Therapy Services in Chevy Chase, MD
At Washington Behavioral Medicine Associates (WBMA), we offer evidence-based therapy services designed to support mental health and well-being across all stages of life. Our integrated approach combines clinical expertise with compassionate care to address the unique needs of each person we serve.
Located in Chevy Chase, MD, our practice provides mental health therapy to individuals, couples, and families throughout the Washington DC metro area, including Bethesda, Potomac, Rockville, and McLean. Whether you’re seeking support for yourself, your child, or your family, our team delivers personalized behavioral health services within a strong therapeutic relationship.
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Therapy Services for Every Stage of Life
Individual Child Therapy
Children face unique emotional and behavioral challenges as they grow. Our child therapy services help young children work through difficulties including anxiety, behavioral concerns, and neurodevelopmental differences. We know one of the hardest difficulties caregivers face is worry for their children. We are here to help, and we want you to leave our office after the very first meeting feeling supported and understood.
Individual Adolescent Therapy
The teenage years bring intense social pressure, mood changes, and academic stress. Our adolescent therapy provides a safe space for teens to process emotions, build coping skills, and address concerns like depression, anxiety, and identity development. Whether your teen asks for help, or whether you seek us out because of your concern, we are here to help.
Individual Adult Therapy
Adults navigate complex challenges including work stress, relationship difficulties, and mental health conditions. Our adult therapy services offer a supportive environment where you can address concerns such as depression, anxiety, burnout, and life transitions. We know it can be hard to ask for help. Our primary goal is to help you feel comfortable doing so.
Older Adults Therapy
Our team addresses the unique emotional and psychological needs of aging adults. Our therapy services support independent living, caregiving, and overall well-being through a personalized care approach.
Please contact Rene Laje for additional information: renelaje@yahoo.com
Parent Coaching
Our Parent Coaching model is based within the relational neurosciences and attachment theory. Our psychotherapists will work together with you to set goals and to identify the focus of parent coaching.
Mental Health Therapy Approaches at WBMA
Our providers employ a range of evidence-based therapeutic approaches, each selected based on individual needs and treatment goals. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, psychotherapy can help people address a wide range of mental health conditions through various evidence-based approaches. This flexibility allows us to match you with the most appropriate intervention for your specific situation.
Cognitive Behavioral Approaches
These methods help identify and change thought patterns that contribute to emotional distress. Many people find this structured approach helpful for addressing anxiety, depression, and other mood-related concerns.
Relational and Attachment-Based Work
Our parent coaching model is rooted in relational neurosciences and attachment theory. We work together with you to set goals and identify areas of focus that strengthen family connections.
Trauma-Focused Interventions
EMDR therapy helps children and adults address trauma, anxiety, phobias, grief, and PTSD. This approach allows individuals to process difficult experiences in a safe, supported environment.
Expressive and Creative Modalities
Art therapy provides a form of visual communication that can work around language limitations. This approach supports self-esteem, emotional resilience, and insight while reducing conflict and distress.
Our Behavioral Health Services
WBMA offers integrated behavioral health services that address mental health through multiple touchpoints. Our collaborative model means you have access to psychiatry, therapy, testing, and advanced treatments within one coordinated practice.
Couples and Family Therapy
Couples therapy helps partners improve communication and address relationship challenges. We work with couples of every background, whether you’re going through rough patches or seeking premarital counseling. Family therapy builds attachment and communication, particularly helpful during times of transition, loss, or high conflict.
Group Therapy Programs
Group therapy simulates real-world social interactions and can serve as primary therapy or as an adjunct to individual work. Our groups are organized by age and presenting concerns, providing peer support in a structured environment.
Parent Coaching Services
Parent coaching equips caregivers with practical strategies to support their children. Our psychotherapists work with you to set goals and identify specific areas where focused guidance can make a difference.
Telehealth Options
We offer telehealth therapy for added convenience and accessibility. Our virtual platform expands access to high-quality mental health services regardless of geographical location or mobility constraints.
Why Choose WBMA for Therapy?
Our dedicated providers employ a range of evidence-based therapeutic approaches, tailored to meet each patient’s unique needs. Therapy at WBMA is delivered within the framework of a carefully matched, supportive relationship with one of our highly trained clinicians, ensuring personalized care in a compassionate and nurturing environment.
Collaboration is at the heart of our approach. Our providers work closely with WBMA psychiatrists, caregivers, other medical and mental health professionals, and community members (e.g., teachers) to offer comprehensive and holistic care—always with consent. We also welcome patients seeking expressive therapies, such as art, drama, and music, and provide telehealth options, including parent coaching, for added convenience and accessibility.
Comprehensive Support
Our team provides a range of integrated care options, including individual, group, art, and family therapy, parenting support, testing, and advanced treatments such as neuromodulation and psychopharmacology. Each plan is tailored to your specific needs for effective and compassionate care.
