About Reena Bernards
I am a specialist in healing relationships. I provide therapy for couples, families, children, teens, and individual adults with the goal of helping people feel more connected. My approach to therapy is to build on people’s strengths and create a supportive environment for change within the family. By building on strong relationships, people can grow towards achieving their life goals.
​
I am certified in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), an evidence-based highly effective method of working with couples, families and individuals. EFT seeks to rebuild attachment bonds between partners and family members, which enhances safety and promotes nurturing relationships. EFT for individuals helps get at the root causes of depression or anxiety, and helps heal past wounds so the present can be lighter.
​
Pronouns: She, Her, Hers
Areas of Interest
I am particularly interested in working with couples on getting closer, and in helping families with life transitions such as forming a family, adoption, becoming a step-family, and leaving home.
​
I have a keen interest in the many aspects of culture and how it affects families and enjoy working with LGBTQ, immigrant, multicultural, interfaith and multiracial families.
​
As a trauma-informed therapist, I work with people to heal present and past traumatic experiences through emotional regulation, body awareness, expressive arts and a renewed sense of control over their own narrative.
Work Experience
I worked for 12 years as a therapist at the family therapy group practice – Jonah Green and Associates before going into private practice in 2021. I have worked as a group process consultant and diversity trainer for non-profit organizations, schools, and community groups. I have consulted with organizations such as the National Institutes of Health on creating a welcoming environment.
​
I am an American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy approved supervisor, as well as a supervisor in Emotionally Focused Therapy. I have served as adjunct faculty, supervising graduate therapy students at the University of Maryland in College Park. I run advanced supervision groups in my private practice.
Education
Masters of Science in Couple and Family Therapy, the University of Maryland at College Park
Masters in Public Administration, Harvard University John F. Kennedy School of Government
Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, Brandeis University.
Certified by the International Centre for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy