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315 verified Psychotherapists in Alexandria, VA
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Availability last updated 09/30/2026
Availability last updated 09/30/2026
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 psychotherapist dedicated to providing compassionate, collaborative, and evidence-based care. I create a supportive, interactive environment where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered. My approach is tailored to each individual’s unique needs, utilizing proven therapeutic tec...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Oct 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 48 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am a clinical social worker with experience supporting children, adolescents, and adults across the lifespan. I earned my bachelor's degree in psychology from Eastern Mennonite University and my master's degree in clinical social work from George Mason University. I specialize in working with anxi...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Oct 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Alejandro is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who earned his Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Johns Hopkins University. More importantly, he brings a warm, grounded, and genuinely human presence into the therapy room. Clients often describe him as approachable, easy t...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Oct 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 43 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Next available: Fri, Oct 9
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.92
·13 reviews
He understood what we are trying to accomplish pretty quickly in therapy and hopefully he will have a plan going forward. - Sep 9, 2026 by Sheree K.Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 59 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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My name is Michael Starr, and I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I believe therapy is more than just problem-solving, it’s a place to rediscover who you are, heal what’s been hidden, and move forward with clarity and strength. I work with individuals, couples, and families facing an...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Oct 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.82
·33 reviews
.Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
I have been working with individuals struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder, substance use, sexual addiction, and mental health challenges for the past ten years. I have a real heart to walk alongside you to encourage, support, and empower you to move forward in your recovery needs. I gradua...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Oct 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 55 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Hi, I’m Diane Brown. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families of all ages — from toddlers to older adults, ages 3 to 84 and beyond. With over 32 years of experience in the field, I bring a compassionate, strength-based approach to help people navigate trauma, grief, anxiety, and depre...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Oct 14
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.79
·19 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Next available: Sun, Oct 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.80
·5 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi all, I am a talk therapist that works on providing a non-judgmental and safe place to discuss stressors. I use Person Centered, mindfulness and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with an eclectic and holistic approach with my clients. **I incorporate dream interpretations, astrology, and tarot in...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·16 reviews
Introductions were great! Such joyful energy that invited me to be open. Light building and elaborating during discussion. Left with a workbook, study plan to have new objectives until next appointment. - Jul 28, 2026 by Jordan Z.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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Hello, I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) for the State of Virginia. *Important Disclaimers: 1) You MUST actively reside in or be able to be located in Virginia for our sessions to register for therapy services with me. 2) I only have availability on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, from 1...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.93
·15 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Sunday is an authentic, humorous, compassionate, and highly skilled licensed professional counselor with a specialization in Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Addiction, Anger Management, Self-Esteem issues, Marital Conflict, Trauma, and PTSD. Sunday has over 5years experience in working ...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 5
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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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: Mon, Oct 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.89
·19 reviews
Phyllis is the best therapist I've had. I went through multiple therapists before her, and there's truly no one like her. She is very adaptable to what works for you, and makes it a point to check-in about what's working and what's not in every session. I've felt a significant shift in my life and w...Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 55 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Do you feel at times that your distressing emotions are like a non-stop express train, making it seem impossible to stop? Are there moments when you feel overwhelmed by negative thoughts? Is managing your emotions a challenge for you? As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a Master's in Mental H...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.86
·7 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 55 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am an experienced and compassionate behavioral health and wellness therapist driven by an authentic desire to guide and support anyone facing challenging individual or life difficulties. I hold a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Wyoming, which has equipped me with a strong foundation...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.89
·9 reviews
Easy to set up. First visit went smoothly. - May 5, 2022 by Owen N.Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
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Hello. I'm Joseph. Do you feel so anxious it is hard to leave the house in the morning? Do you feel so depressed and sad that it is hard to get out of bed in the morning? Anxiety and depression are common. You are not alone in feeling this way. I help people who struggle to deal with the stresses ...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 43 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
I have over 25 years of experience working with teens, adults, families, and couples in multiple community-based settings and agencies. I have been a licensed therapist since 2016 and I hold an Ed.S in counseling from Hampton University. I employ a holistic approach, incorporating several research-b...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hello! I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor based in Virginia. I'm originally from New York and received my Masters from Long Island University in Brooklyn. I have been practicing since 2016 and I am passionate about helping adolescents and young adults struggling with anxiety and depression becom...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Oct 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.92
·24 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Substance Abuse Treatment Practitioner (LSATP), and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) with 25 years of experience committed to helping children, adolescents, and adults learn how to achieve their potential. I hold a Master’s degree in...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hello! My name is Kim. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and National Board Certified Counselor (NCC). I earned my Master's in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. In my therapy practice, I work with individuals who report anxiety, depression, interpersonal relational concer...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·8 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Hi there! My name is Cristyl, and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia. I earned my Master's in Counseling from Longwood University. Over the years, I have worked in a variety of settings, including public schools, an inpatient psychiatric facility, the criminal justice system, and virt...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·15 reviews
