About Dr. Julie Heier, PhD —Licensed Psychologist

I’m a health psychologist and self-care strategist who helps people manage life stressors, improve their relationships, and reconnect with their wellbeing. My approach is grounded in science, compassion, and real-world practicality. I use evidence-based treatments that are flexible and data-informed—so we can track what’s working and tailor therapy to your needs.

I bring the highest level of clinical training as a licensed psychologist, with experience at top hospitals across the country. I’ve worked with individuals across the lifespan, as well as families navigating medical and behavioral challenges. As a recovering perfectionist, I also understand the pressure to equate achievement with happiness—and I’m here to challenge that narrative.

Working with me includes structure, deep insight, humor, and sometimes tears. I believe healing begins with a strong therapeutic relationship, where you feel safe, seen, and supported. I’ll challenge you when you’re stuck in unhelpful patterns and support you through your hardest days.

Outside of session, you can find me taking long walks in comfy sneakers, engaging in activism, eating oatmeal raisin chocolate chip cookies, and stopping to pet every dog I meet.

Degrees/Education

2010 — BS, Cornell University

2018 — MA, The University of Texas at Austin, Educational Psychology

2018 — PhD, The University of Texas at Austin, School Psychology

2018 — Internship in Health pediatric psychology, The University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY

2019 — Postdoctoral fellowship, Integrated primary care, Geisinger Medical Center

2020 — Postdoctoral fellowship, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP)

2020- present — Attending Psychologist, Children’s National Hospital, Washington, DC

Licenses/Certifications

2019 — Pennsylvania Licensed Psychologist

2020 — National Registrar of Health Service Psychologists

2020 — District of Columbia Licensed Psychologist

2020 — Instructor of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences, George Washington School of Medicine

2021 — Maryland Licensed Psychologist

2021 — Palliative Care Certification

2025 — Assistant Professor of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences, George Washington School of Medicine

Clinical Training and Background

I completed my graduate training in Clinical School Psychology at the University of Texas at Austin—Hook ’em Horns! My education and experience span psychotherapy, psychological and neuropsychological assessment, and interdisciplinary consultation across hospitals, primary care clinics, and community agencies. I specialize in health psychology and integrated behavioral health, with a focus on how physical and emotional wellbeing intersect.

I completed my APA-accredited predoctoral internship at the University of Louisville School of Medicine, followed by advanced postdoctoral training in therapy and consultation at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

Currently, I serve as a faculty attending psychologist at Children’s National Hospital in Washington, DC, and as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences at the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences. I have published and presented at national workshops on the intersection of medical conditions and mental health and Co-Chair for the biannual Association of Psychologists in Academic Health Centers National Conference.

In addition to providing therapy, I’m passionate about training the next generation of psychologists—and I’m deeply committed to diversifying the psychology pipeline through mentorship and advocacy.

My Values

My practice is culturally informed, gender-, queer-, and poly-affirming, and rooted in the belief that systemic injustice and oppression deeply impact mental health and wellbeing. I strive to create a therapeutic space where your full identity is seen and respected—and where experiences of oppression can be explored on your own terms.

Building trust and safety is my priority. I approach therapy with self-reflection and awareness of how my own identity shapes the therapeutic relationship.

I believe that every human should have access to food, housing, healthcare, safety, and opportunity.