Welcome! I am Farah Alnajar, LPC, CCTP, a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional with a profound dedication to helping individuals heal and thrive. With extensive experience in trauma-informed care and multicultural counseling, I have made it my mission to support clients in navigating life’s complexities, rewriting their stories, and reclaiming their sense of self. My approach combines evidence-based practices with empathy, cultural sensitivity, and a deep respect for each client’s unique journey.

As an expert in trauma and culturally responsive care, my work focuses on addressing the intricacies of intergenerational trauma, complex family dynamics, self-esteem issues, body image concerns, and eating disorders. My therapeutic approach is rooted in Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), two powerful modalities that allow clients to access and heal the parts of themselves burdened by past pain. Through these methods, I help clients reconnect with their inner strength, break cycles of trauma, and foster self-compassion.

My background as an immigrant, a person of color (POC), and bilingual therapist (fluent in Arabic and English) uniquely equips me to support clients navigating the intersections of culture, identity, and language. I understand the profound impact that cultural narratives, societal expectations, and systemic barriers can have on mental health. Whether working with first-generation Americans, immigrants, or individuals seeking to reconcile their cultural heritage with their personal identity, I create a safe and affirming space where clients feel seen and understood. This culturally informed lens permeates every aspect of my practice, ensuring that therapy is not only effective but also deeply respectful of each client’s lived experiences.

Beyond my private practice in Fairfax, VA, I serve as an international trauma consultant for non-profit organizations, aiding communities worldwide in recovering from collective trauma. This work has given me a global perspective on resilience and healing, enriching my ability to support individuals from diverse backgrounds, including POC. Whether helping a family rebuild after displacement or guiding a survivor of systemic oppression, I approach every situation with compassion and a belief in the transformative power of connection and support.

My leadership within the counseling field reflects my commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion. As the former Multicultural Chair for the Northern Virginia Licensed Professional Counselors Association (NVLPC), I worked to foster awareness and competency around multicultural issues within the counseling community. I am passionate about training and mentoring other therapists, helping them develop the skills and knowledge necessary to provide culturally responsive care. Through workshops, consultations, and peer support, I aim to amplify the impact of culturally sensitive therapy, ensuring that more individuals, especially POC, receive the care they deserve.

Clients who work with me often describe my approach as warm, collaborative, and empowering. I view therapy as a partnership where clients are the experts on their lives, and my role is to provide tools, insights, and a supportive environment to facilitate healing and growth. Together, we identify goals, explore challenges, and celebrate progress. Whether addressing deep-seated trauma or navigating life transitions, I strive to make therapy a space of hope and possibility.

Trauma is a central focus of my work, and I am deeply committed to creating a safe and supportive environment for clients to process and heal. Trauma often manifests in ways that disconnect us from ourselves and others, leaving behind feelings of shame, fear, and unworthiness. Using EMDR, I help clients gently reprocess traumatic memories, reducing their emotional intensity and integrating them into a broader narrative of resilience. With IFS, we delve into the parts of the self that hold pain, anger, or fear, fostering a compassionate relationship with these parts and allowing clients to move toward wholeness and inner harmony.

My work with body image and self-esteem is another area of passion. In a world that often equates worth with appearance, many individuals struggle to feel confident and at peace with their bodies. I help clients, including POC, challenge societal standards, uncover the roots of their self-perception, and build a more accepting and loving relationship with themselves. This journey is deeply personal and transformative, allowing clients to reclaim their sense of worth and live authentically.

Cultural sensitivity is not just an aspect of my work; it is its foundation. As someone who has navigated the complexities of bicultural identity, I understand the nuances of belonging, adaptation, and cultural negotiation. My clients, particularly POC, often find it refreshing to work with someone who “gets it”—who understands the pressures of balancing familial expectations with personal aspirations or navigating microaggressions in everyday life. Together, we explore these dynamics, finding ways to honor cultural heritage while fostering personal growth and self-expression.

In addition to individual therapy, I offer training and workshops for other professionals, focusing on trauma-informed care, EMDR, IFS, and multicultural counseling. I believe in the power of education to create systemic change, equipping therapists with the tools they need to provide effective and compassionate care. By sharing my knowledge and experiences, I hope to inspire others to approach their work with cultural humility and a deep commitment to equity.

On a personal level, I value balance and self-care as essential components of my life and practice. Spending time with my family, especially my son and daughter, brings me immense joy and grounding. I also prioritize activities that nourish my mind and body, such as running, yoga, reading, and weight training. These practices keep me centered and energized, allowing me to show up fully for my clients.

In summary, my approach as a therapist is shaped by a blend of professional expertise, personal experience, and a deep passion for helping others. As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, I bring specialized knowledge in trauma and culturally responsive care. My work with individuals is guided by empathy, evidence-based practices, and a commitment to fostering resilience and self-compassion. Whether you are seeking to heal from trauma, navigate cultural complexities, or build a stronger relationship with yourself, I am here to walk alongside you on your journey toward growth and healing. Together, we can create a space where you feel seen, valued, and empowered to embrace your fullest potential.