Counseling / Therapist in Virginia

Welcome, thank you for taking this first step.

Therapist in Fairfax, Centreville, Haymarket, Gainesville VA and adjacent areas for Walk and Talk therapy (therapy while out walking in nature). Teletherapy offered for all of Virginia.
Free 15 - 20 minute consultation

I do not accept insurance, but be sure to check your out of network benefits.

It’s about you … it’s about hope.

Dorothy Smith, LCSW

(571) 207-7650

Specializing in anxiety and related depression, trauma, grief, and life impact

Why Choose Me

I am a skilled and compassionate therapist with experience and training in a range of therapeutic approaches including EMDR, CBT, ERP, Trauma-focused therapy, and Mindfulness. I have experience working with a variety of mental health issues, including PTSD, depression, anxiety, and the pain of grief and loss. With a focus on evidence-based treatments like EMDR therapy, CBT and ERP, my goal is to bring you therapy that utilizes both the comfort of being heard and the effectiveness of the newer somatic therapies. I also have extensive experience and training in the creative arts and find that creativity is a powerful healing tool. So while I am not an Art Therapist, client’s who want to utilize creativity as a way of exploring their experiences are encouraged to weave their art, poetry, writing, music or other forms of creative expression into the therapeutic process.

Commitment to Individualized Care and Evidence-Based Practices

I believe in a personalized approach to therapy, recognizing that each individual’s journey is unique. My commitment to evidence-based practices is focused on helping my clients receive the most effective treatment tailored to their specific needs. By combining scientific research with my understanding of personal experiences, I create a nurturing environment conducive to growth and healing.

Locations I Serve

  • Fairfax, VA

    In Centreville, a thriving community in Fairfax, my practice provides a serene and welcoming environment for clients seeking therapy. I specialize in anxiety, but also treat a wide range of other mental health needs. Services are offered via video or through Walk and Talk in or near the Haymarket area.

  • Haymarket, VA

    In Haymarket, clients can find a safe space to explore their feelings and work towards recovery. I specialize in anxiety and treat many other mental health issues including PTSD, depression, OCD, grief, and trauma. Services are offered via video or through Walk and Talk (walking out in nature while doing therapy) in or near the Haymarket area.

  • Gainesville, VA

    In Gainesville I offer a comprehensive range of counseling services in a calm and healing environment. Whether you're dealing with grief, depression, anxiety, or other mental health challenges, I am here to provide the support and guidance you need. Services are offered via video or through Walk and Talk in or near the Haymarket area.

  • Virginia

    I can work with anyone in the state of Virginia and welcome people who want to do online therapy from any part of our lovely state. Please feel free to contact me for a free 15-20 minute consultation.

My Services

  • Specializing in Anxiety

    Customized care for individuals with anxiety disorders including: Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety, Panic Disorders, and specific phobias. Together we will work on learning what is causing your anxiety while focusing on reducing anxiety levels, improving coping mechanisms, and enhancing overall quality of life.

  • PTSD Therapy

    Specialized treatment aimed at individuals experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder. Treatment will utilize evidence-based technique while processing traumatic events, and fostering resilience. I am aware of the challenges and the impact of PTSD and together we will take your therapy at your pace. My goal is to keep you from feeling overwhelmed as you gradually move back towards a sense of normalcy.

  • Depression Counseling

    I start by listening, because that is where you can often find the first level of comfort. I will also use targeted support for those battling depression, employing various therapeutic strategies to help you move in the direction of reducing symptoms, regaining hope, and finding joy or purpose in life again.

  • EMDR Therapy

    An innovative treatment for trauma and anxiety-related conditions, EMDR therapy facilitates the processing of distressing memories and promotes emotional healing.

  • Anxiety and Depression Counseling

    A holistic approach to treating co-occurring anxiety and depression, providing integrated strategies for relief and recovery.

  • Grief and Depression Counseling

    Compassionate support for individuals coping with loss and grief, helping them navigates their journey toward healing and acceptance.

Learn to work on mental wellness.

Improving mental health is a journey. It’s learning to meditate, to take care of your physical health, to treat yourself with kindness. Mental wellness begins with slowing down to examine where you want to go with your life (at any age). It can be difficult, but also healing to do the deep work of examining your life and learning self-compassion. If you are struggling, I am here to guide you through the process of self-examination and change. Some of our focus may be on learning new coping skills, meditation, relational skills, or improved communication. Together we will look at stressors, trauma, and negative patterns in your life. There are many paths and my specialty is finding the creative way to help you move towards building, and refocusing on, your unique gifts and strengths.

Increase your relational wellness

The first relationship I have a client work on and grow is the relationship with the self. Then together we look at your relationship patterns with other people in your life. When you identify both positive and negative patterns, you have the power to change and build better relationships. Think of it like building a home. If you build your home with good lumber and a solid foundation, it is likely to stand for a long time. The same is true of good relationships, they thrive when they are built on good patterns, good boundaries, and when they are nurtured.