Essam (he/him) is a nationally certified counselor (NCC) and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Maryland.  He is a member of the American Counseling Association (ACA).  Essam received his Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from University of Lynchburg and Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from George Washington University.

Essam is passionate about working with adolescents, young adults, couples, and families towards understanding their mental health concerns and the achievement of their treatment goals.  He is an LGBTQIA+ alley who prioritizes the establishment of a trusting therapeutic alliance and to increase self understanding and awareness to address the root cause of current difficulties and prevent future distress.  As a biracial Mexican Arab man born and raised in the United States, he is a multicultural individual who is eager to work with individuals of all racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds.

He embraces a psychodynamic and collaborative approach to therapy, where working with clients to develop the necessary skills and strategies to overcome life’s challenges is the primary goal.  In therapy, Essam strives to create an environment where clients feel both heard and supported but also where they are encouraged to take an active role in the therapeutic process.

Essam has successfully collaborated with his clients to improve issues such as depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, peer relationships, romanic relationships, family conflict, and life transitions.  Additionally, he has interest and expertise in male mental health issues.

Since every individual is unique, your treatment will be too.  Some methods used in therapy include, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, and other modalities as needed by the client.

Essam has worked with clients both individually as well as in groups.  He has experience working with children, adolescents and young adults in Hospital settings, Intensive Outpatient (IOP) treatment programs, as well as in a University Counseling Center setting.  During the course of the COVID-19 pandemic Essam has also successfully worked with clients through virtual tele-therapy.

In his free time, Essam enjoys training for Spartan Races, eating out with friends, and getting hooked to any new Marvel movie or show.

Essam looks forward to meeting you and working with you!