Matthew Alvarez, MS

Clinical Degree: Marriage and Family Therapy, University of Maryland

Office Location: Bethesda; virtually for those located in Maryland

Available: Weekday, evening, and weekend appointments available.

Clinical Special Interests: Premarital Counseling; Masculinity & Men’s Issues; Infidelity; Communication Issues & Conflict in Couples/Families; Life Transitions and Adjustment; Dating and Relationship Development; Family of Origin Issues; Depression/Anxiety; Conflict Resolution; Discernment Counseling; Child and Adolescent therapy

Prepare/Enrich Certified: Yes

My Background:

As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I believe in helping people find change and hope, especially when they feel stuck or overwhelmed. My philosophy centers on the idea that transformation is possible, even in the most challenging moments. I take a flexible and creative approach to therapy, integrating experiential and strategic interventions to help clients break patterns that no longer serve them. My clinical expertise includes working with men, masculinity, and couples, focusing on relational dynamics, emotional expression, and identity. I draw from systemic models such as Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Experiential Therapy to help clients gain insight, heal from past wounds, and strengthen their relationships.

About Me

I am particularly interested in how men navigate vulnerability, connection, and societal expectations in their intimate relationships. Outside of therapy, I enjoy storytelling in all its forms, through literature, media, and immersive experiences like tabletop role-playing games. This passion for creativity and exploration informs my therapeutic style, allowing me to bring warmth, curiosity, and adaptability to each session.