Hi There, I’m Rita Etter, LCSW, LCSW-C

Welcome—I'm glad you're here.

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW-C who believes that healing happens in relationships through safety, trust, and the willingness to explore both pain and possibility. I became a therapist because I believe in the human capacity to grow, to heal, and to transform, even in the midst of difficulty or uncertainty. 

My therapeutic style is both grounded and intuitive. I draw from a range of evidence-based modalities—including humanistic, psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, 12 Step Recovery, and existential psychology—but I don’t follow a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, I meet each client with openness and curiosity, allowing our work to unfold in a way that honors your unique story, needs, and pace.

Clients often describe me as warm, honest, and deeply present.

I value authenticity and humor, and I aim to create a space where you feel safe, seen, and supported—not just as a set of symptoms, but as a whole person. Our sessions may include deep emotional processing, exploration of patterns and relationships, or reflection on the bigger questions—identity, meaning, purpose, and alignment. For clients who are spiritually curious or seeking a deeper connection to themselves, I welcome conversations that explore intuition, inner wisdom, and the integration of mind, body, and spirit. 

Therapy with me is not about fixing you. It’s about rediscovering your wholeness, reconnecting with your inner strength, and moving toward a life that feels more grounded, spacious, and true. If this sounds like the kind of support you're looking for, I’d be honored to connect with you. Whether you're ready to begin or just curious about how therapy might feel, you're welcome to reach out. Taking that first step can feel vulnerable—but it’s also a powerful act of self-care.

When you're ready, I’ll be here.

A Little More About Me

My Credentials

  • Licensed Clinical Social Worker in MD (LCSW-C) and VA (LCSW)

  • Masters of Social Work, George Mason University

  • National Association of Social Workers (NASW)

Outside of the therapy room, I’m an animal lover at heart. I enjoy spending time with my dog, Willow, taking long walks in nature, and visiting the beach—any time of year. I deeply value time with friends and family, appreciate a good heart-to-heart conversation, and also believe in the healing power of laughter.

  • NASW (National Association of Social Workers)

    ASWB (Association of Social Work Boards)

    Psychology Today Profile

    GoodTherapy.org

    WPATH (World Professional Association for Transgender Health)

    ICCP (Institute of Contemporary Psychotherapy and Psychoanalysis)

  • Before becoming a psychotherapist, I spent nearly 18 years working in the fast-paced world of Information Technology. I collaborated with the federal government and major system integrators to support complex IT systems across large-scale programs. While the work was intellectually rewarding, I eventually realized that something essential was missing—a deeper connection to purpose, meaning, and the human experience.

    In 2011, I made a life-changing decision to return to school and pursue the path that had always quietly called to me: becoming a therapist. I was honored to be accepted into the advanced Master of Social Work (MSW) program at George Mason University, where I completed intensive clinical training and graduated in 2012. I’m now a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-C) in Maryland and an LCSW in Virginia.

    In 2015, I founded Plumeria Counseling Center, LLC, where I offer psychotherapy grounded in psychodynamic and trauma-informed care, offering a deep, compassionate space to explore the roots of emotional pain, relational patterns, and the experiences that have shaped you. I draw from existential and humanistic perspectives to support you in navigating life’s deeper questions—identity, meaning, purpose, and connection.

    With a strong foundation in trauma sensitivity and relational presence, I prioritize creating a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship where you feel seen, heard, and supported. For those seeking practical tools, I integrate cognitive-behavioral strategies and mindfulness practices to help build resilience, increase self-awareness, and support emotional regulation.

    I also bring a deep respect for the recovery process, informed by 12-Step principles and lived insight into addiction, codependency, and healing from compulsive patterns. My approach welcomes spiritual openness and values-based exploration, as well as holding compassionate space for the many layers of grief, transition, and transformation that are part of being human.

    My work supports individuals and couples navigating a wide range of challenges—including relationship issues, addiction and recovery, codependency, grief and loss, low self-worth, life transitions, sexuality, and existential questions around spirituality, purpose, and meaning.

    I believe that lasting healing begins with self-awareness and the courage to explore what lies beneath the surface. In our work together, we’ll examine the patterns, beliefs, and lived experiences that may be keeping you stuck, while creating space for clarity, self-compassion, and meaningful change.

    Above all, I view therapy as a collaborative process—one that honors your complexity, your inner wisdom, and your capacity for growth.

"Pain is inevitable, but suffering is optional."

~ Haruki Murakami

"Laughter is like an emotional exhale — the pressure leaves, and suddenly, you can breathe again."

Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, at a crossroads, or simply ready to reconnect with yourself in a deeper way, therapy can be a powerful step toward greater insight, healing, and authentic growth. Wherever you are on your journey, I’m here to meet you with warmth, presence, and steady support.