Photo of David Z Pfeffer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethesda, MD
David Z Pfeffer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PTSD, EMDR
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I believe balance is the key to leading a happy, successful life. The focus of my practice is helping individuals, couples, & families in overcoming life's difficulties. I believe in a proactive, collaborative approach to counseling, where you are actively engaged in making real changes in your life. We will develop develop a plan of action to turn these goals into a reality. Whether you're young or old, an individual, a couple, or a family, call me today and take the first step to living a positive, balanced life.
I believe balance is the key to leading a happy, successful life. The focus of my practice is helping individuals, couples, & families in overcoming life's difficulties. I believe in a proactive, collaborative approach to counseling, where you are actively engaged in making real changes in your life. We will develop develop a plan of action to turn these goals into a reality. Whether you're young or old, an individual, a couple, or a family, call me today and take the first step to living a positive, balanced life.
(954) 251-0779 View (954) 251-0779
Photo of 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 Fredric B Kleiner, Psychologist in Bethesda, MD
Fredric B Kleiner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I'm Dr Fred Kleiner. I specialize in helping couples reconnect and rediscover the loving relationship that so often gets lost over the years of trying to earn a living, raise a family, be true to ones own dreams and still be a loving and supportive partner. My clients find me to be down to earth, easy to talk to, nonjudgmental and very good at finding practical solutions to restoring lost happiness. Please call me to set up a free phone consultation to see if I might be a good fit in helping you with your situation.
I'm Dr Fred Kleiner. I specialize in helping couples reconnect and rediscover the loving relationship that so often gets lost over the years of trying to earn a living, raise a family, be true to ones own dreams and still be a loving and supportive partner. My clients find me to be down to earth, easy to talk to, nonjudgmental and very good at finding practical solutions to restoring lost happiness. Please call me to set up a free phone consultation to see if I might be a good fit in helping you with your situation.
(301) 861-3563 View (301) 861-3563
Photo of Lawrence I Sank, Psychologist in Bethesda, MD
Lawrence I Sank
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20817  (Online Only)
Additional approaches include, when appropriate, hypnosis, relaxation and mindfulness training while using individual, family and couples formats.
I apply the science of Psychology in assisting individuals, couples and families in the pursuit of their goals. I strive to maximize their happiness and to live more effective lives. I have practiced in the Washington Metropolitan area since 1973. Trained by Drs. Aaron Beck and Albert Ellis, I have specialized training in cognitive-behavioral therapy and in the treatment of mood disorders. As a certified sex therapist I combine the application of psychological science with a compassionate, empathic approach to individuals and couples as they struggle with their problems in the area of sexual functioning and related difficulties.
Additional approaches include, when appropriate, hypnosis, relaxation and mindfulness training while using individual, family and couples formats.
I apply the science of Psychology in assisting individuals, couples and families in the pursuit of their goals. I strive to maximize their happiness and to live more effective lives. I have practiced in the Washington Metropolitan area since 1973. Trained by Drs. Aaron Beck and Albert Ellis, I have specialized training in cognitive-behavioral therapy and in the treatment of mood disorders. As a certified sex therapist I combine the application of psychological science with a compassionate, empathic approach to individuals and couples as they struggle with their problems in the area of sexual functioning and related difficulties.
(301) 304-4782 View (301) 304-4782
Photo of Robin S. Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bethesda, MD
Robin S. Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
At The Couple and Family Clinic, we consider our work to be both a great privilege and responsibility to provide the highest quality care for the people we work with.
Did you know that the quality of the relationship you have with your therapist is strongly linked to successful therapeutic outcomes? This is why my goal is to provide every person I see with an emotionally safe space, free of judgment. You want somebody who genuinely cares, who is curious and hopeful. I encourage people to explore new ways of thinking about their experiences and different ways of expressing themselves. I aim for the people I work with to leave each session feeling more empowered, with a sense of agency, and able to learn what they're capable of doing.
At The Couple and Family Clinic, we consider our work to be both a great privilege and responsibility to provide the highest quality care for the people we work with.
