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315 verified Psychotherapists in Alexandria, 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 07/10/2026
Availability last updated 07/10/2026
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Cigna
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Nikole is a Masters Level Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She graduated from Widener University with a Masters Degree in Social Work. She has experience working with the mental health population in an inpatient hospital setting, outpatient therapy setting, and as a school-based counselor. Nikole ha...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.63
·8 reviews
He was very helpful and understanding and nice, I just had a scheduling issue so had to find a different provider. Would have been very happy to remain. - Apr 10, 2025Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 55 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
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Hello, I am a licensed therapist with more than 9 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families. I hold a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology from Millersville University. I work with adults and teenagers who seek help with depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship conce...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Hi, I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Virginia. In 2017, I received my Master’s in Social Work from Temple University. I have been in the field for 7 years and licensed for two years. My primary focus is on adults struggling with depression and anxiety due to shifts or changes in their...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.83
·12 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 55 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am a graduate of Howard University, where I earned my Master's in Social Work, and the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, where I received my Bachelor's degree in Psychology. I have a passion for working with individuals, couples, and families who seek change to become happier, healthier, ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Cigna
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hello, I'm Katina Davis, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to helping adults navigate life's challenges with confidence, resilience, and purpose. I bring an authentic, strengths-based approach to therapy, empowering clients to recognize their inner strengths and create meaningful change, e...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.62
·13 reviews
This was a very poor 1st experience. She seemed ready to get off the video call almost immediately. Our therapy session only lasted 16 minutes and she basically said she couldn’t help me until I had couples counseling with my partner. I would not recommend this therapist to anyone I know. I have sin...Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 58 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
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When counseling, I look at the whole person not just the current situation. I take time to get to know you and understand your situation and/or concerns. I treat all my clients with the utmost respect and compassion. I use motivational skills to help my patients see their strengths and help them cre...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 58 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Hello, I have been a Counselor for 17 years and I love my work. I grew up loving working with animals, competing in sports, reading everything, and having a great curiosity for how nature and people worked. I have been blessed with many wonderful and loving people in my life; and know how much it me...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.83
·6 reviews
Deborah is so gentle, understanding and effective when it comes to our interactions. She listens so well and has a valid response to a lot of my issues. - Mar 5, 2024 by Justin L.Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare + 10 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
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I am a clinical social worker bringing a lifetime of experience to my work, helping clients identify what's working and what's not; what is going well, and what they would like to change. I am a creative problem solver and excel at helping people get unstuck! I use my experience as a teacher, a huma...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.90
·10 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Hello! I'm a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) in North Carolina and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Virginia, holding a Master's degree from Xavier University of Louisiana. With three years of experience as a therapist and 17 years in school counseling, I specialize in su...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Cigna
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi, I'm a therapist with 15 years of experience and I know life can feel overwhelming sometimes. My goal is to create a space where you feel comfortable, understood and never judged. I believe therapy works best when you can show up as your real self, talk openly and feel supported while working thr...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
I am a licensed therapist in Alabama, Massachusetts, and Hawaii with 8 years of professional experience. I hold a Master’s in Social Work from Troy University. Taking the first step toward a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage, and I am here to support you in that process. In my session...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.50
·6 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi there, I'm Kwame! Licensed professional counselor in the state of Virginia. I have 9 years of experience in treating anxiety, trauma, and depression. Whether you are dealing with stress, anxiety, relationship challenges and/or simply feeling stuck. Seeking therapy can be anxiety-provoking I seek...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Jul 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.74
·23 reviews
Horrible service. Uninterested in what I was saying. Just laid back in his recliner the whole time on camera. - Mar 4, 2024Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 51 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
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Hi, I am Joseph Wall, an LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) in PA and VA, as well as an LMFT (Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist) in Virginia. I hold a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Liberty University. I specialize in relational issues within marriages, couples, families...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 13
