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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 09/09/2026
Availability last updated 09/09/2026
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 17 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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As a Resident in Counseling, I help children, adolescents, and adults navigate emotional challenges, strengthen relationships, and improve their overall well-being, with particular focus on anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. No matter what you’re facing, I meet you with empathy, auth...Click to read more
Next available: today
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 17 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I specialize in working with adults (18+) experiencing issues with anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, relationships, couples and family dynamics, stress management, and more. I believe therapy should be a collaborative process that empowers you...Click to read more
Next available: today
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 17 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Taking the first step toward support is something to be proud of, and you don't have to take it alone. I’m dedicated to helping adults and older adolescents navigate life's mental and emotional challenges, including stress management, life transitions, relationship concerns, self-esteem issues, perf...Click to read more
Next available: today
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·3 reviews
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 provide an organized and easy to follow process using EMDR to address the difficulties my clients are facing and help them achieve the outcomes they are looking for. I provide a calm and accepting presence for my clients as they tackl...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.85
·13 reviews
Michael is an amazing professional. I appreciate the listening. - Aug 14, 2026 by Christopher J.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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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 + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am Shannon Shackford, a licensed therapist. Welcome, I'm so glad you're here. Taking the first step toward therapy is a powerful act of self-care, and I want to acknowledge the strength it takes to explore support. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, navigating big life changes, or simply n...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 Tawanna Pollock, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to helping adolescents, adults, and families improve their emotional well-being. My practice provides a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where clients can process life challenges, develop healthy coping skills, and achi...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
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)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 43 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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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
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Cigna + 4 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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When life feels heavy, confusing, or harder to manage than it used to, having the right support can make all the difference. I began working in the mental health field 20 years ago after earning my undergraduate degree from Averett University, and later returned to school to earn my Master’s in Coun...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Cigna + 4 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am passionate about helping people. I enjoy seeing growth, change, and seeing my patients identify hidden potentials. I enjoy seeing my patients being comfortable to express themselves during sessions. I believe that most of what one needs to conquer this life is built within. I specialize in help...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
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 Social Worker (LCSW) based in Virginia. I received my Masters from Radford University in 2016 and have been practicing for about 10 years. I help adults and teenagers who are struggling with different issues such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship i...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.80
·5 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 56 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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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: Fri, Sep 11
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.94
·18 reviews
Dr. K is compassionate and caring. She is a great listener. I appreciate her patience working with my spouse and I. by Jasmine B.Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 51 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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My practice assists clients across North America who are impacted by a range of concerns including trauma, anxiety, and depression through a racially sensitive treatment approach. We also work with clients seeking to improve their relationships with themselves and others by helping them understand a...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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My name is Bradley Thomas. In many ways, I am just like you. I have worked, raised a family, battled physical challenges, had good relationships and had relationships fall apart. I continue to strive towards living my best life. I bring this same passion for life into our therapy sessions and consid...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.98
·50 reviews
Super nice and great listener. I will definitely see her again - Feb 5, 2025 by Diane B.Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 55 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)
4.90
·10 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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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: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.75
·99 reviews
I am definitely going back! I love how welcoming and how easy to talk to she was. Looking forward to my next session! - Aug 1, 2022 by Marquetta H.Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 51 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)
4.85
·13 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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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: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.88
·8 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield + 42 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hello. I am Dr. C. Thank you so much for being here! You are not here by accident, and I do not take your presence for granted. I'm thrilled to meet you on this journey. Your decision to seek support is a powerful one, and I'm here to walk this path with you. I bring over a decade of experience wor...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·27 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 + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
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
·1 review
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 17 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Hi! I'm Jillian Moskal, a dedicated Licensed Master's Social Worker (LMSW) licensed in New York, Illinois, and Virginia, with a strong foundation in psychology and education. My specialties include executive functioning and school avoidance behaviors, anxiety, perinatal and postpartum concerns, ADHD...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·5 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 58 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
I am excited about the success my clients have accomplished. It is their discovery that is most interesting: for example, it is possible to change personality even though we have always been told it never happens! We approach this by exploring emotions that form the building blocks of personality. I...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Cigna + 4 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi, I’m Krystal. From an early age, I’ve felt a strong calling to help others, and that passion continues to guide my work today. I earned my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in May 2020, after completing my Bachelor’s in Human Services. With over 10 years of experience supportin...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield + 43 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am a First-Gen multilingual therapist supporting children, adolescents, adults, and families through life’s challenges. I integrate play therapy, family therapy, trauma-informed care, and attachment-based therapy.I am BIPOC and LGBTQIA+-affirming that has lived on five continents, served in the Pe...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Cigna + 4 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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My name is Angela and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I believe in finding the strengths in everyone. I have a lot of life experience that I bring with me, so making a connection and building rapport is usually pretty easy. I have no judgment and I am open to all kinds of situations that peo...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hello, and welcome. I'm Andrea Jackson, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LICSW, LCSW) and Perinatal Mental Health Certified (PMH-C) therapist with over a decade of experience supporting individuals through life's challenges. I am licensed to provide therapy in the District of Columbia, New York, U...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Great to meet you! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Virginia with a PhD in Counseling & Supervision, currently accepting new virtual clients for private practice. I provide warm, practical, and insight-oriented therapy for adults navigating anxiety, stress, life transitions, crisis, tr...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I believe that every person has the capacity for growth, healing, and meaningful change when they are met with compassion, respect, and genuine understanding. My approach to therapy is grounded in Person-Centered Therapy, creating a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard,...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 43 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I graduated from George Mason University's Master of Social Work program in 2022 and began my journey toward my clinical licensure soon after, which I received in February of 2026. I have been working with clients ages 9+ in the mental health field for 3 years. I work with clients from a wide variet...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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I have been practicing in the field for over 10 years. I have co-facilitated men’s group, spoken at conferences, adolescent consults and individual therapy. I use a lot of Cognitive behavioral therapy which means will process triggers, emotions, hobbies, good times , coping skills and any event that...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 43 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master of Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University with 13 years of experience in the field of mental health. I have a history working with adults and adolescents in the community mental health and hospital settings. I have worked with clients m...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 44 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am a relational trauma therapist who has experience working with people from all kinds of different backgrounds. I specialize in the nuances of Complex Relational Trauma, helping clients deconstruct the impact of childhood neglect, abuse, or psychological misattunement. Whether you are seeking a s...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 43 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Sometimes when life happens, we are left with feelings of frustration, confusion, sadness or anger. Then, we face the challenge of moving on, getting by, grieving, and coping. Identifying a problem and a need for help are difficult and necessary first steps towards getting "unstuck", healing and rec...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 ·
Read bio
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Virginia. I received my graduate training at Smith College School for Social Work in a clinically focused program. I believe that here is hope in the process of self-discovery. You are responsible for your process of change and the power of healing lie...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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Hello, I am Dr. Patricia Profit, a PhD graduate of Amridge University. I find it rewarding to help others develop and maintain healthy relationships, overcome negative thoughts, grow spiritually, and effectively manage their lives. As a Christian, I believe a spiritual perspective is important in co...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield + 42 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)
4.87
·15 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 72 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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The provider is a “Marriage & Family Therapist" and their license number is 37FI00225600 I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 12 years of experience. My specialties include psychosomatic illnesses, relationships, and career counseling. I earned my Bachelor's degree in Child Psycho...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.88
·8 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 53 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hello, My name is Natalie Lewis and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Florida, Georgia, Virginia, and the U. S. Virgin Islands. My educational background is in psychology, marriage and family therapy, and industrial organizational psychology. I specialize in providing cou...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.85
·13 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 55 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
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: 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. 


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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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