• Meet Our Therapists

    Psychotherapist in Washington, DC – Psychotherapy, Counseling for Women, Men, Depression & Anxiety, LGBTQ, Trauma, and PTSD

    Joseph LaFleur & Associates

CareFirst Blue Cross Blue Shield Provider

Joseph LaFleur MSW, LICSW, psychoanalytic, somatic experiencing, and psychedelic psychotherapist

Joseph W. LaFleur, MSW, MBA

CEO & Clinical Director

LICSW, LCSW-C, LCSW, CDWF, CDTLF, SEP, PATP, Psychedelic Integrationist

Psychotherapist in DC, VA, MD, NJ, NYC, NY

  • Men's Issues
  • LGBTQ Issues
  • Depression and Anxiety
  • Shame Resilience and Trauma
  • Relationship Issues
  • Life Transitions
  • College-Life Issues
  • Teenagers and Adult Children of Mentally Ill and Substance-Abusing Parents
About JosephI am a gay therapist with over 20 years of experience in psychotherapy. Throughout my career, I have worked with adolescents and adults of all genders and sexual orientations.I aim to ensure you have a safe, comfortable environment to share and explore your thoughts and life experiences. We will work to help you identify and clarify the problems in your life. I will help guide you through the steps to improve your situation and quality of life by leaning into courage and embracing common humanity. You already have the skills; you've practiced them; I bring awareness to them.    I work with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or those feeling lonely or bored with life.

Joseph is a highly skilled and experienced psychodynamic and psychedelic therapist with over 20 years of practice in the mental health field. With his extensive expertise, he can develop a personalized treatment regime that caters to your individual needs. Joseph firmly believes in the transformative power of psychedelic therapy, finding it to be deeply meaningful, rewarding, insightful, and life-changing.

Notably, on May 22, 2023, Joseph obtained certification from the Integrative Psychiatric Institute as a Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy Provider (PATP). This qualification allows him to offer integrative therapy for those seeking to explore their understanding and meaning of experiences after undertaking psychedelic medicines such as Ketamine, MDMA, as well as derivatives or natural-based medicines like Psilocybin, Ayahuasca Peyote, DMT.

Understanding that mental health has far-reaching effects on all aspects of life, Joseph is dedicated to working together with his clients to improve their well-being. He specializes in various areas including men’s issues, LGBTQ concerns, shame, and trauma. Regardless of gender or age, Joseph and his associates provide therapy services for individuals ranging from late adolescents to adults.

Moreover, he is trained as a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner specifically working with trauma and highly anxious individuals.As a psycho-dynamic talk therapist, Joseph utilizes a range of approaches including Brene’ Brown’s research. He is certified in her clinical modalities as CDWF (Certified Daring Way Facilitator).

Joseph understands that reaching out for therapy requires courage. Drawing from his own personal experience doing this work, he provides a safe space that is characterized by compassion and non-judgment. Employing evidence-based techniques rooted in research findings ensures that the therapeutic process is effective in shifting personal and professional perspectives. Joseph aids clients in uncovering shaming narratives while fostering self-compassion and developing solutions that can enhance  btheir overall quality of life.

Joseph is a dedicated and experienced psychedelic, somatic, and psychanalytic therapist who is committed to supporting individuals in their journey towards improved mental health and well-being. His specialized knowledge, extensive training in various therapeutic modalities, and certification as both a Somatic Experiencing Practitionier and a Certified Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy Provider make him an invaluable resource for anyone seeking transformative healing.

Credentials

Joseph provides the following services:

Psychotherapy and Counseling

  • District of Columbia, DC.
  • Virginia and NOVA.
  • Maryland.
  • Maryland Supervision for LMSW advanced practice or independent practice.
  • New Jersey.
  • LGBTQI NYC & New York.

Facilitates Workshops

  • Daring Way™ (CDWF) workshops on courage and vulnerability, based on the research of Brene’ Brown, Ph.D.
  • Other workshops as requested.

Somatic Experiencing Therapy: work of Peter Levine.

Psychedelic therapy or integration as a certified Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy Provider.

Education, Licenses & Certificates

  • Certified Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy Provider (PATP) by the Integrative Psychiatric Institute.
  • Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP): work of Peter Levine, used for trauma, anxiety, high activation persons, and autonomic nervous system dysregulation.
  • Certified Dare to Lead™ Facilitator (CDTLF): Courageous leadership consultant based on the research of Brene’ Brown, Ph.D. Inactive in protest to Brene’s non-inclusive facilitator’s guidelines on pornography hindering performers from becoming certified facilitators.
  • Certified Daring Way™ Facilitator: modalities based off the research of Brene’ Brown, Ph.D.
  • MSW: Master of Social Work degree from Tulane University, New Orleans, LA
  • Washington Center for Psychoanalysis: Certificate training in Modern Perspectives in Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy
  • MBA: Master’s in Business Administration from Trinity University, Washington, DC
  • Licensed in the District of Columbia (License # LC3000819 ) and provide remote Telehealth psychotherapy DC and face-to-face if arranged.
  • Licensed in Maryland (License # 27085 ) and provide remote Telehealth psychotherapy MD and face-to-face if arranged.
  • Maryland Board-approved social work (LMSW) supervisor for advanced practice or independent practice.
  • Licensed in Virginia (License # 0904013135 ) providing psychotherapy NOVA and remote Telehealth psychotherapy VA and face-to-face if arranged.
  • Licensed in New Jersey (License # 44SC06054400) and provide remote Telehealth psychotherapy and counseling New Jersey and face-to-face if arranged
  • I am licensed in New York (License #092948-01) and provide remote Telehealth psychotherapy and counseling LGBTQI for New York City, NYC, and New York.

Associates

All Associates are independent contract Therapists. However, all patients/clients served have a bona fide patient-practitioner relationship with Joseph LaFleur MSW, MBA, LICSW.  All associates work under his clinical supervision or consultation. Therefore, all patients/clients must see Joseph at the onset of therapy and can reach out to him at any time.  Your therapist can guide you in this process.

MSW, MPA, LICSW, LCSW, LCSW-C,

Charles Harney

  • Relationship Issues
  • Depression and Anxiety
  • Addictions
  • Trauma and Mood Disorders
  • LGBTQ Issues
  • Life Transitions
  • College-Life Issues

About Charles

Are you feeling stuck in life, unable to move forward and grow? Life can sometimes feel out of control, leading to feelings of anxiety, depression, anger, frustration, loneliness, isolation, and boredom. These emotions can lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms such as drug or alcohol abuse, excessive spending, or other destructive behaviors. My approach focuses on helping clients regain control and develop healthy coping skills.

In my practice, I combine cognitive behavioral therapy with motivational interviewing and mindfulness exercises to help you find solutions in the present moment. Additionally, I am trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy for clients with a history of trauma. With over 20 years of experience in therapy for addictions, mental health, and recovery, I work with young adults, adults, and couples, specializing in LGBTQ issues, substance abuse and co-occurring disorders, trauma, and mood disorders.

My approach is straightforward and solution-focused, aimed at helping you address the difficulties you are facing. I am licensed in DC, MD, and VA and am committed to working with you to create positive and lasting change. Let’s work together to help you move forward and find a sense of balance and wellness in your life.

Credentials

  • MSW: Master of Social Work degree from the University of Maryland.
  • MPA:  Master of Public Administration from the University of Southern California.
  • Licensed in DC, MD, and VA
  • Sees patients both in-person (limited availability) and telehealth.

Natasha Chantal Watkins

MBA, MSW, LMSW, LICSW

  • Depression and Anxiety
  • Relationship Issues
  • Trauma and PTSD
  • Parenting Issues
  • Life Transitions

About Natasha

We all encounter challenges in life without caution. Handling the surge of emotions resulting from these unexpected experiences can negatively impact our behavior and interaction with others. My goal is to help you overcome those difficulties and re-imagine your life in the future. I am a psychotherapist who helps get to the root of your symptoms. Whether it’s anger, depression, anxiety, trauma anxiety, problems with self-esteem, or relationship difficulties, we will identify whatever hinders your growth to a better you. No matter where we begin, we work together, and your journey is based on the steps you choose to take. I work as your partner to help you leverage your strengths to develop positive coping skills and healthy techniques to thrive in life.

