Rita Nzuwah
Dear clients, I am a licensed clinical social worker with a passion for helping individuals, couples and families maneuver the stresses, challenges, hurts and traumas of everyday life. I am an African-American, faith-based woman, who has a passion for helping other minority men, woman, couples and families maneuver life challenges. My counseling philosophy is that you are the expert of your own life. My role is to guide and support you in building the skills and confidence necessary to live your best life. I meet each client where you are and help you build on your strengths and resources. My assessments and evaluations are comprehensive bio-psychosocial-spiritual, in nature. I incorporate faith-based principles that you request and find meaningful to you. I have over 7 years of experience helping clients with relationship issues and various other mental health and life challenges. My expertise allows you to develop your own perspective of problem solving and will empower you to make the changes needed in order to accomplish your goals. Due to limits on availability, I am able to provide ongoing phone sessions only. I look forward to working with you. Sincerely, Rita Nzuwah, LCSW-C
Carol-Ann Cerkan
Trust is what is vital to a healthy therapeutic relationship and I work very hard to build that with my clients. Seeking counseling is one of the most courageous steps towards living your best life possible and I would like to help you on that journey. I am driven by the desire to help people through their difficult times and emotional issues they are facing. We will work together to develop an individualized path to help you through and feel better! I have had the opportunity to work with many different populations and have experiences in various emotional issues: relationship issues, depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, addictions, grief, self-esteem, compassion fatigue, military issues, attachment issues, suicidal ideations, self-esteem/ self-confident, coping skills, and many other issues. I have many years experiencing working with families and spent over five years as a Military & Family Life Counselor working with active duty, National Guard, Reservists, and their families. My counseling style would be described as welcoming, warm and interactive. I believe in treating people with dignity, respect, sensitivity, authenticity and empathy. My approach is holistic and based on evidence based practices. I respect your choice on seeking counseling and I look forward to working with you!
Alison Russell
Alison Russell, LCSW-C Hi. I’m Alison Russell! I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical and have been in the Social Work field for over 25 years. One of the many things I learned during my extensive experience working with First Responders, adults, adolescents and children is that people are resilient. I have hope and believe in those who are ready, willing and able to self reflect and work towards positive change. I received my Bachelors degree in Sociology from the University of Maryland and after many years of working with the adolescent population and family systems, earned my Masters degree in Social work from Delaware State University. Some areas of my expertise include working with adults, children and families involved in the child welfare system encompassing victims/survivors of child sexual abuse, childhood trauma, victims/survivors of the foster care system, dysfunctional family systems, grief and loss, anxiety, as well as adjustment issues. Most recently and during the COVID pandemic, I have been a Hospice Social Worker focusing on end of life issues which impact patients and families including issues related to grief, loss, anxiety, depression, and bereavement. My approach to working with those in need includes the Eclectic approach along with being Trauma-informed. I use Motivational Interviewing, the Strengths perspective, the Client Centered approach, and Behavior Modification. I believe that if the client is ready to engage in the therapeutic relationship, learning all aspects of their lives, including the past, present and future is most beneficial to them. I believe in starting where the client is and aspire to achieve goals set forth in an effort to enhance overall functioning. I look forward to processing life together, one session at a time.
Toni Parker
I have over 14 years of experience in a clinical setting, and my experience covers a vast cross-section of disciplines specializing in alleviating social and emotional problems. I have experience and expertise working in Mental Health Outpatient Clinics, Child Welfare, Homeless Services, and Public-School Systems. As a mental health therapist, I specialize in depression, anxiety, women's issues, family conflict, anger management, adjustment challenges, grief/loss issues, and the diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders. I believe we all have the propensity for change, and I often consider myself a "change agent. “I enjoy working with people and observing improved insights and growth through our therapeutic relationship and collaboration. I enjoy helping people reach their desired goals and outcomes and move forward in their lives. I always strive to create a warm, welcoming, and safe space based on mutual respect and fidelity. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Yovanna Martinez
I am licensed in Florida with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with life stressors, anxiety, abuse and addictions, depression, grief and loss & anger management. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs, to assist in obtaining your goals of treatment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in your journey and process. I am fully bilingual English/Spanish.
