About Yuko

Yuko is a licensed therapist providing individual counseling to clients located in Virginia, Washington, D.C., and North Carolina. She is currently accepting new individual clients and maintains a waitlist for couples seeking therapy.

Life can be challenging, and we all face trials that leave us feeling hurt, disappointed, or drained of hope and joy. Whether you are navigating difficulties in your relationships, coping with grief, struggling with anxiety or depression, or facing major life transitions, therapy can provide guidance, clarity, and healing. I believe that everyone has the capacity to grow, heal, and thrive with the right support. My goal is to help you reconnect with your strengths, build emotional resilience, and move toward a more balanced, authentic, and fulfilling life.

I specialize in attachment injuries, trauma, life transitions, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, grief, emotional healing, spiritual struggles, and relationship challenges. I incorporate EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy to help clients process and heal from trauma and unresolved childhood experiences. EMDR is evidence-based and can often bring noticeable relief in a relatively short time. I also use Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Gottman Method Couples Therapy to help couples strengthen emotional connection, improve communication, and build healthier, more resilient relationships. Additionally, I am a certified Prepare-Enrich therapist, helping couples understand each other’s values and grow in partnership.

I bring a deeply personal perspective to my work. Having experienced infertility firsthand, I offer compassionate support to individuals and couples navigating the emotional and physical challenges of infertility. I understand the complexities and grief that accompany this journey and provide guidance, resources, and empathy every step of the way.

Growing up in Japan and being fluent in both Japanese and English has given me sensitivity to a wide range of cultural issues. I understand the challenges of transitioning into new lifestyles or cultures and have particular insight into the experiences of interracial couples, as I am in an interracial marriage myself. My cultural awareness helps me create a safe and inclusive space for clients from diverse backgrounds.

Before pursuing a career in counseling, I worked as a journalist covering social, political, and economic issues. Interviewing people from diverse backgrounds honed my listening skills, empathy, and ability to understand complex personal and societal dynamics—skills that now deeply inform my therapeutic approach. I also have experience working in developing countries, supporting underserved communities, which has strengthened my commitment to helping others and honoring the unique experiences of each individual I work with.

In my 40s, I pursued my long-time dream of becoming a marriage and family therapist. This journey has allowed me to combine professional training with extensive life experience, bringing empathy, dedication, and a deep understanding of human resilience to my practice.

If you are considering therapy, I want to honor your courage in taking this important step toward self-discovery and healing. You may be surprised by your own potential and the positive changes you can create in your life. Throughout this journey, you will not be alone—I will be here to support, guide, and empower you as we work together toward healing, growth, and renewed hope for your future.

If you would like to schedule an appointment, please contact Yuko. You can also view her profile on psychologytoday.com.

Yuko offers a rate of $225 for the initial evaluation and $175 for each additional session. Although guaranteed payment from insurance is not possible, Yuko accepts most Virginia Anthem BCBS plans and out of state BCBS. Should you desire out of network reimbursement, Yuko will provide you a statement to submit to your insurance company.