing over-whelmed, irritable or easily frustrated and are experiencing multiple stressors or difficult transitions in your life? Do you feel like your time and energy are spent primarily caring for others needs...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, May 4
Psychotherapist
5.00
·1 review
6.5 mi · 8000 Towers Crescent Dr, Vienna, VA 22182
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 21 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
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The provider is a Supervisee in Clinical Social Work You deserve a steady and growth-oriented partner in your therapy journey. As a clinical social worker with 15 years of experience in the mental health field, I am that partner, helping adults, veterans, and active-duty military navigate struggles...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, May 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Vienna, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 21 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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The provider is a Supervisee in Clinical Social Work You deserve a steady and growth-oriented partner in your therapy journey. As a clinical social worker with 15 years of experience in the mental health field, I am that partner, helping adults, veterans, and active-duty military navigate struggles...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, May 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·3 reviews
He was very interactive and made me feel comfortable and he was relatable as a person not just a medical professional - Mar 31, 2026 by Max B.Click to read more
Vienna, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 21 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) helping adults ages 18 to 65+. With experience in residential (RTC) and therapeutic approaches, my specialties include severe substance abuse, process addictions, personality disorders, and severe mental health issues, as well as depression, anxiety, life...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, May 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.64
·11 reviews
It was my first ever therapy session and Rebba was very professional and kind. I felt comfortable and open to the experience and she was a major part of why. Would recommend.Click to read more
Vienna, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 21 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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The provider is a Resident in Counseling. As a clinical therapist for families, young adults, and adolescents, I am dedicated to helping patients navigate life transitions, emotional discord, and the complex experiences underlying mental health symptoms. I specialize in Emotionally Focused Therapy,...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, May 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.97
·30 reviews
My first session was fantastic. The atmosphere was amazing and welcoming. - Dec 6, 2022 by Bryar P.Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 70 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Hello! I am Jessica. Are you struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, or depression? Is it starting to impact your relationships and your overall well-being? Together we can figure out what's not working and come up with an effective plan to help you feel better! I believe change happens when peop...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, May 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.67
·3 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 70 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi all, I am a talk therapist that works on providing a non-judgmental and safe place to discuss stressors. I use Person Centered, mindfulness and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with an eclectic and holistic approach with my clients. **I incorporate dream interpretations, astrology, and tarot in...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, May 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 3 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I have over 25 years of experience working with teens, adults, families, and couples in multiple community-based settings and agencies. I have been a licensed therapist since 2016. I employ a holistic approach, incorporating several research-based interventions, including Cognitive Behavioral Therap...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, May 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.97
·97 reviews
I immediately felt very comfortable, and that she understood my situation. Very personable!Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 66 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Hi! I'm Jen Tucker, a licensed mental health counselor with a Master's in Mental Health Counseling from Shippensburg University. I'm passionate about serving others. I'm also a wife, mom, short order cook, taxi driver, cheerleader, housekeeper-wearing all the hats those roles carry. I'm a military v...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, May 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.88
·8 reviews
- Jan 16, 2026 by Rowan Q.Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 67 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
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Hello, my name is Luiza and I am the owner/therapist of FIT MIND counseling services. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in FL & MA and a Licensed Professional Counselor in DC, GA & VA. I am from Brazil, and I speak Portuguese as well :) FIT MIND counseling services enjoys empowering clients f...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, May 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·30 reviews
Great experience! Super easy to set up an appointment super fast and convenient I googled “therapists that take (my insurance)” and had an appointment scheduled for that coming Thursday in less than 5 minutes. by Christofer D.Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 65 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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With over 14 years of experience in mental health and school counseling, I have been fortunate to gain a wealth of knowledge working with individuals aged 5 to 65. I hold a MEd in School Counseling and Guidance Services from Virginia State University, along with additional education from VCU and Wal...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, May 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 68 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Hey y'all! My name's Pam, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Virginia. I earned my Master's in Social Work from Radford University in 2010 and have been practicing social work since then. Since 2018, I have worked within an inpatient psychiatric facility, providing treatment to indi...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, May 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.86
·14 reviews
- Mar 20, 2024 by Zoey H.Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
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Are you grieving the loss of a loved one? Are you an LGBTQ youth or teen struggling to survive in an unkind world? Are you an adult child facing the changes or declining health of an elderly parent? Or simply a person trying to create a life of meaning and purpose? Congratulations on taking this imp...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, May 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.75
·4 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield + 51 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Do you feel like you have tried everything and it still isn't working? Are you tired of existing in life and not fully living it? Do you feel stuck, depressed, or anxious? I provide a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere where you can freely express your needs, and together we will create a plan that bes...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, May 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·13 reviews
She was so nice and welcoming! - Sep 28, 2025 by Brenda S.Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 66 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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I am an EMDR-trained LPC in Virginia with 6 years of experience as a psychotherapist. I am dedicated to collaborating with you on your transformative journey, fostering lasting change. Creating a safe space and an empowering relationship is my passion. Authenticity and genuineness are foundational w...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, May 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·5 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 69 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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I’m a dedicated therapist with a passion for helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with compassion and evidence-based support. I work with children and adults seeking to address anxiety, stress, depression, coping skills, ADHD, anger, or relationship concerns, tailoring my approach to each ...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, May 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 70 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Expertise in depression + 1 more ·
