Photo of Dan Amzallag Phd - DMV Life Coaching & Therapy Services, PhD, CLC, MBA, CBT, NLP
DMV Life Coaching & Therapy Services
PhD, CLC, MBA, CBT, NLP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
Whether it's marriage problems or enhancing communication, I can assist with all challenges.
Self esteem issues, body image problems, self worth are all originating from early problems that were never addressed. By going to the core of the problem, we can fix the problem that keeps on weighing on the individual and help them find a solution. Digging deep is somewhat needed to understand where it all came from and find a treatment plan to allow the person to let go of the negative and focus on the positive. It is crucial to keep an open communication module between client and therapist so we can both find the best alternative plan that will fit the client needs. I cover all groups, all ethnicity, all races in all my groups.
Whether it's marriage problems or enhancing communication, I can assist with all challenges.
Self esteem issues, body image problems, self worth are all originating from early problems that were never addressed. By going to the core of the problem, we can fix the problem that keeps on weighing on the individual and help them find a solution. Digging deep is somewhat needed to understand where it all came from and find a treatment plan to allow the person to let go of the negative and focus on the positive. It is crucial to keep an open communication module between client and therapist so we can both find the best alternative plan that will fit the client needs. I cover all groups, all ethnicity, all races in all my groups.
(301) 685-5999 View (301) 685-5999
Photo of Zachary Berman, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Zachary Berman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
He looks forward to helping clients with issues related to anxiety, depression, self-worth, couple and family connection and conflict, marital and premarital concerns, and sexuality.
Zack Berman believes that great therapeutic outcomes start with a strong therapeutic alliance. His style is warm and candid, inviting clients into an environment where they can be authentically themselves. Zack offers his clients an affirming, improvisational space in which they can feel safe to express uncomfortable truths and begin to play with new solutions. He often collaborates with clients on impromptu experiential exercises, utilizing a strengths-based stance to empower them to reach their goals.
He looks forward to helping clients with issues related to anxiety, depression, self-worth, couple and family connection and conflict, marital and premarital concerns, and sexuality.
Zack Berman believes that great therapeutic outcomes start with a strong therapeutic alliance. His style is warm and candid, inviting clients into an environment where they can be authentically themselves. Zack offers his clients an affirming, improvisational space in which they can feel safe to express uncomfortable truths and begin to play with new solutions. He often collaborates with clients on impromptu experiential exercises, utilizing a strengths-based stance to empower them to reach their goals.
(301) 638-8534 View (301) 638-8534
Photo of Ken Richard Thau, LCSW, LCSW-C, MSW, JD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ken Richard Thau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C, MSW, JD
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
I work extensively with couples for relationship / marriage issues such as loss of trust, infidelity, conflict and poor communication.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 32 years of experience in private practice, CMH centers, the public school system and the legal system. I offer solution focused approaches to therapy with the objective of obtaining results. I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. My primary approach is cognitive behavioral therapy which is considered to be one of the most effective evidence based therapies according to the NIMH. I work with my clients to identify the factors contributing to the problems they are experiencing and collaboratively we implement realistic strategies that produce change.
I work extensively with couples for relationship / marriage issues such as loss of trust, infidelity, conflict and poor communication.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 32 years of experience in private practice, CMH centers, the public school system and the legal system. I offer solution focused approaches to therapy with the objective of obtaining results. I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. My primary approach is cognitive behavioral therapy which is considered to be one of the most effective evidence based therapies according to the NIMH. I work with my clients to identify the factors contributing to the problems they are experiencing and collaboratively we implement realistic strategies that produce change.
(301) 329-8049 View (301) 329-8049
Photo of Joe James, PhD, Psychologist
Joe James
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I've been helping individuals and couples find new ways since 1995 and have been featured in Newsweek, The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, Good Housekeeping and NPR. Day, evening and weekend appointments are available.
I've been helping individuals and couples find new ways since 1995 and have been featured in Newsweek, The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, Good Housekeeping and NPR. Day, evening and weekend appointments are available.
(240) 485-6053 View (240) 485-6053
Photo of Carlos Durana Ph.D. - A Caring Approach, PhD, LPC
A Caring Approach
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I love helping individuals and couples achieve their goals and aspirations. I offer a caring, safe, and healing environment that allows clients the opportunity to explore, experience, work through problems, and create solutions that expand their potential for growth and wellness. As a proponent of integrative and holistic therapy that honors the mind-body connection and its impact on well-being, health, and happiness, I attend to the whole person, not just a set of symptoms or problems. I emphasize teaching skills that develop inner resources for successful coping in life. I use a variety of methods, but the method has to meet your needs.
