Who We Are
Trauma-Informed and Healing Trauma Therapy
Brickel & Associates, LLC is a trauma-informed and healing trauma therapy practice founded by Robyn Brickel, MA, LMFT, in the late 1990s. Robyn has devoted her career as a therapist to advancing compassionate, collaborative, and clinically grounded trauma treatment. What began as a solo practice many years ago has grown into a respected group of highly trained therapists who share a unified commitment to treating the whole person with care, curiosity, and respect.
Located in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia, we provide trauma-informed psychotherapy for older adolescents, adults, couples, families, and groups—primarily through in-person therapy. Under Robyn’s leadership as Founder and Clinical Director, our team works with clients in a way that honors each person’s lived experience and supports meaningful and sustainable healing.
Our practice is rooted in the principles Robyn established early on safety first and always, healing at a sustainable pace, and treatment informed by the latest research in trauma, attachment, and the neuroscience of the nervous system. Over the years, Brickel & Associates has become known for its integrative approach—one that supports clients in building emotional and nervous system regulation, resilience, and authentic connection.
Every clinician on our team is trained in trauma-informed, strengths-based, attachment-focused, and evidence-informed modalities. We believe therapy is a partnership. We strive to create a space where clients feel seen, supported, and empowered in their healing journey.
At Brickel & Associates, we continue the mission Robyn began—under her ongoing leadership—to provide deeply respectful, high-quality trauma-informed care that helps individuals, couples, and families move toward healing, balance, and lasting wellbeing. Our work is grounded in a deep understanding of how trauma affects the mind and body, and we are committed to helping each client create lasting, positive change by fostering emotional safety, resilience, and self-awareness.
Through a supportive and proactive approach, we guide clients toward stronger self-esteem, healthier relationships, and meaningful emotional, cognitive, and behavioral growth.
Robyn Brickel, MA, LMFT
Founder & Clinical Director – Licensed in VA, DC, and CTEMDRIA Certified and Approved Certified, Senior Facilitator Trauma-Informed Stabilization Treatment (TIST) VA Board Approved Supervisor
With over 25 years of clinical experience, Robyn specializes in supporting individuals, couples, and families navigating complex trauma, including attachment-related challenges, dissociation, and women’s mental health, including perinatal mental health and menopause. She is a Certified Senior Facilitator of Trauma-Informed Stabilization Treatment (TIST), an EMDRIA Certified Therapist and Approved Consultant, a Sensorimotor Psychotherapist, and a Virginia Board–Approved Supervisor. A nationally respected educator and consultant, Robyn trains and mentors therapists in advanced trauma-informed approaches. She shares insights and resources on trauma care through the Brickel & Associates blog and social channels on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
How We Work
Healing requires care for the mind, body, and nervous system. Our integrative approach combines many Bottom-Up and somatic models of care:Trauma-Informed Stabilization Treatment (TIST)
Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR)
Sensorimotor Psychotherapy
Relational Models of Care
Trauma-Informed Therapy
Strengths-Based Therapy
DBT/Emotional Regulation
Why We Value In-Person Therapy
At Brickel & Associates, we believe that therapy is more than a conversation—it is a relational and embodied process that unfolds within a safe, supportive environment. While virtual sessions can be helpful in certain circumstances, our practice is primarily built around the depth of connection that happens when therapist and client share the same physical space.
In-person therapy allows for greater attunement, clearer communication through nonverbal cues, and the opportunity to engage fully in trauma-informed and body-based approaches that support lasting healing.
Our Commitment to LGBTQ+ Allyship
At Brickel and Associates, allyship is an active and ongoing practice. We are committed to affirming LGBTQIA+ identities, listening with humility, and providing care that honors lived experience without judgment or pathologizing. We recognize the impact of systemic oppression and work to create therapeutic spaces rooted in safety, dignity, and respect. Our clinicians engage in continual learning, reflection, and accountability to ensure our work remains inclusive, ethical, and responsive.
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