Schema Therapy in Chevy Chase, MD

Photo of Rachel Thomas, Psychologist, PsyD
Rachel Thomas
Psychologist, PsyD
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
I work with adults, teens, and kids who struggle to express themselves effectively, navigate challenges in relationships, and heal from difficult past experiences. I often see adults who are feeling overwhelmed or frustrated after trying to manage symptoms of anxiety, ADHD, trauma, or depression on their own. Many of the teens and kids that I see feel a lot of pressure to perform better in school, have difficulties around interacting with their parents or peers, or struggle to motivate themselves without relying on self-criticism. My clients often want skills and strategies so we spend time discussing and practicing them together.
I work with adults, teens, and kids who struggle to express themselves effectively, navigate challenges in relationships, and heal from difficult past experiences. I often see adults who are feeling overwhelmed or frustrated after trying to manage symptoms of anxiety, ADHD, trauma, or depression on their own. Many of the teens and kids that I see feel a lot of pressure to perform better in school, have difficulties around interacting with their parents or peers, or struggle to motivate themselves without relying on self-criticism. My clients often want skills and strategies so we spend time discussing and practicing them together.
(240) 512-8338 View (240) 512-8338
Photo of Dr. Daisy Vélez, Psychologist, PsyD, DipACLM, PMH-C
Dr. Daisy Vélez
Psychologist, PsyD, DipACLM, PMH-C
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My therapeutic approach combines CBT, ACT, mindfulness, schema therapy, and medical hypnosis to guide you through life’s unexpected challenges with clarity and confidence.
As a clinical health psychologist, I work with adults (18+) to support the connection between mental and physical health. I specialize in areas like perinatal mood, anxiety, trauma and adjustment challenges, infertility; recovery from physical injury or hospitalization; insomnia; chronic pain; oncology; digestive health; illness-related changes; weight management; and preparing for or adjusting to surgeries like bariatrics or transplants. I take an evidence-based, compassionate approach to care, tailoring strategies to your unique needs to help you feel supported and empowered on your journey.
My therapeutic approach combines CBT, ACT, mindfulness, schema therapy, and medical hypnosis to guide you through life’s unexpected challenges with clarity and confidence.
As a clinical health psychologist, I work with adults (18+) to support the connection between mental and physical health. I specialize in areas like perinatal mood, anxiety, trauma and adjustment challenges, infertility; recovery from physical injury or hospitalization; insomnia; chronic pain; oncology; digestive health; illness-related changes; weight management; and preparing for or adjusting to surgeries like bariatrics or transplants. I take an evidence-based, compassionate approach to care, tailoring strategies to your unique needs to help you feel supported and empowered on your journey.
(571) 619-9295 View (571) 619-9295
Photo of Cara Alexander, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-C, BCD
Cara Alexander
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-C, BCD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
You appear to have it all together but feel disconnected from yourself and loved ones. You're the parent who loves deeply but struggles to connect, the professional succeeding while battling anxiety, the young adult overwhelmed by life's pressures. Your relationships feel transactional, your achievements feel hollow, and you're exhausted from perfectionism. You want authentic connection but don't know how to stop performing. You need someone who understands that looking successful and feeling fulfilled are completely different things.
You appear to have it all together but feel disconnected from yourself and loved ones. You're the parent who loves deeply but struggles to connect, the professional succeeding while battling anxiety, the young adult overwhelmed by life's pressures. Your relationships feel transactional, your achievements feel hollow, and you're exhausted from perfectionism. You want authentic connection but don't know how to stop performing. You need someone who understands that looking successful and feeling fulfilled are completely different things.
(240) 221-5304 View (240) 221-5304
Photo of Melanie Ricaurte, Psychologist, PsyD
Melanie Ricaurte
Psychologist, PsyD
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I integrate Attachment Theory, Schema Therapy, IFS, CBT as well as Gottman Method to help you and your relationship have the best chance at success.
Dr. Ricaurte has worked with diverse individual of different races, ethnicities, religions, and sexual orientations in a variety of settings. Dr. Ricaurte is fluent in Spanish both written and spoken and welcomes the chance to work with Spanish speaking clients. She is an advocate, educator, and therapist, focusing her work on issues related to human sexuality and human rights. Dr. Ricaurte has conducted research on factors that influence relationship satisfaction, conflict, and compromise among interfaith couples.
I integrate Attachment Theory, Schema Therapy, IFS, CBT as well as Gottman Method to help you and your relationship have the best chance at success.
