Expressive Arts Therapists in Bethesda, MD

Photo of Niki Picogna - Bethesda Play Therapy and Healing, LLC Center, Counselor
Bethesda Play Therapy and Healing, LLC Center
Counselor
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
Our integrative approach to therapy is customized to each client and includes non-directive and directive play therapy, canine-assisted therapy, sand tray, expressive arts, EMDR, CBT, DBT, client-centered, strength-based, trauma-informed, and culturally sensitive therapy.
Here at Bethesda Play Therapy and Healing Center, our clinicians provide integrative psychotherapy services to children, teens, adults, caregivers, and families in English and in Spanish. We strive to hold safe space and form authentic connections during your growth and healing journey.
Our integrative approach to therapy is customized to each client and includes non-directive and directive play therapy, canine-assisted therapy, sand tray, expressive arts, EMDR, CBT, DBT, client-centered, strength-based, trauma-informed, and culturally sensitive therapy.
Here at Bethesda Play Therapy and Healing Center, our clinicians provide integrative psychotherapy services to children, teens, adults, caregivers, and families in English and in Spanish. We strive to hold safe space and form authentic connections during your growth and healing journey.
(240) 698-3371 View (240) 698-3371
Photo of Jade Vega, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jade Vega
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I practice primarily using expressive arts, mindfulness-based, and dialectical behavioral therapy strategies.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who graduated from University of Southern California in 2015. I currently primarily provide therapeutic support to children with a variety of emotional and social needs. I have experience working with children and families within the child welfare system as well as working with clients with a variety of needs and diagnoses in their schools, homes, communities, and inpatient settings. I have more than eight years of experience supporting children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental disabilities, as well as their families.
I practice primarily using expressive arts, mindfulness-based, and dialectical behavioral therapy strategies.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who graduated from University of Southern California in 2015. I currently primarily provide therapeutic support to children with a variety of emotional and social needs. I have experience working with children and families within the child welfare system as well as working with clients with a variety of needs and diagnoses in their schools, homes, communities, and inpatient settings. I have more than eight years of experience supporting children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental disabilities, as well as their families.
(240) 589-7318 View (240) 589-7318
Photo of Jaclyn Halpern, PsyD, Psychologist
Jaclyn Halpern
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
In therapy, I incorporate ACT, psychodynamic, play, Self-Compassion, expressive arts, and Mindfulness techniques.
I am a neurodiversity and LGBTQ+ affirming therapist, tester, and supervisor. Support is inclusive and welcoming to all. I see all ages for individuals, families, groups, couples, and parenting. We will focus foremost on building a nurturing, supportive, honest, and empathic interpersonal therapeutic relationship. I will meet you where you are, and help you identify, embrace, and support your strengths, vulnerabilities, and needs. Support is guided by your goals, & based in attachment and the relational neurosciences. I have over a decade's worth of experience as a therapist, tester, supervisor, presenter, and clinical director.
In therapy, I incorporate ACT, psychodynamic, play, Self-Compassion, expressive arts, and Mindfulness techniques.
I am a neurodiversity and LGBTQ+ affirming therapist, tester, and supervisor. Support is inclusive and welcoming to all. I see all ages for individuals, families, groups, couples, and parenting. We will focus foremost on building a nurturing, supportive, honest, and empathic interpersonal therapeutic relationship. I will meet you where you are, and help you identify, embrace, and support your strengths, vulnerabilities, and needs. Support is guided by your goals, & based in attachment and the relational neurosciences. I have over a decade's worth of experience as a therapist, tester, supervisor, presenter, and clinical director.
(301) 684-5493 View (301) 684-5493
Photo of Julie Colatrella, LGPC, Counselor
Julie Colatrella
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
I specialize in supporting teens and young adults ages 13-35 as they navigate life transitions and stressors. Together, we explore the roots of personal identity and consider tools to help you achieve your mental health goals. My approach is client-centered, and my role is to empower and support you as you create the life you want to live. I incorporate techniques from cognitive behavioral, mindfulness, solution-focused, and expressive arts approaches.
I specialize in supporting teens and young adults ages 13-35 as they navigate life transitions and stressors. Together, we explore the roots of personal identity and consider tools to help you achieve your mental health goals. My approach is client-centered, and my role is to empower and support you as you create the life you want to live. I incorporate techniques from cognitive behavioral, mindfulness, solution-focused, and expressive arts approaches.
(240) 424-0690 View (240) 424-0690
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 Roxanna Radley - Global Psychotherapy Center of Bethesda, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Global Psychotherapy Center of Bethesda
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
We are a team of professionals with clinical expertise who love working together to provide the appropriate treatment in a compassionate, therapeutic environment. We provide services to the international community. Our goal is to provide high-quality psychotherapy and counseling treatment to individuals, couples, and families. We focus on helping our clients find their inner resources to be able to make changes in their lives in a healthy and meaningful way.
We are a team of professionals with clinical expertise who love working together to provide the appropriate treatment in a compassionate, therapeutic environment. We provide services to the international community. Our goal is to provide high-quality psychotherapy and counseling treatment to individuals, couples, and families. We focus on helping our clients find their inner resources to be able to make changes in their lives in a healthy and meaningful way.
(240) 823-5262 View (240) 823-5262
Photo of Cynthia Cubbage - The Barker Adoption Foundation, LCSW-C, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Barker Adoption Foundation
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
