Child Therapists in Bethesda, MD

Photo of Stephanie Prigal, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Prigal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
My therapeutic approach emphasizes the importance of meeting the client and family where they are at and building a connection through trust and understanding. I have experience working with children as young as 5 years old, adolescents, adults and families. I specialize in supporting clients with depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem challenges, socialization and attention deficit disorder. When working with adolescents or adults, I utilize a variety of modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Mindfulness.
My therapeutic approach emphasizes the importance of meeting the client and family where they are at and building a connection through trust and understanding. I have experience working with children as young as 5 years old, adolescents, adults and families. I specialize in supporting clients with depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem challenges, socialization and attention deficit disorder. When working with adolescents or adults, I utilize a variety of modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Mindfulness.
(240) 201-9566 View (240) 201-9566
Photo of Caroline Margaret Sehon - Dr. Caroline M. Sehon, M.D., F.R.C.P. (C), MD
Dr. Caroline M. Sehon, M.D., F.R.C.P. (C)
MD
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I am trained as a Canadian and US-trained physician, a psychoanalyst, couple and family therapist, and child/adult psychiatrist.
Couple and family therapy can sometimes serve as an efficient and effective strategy to improve the wellness of the whole family system. Sometimes severe psychological distress and suffering is located within the couple or family, rather than solely within a given person as it may appear at times. I have built up a strong skill set to offer a particular form of couple and family therapy known as "psychoanalytic couple/family therapy" which zeroes in on the undercurrent, unconscious meanings for destructive, relationship patterns that are outside the awareness of the couple/family.
I am trained as a Canadian and US-trained physician, a psychoanalyst, couple and family therapist, and child/adult psychiatrist.
Couple and family therapy can sometimes serve as an efficient and effective strategy to improve the wellness of the whole family system. Sometimes severe psychological distress and suffering is located within the couple or family, rather than solely within a given person as it may appear at times. I have built up a strong skill set to offer a particular form of couple and family therapy known as "psychoanalytic couple/family therapy" which zeroes in on the undercurrent, unconscious meanings for destructive, relationship patterns that are outside the awareness of the couple/family.
(301) 683-5625 View (301) 683-5625
Photo of Linda Fleming McGhee - McGhee & Associates, LLC, JD, PsyD, Psychologist
McGhee & Associates, LLC
Psychologist, JD, PsyD
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
Childhood treatment specialties include behavioral challenges, school-related stress and family conflict.
Our goals for you are clear: help you to find your best self and most fulfilled life. We specialize in providing psychotherapy for children, adults and groups. We also provide parent guidance to help the parent improve the child's well-being and solidify familial relationships. Testing is also a specialty at McGhee & Associates. We also consult with parents about school settings, educational accommodations and education-related stressors.
Childhood treatment specialties include behavioral challenges, school-related stress and family conflict.
Our goals for you are clear: help you to find your best self and most fulfilled life. We specialize in providing psychotherapy for children, adults and groups. We also provide parent guidance to help the parent improve the child's well-being and solidify familial relationships. Testing is also a specialty at McGhee & Associates. We also consult with parents about school settings, educational accommodations and education-related stressors.
(301) 349-3619 View (301) 349-3619
Photo of Emma Hughes, MA, LGPC, Counselor
Emma Hughes
Counselor, MA, LGPC
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
Have you just about given up all hope because your life "has always been this way?" Perhaps you are having difficulty adjusting to a loved one with a developmental disability. Or maybe your child is facing difficulties of their own. Whatever the challenge is, I believe that you have the autonomy to edit and make meaning of your story.
Have you just about given up all hope because your life "has always been this way?" Perhaps you are having difficulty adjusting to a loved one with a developmental disability. Or maybe your child is facing difficulties of their own. Whatever the challenge is, I believe that you have the autonomy to edit and make meaning of your story.
(240) 663-5445 View (240) 663-5445
Photo of Erin Martin Berman, MS, PhD, Psychologist
Erin Martin Berman
Psychologist, MS, PhD
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I work collaboratively with the client to help alleviate and manage stress and anxiety. I enjoy working with children, adolescents and adults. Anxiety, sadness and stress are very common emotions that we all experience. I create a comforting and constructive environment to help alleviate these feelings. I enjoy working with individuals who are confronting stressful and anxious times.
