E&M counseling

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    (240) 388-9935 Emma Keskin
    (301) 892-6814 Muge Khalaf

Empowering you to overcome life’s challenges

Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship challenges, or simply need someone to talk to, our team of dedicated therapists is committed to offering personalized, thoughtful counseling. We take the time to truly listen, honor your experiences, and work with you to create a path forward that feels right for you.

About us

Your Journey to wellness begins Here

At E & M, we understand that life can be challenging, and sometimes, it’s hard to navigate it on your own. Our mission is simple: to provide a safe, compassionate space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions, heal, and grow. We believe that every person is worthy of care, understanding, and support—and we’re here to walk alongside you every step of the way.

At E & M, you are not just a client—you are a person with unique needs, goals, and strengths. We meet you where you are, respecting your individual journey and offering a gentle, non-judgmental approach. Our goal is to empower you with the tools and insights you need to find balance, resilience, and peace in your life.

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Emma Keskin

Muge Khalaf

Meet Our Team

Helping you navigate life’s challenges with care

Hello, I’m Emma, a Clinical Mental Health Counselor with a deep belief in the transformative power of empowerment, understanding, and support. Coming from a multicultural background and being trilingual in Chinese, Turkish, and English, I offer a unique perspective that enables me to connect with clients from diverse backgrounds. My personal experiences and cultural heritage shape the compassionate and non-judgmental approach I bring to every session, ensuring that you feel truly seen and heard.

Hello, I am Muge, a clinical mental health therapist with a strong dedication and belief towards helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and support in creating a fulfilling and joyful life.  I was originally born in Turkey and moved to the United States at the age of six. I have had the opportunity to travel the majority of the world, meet new people, and gain knowledge about different cultures helping me to truly understand the meaning of acculturation and assimilation.  My multicultural background allows me to connect .

Building brighter futures together

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FAQs

Frequently asked questions with

During your first counseling session, you can expect a welcoming and non-judgmental environment. We will begin by discussing your concerns and goals for therapy. The counselor will ask about your background, current challenges, and emotional well-being to understand how best to support you. It's an opportunity to share what you're comfortable with and learn about the process of counseling. We’ll discuss the frequency of sessions, expectations, and any questions you may have. The first session is about building rapport and creating a safe space for you to begin your therapeutic journey.

Typically, counseling sessions last about 50 minutes. The number of sessions needed varies depending on your personal goals, the issues you're addressing, and how you progress during therapy. Some individuals may benefit from just a few sessions, while others may choose ongoing therapy for more complex or long-standing issues. At the start, we will collaborate to set goals and determine a plan. We can always adjust the frequency or length of sessions based on your needs as therapy progresses.

Yes, your privacy and confidentiality are very important. All information shared during counseling sessions is kept strictly confidential, with a few legal exceptions. These exceptions include situations where there is a risk of harm to yourself or others, or if there is a legal requirement (such as in cases of abuse). Your counselor will explain these limits to confidentiality at the start of therapy. Your trust is vital, and we strive to create a secure, respectful environment where you feel safe to express yourself.

It’s perfectly normal to feel uncertain about where to start. Many people begin therapy not knowing exactly what to focus on, and that’s okay. Your counselor will help guide you through the process and can ask questions to explore areas of your life where you might feel stuck or overwhelmed. Therapy is a collaborative process, and we will work together to identify issues that matter to you. Whether it's daily stress, past experiences, or future goals, we'll take it step-by-step at your pace.

Counseling can be helpful if you're feeling overwhelmed, facing challenges you can't manage alone, or seeking personal growth. It’s a great fit if you want a supportive, objective space to talk through your emotions, relationships, or life changes. If you’re unsure, it might help to try a session and see how you feel. Many people find that even after one or two sessions, they feel clearer about their emotions and have better tools to handle life’s challenges. The decision to pursue therapy is deeply personal, and your counselor will support you in whatever choice you make.

It can be hard to decide when to seek therapy, but therapy is a helpful resource when you feel overwhelmed by your emotions, are struggling with persistent challenges, or feel stuck in patterns of thinking or behavior. If you're experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, or life transitions, therapy can provide support and tools for coping. Even if you think you can handle things on your own, talking to a professional can offer new perspectives and strategies for growth. If you're unsure, starting therapy for a few sessions can help you decide if it's the right step for you.

