Group Therapy & Support Groups in Washington, DC and Maryland

At Dandelion Counseling & Care, we are proud to offer group therapy and support groups in the Tenley town community. You can learn more about group therapy services on this page, and if you’re interested in learning more, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re happy to answer your questions and offer support.

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What is Group Therapy & are Support Groups Different?

It’s important to understand the difference between group therapy and support groups. Group therapy is a form of evidence-based therapy provided in a group setting by a trained therapist. Support groups are typically peer-led programs founded on shared goals and a set of standards within the group. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is a common support group. During group therapy, one of our knowledgeable therapists will lead a group of people through activities to develop resilience, manage emotions, improve communication, and deal with other concerns in a supportive group setting. Both group therapy and support groups offer advantages, depending on the individual’s need.

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What are the Benefits of Participating in Group Therapy or Support Groups?

Group therapy has many benefits, including: 

  • You are not alone – this is something we tell clients during individual therapy sessions, but in group therapy, this is on full display. 
  • You are necessary – another thing we tell clients that’s clearly seen during group therapy where clients have the opportunity to both give and receive support. 
  • You can do this – trying out the skills learned in therapy in a safe environment builds clients’ confidence in their own abilities. 
  • You can speak your mind – speaking up, creating boundaries, and advocating for themselves are all important skills, and group therapy gives clients an opportunity to practice self-advocacy in a safe space. 
  • You can afford therapy – many clients struggle to cover the cost of therapy, but group sessions give people an opportunity to develop many of the same skills learned in individual therapy at a price point that lowers barriers to entry for the budget-minded.

What Happens During Group Therapy & Support Groups?

During group therapy, your therapist will lead a discussion and evidence-based skill development session. Most groups utilize a specific therapy technique, like journaling or art therapy. Together, the group learns new skills, talks through difficult situations, and offers support and guidance to navigate life’s challenges. Our team provides a variety of groups both in person and online.

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Therapy for Anxiety

From imposter syndrome to panic attacks, disordered levels of anxiety can negatively impact your personal and professional life in a multitude of ways. Our Washington, DC and Maryland therapy team members are here to offer support and guidance to help you better understand and manage the effects of anxiety, so you can lead a more satisfying life.

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Therapy for Depression

Depression can rob you of your ability to enjoy and engage with every aspect of your life, and it can be difficult to find the strength to move forward. Talking to a therapist can help you find resilience and hope, which may be the first steps toward reclaiming and embracing your life with all of its joys and challenges.

Who Offers Group Therapy?

Our skilled clinicians put years of advanced training and experience to work helping clients achieve their therapy goals. The following therapists offer group therapy:

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MA, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, LCSW-C

Erika Bugaj

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Licensed Graduate Social Worker & Psychotherapist

Heather Ruiz

MSW, LGSW

Devon Pu

MSW, LICSW

Jada Maultsby

MS, NCC, LGPC

Ingrid Joseph

MA, MT-BC

Kati De Petrillo

MA, LGPC

Asha English

MSW Student Intern Therapist

Jessica Dinan

MSW Student Intern Therapist

Thomas Cody

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MS, LPC

Shantius Jackson

MSW, LICSW & Staff Therapist

Molly Byrom

MA, MT-BC

Kati De Petrillo

Current Group Therapy Offerings

Below, you’ll find details about our current group therapy offerings. We offer a changing variety of group therapy options, so check back regularly to learn about our latest group therapy sessions. If you’re interested in a group therapy service we don’t provide, let our team know. We may be able to offer a specific group therapy option or refer you to a local resource that provides the service you’re looking for.

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Teen Girls Groups (Teen Girls ages 13-18)

These groups are for teen girls experiencing challenges in their everyday functioning in school, with peers, and in relationships with others, due to symptoms of anxiety and/or depression. The group will provide coping strategies, peer support, and will have a journaling and art component.

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College/University Women's Support Groups (Young women ages 17-25)

These groups are for young women facing challenges in their college or university environment with fitting in with new friends, newfound independence, and navigating a new campus, new city, and new social scene. This group will provide coping strategies, peer support, and will have a journaling and art component.

