“Sometimes we have to dig around in the dirt a little bit to plant the seeds to help things grow. It’s okay if that process gets messy!”
– Emely fortiz, Lmsw
Treatment Focus
- Children and Adolescents
- Adults
- Suicidal Ideation
- Trauma
- Domestic Violence
- Anxiety and Mood Disorders
- Relationship and Identity Issues
About The Clinician
Emely graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Developmental Psychology and a minor in Women’s Studies from Trinity Washington University. She earned her Master’s in Social Work (MSW) from The Catholic University of America, specializing in Adults and Older Adults.
Emely’s clinical experience spans working with individuals in crisis, particularly children, teens, and young adults facing emotional distress at non-profit organizations. She has worked with clients navigating challenges such as suicidal ideation, anxiety, depression, and ADHD, with a focus on stabilizing clients in crisis and connecting families with the appropriate mental health resources. Her past roles have also included supporting survivors of domestic violence, providing emotional support, and guiding individuals through trauma recovery.
At the core of Emely’s practice is a deep belief in the power of a strong therapeutic relationship. She is passionate about helping individuals navigate complex aspects of their identity, particularly related to culture, immigration, sexual orientation, and life transitions. Emely recognizes the significant impact that trauma has on people’s lives and is committed to providing a safe, supportive space for clients to heal and find empowerment.
Emily embraces the challenge of change and acknowledges the emotions that come with it, despite it sometimes being difficult. It is normal to feel intimidated by the change process, but Emely strives to help clients identify their strengths and create a plan to face these challenges. By focusing on strengths and building resilience, she helps make the process of change feel more manageable and empowering.
Her ideal clients are individuals who are ready to commit to the therapeutic relationship, particularly children, teens, young adults, and adults who have experienced disturbances in their life because of their trauma, anxiety, or mood disorders. Emely is well-versed in working with clients experiencing suicidal ideation, relationship conflicts, anxiety, depression, and attachment issues.
Credentials
- B.A. in Developmental Psychology, Trinity Washington University
- Masters in Social Work, The Catholic University of America
Approach
- Person-Centered Therapy
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
- Relational Therapy
- Trauma-Focused Therapy
- Attachment Theory
Ready to get Started?
Call us at 301-701-6965 for a short chat with our Client Care Coordinator, who is available weekdays during our normal office hours. You can also fill out the New Patient Registration Form to be on your way to schedule and complete an initial assessment.