Touched by Adoption? The Barker Foundation recognizes that adoption is a lifelong journey, with normal developmental challenges and tasks. We will walk with you through and support you through your journey. Whether you are an adoptive parent with a child that is struggling emotionally or academically; a birth parent who is seeking understanding, reflection, or search and reunion; or an adoptee looking for support- we are here for you.
Touched by Adoption? The Barker Foundation recognizes that adoption is a lifelong journey, with normal developmental challenges and tasks. We will walk with you through and support you through your journey. Whether you are an adoptive parent with a child that is struggling emotionally or academically; a birth parent who is seeking understanding, reflection, or search and reunion; or an adoptee looking for support- we are here for you.
(240) 245-2720 View (240) 245-2720
Photo of Amy Pelletier, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Pelletier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20817
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 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 Kathryn Wood, LCPC, P-RDT
Kathryn Wood
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, P-RDT
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I help people who long to create meaning and connection in their lives, but worry they don’t know how, or would like to do it a little better. I work with adults and emerging adults and have a special interest in working with folks undergoing all kinds of life transitions or changes. I am a kink/poly-affirming practitioner and work with clients all along the LGBTQIA2S+ spectrum. People come to see me for anxiety, depression, trouble adjusting to new life circumstances, or simply to have a space to explore some of the big questions around how to have a vital, connected life.
I help people who long to create meaning and connection in their lives, but worry they don’t know how, or would like to do it a little better. I work with adults and emerging adults and have a special interest in working with folks undergoing all kinds of life transitions or changes. I am a kink/poly-affirming practitioner and work with clients all along the LGBTQIA2S+ spectrum. People come to see me for anxiety, depression, trouble adjusting to new life circumstances, or simply to have a space to explore some of the big questions around how to have a vital, connected life.
(240) 240-3861 View (240) 240-3861
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 Lauren Rubenstein, PsyD, RYT, JD, Psychologist
Lauren Rubenstein
Psychologist, PsyD, RYT, JD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, parenting difficulties, chronic stress, life transitions or the effects of trauma? Would you like psychotherapy to be a collaborative process, where we determine a personalized approach to our work together? I typically blend insight-oriented therapy to deepen self-understanding, mindfulness practices to cultivate awareness and compassion, cognitive-behavioral interventions for symptom relief, and mind-body medicine for regulating the nervous system. With specialized training in yoga and meditation, I enjoy interweaving Western clinical psychology with Eastern yoga and mindfulness-based practices for a holistic, strengths based, mind-body approach to health and well being.
Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, parenting difficulties, chronic stress, life transitions or the effects of trauma? Would you like psychotherapy to be a collaborative process, where we determine a personalized approach to our work together? I typically blend insight-oriented therapy to deepen self-understanding, mindfulness practices to cultivate awareness and compassion, cognitive-behavioral interventions for symptom relief, and mind-body medicine for regulating the nervous system. With specialized training in yoga and meditation, I enjoy interweaving Western clinical psychology with Eastern yoga and mindfulness-based practices for a holistic, strengths based, mind-body approach to health and well being.
(301) 637-8902 View (301) 637-8902
Photo of Brittany LaFleur, MS, LCPC-S, RPT, Counselor
Brittany LaFleur
Counselor, MS, LCPC-S, RPT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
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.
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 Judy Wang, CPC, LCPC, Counselor
Judy Wang
Counselor, CPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20815  (Online Only)
Are you finding your emotions (ie. stress, irritability, anxiety, frustration, etc) are overwhelming you? Is this related to relationship struggles, life transitions, work/career issues and family drama? Maybe you're triggered by past memories that have left deep scars. Or you're struggling to break the cycle of intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. Whatever you're struggling with, you just know that you've reached a breaking point of toughing it out on your own and you're wondering where to begin. With the right support and strategies, you can start living the life you've always wanted.
Are you finding your emotions (ie. stress, irritability, anxiety, frustration, etc) are overwhelming you? Is this related to relationship struggles, life transitions, work/career issues and family drama? Maybe you're triggered by past memories that have left deep scars. Or you're struggling to break the cycle of intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. Whatever you're struggling with, you just know that you've reached a breaking point of toughing it out on your own and you're wondering where to begin. With the right support and strategies, you can start living the life you've always wanted.
(702) 447-0424 View (702) 447-0424
Photo of Katie Piura - Child Haven Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Child Haven Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
Does your child have trouble dealing with their emotions? Is their behavior sometimes disruptive to your home life? Have they experienced sudden loss or trauma? As they grow, children and adolescents develop social skills and emotional intelligence. This awareness helps them to develop into healthy, happy, and successful individuals. But some children have trouble processing their emotions and this often leads to behavior that negatively impacts their school life, home life and overall well-being. Therapy offers children and adolescents a safe space to work through their thoughts and emotions.
Does your child have trouble dealing with their emotions? Is their behavior sometimes disruptive to your home life? Have they experienced sudden loss or trauma? As they grow, children and adolescents develop social skills and emotional intelligence. This awareness helps them to develop into healthy, happy, and successful individuals. But some children have trouble processing their emotions and this often leads to behavior that negatively impacts their school life, home life and overall well-being. Therapy offers children and adolescents a safe space to work through their thoughts and emotions.
(301) 265-2089 View (301) 265-2089
Photo of Katie O'Mailey, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie O'Mailey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20816  (Online Only)