Preparation for your first therapy session is simple—just bring yourself! It’s helpful to reflect on your reasons for seeking therapy and what you’d like to work on, but there’s no need to have everything figured out beforehand. Some clients prefer to jot down their thoughts or goals, but it's not required. Your therapist will guide you through the process and help you feel comfortable. The most important thing is to come with an open mind and a willingness to engage in the process of self-exploration and growth.

Yes, many clients continue therapy even after they start feeling better because it can provide ongoing support and help maintain emotional well-being. Therapy is not just for when things are going wrong—it can also be helpful for self-improvement, enhancing relationships, and managing stress or life transitions. If you feel better but would like to continue working on your personal growth, your therapist can help you set new goals and adjust the focus of your sessions to suit your evolving needs.

We offer a variety of therapy approaches tailored to your specific needs. These may include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which helps change unhelpful thought patterns, or Person-Centered Therapy, which focuses on self-acceptance and understanding. We also offer Solution-Focused Therapy, which focuses on creating actionable steps for immediate change, and other therapeutic modalities. During your initial session, we will discuss which approach might work best for you based on your goals and challenges.

While therapy is typically a one-on-one process, there are situations where having a trusted family member or friend attend a session can be helpful. If you're working on a relationship issue, family dynamics, or want extra support, we can discuss the possibility of including others. However, it's important that the focus remains on your therapeutic needs, and your counselor will ensure that the session remains productive. Your counselor will discuss with you how to involve others while maintaining the integrity of your therapy experience.

"Out-of-network" means that the counselor or therapist you are seeing does not have a direct contract with your insurance provider. This may impact the amount of reimbursement you receive from your insurance company for the cost of therapy. However, many insurance plans offer out-of-network benefits, which means they will reimburse you for a portion of the cost. You may need to pay the full session fee upfront and then submit a claim to your insurance for reimbursement. Your therapist can provide you with the necessary documentation, such as a receipt or “superbill,” to submit to your insurance company. Be sure to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage, out-of-pocket costs, and the reimbursement process.

Individual-family therapy room

Testimonials

How do our clients feel about us

"I cannot express enough how grateful I am for the support and guidance I received from Emma during our counseling sessions. From the very beginning, Emma made me feel heard, understood, and comfortable. She created a safe, non-judgmental space where I could explore my feelings and concerns freely. Throughout our time together, Emma provided valuable insights and practical tools that helped me understand myself better and manage life’s challenges with more confidence. Her compassionate approach and genuine care have made a lasting positive impact on my mental and emotional well-being. I would highly recommend Emma’s counseling services to anyone seeking professional and heartfelt support."

V.B Client

"I am so grateful for the opportunity to work with Emma as my therapist. As someone with a diverse background, I was initially concerned about finding someone who would truly understand my unique experiences. From our very first session, Emma made me feel seen and respected. She approached our work with cultural sensitivity, ensuring that my background and perspective were always acknowledged and valued. Her empathetic and thoughtful approach helped me navigate complex emotions and challenges, while providing me with practical tools to improve my well-being. Emma’s ability to connect with me on a deep level and her commitment to understanding my individual journey has made a profound impact on my personal growth. I highly recommend Emma to anyone looking for a counselor who brings not only expertise but also a compassionate and inclusive approach to therapy."

E.V Client

We are incredibly grateful for the guidance and support we received from Muge during our couples counseling sessions. From the start, Muge created a safe, open, and non-judgmental space where we both felt heard and understood. She helped us communicate more effectively, addressing issues in a way that encouraged understanding and compassion. Muge’s insightful approach helped us recognize the patterns that were affecting our relationship and provided us with practical tools to strengthen our bond. With her support, we’ve made tremendous progress in improving our connection and resolving conflicts in a healthier way. We can’t thank Muge enough for her expertise and for helping us grow both as individuals and as a couple. We highly recommend her to any couple looking to improve their relationship." J.D

J.D Client

."I am beyond grateful for the parenting coaching I received from Emma. As a parent, I often felt overwhelmed and unsure about how to handle certain challenges with my child. Emma’s approach was both compassionate and practical. She listened carefully to my concerns, providing thoughtful guidance and strategies that were tailored to my family’s unique needs. Through her coaching, I gained new perspectives on parenting, learned effective communication techniques, and felt more confident in my ability to support my child’s emotional and developmental needs. Emma’s support has truly transformed the way I approach parenting, and I now feel more connected to my child and empowered as a parent. I highly recommend her to any parent looking for expert advice and support in navigating the complexities of raising children."

