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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 04/21/2026
Availability last updated 04/21/2026
Psychotherapist
2 mi · 700 W Braddock Rd, Alexandria, VA 22302
Accepting new patients ·
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The Apostle Paul said “each of us has one body with many members” (Romans 12:4-5). In a similar fashion, Willi Dalaba, LCSW, sees people composed of different parts that make up the whole. Physical, mental, emotional and spiritual all combine to make up an individual. A good counselor, she believes,...Click to read more
Next available: today
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.71
·21 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 + 66 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: Thu, Apr 23
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.98
·49 reviews
Just began seeing Nefertari and she is great! Scheduling is easy and her bedside manner is great. - Jul 16, 2024Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 69 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Hi ! I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor and Nationally Certified Counselor based in Virginia. I received my Masters from Northwestern University and have been practicing for 9 years. I help people who have been stuck and struggling with various challenges from anxiety, trauma and abuse, stress, w...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.80
·5 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 69 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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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)
4.78
·9 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 69 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)
5.00
·1 review
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 69 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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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 five years. My approach to therapy comes from a place of validation and hope: believing that y...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.86
·14 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 68 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
"You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think," — Christopher Robin. Hi there, I am Stephanie. Counseling can be a positive and life-changing experience. I hold a Master’s in Counseling from South University, and I strive to bring an effective blend of exper...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·24 reviews
Our first session was very smooth and easy. All of the butterflies in my stomach was set at ease after a few minutes of talking, and for that I'm grateful.Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 68 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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I am a Virginia-based Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with 7 years of experience. I earned my Master's degree from Troy State University in Alabama. I provide individual and couples therapy, focusing on resolving functionally impairing issues related to anxiety, relationships, mood disorders, ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·3 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 68 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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**My hours are early, 6 am-1130 am EST t-f, mondays and Wed are later times** Hello! I'm Robert, and I want to commend you for taking the courageous step towards bettering yourself through therapy. As a licensed therapist in Arizona and Virginia with 6 years of professional experience, I have had t...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·3 reviews
- Jan 25, 2026 by Luke J.Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 71 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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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: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 61 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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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: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I'm bilingual independent Clinical social worker with background public health. Working in physical and mental health sector for about 17 years. I specifically working on mental health therapy for the last 6 years. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them increase self-awareness, understa...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.50
·2 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 69 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 15 years of experience providing mental health services to youth and adults. I am committed to promoting equitable access to quality mental health care. My areas of specialization include depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship concerns, and stress ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.74
·23 reviews
Very helpful and attentiveClick to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 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)
4.75
·99 reviews
Provider was great but the apps signal kept going in and out which caused some feedback issues - Nov 11, 2022 by Kaia J.Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 53 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
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Welcome, I'm glad you are here! I'm Aline, and I empower you to reconnect with your authentic self and achieve your goals in counseling. I believe you already possess within you the capacity and resources to resolve your own issues and just need support in therapy to tap into your strengths and enh...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·6 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 68 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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I have over 15 years of experience working with diverse populations in the mental health field, including adolescents, adults, military service members, veterans, and individuals struggling with substance abuse. I hold a Master's in Social Work from Walden University, which has equipped me with the ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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We all have the opportunity in our life to start fresh. During the journey, we change, grow, heal, destroy, and can improve our lives. You will experience difficulties, and you are not alone. We are not alone in this world, but we are compelled to isolate ourselves from the fear of experiencing too ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 69 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Welcome. As your therapist, I hold dear the opportunity to share your life story and personal growth with you. I will have high regard for you as a person. I will show up and provide the best possible service from my knowledge base and studies. I utilize an person centered approach to therapy. I wi...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 69 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Virginia. I am also a Christian and a Veteran. I received my Master’s in Social Work from the University of Southern California and have experience working with a range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and Post Traumatic Stres...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, UnitedHealthcare Oxford + 13 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Virginia with 12 years of experience supporting clients facing a variety of mental health disorders and life stressors, including anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, life transitions, family conflicts, and chronic illness. In therapy,...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·7 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 65 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Isoke Griffin, an LPC with years of experience, has gained knowledge at South University and through invaluable experiences in education and therapeutic settings. Early in her career, she knew her work would involve supporting others. Isoke enjoys working with individuals, couples, and families, hel...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.91
