Photo of Maurine K Kelly, Psychologist in North Bethesda, MD
Maurine K Kelly
Psychologist, PhD, FIPA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Bethesda, MD 20852
I am trained as a psychoanalyst and see many patients up to five times a week with a focus on relationships, intimacy, fears and anxieties, depression, work and parenting issues, and most of all enriching one's life, achieving life goals and a sense of balance in one's life.
I specialize in working with families, couples, groups, and individuals. I treat children as young as three, have experience with school phobia, adoption, blended families, gender issues, gay, lesbian, and transgender individuals, and the challenges of elderly. I am experienced working with psychoses, severe post traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, body dysmorphic disorder, and problems of every day life. I have special expertise working with the LGBTQ+ population, with adolescents, sexual development, severe mental illness, post traumatic stress disorder, and physical illnesses.
I am trained as a psychoanalyst and see many patients up to five times a week with a focus on relationships, intimacy, fears and anxieties, depression, work and parenting issues, and most of all enriching one's life, achieving life goals and a sense of balance in one's life.
I specialize in working with families, couples, groups, and individuals. I treat children as young as three, have experience with school phobia, adoption, blended families, gender issues, gay, lesbian, and transgender individuals, and the challenges of elderly. I am experienced working with psychoses, severe post traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, body dysmorphic disorder, and problems of every day life. I have special expertise working with the LGBTQ+ population, with adolescents, sexual development, severe mental illness, post traumatic stress disorder, and physical illnesses.
(240) 242-9949 View (240) 242-9949
Photo of Lori Gunner Kolle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Lori Gunner Kolle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852
My expertise includes working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma and grief.
I offer over 30 years of extensive experience working with adults and couples with a broad range of relationship and mental health issues. I have gained the reputation of being warm, compassionate, insightful and flexible. I believe that forming trusting relationships is the basis for healing and growth. My experience and knowledge helps individuals, families and couples feel supported as they work towards achieving their goals. I use a variety of evidence based approaches and in particular I am certified in Relational Life Therapy (RLT) and Integrative Health and Nutrition for Mental Health.
My expertise includes working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma and grief.
I offer over 30 years of extensive experience working with adults and couples with a broad range of relationship and mental health issues. I have gained the reputation of being warm, compassionate, insightful and flexible. I believe that forming trusting relationships is the basis for healing and growth. My experience and knowledge helps individuals, families and couples feel supported as they work towards achieving their goals. I use a variety of evidence based approaches and in particular I am certified in Relational Life Therapy (RLT) and Integrative Health and Nutrition for Mental Health.
(301) 753-3902 View (301) 753-3902
Photo of Xiaofang (Bethanie) Wang Lanterman, Marriage & Family Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Xiaofang (Bethanie) Wang Lanterman
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MA, MS, LCMFT
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852
I have provided individual, couple and family therapy to diverse population from systemic lens on issues such as depression, anxiety, anger management, trauma/PTSD, parenting, sexual abuse, couple relationships, marital and premarital concerns, family conflicts and connection, and interracial relationships.
The process of finding a therapist can be daunting, but I believe it is a sign of courage and strength to seek help for lasting personal growth and for stronger relationships. My overall perspective about therapy is to show acceptance, compassion and care to all clients; to build safe, warm, trustworthy, and collaborative therapeutic relationships; to apply evidence-based and culturally-competent therapeutic concepts and skills to address clients’ specific needs; and to build upon client’s strength for change. I can speak both English and Mandarin. I provide immigration psychological evaluations. I am licensed in Maryland and D.C.
I have provided individual, couple and family therapy to diverse population from systemic lens on issues such as depression, anxiety, anger management, trauma/PTSD, parenting, sexual abuse, couple relationships, marital and premarital concerns, family conflicts and connection, and interracial relationships.