Did you know that the quality of the relationship you have with your therapist is strongly linked to successful therapeutic outcomes? This is why my goal is to provide every person I see with an emotionally safe space, free of judgment. You want somebody who genuinely cares, who is curious and hopeful. I encourage people to explore new ways of thinking about their experiences and different ways of expressing themselves. I aim for the people I work with to leave each session feeling more empowered, with a sense of agency, and able to learn what they're capable of doing.
(240) 398-3365 View (240) 398-3365
Photo of James Zazanis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethesda, MD
James Zazanis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
At its core, disconnection from ourselves, our family, or even our community is the root cause of many of our challenges. Whether you're experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship dissatisfaction, or triggers from past traumas, we'll work together to repair your emotional and attachment wounds. Ultimately, my goal is to work collaboratively to help you cultivate balance and the skills that you need so that your mental health challenges no longer prevent you from achieving your goals.
At its core, disconnection from ourselves, our family, or even our community is the root cause of many of our challenges. Whether you're experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship dissatisfaction, or triggers from past traumas, we'll work together to repair your emotional and attachment wounds. Ultimately, my goal is to work collaboratively to help you cultivate balance and the skills that you need so that your mental health challenges no longer prevent you from achieving your goals.
(240) 410-1677 View (240) 410-1677
Photo of Len Guedalia, Psychologist in Bethesda, MD
Len Guedalia
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20824  (Online Only)
Individuals, families and couples realize, at some time, they need assistance to effectively deal with overwhelming life events, strained relationships, loss, anger, and life transitions. For over 20 years I have successfully helped people break self-defeating, unfulfilling patterns of relating and behaving so they can experience more joy, happiness and success in their personal and professional lives. I use a blend of psychodynamic, cognitive, behavioral and family systems therapy. My clients find me to be a very direct, open and engaging therapist, who provides safe space for even the most difficult issues and conflicts to be addressed and resolved.
Individuals, families and couples realize, at some time, they need assistance to effectively deal with overwhelming life events, strained relationships, loss, anger, and life transitions. For over 20 years I have successfully helped people break self-defeating, unfulfilling patterns of relating and behaving so they can experience more joy, happiness and success in their personal and professional lives. I use a blend of psychodynamic, cognitive, behavioral and family systems therapy. My clients find me to be a very direct, open and engaging therapist, who provides safe space for even the most difficult issues and conflicts to be addressed and resolved.
(301) 943-9346 View (301) 943-9346
Photo of Todd Handelman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethesda, MD
Todd Handelman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20817
By providing a supportive, active partnership with my clients we work together to create improved functioning at work, relationships, personal health and ongoing family dynamics.
Since 1992 I have helped clients age 13-73 respond to challenges facing them throughout their life cycles. Throughout my career I have facilitated my clients in developing skills and learning to ways to cope with the demands of school, socialization challenges, relationship dynamics, depression, anxiety, ADHD, sexuality, professional/career development and sports performance enhancement.
By providing a supportive, active partnership with my clients we work together to create improved functioning at work, relationships, personal health and ongoing family dynamics.
Since 1992 I have helped clients age 13-73 respond to challenges facing them throughout their life cycles. Throughout my career I have facilitated my clients in developing skills and learning to ways to cope with the demands of school, socialization challenges, relationship dynamics, depression, anxiety, ADHD, sexuality, professional/career development and sports performance enhancement.
(301) 859-7251 View (301) 859-7251
Photo of Christopher Ray, Psychologist in Bethesda, MD
Christopher Ray
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
Although you may not believe it, you are stronger than you think. Through our work in therapy, I will help you to find your strengths and learn to leverage them in times of need. I work collaboratively with children, adolescents, and adults in individual and family therapy. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, personality disorders, relationship concerns, in addition to behavioral concerns in children.
Although you may not believe it, you are stronger than you think. Through our work in therapy, I will help you to find your strengths and learn to leverage them in times of need. I work collaboratively with children, adolescents, and adults in individual and family therapy. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, personality disorders, relationship concerns, in addition to behavioral concerns in children.
