Trauma and PTSD therapists & psychiatrists in District of Columbia

From the moment we begin working together, I invest in collaborating on a personalized therapeutic experience that allows clients to feel seen, understood, respected, and supported. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Board-Certified Music Therapist, and Gottman and Emotion-Focused trained couple's therapist with over seven years of experience, I've learned how valuable relationships are for growth and change, including the relationship with your therapist that I work hard to nurture.

Tigisty Zerislassie (Tig), is a board certified Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) with over 12 years as a clinician having worked in various settings with various populations to include families and children, in-patient psychiatric and forensic hospital patients as well as, independent and assisted living elderly populations. She obtained her BA from Hamilton College and MSSW degree from Columbia University. She is a certified intensive and complex trauma specialist.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California and a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in Washington, DC. I provide psychotherapy to adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, and life transitions.

I currently work with the Integrative Digestive Health team at UCLA Health and also provide therapy through Lyra Health. I bring extensive experience across medical and mental health settings, including six years as a liver transplant social worker at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, work on the first COVID unit at George Washington University Hospital, and leadership roles in community mental health organizations in Washington, DC.

My approach is warm, collaborative, and client-centered, grounded in trauma-informed care. I primarily use cognitive behavioral and solution-focused therapies while tailoring treatment to each individual. I have particular expertise in trauma, the intersection of physical and mental health, and interpersonal relationships. I offer both short- and long-term therapy and believe meaningful change happens in a space that feels safe, supportive, and authentic.

I am happy to provide a free 15-minute consultation (upon request) to ensure a good fit. To request a consultation, please email: [email protected].

Outside of work, I enjoy traveling, hiking in the Los Angeles mountains, kayaking, and spending time with my rescue dog, Sophia.