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.92
·13 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
I know how overwhelming it can be to struggle with anxiety, depression, and burnout-especially when past help hasn't felt like the right fit. My approach is eclectic and person-centered, meaning I tailor therapy to your unique needs. I integrate Narrative Therapy, Bibliotherapy, IFS, DBT, TF-CBT, an...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Jul 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.83
·12 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 55 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi, I’m Liz Serens, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia. I support individual adults navigating anxiety, Attention-Deficit–related disorders (including ADHD), identity exploration, stress, and life transitions. My style is collaborative and emotionally attuned, offering a steady, nonjudgme...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Jul 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.89
·19 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
I am an LCSW with 14 years of experience as a practicing social worker in medical and community settings. I earned my Master’s in Social Work from Florida International University. My background includes foster care, child welfare, adoption, the juvenile justice system, medical social work, case man...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 3 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I provide a nonjudgmental environment where you can openly explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences without fear of criticism or shame. Therapy is a collaborative process, and together we will work to build insight, develop coping strategies, and create meaningful, lasting change. Hi, I'm...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.93
·15 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 58 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Hi, I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) with over 20 years of social work and mental health experience. I earned my Master’s in Social Work from The Catholic University of America. I utilize evidence-based therapy models focused on my clients' strengths, abilities, and unique life experien...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.83
·6 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 55 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I am a Social Worker licensed in Virginia with over 14 years of experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including: anxiety, relationship issues, career challenges. I specialize in working with POC and persons within the LGBTQ+ communities. My therapy style is warm and in...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Jul 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.87
·15 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 55 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker(LCSW) based in Michigan, but I also serve individuals in Virginia. I received my Masters from Widener University in 2021. I have worked in many different settings, providing mental health treatment to individuals. Some of these settings are inpatient behavio...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Jul 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.93
·15 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts UnitedHealthcare + 3 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Hello, I'm Justin. Do you ever feel like you're carrying more stress than you can bear? That's because you are. Life can be messy, complicated, and stressful, and sometimes the weight of it all is too much. It leaves you tired, anxious, and depressed. But you don't have to carry that weight alone. ...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Jul 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.90
·10 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 56 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Hi there, my name is Kristina Mills-Gregory, and I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor in North Carolina and Florida. I have been providing therapy for over 12 years. I hold a Master’s in Counseling from Campbell University and a Bachelor’s in Psychology and Communication Studies from the...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 13
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·5 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 50 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Hi! I'm a Licensed Social Worker (LCSW) based in Virginia. I received my Master's degree from Norfolk State University and have been practicing for 7 years. I enjoy helping adolescents and young adults, guiding them through difficult times and celebrating their success. My approach is tailored to me...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Jul 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Cigna
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hello my name is Andrea Stephen and I am so glad you stopped by welcome to a space created with warmth, compassion, and care where your story is honored, and your healing matters. As a holistic, empathetic and empowering counselor, I walk alongside of you supporting not only your mind but also your ...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Jul 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 47 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Welcome! I'm Zena Jones. Take a moment to acknowledge that you've taken the first step toward bettering your mental health because, let's be honest—starting therapy can be empowering, confusing, or scary, all at the same time. I hold a Master’s in Clinical Social Work from Barry University and...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Jul 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.85
·13 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Please read my profile carefully before scheduling an appointment. I am only accepting EMDR client. If you are interest in EMDR, please book ANY appointment slot. This will allow you to move through the online process but will not be your first appointment. Greetings! I'm so glad that this website h...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Jul 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·14 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Hi, I'm Carrie. It's my goal to help you create a clear vision of the life you want to live and take steps toward it. I believe in exploring what's truly important to you so you can confidently choose your direction. I want to help you break free from living a life others expect and instead find the...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Jul 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.86
·132 reviews
