A Bit About Me

I am Dr. Robin Cleveland, a Licensed Professional Counselor, dedicated to building trust, warmth and safety in my work with adolescents and adults.  With a specialization in trauma and stressor related conditions, I explore patterns and challenges that have an impact on clients’ feelings of self-esteem, love, and success.   Central to my work is creating a compassionate relationship to support client’s efforts to gain insight, grow, and change.

I rely on an evidence based integrative approach that includes a range of methods from Cognitive Behavior Therapy to expressive arts.   My approach relies on what a client needs and how best to support growth.  Everyone has automatic patterns of thoughts, feelings and behaviors in moments of stress which often mean losing sight of true strengths and identity.  I provide affirming support for clients as they discover themselves, understand their roles and responsibilities in relationships, and practice coping skills to reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, anger, grief, reactivity or distress.

Robin Cleveland, Ph.D.

My Clinical Practice Areas

  • Addiction
  • ADD/ADHD
  • Autism
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Bipolarity
  • Depressive disorders
  • Dissociation
  • Grief and Loss
  • Identity Development
  • Trauma and stressor disorders

My Education, Training & Community Engagement

I earned my BA degree at Wesleyan University and my MA and PhD from George Washington University.  My commitment to counseling includes teaching Masters and Doctoral students in the counseling programs at GWU.  I have been certified as a Trauma Specialist and as a Career Counselor-Instructor.  My early work included increasing access to mental health in Washington DC’s Ward 7 and 8 and providing care at the Arlington County Detention Center Substance Abuse Unit.  I also have experience in schools where I supported K-8 student development and trauma informed care for adult learners.

Where I Practice

I am licensed in Virginia and Washington DC and practice in our McLean office.