I love helping individuals and couples achieve their goals and aspirations. I offer a caring, safe, and healing environment that allows clients the opportunity to explore, experience, work through problems, and create solutions that expand their potential for growth and wellness. As a proponent of integrative and holistic therapy that honors the mind-body connection and its impact on well-being, health, and happiness, I attend to the whole person, not just a set of symptoms or problems. I emphasize teaching skills that develop inner resources for successful coping in life. I use a variety of methods, but the method has to meet your needs.
(301) 327-2909 View (301) 327-2909
Photo of Thomas Rea, LCSW-C, LICSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thomas Rea
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
I provide therapeutic services and support to help individuals and partner(s) who are experiencing sexual concerns. Many issues can contribute to impaired sexual functioning and desire like anxiety, depression, anger, low self-esteem and unhappiness. Additionally, sexual concerns can also be the result of a medical condition, medications, stress or relationship difficulties. I specialize in helping people and partner(s) resolve their sexual concerns, along with other psychological issues, using a broad base of treatment approaches.
I provide therapeutic services and support to help individuals and partner(s) who are experiencing sexual concerns. Many issues can contribute to impaired sexual functioning and desire like anxiety, depression, anger, low self-esteem and unhappiness. Additionally, sexual concerns can also be the result of a medical condition, medications, stress or relationship difficulties. I specialize in helping people and partner(s) resolve their sexual concerns, along with other psychological issues, using a broad base of treatment approaches.
(301) 476-4361 View (301) 476-4361
Photo of Daniel Turetsky, PsyD, Psychologist
Daniel Turetsky
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have been helping individuals and couples work through difficult issues in order to have a more fulfilling life for over fifteen years. Having been trained to work with people across the lifespan has enabled me to integrate an understanding of the origins, development and resolution of behavior and relationship patterns which are presently holding the client back from important accomplishments or feelings of well-being in their lives, even though these patterns may very well have historically originated out of a functional need.
I have been helping individuals and couples work through difficult issues in order to have a more fulfilling life for over fifteen years. Having been trained to work with people across the lifespan has enabled me to integrate an understanding of the origins, development and resolution of behavior and relationship patterns which are presently holding the client back from important accomplishments or feelings of well-being in their lives, even though these patterns may very well have historically originated out of a functional need.
(301) 852-6236 View (301) 852-6236
Photo of Alan L Marcus, PhD, Psychologist
Alan L Marcus
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
Picking a therapist to work with can be overwhelming. Feeling comfortable and understood by your therapist is critical. During our first session we will explore what brought you to me. Together we identify your struggles, develop a treatment plan, discuss whether you feel comfortable with me, and that our plan makes sense to you. I am a Licensed Psychologist with over 20 years of experience. A certified IMAGO, Gottman, Equine Assisted and Diplomat in Sex Therapy, we will talk openly and candidly about your life. Together, we will explore your concerns, past and present and mindfully identify changes for you to consider.
Picking a therapist to work with can be overwhelming. Feeling comfortable and understood by your therapist is critical. During our first session we will explore what brought you to me. Together we identify your struggles, develop a treatment plan, discuss whether you feel comfortable with me, and that our plan makes sense to you. I am a Licensed Psychologist with over 20 years of experience. A certified IMAGO, Gottman, Equine Assisted and Diplomat in Sex Therapy, we will talk openly and candidly about your life. Together, we will explore your concerns, past and present and mindfully identify changes for you to consider.
(301) 744-8759 View (301) 744-8759
Photo of Robin S. Smith, MS, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Robin S. Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
Did you know that the quality of the relationship you have with your therapist is strongly linked to successful therapeutic outcomes? This is why my goal is to provide every person I see with an emotionally safe space, free of judgment. You want somebody who genuinely cares, who is curious and hopeful. I encourage people to explore new ways of thinking about their experiences and different ways of expressing themselves. I aim for the people I work with to leave each session feeling more empowered, with a sense of agency, and able to learn what they're capable of doing.
