Online Therapy in Washington, D.C. and Virginia

The Inner Critic: A Kinder Path to Knowing Yourself

That critical inner voice isn’t who you are—it’s your mind trying to protect you. With compassion and evidence-based tools, you can turn self-doubt into supportive guidance.

A nighttime scene of a swan surrounded by her sleeping cygnets in a nest. In the nest is also a squirrel, contentedly sleeping with them. A crescent moon shines brightly in the background.

Imagine a life where you:

  • Trust your own judgment without the fear of falling short.
  • Find a new sense of inner calm and resilience.
  • Experience deeper connections with others as you build a foundation of self-worth.
  • Feel more energized and free to pursue what truly matters to you.
  • Learn about boundaries and how they don’t mean cutting yourself off from connections that you value.

My approach provides you with an individualized plan, so you can learn how to free yourself from your harshest judgments and begin living with more peace and intention.

Do you ever hear that voice in your head—the one that’s always ready to point out your mistakes and convince you you’re never quite good enough? Many of us know that voice, but the truth is, it’s not a reflection of who you are. It’s a part of your mind’s “operating system,” a rule keeper that learned to protect you by being critical. Through a compassionate, evidence-based approach, you can learn to transform this voice from a source of self-doubt into a source of support.

At Heart & Mind Insights, I understand that working with your inner critic is not about getting rid of a part of yourself. It’s about finding a more effective way to relate to your own thoughts. I offer personalized online therapy to help you understand where these critical thoughts come from and how to gently guide them toward kindness and self-compassion.

Licensed Professional Counselor

Cheryl Zandt

Telehealth in Virginia and Washington DC

Cheryl Zandt is a compassionate and highly experienced Licensed Professional Counselor practicing via Telehealth in Washington DC and Virginia. She provides online therapy to adults; individually or in relationship.

With a warm, down-to-earth approach, Cheryl helps clients navigate anxiety, burnout, relationship challenges, and life transitions. She creates a supportive space where clients can feel heard, understood, and empowered to make meaningful changes in complex circumstances.

Cheryl Zandt LPC
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