Bethesda, MD Local Support & Community Resources

Dr. Amanda Roberts is a dedicated clinical psychologist with a rich background in providing therapy for adults and elders, particularly focusing on trauma and PTSD, chronic illness, and women's issues. Her virtual practice spans across Maryland, Virginia, Washington D.C., Massachusetts, and New Mexico, allowing her to connect with a broad client base. Dr. Roberts earned her education from prestigious institutions, studying psychology at Harvard University and earning a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of San Francisco. She further obtained her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from The California Institute of Integral Studies in San Francisco. With over thirty-seven years of clinical experience in various settings, including inpatient, outpatient, community mental health, and crisis services, Dr. Roberts has honed her expertise in diverse cultural backgrounds, including significant work with expatriates. A passionate advocate for global mental health, she offers EMDR therapy that facilitates the rapid and painless processing of toxic memories, which proves to be more affordable than individual therapy. Clients are welcomed into a safe, trusting, and affirming environment where their strengths and resilience are emphasized, empowering them to enact meaningful change. Dr. Roberts firmly believes that the success of psychotherapy stems from a therapeutic relationship built on respect and compassion.

Munis is a dedicated therapist who understands that the most valuable aspect of therapy lies in the connection between the therapist and the client. He emphasizes the importance of building rapport and fostering a safe space, as it is essential for meaningful recovery. Through loving kindness and empathy, Munis prioritizes creating a strong bond with his clients, maintaining a humble approach while instilling hope and confidence in their journey towards self-love and self-sufficiency. His awareness of mental health issues is informed by his identity as a bi-cultural professional, allowing him to address the significance of culture and diversity in therapy. Munis begins each therapeutic relationship with the aspiration that one day clients will flourish into their best selves, becoming independent and strong. He recognizes that the path to recovery can be challenging but remains committed to supporting clients every step of the way until they feel ready to embrace their growth and independence.

Lauren Messina is a dedicated Couple and Family Therapist who passionately believes in the capability of individuals to enact positive changes in their lives. Her work emphasizes the importance of building strong families and relationships. Known for her client-centered and strengths-based approach, Lauren cultivates a comfortable and safe environment for her clients. Utilizing techniques from Cognitive Behavioral, Solution-Focused, and Experiential therapy, she adeptly tailors her methods to meet the unique needs of each client. Lauren specializes in working with children, teens, adults, and families, focusing on fostering connection and cohesion within couple and family dynamics. Certified in Play Therapy, she assists teens and young adults in navigating challenges such as depression, anxiety, family conflict, social skills, and academic or career concerns. For premarital couples, Lauren is a certified PREPARE/ENRICH facilitator, guiding them toward a healthy relationship foundation. For those in the early stages of dating, her expertise ensures they develop strong communication skills right from the start. With a systemic perspective, Lauren is committed to helping individuals build self-esteem and reach their personal goals.