Photo of Nicole Fayard, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Bethesda, MD
Nicole Fayard
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
I am dedicated and excited to run weekly adolescent skills groups and parent groups.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a board approved supervisor in the state of Maryland as well as a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia and the District of Columbia. I have a post master's in Clinical Community Counseling from Johns Hopkins University. I am committed to providing quality services to adolescents, adults, and families. I have 20 years of experience helping children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples for treatment of mental health challenges in inpatient, outpatient and partial hospitalization program settings.
I am dedicated and excited to run weekly adolescent skills groups and parent groups.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a board approved supervisor in the state of Maryland as well as a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia and the District of Columbia. I have a post master's in Clinical Community Counseling from Johns Hopkins University. I am committed to providing quality services to adolescents, adults, and families. I have 20 years of experience helping children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples for treatment of mental health challenges in inpatient, outpatient and partial hospitalization program settings.
(240) 348-5802 View (240) 348-5802
Photo of Nate Luongo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethesda, MD
Nate Luongo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
I specialize in the mental health treatment of adolescent and young adults.
Stress and emotional pain are feelings that we all experience and often times it can become overwhelming, especially now! Often we find unhealthy ways to cope with the pain that we are feeling and our problems get worse. With my experience as a therapist, I have helped many young people walk the path to a healthy form of emotional healing. Whether you yourself or your child is struggling with feeling down, having excessive worry, struggling to concentrate, acting out, or drinking/smoking too much, therapy can help.
I specialize in the mental health treatment of adolescent and young adults.
Stress and emotional pain are feelings that we all experience and often times it can become overwhelming, especially now! Often we find unhealthy ways to cope with the pain that we are feeling and our problems get worse. With my experience as a therapist, I have helped many young people walk the path to a healthy form of emotional healing. Whether you yourself or your child is struggling with feeling down, having excessive worry, struggling to concentrate, acting out, or drinking/smoking too much, therapy can help.
(301) 298-2568 View (301) 298-2568
Photo of Heather Haledjian, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethesda, MD
Heather Haledjian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
Whether it's for yourself or your teen, please reach out to discuss your situation.
Welcome! I help teens and adults with all types of eating disorders, disordered eating, mood and anxiety issues, and life transitions. Given the world we live in, it can be hard sometimes to sort out "normal" attempts to be healthy and fit vs disordered patterns of eating, exercising or thoughts about food and weight. Your eating issues may have suddenly become problematic or they may have been around "forever". Either way, it is time to bring balance and flexibility back into your eating and thoughts about food and your body. You can free up so much mental space, time and energy by getting the help you deserve.
Whether it's for yourself or your teen, please reach out to discuss your situation.
Welcome! I help teens and adults with all types of eating disorders, disordered eating, mood and anxiety issues, and life transitions. Given the world we live in, it can be hard sometimes to sort out "normal" attempts to be healthy and fit vs disordered patterns of eating, exercising or thoughts about food and weight. Your eating issues may have suddenly become problematic or they may have been around "forever". Either way, it is time to bring balance and flexibility back into your eating and thoughts about food and your body. You can free up so much mental space, time and energy by getting the help you deserve.
(240) 349-7515 View (240) 349-7515
Photo of Matthew Burgess Leary, Psychologist in Bethesda, MD
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 Ruth Berkowitz, Psychologist in Bethesda, MD
Ruth Berkowitz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with a wide range of concerns including feeling angry, anxious, depressed, or inhibited. My work also includes helping those who may have less specific symptoms, but notice that they may get in their own way of achieving what they want, interpersonally, professionally, or scholastically. I also have considerable experience working with individuals with a traumatic history, including sexual, physical, and emotional abuse. Within my practice, I also offer child, adolescent, and adult psychological testing, including emotional, cognitive, and academic assessment.
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with a wide range of concerns including feeling angry, anxious, depressed, or inhibited. My work also includes helping those who may have less specific symptoms, but notice that they may get in their own way of achieving what they want, interpersonally, professionally, or scholastically. I also have considerable experience working with individuals with a traumatic history, including sexual, physical, and emotional abuse. Within my practice, I also offer child, adolescent, and adult psychological testing, including emotional, cognitive, and academic assessment.