My best therapy experience ever! - Aug 5, 2026 by Charlie W.Click to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 50 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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I am an EMDR-trained LPC in Virginia with 6 years of experience as a psychotherapist. I am dedicated to collaborating with you on your transformative journey, fostering lasting change. Creating a safe space and an empowering relationship is my passion. Authenticity and genuineness are foundational w...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.83
·6 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 53 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
You may feel desperate, alone, and misunderstood. You feel like you are floating in the bottom of a lake and cannot see the light above you. Everyday, you feel like you are just going through the motions. If this describes you, then I may be the therapist for you. In my nearly twenty years of experi...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·5 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
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, Oct 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.91
·11 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Stephanie Green is a Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC and LCMHC. She has an eclectic broad range of experience from Criminal Justice, Geriatric Care, Residential Treatment, Clinical Mental Health and Substance Abuse Therapy for over 18+ years. She has a Graduate Degree (Master's) in Clinical Men...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Meet Tamera Your Partner in Healing and Growth I am Tamera Peterson, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and ADHD-Certified Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP) and founder of Thrive Collective Services, I bring compassion, creativity, and clinical expertise to every session. I specialize ...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.85
·20 reviews
Immediate and excellent rapport with our 7yo son, friendly, engaging, thoughtful, and empathetic. We've been shopping for a new therapist for a while, trying to find the right fit, and Mary Jo is easily the best we've found. - Sep 13, 2023 by William G.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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Hello, I'm Mary Jo. I have extensive knowledge and skills in outpatient mental health and school clinical practices, wellness interventions and programs, and implementing mental wellness professional development. I have provided trainings both locally and nationally on evidence-based practices in...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.79
·52 reviews
John is very helpful and always available. Scheduling is very easy. by BOClick to read more
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 51 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Greetings, my name is John Luke. I am a licensed clinical social worker with a Master's in Mental Health Social Work from Bryn Mawr College. I specialize in helping people effectively manage anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns using cognitive behavioral techniques. I have worked wi...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 51 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Welcome! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who believes in the transformative power of change! As a person-centered therapist, I strive to identify and celebrate the strengths of my clients. I serve from a compassionate, holistic perspective. I am open, curious, nonjudgmental, and high...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 5
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: Sun, Oct 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield + 41 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Do you ever feel stressed out or on edge? Do your thoughts seem to spin out of control or lead to fear of future situations? Does that worry prevent you from being present in the moment or keep you from getting restful sleep at night? If you are ready to regain control of your thoughts and live a mo...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 5
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: Mon, Oct 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Are you struggling to make changes in your life? Are you paralyzed by addiction? Overwhelmed with anxiety? Stuck in depression? Burdened by past trauma? I am here to help! As an experienced clinical social worker and a person in long term recovery myself, I am passionate about empowering, inspiring,...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Oct 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 43 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I have been a mental health professional for more than twenty years, working with individuals who often find themselves at a crossroads and unsure where to begin in addressing what they are feeling. My experience spans a variety of settings, including community mental health, public schools, disabil...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Cigna
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I provide a safe, non-judgmental space that allows individuals to explore feelings of anxiety, depression, and grief, among many others. If you're feeling stuck, uncertain, or defeated, I'm here to help find your direction and to be the best possible version of yourself. Just remember that no matter...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Oct 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 43 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over nine years of experience providing mental health services in admissions, crisis intervention, and outpatient therapy. My experience includes working at the Community Services Board in Lynchburg, VA, and as an outpatient therapist at Thriveworks since ...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Hello my name is Andrea Stephen and I am so glad you stopped by welcome to a space created with warmth, compassion, and care where your story is honored, and your healing matters. As a holistic, empathetic and empowering counselor, I walk alongside of you supporting not only your mind but also your ...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Oct 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 51 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Welcome Im so glad youre here. Im a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Virginia and Florida with a passion for supporting adults who are navigating challenges such as addiction, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, life transitions, or the everyday stressors that can leave us feeling stuck. Many of ...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 43 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a telehealth practice licensed in Pennsylvania and Virginia, and over 23 years of experience in the mental health field working with children, teen and adults. . I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship stress, and life transitions, ...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·6 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 55 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Hello My name is Douglas Starliper and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker LCSWC licensed to practice psychotherapy in both Maryland and Virginia Do you have questions about common and typical symptoms you may be experiencing? Are you wondering if you are alone in this? Is there a way through it?...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.90
·10 reviews
Alexandria, VA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Hello, My name is Jennifer Bardon, and I am an LCSW. I have been in the field for five years. I primarily work full-time with children, young adults, and adults with developmental disabilities. I have studied CBT and am working on becoming certified in different therapeutic modalities. Although I ...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Oct 5
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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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