CareFirst Therapists in Gaithersburg, MD

I work with clients to process emotional, physical and relational trauma and the related impact which might include guilt, anxiety, depression, shame, PTSD, low self worth, OCD, mistrust, bipolar disorder, grief and more. I utilize brief solution focused therapy, Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, modalities that combine imagery, mindfulness, spirituality, and cognitive techniques in a structured treatment plan designed to meet each client’s specific treatment needs. I work from a trauma-focused, person-centered and relational approach. I note how relationships, affect your overall wellbeing.

My clients learn evidence-based and culturally sensitive skills to manage anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, ADHD, depression, and PTSD. We'll also explore and address stressors 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.

Do these statements resonate with you? You feel like you're treading water or drowning. The weight of the world feels so heavy that you can't leave your bed. You feel overwhelmed by difficult relationships. I have helped clients navigate these issues in the context of their anxiety and depression. I’ve also developed a passion for LGBTQ counseling and sex health. Perhaps you are on a gender or sexuality journey or you are curious in pursuing a certain lifestyle with your partner. Regardless of what brings you here, we will work together to draw the roadmap for your personal fulfillment, peace, and growth.

I am a licensed master social worker with a passion for helping others overcome challenges, define and achieve their goals, and celebrate success. I operate with the belief that people are the experts of their experiences and in times of need are empowered through a therapeutic partnership.

The idea of going to therapy can be daunting and challenging for many…but it doesn’t have to be. (It can actually be pretty fun!) You tell me what you want, and I do what I can to help you achieve it. Sure, there may be challenging moments because I may push you out of your comfort zone at times, but I’m great at listening and understanding what my clients want and need.

Family relationships, overwhelm, procrastination/avoidance, postpartum experiences, transitions, worry, school and work stress, sadness, immigrant experiences, self-doubt and trauma are some of the things I support individuals through. I provide space to process the psychological stress caused by interactions with people, places and systems that are demeaning, hostile, dismissive and insensitive to minority groups. My clients are able to improve distress tolerance; improve communication and relationships; ​develop assertiveness and autonomy; address family-of-origin challenges; adjust to life transitions; resolve trauma and more.

*** CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** Terry Johnson, LCPC, NCC, is a Nationally Board Certified Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Maryland & North Carolina. Terry earned his Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of North Carolina. Terry has extensive experience working with children, adolescents, couples, & families. He takes an integrative approach to therapy utilizing various clinical techniques & interventions to assist clients in obtaining their personal, professional, & emotional goals.

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with a strong background working with adults and adolescents. Resistance is a completely normal part of the therapeutic process. My goal is to normalize this, and help you work toward acceptance. My experience has focused on addiction, mood disorders, trauma, gender/sexuality, sexual behaviors, and clients who have a difficult time making positive changes in their lives. Making long term, positive change in our lives is a learned skill set that many of us are not taught. It's not too late and every journey begins with one step. I'm here to be a guide on your journey.

I am a counselor with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults who have autism, as well as their families. I also have extensive experience with adolescents with behavioral and emotional problems. With adults, I specialize in treating depression and anxiety, using an integrative approach, in which I utilize a variety of techniques to fit each particular need. I believe in providing you with a safe environment, in which you are able to work through your challenges.

Feeling lost? Stressed? Unbalanced? Asking for help is a courageous step. Begin to live your life fully today! I provide individual, couples and family therapy to adolescents and adults by empowering people to realize their inner power and strength to handle life’s full variety of stressors. I have experience working with a wide range of behavioral health disorders and believe in forming connections with others so that they can fully reconnect with themselves. I provide a safe, nurturing and supportive environment for you to unload your stressors to gain clarity and peace of mind.

If you are looking for a therapist who is a calm presence and can help you sort out your current life situation, you may have found the right person. I am someone who is "in the moment" with clients, attending to what they need now and eventually challenging them to look at past patterns of thoughts and behaviors to gain insight into making changes that will help them achieve their goals in life. This is done in collaboration with my clients and at a comfortable pace for them.

Do you need help processing your past so you can thrive now and into the future? Perhaps you would like to break negative behaviors or thought patterns that affect your self-esteem or hinder your relationships with others? Do you have difficulty dealing with change, grief, or the stress of daily life? Our work together can help you overcome negativity, anxiety, and loss. We can work to help you find more pleasure and purpose in life, allowing you to flourish and build healthy connections with those around you.

Every journey begins with one step, even if you don't know where you're going. I'll meet you where you are, with compassion and without judgement. I am a masters prepared psychotherapist with over two years of experience in mental healthcare. I will be your support, educator, coach, cheerleader, and guide on the journey.

Accepting new clients in Maryland! My practice style is rooted in our human need to not go through life on our own. Within our sessions, you can expect a space that will promote creativity and honesty. This will help us build a working relationship to reach goals and lasting change through an analysis of environments, relationships, and thoughts. Our first few sessions will include an intake and discussion to determine the end goals. From there we will use these goals, both short-term and long-term, to tailor the sessions. My main focus is to stay abreast with techniques and make sure my clients feel prioritized during our sessions.

I help millennial adults address and manage overwhelming feelings as you are going through different stages of your life such as relationship/friendship issues, anxiety, family changes, life transitions, work stress, self-esteem, etc. I collaborate with you to help you develop a deeper understanding of emotional and behavioral patterns that may be interfering with your quality of life and relationships with others.

Throughout my career, I have worked with clients from childhood to early adulthood, in addition to couples and families who have struggled with depression, anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, self-harm, stress, grief, behavioral issues, and relationship issues. I have a particular interest in helping clients navigate life transitions, such as identity searching, career changes, and loss, and helping clients find meaning and purpose in their lives. I work to create a safe and supportive space where people can explore their feelings, thoughts, and experiences without fear of judgment. I will help you to find your path forward.