(301) 580-6286 View (301) 580-6286
Photo of Emily C. Greenberg, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Bethesda, MD
Emily C. Greenberg
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
My passion lies in supporting young adults through the rollercoaster that is adolescence and the transition to adulthood. With over 10 years working as a counselor in the school setting, I am attuned to the stressors and pressures of today's preteens and adolescents, and the stressors and pressures of the parents that parent them. As the body, mind, and expectations grow during this period of life, it is essential that the adolescent feels that they are heard and has a safe and supportive place to unload all that they carry day in and day out.
My passion lies in supporting young adults through the rollercoaster that is adolescence and the transition to adulthood. With over 10 years working as a counselor in the school setting, I am attuned to the stressors and pressures of today's preteens and adolescents, and the stressors and pressures of the parents that parent them. As the body, mind, and expectations grow during this period of life, it is essential that the adolescent feels that they are heard and has a safe and supportive place to unload all that they carry day in and day out.
(301) 579-7843 View (301) 579-7843
Photo of Abba Florans, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethesda, MD
Abba Florans
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
Are you looking for someone to understand and be there for the teen or young adult in your life? Hi, I am Abba. I am friendly, encouraging, and compassionate. I see clients 12 and up experiencing difficulties at school and/or in their family settings. I spend a lot of time working with children and teens in various settings, providing me with a holistic picture of the daily challenges children and teens face. My passion is to help teens/young adults feel that they have someone who understands them and is in their corner as they navigate the complexities of the crucial developmental years.
Are you looking for someone to understand and be there for the teen or young adult in your life? Hi, I am Abba. I am friendly, encouraging, and compassionate. I see clients 12 and up experiencing difficulties at school and/or in their family settings. I spend a lot of time working with children and teens in various settings, providing me with a holistic picture of the daily challenges children and teens face. My passion is to help teens/young adults feel that they have someone who understands them and is in their corner as they navigate the complexities of the crucial developmental years.
(240) 684-8016 View (240) 684-8016
Photo of Katelyn Alcamo, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bethesda, MD
Katelyn Alcamo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20817
Are you worried that your child is anxious, depressed or having difficulty navigating peer relationships? Are you struggling with parenting a teenager? Do you feel disconnected from your partner and find yourself wondering where the passion went? Relationships can be both the most rewarding and most challenging aspects of our lives. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I am specially trained to work with children, couples, and families. I provide a safe and supportive place where you are empowered to reach your personal and relationship goals. Together we can help you find balance, enrichment, and happiness in your life.
Are you worried that your child is anxious, depressed or having difficulty navigating peer relationships? Are you struggling with parenting a teenager? Do you feel disconnected from your partner and find yourself wondering where the passion went? Relationships can be both the most rewarding and most challenging aspects of our lives. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I am specially trained to work with children, couples, and families. I provide a safe and supportive place where you are empowered to reach your personal and relationship goals. Together we can help you find balance, enrichment, and happiness in your life.
(240) 949-7990 View (240) 949-7990
Photo of Empowered Connections LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethesda, MD
Empowered Connections LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
Scared. Worried. Anxious. Unsure. You look happy on the outside but inside, you're falling apart: you're feeling overwhelmed and having panic attacks out of the blue. You're a successful woman who is trying to do it all: it's a scary feeling, we know! Our team of women counselor's has been there ourselves & we can help you get your life back! We are also pleased to provide girl/teen girl experts to help your daughter with the issues she may be struggling with such as self-esteem, anxiety, self-harming, etc. We’re pleased to announce our expansion into the beautiful downtown Bethesda so check out our new location on our website!
Scared. Worried. Anxious. Unsure. You look happy on the outside but inside, you're falling apart: you're feeling overwhelmed and having panic attacks out of the blue. You're a successful woman who is trying to do it all: it's a scary feeling, we know! Our team of women counselor's has been there ourselves & we can help you get your life back! We are also pleased to provide girl/teen girl experts to help your daughter with the issues she may be struggling with such as self-esteem, anxiety, self-harming, etc. We’re pleased to announce our expansion into the beautiful downtown Bethesda so check out our new location on our website!
(240) 546-6182 View (240) 546-6182
Photo of Brooke Shafer, Counselor in Bethesda, MD
Brooke Shafer
Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
Winner of the Best of Bethesda Magazine in the Child/Adolescent Therapist Category! In the modern world, we are facing more difficulties than ever before. I have worked with clients facing depression, anxiety, self-harm, suicidal ideation, identity exploration, and dysregulated behavior. I specialize in working with children and adolescents, especially around the middle school years, and their parents in order to improve mood and self-regulation and promote positive family interactions and communication.
