Trauma and PTSD therapists & psychiatrists in Bethesda, MD

Choosing to work on mental health is a big step. Let me help you on your journey to healing. I have worked almost 30 years with families and children, and have spent most of the last 20 years helping people who have struggle with trauma, anxiety, and family/relationship difficulties. I am trained in EMDR, NET, and Ketamine assisted therapy.

Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, and my goal is to make that first step feel a little easier. I approach my work with warmth, compassion, and genuine curiosity about each person’s story. I support clients in gently unpacking the thoughts and experiences that may be contributing to anxiety and depression, while offering empathy and practical tools along the way. You don’t have to navigate this alone—we’ll work through it together.

About Me

I'm not your typical psychotherapist, and everyone I've had the honor to work with on their life's journey can attest to this. Born, raised and forged in the "Steel City" and sharpened in the "City of Brotherly Love", the term "Alchemist" more accurately describes who I am. I specialize in alchemizing pain into purpose and trauma into triumph. If you're ready to transform your life, I'm your guy!

Kim Prager, Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker/Therapist, studied and trained at University of Wisconsin-Madison. She has 16 years of experience providing therapy to people from all walks of life, Most recently, she worked at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center's integrated executive medicine and oncology clinics.

She believes therapy is a place to be seen and heard and an opportunity for personal growth. Her approach is holistic and trauma informed, often with a focus on adjustment, interpersonal dynamics, grief, and loss.

She welcomes you to reach out to find a way to live more authentically, forge genuine connections, and prioritize value based goals that bring about positive change in your life.

I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner for over 5 years, and I am also a board certified adult nurse practitioner for over 12 years. I began my nursing career graduating from university of MD with my bachelors, and then attended Johns Hopkins University for my masters. I decided to further my education by attending Brandman University to obtain my Doctorate and psychiatric mental health certification in 2018.

Welcome.....I look forward to getting to know you better. Seeking help is a sign of courage and you are making a conscious decision to enhance the quality of your life. I know that searching for a therapist can be difficult. I would like to share some details about myself that will assist you in your decision. I am a licensed clinical social worker licensed in both Maryland and the District of Columbia. I have been practicing clinical social work for over 20 years. I have a Masters Degree in Social Work and a Post Graduate Certification in Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy. My areas of expertise is trauma, depression, anxiety, self -esteem issues, grief and loss, and parenting concerns. I also have expertise along with a deep passion in working and supporting survivors of human sex trafficking.

When I'm not helping others, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, dancing and being a karate mom. I have experienced some of the life challenges faced by my clients and I am able to successfully combine my personal experience and professional knowledge to provide a safe, thoughtful and interactive approach to treating clients. I have been described by others as a competent, caring, and compassionate clinician who has a passion to make a significant difference in the lives of others. Whatever your concerns, you are not alone. Don’t wait for things to get better. Choose me today. I know how hard it can be to find a therapist who you feel a connection with and I would be honored to work with you through this stage of your life.

I am a Maryland Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical, dedicated to supporting individuals through life's challenges with compassion and expertise. As a proud veteran of the Iraq War (2005-2006), I bring a unique understanding and empathy to those who have served, along with a commitment to serving all communities.

I hold a Master of Social Work Degree with a primary concentration in Clinical Practice and a specialization in Health—Child, Adolescent, and Family Health (CAFH)—from the University of Maryland School of Social Work.

My practice welcomes adults from 18 to 65+ years old. I am especially dedicated to serving veterans, service members, LGBTQ+ individuals, new mothers, and older adults. Whether you're navigating mental health concerns, life transitions, or seeking personal growth, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space tailored to your unique needs.

Together, we can work toward resilience, healing, and a more fulfilling life. Reach out today to start your journey to well-being.