How Couples Counseling in Maryland Helps Build Communication and Trust

Couples counseling at Washington Area Clinical Center in Maryland provides a safe, structured environment to develop these critical skills.

Through personalized, evidence-based techniques, therapy helps partners enhance emotional connection, navigate difficult conversations, and resolve conflicts constructively.

Through personalized, evidence-based techniques, couples at Washington Area can learn how to:

  • Enhance Emotional Connection – Understand each other’s emotional needs is crucial in maintaining intimacy. Therapy helps couples identify and express emotions in a way that fosters closeness rather than conflict.
  • Navigate Difficult Conversations – Many couples avoid discussing sensitive topics due to fear of disagreement or emotional overwhelm. Counseling provides a safe space to address these concerns openly and constructively.
  • Resolve Conflicts in a Healthy Way – Instead of falling into unproductive arguments or silent resentment, partners can learn strategies to manage disagreements with empathy and mutual respect.
  • Rebuild Trust and Security – For relationships affected by betrayal, insecurity, or past traumas, therapy helps create a foundation for healing and reassurance.

Healthy relationships thrive on two essential pillars: communication and trust. However, many individuals and couples in the DMV area struggle with expressing their needs, setting boundaries, or overcoming past relational wounds. These challenges can lead to misunderstandings, emotional distance, and recurring conflicts that strain relationships over time.

Research shows that therapy can significantly improve relationship satisfaction by fostering open dialogue and increasing emotional awareness (Johnson, 2019).

The Importance of Effective Communication in Relationships

One of the most common struggles couples face is communication. Misunderstandings, unspoken expectations, and difficulty expressing emotions can create distance between partners. In therapy, couples learn how to communicate more effectively using proven techniques such as active listening, emotional validation, and nonviolent communication. These strategies help partners articulate their thoughts and feelings while also improving their ability to understand and respond to each other’s perspectives.

According to Gottman & Silver (2020), couples who develop strong communication skills through therapy experience greater empathy, improved emotional regulation, and a deeper sense of connection. Strengthening these skills can prevent minor disagreements from escalating into larger conflicts and foster a more harmonious relationship dynamic.

Rebuilding Trust and Strengthening Emotional Bonds

Trust is the foundation of any healthy relationship, but it can be difficult to restore once broken. Whether trust has been impacted by past betrayals, insecurities, or unresolved emotional wounds, couples counseling provides a supportive space to address these challenges.

At Washington Area Clinical Center, therapists help couples identify the root causes of trust issues, rebuild emotional security, and develop strategies to foster a stronger, more resilient bond. Research in attachment theory (Cassidy & Shaver, 2016) suggests that therapy can reshape relationship patterns by encouraging a secure emotional connection, ultimately leading to greater intimacy and long-term trust.

Why Invest in Couples Counseling?

Seeking therapy isn’t just about fixing problems—it’s about proactively building a stronger, healthier relationship. Whether couples are facing specific challenges or simply want to strengthen their bond, counseling offers valuable tools for long-term success. With the guidance of an experienced couples counselor in Maryland, partners can gain deeper insight into their relationship dynamics, develop conflict resolution skills, and create a foundation for lasting love and partnership.

By investing in couples counseling at Washington Area Clinical Center, partners in the DMV area can experience the benefits of enhanced communication, deeper emotional connection, and renewed trust, leading to a more fulfilling and enduring relationship.

Check out Washington Area’s Episode on Emotional Intelligence for Healthier Relationships!

Want to Learn More about Couples Counseling in Maryland?
Call us at 301-701-6965 for a short chat with our Client Care Coordinator, who is available weekdays during our normal office hours. You can also fill out the New Patient Registration Form to be on your way to schedule and complete an initial assessment.

Sources:

  • Johnson, S. (2019). Attachment Theory in Practice: Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) with Individuals, Couples, and Families. Guilford Press.
  • Gottman, J., & Silver, N. (2020). The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work. Harmony Books.
  • Cassidy, J., & Shaver, P. R. (2016). Handbook of Attachment: Theory, Research, and Clinical Applications. Guilford Press.