Did you know that the quality of the relationship you have with your therapist is strongly linked to successful therapeutic outcomes? This is why my goal is to provide every person I see with an emotionally safe space, free of judgment. You want somebody who genuinely cares, who is curious and hopeful. I encourage people to explore new ways of thinking about their experiences and different ways of expressing themselves. I aim for the people I work with to leave each session feeling more empowered, with a sense of agency, and able to learn what they're capable of doing.
(240) 398-3365 View (240) 398-3365
Photo of Matthew Burgess Leary, PhD, Psychologist
Matthew Burgess Leary
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
I believe it shows courage to seek out therapy, especially couples and family therapy. You may be struggling with serious emotional issues, deep personal crises, relationship distress, or a sense of distance with your child or adolescent. Many couples I work with have lost a sense of connection and/or find themselves hurting each other over and over again. Many individuals I work with simply want to get more from their lives - more love, joy, and connection. I collaborate with you to create a therapy environment that is warm, safe, supportive, challenging when needed, and authentic.
I believe it shows courage to seek out therapy, especially couples and family therapy. You may be struggling with serious emotional issues, deep personal crises, relationship distress, or a sense of distance with your child or adolescent. Many couples I work with have lost a sense of connection and/or find themselves hurting each other over and over again. Many individuals I work with simply want to get more from their lives - more love, joy, and connection. I collaborate with you to create a therapy environment that is warm, safe, supportive, challenging when needed, and authentic.
(240) 221-5449 View (240) 221-5449
Photo of Carlos Durana Ph.D., PhD, LPC, Psychologist
Carlos Durana Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I love helping individuals and couples achieve their goals and aspirations. I offer a caring, safe, and healing environment that allows clients the opportunity to explore, experience, work through problems, and create solutions that expand their potential for growth and wellness. As a proponent of integrative and holistic therapy that honors the mind-body connection and its impact on well-being, health, and happiness, I attend to the whole person, not just a set of symptoms or problems. I emphasize teaching skills that develop inner resources for successful coping in life. I use a variety of methods, but the method has to meet your needs.
I love helping individuals and couples achieve their goals and aspirations. I offer a caring, safe, and healing environment that allows clients the opportunity to explore, experience, work through problems, and create solutions that expand their potential for growth and wellness. As a proponent of integrative and holistic therapy that honors the mind-body connection and its impact on well-being, health, and happiness, I attend to the whole person, not just a set of symptoms or problems. I emphasize teaching skills that develop inner resources for successful coping in life. I use a variety of methods, but the method has to meet your needs.
(301) 654-0080 View (301) 654-0080
Photo of Carlos Durana Ph.D., PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carlos Durana Ph.D.
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I love helping individuals and couples achieve their goals and aspirations. I offer a caring, safe, and healing environment that allows clients the opportunity to explore, experience, work through problems, and create solutions that expand their potential for growth and wellness. As a proponent of integrative and holistic therapy that honors the mind-body connection and its impact on well-being, health, and happiness, I attend to the whole person, not just a set of symptoms or problems. I emphasize teaching skills that develop inner resources for successful coping in life. I use a variety of methods, but the method has to meet your needs.
I love helping individuals and couples achieve their goals and aspirations. I offer a caring, safe, and healing environment that allows clients the opportunity to explore, experience, work through problems, and create solutions that expand their potential for growth and wellness. As a proponent of integrative and holistic therapy that honors the mind-body connection and its impact on well-being, health, and happiness, I attend to the whole person, not just a set of symptoms or problems. I emphasize teaching skills that develop inner resources for successful coping in life. I use a variety of methods, but the method has to meet your needs.
(202) 849-7840 View (202) 849-7840
Photo of Daniel Abzug, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Daniel Abzug
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
Many of us don't know where to begin at the moment we realize we need help or simply become interested in exploring our lives and relationships. We may hear about many different treatment modalities (CBT, DBT, EMDR, etc.) and feel confused about what "type" of therapist we should meet with. I simplify all of this by being straight-forward, down-to-earth, and adept at helping you use the best and most effective components of every modality available. Within our first meeting you will have a better understanding of yourself and what you want to manifest in your life.
Many of us don't know where to begin at the moment we realize we need help or simply become interested in exploring our lives and relationships. We may hear about many different treatment modalities (CBT, DBT, EMDR, etc.) and feel confused about what "type" of therapist we should meet with. I simplify all of this by being straight-forward, down-to-earth, and adept at helping you use the best and most effective components of every modality available. Within our first meeting you will have a better understanding of yourself and what you want to manifest in your life.
