EAP:United Healthcare Optum Therapists in Rockville, MD

Hello, I'm Nazli Fouladi. I'm a clinical psychologist who is genuinely committed to helping you navigate life's challenges through mental well-being and emotional balance. I have a profound passion for delving into the complexities of the human mind and assisting others in their journey towards healing, personal growth, and living their best life. My approach is built on empathy, trust, and a strong belief in each person's capacity for positive change, all within a non-directive therapeutic space. I value a holistic approach to mental health including the mind, body and spirit. In addition to my doctoral studies in clinical psychology, I also have a postgraduate background in lifespan developmental psychology. That’s why I’m particularly aware of the difficulties that may come up during the intricate stages and events of life. For example, going off to college, marriage, parenthood, work-life balance caring for older loved ones, generational events/trauma etc. My academic journey includes a Doctoral and Masters training in clinical psychology from the American School of Professional Psychology which I earned in the year 2009. Before that, I received a Master’s degree in lifespan Developmental Psychology from Johns Hopkins University. I also have a graduate background in the Fine Arts and Biology. I have been a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of Maryland since 2013 and finished my doctoral internship at George Mason Counseling and Psychological Services. Prior to that, I received two years of supervised practicum training at two clinical private practice facilities where I provided assessment, testing and psychotherapy for individuals from various age groups and ethnicities. For example, I have worked with individuals suffering from trauma/ crisis management, depression, general/specific anxiety, Traumatic Brain Injury, various neurological disorders, schizophrenia, phobia, eating, bipolar, body dysmorphic and personality disorders. Besides English, I am also fluent in Farsi.

Hi, I’m Nicole– I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-C) with a background in working with teens, young adults, and women since 2017. Therapy is a collaborative process, and I strive to create an environment in which you'll feel safe to be fully authentic. Bringing warmth, positivity, and humor into each session, I help clients appreciate their unique abilities and enhance their self-esteem to empower each person in living the life they have dreamed about. In 2017, I graduated from the University of Maryland, College Park with my Bachelor’s of Science in Family Science with a concentration in LGBT studies. In 2019, I graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a Master’s in Clinical Social Work. I’m also a dog-mom to a French bulldog, Dobby, a proud aunt to my toddler niece & nephew , and a spouse to my wife, Rachel.

I believe therapy should feel like a safe and supportive space where you can be yourself without judgement. As a therapist, I bring warmth, compassion, and careful listening to every session, helping you feel truly heard and understood. My style is both thoughtful and practical-I draw on years of experience and a variety of therapeutic approaches to meet you where you are and guide you toward where you'd like to be. I was raised in Florida then Maryland and have always felt a deep connection to people and nature. Just as time outdoors can bring calm and perspective, I strive to create that same sense of grounding and clarity in our work together. Outside of my practice, family life continues to shape my appreciation for relationships, growth and the challenges that come with change. Clients often describe me as a good listener who helps them discover new ways to cope, grow and move forward with confidence. My goal is simple-to help you feel supported, understood and empowered to create the changes you seek.

Greetings, my name is Soncheray. I am a licensed clinical social worker with more than 10 years of experience. I started Fruitful Life Counseling Services to help individuals understand the "fruit" they bear. How are you showing up in the world-but most of all for yourself! Are you showing up for you at all? You have already taken the first step by searching for someone to talk to; you have started the process-BUT WHAT NOW? I specialize in helping individuals accurately identify what is holding them back. Being able to accurately put words to our emotions is so important in identifying the correct coping strategy. It's no secret that when we feel overwhelmed in one area, we start to feel a sense of powerlessness that transfers into other areas if not addressed. When the transfer happens, we often don't know where the stress or trigger is coming from. Powerlessness can emerge for a number of different reasons. Something triggered these feelings you have. My role in the helping relationship is to help you identify and face your emotions, rather than avoid them. It is time to take your power back, and trust your intuition again. You will never win the race against the thing(s) you're running from. It's time to stop running. Let's get started.

I have been a practicing Clinician for the past 20+ years. I have worked with a broad range of individuals from ages 8 yrs. old through adulthood and into old age. My two plus decades in the field have been dedicated to assessing, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of mental and emotional challenges, building a strong foundation of competence and professional reputation. I have cultivated a deeper understanding of human behavior and resilience which enhances my ability to help clients navigate their own complexities.

