How to find the right therapist in Virginia

When choosing a therapist in Virginia, it's best to reflect on what you’re looking for and ask yourself which of the following criteria are most important to you: Do they accept your insurance? Do you need a therapist who specializes in a specific mental health concern such as depression, anxiety, or trauma? Are you looking for someone to work with you individually? Or are you looking for someone to support you as a couple or family? Would you be more comfortable partnering with a therapist of a certain race, gender expression, sexual orientation, religious, or cultural background?

Can I use my insurance?

Yes! Therapists on the Rula platform are in-network with most major insurance plans. Rula patients typically pay $15 per session, although your individual cost may vary based on your insurance benefits and deductible. We’ll work with your insurance to confirm your estimated per-session cost before your first appointment. Ready to get started? Click here to browse available therapists who accept your insurance.

How do I know if therapy is right for me?

There’s no right or wrong reason to start therapy. Whether you’re seeking help navigating a life transition or managing symptoms of anxiety or depression, therapy is an effective treatment for many types of concerns – all you need is an open mind and a general sense of what you’d like to explore with a therapist. Still unsure? Head to our blog to learn more.

How soon can I meet with a therapist?

Therapists in Rula’s network are available to meet as soon as tomorrow. Click here to explore therapists and book your first session in minutes.

What should I consider when choosing a therapist?

It depends on your personal preferences and goals. Whether you’re seeking a therapist who specializes in certain mental health conditions, shares your ethnic background, or is available to meet at your preferred time – Rula makes it easy to search and filter by what matters most to you. If you don’t feel like your first choice was a match, don’t worry – we’ll help you switch to a different therapist in our network. Check out our blog post for more pointers on finding your best-fit therapist.

How do I know if I need therapy or psychiatry?

If you’re experiencing severe symptoms that interfere with your daily functioning, you may want to consider starting with a psychiatric provider who can assess your needs and prescribe medication if deemed necessary. If your symptoms are mild or moderate, therapy may be a better starting point. No matter where you begin your journey – your provider will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that’s based on your individual needs and concerns. Still unsure? Visit our blog to learn more about the differences.

Does Rula offer in-person appointments?

Currently, Rula offers in-person therapy in some states. For those living in other states, there are many benefits to online therapy!

Can Rula help me find a therapist?

Absolutely. Rula’s network of 10,000+ licensed providers represent more than 80 clinical specialties and a diverse range of backgrounds – making it easier to find the care you need. Once you provide us with some basic information, we’ll generate a curated list of in-network therapists who are licensed in your state and accepting new patients. From there, you can filter by what matters most to you and explore individual biographies until you find a match. Ready to get started?

What types of care can I access through Rula?

Providers in Rula’s network specialize in individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, and psychiatric care (i.e., medication management).

Who is eligible to access care through Rula?

Individuals aged 5 and older are eligible to receive care in any state where Rula is available.

How will I meet with my therapist?

Rula specializes in online therapy – giving you the flexibility to meet with your therapist from wherever you’re most comfortable. We’ll send you an appointment reminder containing a secure link to your scheduled Zoom session approximately 24 hours before your session.

Connect with Eating Disorders therapists in Virginia

Need help? 323-745-8323

Quality care comes first at Rula

We regularly review providers to ensure quality

38 therapists

Kimberly McCray

LPC

•

3+ years

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

Kimberly has a Master's in Counseling (MC) in Clinical Mental Health from Nova Southeastern University, College of Osteopathic Medicine.

Virginia

Specialties

Eating Disorders

Anxiety

Chronic Illness

Depression

Life Transitions

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Responsive

Warm

Collaborative

I specialize in working with individuals navigating chronic illness, medical trauma, and life transitions, helping them reclaim their voice and well-being. Having personally faced chronic disease, I offer a compassionate and culturally sensitive environment for healing.

Next appointmentTuesday, Sep 29th

Available virtually

Mary Rodman

LCSW

•

10+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Mary Rodman, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Mary has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from University of Illinois At Chicago.

