Locations:

• Rockville, DC, Potomac, Virtual, In-School

Specialization of Ages:

• Early Childhood
• Elementary age

Supportive of:

With specialized training in trauma, anxiety, and emotional dysregulation, my work is grounded in both clinical expertise and a deep respect for each child’s unique experience. As a Certified Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (TF-CBT) and Certified Bounce Back Clinician, I integrate evidence-based practices with play therapy and sand tray approaches to meet children where they are. Sessions are child-centered and developmentally informed, with a focus on helping children build emotional resilience, confidence, and self-esteem in a supportive, engaging environment.
Therapy often includes opportunities for outdoor play and movement, recognizing that healing can happen just as meaningfully in nature as within four walls. Strong, trusting relationships are at the heart of my work, because change begins with connection. I support children and caregivers in strengthening communication and self-advocacy skills, and I collaborate closely with families to carry therapeutic progress into everyday life, especially when navigating emotional regulation or challenging behaviors at home or school.

Specializations and Certifications:

• Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
• Certified Bounce Back Clinician
• Non-Directive Play Therapy
• Sand Tray Therapy
• Individual/ Family/ Group Therapy

Beliefs and Values:

Every child holds the innate capacity to grow, heal, and thrive, especially when surrounded by safe, nurturing relationships. Trust is the foundation of meaningful therapy, creating a space where children feel seen, heard, and empowered. The parent-child relationship is a vital part of this process, and strengthening those bonds is a central part of the work. Fostering self-efficacy is also key, helping children uncover their own resilience, voice, and inner strengths. Therapy should feel both engaging and accessible, which is why playful, creative approaches are woven throughout sessions, making the process of healing one that feels safe, hopeful, and even joyful.

Formal Education:

MSW from the University of Maryland
BS from VCU

Experience:

Extensive experience supporting children from preschool through elementary school in settings including the Lourie Center for Children’s Social and Emotional Wellness, therapeutic summer camps, and the Youth First Care Program. Work has spanned individual therapy, group settings, early childhood programs, and school-based care - always with a focus on strengthening relationships and supporting emotional development.

Quote:

“It’s through relationships that we learn best and grow best.” — Fred Rogers

Favorite Children’s Book:

Not the Quitting Kind by Sarra Roth

Locations:

• Rockville, Potomac, Virtual, In-School

Specialization of Ages:

• Early Childhood
• Elementary Age
• Tweens and Teens

Supportive of:

I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and families who face emotional and behavioral challenges, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and difficulties related to life transitions, loss, or family changes. My goal is to create a safe, accepting space where young people can express themselves freely through words, symbolic play, and creative expression. I help children and teens explore their inner world, guiding them toward emotional growth and resilience.

I believe that parents are essential partners in the therapeutic process. Together, we collaborate to support your child’s well-being at home, in school, and in life, creating an environment that nurtures emotional growth and connection.

Specializations and Certifications:

Certified Clinical Supervisor

Beliefs and Values:

Every child and adolescent has a unique inner world that deserves to be understood and explored. The foundation of emotional growth lies in the presence of a caring, attuned adult who provides a safe and nurturing space for authentic expression. Strong, trusting relationships are essential for young people to feel supported as they navigate their emotions and experiences.

Formal Education:

B.A. and M.A. in Social Work, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem
Postgraduate Psychotherapy Program, Bar-Ilan University
Advanced Studies in Early Mental States, Tel Aviv University

Experience:

I have many years of experience in Israel’s public mental health system and educational-therapeutic settings. I’ve worked in post-hospitalization residential programs for adolescents and as a psychotherapist at the Adolescent Parent Center, providing both individual therapy and parental guidance. I have also run a private practice, offering therapy for children, adolescents, and adults, as well as parent coaching.

