Our Team

Physicians

Wendy Hookman, MD

Psychiatrist
Founder and Director
Women’s Psychiatry
Reproductive Psychiatry
Sexual Medicine
Weight Management

Wendy Hookman, MD

Psychiatrist
Founder and Director
Women’s Psychiatry
Reproductive Psychiatry
Sexual Medicine

Renowned for her expertise, Wendy J. Hookman, MD, is a respected double board-certified psychiatrist and the visionary Founder of WCWCW. Having grown up in the Greater Washington, DC area, she returned to her roots following her training in New York City, driven by her aspiration to establish a world-class psychiatric center for women and children within the Greater Washington area. Her mission was to cultivate an environment where everyone, from patients to clinicians and staff, would feel esteemed, valued, and supported through life's challenges and triumphs. In 2003, WCWCW had its modest beginnings in a small office rented hourly from a therapist. Over the years, the practice has thrived and now boasts a team of three physicians and six therapists, expanding into a 7,000-square-foot home base. This space encompasses not only individual treatment rooms but also generously-sized group spaces, play therapy rooms, and a serene meditation and yoga studio. Dr. Hookman's unwavering commitment to providing support and education to women and children of all ages has transcended the local community, extending from Bethesda, Maryland, throughout Montgomery County, and into the broader Greater Washington area, and now reaching individuals worldwide. WCWCW's website serves as a beacon of information and education, drawing visitors from around the globe.

Dr. Hookman completed her medical degree at the Medical College of Virginia in Richmond, Virginia, followed by rigorous psychiatry training at the renowned Beth Israel Medical Center in New York City. Her rich professional journey led her to serve as the Director of the Women’s Mood Disorders Program at the reputable Georgetown University Hospital (MedStar Georgetown University Hospital) in the heart of Washington, D.C. During her tenure at Georgetown, Dr. Hookman not only supervised the clerkship in psychiatry for medical students but also imparted extensive knowledge in the department’s residency program, earning recognition for excellence in teaching. She is also recognized as an esteemed member of the teaching faculty at The George Washington University School of Medicine (GW School of Medicine and Health Sciences).

Embodying empathy and expertise as a dedicated reproductive psychiatrist, Dr. Hookman holds a deep passion for addressing women's mood and anxiety disorders, especially within the nuanced contexts of menopause, pregnancy, infertility, and sexual health. Firmly believing in the potential for enhancing one's quality of life, she asserts, "Too many women think nothing can be done to make life more enjoyable and I'm here to say that's just false. There's almost always a tweak that can make a big difference, and it's not always medication."

Dr. Hookman practices a holistic approach, taking into account every aspect of a woman's life, including her past experiences, present circumstances, lifestyle, and relationships, to craft a highly personalized treatment plan. Committed to fostering inclusivity and respect, she wholeheartedly embraces individuals from diverse backgrounds, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, or sexual orientation, ensuring that every person who visits WCWCW feels genuinely valued and embraced.

Reflecting on her practice, Dr. Hookman shares, "What I value most is the opportunity to truly connect with my patients, allowing me to assist them in a multitude of ways. While managing a patient's mood or anxiety disorder is a significant achievement, it is merely the beginning of exploring their personal and professional aspirations, relationships, sexuality, and support systems."

Alexis Wesley, MD

Psychiatrist
Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
Women’s Psychiatry
Reproductive Psychiatry

Alexis Wesley, MD

Psychiatrist
Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
Women’s Psychiatry
Reproductive Psychiatry

Alexis Wesley, MD, is a compassionate and highly skilled Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist, with a specialization in Reproductive Psychiatry and Women's Mental Health at WCWCW. Dedicated to providing exceptional care, she caters to patients residing in Bethesda, Maryland, and across Montgomery County and the Greater Washington area.

Dr. Wesley's impressive academic background includes completing her Child Psychiatry training at the esteemed Children's National Hospital, her Adult Psychiatry training at George Washington University (GW), her medical training at the University of Connecticut (UConn), and her undergraduate studies at Yale University.

Recognizing the significance of comprehending the unique experiences and aspirations of her patients, Dr. Wesley adopts a thoughtful and empathetic approach to her practice. Her area of expertise lies in counseling women on a spectrum of treatment options before, during, and after pregnancy. Adopting a holistic methodology, she extends support to women navigating various challenges, including infertility, transitions in motherhood, and managing anxiety and depression during pregnancy or the postpartum phase.

Understanding the intricate dynamics of family mental health, Dr. Wesley places a strong emphasis on providing comprehensive support to the entire family. Acknowledging the potential cascading impact of mental health challenges, she collaborates closely with children, teenagers, and young adults grappling with issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and transitional obstacles.

During her professional journey, Dr. Wesley spearheaded an innovative initiative aimed at identifying and treating women at high risk for postpartum depression during their children's newborn physical appointments. The primary focus was to provide support not just to the mother but also to the child. With a fervent dedication to destigmatizing mental health and enhancing accessibility to services, she remains deeply passionate about her work.