A.R Client

."I am so thankful for the parenting coaching I received from Muge. As a parent, I often found myself struggling with how to approach certain situations with my child, feeling uncertain and frustrated. Muge provided a calm, non-judgmental space where I could openly discuss my challenges. Her thoughtful advice and practical strategies helped me navigate difficult parenting moments with more confidence and clarity. Muge’s approach is both empathetic and solution-oriented, and she tailored her guidance to fit my family’s unique needs. Thanks to her coaching, I now feel more connected to my child and equipped with the tools to foster a positive, supportive relationship. I highly recommend Muge to any parent looking for expert support and guidance."

M.K Client

."I am very grateful for the support I received from Emma in managing my anxiety. From the start, she created a warm and understanding environment that allowed me to open up about my challenges. Emma truly took the time to listen and offer thoughtful advice, providing me with practical tools to better cope with anxiety. Her approach was empowering, helping me to gain control over my thoughts and emotions in a healthy way. Thanks to Emma, I feel more confident in managing my anxiety and handling life's difficulties. I’m thankful for her expertise and highly recommend her to anyone struggling with anxiety."

E.S Client

."I am deeply thankful for the support Muge provided during my journey with depression. She made me feel comfortable and understood, creating a safe space where I could openly explore my feelings. Muge’s compassionate approach, combined with her insightful guidance, helped me gain a better understanding of my depression and provided me with practical strategies to manage it. Her steady support and encouragement gave me the strength to face difficult moments and start rebuilding my confidence. I now feel more hopeful and equipped to navigate life’s challenges. I highly recommend Muge to anyone struggling with depression—her expertise and empathy have made all the difference in my healing process."

B.Z Client

"I am incredibly grateful for the support Emma provided during my journey with late autism diagnosis. Her understanding and compassionate approach made all the difference in helping me navigate the challenges I face. Emma took the time to really listen and tailor her guidance to my specific needs, providing me with practical strategies and tools to enhance my daily life and communication. Thanks to her expertise, I’ve gained greater self-awareness and confidence in managing my unique experiences. Emma’s support has been invaluable, and I highly recommend her to anyone seeking understanding and professional guidance related to autism."

L.C Client

Muge provided assistance during my journey with substance abuse. Her compassionate and non-judgmental approach created a safe space where I could openly explore the root causes of my struggles. Muge’s expertise helped me develop practical coping strategies and a deeper understanding of myself, empowering me to make lasting changes. Her encouragement and steady support were crucial in helping me stay on track and rebuild my life. Thanks to Muge, I now feel more confident and in control of my recovery. I highly recommend her to anyone looking for professional, empathetic support in overcoming substance abuse."

D.C Client

"I am incredibly grateful for the support I received from Emma in overcoming my porn addiction. She created a safe, non-judgmental space where I could openly discuss my struggles. Emma’s compassionate and understanding approach helped me confront the root causes of my addiction and provided me with effective strategies to regain control over my habits. With her guidance, I gained valuable insights into myself and learned healthier coping mechanisms. Emma’s steady support and encouragement have been essential in my journey to recovery. I now feel empowered to live a more balanced, fulfilling life, and I highly recommend her to anyone seeking help with addiction."

P.D Client

"I am extremely grateful for the support Muge provided during my journey with depression. Her empathetic and understanding approach helped me feel truly heard and supported. Muge worked with me to uncover the underlying causes of my depression and gave me practical tools to manage my emotions and improve my mental health. Her steady encouragement and insightful guidance helped me build resilience and develop healthier coping strategies. Thanks to Muge, I feel more hopeful and empowered to face life’s challenges. I highly recommend her to anyone seeking professional, compassionate support for depression."

T.H Client
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Get in touch with E & M counseling

504 Main Street, Suite #3
Gaithersburg, MD 20878

(240) 388 -9935 Emma Keskin

(301) 892-6814 Muge Khalaf

info@emcounselors.com