self esteem Archives

Are you struggling with communication, trust, or connection problems with your partner? Having the same argument over and over with your family? Feeling like your hope and patience are almost gone? You’re in the right place. We’ve been helping couples, individuals and families just like you in metropolitan Washington DC since 2002. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact us today! We can be reached by phone, email, or text. We have availability to fit your schedule.
Remember – you don’t have to go through this alone.

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True Self-Esteem by Leslie Gunderson

March 2, 2017 by Maggie Dodd Leave a Comment

As a therapist, I have the exciting – and often challenging – opportunity to work with many adolescent girls and young women. One of the most prevalent themes I’ve noticed in their (and my own) struggles is self-esteem and body image. Our society, not just media, puts such an emphasis on appearance, “beauty”, and being […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: act of kindness, adolescent, family therapist, gratitude, Leslie Gunderson, meditation, self esteem, Therapy Silver Spring, thigh gap, true self esteem

“Thinking in the Gray” – 4 Steps to Becoming Unstuck from Black and White Thoughts By Katie Hrapczynski

February 16, 2017 by Maggie Dodd Leave a Comment

Have you ever had thoughts like these? “I’m never going to be successful.” “My boss never respects me.” “My boyfriend never gets how I’m feeling.” “My wife always nags me when I hang out with friends.” Fill in the blank: “________(someone) always _______(negative).” Fill in the blank: “_______(someone) never _______(positive).” When you think someone or […]

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Laurel Fay & Associates, low self esteem, marriage and family therapist, poor self image, self esteem, therapy bowie, Therapy Maryland, Therapy Silver Spring

I chose you for 2 reasons: you came personally recommended by a friend, and you were listed somewhere as the only Maryland therapist with specialized knowledge about marital infidelity. I stayed with you because you're a rock star, obviously. :) I always felt like you were very in tune with my perspective, which I think most decent therapists can manage. The difference with you is that I trusted you to be honest - not just validating. I wasn't looking for someone to tell me I was normal. That would have felt patronizing to me. I was looking for someone to help me grow, and to help me figure out my version of truth. And I am forever grateful that you helped me along that path. Marital trauma is just devastating. But I'm somehow even more "me" now than I was before.

Married woman, late 30s

You made both of us feel heard, validated, and understood. We were able to talk through issues that were too difficult to talk through alone. You were adept at keeping the conversation flowing, pivoting when issues became sticking points or too emotionally overwhelming. Also, you are so very likable; a skilled and objective counselor, but as easy to speak to as a kind and understanding friend.

Married Couple with three children, early 40s

I was recommended by a friend’s family years ago, and I’ve stayed with you because you help me! And adjust your strategies to what I need as I grow older in this life...so glad you're still so young you are stuck with me for a long time! I appreciate your flexibility with time too - particularly your willingness to do phone sessions.

Single woman, early 20s

You have an amazing capacity for remembering information over the whole spectrum of conversations and sharing unique insights based on everything you know about me. I feel like you bring fresh insights to helping solve my problems and share real opinions rather than bounce back my own words. You help give me structure and potential solutions to what feels like lots of spinning wheels in my head. I feel more positive and focused with a potential blueprint for solving my problems after each session...I imagine myself visiting you on occasion for many years to come.

Married woman, late 40s

Ms. Fay was a wonderful assistance to me as I negotiated a difficult time in my life. She was highly professional in every way; that professionalism came through during each session, and made the transition better for all involved. I would recommend her repeatedly and would definitely use her service again!

Remarried Women, early 60s

I am very lucky to have found someone that I feel so comfortable with from the beginning and it makes all our heart-wrenching moments a little more tolerable.

Married Couple, early 40s

I cannot express how thankful I am that we found you…I really have no idea how a counselor actually works or the methodology involved, but I do know that you are great at what you do. I know because every move – every question, every metaphor, every prod – felt exactly right to me. Thank you!

Married Man, late 30s

Laurel has helped our ‘Brady Bunch’-type family get through some rough times over the years. She has counseled us each individually and together. We highly recommend her for resolving any type of family issues you may have.

Blended Family with 2 School Aged Children