Winner of the Best of Bethesda Magazine in the Child/Adolescent Therapist Category! In the modern world, we are facing more difficulties than ever before. I have worked with clients facing depression, anxiety, self-harm, suicidal ideation, identity exploration, and dysregulated behavior. I specialize in working with children and adolescents, especially around the middle school years, and their parents in order to improve mood and self-regulation and promote positive family interactions and communication.
(240) 255-9066 View (240) 255-9066
Photo of Beth Haytmanek, Counselor in Bethesda, MD
Beth Haytmanek
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
She facilitates an adult DBT Skills Group and an adolescent PEERS group.
Beth is available for individual, couples, and family therapy. She has a client-centered/humanistic approach with a focus on a strong therapeutic relationship and genuine empathy for her clients. Beth has experience working with clients who have eating disorders as well as those who struggle with substance use.
She facilitates an adult DBT Skills Group and an adolescent PEERS group.
Beth is available for individual, couples, and family therapy. She has a client-centered/humanistic approach with a focus on a strong therapeutic relationship and genuine empathy for her clients. Beth has experience working with clients who have eating disorders as well as those who struggle with substance use.
(301) 742-2282 View (301) 742-2282
Photo of Reuven Rosen, LMSW - Teen and Family Therapist, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethesda, MD
Reuven Rosen, LMSW - Teen and Family Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
Do you feel frustrated when interacting with your teen? Does she hide in her room, or is he addicted to his phone? Or are you the teen himself who is frustrated that your parents just dont get you? Family relationships can be HARD, but with empathetic guidance and practical tools, you can heal even the most difficult relationships. You can learn to communicate in a way that your loved ones can hear. Parents and adolescents can learn skills to engage with each other and create a lasting bond.
Do you feel frustrated when interacting with your teen? Does she hide in her room, or is he addicted to his phone? Or are you the teen himself who is frustrated that your parents just dont get you? Family relationships can be HARD, but with empathetic guidance and practical tools, you can heal even the most difficult relationships. You can learn to communicate in a way that your loved ones can hear. Parents and adolescents can learn skills to engage with each other and create a lasting bond.
(240) 220-9101 View (240) 220-9101
Photo of Shelby Willoughby, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethesda, MD
Shelby Willoughby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
Are you an adult or teen in the LGBTQIA+ community, affected by eating disorders self-discovery, body dysmorphia, anxiety, depression, grief, or relational and social difficulties? I have extensive history working with these individuals and those who have experienced intimate partner violence and substance abuse/dependency. If you are looking for bariatric evaluations that are required for the surgical process, I can assist you. I offer this service is to aid in determining readiness, addressing any concerns for underlying eating disorder behavior,pre/post therapeutic support, and exploring options outside of surgery.
Are you an adult or teen in the LGBTQIA+ community, affected by eating disorders self-discovery, body dysmorphia, anxiety, depression, grief, or relational and social difficulties? I have extensive history working with these individuals and those who have experienced intimate partner violence and substance abuse/dependency. If you are looking for bariatric evaluations that are required for the surgical process, I can assist you. I offer this service is to aid in determining readiness, addressing any concerns for underlying eating disorder behavior,pre/post therapeutic support, and exploring options outside of surgery.
(240) 213-7612 View (240) 213-7612
Photo of The Barker Adoption Foundation, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethesda, MD
The Barker Adoption Foundation
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
I utilize my expertise in adoption-competency, attachment-based therapy, sensory-integration interventions, and trauma-informed therapy to provide interventions that are tailored for your unique child/teen and/or family.
Touched by Adoption? The Barker Foundation recognizes that adoption is a lifelong journey, with normal developmental challenges and tasks. We will walk with you through and support you through your journey. Whether you are an adoptive parent with a child that is struggling emotionally or academically; a birth parent who is seeking understanding, reflection, or search and reunion; or an adoptee looking for support- we are here for you.
I utilize my expertise in adoption-competency, attachment-based therapy, sensory-integration interventions, and trauma-informed therapy to provide interventions that are tailored for your unique child/teen and/or family.
