Our counselors offer counseling for teens in Germantown, MD

Carol Jones-Pinckney is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Board Approved Supervisor in the state of Maryland. She has over 20 years of experience in the human services field working with various nonprofits but for the last 8 years provided therapy for children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples.  

Carol applies a nonjudgmental, caring, strength-based, and integrative approach to therapy. Individualized assessments and treatment plans are key to achieving client goals. Carol maintains that collaboration, trust, and building a partnership are key ingredients to navigate through life’s struggles presented in therapy. Success is measured by how the client’s perception of the therapeutic process and engagement in sessions that work to achieve healthy and successful outcomes. 

Therapeutic modalities utilized in therapy include but are not limited to cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems, person-centered, couples therapy, and integrative interventions. The goal is to provide a caring and supportive environment for clients to feel comfortable sharing.  

Carol recognizes that clients often feel vulnerable and reluctant to begin counseling. Her approach is very warm and inviting acknowledging that this was a big step but the right decision to share emotions and feelings with someone new. Therapy is at the client’s pace and being mindful of the support each client needs.

I am a licensed graduate professional counselor (LGPC) with 17 years of experience supporting individuals and families through life transitions, stress, emotional challenges, and identity concerns. I work with clients seeking clarity, confidence, and practical tools to navigate daily demands, and I strive to create a therapeutic space where they feel seen, supported, and empowered to heal and grow.

I earned my doctorate in industrial and organizational psychology from Capella University. My approach integrates empathy, cultural humility, and strength-based, mindfulness-based, and trauma-informed practices to help clients build coping skills, improve relationships, and deepen their sense of emotional balance and resilience.

You deserve a space where your story is honored, and your healing is supported. I am here to walk with you as you gain clarity, strengthen your well-being, and develop tools that help you thrive. When you feel ready to begin, I would be honored to help you take the next step toward meaningful change and a more grounded, connected life.

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.

Amanda Valltos is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 5 years of experience, primarily working with children and adolescents. She is a caring advocate for her clients, patiently working through their anxieties and concerns by using a variety of mental health approaches that benefit clients individual needs.

Amanda completed her Master’s degree in Social Work at Salisbury University. She has always been drawn to kids and teens, especially those who are struggling. Amanda has experienced struggles socially and with her own self-confidence. Due to this Amanda is not only able to support teens and children’s needs but also relate to them on a level only someone who has “been there” can provide. Amanda utilizes problem solving, emotional expression and mindfulness as techniques to support her clients.

Amanda has a reputation for building strong relationships based on a foundation of genuine respect, trust, and communication. Her ability to break through message barriers and uncertainties is based on a working collaboration with clients, their family and in the school if applicable. She looks forward to addressing your therapeutic needs and goals as a team.