Are you currently accepting new clients?

Yes. We are currently welcoming new individual and couples clients across Virginia, Florida, Washington DC, and Maryland — both in person at our Fairfax, VA and Miami, FL offices and via secure telehealth.

What happens during the free consultation?

The free 15-minute consultation is a low-pressure phone call. We'll talk briefly about what brings you in, answer any questions you have about our approach, and help you figure out which therapist might be the best fit. There's no commitment required — it's just a conversation.

How do I schedule a free consultation?

The easiest way is to use our online booking link — you can pick a time that works in about 60 seconds. Click Book a Free Consultation in the navigation bar, or visit our Schedule page. If you'd prefer to reach out first, you can also use our contact page and we'll respond within one business day.

What should I expect in my first paid session?

Your first session is mostly intake — your therapist will ask about your background, what's bringing you in, your goals, and any relevant history. You won't be expected to go deep on your first visit. Think of it as a mutual conversation to understand each other and establish a direction. Sessions are 45–50 minutes depending on your therapist.

What actually happens in a sex therapy session? Will I be asked to do anything sexual?

No — and this is the most common misconception about sex therapy. Sessions are fully clothed, conducted in a standard therapy office or via secure video, and there is no physical contact of any kind. We talk: about your experiences, emotions, relationships, history, and goals. You may be given exercises to practice privately at home between sessions, but nothing happens in the room that wouldn't happen in any other form of therapy.

What is the difference between sex therapy and regular therapy?

Sex therapy is a specialized form of psychotherapy focused on sexual health, functioning, and intimacy. Our therapists hold advanced credentials — including AASECT certification — that go well beyond standard licensure. This training equips them to address concerns like sexual dysfunction, desire discrepancy, sexual trauma, and intimacy in ways that most general therapists are not trained or equipped to do.

Can I come alone if my partner won't join me?

Absolutely. Individual sex therapy is effective and appropriate even when a partner isn't present or isn't ready to participate. Many clients work through deeply personal concerns — sexual trauma, low desire, anxiety, body image, or sexual dysfunction — entirely on their own. If couples work becomes relevant later, that's a conversation we can have when the time is right.

Do I have to talk about things I'm not ready to discuss?

No. You set the pace. Our therapists are trained to follow your lead, and you are never pressured to share more than you're comfortable with. Building a sense of safety in the room is always the first priority — the deeper work follows from there.

How long does therapy typically take?

It depends on your goals. Some clients address a focused concern in 8–12 sessions. Others work with us for a year or more on deeper relational or trauma-related issues. Your therapist will discuss realistic timelines with you early on, and you'll revisit them as the work evolves. Progress is always the measure — not time.

How often will we meet?

Weekly sessions are our standard recommendation. Consistent, regular sessions tend to produce the most meaningful and lasting progress. Bi-weekly scheduling is available in some circumstances. We generally don't recommend monthly sessions — the gap between appointments limits continuity and momentum.

Is everything I share completely confidential?

Yes. Everything discussed in sessions is strictly confidential under HIPAA and professional ethics standards. There are narrow, legally required exceptions — such as if we have reason to believe someone is in immediate danger — and your therapist will explain these clearly in your first session. What you share about your sexuality, relationships, history, or identity will never be disclosed without your explicit written consent.

I'm embarrassed to talk about sex with a stranger. Is that normal?

Completely normal — and expected. Most clients feel some version of this before their first session, and many describe it as the thing they were most worried about. Our therapists have heard it all, and they're specifically trained to make these conversations feel less daunting over time. The free 15-minute consultation is a good first step: a short, low-stakes call that lets you get a sense of us before committing to anything.

Do you work with LGBTQ+ clients and non-traditional relationship structures?

Yes, wholeheartedly. Cushing Counseling is an affirming, judgment-free practice. We welcome clients of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and relationship structures — including non-monogamous, polyamorous, and kink-aware individuals and couples. You do not need to explain or justify who you are here. Our therapists are trained in LGBTQ+ affirming care and approach every client with genuine respect and curiosity.

Do you work with individuals, couples, or both?

Both. We offer individual therapy, couples therapy, and integrated couples and sex therapy. Some clients start individually and bring a partner in later. Others come as a couple from the start. We'll help you figure out the right format during your free consultation.

What does therapy cost?

Session rates vary by therapist: Vanessa Cushing, LPC, CST (AASECT Certified) — $350 / 50 min. Radiance Sanneman, LCPC — $210 / 50 min. Alexandria Da Ponte Cheatham — $175 / 50 min. Noelle Harris, LMSW — $165 / 45 min individual, $220 / couples session. Every new client receives a complimentary 15-minute telephone consultation at no cost.

