Janine Murphy-Neilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
When couples come to me, they are often at a breaking point. The same arguments cycle endlessly, and conversations that should bring you closer leave you feeling angry, sad, or misunderstood. I've sat with many couples in that exact place, and I can tell you there is a way through it and we don’t have to guess, I have a plan.
I am a certified EFT couples therapist. Emotionally Focused Therapy is a structured, well-researched approach that gives couples a real roadmap, and it's the heart of how I work. Many of my clients are insightful, psychologically minded people, often couples in their 30s through 60s, who come in already curious about EFT and wanting to understand their patterns, not just patch over them.
Alongside couples work, I support people moving through grief, a focus that grew out of losing my own mother in 2002, and women navigating the stress of early motherhood. I've been in private practice since 2003, after earning my MA in Counseling from Marymount University and training at The Women's Center in Vienna. Whether we meet in person in Herndon or online, my goal is the same: to help you get to a more peaceful place, in your relationships and within yourself.
Certified EFT couples therapist specializing in couples and marital work
In private practice since 2003; MA in Counseling, Marymount University
Focused on couples, grief and loss, and support for women in early motherhood
In-person sessions in Herndon, VA and online sessions across Virginia
Free 15-minute consultation for new clients
What Guides My Work
Evidence-Based Practice
I believe you deserve more than generic advice. I'm certified in EFT, a structured, well-researched approach. My work is grounded in methods that have been proven to help, not trendy theories.
Honoring Relationship Pain
When the relationship you care most about is causing pain, it matters. I don't minimize that. I meet you where you are—whether you're trying to repair after infidelity, navigate grief together, or find your way back to connection.
Clarity Over Platitudes
Therapy isn't about feeling better in the moment; it's about real change. I work with a clear roadmap in couples work and a range of approaches tailored to your needs—EFT and family systems—so you know what to expect and why we're doing it.
Inclusivity Across the Lifespan
I work with individuals and couples, from teens through elders, and clients from the LGBT community have always been welcome in my practice. I honor the whole person you are.
Credentials
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Commonwealth of Virginia, License #0701003483
MA in Counseling, Marymount University (1996)
Certified EFT Couples Therapist, International Centre for Excellence in EFT (2018)
Level 2 Gottman Method Couples Therapy Training