Hi, I'm Jess Quaranto (she/her), a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Maryland and DC. I support children, teens, parents and caregivers, and families through big feelings, tough transitions, communication struggles within or across households, and the challenges of navigating schools and other systems. With an intentionally inclusive and neuroaffirming lens, I use play, talk, movement, and arts-based approaches to help clients feel grounded and reconnect with the people who matter most.

I believe everyone deserves a therapeutic space where they don't have to leave parts of themselves at the door. Bring your art, your music, your favorite fidget or stuffy, your passions, your anger, your questions, or whatever else helps you feel grounded and connected. I don't have a magic wand, but I do bring curiosity, compassion, and a willingness to listen deeply and stay alongside you as you figure out what comes next.

A client-centered philosophy

You are the expert on your own life, and my role is to help create enough safety and space for you to access your own wisdom. Therapy is also a relationship, so I welcome regular feedback on what is helping, what isn't, and how I can grow alongside you. Whether you're facing a crisis, grief, overwhelm, or the particular pain of feeling lost, misunderstood, or hopeless, you are welcome here.

A systemic perspective

I believe self-compassion and self-acceptance are foundational to healing, and I also believe we need to look beyond the individual. Many of us are trying to survive systems that are oppressive, exclusionary, and harmful. To endure them, sometimes you need a place to rage, cry, vent, and name what's happening. Other times you may need practical strategies for navigating schools, institutions, and family systems.

Community care

My practice is rooted in community care, and I hope therapy can be one part of a larger network of support that helps you move through the world as your whole self. I draw on my background as a parent, mentor, educator, juvenile mediator, community organizer, and youth basketball coach as we navigate community and connection together.

If this sounds like a potential fit, I'd love to hear from you. Reach out through the contact page or email me directly.

— Jess