I have worked in the behavioral health field for over 23 years, starting in psychiatric rehabilitation and social services. In 2020, I transitioned to program administration and clinical services. I have six years of direct clinical experience working with diverse populations. I am an eclectic therapist who uses many counseling and psychology theories and types, including humanistic, cognitive behavioral therapies, solution-focused therapy, executive skill building, trauma-related therapy (DBT and IFS), person-centered, Gestalt, and other evidence-based approaches. Interventions are tailored to a person's needs and preferences.

Often, we all go through difficult times. Times of despair, painful circumstances, and distress; Situations that many times affect our peace of mind and our relationships with ourselves and others. Sometimes, we even question the purpose of our lives because we feel like there is no purpose for what we are going through. As a caring clinician, I allow and encouraged my client to create a space for healing, where they feel in control of choosing their own path to freedom and sense of control.

Hi my name is Carilyn Rego, but I go by Carrie. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of Maryland and Florida who has been working in the mental health field for 17 years. I specialize in working with clients 18+ and those who identify as Neurodiverse and LGBTQIA+. I have my MSW from Monmouth University and have worked in a variety of different settings and in different states.

Duarte Aguiar is licensed in the state of Maryland as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). He is a graduate of Loyola University with a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and has over 8 years’ experience providing therapy in Maryland to a diverse client-base in a variety of clinical settings including school-based (adolescent and adult), substance abuse/recovery clinic, marriage and family, individual, groups, and psychoeducation. Duarte specializes in the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Trauma-Focused CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Person-Centered Approach, and Pastoral Counseling to treat various diagnoses. Duarte’s philosophy of care as a spiritually oriented therapist consists of a holistic perspective of the person(s) present in therapy. Inspired and informed by the person-centered approach, Duarte believes in the value of being present in a non-judgmental, therapeutic relationship while helping to challenge the client(s) to live up to THEIR own expectations. Duarte comes from the Catholic tradition and is ready, willing, and able to incorporate spirituality in sessions insofar as the client is desiring to do so. With that said, Duarte believes in bringing the client’s own beliefs, aspirations, and values to the forefront and using those unique aspects of the client’s virtues to guide the development of a trusting and open therapeutic atmosphere. Duarte is committed to providing a safe space where the client can feel heard, accepted, encouraged and even challenged.

Hi, I'm Gabriella, I have been a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) since 2013, but I have been in the mental health field since 2006. We all know that in recent years, specifically starting in 2020, our life as we knew it drastically changed. Our relationships with our family, friends, coworkers and even ourselves appeared to stall indefinitely. We had to learn to maneuver in different ways to try and have a sense of "normalcy." But as we tried to navigate this new way of life, our mental health has suffered. We have noticed that depression, anxiety, and relationship/interpersonal issues have been rising because we have isolated ourselves for so long. As people, we are social beings and tend to gravitate towards social situations. Within the last year, rules and mandates have eased, and we are resuming to our "new normal," and maybe we are feeling hesitant and vulnerable to step out. Reaching out for help is very difficult but the most rewarding decisions you make. We can work together to make step by step goals so you can achieve your success.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Texas. I received my Masters from LeTourneau University and have been practicing for 4 years. I work with adult clients living with self-esteem issues, anxiety, depression, and anger. The goal is to provide a safe space for clients to openly talk, gain self-awareness, and identify ways to overcome their challenges.

Kevin Smith is a Licensed Clinical Practicing Counselor (LCPC)) in the state of Maryland. He has over 12 years of substance use disorder treatment experience and four years of mental health therapy experience. He specializes in dealing with depression, bipolar, PTSD, schizophrenia and anxiety disorders. Kevin completed his Master's degree in Counseling Psychology at Capella University in 2014. He is a former substance abuser with 21 years of sobriety and has overcome a myriad of disabilities and childhood traumas in his own life. This coupled with his professional experiences, enables him to provide the guidance, support, and encouragement his clients are seeking. Kevin utilizes a wide variety of therapy techniques, including but not limited to, CBT, motivational interviewing, person-centered therapy, existentialism, EMDR and solution-focused therapy modalities. We all face dark times, mountains, and challenges in our lives. Kevin is confident he has the ability to make you feel comfortable and confident as you begin this journey to a new you. If you are ready and willing to do the work to make the next chapter of your life your best chapter, schedule an appointment with him today.

Hi, I’m Rebecca, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to helping individuals better understand themselves, navigate life’s challenges and build more fulfilling relationships. With over 4 years of experience, I specialize in supporting clients dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, addictions, and major life transitions. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and tailored to your unique needs. I strive to provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can share your story, explore your emotions, and uncover your strengths. Whether you’re seeking to heal from past wounds, improve communication, or simply gain clarity and balance, I’m here to support you every step of the way. Let’s work together to create a healthier, more empowered version of yourself!

Hello! My name is Douglas (Doug) Starliper and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-C) licensed to practice psychotherapy in both Maryland and Virginia! Before becoming a licensed therapist, I spent a career as a Paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division where I deployed four times. The struggles many Veterans are facing today are what galvanized my interest and desire to begin my 2nd career as a therapist. I utilized my GI bill to complete my undergraduate degree at McDaniel College in Westminster, MD and my graduate degree at University of Maryland Baltimore. I recently completed the supervised portion of my career and am currently fully licensed to practice independently as a LCSW-C.

I am a licensed mental health clinician with over 25 years of experience in Child Welfare, and Outpatient Mental Health providing in home services to families, and private practice providing individual and family therapy. I attended the University of Maryland School of Social Work for my Masters in Clinical Social Work in Baltimore in 1997. I currently provide telehealth therapy to adults ages 18 + years old experiencing depression, anxiety, ADHD, low self-esteem, burnout from career, family responsibilities, and relationships, problems in their marriage, family or personal life. I strive to create a safe, respectful space where individuals feel heard, empowered, and supported in their journey toward emotional well-being.

Hi! I’m Jeshonda, a licensed clinical social worker. My private practice is Atonement Counseling LLC. I have over 6 years of experience working with adult clients. I help clients who battle with depression, anxiety, stress, have low self-esteem, and been through traumas. The goal is to help clients obtain joy, heal, and become the best version of themselves. You deserve to have peace of mind and determine your purpose in life. So don’t hesitate to reach out because I look forward to working with you!

I am the wife of a Retired Combat Veteran and a mother to four beautiful children. I understand the complexities of being separated from your spouse for extended periods and feeling alone in the relationship and raising the children. Even the most well-prepared and successful person can find themselves wondering how things became so complicated, messy, or challenging, and feel at a loss when it comes to what to do to put the pieces back together. People have been shaped and molded by their past experiences, both good and bad. Often, people feel drawn to focus on the bad experiences, leading to pain and struggles of many kinds.

Hello, My name is Tierra Evans. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Work Supervisor and Mental Health Clinician. I have been a licensed Social Worker for nine years and counting. I am a Texas native and have traveled extensively. I received my Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Texas at Arlington. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), strengths-based therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and other therapeutic modalities. My passion is to nurture and cultivate positive energy and high vibrations throughout my life journey. Services are provided within a short-term, goal-oriented framework. Treatment typically consists of 6–8 sessions. Progress is formally reviewed around session six, at which point the client and therapist mutually determine whether to conclude services, extend treatment for an additional time-limited phase, or pursue other appropriate options.

Hello! I’m Carolyn, and I’m here to support you through whatever challenges you may be facing. Life can be overwhelming, and sometimes it helps to talk to someone who’s not part of your inner circle. Whether you're dealing with immediate concerns or looking to explore deeper-rooted issues, I’m here to help you navigate your path. Personal growth is a journey, and I believe that everyone is a work in progress! In our sessions, you’ll guide the conversation. You’re in charge of what we discuss, and I’m here to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore those topics. I use an eclectic counseling approach, tailoring my methods to suit your unique needs and concerns. My areas of expertise uniquely combine sleep medicine with mental health. With over 20 years of experience in the Sleep Medicine field and a background in both private practice and inpatient care, I have worked alongside numerous talented physicians and have developed a deep understanding of how physical and psychological health intersect. I specialize in helping individuals improve their sleep with techniques like focusing on sleep hygiene, mindfulness based practices, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I).

Welcome to New Hope For This Season Counseling LLC! My name is June Faith Dickerson and I am the founder and owner of New Hope For This Season Counseling LLC. This counseling practice was created to provide hope, encouragement, and emotional wellness while meeting the needs of clients with a heart full of compassion and empathy. I began my career in the Maryland area in 2019 working with individuals and families in crisis. I always had a heart to help people and spent many years volunteering at schools and youth detention centers which birthed into my passion to begin my counseling educational journey. To receive the credentialing, I obtained my bachelors in Criminal Justice with a minor in Sociology and my master's in Clinical Mental Health.

Hi there. Thank you for visiting my profile. My name is Sylvia Bikos, I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker, Clinical (LCSW-C). I received my Masters from university of Maryland School of Social Work. I worked at the inpatient and emergency department in the Psychiatric department where I worked with adults and children. I later transitioned to Employee Assistance Program (EAP) where I work with adult employees.

Hello and welcome! I am a Licensed Individual Clinical Social Worker in DC (LICSW); and also a Clinical Social Worker in MD (LCSW-C). I received my Master's degree in Counseling Psychology in 1985 and my Master's degree in Social Work in 1999. I earned my LICSW in DC in 2002. In December 2024, I earned my Clinical license in Maryland (LCSW-C). I like talking with people--but more importantly, listening to people. To me, therapy is a block of time. It is an opportunity for people to talk to someone who is not a parent, brother, sister, spouse or even best friend. My goal is to listen to you and to help you consider options in your life.

I am a compassionate and dedicated trauma-focused therapist specializing in helping individuals heal from the emotional and psychological effects of trauma, or helping couples work through their trauma together to strengthen their relationships. Helping navigating life's challenges, including depression, anxiety, and the stressors that can often feel overwhelming. I strive to provide a safe and nonjudgmental space for clients to process and recover from difficult experiences.

Many people are grappling with anxiety, depression, and trauma, which can make daily life extremely challenging. If you're reading this, you or someone you care about is probably searching for a way to improve their situation. I’m here to assist in that journey. I’m skilled in addressing a broad spectrum of mental health issues, but I particularly focus on anxiety, depression, and trauma. This specialization allows me to tailor more effective and personalized treatment plans. I prioritize truly understanding your experiences and perspectives, and I provide strategies that are crafted to meet your specific needs. Your well-being is my utmost priority. Using proven methods and drawing on extensive experience, I am dedicated to supporting your path to healing and self-discovery. Choosing to work with me means you're not just hiring a professional; you're engaging with someone who is committed to helping you find hope and resilience in the face of adversity.

Hi! My name is Lisa and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist in the state of North Carolina. I am also cross licensed in the state of Nevada, Montana, New Mexico, Vermont, Virginia, Maryland, and Texas. I have been in the Substance Abuse field since 1996 working as an alcohol counselor in an outpatient setting. I received my applied AAS degree in 1996 and went on to receive my BS in Community Health and Human Services with an emphasis on Grief and Gerontology. I have two Masters degrees from Liberty University in Professional Counseling and Criminal Justice.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counsellor (LPC) and holder of a Masters Degree. I have been practicing for approximately 10 years. I have experience with adults who have struggled with Depression, Trauma, Anxiety, Adjusting to new circumstances, and other mood and relationship disorders. I am a people-person and really enjoy the helping profession. My personality affords me to successfully interact with many individuals who seek assistance in overcoming their life challenges.

Welcome! My name is Gisele THompson, and I am happy that you are here. It means that you need some sort of help or support as you navigate an issue in your life. It can be from childhood, the more recent past or is a current issue with which you are dealing right now. Please know that everyone goes through these things and it is just a matter of finding someone to work through these issues, and challenges with you. I am happy to do that with you. I have worked with people with issues for over thirty years. Whether it has been children, teens, young adults, adults, individuals, couples, families or seniors who are dealing with life challenges, we have successfully navigated down their path so that they could get to the other side of the challenge. For some, it has been easy without a lot of work to do, just understanding the hows and whys of what is occurring. For others, more work is involved as they deal with relationships of one sort or another. There is always work for the client to do and it is my job and my honor to help you to do these things. You are not alone. I am here and we will work together in whatever challenge you have that is creating an issue in your life.

