Darlene Tando, LCSW
Experienced mental health professional
Provides online counseling through BetterHelp
At a glance
Darlene is an experienced, licensed Mental Health Professional who specializes in affordable online therapy offered through our partner, BetterHelp.
- FSA/HSA accepted
- Offers Telehealth visits
- Licensed in Virginia and California
More about Darlene
- 25 years' experience
- Female
- LCSW
Hi there! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in both California and Virginia with over 25 years of experience working in clinical practice.
My approach to therapy is warm, genuine, and empathetic. I believe meaningful healing happens through authentic connection, and sometimes through humor, too. Laughter can be a powerful tool in therapy, especially when navigating complex or vulnerable experiences.
I specialize in gender-affirming therapy for youth and adults and have over 20 years of experience working with transgender and gender nonconforming individuals. I support clients and families through all stages of the gender journey, including coming out, navigating relationships, and accessing affirming medical and mental health care. I strive to create a space where you feel seen, respected, and supported as your full self. I have served as a co-facilitator on a symposium for years training professionals and parents on the intricacies of gender affirmation. I have also written a book in support of parents who wish to affirm their child.
In addition to gender-affirming care, I work with individuals facing life transitions, mood disruptions, and family conflict. If you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, we can work together to build insight, resilience, and practical coping strategies.
Teletherapy can be incredibly useful as it allows you to access support from the comfort and privacy of your own home. I also provide flexible support between sessions through BetterHelp’s messaging system, which many clients find helpful for ongoing reflection and connection.
Due to scheduling constraints, I am not able to offer weekly sessions at this time. Session frequency is typically every two weeks, every three weeks, or monthly. I look forward to the possibility of working together and supporting you on your journey.
Specialties
Insurance Accepted
- Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield Virginia
- BCBS Federal Employee Program
- Cigna
- GEHA
- Optum
- Oscar Health
- UMR
- UnitedHealthcare
Licenses
Darlene Tando's National Provider Identifier (NPI) is 1134191182.
- LCSW · Virginia · 0904017083 · Renews June 2026
- LCSW · California · 21699 · Renews July 2027
About online counseling
- Affordable.
- Pay a low flat fee.
- Convenient.
- Do it at your own time and at your own pace. Communicate whenever you feel it's needed.
- Available now.
- There is no waiting list and no calls to make. Simply fill out a short questionnaire and send your first message.
Online counseling, also known as teletherapy, is a method of delivering mental health services through digital means such as video conferencing, phone calls, or messaging platforms. It can be an ideal option for individuals who have difficulty accessing traditional therapy due to geographical distance, time constraints, or personal preferences like privacy and comfort. Many people find it easier to open up from the familiarity of their own space.
Teletherapy has been found to be highly effective, with studies showing that it can produce similar outcomes to in-person therapy, particularly for issues like anxiety, depression, and PTSD. The flexibility and accessibility it offers make it a valuable alternative to conventional therapy settings.
Reviews for Darlene Tando
Frequently asked questions
Does Darlene Tando offer telehealth visits?
Yes. Darlene Tando works with clients by exchanging messages, chatting live, speaking over the phone, or video conferencing based on what works for the client at that particular time.
What language(s) does Darlene Tando speak?
Darlene Tando speaks English.
How many years of experience does Darlene Tando have?
Darlene Tando has 25 years of experience.
Where is Darlene Tando licensed to practice?
Darlene Tando is licensed to practice in Virginia and California.
Does Darlene Tando accept FSA/HSA?
Yes, Darlene Tando accepts FSA/HSA meaning you can pay for sessions with your pre-tax healthcare dollars. Every year hundreds of thousands of people use their FSA/HSA to pay for therapy.
Does Darlene Tando accept insurance?
Yes, Darlene Tando accepts Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield Virginia, BCBS Federal Employee Program, Cigna, GEHA, Optum, Oscar Health, UMR, and UnitedHealthcare.
Does Darlene Tando accept clients outside of the United States?
No, Darlene Tando does not accept clients outside of the United States.
Is online therapy as effective as in-person therapy?
Numerous studies support the effectiveness of online platforms in facilitating life changes. For instance, research published by JMIR Publications, conducted by teams from the University of Berkeley, UCSF, and SF General Hospital, found that "users of BetterHelp experienced significantly reduced depression symptom severity after engaging with the platform."
How can I communicate with Darlene Tando?
Darlene Tando can be engaged in any one of four ways: (1) Exchanging messages, (2) chatting live, (3) speaking over the phone, or (4) video conferencing. You can use different ways at different times as you wish, based on your needs, availability, and convenience.
How do I get started with Darlene Tando?
Just tap the CHAT NOW button or tap here: A new window will open and you'll be directed to a simple form that will help start the conversation.
Mental health conditions are real, common, and treatable.
And recovery is possible.
When you tap CHAT NOW a new window will open and you'll be directed to a simple form that will help start the conversation.