Estelle Richardson, LICSW

Estelle Richardson is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) based in the District of Columbia who helps people managing stress, anxiety, trauma, grief, and self-esteem concerns. She welcomes people who are ready to take small steps toward feeling steadier and more capable. Sessions aim to be respectful and straightforward so clients can talk honestly about what is hard right now.

Richardson focuses on practical strategies that people can use between sessions. She draws on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and other approaches to help identify unhelpful thinking and build coping skills. Sessions also look at relationships and emotional patterns that affect daily life.

Her style is collaborative and calm. She listens first, then works with each person to set goals and try manageable changes. This process often includes skill practice, problem-solving, and checking what does and does not help.

Estelle has five years of clinical experience as a LICSW. That background includes supporting people through loss, recovery from abuse, and major life transitions. She uses that experience to tailor interventions to each person’s situation.

People choose her for clear steps, steady support, and a nonjudgmental space to sort out difficult feelings. She helps clients notice what matters to them and take practical steps toward those goals.

How these approaches work online

Estelle uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help people notice and change unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns. CBT often involves short exercises, tracking thoughts or activities between sessions, and trying small behavioral experiments to see what helps.

She also draws on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, which focuses on clarifying values and taking committed actions even when difficult feelings are present. ACT can help when someone wants to build a more meaningful life despite anxiety or painful memories.

Finding the right approach is a team effort. The therapist will discuss goals, try techniques, and adjust methods based on what feels useful. Clients and the therapist work together to pick tools that match needs and preferences rather than sticking to a single method.

Online therapy offers flexible ways to connect. Video calls let sessions feel close to an in-person visit. Phone sessions can be a good choice when less bandwidth or a shorter check-in is needed. Live chat and text messaging allow ongoing support between scheduled talks and can fit into busy days. These options make it easier to keep therapy consistent around work, school, or caregiving duties.