WACC’s Mental Health Services for Government Agencies – A Minority & Woman-Owned OMHC


Washington Area Clinical Center (WACC) is a Minority-Owned and Woman-Owned Outpatient Mental Health Clinic (OMHC) providing high-quality, evidence-based mental health services to government agencies at the local, state, and federal levels.

We specialize in culturally competent care and offer a comprehensive, all-in-one approach, providing both clinical services and psychiatric medication management under one roof. Our diverse team includes:

✔ Social Workers (LCSWs, LGSW, LMSW)
✔ Counselors (LPCs, LGPC)
✔ Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs, LGMFT)
✔ School Counselors
✔ Psychiatric Providers

We currently contract across Maryland (Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, Anne Arundel County, and beyond) and Washington D.C. and are open to subcontracting and collaborative opportunities.

Key Services Include:

Our clinicians provide individual, family, and group therapy, along with psychiatric medication management care, designed to meet the unique needs of individuals, families, and communities. We utilize a variety of evidence-based therapy modalities, such as:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Helps clients reframe negative thought patterns and develop coping strategies.
  • Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) – Supports individuals struggling with emotional regulation, self-harm, and borderline personality disorder.
  • Trauma-Focused Therapy (TF-CBT) – Specialized approaches for individuals who have experienced trauma, PTSD, or abuse.
  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) – Encourages mindfulness and psychological flexibility.
  • Play Therapy & Art Therapy – Used with children and adolescents to help process emotions through creative expression.
  • Solution-Focused Therapy – A goal-oriented approach that emphasizes strengths and problem-solving.
  • Family Systems Therapy – Focuses on improving communication and relationship dynamics within families.
  • Psychodynamic Therapy – Explores deep-seated emotions and past experiences to foster long-term healing.

We are open to subcontracting opportunities and welcome collaboration with other organizations and government entities to provide high-quality, client-centered care. Our experience and commitment to delivering accessible and impactful services make us an ideal partner for government projects, including those in Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, Anne Arundel County, and other areas throughout Maryland and Washington D.C.

Mental Health Services Tailored for Government Contracts

School-Based Contracts

We provide tailored mental health services within educational environments, supporting students, teachers, and school communities through:

  • Counseling and crisis intervention
  • Behavioral health assessments and early intervention
  • Trauma-informed school support
  • Staff training on mental health awareness and intervention strategies

Community-Based Contracts

WACC ensures that underserved communities have access to quality mental health care through:

  • Mobile mental health services
  • Outreach and engagement initiatives
  • Trauma response teams
  • Peer support and recovery programs

Case Management

Delivered by Licensed Master Social Workers (LMSWs), our case management services provide vital support to clients navigating the mental health system. We assist with:

  • Resource coordination
  • Crisis intervention
  • Housing and employment support
  • Advocacy and referrals to community services

Why Choose WACC?

As a Minority-Owned and Woman-Owned Outpatient Mental Health Clinic (OMHC), WACC brings added value to government contracts that prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion. We are dedicated to offering culturally competent care that aligns with the values of inclusion and respect for all. Our team’s broad expertise across social work, counseling, school counseling, marriage and family therapy, and psychiatric services makes us uniquely equipped to provide comprehensive support to individuals from all walks of life.

We offer integrated mental health services—therapy and psychiatric care under one roof.

✔ Our providers have expertise in diverse populations, including children, families, incarcerated individuals, and underserved communities.

✔ We are a Certified Minority Business Enterprise (MBE), Woman-Owned Small Business (WOSB), and Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE)—ideal for contracts prioritizing diversity and inclusion.

✔ We have a team with experience working within school systems, correctional facilities, and community mental health programs.

✔ We ensure culturally competent care, with staff trained in trauma-informed and evidence-based interventions.