Quote:

“Home is not where you live, but where they understand you." — Christian
Morgenstern

Favorite Children's Book:

Tziona with One Wing (ציונה עם כנף אחת) by Noam Horev

This beautiful story teaches children about accepting differences, celebrating uniqueness, and embracing self-compassion, inspired by the author’s own childhood experience of overcoming a challenge. It’s a heartfelt reminder that we are all complete and worthy, even in our differences.

Locations:

• Rockville, DC, Potomac, Virtual, In-School

Specialization of Ages:

• Early Childhood
• Elementary Age

Supportive of:

When children present as reserved, socially hesitant, or slow-to-warm, I support them in building confidence, communication skills, and self-advocacy. For those who show high energy, impulsivity, or boundary-pushing behaviors, I offer guidance in emotional regulation and help foster positive relational engagement. Children who are highly active and movement-oriented often thrive through physical play, outdoor activities, and nature-based interventions
woven into our sessions.

Creative expression plays a central role in my approach. Through art-based and nature-integrated play therapy, children are supported in exploring and expressing their emotions in ways that feel safe and natural. When trauma or disruptions in attachment are part of a child’s story, we take our time building trust and connection, creating the safety needed for the
courageous processing ahead.

Support extends to caregivers as well. I work collaboratively with parents to understand the needs behind their child’s behavior and strengthen secure attachments. Together, we create personalized strategies that honor each child’s strengths and foster growth in both home and school environments.

Specializations and Certifications:

• Circle of Security Parenting (COS-P)
• Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Children (TF-CBT-C)
• Level 1 Trauma Affect Family Connections (TAFC)

Beliefs and Values:

I believe in fostering a safe, nurturing environment where children can explore their emotions and build resilience. I create developmentally sensitive spaces for children to connect with their caregivers, emphasizing the importance of relational safety, emotional regulation, and trauma-informed care.

Formal Education:

MSW from University of Maryland, Baltimore

Experience:

I have four years of experience as a teacher in the Therapeutic Nursery Program at the Lourie Center for Children’s Social and Emotional Well-being, and have worked as an intern at MCITP and as a grief and trauma counselor at the Wendt Center.

Quote:

"You can discover more about a person in an hour of play than in a year of conversation." — Plato

Favorite Children’s Book:

The Color Monster by Anna Llenas

Locations:

• Rockville, Potomac, In-School, In-Home

Specialization of Ages:

• Early Childhood
• Elementary Age
• Adolescence

Supportive of:

It is most important to me to help children build confidence, enhance their social-emotional skills, and discover their unique strengths

Specializations and Certifications:

Holistic, personalized approaches focusing on academic, social, and emotional growth incorporating creative activities and executive functioning coaching

Beliefs and Values:

I dream of helping every child discover their inner advocate and fall in love with learning. Resilience blooms when children are guided with care and kindness.

Formal Education:

BA in Early Childhood Education from Stevenson University

Experience:

Over a decade in educational settings, including as a third-grade teacher and Intensive reading teacher for students with dyslexia

Locations:

• Grace Episcopel School, Kensington

Specialization of Ages:

• Early Childhood
• Elementary age

Supportive of:

I guide children in embracing their natural curiosity, support their development, and cultivate a sense of belonging.

Specializations and Certifications:

I emphasize creativity, innovation, multiple communication modalities, diverse learning approaches and inclusive practices.

Beliefs and Values:

I see children as imaginative explorers who deserve to feel deeply cherished and seen. I believe that when curiosity is nurtured and every interaction reflects the joy of belonging, children grow with confidence and connection at their core.

Experience:

Extensive experience with diverse children, including those with special rights.

Collaborates with families and team members to enhance learning.

Locations:

• In-Schools

Specialization of Ages:

• Early Childhood
• Elementary age

Supportive of:

Families celebrating creativity, navigating transitions with purpose, and supporting children’s emotional and social growth

Specializations and Certifications:

Reggio Emilia-inspired, art, movement, and music modalities to facilitate symbolic representation and problem-solving

Beliefs and Values:

Every child’s creativity is magical, and every child is inherently competent. Children thrive when surrounded by supportive relationships that inspire wonder and delight.

