Ellen Walker

Hello! I am a licensed clinical social worker in Washington, DC. I am a little older than most, in my early 60s, but am an open-minded optimist. I have over 20 years of experience working in Mental Health and Child Welfare settings so there aren’t too many issues that I haven’t dealt with. I have worked with couples, families, individuals, and children with a variety of issues to include physical and emotional trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, addiction, relationship challenges and life transitions. I would describe my approach to therapy as eclectic, drawing on a variety of modalities to best serve a client’s needs and goals. The modalities that I feel have proven most useful are: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. I typically meet with my clients once weekly for 45 minutes. We begin by getting to know each other so that I can learn about the issues that brought them to seek counseling. You can expect me to walk with you through whatever difficulties you are facing and help you learn more about yourself and the way you interact with the world. I view the therapeutic alliance as a partnership requiring mutual trust, respect, honesty, communication, and commitment to do the work. I can interact with you in whatever manner you are most comfortable. I find it helpful initially to participate in video sessions so that we can get to know each other better; however, I am also available to you via phone and text if that is more comfortable for you. Much of my availability is in the mornings and on the weekends, although I do have a high degree of flexibility. I check messages at least once during each weekday. Taking the first step in seeking help can be challenging, however it is important to find a therapist that you feel comfortable with and can trust. I look forward to working with you and your journey! SPECIALTIES • Trauma and abuse • Grief • Self esteem • Depression Also experienced in: Relationship issues , Family conflicts , Intimacy-related issues , Parenting issues , Anger management , Career difficulties , Coping with life changes , Compassion fatigue , Caregiver Issues and Stress , Commitment Issues , Communication Problems , Child abuse and neglect, Emptiness , Family Problems , Forgiveness , Guilt and Shame , Hospice and End of Life Counseling , Mid Life Crisis and Posttraumatic Stress Clinical approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy Years of Experience: 29 SERVICES OFFERED ________________________________________ LICENSING LICSW #LC300783 (Expires: 07/31/2021)