Grief counselors and therapists in Kensington, MD

I am a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in helping adults break free from long-standing emotional and relational patterns that keep them stuck in anxiety, disconnection, or self-doubt. My work is grounded in the belief that healing happens not just through insight, but through learning how to feel safe, regulated, and connected both within yourself and in relationship with others.

I earned My Master’s degree in Social Work and is clinically trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS – Level 1), EMDR, Brainspotting, Somatic-Based Practices, Ketamine Assisted Therapy, Psychedelics Integration, and Narrative Therapy. I integrate trauma-informed, nervous-system-focused approaches to help clients move beyond coping and into meaningful, embodied change. My style is collaborative, compassionate, and direct, supporting clients in developing self-trust while gently challenging patterns that no longer serve them.

Before becoming a therapist, I worked extensively in the health and wellness field, including roles in movement, bodywork, and mind-body practices. This background strongly informs my holistic approach to therapy and understanding of how emotional experiences are stored and expressed in the body. I pay close attention to how stress, trauma, and attachment wounds show up not just in thoughts, but in physical sensations, behaviors, and relationship dynamics.

In therapy, I help clients build emotional resilience, strengthen communication skills, and develop the capacity to stay grounded during uncomfortable or vulnerable moments. My goal is not to “fix” clients, but to help them understand themselves more deeply, reconnect with their inner wisdom, and create relationships and lives that feel aligned, fulfilling, and sustainable.

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.

With 8 years of experience in the mental health field, I firmly believe in the parity of mental and physical health. Life often leads us into dark tunnels, and my role in therapy is to guide individuals toward the light at the end of those tunnels.

I am a Maryland Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical, dedicated to supporting individuals through life's challenges with compassion and expertise. As a proud veteran of the Iraq War (2005-2006), I bring a unique understanding and empathy to those who have served, along with a commitment to serving all communities.

I hold a Master of Social Work Degree with a primary concentration in Clinical Practice and a specialization in Health—Child, Adolescent, and Family Health (CAFH)—from the University of Maryland School of Social Work.

My practice welcomes adults from 18 to 65+ years old. I am especially dedicated to serving veterans, service members, LGBTQ+ individuals, new mothers, and older adults. Whether you're navigating mental health concerns, life transitions, or seeking personal growth, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space tailored to your unique needs.

Together, we can work toward resilience, healing, and a more fulfilling life. Reach out today to start your journey to well-being.

Hello and welcome. Reaching out for therapy takes courage, and it can be the first step toward meaningful and lasting change. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply wanting life to feel more manageable, therapy can help you build clarity, resilience, and a stronger sense of balance.