Meet Shari
Meet Dr. Matray
Welcome!
My name is Dr. Shari Matray, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) providing in-person individual psychotherapy for adults in Washington, D.C.
In order for you to have a better sense of what I can provide as a therapist, I will share more regarding my background, training, and approach to psychotherapy.
I’ve always been deeply curious about people—how we come to understand ourselves, how our experiences shape us, and why certain patterns can be difficult to change. This curiosity has guided my education, clinical training, and approach to psychotherapy.
Why I Work Psychodynamically
My lifelong interest in learning inspires me to continuously expand my knowledge and understanding of the therapeutic process, so I can be most helpful to my clients.
Throughout my training and experience, I kept returning to psychodynamic therapy because of its focus on understanding what lies beneath the surface and its ability to create lasting change.
Psychodynamic therapy, which originated from psychoanalysis, is a less intensive form of treatment with less frequency in meetings per week. My training in both psychodynamic therapy and psychoanalysis allows me to tailor the therapeutic process to each client’s needs and goals.
Psychodynamic therapy typically involves meeting less frequently, while psychoanalysis offers a more intensive opportunity to explore longstanding patterns.
My Clinical Background
Prior to entering private practice, I gained experience in community mental health settings and college counseling centers, and completed a Clinical Fellowship at the American University Counseling Center. I served as an adjunct faculty member at GW and taught the internship course for graduate students in counseling for a few academic years as well.
Education & Training
PhD in Counseling — George Washington University
MA in Mental Health Counseling — Hunter College
BA in Psychology — James Madison University
Clinical Fellowship — American University Counseling Center
Psychoanalytic Candidate — Washington Baltimore Center for Psychoanalysis