Many adults with high intellectual ability often face unique emotional and social challenges.
These needs can be different from the general population and may require specialized support.
Therapists who have experience working with gifted adults in Washington DC can help address these specific concerns in a supportive environment.
Connecting with professionals who understand giftedness makes it easier to find effective strategies and a sense of understanding.
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1) Kristin Cotts – Counseling and academic coaching for gifted adolescents and adults
Kristin Cotts is a counselor who works with gifted adolescents and adults in Washington DC.
She provides counseling, academic coaching, and job coaching both online and in person.
Kristin helps clients who face executive function challenges or learning disabilities. She aims to support personal growth and unlock potential.
She serves individuals looking for guidance in academics, careers, and personal development.
Learn more about Kristin Cotts at Psychology Today and the ASD Therapist Directory.
2) Danielle Currie, LCSW – Specialized therapy for gifted individuals in DC
Danielle Currie, LCSW, is a licensed clinical social worker who practices in Washington, DC.
She helps adults who feel overlooked or pressured in their daily lives, including gifted individuals.
Danielle understands the unique mental health needs that can come with high achievement and intelligence.
She offers individual therapy and works with a range of clients.
Learn more about Danielle Currie at Psychology Today and Open Path Collective.
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4.5 (7,802+) FROM TRUSTPILOT
Try BetterHelp
Fill out a brief questionnaire and get matched with an experienced therapist online in as little as 24 hours.
✓ Over 35K licensed professionals
✓ Subscriptions as low as $65/week, billed every four weeks
✓ Financial aid available
✓ Cancel plan or change therapist anytime
✓ 20% off your first month through Therapy Helpers
3) Mai Kindaichi, PhD – Therapy focused on high ability adults and teens
Mai Kindaichi, PhD, is a psychologist in Washington, DC who works with adults and teens who have high ability or complex identities.
She offers individual counseling to help clients handle challenges like identity questions or relationship struggles.
Dr. Kindaichi also teaches at the university level and uses evidence-based approaches. Her practice is LGBTQ+-affirming and client-focused.
Learn more about Dr. Kindaichi at Parkhurst Associates or see her profile on Psychology Today.
4) Dr. Meghan Keely McMackin – Support for gifted adults facing perfectionism
Dr. Meghan Keely McMackin is a psychologist who helps gifted adults in the Washington DC area.
She often works with clients dealing with anxiety, perfectionism, and related challenges.
Her focus can help gifted adults understand their feelings and build healthier habits. Dr. McMackin is available in both Washington, DC and nearby Falls Church, VA.
More details about her services are found on Psychology Today and Vitals here.
5) Allison Sibley, PHD, LICSW – Family and individual therapy for gifted clients
Allison Sibley, PhD, LICSW, brings over 25 years of therapy experience to her Washington, DC practice.
She has a background in working with families, couples, adults, and children.
Her approach is supportive of the needs of gifted adults. She uses methods like play therapy, emotionally focused therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
She also provides guidance with complex family relationships. Learn more about Allison Sibley at The Sibley Group and her personal website.
6) TheraThrive – Counseling for gifted and twice-exceptional clients
TheraThrive provides counseling for gifted and twice-exceptional adults who may think or feel differently from others.
The therapists understand the challenges related to intensity, sensitivity, and anxiety.
They offer support for personal struggles, relationships, and daily life issues. Sessions are tailored to the unique experiences of gifted individuals.
For more details, visit TheraThrive’s counseling page and a list of Fresno-based therapists.
7) District Therapy Associates – Group and individual therapy for gifted adults
District Therapy Associates offers both group and individual therapy for adults, including those who are gifted.
Their therapists are experienced in helping clients with a range of needs and backgrounds.
The practice is based in Northwest Washington, DC and is led by Meredith Gardner. They work with adults as well as children and families.
More information can be found on their official website and their location details.
8) Gifted Together – Parent coaching and therapy for gifted families
Gifted Together offers therapy and parent coaching for families with gifted children.
Services include individual therapy for adults and children, as well as family sessions.
Therapists support emotional and behavioral needs. They also offer workshops and support groups for parents.
Child-centered play therapy and creative approaches are available for kids ages 3 to 12.
Learn more about their offerings at Gifted Together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Gifted adults in Washington DC may face complex emotional, social, and intellectual needs in therapy settings.
Therapists with specialized training can offer targeted support and guidance for those who experience unique challenges related to their advanced abilities.
What are common challenges faced by gifted adults in therapy?
Gifted adults can struggle with perfectionism, social isolation, and feeling misunderstood by peers or therapists.
They may also deal with high expectations from themselves or others, anxiety related to their abilities, and a sense of not achieving enough.
How is the therapeutic approach for gifted adults different from conventional therapy?
Therapists who work with gifted adults often use approaches that address advanced intellectual and emotional depth.
These therapists recognize the client’s intense curiosity, sensitivity, and fast processing, tailoring interventions that encourage growth and validate unique experiences.
Special attention is given to values, existential concerns, and identity issues.
Can gifted adults experience emotional difficulties unique to their intelligence level?
Yes, gifted adults often experience intense emotions or “overexcitabilities” that can be linked directly to their higher intelligence.
These may include heightened sensitivity to sensory input, strong emotional reactions, or deep empathy for others.
Some individuals may feel out of place because others might not share these experiences or understand their intensity. More information about this is discussed in Gifted Adult Therapy.
What strategies are effective in coping with overexcitabilities in gifted adults?
Mindfulness and self-awareness practices can help gifted adults regulate strong emotions.
Setting healthy boundaries, finding social groups with similar interests, and working with a therapist who understands giftedness are effective methods.
Regular check-ins with mental health professionals can also support long-term well-being.
Where can undiagnosed gifted adults find resources for assessment in Washington DC?
Washington DC offers several options for assessment, including therapists and psychologists who specialize in giftedness.
Those seeking an assessment can explore providers like Kristin Cotts and Mai Kindaichi, PhD.
Online resources such as Grow Therapy also help connect adults with local therapists experienced in gifted issues.
Yes, some therapists in DC focus on complex dynamics such as authority conflicts, often seen in gifted adults.
Practitioners like Danielle Currie, LCSW, and Allison Sibley, PHD, LICSW, have experience with gifted clients navigating workplace or family power struggles.
The list of top therapists in Washington DC includes more professionals with expertise in these areas.
