How do you work with clients with depression?

Hi, I’m Afshin (pronounced of-sheen), a queer therapist dedicated to creating a safe, affirming space where you can show up exactly as you are. I work with teens, young adults, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and neurodivergent clients who may be navigating anxiety, burnout, identity exploration, self-doubt, or the challenges of living in a world that often expects them to fit into narrow boxes. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and deeply human-centered. Drawing from Narrative Therapy, Psychodynamic theory, DBT, CBT, and Solution-Focused Therapy, I help clients better understand themselves, challenge limiting stories, build practical coping skills, and create lives that feel more authentic and sustainable. Whether we're processing difficult emotions, exploring identity, or celebrating small victories, our work together is grounded in curiosity, acceptance, and meaningful growth.

I am an Associate Therapist with experience supporting children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families from diverse backgrounds. Much of my work has focused on adolescents and young adults impacted by domestic violence and sex trafficking, helping them navigate complex trauma and build safety, resilience, and a sense of control. My approach integrates trauma‑focused CBT, solution‑focused therapy, EFT, and narrative therapy, tailored to each client’s strengths, culture, and goals. As a mature clinician who returned to school later in life, I bring lived experience, empathy, and a deep commitment to creating a safe, respectful space where clients feel genuinely heard, seen, and valued.

I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a strong background in emergency nursing, military service, and mental health care. My clinical experience has shaped the way I practice: calm under pressure, direct when needed, and deeply committed to helping people feel steady again. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma-related symptoms, life stress, burnout, mood concerns, sleep issues, and medication management needs. Before becoming a psychiatric provider, I served in the U.S. Navy. I later worked as an emergency department nurse, where I learned the importance of listening well, acting decisively, and treating the whole person, and not just a diagnosis. My approach is practical, collaborative, and grounded in real life. I help patients understand their symptoms, explore treatment options, and build a plan that supports both stability and long-term growth.

I support children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families who are navigating emotional, relational, identity, and life-transition challenges. My work focuses on helping clients better understand themselves, build practical coping skills, strengthen communication, and create meaningful change in their daily lives. I specialize in concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, emotional dysregulation, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, gender and sexuality exploration, and family or relationship challenges. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in evidence-based therapies including DBT, ACT, Exposure Therapy, trauma-informed care, Gottman Couples Therapy, and mindfulness-based practices. As a certified yoga teacher with training in Yin Yoga, Yoga Nidra, and meditation, I also bring a mind-body perspective to therapy when helpful. Whether clients are seeking individual therapy, couples or family support, DBT skills, trauma recovery, or career guidance, my goal is to provide a supportive space where they can feel understood, empowered, and better equipped to move forward.

At some point in life, we all feel stuck and need to pivot. Often when we are looking for solutions to our problems the sage advice is to try something NEW. Why? Because our brains respond to novelty – it helps us adapt and manage stress. Therapy for many can be that reset. It takes bravery and grit to start a new therapeutic relationship. I'm so glad you are here today. Let me tell you a bit about me. I'm a licensed Clinical Psychologist in Virginia, military brat, and mother of three little ones. I provide virtual therapy (individuals & couples) and psychological assessment (primarily ADHD and Trauma evaluations) for the DC, MD, VA area (otherwise known as DMV). I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and trauma. I work with adults who are experiencing challenges with concentration, anxiety, eating/body image, depressed mood, flashbacks related to trauma, irritability or a combination of these factors. Many of my clients are amazingly kind, generous, and driven individuals who hold themselves to high standards. Often our work is focused on increasing flexibility, building trust, acceptance and self-compassion. We pivot, when needed, we laugh when it is appropriate. This process is not linear and unique to every person. I'd be honored to begin that process with you whenever you are ready to get started.