Photo of Amy B Livingood, Psychologist in 20814, MD
Amy B Livingood
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I work with adults and older adolescents who are dealing with anxiety and depression that interferes with their ability to maximize their progress at work and school and limits satisfying family and personal relationships. In addition, I find that life transitions can trigger emotional crises, but they also offer the opportunity for people to develop better strategies that can improve old patterns that have been unsuccessful in resolving problems in the past. Other areas of focus have included working on parenting strategies, marital relationships, grief and loss, and the impact of chronic illness on one's emotional life.
I work with adults and older adolescents who are dealing with anxiety and depression that interferes with their ability to maximize their progress at work and school and limits satisfying family and personal relationships. In addition, I find that life transitions can trigger emotional crises, but they also offer the opportunity for people to develop better strategies that can improve old patterns that have been unsuccessful in resolving problems in the past. Other areas of focus have included working on parenting strategies, marital relationships, grief and loss, and the impact of chronic illness on one's emotional life.
(301) 852-6194 View (301) 852-6194
Photo of Dr. Thomas Luttrell, Marriage & Family Therapist in 20814, MD
Dr. Thomas Luttrell
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
Tired of the status quo? Stuck in a rut in your relationships, wellness, business, intimacy, or spirituality? I help align all parts of your life with your true authentic self. Together, we’ll secure genuine change through acceptance first. I'm Dr. Tom, and I'm licensed for independent practice as a Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist in California (LMFT 111604), the District of Columbia (LMFT200001211), and Maryland (LCMFT, LCM754), and am a professional coach across the U.S. I have provided therapy to individuals and families since 2007. I'm also happily married for over 15 years, and we have 2 young boys.
Tired of the status quo? Stuck in a rut in your relationships, wellness, business, intimacy, or spirituality? I help align all parts of your life with your true authentic self. Together, we’ll secure genuine change through acceptance first. I'm Dr. Tom, and I'm licensed for independent practice as a Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist in California (LMFT 111604), the District of Columbia (LMFT200001211), and Maryland (LCMFT, LCM754), and am a professional coach across the U.S. I have provided therapy to individuals and families since 2007. I'm also happily married for over 15 years, and we have 2 young boys.
(301) 945-7549 View (301) 945-7549
Photo of Judith Andai, PsyD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20814, MD
Judith Andai, PsyD, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
-dealing with difficult life changes -healing from past trauma -feeling disconnected -cultural conflicts -marital issues.
I am a European-American psychotherapist with 20+ years in practice. My goal is to help my clients to find the most effective and rewarding ways to negotiate the "labyrinth of life", for resolution, change and growth. With a rich background in different modalities, I will try to find the right approach to my clients' specific needs.
-dealing with difficult life changes -healing from past trauma -feeling disconnected -cultural conflicts -marital issues.
I am a European-American psychotherapist with 20+ years in practice. My goal is to help my clients to find the most effective and rewarding ways to negotiate the "labyrinth of life", for resolution, change and growth. With a rich background in different modalities, I will try to find the right approach to my clients' specific needs.
(703) 348-0925 View (703) 348-0925
Photo of Dolores A. Acquista, Marriage & Family Therapist in 20814, MD
Dolores A. Acquista
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
Thank you for visiting my profile! I am a Marriage & Family Therapist, & native of Bethesda, Maryland, with over 25 years experience working with individuals, families, & couples. My primary areas of interest include: relationship & marital counseling, family counseling, & solution-focused therapy. My approach is both engaging & encouraging, & my knowledge-base reflects my many years working in a variety of settings, including as a director in both inpatient and outpatient mental health agencies & substance abuse programs.
Thank you for visiting my profile! I am a Marriage & Family Therapist, & native of Bethesda, Maryland, with over 25 years experience working with individuals, families, & couples. My primary areas of interest include: relationship & marital counseling, family counseling, & solution-focused therapy. My approach is both engaging & encouraging, & my knowledge-base reflects my many years working in a variety of settings, including as a director in both inpatient and outpatient mental health agencies & substance abuse programs.
(301) 804-2732 View (301) 804-2732
Photo of Toni Session, Counselor in 20814, MD
Toni Session
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
I am experienced in providing Marriage, Couples and Family Therapy and in crisis intervention with children ages 5-18 years old.