Bilingual in English and Spanish. Bilingüe en inglés y español. I am licensed in Florida, Maryland, Indiana, Ohio, Delaware, and Puerto Rico, with 14 years of professional work experience. Soy licenciada en la Florida, Maryland, Indiana, Ohio, Delaware, and Puerto Rico con 14 años de experiencia como terapeuta profesional. Doctorate in Healthcare Administration. Doctorado en administracion de salud. I have experience in helping patients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, and career difficulties. Tengo vasta experiencia ayudando a mis clientes con sus estresores, ansiedades, con pérdidas de seres queridos u otra índole, motivación, autoestima y autoconfianza, así como cambios o desarrollos de carreras. I work with my patients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. Trabajo con mis pacientes para crear un ambiente abierto y seguro en el cual los pensamientos y sentimientos pueden ser compartidos sin temor a ser juzgados. Tomar el primer paso hacia la terapia se puede sentir extraño, pero es el camino a una vida más plena, lo cual requiere valentía. With the application of cognitive behavioral therapy, client-centered, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused brief therapy methods as well as other individual techniques that match your individual needs, we can work towards alleviating how you feel and create insights into your unique situation. Con la aplicación de la terapia cognitiva conductual, centrada en el cliente, técnicas de motivación y con métodos de solventación de problemas, además de estrategias que pueden ser adaptadas a tus necesidades individuales, podemos colaborar para aliviar tus sentimientos y desarrollar diferentes perspectivas hacia tu situación, la cual es única e individual.

Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming, and I believe one of the most important parts of therapy is feeling safe enough to be yourself. My goal is to create a space where you feel accepted, understood, and never judged. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, or neurodivergence, I'll meet you with compassion, curiosity, and genuine respect. Being autistic gives me a unique perspective on what it can feel like to move through a world that isn't always designed for different ways of thinking and experiencing life. Combined with my professional training, this helps me provide affirming, practical, and empathetic care for neurodivergent and neurotypical clients alike.

I earned my Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology in Washington, DC. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) currently practicing in the state of Maryland. I have 9 years of experience working with adults and adolescents diagnosed with mental illness, trauma, substance use disorder and co-occurring disorders. I am an empathic therapist who takes a person-centered approach to assisting clients on their pathway to well-being. I believe the therapeutic relationship is an important partnership and clients should have an active role in the work necessary to facilitate the changes one desires.

Hey there, I'm Paris a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in MD and a National Board Certified Counselor. I have over 8 years of experience in the mental health field. I work with children, adolescents, and adults fostering an environment where you can tackle anxiety, depression, family issues, self-esteem, life transitions and more. I am all about encouraging mindfulness, creating self-care routines, and setting realistic boundaries for a healthier/happier life. I approach therapy through a holistic lens meaning I am seeing you as a whole not just how you present certain parts. Together we can start this journey of self-discovery and growth to navigate this wonderful and messy thing we call life.

Hello, I am Melisha Harris, a licensed clinical social worker dedicated to helping individuals, families, ministry leaders, and professionals navigate life's challenges with confidence and hope. As a therapist, I create a safe, confidential, and compassionate space where you can explore your story, heal, and grow. Whether you’re facing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, life transitions, caregiver stress, ministry burnout, leadership challenges, or simply seeking greater clarity and peace, I’m here to support you. Counseling can help you rediscover your strengths and build the life you deeply deserve. If you’re ready to take that next step, I will walk with you to create a safe and welcoming environment that allows clients to explore, heal and improve their quality of life.

I have been a licensed clinician for almost 10 years. I have worked with many types of patients who have struggled with varying degrees of anxiety, depression, relationship stressors, struggles with infertility and pregnancy losses, mood disorders and instability, and history of trauma, among other mental health conditions. I specialize in utilizing Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Dialectal Behavior Therapy as well as being certified in Trauma therapy to help my patients overcome their challenges in life.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Texas. I received my Masters from the Howard University and have been practicing for 5 years. I help people realize the underlying reasons to their stressful factors and lay out a personalized plan towards the goals they would like achieve. Therapy itself can sometimes feel overwhelming, but I am fully engaged with you through your journey.

I am Dr. George Stallings. I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with over 18 years of experience, proudly serving clients in Maryland and Virginia. I hold a Master’s degree from Towson University, PhD Capella University, and specialize in supporting adults navigating anxiety, depression, and life transitions. My goal is to help clients gain clarity, build resilience, and move toward becoming their most authentic and empowered selves.