Formal Education:

Graduate of Carnegie Mellon University, Reggio Emilia Studies in Italy and the Harvard Graduate School of Education

Experience:

Over 20 years working with children in schools, camps, homes, and community settings. Collaborates with teachers and parents to understand and support children.

Quote:

"In the midst of adversity lies opportunity" – Albert Einstein

Favorite Children’s Book:

Something From Nothing by Phoebe Gilman

Locations:

• Rockville, In-schools

Specialization of Ages:

• Infants
• Early Childhood
• Elementary age
• Early Adolescence

Supportive of:

I’m passionate about supporting children who experience big emotions, anxiety, and struggle to connect with others. I specialize in working with kids who may have been labeled as having behavioral issues, being aggressive, or simply not "fitting in" to normative standards. Many of these children find it difficult to engage with peers, play, or express themselves in social settings. I work with these children to create a safe space where they can feel seen,
understood, and genuinely cared about.

I believe that children are never “making bad choices” and that their behavior is a reflection of unmet (sometimes unknown) needs. By focusing on the root causes of these behaviors, I work with both the child and their parents to affirm their feelings and guide them toward healthier ways of connecting with the world around them. My goal is to help families feel empowered and supported as they navigate their child's unique journey, fostering a space of compassion, understanding, and growth.

Hand-in-hand with this, I help parents navigate this journey by looking through a lens of affirmation, compassion, and understanding. We work together to identify and create safe, caring spaces both at home and in other environments, ensuring that their child feels supported and able to grow. My goal is to empower families as they create an environment where their child’s needs are recognized and nurtured, fostering a space of understanding,
connection, and growth.

Specializations and Certifications:

• Dyadic therapy
• CBT-informed
• Play-based
• Circle of Security Parenting
• Parent Education
• Nutritional and Integrative Medicine for Mental Health

Beliefs and Values:

I believe that nurturing environments sow the seeds for emotional and social growth. My purpose is rooted in creating spaces where little ones can flourish, feel secure, and know they are deeply supported just as they are.

Formal Education:

MSW

Experience:

Current Assistant Director and Early Childhood Specialist Berman Academy Preschool, Former Child Development Specialist at Montgomery County Infants and Toddlers Program, and Post-Adoption Program Manager at Adoptions Together

Quote:

“You have been my friend. That in itself is a tremendous thing.” — E.B. White, Charlotte’s Web

Favorite Children’s Book:

Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! by Mo Willems

Locations:

• Rockville, Potomac, DC, In-schools

Specialization of Ages:

• Early Childhood
• Elementary age

Supportive of:

Families strengthening, community connections, enhancing relationships, and supporting holistic development

Specializations and Certifications:

Relationship and community-building within early education.

Beliefs and Values:

Passionate about weaving connections that anchor children and families in strong, supportive communities. Finds fulfillment in fostering bonds that last a lifetime.

Formal Education:

M.Ed in Early Childhood Education from Towson University

Experience:

Over a decade teaching and directing in early childhood education programs

Quote:

"Love generously. Praise loudly. Live fully" - Elias Porter

Favorite Children’s Book:

• The Rabbit Listened by Cori Doerrfeld
• Mortimer by Robert Munsch
• Mrs. Katz and Tush by Patricia Polacco

Locations:

• Rockville, Virtual

Specialization of Ages:

• Early Childhood
• Elementary-age
• Adolescence
• Young adults
• Parents

Supportive of:

Families who work with me are often looking to bring more calm, connection, and intention into their daily lives. Whether a child is navigating emotional overwhelm, struggling with transitions, or simply moving through life at a fast pace, I offer gentle, body-based practices that help them feel grounded and understood. Mindfulness, yoga, and movement-based strategies are woven into our work, creating space for children to slow down, build awareness, and strengthen their capacity for regulation and resilience.