I work collaboratively with the client to help alleviate and manage stress and anxiety. I enjoy working with children, adolescents and adults. Anxiety, sadness and stress are very common emotions that we all experience. I create a comforting and constructive environment to help alleviate these feelings. I enjoy working with individuals who are confronting stressful and anxious times.
(301) 660-2233 View (301) 660-2233
Photo of Sarah S. Berger, PhD, Psychologist
Sarah S. Berger
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
program that emphasizes biopsychosocial and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) approaches and completed my internship at Children's Hospital Boston/ Harvard Medical School.
Therapy is often about change - changing oneself or parts of one's life. Taking steps towards change requires tremendous courage, but many people find the rewards of this process well worth the effort. A supportive, helpful guide can go a long way towards making productive changes and that is where I come in. Support is my primary role; my secondary role is to help individuals identify thoughts or behaviors that are limiting progress in one's life. In addition to helping with a wide range of common symptoms like stress, anxiety, depression, I specialize in health psychology (coping with illness).
program that emphasizes biopsychosocial and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) approaches and completed my internship at Children's Hospital Boston/ Harvard Medical School.
Therapy is often about change - changing oneself or parts of one's life. Taking steps towards change requires tremendous courage, but many people find the rewards of this process well worth the effort. A supportive, helpful guide can go a long way towards making productive changes and that is where I come in. Support is my primary role; my secondary role is to help individuals identify thoughts or behaviors that are limiting progress in one's life. In addition to helping with a wide range of common symptoms like stress, anxiety, depression, I specialize in health psychology (coping with illness).
(240) 847-3693 View (240) 847-3693
Photo of Umniya Gabbani, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Umniya Gabbani
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
Sometimes we come across challenges that can be tough to manage on our own. If you are new to therapy, reaching out for help is a huge act of determination that takes SO much courage! My name is Umniya and I am a counselor specializing in children, adolescents, and families. I am committed to bringing a compassionate, supportive, holistic, and culturally sensitive approach to help clients process life experiences and maximize their potential. I prioritize a collaborative and eclectic approach to ensure clients achieve personal growth and self-awareness and gain insight into their problems.
Sometimes we come across challenges that can be tough to manage on our own. If you are new to therapy, reaching out for help is a huge act of determination that takes SO much courage! My name is Umniya and I am a counselor specializing in children, adolescents, and families. I am committed to bringing a compassionate, supportive, holistic, and culturally sensitive approach to help clients process life experiences and maximize their potential. I prioritize a collaborative and eclectic approach to ensure clients achieve personal growth and self-awareness and gain insight into their problems.
(240) 985-8703 View (240) 985-8703
Photo of Pat Webbink - Pat Webbink, PhD, MA, Psychologist
Pat Webbink
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20816
With 50 years of clinical experience, a Duke U. Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, I am an empathic, results-oriented psychologist. My specialties: relationships, anxiety, depression, stress reduction, intimacy, trauma & abuse. I work with adults, adolescents, & children in individual, couple, family & group therapy. I counsel in Spanish, French & Japanese. I've authored 4 books on intimacy & relationships & hold FREE monthly Zoom workshops on Mindfulness, Creative Movement & Relationships using guided imagery & music. My licensed associates and I serve MD, D.C. & VA. My interactive audio flyer is available at AacCounseling.com. Call me.
With 50 years of clinical experience, a Duke U. Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, I am an empathic, results-oriented psychologist. My specialties: relationships, anxiety, depression, stress reduction, intimacy, trauma & abuse. I work with adults, adolescents, & children in individual, couple, family & group therapy. I counsel in Spanish, French & Japanese. I've authored 4 books on intimacy & relationships & hold FREE monthly Zoom workshops on Mindfulness, Creative Movement & Relationships using guided imagery & music. My licensed associates and I serve MD, D.C. & VA. My interactive audio flyer is available at AacCounseling.com. Call me.
(240) 435-4843 View (240) 435-4843
Photo of Rachel B Singer, LCSW-C, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel B Singer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
I work with individuals, couples, families, and children. I specialize in addiction, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, family conflict and grief. My greatest intention is to help clients understand themselves better and improve their quality of life and relationships. I cater my approach to each client, responding to their own unique problems and personality style. This is not a "one-size-fits-all" practice.