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Separated & Divorced Women’s Group

These groups are for separated and divorced women who are navigating the often murky waters of ending a marital partnership. It’s not an easy time, but together, we can talk about the opportunities for growth and change that come with the difficulties of ending a relationship.

Get Started Working with Us

If you’re interested in learning more about working with the Dandelion Counseling & Care team for therapy services in our Washington, DC and Maryland practice or via online counseling sessions, we look forward to hearing from you. You can get in touch with us by:

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Therapy for Adults

If you’re here, you’ve taken the first step toward becoming the best and most fulfilled version of yourself, and the Dandelion Counseling & Care team is excited to be part of your therapy journey.

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Therapy for Children & Families

Whether you’re a parent who needs guidance or you’re looking for a therapist to support your struggling child, the Dandelion Counseling & Care team is here to help.

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Therapy for Parents

Let’s face it – being a parent is hard. Whether you have a baby on the way, you’re adopting or fostering, or you’re having trouble bonding with your child, you may want to consider working with a family therapist.

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Group Therapy & Support Groups

At Dandelion Counseling & Care, we are proud to offer group therapy and support groups in the Tenley town community. You can learn more about group therapy services on this page...

a photo of a woman meditating

Therapy for Anxiety

If you’re struggling with anxiety, we’re here to talk about it. At Dandelion Counseling & Care, we offer therapy for anxiety in our Tenleytown practice to help alleviate the effects of anxiety and develop skills...

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Therapy for College & University Students

One of the great things about working in the heart of Tenleytown is that Dandelion Counseling & Care is located near American University, The Washington College of Law, and...

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Therapy for Teens

At Dandelion Counseling & Care, we welcome adolescents and teens from the Tenleytown community to visit us for therapy. We regularly work with teens from Woodrow Wilson High School in the heart...

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Therapy for Depression

Depression may be the most common mood disorder impacting millions of people in the U.S. every year. If you’re one of the countless people trying to overcome the effects of depression, the good news is...

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Shantius Jackson, MS, LPC

Shantius Jackson is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Tenleytown, Washington, D. C. She has many years of experience working with young adults who are learning to manage life’s responsibilities/”adulting,” as...

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Heather Ruiz, MSW, LMSW, LGSW

Heather Ruiz is a Licensed Graduate Social Worker in Washington, DC with several years of experience working with individuals and families in various settings, including...

Devon Pu,MSW, LGSW

Devon Pu is a licensed graduate social worker in Tenleytown, Washington, D.C. with extensive experience in healthcare systems treating severe mental illness and trauma.

Kati DePetrillo, MA, MT-BC, LGPC

Kati is a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor and Music Therapist in Tenleytown, Washington, D.C. who has worked with infants, children, teenagers and adults across medical, mental health, educational and community settings.

Jessica Dinan, Dandelion Counseling & Care Student Intern

Jessica is a MSW student intern therapist, specializing in mental health counseling. With experience coaching teenagers and consulting professionals, she has a trained ear for empathy, solutions and execution.

Molly Byrom, MSW, LICSW & Staff Therapist

Molly Byrom is a licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker who serves clients in both Washington, D.C. and North Carolina. She specializes in working with individuals.....

Luba-Gritsunov

Luba Gritsunov, Dandelion Counseling & Care Student Intern

Luba Gritsunov is a first-year MSW student at Ohio State University, specializing in mental health counseling. Having spent several years as an individual educator, she honed the skills of personalized support and active listening.

Julia-Nessman

Julia Nessman, Dandelion Counseling & Care student intern

Julia Nessman is a second and final year Master of Social Work student through the Catholic University of America.  She has several years of experience with advocacy and research pertaining to neurodiversity and youth mental health.

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Anne-Marie Ruwe

Anne-Marie Ruwe is Dandelion’s newest intern. She is a Master of Social Work student at Ohio State University, specializing in mental health and substance misuse. Anne-Marie is excited to expand her skillset...