Linda Ojo, MD

Psychiatrist
Women’s Psychiatry
Reproductive Psychiatry
Weight Management

Linda Ojo, MD

Board Certified Psychiatrist

Dr Linda Ojo is a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in reproductive psychiatry, women’s mental health and weight management. Her passion and advocacy are for the mental health and well-being of women across the reproductive lifespan, which includes psychiatric disorders related to the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, peri-menopause, and menopause. So often during pregnancy, women are expected to put their own mental health needs aside for the health of the baby. She strives to reassure women that there are ways to protect the health and safety of both mother and baby during this particularly vulnerable time.

Dr Ojo attended medical school and completed residency at George Washington University in Washington DC. During medical school, she was elected to the Gold Humanism Honor Society - a peer-elected recognition that her classmates would trust their family members with her. Her goal is to treat every patient with the care and compassion she expects her own family members to receive. She is an advocate for cultural competency in medicine, and destigmatization of mental illness as this is often a significant barrier to patients seeking healthcare.

Dr Ojo utilizes a combination of Western and integrative medicine strategies and recommendations. She strongly feels that there is no one-size-fits-all all approach. This may include medication management, nutraceutical options, supportive psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes which have the potential to significantly enhance one’s quality of life. The goal is not just to survive, but to thrive!

Aeva Gaymon-Doomes, MD

Psychiatrist
Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
Women’s Psychiatry

Aeva Gaymon-Doomes, MD

Psychiatrist
Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
Women’s Psychiatry

Aeva Gaymon-Doomes, MD, is a distinguished Double Board-Certified psychiatrist specializing in the comprehensive care of children, adolescents, and women at WCWCW, in Bethesda, Maryland. With a commitment to providing accessible care, she serves individuals across Montgomery County, Washington D.C., and the Greater Washington area, offering both in-person consultations and telehealth services. Dr. Doomes is currently accepting patients via telehealth in multiple states, including Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Louisiana, Michigan, and Texas.

Her areas of expertise encompass the treatment of mood, anxiety, and behavioral disorders in children, adolescents, and adults. Renowned for her culturally sensitive and down-to-earth approach, she adopts an integrative, holistic, and family-centered model of mental healthcare. Dr. Doomes's compassionate and nurturing demeanor quickly fosters a strong rapport with patients of all ages, particularly establishing a comforting atmosphere for young individuals.

In her work with children and parents, Dr. Doomes focuses on addressing challenging behavior and academic obstacles, providing valuable parent coaching and support that takes into account the comprehensive needs of the family unit.

Moreover, her extensive work with women involves guiding them through the complexities of navigating careers and relationships. By fostering self-awareness regarding problematic patterns, she empowers women to develop a resilient sense of self and acquire essential psychological skills.

Dr. Doomes completed her medical education at Howard University College of Medicine in Washington, D.C. Subsequently, she pursued a residency program in adult psychiatry and a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at the University of Maryland and the prestigious Sheppard Pratt Hospital (Sheppard and Enoch Pratt Hospital) in Towson, Maryland.

Currently, Dr. Gaymon-Doomes serves on the clinical faculty at the George Washington School of Medicine in Washington, D.C., as well as the Howard University Hospital Department of Psychiatry, formerly known as Freedmen's Hospital, demonstrating her commitment to education and patient care excellence.

Therapists

Joy Paul, LCSW-C

Psychotherapist
Women’s Psychotherapy
Perinatal Psychotherapy
Couples & Family Psychotherapy

Joy Paul, LCSW-C

Psychotherapist
Women’s Psychotherapy
Perinatal Psychotherapy
Couples & Family Psychotherapy

Joy Paul, LCSW-C, is an esteemed licensed clinical social worker at WCWCW, providing comprehensive care for adults of all ages in Bethesda, Maryland, and extending her services throughout Montgomery County and the Greater Washington area.

With an extensive career spanning over 30 years, Joy has guided numerous children, individuals, couples, and families toward fostering better relationships and achieving enhanced well-being through the cultivation of improved communication skills and self-awareness.

Known for her warm, humorous, and engaging demeanor, Joy cultivates a welcoming and inclusive environment where patients feel at ease. She is renowned for her ability to build strong connections with her patients, fostering trusting relationships that facilitate honesty and personal growth.

Joy is a firm believer in empowering her clients to acquire effective communication skills and deepen their self-awareness, providing them with a more profound perspective. She employs various modalities in her treatment approach, including cognitive behavioral therapy, the family systems approach, emotionally focused therapy, and Imago therapy.

Throughout her therapy sessions, Joy educates her clients to become more attuned to their emotions, cultivating a heightened tolerance for distress and fostering the confidence to embrace risks and lead their most fulfilling lives.

In addition to her clinical work, Joy serves as a board member at EveryMind and the Anti-Defamation League, actively engaging in volunteer work within her community.

