Business Details
26 Years
experience
Expert Therapy Services in Washington, DC
At DC Counseling & Psychotherapy Center, we specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families navigate the complexities of relationships and personal growth. Founded in 2000 by Elisabeth Joy LaMotte, a licensed clinical social worker with over 30 years of experience, our practice combines evidence-based therapeutic techniques with innovative approaches like cinema-therapy and bibliotherapy. Our team of experts, including bilingual therapist Sarah Spencer Northey, focuses on equipping clients with concrete skills to reduce anxiety, resolve conflicts, and build fulfilling relationships. We emphasize personalized care, tailoring resources such as books and films to each client's unique needs.With a commitment to accessibility, we offer telehealth services and flexible scheduling across two Washington, DC locations. Our group therapy sessions provide affordable, community-driven support, while corporate consultation services address workplace dynamics. Recognized for our contributions to media and professional organizations, we prioritize transparency, ethical practice, and measurable outcomes. Our approach fosters self-awareness, emotional resilience, and healthier communication patterns, empowering clients to achieve lasting personal and relational growth.
Services
Individual Therapy
Couples Counseling
Pre-Marital Counseling
Group Therapy
Cinema Therapy
Bibliotherapy
Telehealth Sessions
Family Business Consultation
Emotional Growth Coaching
Relationship Skill-Building
Details
- Year established: 2000
Highlights and features
- We offer over 30 years of combined clinical experience in relationship-focused therapy
- Our therapists integrate cinema-therapy and bibliotherapy for enhanced treatment outcomes
- Bilingual (Spanish/English) services available for diverse client needs
- Personalized resource recommendations tailored to individual therapeutic goals
- Proven success in helping clients navigate infidelity, divorce, and life transitions
Associations and certifications
- American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT)
What people say
Life-changing experience
Improved communication skills
Compassionate professional guidance
Effective relationship tools
Supportive group environment
Services
Individual Therapy
Our individual therapy sessions focus on reducing anxiety, managing depression, and developing self-awareness through personalized treatment plans. Clients learn communication techniques and psychological theories to build self-esteem and navigate life transitions. The practice combines traditional methods with innovative approaches like cinema-therapy for enhanced emotional growth and lasting personal development.
Couples Therapy
Couples therapy addresses communication breakdowns, infidelity recovery, and pre-marital preparation through structured skill-building sessions. Therapists guide partners in identifying destructive patterns while fostering emotional intimacy and mutual understanding. Our evidence-based approach emphasizes practical tools for conflict resolution and strengthening long-term relational satisfaction.
Cinema Therapy
Cinema therapy uses carefully selected films to facilitate emotional exploration and behavioral reflection during treatment sessions. This innovative technique helps clients process complex emotions through relatable narratives, enhancing traditional therapeutic methods with visual storytelling that promotes self-discovery and relational growth.
Group Therapy
Group therapy provides peer support through structured sessions focusing on shared challenges like relationship recovery and emotional growth. Participants benefit from collective insights while practicing new communication skills in a confidential setting, accelerating personal development through group dynamics and professional guidance.
Pre-Marital Counseling
Pre-marital counseling prepares couples for marriage through structured discussions about expectations, conflict resolution, and financial planning. Therapists facilitate exercises that strengthen communication skills and emotional intimacy, addressing potential stressors before they impact the relationship's foundation.
People
Elisabeth Joy LaMotte
Founder & Therapist
Licensed clinical social worker with 30+ years experience, specializing in relationship therapy and cinema-therapy. Author of 'Overcoming Your Parents' Divorce' and NASW podcast host. Holds MSW from University of Pennsylvania.
Sarah Spencer Northey
Therapist & Supervisor
Bilingual (Spanish/English) LMFT with expertise in relationship dynamics and group therapy. Developed Mary's Center Relationship Therapy Program. Specializes in integrating cultural narratives into therapeutic practice.
Kristin Gonzalez
Therapist
Licensed clinical social worker with experience in community mental health and private practice. Focuses on trauma recovery and culturally sensitive counseling for diverse client populations.
Questions
What therapeutic approaches do you specialize in?
We combine evidence-based methods with cinema-therapy, bibliotherapy, and communication skill-building tailored to individual needs.
Do you offer telehealth sessions?
Yes, we provide virtual therapy options for clients in DC and Maryland with licensed therapists.
How do I choose between individual and couples therapy?
Initial consultations help determine the most appropriate approach based on your specific relationship and personal goals.
What are your cancellation policies?
Sessions cancelled with less than 24 hours notice incur a $95 fee to maintain scheduling integrity.
Do you accept insurance?
We provide reimbursement documentation but do not directly accept insurance payments for therapy sessions.
How long are typical therapy sessions?
Standard sessions last 45-60 minutes with flexible scheduling options available for working professionals.
