Photo of Chris Vara, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, MDiv
Chris Vara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, MDiv
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Photo of Chris Vara, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, MDiv

Chris Vara

Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, MDiv (they, he)

Verified by Psychology Today Verified by Psychology Today
6 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
Call Me
Available both in-person and online
Frederick, MD 21701
Let's Connect (240) 201-2713
Photo of Chris Vara, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, MDiv
We get to know the whole person; Instead of seeing problems to fix, we see people in need of remembering they are already whole. Whether you are caught in cycles that leave you exhausted, want better relationships but find them splintering, and/or find yourself shutting down or shutting off – you don’t have to suffer in silence. Nor do you have to suffer alone. Our identities often intersect with our struggles and our strengths. We'll meet you where you're at, and help you get where you're going. No matter where you are on your journey of becoming – together healing is possible.
Through the use of evidence-based interventions you can connect authentically with others, increase tolerance of emotions and engage situations and relationships differently, rediscover your values and purpose, create a life worth living - where you thrive instead of strive, and/or nourish your body without worrying about how or if you're doing it right.
Call or email to schedule your first session! We have worked with families, adolescents and adults in several settings that specialize in eating disorders, trauma, OCD and substance use. We have worked extensively with families of and individuals who are trans and non-binary, as well as people who identify as poly, kink, pansexual, and/or LGB.
Call or Chris Vara now for a free 15 minute consultation - (240) 201-2713

My Practice at a Glance

Available both in-person and online

Progression Wellness Center

Frederick, MD 21701

(240) 201-2713

Washington, DC 20036

My website
In MA, MD, VA & DE we provide teletherapy using a secure video platform and offer flexible scheduling so therapy can fit into your life.
I specialize in Eating Disorders, Transgender and Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) 
$175 Per Session  
I see individuals, couples and families  
Let's Connect (240) 201-2713
Photo of Chris Vara, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, MDiv

My Practice at a Glance

Available both in-person and online

Progression Wellness Center

Frederick, MD 21701

(240) 201-2713

Washington, DC 20036

My website
In MA, MD, VA & DE we provide teletherapy using a secure video platform and offer flexible scheduling so therapy can fit into your life.
I specialize in Eating Disorders, Transgender and Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) 
$175 Per Session  
I see individuals, couples and families  

Finances

Fees

  • Individual Sessions $175
  • Couple Sessions $220
  • Sliding scale: apply if you may be eligible

Payment Methods

American Express, Cash, Discover, Health Savings Account, Mastercard, Visa
"
While we do not take insurance, we are happy to supply you with a Superbill for you to submit to your insurance for reimbursement.
Photo of Chris Vara, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, MDiv
Chris Vara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, MDiv
Call or for a free 15 minute consultation now - (240) 201-2713
"
While we do not take insurance, we are happy to supply you with a Superbill for you to submit to your insurance for reimbursement.
Photo of Chris Vara, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, MDiv
Chris Vara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, MDiv
Call or for a free 15 minute consultation now - (240) 201-2713

Qualifications

  • Verified by Psychology Today Licensed by State of Maryland / 26174 Christine Vara
  • Education and Years In Practice

  • Attended Simmons University, MSW, Graduated 2017
  • Additional Credentials

  • License: The Board of Registration of Social Workers in Massachusetts 122664 / 2020
  • License: Virginia Board of Social Work 0904013522 / 2021
"
I am independently licensed in MA, MD, MN, DC, VA, and FL
Photo of Chris Vara, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, MDiv
Chris Vara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, MDiv
Call or for a free 15 minute consultation now - (240) 201-2713
"
I am independently licensed in MA, MD, MN, DC, VA, and FL
Photo of Chris Vara, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, MDiv
Chris Vara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, MDiv
Call or for a free 15 minute consultation now - (240) 201-2713

Specialties and Expertise

Top Specialties

  • Eating Disorders
  • Transgender
  • Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Expertise

