Lisa Kruger

With over 17 years of experience in the field of mental health, Dr. Lisa Kruger brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her practice, Stepping Stone Psychotherapy. As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in both Virginia and Washington, D.C., Dr. Kruger has dedicated her career to helping individuals navigate life's challenges and find paths to healing and growth.

Dr. Kruger's approach to therapy is both comprehensive and tailored, recognizing that each client brings a unique perspective and set of experiences to the therapeutic relationship. She specializes in working with children, adolescents, and adults, addressing a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, relationship stressors, life transitions, trauma, chemical dependency, and grief/loss. Her extensive experience allows her to adapt her therapeutic techniques to best suit each client's needs, fostering a safe and compassionate space for exploration and growth.

In addition to her clinical practice, Dr. Kruger is actively involved in research, particularly focusing on attachment-based interventions for mood disorders and trauma. She has also conducted extensive research on veterans' issues, specifically examining the psychological impacts of war and combat. This commitment to ongoing research informs her practice, ensuring that her clients benefit from the latest advancements in the field.

Dr. Kruger's educational background is equally impressive. She holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education and Supervision from George Washington University, a Master of Science in Counseling from Georgia State University, and has completed post-graduate clinical training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for PTSD at The Israel Center for the Treatment of Psychotrauma. This diverse educational foundation allows her to draw from various therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), and mindfulness techniques.

Beyond her private practice, Dr. Kruger extends her expertise to the broader community. She contracts with businesses to provide on-site therapy and workshops for employees, covering areas such as stress management, work-life balance, conflict management, and overall well-being. She also offers executive-level training in self-care, assertive communication, anxiety management, mindfulness, and personal development. Additionally, as a registered therapy provider through the volunteer Give an Hour program, she offers pro-bono mental health services to U.S. veterans, demonstrating her commitment to giving back to the community.

Dr. Kruger's approach to therapy is rooted in compassion, acceptance, and a deep understanding of the complexities of human experience. She strives to create an environment that is not only comfortable and non-judgmental but also conducive to real, lasting change. Whether working with individuals struggling with anxiety, couples navigating relationship challenges, or professionals seeking to improve their work-life balance, Dr. Kruger brings her full expertise and empathy to each therapeutic relationship.

At Stepping Stone Psychotherapy, clients can expect a collaborative and engaging therapeutic process. Dr. Kruger's goal is not just to alleviate symptoms but to empower her clients with the tools and insights they need to lead more fulfilling lives. Her practice offers both in-person and virtual therapy options, ensuring accessibility and flexibility for her clients.

For those seeking a therapist with a rich background in clinical practice, research, and community engagement, Dr. Lisa Kruger offers a unique combination of expertise, compassion, and dedication to her clients' well-being. Her holistic approach to mental health, coupled with her extensive experience and ongoing commitment to professional growth, makes her an invaluable resource for individuals and couples seeking to overcome challenges and achieve personal growth.