(240) 589-7737 View (240) 589-7737
Photo of Daniel Abzug, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethesda, MD
Daniel Abzug
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
With extensive experience facilitating individual, family, and group therapy with adolescents and adults in multiple settings, I have developed a unique passion for working with a wide variety of populations and age-groups.
Many of us don't know where to begin at the moment we realize we need help or simply become interested in exploring our lives and relationships. We may hear about many different treatment modalities (CBT, DBT, EMDR, etc.) and feel confused about what "type" of therapist we should meet with. I simplify all of this by being straight-forward, down-to-earth, and adept at helping you use the best and most effective components of every modality available. Within our first meeting you will have a better understanding of yourself and what you want to manifest in your life.
With extensive experience facilitating individual, family, and group therapy with adolescents and adults in multiple settings, I have developed a unique passion for working with a wide variety of populations and age-groups.
Many of us don't know where to begin at the moment we realize we need help or simply become interested in exploring our lives and relationships. We may hear about many different treatment modalities (CBT, DBT, EMDR, etc.) and feel confused about what "type" of therapist we should meet with. I simplify all of this by being straight-forward, down-to-earth, and adept at helping you use the best and most effective components of every modality available. Within our first meeting you will have a better understanding of yourself and what you want to manifest in your life.
(301) 683-5318 View (301) 683-5318
The Bowen Center
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20813
The Bowen Center for the Study of the Family Clinic is a non-profit organization that has been offering the community affordable psychotherapy to individuals and families for over 35 years. Our experienced clinicians help the client devote his or her best thinking and energy to working on self in the broader context of important relationships.
The Bowen Center for the Study of the Family Clinic is a non-profit organization that has been offering the community affordable psychotherapy to individuals and families for over 35 years. Our experienced clinicians help the client devote his or her best thinking and energy to working on self in the broader context of important relationships.
(202) 601-3485 View (202) 601-3485
Photo of John Dende, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Bethesda, MD
John Dende
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20810
People seek me out when they or their family members are in psychological or emotional pain, stress or crisis. Your kids aren't behaving and you want help for them; the career, relationship/marriage is falling apart; you feel depressed and hopeless, or lost; lack confidence, feel angry or someone tells you that you need "anger management"; you might feel shame and humiliation; unfulfilled with your life; dealing with loss and grief; psychological or sexual traumas; phobias and fears. I specialize in treating people who feel "stuck" and want expert help. Let me help.
People seek me out when they or their family members are in psychological or emotional pain, stress or crisis. Your kids aren't behaving and you want help for them; the career, relationship/marriage is falling apart; you feel depressed and hopeless, or lost; lack confidence, feel angry or someone tells you that you need "anger management"; you might feel shame and humiliation; unfulfilled with your life; dealing with loss and grief; psychological or sexual traumas; phobias and fears. I specialize in treating people who feel "stuck" and want expert help. Let me help.
(240) 393-4207 View (240) 393-4207
Photo of Larry Letich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethesda, MD
Larry Letich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20817  (Online Only)
Are you a smart, feelingful, sometimes intense man or woman who knows you can make more of your life than you have? Are you going through a turbulent time, frustrated with yourself and life, struggling in a relationship, knowing you're not fully using your talents and intelligence? It could be adult ADHD is tripping you up in ways you don't realize. Or it could be other emotional, relational or family issues. You want someone who listens closely to what you feel and what's going on in your life and your relationships, not just to "validate" you but to understand, see the whole picture and help you move forward on all levels.
Are you a smart, feelingful, sometimes intense man or woman who knows you can make more of your life than you have? Are you going through a turbulent time, frustrated with yourself and life, struggling in a relationship, knowing you're not fully using your talents and intelligence? It could be adult ADHD is tripping you up in ways you don't realize. Or it could be other emotional, relational or family issues. You want someone who listens closely to what you feel and what's going on in your life and your relationships, not just to "validate" you but to understand, see the whole picture and help you move forward on all levels.