Hello, my name is Shondelle Johnson-Pugh. I am licensed as an LCSWC in the state of Maryland. Although I have worked with individuals and families for over 22 years. Most recently, I have been blessed with the opportunity to provide therapeutic services for the last five years. My background consists of providing services to those seeking support in the areas of maternal mental health, depression, relationship issues, improvement in self-esteem, and defining coping skills. Services are provided via telehealth services only during selective evening hours. During scheduled sessions, clients can expect honest and supportive feedback on areas addressed in sessions. If you are looking for someone to bring energy and a sense of humor during sessions when needed, look no further. Together, we can find healthy solutions to the concerns that keep you up at night or keep you in a cycle of questioning what you should do next in your life. It is my hope that I can help plant a seed of hope in each person's life that comes to treatment, and eventually, that seed will grow into a strong fruit!

Hi there, I'm Ladonna, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker supporting clients in Virginia, Washington DC, and Maryland. I have experience providing crisis intervention for a crisis line and providing psychotherapy services to children, adults, and families in private practice, schools, nonprofit outpatient clinics, and a local government agency. I meet my clients where they are at using an eclectic approach, pulling from multiple evidence-based therapy practices.

My career began with a strong community focus, including service at the first free health clinic dedicated to supporting the HIV-impacted community and early work in community mental health. In my 28 years of clinical experience I have maintained a child and family-centered approach while broadening my expertise across a wide range of settings, including inpatient residential care, hospital social work, nephrology, crisis and trauma counseling for children and adults, military social work, and academia. My practice includes supporting individuals through transitions, grief, depression, chronic pain, and complex social service needs. I hold postgraduate training in social welfare and psychology, which has enriched my skills and informed my integrative, client-centered approach aimed at fostering resilience and healing.

Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 12 years of diverse experience and I continue to evolve in new treatment models. I have worked with individuals, families, and couples alike. I have specialized training in depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and women's issues. In my approach to individual therapy, I utilize treatment methods such as Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused and Strength Perspectives.

Hi I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I received my Master's Degree in 2010 from Loyola University and have been seeing clients since then . I especially enjoy helping adults deal with stressful transitions and challenges in life. My goal is to help clients gain insight and understanding about their challenges so that we together can find helpful solutions.

Dr. Simone Blanchard is the Executive Director and Lead Therapist of Inner Light Consulting and Therapeutic Services in the metro Washington DC area. She is a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and holds her LCPC (Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor) in Maryland and Washington, DC. She is also a Trauma Specialist whose training includes working with children impacted by childhood sexual abuse. Dr. Blanchard is a sought-after speaker by both lay and professional audiences. To the general community, she speaks about parenting skills, relationship healing and building, childhood development, and natural healing modalities. To professional audiences, her presentations include mental health diagnoses, interventions, treatment, and prognoses; relationship healing and building; suicide prevention; mind-body connection; and global trauma. Dr. Blanchard earned her graduate degree with high honors in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Marymount University. She was inducted into the Psi Chi International Honors Society in Psychology and the Delta Epsilon Sigma National Honor Society. She is an International Psychology with a special concentration in global trauma. She has studied with master practitioners in spirituality, human development, and restitution.

You may feel desperate, alone, and misunderstood. You feel like you are floating in the bottom of a lake and cannot see the light above you. Everyday, you feel like you are just going through the motions. If this describes you, then I may be the therapist for you. In my nearly twenty years of experience, I have helped people like you reach their potential and achieve the recovery that they needed. There is no set system or quick fix as others may promise, but I will walk down the road with you. My primary focus is on helping you deal with ambiguity. Often our thoughts and subsequently what we teach ourselves becomes rigid and fairly black and white. Using a pragmatic and authentic approach to therapy I try and help you be okay with things that are beyond your control and work with you to establish yourself as the protagonist in your own story. This is primarily accomplished through conversation and allowing you the client to guide the therapy in the direction it needs to go.

I work with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, relationship issues, etc. Learning distress tolerance skills is a way to improve the quality of life and allows for a person to be empowered. I specialize in CBT, DBT, PCT, and various other therapeutic modalities. It is my goal to create a safe place for my clients to express their thoughts and feelings, while assisting in pushing forward. FMLA/Disability Forms: Completion of FMLA, disability, and other administrative paperwork is available for established clients for an additional fee. Requests are evaluated on a case-by-case basis and must be supported by clinical documentation. Completion of paperwork does not guarantee approval of leave, benefits, or accommodations, as all decisions are made by the requesting organization.