Touched by Adoption? The Barker Foundation recognizes that adoption is a lifelong journey, with normal developmental challenges and tasks. We will walk with you through and support you through your journey. Whether you are an adoptive parent with a child that is struggling emotionally or academically; a birth parent who is seeking understanding, reflection, or search and reunion; or an adoptee looking for support- we are here for you.
(240) 245-2720 View (240) 245-2720
Photo of Victoria Alves, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethesda, MD
Victoria Alves
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I utilize my expertise in adoption-competency, attachment-based therapy, and trauma-informed therapy to provide interventions that are tailored to your unique child/teen and/or family.
Victoria was transracially adopted from China as an infant. Her previous work history includes: supervising visitation between parents and their children, working as a school counselor in a public charter school, providing intensive, home-based therapy to children with intense emotional and behavioral needs, and providing clinical case management to LGBTQ+ youth experiencing homelessness. Victoria believes strongly in client-oriented services and that everyone should have access to the opportunities and support that they need to succeed. Victoria is also passionate about self-improvement and continuing to learn throughout your life.
I utilize my expertise in adoption-competency, attachment-based therapy, and trauma-informed therapy to provide interventions that are tailored to your unique child/teen and/or family.
Victoria was transracially adopted from China as an infant. Her previous work history includes: supervising visitation between parents and their children, working as a school counselor in a public charter school, providing intensive, home-based therapy to children with intense emotional and behavioral needs, and providing clinical case management to LGBTQ+ youth experiencing homelessness. Victoria believes strongly in client-oriented services and that everyone should have access to the opportunities and support that they need to succeed. Victoria is also passionate about self-improvement and continuing to learn throughout your life.
(240) 716-5698 View (240) 716-5698
Photo of Colby Whittington, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethesda, MD
Colby Whittington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
If you or your teen are experiencing conflict in your relationships, challenges at work/school, anxiety/depression, or a life transition, I would be honored to provide you with skills and a space for working through past or present pain.
I am a friendly, down- to earth therapist who works with adolescents (14+) and adults. I offer an affirmative, person centered approach. In session, I use a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness techniques, among others, to help you cultivate the changes you hope to see in yourself. Clients from all walks of life have found that I am compassionate, empathetic, and easy to talk to.
If you or your teen are experiencing conflict in your relationships, challenges at work/school, anxiety/depression, or a life transition, I would be honored to provide you with skills and a space for working through past or present pain.
I am a friendly, down- to earth therapist who works with adolescents (14+) and adults. I offer an affirmative, person centered approach. In session, I use a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness techniques, among others, to help you cultivate the changes you hope to see in yourself. Clients from all walks of life have found that I am compassionate, empathetic, and easy to talk to.
(301) 321-7682 View (301) 321-7682
Photo of Finding Clarity, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethesda, MD
Finding Clarity
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
Your mental and emotional health is just as important as your physical health and well being. Just as you would see your primary doctor to maintain your physical health, counseling is here to help maintain your emotional health. I provide counseling to help individuals and their loved ones address various life issues including (but not limited to): Family and marital conflicts, Problems in school, Depression, family separation, Adoption issues, Feelings of anxiety or nervousness, child and adolescent behavioral issues and Addiction issues. Weekend sessions are available.
Your mental and emotional health is just as important as your physical health and well being. Just as you would see your primary doctor to maintain your physical health, counseling is here to help maintain your emotional health. I provide counseling to help individuals and their loved ones address various life issues including (but not limited to): Family and marital conflicts, Problems in school, Depression, family separation, Adoption issues, Feelings of anxiety or nervousness, child and adolescent behavioral issues and Addiction issues. Weekend sessions are available.
(571) 487-8254 x1001 View (571) 487-8254 x1001
Photo of Alem Asefa, Counselor in Bethesda, MD
Alem Asefa
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
I provide affirmative, directive, solution focused, relational, insight-oriented therapy to services to adult and older adolescent populations and incorporate clients' faith/religion/spiritual beliefs.
Individuals looking to manage or eliminate depression, trauma, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, low self-esteem, health challenges, career stress, relationship issues, grief and loss, identity/immigrant experiences and transitions work with me to identify and implement strategies to manage or eliminate stress and distress. Through identifying, understanding and evaluating emotional states, thinking and behavior patterns we eliminate and replace unproductive habits with more adaptive patterns toward an increased sense of well-being and ability to thrive and function satisfactorily.
