1. The Washington Center for Cognitive Therapy
Credentials: Dr. Vincent Greenwood, PhD, Director. Authority to Practice Telepsychology (E.Passport #13632) through PSYPACT. Recognized as a top vote-getter in the cognitive-behavioral therapist category by Washingtonian Magazine survey of nearly 800 mental health professionals.
Specialization: Anxiety disorders (panic, social anxiety, generalized anxiety, trauma), OCD, mood disorders (depression, anger management).
Therapy Approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Schema Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT). Research-tested CBT programs for depression, social anxiety, panic disorder, OCD, and generalized anxiety disorder.
Populations Served: Adults in Washington DC, Northern Virginia, and suburban Maryland (Bethesda, Chevy Chase, Rockville, Silver Spring). Clients in PSYPACT member states via teletherapy.
Background: Under Dr. Greenwood’s direction, the Center has provided training to mental health systems and therapists throughout the DC metro area. Recognized as a leading expert in treatment of clinical depression and anxiety difficulties. Focus on providing state-of-the-art integrative care.
Insurance Accepted: Contact practice for insurance information.
Session Format: Primarily teletherapy services via live video calls. Teletherapy shown to be as effective as in-person sessions per recent research.
Location: Washington, DC (teletherapy primarily)
Contact: (202) 805-0629 | [email protected] | https://washingtoncenterforcognitivetherapy.com
Initial Consultation: Email or call to request an appointment.
2. Washington Anxiety Center of Capitol Hill
Credentials: Dr. Johanna Kaplan, Director; Dr. Anna Villavicencio; Dr. Jennifer Meeter; Dr. Lediya Dumessa; Dr. Blaise Worden; Dr. Jennifer Henderson; Dr. Mark Wahl; Dr. Tovah Weinrib; Dr. Timothy Fratto; Dr. Greta Carlson. Team of psychologists specializing in evidence-based treatments.
Specialization: Anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, behavioral disorders for all ages.
Therapy Approaches: Cognitive-behavioral treatments with special emphasis on exposure-based therapies. Evidence-based, scientifically-supported treatment.
Populations Served: Individuals of all ages including children, adolescents, and adults.
Background: Established 2016 as Capitol Hill’s psychology outpatient treatment center utilizing evidence-based treatments. Offices designed to feel welcoming, calming, and home-like rather than clinical. Described by patients as comfortable environment for treatment.
Insurance Accepted: Contact practice for insurance information.
Session Format: In-person sessions at Capitol Hill office. Waitlist currently active for both locations.
Location: Capitol Hill, Washington, DC
Contact: https://www.washingtonanxietycenter.com
Initial Consultation: Check waitlist status and blog/newsletter for updates on availability.
3. Social Anxiety Help (NSAC District of Columbia)
Credentials: Larry Cohen, LICSW, A-CBT, Director and NSAC cofounder and Chair. Master in Social Work from University of Michigan (1987). Diplomate in cognitive-behavioral therapy by Academy of Cognitive and Behavioral Therapies (also Fellow status). Diplomate in CBT by National Association of Cognitive Behavioral Therapists. Certified in Trial-Based Cognitive Therapy. Founding member of National Registry of Certified Group Psychotherapists.
Specialization: Social anxiety disorder, clinical depression, self-esteem issues, relationship problems. Specialized services for LGBT community.
Therapy Approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), group psychotherapy, Trial-Based Cognitive Therapy (using role plays to change unhealthy attitudes).
Populations Served: Adults with social anxiety and related conditions. LGBT community members.
Background: Clinical practice established in 1990. Has led 100 social anxiety therapy groups (20 weeks each) in Washington DC plus other CBT groups for depression, self-esteem, and relationships. Author of “Overcoming Shame-Based Social Anxiety and Shyness: A CBT Workbook” (2025), endorsed by foremost social anxiety researchers worldwide. Listed as “Top Therapist” in Washingtonian magazine for cognitive-behavioral therapy.
Insurance Accepted: Contact practice for insurance information.
Session Format: In-person individual and group CBT at Tenleytown office.
Location: 4808 43rd Place NW, Washington, DC (Tenleytown – American University neighborhood, near red line Metro)
Contact: https://nationalsocialanxietycenter.com/regional-clinics/dc/
Initial Consultation: Contact practice for consultation information.
4. DC Anxiety and OCD Center
Credentials: Dr. Paustian, Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 10 years experience.
Specialization: Anxiety disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), body-focused repetitive behaviors.
Therapy Approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) specialized for anxiety, OCD, and related disorders.
Populations Served: Adults with anxiety, OCD, and related conditions.
Background: Private practice focused on evidence-based treatment for anxiety and OCD spectrum disorders. Practice provides Good Faith Estimates for uninsured or self-pay clients as required by law.
Insurance Accepted: Contact practice for insurance information. Good Faith Estimate available for those not using insurance.
Session Format: In-person and telehealth sessions available.
Location: Washington, DC
Contact: https://www.dcanxietyocd.com
Initial Consultation: Free consultation available. Call or email to schedule initial therapy appointment.
5. The Ross Center
Credentials: Team of psychiatrists and therapists with outstanding clinical and interpersonal skills. Over 30 years of experience providing treatment for anxiety and depression.
Specialization: Anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, trauma/PTSD, relationship difficulties, parenting challenges.