I am licensed in DC and MD. Contacting me will be your first step toward change and obtaining the guidance to find the solutions you desire. I look forward to creating a safe, therapeutic space for you to fulfill your purpose.

Credentials

  • MSW: Master of Social Work from the Catholic University of America
  • MBA:  Master of Business Administration from Marymount University
  • Licensed in the District of Columbia and Maryland

Daniela Vias

BA, MS, LCPC

  • Depression and Anxiety
  • LGBTQI issues
  • Traumatic & PTSD
  • Anger Issues
  • Women's Issues
  • Trauma & PTSD
  • Life Transitions
  • Self-Harm

About Daniela

I specialize in working with all genders, including LGBTQI populations. I am both English and Spanish speaking, and my patients include both adolescents and adults. I work closely and collaboratively with you to explore emotions, process difficult experiences, identify feelings, and develop the skills you need to make effective changes.

My specialties include individuals with depression, anxiety, trauma, and emotional disturbances.

We will work together to establish the best course of treatment to meet your goals and needs. I help clients identify their problematic thinking patterns, develop coping mechanisms, and understand how past experiences affect their current functioning. I value the transformative nature of a strong therapeutic relationship. I have paired my passion for helping others and experience with multicultural and diverse populations into my counseling approach.

I apply experience and compassion to the therapeutic process to help you attain a sense of peace and fulfillment. I believe change happens when patients discover their strengths.

Credentials

  • MS: Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Barry University.
  • BA: Bachelor of Arts from Catholic University, Department of Psychology.

James Dubry

MA, NCC, LGPC

  • Depression and Anxiety
  • LGBTQI issues
  • Codependency
  • Anger Issues
  • School Issues (Secondary, Post-Secondary)
  • Men's Issues
  • Life Transitions
  • Grief
  • Stress

About James

My approach is client-centered, providing you with the opportunity to realize unknown potentials resulting in growth and healing. You are encouraged to share your thoughts and feelings, free from judgment, with empathy and compassion. Being vulnerable with another is more courageous than suffering in silence. I believe pain is to be shared, and it is through this sharing we heal and grow, allowing more space and a greater capacity for a more meaningful life.

We have many impasses in life, and the path to resolution can be lonely and uncertain. However, sharing these experiences and leaning on others does not make you weak. On the contrary, our shared experiences provide strength and a sense of common humanity, relieving us from isolation. I know this to be true through my work and my life experiences. I have done the work, reaped the rewards, and am available to help you do the same.

My expertise is specific to grief and heartbreak, anxiety, and depressive experiences in life. In addition, I have substantial experience working with adolescents, young adults, and adults, including LGBTQ, veterans, and college-age populations.- both in-person and through Telehealth sessions.

Credentials

  • MA – Master of Arts: Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • NCC – Nationally Certified Counselor (National Board of Certified Counselors)

Terah Ryan

MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C

  • Life Transitions
  • Depression and Anxiety
  • Grief and Loss
  • Chronic Illness
  • Women's Issues
  • Relationship Issues
  • Family Issues
  • Stress
  • College Issues

About Terah

Welcome— I’m so glad you’re here. I’m Terah Ryan, a licensed Social Worker and therapist in the District of Columbia. It’s my commitment to creating a safe place for you to explore your thoughts, emotions, patterns, and relationships to create a more meaningful self.
I work with adults of all ages experiencing concerns such as chronic illness, grief, loss, relationship or family issues, anxiety, and troublesome or stressful life transitions.

My clients find me to be supportive, collaborative, and direct. I also have substantial experience working with healthcare professionals and supporting caregivers of loved ones. The people I work with are motivated for change, committed to self-growth, and interested in the therapeutic process.

My approach to therapy is client-centered. It is shaped by many psychotherapy models, rooted in Narrative Therapy, influenced by Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and includes the practice of mindfulness and breathing techniques.

