Claire Diamonstein - Family Therapy Center of Bethesda

“Relationships are the agents of change and the most powerful therapy is human love.”

– Dr. Bruce Perry

Claire Diamonstein, MSW

Clinical Degree/Certification/Licensure

University of Denver, Master of Social Work

Currently licensed in Maryland.

Clinical Interests

Child and Adolescent Concerns (Self Esteem, Emotional and Behavioral Concerns, Peer Issues), Trauma, Life Adversity, Anxiety, Depression, Parenting and Family Issues, Relationship Strengthening

Professional Background

I have worked with a wide range of clients, from young children to adults, and in a variety of settings including in-home, schools, and community mental health centers. I recently relocated from Denver, CO where I worked for a community mental health center as a school-based therapist providing individual, group, and family therapy to elementary and middle schoolers. Most of my work with children and adolescents involves weaving together art, play, and movement with traditional talk therapy. Working in schools allowed me to express my passion for working with younger populations and understand the importance of therapy for children, as I witnessed the overwhelming impact that early intervention had on the trajectory of a child’s social and cognitive competence.

I have also had the privilege of working as an In-Home therapist, where I provided family-based, trauma-informed therapeutic services to individuals experiencing various behavioral, emotional, and mental health needs. It was in this role that I developed a passion for providing comprehensive, collaborative, and trauma-informed therapy to those who have experienced trauma, family conflict, and/or general life adversity. I learned the importance of developing a strong, therapeutic relationship with my clients and their families in order to facilitate positive growth and change.

My Therapy Style

I utilize a strengths-based and client-centered approach, ensuring that each client feels heard and understood. I strive to create a space that feels both accepting and collaborative. My goal as a therapist is to meet clients where they are, and help them find their own path to a more fulfilling life while learning skills to cope with life’s transitions and harder moments. Therapy is not one-size-fits-all, and I work hard to tailor my approach to meet each client’s individual strengths and challenges. I believe strongly that people have the tools within them to make the changes they wish to see; my role is to guide in discovering those tools and learning how to use them. I draw on a range of clinical tools and therapy models including Play Therapy, CBT, TF-CBT, and Mindfulness. I am also a trained EMDR clinician.

A Little Bit About Me Outside of the Therapy Room

In my free time, I love the outdoors (whether hiking or just relaxing), spending time with friends and family, traveling to new places, and eating good food!

Contact Information

Email: claire@familytherapyllc.com
Phone: (240) 342-6768