You feel like you’ve lost control of your own life. You’re feeling stuck reliving the past and fearing the future. You tell yourself you should “just get over it,” wondering if you’re overreacting. As much as you try to “move on,” the past has a frustrating way of popping back up. You work HARD to reclaim control of your life, yet you’re getting tired of pretending everything is “fine.” Because on the inside, it feels like you’re on an emotional roller coaster, feeling overwhelmed, strangely numb, and everything in between. You’ve lost touch with your own innate worthiness and power. And you just want your life back.
You feel like you’ve lost control of your own life. You’re feeling stuck reliving the past and fearing the future. You tell yourself you should “just get over it,” wondering if you’re overreacting. As much as you try to “move on,” the past has a frustrating way of popping back up. You work HARD to reclaim control of your life, yet you’re getting tired of pretending everything is “fine.” Because on the inside, it feels like you’re on an emotional roller coaster, feeling overwhelmed, strangely numb, and everything in between. You’ve lost touch with your own innate worthiness and power. And you just want your life back.
(301) 215-2136 View (301) 215-2136
Photo of Katie Cogan, MA, LCPC, LCC
Katie Cogan
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, LCC
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
Katie specializes in PTSD, adoption/foster care issues, helping people who are suffering from chronic illnesses. Katie has an interest in how we can develop second careers as “retire” and reinvent ourselves to use our wealth of wisdom.
Katie specializes in PTSD, adoption/foster care issues, helping people who are suffering from chronic illnesses. Katie has an interest in how we can develop second careers as “retire” and reinvent ourselves to use our wealth of wisdom.
(240) 541-5476 View (240) 541-5476
Photo of Samantha Congdon, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Samantha Congdon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
I am Sam Congdon, a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist providing teletherapy in the states of Maryland, Virginia, California and New Hampshire. My speciality is with adolescents, teens, young adults, and college students. I also have experience with adults, couples and families utilizing a collaborative approach to fit each client's individual needs. I grew up in California and went to school at the California State University of Chico, where I received my Bachelors of Art in Psychology, and Master's of Science in Marriage Family Therapy. My goal is to help you, be your best you.
I am Sam Congdon, a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist providing teletherapy in the states of Maryland, Virginia, California and New Hampshire. My speciality is with adolescents, teens, young adults, and college students. I also have experience with adults, couples and families utilizing a collaborative approach to fit each client's individual needs. I grew up in California and went to school at the California State University of Chico, where I received my Bachelors of Art in Psychology, and Master's of Science in Marriage Family Therapy. My goal is to help you, be your best you.
(240) 713-5748 x105 View (240) 713-5748 x105
Photo of Jessica Moore Simon, PsyD, LCPAT, Psychologist
Jessica Moore Simon
Psychologist, PsyD, LCPAT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
Not accepting new clients
Not currently taking new individual patients. Dr. Jessica Simon is a Licensed Psychologist and Licensed Creative Arts Therapist practicing since 2003. She received her Master's in Creative Arts Therapy from Pratt Institute, and her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the George Washington University. She believes that everyone is unique and deserves an individualized treatment plan, and that psychotherapy is both an art and a science. She utilizes curiosity, self-awareness, creativity and humor to promote personal growth and healing. Respect for individual differences and all aspects of diversity is a cornerstone of her practice.
Not currently taking new individual patients. Dr. Jessica Simon is a Licensed Psychologist and Licensed Creative Arts Therapist practicing since 2003. She received her Master's in Creative Arts Therapy from Pratt Institute, and her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the George Washington University. She believes that everyone is unique and deserves an individualized treatment plan, and that psychotherapy is both an art and a science. She utilizes curiosity, self-awareness, creativity and humor to promote personal growth and healing. Respect for individual differences and all aspects of diversity is a cornerstone of her practice.
(301) 476-5905 View (301) 476-5905
Photo of Amy Somerstein - Holistic Healing Counseling Center, LLC, LCPC, LCSW-C, LGPC, LMSW, Licensed Professional Counselor
Holistic Healing Counseling Center, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LCSW-C, LGPC, LMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
Holistic Healing Counseling Center (HHCC) is a virtual practice in MD. At HHCC, we believe a person's well-being is interconnected and focus on physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual health. Our holistic approach aims to improve all aspects of your life by addressing the root causes of your concerns and using natural methods whenever possible. Our telehealth model allows our clinicians to deliver care remotely for your convenience.
Holistic Healing Counseling Center (HHCC) is a virtual practice in MD. At HHCC, we believe a person's well-being is interconnected and focus on physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual health. Our holistic approach aims to improve all aspects of your life by addressing the root causes of your concerns and using natural methods whenever possible. Our telehealth model allows our clinicians to deliver care remotely for your convenience.
(240) 852-2781 View (240) 852-2781
Photo of Lisa Genser, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Genser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
Whatever it is that has brought you to this site today, I am sure that you would like for you and/or your child/teenager to feel better. I can help address depression, reduce anxiety, and better manage stress, life changes, and cope with the loss of a loved one. I also specialize in helping people who struggle with familial conflict, sexuality, sexual identity, school/workplace difficulties, pregnancy and the postpartum period, among many other issues.
Whatever it is that has brought you to this site today, I am sure that you would like for you and/or your child/teenager to feel better. I can help address depression, reduce anxiety, and better manage stress, life changes, and cope with the loss of a loved one. I also specialize in helping people who struggle with familial conflict, sexuality, sexual identity, school/workplace difficulties, pregnancy and the postpartum period, among many other issues.
(240) 581-8640 View (240) 581-8640
1
Expressive Arts Therapists