Hi there, I am Toni. One word used to describe me would be genuine. I am a therapist and life coach who is all about her client. My goal is to learn everything I can about you so I can help you become your best self. I practice from a person-centered approach with a focus in Solution Focused Therapy as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Also, by listening and building a therapeutic alliance with you. I incorporate techniques specifically catered to you. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to work with you.
I am experienced in providing Marriage, Couples and Family Therapy and in crisis intervention with children ages 5-18 years old.
Hi there, I am Toni. One word used to describe me would be genuine. I am a therapist and life coach who is all about her client. My goal is to learn everything I can about you so I can help you become your best self. I practice from a person-centered approach with a focus in Solution Focused Therapy as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Also, by listening and building a therapeutic alliance with you. I incorporate techniques specifically catered to you. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to work with you.
(240) 641-1047 View (240) 641-1047
Photo of Shae Travis, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in 20814, MD
Shae Travis
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
As a couples counselor, I offer a 6 hour pre-marital couples counseling course.
I spent many years as an educator in public schools and as a counselor. Now I have the privilege to devote my full time to mental health counseling. My focus is couples counseling, but I also offer services to help families and individuals navigate through life's challenges.
As a couples counselor, I offer a 6 hour pre-marital couples counseling course.
I spent many years as an educator in public schools and as a counselor. Now I have the privilege to devote my full time to mental health counseling. My focus is couples counseling, but I also offer services to help families and individuals navigate through life's challenges.
(240) 376-3377 View (240) 376-3377
Photo of Carolyn (Carrie) J Hansen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20814, MD
Carolyn (Carrie) J Hansen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
Workshops/Weekends: Finding my Soul Mate, Marriage-Love Forever, Remarriage/Stepparenting,Single Parenting, Rebuilding after Loss, - using education, healing and effective communication.
Do you want more happiness and success in your life? Do you want to reduce stress and have healthier relationships? Has it been hard getting what you want out of life and having people understand what's really on your mind and in your heart? Are those you love not being loving?. When the things we want the most seem out of reach, we can feel anxious, depressed and even angry. Learn to get more of what you want from life and feel more understood, respected, loved and successful Transform your life. WE CAN HELP AND WE DO!
Workshops/Weekends: Finding my Soul Mate, Marriage-Love Forever, Remarriage/Stepparenting,Single Parenting, Rebuilding after Loss, - using education, healing and effective communication.
Do you want more happiness and success in your life? Do you want to reduce stress and have healthier relationships? Has it been hard getting what you want out of life and having people understand what's really on your mind and in your heart? Are those you love not being loving?. When the things we want the most seem out of reach, we can feel anxious, depressed and even angry. Learn to get more of what you want from life and feel more understood, respected, loved and successful Transform your life. WE CAN HELP AND WE DO!
(301) 456-0137 View (301) 456-0137
Photo of Finding Clarity, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20814, 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 Sanaa Sharnoubi, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in 20814, MD
Sanaa Sharnoubi
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MSc, LCPC, PhD
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
If life is a journey and you are at a wrong or unfamiliar juncture, I will be a trustworthy guide and companion as you chart your way to your destination. I can help with such roadblocks as depression, anxiety, fear or shame, substance abuse, difficulties in social, romantic, marital or family relationships. Other bumps in the road might involve professional or cultural issues. My promise is to support you consistently and unconditionally. Another promise is that you will (re)discover inner resources with which you can change/enhance any part(s) of your life that you are not satisfied with.
If life is a journey and you are at a wrong or unfamiliar juncture, I will be a trustworthy guide and companion as you chart your way to your destination. I can help with such roadblocks as depression, anxiety, fear or shame, substance abuse, difficulties in social, romantic, marital or family relationships. Other bumps in the road might involve professional or cultural issues. My promise is to support you consistently and unconditionally. Another promise is that you will (re)discover inner resources with which you can change/enhance any part(s) of your life that you are not satisfied with.
