- Placeholder Address
- admin@trueyoucenter.com
Call Us
888 (878-8236)
Whatever your needs may be, TrueYou Center is here to offer support.
Clinical Director
Telehealth and in-person
Telehealth and in-person
Telehealth and in-person
Telehealth and in-person
Telehealth and in-person
Telehealth and in-person
Telehealth and in-person
Telehealth and in-person
Telehealth and in-person
Telehealth and in-person
Telehealth
Telehealth
As a therapist, I believe that therapy is a joint effort between the client and provider. My name is Nadia Tourinho, I am a Trilingual Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW). I speak Spanish, Portuguese, and English. I have extensive experience in direct practice and community practice. With more than ten years of experience, I am very familiar with the impact of complex trauma, childhood trauma, sexual/physical abuse, domestic violence, sex trafficking, family/couple therapy, geriatric, grief therapy, depression, anxiety, chronic illness, and various life changes. I provide an environment that is safe, empathic, and non-judgmental. This type of space allows clients to be comfortable and open, helping us get to
the root of the issue. I have worked with clients from ages 3 to 99; helping them attain different methods of addressing challenges in their lives.
I will work together with you to identify goals, build coping skills, and reduce unwanted symptoms. My approach is to always listen to you, while building self-esteem and improving problem-solving abilities. I’ll work to increase your self-awareness and show how best to navigate your feelings, behaviors, and thoughts. Hope to hear from you soon!
Licensed in:
Have you ever felt like you were in between a rock and a hard space? No matter which way you turn, it feels like you are stuck and incapable of moving—progressing in life. Therapy is a vehicle that allows you to explore the varying factors that contribute to this feeling of being “stuck,” offering opportunities to reshape and transform our emotions around being “stuck” into hurdles that we can and will overcome through a fully equipped toolkit of effective and adaptive coping skills; an enhanced sense of self; and an internal sense of motivation. As a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor, Melinda has an empathetic approach to helping clients pull from their innate strengths as they work through difficulties. Utilizing her training in Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), Solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Family Systems; Melinda helps clients to move from being “stuck” to resilient through an approach that uniquely fits each client’s strengths and experiences.
Melinda has a background in birth work as a community doula, working with birth persons and their partners, children, and other family members. She has a vast expertise in working with women, as they transition into the role of motherhood; children, as they adjust to their new roles in their family system; and the family as a whole, as they embark upon their new journey. Additionally, she has a background in working with adolescents. Moreover, her background in substance abuse fostered the development of a wealth of skills to help clients gain self-awareness and self-efficacy to become resilient in their struggles with overcoming addiction. As such, she embraces a trauma-informed approach to working with clients, with focuses on building healthy connections within the community from which clients emerge. Melinda believes that therapy is a useful vehicle for change and triumph as clients explore challenges and learn new skills to overcome them on their journey to becoming the best versions of themselves.
Melinda’s theoretical orientation is Adlerian and person-centered in nature. As such, she believes that the client-therapist relationship works best when clients know that they feel seen and heard in the therapy space, which allows them to know that they are the central element of the work that happens in therapy. She believes that clients thrive when they feel that they are supported, motivated, and challenged to find solutions using their innate strengths. Melinda values diversity and the personal uniqueness of all people and their self-expressions, understanding that it is the key to helping people as they navigate life’s stressors. Thus, there is no “one size fits all” approach to therapy and the most effective therapeutic experiences are those that are eclectic, encompassing many modalities. Furthermore, Melinda sees herself as the client’s cheerleader, serving as a source of encouragement, unconditional positive regard, and motivation for the best outcomes. Personal growth is an integral part of the human experience and Melinda looks forward to helping empower clients to blossom in the most beautiful ways.
Licensed in:
Thelma Ayafor is a compassionate and dedicated Mental Health Counselor who is committed to helping individuals and families navigate life’s challenges and move toward healing and stability. With a strong background in social work and behavioral health, she provides supportive, client-centered care that empowers individuals to improve their emotional well-being and overall quality of life.
Thelma has experience working with diverse populations, including children, adolescents, adults, and families who may be experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, life transitions, and housing or environmental stressors. She approaches each client with empathy, respect, and cultural sensitivity, creating a safe and supportive environment where clients feel heard and understood.
