Black-and-white portrait of a smiling woman with shoulder-length hair, wearing a white blazer and a lanyard.

When you look for healing, you’re going to feel things—that part isn’t negotiable

Unburdening is the first step in reclaiming. It’s not a race to finish - it’s a partnered roadmap full of insights and uncomfortable moments - anger, sadness and unearthed joy. Let’s just call it; therapy is hard. But so it living in a way that doesn’t serve. We can stop the memories from overwhelming you and soften the impact.

I offer you a no-bullshit approach to liking who you see in the mirror and shutting off that inner voice that offers you no reprieve.

You are here because maybe you know this.

I’m here because I do too.

I’m so looking forward to welcoming you in.

dawn

The fact that you’re here means you’re ready to create real change.

Because growth doesn’t happen in your comfort zone.

my Story

Before becoming a therapist, I spent nearly two decades working in the social work field in policy with huge gaps to raise a family of six. Serving on military bases overseas and exploring the immense impact of wellness in every facet and family is what brought me into private practice when we settled in Northern Virginia. My work as a mother was important - the most important thing I will ever do but it wasn’t the only thing I would ever do. My role in policy and supporting schools had meaning but I wanted more; less transitional relationships and more presence, growth and bonding. I wanted to be in the trenches - away from protocol and board rooms and onto the couch holding space for those in trusting me.

Therapy, both as a client and clinician, has been a profound part of that journey. Through my work, I have found language and form that brought design and purpose to my life beyond what my younger self could have ever dreamed. I know the sleepless nights, the broken relationships, the questioning of worth, and the messiness of trauma and healing; devastation and rebuilding. I also know the breakdowns and break-throughs that brings unimaginable reclaiming, calm, and safety.

I’m here for it. All of it. It’s my epic mission and my greatest honor.

Reach out here

A woman with wavy, shoulder-length hair wearing large, brown sunglasses and a white shirt, smiling broadly.

LCSW, Practice Owner, LGBTQ2A Ally, Mother, Retired Air Force wife and lover of dogs, sushi and classic rock

Close-up of light pink and darker pink flowers, likely dahlias and lilies, arranged together against a plain background.

Dawn Weiss Smith

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

  • University of Los Angeles (BSW)

  • University 0f Maryland (MSW)

  • Certified Gender-Affirming Specialist

  • Certified Trauma Specialist

  • Certified Accelerated Resolution Therapy Practitioner

  • Certified Gottman-Couples Therapist

  • IFS, EFT, Somatic trained

  • Adolescent/Teen Specialist

  • Military Family Advocacy (United Kingdom)

  • Polyamory, ENM and Alternative lifestyles

  • Trevor Project Volunteer

  • 20 year Retired Air Force spouse