(301) 852-7872 View (301) 852-7872
Photo of Desney V Bowen, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in 20814, MD
Desney V Bowen
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
My experience extends to issues including Relationship difficulties within marriage, Pre- Marital Counseling, Anxiety, Trauma and Depression with adults.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor specializing in therapy for adults and couples. I'm passionate about empowering individuals in developing skills to improve self-awareness and make positive changes in their lives.
My experience extends to issues including Relationship difficulties within marriage, Pre- Marital Counseling, Anxiety, Trauma and Depression with adults.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor specializing in therapy for adults and couples. I'm passionate about empowering individuals in developing skills to improve self-awareness and make positive changes in their lives.
(301) 533-7803 View (301) 533-7803
Photo of Serenity Place, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20814, MD
Serenity Place, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
If you feel like the world's weight is on your shoulders, and the burden has become too heavy to carry, we can assist you. We have experience working with various populations but focus on family issues, marriage and family issues, as well as grief, bereavement, and trauma. The backpack of life may seem too heavy or bulky to carry alone. Allow us to assist you in repacking your bag to allow you to carry it better through life. View our photos to meet our clinicians! We can see clients in person or via telehealth. Although our physical location is in southern Maryland, we can see clients throughout the state through telehealth!
If you feel like the world's weight is on your shoulders, and the burden has become too heavy to carry, we can assist you. We have experience working with various populations but focus on family issues, marriage and family issues, as well as grief, bereavement, and trauma. The backpack of life may seem too heavy or bulky to carry alone. Allow us to assist you in repacking your bag to allow you to carry it better through life. View our photos to meet our clinicians! We can see clients in person or via telehealth. Although our physical location is in southern Maryland, we can see clients throughout the state through telehealth!
(301) 918-5309 View (301) 918-5309
Photo of Zachary Berman, Marriage & Family Therapist in 20814, 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 Susan Knade, LLC Counseling & Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20814, MD
Susan Knade, LLC Counseling & Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
Taking the step to improve your life can feel vulnerable and overwhelming. I will provide a warm and welcoming space for you to process past experiences and future goals. Maybe you love someone with an addiction or are struggling with your own behaviors. Perhaps family life or marriage has you feeling depleted or depressed. Together we we will explore the thoughts, feelings and patterns that have brought you here and a clear path to change and heal. I work with adults and teens struggling with life transitions, anxiety, depression, grief, substance use and codependency in families. Call me today!
Taking the step to improve your life can feel vulnerable and overwhelming. I will provide a warm and welcoming space for you to process past experiences and future goals. Maybe you love someone with an addiction or are struggling with your own behaviors. Perhaps family life or marriage has you feeling depleted or depressed. Together we we will explore the thoughts, feelings and patterns that have brought you here and a clear path to change and heal. I work with adults and teens struggling with life transitions, anxiety, depression, grief, substance use and codependency in families. Call me today!
(667) 239-9871 View (667) 239-9871
Photo of Nicole Roder, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20814, MD
Nicole Roder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, DBT-LBC
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
Do you struggle with relational conflicts, rapid mood changes, addiction, suicidal ideation, self-harm, or low tolerance for stress? There is hope to see change in your life through DBT therapy. I love working with adolescents and adults who suffer from severe emotional dysregulation.
Do you struggle with relational conflicts, rapid mood changes, addiction, suicidal ideation, self-harm, or low tolerance for stress? There is hope to see change in your life through DBT therapy. I love working with adolescents and adults who suffer from severe emotional dysregulation.
(301) 889-9826 View (301) 889-9826
Photo of Lilith Rose, LCSWC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20814, MD
Lilith Rose, LCSWC, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
...and the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom - anais nin. Do these words resonate with you? Are you stuck in emotional, physical or spiritual pain? Ready to get unstuck? Blossom and grow? I am a clinical social worker with 25 plus years of experience in a number of mind/body/spirit theories and practice. My private practice is woman-centered and I am presently providing therapy to individuals. I am licensed in both Maryland and Pennsylvania and available to provide therapy to you in both locations.
...and the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom - anais nin. Do these words resonate with you? Are you stuck in emotional, physical or spiritual pain? Ready to get unstuck? Blossom and grow? I am a clinical social worker with 25 plus years of experience in a number of mind/body/spirit theories and practice. My private practice is woman-centered and I am presently providing therapy to individuals. I am licensed in both Maryland and Pennsylvania and available to provide therapy to you in both locations.