Her practice focuses on helping clients build coping skills, strengthen resilience, and develop practical strategies to manage stress and emotional challenges. Thelma believes that healing begins when individuals feel supported, valued, and empowered to take steps toward positive change.
With a deep passion for supporting children and families, Thelma is dedicated to advocating for the well-being of those she serves and helping clients identify their strengths while working toward their personal goals.
Licensed in:
Hello, I’m Dana. I am passionate about creating a safe environment where you can be yourself, feel empowered, be inquisitive, and build on your strengths. In this space, you don’t have to hide your imperfections. I can help you navigate through life’s challenges by expanding on what you already know, in addition to introducing new strategies and techniques that can be used in everyday life.
In what I call my non-judgment zone; we can explore your story together. This will help you get a better understanding of how your past has affected your life’s journey. Our experiences, starting from childhood, shape our thinking and behavior patterns. It also affects how we relate to others and manage our relationships.
I believe the client-therapist relationship is vital to accomplishing your therapeutic goals. Whether you are struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, dealing with life stressors, adjusting to life changes, or working to heal; I will help you develop the skills, provide support, and give you the space to be heard.
I specialize in family relationships, grief and bereavement, stress, trauma, depression, and anxiety. With a master’s degree and as a Licensed Professional Counselor, I am equipped to provide you with the care and support you need. Let’s work together to help you find the balance and peace you deserve.
Licensed in:
Rodderick Williams is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) based in Washington, DC, dedicated to supporting individuals, adolescents, and families in achieving emotional wellness, personal growth, and sustainable life change. With a strong foundation in school-based and community mental health, Rodderick brings a culturally responsive, strengths-based approach to therapy—meeting clients where they are while equipping them with the tools to move forward with clarity and confidence.
Rodderick provides mental health therapy to youth and adults navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, emotional regulation difficulties, trauma, behavioral concerns, life transitions, and family conflict. He is especially passionate about working with adolescents and young adults, helping them build self-awareness, improve communication, and develop a stronger sense of identity and responsibility.
His clinical approach integrates multiple evidence-based and client-centered modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Family Systems Therapy, and Talk Therapy. Through CBT, Rodderick helps clients identify and reframe unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors. Using a family systems lens, he explores relational dynamics and generational patterns that impact emotional functioning. His talk therapy approach creates a safe, supportive space for clients to process experiences, express themselves openly, and gain deeper insight into their lives.
Rodderick is also skilled in facilitating social-emotional learning, anger management, and behavior intervention strategies, particularly within school settings. His work emphasizes practical skill-building in areas such as emotional regulation, effective communication, conflict resolution, and self-advocacy.
Known for his authentic presence and direct yet compassionate style, Rodderick fosters a therapeutic environment grounded in trust, accountability, and empowerment. His goal is not only to support healing, but to help clients become the most confident, self-aware, and equipped versions of themselves.
Licensed in:
My extensive experience in diverse treatment settings—including hospitals, residential programs, outpatient clinics, and schools—has shaped my compassionate, trauma-informed approach to therapy. I strive to create a supportive, non-judgmental space where you can safely explore your experiences and begin the healing process.
I’m trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). My integrative, client-centered approach is rooted in empowering you to build on your strengths and achieve meaningful change.
Together, we’ll work towards finding clarity, enhancing emotional well-being, and developing resilience. If you’re ready to take the next step toward a healthier, more fulfilling life, I’m here to support you. Feel free to reach out to begin your journey.
Licensed in:
Hello, I’m LaShawn Coates, LGSW, a Licensed Graduate Social Worker serving the Washington, DC area. As a proud native of the city, I am deeply committed to supporting individuals and families in our community.
I have experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, teen parents, and families, including providing school-based mental health services within Washington D.C and DC Public Schools. I take a holistic, client-centered approach, meeting you where you are and considering the emotional, behavioral, and environmental factors that shape your experiences.
In my work, I draw from evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Strengths-Based Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Child-Centered Play Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. I have experience supporting individuals navigating anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, autism spectrum disorders, and learning differences, and I tailor treatment to best fit each person’s needs.
I am committed to creating a safe and supportive environment where you feel heard and understood. My goal is to help you build effective coping skills, support your emotional well-being, and work collaboratively toward meaningful personal growth.
