The WACC Full Circle Approach

At WACC, we uphold the highest standards in mental health care through a comprehensive, data-driven approach.

Our Commitment to Excellence in Mental Health Care

Our Full Circle Approach focuses on symptom improvement and mental health assessments to ensure effective, personalized treatment. We prioritize client satisfaction and a strong therapeutic alliance to enhance the therapy experience. By promoting client engagement and monitoring cancellation rates, we ensure accessible, consistent care. Through this holistic strategy, we create lasting, meaningful change for our clients.

How We Maintain High Standards in Mental Health Care

  • Symptom Improvement: Tracking client progress to ensure effective treatment and meaningful change.
  • Client Satisfaction: Gathering feedback to enhance therapy experiences and outcomes.
  • Client Engagement: Encouraging active participation in the therapeutic process to maximize success.
  • Cancellation Rates: Monitoring attendance trends to ensure consistent and accessible care.
  • Therapeutic Alliance: Strengthening the client-therapist relationship for improved mental health outcomes.
  • Mental Health Assessments: Utilizing evidence-based assessments to tailor treatment plans to individual needs.
  • CARF Accreditation: WACC is CARF-accredited, meaning we follow the highest standards in mental health care. This ensures we use best practices and provide safe, effective, and high-quality services.

At WACC, we believe that measurable results lead to meaningful change. Our therapists are committed to ongoing training, supervision, and the latest research to provide the best care possible.

If you’re looking for expert, data-driven mental health care, we’re here to support you every step of the way!

Contact WACC today at 301-701-6965 or fill out the New Patient Registration Form and take the next step toward mental wellness.

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Addressing Youth Mental Health in Prince George’s County: How WACC Supports Families

Youth mental health is a growing concern in Prince George’s County, with rising rates of anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation among students. A recent report from Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) revealed that between 2022 and 2023, nearly 17% of high school students seriously considered suicide, and 10% reported attempting it. These alarming statistics highlight the urgent need for accessible, culturally competent mental health services that can support children, teens, and their families.

At Washington Area Clinical Center (WACC), we recognize the unique challenges faced by youth in our community. Our therapists provide both in-person and Telehealth therapy services to children, adolescents, and families throughout Maryland. Our mission is to offer effective, research-backed support that is sensitive to the cultural, emotional, and developmental needs of Black youth, Latino youth, and other underserved communities in Prince George’s County.

Understanding the Mental Health Crisis Among Youth

Youth from diverse backgrounds face distinct challenges that contribute to mental health struggles, including systemic inequities, cultural stigma, and social stressors. Research from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) and the American Psychological Association (APA) has found that minority youth are less likely to receive mental health care, despite experiencing increasing rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts.

Black Youth Mental Health

According to a study published in JAMA Pediatrics, suicide rates among Black youth are rising faster than in any other racial or ethnic group. Barriers to care often include:

  • Stigma around mental health: Many Black families have been historically discouraged from discussing mental health, leading to delayed treatment or avoidance of professional support.
  • Lack of culturally competent providers: Research from Dr. Derald Wing Sue, a pioneer in multicultural psychology, emphasizes that therapists who understand the cultural background of their clients are more effective in treatment.
  • Mistrust in healthcare systems: Due to historical mistreatment and ongoing disparities, some families may feel hesitant to seek professional help.

Latino Youth Mental Health

Latino youth also experience significant mental health challenges, yet they are less likely than their White peers to receive mental health treatment. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), Latino youth face the following barriers:

  • Language barriers: Many Latino families have limited access to bilingual therapists, making communication and trust-building difficult.
  • Immigration stress and acculturation challenges: Many Latino youth experience anxiety related to immigration status, discrimination, and adjusting to new cultural norms.
  • Family expectations and stigma: Mental health struggles are often perceived as personal weaknesses rather than legitimate medical concerns in many Latino communities, discouraging youth from seeking help.