The process of finding a therapist can be daunting, but I believe it is a sign of courage and strength to seek help for lasting personal growth and for stronger relationships. My overall perspective about therapy is to show acceptance, compassion and care to all clients; to build safe, warm, trustworthy, and collaborative therapeutic relationships; to apply evidence-based and culturally-competent therapeutic concepts and skills to address clients’ specific needs; and to build upon client’s strength for change. I can speak both English and Mandarin. I provide immigration psychological evaluations. I am licensed in Maryland and D.C.
(240) 222-1529 View (240) 222-1529
Photo of Phyllis Agyapong, Marriage & Family Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Phyllis Agyapong
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852
I also work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, attachment concerns, low self-esteem, grief, trauma, and life transitions.
Open for Online and In-Person Sessions- Hey there! My name is Phyllis and I'm a Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist. I am a level-2 certified Gottman Couples Therapist providing counseling for couples, adults, and families. I help clients improve communication, trust, and security in their relationships. I work collaboratively with my clients and believe they are the expert on their lives. I focus on their strengths and help build upon them to overcome difficulties. I identify what is already working well for them and we build the skills that they can implement and use in their everyday lives.
I also work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, attachment concerns, low self-esteem, grief, trauma, and life transitions.
Open for Online and In-Person Sessions- Hey there! My name is Phyllis and I'm a Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist. I am a level-2 certified Gottman Couples Therapist providing counseling for couples, adults, and families. I help clients improve communication, trust, and security in their relationships. I work collaboratively with my clients and believe they are the expert on their lives. I focus on their strengths and help build upon them to overcome difficulties. I identify what is already working well for them and we build the skills that they can implement and use in their everyday lives.
(301) 690-9369 View (301) 690-9369
Photo of Molly J. McDonald, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Molly J. McDonald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, MBA, CDM, CSAT-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Bethesda, MD 20852
I provide Psychotherapy, Life & Clinical Coaching, Divorce Coaching & Mediation, Financial psychology counseling & expatriate counseling for individuals, couples and families; treatment and intervention for those affected by mood disorders (depression and anxiety), trauma, grief, loss and professional & personal transition. I have lived abroad, experienced numerous cultural, personal, and professional transitions myself which I draw on in my work. My combined background in mental health & business gives me a unique perspective that allows me to work with individuals who are facing challenges in their personal and professional lives.
I provide Psychotherapy, Life & Clinical Coaching, Divorce Coaching & Mediation, Financial psychology counseling & expatriate counseling for individuals, couples and families; treatment and intervention for those affected by mood disorders (depression and anxiety), trauma, grief, loss and professional & personal transition. I have lived abroad, experienced numerous cultural, personal, and professional transitions myself which I draw on in my work. My combined background in mental health & business gives me a unique perspective that allows me to work with individuals who are facing challenges in their personal and professional lives.
(202) 765-3876 View (202) 765-3876
Photo of Best Life Behavioral Health in North Bethesda, MD
Best Life Behavioral Health
PhD
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852  (Online Only)
Has therapy been a waste of time before? At Best Life, we help you start living the life you deserve! Jessica Jeffers LGPC works with mood issues and couples. Vicktoria Molokin LCPC works with life transitions and anxiety. Lindsey Weekley LCPC works with parenting, anger, bipolar, and more. Meredith Futernick, LPC works with anxiety, depression, and DBT. Kat Defilippi LPC works with mood issues, couples, anxiety, and career. Danielle Goldberg LCSW-C works with trauma, depression, and parenting. Stefanie Rider LPC does trauma and EMDR. We also offer life, career, and sex coaching!
Has therapy been a waste of time before? At Best Life, we help you start living the life you deserve! Jessica Jeffers LGPC works with mood issues and couples. Vicktoria Molokin LCPC works with life transitions and anxiety. Lindsey Weekley LCPC works with parenting, anger, bipolar, and more. Meredith Futernick, LPC works with anxiety, depression, and DBT. Kat Defilippi LPC works with mood issues, couples, anxiety, and career. Danielle Goldberg LCSW-C works with trauma, depression, and parenting. Stefanie Rider LPC does trauma and EMDR. We also offer life, career, and sex coaching!
(301) 900-5808 View (301) 900-5808
Photo of Elana Hoffman, Psychologist in North Bethesda, MD
Elana Hoffman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
North Bethesda, MD 20852  (Online Only)
