Connect with Compassion Focused therapy in District of Columbia

Quality care comes first at Rula

We regularly review providers to ensure quality

23Compassion Focused therapy providers
A headshot image of Sarah Melnikoff

Sarah Melnikoff

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LICSW
14+ years

Licensed Independent Clinical Social Workers (LICSWs), like Sarah Melnikoff, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Sarah has a Master of Social Work (MSW) in Clinical Social Work from Boston College and a Master of Education (MED) in Pediatric Healthcare from Vanderbilt University Peabody College.

District of Columbia
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Infertility
Relationship Issues
Stress
Style
Responsive
Warm
Collaborative

I work with clients of all backgrounds who have diverse needs as a general practitioner.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Donna Reid-Washington

Donna Reid-Washington

LPC
27+ years

Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs), like Donna Reid-Washington, are mental health professionals trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Donna has a Master of Health Science (MHS) from Lincoln University of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

District of Columbia
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Parenting
Relationship Issues
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Curious

I guide people to broaden their perspectives and navigate life's challenges positively. My practice emphasizes love as life's core value. My mission is to help you cultivate self-love, retrain your mind, and move through difficulties with greater ease and compassion.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Shundra Burnes

Shundra Burnes

Recognized for high quality patient care

LICSW
8+ years

Licensed Independent Clinical Social Workers (LICSWs), like Shundra Burnes, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Shundra has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from University of Georgia.

District of Columbia
Specialties
Depression
Grief
Life Transitions
Self Esteem
Style
Directive
Attuned
Collaborative

I provide individual therapy to adults, specializing in self-esteem challenges, anger management, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief, and trauma. Treatment modalities I utilize include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Temple Jackson

Temple Jackson

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LICSW
6+ years

Licensed Independent Clinical Social Workers (LICSWs), like Temple Jackson, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Temple has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from University of Southern California.

District of Columbia
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
Substance Use
Style
Directive
Spiritual
Supportive

I offer confident, professional clinical counseling and crisis management. Professional counseling can exponentially improve your physical, mental, and spiritual health. I utilize humor and solution-focused, Wise-Mind, and Soul-Care therapies to help you align with the values you identify as important. Come get the support you deserve.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Alexis Alton

Alexis Alton

LICSW

Licensed Independent Clinical Social Workers (LICSWs), like Alexis Alton, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Alexis has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Howard University.

District of Columbia
Specialties
Anger Management
Anxiety
Behavioral Issues
Mood Disorders
Parenting
Style
Practical
Attuned
Supportive

I’m glad you’re here! I have 15+ years of experience supporting children, families, and adults through anxiety, stress, life transitions, and other mental health challenges. My holistic, solution-focused approach integrates mental health, nutrition, movement, and mind-body practices to create meaningful, lasting change through personalized care

Available virtually

A headshot image of Sarah Lovett

Sarah Lovett

LICSW

Licensed Independent Clinical Social Workers (LICSWs), like Sarah Lovett, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Sarah has a Master of Science in Social Administration (MSSA) from University of Chicago.

District of Columbia
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
Parenting
Stress
Style
Responsive
Attuned
Empowering

I strive to create a space where you feel heard and understood as we thoughtfully examine your life experiences and relational patterns. Through this process, I will support you in recognizing and letting go of unhelpful habits, empowering you to make meaningful changes aligned with your personal goals.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Miranda Nance

Miranda Nance

Recognized for high quality patient care

LICSW
30+ years

Licensed Independent Clinical Social Workers (LICSWs), like Miranda Nance, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Miranda has a Doctor of Philosophy (PHD) from Walden University and a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Saint Louis University.

District of Columbia
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
Substance Use
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Attuned
Affirming

I work with adolescents and adults across the lifespan on issues related to anxiety, depression, grief and bereavement, substance recovery, race-based trauma, gender-affirming care, and relationship difficulties.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Cheridan Tolliver

Cheridan Tolliver

Recognized for high quality patient care

LICSW

Licensed Independent Clinical Social Workers (LICSWs), like Cheridan Tolliver, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Cheridan has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from The University of Michigan.