Very attentive and provided good feedback. - Jul 14, 2024 by John Paul B.Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 50 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Hello, my name is Michelle. I believe therapy is a time to examine internalized experiences that shape our perspectives and behaviors. Engaging in introspective work together can challenge us to reframe maladaptive thoughts. I aim to assist clients with managing emotional dysregulation and symptoms ...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Jul 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.61
·62 reviews
Mr. Eshaghian, was a great listener & communicated very clearly. I will be continuing my sessions. - Mar 20, 2022 by Tiffany H.Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 51 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Hi, my name is Efraim Eshaghian. I hold a Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy from Touro University and a Bachelor's from the Rabbinical Seminary of America. Having been in therapy myself, I have come to realize what allows one to live the life they truly desire. Together, we work on helping cli...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 13
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.89
·9 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 58 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
My name is Michael Starr, and I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I believe therapy is more than just problem-solving, it’s a place to rediscover who you are, heal what’s been hidden, and move forward with clarity and strength. I work with individuals, couples, and families facing an...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Jul 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 44 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hello, I'm Jon Nichols. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor dedicated to empowering individuals to achieve emotional equilibrium and personal growth. I hold a Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology from Lesley University, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado and Virginia. Over...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Jul 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.80
·5 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 56 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master’s in Social Work from Florida State University. I have experience in child welfare, medical social work, family counseling, military life, couple/relationship therapy, and individual counseling. I have worked with various issues, specifically grie...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 13
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 19 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 22 years of experience in the mental health field, and more than 5 years specifically providing talk therapy. My background is rooted in social work, which means I've had the privilege of working with people from all walks of life-each with their own u...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Jul 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield + 41 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist with over 18 years of experience in mental health and addiction counseling field. I am licensed in South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, Utah, and Maine. My career has included extensive work with Veterans, Active ...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Jul 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·4 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 60 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
I thank you for the opportunity to collaborate with you in your healing journey. My desire is to help you through life's struggles and challenges. My goal is to provide authentic, compassionate, and nonjudgmental quality care. Building a therapeutic relationship is the first step in the treatment pr...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Jul 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 55 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in the heart of VA. I earned my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University in 2020 and have been practicing for the past six years. My approach to therapy comes from a place of validation and hope: believing that you...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 13
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·8 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 50 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Congratulations on taking an important step toward strengthening your emotional well-being and prioritizing your mental health. Seeking support is a meaningful decision that reflects courage, self-awareness, and a commitment to personal growth. I am Dr. Vester Appiah, a doctoral-level Licensed Profe...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 13
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Meet Tamera Your Partner in Healing and Growth I am Tamera Peterson, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and ADHD-Certified Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP) and founder of Thrive Collective Services, I bring compassion, creativity, and clinical expertise to every session. I specialize ...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 13
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 58 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Hi, I'm Taylor. I'm so glad you're here. It’s no small thing making the decision to sign up to talk to a stranger about the overwhelming and very often draining circumstances that you’re in. I want to highlight how much being on this site, and looking through profiles is such a significant step towa...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 13
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.79
·19 reviews
What I felt was a good start, changed completely when she yawned (twice) while I was talking with her, which made me more uncomfortable, and wanted me to speak about my religious beliefs which I felt was inappropriate.Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
** COUPLES THERAPY ONLY** I am a multi-state licensed psychotherapist and relationship expert with over 15 years in the mental health field. I am experienced in working with couples who are looking for support, clarity and problem solving skills in a safe, non-judgmental space. Please rest assure th...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 13
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I had resisted counseling for a long time...I could not find anyone who had room for me...Enter Zocdoc...I am so grateful.
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I was very pleased with everything about my appt. Super nice staff. Short wait. Another Zocdoc success!
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Frequently asked questions

