Julia Friedman (she/her) is passionate about working with children, teens, and adults, and is dedicated to creating a safe, supportive space where every client feels truly seen and accepted. She finds deep fulfillment in helping clients of all ages grow, heal, and build more joy into their lives. Julia brings compassion, curiosity, and respect to each session, and values the collaborative, creative process of therapy. Outside of her work, Julia enjoys staying active, exercising, and taking long walks with her dog, Chance. Originally from New Jersey, she loves being outdoors, especially spending time relaxing at the beach with a good thriller novel.

Training and Education

Julia is a graduate-level Psychology Associate pursuing a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology at Loyola University Maryland. She received her bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Pittsburgh, and her Master of Science degree in Clinical Psychology from Loyola University Maryland. Julia has worked as a research coordinator at both Nationwide Children’s Hospital and the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, where she conducted psychological and neuropsychological assessments with children experiencing traumatic brain injuries, congenital heart disease, and brain tumors. She also gained experience supporting children and adults in crisis while working inpatient at Western Psychiatric Hospital. Most recently, Julia has been providing therapy and psychological assessment at a community mental health clinic, serving children, adolescents, adults, and families. These diverse experiences have equipped her with the skills to address a broad range of concerns and to build meaningful connections with clients at all stages of life.

Supervisor: Rachel Altvater, Psy.D., RPT-S 

Therapeutic Approach

Julia takes an eclectic, client-centered approach to therapy, integrating cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and child/person centered techniques. She works with children, adolescents, and adults, offering talk and play therapy in a safe, nonjudgmental space tailored to each individual’s needs. Her clinical interests include supporting individuals navigating disability or chronic illness, self-esteem and body image concerns, nutrition, trauma, depression, anxiety, and relationship challenges. Julia is passionate about helping clients feel empowered to express themselves and advocate for their needs. She sees therapy as a collaborative, evolving process shaped by both the therapist and client. Julia often incorporates creative modalities, such as art and wellness, into sessions, offered both in person and via telehealth. At the heart of her work is a deep belief in the power of the therapeutic relationship and the importance of creating a space where clients feel seen, supported, and capable of meaningful growth.