Emotionally Focused Therapists in Gaithersburg, MD

Photo of Jonathan Ladd, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jonathan Ladd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
I tailor my approach to my clients' particular situations and unique personalities, drawing from: Imago Therapy (as a Certified Advanced Imago Clinician), Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Susan Johnson's Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, EMDR and more.
Looking for relationship help? To relieve the pain or find better ways to manage? The "secrets" of dealing skillfully with difficulties, differences and hurts, are not really secrets: you CAN learn these and many more relationship skills if you are curious, motivated and persistent. I'd like to help you: a) address and relieve your most pressing problems, b) set clear, realistic goals, and c) learn to avoid a tremendous amount of headache and heartache in the future. Our collaboration may yield a lifetime of benefits.
I tailor my approach to my clients' particular situations and unique personalities, drawing from: Imago Therapy (as a Certified Advanced Imago Clinician), Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Susan Johnson's Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, EMDR and more.
Looking for relationship help? To relieve the pain or find better ways to manage? The "secrets" of dealing skillfully with difficulties, differences and hurts, are not really secrets: you CAN learn these and many more relationship skills if you are curious, motivated and persistent. I'd like to help you: a) address and relieve your most pressing problems, b) set clear, realistic goals, and c) learn to avoid a tremendous amount of headache and heartache in the future. Our collaboration may yield a lifetime of benefits.
(301) 278-8681 View (301) 278-8681
Photo of Aryana H Nikpora, Pre-Licensed Professional
Aryana H Nikpora
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Aryana’s therapeutic approach is rooted in the belief that therapy should provide individuals with a safe environment to explore themselves and their perspectives while working towards their goals. She emphasizes the importance of confronting difficult emotions and understanding their origins as catalysts for change. Aryana’s professional interests span Emotion-Focused Therapy ( EFT), Attachment Theory, Mindfulness-Based Techniques (MBT), and Person-Centered Therapy, though she employs an integrative method to tailor her approach to each client’s unique needs.
Aryana’s therapeutic approach is rooted in the belief that therapy should provide individuals with a safe environment to explore themselves and their perspectives while working towards their goals. She emphasizes the importance of confronting difficult emotions and understanding their origins as catalysts for change. Aryana’s professional interests span Emotion-Focused Therapy ( EFT), Attachment Theory, Mindfulness-Based Techniques (MBT), and Person-Centered Therapy, though she employs an integrative method to tailor her approach to each client’s unique needs.
(240) 556-2738 View (240) 556-2738
Photo of Erin Severe, PsyD, Psychologist
Erin Severe
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
I also use the Gottman Method and EFT to work with couples.
Is it difficult to communicate with your partner? Do you feel like you are drifting apart from each other and don’t enjoy spending time together like you used to? Are you coping with emotional or physical trauma? I help individuals and couples who are facing challenges in their relationships, struggling with mood or anxiety issues, coping with trauma, or managing the symptoms and effects of attention deficit disorder (ADD/ADHD) so that they can lead happier and more satisfying lives. I also provide required psychological assessments for those seeking bariatric surgery procedures.
I also use the Gottman Method and EFT to work with couples.
Is it difficult to communicate with your partner? Do you feel like you are drifting apart from each other and don’t enjoy spending time together like you used to? Are you coping with emotional or physical trauma? I help individuals and couples who are facing challenges in their relationships, struggling with mood or anxiety issues, coping with trauma, or managing the symptoms and effects of attention deficit disorder (ADD/ADHD) so that they can lead happier and more satisfying lives. I also provide required psychological assessments for those seeking bariatric surgery procedures.
(240) 887-0565 View (240) 887-0565
Photo of Dayle Sterman, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dayle Sterman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My experience includes advanced training in couples therapy ( emotionally focused), family therapy, solution focused therapy, trauma, addictions , and work with family members of substance abusers.
Teletherapy available. Are you struggling to improve feelings about yourself and your relationships? Need help with stresses of daily living? . You may be struggling with anxiety, sadness, depression, addiction or grief. I can help you navigate through tough times. I offer individual and couples therapy to help get you "unstuck", find new ways to cope, & improve communication and intimacy in relationships. In therapy you learn to overcome obstacles that interfere with happiness. We identify strengths and patterns of behavior that interfere with achieving happiness and success in life.
My experience includes advanced training in couples therapy ( emotionally focused), family therapy, solution focused therapy, trauma, addictions , and work with family members of substance abusers.
Teletherapy available. Are you struggling to improve feelings about yourself and your relationships? Need help with stresses of daily living? . You may be struggling with anxiety, sadness, depression, addiction or grief. I can help you navigate through tough times. I offer individual and couples therapy to help get you "unstuck", find new ways to cope, & improve communication and intimacy in relationships. In therapy you learn to overcome obstacles that interfere with happiness. We identify strengths and patterns of behavior that interfere with achieving happiness and success in life.
(301) 852-5582 View (301) 852-5582
Photo of Aree Bartine, MA, LCPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Aree Bartine
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20877  (Online Only)
I have used Psychodynamics, EFT, CBT, EMDR, and Attachment Theory.