I love working with couples and individuals with difficulty in romantic relationships (i.e. sexual issues, communication, infidelity, divorce), adults who come from dysfunctional childhoods, as well as those with anxiety, impulsivity, and addiction. I also enjoy working with those in non-traditional romantic relationships (i.e. ethically non-monogamous, polyamorous). I am LGBTQIA- affirming and sex positive. I work best with clients who are engaged, thoughtful, and motivated for change. My style is empathic and direct, with a sense of humor. I believe strongly in the therapeutic alliance and the client/therapist fit.
I love working with couples and individuals with difficulty in romantic relationships (i.e. sexual issues, communication, infidelity, divorce), adults who come from dysfunctional childhoods, as well as those with anxiety, impulsivity, and addiction. I also enjoy working with those in non-traditional romantic relationships (i.e. ethically non-monogamous, polyamorous). I am LGBTQIA- affirming and sex positive. I work best with clients who are engaged, thoughtful, and motivated for change. My style is empathic and direct, with a sense of humor. I believe strongly in the therapeutic alliance and the client/therapist fit.
(301) 610-3456 View (301) 610-3456
Photo of Julieta Macias, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Julieta Macias
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Bethesda, MD 20852  (Online Only)
Are you Sad? Angry? Anxious? Do you suffer with OCD? Together we can better understand the challenges you are facing. I will validate your strengths and offer you skills to navigate through the darkness and confusion. I work with individuals and families determined to reach personal and professional goals. Clients learn to maintain mindsets for success. They have happier and more satisfying lives. Feel free to contact me with questions.
Are you Sad? Angry? Anxious? Do you suffer with OCD? Together we can better understand the challenges you are facing. I will validate your strengths and offer you skills to navigate through the darkness and confusion. I work with individuals and families determined to reach personal and professional goals. Clients learn to maintain mindsets for success. They have happier and more satisfying lives. Feel free to contact me with questions.
(240) 949-4109 View (240) 949-4109
Photo of Lori Shapiro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Lori Shapiro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, lCISWC, AASECT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
North Bethesda, MD 20852
HeartWerq Lori Shapiro, LICSW Senior Clinician Clinical Social Worker, Certified Sex Therapist, Marriage and Couples Therapist (She/Her) Lori Shapiro is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Supervisor with more than 20 years of experience. Her practice focuses on working with individuals, couples, and families on a variety of issues, including couples counseling, sex therapy, relationship difficulties, sexual and gender identity support, as well as unique individual challenges. Lori has received degrees from Florida Atlantic University and Barry University (Master’s in Social Work) and also has a certification in sex therapy f
HeartWerq Lori Shapiro, LICSW Senior Clinician Clinical Social Worker, Certified Sex Therapist, Marriage and Couples Therapist (She/Her) Lori Shapiro is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Supervisor with more than 20 years of experience. Her practice focuses on working with individuals, couples, and families on a variety of issues, including couples counseling, sex therapy, relationship difficulties, sexual and gender identity support, as well as unique individual challenges. Lori has received degrees from Florida Atlantic University and Barry University (Master’s in Social Work) and also has a certification in sex therapy f
(240) 669-2573 View (240) 669-2573
Photo of Alice(Xiaoran) Zhao, Counselor in North Bethesda, MD
Alice(Xiaoran) Zhao
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Bethesda, MD 20852  (Online Only)
Have you been feeling stressed or just unhappy in your relationship? Because you don't feel the kindness or friendliness you both had before? You might come up with arguments and yelling before starting a topic that you know is a serious problem in your relationship. Such as the affair, talking about starting a family, financial topics, and also love and intimacy. It can be very frustrating if you feel like you're not making progress in your relationship. But come work with me individually to get the stress out, or work together as a couple to see me. I can help you both identity the problem and great goals and the love map together
Have you been feeling stressed or just unhappy in your relationship? Because you don't feel the kindness or friendliness you both had before? You might come up with arguments and yelling before starting a topic that you know is a serious problem in your relationship. Such as the affair, talking about starting a family, financial topics, and also love and intimacy. It can be very frustrating if you feel like you're not making progress in your relationship. But come work with me individually to get the stress out, or work together as a couple to see me. I can help you both identity the problem and great goals and the love map together
(410) 469-1180 View (410) 469-1180

