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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 11/09/2026
Availability last updated 11/09/2026
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Let us de-stigmatize mental health: people seek oil changes to keep their car running and annual teeth cleanings as part of their medical hygiene and routine. Mental health therapy can be seen as an emotional tune-up. There is no shame in seeking help or support. If you are looking to process or wor...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Nov 12
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: Wed, Nov 11
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: Wed, Nov 11
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·3 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 55 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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My passion lies in helping others find solutions to their problems and live happier, more productive lives. I am a graduate of the University of Maryland, Baltimore, with a Master's in Social Work (MSW) in Clinical Social Work, and I hold a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and Criminal Justice from t...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Nov 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·29 reviews
Amazing experience! I felt heard and seen! - Jun 10, 2024 by raleigh L.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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I have been providing outpatient therapy to individuals, couples, and families since 2019; prior to that, I worked as an intensive in-home counselor and ABA therapist for ten years while I obtained my master's degree and completed my residency. As much as I enjoy seeing my clients in person, I hav...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Nov 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.88
·8 reviews
Deborah is so gentle, understanding and effective when it comes to our interactions. She listens so well and has a valid response to a lot of my issues. - Mar 5, 2024 by Justin L.Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare + 10 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
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I am a clinical social worker bringing a lifetime of experience to my work, helping clients identify what's working and what's not; what is going well, and what they would like to change. I am a creative problem solver and excel at helping people get unstuck! I use my experience as a teacher, a huma...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Nov 11
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·5 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 55 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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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: Thu, Nov 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·7 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield + 42 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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I have extensive experience working with individuals, couples, families, and military service members. Many of my clients tell me they feel stressed coming into therapy but find they are able to relax and actually come to enjoy the process. My counseling background, including a Master’s in Counselin...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Nov 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Welcome. I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor who helps adults navigate identity exploration across the lifespan, major life transitions, and the deeper questions that shape who we become. I specialize in anxiety disorders—including OCD and panic—eating disorders, grief, and the challenges that ari...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Nov 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 55 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Hello, My core belief is that all people are created equal; therefore, everyone has equal right to leave to their fullest potential. I earned my master's in social work from University of Maryland, School of Social Work, Baltimore, MD in 2010. I have Licensed Certified Social Worker - Clinical (LCS...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Nov 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 51 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counsellor (LPC) based in Virginia. I help adults in various phases of their life become the best versions of themselves. If I told you that you could live a happy and fulfilled life would you be interested? We are constantly battling the game of life with new stresso...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Nov 11
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Cigna + 4 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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My name is Lillian Gebert. I have been in practice as a therapist for 14 plus years and consider myself a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist with experience treating various types of mental health disorder including substance abuse disorder/dual diagnosis. I am very compassionate, empathic and caring, k...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Nov 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 43 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 25 years of experience working with children and adults. I have primarily worked within school systems as an on-site therapist; as well as in my own private practice. I work with people who have a variety of concerns, including: trauma, attachment, gr...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Nov 11
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I'm a licensed therapist with 17+ years who specializes in trauma/PTSD, sexual trauma, intimate partner abuse, anxiety, depression, grief & loss, and anger management. I have experience working with active duty military/veterans and first responders. My goal is to create a safe and supportive, nonju...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Nov 12
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 Professional Counselor with experience working with children, adolescents, and adults across a variety of settings, including outpatient counseling, schools, crisis services, and inpatient behavioral health. I believe that therapy should be a place where you feel comfortable showing ...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Nov 11
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.89
·28 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I'm a Bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, with 19 years of clinical experience, 15 years licensed within private practice. I consider myself to be bicultural. Having been raised as a first-generation American in a Latin family, I can identify wi...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Nov 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 55 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over four years of experience helping adults overcome life's challenges and discover hope, healing, and lasting change. I work with adults ages 18–64 experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, life transitions, self-esteem concerns, relationship chal...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Nov 12
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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Let’s sail to wholeness! My name is Ja’Keil Gilchrist, LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor). In my experience as a mental health professional, I have seen a lot but a common theme in individuals served has been feelings of brokenness: and the need to heal in a safe setting. I have discovered that o...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Nov 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·17 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Hi, I'm Eva. Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, tired, and just not as active in your life as you would like to be? Do you find it challenging to keep up with everyday activities? Do you seem to forget to take care of yourself because everybody else comes before you? I help people like you ...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Nov 11
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.91
·11 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield + 41 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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I provide a warm, judgment-free healing atmosphere for clients that focuses on support and growth. In addition to my training in evidence-based therapies, I also utilize an intuitive counseling approach. I work with clients seeking to resolve issues related to childhood trauma, self-esteem, depressi...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Nov 11
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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Hi there! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Alabama, providing services to individuals living in Louisiana, Texas, and Virginia. I earned my Master's in Social Work from Tulane University and have been practicing for over 6 years. My practice focuses on healing clients dealing wi...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Nov 13
