FAQs About Therapy at MindWell Counseling in Bethesda, MD

banner image

Do You Offer In-Person Sessions?

Yes, we provide in-person therapy sessions at our office in Bethesda, Maryland, where we’ve created a calming space that supports healing and connection for clients of all ages.

Do You Offer Telehealth in Maryland and Virgina?

Absolutely. We offer secure, HIPAA-compliant telehealth sessions via video or phone. Teletherapy is a flexible option for clients who prefer to meet from the comfort of home or have scheduling constraints.

What Kinds of Therapy Do You Offer?

MindWell Counseling specializes in parent coaching, play therapy, and holistic approaches that integrate mental, physical, and emotional wellness. Additionally, we provide anxiety therapy and trauma-informed care for children, teens, and adults.

Do You Offer Play Therapy for Children?

Yes! Being a Registered Play Therapist, we are well-qualified to deliver age-appropriate therapy for kids using play-based techniques and a connected parenting framework. We help children manage anxiety, grief, emotional regulation, and life transitions, among other things.

I’m Used to Handling Things on My Own. Isn’t Therapy for the Weak?

Not at all. In fact, recognizing you need support is a sign of strength. Therapy isn’t about being “broken”—it’s about being proactive in building the life and relationships you want. Everyone struggles sometimes, and seeking help is a powerful first step toward change.

What Difference Does a Therapist Make vs. Talking to Friends or Family?

While friends and family offer great support, a licensed therapist provides trained insight, evidence-based strategies, and an unbiased perspective. Therapy creates a confidential, nonjudgmental space to work through issues in ways that casual conversations can’t.

Can’t I Just Take Medication?

Medication can be helpful for some, but it doesn’t address the root of the issue—things like underlying thought patterns, relationship dynamics, or behavioral habits. Therapy offers tools for long-term healing and empowers you to make meaningful, lasting changes with or without the assistance of psychiatric medication.

How Does It Work?

We like to begin with a phone consultation to understand your goals and determine if we are a good fit for each other. From there, sessions are scheduled, typically weekly, biweekly, or monthly, depending on your needs. Session content is tailored to your goals.

Will Parking Be a Nightmare in Bethesda?

Unlike other parts of Bethesda, we are happy to report that there is ample parking right outside our office building that is reasonably priced! There is a ton of metered street parking right on Del Ray Avenue and on the surrounding streets. There is also a large public parking lot that is a stone’s throw from our office building, with entrances on both Del Ray and Auburn Avenues. 

What Can I Expect Our First Session To Be Like?

When you arrive at MindWell Counseling & Play, you’ll be welcomed into a calm, cozy waiting space designed to help your nervous system begin to settle. Soft ocean waves play gently in the background...many clients say it feels like a brief exhale, almost like being transported to the beach for a moment. Complimentary water, coffee, and tea are available, so please make yourself comfortable and at home.

At the time of your appointment, I will greet you personally and invite you into my serene, private office where we’ll begin our conversation together.

Our first session is about connection. I’ll ask thoughtful questions to better understand who you are...not just the challenges that brought you in, but your strengths, your story, and what you hope might feel different in your life. We’ll explore the concerns you’re facing, the areas you’d like to grow in, and what healing or change would look like for you.

As you share, I will reflect back what I’m hearing with care and compassion. Many clients begin to feel a sense of relief simply by not holding everything alone anymore.

There will also be space for you to ask questions about therapy, about my approach, or about what working together might look like. My goal in our first session is to begin building safety, trust, and hope. We’ll gently assess whether we feel like a good fit and create a foundation for meaningful work ahead.

Above all, you can expect a nonjudgmental, heart-centered space where you are free to show up exactly as you are. This is a place for honesty, growth, and healing at your pace.

What Can I Do to Get the Most Out of Therapy?

Therapy works best when you actively engage during sessions, reflect between sessions, and communicate honestly wherever possible. Consistency, patience, and trust in the process are key for transformative results. 

If you’re ready to give it a try, reach out to MindWell Counseling in Bethesda today! We look forward to helping you find balance.