What happens in expressive arts therapy?

In an expressive arts therapy session, the therapist will provide the space and materials necessary to encourage the client to express themselves creatively. These can include art supplies, musical instruments, a journal, a camera, and more. The therapist offers careful guidance throughout the creative process, often noticing and talking about psychological issues as they arise. Many clients also benefit from the mind-body connection—the physical act of making art can help them feel more grounded and present.

How long does expressive arts therapy take?

An expressive arts therapy session will typically last between 50 minutes and an hour. Group sessions may run longer. Sometimes, a client might only need one or two sessions of expressive arts therapy in conjunction with talk therapy to resolve a psychological issue. Others might find a fixed number of sessions over the course of either weeks or months to be beneficial. The duration depends on the client and their individual needs and goals for therapy.

How does expressive arts therapy help children?

Creativity is an important part of normal child development. Expressive arts therapy proves a safe outlet for child clients to learn to identify their emotions and express them in healthy ways. In expressive arts therapy, children can build their self-esteem, discover more about their personality and strengths, and feel a sense of normalcy in an otherwise chaotic world. This therapeutic approach can be particularly helpful for children with developmental disabilities, autism, ADHD, speech impairments, and other conditions.

What are the limitations of expressive arts therapy?

Sometimes individuals have physical limitations that can affect their ability to express themselves artistically in certain mediums. For example, someone with hearing problems might find it difficult to make music. Sickness and mobility issues can make some types of art physically inaccessible (e.g., sculpting, dancing, etc.). Sometimes, clients are overly skeptical and have trouble letting go and engaging with the creative process. Individuals who require a higher level of care may be better served with other types of therapy.