Monica Dada (Barham) , MD, LCSW-C

Monica Dada (Barham), MD, LCSW-C, is a licensed therapist practicing in Maryland who brings 18 years of clinical experience to her work. She pairs professional training with a compassionate approach to help people navigate emotional challenges and life transitions. MD indicates a medical degree and LCSW-C denotes a licensed clinical social worker with clinical certification, reflecting combined medical and social work perspectives in her practice.

Her work emphasizes creating a supportive, understanding environment where individuals can safely explore their feelings, identify patterns, and develop practical strategies for growth. She routinely addresses concerns such as depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, workplace stress, and the difficulties that accompany major life changes. Monica also focuses on issues related to chronic illness, caregiver strain, family conflict, and personal identity exploration, offering tailored support that honors each person’s background and experiences.

Monica integrates evidence-based methods with deep empathy, centering communication, healing, and personal empowerment. Whether addressing mood disorders, repairing interpersonal challenges, or guiding someone through a significant transition, she aims to walk alongside people with respect and professional guidance while helping them build meaningful, sustainable change.

Therapeutic Approaches and Remote Care

Monica draws from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), which helps people clarify personal values and build flexible coping strategies to move toward a more meaningful life even when difficult thoughts and feelings are present. ACT can be useful for anxiety, stress, chronic health challenges, and life transitions.

She also uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to identify and shift unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns. CBT is practical and structured, often helping with depression, anxiety, coping skills, and problem-solving in everyday situations.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process. Monica works collaboratively with each person to determine which methods best align with their needs, goals, and preferences, and she adapts strategies as therapy progresses.

Online sessions offer flexibility and accessibility, allowing work to continue via video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging. These options make it easier to fit therapy into busy schedules, maintain continuity during life changes, and access licensed professionals from familiar settings.