Couples therapists in Virginia

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over two decades of experience, I focus first on creating a strong therapeutic relationship built on trust, safety, and respect. From there, we work collaboratively to explore the patterns, experiences, and challenges that may be keeping you stuck. Together, we develop an individualized plan that aligns with your unique needs, strengths, values, and goals. For over 20 years, I have had the privilege of supporting military service members, veterans, and their families through life's challenges and transitions. As a South Asian therapist, I also understand the unique complexities of cultural expectations, immigration experiences, family dynamics, and balancing multiple identities. I am passionate about helping individuals from all backgrounds navigate personal, relational, academic, and professional pressures while creating a life that feels authentic, meaningful, and fulfilling.

Starting therapy can feel vulnerable, especially if you’re used to being the one who holds things together for everyone else. I work with teens and adults who may look capable on the outside but feel overwhelmed, anxious, stuck, or disconnected on the inside. Many of my clients are insightful and thoughtful people who want more than quick coping strategies — they want to understand themselves more deeply and experience real, lasting change.

I have a double Master's and a Doctoral degree in psychology. I began my graduate study In NYC in 2006 doing research and clinical work in attachment theory both with young children and adults. It was there that I witnessed the impact of early and adult attachments. I have trained and worked in a variety of settings and each time I witnessed the fundamental human need of a secure, responsive and safe connection and the impact of isolation and trauma.

I work with individuals who are navigating stress, self-doubt, perfectionism, relationship difficulties, and past experiences that continue to impact the present. I work with motivated individuals who are balancing a lot and want to feel more grounded and fulfilled.

When life gives you lemons...

My education gave me the tools to be a skilled clinician. But it was my own trauma that gave me the insight and depth I bring to this work. I know what it feels like to live in a body that doesn’t feel safe—to question everything, including yourself. I spent over a decade learning how to heal, reclaim my voice, and become the kind of guide I once needed.

In the midst of that long journey, I had a quiet moment of clarity: what I was going through wasn’t just about survival—it was about becoming someone who could walk with others through the dark. That experience grounds my work in both knowledge and deep compassion.

Learning to love the desert

I’ve come to believe that being lost isn’t a problem—it’s part of the path. Like La Loba, the mythical bone-gatherer who wanders the desert collecting what’s been buried and brings it back to life, I help others gather what they’ve lost along the way. That process is sacred, slow, and often surprising—but it’s how we come home to ourselves.

There are parts of you that haven’t died; they’ve just been waiting. And sometimes, when it all falls apart, that’s when the wild, wise parts of you rise again.

As a board certified psychotherapist, I believe prioritizing mental health is key to happiness and stability in life. Seeking help can be one of the hardest parts, so congratulations on taking that step! I’ve been practicing for 10 years, I work with a plethora of inter-generational clients aged 21-90 who are struggling with anxiety and depression and trauma.

As a chaplain, I take a psycho-spiritual approach and work with clients assisting with intercultural issues, blended family dynamics, religiosity challenges and grief & loss.

Hi there! I'm Dr Esmie, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and PhD, Research Psychologist with more than three decades of professional and lived experience. I've lived much of my life in England and California and now currently reside in the DMV state of Virginia. I bring a broad multicultural perspective to my work.serving individuals, couples, and families from diverse cultural, social, and spiritual backgrounds.

My clinical practice integrates evidence-based approaches, including trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and strengths-based interventions. I have worked extensively with clients navigating trauma, life transitions, relational conflict, stress, and emotional challenges, helping them move toward healing and personal growth.

I believe meaningful change occurs when people feel genuinely seen, heard, and respected. I strive to create a safe, supportive therapeutic environment where clients can explore their experiences without judgment. Through collaboration, practical tools, and compassionate guidance, I help clients develop insight, strengthen resilience, and build healthier patterns of thinking, feeling, and behavior.

Above all, I value human dignity and authentic connection. I believe credentials may open doors, but character, empathy, and genuine care sustain lasting transformation.