Experiencing a heavy heart of pain from a small or sizeable traumatic experience can keep one from receiving a life of joy. So many times, we desire to lay that burden down, but we are unsure how to free ourselves from the hurt. Hope is available. There is a process that can help anyone ready for a change. My clients say they experience me as non-judgmental and caring while they process their painful places. I have a way of understanding and helping them to find answers to their hurts in an environment where they feel safe, so they can bring their concerns into a therapy session and gain healing.
I have used Psychodynamics, EFT, CBT, EMDR, and Attachment Theory.
Experiencing a heavy heart of pain from a small or sizeable traumatic experience can keep one from receiving a life of joy. So many times, we desire to lay that burden down, but we are unsure how to free ourselves from the hurt. Hope is available. There is a process that can help anyone ready for a change. My clients say they experience me as non-judgmental and caring while they process their painful places. I have a way of understanding and helping them to find answers to their hurts in an environment where they feel safe, so they can bring their concerns into a therapy session and gain healing.
(301) 685-0571 View (301) 685-0571
Photo of Larry Letich, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Larry Letich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
In addition, I'm a certified Emotionally Focused Couples Therapist ( EFT), a method proven to help mend distressed relationships and restore frayed bonds.
Are you a smart, feelingful, sometimes intense man or woman who knows you can make more of your life than you have? Are you going through a turbulent time, frustrated with yourself and life, struggling in a relationship, knowing you're not fully using your talents and intelligence? It could be adult ADHD is tripping you up in ways you don't realize. Or it could be other emotional, relational or family issues. You want someone who listens closely to what you feel and what's going on in your life and your relationships, not just to "validate" you but to understand, see the whole picture and help you move forward on all levels.
In addition, I'm a certified Emotionally Focused Couples Therapist ( EFT), a method proven to help mend distressed relationships and restore frayed bonds.
Are you a smart, feelingful, sometimes intense man or woman who knows you can make more of your life than you have? Are you going through a turbulent time, frustrated with yourself and life, struggling in a relationship, knowing you're not fully using your talents and intelligence? It could be adult ADHD is tripping you up in ways you don't realize. Or it could be other emotional, relational or family issues. You want someone who listens closely to what you feel and what's going on in your life and your relationships, not just to "validate" you but to understand, see the whole picture and help you move forward on all levels.
(240) 230-3495 View (240) 230-3495
Photo of Ellen Levine, LCSW-C, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellen Levine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Waitlist for new clients
I provide therapy to adults, couples, adolescents, and children, working with issues including relationship difficulties, life changes, trauma, grief, and emotion regulation. During therapy, I aim to meet you where you’re at and create an emotionally safe space where you can fully express yourself and heal, no matter what challenges you’re facing. I integrate techniques from client-centered, psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, EMDR, EFT, the Gottman Method, and mindfulness- and attachment-based therapies to help clients deal with stress, anxiety, depression, and life events impacting well-being.
I provide therapy to adults, couples, adolescents, and children, working with issues including relationship difficulties, life changes, trauma, grief, and emotion regulation. During therapy, I aim to meet you where you’re at and create an emotionally safe space where you can fully express yourself and heal, no matter what challenges you’re facing. I integrate techniques from client-centered, psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, EMDR, EFT, the Gottman Method, and mindfulness- and attachment-based therapies to help clients deal with stress, anxiety, depression, and life events impacting well-being.
(301) 701-4234 View (301) 701-4234
Photo of Sherri Robbins, MA, LCMHCS, LCPC
Sherri Robbins
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHCS, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
My main treatment approaches are Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (a form of Cognitive Behavior Therapy), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT), Gottman Methods, and EMDR therapy.
I am licensed in Maryland and North Carolina: offering virtual sessions for those in Maryland and in-person and virtual in North Carolina. I see individuals from teens to adults, from all backgrounds and beliefs, who are dealing with a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, family and relationship issues, and identity struggles. www.soundmindlkn.com
My main treatment approaches are Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (a form of Cognitive Behavior Therapy), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT), Gottman Methods, and EMDR therapy.
I am licensed in Maryland and North Carolina: offering virtual sessions for those in Maryland and in-person and virtual in North Carolina. I see individuals from teens to adults, from all backgrounds and beliefs, who are dealing with a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, family and relationship issues, and identity struggles. www.soundmindlkn.com
(704) 237-0608 View (704) 237-0608
Photo of Errin McLendon, Licensed Professional Counselor
Errin McLendon
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
I am a native Baltimorean and with a heart for helping others. I am passionate about helping young adults, adults, couples, and families find their inner strengths to bring about the change they want in their lives through a wide variety of evidence-based theories. I work with people from all walks of life with concerns ranging from adjustment and self-discovery to severe trauma and depression and everything in between.
I am a native Baltimorean and with a heart for helping others. I am passionate about helping young adults, adults, couples, and families find their inner strengths to bring about the change they want in their lives through a wide variety of evidence-based theories. I work with people from all walks of life with concerns ranging from adjustment and self-discovery to severe trauma and depression and everything in between.
