About
Anne N. Kamau, LPC
Licensed in Maryland and Virginia
Psychotherapist, teacher, and fellow seeker of the truth
Let’s face it: Life is not fair. This can be a tough world. Anything can happen at any moment.
The reality is that there are many things outside of our control. But there are also many areas where we do have control.
Sometimes life delivers some serious knockout blows. If you are like most people, you have probably experienced some of those blows. I, like most people, have experienced some punches delivered by life. The most difficult have been the losses of my father, my sister (within 1½ months of each other), and my brother.
When life knocks you down, it is easy to fall into a state of despair, to feel that fate is against you, that you're helpless, even that you are victimized by life. And for those who believe in God, to be angry with God.
But life also has given us resiliency, the ability to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges. To grow and to thrive in spite of — or because of — such experiences. This is where we have control.
If life has knocked you down, if you are struggling, do not suffer alone. Help is available. Reach out.
I have 15+ years of experience working in mental health. I have worked in community mental health programs, psychiatric hospitals, and private practice.
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I am trained in Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTPD) at the Washington School of Psychiatry and the ISTDP Institute.
Born in Kenya, trained and practicing in the U.S., I bring a unique blend of experience and cultural understanding that comes from living in different cultures.
I have a deep appreciation for the uniqueness of each individual. I also appreciate the commonalities to be found among us regardless of race or geography.
Outside of therapy, some of my favorite activities are reading, gardening, tennis, swimming, and enjoying nature.
Professional Experience
I have devoted myself since 2009 to studying and understanding the role of anxiety/stress in psychological problems. Anxiety has a very important intersection with many of the psychological difficulties people experience and for which they seek psychotherapy, yet is almost universally misunderstood. Anxiety may be influencing your decisions in ways you don’t even realize.
I work with and receive ongoing clinical supervision from some of the top psychotherapists in the field, unlike most therapists, who stop supervision once they become licensed. I believe ongoing clinical supervision is critical for maintaining psychotherapy skills and eliminating psychotherapists’ blind spots.
Qualifications
Post-licensure professional training
​Washington School of Psychiatry
Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP)​
Professional training
Masters in Counseling
Seton Hall University, NJ.
Bachelors of Arts in Education
Moi University, Kenya