Authenticity is an essential component of the therapeutic environment. I strive to create spaces for individuals to feel safe, heard, seen, and empowered.
Authenticity is an essential component of the therapeutic environment. I strive to create spaces for individuals to feel safe, heard, seen, and empowered.
My communication style is compassionate, laid back, and provides a non-judgmental environment.
My approach to therapy is largely cognitivebehavioral, with a strong emphasis on acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) techniques, specifically learning to be mindful- noticing and accept your thoughts, feelings and physical sensations- while committing to behavior that is consistent with your own values. My experiences both in and out of the work setting are fairly broad so I feel I can address most issues clients present with. My style is engaging and supportive. I view our relationship as a partnership. I will spend the majority of our first sessions together listening to get to know you better. I believe that everything in our lives is interrelated, so at times I may let our focus move to whatever is particularly troubling to you that day. At other times, I may focus you back on the current problem we are trying to solve. I am married with two children and have had two career changes. I have experienced a wide variety of life stressors and have sought help when needed. I believe that these experiences have provided me with empathy, perspective and coping skills that I can use to help you.
Claudette Gadson is currently a Supervisee in Social Work (SISW) Resident of the State of Virginia with years of experience. She treats clients of all ages and specializes in depression, grief, trauma, posttraumatic stress (PTSD), anxiety, and suicidalhomicidal ideation.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Virginia with over 17 years of experience supporting people who struggle with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and trauma. I also specialize in helping individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community work through the intersection of gender, sexuality, race, and identity, as well as the social prejudices and anxieties that can come up with family, friends, and workplaces.
One of my favorite quotes is: "Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away." To me, life is a journey. There will be many bumps, bruises, and obstacles along the way. That's okay. It's how you overcome those hurdles that count. Some need more assistance than others on this journey, and that's okay too. My approach is to promote healing and personal growth and development along this journey called life. I do not claim to have all of the answers. I believe that everyone is the expert of their own lives. My role is to assist you with getting out of your own way and discovering the path that you want to follow.
I like to describe my therapeutic style as eclectic. I pull from many different modalities to find what works best for each individual client. I believe that nothing in life is one size fits all and therapy is no different. Each individual needs something different when they engage in therapy and I strive to help my clients based on their individual needs. I like to take time to get to know my patients at to work collaboratively with them to create goals that make sense for their lives and needs. I primarily work with adolescents, teens, and young adults. I love working with these age groups because there is so much change happening during this time in someone's life. I am a fairly casual person and (when appropriate) like to use humor to connect and engage. I also am a bit of a nerd and have at least a basic to moderate understanding of many of the things that the younger generations enjoy (video games, TikTok, memes, movies, tv, etc.). I love to use this to connect with my clients and to allow them to feel seen.
Paula O’Leary is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Virginia who has worked in the mental health field for 15 years in a variety of settings, including outpatient, school, community-based, residential, hospital, and correctional settings.
Are you feeling overwhelmed to the point that is effecting your focus or ability to sleep at night? Do you find your self feeling sad or not feeling anything at all and you can't see to enjoy even your favorite activities and interests? I am a licensed professional counselor who has been helping people experience breakthough in their minds and emotions for over 6 years. I have a fiery passion for helping people gain insight into their patterns of behavior, including linking their past to their present. I have a compassionate, client-led approach to therapy, tailoring the work that I do to each individual client. I start by completing a comprehensive intake assessment where I screen each person who comes to see me for various mental health conditions. I always provide information along the way and share with clients what I observe and any diagnoses that I assess them with. Then I work with the person to develop a comprehensive treatment plan to identify the goals and objectives of therapy within the first month of counseling. Within the working process, I combine compassionate, empathetic listening with teaching practice skills to provide an avenue for making change possible.
My approach is integrative, intersectional, developmental, and contextual with a basic belief in the value of connection and the power of possibility. My work pulls from principles of Intersectionality and Liberation Practices, Attachment and Relational Science, Differentiation as a Developmental process in relationships, Contextual and Systems Theories, and the essential journey of Trauma Integration across the lifespan. I understand that we are heavily shaped by our relationships, family experiences, and positionality in the social world with regard to race, culture, gender identity, sexuality, etc. My practice is relationship and sexual intimacy focused, and I've deepened my lens to include Level 1 & 2 training in the Gottman Method; Advanced training in the Developmental Model of Couples Therapy, in addition to past experience with PACT & Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy. I only work with couples or relationship structures at this time and I offer in person; telehealth; and a hybrid option. I also offer mini intensives (4 hour sessions), which compress the therapeutic work into a shorter period, offering a powerful and potentially transformative approach for clients seeking to revitalize their relationships, providing a focused and immersive environment for rapid change and deeper understanding. Because I see relationship clients from all across PA and DE, the mini intensive option works well for clients who really want an in person therapy experience, but can't make a weekly or even biweekly commute fit into their schedule.