(301) 683-5318 View (301) 683-5318
Photo of Stephen Holland, PsyD, Psychologist
Stephen Holland
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I am Founder and Director of the Capital Institute for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Since 2003, the Institute has been a leading provider of research-proven treatments and compassionate care. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has been shown to be effective for a number of problems, including: depression, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), hoarding, phobias, social anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), eating disorders, insomnia, chronic pain, personality disorders, and relationship problems. Studies find most patients in CBT have significant reduction in symptoms and distress.
I am Founder and Director of the Capital Institute for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Since 2003, the Institute has been a leading provider of research-proven treatments and compassionate care. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has been shown to be effective for a number of problems, including: depression, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), hoarding, phobias, social anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), eating disorders, insomnia, chronic pain, personality disorders, and relationship problems. Studies find most patients in CBT have significant reduction in symptoms and distress.
(202) 759-2884 x15 View (202) 759-2884 x15
Photo of Samuel W Cooper, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samuel W Cooper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
Samuel Cooper (he/him/they) is a Licensed Master Social Worker, meditation teacher, and yogi. He practices from a trauma-sensitive foundation of pancultural spirituality and eclectic theory, and believes that therapy must be creative, fluid, and collaborative in order to meet the unique and changing needs of each client. No matter how big or small the issues we face, no matter how deep or wide the questions we ask, he believes that each of us contains the power to move towards insight, growth, authenticity, and healing. Sam’s work is ultimately dedicated to the flourishing of all beings.
Samuel Cooper (he/him/they) is a Licensed Master Social Worker, meditation teacher, and yogi. He practices from a trauma-sensitive foundation of pancultural spirituality and eclectic theory, and believes that therapy must be creative, fluid, and collaborative in order to meet the unique and changing needs of each client. No matter how big or small the issues we face, no matter how deep or wide the questions we ask, he believes that each of us contains the power to move towards insight, growth, authenticity, and healing. Sam’s work is ultimately dedicated to the flourishing of all beings.
(301) 358-4675 View (301) 358-4675
Photo of Dr. Thomas Tsakounis, DTh, LCPC, NCC, BC-TMH, RH(AHG), Counselor
Dr. Thomas Tsakounis
Counselor, DTh, LCPC, NCC, BC-TMH, RH(AHG)
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
Relationships and intimacy require work and attention – as an experienced counselor, I’d like to help you with that work, building a road to a more fulfilled life. If you are interested in learning more about developing stronger emotional connections with yourself and/or your partner(s); exploring ethical non-monogamy and kink; stimulating love and desire; building communication skills around sex and intimacy; and/or exploring sexual confidence, eroticism, and self-esteem these are areas of focus for me and I would like to invite you to meet with me for a free, thirty-minute consultation. Contact me to schedule your appointment.
Relationships and intimacy require work and attention – as an experienced counselor, I’d like to help you with that work, building a road to a more fulfilled life. If you are interested in learning more about developing stronger emotional connections with yourself and/or your partner(s); exploring ethical non-monogamy and kink; stimulating love and desire; building communication skills around sex and intimacy; and/or exploring sexual confidence, eroticism, and self-esteem these are areas of focus for me and I would like to invite you to meet with me for a free, thirty-minute consultation. Contact me to schedule your appointment.
(301) 744-8737 View (301) 744-8737
Photo of Robert Scuka - Rob Scuka, PhD, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rob Scuka, PhD
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
I always seek to bring a passionate engagement to my work with individuals, couples and families. I specialize in helping people with relationship issues and am devoted to helping people develop deeply satisfying and fulfilling intimate and family relationships. I am especially committed to helping couples preserve their primary intimate relationship in the face of challenging life circumstances and relationship issues. I have helped couples in crisis come back from the brink of divorce, I have helped couples recover from the trauma of infidelity, and I have helped couples navigate the process of grief over a lost family member.
I always seek to bring a passionate engagement to my work with individuals, couples and families. I specialize in helping people with relationship issues and am devoted to helping people develop deeply satisfying and fulfilling intimate and family relationships. I am especially committed to helping couples preserve their primary intimate relationship in the face of challenging life circumstances and relationship issues. I have helped couples in crisis come back from the brink of divorce, I have helped couples recover from the trauma of infidelity, and I have helped couples navigate the process of grief over a lost family member.