Do you accept insurance?

We are a private-pay, out-of-network practice and do not bill insurance directly. However, we partner with Thrizer, which allows many clients to use their out-of-network mental health benefits automatically — so you may pay significantly less than the full session rate, depending on your plan.

What is Thrizer and how does it work?

Thrizer is a service that verifies your out-of-network insurance coverage upfront and collects only your estimated share at the time of service. They file the claim automatically after each appointment and your reimbursement comes directly from your insurer. No superbill wrangling, no waiting on reimbursements, no paperwork on your end.

Can I get a superbill to submit to my insurance myself?

Yes. We can provide a superbill at any time — a detailed receipt that includes diagnosis codes, procedure codes, and your therapist's credentials. Just ask your therapist and we'll generate one for any session.

Do you offer sliding scale or reduced rates?

We have a limited number of reduced-fee spots available. If cost is a barrier to starting therapy, please mention it during your free consultation and we'll do our best to find an option that works.

What is your cancellation policy?

We ask for at least 24 hours' notice to cancel or reschedule. Late cancellations and no-shows may be charged the full session fee. We understand that life happens — please just reach out as soon as you know.

What payment methods do you accept?

All fees are collected via credit card on the day of your session, automatically. Your card is kept securely on file — there are no invoices or checks to manage.

Where are your offices located?

We have two physical locations: Fairfax, Virginia — 12875 Yates Ford Rd, Clifton, VA 20124. Miami, Florida — 244 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132. We also see clients throughout Virginia, Florida, Washington DC, and Maryland via secure telehealth.

Do you offer online therapy?

Yes. All of our therapists offer HIPAA-compliant telehealth sessions via secure video. Many clients prefer telehealth for the flexibility and privacy it offers. Session quality and fees are the same whether you meet in person or online.

Is telehealth as effective as in-person therapy?

Research consistently shows that telehealth is equally effective as in-person therapy for the concerns we treat — including sexual dysfunction, trauma, desire issues, and relationship challenges. Many clients actually find it easier to open up from the comfort and privacy of their own space.

What states do you serve via telehealth?

We are currently licensed to see telehealth clients in Virginia, Florida, Washington DC, and Maryland. If you are located outside these states, reach out and we can discuss your options or provide a referral.

How do I choose which therapist to work with?

Start with our About Us page to read about each therapist's training, style, and areas of focus. Practical factors like fee and availability matter too. If you're not sure, mention it during your free consultation — we'll help match you with the best fit. It's also completely fine to try a first session and reassess.

What is AASECT certification?

AASECT stands for the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists. The AASECT Certified Sex Therapist credential is the gold standard in the field. Earning it requires a master's or doctoral degree in a mental health discipline, hundreds of hours of specialized training in human sexuality, supervised clinical hours with a certified supervisor, and ongoing continuing education. Vanessa Cushing holds this certification, placing her among a small number of AASECT-certified sex therapists in the country.

What specialties does the practice cover?

Cushing Counseling therapists collectively specialize in sex therapy and sexual dysfunction, couples therapy and intimacy, trauma therapy and sexual trauma recovery, LGBTQ+ affirming care, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy.

Couples therapy · Virginia · DC · Maryland · Florida

Couples Therapy in Virginia, DC, Maryland & Florida

Remember when talking didn't turn into a fight?

Rebuild trust, break the argument loop, and reconnect emotionally and physically — with a therapist trained in both couples and sex therapy. No blame, no taking sides.

Book a free 15-minute consultation

Free, private, and no pressure to book sessions afterwards.

What this looks like when it works

Imagine your relationship feeling like this again

These are the five things couples come here for. They are not promises — they are the outcomes we work toward, and what we’ll talk through in the consultation before you commit to anything.

Conversations that don't turn into arguments

You learn to name what's actually wrong before it escalates — so a Tuesday evening stops becoming a fight about something from March.
Feeling understood, and emotionally safe

Both of you get heard in the room, by someone who isn't taking sides. Safety comes first; the hard conversations get easier after it.
Rebuilt trust, less resentment

Whether the rupture was an affair, a secret, or years of small letdowns, repair is a process with steps — not a promise to try harder.
A real emotional and physical reconnection

Most couples work is intimacy work eventually. As an AASECT-certified practice, we can go there properly rather than referring you out.
Confidence about where this is going

You leave knowing whether you're rebuilding, and how — instead of circling the same question for another year.