(240) 896-4704 View (240) 896-4704
Photo of LaRita Mullins, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
LaRita Mullins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
I believe that you should feel comfortable with the therapist you choose and hopeful about the therapy. When you feel this way, therapy is more likely to have a positive outcome. Please allow me to describe how I see therapy. I use a cognitive behavioral approach, which is based on the idea that our thoughts cause our feelings and behaviors, not things such as people, situations, and events. I am a firm believer that we can change the way we think, feel, and act even if the situation does not change. Today you are one step closer to a new "you" where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being.
I believe that you should feel comfortable with the therapist you choose and hopeful about the therapy. When you feel this way, therapy is more likely to have a positive outcome. Please allow me to describe how I see therapy. I use a cognitive behavioral approach, which is based on the idea that our thoughts cause our feelings and behaviors, not things such as people, situations, and events. I am a firm believer that we can change the way we think, feel, and act even if the situation does not change. Today you are one step closer to a new "you" where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being.
(240) 363-8626 View (240) 363-8626
Photo of Leah Howard, LCPC, MS, Counselor
Leah Howard
Counselor, LCPC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Waitlist for new clients
Leah helps adults who are anxious, depressed, stressed, have low self-esteem, are having difficulty adjusting, are having trouble maintaining healthy relationships, and have other counseling needs by taking a proactive and client-centered approach to therapy.
Leah helps adults who are anxious, depressed, stressed, have low self-esteem, are having difficulty adjusting, are having trouble maintaining healthy relationships, and have other counseling needs by taking a proactive and client-centered approach to therapy.
(240) 652-2774 View (240) 652-2774
Photo of Rebecca Austin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Austin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20877
I am a Licensed Social Worker with a passion for decreasing the stigma surrounding mental health and promoting the health and well being of my clients. For my undergraduate degree, I moved from Central Jersey (Yes! It exists!) to South Jersey to attend Stockton University. I received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Social Work with a Minor in Behavioral Neuroscience from Stockton, and then moved on to attend graduate school in Philadelphia. I received my Master of Social Work Degree with a clinical concentration from the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Social Policy and Practice in May of 2020.
I am a Licensed Social Worker with a passion for decreasing the stigma surrounding mental health and promoting the health and well being of my clients. For my undergraduate degree, I moved from Central Jersey (Yes! It exists!) to South Jersey to attend Stockton University. I received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Social Work with a Minor in Behavioral Neuroscience from Stockton, and then moved on to attend graduate school in Philadelphia. I received my Master of Social Work Degree with a clinical concentration from the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Social Policy and Practice in May of 2020.
(240) 759-2276 View (240) 759-2276
Photo of Lee Tomkin Stern, LCPC, MS, CPCC, Counselor
Lee Tomkin Stern
Counselor, LCPC, MS, CPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
My name is Lee Tomkin Stern. I am a licensed clinical professional counselor in the state of Maryland and have received my training from Johns Hopkins University. I have experience working with tweens, teens, adults and families. Now, more than ever, mental health care is needed desperately. I specialize in a cognitive behavioral approach to help my clients become aware of negative or inaccurate thinking patterns so that they can better cope and respond to them in a more effective way. Cognitive behavioral therapy can be very helpful when treating symptoms from anxiety.
My name is Lee Tomkin Stern. I am a licensed clinical professional counselor in the state of Maryland and have received my training from Johns Hopkins University. I have experience working with tweens, teens, adults and families. Now, more than ever, mental health care is needed desperately. I specialize in a cognitive behavioral approach to help my clients become aware of negative or inaccurate thinking patterns so that they can better cope and respond to them in a more effective way. Cognitive behavioral therapy can be very helpful when treating symptoms from anxiety.
(240) 800-1607 View (240) 800-1607
Photo of Cleaster Snerling-Woodward, LCPC, Counselor
Cleaster Snerling-Woodward
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Cleaster Snerling-Woodward, and I am glad you are here. As a professional counselor, I work with adults from all walks of life to help others find meaning and purpose. This starts with a thorough assessment phase that emphasizes understanding my clients' intersecting identities, symptoms, and goals. Because of the inherent diversity of human experience, I believe effective treatment begins with a thorough understanding of where each person is and what has led to this point in their life.
Hello! My name is Cleaster Snerling-Woodward, and I am glad you are here. As a professional counselor, I work with adults from all walks of life to help others find meaning and purpose. This starts with a thorough assessment phase that emphasizes understanding my clients' intersecting identities, symptoms, and goals. Because of the inherent diversity of human experience, I believe effective treatment begins with a thorough understanding of where each person is and what has led to this point in their life.
(240) 771-1650 View (240) 771-1650
Photo of Brad Bryk, PsyD, Psychologist
Brad Bryk
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20877  (Online Only)
I work with adults who struggle with anxiety, relationship distress, identity development, perfectionism, and managing change. One area of specialization is working with current and former athletes, coaches, caregivers of athletes, and individuals in high-stress jobs, particularly individuals who experience physical injury, burnout, relationship issues on and off the field, performance anxiety, self-esteem struggles, and body image concerns. My goal as a therapist is to create a supportive and collaborative space and relationship with my clients to allow for in-depth exploration and perspective taking.