(301) 830-4131 View (301) 830-4131
Photo of Gabriel Chernoff, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gabriel Chernoff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
Is your life a source of difficulty, are you wondering if you can manage alone? Are you struggling to make sense of your relationships in the face of ever changing responsibilities? These are some of the reasons people come to me to seek help and support. I offer therapy that addresses thoughts and feelings, coping strategies, mindfulness, and past patterns. I adjust my approach to each person individually to provide the best support possible. My goal is to create the opportunity for healing and growth for you. I work with men and women, individually and in couples therapy.
Is your life a source of difficulty, are you wondering if you can manage alone? Are you struggling to make sense of your relationships in the face of ever changing responsibilities? These are some of the reasons people come to me to seek help and support. I offer therapy that addresses thoughts and feelings, coping strategies, mindfulness, and past patterns. I adjust my approach to each person individually to provide the best support possible. My goal is to create the opportunity for healing and growth for you. I work with men and women, individually and in couples therapy.
(240) 202-2747 View (240) 202-2747
Photo of David Z Pfeffer, MSW, LCSW, PTSD, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Z Pfeffer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PTSD, EMDR
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I believe balance is the key to leading a happy, successful life. The focus of my practice is helping individuals, couples, & families in overcoming life's difficulties. I believe in a proactive, collaborative approach to counseling, where you are actively engaged in making real changes in your life. We will develop develop a plan of action to turn these goals into a reality. Whether you're young or old, an individual, a couple, or a family, call me today and take the first step to living a positive, balanced life.
I believe balance is the key to leading a happy, successful life. The focus of my practice is helping individuals, couples, & families in overcoming life's difficulties. I believe in a proactive, collaborative approach to counseling, where you are actively engaged in making real changes in your life. We will develop develop a plan of action to turn these goals into a reality. Whether you're young or old, an individual, a couple, or a family, call me today and take the first step to living a positive, balanced life.
(954) 251-0779 View (954) 251-0779
Photo of Sam Wilson, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sam Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
Do you feel trapped by circumstances beyond your control? Are you unable to escape negative thoughts? Have you forgotten why you made the decisions that led you to this moment? Talk therapy can offer a way forward. Therapy can be a safe space to catch your breath, to talk out ideas that feel strange or risky, and to devise a new strategy for reconnecting with your best self. I'll do my best to help no matter what you're facing but right now I'm especially enthusiastic about working with young adults and professionals coping with ADHD, men's issues, relationship issues, bipolar disorder, depression, anger management and anxiety.
Do you feel trapped by circumstances beyond your control? Are you unable to escape negative thoughts? Have you forgotten why you made the decisions that led you to this moment? Talk therapy can offer a way forward. Therapy can be a safe space to catch your breath, to talk out ideas that feel strange or risky, and to devise a new strategy for reconnecting with your best self. I'll do my best to help no matter what you're facing but right now I'm especially enthusiastic about working with young adults and professionals coping with ADHD, men's issues, relationship issues, bipolar disorder, depression, anger management and anxiety.
(240) 292-8651 View (240) 292-8651
Marriage Counseling Therapists

How does marriage counseling work?

Marriage counseling works by teaching couples concrete skills to communicate with one another and solve disagreements in healthy ways. A trained mental health professional works with both members of a couple to explore difficulties the couple may be having and helps them develop skills to address these matters. Couples who don’t have any difficulties but want to prepare for marriage may develop skills for the future.

How long does marriage counseling typically last?

Marriage counseling is a short-term form of therapy; the process may last between four and eight sessions. Other forms of relationship guidance from mental health professionals, such as couples therapy, are longer lasting, may focus on the past rather than just the present, and are tailored to the individual couple and their emotions, history, and patterns in the relationship. Couples therapy often lasts for 12 weeks or longer.

Is marriage counseling effective?

Marriage counseling helps many couples develop relationship skills that may not have been acquired or tested in a relationship; partners may be better able to communicate and address conflict following counseling. However, there are many different forms of marriage counseling, and this form of counseling does not have as strong an evidence base as other modalities such as couples therapy.

Is marriage counseling effective if only one partner wants to go?

Yes, marriage counseling can still be effective if one partner convinces the other to engage in the process. Of course, whether counseling is effective depends on the couple’s commitment to work on their relationship; however, the short-term, skills-based nature of marriage counseling makes it a relatively easy “ask” of a partner, and the hesitant individual may see its value once counseling begins.