LCSW, 7 years of experience
Hi, I’m Nancy Paz Welsh, a bilingual (English & Spanish) Licensed Clinical Social Worker serving clients in Maryland and Virginia. As a proud second-generation American of Salvadoran descent, I’m passionate about advocating for mental health awareness and normalizing therapy as an essential part of overall well-being. I specialize in helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with compassion, curiosity, and evidence-based support. My goal is to create a safe, affirming space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered. Together, we’ll build on your strengths, develop effective coping strategies, and foster greater self-awareness to support lasting, meaningful growth. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, and life transitions. My therapeutic style is warm and collaborative, combining empathy with gentle accountability to help you make progress at your own pace. Starting therapy can feel like a big step, and I’m here to meet you exactly where you are—without judgment. Whether you’re overwhelmed by emotions or simply seeking more balance, I’ll walk alongside you with compassion and curiosity as you move toward the life you want. Outside of therapy, I’m a wife, mom to two toddlers, and dog mom of three—so life is rarely quiet! I enjoy reading, video games, trying new foods, and teaching my kids about their Salvadoran roots (yes, they’re already pupusa fans). My self-care must-haves? Coffee strong enough to launch a spaceship, food that makes me dance, podcasts that keep me grounded, and laughs that double as ab workouts! If you’re ready to explore new perspectives and make meaningful change, I’d be honored to support you on that journey!
Before our scheduled session, you will receive a welcome email from me with details on how to connect for our first session, as well as information on how to reach out if you have any questions or concerns. On the day of our first session, we’ll begin with introductions and a brief check-in to see how you're feeling. I understand that some clients are eager, while others may feel anxious during their first session, so I want to ensure you're comfortable. We’ll then review your intake form, and I may ask follow-up questions to better understand who you are as a person. I like to focus on both your strengths and challenges because it's important to recognize that you are more than the issues that brought you to therapy. Once the intake process is complete, we’ll discuss the reasons you’re seeking therapy and how I can best support you in your mental health journey. Together, we’ll identify goals for our work moving forward. Don’t worry about remembering all of this—I’ll guide you through each step during our first session, and please feel free to ask any questions along the way!
My greatest strength as a clinician lies in my ability to help clients confront and process the uncomfortable emotions tied to trauma. My goal is to explore the full spectrum of experiences—the good, the challenging, and the painful—so we can work toward healing and brighter days ahead. I firmly believe that processing and closing the chapter on past trauma is a crucial step in creating a healthier, more fulfilling future.
I am best positioned to serve individuals who are navigating a wide range of life challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, and life transitions. My approach is particularly helpful for those who value a culturally sensitive, compassionate space where they can feel heard and understood. As a bilingual (English & Spanish) therapist with a deep understanding of the complexities of balancing multiple identities, I am well-equipped to support clients from diverse cultural backgrounds, especially those seeking support in their personal growth and mental health. Whether you’re looking to build self-awareness, develop coping strategies, or navigate life’s uncertainties, I’m here to help guide you with empathy, insight, and respect.
I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) into my work to help clients identify and reframe unhelpful thought patterns, develop effective coping strategies, and create meaningful change. By focusing on the connection between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, I guide clients in building resilience and achieving their personal goals.
I take a person-centered approach in my work, creating a warm, empathetic, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel truly heard and valued. By honoring each individual’s unique experiences and strengths, I support their growth and healing, empowering them to navigate challenges with confidence and self-compassion.
I incorporate a trauma-informed approach in my therapy work, ensuring that clients feel safe, supported, and empowered throughout their healing journey. By recognizing the impact of trauma on thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, I create a compassionate space that fosters trust, resilience, and self-discovery, always prioritizing the client's sense of control and well-being.
I use a supportive approach in therapy, providing clients with a safe and affirming space to explore their thoughts and emotions. Through active listening, encouragement, and validation, I help clients navigate challenges, build resilience, and gain confidence in their ability to create meaningful change in their lives.