Luretha Kelly , LICSW, LCSW

Luretha Kelly is a licensed clinical social worker practicing in the District of Columbia and Mississippi with 16 years of professional experience. She holds the credentials LICSW and LCSW - LICSW denotes advanced clinical social work licensure that authorizes independent clinical practice, and LCSW indicates clinical social work licensure. Her background includes work with trauma and abuse, anger management, motivation, self-esteem and confidence, and depression.

Kelly approaches each person as the expert of their own story, recognizing the strengths clients already bring to the work of change. She emphasizes collaboration and empowerment, helping people identify practical steps toward a more fulfilling and balanced life. Seeking help requires courage, and she aims to offer steady support and encouragement as clients take those first steps.

Her style centers on listening carefully, building on resilience, and working together to address challenges that interfere with well-being. Whether a person is coping with a single issue or multiple life stressors, she focuses on practical tools and compassionate guidance to support lasting change.

Evidence-Informed Approaches for Online Care

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, or ACT, helps people clarify their values and take committed action toward a meaningful life while learning to accept difficult thoughts and feelings rather than fight them. It is often useful for those facing chronic stress, low motivation, or life transitions.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT, focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thinking patterns and behaviors. CBT is commonly used for anxiety, depression, and problem-solving around everyday challenges by teaching practical skills that can be applied between sessions.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy, or DBT, blends skills training in emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. It is helpful for people who struggle with intense emotions, relationship conflicts, or impulsive behaviors.

Choosing the right approach is part of the therapeutic process. The therapist works collaboratively with each person to learn about their goals, preferences, and life context, then tailors techniques from these methods to fit what will be most helpful.

Online therapy offers flexibility and access to care through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging, allowing therapy to fit work, family, and travel schedules. These options make it easier to maintain continuity of care and practice new skills in real-life settings while connecting with licensed professionals and therapists from wherever the client is located.