·22 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Hi, my name is Craig. I'm going to go out on a limb and guess "something" isn't OK. That "something" may be new or it may have been around for quite some time. You might be able to describe that "something" perfectly, or maybe you don't know what that "something" is, but you know you are just feelin...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 + 71 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)
4.67
·61 reviews
Dr. Efraim is kind and thoughtful and has a wonderful beside manner with his clients - Jan 24, 2022 by Liz G.Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 65 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
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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: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.82
·11 reviews
- Oct 20, 2025 by Giovanni B.Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 71 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)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 68 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hello, I’m Anita Wiles, LCSW, a licensed clinical social worker based in Richmond, Virginia. With over three decades of experience in individual therapy, I am proud to provide compassionate and professional care to clients throughout Virginia. I earned my Master of Social Work (MSW) from Virginia C...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 72 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the Commonwealth of Virginia and a Licensed Independent Social Worker in the State of Ohio. I am a compassionate therapist specializing in anxiety, mood disorders, and trauma. My approach integrates evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Thera...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.89
·19 reviews
Had a great session with Dr. Grenn. Felt good to be able to talk about things that I’ve been going through without feeling judged, and to also be met with solution oriented feedback. - Jun 28, 2025 by Caleb D.Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 71 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
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I have been working with individuals struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder, substance use, sexual addiction, and mental health challenges for the past ten years. I have a real heart to walk alongside you to encourage, support, and empower you to move forward in your recovery needs. I gradua...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 69 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hello. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Virginia. I received my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University and have been practicing for six years. I often help adults facing many life challenges, which may include severe trauma, domestic violence, or los...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·3 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 65 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Hello, there! It takes a lot of courage to recognize that something feels off in your life and to be ready to reach out, feel heard, learn self-love, and heal. I believe that we heal when we are truly heard, and I would be honored to be that person for you as we collaborate to find both relief and...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.97
·97 reviews
She listened. She asjed all of the right questions to help me talk. - Mar 29, 2024 by Tonya B.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: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.67
·3 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 68 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: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.71
·7 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 69 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
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)
4.97
·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: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Yes I would most definitely go back. She is a great listener. She allows you to express yourself and your thoughts with NO interruptions or judgements. - Apr 9, 2026 by Tia N.Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 68 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
I am a licensed therapist dedicated to helping adults navigate lifes challenges with clarity, confidence, and compassion. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive space where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences without judgment. I believe everyone has the capacity for growt...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 68 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Hello, My name is Jennifer Bardon, and I am an LCSW. I have been in the field for five years. I primarily work full-time with children, young adults, and adults with developmental disabilities. I have studied CBT and am working on becoming certified in different therapeutic modalities. Although I ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 68 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I am a licensed professional counselor in Virginia with over 10 years experience. I help mothers and new parents with managing the transitions, demands, and challenges of pregnancy and parenthood in order to show up in the best way for themselves and their loved ones. I also assist clients with unde...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 69 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Yvette is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in VA and FL, with over 20 years of experience working with children, families, and adults. She has gained valuable experience in mental health through various state agencies and community-based programs. Yvette is a Red Cross Mental Health Volunteer and i...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 68 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I am a black male with a post graduate degree in clinical metal health and behavior therapy that has experience providing services from case management towards the SMI population as well as provided services to those involved in legal requirements. Currently I work as a Senior Therapist for governme...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 67 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Hi Im Alexis, a licensed professional counselor in Maryland and Virginia. I have 12 years of experience working with individuals with a variety of concerns. I believe our mental & wellbeing begins with meeting our most basic needs such as food, water, shelter and understanding our emotional needs su...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.