I also serve as a preschool consultant, partnering with directors, educators, and families to create environments that foster emotional well-being, connection, and mindfulness from the earliest stages of development. In addition to working with children and families, I collaborate with preschools to implement mindfulness and movement practices that support emotional regulation and growth in young learners.

Support often extends beyond the child. I collaborate closely with caregivers, offering practical tools that fit into the rhythm of real family life—like breathwork before bedtime, movement to reset on tough days, or mindfulness practices that can be shared together. My approach supports the whole child, while recognizing that when adults feel more regulated and resourced, children do too.

Specializations and Certifications:

Yoga, mindfulness, and integrative holistic approaches

Beliefs and Values:

I believe that mindfulness and balance are gifts every family deserves. Resilience grows when a child’s relationships, routines, and inner world all work together in harmony.

Formal Education:

MA in Sociology from New York University, E-RYT, RCYT, and IAYT Yoga Therapy Certification

Experience:

Over a decade supporting children and families in schools, homes, community settings, and as a preschool consultant

Quote:

"Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?" - Mary Oliver
"My gut is telling me no. But, my gut is also very hungry" - Gob, Arrested Development

Favorite Children’s Book:

Giraffes Can’t Dance by Giles Andreae, Guy Parker-Rees

Locations:

• Rockville, Virtual

Specialization of Ages:

• Early Childhood
• Elementary age
• Tweens

Supportive of:

The families I work with are often seeking stronger relationships, support for trauma or difficult situations, strategies for managing anxiety, navigating school anxiety, affirming neurodiversity, and regulating big feelings. It is my priority to ensure each child feels seen and understood as they build emotional resilience and connection. I support families in navigating challenges while fostering strong, supportive relationships that help children thrive. Sometimes, this includes nurturing their unique interests and helping them find a tribe that marches to the beat of their own drum rather than masking to fit others’ expectations.

I partner with parents to create safe, supportive spaces for emotional growth and understanding, both at home and in school. Together, we empower children to become advocates for themselves; teaching them how to navigate and communicate their needs in all environments.

Approach:

By collaborating closely with families, I ensure that therapy becomes part of a broader,
supportive system. The work is individualized, focusing on the child’s unique needs and
fostering emotional and relational needs in a holistic way with high sensitivity for neuro-
affirming care.

Specializations and Certifications:

• Trauma-informed practices
• Child-Centered Play Therapy
• Theraplay
• Trauma-Focused CBT
• Mindfulness
• Neurodiversity

Beliefs and Values:

I believe that the greatest growth develops out of a safe, connected, and non-judgmental space. I find caregiver and family collaboration integral to the therapeutic process, ensuring lasting change that benefits the whole family.

Formal Education:

M.S. Clinical Mental Health at McDaniel College

Experience:

Extensive work in school-based community mental health settings

Quote:

"Children are not things to be molded, but are people to be unfolded" - Jess Lair

Favorite Children’s Book:

I Love You When You’re Angry by Erin Winters

Locations:

• Rockville, Virtual, In-School (currently JDS Lower School)

Specialization of Ages:

• Early Childhood
• Elementary Age
• Tweens and Teens

Supportive of:

I specialize in working with children and teens who experience the world in unique and powerful ways, including (but not limited to) children who:

• Feel alienated, have quirky interests, and think outside the box
• Are anxious, high-achieving, and want more balance in their lives
• Are sensitive and feel the world intensely
• Are seen as precocious and/or strong-willed

I’m passionate about helping young people express their rich inner worlds, navigate social complexities, identify meaningful outlets for energy and creativity, and find healthy ways to manage big feelings, including anxiety and depression.

I also believe in empowering parents, caregivers and families to clarify parenting values, explore their own neurotypes and needs, and honor their child’s unique perspectives, gifts, and challenges. Together, we can create a foundation of connection, respect, and growth for the whole family.

