Gaithersburg, MD Local Support & Community Resources

Deborah Hinton is a dedicated Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a rich background that fuels her passion for helping individuals navigate through life's challenges. Graduating from Trinity University in Washington, DC in 1995, she brings over two decades of experience to her practice. Deborah is deeply committed to supporting a diverse range of communities, including little persons, preteens, single mothers, and members of the LGBTQIA+ spectrum. With a special focus on trauma and PTSD, women's issues, and life coaching, she provides a nurturing environment for her clients to explore their thoughts and emotions. Utilizing a blend of therapeutic approaches such as Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and hypnotherapy, Deborah tailors her methods to suit each individual's unique journey. Her strengths-based perspective empowers her clients, fostering resilience and growth as they work toward healing and self-discovery.

Kamilah Smiley, an LCSW-C clinical social worker and therapist, understands that the things we desire most can often trigger significant fears within us. She believes that sharing vulnerable stories can be daunting, yet emphasizes that no one has to face their challenges alone. With a commitment to holding a non-judgmental space, Kamilah fosters an environment where individuals feel truly listened to and understood. Her collaborative approach allows her to meet clients exactly where they are, reinforcing the idea that they are in this journey together. Kamilah specializes in working with individuals facing Mood and Adjustment Disorders, Grief and Loss Issues, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, and Trauma. Utilizing a blend of solution-focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, music therapy, narrative therapy, and EMDR, she works diligently to address the root causes of dysfunction and stress that make life challenging. Kamilah recognizes that the process of change can be uncomfortable, and her role is to facilitate an atmosphere of growth that inspires meaningful transformations, helping clients become the best versions of themselves while identifying and overcoming the barriers in their paths.

Ashley Allen is a dedicated clinical social worker and therapist, holding an MSW and LMSW, who strives to create a safe and supportive environment for her clients. Committed to fostering authenticity, she encourages individuals to freely explore their needs and concerns. Ashley specializes in assisting children, teens, and adults in overcoming anxiety, depression, and trauma, and is well-versed in helping clients diminish negative thought patterns and address challenging behaviors like angry outbursts or self-harm. She particularly enjoys guiding young clients through peer and family conflicts, aiding them in building stronger relationships. Utilizing a strengths-based approach, Ashley enhances positive thoughts, behaviors, communication, and self-esteem. Some of her techniques include assisting clients in creating behavior chains, fostering greater awareness of their emotions and actions. By promoting mindfulness around situational and internal triggers, she helps clients initiate meaningful change. Ashley prioritizes her clients' needs and validates their experiences, aiming to empower them to uncover their unique talents and abilities. She considers it a privilege to guide individuals in self-discovery and identity formation, working collaboratively to clarify goals, broaden worldviews, and make sense of life experiences.