About me
My practice philosophy is grounded in a holistic and integrative approach, understanding that each individual is unique and requires personalized treatment that addresses the mind, body, and biopsychosocial factors influencing their well-being. Throughout the therapeutic process, I will help you increase insight into your thoughts and behaviors, guide and support self-motivated changes, modify maladaptive behavioral and relational patterns, and assist in strengthening your self-concept and resiliency. My aim is to not only decrease emotional distress, but also to increase an overall sense of well-being, self-efficacy, and fortitude.
I am licensed in both Virginia and Washington, D.C. I am also a part of the Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact (PSYPACT), an interstate compact designed to facilitate the practice of telepsychology across state boundaries. Click here to see if your state is part of the compact.
My Philosophy
I believe in the interconnectedness of mental, physical, and social health, and strive to consider all these aspects when working with my clients. Pulling from a cultivated reservoir of therapeutic approaches and interventions, I am able to draw from various treatment modalities to create a customized treatment plan that best meets your needs. This integrative approach allows me to be flexible and adaptive, ensuring that I am providing effective and collaborative care. My superpower is to create a warm, supportive and non-judgmental space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to make positive changes in your life.
I deeply believe that the true power of healing lies within you. Every individual possesses an innate source of resilience and wisdom, waiting to be tapped into. While external circumstances and past experiences may create barriers to accessing this inherent strength, I see my role as your guide with cultivated knowledge and abundant compassion and encouragement to empower you to discover and reclaim your healing potential.
My Specialities
Anxiety
Depression
Relationship issues
Self-esteem
Relational Trauma
Life transitions
Identity/Multicultural issues
Stress management
Women’s issues
My Approach
I use my expertise in a number of evidence-based therapeutic approaches and collaborate with you to tailor a treatment that’s customized for your specific needs and concerns.
With foundational training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I work with clients to identify their limiting beliefs and adjust negative thought patterns to make positive changes in our emotional state and behavior. Understanding that emotional and psychological well-being is deeply interconnected with the body, I use a number of somatic interventions to help clients process and release emotional pain stored in the body, including but not limited to Breathwork (Link). Drawing from Trauma Focused techniques, I'm equipped to gently guide those healing from past relational wounds, which include Internal Family Systems, Attachment theory, and Narrative Therapy. I’m dedicated to not just relieving suffering, but to helping clients achieve wellbeing and fulfillment through tenants of Positive Psychology.
I use Mindfulness approaches to help clients regulate their emotions and increase their awareness of their thought and behaviors; and Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) to encourage them to take committed action that is aligned with their values and life goals. Always, I strive to be Culturally Sensitive, honoring your unique background and worldview.
For those seeking a larger sense of purpose, I can incorporate Transpersonal and Existential Therapy. For those interested, I also can incorporate Art and Music therapy.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
With over ten years of experience in private practice, I have provided psychotherapy and psychological evaluations for individuals of all ages and presenting concerns. Currently, I am the owner of Dr. Sylos-Labini PLLC and offer both in-person and virtual psychotherapy to adults struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, trauma, life transitions, and identity and multicultural issues.
I earned my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida and I am a native to Washington DC. My research background is in multicultural and acculturation issues, and my bicultural background allows me to treat Italian-speaking clients. I have additional certifications in Hypnobreathwork® and Managing ADHD Across the Lifespan.
As an 8-year board member of the District of Columbia Psychological Association (DCPA), I am dedicated to advocacy and outreach initiatives that advance the field of psychology and promote the accessibility of mental health services to the community. I served as DCPA’s President in 2022 and won the American Psychological Association (APA) award for Outstanding Psychologist Award in 2022. I also received the APA Early Career Psychologist Initiative Award 2021 and 2018 on behalf of DCPA.