Emely Taveras, MS, Resident MFT

Emely Taveras is a Resident in Marriage in Family Therapy in Tenleytown, Washington, D.C., and provides individual, couple, and family services and works with all populations in all stages of the life cycle including children, adolescents, and adults.

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Erika Bugaj, MA, MSW, LICSW LCSW, LCSW-C

Erika Bugaj is a licensed independent clinical social worker practicing in Tenleytown, Washington, DC. Erika has many years of experience as a social worker...

Jada Maultsby, MSW, LICSW

Jada Maultsby is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Tenleytown, Washington, D. C. with several years of experience working with individuals such as adults, young professionals, and college students. Jada has earned her Bachelors of Science from The Catholic University of America and her Masters of Social work from University of Maryland, Baltimore.

Ingrid Joseph, MS, NCC

Ingrid Joseph is a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor in Tenleytown, Washington, D. C. with experience in residential and healthcare systems treating severe mental illness and trauma.

Asha English, MA, LGPC

Julia Nessman is a second and final year Master of Social Work student through the Catholic University of America.  She has several years of experience with advocacy and research pertaining to neurodiversity and youth mental health.

Thomas Cody, Dandelion Counseling & Care Student Intern

Thomas Cody is an MSW Student Intern therapist in Tenleytown, Washington, DC with a passion for cognitive behavioral therapy, psychoeducation, and mindfulness.

Sophia Jindoyan, MSW, LMSW, LGSW

Sophia Jindoyan is a licensed graduate social worker in Washington, DC. Sophia has experience providing therapy to children, adolescents, and adults, and has a special interest in providing supportive, empathetic, and holistic trauma-informed care.

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Zyer Beaty, PhD, LGPC, NCC

Zyer Beaty is a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor in Washington, D. C. with over 6 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and their families. She has a heart for...

Courtney-Johnson

Courtney Johnson, Dandelion Counseling & Care student intern

A first-year student at Ohio State University, specializing in mental health counseling. He is a native of Memphis, TN and has been working in the HIV field for over 10 years. 

Keisha-Jones

Keisha Jones, Dandelion Counseling & Care student intern

As an intern at Dandelion Counseling and Care, Keisha brings a unique blend of education and hands-on experience that reflects their commitment to fostering empowerment and healing in diverse populations.

Katie Jarvis, Dandelion Counseling & Care student intern

Katie is a second-year master’s student at Catholic University, focusing on clinical social work and therapy. She previously worked in housing counseling with tenants at risk of being evicted.

Antonella Zara, Dandelion Counseling & Care student intern

Antonella Zara is a recent BSW graduate from The Catholic University of America and is currently working towards her MSW. She has previous experience with one on one counseling, case management and is now looking forward to working in a more therapeutic setting

Rachel Sanders, Dandelion Counseling & Care student intern

Rachel Sanders is a recent graduate of the Catholic University of America. She studied social work in her undergrad degree, and found social work to be her passion, so she is now pursuing her Master’s degree at CUA.

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Camille White, MA, MS, LPC, NCC

Camille White is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Tenleytown, Washington, D. C. with over fifteen years of experience working with children, adolescents, and...

Elżbieta Jabłońska, EMBA, PhD candidate, MCC ICF

Elżbieta holds Master Certified Coach credentials that place her in the top 3% of all ICF certified coaches in the world.

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Caroline Erickson

Caroline is a DC-based second year MSW student at Ohio State University, specializing in mental health counseling and substance use. She has over a decade of experience working with youth and adults in various...

Talia Pfeffer

Talia Pfeffer, Dandelion Counseling & Care student intern

As a Dandelion Counseling & Care student psychotherapist, creating a solid therapeutic relationship with clients is central to Talia’s effective and transformative therapy approach.

Sarah Hair

Sarah Hair, MA, MSW 2nd year candidate

An advanced year student in Clinical Social Work at Catholic University, a Fellow at Children’s National Hospital and an intern in psychotherapy in Tenleytown, Washington, D. C.

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