(240) 230-3495 View (240) 230-3495
Photo of Jonah Green and Associates, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethesda, MD
Jonah Green and Associates, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LCMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
Ours is a highly regarded group of experienced, compassionate, skilled therapists working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. Washingtonian and Washington Parent magazines cited us as top therapists in the DMV area. We collaborate with our clients to address emotional, family, and relationship concerns. We welcome clients with various ethnic/racial/religious backgrounds, family structures (single parent, divorced, etc.), and sexual, gender, and developmental differences.
Ours is a highly regarded group of experienced, compassionate, skilled therapists working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. Washingtonian and Washington Parent magazines cited us as top therapists in the DMV area. We collaborate with our clients to address emotional, family, and relationship concerns. We welcome clients with various ethnic/racial/religious backgrounds, family structures (single parent, divorced, etc.), and sexual, gender, and developmental differences.
(240) 813-9203 View (240) 813-9203
Photo of Eugene Morris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethesda, MD
Eugene Morris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, Dipl
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20815
Psychotherapy can be many things: from understanding and gaining control of a major emotional or substance abuse problem, to improving a partner or family relationship, to knowing yourself better. Our “mental health” like our physical health can benefit greatly from a skilled helper to address a sudden major problem or provide long-term support to be stronger and achieve our potential. Good individual, couple/family or group therapy can address the kind of work you need for where you are in life, whether you are facing a major crisis or looking for the insight and support you need to be who you can truly be.
Psychotherapy can be many things: from understanding and gaining control of a major emotional or substance abuse problem, to improving a partner or family relationship, to knowing yourself better. Our “mental health” like our physical health can benefit greatly from a skilled helper to address a sudden major problem or provide long-term support to be stronger and achieve our potential. Good individual, couple/family or group therapy can address the kind of work you need for where you are in life, whether you are facing a major crisis or looking for the insight and support you need to be who you can truly be.
(202) 953-5851 View (202) 953-5851
Photo of Carl Mojta, LMFT, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bethesda, MD
Carl Mojta, LMFT, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, CAC-I, CST-S, IFS
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20810  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am very glad you are here! I offer a person-centered, compassionate, and systemic approach to therapy. I consider working with each client to be a privilege and a collaborative therapeutic experience. If you’re looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you’re just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals and hopes. Internal Family Systems (IFS), an evidence-based model, guides my approach to helping individuals and couples heal by unburdening their protective and wounded parts in a loving and compassionate manner.
Welcome! I am very glad you are here! I offer a person-centered, compassionate, and systemic approach to therapy. I consider working with each client to be a privilege and a collaborative therapeutic experience. If you’re looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you’re just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals and hopes. Internal Family Systems (IFS), an evidence-based model, guides my approach to helping individuals and couples heal by unburdening their protective and wounded parts in a loving and compassionate manner.
(202) 803-8623 View (202) 803-8623
Photo of Bradley Starring, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethesda, MD
Bradley Starring
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20817
This includes Internal Family Systems (IFS) for inner exploration, Somatic Experiencing (SE) to understand the mind-body connection, and incorporating Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) to break through emotional barriers to facilitate lasting change.
Are you tired of suffering? I combine my knowledge of philosophy, psychology, and mindfulness to help my clients lead more peaceful and fulfilling lives. Together, we will embark on a journey into the depths of your inner world, whilst creating a compassionate and understanding environment. I specialize in supporting adults dealing with Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Loss, ADHD, and other related areas.
This includes Internal Family Systems (IFS) for inner exploration, Somatic Experiencing (SE) to understand the mind-body connection, and incorporating Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) to break through emotional barriers to facilitate lasting change.
Are you tired of suffering? I combine my knowledge of philosophy, psychology, and mindfulness to help my clients lead more peaceful and fulfilling lives. Together, we will embark on a journey into the depths of your inner world, whilst creating a compassionate and understanding environment. I specialize in supporting adults dealing with Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Loss, ADHD, and other related areas.
(301) 485-4221 View (301) 485-4221
Photo of Zachary Berman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bethesda, MD
Zachary Berman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
Zack received his Masters of Science in Couple and Family Therapy from University of Maryland, College Park and is currently a PhD candidate in the Family Science department.
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.
