I am a Spanish-Speaking generalist therapist. I have over 12 years of clinical experience working with groups, families children and individuals in diverse settings including inpatient, outpatient, violence intervention, non-profit and child welfare. I presently works with children (ages five and up), adolescents and adults My special interest include Anxiety, Trauma, OCD, Self-Harm, Mood Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD, Men Issues and Substance Use.
I have participated in various work groups throughout Virginia to End Domestic Violence and in the Council to End Domestic Violence and have proposed recommendations to the State on how to address trauma and abuse in children that witness domestic violence. I have spoken at the Childweare League of America and Department of Homeland Security on topics regarding individuals that cause harm.
Client Focus
Session Format: Family, Group, Individual sessions.
Age Specialty: Adult, Children, Teen, Young Adult
Demographic Expertise: Hispanic / Latino clients.
Languages: Spanish
Treatment Approach
- Behavioral Therapy Uses learning techniques like reinforcement and practice to change unwanted behaviors. It is often applied to phobias, anxiety, and habits.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) One of the most widely used approaches, CBT helps people identify unhelpful thoughts and replace them with healthier patterns. It is effective for anxiety, depression, and many other concerns.
- Dance / Movement Therapy Uses movement and body awareness to express emotions and improve mental health. It can increase confidence, reduce stress, and support healing.
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Combines CBT with mindfulness to help regulate emotions, tolerate stress, and build stronger relationships. Originally designed for borderline personality disorder, it’s now used more broadly.
- Internal Family Systems (IFS) Helps clients heal by working with different ‘parts’ of themselves, like inner critics or wounded children. It fosters harmony within the self.
- Person-Centered Therapy (Rogerian) Emphasizes empathy, unconditional positive regard, and authenticity. It provides a safe space for self-discovery and growth.
- Play Therapy Uses toys, games, and creative play to help children express emotions. It is especially useful when children can’t fully verbalize their feelings.
- Sandplay Therapy Uses sand trays and miniature figures to allow symbolic expression. It is especially helpful for children and trauma survivors.
- Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) Focuses on solutions and future goals rather than past problems. It is practical, short-term, and goal-driven.
Education & Credentials
Mercedes Alonso LCSW
- Female
- License # 0904018523
- Licensed in VA
- Practicing Since 2012
Education: I attended Rutgers University and received her Masters of Social Work as well as a certificate in the field of Gender Violence.
Finances
Fees
- Average Session Fee 185-225
- Affordable sliding scale therapy: apply if you may be eligible.
- Sliding scale fee is offered to individuals that identify as black, indigenous, and other people of color or any marginalized groups that cannot afford services.
- Out of Network
- I am an out-of-network provider but will provide a superbill.
Mercedes Alonso Practice Details
Therapy Sessions
- Available In-Person in Vienna, VA 22180 and Fairfax, VA
- Available Online for residents of Virginia
- Online Therapy Details: I offer virtual therapy using HIPAA-compliant platform.
I integrate a blend of therapeutic approaches to include Internal Family System (IFS), strength-based, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and expressive play therapy.