I work with individuals, couples, families, and children. I specialize in addiction, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, family conflict and grief. My greatest intention is to help clients understand themselves better and improve their quality of life and relationships. I cater my approach to each client, responding to their own unique problems and personality style. This is not a "one-size-fits-all" practice.
(301) 960-3955 View (301) 960-3955
Photo of Brittany LaFleur, MS, LCPC-S, RPT, Counselor
Brittany LaFleur
Counselor, MS, LCPC-S, RPT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
In addition to helping children thrive, Brittany has also helped numerous parents discover not only their best selves but their best parenting selves through Parent Coaching and Parent Coordinating– leading to a family unit that functions more peacefully and cohesively than ever before.
Brittany LaFleur is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Supervisor (LCPC-S) with a deep passion for aiding individuals in their journey towards becoming their best selves, hence why she started Your Best Self therapeutic services in 2018. Brittany creates a safe & confidential space to guide clients’ exploration of their inner worlds. She has a dynamic, compassionate & direct style of connecting with clients and leads a team of several other talented therapists.
In addition to helping children thrive, Brittany has also helped numerous parents discover not only their best selves but their best parenting selves through Parent Coaching and Parent Coordinating– leading to a family unit that functions more peacefully and cohesively than ever before.
Brittany LaFleur is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Supervisor (LCPC-S) with a deep passion for aiding individuals in their journey towards becoming their best selves, hence why she started Your Best Self therapeutic services in 2018. Brittany creates a safe & confidential space to guide clients’ exploration of their inner worlds. She has a dynamic, compassionate & direct style of connecting with clients and leads a team of several other talented therapists.
(301) 205-5422 View (301) 205-5422
Photo of Christopher Ray, PhD, Psychologist
Christopher Ray
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
With children, I use play and talk therapy to assist them in identifying strengths and reducing negative symptoms of distress.
Although you may not believe it, you are stronger than you think. Through our work in therapy, I will help you to find your strengths and learn to leverage them in times of need. I work collaboratively with children, adolescents, and adults in individual and family therapy. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, personality disorders, relationship concerns, in addition to behavioral concerns in children.
With children, I use play and talk therapy to assist them in identifying strengths and reducing negative symptoms of distress.
Although you may not believe it, you are stronger than you think. Through our work in therapy, I will help you to find your strengths and learn to leverage them in times of need. I work collaboratively with children, adolescents, and adults in individual and family therapy. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, personality disorders, relationship concerns, in addition to behavioral concerns in children.
(240) 589-7737 View (240) 589-7737
Photo of Brooke Shafer, MA, LPC, LCPC, Counselor
Brooke Shafer
Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
I utilize many counseling strategies across modalities, including comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Children (DBT-C).
Winner of the Best of Bethesda Magazine in the Child/Adolescent Therapist Category! In the modern world, we are facing more difficulties than ever before. I have worked with clients facing depression, anxiety, self-harm, suicidal ideation, identity exploration, and dysregulated behavior. I specialize in working with children and adolescents, especially around the middle school years, and their parents in order to improve mood and self-regulation and promote positive family interactions and communication.
I utilize many counseling strategies across modalities, including comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Children (DBT-C).
Winner of the Best of Bethesda Magazine in the Child/Adolescent Therapist Category! In the modern world, we are facing more difficulties than ever before. I have worked with clients facing depression, anxiety, self-harm, suicidal ideation, identity exploration, and dysregulated behavior. I specialize in working with children and adolescents, especially around the middle school years, and their parents in order to improve mood and self-regulation and promote positive family interactions and communication.
(240) 255-9066 View (240) 255-9066
Photo of Carey Heller, PsyD, Psychologist
Carey Heller
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
26 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20817  (Online Only)
If you are ready to improve your life or your child's, make an appointment today.
Are you or your child/teen having issues with attention/executive functioning (i.e., time management, organization, task completion)? Having trouble staying focused, being organized, motivated, or often becoming anxious? Struggling to get homework or work tasks completed? Feeling unhappy, overwhelmed, or on edge frequently? If so, I am able to assist by providing therapy, ADHD/executive functioning coaching, and/or assessment services in order to identify difficulties and work collaboratively to help you or your loved one thrive in life.
If you are ready to improve your life or your child's, make an appointment today.