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 55 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hello, my name is Crystal. Are you depressed? Have anxiety? But you don’t know the root cause? I provide a safe and therapeutic environment and will guide you on your journey to understanding your feelings, thoughts, actions and relationships and how to grow. For the past 13 years, I have counseled ...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Nov 11
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.67
·3 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 55 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW, DSW) based in Virginia with over 15 years of experience working with adolescents and their families. I help teens who are struggling with emotional regulation, anxiety, behavioral concerns, self-esteem, and life transitions. I also support parents and...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Nov 11
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.79
·154 reviews
Very comfortable to work with and speak to. She was very kind and a great listener and offered lots of helpful insight.Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 53 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Dr. KaShanda Ray is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia with two decades of experience working with teens and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, adjustment issues, and managing stress. Dr. Ray has worked in both community agencies and higher education, providing counselin...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Nov 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.75
·8 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
A holistic whole-person approach to care grounded in mindfulness. Hello and a warm welcome to you, I'm Karre, she/her. Life can hold both beauty and awe, as well as moments that feel overwhelming, chaotic, heavy, or even traumatic. You don't have to navigate those times alone-I'm here to listen and...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Nov 11
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 51 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Virginia. I specialize in helping adults navigate the challenges of anxiety, depression, and life transitions. With a compassionate and person-centered approach, I work collaboratively with individuals to understand their unique struggles and develop ...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Nov 11
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: Wed, Nov 11
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·5 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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My name is Jennifer Bailey. I am a licensed clinical social worker and registered drama therapist. I earned my Master's in Social Work from the University of Chicago and my Bachelor's degree from Ohio State University. I support my clients in their desire to identify and achieve goals that allow the...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Nov 23
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.95
·21 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 51 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Hello, I’m Krystie, a Licensed Professional Counselor. I work with individuals who feel overwhelmed by their thoughts, uncertain in their decision-making, or unfulfilled in their relationships, careers, or personal lives. Many clients come to therapy feeling stuck in patterns of negative thinking, e...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Nov 11
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.95
·21 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 58 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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I'm so glad you're here and seeking support! I'm Kelley, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Clinical Adventure Therapist with a Master's in Social Work from Barry University. With over 21 years of practical, clinical experience, I've had the privilege of working with a broad population ...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Nov 11
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.94
·16 reviews
Wonderful therapist. She is kind, a fantastic listener, and put me immediately ease with strategies for tackling my issues and affirmation for my lived experience. - Apr 4, 2025 by Robert M.Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield + 42 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Hi, My name is Kristel. I am an LCSW who provides talk therapy via Telehealth. I am a multifaceted individual with diverse life experiences that inform my perspective. As a former military brat and spouse, I've intimately understood the complexities of life's transitions. My journey has taken me fro...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Nov 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.87
·15 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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As a Therapist/Life Coach and owner of Journeys of Life Therapeutic Resources, I'm passionate about helping individuals transition into their best selves. With an MEd in Community Counseling from Georgia Southern University, I approach my work as a "transitioner," rather than a traditional therapist...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Nov 12
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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Peace, I’m Dyamon Unique, LCSW, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Virginia. I have been practicing in the mental health field for over 8 years. I hold a Master’s in Social Work from Fordham University. I have a variety of areas of expertise, including anxiety, depression, perinatal issues, ...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Nov 11
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.75
·4 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 42 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Looking through these many profiles can be difficult and draining. Thanks for being here. If you are struggling with sleep and unable to control your worries, or feeling anxious and as if your stress never eases up, I hope we connect. Overthinking tomorrow and replaying yesterday can be exhaustin...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Nov 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna + 2 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: Thu, Nov 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I'm so glad you are here! Having been in the very same spot you are in seeking therapy, I know how first-hand how hard it can be to take this first step. I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in Virginia with 10 years of experience working in clinical practice. I work with clients who expe...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Nov 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 51 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi, I'm a licensed clinical social worker based in Georgia. I've received my Masters Degree in Clinical Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University and I am licensed both in Virginia and Georgia. I am am able to provide virtual therapeutic services to adults and children who reside in Virginia...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Nov 12
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I am a compassionate, experienced Licensed Independent Social Worker and Certified Sex Therapist with 20+ years of clinical practice spanning individual therapy, couples therapy, group counseling, and family systems work. I have expertise in working with compulsive behaviors, sex therapy, and trauma...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Nov 13
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 47 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Welcome — I’m glad you’re here. I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in helping individuals and couples navigate life's challenges with greater clarity, confidence, and self-compassion. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, grief, trauma, lif...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Nov 11
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·12 reviews
He was very interactive and made me feel comfortable and he was relatable as a person not just a medical professional - Mar 31, 2026 by Max B.Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 16 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) helping adults ages 18 to 65+. With experience in residential (RTC) and therapeutic approaches, my specialties include severe substance abuse, process addictions, personality disorders, and severe mental health issues, as well as depression, anxiety, life...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Nov 12
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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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