therapists in dc

Therapists in DC: Find the Best One For You

No matter what you’re struggling with, you don’t have to go through it alone. Our compassionate, professional team of therapists in Washington DC can provide you with the support you need to heal and grow. We work with individuals of all ages and from all walks of life. Connect with us today to take the first step toward a better life.

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Why Choose Vital Therapy

  • We use an in-depth approach to get to the root of your challenges.

    Each of our therapists has a unique professional background and specific specialties. However, we all provide mental health care through an in-depth, integrative lens. We believe that taking a deep dive into the root of your symptoms and challenges provides the greatest opportunity for meaningful growth and change.

  • We form deep, healing relationships with all of our clients.

    Our DC therapists value connection, which is why we create an intimate therapeutic relationship with each person we work with. Having this safe, mutual connection provides a space for you to feel seen, heard, and supported. This is a central tenant to our approach at Vital Therapy, and we offer complimentary consultations so you can get a better sense of whether we're the right fit for you.

  • Our services are tailored to your unique needs.

    We recognize each person as an individual with their own strengths and challenges. That's why we customize your treatment plan to your specific situation rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach to therapy. We offer a range of mental health services so we can best support you. Each of our therapists also has their own unique specialties, so you can work with someone who has direct experience helping people navigate whatever problem you're facing.

  • We want to meet you where you're at (literally).

    Our therapists offer both in-person and online therapy so you can seek mental health services in the way that feels best to you. Research shows that online therapy can be just as effective as in-person therapy, so you can decide which setting works for you. No matter which you choose, know that we are committed to providing high-quality, confidential care.

Meet Our Team

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Nicole Moore, Psy.D.

  • As a licensed clinical psychologist and licensed professional counselor in the District of Columbia, Dr. Moore is passionate about supporting people with a wide variety of mental health issues and life challenges. She is the founder of Vital Therapy and has extensive experience providing individual therapy, group therapy, and psychological testing services.

Paul Higgins, LGSW

  • Paul has experience supporting people with a wide range of mental health challenges in both private practice and hospital outpatient settings. His approach to therapy is warm, nonjudgmental, and collaborative. Prior to his training as a therapist, Paul worked as an arbitrator and attorney. He brings this unique perspective and experience to his clinical work.

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Rebecca Ferrer, LPC

  • Before transitioning to private practice, Rebecca provided school counseling services in DC charter schools. Her experience working with students with learning differences and emotional or behavioral health challenges has given her a unique ability to help clients gain social and emotional regulation skills.

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Claire Connolly, LCSW

  • Claire is dedicated to helping adults, couples, and older adolescents heal from trauma, grow their insight, and find personal growth. She is especially passionate about supporting the international community within the Washington, DC area.

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Finn, Service Dog

  • Finn is a golden retriever and trained Service Dog who sees clients with Dr. Moore. He and Dr. Moore completed certification as Service Dog and handler under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Finn has also earned his Canine Good Citizen Award Certificate.

Services our DC therapists offer

Our mental health professionals offer a variety of services in order to give each person the support they need. Take a look at our offerings to learn more about how we can help you or your loved ones.

Individual therapy

Our Washington, DC therapists provide in-person and online therapy to children, teens, young adults, and adults of all ages. We form warm, collaborative therapeutic relationships with each of our clients and use this connection to support people in doing the deep inner work necessary to heal. Our practice is inclusive to people of all ages, genders, sexual orientations, races, nationalities, ethnicities, religious affiliations, abilities, and sizes.

Group therapy

Group therapy can be an incredibly validating, supportive way to work through challenges and learn new skills. Our groups are led by one or two of our therapists and provide the opportunity for you to learn and grow alongside peers who are experiencing similar issues. Many people find group therapy to be a powerful reminder that they're not alone. It can be effective as a primary treatment method or alongside individual therapy sessions.

Psychological assessments

We also provide psychological assessments and testing to those struggling with learning, mental or behavioral health issues, or other challenges. All psychological evaluations are provided by a licensed clinical psychologist and can be a helpful first step in creating an effective treatment plan. We offer the following types of psychological testing services:

  • School admission testing

  • ADHD diagnostic screening

  • Intelligence (IQ) testing

  • Psychoeducational testing

Clinical supervision

For fellow clinicians, we also offer clinical supervision and consultation services. Whether you're a mental health professional in training or a healthcare professional looking for a case consultation, we're here to help. Specifically, we can help clinicians grow their understanding of psychodynamic theory and how this applies to their work.

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Mental health issues (& more) our therapists in Washington, DC can help with

Our DC therapists are well-equipped to support people through a wide variety of issues. While this includes several different types of mental health conditions, know that you don't need a diagnosed mental illness to benefit from working with a therapist. People work with therapists for many different reasons—here are just a few.

  • Anxiety

  • Depression

  • Relationship issues

  • Life transitions

  • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

  • Grief & loss

  • Trauma

  • Self-esteem issues

  • Identity exploration

We consider ourselves generalists, so if you're struggling with a different challenge or mental health issue, we encourage you to schedule a free consultation so we can discuss how we may be able to help.

  • Yes! While therapy is a highly personal experience, working with a therapist has many different mental health benefits. Studies show that therapy is effective in treating several types of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and more. By getting to the root of these issues, physical health conditions like IBS and chronic pain can improve as well.

    Even if you don't have a mental illness, you may be able to benefit from working with a licensed therapist. Here are a few more ways that counseling services can help you.

    • Work through relationship issues or family conflict

    • Gain a better understanding of yourself

    • Learn how to deal with stress

    • Navigate life transitions, like job loss or divorce

    • Find personal growth

  • There are many different types of mental health professionals, including psychologists, mental health counselors, clinical social workers, substance abuse counselors, and more. Each is qualified to practice therapy and has significant education, experience, and supervision.

    One important difference is that psychologists can provide psychological assessment or testing, which other mental health providers aren't qualified to do. The team at Vital Therapy is comprised of several different types of professionals so we can best meet your unique mental health needs.

  • There are many different evidence-based approaches to mental health care. Our team takes an in-depth approach to therapy so we can get to the root of your issues rather than treat your symptoms alone. We believe this provides the opportunity for the deepest, longest-lasting healing.

    Our therapists may also incorporate other modalities depending on your needs and the clinician's experience. Other approaches we use include dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and more.

  • When choosing the best DC therapist for you, it's important to consider your unique needs. Do you prefer in-person therapy or online therapy? Do you need a therapist who specializes in a particular mental health issue? Do you plan to use your health insurance benefits?

    Beyond the logistics, it's also important to pay attention to how you feel. Seeking therapy is a vulnerable, personal experience. Finding a compassionate therapist who you feel comfortable talking to is essential. We offer free consultations so you can get a sense of whether or not we're the right fit for you.

FAQs about working with a therapist in Washington, DC

Put your mental health first with a counselor in DC.

Relationship issues, mental health challenges, and other stressors can make daily life incredibly challenging. However, you don't have to go through this alone. Our therapists in DC are here to support you and help you find lasting relief. Reach out today to get started.

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