Arlington, VA

Specialties

Eating Disorders

ADHD

Anxiety

Behavioral Issues

Depression

Style

Exploratory

Warm

Supportive

I bring a holistic approach to identifying and treating the macro and micro needs of the community. I am dedicated to creating sustainable healing by incorporating strength-based systems of care.

Next appointmentThursday, Oct 1st

Available virtually

Veronica Smith

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

•

18+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Veronica Smith, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Veronica has a Doctor of Social Work (DSW) from Walden University and a Master of Social Work (MSW) from The University of Michigan.

Virginia

Specialties

Eating Disorders

Anxiety

Depression

Relationship Issues

Substance Use

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Responsive

Spiritual

Collaborative

I am a therapist and substance abuse treatment counselor who brings warmth and expertise to supporting clients through their healing journey.

Next appointmentFriday, Oct 9th

Available virtually

Alyce Oxton

Recognized for high quality patient care

LPC

•

1+ years

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

Alyce has a Master's in Counseling (MC) in Marriage, Couples, and Family therapy from Walden University.

Virginia

Specialties

Eating Disorders

Anxiety

Depression

Life Transitions

Relationship Issues

Stress

Style

Exploratory

Approachable

Collaborative

Welcome to the beginning of your path to positivity. I work with individuals, couples, and families across the lifespan. My specialties are helping clients navigate anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, life transitions, communication issues, and emotional well-being.

Next appointmentTomorrow

Available virtually

Hillary Parks

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LPC

•

4+ years

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

Hillary has a Master of Education (MED) in Mental Health Counseling from Old Dominion University.

Chesapeake, VA

Specialties

Eating Disorders

ADHD

Anxiety

Bipolar Disorder

Depression

Style

Outcome-oriented

Gentle

Collaborative

I work with clients dealing with trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, stress, and grief. I believe every client is unique with their own therapeutic needs and goals, and my job is to listen and work with you to reach those goals.

Next appointmentTomorrow

Available virtually

Frederica Banning

LCSW

•

42+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Frederica Banning, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Frederica has a Master of Social Work (MSW) in EAP/Work and Family Systems from Catholic University of America.

Virginia

Specialties

Eating Disorders

Anxiety

Depression

Grief

LGBTQIA+

Stress

Style

Outcome-oriented

Candid

Motivational

When life knocks us down, we all need a warm heart and a safe space where we can sort things through. I am here to help, whether you are navigating life challenges, repairing relationships with yourself and others, healing loss, or building change resilience. I listen to connect, not to judge or reject. Reaching out takes courage.

Next appointmentTomorrow

Available virtually

Amelia Jacokes

Patients consistently give high satisfaction ratings

LCSW

•

4+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Amelia Jacokes, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

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

Charlottesville, VA

Specialties

Eating Disorders

Addiction

Anxiety

Depression

Life Transitions

Panic Attacks

Style

Responsive

Approachable

Curious

Do you want to learn more about yourself and how you walk through life? Do you experience difficulties in areas that others seem to have a relatively easy time managing? I'm ready to help you gain insight and overcome challenges.

Next appointmentMonday, Oct 5th

Available virtually

Shannon Fowler

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LCP

•

11+ years

Licensed Clinical Psychologists (LCPs), like Shannon Fowler, hold a doctoral degree and are trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Shannon has a Doctor of Philosophy (PHD) in Clinical Psychology from University of Detroit Mercy.

Virginia Beach, VA

Specialties

Eating Disorders

Anxiety

Depression

Trauma and PTSD

Weight Loss

Style

Outcome-oriented

Warm

Collaborative

I’m a Clinical Psychologist (PhD) specializing in trauma, anxiety, depression, and the mind–body impact of stress. My approach is warm, relational, and psychodynamic — I help you understand not just what you’re feeling, but why it keeps happening.

Next appointmentFriday, Oct 2nd

Available virtually

Yumi Lemaster

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

•

11+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Yumi Lemaster, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Yumi has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Fayetteville State University.