Our Executive Leadership

Our Executive Leader, Maya Foster, LCMFT, brings a wealth of experience to WACC. As a Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist, she has worked in diverse mental health settings, leading programs that serve a wide range of populations.

Maya leads supervisors at Washington Area Clinical Center, ensuring quality and process improvement to enhance mental health services for communities in need. She has successfully managed mental health programs at both Washington Area Clinical Center and New Millennial Counseling and Consulting, our sister private practice.

With her extensive background in program management, clinical supervision, and quality improvement, Maya is fully equipped to lead government projects, ensuring they are executed efficiently and deliver meaningful impact.

Maya’s experience includes:

  • School Counseling: Providing mental health services to students, families, and educators in educational environments.
  • Incarcerated Individuals: Working with individuals involved in the criminal justice system to address mental health challenges and reintegration.
  • Children and Families: Supporting youth and families dealing with mental health, emotional, and behavioral issues.
  • Trauma Victims: Specializing in trauma recovery, including support for victims of sexual assault, childhood abuse, and other forms of trauma.
  • LGBTQIA+ Individuals and Families: Offering inclusive and supportive care to individuals and families within the LGBTQIA+ community.
  • Diverse Family Structures: Addressing the mental health needs of blended families, co-parenting arrangements, single-parent households, and more.

For partnership opportunities or more information, contact us at zfarooq@waccenter.com. Let’s collaborate to enhance mental health services across Maryland and Washington D.C., ensuring access to quality care for those who need it most.


Certifications:

We meet the eligibility criteria for local, state, and federal contracts and hold the following certifications

✔ Minority Business Enterprise (MBE)

✔ Woman-Owned Small Business (WOSB)

✔ Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE)

NAICS Codes:

  • 624190 – Other Individual and Family Services
  • 621330 – Offices of Mental Health Practitioners (except Physicians)
  • 621420 – Outpatient Mental Health and Substance Abuse Centers

How Trauma Shapes Mental Health: Recognizing and Healing Its Impact

Trauma can have a profound and lasting impact on mental health, shaping the way individuals think, feel, and interact with the world. Whether stemming from childhood experiences, accidents, loss, or other distressing events, trauma can alter brain function and emotional regulation, often leading to anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Residents across Maryland, including Bowie, Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, Anne Arundel County, and Crofton, may experience these effects in different ways, from heightened stress levels to difficulties in daily functioning.

Research shows that unprocessed trauma can contribute to hypervigilance, emotional numbness, or difficulties in relationships, making it essential to recognize the signs of trauma responses (van der Kolk, 2014). Understanding these responses is the first step toward healing and reclaiming a sense of safety and well-being.

Common trauma responses include fight, flight, freeze, and fawn—patterns of reaction that help individuals cope with perceived threats. While these responses may have been necessary for survival during traumatic experiences, they can persist long after the event has passed, leading to chronic stress, emotional dysregulation, and avoidance behaviors. At Washington Area Clinical Center, we offer trauma-informed therapy in Maryland, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT), to help individuals process their experiences in a safe and supportive environment. Our therapists specialize in evidence-based interventions designed to help clients challenge distressing thoughts, regulate emotions, and restore a sense of empowerment.

Healing from trauma is a journey that involves building self-awareness, developing coping strategies, and fostering emotional resilience. Washington Area Clinical Center provides in-person therapy for those in Bowie, MD, Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, Anne Arundel County, and Crofton, as well as comprehensive telehealth therapy services throughout Maryland. Whether you are seeking therapy in Maryland for trauma recovery, anxiety, or depression, our experienced therapists are committed to helping clients navigate the complexities of healing through personalized care and structured therapeutic interventions.

If you or a loved one are struggling with the effects of trauma, seeking support from a trained mental health professional can be a transformative step toward healing. Contact Washington Area Clinical Center today at 301-701-6965 to learn more about how trauma-informed therapy in Maryland can help you regain control over your mental well-being and build a healthier future.