How can I make a same-day appointment with a Psychotherapist in Alexandria?

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


How can I find an Alexandria Psychotherapist who takes my insurance?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for an Alexandria Psychotherapist 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 Psychotherapist in Alexandria?

Zocdoc is a free online service that helps patients find Psychotherapists in Alexandria and book appointments instantly. You can search for Alexandria Psychotherapists 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 Psychotherapist in Alexandria?

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


How can I find an Alexandria Psychotherapist who sees patients after hours?

On Zocdoc, you can search specifically for Alexandria Psychotherapists with availability after 5 p.m.


How can I find a top-rated Psychotherapist in Alexandria?

You can use Zocdoc to find Psychotherapists in Alexandria 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 Psychotherapist online in Alexandria?

Psychotherapists in Alexandria 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 Psychotherapists who offer video visits.


Are video visits with a Psychotherapist 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 Psychotherapists in Alexandria 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 Psychotherapist in Alexandria who sees patients in the morning or evening?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a Psychotherapist 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 Psychotherapist in Alexandria who sees patients during the weekend?

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


Who is a psychotherapist?

Psychotherapists are mental health practitioners who provide psychotherapy (i.e., talk therapy). Depending on their qualifications, they can be psychologists, counselors, social workers, psychiatrists, etc. During a talk therapy session, a psychotherapist guides thought-provoking and reflective conversations about the concern, helps patients understand their triggers, and enables them to develop healthy coping mechanisms. 


After completing their graduate school, psychotherapists must earn a doctoral degree to start practicing as therapists. Those who practice with only a master’s degree are generally considered counselors. Once they have attained a doctoral degree, psychotherapists must qualify for the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology. Lastly, they must acquire hands-on training under the supervision of a practitioner for about 1500 to 1600 hours.


A psychotherapist can perform various kinds of therapy, including:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT is used to identify and replace harmful behavior and thinking patterns that affect day-to-day functioning.
  • Dialectic behavioral therapy: This approach closely resembles CBT, but instead of addressing distressing thoughts, it focuses on assisting individuals in enhancing their emotional tolerance and regulation. In addition, it equips them with valuable skills to effectively manage their emotions.
  • Psychodynamic theory: This therapy is employed to treat childhood trauma by addressing unconscious thoughts and feelings.
  • Supportive therapy: By employing this approach, therapists leverage the patient’s supportive relationships to reduce anxiety, improve self-esteem, overcome triggers, etc. 
  • Interpersonal therapy: This therapy is typically short-term and enables you to communicate better, express your emotions, and identify interpersonal issues that may lie within.
  • Humanistic therapy: This form of therapy helps people realize their maximum potential by emphasizing the importance of free will, self-exploration, and self-actualization. Carl Rogers developed this branch of therapy in the 1950s. It involves therapists practicing a client-centered approach and offering their clients unconditional positive regard, which means showing them complete support and acceptance regardless of their thoughts and actions.  
  • Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy: Psychotherapists use this technique primarily with clients with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Using this technique, they help clients to recall a traumatic event while carrying out specific eye movements. The goal of EMDR is to substitute adverse reactions to difficult memories with positive ones. 
  • Exposure therapy: Psychotherapists use exposure therapy, a form of CBT, to treat anxiety disorders, PTSD, phobias, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Clients undergoing this therapy work with their therapist to identify what triggers their fears and learn various strategies for avoiding anxiety after being exposed to said triggers.
  • Emotion-focused therapy (EFT): EFT focuses on developing awareness about emotions and their role in mental well-being. It aims to equip people with strategies to regulate and resolve troubling emotions instead of suppressing them.


What is psychotherapy?

Psychotherapy helps patients cope with emotional difficulties or mental illnesses by aiding healing and eliminating or minimizing symptoms to ensure overall well-being. It can also work in combination with other therapies or medications. 


Psychotherapy can help with a range of different concerns, including:

  • Trauma
  • Grief or loss, like the death of a loved one 
  • Lack of confidence or low self-esteem
  • Depression, anxiety, or other mood disorders 
  • Addiction or substance abuse 
  • Struggle to cope with everyday life 
  • Relationship issues
  • Eating disorders (e.g., anorexia and bulimia nervosa)
  • Chronic pain
  • Stress 


A psychotherapist develops a therapeutic relationship with the patient during psychotherapy sessions. They build a constructive dialogue using various techniques and strategies. Psychotherapy can be carried out for individuals, couples, groups, and families. 


Psychotherapy is often the most suitable and affordable option for those who do not require psychotropic medication. It is important to note that psychotherapy is not only meant for those who have a mental illness. It can be highly beneficial to all individuals in improving communication skills, enhancing familial bonds, strengthening the ability to make healthier choices, developing self-affirming thinking patterns, and gaining insights about your life. 


What are mood disorders?