Approach:

I will get to know your child or teen and we will work together to create a therapeutic space that works best for them, tailoring the treatment to their specific interests and needs, using a playful approach to help foster children’s insight, self-esteem and mastery, and for families to feel more connected and understanding of their child’s unique perspective. I provide play therapy, art-based therapy and supportive therapy, informed by attachment, feminist and psychodynamic perspectives.

Specializations and Certifications:

• Child Parent Psychotherapy
• Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy
• Chicago Parent Program (individual family modality)
• Mindfulness
• Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
• The Oaklander play therapy model
• Group Attachment-Based
  Intervention.

Beliefs and Values:

• Embracing and celebrating our authentic selves
• Supporting children to explore their identities, gifts and strengths, while holding compassion for their challenges.
• Building a sense of belonging and value at home and in the community.
• Affirming of diverse neurotypes, LGBTQ+ and cultural identities

Formal Education:

MSW from Silberman School of Social Work in New York

Experience:

I have worked with youth ranging from early childhood to early adulthood, and their families. I have provided therapy in a variety of clinical settings, including outpatient mental health clinics, schools, and pediatric medical settings.

Quote:

“To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the
greatest accomplishment” - Ralph Waldo Emerson

Favorite Children’s Book:

Red: A Crayon’s Story by Michael Hall

Locations:

• DC, Potomac, Rockville, Virtual, In-school (DC and MoCo)

Specialization of Ages:

• Early Childhood
• Elementary age
• Tweens and Teens

Supportive of:

I work with children who experience the world through unique perspectives, often drawn to quirky interests and creative outlets while navigating big emotions and worries. Some feel anxious about how others perceive them, face specific fears or phobias, or need coping strategies that break away from standard approaches—because breathing exercises just don’t work for everyone. Together, we explore personalized ways to manage feelings, including sports, nature, imaginary play, big body movement, building forts, and even video games. I help parents set healthy gaming boundaries while better understanding the positive roles screens can play in connection and skill-building. I’m especially passionate about being a
model for boys in expressing vulnerability, emotional awareness, and self-compassion.

Through play therapy and other expressive and engaging modalities, I help families uncover the deeper messages behind behaviors—what children through teens are trying to express or need. I support families in communicating with greater empathy and understanding while exploring how a parent's own history, and self-perceptions can shape the way they connect with their child. A core part of my work is expanding a child’s support system. I collaborate with teachers to create a team of helpers, ensuring children feel understood and supported both at home and school. Together, we create a space where everyone feels heard, valued, and safe.

Specializations and Certifications:

• Play-based
• Arts-based
• CBT- informed
• Nature-based

Beliefs and Values:

I create safe havens for children to express their emotions and celebrate children finding their unique voice. I encourage young minds to embrace the power of vulnerability and connection..

Formal Education:

MSW from University of Maryland, Baltimore

Experience:

I got my start in school settings, focusing on ADHD, anxiety, depression, and social-emotional support

Quote:

"We must go on and take the adventure that comes to us." - C.S. Lewis

Favorite Children’s Book:

Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak

Isabelle also offers therapy in french

Locations:

• Potomac, Virtual

Specialization of Ages:

• Early Childhood
• Elementary age

Supportive of:

I support families working to create stronger connections, foster emotional safety, and navigate life’s challenges with courage and compassion. Whether facing transitions, behavioral concerns, or communication struggles, I help children and parents discover new ways to relate with understanding and trust. My work often includes supporting children who benefit from expressive, playful approaches that help them process big feelings and build emotional resilience.

Specializations and Certifications:

• Play therapy
• Expressive therapies
• Trauma-informed practices
• Parent-child dyadic therapy
• Circle of Security Parenting
• Classroom programs

Beliefs and Values:

Strong relationships are the heart of a child’s emotional development. When families feel safe, seen, and supported, children are freer to explore, express, and grow.

