Teen Counseling and Adolescent Therapists in Gaithersburg, MD
If your teenager has been struggling, and you’ve been at a loss for how to help them, you’re at the right place. Our adolescent therapists are experts in teens’ social and emotional life and development. Furthermore, we understand the experience of growing up in Montgomery County, attending the “W” schools, and the pressures to get into the “right college” or be accepted by the “right” peer group.
We love counseling teens by supporting and guiding them through this challenging chapter of life.
Are you unsure if your tween or teen is going through a typical “moody” phase or if something more severe is happening? Trust your gut. You know your child best, and if you think there may be a problem, getting support and guidance from a professional is a good idea. Unfortunately, the middle and high school years can be some of the most challenging for some. Our adolescent therapists can help you and your child navigate this period successfully by assisting your child in developing effective coping strategies, improving their communication skills, and building greater resilience.
We have expertise in many areas of concern for adolescence, such as:
- Support in Navigating Teen Social Scenes
- School Pressures and Academic Stress
- Learning Concerns
- ADD/ADHD
- School Avoidance
- Stress and Anxiety Management
- Teen Depression
- Self-Esteem Issues
- Self-Harm
- Behavioral Issues
- Anger and Defiant Behaviors
- Substance Use Concerns
If you have further questions, please don’t hesitate to call us or visit our Teen Therapy FAQ page for a detailed discussion of these topics.
Minimum* Age Accepted | Clinician |
| Preschoolers/Elementary/Middle & HS (2-16) | Daniela Nogales, LCPC |
| Elementary and above (5+) | Elsy Estrada, LCSW-C |
| Elementary and Middle (5-12) | Jessica Stutzman, PhD |
| Elementary and Middle & HS (5+) | Jacy Perkins, PMH, CNS-BC |
| Elementary and above (6+) (Testing and Assessment) | Julie Mudryj, PsyD |
| Elementary and above (6+) (Testing and Assessment) | Briana Cerami-Guarino, PsyD |
| Elementary and above (6+) (Testing and Assessment) | Jessica Stutzman, PhD |
| Elementary and above (6+) | Megan Burleson, PhD |
| Elementary and above (5+) | Jolene Drblik, PsyD |
| Elementary to college-aged (6+) | Joshua Coming Soon |
| Elementary and above (10+) | Jacqueline Flores, LCSW-C |
| Middle and High Schoolers (15+) (Psychotherapy & Executive Functioning Coaching) | Megan Burleson, PhD |
| Middle and High Schoolers and above (for Medication Mgmt only) | Brent Donmoyer, PMHNP |
| Elementary and above 10+ (for Medication Mgmt only) | Adrian Kress, M.D. |
| High Schoolers and above (13+) | David Rodriguez, PsyD |
| High Schoolers and above (14+) | Robert Chase, PhD |
| High Schoolers and above (Psychotherapy) | Julie Mudryj, Psy.D. |
Our Local Adolescent Therapists Understand Our Community’s Teens
Our therapists are highly skilled at counseling young people and their families. We are all too aware of the pressures that Montgomery County students face living in this community. We’ve been there ourselves or have kids navigating the same environment, and we’ve had clients in the same boat—many clients. As such, we want to share the wisdom we’ve acquired for the benefit of your child. Please call us at (240) 252-3349 to learn how our interventions can help your child thrive.
North Potomac Office with Free and Easy Parking
Our well-appointed office is in the heart of the Kentlands, in Gaithersburg and North Potomac, Maryland. Thus, we’re close if you live in Potomac, Poolesville, Clarksburg, and Rockville, Maryland. Moreover, many of our clients reside in areas such as Boyds, Damascus, Germantown, and Bealesville, sometimes taking advantage of our telemedicine options. Whether you live down the block or across town, we want our services to be accessible to you. We are conveniently located to many Montgomery County communities. That’s why we offer both in-person and virtual services for your family’s convenience.
Map the drive time from your house to our office and see how close you are to some of the top psychologists and psychiatrists in Maryland!
What Options Are Available if a Teen Doesn’t Want to Go to Therapy?
Convincing a teenager to attend therapy when they’re resistant can be a delicate situation. However, several alternative approaches might encourage them to engage in therapeutic practices until they are ready to start traditional in-person counseling sessions.
Encourage Open Communication with Your Adolescent
First, foster an open environment at home where your teen feels safe expressing their feelings. Sometimes, simply having the support of a non-judgmental listener can be immensely beneficial and might even make them more receptive to professional help later on.
Consider the Option of Local Online Therapy
Online therapy can be a more appealing initial step for some teenagers, offering a comfortable and private setting. Many of our expert, hometown adolescent therapists working with teens provide convenient virtual sessions, allowing teens to engage in their familiar surroundings while still benefiting from an expert who knows our community and the unique regional pressures your child may be facing.
Explore Area Peer Support Groups
Consider peer support groups for teens, which provide an opportunity to share experiences with others of the same age in a guided setting. Such groups can often be found through local community centers or schools, providing a supportive network that can sometimes be more relatable for teens.
Research Their School’s Teen Mental Health Resources
Schools often have counselors or psychologists on staff who can provide initial support and guidance. Meeting with someone who is part of their everyday environment may feel more approachable to a reluctant teen.
Attend Parent and Teen Mental Health Workshops
Attending workshops together can also be a great way to introduce therapeutic concepts without the pressure of a one-on-one session. These can improve family communication and strengthen relationships, indirectly supporting a teen’s emotional health.
Consultation with Your Child’s Pediatrician or Other Healthcare Providers
Talk to their primary care doctor or pediatrician if your teen remains resistant. Medical professionals can offer insights or suggest alternative options tailored to your teen’s comfort level. Also, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us for some suggestions tailored to your specific situation as well. We’re here to help!
Remember, patience and understanding are crucial as you explore these options. Each step towards gaining your teen’s trust and openness can make a significant difference.
If a problem with bullying has brought you to this page and you are wondering, “What can I do to help my child deal with a bully online or in school?” let’s bring a team of advocates to help turn the situation around.
Counseling Help Is Available Now for Your Teen at Kentlands Psychotherapy
If you’re searching for a therapist who specializes in teens near you in Montgomery County, you’re in the right place. Our adolescent counseling services support teens in Gaithersburg, North Potomac, and beyond. Call us today at (240) 252-3349 for a free consultation to discuss your child’s needs and get answers to your questions about our services and provider options.
It's not an easy time to be a kid. Perhaps it never is, but now it's especially true. Let us help you understand and support your child's needs.
Is your teen struggling with school, in their relationships with friends, with you? Do they seem irritable, withdrawn, unmotivated, sad? Our therapist know how to help.
Are you looking to make some aspect of your otherwise good relationship better? Maybe you’ve tried all the strategies that make sense to you.