Talk therapy is commonly the go-to treatment for mood disorders. These are conditions where a person’s emotional state is distorted or inconsistent with the circumstances of their life. The gap is often such that it starts to interfere with the ability to function in everyday life. These feelings can range from extreme sadness to happiness to anxiety. Mood disorders are known to heighten the risk of self-harm and suicide significantly. 


Some common mood disorders are: 

  • Bipolar disorder: Patients often experience alternating periods of intense mood swings - between being depressed and intensely happy (mania). It is thus also called manic depression or affective bipolar disorder.
  • Cyclothymic disorder: This mood disorder also relates to highs and lows in an emotional state, less intense than bipolar disorder.
  • Major depressive disorder: This condition is marked by prolonged and persistent sadness. 
  • Premenstrual dysphoric disorder: This includes mood changes and irritability in women during their premenstrual stage. These subside once menses begin, i.e., menstrual flow begins. 
  • Depression due to other reasons: Depression is often also induced by other conditions or lifestyle choices. For example, loss of interest in day-to-day activities and a persistent depressive mood can be because of a chronic illness. Sometimes, depression is also experienced during or after substance abuse or even during withdrawal. 


Psychotherapy vs. psychiatry: What are the differences?

Although psychotherapy and psychiatry have many common features, the disciplines are fundamentally different due to the following reasons:

  • Focus: Psychotherapy focuses on managing different mental health conditions with the help of talk therapy. Conversely, psychiatry is a branch of medicine revolving around the biological aspects of mental disorders. Psychiatrists offer a more comprehensive range of treatments, which include talk therapy, medications, and other interventions.
  • Education: While psychotherapists have an advanced degree (PhD or PsyD) with a research component, psychiatrists are medical doctors (MD) or doctors of osteopathic medication (DO) focusing on mental health and illnesses. 
  • Prescriptive authority: Psychiatrists can prescribe medications because they are doctors but not psychotherapists. However, they can refer clients to psychiatrists if medication is necessary.  


Find a top-rated psychotherapist near you in Alexandria, Virginia

Since talk therapy requires one to open up and be vulnerable for it to be most effective, finding the right psychotherapist with whom you can have difficult conversations and still feel at ease can be a task. Achieving such ease can be challenging and only possible if the patient and psychotherapist share a rapport and are comfortable with each other. Knowing whether you can develop such a rapport with the psychotherapist is only possible once you know all the relevant details about them. In this search, you can trust Zocdoc, a website that helps you make informed healthcare-related decisions.


Using its user-friendly and easy-to-navigate interface, you can search for the best psychotherapist near you by entering the details of your area or symptoms. Once you do that, a list of practitioners will appear. By browsing through this, you can learn about a psychotherapist’s areas of expertise, educational qualifications, clinical experience, and licensure. You can also learn about the psychotherapist's awards, accreditations, ratings and whether they treat children, the languages they speak, the insurance plans they accept, etc.


After you have browsed to your satisfaction and created a shortlist, you can make a final decision by relying on reviews left by previous patients. These are continually verified by Zocdoc and are thus trustworthy. Once you have decided upon the psychotherapist near you of your choice, you can book an in-person or virtual appointment directly via Zocdoc. 


All appointment bookings are 100% free and secure.


Mental health statistics in Alexandria, Virginia

As per the Virginia Youth Survey conducted by the Virginia Department of Health, in 2019, around 32% of high schoolers in Virginia reported sadness or hopelessness for two or more consecutive weeks. Nearly 39% of those had contemplated attempting suicide. Three out of every ten students revealed that they rarely or never received appropriate care in times of distress. About 40% of such children also confirmed engaging in self-harming behavior.


The state stood 21st on the youth rankings for 2022, as concluded by Mental Health America. This rank indicates that Virginia has a moderate prevalence of mental disorders as well as access to care. In 2021, approximately 16% of individuals aged between 12 and 17 years had at least one major depressive episode. About 3.7% of them accepted using drugs and other substances.


Sources

American Psychiatric Association 

Verywell Mind[1]

Verywell Mind[2] 

Mayo Clinic

WebMD

Virginia Department of Health

Mental Health America

Medical News Today[1]

Medical News Today[2]


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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