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Hello! I am a Licensed Clinicial Social Worker (LCSW) based out of North Carolina but licensed in multiple states (NC and VA). I received my Masters in Social Work from Fayetteville State University in 2014 and have been practicing for 11 years. I work with all age groups to include children age 5 a...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, May 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 71 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am Kaneka Hall, a licensed clinical social worker. I have over 13 years of experience in various settings and various populations including military/veteran, children, adults as well as the geriatric population in community and hospital settings including long-term care/nursing homes. I specialize...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, May 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.97
·29 reviews
Great session. My brain was so happy to have gotten to share the overflow of thoughts and some feelings. I even got some homework!so fulfilled and thankful to have some listening ears that were just for me. - Sep 13, 2025 by Jamie G.Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield + 51 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Hi, I'm Bryan McHenry, a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia. I earned my Master's in Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University. Thank you for taking the time to read my profile. First and foremost, I applaud your courage in seeking mental health counseling. In this seaso...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, May 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.78
·9 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 65 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi, my name is Miguel. I was born and raised in the Dominican Republic, came of age in New York City, and served in the US Army for several years. I am a clinician and educator, and credentialed as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (Maryland), Licensed Professional Counselor (Virginia), and...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, May 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 70 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am a licensed mental health therapist providing telehealth services to adolescents and adults navigating anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, life transitions, and everyday stressors. My approach is person-centered, solution-focused, and tailored to each client's unique needs and goals. I...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, May 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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You can come back from anything no matter how bad you think the situation is. It is all about your mindset. Reprogramming your mindset is the key to your success. The power of change rest in your desire to want change. I believe that people have the power to change their circumstances within themsel...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, May 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Expertise in anxiety disorders ·
Read bio
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 25 years of experience helping adults navigate stress, transitions, and emotional overwhelm. Since 2011, I've worked in private practice supporting clients through the complexities of personal and professional life with empathy, clarity, and a pr...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, May 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 69 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Virginia. I received my Masters from Radford University and have been practicing for 10 years. I help adolescents and adults struggling with regulating their emotions and going through difficult life situations. My goal in providing therapy i...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, May 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 68 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
I provide a client-centered approach that is compassionate and creates a judgment-free zone, empowering you to make the changes in your life that you desire. I see myself as a guide and supportive presence, helping you create your new life. I have years of experience working with individuals struggl...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, May 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 69 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hello, my name is Crystal. Are you depressed? Have anxiety? But you don’t know the root cause? I provide a safe and therapeutic environment and will guide you on your journey to understanding your feelings, thoughts, actions and relationships and how to grow. For the past 13 years, I have counseled ...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, May 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.88
·8 reviews
- Sep 2, 2025 by Florene P.Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 68 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Virginia with 20+ years of professional work experience. I earned a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from South University. I am an approved Clinical Supervisor by the Counseling Board of Virginia. My experience has incl...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, May 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I’m a therapist who shows up with empathy, realness, and cultural understanding. I’ve seen how much pressure people carry, always being the strong one, navigating family expectations, code-switching, and holding it all in just to make it through the day. I became a therapist because I wanted to crea...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, May 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.92
·12 reviews
Very friendly and supportive. I felt comfortable talking. Looking forward to it but only with better sound on my end ha ha - Jan 21, 2026 by Jeffrey S.Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 72 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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The provider is a “Licensed Professional Counselor" and their license number is 37PC00983800 I am a licensed professional counselor based in Colorado. I earned my Master’s in Mental Health Counseling from the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs, beginning my program in 2011. I have helped ind...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, May 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·7 reviews
I picked the perfect therapist for me! I am so excited to do the work and start my healing journey with this therapist. - Nov 22, 2025Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 70 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
I am a licensed clinical social worker with a diverse background in mental health care across various settings and states. Outpatient therapy and telehealth therapy services are my primary focus. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, understanding, and respect for each client's unique experie...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, May 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 71 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
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 embar...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, May 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 65 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi! I am Stephen Kovacs a licensed clinical social worker with 5 years of experience helping adults who feel constantly “on edge” from anxiety and panic-always braced for the next shoe to drop, even when life looks fine from the outside. I'm licensed as an LISW-CP in South Carolina and an LCSW in No...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, May 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 69 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
I am Marc Lewis, Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist. I completed training in 2003 at the Joint Master of Social Work program at North Carolina A & T State University and the University of NC at Greensboro. I was also part of the NC Child Welfare Collaborative...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, May 5
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Frequently asked questions

