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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 10/20/2026
Availability last updated 10/20/2026
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 16 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Whether it’s grief, trauma, perfectionism, or relationship issues, I’m here to help you with the heavy stuff. I use a blend of narrative therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help children, teens, and adults find peace and meaning when faced with problems that may be outside of thei...Click to read more
Next available: today
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 16 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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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)
3.00
·2 reviews
- no instructions sent before hand. - no show! very disappointing - Sep 25, 2026 by Kathleen S.Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 16 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Whether you're feeling stuck in a difficult life transition, uncertain about how to move forward in a relationship, or simply searching for a greater sense of balance and confidence, I'm here to help you find your footing. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I specialize in depression, self...Click to read more
Next available: today
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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Welcome! I'm a Licensed Professional Therapist serving clients throughout Northern Virginia. I earned my Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Marymount University in Arlington, Virginia. My passion for helping others led me to the counseling profession, with early experience working in...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)
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)
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: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·7 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 58 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Hi, I'm Taylor. I'm so glad you're here. It’s no small thing making the decision to sign up to talk to a stranger about the overwhelming and very often draining circumstances that you’re in. I want to highlight how much being on this site, and looking through profiles is such a significant step towa...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·4 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield + 42 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)
5.00
·1 review
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield + 41 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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I'm a licensed therapist with over 10 years of experience supporting individuals across a wide range of mental health needs. I've worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings, which allows me to bring a comprehensive, well-rounded perspective to my work with clients. My passion lies in helping p...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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Hi, I’m Dr. Noel Clarke, DSW, LCSW, a licensed clinical social worker with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field. Through my practice, Bridge 2 Empowerment, I provide a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where individuals can feel heard, understood, and empowered. I specializ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 49 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hello, I am Dr. Carrington L. Chatham, a clinical social worker with over ten years of experience working in various settings, including community mental health, acute psychiatric care, and veteran affairs. I am dedicated to serving a diverse clientele, including individuals struggling with trauma, ...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 Michael Muldoon, LCSW, and I have been working in the field, primarily as a therapist in various mental health treatment settings, for 6 years. I have worked primarily with patients with mood disorders, such as Anxiety, Depression, and Bipolar disorder, but also have experience working wi...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 43 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi! I'm Veronica, a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW-C) with over 12 years of experience providing therapy. Many of us yearn for a sense of peace, connection, and well-being in our lives. However, life circumstances and internal struggles can often hinder our ability to experience these deeply ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 49 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the states of Florida, Virginia, Illinois and Massachusetts , with experience working with children, adolescents, families, and adults. I specialize in supporting individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, and relationship c...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 42 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi, I’m Daicy Soares, LICSW, LCSW, a licensed clinical social worker dedicated to creating a supportive, nonjudgmental space where clients feel comfortable being themselves. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and practical, with a focus on helping clients navigate anxiety, depression, trau...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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As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I bring a thoughtful, straightforward approach to helping adults navigate life's challenges. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, stress, or major life transitions, I provide a supportive environment where insight and practica...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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I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Substance Abuse Counselor with experience supporting individuals facing mental health concerns, substance use, trauma, relationship stress, codependency, and life transitions. I provide a compassionate, trauma-informed, and practical approach to t...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 Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 42 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am a licensed psychotherapist and also a board certified Drama Therapist . For 40 years I've applied the ARTS to my therapy practices. I've worked for social justice in east Africa and Romania as well as Charlottesville Virginia . I've helped people from all walks of life, all ages, genders, and ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·3 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 16 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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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
·2 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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I'm Jen. Before I was a therapist, I taught yoga out of a van across Wyoming, in barns and community centers and small-town gyms. Most of the people who showed up would never have called what they needed therapy. That taught me something I still rely on: the language was never the point. You don't n...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
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Are you fighting anxiety, depression, profound life transitions like grief and loss, career shifts, addiction, or a newly diagnosed chronic/autoimmune medical condition? Hi, I'm Raisa, an LCSW and VCU graduate specializing in anxiety, depressive disorders, and the mental impact of medical trauma. Ha...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)
5.00
·2 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield + 42 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Hello! My name is Meredith. I am an LPC, and have been in private practice since 2021. I am deeply passionate about what I do and I'm so glad to be getting started on Grow. As a therapist, I intentionally try to bring my most genuine and authentic self to my clients. I know how crucial this is as th...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)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 43 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)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 57 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Glimmer—verb: shine faintly with a wavering light. It is my most sincere belief that everyone deserves to live a life they enjoy living. I believe the ability to indulge in this is already inside you. As your therapist, I am here to simply help you uncover and source what is already there. I invite ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.61
·62 reviews
Great listener. He has helped my husband to reconnect . - Jun 20, 2024Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 50 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)
4.85
·13 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 55 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi, I’m Liz Serens, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia. I support individual adults navigating anxiety, Attention-Deficit–related disorders (including ADHD), identity exploration, stress, and life transitions. My style is collaborative and emotionally attuned, offering a steady, nonjudgme...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.88
·8 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in Virgina. I am completing my Ph. D. in Psychology and Counseling with an emphasis in trauma and crisis. I have facilitated therapeutic practices with children through geriatric clients in my 30+ year career. I enjoy working with veterans, women's and me...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·3 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 59 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Olushola Abiodun Lawal, known as Shola, was born and raised in South Florida. He is a Florida State University alumnus, graduating with a Bachelor's and Master's in Social Work in 2013 and 2015, respectively. During his time at FSU, he developed an interest in substance abuse, child welfare, mental ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 56 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)
4.72
·18 reviews
Good listener. Care-filled, experienced advise. - May 13, 2025 by Lynn F.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, I'm Barbara! I'm a warm-hearted and compassionate soul and have been working in the mental health field for over 20 years. I've worked with both children and adults. I'm happiest when I'm helping others find real, solid, meaningful, and/or tangible solutions to their issues and problems. I'm a "...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.75
·16 reviews
This was my 1st time attempting to speak to a therapist. Never got a chamber to talk to her or no communication. - Nov 28, 2025 by Rebecca L.Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 61 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Born and raised in the inner city by a single mother and a large extended family, I noticed that the needs of those who were mentally or physically diagnosed were often not met. This inspired me to inquire about what I needed to do to be part of the solution. I began working in the field and have ne...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.50
·6 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi there, I'm Kwame! Licensed professional counselor in the state of Virginia. I have 9 years of experience in treating anxiety, trauma, and depression. Whether you are dealing with stress, anxiety, relationship challenges and/or simply feeling stuck. Seeking therapy can be anxiety-provoking I seek...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·28 reviews
Carolyn was kind, supportive, and a fantastic listener. She has a way of making you feel comfortable and listened to. Would absolutely recommend! - May 7, 2026 by Emily S.Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 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)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Cigna + 4 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi, I’m glad you’re here. Starting therapy can feel like a lot, so I focus on building a down-to-earth space where you can just be yourself and speak freely. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with 8 years of experience working with clients across the lifespan, and my practice primarily fo...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 42 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I'm a queer, trans, and neurodivergent Egyptian therapist experienced in working with LGBTQIA+ adults and adolescents. Although I take immense pride in these labels and in my communities, my therapeutic approach does not expect you to fit yourself neatly into any boxes. Instead, my role is to help y...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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