Are you or your child/teen having issues with attention/executive functioning (i.e., time management, organization, task completion)? Having trouble staying focused, being organized, motivated, or often becoming anxious? Struggling to get homework or work tasks completed? Feeling unhappy, overwhelmed, or on edge frequently? If so, I am able to assist by providing therapy, ADHD/executive functioning coaching, and/or assessment services in order to identify difficulties and work collaboratively to help you or your loved one thrive in life.
(301) 684-8029 View (301) 684-8029
Photo of Jennifer R. Schwartz, LCSW-C, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer R. Schwartz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MSW
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
  Whether you are an adult, parent, or child in need of guidance, I would be honored to be a part of your life journey.
My passion is working with people who are confronted with challenges at home, school, or the workplace; or are having difficulty maintaining or creating meaningful relationships.  I will offer you a safe, judgment free, and accepting environment.  No two people experience hardship the same way.  Together, we can find the solution that works best for you. I have many years of experience working with individuals in schools, parents and children with child welfare involvement, and families dealing with separation and divorce.
  Whether you are an adult, parent, or child in need of guidance, I would be honored to be a part of your life journey.
My passion is working with people who are confronted with challenges at home, school, or the workplace; or are having difficulty maintaining or creating meaningful relationships.  I will offer you a safe, judgment free, and accepting environment.  No two people experience hardship the same way.  Together, we can find the solution that works best for you. I have many years of experience working with individuals in schools, parents and children with child welfare involvement, and families dealing with separation and divorce.
(240) 607-5060 View (240) 607-5060
Photo of Maggie Meyer, LCPC, RPT, Counselor
Maggie Meyer
Counselor, LCPC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
In addition to being a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist, I am a proud mom of 3 adult children! Please feel free to learn more about me on my website.
Reaching out for support can be extremely difficult...trust me, I have been there myself! It really is the first step towards unlocking all of life's possibilities and potential to heal and grow. Therapy is a gift and allowing me the ability to experience this transformative journey with you is a gift to me. My goal is to provide a collaborative, safe, and comfortable space where you feel seen, supported, and connected. I believe therapy is nourishment for social, emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being. I use my dietetic background for a holistic approach. Together, we will find a path that works best for you!
In addition to being a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist, I am a proud mom of 3 adult children! Please feel free to learn more about me on my website.
Reaching out for support can be extremely difficult...trust me, I have been there myself! It really is the first step towards unlocking all of life's possibilities and potential to heal and grow. Therapy is a gift and allowing me the ability to experience this transformative journey with you is a gift to me. My goal is to provide a collaborative, safe, and comfortable space where you feel seen, supported, and connected. I believe therapy is nourishment for social, emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being. I use my dietetic background for a holistic approach. Together, we will find a path that works best for you!
(301) 900-8361 View (301) 900-8361
Photo of Playfulleigh Home - PlayfulLeigh Psyched, LLC, PhD, LCPC, MS/MA, LGPC, Counselor
PlayfulLeigh Psyched, LLC
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, MS/MA, LGPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20816  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
We know first hand that it can be tremendously scary to seek help whether for yourself or for a child that you love.
We work with individuals, families, and children. We specialize in trauma including generational trauma, perinatal, immigrants, parent- child relationship issues, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and family conflict. Our greatest intention is to help you understand yourself better and improve your quality of life and relationships. We tailor our approach to the needs of each person or family, responding to your unique problems, identities, and realities. This is not a one-size-fits-all practice because we are trauma-informed and social-emotional focused practices from a social justice framework.
We know first hand that it can be tremendously scary to seek help whether for yourself or for a child that you love.
We work with individuals, families, and children. We specialize in trauma including generational trauma, perinatal, immigrants, parent- child relationship issues, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and family conflict. Our greatest intention is to help you understand yourself better and improve your quality of life and relationships. We tailor our approach to the needs of each person or family, responding to your unique problems, identities, and realities. This is not a one-size-fits-all practice because we are trauma-informed and social-emotional focused practices from a social justice framework.
(301) 835-2610 View (301) 835-2610
Photo of Hannah Blaes-Johnson, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Blaes-Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20817
Building a family, whether it be two individuals joined by love and respect, or the amazing addition of a child, is hard. It is normal for these life transitions to bring up feelings of anxiety, grief, sadness or confusion. I specialize in working with women, children, and families to address these big relationship and life moments. We partner together to work towards building stronger foundations for parent/caregiver and child relationships, creating safety, and finding and using skills that help us feel calm. We find hope and enjoyment in places that have been previously forgotten.
