Trauma and PTSD therapists & psychiatrists in Bethesda, MD

Outside of my work as a therapist, I enjoy spending time outdoors, riding my horses, and being with my family. These activities help me stay grounded and connected to what matters most in life. I value balance, authenticity, and meaningful relationships, and I bring those same values into my work with clients. I strive to create a welcoming, supportive environment where clients feel comfortable being themselves and working toward their goals.

When navigating challenges like anxiety, depression, or trauma, it is easy to assume that something is fundamentally wrong with you. If you are struggling with low self-concept, anger, or substance usage, you might view these obstacles as personal failures. My goal is to completely shift that narrative. Together, we will look at what is going on with you, rather than what is wrong with you.

Since 1993, I have spent over 30 years helping individuals recognize their innate strengths and leverage them to overcome life’s hardest hurdles. Throughout my career, I have developed deep clinical expertise, obtaining specific, formal certifications across multiple states to ensure you receive highly credentialed and adaptive care.

Taking that first step to reach out for support can feel intimidating. Because of this, our introductory session is designed to be a safe, collaborative space. We will explore what is currently going well, examine the challenges you are experiencing, and align on your expectations for therapy. My primary objective is to establish an empowering professional relationship built entirely on your strengths.

My name is Derrick C. Gibson — Licensed Professional Counselor, Elder at Brookside Ministry Church of God in Christ International, and someone who has spent his career showing up for people that many systems had already written off. I hold dual Master's degrees in Guidance and Counseling and Education from the University of Wisconsin-Stout, and my work has taken me deep into Kanawha County, West Virginia — into the schools, into the judicial system, and into the lives of families navigating some of the hardest circumstances imaginable. I've worked with domestic abuse survivors, sexual abuse survivors, at-risk youth, and individuals managing anger — not from a distance, but up close, with real investment in real outcomes. I also serve as a Christian Counselor, which means faith is not a footnote in my practice — it's woven into the foundation. If you're looking for a counselor who brings both clinical training and a grounded spiritual perspective, you've found one.

Hello, and welcome. My name is Debby Falusi, CRNP, PMHNP-BC, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 17 years of experience in mental health care. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, and older adults across a variety of settings, including outpatient clinics, inpatient psychiatry, telepsychiatry, substance use treatment programs, correctional facilities, and skilled nursing facilities.

I believe that mental health care should be compassionate, collaborative, and individualized. My approach focuses on creating a safe, nonjudgmental environment where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered to participate in their treatment decisions. I work closely with each client to understand their unique experiences, challenges, strengths, and goals.

My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, ADHD, trauma-related disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, and substance use disorders. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and supportive psychotherapy while utilizing evidence-based practices to help clients achieve meaningful and lasting improvements in their mental well-being.

I understand that seeking help can be difficult, and I strive to make the process as comfortable as possible. Whether you are experiencing new mental health concerns or managing a long-standing condition, I am committed to supporting you on your journey toward healing, resilience, and improved quality of life.

I look forward to partnering with you to develop a treatment plan that aligns with your needs and helps you move toward your personal goals.

Specialties: Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma/PTSD, Mood Disorders, Psychotic Disorders, Substance Use Disorders, Stress Management, and Medication Management.

Please visit www.tendermindandsoulhealthcare.com for more information.

As a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) who has been practicing for over 10 years, I can promise support, empathy, and engagement. Additionally, I have formal training in trauma treatments, TEAM-CBT, RLT couples counseling, and years of experience with several other approaches. I enjoy working with individuals and couples, i am an LGBTQIA+ ally, and i love my job!

Kim Prager, Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker/Therapist, studied and trained at University of Wisconsin-Madison. She has 16 years of experience providing therapy to people from all walks of life, Most recently, she worked at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center's integrated executive medicine and oncology clinics.

She believes therapy is a place to be seen and heard and an opportunity for personal growth. Her approach is holistic and trauma informed, often with a focus on adjustment, interpersonal dynamics, grief, and loss.

She welcomes you to reach out to find a way to live more authentically, forge genuine connections, and prioritize value based goals that bring about positive change in your life.

I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner for over 5 years, and I am also a board certified adult nurse practitioner for over 12 years. I began my nursing career graduating from university of MD with my bachelors, and then attended Johns Hopkins University for my masters. I decided to further my education by attending Brandman University to obtain my Doctorate and psychiatric mental health certification in 2018.

Starting therapy can feel intimidating, but you don’t have to figure things out alone. I’m Tamara Whittleton, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with adults navigating stress, anxiety, depression, and major life changes. I focus on creating a supportive environment where clients feel comfortable talking openly while developing practical strategies for growth and healing

Great to meet you!

As a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe prioritizing mental health is integral to happiness and stability in life. Seeking help can be one of the hardest parts, so congratulations on taking that step! I’m honored to share that I have been helping people for nearly 25 years... and counting! I look forward to working with you and uncovering the solutions needed to help you live the life you desire and deserve!