Hope+Wellness

Emarie Drake, LICSW, LCSW

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Hi there. I’m Emarie :)

Emarie drake, licsw, lcsw

Licensed Clinical social worker

Licensed in: Virginia, Washington DC, psypact

Locations: falls church, va; washington, DC; Teletherapy

I believe in the transformative power of human connection, and I have dedicated my career to fostering it. I’ve always been drawn to understanding people and creating spaces where they feel seen and safe. I’m inspired by the resilience people carry, and I’m motivated by the opportunity to help you uncover your strengths, heal old wounds, and navigate life with more clarity and compassion.

In my work as a therapist, I have experience supporting both teens and adults navigating anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, relationship challenges, and life stressors. I specialize in working with members of the LGBTQ+ community and am committed to creating a safe, affirming, and inclusive space for all clients.  I believe in treating therapy as a collaborative process with my clients where they can explore their challenges, build insight, and work toward meaningful and lasting change. My approach is person-centered, compassionate, and grounded in a deep belief in each person’s capacity for growth and resilience. 

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Washington D.C. and Virginia with a Master of Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University and a Bachelor’s degree with distinction in Psychology from the University of Virginia. My professional background and experience includes extensive training working with all individuals and communities across a variety of mental health settings, including child welfare, community mental health services, and private practice. 

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Philosophy

The foundation of my work lies in the relationships I build with my clients. I am a person-centered and relational therapist who approaches therapy with warmth, curiosity, and collaboration. I view all of my clients through a compassionate and non-judgemental lens. I believe that the therapeutic relationship can be a powerful space for healing and attachment repair, especially for those who have experienced trauma, loss, or isolation. I strive to build this foundation with all of my clients to promote positive growth and change.

Therapy is a unique experience for each client, which is why I take an eclectic approach. I use several evidence-based modalities, but my work is influenced primarily by Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS). I also incorporate mindfulness-based techniques to help clients reconnect with their bodies, regulate their nervous systems, and build greater self-awareness. This blend of modalities offers a balance of both practical tools for building emotional regulation and interpersonal skills, as well as opportunities for deeper inner exploration. I value tailoring my treatment approach to each client’s specific needs, to make the therapeutic experience both personal and effective. 

My hope is for my clients to have an experience where they feel seen, accepted, and supported as they navigate their challenges. I value bringing a steady, caring presence to the therapeutic space and would be honored to partner with you in your healing process.

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Specialty Areas

LGBTQ+ affirming counseling and therapy

I have extensive experience working with the LGBTQ+ community. I provide an inclusive, affirming space for LGBTQ+ clients to explore identity, coming out, and queer relationships. I also work with clients around gender exploration, transition-related experiences, and accessing affirming resources. My approach is grounded in authenticity and a deep respect for each person’s lived experience. I recognize the intersections of identity, trauma, and systemic oppression that impact queer and trans individuals, and I strive to meet each client where they are, honoring the full range of their unique experiences.

Grief and loss

My clinical work includes a particular focus on grief and loss. I approach grief as a non-linear, individual process and strive to meet clients with both clinical skill and compassion. I provide clients with a safe and healing space to navigate this pain and honor their loved ones. I have a personal understanding of how grief can intersect with trauma and identity, equipping me with insight that allows me to offer empathy and a deep respect for the individuality of each client’s experience of loss.

Anxiety and Depression 

I help clients struggling with feelings of sadness, hopelessness, worry, or overwhelm find clarity, calm, and renewed motivation. Whether symptoms arise from specific life stressors or long-term patterns, my approach integrates mindfulness, emotional awareness, and practical coping strategies. We will work together to uncover underlying causes, build self-compassion, and create sustainable change.

College Students, Young Adults 

I support clients navigating the challenges of early adulthood, including identity formation, career transitions, and changing relationships. This stage of life often brings anxiety, uncertainty, and deep self-discovery, and I help clients make sense of these experiences with clarity and compassion. Together, we explore the developmental milestones that shape this period, build emotional resilience, and cultivate a stronger sense of direction and self-understanding.

Family-related trauma 

I have experience working with clients healing from the lasting impact of complex family dynamics including divorce, emotionally unavailable or mentally ill parents, parental substance use, or other forms of relational wounding. Together, we explore how these early experiences shape current relationships, boundaries, and self-worth, fostering healing and new ways of connecting.

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Additional Areas of Expertise

Academic Stress and Pressure
Adjusting to Life Transitions
Adolescence
Anxiety
Depression
Discovering Your Identity
Finding Meaning and Purpose
Generalized Anxiety
General Stress of Being Human
Grief and Loss
Identity
Life Stress
Life Transitions
Low Self Esteem
Perfectionism
Persistent Depressive Disorder
Personal Growth
Relationship and Communication Difficulties
Seasonal Affective Disorders
Self-Care
Self-Criticism
Self-Esteem
Sensitivity
Social Anxiety
Stress Management
Struggling to Launch
Quarter-Life Crisis
Young Adults

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more ABOUT ME

Hobbies + what I do for fun!

Outside of work, I enjoy reading fantasy, spending time outdoors, and staying connected with my friends and family. I love trying new restaurants and exploring different parts of DC. 

What inspires me about the work I do with patients

I am continually inspired by my clients and their remarkable strength and resilience. Each day I admire the vulnerability I see from my clients and their ability to face difficult challenges and emotions. I deeply respect the effort that working through these challenges takes and my client’s commitment to growth and creating positive change. 

favorite QUOTES

“Trauma creates change you don’t choose. Healing is about creating change you do choose.”
— Dr. Peter Levine
“We are stronger, gentler, more resilient, and more beautiful than any of us imagine.”
— Mark Nepo
“The best way out is always through.”
— Robert Frost
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You're not alone. we're here to help. book an appointment today.