(she/her)
I'm Najae Collier, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in early childhood mental health, maternal support, and young adult transitions. With over 8 years of experience, I have a deep passion for working with moms navigating the challenges of parenthood, young adults finding their way, couples and individuals working through relationship challenges, and families seeking support with children's behavioral and emotional development. I believe every family has strengths to build on, and I create a warm, collaborative space where you feel heard and empowered to make meaningful changes.
Your first session is about getting to know each other and making sure we're a good fit. We'll start by talking about what brought you to therapy and what you're hoping to change or work through. I'll ask questions to understand your story, your strengths, and what's been challenging for you lately. This is your time to share what's on your mind. No judgment, just curiosity and care. I'll also explain how I work, answer any questions you have about therapy, and together we'll start mapping out some goals. By the end of our first session, you'll have a clear sense of whether my approach feels right for you, and we'll discuss next steps. My goal is for you to leave feeling heard, hopeful, and with a plan for moving forward.
What sets me apart is my specialized training in early childhood mental health. I'm one of the few therapists in Maryland with the Early Childhood Mental Health Specialist (ECMH-E) endorsement. I understand child development deeply and can see what's happening beneath challenging behaviors, helping you respond in ways that actually work. I integrate multiple evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and the FAN (Facilitating Attuned Interactions) approach. At the core of my work is a strengths-based perspective. I help you recognize and build on what's already working while developing new skills and strategies for what isn't. Whether we're addressing negative thought patterns, setting achievable goals, or strengthening relationships, I focus on practical solutions you can use right away. My diverse clinical experience has taught me to be culturally responsive and adaptable to each client's unique needs. No matter what challenge you are facing, I focus on understanding the whole picture to explore your history, your strengths, and what's getting in the way of the life you want. Clients tell me they appreciate that I'm direct, practical, and genuine. I'll challenge you when needed, celebrate your progress, and always remind you of your strengths when you can't see them yourself.
I'm here for the mom who's overwhelmed, exhausted, and wondering if she's doing it "right"; whether you're navigating postpartum challenges, the demands of raising young children, or rediscovering yourself beyond motherhood. I work with young adults who are figuring out who they are and where they're going, whether you're dealing with anxiety, life transitions, or feeling stuck in your career or relationships. I support couples and individuals working through relationship challenges; whether you're struggling with communication, rebuilding trust, or feeling disconnected from your partner. I specialize in helping parents of young children (ages 0-5) who are facing behavioral challenges, tantrums, or emotional regulation difficulties, providing practical strategies and compassionate support so you can feel confident and connected with your child. You're ready to work with me if you're open to examining patterns, willing to try new approaches, and committed to creating lasting change. I meet you where you are with empathy, practical tools, and evidence-based strategies that actually fit into real life.
Other specialties
I identify as
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I have over 8 years of experience using CBT with children, families, and adults. In my work, I use CBT to help clients challenge negative self-talk, manage anxiety, work through depression, and develop healthier coping strategies. Whether you're a parent struggling with overwhelming thoughts, a young adult dealing with anxiety, or someone navigating relationship challenges, I'll help you identify the thought patterns that aren't serving you and develop practical skills to shift them. My approach is collaborative – we work together to understand your unique patterns and create strategies that fit your real life.
Strength-Based
I've seen firsthand how focusing on strengths transforms therapy. I bring this lens to all my work – whether I'm helping a mom who feels like she's failing (but who shows up every day for her kids), a young adult who feels stuck (but has survived difficult circumstances), or a couple in crisis (who still chose to seek help together). I help you recognize the strengths you might not see in yourself and use them as a foundation for growth. My approach involves celebrating small wins, reframing challenges as opportunities, and reminding you of your resilience when you can't remember it yourself. You're not broken – you're resourceful, and we'll build on that.
Person-centered (Rogerian)
Throughout my career working with diverse populations – from young children and their families to young adults and couples – I've grounded my practice in person-centered principles. I believe therapy works best when you feel genuinely understood and valued for who you are. In our sessions, I provide empathy, authenticity, and unconditional positive regard while you explore what matters most to you. I don't impose solutions or tell you what to do; instead, I help you access your own wisdom and strengths. This approach is especially powerful for moms rediscovering their identity, young adults figuring out who they want to be, and anyone who needs space to be heard without judgment.
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
I have over 8 years of experience incorporating mindfulness practices to support children and families impacted by trauma. I use mindfulness-based approaches with parents who are overwhelmed and reactive, young adults struggling with anxiety, and anyone who feels disconnected from themselves. In our work together, I'll teach you practical mindfulness techniques you can use in daily life – not just sitting meditation, but quick grounding exercises when you're triggered, breathing techniques when anxiety hits, and ways to create pause between feeling and reacting. I make mindfulness accessible and realistic, especially for busy parents and stressed young adults who don't have hours to meditate. It's about finding moments of presence in real life, not achieving perfect zen.
1 rating with written reviews
March 3, 2026
Najae has been patient, understanding, and very helpful. She worked with my husband and I individually and together and has been critical to our healing and road to recovery. Her approach is thoughtful, warm, and personable. She also challenges you in positive ways and is fair and open-minded. We appreciate working with her.