Therapy Approaches: Evidence-based treatment including CBT, medication management, comprehensive psychiatric and psychological services.
Populations Served: Adults, children, and families. Young professionals with ADHD. BIPOC community members (through REACH Wellness Groups for racial stress). Parents of children with ADHD.
Background: Practice with over 30 years providing treatment, operating three regional offices in NY, VA, and DC. Offers coordinated care with psychiatric and psychological services under one roof. Current programs include REACH Wellness Groups for BIPOC, parenting webinars for parents of children with ADHD, and Adulting with ADHD groups for young professionals.
Insurance Accepted: Contact practice for insurance information.
Session Format: In-person sessions at DC office. Virtual teletherapy available. After-school and weekend appointments available with child therapists and psychiatrists.
Location: Washington, DC (additional offices in NY and VA)
Contact: https://www.rosscenter.com
Initial Consultation: Brief introductory phone call with designated therapist available at no cost prior to scheduling first appointment.
Mental Health Industry in District of Columbia
Average Therapy Session Costs
Individual therapy sessions in Washington DC range from $175 to $300 per session depending on provider credentials and experience. Licensed Independent Clinical Social Workers (LICSW) typically charge $150 to $225 per session. Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC) charge similar rates. Licensed Psychologists with doctoral degrees generally charge $200 to $350 per session. Psychiatrists may charge $300 to $500 for sessions including medication management. DC therapy costs are among the highest nationally, comparable to New York and San Francisco.
Licensing Requirements for Psychologists
To practice as a licensed psychologist in the District of Columbia, professionals must complete a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) from an APA-accredited or Board-approved institution. Candidates must accumulate supervised professional experience as required by the DC Board of Psychology. The Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) with minimum passing score is required. The DC Board of Psychology under the Department of Health administers licensure. Continuing education requirements apply for license renewal.
Telehealth Regulations
The District of Columbia permits licensed psychologists to provide telehealth services to clients located within DC. DC participates in PSYPACT (Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact), allowing psychologists with E.Passport credentials to practice telepsychology across member states. Providers must use HIPAA-compliant platforms and follow DC telehealth regulations.
Mental Health Parity Laws
DC has strong mental health parity laws requiring health insurers to provide coverage for mental health conditions equivalent to physical health conditions. The DC Mental Health Parity Act and federal MHPAEA apply. DC law specifically requires coverage for mental health and substance use disorder treatment.
Professional Organizations
The DC Psychological Association represents psychologists in the District, offering continuing education, advocacy, and professional resources. The National Social Anxiety Center has its headquarters leadership (NSAC cofounder Larry Cohen) based in DC. The Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies has active DC area members.
Workforce Availability and Wait Times
Washington DC has a substantial mental health workforce with programs at George Washington University, Georgetown University, American University, Howard University, and other institutions. Despite high provider density, wait times for new patients typically range from two to six weeks. Specialized practices like Washington Anxiety Center of Capitol Hill maintain active waitlists due to demand.
Common Mental Health Concerns
In Washington DC, commonly treated conditions include anxiety disorders (particularly related to political and government work stress), depression, OCD, trauma/PTSD, and concerns related to high-pressure professional environments. The transient nature of DC population (political appointments, international diplomats) creates unique adjustment and identity concerns.
District-Funded Mental Health Resources
DC Department of Behavioral Health oversees community mental health programs. Access HelpLine (1-888-793-4357) provides 24/7 crisis support and referrals. Community mental health centers throughout DC provide sliding-scale treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What credentials indicate specialized CBT expertise in Washington DC?
Look for Diplomate status from the Academy of Cognitive and Behavioral Therapies (A-CBT), which requires rigorous certification. Larry Cohen at Social Anxiety Help holds both Diplomate and Fellow status. Recognition in Washingtonian magazine’s “Top Therapist” listings also indicates peer recognition. Board certification (ABPP) in Behavioral and Cognitive Psychology represents the highest credential level.
Are there specialized group therapy options for social anxiety in DC?
Yes, Larry Cohen at Social Anxiety Help (NSAC DC) has led over 100 twenty-week social anxiety therapy groups since 1990. This represents one of the most extensive group therapy programs for social anxiety in the country. Additional CBT groups for depression, self-esteem, and relationships are also offered.
How does the political environment in DC affect mental health treatment needs?
DC therapists frequently address anxiety and stress related to political uncertainty, high-pressure government and policy work, and the transient nature of political appointments. Practices like The Ross Center and Washington Anxiety Center have experience with the unique stressors affecting DC professionals, diplomats, and government workers.
What resources exist for BIPOC individuals seeking culturally responsive care?
The Ross Center offers REACH Wellness Groups specifically for BIPOC individuals, teaching skills for coping, healing, and thriving from racial stress. Many DC therapists emphasize culturally responsive care given the city’s diverse population. When seeking a therapist, asking about experience with racial stress and culturally competent care is recommended.
What is PSYPACT and how does it benefit DC residents?
PSYPACT (Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact) allows psychologists with E.Passport credentials to provide telepsychology across member states. For DC residents who travel frequently, work remotely, or relocate temporarily (common in political and government careers), this means continuity of care with their DC-based psychologist. Dr. Vincent Greenwood holds E.Passport #13632 for interstate practice.