Reasons Youth May Need Counseling

Youth may benefit from counseling for a variety of reasons, including:

  • Anxiety and depression: Persistent sadness, excessive worry, or emotional withdrawal.
  • Academic and school-related stress: Struggles with concentration, motivation, or school performance.
  • Behavioral issues: Aggressive behaviors, defiance, or sudden mood changes.
  • Family conflicts: Difficulty coping with family changes, divorce, or strained relationships.
  • Social challenges and bullying: Low self-esteem, peer pressure, or difficulties with friendships.
  • Trauma and grief: Experiences of loss, abuse, or significant life transitions.

How WACC Supports Prince George’s County Families

At WACC, we are committed to addressing these barriers and providing culturally responsive mental health care for youth and families. Our services include:

Child & Adolescent Therapy

Our therapists specialize in working with children and teens struggling with anxiety, depression, school stress, trauma, self-esteem issues, and more. We offer play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and other age-appropriate interventions.

Suicide Prevention & Crisis Support

We provide intervention strategies to help at-risk youth, working closely with families to create safety plans and build emotional resilience. Patients are given tools to recognize warning signs and foster open communication.

Culturally Competent Care

Our diverse team of clinicians understands the impact of cultural identity on mental health. We incorporate evidence-based practices while respecting cultural values, traditions, and family dynamics.

Parent Support & Family Therapy

We equip parents with strategies to support their child’s mental health, improve communication, and strengthen family bonds. Our therapists offer guidance on navigating school concerns, peer relationships, and emotional development.

The Importance of Early Intervention

Research consistently shows that early intervention leads to better long-term outcomes for youth experiencing mental health challenges. A study from the Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry found that children who receive therapy at an early stage are more likely to develop healthy coping mechanisms, improve academic performance, and reduce their risk of future mental health disorders.

Seeking Help: Next Steps for Parents in Prince George’s County

If you are a parent of a child attending school in Prince George’s County, Anne Arundel, Frederick, or other nearby counties and have noticed signs of emotional distress, behavioral changes, or academic struggles, now is the time to seek professional support.

Your child’s mental health is just as important as their physical health. Let’s work together to ensure that every child in Maryland has access to the compassionate, effective mental health care they deserve.

Caity is Currently taking New Patients!

She specializes in working with children, young adults, and adults, focusing on self-esteem, anxiety, depression, relationships, and personal growth. Caity is committed to creating a safe and supportive space for support and empowerment. Her sessions are in-person and Telehealth.

📅 Book a session with Caity today!

Contact WACC today at 301-701-6965 to or fill out the New Patient Registration Form and take the next step in your journey!

Visit Us:


References

  • National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). (2023). “Mental Health in Minority Youth.”
  • American Psychological Association (APA). (2022). “Addressing Mental Health Disparities in Black and Latino Youth.”
  • JAMA Pediatrics. (2021). “Suicide Trends Among Black Adolescents.”
  • National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). (2022). “Latino Youth Mental Health Challenges and Barriers.”
  • Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. (2020). “Early Intervention and Long-Term Mental Health Outcomes.”
  • Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS). (2024). “From Awareness to Action: Recognizing and Responding to Suicide Warning Signs.” Retrieved from: https://www.pgcps.org/inside-scoop-blog/2024-2025/from-awareness-to-action-recognizing-and-responding-to-suicide-warning-signs

Healing After Infidelity: How Therapy Can Help Couples Rebuild Trust

Infidelity can shake the foundation of any relationship, creating feelings of anger, shame, sadness, and confusion. Many couples seek therapy to:

  • Understand the underlying issues that contributed to the affair.
  • Process feelings of betrayal and emotional pain.
  • Rebuild trust and open honest communication.
  • Develop strategies to prevent future breaches of trust.
  • Determine the future of the relationship, whether that means reconciliation or parting ways in a healthy manner.

Infidelity can deeply wound a relationship, leaving both partners feeling betrayed, lost, and unsure of how to move forward. At Washington Area Clinical Center (WACC), we understand that healing from infidelity is a complex process that requires professional guidance, emotional support, and effective strategies to rebuild trust. If you and your partner are struggling after an affair, therapy can provide the tools needed to navigate this difficult time and find a path toward healing.

The Cultural Aspects of Infidelity Cultural backgrounds play a significant role in how individuals and couples perceive infidelity. In some cultures, extramarital affairs may carry extreme stigma, leading to deep shame and family consequences. In others, societal norms may affect the definition of betrayal and forgiveness. Studies suggest that cultural expectations impact how couples process and recover from infidelity, making culturally competent therapy essential. Research from Dr. Derald Wing Sue, a leading expert in multicultural counseling, emphasizes the importance of addressing cultural influences when treating relationship distress.

Infidelity therapy offers a structured, supportive space for couples to explore their emotions, communicate openly, and rebuild their relationship with professional guidance. Research from Dr. John Gottman, a leading expert in relationship therapy, highlights that couples who engage in structured therapy sessions have a higher likelihood of successfully restoring trust and emotional connection.

Key Aspects of Infidelity Therapy at WACC:

  • Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT): Helps couples process emotions and rebuild emotional bonds.
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Assists in identifying unhealthy patterns and fostering healthier relationship habits.
  • Trust-Building Exercises: Practical tools to rebuild trust and re-establish intimacy.
  • Effective Communication Techniques: Learning to express needs, fears, and expectations in a safe and constructive way.
  • Individual and Joint Sessions: Combining personal reflection with collaborative healing efforts.

Can a Relationship Survive Infidelity? The impact of infidelity varies from couple to couple, but research suggests that with the right support and commitment, many relationships can not only survive but also grow stronger. Studies, including those from the Journal of Marital and Family Therapy, indicate that couples who engage in therapy report higher levels of relationship satisfaction post-infidelity when compared to those who attempt to heal on their own.

Why Choose WACC for Infidelity Therapy in Maryland? At WACC, we provide both in-person and Telehealth therapy for couples throughout Maryland and Washington, D.C. Our culturally competent therapists understand the unique challenges couples face and offer personalized, evidence-based approaches to healing.

  • Experienced and passionate therapists specializing in relationship dynamics.
  • Safe and non-judgmental environment for open discussions.
  • Flexible scheduling with evening and weekend appointments.
  • Insurance-accepted and sliding-scale fees available.

Take the Next Step Toward Healing If you and your partner are struggling after infidelity, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. Therapy can provide the guidance and support you need to rebuild trust and strengthen your relationship.

Contact WACC today at 301-701-6965 or fill out the New Patient Registration Form and take the next step in your mental health journey!

Visit Us:

References:

  • Gottman, J. M., & Silver, N. (2015). The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work. Harmony Books.
  • Sue, D. W., & Sue, D. (2016). Counseling the Culturally Diverse: Theory and Practice. Wiley.
  • Journal of Marital and Family Therapy. (2020). “Infidelity and Relationship Recovery: The Role of Therapy and Communication.” DOI:10.1111/jmft.12450.
  • Atkins, D. C., Eldridge, K. A., Baucom, D. H., & Christensen, A. (2005). “Infidelity and Behavioral Couples Therapy: Optimism in the Face of Betrayal.” Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 73(1), 144-150.

Why Representation in Therapy Matters: Finding a Culturally Competent Therapist in Maryland

At Washington Area Clinical Center (WACC), we know that finding a therapist who truly understands your background, values, and lived experiences can be life-changing. Many people in Maryland struggle to find mental health support that feels personalized, culturally aware, and free from judgment. If you’ve ever felt like your therapist just doesn’t “get” you, you’re not alone. Research has shown that culturally competent therapy leads to better treatment outcomes and stronger therapeutic relationships.

The Team that “Gets You!”

What is a Culturally Competent Therapist?

A culturally competent therapist takes the time to understand and respect your cultural identity, traditions, and personal experiences. They recognize how factors like race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexuality, and socioeconomic background shape mental health. They also acknowledge the effects of intergenerational trauma, racial stress, and systemic barriers to care, ensuring that therapy is not only effective but also affirming and empowering.

Why Does Representation in Therapy Matter?

Many people hesitate to seek therapy because they worry their therapist won’t understand their struggles. A therapist who is culturally competent—or who shares your background—can provide a safer, more relatable space to process your emotions and experiences. According to a study published in the American Journal of Orthopsychiatry, clients who receive therapy from culturally competent clinicians report higher satisfaction and engagement in treatment.

Benefits of Representation in Therapy:

  • Feeling heard and validated rather than misunderstood or dismissed.
  • Therapy that takes cultural values and family dynamics into account.
  • Effective strategies that are tailored to your lived experience, not just general coping skills.
  • A deeper sense of trust, making it easier to open up about personal challenges.
  • Acknowledgment of historical and systemic challenges that impact mental health, such as discrimination, stigma, and generational trauma.

At WACC, we provide therapy for individuals, couples, and families across Maryland. Whether you’re looking for in-person therapy in Prince George’s County or Telehealth services statewide, our team is here to support you. We prioritize ongoing training and supervision to ensure our clinicians stay informed and culturally aware. Studies, including research from Dr. Derald Wing Sue, a leading psychologist in multicultural counseling, emphasize that therapists who continually educate themselves on cultural issues provide better, more effective care.

Our Services:

  • In-Person Therapy – Available for residents in the Washington, D.C., and Maryland areas.
  • Telehealth Therapy – Accessible statewide so you can receive support from the comfort of your home.
  • Specialized Care – Our clinicians are trained in trauma, childhood development, depression, relationship challenges, and more.

If you’ve been searching for a therapist who understands your background and experiences, you deserve care that meets your needs. Representation in therapy matters because your mental health matters.

Contact WACC today at 301-701-6965 to or fill out the New Patient Registration Form and take the next step toward your mental health journey.

Visit Us:

References:

  • Sue, D. W., & Sue, D. (2016). Counseling the Culturally Diverse: Theory and Practice. Wiley.
  • American Journal of Orthopsychiatry. (2018). “The Impact of Culturally Competent Therapy on Client Outcomes.” DOI:10.1037/ort0000315.
  • Comas-Diaz, L. (2012). “Multicultural Competencies in Clinical Practice.” Journal of Professional Psychology, 43(3), 273-282.

How Telehealth Therapy Works & What to Expect:

Serving all of Maryland and Washington D.C

Are you looking for trusted Telehealth therapy in Maryland or Washington, D.C.? Our therapists provide secure, HIPAA-compliant online counseling through Simple Practice, a user-friendly virtual therapy platform. We offer individual therapy, couples counseling, and child therapy to help you navigate life’s challenges—all from the comfort of your own home. We proudly offer Telehealth therapy across Maryland, including Baltimore, the Washington D.C. Metro area, Bowie, Crofton, Greenbelt, Silver Spring, Rockville, Frederick, and surrounding cities. Whether you live in a busy urban area or a quieter town, our therapists are here to help.


Why Choose Telehealth Therapy?

Many people wonder: “Is Teletherapy as effective as in-person therapy?” The answer is yes! Studies show that online therapy is just as effective as traditional face-to-face therapy for treating:

  • Anxiety disorders (Generalized Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Panic Disorders)
  • Depression (Major Depressive Disorder, Seasonal Affective Disorder, etc)
  • Trauma & PTSD therapy
  • Stress management & burnout support
  • Relationship challenges & couples counseling
  • Child & adolescent behavioral therapy
  • And More!

Telehealth Therapy in Maryland & D.C.: Convenient & Effective Online Counseling

✅ Convenient & Flexible: Get the support you need without the hassle—no commuting, no waiting rooms. Access therapy easily from Baltimore, the DC Metro area, Bowie, and anywhere in Maryland.

✅ Private & Secure: Your sessions are held on a HIPAA-compliant platform, ensuring complete confidentiality and peace of mind.

✅ Accessible for Everyone: Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent juggling responsibilities, a student, or living in a remote area, online therapy makes quality mental health care easier to fit into your life.


How It Works: Step-by-Step Guide to Starting Therapy

1. Comprehensive Assessment (First Session)

Your journey starts with a comprehensive mental health assessment conducted by a therapist supervisor. In this session, we will:

  • Discuss your mental health history & current concerns
  • Identify key therapy goals and treatment options
  • Develop a personalized therapy plan tailored to your needs

2. Ongoing Weekly or Biweekly Therapy Sessions

After the initial assessment, you’ll be matched with a dedicated therapist in Maryland or D.C. who will work with you through weekly or biweekly 60-minute sessions. Your therapist will provide a safe, structured space to explore challenges, learn coping strategies, and track progress.

3. Personalized Therapy for Your Needs

Our therapists offer specialized Maryland & DC Telehealth Therapy for:

  • Individual Therapy: Anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, self-esteem, and personal growth, etc.
  • Couples Therapy: Strengthening relationships, improving communication, and resolving conflicts, and more.
  • Child & Teen Counseling: Emotional support for children and teens facing behavioral or academic challenges, and more!

Important Licensing & Location Requirements

To receive Telehealth therapy, you must be physically located in a state where your therapist is licensed. Our therapists are licensed in Maryland and Washington, D.C. or Maryland only, so you must be in Maryland or D.C., depending on your therapist, at the time of your session.

🚨 If you are outside of Maryland or D.C., you will not be able to have a session unless your provider is licensed in that state.

This ensures that all sessions comply with legal and ethical guidelines for mental health services.

Why Clients Choose Us for Telehealth Therapy in Maryland

⭐ Experienced & Trusted Therapists – Our team is highly rated and brings years of expertise to every session.

⭐ Personalized Support – We offer specialized therapy for individuals, couples, and families, tailored to your unique needs.

⭐ Flexible Scheduling – Evening and weekend appointments are available to fit your busy lifestyle.

⭐ Affordable & Accessible – We accept insurance and offer sliding scale rates to make quality care more affordable. For a limited time (starting 2/21/25), anyone paying out of pocket for therapy—without using insurance—qualifies for sliding scale pricing. Don’t miss this opportunity to get the support you need at a reduced rate!


Get Started with Online Therapy Today!

If you’re ready to start your Telehealth therapy journey in Maryland or D.C., we’re here to support you every step of the way. Complete the New Patient Registration Form to get started!

Tell Us How We’re Doing!

At WACC, we are committed to continuously improving our services and ensuring we meet the needs of our community. Your feedback is invaluable to us, and we want to know how we are doing!

We invite all stakeholders—patients, families, staff, and community members—to participate in our survey, “Tell Us How We Are Doing.” Your insights will help us enhance our programs, refine our services, and create a better experience for everyone.

How to Participate:

  • Click the link to access the survey or take the survey below if it populates on your screen.
  • Your responses will be confidential and will directly inform our future initiatives.

Thank you for your continued support and for helping us strive for excellence in mental health care. Together, we can make a positive impact!


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Employment & Internship Opportunities

Join our dynamic team at Washington Area Clinical Center! We are currently hiring for multiple positions across various departments, including clinical, administrative, and internships.

Interested in a position? E-mail zfarooq@waccenter.com and include your resume and CV (optional).

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1. Mental Health Counselor (Part-Time or Full-Time) Hybrid*

Our team is seeking therapists to provide individual, couple, or family therapy sessions via Hybrid (Telehealth AND In-Person). Contract therapists set their own schedules and work independently in a fully virtual and in-person setting. We are seeking candidates with experience or interest in mood disorders, trauma, and couple/family work.

Applicants must have a M.A. or M.S. from an accredited university and must possess a minimum of graduate-level licensure in the state of Maryland and/or Washington, D.C. (LGMFT, LMFT, LMSW, LCSW-C, LICSW, LGPC, LCPC). We offer FREE supervision to LGPC, LGMFT, and LGSW. Out-of-state applicants must be license-eligible. Reimbursement of licensure fees is available for hired out-of-state clinicians upon licensure. No wait Caseloads. Start with a full caseload (If you offer evening and weekend availability).

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2. Mental Health Counseling Internship (Summer 2025) In-Person*

Seeking part-time graduate counseling interns who can work in-person at our Bowie, Maryland clinic and provide individual, couple, or family sessions. Your program’s practicum and internship start date would be Spring 2025 and onwards. Applicants must be pursuing a M.A. or M.S. from an accredited university and have completed the prerequisite coursework and readiness to begin the practicum/internship.

Ideal candidates should be comfortable working in person using a fully-integrated electronic health record system. We are 100% paperless. We are seeking candidates with interest in mood disorders, trauma, children, and couple/family work.

Career Path and Compensation:

At Washington Area Clinical Center, we value the growth and development of our interns. Upon successful completion of the internship and obtaining the required licensure as a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor (LGPC) or Licensed Master’s-level Clinician (LM), there are opportunities for paid clinical mental health counselor positions.

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3. Mental Health Marketing & Operations Internship (Part-Time) In-Person

Are you interested in gaining hands-on experience in the mental health field while contributing to the marketing and operations of a thriving mental health clinic? Join our team at WACC as a Mental Health Marketing & Operations Intern. This part-time internship offers valuable professional development opportunities in a supportive and dynamic work environment. *This is an unpaid college credit granting opportunity*

Position Details:

  • Position: Mental Health Marketing & Operations Internship
  • Type: Part-Time (Flexible hours)
  • Location: In-person at our Bowie Office
  • Duration: Length according to your college internship requirements

Responsibilities:

  • Assist in developing and implementing marketing strategies to promote the clinic’s services and programs
  • Support the creation and distribution of marketing materials, including brochures, flyers, and digital content
  • Conduct market research and analysis to identify potential outreach opportunities
  • Assist with social media management and content creation, ensuring consistent branding and engagement
  • Help maintain the clinic’s online presence, including website updates and online directory listings
  • Collaborate with the team to plan and execute community outreach events and workshops
  • Provide general administrative support to the operations team as needed

Qualifications:

  • Current enrollment in a relevant undergraduate or graduate program (e.g., Marketing, Communications, Business Administration, Psychology, Social Work, Human Services)
  • Interest in mental health and a strong desire to make a positive impact in the field
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Proficiency in social media platforms and content creation
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment

Compensation

Non-paid. If you are taking a college internship-credit course, we can be your placement site!

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4. Office Floater (Part-Time/Full-Time) In-Person

We are seeking a warm empathetic office floater for our mental health office in Bowie, MD. Floater must be available to work in-person. Duties include answering the phones, scheduling appointments, billing/processing payments, sending emails, faxing documents, coordinating benefits with insurance, mailing letters, processing claims, auditing paperwork, and responding to patient concerns, requesting medical records, and other duties.

Our ideal candidate is energetic, friendly, empathic, attentive, computer savvy, and organized. The candidate has:

  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills and MUST be able to produce clear professional emails.
  • Must be comfortable answering phones.
  • 1+ year(s) of office experience. (mental health office experience-bonus points!!)
  • Experience with Gmail and sorting data in Excel/ Google Sheets spreadsheets
  • Experience operating cell and office phones
  • Experience with managing CRM and Database systems as we are almost paperless (Simple Practice and Practice Fusion experience-another plus!! )
  • Experience with scheduling and billing (bonus point if you know billing for all insurance providers)
  • Ability to meet deadlines!

The candidate must be a quick learner and able to perform most functions with personal initiative.

Must also be knowledgeable about HIPAA regulations.

Compensation

Negotiable.

Administrative Holidays

Our physical administrative offices will be closed on the following days:

*Please note that although physical administrative offices are closed on the dates above, clinical services (counseling/medication management) will continue as scheduled unless canceled.*