Hi, I’m Erin Stanley.

I use she/her pronouns and I'm licensed as a clinical social worker (aka a psychotherapist) in DC, Maryland, and Virginia.

This healing thing matters to me because I’ve been in some screwed up places and consider myself an ever-evolving work in progress. I know from personal and professional experience that psychotherapy is powerful! I love what I do and I am good at what I do. 

Prior to becoming a psychotherapist in private practice I worked in schools for about ten years. Education means so much to me, and self-knowledge is something I hold in high esteem. It’s truly a gift to be able to peel back your own layers and make new and interesting discoveries about yourself - this is why I am such an advocate for therapy!

My style is empathetic, direct, and warm. I’m not the old, stuffy caricature counselor you see on tv (although Molly’s therapist on Insecure was pretty dope). I will remember your best friend’s name and your birthday. I incorporate humor when appropriate. Sometimes I’ll cuss. Oftentimes I’ll trip over a word or two because my mouth moves faster than my brain (or is it the other way around?) I’ll let you know when I’m happy for you and I will gently call you out if I notice an incongruence to your goals. I ask questions to get you thinking - they won’t always require a response. I am a proud sex-positive, LGBTQ+ affirming therapist who will use your desires, my professional experience, and my intuition to guide where the conversation goes.

More than anything, I want you to feel comfortable enough to be transparent and bring your full self to each session. Developing a trusting relationship takes time, and one of my goals is supporting you as you get to that vulnerable place so that we can get to work. 

I’m in my bag when I work with people who are struggling to find themselves, trying to develop and maintain their own identities, (outside of their work and relationships with others), and fighting to feel uncomfortable feelings. The people who know there’s something there, but are afraid to tap in because the unknown is scary. I’m here to tell you - you can, and I’m by your side to do it with you.

In my free time, you can find me reading, burning candles, working on perfecting my chocolate chip cookie recipe, making a Spotify playlist I’ll forget about in three weeks, working out, or watering my plants. I love reality tv, especially dating shows. I have wonderful groups of friends that help me refill my cup regularly, and as an extroverted introvert, it is imperative that I make time to engage in deep rest. Finally, I also like spending time in nature with my rescue pup, August.

August - we think she is about 7 years old, and know she is a Bichon Frisé and the sweetest girl in Virginia.

Education: 

  • Spelman College | BA, Psychology | Magna Cum Laude

  • The University of Chicago School of Social Service Administration (now known as The Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy and Practice) | AM, Clinical Social Work | Program of Study - Family Support 

Clinical Social Work License Numbers: 

  • District of Columbia: LC50082320

  • Virginia: 0904012063

  • Maryland: 31118

Member:

  • American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists

  • Metro Richmond Chapter: National Alumnae Association of Spelman College

Board Member:

  • Honoring Choices Virginia