I provide affirmative, directive, solution focused, relational, insight-oriented therapy to services to adult and older adolescent populations and incorporate clients' faith/religion/spiritual beliefs.
Individuals looking to manage or eliminate depression, trauma, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, low self-esteem, health challenges, career stress, relationship issues, grief and loss, identity/immigrant experiences and transitions work with me to identify and implement strategies to manage or eliminate stress and distress. Through identifying, understanding and evaluating emotional states, thinking and behavior patterns we eliminate and replace unproductive habits with more adaptive patterns toward an increased sense of well-being and ability to thrive and function satisfactorily.
(240) 221-5216 View (240) 221-5216
Photo of Empowered Connections, Counselor in Bethesda, MD
Empowered Connections
Counselor, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20816
Scared. Worried. Anxious. Unsure. You look happy on the outside but inside, you're falling apart: you're feeling overwhelmed and having panic attacks out of the blue. You're a successful woman who is trying to do it all: it's a scary feeling, we know! Our team of women counselor's has been there ourselves & we can help you get your life back! We are also pleased to provide a girl/teen girl expert to help your daughter with the issues she may be struggling with such as self-esteem, anxiety, self-harming, etc. Two locations to better serve you: Leonardtown and Dunkirk.
Scared. Worried. Anxious. Unsure. You look happy on the outside but inside, you're falling apart: you're feeling overwhelmed and having panic attacks out of the blue. You're a successful woman who is trying to do it all: it's a scary feeling, we know! Our team of women counselor's has been there ourselves & we can help you get your life back! We are also pleased to provide a girl/teen girl expert to help your daughter with the issues she may be struggling with such as self-esteem, anxiety, self-harming, etc. Two locations to better serve you: Leonardtown and Dunkirk.
(240) 712-5327 x700 View (240) 712-5327 x700
Photo of Sequence Counseling & Consulting Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethesda, MD
Sequence Counseling & Consulting Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20817
From child or adolescent therapy to couples or group therapy, we offer the services that will help you and your loved ones lives improve dramatically.
How does anyone choose a therapist? The variety of options are daunting, and while many, many people have been to or go to a therapist, it is not a topic easily discussed, so it can be hard to find a recommendation. Many people resort to picking the person whose face looked nice, or went to a school they recognize, or work in a convenient location or accept their insurance. Often these techniques are sufficient, but when they are not it is a great loss, as it takes so much courage to look for a therapist in the first place.
From child or adolescent therapy to couples or group therapy, we offer the services that will help you and your loved ones lives improve dramatically.
How does anyone choose a therapist? The variety of options are daunting, and while many, many people have been to or go to a therapist, it is not a topic easily discussed, so it can be hard to find a recommendation. Many people resort to picking the person whose face looked nice, or went to a school they recognize, or work in a convenient location or accept their insurance. Often these techniques are sufficient, but when they are not it is a great loss, as it takes so much courage to look for a therapist in the first place.
(240) 428-2646 View (240) 428-2646
Teen Therapists

What does therapy for teenagers look like?

When a therapist works with a teenager, the pair will talk about what the teen is struggling with and explore solutions, which may involve interpersonal skills, coping strategies, medication, or lifestyle changes related to sleep, diet, and exercise. Different therapists employ different modalities, but most involve a combination of conversation and skill building.

How long does therapy for teenagers generally take to work?

There’s variability in teenagers’ experiences and challenges; some may begin to improve from therapy within a few weeks while others may take several months or longer. Teens can discuss their progress with their therapist periodically to assess how they’re improving and any changes to the treatment plan that could potentially accelerate that progress.

How do you encourage a teenager to go to therapy?

It’s helpful to express your concern and love while framing therapy as an opportunity to explore a tool that could help improve their life; just like they practice baseball or dance, now they can practice their emotional skills. Give your teen control over the process where you can—maybe by weighing in on choice of therapist and signaling that therapy involves confidentiality, so a parent need not know all that is discussed in sessions.

How do you prepare teens for therapy?

You can prepare your teenager for therapy by describing what the process will look like and setting expectations for timeline, if requested. You can explain that the first session may begin with an assessment phase, that they can describe their experiences but that the therapist will ask questions too, and that it may take time to feel comfortable opening up. Ask how they’re feeling about the process and answer any questions calmly and supportively.