How can I make a same-day appointment with a Psychologist in Arlington?

On average, patients who use Zocdoc can search for a Psychologist in Arlington, book an appointment, and see the Psychologist within 24 hours. Same-day appointments are often available, you can search for real-time availability of Psychologists in Arlington who accept your insurance and make an appointment online.


How can I find an Arlington Psychologist who takes my insurance?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for an Arlington Psychologist who takes your insurance. Just choose your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. If you’re not sure which plan you have, you can use Zocdoc’s insurance checker to find out.


How can I book an appointment online with a Psychologist in Arlington?

Zocdoc is a free online service that helps patients find Psychologists in Arlington and book appointments instantly. You can search for Arlington Psychologists by symptom or visit reason. Then, choose your insurance plan. Based on that information, you’ll see a list of providers who meet your search criteria, along with their available appointment slots.


How can I find a female Psychologist in Arlington?

When you search for Arlington Psychologists on Zocdoc, you can filter your results by gender, in addition to other criteria. That way, you’ll only see Psychologists in Arlington who match your preferences.


How can I find an Arlington Psychologist who sees patients after hours?

On Zocdoc, you can search specifically for Arlington Psychologists with availability after 5 p.m.


How can I find a top-rated Psychologist in Arlington?

You can use Zocdoc to find Psychologists in Arlington who are highly rated by other patients. These ratings are based on verified reviews submitted by real patients. Every time a patient completes an appointment booked on Zocdoc, they’re invited to review their experience. Each review must comply with Zocdoc’s guidelines.


How can I find a video visit with a Psychologist online in Arlington?

Psychologists in Arlington on Zocdoc who see patients through online video visits will have a purple video icon on their profiles. You can also filter your search results to show only Psychologists who offer video visits.


Are video visits with a Psychologist online covered by my insurance?

Most insurers provide coverage for video visits at the same cost as in-person visits. You can search on Zocdoc specifically for Psychologists in Arlington who accept your insurance for video visits by selecting your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. We recommend you check with your insurance carrier directly to confirm your coverage and out of pocket costs for video visits.


How can I find a Psychologist in Arlington who sees patients in the morning or evening?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a Psychologist who has appointments available before 10:00 am, or after 5:00 pm. Just choose the special hours filter at the top of our search page.


How can I find a Psychologist in Arlington who sees patients during the weekend?

Zocdoc let's you see real-time availability for Psychologists in Arlington. Many Psychologists offer appointments on Saturdays and Sundays.


