Obsessive-compulsive disorder therapists & psychiatrists in Gaithersburg, MD

I specialize in medication management in treating mood, anxiety, psychotic, and substance use disorders. In the past, I worked as an RN in a dual diagnosis inpatient psychiatric unit. Recently, I have working in an outpatient private practice.

As a Doctor in Nursing Practice, I have been in healthcare for over ten years, which has prepared me to manage my patients with evidence-based treatment modalities. I bring compassion and commitment to my practice of caring for the holistic needs of my patients, which entails a comprehensive assessment and evaluation of the patient’s psychological, emotional, and physical well-being, also creating a plan of care that will optimize a favorable outcome in a realistic, goal-oriented length of time, with the patient’s buy-in.

25+ Years of experience as a therapist. Eclectic approach. Eager to help.

Hello. My name is Catherine Frias. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who provides therapy for a variety of issues and I love accompanying people along their journey to health and wellness.

I am a therapist based in Maryland, dedicated to helping Maryland individuals, couples, and families navigate life’s challenges and build meaningful skills for growth. My path to this work began with a belief in the importance of accessible, evidence-based care for anyone seeking support—whether during difficult times or as part of personal development.

I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work and Psychology from UMBC in 2015 and a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Maryland, Baltimore in 2016. My professional experience includes supporting individuals with developmental disabilities, working with transitional-age youth, providing outpatient therapy in community mental health, and serving Veterans through the VA. These diverse roles shaped my therapeutic style, which is compassionate, practical, and results-oriented.

I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, and sleep difficulties, with advanced training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I), Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT), and other evidence-based treatments. I also have extensive experience supporting LGBTQ+ clients and survivors of trauma.

In therapy, I strive to create a safe and collaborative environment where clients feel understood and empowered. My approach is evidence-based and goal-directed, while always tailored to each person’s needs. Therapy can be a place not only to work through challenges but also to build skills, strengthen resilience, and foster long-term growth.

Most of us never saw healthy communication growing up—and that makes connection feel harder than it should. As your relationship therapist/coach, I help individuals and couples develop relational competence so you can break old patterns, communicate with clarity, and create more secure and nurturing relationships.

• My in-person days: Tuesdays, Thursdays.
• My online days: Monday afternoon, Wednesday morning, Fridays.

I consider it a true privilege to do this work. I know that when patients come to therapy, they’re often sharing parts of themselves that they’ve never shared with anyone else. I don’t take that lightly. My goal is to guide and support you in meeting your potential.