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Hassan Karimi, Marriage & Family Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Hassan Karimi
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852
I do believe each person and family has unique resources to activate healing processes. Brief Therapy requires a highly collaborative approach between therapist and clients, and focuses on practical solutions and clear communication. Brief Therapy offers a maximum of 10 sessions but usually don't need that many to promote change in the problem that is presented. I work with individuals, couples and families with a variety of problems: marital conflict and affairs, depression and anxiety, children and adolescent problems, addiction, eating disorders, stress and work related problems. I also provide online-therapy services.
I do believe each person and family has unique resources to activate healing processes. Brief Therapy requires a highly collaborative approach between therapist and clients, and focuses on practical solutions and clear communication. Brief Therapy offers a maximum of 10 sessions but usually don't need that many to promote change in the problem that is presented. I work with individuals, couples and families with a variety of problems: marital conflict and affairs, depression and anxiety, children and adolescent problems, addiction, eating disorders, stress and work related problems. I also provide online-therapy services.
(888) 367-5442 View (888) 367-5442
Photo of Samantha Rodman Whiten, Psychologist in North Bethesda, MD
Samantha Rodman Whiten
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20852  (Online Only)
My life experiences include parenting 3 kids, marriage, divorce, remarriage, blended family, depression, and 12+ years in practice.
Limited slots as of Jan 2024! Do you like to make progress quickly? I have often been told that clients make more progress with me in ONE session than in months of past therapy. We examine your past, as there cannot be genuine lasting change without insight into how patterns developed, but we are focused on creating the life you want NOW. I work best with motivated, intelligent, verbal clients. Couples with intimacy issues are a specialty. Visit drpsychmom.com & listen to The Dr. Psych Mom Show! I get you in right away, we don't want to slow down the momentum that brought you here. I can also refer to my great colleagues.
My life experiences include parenting 3 kids, marriage, divorce, remarriage, blended family, depression, and 12+ years in practice.
Limited slots as of Jan 2024! Do you like to make progress quickly? I have often been told that clients make more progress with me in ONE session than in months of past therapy. We examine your past, as there cannot be genuine lasting change without insight into how patterns developed, but we are focused on creating the life you want NOW. I work best with motivated, intelligent, verbal clients. Couples with intimacy issues are a specialty. Visit drpsychmom.com & listen to The Dr. Psych Mom Show! I get you in right away, we don't want to slow down the momentum that brought you here. I can also refer to my great colleagues.
(301) 720-1497 View (301) 720-1497
Photo of Carolyn S Shaffer, Psychologist in North Bethesda, MD
Carolyn S Shaffer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I enjoy working with couples and individuals using a Cognitive Behavior Therapy model(CBT) and Mindfulness Based CBT. I am a certified sex therapist. I am also skilled in treating depression and anxiety. I have a warm and accepting style and very rarely have clients decide to go elsewhere after they have met me. I was trained by Drs. Aaron Beck and Albert Ellis, the 2 creators of CBT. I enjoy working on gay and lesbian issues and also working with adolescents and young adults. CBT teaches clients to recognize their dysfunctional thoughts and to change them allowing them to eventually become their own therapists.
I enjoy working with couples and individuals using a Cognitive Behavior Therapy model(CBT) and Mindfulness Based CBT. I am a certified sex therapist. I am also skilled in treating depression and anxiety. I have a warm and accepting style and very rarely have clients decide to go elsewhere after they have met me. I was trained by Drs. Aaron Beck and Albert Ellis, the 2 creators of CBT. I enjoy working on gay and lesbian issues and also working with adolescents and young adults. CBT teaches clients to recognize their dysfunctional thoughts and to change them allowing them to eventually become their own therapists.
(301) 304-4087 View (301) 304-4087
Photo of Lisa T Schlesinger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Lisa T Schlesinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, psychoa, lcswc, MSW
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852
I have years of experience helping people who have experienced:pain, depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties,transitions,difficulty with change, addictions, self-esteem fluctuations, loneliness, loss, divorce, and people who have trouble being close to people.
Most people would change what is making them unhappy, if they could. I feel my job is to help you become aware of the parts of yourself that are negatively impacting you.I help you look at the patterns that are making you feel stuck. We work together to understand what prevents you from attaining a better relationship with yourself and your loved ones. I believe that all humans desire to understand and to be understood. I create an environment where you can just simply be yourself.
I have years of experience helping people who have experienced:pain, depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties,transitions,difficulty with change, addictions, self-esteem fluctuations, loneliness, loss, divorce, and people who have trouble being close to people.
Most people would change what is making them unhappy, if they could. I feel my job is to help you become aware of the parts of yourself that are negatively impacting you.I help you look at the patterns that are making you feel stuck. We work together to understand what prevents you from attaining a better relationship with yourself and your loved ones. I believe that all humans desire to understand and to be understood. I create an environment where you can just simply be yourself.
(301) 852-6885 View (301) 852-6885
Photo of Alisa Hoffman, Psychologist in North Bethesda, MD