Looking to get Started in Therapy?
Call us at 301-701-6965 for a short chat with our Client Care Coordinator, who is available weekdays during our normal office hours. You can also fill out the New Patient Registration Form to be on your way to schedule and complete an initial assessment.

Sources:

  • Van Der Kolk, B. (2014). The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma. Viking.

How Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Can Help You with Anxiety and Depression

Anxiety and depression are among the most common mental health conditions, affecting millions of people worldwide, including residents of Bowie, Maryland, and the surrounding areas of Prince George’s, Montgomery County, Anne Arundel County, Crofton, and all of Maryland. These mental health challenges can manifest in various ways, including persistent feelings of sadness, excessive worry, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and disruptions in daily activities. Without proper support, anxiety and depression can take a toll on personal relationships, work performance, and overall quality of life.

However, the good news is that effective, evidence-based treatments are available. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has been extensively researched and proven to help individuals regain control of their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. By equipping individuals with practical tools to challenge negative thinking patterns and develop healthier coping mechanisms, CBT empowers people to break free from the cycle of distress and build resilience. If you are seeking professional mental health support, whether in-person or through telehealth services across Maryland, CBT may be the effective solution you need.

What Is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)?

CBT focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns that contribute to emotional distress. By challenging and restructuring these thoughts, individuals can develop healthier coping strategies, leading to significant improvements in mental well-being. Research consistently supports CBT as one of the most effective treatments for reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression, often resulting in long-term emotional health benefits (Hofmann et al., 2012).

How CBT Helps with Anxiety and Depression

One of the key components of CBT is cognitive restructuring, which teaches individuals to recognize and challenge distorted thinking patterns. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression experience automatic negative thoughts, such as catastrophizing or excessive self-criticism. Through CBT, individuals can learn to replace these unhelpful thoughts with more balanced, realistic perspectives.

Additionally, behavioral techniques such as exposure therapy for anxiety and behavioral activation for depression help individuals gradually engage in activities they have been avoiding, fostering a sense of accomplishment and emotional resilience (Beck, 2011). Whether you’re in Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, Anne Arundel County, Crofton, or anywhere else in Maryland, trained therapists specializing in CBT can provide personalized strategies to help you manage stress and improve your mental health.

Accessible and Effective Therapy Options in Maryland

CBT is not only effective but also highly adaptable—it can be used in individual therapy, group therapy, or even in online/telehealth therapy. Studies suggest that CBT’s structured and goal-oriented approach makes it a practical treatment option for many individuals (Butler et al., 2006). If you are searching for CBT therapists in Bowie, MD, Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, Anne Arundel County, or Crofton, the Washington Area Clinical Center has culturally competent therapists who specialize in this evidence-based approach. Additionally, we offer telehealth services for all of Maryland, making quality mental health care more accessible no matter where you are located.

By actively participating in CBT, individuals can develop lifelong skills to manage stress, reduce emotional distress, and build a healthier mindset. If you or a loved one are struggling with anxiety or depression, seeking support from a trained therapist through our statewide Telehealth services or at our Bowie clinic, can be a transformative step toward healing and well-being.

Find CBT Therapy Near You

The Washington Area Clinical Center has therapists trained in CBT who can provide in-person support, as well as Telehealth therapy anywhere in Maryland to help you navigate your mental health journey with personalized care. Learn more about us here

Ready to get Started?
Call us at 301-701-6965 for a short chat with our Client Care Coordinator, who is available weekdays during our normal office hours. You can also fill out the New Patient Registration Form to be on your way to schedule and complete an initial assessment.

Sources:

Beck, J. S. (2011). Cognitive Behavior Therapy: Basics and Beyond. Guilford Press.

Butler, A. C., Chapman, J. E., Forman, E. M., & Beck, A. T. (2006). “The Empirical Status of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy: A Review of Meta-Analyses.” Clinical Psychology Review, 26(1), 17-31.

Hofmann, S. G., Asnaani, A., Vonk, I. J. J., Sawyer, A. T., & Fang, A. (2012). “The Efficacy of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: A Review of Meta-Analyses.” Cognitive Therapy and Research, 36(5), 427-440.

