Fatima Mirza, PhD, LCSW
Education Director, Residency and Professional Development Programs
My Story
I have always been curious about people and what makes them tick since a young age; I spent several nights as a middle school student reading resource materials for parenting workshops taught by FCPS, such as the book “How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk.” I later curled up on the couches of Reston Library to read case studies written by therapists. This natural curiosity is how I like to show up in session – ready to learn what is important to the client in front of me.
Educational Background
I have a Master’s of Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University and a PhD in Social Work from the University of Maryland, Baltimore. I am licensed in Virginia as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I also earned a Master’s in Shari’ah Sciences from the Graduate School of Islamic and Social Sciences. I’m currently pursuing level one of the Internal Family Systems certification and have completed continuing education workshops in psychodrama, sensorimotor psychotherapy, journal therapy, and somatic experiencing.
Clinical Experience
The majority of my experience is in private group practice settings where I have worked with adult survivors of trauma (including relational, religious, sexual, social, and racial trauma). I have extensive experience integrating spiritual lenses in my work with clients, and I always center the worldview of my clients. I have additional, though more limited, experience working in the school system, community settings, and in a partial hospitalization program.
Areas of Expertise
I work with individuals 16 years and older and especially enjoy working with deep thinkers, the highly sensitive, the caretakers, the spiritual souls, and the social justice seekers. I am also committed to providing culturally and spiritually sensitive care to those who serve their communities, including spiritual healers and clergy of all faith traditions. Understanding the unique challenges these individuals face, I aim to create a safe and supportive environment where they can explore their own mental health and well-being. My approach integrates therapeutic techniques with an appreciation for spiritual practices, allowing for a holistic healing experience. I aspire to foster resilience, balance, and inner peace for my clients and their communities by partnering with those who guide others on their spiritual journeys.
My Approach
I deeply value self-determination and forming collaborative relationships with clients to offer assistance in ways that feel affirming and supportive to my clients. I also believe that each person has healing energy within them and that all someone needs is to be reconnected to themselves. I bear witness while incorporating movement, journaling, mindfulness, art, and CBT methods based on the client’s needs and interests. I always consider individuals' neuro and sensory needs, social and structural forces at play, heritage, imprints of history, and power dynamics.
Fees
50 Minute Sessions: $170
90 Minute Sessions: $255
Please, click on the link below to schedule a complimentary 15-minute phone consultation for us to learn more about you or your child and to see if we are a good fit for your needs.
During our call, we can address any questions you may have and help you get started.
We look forward to connecting with you soon!