Formal Education:

MSW from the University of Maryland

Experience:

Over a decade in therapeutic classrooms, outpatient clinics, and preschool mental health consultation

Quote:

“Connection doesn’t require perfection — only presence.” – Inspired by Circle of Security principles

“Every time we are seen and heard, we are being loved.” – Tara Brach

Favorite Children’s Book:

I Love You When You’re Angry by Rose Learner

Milan also offers therapy in French

Locations:

• Potomac, Virtual, In-school

Specialization of Ages:

• Elementary-age
• Adolescence

Supportive of:

I am a compassionate and dedicated child therapist specializing in helping young children develop essential life skills. With a strong focus on fostering social skills, I work with children to build resilience, enabling them to navigate challenges with confidence and adaptability. By providing a safe and supportive environment, I encourage children to express their emotions constructively, helping them to understand and communicate their feelings effectively.

The children I work with are empowered to cultivate healthy self-esteem and navigate friendships and relationships. I emphasize the significance of cultivating strong family connections, offering strategies for enhancing communication and trust within the home—especially during the natural transitions of adolescence. I also recognize the importance of cultural identity, ensuring that children are supported in exploring and celebrating who they are, both individually and within their cultural context.

Understanding the value of personal and emotional hygiene, I also guide children in developing self-care routines that promote their overall well-being, helping them build habits that will last a lifetime. With an authentic and attuned approach, I am committed to supporting children and teens in their journey to becoming confident, emotionally healthy, and well-rounded individuals.

Specializations and Certifications:

• CBT
• CCPT
• DDP
• Strength-based approaches

Approach:

By creating a safe and supportive space, the families I work with feel understood and empowered to embrace their authentic identity and potential courageously.

Beliefs and Values:

Secure, trusting relationships are essential for emotional growth. Embracing cultural identity fosters a sense of belonging and self-worth, allowing a sense of groundedness in who we are, where we come from, and how we want to show up.

Formal Education:

MSW from Columbia University

Experience:

Former in-school therapist

Quote:

"As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands; one for helping yourself, the other for helping others." - Audrey Hepburn

"You can fall, but you can rise also" -Angelique Kidjo

Favorite Children’s Book:

The Confidence Code for Girls: Taking Risks, Messing Up, & Becoming Your Amazingly Imperfect, Totally Powerful Self
by Katty Kay , Claire Shipman , et al.

While Orly has limited availability for ongoing support, she offers brief consultations with prompt availability.

Locations:

• Rockville
• Virtual

Specialization of Ages:

• Infants
• Preschool-age
• Elementary-age

Supportive of:

I support children and families in navigating challenges such as social-emotional difficulties, anxiety, behavioral concerns, life transitions, toileting difficulties and attachment issues. I work with families exploring themes of acceptance, belonging, neurodiversity and PDA, anxiety and toileting struggles, always centering the child's experience with empathy and care.

At the heart of my work is a deep belief in trusting children, holding them in high regard, and treating them with profound respect. I strive to help children feel worthy of love—from others and, just as importantly, from themselves.

Through compassionate guidance and a strengths-based approach, I help families create supportive environments where children feel safe, valued, and empowered to grow and be their most amazing, authentic selves.

Specializations and Certifications:

Integrates play therapy, attachment-based strategies, and trauma-informed practices to build trust and foster growth. Uses family-centered, strengths-based, attachment-based, and expressive modalities including art, play therapy and sand-tray, to address each child’s unique needs and promote a sense of mastery, belonging, and acceptance. Certified in Theraplay, Animal Assisted Therapy, SPACE, Integrative Medicine and Nutrition for Mental Health , CBT, Mindfulness, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and more.

Beliefs and Values:

I believe in creating spaces where children feel celebrated for who they are.
I find joy in fostering meaningful connections that help families navigate challenges and
thrive together.

Formal Education:

MA in Developmental Psychology from George Mason university
MSW from University of Maryland

Experience:

Over a decade of experience working with children and families in various
settings, including outpatient clinics, therapeutic classrooms, and community-based programs

Quote:

“When you live in love, you see love everywhere you look.” — Ram Dass

Favorite Children’s Book:

The Rabbit Listened by Cori Doerrfeld