Bipolar disorder therapists & psychiatrists in Arlington, VA

I work primarily with individuals and couples who need assistance in learning what to do when difficult emotions appear. I work with couples navigating the same arguments over and over or individuals wondering, "Why does this feel so hard?" Areas of specialty include:

• Anger and areas of conflict
• Cycles of closeness and withdraw
• Emotional distance and disengagement
• Healing from affairs
• Lack of trust and insecurities
• Dating
• Premarital counseling
• Separation and divorce
• Parenting issues
• Power and control issues

Finding the right therapist, and starting therapy, can be both exciting and perhaps overwhelming. But your story matters--it is unique to you.

I can help with solving current struggles, as well as past wounds which may contribute to distress. I help those who want deeper insight into those areas they feel stuck; negative patterns of relating; or feeling blocked from living their best life.

I received my Master's in Mental Health Counseling in 2016, worked for a substance abuse IOP until 2021 and have since been in private practice. I specialize in substance abuse but also work with many seeking help for anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship issues, etc.

I want to help you help yourself. I believe everyone is capable of change and I will teach you skills to use everyday.

Smart Duru is psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 10 years of combined healthcare experience. He attended University of Derby, England for a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing and a master’s in psychiatric mental health nursing with Distinction. Smart Duru obtained a Master of Science Degree with specialization in Psychiatry mental health Nurse Practitioner. He has extensive experience in Mental health, Primary care, Sub/Post-Acute Care, Long Term Care, Correctional Medicine, and Family Medicine.

I'm here to offer a safe, confidential space where you can explore your inner world, address challenges, and begin the process of profound healing and growth.

To support our work together, I have pursued specialized training in several transformative approaches:

• CCTP-II (Level II Trauma Certified): I have advanced training in trauma-informed care and treatment modalities. This certification ensures I am equipped to safely and effectively address the impact of past trauma, including dissociative disorders, helping you process difficult experiences and move toward post-traumatic growth.
• C-DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Certified): DBT provides practical, concrete skills for managing intense emotions, improving relationships, living in the present moment, and tolerating distress. It is highly effective for those struggling with emotional dysregulation and interpersonal challenges.

• Internal Family Systems (IFS- informed): This powerful, evidence-based model views the mind as a system of "parts" (e.g., a critical part, a vulnerable part, a protective part). IFS helps you develop a compassionate, curious relationship with these different facets of yourself, leading to greater internal harmony and wholeness.

I have practice as a Licensed Professional Counselor since 2012 and I also hold the license for Licensed Substance Abuse Treatment Practitioner.

I am originally from North Carolina and moved to Virginia 6 years ago. I studied at Wake Forest University. Since I was younger, I've enjoyed helping others and learning about the science of mental health. It became my hobby when I was younger. I enjoy working with so many backgrounds and increasing my education each year as I help new people. Currently, I like to utilize mindfulness based CBT, DBT, and ACT.