Who is a psychologist?


Psychologists are mental health specialists who use psychological assessments and talk therapy to assist individuals in learning to more effectively manage their mental health concerns and life and relationship problems. Depression, anxiety, anger, or grief are some of the issues that psychologists can help patients overcome. They try to understand their patient's thought processes and identify behavioral and emotional patterns. 


Once they diagnose the disorder, they recommend appropriate treatment plans to help cope with such feelings and lead a healthy, happy life. Psychologists work in clinics, hospitals, schools, community health centers, and nursing homes. They can also work in rehabilitation centers, prisons, research centers, and workplaces.


What kind of education and training do psychologists receive?


Aspiring psychologists complete their graduation and then study and train for another 4 to 6 years before they can begin practicing. During their graduate and post-graduate programs, students research and teach apart from their regular coursework. They must do a one-year supervised internship and pass a national exam and additional state licensing tests.


Psychologists must continue their education even after this to earn several credits every year. It helps them keep updated with the latest developments in their field. In Virginia, psychologists are not allowed to prescribe medication, unlike in a few other states.


Some subspecialties in psychology include child psychology, sports and performance psychology, experimental psychology, counseling psychology, and clinical psychology. Health psychology, developmental psychology, brain science and cognitive psychology, and forensic and public service psychology are other subspecialties in this field.


Different types of psychologists


A few of the common subspecialties in psychology include the following:


  • Cognitive and perceptual psychologists

Cognitive and perceptual psychologists study human thinking, memory, and perception. For instance, how humans produce and understand language and how the mind sees or defines reality. Cognitive and perceptual psychologists collaborate with behavioral neuroscientists to study the biological fundamentals of cognition or perception. They also work with researchers to understand cognitive bias among people suffering from depression. 

  • Counseling psychologists

Counseling psychologists help people identify their inner resources and strengths to cope with or manage serious adversity and daily problems. They conduct teaching, scientific research, psychotherapy, or counseling sessions with people of all ages, organizations (hospitals, schools, businesses), and families. Counseling psychologists help people understand their behaviors and how it affects their quality of life and environment.

  • Forensic psychologists

Forensic psychologists apply the principles of psychology for legal purposes. Their expertise is most useful in the judicial system. They can analyze a defendant's mental ability to face a trial and help a judge give the proper judgment. They can even help decide the custody of a child in divorce cases. Forensic psychologists also research eyewitness testimony and jury behavior. Some forensic psychologists may receive training in both law and psychology to serve the judicial system.

  • Developmental psychologists

Developmental psychologists focus on the psychological development of human beings throughout their lifespans. Earlier, they mainly focused on the formative years of human beings: childhood and adolescence. However, as life expectancy improved beyond 80 years, developmental psychologists began focusing on aging's behavioral, mental, and physical aspects. They help older adults lead independent lives as much as possible. 

  • Health psychologists

Health psychologists focus on how psychological, social, and biological factors affect human health and illness. They study why some patients don't follow medical advice and how some handle their mental state during an illness. It helps them develop effective ways to change poor habits and manage chronic pain in patients. They develop treatment plans to promote physical and emotional well-being.


Why should you visit a psychologist?


If you have persistent thoughts or emotions that prevent you from going about your daily life, you should see a psychologist. For instance, if you feel hopeless and life seems no longer worth living or need an unbiased person to help you sort out your emotions. Psychologists can also help you with drug or alcohol abuse or coping with overwhelming feelings. 


The death of a family member, the loss of a job, or a divorce can affect a person drastically. Similarly, an illness, problems at work, behavior that seems out of control, or constant negative feelings can affect our daily lives. Psychologists can help with all of these problems and get things back on track with talk therapy. 


Psychologists can help with trauma, unhealthy habits, phobias, sleep disorders, self-confidence issues, and stress management. They can also help with gender dysphoria, eating disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, postpartum depression, and obesity. Further, visit a psychologist near you if you have a hoarding disorder, unexplained pain, school or work performance issues, or family and relationship problems.


Are psychologists and clinical psychologists the same?