Bringing Mental Health Support to Your Maryland Church or Organization: Free Resources and Onsite Assessments

At WACC, we’re dedicated to supporting communities in their mental health journey. If your church or organization already has a mental health group or hosts social events like food pantries, health check-ups, or community outreach programs, we would love to partner with you to offer additional mental health resources.

Here’s how it would work:

  • We’ll come to your location, set up a booth or space, and bring iPads for individuals to easily sign up for mental health care.
  • We’ll offer free mental health questionnaires to assess the needs of those in attendance and help them understand the next steps.
  • If possible, our therapists can offer onsite mental health assessments, allowing individuals to take the first step toward therapy right at the event.

For example, if your church is hosting a food pantry where community members come to pick up food or a health check-up event, our team will set up and make the process of signing up for mental health care as easy as possible. This helps individuals access services they may not have otherwise sought.

By partnering with WACC, your church or organization will:

  • Provide valuable mental health resources to your community.
  • Offer a convenient way for attendees to access therapy and care without additional barriers.
  • Help break down the stigma around mental health in your community by making these services accessible and approachable.

We proudly serve Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, Anne Arundel County, Frederick County, and all of Maryland. For more information or to schedule a visit, please email us at info@waccenter.com.

Let’s work together to create a healthier, more supportive community.

Beyond the Couch Blog

Welcome to Beyond the Couch, WACC’s Blog!

Here, you’ll find a mix of insightful content straight from our clinic and practical tips to support your mental well-being. Some posts share updates and insights from our team at WACC, while others provide direct mental health tips, coping strategies, and educational information to help you navigate life’s challenges. Whether you’re looking for expert advice, self-care techniques, or a deeper understanding of mental health, Beyond the Couch is here to guide and support you. the current writers are Abby and Aniyah our operations interns with insight from therapists at WACC and research.

Attachment Styles and How They Affect Your Relationships

Why Pre-marital Counseling Matters: Building a Strong Foundation of Marriage 

Understanding Emotional Disconnection and the Psychology Behind It

Parenting Styles Within Families: Understanding Differences and Their Impact on Child Development

Overcoming Hesitations: Debunking Myths About Starting Medication for Mental Health

Raising Resilient Kids in Bowie: Mental Health Tips for Parents

Overcoming Loneliness in Crofton: Social Strategies for Better Mental Health

Career Counseling for Federal Employees Facing Layoffs: Navigate Your Next Steps with Confidence

Domestic Violence: How to Recognize the Signs and Support a Loved One

Understanding the Mental Health Impact of ICE Searches and How to Support Affected Individuals

Understanding Loneliness and Distrust After Trauma and How to Cope

Losing Your Identity After a Breakup: How to Reclaim Yourself When You’re Overly Attached

Navigating Mental Health Challenges with Autism and Finding the Right Support

Understanding Complicated Grief and How to Find Peace

How Grief Affects Relationships and Ways to Rebuild Connection

Navigating Mood Swings During Menopause: Understanding the Mental Health Impact

How Postpartum Depression Affects Bonding with Your Baby and How to Reconnect

Navigating Anxiety as a First-Generation College Student and Prioritizing Mental Health

Coping with Anxiety and Mental Health Challenges When Starting Your First Job After College

Navigating Anxiety as a First-Generation College Student and Prioritizing Mental Health

Managing Mental Health in Frederick County: Addressing Rural Stress and Isolation

Managing Anxiety and Stress for College Students in Frederick County

Mental Health Support for First Responders in Frederick County

Navigating Anxiety as a First-Generation College Student and Prioritizing Mental Health

The Psychological Impact of Exposure to Violence in Baltimore City

Exploring Depression Medications and How They Can Help D.C. and PG County Residents

Trauma-Informed Therapy Approaches for Baltimore’s Residents

The Importance of Culturally Competent Psychiatry for D.C., PG County, and Anne Arundel County Residents

