Brendan O'Connell (he/him/his)

LMSW, LGSW
Accepting Clients

Brendan O'Connell (he/him), LMSW is an IFS and EMDR therapist serving clients in DC, Maryland and Virginia

Associate Clinical Social Worker in Maryland
Supervised by Margot Lamson, LICSW

Services
  • Individual
  • Adolescent/Teen

About My Clients

You feel caught in patterns that don’t quite make sense anymore. On the outside, you might be functioning—but internally something feels off. Maybe you feel disconnected, emotionally numb, or like you’re just going through the motions. You’ve learned how to push things down and keep going. At one point, that likely helped you get through something difficult. But now, it may be leaving you feeling stuck, unsure what you feel, or disconnected from who you are.

My Background and Approach

I draw on advanced training in Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Somatic Experiencing (SE), I help clients move from feeling stuck to experiencing meaningful relief, choice, and connection. As a trauma therapist, I do not believe therapy should feel rigid or one-size-fits-all. I use IFS, EMDR, and Somatic Experiencing in a way that is shaped around you, your needs, and your capacity in the moment. Some sessions may focus on understanding a protective part of you. Others may focus on helping your body feel more settled. At times, we may process something painful when you feel ready. Through it all, I will check in, move gently, and trust that your system sets the pace.

My Personal Beliefs and Interests

I have had the honor of working with clients from many different countries, ethnicities, sexualities, gender identities, and religions. I believe therapy must make space for the realities of the world we live in and the impact of systems that harm, exclude, or target people based on race, gender identity, disability, and other lived experiences. These realities are not separate from therapy. They are part of the context we work within. Therapy can be a place where you feel more supported, more validated, and more connected to your own knowing. I do not position myself as the expert on your life. I listen, I believe you, and I support you in the work we do together. You are in the driver’s seat. I am alongside you.

Techniques I Use

Specialties
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Internal Family Systems
Other Techniques
  • Somatic Therapy: Body-Based Healing for Emotional Trauma

Issues I Treat

Specialties
Attachment Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
I offer online counseling in the following states:

At A Glance

  • Experience: 1 year of practice
  • Languages: English
  • Rate: $210 - 290/session

Reach out to Brendan