Dr. Ricaurte has worked with diverse individual of different races, ethnicities, religions, and sexual orientations in a variety of settings. Dr. Ricaurte is fluent in Spanish both written and spoken and welcomes the chance to work with Spanish speaking clients. She is an advocate, educator, and therapist, focusing her work on issues related to human sexuality and human rights. Dr. Ricaurte has conducted research on factors that influence relationship satisfaction, conflict, and compromise among interfaith couples.
(855) 617-7856 View (855) 617-7856
Photo of Durwood Whitten, Psychologist, PhD
Durwood Whitten
Psychologist, PhD
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
At some point, everyone has experienced some sort of emotional distress whether it be the illness or death of a loved one, the pain of a divorce, a traumatic experience from childhood, or even the demands of everyday life. If you're thinking you may need some help to get through something new or something from the past, you're probably right. I want to help. I am extremely dedicated to helping my clients heal, improve their lives, and reach their own personal goals. If you're concerned that you might be "too much" for a psychotheraist, I definitely want to help. Everyone desires to heal from their emotional distress.
At some point, everyone has experienced some sort of emotional distress whether it be the illness or death of a loved one, the pain of a divorce, a traumatic experience from childhood, or even the demands of everyday life. If you're thinking you may need some help to get through something new or something from the past, you're probably right. I want to help. I am extremely dedicated to helping my clients heal, improve their lives, and reach their own personal goals. If you're concerned that you might be "too much" for a psychotheraist, I definitely want to help. Everyone desires to heal from their emotional distress.
(443) 380-2009 View (443) 380-2009

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Michelle Renee Davis - Where Faith Meets Mental Health, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Where Faith Meets Mental Health
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Michelle’s most rewarding aspect of working with the individual served, is ensuring that their physical and emotional state are addressed. Helping the client to understand and process trauma and micro-trauma that impacts every area of functioning. She assist clients with identifying barriers and challenges, providing and exploring positive coping strategies, cognitive restructuring, resources, support, empathy, compassion, and effective quality of care to increase the clients likelihood of meeting their desired personal goals for success. She helps individuals with exploring their past and present to help them understand themselves.
Michelle’s most rewarding aspect of working with the individual served, is ensuring that their physical and emotional state are addressed. Helping the client to understand and process trauma and micro-trauma that impacts every area of functioning. She assist clients with identifying barriers and challenges, providing and exploring positive coping strategies, cognitive restructuring, resources, support, empathy, compassion, and effective quality of care to increase the clients likelihood of meeting their desired personal goals for success. She helps individuals with exploring their past and present to help them understand themselves.
(484) 214-2207 View (484) 214-2207
Photo of Jill Lienhardt, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Jill Lienhardt
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Online Only
Life can feel overwhelming when anxiety, ADHD, depression, or family challenges start to take over. You may find yourself stuck in unhelpful patterns or unsure how to move forward. Therapy offers a space to slow down, sort through what’s happening, and discover practical tools for lasting change. Together, we’ll focus on building emotional resilience, improving relationships, and helping you feel more confident and in control of your life.
Life can feel overwhelming when anxiety, ADHD, depression, or family challenges start to take over. You may find yourself stuck in unhelpful patterns or unsure how to move forward. Therapy offers a space to slow down, sort through what’s happening, and discover practical tools for lasting change. Together, we’ll focus on building emotional resilience, improving relationships, and helping you feel more confident and in control of your life.
(410) 584-5567 View (410) 584-5567
Photo of Beth Jacob, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Beth Jacob
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I take an integrative approach tailored to each person, drawing from mindfulness-based CBT, DBT skills, schema therapy, person-centered therapy, polyvagal-informed work, and existential approaches.
At times in life, it can feel like we lose connection with ourselves while managing expectations, responsibilities, people-pleasing, or simply trying to get through the day. Over time, this can lead to anxiety, depression, burnout, or a sense of being stuck and unsure what needs to change. We have an inner wisdom that can become harder to access during stressful seasons of life. Symptoms like anxiety and depression are often signals that something important needs attention or change. In our work together, we explore what your mind and body may be communicating and what shifts could support greater clarity and ability to flourish!
I take an integrative approach tailored to each person, drawing from mindfulness-based CBT, DBT skills, schema therapy, person-centered therapy, polyvagal-informed work, and existential approaches.
