ABOUT CHRISTOPHER STRALEY
MY APPROACH
Research search shows that regardless of the theory that various therapists use, the most important aspect of therapy is the therapeutic relationship between the client and the therapist – a relationship with trust, understanding, acceptance and genuineness. I pay a great deal of attention to the quality of our relationship. I believe that this relationship can be especially important as we live in a society, in which we are constantly connected electronically, but have difficulty connecting emotionally with each other.
With over 15 years of experience, I have found that therapy works best when it is a collaborative effort. To that effect, I am interactive in our sessions together, working to identify goals, asking questions, making observations, and asking for feedback as we make progress together.
Training and education are important to provide the best treatment possible, and are a large part in doing my own work, so that I can best help you. I use cognitive behavioral and insight oriented therapies to create a treatment that meets your individual needs and concerns, working with you to achieve immediate and long lasting changes.
PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND
LICENSES
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, DC
EDUCATION
Master’s of Social Work - West Virginia University
Bachelor’s of Arts, Psychology & Sociology - West Virginia University
PRACTICUM/INTERNSHIPS
Chestnut Ridge Hospital, Morgantown, West Virginia
West Virginia University Hospitals, Morgantown, West Virginia
POST-GRADUATE TRAINING
Washington School of Psychiatry, 2007-2009, and 2012-2014
CERTIICATIONS & SPECIAL TRAINING
Certified Group Psychotherapist, American Group Psychotherapy Association
Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Washington School of Psychiatry
Erickson Hypnosis, Level I
Addictions
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
-
Personal Growth
-
Addictions/Substance Abuse/Sexual Compulsion; including crystal meth, sex fusion, and porn addiction
-
Abstinence, 12-Step, and Harm Reductionist Approaches
-
Coming Out/Sexuality Issues
-
Couples/Partner Counseling; including issues around open relationships and infidelity
-
Separations/Breaking Up
-
Life Transitions
-
Depression/Anxiety
-
Male Issues
-
Mourning/Grief; including pet bereavement
SERVICES
Individual, couples, and group psychotherapy
PAYMENT POLICIES AND INSURANCE
I accept some insurances, including Blue Cross/Blue Shield. If I am not paneled with your insurance provider, many offer out-of-network benefits which will provide some reimbursement to you depending on your individual plan. I will provide the necessary documentation that you will need to get reimbursed. If you decide to use your health insurance plan, I ask that you contact your insurance provider before our first session to determine what your co-pay, deductible, and co-insurance may be. I also accept cash, check, and most credit/debit cards, as payment.
AVAILABILITY
Monday–Saturday, times vary by day.
Christopher L. Straley,
LICSW, CGP
Licensed Clinical Social Worker in DC
OFFICE LOCATION
3000 Connecticut Avenue, NW Suite 134
Handicap access: Partial – ramps and elevators, however restroom is narrow
Metro Rail: Red line, .5 mile walk from either Cleveland Park or Woodley Park stops
Metrobus: Connecticut Avenue buses
Parking: On street parking available (However, do not park on Connecticut Ave. during rush hour restricted times - 7:00–9:30 a.m. and 4:00–6:30 p.m.)