Kennedy Counseling Collective

12/30/2025

Therapy doesn’t have to feel big or scary for kids.

In this video, Hilary Hauptman, LGPC, shares a simple, kid-friendly way to talk about therapy, as a place to play, create, and talk about hard things at their own pace.

Because when kids feel safe, healing can begin. 💛

What’s helped you talk with your child about feelings or getting support?

12/12/2025

Most couples don’t avoid “the past” because they don’t care.
They avoid it because they’re tired, scared, or think it will fade on its own.

But old hurts don’t disappear just because time passes (oh how we wish).
They show up in the same argument, said a little louder.
In the tension that comes out of seemingly nowhere.
In the moment you shut down even when you want to stay connected.

Healing past relationship wounds takes a little different approach. It’s about understanding what your nervous system learned, taking responsibility where it matters, and intentionally choosing each other again, just this time with more clarity and care.

In her latest blog, Kennedy Counseling Collective therapist Andie Hoffrichter breaks down what real healing looks like for couples. Not a quick fix. Not “moving on.” But a practical 4-step process that has helped couples in our practice finally move forward.

If you’ve ever wondered why the same patterns keep repeating or why certain moments still feel tender years later — this piece offers some real-world tips to healing.

Read the full blog here:

Romantic relationships hold a special kind of uniqueness. They can be the place where you feel the safest and most comfortable, yet can also make you feel deeply hurt and alone if conflict arises and goes unresolved. I see the remnants of these past hurts, the things that we thought were neatly tuck...

11/26/2025

We know these times can be stressful, especially for furloughed federal employees and anyone facing uncertainty. Finding support that meets your needs and your budget can feel impossible.

That’s why we offer therapy starting at $75 per session through our sliding scale program.

All sessions are supervised by experienced clinicians, ensuring compassionate, high-quality care. Ready to start? Contact us today.

11/19/2025

The holidays often bring connection and warmth, but they can also stir up old family dynamics and stress. This year, many in the DMV are feeling that mix more intensely.

Our latest blog offers practical ways to set boundaries (it’s not what you think), notice your family’s communication patterns, and make the most out of gatherings.

Read the full post at the link, and share it with someone who could use a little extra support this season.

As the leaves change and the air cools, many of us start mentally preparing for the upcoming holidays… who we’ll see, where we’ll go, and what conversations we might need to brace for. This year, holiday planning may come with extra stress. Here in the DMV, many are feeling like there is no br...

11/19/2025

The holidays can be a mix of joy and tension.

Here in the DMV, many of us are carrying extra emotional weight this year... family differences, old patterns, and the pressure to “keep the peace.”

In today’s video, we explore what it looks like to hold both connection and boundaries at the same time — and why your mindset makes all the difference.

How are the holidays landing for you right now: grounding, challenging, or a little of both? Drop a comment below.

11/12/2025

In times of stress, uncertainty, and change, kindness can be the antidote - the medicine we all need. And science agrees.

Kindness isn’t just a nice gesture; it’s good for our physical and mental health. Acts of kindness have an almost magical way of shifting our biology - releasing oxytocin (the “love hormone”), sparking a “helper’s high” when we volunteer, and lowering blood pressure and anxiety through something as simple as a hug.

And the best part? Kindness is contagious.

So on , we invite you to try a simple experiment:
Pick one small act - for someone else, and for you. Then pause. Notice the change in your body, your energy, your mood.

You might be surprised by how far your kindness travels.

We’d love to hear - how has kindness shown up for you lately?

🦋

11/05/2025

Have you noticed your child feeling more tired, moody, or clingy as the days get shorter? Just like adults, kids can feel the impact of changing seasons, and that’s completely normal.

This fall, a few simple routines can help support your child’s mood and energy.

Swipe for gentle ways to help your child adjust and feel their best 🍂

10/24/2025

Join our free raffle at Spooktacular Sunday 3-7p at Sherman Circle to win this basket of cozy Fall comfort items—tea, journal, blanket, popcorn, candle, AND a giftcard for a free session!

10/21/2025

We are joining the fun at the Sherman Circle Spooktacular!

Come celebrate fall with family-friendly Halloween activities, games, and community spirit on Sunday, October 26, 2025, from 3–7 PM. We can’t wait to see you there!

Join the magic and experience a safe, fun-filled afternoon with 2,500+ neighbors and friends.

Presented by:

Advisory Neighborhood Commission 4D

Sponsors:









whelan.esq



Friends at Petworth Library

10/20/2025

Autism isn’t something to “fix”. It’s a unique way of experiencing the world. 💛

If you’re navigating an autism diagnosis for your child, understanding the signs and finding the right support can be overwhelming. Hilary Hauptman, our neurodivergent-affirming therapist certified in autism-informed care, breaks down what families should know about autism diagnosis, early signs, misconceptions, and how to nurture your child’s strengths.

Read the full guide here ⬇️

Hilary Hauptman is a clinician here at Kennedy Counseling Collective, and brings over six years of experience supporting autistic children and their families. Hilary has worked with hundreds of families navigating the diagnostic process and developing strategies to support their children at home and...