At times in life, it can feel like we lose connection with ourselves while managing expectations, responsibilities, people-pleasing, or simply trying to get through the day. Over time, this can lead to anxiety, depression, burnout, or a sense of being stuck and unsure what needs to change. We have an inner wisdom that can become harder to access during stressful seasons of life. Symptoms like anxiety and depression are often signals that something important needs attention or change. In our work together, we explore what your mind and body may be communicating and what shifts could support greater clarity and ability to flourish!
(667) 446-4060 View (667) 446-4060
Photo of Kevin Nicastro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Kevin Nicastro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Bethesda, MD 20810
My goal is to create a space where clients feel respected, understood, and supported as they work toward lasting change. My approach is collaborative, grounded, empathetic, and direct, while also recognizing that meaningful change takes patience and compassion. I received my Master’s of Social Work from the University of Maryland School of Social Work and graduated as a SUDIF Fellow, receiving specialized training in the treatment of substance use disorders.
My goal is to create a space where clients feel respected, understood, and supported as they work toward lasting change. My approach is collaborative, grounded, empathetic, and direct, while also recognizing that meaningful change takes patience and compassion. I received my Master’s of Social Work from the University of Maryland School of Social Work and graduated as a SUDIF Fellow, receiving specialized training in the treatment of substance use disorders.
(240) 232-4508 View (240) 232-4508
Photo of Ibrahim Bukhari, Pre-Licensed Professional, intern
Ibrahim Bukhari
Pre-Licensed Professional, intern
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Ibrahim Bukhari, Counselor-in-Training, uses Schema Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), two evidence-based, transdiagnostic approaches that target underlying patterns rather than isolated symptoms.
Ibrahim provides a supportive, non-judgmental, and empathetic environment where clients feel safe to explore their thoughts and emotions. He works with individuals experiencing anxiety, mood disorders, trauma-related concerns, and longstanding personality patterns.
Ibrahim Bukhari, Counselor-in-Training, uses Schema Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), two evidence-based, transdiagnostic approaches that target underlying patterns rather than isolated symptoms.
Ibrahim provides a supportive, non-judgmental, and empathetic environment where clients feel safe to explore their thoughts and emotions. He works with individuals experiencing anxiety, mood disorders, trauma-related concerns, and longstanding personality patterns.
(410) 862-0533 View (410) 862-0533
Photo of Sarah Larsen, Counselor, LIMHP, LIPC, LCPC
Sarah Larsen
Counselor, LIMHP, LIPC, LCPC
1 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228
Your privacy is valued. Support is here for you that is inclusive, discreet, convenient, and prioritizing you whether that’s with therapy or coaching, I am here. I will help you brave through life’s most challenging storms. We will weather them together and I’ll guide you to that beautiful rainbow on the other side. It’s there. It does exist. Every storm passes. You deserve your rainbow and I will help you create it. Change is hard. What’s hardest? Staying where you’re not meant to be. Allow me the honor to support you on your journey.
Your privacy is valued. Support is here for you that is inclusive, discreet, convenient, and prioritizing you whether that’s with therapy or coaching, I am here. I will help you brave through life’s most challenging storms. We will weather them together and I’ll guide you to that beautiful rainbow on the other side. It’s there. It does exist. Every storm passes. You deserve your rainbow and I will help you create it. Change is hard. What’s hardest? Staying where you’re not meant to be. Allow me the honor to support you on your journey.
(443) 516-9413 View (443) 516-9413
Photo of Jesse Vanous, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, QMHP
Jesse Vanous
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, QMHP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I'm Jesse! At the heart of my work as a psychotherapist is a commitment to accompany clients as they navigate towards more fulfilling and meaningful lives, free from the unconscious anchors of the past. I recognize that when the storm envelops everything, it is sometimes impossible to avoid having your light extinguished by it. There is a path forward. Together, we can illuminate it.
Hi, I'm Jesse! At the heart of my work as a psychotherapist is a commitment to accompany clients as they navigate towards more fulfilling and meaningful lives, free from the unconscious anchors of the past. I recognize that when the storm envelops everything, it is sometimes impossible to avoid having your light extinguished by it. There is a path forward. Together, we can illuminate it.
(240) 557-8119 View (240) 557-8119
Photo of Melody Concas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Melody Concas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, my name is Melody (she/her). I am a licensed social worker in MD, DC, and VA. I have experience working with people across the lifespan and with issues related to parenting, trauma, identity confusion, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA+, and life changes. My goal as a therapist is to provide an authentic and nonjudgmental space for ALL people. I believe that having a safe space to explore thoughts and emotions is essential for healing and resilience.