Teen Mental Health in Southern Maryland: Addressing Academic and Social Pressures

The Mental Health Impact of Military Life in Southern Maryland

Mental Health Impact of Farming Life in Southern Maryland

Coping with Divorce and Separation in Southern Maryland’s Families

Managing Mental Health in Southern Maryland’s Boating and Fishing Community

Mental Health Support for Caregivers of Individuals with Disabilities in Southern Maryland

Helping Farmers Cope with the Stress of Agriculture in Southern Maryland

Mental Health Challenges for Immigrant Families in Prince George’s and Anne Arundel County

College Student Mental Health at UMD, Bowie State, and Anne Arundel Community College

The Impact of Gun Violence on Mental Health in Prince George’s County and D.C.

Aging and Mental Health in High-Cost Areas Like D.C. and Anne Arundel County

Gentrification and Displacement: The Psychological Toll on Longtime D.C. Residents

The Hidden Toll of Chronic Stress on D.C.’s Black and Latinx Communities

The Impact of Crime and Community Violence on Mental Health in Prince George’s County

Postpartum Depression and Maternal Mental Health in Prince George’s County

The Link Between Boating Culture, Alcohol Use, and Mental Health in Anne Arundel County

The Mental Health Toll on Watermen and Fishing Communities in Dorchester County

Domestic Violence and Mental Health in Queen Anne’s County’s Tight-Knit Communities

Exploring Biomarkers and the Genetic Link to Depression Across Generations

Supporting Your Child Through Child Abuse Trauma: A Guide for Parents in Prince George’s County

Foster Parenting and Adoption in Prince George’s County: Navigating Trauma and Supporting Children’s Growth

Coping with Pet Loss: Understanding Pet Grief in Washington DC and Prince George’s County

The Impact of Nature on Mental Health: How Spending Time Outdoors Can Improve Well-Being

Helping Farmers Cope with the Stress of Agriculture in Southern Maryland

Navigating Mental Health in the Gig Economy: Coping with Job Instability and Burnout

Understanding the Connection Between Gut Health and Mental Health

How Microtraumas Accumulate: The Hidden Mental Health Effects of Daily Stressors

The Mental Health Benefits of Creative Hobbies: Beyond Art Therapy

Addressing the Silent Struggle: Men and Mental Health in High-Stress Occupations in Washington D.C.

The Link Between Chronic Pain and Mental Health: Understanding the Connection

How Art Therapy Can Help Children Cope with Trauma

The Mental Health Impact of Living with Chronic Illness: Coping Strategies for Patients and Families

Exploring the Mental Health Challenges of Remote Workers: Isolation, Burnout, and Work-Life Balance

The Role of Music Therapy in Reducing Anxiety and Depression

How Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) Shape Mental Health in Adulthood

Mental Health in Postpartum Fathers: Recognizing the Unspoken Struggles

Mental Health Challenges for Immigrants and Refugees: Coping with Trauma and Cultural Adjustment

The Intersection of Mental Health and Financial Stress: Navigating Economic Uncertainty

The Link Between Sleep Disorders and Mental Health: Addressing the Overlooked Connection

The Role of Animal-Assisted Therapy in Mental Health Treatment

Generational Trauma: How Historical Injustice Impacts Mental Health in Black Communities

How Bullying Affects Mental Health in Youth: Prevention and Coping Strategies

Youth and Body Image: Tackling Mental Health Struggles Related to Appearance and Self-Worth

The Growing Concern of Youth Suicide: Prevention, Intervention, and Support Systems

Understanding the Impact of Peer Pressure on Youth Mental Health and Decision Making

Mental Health Care Options Beyond Counseling in Prince George’s County and Washington D.C.