You’ve likely landed here because you’re searching for a therapist and are seeking the right fit. If you think I might be a good match for you, send me an email, and let’s explore more.

Credentials

  • MSW: Master of Social Work from Michigan State University, Clinical focus with a certificate in healthcare social work
  • BSW: Bachelor of Social Work from Hope College
  • Licensed in the District of Columbia
  • Licensed in Maryland.

David Manolof

MA, LGSW

  • Life Transitions
  • Depression and Anxiety
  • Grief and Loss
  • Stress
  • Relationship Issues
  • College Issues

About David

As a bilingual therapist who values a collaborative approach, I am here to accompany you on your journey to understanding the deeper roots of your experiences and how they impact your daily life. I am fluent in both Spanish and English, and can work in either preferred language. Through exploring your past experiences, relationships, and patterns, we will uncover underlying factors that shape your current thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. The development of a trusting therapeutic alliance and the facilitation of self-reflection will enable you to see things from a new perspective and empower you to take meaningful actions.

Helping individuals navigate difficult life transitions is my specialty. There is no need to suffer in silence if you are experiencing anxiety, depression, or an overall sense of unhappiness. My work has enabled me to support people seeking meaning in a variety of areas of their lives, even when dissatisfaction persists. It is possible to perceive life itself or those around us as too much; at other times, we can perceive ourselves as the problem. Each of us strives to live a life that is authentic and fulfilling, regardless of our unique circumstances.

I am a psycho-dynamic therapist, and I understand how courageous it is to embark on a therapeutic relationship. My sincere belief is that acknowledging and embracing our vulnerabilities leads to meaningful growth and self-discovery. Having personally experienced the challenges and growth that therapy offers, I can assure you that you are not alone in this journey. I am here to provide you with the safety and support you need as we navigate the complexities of your inner world. Taking the first steps is the most difficult, but together we can overcome.

Credentials

  • M.A. Social Service Administration/Social Work University of Chicago Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice.
  • Trauma Responsive Program of Study Focused on Trauma-Informed Care.
  • B.S. Social Work, Minor in Psychology, Howard Payne University.
  • L.G.S.W. District of Columbia.
  • Illinois Medicaid CANS, John Praer Foundation
  • Trauma-Informed Care, University of Chicago Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice
  • Trust-Based Relational Intervention, Buckner International

Randall Dunkle

MS, LGPC.

  • Relationship Issues
  • Depression and Anxiety
  • Addictions
  • Trauma and Mood Disorders
  • LGBTQ Issues
  • Life Transitions
  • College-Life Issues

About Randall

I am a dynamic mental health counselor. During my internship, I worked heavily in Dual Diagnosis treatment (mental illness and addiction services). My early work in mental health provided me with extensive experience working with those dealing with severe and persistent mental health disorders. I then worked for three years in the area of intense community health, and have experience helping clients not only deal with severe mental illness but with addiction, grief, adjustment disorders, mild to severe depression, trauma, and anxiety.

I received my Master of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University. While my theoretical orientation is Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I use tools and interventions from several modalities.  I find CBT particularly useful because of its “cause and effect” nature.  However, I find it useful to pull techniques from several different orientations including but not limited to Gestalt, Existential, Client Focused, and Narrative therapies. I believe in choosing the appropriate tool from a variety of orientations to help clients understand what thoughts contribute to behaviors, and how to bring about real and lasting changes in their lives.

I am a member of the LGBTQ+ community and therefore have an interest in focusing on assisting clients in the LGBT+ communities. However, I have the experience and expertise to help a wide array of clients. My goal is to assist as many people as possible regardless of our differences. My experience with clients from all walks of life allows me to understand and help diverse groups.