(215) 874-6117 View (215) 874-6117
Photo of Helena Zappolino, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in 20814, MD
Helena Zappolino
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to get back on your feet after a major life setback? Is trauma or abuse from your past affecting your day-to-day life, or do feel like you are coming up against the same obstacles over and over again that are keeping you from living your life fully? Together we can work to help you make meaningful, long-term changes in a safe, confidential, and non-judgemental environment.
Are you struggling to get back on your feet after a major life setback? Is trauma or abuse from your past affecting your day-to-day life, or do feel like you are coming up against the same obstacles over and over again that are keeping you from living your life fully? Together we can work to help you make meaningful, long-term changes in a safe, confidential, and non-judgemental environment.
(864) 387-5685 View (864) 387-5685
Photo of Melissa Murphy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20814, MD
Melissa Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW, C-DBT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
Now accepting NEW clients — Feelings of anxiety, depression, and grief are totally normal responses in these difficult times. My goal as a therapist is to guide clients through whatever is keeping them from living their happiest lives — whether the issue is more recent/due to COVID, or a deeper issue that has been draining someone’s energy for years (or a lifetime). I operate from a collaborative, strengths-based perspective to help clients understand their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I help clients develop strategies to mitigate OCD, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma/PTSD symptoms that interfere with their well-being.
Now accepting NEW clients — Feelings of anxiety, depression, and grief are totally normal responses in these difficult times. My goal as a therapist is to guide clients through whatever is keeping them from living their happiest lives — whether the issue is more recent/due to COVID, or a deeper issue that has been draining someone’s energy for years (or a lifetime). I operate from a collaborative, strengths-based perspective to help clients understand their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I help clients develop strategies to mitigate OCD, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma/PTSD symptoms that interfere with their well-being.
(301) 900-3284 View (301) 900-3284
Photo of Victoria Alves, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20814, MD
Victoria Alves
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
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.
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 Donna T Kimmel Phd, Psychologist in 20814, MD
Donna T Kimmel Phd
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
I counsel individuals, couples and families born before 1981. Since our thoughts, feelings, beliefs, attitudes and behavior are generated by our brain, that's my focus - your brain. Whatever problems you have, whatever stressors you suffer, they can only be managed by how you think about them and what you do. That's the essence of Cognitive-Behavior Therapy. So, I strive to help you "change your mind" so you are self confident, self reliant, and resilient in facing your challenges. Let's get on with it! Life is short! Learn more at www.DonnaKimmelPhD.com. Questions/Comments: DrK@DonnaKimmelPhD.com; 240-277-4427.
I counsel individuals, couples and families born before 1981. Since our thoughts, feelings, beliefs, attitudes and behavior are generated by our brain, that's my focus - your brain. Whatever problems you have, whatever stressors you suffer, they can only be managed by how you think about them and what you do. That's the essence of Cognitive-Behavior Therapy. So, I strive to help you "change your mind" so you are self confident, self reliant, and resilient in facing your challenges. Let's get on with it! Life is short! Learn more at www.DonnaKimmelPhD.com. Questions/Comments: DrK@DonnaKimmelPhD.com; 240-277-4427.
(240) 348-6563 View (240) 348-6563
Photo of Shawn Macdonald, Psychologist in 20814, MD
Shawn Macdonald
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
I work with clients to create a safe and affirming relationship so that there is room for healing and growth. My work with each client is unique, however central to my work is respect for your issues, concerns, and the challenges you face in your life. I see therapy as a partnership where we work together to create the changes that you are seeking in your life. I am comforatable working with a wide variety of issues from career and work life to recovering from childhood trauma and abuse.
I work with clients to create a safe and affirming relationship so that there is room for healing and growth. My work with each client is unique, however central to my work is respect for your issues, concerns, and the challenges you face in your life. I see therapy as a partnership where we work together to create the changes that you are seeking in your life. I am comforatable working with a wide variety of issues from career and work life to recovering from childhood trauma and abuse.
(301) 358-6421 View (301) 358-6421
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.