Start Here
If you’re exploring therapy and not sure where to begin, you’re in the right place.
Starting therapy often stirs up a mix of hope, uncertainty, and questions—especially during life transitions or when you’re stretched in unfamiliar ways.
You don’t need to have it all figured out. This page can help you settle in, get a sense of how I work, and decide what kind of support might feel like a good fit.
Think of it as a gentle place to begin.
What it’s like to work together
Therapy with me is collaborative, thoughtful, and grounded in real life. I offer a space where you don’t have to perform, explain everything perfectly, or have a clear plan before you start.
We’ll focus on helping you:
slow things down when everything feels urgent
make sense of patterns that keep repeating
build steadier footing during times of change
move forward with more clarity, self-trust, and choice
Sessions are practical and reflective, paced to support meaningful change without pressure or overwhelm.
If you already have a sense of what you’re looking for, you’re welcome to explore the options below—or take your time and read through this page first.
Choosing between in-person, online, or walk-and-talk therapy
There’s no “right” option—just what best fits your life, needs, and season.
In-Person Therapy
You want a consistent, grounded space to step away from daily demands
You benefit from being physically present and uninterrupted
You’re local to Leesburg / Lansdowne
Online Therapy
You value flexibility and convenience
You’re balancing a full schedule or multiple responsibilities
You’re located anywhere in Virginia, Maryland, or DC
Walk-and-Talk Therapy
You think best while moving
You feel confined sitting in an office
You want therapy to feel more embodied and less formal
What to expect next
Most clients begin with a free 20-minute consultation. This is a low-pressure conversation where we can talk briefly about what you’re looking for, answer questions, and see whether working together feels like a good fit.
If we decide to move forward, we’ll:
choose the format that works best for you
review fees and scheduling
talk through next steps clearly and transparently
You don’t need to have everything figured out before reaching out.
If you’d like more details, you can also explore:
Want to stay connected?
If my writing resonates with you, you’re welcome to stay in touch. I’m Carminda Passino, LCSW, and I share updates every so often—when something feels genuinely supportive or worth passing along.
Ready to take the next step?
A brief conversation to see if this feels like the right fit.