I work with adults who struggle with anxiety, relationship distress, identity development, perfectionism, and managing change. One area of specialization is working with current and former athletes, coaches, caregivers of athletes, and individuals in high-stress jobs, particularly individuals who experience physical injury, burnout, relationship issues on and off the field, performance anxiety, self-esteem struggles, and body image concerns. My goal as a therapist is to create a supportive and collaborative space and relationship with my clients to allow for in-depth exploration and perspective taking.
(240) 209-9662 View (240) 209-9662
Photo of Dianisha Carter, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dianisha Carter
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
It is important to me to be compassionate and empathetic for all my clients and I work in an integrated therapeutic approach, tailoring my treatments to the needs of my clients. The treatment follows the goals of the client through the teamwork of the counselor and the client, so that the client's autonomy is reinforced.
It is important to me to be compassionate and empathetic for all my clients and I work in an integrated therapeutic approach, tailoring my treatments to the needs of my clients. The treatment follows the goals of the client through the teamwork of the counselor and the client, so that the client's autonomy is reinforced.
(240) 635-9284 View (240) 635-9284
Photo of Ericka Jennings, LGPC, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ericka Jennings
Pre-Licensed Professional, LGPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
I’m Ericka Jennings, LGPC, NCC, and I bring a unique blend of experience as both an educator and counselor to support individuals in their journey toward healing and growth. My ideal clients are children, adolescents, and adults who are navigating complex emotional, academic, or life transition challenges. Whether it's a child struggling with school-related issues like anxiety or a professional feeling stuck in their career path, my clients often seek a space where they can feel heard and understood. Their goals often include overcoming barriers to success, strengthening relationships, and building a deeper sense of self-confidence.
I’m Ericka Jennings, LGPC, NCC, and I bring a unique blend of experience as both an educator and counselor to support individuals in their journey toward healing and growth. My ideal clients are children, adolescents, and adults who are navigating complex emotional, academic, or life transition challenges. Whether it's a child struggling with school-related issues like anxiety or a professional feeling stuck in their career path, my clients often seek a space where they can feel heard and understood. Their goals often include overcoming barriers to success, strengthening relationships, and building a deeper sense of self-confidence.
(240) 895-9258 View (240) 895-9258
Photo of Samuel Woldemichael, LPC
Samuel Woldemichael
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
My ideal client seeks self-exploration & understanding, facing issues like anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. They need a supportive space for personal growth, aiming to gain insight, develop coping strategies, improve communication, & foster healthy relationships. They aspire to enhance mental well-being, achieve a better life quality, & unlock their full potential.
My ideal client seeks self-exploration & understanding, facing issues like anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. They need a supportive space for personal growth, aiming to gain insight, develop coping strategies, improve communication, & foster healthy relationships. They aspire to enhance mental well-being, achieve a better life quality, & unlock their full potential.
(301) 780-4854 View (301) 780-4854
Photo of Lisa M Joy, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa M Joy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients! Lisa is a Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical & a board-approved clinical supervisor. With thirty years of eclectic clinical experience & eighteen years of behavioral health leadership experience, Lisa has helped a variety of people with diverse needs. This includes children, adolescents, adults, families, couples, parents, groups, communities, students, & professionals experiencing depression, anxiety, ADHD, stress, compassion fatigue, burnout, life changes, & workplace challenges. Empathy, compassion, trust, and unconditional regard are the foundation of the therapeutic relationship with Lisa.
Accepting New Clients! Lisa is a Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical & a board-approved clinical supervisor. With thirty years of eclectic clinical experience & eighteen years of behavioral health leadership experience, Lisa has helped a variety of people with diverse needs. This includes children, adolescents, adults, families, couples, parents, groups, communities, students, & professionals experiencing depression, anxiety, ADHD, stress, compassion fatigue, burnout, life changes, & workplace challenges. Empathy, compassion, trust, and unconditional regard are the foundation of the therapeutic relationship with Lisa.
(240) 734-2379 View (240) 734-2379
Photo of Raphael J Sayada, LCPC
Raphael J Sayada
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20877
Waitlist for new clients
Clients seeking treatment from me find that their symptoms relate to behavior addiction, cultural identity, developmental issues, family dynamic issues, and cognitive/affective limitations. Typically, at the epicenter of these issues is regarding information processes within interpersonal dynamics online and offline. Dependent on the frequency, intensity and duration of individual symptoms, my clients find strength within cognitive-behavioral therapy, humanistic therapy, mindfulness-based practices, and psychodynamic based treatment plans.
Clients seeking treatment from me find that their symptoms relate to behavior addiction, cultural identity, developmental issues, family dynamic issues, and cognitive/affective limitations. Typically, at the epicenter of these issues is regarding information processes within interpersonal dynamics online and offline. Dependent on the frequency, intensity and duration of individual symptoms, my clients find strength within cognitive-behavioral therapy, humanistic therapy, mindfulness-based practices, and psychodynamic based treatment plans.
(301) 973-3237 View (301) 973-3237