Virginia

Specialties

Eating Disorders

Anxiety

Grief

Life Transitions

Spirituality

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Exploratory

Spiritual

Motivational

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I'd love to get to know you and what your primary concerns and issues are that bring you to healing here first and foremost, and then work to process deeper core trends and issues that might perpetuate your hurt and pain. I'm also very solution-oriented and like to provide practical tools to help heal you.

Next appointmentTuesday, Sep 29th

Available virtually

Kelly Dwyer

LPC

•

2+ years

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

Kelly has a Masters of Science in Education (MS ED) in Clinical Counseling from Old Dominion University.

Portsmouth, VA

Specialties

Eating Disorders

Anxiety

Depression

Domestic Violence

Substance Use

Trauma and PTSD

Style

Insightful

Candid

Supportive

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Virginia. My approach to therapy is as unique as each therapeutic relationship built - it's based on the individual needs of each person as well as the strategies with the best evidence of helping that situation. My focus areas of practice are wide, as my experience spans over 20 years.

Next appointmentTomorrow

Available virtually

Maureen Kelly

LPC

•

13+ years

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

Maureen has a Doctor of Psychology (PSYD) Clinical Psychology from Argosy University and a Masters of Arts (MA) from Argosy University.

Virginia Beach, VA

Specialties

Eating Disorders

Anxiety

Depression

Family Conflict

Style

Exploratory

Gentle

Curious

I blend clinical psychology and educational theory to approach counseling with a well-rounded perspective. I work with children and adults facing a wide range of mental health concerns, creating a supportive space where you can explore challenges and work toward meaningful growth.

Next appointmentTomorrow

Available virtually

Shideh Sarmadi

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LPC

•

14+ years

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

Shideh has a Master of Arts (MA) from UNC at Charlotte.

Virginia

Specialties

Eating Disorders

Anxiety

Autism or Asperger's Syndrome

Cultural Stress

Depression

Mood Disorders

Style

Exploratory

Attuned

Motivational

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Virginia. My goal as a counselor is to empower clients to mindfully change their lives in a positive manner by focusing on recovery and welfare, and promoting healthy personal growth.

Next appointmentTuesday, Sep 29th

Available virtually

D'Ann Doerflinger

Recognized for high quality patient care

LPC

•

16+ years

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

D'Ann has a Master of Science in School Psychology from Southwestern Ok State University.

Virginia

Specialties

Eating Disorders

Anxiety

Depression

Grief

Relationship Issues

Style

Responsive

Warm

Supportive

I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 17 years of experience. I provide a warm, supportive, and evidence-based approach to help clients manage anxiety, depression, insomnia, eating disorders, and life's challenges while building practical skills for lasting change.

Next appointmentFriday, Oct 2nd

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.

Previous providers

Hundreds of thousands of patients have found affordable, in-network mental health care with Rula

Insurance

After you select a provider, we’ll send you a personalized cost estimate before your first session—so you’ll know what to expect.

$15 / session

typical cost patients pay through Rula

Nationwide coverage:

After you select a provider, we’ll send you a personalized cost estimate before your first session—so you’ll know what to expect.

100+ insurance plans accepted

140M total lives covered

Millions of sessions completed

Network

We hold providers to high clinical standards so you can trust the care you receive.

15,000+

licensed providers

Match

The right provider makes all the difference. We help you find someone who truly fits your needs—the first time.

98%

of searches result in an exact match

Progress

Care should make a difference. Our approach helps you track progress you can feel.

