Our therapists provide life coaching in Germantown, MD

Dr. Judy Ann Upshaw is a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) with more than 43 years of clinical experience. While she is experienced in general mental health treatment, her specialty is substance use treatment. Dr. Judy has worked in inpatient as well as outpatient treatment as well as individual, group, couples and family counseling. She enjoys assisting people in finding their true selves and achieve their highest goals. Dr. Judy has developed programs and supervised other therapist. She is also an adjunct college professor.

Dr. Judy completed her Bachelor's degree in Behavior Sciences at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, MI. She then received a Master's degree in Psychology from Temple University-Philadelphia, and a Doctorate in Counseling Psychology from Argosy University-Arlington. She utilizes many treatment modality such as music and art therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and much more.

Life is full of challenges, especially in this post-pandemic era. Now more than ever, Dr. Judy sees our societies the need for counseling. She would like to have the opportunity to support you in your life's journey and is confident in her ability to help you reach your goals. Schedule your first session with her today.

Hi, I'm Bianca Johnson, LCPC, a licensed therapist with experience supporting individuals, couples, and adolescents through anxiety, depression, self-esteem challenges, relationship concerns, life transitions, and emotional overwhelm. I work with clients who are often seeking deeper self-understanding, healthier coping skills, stronger communication, and more balance in their daily lives. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in helping clients feel safe, supported, and empowered throughout the therapeutic process. 

I use a collaborative, compassionate approach that blends CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and practical coping strategies to help clients build self-awareness, improve communication, manage emotions, and navigate life's challenges with greater confidence. Clients can expect a supportive space that encourages growth, accountability, and lasting change. 

Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to navigate things alone. I strive to create a space where clients feel heard, supported, and empowered to grow at their own pace. If you're ready to begin your healing journey, I'd be honored to walk alongside you.

I'm a counselor who helps people make sense of what they're currently going through, process past experiences, and develop tools to move forward. My background includes working in crisis services and outpatient counseling settings, where I supported individuals facing a wide range of emotional and life challenges. I especially enjoy working with people who feel stuck in patterns of overthinking, self-doubt, or emotional exhaustion. Together, we'll work toward greater self-understanding, healthier coping strategies, and a stronger sense of confidence in navigating life. 

I believe therapy works best when you feel supported while also being encouraged to reflect, grow, and challenge unhelpful patterns. Together, we explore thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that may be contributing to distress, while building practical strategies to manage stress and anxiety. 

I understand that reaching out for support can sometimes feel difficult or uncertain. You may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure where to begin. Therapy can offer a space where you feel heard, supported, and able to explore what you're going through. If you feel therapy may be helpful, I welcome the opportunity to support you in taking that next step. 

I am a licensed master social worker (LMSW) with 10 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, adults, and families. I specialize in treating trauma, depression, anxiety, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, bipolar disorder, psychosis, grief and loss, substance use concerns, domestic violence, and issues related to abuse and neglect. I take a client-centered approach and am deeply committed to advocacy, social justice, and supporting individuals through life’s most challenging moments.

I earned my master’s degree in social work from Yeshiva University’s Wurzweiler School of Social Work. My background includes work in community-based settings and military environments, including service as an active-duty United States Navy hospital corpsman. My approach integrates evidence-based practices, including cognitive behavioral therapy.

I strive to create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard, respected, and empowered. Therapy is a collaborative process, and I work alongside you to build insight, develop coping skills, and break patterns that no longer serve you so you can move toward a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Karen Ortman is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 5 years of experience in the mental health field. She has worked with children to assist them in improving their emotional and behavioral challenges, and she has worked with adults to learn and improve their daily living and social skills. Karen specializes in ADHD, anger, behavioral issues, coping skills, family therapy, and adjustment disorders.

Karen completed her Master's degree in Social Work at the University of Maryland, Baltimore. Karen is very motivated to help her clients achieve progress towards their personal goals. Karen utilizes a variety of therapeutic approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, behavioral therapy, and structural family therapy (SFT).

Karen is willing to put in the time to help you discover new ways to understand and improve your quality of life. Be sure to schedule an appointment with her to begin working towards a healthier you.