District of Columbia
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Mood Disorders
Stress
Women's Issues
Style
Directive
Warm
Motivational

Help comes in many forms. I specialize in working with individuals navigating life transitions, anxiety, depression, and trauma. I take a client-centered, collaborative approach to therapy, tailoring each session to your unique needs and goals.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Jennifer Rochel

Jennifer Rochel

Recognized for high quality patient care

LICSW

Licensed Independent Clinical Social Workers (LICSWs), like Jennifer Rochel, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Jennifer has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Southern University at New Orleans.

District of Columbia
Specialties
Anxiety
Life Transitions
Mood Disorders
Self Esteem
Stress
Style
Exploratory
Warm
Collaborative

Starting therapy is a brave step, and I'm here to guide you through it. My practice is rooted in the belief that you have the strength for positive change, and I provide a warm, non-judgmental space to explore your challenges. We will collaborate to understand and shift unhelpful patterns, helping you to build lasting change.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Tracy Burton

Tracy Burton

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LICSW
26+ years

Licensed Independent Clinical Social Workers (LICSWs), like Tracy Burton, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Tracy has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Howard University.

District of Columbia
Specialties
Anxiety
Bipolar Disorder
Grief
Style
Responsive
Gentle
Curious

I'm a therapist working with children, teens, individuals, and families. My therapeutic approach is simple: I believe in meeting people where they are (no judgment) and moving progressively forward.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Michaelle Desruisseaux

Michaelle Desruisseaux

LICSW

Licensed Independent Clinical Social Workers (LICSWs), like Michaelle Desruisseaux, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Michaelle has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Fordham University.

District of Columbia
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Self Esteem
Stress
Style
Outcome-oriented
Gentle
Collaborative

Are you emotionally tired and just feel stuck? Life can get overwhelming, so I commend you on taking this courageous step towards feeling better. My goal as your therapist is to join forces with you to develop new strategies and skills to help you cope with life stressors.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Michelle Marsh

Michelle Marsh

LICSW

Licensed Independent Clinical Social Workers (LICSWs), like Michelle Marsh, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Michelle has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Howard University.

District of Columbia
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Directive
Candid
Supportive

I'm here to support you as we work together and process your experiences to help identify your strengths. Together, we can work towards your goals. I exemplify the values of empathy, resilience, and dedication, making a lasting impact on the lives that I touch.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Lillian Moser-Grunewald

Lillian Moser-Grunewald

Recognized for high quality patient care

LICSW

Licensed Independent Clinical Social Workers (LICSWs), like Lillian Moser-Grunewald, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Lillian has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from New York University.

District of Columbia
Specialties
Anxiety
Grief
Mood Disorders
Thought Disorders
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Outcome-oriented
Spiritual
Empowering

I am a Christian Counselor with expertise ranging from mood and psychotic mental health disorders to PTSD, grief, and stress management. Wherever your healing journey leads you, I pray God will guide and bless you as you seek the counselor that is right for you.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Debra Ann Cruz

Debra Ann Cruz

LPC

Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs), like Debra Ann Cruz, are mental health professionals trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Debra Ann has a Master of Arts (MA) in Mental Health Professional Counseling from Argosy University of DC.

District of Columbia
Specialties
ADHD
Life Transitions
Relationship Issues
Sex Therapy
Traumatic Brain Injury
Style
Directive
Candid
Collaborative

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and relationship expert who helps individuals and couples gain clarity about love, compatibility, and emotional patterns. My goal is to help people understand themselves and their relationships so they can make confident decisions about connection, commitment, or change.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Maria Claudia Cauterucci

Maria Claudia Cauterucci

LPC
21+ years

Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs), like Maria Claudia Cauterucci, are mental health professionals trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Maria Claudia has a Master's in Counseling (MC) in Clinical Psychology from Argosy University.

District of Columbia
Specialties
Anxiety
Panic Attacks
Stress
Style
Insightful
Spiritual
Collaborative

I specialize in post-traumatic growth, or as I call it, trauma rising. It is my firm belief that our wounds can become our gifts and that there is an amazing life ready to happen for us once we understand, befriend, and rise above our trauma. Healing is achievable through nurturing adult bonds of secure attachment, so let's start!

