Grief counselors and therapists in Bethesda, MD

Many of my clients come to me carrying more than they let on — a child struggling to focus and feeling misunderstood, a parent exhausted from trying to hold everything together, or an adult quietly navigating loss while the world expects them to move on. Whether you're 6 or 76, if life feels heavier than it should, you deserve a space to set it down. For over 15 years, I've had the privilege of walking alongside children, adults, and seniors through anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief, and the moments that feel impossible to make sense of alone

I've spent fifteen years in community mental health, and most of that time has been with people who were told, in one way or another, that they'd have to wait their turn for care. That shaped how I work. You'll find me direct, practical, and firmly in your corner.

Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, poor self-esteem, negative thoughts, unhealthy relationships or the inability to say NO! Are you tired of feeling like nothing will change or your stuck in life because you don't know what to do to make it better? I focus on adults using CBT, REBT, Person Centered and Motivational interviewing to assist clients in learning more about themselves and their perspective on life. I have experience working with many different mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, stress, marital/relationship issues and career struggles to name a few.

Hello, I’m Dr. Amaechi Olumba, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in nursing and behavioral health. I provide compassionate, individualized, and evidence-based psychiatric care to individuals experiencing a variety of mental health concerns.

My goal is to create a safe and welcoming environment where clients can feel comfortable discussing their concerns and actively participating in their journey toward improved mental health and overall well-being.

I am Dr. Christie Simon-Waterman, a dually certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC) and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over a decade of experience providing compassionate, evidence-based, and holistic care across the lifespan. My clinical background spans primary care, mental health, and community-based health, allowing me to care for the whole person—mind, body, and spirit.

I earned my nursing education at Coppin State University and completed my doctoral training with a strong focus on health equity, leadership, and integrated care delivery.

In my practice, I specialize in:

• Anxiety, depression, trauma-related conditions, and mood disorders
• Integrated mental health treatment
• Substance use–related concerns and recovery support
• Care for underserved and marginalized populations

My approach is empathetic, collaborative, and trauma-informed. I believe healing happens best when clients feel heard, respected, and empowered. Together, we develop personalized treatment plans that may include therapy, medication management when appropriate, lifestyle interventions, and ongoing support tailored to your goals.

Above all, I am committed to creating a safe, supportive responsive space where clients can build resilience, restore balance, and move forward with confidence and clarity.

Introduction

I have a passion for helping individuals and couples navigate their mental health journeys. I offer virtual therapy sessions, making it convenient for you to receive support from the comfort of your own space. Fluent in both English and Swahili.