Monica Cavalcante
MONICA CAVALCANTE, MSW, M.Ed — TRAINED IN EMDR & IFS | CERTIFIED IN DBT
When it comes to finding the right therapist, I encourage clients to notice, ask questions, and trust their gut. The first session is often the best way to see if the connection feels right. If it’s not a good fit, that’s okay, not every therapist is right for every client. The most important thing is not to give up until you find the person who feels like the right match for you.
I primarily focus on trauma work, utilizing Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Internal Family Systems (IFS) as my guiding frameworks. I am trained in both approaches and certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Currently, I am a Resident in Clinical Social Work completing the final stage of my residency.
I feel deeply privileged to walk alongside people during some of their hardest moments and help them move through pain toward healing. This work is not just a career for me, it is my life’s mission. I hold the core belief that people are not broken; they are hurt, and wounds can heal.
Some quick tidbits that describe me
SOME QUICK TIDBITS THAT DESCRIBE ME
Learner – I am always hungry for knowledge and personal growth, whether that means deepening my clinical skills or working on myself to show up as my best self in the world.
Empathetic – I meet people with compassion, honoring their feelings and experiences without judgment.
Listener – I create space where people feel heard and understood, sometimes for the very first time.
Honoring – I deeply respect each person’s perspective, values, and unique story.
Challenger – I believe growth often comes from being gently challenged, and I am not afraid to push clients in ways that foster healing.
On the weekends you'll find me...
Caring for my 30+ houseplants, diving into new home décor projects, practicing yoga and Pilates, spending time with my family and four cats, connecting with nature, chasing sunsets, and filling up my own cup.
How to pick the right therapist
Listen to your gut. Notice how you feel in the first and second sessions. Ask yourself: Did I feel this therapist created space for me to be heard and to process my life experiences? These reflections can help you determine whether you’ve found the right match. You’ll know when it feels right.
So, take your time and trust your gut.
I hope this page portrays a revealing snapshot of my personality and professional style. If you think we might be a good fit, give me a call (703)919-5543 or send me an email and let’s talk. I am happy to offer a free 15-minute phone consultation to help you decide. What do you have to lose? And imagine all that you might gain.
Credentials:
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work – License #0906015102 – Supervised by Stephanie Beguin-Howard, LCSW
Master of Social Work (MSW), Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) with a concentration in clinical social work
Master of Education (M.Ed.), Marymount University
Training in:
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) – EMDRIA
Internal Family Systems (IFS), Level 1 — trained by the IFS Institute
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)