Jessie Knowles Henry

I have a background in communications, a Master of Social Work with a clinical concentration, and my LICSW. I've spent more than a decade working in mental health and social services, including executive leadership in the nonprofit sector focused on some of DC's most underserved communities.

In my private practice, I work with adults who are navigating anxiety, depression, and the emotional complexity of major life changes, particularly around relationships. My work often centers on people processing the aftermath of divorce or separation, carrying grief that doesn't have a clear shape yet, or trying to understand relational patterns before they repeat. For clients for whom faith is meaningful, I'm comfortable integrating that into our work.

My approach is collaborative and evidence-informed, drawing on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and motivational interviewing, but I meet clients where they are rather than applying a rigid framework. I work in a direct, conversational style, honest but without pressure, and I believe therapy works best when it meets people in the middle of their real life, not just symptom management.

For clients who are interested, I also offer walk-and-talk sessions, meeting outdoors at a park or green space in DC instead of on a screen. Sometimes people talk more freely when they're moving rather than sitting across from me, and DC has no shortage of good spots for that. It's not for everyone, but for the right person, it can open things up in a way a traditional session doesn't.

A first session is about understanding what's bringing you in, what you're hoping to work on, and, if that's not yet fully clear, talking things through together until it comes into focus. I'll ask questions, listen closely, and share my initial thoughts on what might be useful.

From there, we build the work together, figuring out what we're aiming for and how to get there. I'll be direct with you: about what I'm noticing, what I think might help, and what I think you're ready for.

I offer a free 15-minute consultation before we start. Reach out anytime.