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Emotionally Focused Therapists

Who is emotionally focused therapy for?

Emotionally focused therapy (EFT) is for couples who are emotionally distressed, stuck in an unsatisfying relationship pattern or feeling deeply alienated. They may even believe the relationship is beyond repair. Very often, the partners display intense anger, fear, grief, loss of trust, or a sense of betrayal in the relationship. In addition, EFT is helpful to couples and individuals who have difficulty expressing emotions and those who have trouble regulating emotions.

Why do people need emotionally focused therapy?

People need emotionally focused therapy because the need for others is built into the brain, but the pressures of daily life can erode feelings of love, and couples often do not have the skills to find their way back to the comfort of each other. Instead, they may be stuck in repetitive patterns of anger, fear, grief, loss of trust, or a sense of betrayal. Emotionally focused therapy regards such strong negative feelings as expressions of protest over the loss of connection and turns them into pathways of reconnection.

What happens in emotionally focused therapy?

Over the course of eight to 20 weekly sessions, couples de-escalate their negative emotional reactivity to one another so that they can listen to each other and be responsive to each other’s needs. Then the deep emotional and physical bond is restored, giving partners a sense of comfort and security, which they can use to solve whatever problems come their way. The therapist plays an active role, helping partners understand how anger and withdrawal are actually misguided cries for connection.

What problems does emotionally focused therapy treat?

EFT is designed to help couples stuck in dysfunctional relationship patterns regain closeness and rebuild their relationship. Typically, such couples experience considerable distress, with partners feeling alienated and distrustful of one another, not certain their relationship can survive. EFT is also helpful to individuals experiencing attachment-related fears of loss; it helps them learn to use their fears as a way of eliciting the closeness they desire.