Building a family, whether it be two individuals joined by love and respect, or the amazing addition of a child, is hard. It is normal for these life transitions to bring up feelings of anxiety, grief, sadness or confusion. I specialize in working with women, children, and families to address these big relationship and life moments. We partner together to work towards building stronger foundations for parent/caregiver and child relationships, creating safety, and finding and using skills that help us feel calm. We find hope and enjoyment in places that have been previously forgotten.
(301) 307-5621 View (301) 307-5621
Photo of Sarah Thompson, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Sarah Thompson
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
Are you or your child neurodivergent or LGBTQIA+ and navigating life’s ups and downs? You deserve a space to be yourself, share your story, and feel heard without judgment. You are the expert on you, and in our work together my goal is to ensure you feel seen, validated, and gently challenged when necessary to meet your personal goals whether that’s building connections, finding community, or creating a positive identity. Together, we’ll empower you to live authentically and confidently on your terms.
Are you or your child neurodivergent or LGBTQIA+ and navigating life’s ups and downs? You deserve a space to be yourself, share your story, and feel heard without judgment. You are the expert on you, and in our work together my goal is to ensure you feel seen, validated, and gently challenged when necessary to meet your personal goals whether that’s building connections, finding community, or creating a positive identity. Together, we’ll empower you to live authentically and confidently on your terms.
(240) 255-9065 x125 View (240) 255-9065 x125
Photo of Amy Pelletier, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Pelletier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20817
Amy believes in helping children and families learn skills that will strengthen their ability to solve problems, cope with stressful situations, and connect with others.
Amy has over a decade of experience working with children, adolescents, and families in a variety of settings, including outpatient mental health, school-based, and private practice. She is dedicated to helping children and families navigate life’s challenges. Amy’s approach to therapy involves creating a safe and supportive environment for her clients where she uses cognitive behavioral therapy and play therapy techniques to help clients experiencing a range difficulties, including anxiety, OCD, depression, ADHD, emotional dysregulation, and behavior issues.
Amy believes in helping children and families learn skills that will strengthen their ability to solve problems, cope with stressful situations, and connect with others.
Amy has over a decade of experience working with children, adolescents, and families in a variety of settings, including outpatient mental health, school-based, and private practice. She is dedicated to helping children and families navigate life’s challenges. Amy’s approach to therapy involves creating a safe and supportive environment for her clients where she uses cognitive behavioral therapy and play therapy techniques to help clients experiencing a range difficulties, including anxiety, OCD, depression, ADHD, emotional dysregulation, and behavior issues.
(301) 417-5840 View (301) 417-5840
Photo of Marissa Post, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marissa Post
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I understand that children and adolescents see the world in a unique way, and therefore, need specialized, client-centered treatment to help them express themselves and communicate in an age and developmentally appropriate way.
I work with young children, adolescents, and families who are struggling with behavioral challenges, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, executive functioning, trauma, ADHD, social skills, and family transitions. I believe that forming a strong judgement-free partnership is the basis for positive change and that therapy, although challenging at times, should be engaging and fun. I also recognize that treatment is not a “cookie-cutter” solution and prioritize working together to determine what is best for each individual client.
I understand that children and adolescents see the world in a unique way, and therefore, need specialized, client-centered treatment to help them express themselves and communicate in an age and developmentally appropriate way.
I work with young children, adolescents, and families who are struggling with behavioral challenges, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, executive functioning, trauma, ADHD, social skills, and family transitions. I believe that forming a strong judgement-free partnership is the basis for positive change and that therapy, although challenging at times, should be engaging and fun. I also recognize that treatment is not a “cookie-cutter” solution and prioritize working together to determine what is best for each individual client.
(301) 450-8981 View (301) 450-8981
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Child Therapists
Child psychologists in Bethesda, MD provide mental health therapy to children and are experts in child development.

Every comprehensive review of therapy with children shows that all credible approaches, when performed by a competent mental health clinician, produce almost the same results. About half of all kids will get better. Of those that improve, 80% will show progress in a relatively short time, while the remaining 20% will need longer-term support.

The best child therapists in Bethesda build great relationships with the child and the parent. They also see the child's strengths and are open to hearing the child's possible solutions to the challenges the child faces. Finally, a good therapist appreciates the child's culture and is sensitive to the values of the child's community.