93%

of patients report feeling better after treatment through Rula

Additional therapy specialties and modalities

Sex Therapy Trauma and PTSD Anxiety EMDR Dialectical (DBT)

Psychiatry Couples Family Children therapy Preteen therapy Teen therapy

Male therapists Female therapists Spanish-speaking therapists Black or African American therapists Asian therapists Hispanic or Latinx therapists

Find a therapist near you

Arlington Virginia Beach Alexandria Blacksburg Charlottesville Chesapeake Danville Hampton Harrisonburg Leesburg Lynchburg Manassas Newport News Norfolk Petersburg Portsmouth Richmond Roanoke Suffolk

Find providers by preference

Navigating online therapy for eating disorders

Understanding eating disorders and their impact

Eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder, are serious mental health conditions that affect eating behaviors and related thoughts and emotions. These disorders can have significant physical and psychological consequences, impacting overall health, self-esteem, and daily functioning. Understanding and addressing eating disorders are crucial for recovery and maintaining a healthy relationship with food and body image.

The significance of therapy for eating disorders

Therapy is a vital component in treating eating disorders. A therapist specializing in eating disorders can help you understand the underlying causes of your condition, develop healthier eating habits, and address related issues such as body image and self-esteem. Therapy can provide essential support in breaking the cycle of disordered eating and building a foundation for long-term recovery.

Effective therapeutic approaches for eating disorders

Several therapeutic methods can be used to treat eating disorders effectively:

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying and changing negative thoughts and behaviors related to eating and body image.
Interpersonal therapy (IPT) addresses relationship issues and social factors that may contribute to eating disorders.
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) may help manage emotions and reduce impulsive behaviors often associated with eating disorders.
Nutritional counseling can be combined with therapy to develop healthy eating patterns and restore nutritional health.

Possible advantages of online therapy for eating disorders

Online therapy for disordered eating offers potential benefits, including access to licensed therapists anywhere in your state, and flexible scheduling to fit therapy into daily routines. It can provide a safe and comfortable environment for discussing sensitive issues, and many people find the online format more accessible and less intimidating.

Choosing the right therapist for eating disorders

FAQs about eating disorder therapy and therapists

When to seek therapy for eating disorders?

Consider therapy if you're experiencing unhealthy eating patterns, excessive concern about body weight or shape, or emotional distress related to food. Signs to watch for include extreme dieting, binge eating, purging, and significant weight fluctuations. Therapy can offer strategies for managing these symptoms and addressing the root causes of the eating disorder.

What's the typical duration of therapy for eating disorders?

The duration of therapy for eating disorders varies based on individual needs, the type and severity of the disorder, and how you respond to treatment. Some people may see improvements with short-term therapy, while others might require longer-term support. Regular progress reviews can help tailor the therapy to your evolving needs.

What to expect in your first therapy session for eating disorders?

In the initial session, your therapist will likely discuss your eating habits, feelings about food and body image, and any related health concerns. This conversation helps develop a personalized treatment plan. Establishing a rapport with your therapist is also key during this first meeting.

How to find a qualified therapist for eating disorders?

A qualified therapist for eating disorders should have specialized training and experience. Look for therapists with credentials in eating disorder treatment and inquire about their approach and success in treating similar cases.

Does insurance cover eating disorder therapy sessions?

Insurance coverage for eating disorder therapy varies. After you've booked your first session, Rula verifies your insurance coverage and follows up with a cost estimate, including any required copayments.

Can eating disorder therapy be conducted online?

Yes, eating disorder therapy can be effectively conducted online, offering flexibility and a level of comfort that can be beneficial in treatment. Online therapy can help people receive support in the most conducive setting for their recovery.

Connect with Eating Disorders therapists in Virginia

Quality care comes first at Rula

Kimberly McCray

Mary Rodman

Veronica Smith

Alyce Oxton

Hillary Parks

Frederica Banning

Amelia Jacokes

Shannon Fowler

Yumi Lemaster

Kelly Dwyer

Maureen Kelly

Shideh Sarmadi

D'Ann Doerflinger

Hundreds of thousands of patients have found affordable, in-network mental health care with Rula

Insurance

$15 / session

Network

15,000+

Match

98%

Progress

93%

Additional therapy specialties and modalities

Find a therapist near you

Find providers by preference

Couples & family

By gender

En español

By age

By identity

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We’re here when you need us

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