Alisa Hoffman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852
I am an interactive therapist, interested in helping clients reduce symptoms of distress, usually anxiety or depression and explore with them the roots of their distress. I find whether it is addiction, eating disorders, chronic pain, or straight forward relationship issues, understanding the "why" as well as the "how" to fix it, helps the problem and symptoms subside. Clients that work with me finish therapy with a greater awareness of themselves which helps them avoid difficulties in the future as well as a host of healthy coping strategies to help get through the rough times ahead.
I am an interactive therapist, interested in helping clients reduce symptoms of distress, usually anxiety or depression and explore with them the roots of their distress. I find whether it is addiction, eating disorders, chronic pain, or straight forward relationship issues, understanding the "why" as well as the "how" to fix it, helps the problem and symptoms subside. Clients that work with me finish therapy with a greater awareness of themselves which helps them avoid difficulties in the future as well as a host of healthy coping strategies to help get through the rough times ahead.
(310) 879-5020 View (310) 879-5020
Photo of Zachary Berman, Marriage & Family Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
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 Dr. Kathryn Ellis, Occupational Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Dr. Kathryn Ellis
Occupational Therapist, AASECT-, SC, OTD, OTR/L
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
Sex Therapy for Better Sex. Get curious, have fun, change your approach, and make difficult conversations easier. Tired of the traditional medical model that looks at issues with sex as something to “fix”? I offer nonjudgemental “come as you are” sex counseling where we don’t try to fix you. You’ll develop different techniques and strategies that work specifically for you. I specialize in low desire and lack of sexual enjoyment with common factors including postpartum, menopause, erectile dysfunction, cancer, physical disabilities, depression, anxiety, PTSD, veterans health, religious trauma, sexual trauma. Check out my website.
Sex Therapy for Better Sex. Get curious, have fun, change your approach, and make difficult conversations easier. Tired of the traditional medical model that looks at issues with sex as something to “fix”? I offer nonjudgemental “come as you are” sex counseling where we don’t try to fix you. You’ll develop different techniques and strategies that work specifically for you. I specialize in low desire and lack of sexual enjoyment with common factors including postpartum, menopause, erectile dysfunction, cancer, physical disabilities, depression, anxiety, PTSD, veterans health, religious trauma, sexual trauma. Check out my website.
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Photo of Bridget Dromerick, Counselor in North Bethesda, MD
Bridget Dromerick
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20817
I work with adolescents and adults with various presenting concerns such as anxiety, depression, neurodivergence, women’s health, self-esteem challenges, and sports related topics. My eclectic theoretical orientation integrates psychodynamic, cognitive and attachment based therapies.
I work with adolescents and adults with various presenting concerns such as anxiety, depression, neurodivergence, women’s health, self-esteem challenges, and sports related topics. My eclectic theoretical orientation integrates psychodynamic, cognitive and attachment based therapies.
(301) 507-0395 View (301) 507-0395
Photo of Weisner Psychotherapy, LLC, Psychologist in North Bethesda, MD
Weisner Psychotherapy, LLC
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP, CST
Verified Verified
Kensington, MD 20895
I have worked extensively with clients to help them address a wide variety of concerns, including: Depression and anxiety • Work-related stress • Academic concerns (learning issues, attention problems) • Time management and organizational skills • Grief, loss, and bereavement • Spiritual and existential issues, including crises of faith and integrating beliefs and values • Life transitions (e.g., entering / leaving the workforce; marriage and divorce) • Identity issues and experiences of bias, discrimination, and oppression • Sexual and gender-related concerns
I have worked extensively with clients to help them address a wide variety of concerns, including: Depression and anxiety • Work-related stress • Academic concerns (learning issues, attention problems) • Time management and organizational skills • Grief, loss, and bereavement • Spiritual and existential issues, including crises of faith and integrating beliefs and values • Life transitions (e.g., entering / leaving the workforce; marriage and divorce) • Identity issues and experiences of bias, discrimination, and oppression • Sexual and gender-related concerns
(703) 457-8710 View (703) 457-8710
Photo of Katrina Daniels, Psychological Associate in North Bethesda, MD
Katrina Daniels
Psychological Associate, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
Dr. Katrina Daniels (pronouns: anything respectful) has experience working with a diverse range of clients with varying presenting concerns. Specifically, they emphasize working with gender and sexual minority individuals and veterans. They most recently worked as a Naval Psychologist and have previous experience in different types of settings including inpatient, outpatient, community college, and the VA. Additionally, they have clinical experience working with individuals from 17-85 with such concerns as, substance use, trauma, severe mental illness, bipolar, anxiety, depression, and general life challenges.
Dr. Katrina Daniels (pronouns: anything respectful) has experience working with a diverse range of clients with varying presenting concerns. Specifically, they emphasize working with gender and sexual minority individuals and veterans. They most recently worked as a Naval Psychologist and have previous experience in different types of settings including inpatient, outpatient, community college, and the VA. Additionally, they have clinical experience working with individuals from 17-85 with such concerns as, substance use, trauma, severe mental illness, bipolar, anxiety, depression, and general life challenges.
(301) 273-1417 View (301) 273-1417