For specialized needs, we also offer referrals to trusted providers, ensuring access to additional resources and support.
Types of Therapies
Group Therapy
Group therapy helps to simulate ‘real world’ social interactions. It can be helpful for individuals of all ages as a primary therapy, or as an adjunct to individual therapy. Group therapy may involve talk, game play, and/or expressive therapies. Groups are based on age and presenting concerns and desires, and are intended more to provide support.
Art Therapy
Art Therapy is a form of visual expressive communication which can circumvent the limitations of language. This visual and symbolic expression fosters self-esteem and self-awareness, cultivates emotional resilience, promotes insight, enhances social interactions, and empowers the individual to reduce and resolve conflicts and distress. It is also used to improve cognitive executive functioning and sensory-motor functions.
EMDR
EMDR helps children and adults of all ages to address a wide range of issues including anxiety, phobias, chronic illness, depression, eating disorders, grief and loss, personality disorders, PTSD, and other trauma-related issues.
Family Therapy
Family therapy is sometimes more helpful than individual therapy for a child or as an adjunct to a child’s therapy. It may also be helpful in a time of significant change, transition, or loss, or when sibling rivalry or general familial conflict is high. Family therapy builds attachment and communication.
Couple Therapy
Couples therapy is available for couples of every background. Some couples seek out therapy when going through rough patches, while others seek therapy to ensure positive communication (e.g., among couples with different neurotypes), even when they are doing well (e.g., premarital counseling). Our experienced therapists will help you navigate problems, small or large, and improve understanding, to foster connection.
In-Person Groups
- Collaborative Learning
- Executive Functioning & Regulating (CLEaR)
- Therapeutic Tabletop
- Roleplaying Game Group
- Musical Expression
- Therapeutic Group
Telehealth Groups
The Washington Behavioral Medicine Associates is at the forefront of integrating telehealth into modern therapeutic practices, ensuring that all individuals—regardless of their geographical location or mobility constraints—have access to high-quality mental health services. Our telehealth platform expands the reach of our specialized services, making mental health support accessible and convenient. By embracing digital solutions, we continue to innovate and adapt, offering personalized care through various virtual groups designed to meet the unique needs of our diverse clientele. This approach not only aligns with contemporary needs for flexibility and accessibility but also exemplifies our commitment to the well-being of each individual we serve.
LEARN MORE
Starting Therapy at WBMA
Beginning therapy involves finding the right fit between you and a therapist. We make this process straightforward while respecting the importance of this decision.
Initial Consultation Process
Your first step is connecting with our team. We’ll discuss your concerns, answer questions about our services, and help determine which type of therapy might be most helpful. This conversation helps us match you with a provider whose expertise aligns with your needs.
What to Expect in Therapy
Therapy at WBMA is delivered within the framework of a carefully matched, supportive relationship with one of our clinicians. Sessions typically last 45-50 minutes and occur weekly, though frequency can be adjusted based on individual needs. Your therapist will work with you to set goals and track progress over time.
Insurance and Practical Considerations
We work with many insurance providers and can provide information about coverage for therapy services. Our administrative team can verify benefits and discuss payment options. For questions about insurance, fees, or scheduling, please contact our office at (301) 576-6044. If you need help finding treatment options, SAMHSA provides resources for locating mental health services in your area.
Coordination with Other Services
If you would benefit from additional services like psychiatric evaluation, neuropsychological testing, or neuromodulation treatments, we can coordinate care within our practice. This integrated approach helps create a thorough treatment plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the right mental health therapy approach?
During your initial consultation, we’ll discuss your concerns, goals, and preferences. Based on this conversation, we’ll recommend therapy approaches that align with your situation. You’re always welcome to ask questions about different modalities.
What should I expect from behavioral health services?
Behavioral health services at WBMA focus on supporting mental health through evidence-based interventions. You can expect a collaborative approach where your input shapes the treatment plan. Sessions provide a safe space to address concerns and develop coping strategies.
How does therapy work for different age groups?
We adapt therapy to each developmental stage. Children often engage through play and creative activities. Teens work on identity, relationships, and coping skills. Adults address life challenges, relationships, and mental health conditions. Older adults focus on aging-related concerns and life transitions.
What's the difference between therapy and counseling?
The terms are often used interchangeably. Both involve working with a mental health professional to address emotional, behavioral, or relationship concerns. At WBMA, we focus on evidence-based approaches regardless of terminology.
Is therapy covered by insurance?
Many insurance plans cover therapy services. Our team can verify your specific benefits and discuss coverage details. We recommend contacting your insurance provider to understand your mental health benefits.
How long does therapy typically take?
Therapy duration varies based on individual needs and goals. Some people benefit from short-term work over several weeks, while others engage in longer-term therapy over months or years. Your therapist will discuss expected timelines based on your specific situation.