Both psychologists and clinical psychologists help patients with mental health issues. However, a clinical psychologist treats more severe cases than a psychologist. Clinical psychologists focus on psychopathology, which studies mental health conditions. On the other hand, psychologists help people through counseling to help them address social, emotional, and physical stressors.


Clinical psychology combines clinical knowledge, science, and theory to diagnose and treat all kinds of psychological distress. 


Are psychologists and psychiatrists the same?

Psychiatrists are medical doctors, unlike psychologists. A psychologist has a doctoral degree, such as a PsyD (Doctor of Psychology) or a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy). Psychiatrists are certified doctors specializing in diagnosing and treating mental illnesses.


Psychiatrists can prescribe medication, while psychologists are generally not allowed to do so in most states, excluding New Mexico, Louisiana, Iowa, Illinois, and Idaho. Even in conditions where psychologists can prescribe medication, they must receive additional training and licensure. 


Psychiatrists treat more complex mental health problems than psychologists. While psychologists use talk therapy to treat patients, psychiatrists combine talk therapy and medications to manage and treat their patients.


How to find the best psychologist near you?


Although acknowledging and getting support for a mental health problem or emotional difficulties can be intimidating, you must do so. A psychologist can assist you in better comprehending and overcoming the challenges keeping you from leading a happy and healthy life. Together with you, your psychologist will devise a therapy strategy that is most effective for you.


Finding a good psychologist in Arlington, Virginia, can take time and effort. Zocdoc can help you here. On the Zocdoc website or application, enter your symptoms, location, and "psychologist." Zocdoc will provide you with a list of the top psychologists in your area within minutes. 

You can search for in-network providers who take your insurance. Zocdoc also maintains detailed profiles for each healthcare provider in its vast database. The profile includes the healthcare professional's education and training, gender, hospital affiliations, specialization, certifications, licensure, awards, and accreditations. You can also check the languages they speak and whether they treat children.


Depending on the psychologist's availability, you can book appointments during office hours and on weekends. You can also book online video consultations before you visit the psychologist near you in person. Just check for the purple icon on the profile of psychologists who allow such video consultations. Booking appointments on Zocdoc is safe, simple, and free!


Statistics on psychologists, mental disorders in Virginia 


According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 470 psychologists, 1,080 school psychologists, 1,350 clinical and counseling psychologists, and 30 industrial-organizational psychologists in Virginia in May 2021.


Psychologists can help with various conditions such as depression, suicidal tendencies or thoughts, obesity, and frequent mental distress. According to America's Health Rankings, about 19.6% of adults in Virginia were diagnosed with a depressive disorder in 2021. It included depression, major depression, minor depression, and dysthymia. Women (24.7%) were more likely to be depressed than men (14.3%). Those between 18 and 44 were most likely to be depressed compared to other age groups, with 23.4% being diagnosed with the condition. The percentage was lower in those aged 45 to 64 (18.0%) and those 65 and above (14.1%).

Further, in 2020, there were 14 deaths due to intentional self-harm (suicide) per 100,000 population in the state. More men (22.6 deaths per 100,000) than women (6 deaths per 100,000) committed suicide in Virginia.


About 33.6% of the adult population reported sleeping, on average, fewer than seven hours out of 24 hours. It was higher than the national average of 32.3%. Women (34.2%) were more likely to have a sleeping problem than men (33.0%). Those aged 18 to 44 (36.2%) and those aged 45 to 64 (36.5%) were more likely to have a sleeping disorder. The percentage was lower in those aged 65 and above (23.3%).


Approximately 34.2% of adults in Virginia were obese in 2021. It meant they had a body mass index of 30 or higher. The percentage was higher than the national average of 33.9%. Women (34.9%) were more likely to be obese than men (33.6%). The condition's incidence was highest at 42.0% in those aged 45 to 64. It was lower in those aged 18 to 44 (30.0%) and those 65 and above (31.6%).  


Sources


The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

Cleveland Clinic

Psychology.org

WebMD

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

America’s Health Rankings[1]

America’s Health Rankings[2]

America’s Health Rankings[3]

America’s Health Rankings[4]

American Psychological Association


The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 immediately.

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