Available virtually

A headshot image of Erica Dinwiddie

Erica Dinwiddie

LICSW

Licensed Independent Clinical Social Workers (LICSWs), like Erica Dinwiddie, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Erica has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Dominican University.

District of Columbia
Specialties
First Responders
Grief
Stress
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Approachable
Collaborative

I am committed to providing evidence-based therapeutic care, grounded in both clinical expertise and intuitive insight.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Shewayn Watson

Shewayn Watson

Recognized for high quality patient care

LICSW
17+ years

Licensed Independent Clinical Social Workers (LICSWs), like Shewayn Watson, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Shewayn has a Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) from Southern University at New Orleans.

District of Columbia
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
Style
Outcome-oriented
Warm
Supportive

I focus on client-centered care and use evidence-based practices to help you achieve your wellness goals. My focus is on helping you manage depression and anxiety while working toward your mental health goals. I believe creating a safe space for talk therapy is fundamental to fostering trust and openness.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Sonya Carter

Sonya Carter

LICSW

Licensed Independent Clinical Social Workers (LICSWs), like Sonya Carter, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Sonya has a Master of Social Work (MSW) in Mental Health from NC A&T State University.

District of Columbia
Specialties
Anxiety
Mood Disorders
Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Insightful
Attuned
Empowering

Life can be challenging, and at times, it may feel like the weight is too much to carry. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, or working through past traumas, seeking support is a sign of strength—not weakness. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe, understood, and supported from the very first session.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Brittany Cosme

Brittany Cosme

LICSW

Licensed Independent Clinical Social Workers (LICSWs), like Brittany Cosme, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Brittany has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from University of Maryland.

District of Columbia
Specialties
Anxiety
Grief
Life Transitions
Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum
Relationship Issues
Style
Insightful
Approachable
Collaborative

Change can be hard, even when it is expected. Life can be difficult to navigate at times. I work with individuals navigating life transitions and challenges, supporting them to feel more in control of their lives, more confident in themselves, and more connected in their relationships.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Randall Dunkle

Randall Dunkle

LPC

Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs), like Randall Dunkle, are mental health professionals trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Randall has a Master in Counseling (MC) from Walden University.

District of Columbia
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
LGBTQIA+
Peer Relationships
Style
Responsive
Attuned
Motivational

I believe therapy is a journey. I feel honored to be involved in the first steps as well as helping people along when they have been "traveling" for years. In many ways, therapy can be seen as an exciting adventure, one that helps you know, accept, and love yourself better than before.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Jennifer Kem

Jennifer Kem

LICSW

Licensed Independent Clinical Social Workers (LICSWs), like Jennifer Kem, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Jennifer has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from University of Nevada.

District of Columbia
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
Style
Insightful
Gentle
Curious

I’m Jennifer Kem, LCSW. I provide compassionate, client-centered telehealth therapy for adults navigating anxiety, grief, life transitions, and emotional overwhelm. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in evidence-based practices—creating a supportive space where you can feel heard and understood.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Stephanie Wachs Makanga

Stephanie Wachs Makanga

Recognized for high quality patient care

LICSW
6+ years

Licensed Independent Clinical Social Workers (LICSWs), like Stephanie Wachs Makanga, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Stephanie has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from The University of Georgia.

District of Columbia
Specialties
ADHD
Anxiety
Depression
LGBTQIA+
Life Transitions
Style
Practical
Approachable
Collaborative

I specialize in working with individuals and couples through life adjustments, job changes, and finding meaning in your day-to-day. I am happy to help you reach your goals in managing your mental health and your life!

Available virtually

A headshot image of Melissa Stephenson

Melissa Stephenson

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LPC

Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs), like Melissa Stephenson, are mental health professionals trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Melissa has a Master's in Counseling (MC) in Human Services/Counseling Concentration from Lincoln University.

District of Columbia
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
Relationship Issues
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Candid
Affirming

Reaching out for support is a brave first step. I work with individuals navigating anxiety, life transitions, relationship challenges, and self-esteem concerns, using a compassionate, client-centered approach. Together, we'll create a space where you feel seen, supported, and empowered to grow.

Available virtually

This set of providers was curated just for you.

Want personalized assistance finding the right fit? Call or text our team at 323-745-8323.