Credentials

  • Walden University: Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • Towson University: B.S. Electronic Media & Film
  • L.G.P.C. in the District of Columbia

Courtney Wright

MSW, LICSW

  • Life Transitions
  • Depression and Anxiety
  • Women's Issues
  • Grief and Loss
  • Relationship Issues
  • Family Issues

About Courtney

I’m Courtney Wright, a licensed Social Worker and therapist in the District of Columbia. I am here to support you as you dig deep into your lived experiences and commit to self-growth. I will always take a person-centered approach, rooted in various therapy models that support your unique needs and challenges. I work with adults of all ages who come to address feelings of stress and anxiety surrounding life transitions, relational issues, grief, depression, and loss.

I understand that everyone’s experiences and challenges are unique, and we will work closely together to tailor a plan for your specific needs and goals in a collaborative, supportive, and direct manner.

My approach to therapy utilizes several therapy models that are person-centered. Pulling from influences in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Humanistic Therapy, Solutions Focused Brief Therapy, and Psychodynamic Therapy. There is no “one size fits all” approach to self-care.

You’ve been searching for the next step in your personal wellness journey. If you think that we may be a good fit, please reach out so that we may begin to explore together.

Credentials

  • Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in the District of Columbia.
  • MSW: Master of Clinical Social Work from St. Catherine’s University, St. Paul, Minnesota
  • BS: Bachelor of Psychology, Duluth, Minnesota

Jamia Burrows

MSW, LGSW

  • Life Transitions
  • Depression and Anxiety
  • Women's Issues
  • BIPOC Issues
  • Trauma and PTSD
  • Mood Disorders
  • Self Esteem
  • Sexual Abuse
  • Spirituality

About Jamia

At times, it is hard to find a safe space to explore and discuss overwhelming feelings and issues challenging our daily lives. Sometimes, seeking therapy can be intimidating and daunting. With understanding, non judgement and warmth, I acknowledge the strength it takes to begin the therapeutic process. My commitment is to create a safe, confidential and welcoming space for you through your journey of healing and growth.
I am a client-centered, trauma informed compassionate Social Worker providing therapy in mental health and over all social emotional well-being. I obtained a Master’s Degree in 2017 and have worked with a variety of populations for the past 7 years. Within my practice, I draw from various psycho-therapeutic modalities as I cater my approach to fit your needs.

I recognize the importance of the mind body connection and integrate this powerful concept into my work as build our therapeutic relationship. During our sessions I will tap into your strengths, values and resilience to help you work towards a better you. I intend to validate, empower and meet you where you are.

Credentials

  • Licensed Graduate Social Worker in the District of Columbia.
  • MSW: Master of Clinical Social Work from Southern University, New Orleans, La.
  • BSW: Bachelor of Social Work, Southern University, New Orleans, La.

Chelsea Crawford

MSW, LGSW

  • Life Transition
  • Depression and Anxiety
  • College Transitions
  • Work Stress
  • Multiracial Identity
  • Dating Support
  • Burnout Issues
  • Substance Use 

About Chelsea

Hi, I’m Chelsea, a Virginia-based psychotherapist dedicated to providing a safe and inclusive therapeutic space for young adults grappling with anxiety, depression, burnout, impostor syndrome, life/career transitions, self-medication with drugs and alcohol, or challenges creating meaningful relationships.

Together, we’ll tailor support to enable your personal growth and self-discovery, based on a foundation of CBT, MI, psycho-dynamic theories, and holistic wellness. I look forward to collaborating with young adults, parents, and biracial/multicultural individuals to nurture healing, foster resilience, and guide you toward a more balanced life.

I spent the first 10 years of my career in NYC working in high-stress corporate marketing and legislative policy roles, so I am intimately familiar with the challenges young adults face in today’s workforce. I received a Master’s in Social Work from Columbia University, specializing in trauma-informed care and the profound ways in which macro-political, environmental, and systemic factors impact mental health.

Credentials

  • Licensed Master of Social Work Virginia
  • Columbia University School of Social Work – Master of Social Work
  • University Wisconsin-Milwaukee – BA Communications

Download Our Free Empathy Worksheet

We’re Here For You
24 Hours A Day, 7 Days A Week

Address icon

Address:

Washington, D.C.

Office hours icon

Office Hours:

By Appointment Only
*Remote Options Available

Phone icon

Phone:

202.641.5335