Hi, my name is Melody (she/her). I am a licensed social worker in MD, DC, and VA. I have experience working with people across the lifespan and with issues related to parenting, trauma, identity confusion, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA+, and life changes. My goal as a therapist is to provide an authentic and nonjudgmental space for ALL people. I believe that having a safe space to explore thoughts and emotions is essential for healing and resilience.
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Photo of Mary Hewes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Mary Hewes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910
What do you value? What is important to you? Are you showing up for yourself in those areas? You have the right to live a satisfying and rewarding life that's free of suffering. Sometimes in our journey, we can feel stuck to the point of emotional stagnation. I am committed to working with you, collaborating & following your lead, to a place of greater satisfaction. Whatever the case may be, you deserve to thrive, and I would love to partner with you through your process to a place of increased wellness and acceptance. I consider myself to be an integrative therapist grounded in psychodynamic thinking and allied with nature.
What do you value? What is important to you? Are you showing up for yourself in those areas? You have the right to live a satisfying and rewarding life that's free of suffering. Sometimes in our journey, we can feel stuck to the point of emotional stagnation. I am committed to working with you, collaborating & following your lead, to a place of greater satisfaction. Whatever the case may be, you deserve to thrive, and I would love to partner with you through your process to a place of increased wellness and acceptance. I consider myself to be an integrative therapist grounded in psychodynamic thinking and allied with nature.
(301) 918-5001 View (301) 918-5001
Photo of Kimberly Ann Perlin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Kimberly Ann Perlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
You made your own meals, applied to school solo, and left home as soon as you could. You survived relentless drama growing up. No longer reliant on the unreliable your life is solid now yet, you are struggling with anxiety and depression. Years ago you found parent surrogates, mostly guys that were no good for you except they gave you attention. Your choices in partners/company made it clear you believed every negative thing you were told. You are still paying for those young choices. Relationships with 'good people' feel complicated. You learned to trust others with nothing and always have a backup.
You made your own meals, applied to school solo, and left home as soon as you could. You survived relentless drama growing up. No longer reliant on the unreliable your life is solid now yet, you are struggling with anxiety and depression. Years ago you found parent surrogates, mostly guys that were no good for you except they gave you attention. Your choices in partners/company made it clear you believed every negative thing you were told. You are still paying for those young choices. Relationships with 'good people' feel complicated. You learned to trust others with nothing and always have a backup.
(443) 991-7553 View (443) 991-7553
Photo of Ariane Djavan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Ariane Djavan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Silver Spring, MD 20906
I work with adults managing anxiety, life transitions, and personal issues. Whether working through trauma, building coping skills, or exploring goals, we'll create an empowering, achievable plan for growth. Together, we'll deepen self-awareness, build on strengths, and develop coping strategies. I specialize in anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-worth, women's issues, recovery from childhood trauma, relationships, and attachment issues. I meet clients where they are and work collaboratively to create personalized strategies that support positive change and overall wellness.
I work with adults managing anxiety, life transitions, and personal issues. Whether working through trauma, building coping skills, or exploring goals, we'll create an empowering, achievable plan for growth. Together, we'll deepen self-awareness, build on strengths, and develop coping strategies. I specialize in anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-worth, women's issues, recovery from childhood trauma, relationships, and attachment issues. I meet clients where they are and work collaboratively to create personalized strategies that support positive change and overall wellness.
(925) 722-5907 View (925) 722-5907
Photo of Kisha Taylor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Kisha Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Online Only
I am a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-C) with extensive experience supporting individuals and families impacted by substance use disorders. Grounded in clinical assessment, grief-informed care, and family systems therapy, I am deeply committed to fostering recovery, resilience, and meaningful, lasting change. Throughout my career, I have provided direct clinical services in both community-based and healthcare settings. I partner collaboratively with clients to address substance use, co-occurring mental health conditions, and complex family dynamics.
I am a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-C) with extensive experience supporting individuals and families impacted by substance use disorders. Grounded in clinical assessment, grief-informed care, and family systems therapy, I am deeply committed to fostering recovery, resilience, and meaningful, lasting change. Throughout my career, I have provided direct clinical services in both community-based and healthcare settings. I partner collaboratively with clients to address substance use, co-occurring mental health conditions, and complex family dynamics.