I take a holistic approach that incorporates mind, body, and spirit. I believe it's important to integrate life meaning into counseling. I respect all faith backgrounds (including none), work within personal belief frameworks, and have appreciation for alternative paths as well as mainstream religions. I'll work with you to set goals and the proper pacing of therapy. Therapy is a collaboration, as ultimately the power to change rests within you. I emphasize unconditional positive regard, respect, a safe and caring therapeutic relationship, individual strengths, and taking control over choices.
Kedian Gooden is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) committed to helping people with mental health challenges live more productive lives and improve their day-to-day functioning. As a PMHNP, Kedian’s role is to provide safe, quality psychiatric care to individuals and their families. She is well versed in using an evidence-based approach to psychiatric assessments, medication evaluations, and medication management for a wide variety of mental health conditions. Additionally, Kedian has over 15 years of experience in health care, working in various positions that have helped her develop the skills and abilities to provide high-quality behavioral health care.
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Living in Bethesda offers many advantages, from its proximity to Washington D.C. to its thriving community near the National Institutes of Health. However, the fast-paced lifestyle and high-achieving environment can also contribute to stress, anxiety, and relationship challenges that many residents face.
Whether you're a healthcare professional managing demanding schedules, a family balancing work and life in Montgomery County, or someone navigating life transitions, seeking therapy is a sign of strength and self-awareness.
Since 2007, GoodTherapy has been dedicated to connecting people with ethical, compassionate therapists who prioritize client confidentiality and work to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health care.
Bethesda residents often seek therapy for anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, work-life balance issues, and trauma recovery. The competitive professional environment, combined with the region's seasonal changes from humid summers to cold winters, can impact mental wellness in various ways.
Local mental health statistics show that up to 18.5% of Montgomery County residents experience mental health challenges, with the highest prevalence among ages 26-49. Our directory includes therapists who understand the unique pressures of living and working in the greater Washington D.C. area.
Bethesda therapists utilize several evidence-based approaches to help clients achieve their mental health goals. These therapeutic methods are tailored to meet individual needs and preferences.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps identify and change negative thought patterns, particularly effective for anxiety and depression common among busy professionals in the area.
Solution-Focused therapy emphasizes building on existing strengths and resources, ideal for goal-oriented individuals seeking practical strategies for life challenges.
Psychodynamic therapy explores unconscious patterns and past experiences, offering deeper insight into relationship dynamics and personal growth.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) teaches emotional regulation skills, while Interpersonal therapy focuses on improving communication and relationship patterns.
Many Bethesda therapists offer specialized services including couples counseling, family therapy, child psychology, trauma therapy, and addiction counseling to address the diverse needs of our community.
Our comprehensive directory makes it easy to search for therapists based on location, specialty, insurance accepted, and therapeutic approach. Each profile provides detailed information about the therapist's background, areas of expertise, and treatment philosophy.
Consider factors such as proximity to your home or workplace in Bethesda, availability for evening or weekend appointments, and whether the therapist has experience with your specific concerns or cultural background.
Many residents appreciate therapists who understand the unique aspects of living in Montgomery County, from navigating career pressures to managing family life in a high-cost area.
Cost concerns shouldn't prevent you from accessing mental health support. Many Bethesda therapists accept insurance, offer sliding-scale fees, or provide payment plans to make therapy accessible to diverse income levels.
Additionally, explore low-cost therapy options including community mental health centers, university training clinics, and employee assistance programs available to many area workers.
If you're having difficulty finding the right therapist in Bethesda, consider expanding your search to nearby communities. Many residents successfully work with therapists in surrounding areas who may offer specialized services or more convenient scheduling options.
Recognizing that you could benefit from therapy and taking action to find support demonstrates courage and commitment to your wellbeing. The advantages of therapy extend beyond addressing immediate concerns to building long-term resilience and life satisfaction.
Start your journey today by exploring our directory of qualified therapists in Bethesda. Each professional listed meets our high standards for ethical practice and is committed to providing compassionate, effective care tailored to your unique needs and goals.
Use GoodTherapy's directory to search for licensed therapists in Bethesda by specialty, insurance accepted, and therapeutic approach. You can filter results based on your specific needs and preferences.
Bethesda therapists offer various evidence-based approaches including CBT, psychodynamic therapy, solution-focused therapy, DBT, interpersonal therapy, and specialized services like couples counseling and trauma therapy.
Therapy costs vary based on the provider and services. Many Bethesda therapists accept insurance, offer sliding-scale fees, or payment plans. Contact therapists directly to discuss pricing and affordable options.
Yes, many Bethesda therapists accept various insurance plans. Use our directory filters to find providers who accept your specific insurance, or contact therapists directly to verify coverage.
Bethesda therapists commonly address anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, work-life balance issues, trauma recovery, family conflicts, and stress management related to the area's high-achieving environment.