Monica Dada (Barham), LCSW-C

Monica Dada (Barham) is a licensed clinical social worker who helps people manage stress, anxiety, depression, addictions, and the emotional toll of chronic illness. She brings two decades of experience to sessions and focuses on clear, practical support. Monica works with people dealing with relationship and family struggles, grief, identity questions, and the everyday strain of caregiving and health challenges.

Her style is straightforward and collaborative. She listens first, then helps clients set small, achievable goals. Conversations focus on what feels most urgent and what can change in day-to-day life. Monica uses techniques that teach coping skills and encourage steady progress rather than quick fixes.

She draws from several evidence-informed approaches including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Client-Centered Therapy. Monica also uses motivational interviewing and solution-focused methods to support behavior change and clarify priorities. These methods are adapted to each person’s needs and circumstances.

Monica has worked in Maryland for many years and has helped people facing complex, overlapping concerns such as chronic pain, caregiver stress, body image issues, and co-morbid conditions. She aims to make therapy practical and relevant to real life. Clients can expect a respectful, down-to-earth process that centers their goals and values.

If someone wants to begin, the first step is a short matching questionnaire and scheduling through the site. She communicates in English and does not take international clients.

How therapy approaches fit into online care

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) focuses on clarifying values and taking small actions that matter. It helps people live in line with what they care about, even when difficult emotions or health problems are present. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) looks at how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors interact. It includes practical exercises to reduce anxiety, manage mood, and change unhelpful habits. Client-Centered Therapy centers the conversation on the client's experience and priorities, offering empathic listening and support while the person explores solutions.

Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process. The therapist will discuss goals, preferences, and day-to-day challenges to decide which methods make the most sense. This allows pacing and techniques to be adjusted as progress unfolds.

Confirm the available session formats before booking so you know what will be offered. Online therapy can make it easier to fit appointments into a busy life, eliminate travel time, and allow shorter check-ins when a quick touchpoint helps. It also gives flexibility for sessions when illness, caregiving, or work schedules make in-person meetings difficult. Discuss practical needs with the therapist during the matching process to find an approach and schedule that work for everyday life.