Afa Alizada (she/her)

Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor
Accepting Clients

As a holistic therapist, my approach is equal parts warm, relatable, science-backed, and practical. I'm antiracist & LGBTQIA+ affirming.

Counselor in Maryland
Supervised by Farha Mowlana, LCPC, Maryland/LC8266

Services
  • Individual

About My Clients

On the surface you have it all together. Inside, you feel drained and unfulfilled, maybe dreading your days or constantly worrying. You keep hoping that with the next job or promotion, new relationship, desired body weight, or some other achievement things will feel better. But no matter what, you feel you’re not good enough and happiness is out of reach. I'll help you to not only understand the root cause of your problems but to take tangible steps- here and now- toward the life you desire.

My Background and Approach

I am a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor (LGPC), and credentialed as a National Board-Certified Counselor (NCC), Certified Trauma Professional, 200-hr Registered Yoga Teacher, and iRest Mindfulness Meditation Practitioner. I prioritize our therapeutic relationship above all else because that’s what’s going to make or break your therapy experience — and scientific evidence backs this. I enter into this relationship with you as equals and work alongside you to clarify goals and chart a plan of action that will lead you to living your most vibrant, healthy, hopeful, and purposeful life. With this strong foundation established, I integrate evidence-based approaches with non-Western wisdom traditions, where appropriate, to offer a personalized wellness intervention that works for you.

My Personal Beliefs and Interests

Prior to becoming a counselor, I worked for over a decade in international humanitarian aid and development, and lived and traveled throughout the world. As a first generation American and a woman of color, I bring a nuanced understanding of multiculturalism and intersectional identities and their impact on mental health. I’m an antiracist, LGBTQIA+ affirming, and sex-positive therapist and enjoy working with people of diverse identities and lifestyles. Come as you are! My guiding principles: Mental health is intimately linked with physical, social, and spiritual health and effective therapy addresses all these dimensions. You are the expert on your life with a unique personality, culture, and strengths; I work with you to co-design comprehensive interventions that leverage your strengths to achieve your wellness goals. I always foster a safe environment and provide a healthy challenge to support your growth & healing, but never force you in the direction you're not ready to go yet.

Techniques I Use

Specialties
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) Trauma Therapy
Other Techniques
  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
  • Attachment Theory
  • Culturally Sensitive Therapy
  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
  • Holistic Therapy
  • Motivational Interviewing
  • Somatic Therapy: Body-Based Healing for Emotional Trauma
  • Transpersonal Therapy

Issues I Treat

Specialties
Anxiety Depression
Other Issues
  • Body Image Issues
  • Burnout
  • Codependency
  • Grief or Loss
  • Infertility
  • Marriage Counseling
  • Polyamorous and Open Relationships
  • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Racial Identity
  • Self-Esteem
  • Sexual Abuse or Assault
  • Sexual Problems
  • Spirituality
  • Systemic Oppression Therapy
Insurance Plans Accepted
  • Out of Network
I offer online counseling in the following states:

At A Glance

  • Experience: 4 years of practice

Reach out to Afa