Hi, my name is Candace, but you can call me Candy, You have taken the first and often hardest step in bettering your life by seeking help! Beginning therapy can be scary and people often feel vulnerable when doing this. One of my attributes is to try and make this journey as comfortable as possible for you. I have worked in the mental health field for more than 28 years and have been licensed for 8 years. My vast experience has allowed me to gain knowledge in the many stressors that people may face during their life. . I have been honored by each person that I’ve worked with as they have allowed me a windows view of their life and the issues each of them had. My thought on counseling is that the person seeking therapy and the therapist are a team and work together as a team to identify goals, find solutions and overcome the issues at hand. I have a desire to use my empathetic and compassionate nature along with my experience to help people find and utilize services, coping skills and solutions that will assist them in gaining a better quality of life. I do this by providing a confidential safe and judgment free place for those seeking therapy to discuss their situations and needs. I use a strengths-based approach along with solution focused and cognitive behavioral therapy. I am good at thinking outside the box to help people in identifying and reaching their goals.

Hello, my name is Ronak Makadia, and I am a licensed clinical psychologist (Psy.D.) with additional training in social work (MSW). As a second-generation, Asian American I quickly learned the stigma and shame attached to attending therapy, especially within the Asian American community. As a cis-gender woman of color, I value and will provide culturally competent services. Please note that I only accept adults and older adults who are high-functioning but need support to overcome barriers. Due to the nature of my private practice, I am unable to accept clients who are seeking treatment for trauma, substance use or severe mental illness. I work alongside patients to overcome any barriers they may be facing. I will always encourage you to create, learn, and consistently use healthy coping mechanisms. To avoid staying stuck, I collaborate with you in developing solutions to aid you in moving forward in your life. We all get stuck sometimes and I am here to help. Therapy does not have to be a painful experience and I will be here to guide you toward improvement in a welcoming, affirmative environment. I support the movement to destigmatize therapy and make mental health care accessible for all. I will continue to support this mission and provide quality counseling. Talk to me about scheduling a first appointment if you are interested in working together. I look forward to working with you!

I am Angela Bates, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, National Certified Counselor, dedicated to guiding individuals on their journey to emotional well-being. My counseling style is empathetic, mindful, and client-centered. I believe in treating everyone with respect and dignity but equally important, she prides herself on demonstrating compassion, genuineness, and empathy. My treatment approach is set on the foundation of building a therapeutic relationship by establishing trust and rapport from the onset of sessions.

Hello, my name is Zacharia, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Therapist with 20 years of experience providing compassionate, culturally responsive, and evidence-based mental health services to children, adolescents, young adults, and families. I specialize in working with young people who have experienced trauma, anxiety, depression, behavioral challenges, and co-occurring mental health and substance use concerns, and I am deeply passionate about serving individuals and families from underserved and multicultural communities who deserve access to high-quality, affirming mental health care. My approach to therapy is warm, collaborative, and strength based. I draw from a variety of evidence-based therapeutic modalities including Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Mindfulness-Based Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and the Gottman Method, tailoring my approach to the unique needs, goals, and cultural background of each individual client and family I serve. I firmly believe that the therapeutic relationship is the foundation of meaningful healing and from our very first session, my priority is to ensure that you feel genuinely seen, heard, valued, and never alone in your journey. Whether you are a young person navigating the complexities of growing up, a caregiver seeking support for your child, or a family working to strengthen your bonds and communication, I am here and I am honored to be a part of your healing story. I look forward to the privilege of working with you.

Hello! I am Ana Milena Are you struggling with keeping up with your relationship(s), work, and health? Do you miss the spontaneity and excitement that existed earlier in your personal relationship? Is it hard for you to accept compliments or be kind towards yourself? I enjoy learning about each person I encounter and through various types of therapy and conversation finding the root of their struggles. Together we will figure out what hasn't worked, find balance and inner peace in an environment that feels safe and allows you to grow.

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) who works collaboratively with individuals and couples as they navigate life transitions, emotional challenges, and relationship concerns. My approach is integrative and person-centered, with a strong foundation in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy, and trauma-informed care. I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard and understood while gaining practical tools, strengthening their resilience, and making meaningful changes in their lives and relationships.

I have lived a life much like most of my clients. I have experienced hardships and achievements, sadness and joy, and disappointment in myself and in others. For most of my life, I have been lucky enough to somehow “figure it out” on my own. At one point in my life, I made a commitment to myself that no one should have to “figure it out” on their own. We all need to have someone who is committed to helping us out when we are at our most vulnerable.