Free15-minute consultation

4States licensed: VA · DC · MD · FL

AASECTCertified sex & couples therapy

100%Virtual, private, from home

Still deciding? The consultation is 15 minutes with a real clinician — you describe what’s happening, we tell you honestly whether couples therapy here is the right fit.

Schedule your free consultation

Google reviews

What clients say

Every review below is public on Google, written by someone who actually sat in the room (or on the video call). Nothing here is edited beyond trimming for length.

Book a free consultation Read the Miami reviews | Read the Virginia reviews

Why Couples Therapy Can Help

When emotions like anger, hurt, or fear get in the way, it’s difficult to remain objective about relationship struggles. Without guidance, many couples get stuck repeating the same arguments without resolution.

Couples therapy provides an outside perspective. With the help of a trained therapist, you and your partner can:

Recognize unhealthy patterns
See issues from each other’s point of view
Develop strategies to resolve conflicts
Find new ways to compromise and work together

By working on communication in a supportive environment, couples can strengthen empathy, rebuild trust, and reconnect emotionally.

Couples Therapy (Listening + What to Expect + Modalities)

When communication breaks down, distance and disconnection often grow between partners. Even if your relationship feels more strained than ever, couples counseling can help you find your way back. Therapy provides a safe, supportive space to:

Express thoughts and feelings openly
Gain self-awareness and empathy
Break negative cycles of criticism and defensiveness
Rebuild intimacy and connection

By addressing harmful communication patterns, you and your partner can learn to listen with compassion, foster mutual understanding, and strengthen your bond.

What to Expect in Couples Therapy Sessions

In our sessions, we’ll explore the dynamics of your relationship as well as the individual experiences you each bring to it. This helps uncover the patterns that lead to conflict — such as power struggles, avoidance, or misunderstandings — and provides the tools to create positive change.

Sessions may also include relationship-building activities to reinforce progress, such as guided conversations or exercises that deepen connection.

Common goals we’ll work toward together include:

Improved communication and understanding
Healthy conflict resolution skills
Deeper emotional and physical intimacy
Personal growth and self-awareness

Over time, the skills you learn in couples therapy can help rebuild trust, resolve past wounds, and improve overall relationship satisfaction.

Evidence-Based Approaches in Couples Therapy

At Cushing Counseling, we use proven methods like the Gottman Method and Imago Relationship Therapy to help couples improve communication, reduce conflict, and restore connection.

Psychoeducation – Understand your current communication patterns and identify areas for improvement.
Imago Dialogue – Practice mirroring, validation, and empathy to reduce conflict and foster deeper understanding.
Conflict De-escalation Strategies – Learn how to stay grounded during heated moments and resolve issues constructively.
Mind-Body Regulation Techniques – Use movement, grounding, and stress-reduction skills to calm the nervous system and support healthier interactions.

Couples counseling creates a safe, encouraging environment where you and your partner can explore challenges, strengthen emotional bonds, and build a relationship where both partners feel valued, appreciated, and loved.

Take the First Step Toward a Stronger Relationship

Relationship struggles can feel overwhelming, but with the right guidance, positive change is possible. Couples therapy offers the tools, strategies, and support you need to rebuild trust, improve communication, and reignite intimacy.

Schedule Your Free 15-Minute Consultation

Imagine your relationship feeling like this again….

Conversations that don’t turn into arguments
Feeling understood and emotionally safe
Rebuilt trust and reduced resentment
A stronger emotional and physical connection
Confidence in your relationship’s future

If this is what you are longing for book a free 15 minute consultation with one of the best couples therapists in the DMV

Couples therapy that helps you rebuild trust, improve communication, and reconnect emotionally without blame, shame, or endless arguing.

Schedule a Free 15 Minute Consultation

Couples Therapy in Fairfax, Virginia & Florida to Rebuild Trust and Connection

Are you and your partner struggling to communicate, feeling distant, or caught in repeated arguments? At Cushing Counseling, we specialize in couples therapy for residents of Virginia, Florida, and the DMV area, helping partners break negative patterns, restore trust, and reconnect emotionally and physically.

Has a Rift Formed Between You and Your Partner?

Frequent disagreements and emotional distance can leave couples feeling frustrated and disconnected. It may seem like every conversation ends in conflict, or that even small discussions quickly spiral into arguments. Over time, these patterns can create resentment, misunderstanding, and a growing sense of isolation in your relationship.

Perhaps you feel criticized no matter what you say, or maybe your partner accuses you of being defensive when you try to share your perspective. These cycles of conflict are common — but with professional support, they don’t have to define your relationship.

