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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 07/31/2026
Availability last updated 07/31/2026
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 55 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Greetings, I am a newly licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Virginia. I earned my Master of Social Work from the University of Southern California and have accumulated 12 years of experience in the field. My focus is on assisting older adults and their families to become more psychologic...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 43 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Hello! I am Dr. Paula or Dr. Robinson. I am a dedicated and compassionate Licensed Mental Health Counselor based in Florida and Licensed Professional Counselor via telehealth for clients in Arizona and Virginia. I am a Black woman of faith who is also a veteran of the United States Army Reserves. I ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.86
·7 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 55 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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My name is Lydia Peters, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker . I've worked in many different settings with different populations of people. I possess a vast amount of experience with the elderly along with individuals living with developmental disability, traumatic brain injury (TBI), mental ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·3 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)
4.87
·15 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 55 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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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: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·14 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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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: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 58 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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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)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Cigna
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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"Do you often feel like you're carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders? Maybe you're the person everyone depends on, yet you're struggling with anxiety, stress, grief, relationship challenges, or feeling lost during a major life transition. If so, you're not alone, and you don't have to n...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Cigna
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Alejandro is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who earned his Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Johns Hopkins University. More importantly, he brings a warm, grounded, and genuinely human presence into the therapy room. Clients often describe him as approachable, easy t...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 55 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am a dedicated Clinical Licensed Social Worker with over four years of experience empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges and achieve their full potential. My work focuses on supporting men, women, and young adults as they navigate life’s difficulties and embrace growth. Through evi...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·6 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 58 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Welcome! My name is Marian Robinson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Virginia, Maryland, and the District of Columbia with over 20 years of professional mental health experience. I have experience in helping clients with low motivation, relationship is...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 17 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Specializing in identity development and substance use treatment, I work with young people and adults as a Resident in Counseling to help them develop the capacity to fully experience their emotions, and to learn from the powerful wisdom those emotions carry. Whether you're navigating mental health ...Click to read more
Next available: today
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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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
·5 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 51 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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With 18 years of experience as a therapist, I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life's challenges with compassion, practical support, and evidence-based care. My approach is warm, caring, and down-to-earth. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel comfortable ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.88
·17 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 57 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time · Expertise in depression ·
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I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Maryland, specializing in mental health. I am qualified to work with all ages, but I have a particular passion for working with the elderly. I love supporting couples who suffer from PTSD, depression, anxiet...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 55 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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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: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 55 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
I practice from a client-centered approach that allows me to foster an environment of compassion, empathy, and support. During sessions, I use a collaborative approach and a variety of evidence-based techniques to help you achieve your goals. I believe that the therapeutic process is a journey of he...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.89
·9 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 58 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
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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: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.78
·9 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 53 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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As a Therapist/Life Coach and owner of Journeys of Life Therapeutic Resources, I'm passionate about helping individuals transition into their best selves. With an MEd in Community Counseling from Georgia Southern University, I approach my work as a "transitioner," rather than a traditional therapist...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.94
·16 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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As a licensed clinical social worker with a Master’s in Social Work from The University of Alabama, I am committed to collecting evidence-based "tools for my toolbox" to aid those grappling with finding a new normal after their world has shifted. I love helping people find language to describe their...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
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: Sun, Aug 2
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: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with experience in youth residential treatment, adult PHP/IOP programs, and outpatient therapy for all ages since 2022. I provide a supportive, collaborative space where clients can build skills, overcome challenges, and achieve meaningful growth. I also have e...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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I am a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Virginia, dedicated to helping individuals move from feeling overwhelmed or stuck toward a more grounded and intentional life. I work with adolescents and adults who are navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship challenges, stress,...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Aug 2
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.69
·13 reviews
Excellent. Great listening and good advice. I can’t wait for my next appointment. - Apr 13, 2024 by Monica S.Click 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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Hi! My name is Dr. Vicki Carter. I earned my PsyD in Counseling Psychology from Capella University in 2008. I specialize in trauma, mood, and personality disorders. I have twenty years of integrative counseling experience. Integrative care means treating the whole person instead of individual aspect...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 + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
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)
4.79
·14 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 55 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
By developing a deep understanding of both the human condition and each individualized client, I've learned to identify and address the source of the pain that leads folks to the counseling process. I earned my Master's in Counseling from Wake Forest University, which has further equipped me to supp...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.80
·10 reviews
She was awesome - Nov 16, 2023 by Caleb H.Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
I enjoy working with people to help them build a strong sense of self, encourage their confidence in relationships, and foster a sense of calm and security in their everyday life. I also find fulfillment in helping parents navigate the many challenges that come our way. I believe people seek therapy...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.88
·8 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Chinelo Okpalobi is a Licensed Mental Health Therapist with over 11 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. Let's celebrate this first win of many, deciding to embark on your therapy journey. I'm here to be your teammate, but most importantly, your acco...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
I’m a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) with a focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). As a cognitive-behavioral therapist, I specialize in helping individuals understand the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Through evidence-based techniques, I work with clients ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·6 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 58 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Hi! My name is Auria, and I am an LCSW with a Master's in Social Work from the University of North Carolina Greensboro. I have been in the field of social work for over 15 years. I currently work in both hospital and jail settings. In the hospital, I address discharge needs, while in the jail, I res...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·3 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 50 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Hi! I'm Alexis and I am glad you are here. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor in the DMV with over 12 years of experience and I've worked with individuals navigating a wide range of concerns from anxiety and relationship trauma to life transitions and unexpected turns. I’ve earned a Master's in ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
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
Life can be hard. Getting along with family members can seem impossible. Relationships can explode and leave you questioning everything. People may question whether their experiences were traumatic, especially after right after a traumatizing event or within complicated family relationships. It's h...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.75
·12 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 55 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Virginia. I received my Master's in Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University. I have worked in behavioral health and healthcare arenas for over thirty years, including experience in oncology, hospice care, and all aspects of providing social s...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·4 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 51 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Hello! My name is Erin. Do you feel stuck? Are you struggling to get through the day? I help individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, substance use disorders, ADHD, trauma, stress, and more. Together, we will identify goals and take steps to help you reach them. We will u...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.75
·24 reviews
Very helpful and attentiveClick to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 45 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time · Expertise in depression ·
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I live in the Hampton Roads section of Virginia with my son and our dogs. I enjoy spending time at the beach or in the water somewhere, hiking, reading, and traveling. I have been a licensed clinical social worker for over 20 years and have worked in the field of mental health both, in-patient and ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.86
·7 reviews
Jesse was kind and listened. I am hoping that in my subsequent appointments to get strategies to help with family dynamics and pressures of my daughter's wedding and possibly changing my job. by Shruti S.Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Hey there! I'm Jessie! Do you feel like you're carrying a bunch of unnecessary thought baggage around? Like your destination is the beach in life, but for some reason you keep bringing a parka that doesn't fit anymore though you think it still does? Or do you feel like you're down in the dumps and ...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 ·
Read bio
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
I am a licensed psychotherapist dedicated to providing compassionate, collaborative, and evidence-based care. I create a supportive, interactive environment where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered. My approach is tailored to each individual’s unique needs, utilizing proven therapeutic tec...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hello, I'm Katina Davis, LCSW, Founder and Clinical Director of Glover Therapeutic and Consulting Services, LLC. My passion is helping adults navigate life's challenges with confidence, resilience, and hope, while prioritizing mental health. At Glover Therapeutic and Consulting Services, LLC, I pro...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
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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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