(301) 709-8611 View (301) 709-8611
Photo of Astra P Brantley, Psychologist, PsyD
Astra P Brantley
Psychologist, PsyD
Online Only
I have worked effectively with male, female or LGBTQ between ages 30 and 80 years struggling with life transitions, grief, emtional turmoil, workplace bullying or interpersonal conflict.
I have worked effectively with male, female or LGBTQ between ages 30 and 80 years struggling with life transitions, grief, emtional turmoil, workplace bullying or interpersonal conflict.
(301) 307-1153 View (301) 307-1153
Photo of Le Andrea Banks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWC, CPC, MP
Le Andrea Banks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWC, CPC, MP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a practical, interactive, cognitive behavioral and solution focused therapist and Certified Coach. Let me and Lekai Counseling Services help you. "Sick and Tired of being Sick and Tired"? My treatment approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients resolve current problems and long-standing patterns. I incorporate a blend of conventional and alternatives approaches. With sensitivity and compassion, I work with each client to help them build on their strengths to identify and achieve life goals.
I am a practical, interactive, cognitive behavioral and solution focused therapist and Certified Coach. Let me and Lekai Counseling Services help you. "Sick and Tired of being Sick and Tired"? My treatment approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients resolve current problems and long-standing patterns. I incorporate a blend of conventional and alternatives approaches. With sensitivity and compassion, I work with each client to help them build on their strengths to identify and achieve life goals.
(904) 944-9325 View (904) 944-9325
Photo of Karly Trotter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, RYT 200, RP
Karly Trotter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, RYT 200, RP
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I integrate elements of Behavioral therapy, ERP, ACT, Schema Therapy, and Attachment-based therapies, and often weave in buddhist and yogic philosophy, existential therapy methods, and mindfulness into our sessions.
I want to offer you an opportunity to pause and honestly self-reflect. My curious, insight-oriented approach will highlight your strengths, teach you skills to tolerate emotions, and encourage you to mindfully process your experiences so you can move forward in meaningful way. I've worked with all ages, and specialize in working with anxiety/stress, ADHD, grief, life transitions, people pleasing, & relational conflict. I've trained in MBSR, narcissistic wounding, ERP for OCD, and the neuroscience of trauma. I warmly encourage you to give therapy a chance, join my women's group, or try one of my Hatha yoga or meditation classes.
I integrate elements of Behavioral therapy, ERP, ACT, Schema Therapy, and Attachment-based therapies, and often weave in buddhist and yogic philosophy, existential therapy methods, and mindfulness into our sessions.
I want to offer you an opportunity to pause and honestly self-reflect. My curious, insight-oriented approach will highlight your strengths, teach you skills to tolerate emotions, and encourage you to mindfully process your experiences so you can move forward in meaningful way. I've worked with all ages, and specialize in working with anxiety/stress, ADHD, grief, life transitions, people pleasing, & relational conflict. I've trained in MBSR, narcissistic wounding, ERP for OCD, and the neuroscience of trauma. I warmly encourage you to give therapy a chance, join my women's group, or try one of my Hatha yoga or meditation classes.
(410) 883-8362 View (410) 883-8362

See more therapy options for Chevy Chase

Schema Therapy
How does schema therapy work?
Schema therapy is based on the idea that maladaptive thought patterns formed in childhood—that other people can never be relied on, for example—can interfere with healthy functioning in adulthood. Accordingly, schema therapy works by directly targeting such unhealthy schemas, identifying their consequences, and replacing them with more adaptive ways of thinking. To this end, schema therapists aim to “reparent” the client by offering what they didn’t get in childhood—validation, for instance, or compassion—to reorient their worldview.

Is schema therapy evidence-based?
Schema therapy is still considered relatively new, and research on its efficacy is still in progress. However, some studies have concluded that it can be effective at treating certain mental health conditions, most notably personality disorders such as borderline personality disorder. Evidence for its efficacy in treating conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, and OCD is promising but less conclusive, and experts warn that much of the existing research is of low quality.

Is schema therapy a type of CBT?
Schema therapy is based on many principles of CBT, most notably the process of recognizing and challenging maladaptive thought patterns. But because schema therapy also draws from other approaches,including psychoanalysis and Gestalt therapy, it is not considered a form of CBT. It also typically delves deeper into the client’s childhood than does CBT.

How does schema therapy work?
Schema therapy does not call for a set number of sessions and is instead open-ended, with the treatment timeline depending on the client’s primary concern(s), progress, and preferences. Treatment that lasts between six months and two years is common, though many clients will start to see progress much earlier than that.