See more therapy options for North Bethesda

Depression Therapists

What is the goal of therapy for depression?

Therapy for depression has several major goals. One is to relieve the mental pain of depression, which distorts feeling and thinking so that sufferers cannot see beyond their current state of mind or envision feeling better. Another is to give people the mental tools to recognize and correct the kinds of distorted thinking that turn a problem into a catastrophe and lead to despair. Therapy also teaches people how to process negative emotions in constructive ways, so they have more control over their own emotional reactivity. And it helps people regain the ability to see themselves positively, the motivation to do things, and the capacity for pleasure.

What happens in therapy for depression?

Perhaps most important, no matter the type of therapy, patients form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Patients learn to identify and to challenge their own erroneous beliefs and thoughts that amplify the effects of negative experiences. They learn to identify situations in which they are especially vulnerable. And they learn new patterns of thinking and behaving. They may be given “homework” assignments in which they practice their developing skills. In addition, good therapists regularly monitor patients to assess whether and how much the condition is improving.

What therapy types help with depression?

Several types of short-term therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioral activation (BA) is a form of therapy often used in conjunction with CBT; it focuses on engagement in rewarding activity as a pathway to changing negative feelings and disturbed mood. Another widely used approach is interpersonal therapy (IPT), which targets the social difficulties that both give rise to and get exacerbated by depression. Therapists may combine approaches as needed.

Can therapy for depression be done online?

Studies have found that online therapy can be highly effective for treating depression, although it may be more challenging to build a good therapist-patient alliance on screen than in person—at least at first. However, online therapy can offer considerable advantages. Accessibility and convenience are tops among them. Some people actually find it easier to talk about problems online than in person. While online therapy typically limits visibility of facial expression and body gestures that give important nonverbal cues to a patient’s state of mind, it can give therapists a glimpse into a patient’s world and life, providing information that can be highly useful in guiding therapy.

How effective is therapy for depression?

Many studies show that therapy is highly effective provided that patients complete the prescribed course of therapy, commonly 16 to 20 sessions. Over the long term, it is more effective than medication and the effects are more enduring. As a result, psychotherapy has the power not just to relieve current suffering but to prevent future episodes of the disorder. Therapy reverses the dysfunction in neural circuitry that disposes individuals to a negative view of themselves, the world, and their future and they acquire coping techniques, problem-solving skills, and understanding of their own vulnerabilities that are useful over the course of a lifetime.