Monica Bachabi

Hi, I’m Monica Bachabi, a licensed clinical social worker and the founder of MLB Counseling Services. I bring over a decade of experience working with individuals and families navigating stress, trauma, life transitions, and systems that can feel overwhelming. I hold a master’s degree in social work from the University of Maryland and am independently licensed in Maryland, Virginia, and Massachusetts.

Before opening my private practice, I spent many years working in trauma services, and advocacy roles. I have supported families through some of their most difficult moments. That background shaped how I work today: I’m calm, direct, practical, and deeply collaborative. Therapy with me is not just about talking, it’s about problem-solving, coaching, and creating real, sustainable change in your day-to-day life.

I specialize in working with adults dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, postpartum challenges, relationship stress, and major life transitions. I also have extensive experience supporting immigrants, first-generation individuals, caregivers, and people who have spent a long time being “the responsible one” for everyone else. I work bilingually in English and Spanish, and cultural context is always part of the conversation, not an afterthought.

My approach is trauma-informed, structured, and active. I draw from evidence-based training including Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), motivational interviewing, and other trauma-informed modalities. I often coach clients through concrete strategies, help them break patterns that are no longer working, and collaborate on realistic goals that fit their lives. Clients often describe sessions as a mix of reflection, guidance, and practical tools.

If you’re looking for a therapist who will meet you where you are, think alongside you, and help you move forward with intention (and a little creativity and a bit of humor when appropriate ), I’d be glad to work with you!

Our first session is focused on getting to know each other and seeing if we’re a good fit therapeutically. We’ll spend time building rapport, talking about what brings you to therapy, and going over some background and history at a pace that feels comfortable. There’s no pressure to share everything all at once. This session is about understanding your goals, answering questions, and deciding together how we might work moving forward.