Licensed in:
“Sam Washington is a compassionate and dedicated professional who recently earned a Master of Social Work from Tulane University of Louisiana. A proud native of Washington, D.C., Sam has experience working with diverse populations across all age groups. With a natural ability to connect with individuals, Sam specializes in creating a soothing and supportive environment where clients can find respite from the stresses of daily life.
By fostering a space of calm and tranquility, Sam helps clients feel safe, heard, and understood, guiding them toward personal growth and emotional well-being. With a deep commitment to helping others, Sam is passionate about empowering individuals to overcome challenges and achieve their full potential.”
Licensed in:
She has experience supporting clients navigating:
Licensed in:
Greetings! My name is Kiara Jackson; I am a Licensed Graduate Social Worker in the DC area. I earned my Bachelors of Science degree in Social Work from Virginia State University and then went on to obtain my Master of Science in Social Work degree from Howard University. I have over 6 years of professional experience working with youth and adults from diverse backgrounds. I am passionate about working with and supporting individuals to promote a well-being for themselves and in their environment.
My approach to therapy is a Holistic approach, focusing on the whole person and their entire life experience, meeting them where they are, and addressing the underlying causes of distress. I prioritize empathy, active listening, and a non-judgmental stance. My goal is to build a strong rapport and a safe trusting therapeutic relationship with all my clients. I also understand the importance of adjusting the approach based on the clients’ need and progress.
My therapeutic framework includes several different modalities. Some of the modalities includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Strengths-based, Solution-focused brief therapy, Dialectical Behavioral therapy, group therapy, etc. The treatment is modified to best fit the client. My goal is to provide a safe space for individuals to come seek personal growth and self discovery, improve emotional well-being, and develop coping skills for challenges in their life. I look forward to working with you!
Licensed in:
Patricia “Patty” Burrage is a clinician dedicated to creating an environment where clients feel like they can be their authentic selves and have the support they need to pursue their identified goals. As someone who has gone through her own healing journey, she understands the value of having non-judgmental, compassionate, strengths based and inclusive environments to process life’s challenges.
She has extensive experience as a Social Worker and former Pastor working with folks from all walks of life and is comfortable discussing topics ranging from trauma, grief, family, spirituality, depression, anxiety and much more.
Patty’s ultimate hope is for folks to have space to be heard while being equipped with the tools needed to manage the difficulties that may have prompted their pursuit in therapeutic work. She is committed to ensuring that those who work with her will have the opportunity to tell their story and have the chance to write the next chapters with care.
Licensed in:
Hello, my name is Charity Weaver Jackson, and I am a Nationally Board Certified, Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor and Certified Addictions Counselor. I hold a BS in Psychology and an MA in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. I approach counseling through a trauma-informed, eclectic lens using several different modalities such as CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Strengths-Based, and Faith-Based. I believe that you are the expert in your own life and together we can figure out how to make it the life you want to live. I know that therapy can be uncomfortable, but I strive to make our sessions welcoming and as if you were talking to a trusted friend. I have experience treating Substance abuse, Grief, Bipolar disorder, PTSD, Depression, and Anxiety throughout the lifespan. I have spent time working with adults, adolescents, and children and have some experience with couples. I look forward to working with you.
Licensed in:
Looking for a safe space to unpack and pinpoint the “meh” in your life? Look no further, Denisha Davenport is a Licensed Graduate Professional Therapist (LGPC) with extensive training and experience in Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) , Reality therapy, Child-adolescent Play therapy, and working with LGBTQ+ identified persons.
Ms. Davenport is passionate about creating a safe and inclusive environment where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings. She supports clients on their gender identity and express themselves freely. With a deep understanding of the unique challenges that LGBTQ+
individuals face, she is dedicated to helping clients navigate their journey and find acceptance and fulfillment.
Ms. Davenport is also skilled in helping those struggling with general/social anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief. With a compassionate and empathetic approach, she helps clients (children and adults) overcome their fears and develop the confidence they need to thrive in their life.
Ms. Davenport has helped clients manage their emotions and develop healthy coping mechanisms. Whether it’s working through a difficult life transition or managing symptoms of a mental health disorder, Ms. Davenport is committed to helping clients build resilience and achieve their goals.
With a commitment to creating a supportive space, Ms. Davenport meets clients where their current capacity lies and helps to empower themselves in order to feel seen, heard, and understood.
Licensed in: