Dr. Jessica Stutzman
Dr. Jessica Stutzman holds a heartfelt dedication to supporting children and families. She brings a wealth of experience and empathy to her practice. Her journey began in the Howard County Public Schools, where she served with distinction for eight years. As a Nationally Certified School Psychologist (NCSP), she specialized in working with students with autism and other developmental disabilities. Now, she continues her work with children along with our team of collaborating licensed mental health professionals at Kentlands Psychotherapy.
Her Approach
Warmth, empathy, and kindness characterize Dr. Stutzman’s approach to therapy. She beautifully creates a secure and nurturing environment for children to express their thoughts and feelings. With expertise in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), she skillfully assists children facing changes in family dynamics. Moreover, her work helps children dealing with loss or managing various mental health challenges, such as ADHD, selective mutism, OCD, and anxiety.
Her Philosophy
Believing firmly in every child’s inherent strengths and potential, Dr. Stutzman employs a personalized, strengths-based framework in her counseling. Furthermore, she identifies and fosters children’s unique gifts, integrates their interests into sessions, and makes them impactful and enjoyable. Her innovative use of play therapy techniques ranges from storytelling and role play to sand play and therapeutic games. As a result, these layered interventions ensure that children find joy and engagement in their journey toward emotional growth and resilience.
Her Background
Dr. Stutzman’s extensive background has endowed her with unparalleled expertise in psychological assessments, navigating Section 504, and the special education process. Beyond individual therapy, she offers valuable consultations with families and school teams. Her guidance promotes positive behaviors and emotional health in home and educational settings. Dr. Stutzman’s comprehensive psychological evaluations uncover each child’s strengths and areas for development. Thus providing critical insights for diagnosis and treatment planning.
Her Passion
Holding a doctorate from the prestigious University of Maryland School Psychology program, Dr. Stutzman is fueled by a lifelong passion for working with children. Moreover, her passion transcends the professional, permeating every aspect of her life. From supporting children as a tutor, gymnastics coach, summer camp counselor, and camp director, her commitment to enriching children’s lives is unwavering.
For Dr. Stutzman, her work is more than a career—it is a calling. Deeply grateful for the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of children, she’s continually inspired by their resilience and capacity for change. Her work offers hope and healing for children and their families.
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