Rebekah Machiela
I'm thrilled you are taking this first step in caring for yourself by considering a therapeutic relationship with me. I am a licensed therapist in Maryland with 12 years experience providing counseling in medical hospitals. I am uniquely positioned to help you process grief, trauma, living with chronic illness or a disability, caregiver burnout, postpartum adjustment, end of life issues, and the stress and anxiety associated with life transitions. I have a significant amount of experience with helping clients manage relationship difficulties and teaching applicable communication strategies. You can expect me to have a warm and empathetic approach as I come to know you and your story, of which you are the expert! I will use various therapy styles to structure our dialog and help you learn healthy coping techniques that empower you towards your goals. I encourage growth, self-awareness, reflection, and self-compassion. Whether this is your first time beginning therapy or you are looking for a new provider, I look forward to coming alongside you and supporting you on your journey!
Josiane somo
I am licensed in Maryland with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Additionally, I also speak French. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Coranda Wims
I am licensed in Texas with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & intimacy related issues. I work with my clients 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.
Dr. Charla Lewis
Good Day! I'm glad you chose to check out my profile. I'm Dr. Char and have worked professionally with individuals, families, and support groups for almost 24 years. I am based in Texas and licensed to see virtual clients in 35 states with my Authority to Practice Interjurisdictional Tele-psychology license through the Association of State and Provinicial Psychology Boards (www.asppb.net). I am thrilled to offer wider access to counseling supports, particularly for those in underserved regions. In our sessions, clients have a safe, compassionate space to work through life's challenges. In addition to traditional talk therapy approaches (i.e. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Interpersonal therapy) for many mental health conditions, I integrate body/somatic strategies and creative arts to facilitate more in-depth discovery and healing. My session hours are in late afternoon to late evening to accommodate schedules of 9-5ers, parents/ caretakers, and clients with sleep problems (guided meditation sessions for relaxation and sleep onset). Therapy can be rough work, but there are many rewarding tasks and outcomes within the work. Let's do this! I hope to meet you soon.
Mercides Palmer
I am licensed professional counselor in Maryland with three years of professional experience, I specialize in supporting clients facing challenges related to relationship issues, trauma, and abuse, as well as those navigating grief and loss. Additionally, I address concerns related to motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. My therapeutic approach focuses on creating an open and safe environment where clients feel free to share their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. Recognizing that initiating therapy requires courage, I commend you for taking this important step on your journey toward healing and personal growth.
How to find counseling in Chevy Chase Village
Finding the best therapist close by in Chevy Chase Village can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.
Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Chevy Chase Village. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Chevy Chase Village, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.
It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.
Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Chevy Chase Village or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.
There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Chevy Chase Village area in different types of therapy, including:
- CBT
- DBT
- Substance use therapy
- Couples therapy
When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Chevy Chase Village, elsewhere in Montgomery, or in the greater state of Maryland.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Chevy Chase Village area can be found below:
How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Chevy Chase Village therapist?
The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Chevy Chase Village due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:
- Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
- Counseling with therapists: $100-300
- Therapy with a psychologist: $100
While many psychologists in Chevy Chase Village may not take health insurance, some in the state of Maryland may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Maryland you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).
How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Chevy Chase Village, Maryland working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy.
Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.
How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?
BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Chevy Chase Village above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.
Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Chevy Chase Village helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more.
What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?
BetterHelp's verified Chevy Chase Village therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.
Specialties on BetterHelp include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Behavior therapy
- EMDR therapy
- Talk therapy
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders
- Stress
- Eating disorders
- Grief
- Attachment therapy
- Relationships
- Children, adolescents, and teens
- Addiction (substance abuse)
- Divorce
- Trauma or PTSD
- Bipolar disorder
- Psychodynamic treatment
- Career counseling
- Alcohol use disorders
- OCD
- ADHD
- Mood disorders
- Sex addiction
- Complex trauma
- Life transitions
You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Chevy Chase Village therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide.
How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.
A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.
Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Chevy Chase Village therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.
With a lot of people in MD, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 20815 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.
How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Chevy Chase Village counselor?
Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.
Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine?
Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Chevy Chase Village licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.
Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.
People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.
Is mental health care and therapy worth it?
Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Chevy Chase Village, Maryland can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.
Chevy Chase Village has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.
Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?
The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.
Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform
To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.
Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.
If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.
If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Chevy Chase Village:
20815