About
Founded in 1983, Alvord Baker has grown into a mainstay in the Greater Washington community for those of all ages seeking mental health services and personal growth. From our inception, we have been committed to providing effective, evidence-based treatments rooted in proven methodologies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). Our mission is to offer a pathway to recovery and resilience through compassionate, personalized care.
Our Story
Our office was founded by Dr. Mary Karapetian Alvord and Dr. Patricia Baker with one vision: to deliver evidence-based, client-focused mental health care that empowers people to thrive. From the beginning, they recognized that resilience, self-regulation, and social skills are not just traits but teachable strengths. This insight led to the creation of the Resilience Builder Program®, now a cornerstone of our work with children, adolescents, and adults.
Dr. Alvord’s pioneering focus on resilience, combined with Dr. Baker’s expertise in family therapy, established Alvord Baker as a leader in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), group programs, and individualized care. Together, they built a practice where clinical innovation meets compassion, helping families and individuals grow stronger through life’s challenges.
Today, our team continues their legacy offering cutting-edge therapies in the Greater Washington area, guiding clients toward resilience, healing, and brighter futures.
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Why Us?What makes Alvord Baker different is our collaborative approach to providing truly effective mental health care. As a group practice, we believe in the power of teamwork and continuous learning. Our therapists meet weekly in consultation groups to discuss cases and share insights, ensuring that every client benefits from the collective expertise and support of our entire team. We are deeply committed to evidence-based treatments, particularly Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which means our methods are rooted in what has been scientifically proven to work. We continually conduct research on the effectiveness of our programs, so you can trust that our care is not only compassionate but also grounded in real results. Our core mission is to help clients of all ages build resilience and thrive through life’s challenges, equipping them with practical tools for personal growth and emotional well-being. If you’re looking for a mental health practice that is dedicated to finding what truly works, Alvord Baker may be the right choice for you and your family.
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Our Commitment To Compassionate CareAt Alvord Baker, we believe that high-quality mental health services should be accessible to everyone. Our practice is built on a foundation of inclusivity and understanding, ensuring that every client feels valued and supported from their first interaction with us. We are dedicated to creating a nurturing environment that respects the unique needs and backgrounds of each individual, offering tailored therapeutic approaches to help navigate life's diverse challenges. By blending rigorous research with empathetic treatment, we aim to empower our clients with the tools they need for personal growth and emotional well-being.
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What Does "Evidence-Based" MeanIn the context of mental health therapy, “evidence-based” care refers to treatments and interventions that have been rigorously tested and proven effective through scientific research. These therapies are grounded in methods that work, supported by studies showing positive outcomes for individuals facing various mental health challenges. Unlike approaches that rely solely on tradition or anecdotal evidence, evidence-based therapies ensure that clients receive care that is both reliable and effective. This commitment to using proven methods means that individuals and families can trust that the treatment they receive is based on what truly works, leading to better outcomes and a more efficient path to healing and wellness.
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