Claudia Salazar, Psy.D

traIFS  (,,My clients…

I have extensive experience working with high-achieving professionals in legal, medical, humanitarian, and international development fields, helping them address personal difficulties, including family of origin stories that may continue to have an impact on their lifes, including their work. I also help them with work-related stress and trauma. In addition to psychotherapy, I also offer well-being check-ins to help them stay on track with their mental health needs and to build their resilience. 

Often clients reach out to me with the hope that they can find relief of their symptoms (depression, anxiety), or when their relationships have become a source of pain. These highly motivated clients are ready to dive deep into the root causes of their suffering, and their hard work in therapy brings many rewards. 

Whatever form that pain and suffering takes, it occupies a huge space in people’s life and mind. It often robes them of peace, joy, and opportunities to feel connected to themselves and others. The relief of a symptom, often brings unexpected, yet welcomed surprises.

In addition, I have a deep appreciation for the challenges of working moms who grapple with the integration or conflict between their professional identities and their ambivalence about motherhood.  Often in their psychotherapy journey they share their fears of losing themselves in what they fear can be a potentially less fulfilling role; they confront the impact of pregnancy on their bodies; heal from debilitating symptoms related to postpartum depression and anxiety.

My style and approach…

Our therapeutic relationship will be marked by safety and connection, allowing for curiosity and exploration. We’ll collaborate to ensure we strike the right amount of challenge so you’re making meaningful changes in your life. 

I’m always fully present during our sessions, paying close attention to unfolding moments. I intentionally carry a small caseload to give you my undivided intellectual and emotional presence.

 My approach is rooted in modern psychodynamic therapy, incorporating tools and interventions from Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy and body-centered modalities.

Some of my background…

I have been in private practice for over 15 years. In addition to my role as a psychotherapist, I worked as a psychological consultant at the World Bank Counseling Unit, and are actively engaged with The Konterra Group in their mission to support the emotional resilience of the employees working for international development and humanitarian organizations. 

I obtained my Doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology from The George Washington University. I hold a certificate in ISTDP (Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy), a comprehensive therapy model that integrates neuroscience, psychodynamic principles, attachment theory, and mindfulness/body-centered techniques. This approach is particularly effective in bringing about psychological change in the shortest time possible, making it beneficial for clients with long-standing or treatment-resistant symptoms. 

My interest in helping my clients to get relief from their suffering has led me to pursue training in trauma-informed modalities to treat the impact of trauma. I completed the Level 1 of Sensorimotor Psychotherapy for Trauma, and have been actively engaged in IFS training opportunities and will be completing the IFS Level 1 in January 2025.  

Let’s team up!

Welcome to the Center for Effective Psychological Services (CEPS). I’m so glad you’re here.

You’re in the right place to change your life!

All you have to do is reach out. We would love to schedule a free consultation to talk more about how we can help: (202) 556-0953.