  • Addiction
  • ADHD
  • Anxiety
  • Bisexual
  • Body Image
  • Coping Skills
  • Depression
  • Divorce
  • Dual Diagnosis
  • Family Conflict
  • Lesbian
  • LGBTQ+
  • Mood Disorders
  • Open Relationships Non-Monogamy
  • Self Esteem
  • Sex-Positive, Kink Allied
  • Spirituality
  • Stress
  • Trauma and PTSD
  • Veterans
  • Women's Issues
"
For OCD, we use Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) Therapy. For Eating Disorders, I individualize treatment using Family Based Treatment (FBT) and the Unified Treatment (UT) Model. For people who have experienced trauma, we utilize a number of approaches depending on where you are in your healing journey and what works for you whether it's EMDR, Somatic, CBT, DBT or some combination thereof.
Photo of Chris Vara, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, MDiv
Chris Vara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, MDiv
Call or for a free 15 minute consultation now - (240) 201-2713
"
For OCD, we use Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) Therapy. For Eating Disorders, I individualize treatment using Family Based Treatment (FBT) and the Unified Treatment (UT) Model. For people who have experienced trauma, we utilize a number of approaches depending on where you are in your healing journey and what works for you whether it's EMDR, Somatic, CBT, DBT or some combination thereof.
Photo of Chris Vara, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, MDiv
Chris Vara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, MDiv
Call or for a free 15 minute consultation now - (240) 201-2713

6 Endorsements

Sarah Puskavich
Sarah Puskavich
CounselorLCPC
Christine is a skilled clinician who prioritizes client care while ensuring clients feel seen and valued. Christine brings a human approach while implementing adept interventions to meet each client's needs. Christine delivers excellent therapeutic care.
Natalia Alvarez
Natalia Alvarez
Clinical Social Work/TherapistLCSW-C
Christine is an amazing clinician & is someone who I always feel confident referring clients to because of how empathetic, validating, inclusive, and insightful they are. They provide a safe space for clients that empowers them and fosters growth.
Megan Wainwright
Megan Wainwright
CounselorLCPCNCC
Christine is a remarkably empathetic clinician, creating a welcoming and judgment-free space for all clients. Her dedication to thoughtful, personalized care sets her apart as a true asset in providing therapy.
Taylor Rapuano
Taylor Rapuano
CounselorLCPCLPC
Christine is a wonderful therapist. She is able to bring compassion, dedication, and humor to to the work she does.
Meg McDonald
Meg McDonald
Clinical Social Work/TherapistLCSW-CCCATPCMIPMTS
Christine is a skilled, passionate, and dedicated clinician that sees the whole person in every client. They are dedicated to helping clients reach their goals and maintain skills for their journey forward.
Smith Broadwell
Smith Broadwell
Clinical Social Work/TherapistLCSW-C
Chris brings so much knowledge and skill to working with clients in a direct, compassionate, and inclusive way. I highly recommended Chris Vara.

Client Focus

Age

Preteen
Teen
Adults

Participants

Individuals
Couples
Family

Communities

Bisexual Allied
Gay Allied
Lesbian Allied
Non-Binary Allied
Queer Allied
Racial Justice Allied
Sex Worker Allied
Single Parent
Transgender Allied

Age

Preteen
Teen
Adults

Participants

Individuals
Couples
Family

Communities

Bisexual Allied
Gay Allied
Lesbian Allied
Non-Binary Allied
Queer Allied
Racial Justice Allied
Sex Worker Allied
Single Parent
Transgender Allied

Treatment Approach

Types of Therapy

  • Clinical Supervision and Licensed Supervisors
  • Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
  • Cognitive Processing (CPT)
  • Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
  • EMDR
  • Exposure Response Prevention (ERP)
  • Family Based Treatment - Eating Disorders
  • Motivational Interviewing
  • Person-Centered
  • Psychodynamic
  • Relational
  • Strength-Based
  • Trauma Focused
"
Our experience working with a variety of evidence-based treatment models in an array of settings allows us to individualize the care you receive to ensure it always meets your needs.
Photo of Chris Vara, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, MDiv
Chris Vara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, MDiv
Call or for a free 15 minute consultation now - (240) 201-2713
"
Our experience working with a variety of evidence-based treatment models in an array of settings allows us to individualize the care you receive to ensure it always meets your needs.
Photo of Chris Vara, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, MDiv
Chris Vara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, MDiv
Call or for a free 15 minute consultation now - (240) 201-2713

Location

Primary Location

Progression Wellness Center

Frederick, MD 21701

(240) 201-2713

Additional Location

Washington, DC 20036

(240) 201-2713
"
In MA, MD, VA & DE we provide teletherapy using a secure video platform and offer flexible scheduling so therapy can fit into your life.
Photo of Chris Vara, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, MDiv
Chris Vara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, MDiv
Call for a free consultation now - (240) 201-2713
"
In MA, MD, VA & DE we provide teletherapy using a secure video platform and offer flexible scheduling so therapy can fit into your life.
Photo of Chris Vara, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, MDiv
Chris Vara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, MDiv
Call for a free consultation now - (240) 201-2713