Supporting Individuals in PG County Courts Through Family Conflict and Mental Health Issues

Culturally Sensitive Psychiatric Evaluations: Why They Matter for Diverse Communities

How Psychiatric Evaluations Help Teens in Prince George’s County Find the Right Medication for Anxiety and Depression

Sleep Deprivation in Prince George’s County: Exploring the Role of Medication in Treating Depression and Trauma-Induced Sleep Issues

Supporting Individuals in PG County Courts Through Family Conflict and Mental Health Issues

Supporting Individuals in PG County Courts Through Family Conflict and Mental Health Issues

Supporting Individuals in PG County Courts Through Family Conflict and Mental Health Issues

Supporting Individuals in PG County Courts Through Family Conflict and Mental Health Issues

Supporting Individuals in PG County Courts Through Family Conflict and Mental Health Issues

Supporting Individuals in PG County Courts Through Family Conflict and Mental Health Issues

Supporting Individuals in PG County Courts Through Family Conflict and Mental Health Issues

Supporting Individuals in PG County Courts Through Family Conflict and Mental Health Issues

🌟Staff Member of the Month🌟 Emily K.

Meet Emily – The Friendly Face at the Front Desk! 

If you’ve called or stopped by Washington Area Counseling in Bowie, there’s a good chance you’ve met Emily!

As our Patient Care Coordinator, she helps make sure everything runs smoothly—whether it’s scheduling therapy appointments, answering questions, or providing support to clients.

A Few Fun Facts About Emily:
✔️ She’s a twin—her brother is her built-in best friend.
✔️ Loves fishing and crocheting to unwind.
✔️ Proud cat mom to Whis, who keeps her on her toes!

Whis, Emily’s cat

At WACC, we make sure every team member is prepared to take calls from people in need of mental health care because we know how important it is to have someone ready to listen and help.

One of the things that makes Emily especially great at her job is that she’s certified in Mental Health First Aid. This training helps her recognize the signs of someone struggling with their mental health, respond with care and understanding, and connect them with the right resources. Whether someone is feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or unsure of where to start, Emily knows how to provide compassionate support in the moment while making sure they get the professional help they need.

Get Started on Your Mental Health Journey

If you’re looking for mental health care in Bowie, give us a call or stop by—Emily will be happy to help!

📞 Call us at 301-701-6965 or Complete Your New Patient Registration Form Here!

Therapist Favorite Books & Podcasts

At Washington Area, we believe that learning and growth extend beyond therapy sessions. That’s why our therapists have curated a list of their favorite books and podcasts to support you on your journey. Whether you’re looking for guidance, inspiration, or new perspectives, these resources can help deepen your understanding and well-being between sessions.

Trauma & Emotional Processing

These books explore how past experiences shape emotions, behaviors, and mental health.

1. The Body Keeps The Score– Bessel Van Der Kolk, M.D.

Therapist Rochelle Howard, M.S., LGMFT at WACC-NMCC, highly recommends The Body Keeps the Score for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of trauma and emotional intelligence. She appreciates how Dr. Bessel van der Kolk explains the powerful connection between the mind and body, showing how past experiences shape our emotions, behaviors, and overall well-being. Rochelle believes this book is essential for learning how to process and heal from trauma, as it offers both scientific insight and practical strategies for reclaiming emotional balance. By increasing awareness of how trauma is stored in the body, readers can develop greater self-compassion, resilience, and emotional intelligence.

2. The Myth of Normal

Therapist Veronica D. Smaugh, LGPC, M.Ed, at Washington Area Clinical Center (WACC), highly recommends The Myth of Normal: Trauma, Illness, and Healing in a Toxic Culture by Dr. Gabor Maté and Daniel Maté. She appreciates how the authors explore the connection between societal pressures and personal well-being, offering insights into how modern culture impacts mental and physical health. Veronica believes this book is essential for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of trauma, resilience, and emotional well-being, as it provides both scientific research and practical strategies for fostering self-awareness and growth.

Addiction

Books that examine the psychological roots of addiction and other mental health struggles.

