"Life is a balance of holding on and letting go" Rumi
Joanne Assarsson
LICSW OSW-C
Specializing in Therapy for Acute and Chronic
Medical Illness
WELCOMING CLIENTS RESIDING IN WASHINGTON DC, MARYLAND, VIRGINIA, CONNECTICUT, COLORADO, MICHIGAN AND TEXAS
Currently accepting new clients.
Welcome
Choosing therapy is an investment in both yourself and your future. The key factor in achieving positive outcomes lies in selecting a therapist who aligns with you in terms of clinical proficiency, approach, and personality. If now seems like the right time to either start or resume therapy, I encourage you to take the next step toward desired change. Let's start by having a conversation. Together, we'll explore how we can collaborate to address your concerns and, set achievable goals that will enhance the quality of your life.
A little bit about me...
As a licensed clinical social worker with a master’s degree from The National Catholic School of Social Services, I bring extensive experience from my work in university-based teaching hospitals and ambulatory care clinics. My practice focuses on supporting adults and their caregivers through challenges such as anxiety, depression, complex medical conditions (acute and chronic), medical trauma, loss, grief, and significant life transitions.
I have a specialization in guiding individuals and their caregivers through the cancer journey, encompassing every phase—from diagnosis and treatment to recovery, survivorship, and end-of-life care. I have also worked extensively with patients undergoing stem cell transplants, CAR-T and immunotherapy.
My training and experience also includes helping individuals manage disorders of the brain-gut interaction. Support, education and strategies address the connection between the mind and gastrointestinal health.
Recognizing that everyday stressors can greatly affect your well-being, I adapt my clinical approach to suit a variety of life situations, always tailoring care to meet your unique needs.
As a trauma-informed practitioner, I employ scientifically validated therapies including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR). I am also EMDR trained.
In our sessions, you’ll leave with a clear, actionable plan—goal-oriented strategies designed for immediate implementation.
Let’s work together to achieve positive, lasting change.
BRENÉ BROWN
"WE DON'T HAVE TO DO ALL OF IT ALONE, WE WERE NEVER MEANT TO"
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Therapy In Person Or Virtual?
I am currently providing virtual/telehealth sessions ONLY. I meet with clients via a HIPPA compliant secure video conferencing platform.
What Should I Expect During Therapy?
Though I cannot tell you exactly what your therapy experience will be like, together we will establish goals, strengthen existing coping strategies and uncover actionable steps you can take to improve your quality of life. You will leave our sessions with strategies that directly address your goals.
As you consider working with me in therapy, I encourage you to take advantage of the free consultation opportunity. It's really a great way to ease uncertainty as you take this important step towards improved well being.
How Long Is A Therapy Session?
Sessions are typically 50 minutes and are usually scheduled weekly or every two weeks. Every client's needs are unique, so we will decide together how frequently sessions are scheduled.
Do You Accept Insurance?
No, I am an out of network provider, which means that I do not accept direct payment from insurance companies. However, my professional services qualify for reimbursement and may be covered in full or partially by your out of network behavioral health benefits. Before initiating services with me, I recommend that you verify your out-of-network benefits. I provide an appropriate bill for submission to your insurance company. Please feel free to ask if you have any billing questions! I would be pleased to help you navigate the reimbursement process. For convenient payment, I accept Venmo and Zelle.
How Do I Become A Client?
If now seems like the right time to start or revisit therapy, please complete the form after the FAQ section. Upon receiving your contact information, I will reach out within 1-2 business days and schedule your free 15-minute phone consultation. This will help us both decide if working together is a good fit for your goals and my skills. If we decide to partner together, I will promptly email intake forms and schedule your first session. Please note: All intake forms are to be completed before your first therapy session.
How Much Is A Therapy Session?
The cost of therapy may play a role in your decision to pursue therapy. I try to ensure that my services are accessible and that cost is not a barrier. My usual rate is $185 for 50 minutes of which is competitive with other independently licensed clinicians. I am also pleased to offer limited sliding fee slots. Please let me know during your free consultation if you would like to be considered for one of these slots.
When Do You Provide Therapy?
I have available slots on weekdays and weekends including early morning and evening appointments. Please let me know what works best for you and I will try to accommodate your preferences.
Important Notice for Private Pay Clients
GOOD FAITH ESTIMATE Information:Under Section 2799B-6 of the Public Health Service Act, health care providers and health care facilities are required to inform individuals who are not enrolled in a plan or coverage or a Federal health care program, or not seeking to file a claim with their plan or coverage both orally and in writing of their ability, upon request or at the time of scheduling health care items and services, to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” of expected charges.
You have the right to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” explaining how much your medical care will cost
Under the law, health care providers need to give patients who don’t have insurance or who are not using insurance an estimate of the bill for medical items and services.
You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of any non-emergency items or services. This includes related costs like medical tests, prescription drugs, equipment, and hospital fees.
Make sure your health care provider gives you a Good Faith Estimate in writing at least 1 business day before your medical service or item. You can also ask your health care provider, and any other provider you choose, for a Good Faith Estimate before you schedule an item or service.
If you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than your Good Faith Estimate, you can dispute the bill.
Make sure to save a copy or picture of your Good Faith Estimate. For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, visit
Do you have a question that was left unanswered? Please get in touch with me via the form below.
Thank you for
viewing my website.
Please complete the form below so that we can set up a free phone consultation. Upon receipt of your message, I will make every effort to get back to you within 1-2 business days. By sending a message, you are providing consent to be contacted by the method you provide. Please avoid sending sensitive or detailed health information in this form.
In addition, please do not use this form if you are having a medical or psychiatric emergency/crisis. Call 911 or go to your local emergency department.