You Might Be Spending More Time Apart

When the distance grows between you and your partner, you may start to feel uncertain about the relationship’s future. Questions about trust, security, and unconditional support can lead to anxiety, hopelessness, or even anger and resentment. You may find yourself emotionally drained as you wonder if the problems are your fault — or if things can ever change.

Couples therapy provides a safe space to explore these challenges. With guidance, you and your partner can learn to rebuild trust, resolve conflict more effectively, and strengthen the emotional and physical intimacy you once shared.

How Couples Counseling at Cushing Counseling Can Help

Our approach to couples therapy focuses on creating lasting change by helping partners:

Improve communication and reduce misunderstandings
Rebuild trust and emotional safety after conflict or betrayal
Navigate differences in desire or intimacy with compassion
Resolve ongoing conflicts in healthier ways
Reconnect emotionally and reignite passion in the relationship

We use evidence-based methods to help you identify negative patterns, build empathy, and strengthen your connection. Whether you’re dealing with recurring arguments, intimacy concerns, or uncertainty about your future together, therapy can provide the tools and support you need.

Start Your Journey Toward a Stronger Relationship

Relationships take work, but you don’t have to navigate these struggles alone. At Cushing Counseling, our couples therapy services are designed to help you and your partner heal, grow, and thrive together.

Schedule Your Free 15-Minute Consultation

Couples Therapy

Strong Communication Is the Foundation of a Healthy Relationship

One of the most common struggles couples face is communication. In fact, research in the Journal of Family Psychology found that around 65% of couples seeking therapy report communication as a major concern.

According to the Gottman Institute, four behaviors — often called the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse — can predict relationship breakdown:

Criticism
Contempt
Defensiveness
Stonewalling

When these patterns go unchecked, empathy and openness begin to disappear, leaving partners feeling disconnected.

How Technology and Daily Stress Impact Relationships

Modern life adds unique challenges to communication. Constant access to smartphones, social media, and digital distractions can reduce meaningful, face-to-face interactions, leaving couples feeling emotionally distant and less intimate.

Other common stressors include:

Financial pressures
Work-life balance struggles
Cultural or gender role expectations
Unresolved past trauma
Lack of healthy role models for relationships
Unrealistic portrayals of love in movies, TV, and social media

These pressures can create disconnection, conflict, and feelings of being misunderstood.

But Maybe You’re Not Sure If Couples Therapy Is Right For You…

Q1: Can couples counseling really help us?

Therapy has been proven highly effective in helping couples navigate and overcome relationship challenges. [4] By providing a safe and supportive environment, working with a counselor allows couples to gain insights, develop effective strategies, and improve their communication style. Because many couples before you have experienced significant positive changes and growth through coaching and therapy, there is hope you can transform your relationship as well.

Q2: Will couples therapy expose cracks in our relationship and cause us to break up?

Perhaps you worry that if you go to couples counseling, underlying problems or irreconcilable differences may rise to the surface, exacerbating conflicts and potentially ending your relationship. However, couples therapy aims to promote understanding, healing, and growth. Rather than dwelling exclusively on the problems that exist, your couples therapist will work collaboratively with you to foster positive change and strengthen the relationship.

Having said that, my goal as therapist isn’t to “save” the relationship no matter what. If it is fatally flawed, then I will guide each of you to make logical decisions rather than emotional ones.

Q3: I worry that couples therapy will expose our weaknesses and that the therapist will judge us.

Understandably, the idea of sharing the intimate details of your relationship and personal life with a therapist can be daunting. I take the approach that everyone has strengths and vulnerabilities. I prefer this language over weaknesses. You may fear judgment, embarrassment, or feeling vulnerable in the therapeutic process. But couples therapy is a confidential and non-judgmental space where you can safely explore your concerns. As a couples counselor, I am trained to create a supportive environment where you can feel comfortable sharing your experiences without fear of criticism or shame.

couple making a heart shape with their hands

Make Your Relationship Better Than Ever

Working to make your relationship the best it can be will be time well-spent. To find out more about couples therapy with Cushing Counseling, visit my contact page or call 703-5440-7081 to schedule a free 15-minute call. 

[1] https://www.apa.org/pubs/journals/fam/

[2] https://www.gottman.com/blog/the-four-horsemen-recognizing-criticism-contempt-defensiveness-and-stonewalling/

[3] https://www.nytimes.com/2015/02/13/style/the-36-questions-on-the-way-to-love.html?ref=redirector

[4] https://www.gottman.com/about/research/

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