3. In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts – Dr. Gabor Maté

Therapists at WACC appreciate In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts for its deeply compassionate exploration of addiction. Dr. Gabor Maté examines the root causes of addictive behaviors, connecting them to childhood experiences, trauma, and societal pressures. This book challenges common misconceptions about addiction and provides a more empathetic perspective on overcoming destructive patterns.

Men’s Mental Health

4. Man’s Search for Meaning – Viktor E. Frankl

A timeless classic, Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl is a powerful reflection on resilience and purpose in the face of suffering. Drawing from his experiences as a Holocaust survivor and psychiatrist, Frankl explores how finding meaning in life can help individuals endure even the most difficult circumstances. Therapist Veronica D. Smaugh, LGPC, M.Ed, at Washington Area Clinical Center (WACC), highly recommends this book to those seeking perspective, hope, and personal growth.

Podcasts 🎙

Homecoming – Dr. Thema Bryant

Kristin Abernathy, Clinical Intern at WACC, highly recommends the Homecoming podcast by Dr. Thema Bryant for those seeking guidance on healing, self-reflection, and personal growth. She appreciates how Dr. Thema’s insights offer grounding wisdom, reassurance, and a sense of connection during moments of disconnection. Through compassionate storytelling and psychological expertise, Homecoming serves as a reminder that healing is an ongoing journey, encouraging listeners to embrace self-care and self-awareness.

Get Started on Your Mental Health Journey

Taking the first step toward mental wellness is simple. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or complete our New Patient Registration Form online. Whether you visit our Bowie clinic or connect with us via telehealth, we’re here to support you on your journey to emotional well-being.

📞 Call us at 301-701-6965 or Complete Your New Patient Registration Form Here!

Contact & Location

Phone: 301-701-6965

Email: info@waccenter.com

Address: 2905 Mitchellville Road, Suite 204 Bowie, MD 20716

Maryland Mental Health Care

Bowie, MD Psychiatry & Therapy Services

Mental Health Services in Bowie

At Washington Area Clinical Center (WACC), we understand that finding the right mental health support is essential. Whether you’re looking for in-person therapy in Bowie or the flexibility of online counseling across Maryland, we are here to help. Conveniently located near Bowie Town Center off Mitchellville Road, our practice offers compassionate and effective mental health services tailored to your needs.

Services Offered:

We provide a wide range of mental health support, including:

  • Individual Therapy – Address personal challenges with professional guidance.
  • Couples Counseling – Strengthen relationships and improve communication.
  • Family Therapy – Navigate family dynamics with expert support.
  • Medication Management – Work with psychiatric providers for comprehensive care.
  • Children’s Therapy – Support for young clients dealing with emotional and behavioral challenges.
  • Group Therapy – Connect with others in a supportive therapeutic setting.

Contact & Location

Phone: 301-701-6965

Email: info@waccenter.com

Why Choose WACC for Mental Health Services?

Convenient Location for In-Person Therapy

Our in-person therapy sessions take place in our welcoming Bowie office, easily accessible from Mitchellville Road and the surrounding areas. If you prefer face-to-face support, our licensed therapists are here to help with anxiety, depression, trauma, family challenges, and more.

Flexible Telehealth Therapy Across Maryland & DC

For those who need mental health care from the comfort of their home, we offer online therapy via secure telehealth platforms. This option is perfect for individuals with busy schedules, mobility concerns, or those who prefer virtual sessions.

Benefits of Our Therapy Services

✔ Personalized Care: Every client receives a customized treatment plan tailored to their specific needs.
✔ Multicultural Competence: Our diverse team understands the importance of culturally sensitive therapy.
✔ Proven Methods: We use evidence-based therapies to support your mental health journey.
✔ Flexible Scheduling: Choose from daytime, evening, and weekend appointments to fit your lifestyle.

Get Started on Your Mental Health Journey

Taking the first step toward mental wellness is simple. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or complete our New Patient Registration Form online. Whether you visit our Bowie clinic or connect with us via telehealth, we’re here to support you on your journey to emotional well-being.

📞 Call us at 301-701-6965 or Complete Your New Patient Registration Form Here!