About Claudia Downey, Psy.D
Clinical Psychologist
I am your Child and Teen Therapist…
If you or a loved one is facing challenges like ADHD, behavioral concerns, emotional regulation, or identity development, I’m here to provide tailored therapy for healing and growth. My goal is to help each client feel understood, build resilience, and gain practical tools for managing life’s challenges.
My approach…
My approach is psychodynamic and relational, exploring how developmental experiences and emotions influence psychological health while building a strong, trusting therapeutic alliance as the foundation for change. I also incorporate Cognitive Behavior Therapy(CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy(DBT) to equip clients with practical tools for managing thoughts, behaviors, and emotions effectively.
I incorporate play therapy techniques to help children express emotions, develop coping skills, and process experiences in a way that feels natural and safe.
My education and experience includes…
a Bachelor’s in Psychology from Boston University and a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from George Washington University
For the past decade, I’ve been in both hospital and community-based settings. I have experience providing crisis intervention and group therapy in acute inpatient psychiatric care, and I’ve worked in residential treatment programs for eating disorders, supporting clients and families through recovery with compassion and structure. In private practice and community counseling, I’ve provided individual therapy for children, teens, and adults, including college students at George Washington University. I also have specialized experience in assessment and testing within correctional and special education settings.
You might also want to know…
You might also want to know that I’m very passionate about ballet and have been involved in it for much of my life. Dance continues to inspire my appreciation for discipline, creativity, and expression. I also have a love for Japanese TV, anime, and comics, which reflect my curiosity about stories, emotion, and the many ways people connect through art.
You can contact us and schedule by emailing: [email protected]
We respond to inquiries via email ([email protected]) and phone ((240) 778-5060) 7 days a week.
FAQ for Child and Teen Counseling
Do you work with all ages?
I work with all ages including children, teens, and adults.
What sort of challenges can you help me with?
I am equipped to assist you with a wide range of challenges you or your child is experiencing such as worry, sadness, social skills, emotional regulation, or ADHD.
Where are you located?
Tender Hearts Counseling is in North Bethesda, Maryland.
How do I contact you?
My email is [email protected]