Zack received his Masters of Science in Couple and Family Therapy from University of Maryland, College Park and is currently a PhD candidate in the Family Science department.
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 Karo Beygzadeh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethesda, MD
Karo Beygzadeh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
I remain open, sensitive and responsive to clients' needs and use culturally appropriate interventions to offer support and direction related to relational trauma; family-of-origin difficulties; self-esteem; parent-child relationship challenges; racial, sexual, ethnic, spiritual identity; adjustments to transitions; anger/irritability; codependency and more.
My clients gain insight, process their experiences and gain culturally sensitive skills to manage anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, ADHD, depression, and PTSD. We'll also explore and address stress related to work, transitions, shame, guilt, self-esteem, disappointment, isolation, communication, relationships (any configuration), identity, culture, trauma, grief, and loss. I work closely with each person to develop personalized treatment plans that target specific symptoms, needs, and goals. As a Middle Eastern & Kurdish immigrant, I also understand how the intersection of cultures, religions, and customs can affect people.
I remain open, sensitive and responsive to clients' needs and use culturally appropriate interventions to offer support and direction related to relational trauma; family-of-origin difficulties; self-esteem; parent-child relationship challenges; racial, sexual, ethnic, spiritual identity; adjustments to transitions; anger/irritability; codependency and more.
My clients gain insight, process their experiences and gain culturally sensitive skills to manage anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, ADHD, depression, and PTSD. We'll also explore and address stress related to work, transitions, shame, guilt, self-esteem, disappointment, isolation, communication, relationships (any configuration), identity, culture, trauma, grief, and loss. I work closely with each person to develop personalized treatment plans that target specific symptoms, needs, and goals. As a Middle Eastern & Kurdish immigrant, I also understand how the intersection of cultures, religions, and customs can affect people.
(301) 781-7942 View (301) 781-7942
Photo of Nathaniel Eckland, Psychologist in Bethesda, MD
Nathaniel Eckland
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20817  (Online Only)
Problems like depression and anxiety can hold us back from living the life we want. Therapy can be challenging but the rewards are often worth the investment. Through therapy we can learn to change habits (thinking and behavioral) that no longer serve us and learn to accept and face life’s difficulties rather than avoid them. My role is supporting you in envisioning and working towards a fulfilling life. I work to create a warm, collaborative, nonjudgmental environment where you can be comfortable expressing and challenging yourself.
Problems like depression and anxiety can hold us back from living the life we want. Therapy can be challenging but the rewards are often worth the investment. Through therapy we can learn to change habits (thinking and behavioral) that no longer serve us and learn to accept and face life’s difficulties rather than avoid them. My role is supporting you in envisioning and working towards a fulfilling life. I work to create a warm, collaborative, nonjudgmental environment where you can be comfortable expressing and challenging yourself.
(240) 366-2339 View (240) 366-2339
Family Therapy

What do family therapists do?

A family therapist facilitates the process of understanding and improving how a family functions. The therapist will help family members develop empathy for one another. They’ll seek to understand existing patterns, misunderstandings, and conflicts that arise, in order to help the family arrive at a realistic, unified understanding and develop the coping skills they need to build stronger relationships.

How long does therapy for families take to work?

Therapy manifests differently in every family; a common time frame is 12 weekly sessions, but some families may see improvement after just a few weeks. Families should discuss their goals with the therapist at the beginning of the process and periodically revisit those goals to assess their progress together.

How can you encourage a family member to attend family therapy?

You can encourage family members to attend therapy by expressing with both love and concern the challenges you see and explaining how a therapist could help the family navigate those challenges together. An outside perspective can help everyone feel heard, get on the same page, and develop new skills. If family members are still hesitant, it may be helpful to emphasize that family therapy is short-term—it won’t last forever.

Is therapy for families effective?

Family therapy can significantly improve family dynamics and relationships. Research suggests that family therapy can help individuals understand their role in the family, communicate and solve problems together, reduce conflict and draw boundaries when necessary, and develop coping skills for stressors, major life changes, and mental or physical illnesses within the family.