Susan Felzer, PsyD

Psychologist
Women’s Psychotherapy
Perinatal Psychotherapy

Susan Felzer, PsyD

Psychologist
Women’s Psychotherapy
Perinatal Psychotherapy

Susan Felzer, PsyD, is a dedicated licensed psychologist practicing at WCWCW, providing expert care for adults in Bethesda, Maryland, and extending her services throughout Montgomery County and the Greater Washington area.

Her academic journey began at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, where she earned her bachelor's degree. Dr. Felzer subsequently completed her doctorate degree at Hahnemann University, also located in Philadelphia.

With her extensive background, Dr. Felzer has cultivated profound expertise in supporting adolescents and adults navigating a diverse array of challenges, ranging from anxiety, depression, and mood disorders to relationship complexities and life transitions.

In her practice, she adopts a personalized approach, working closely with each individual to establish achievable and realistic goals, fostering a renewed sense of confidence and optimism that change is attainable. Dr. Felzer creates a reflective and secure environment that promotes collaborative exploration of various life challenges, enabling clients to identify unproductive behavioral patterns and replace them with healthier and more fulfilling choices. Employing a blend of humor and compassion, she guides adolescents and adults towards greater fulfillment and well-being in their lives.

Jordana Ravick, LCSW-C

Psychotherapist
Adolescent Psychotherapy
Women’s Psychotherapy
Perinatal Psychotherapy
Group Therapy

Jordana Ravick, LCSW-C

Psychotherapist
Adolescent Psychotherapy
Women’s Psychotherapy
Perinatal Psychotherapy
Group Therapy

Jordana Ravick, LCSW-C, is a distinguished licensed clinical social worker with a focus on providing comprehensive support for girls, women, and couples navigating life's transitions at WCWCW in Bethesda, Maryland. Her expertise extends to serving individuals across Montgomery County and the Greater Washington area.

With a deep commitment to her clients' well-being, Jordana offers guidance to individuals, couples, families, and groups dealing with a wide range of challenges. These include issues such as anxiety, low self-esteem, fertility or postpartum difficulties, pregnancy loss, struggles with sexuality and physical intimacy, bullying, trauma, and ongoing stress within family or couple dynamics.

Jordana approaches therapy through collaboration, transparency, and relational connection. She possesses specialized knowledge in areas concerning emotional well-being throughout a woman's reproductive life cycle, as well as in addressing teen dating violence, peer relational aggression, and promoting healthy teen relationships.

Jordana firmly believes that effective psychotherapy involves a two-pronged process: clients learn coping strategies to alleviate suffering while concurrently cultivating a more purposeful, value-driven, and vital existence. Her approach is characterized by warmth, authenticity, and a commitment to fostering collaborative relationships that lead to tangible progress and success in therapy.

She earned her master's degree from New York University in New York City and has completed advanced clinical training and certification with the Ackerman Institute for the Family and the Postpartum Stress Center. Currently, she is engaged in a fertility counseling post-graduate course, further expanding her expertise in this specialized area.

Amy Pelletier, LCSW-C

Psychotherapist
Child & Adolescent Psychotherapy
Women’s Psychotherapy
Parenting Support & Coaching

Amy Pelletier, LCSW-C

Psychotherapist
Child & Adolescent Psychotherapy
Women’s Psychotherapy
Parenting Support & Coaching

Amy Pelletier, LCSW-C, brings over two decades of expertise as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker at WCWCW in Bethesda, Maryland. Throughout her career, she has provided compassionate therapy to children, adolescents, adults, and families across Montgomery County and the Greater Washington area. Her comprehensive approach encompasses a diverse spectrum of challenges, including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, OCD, ADHD, and emotional and behavioral dysregulation.

At the heart of her practice is a deep emphasis on cultivating a strong therapeutic alliance. Amy endeavors to establish a nurturing environment that empowers clients to recognize and explore their emotions, understand patterns of behavior and thought, and develop effective coping mechanisms for navigating life's stressors.

When working with children and adolescents, Amy adopts a warm and playful approach that fosters self-expression, bolsters self-esteem, and nurtures emotional regulation and problem-solving skills. Furthermore, she provides invaluable support to parents and caregivers, helping them better understand and connect with their children and equipping them with tools to effectively guide their children in managing emotions and conquering challenges.

Amy earned her Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Chicago, and she seamlessly integrates various therapeutic modalities to meet the specific needs of each individual and family. Her extensive training includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), sand tray therapy, play therapy, and SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions). Amy has also completed Level One Theraplay® training, incorporating Theraplay principles into her practice to strengthen her assessment and treatment of children through the parent-child relationship. Additionally, she has successfully completed the Post Graduate Training Program at the Postpartum Stress Center, where she finds fulfillment in supporting women navigating adjustment, mood, and anxiety symptoms related to pregnancy and childbirth.

Emily Siegel, LCSW-C

Psychotherapist
Child & Adolescent Psychotherapy
Parenting Support & Coaching

Emily Siegel, LCSW-C

Psychotherapist
Child & Adolescent Psychotherapy
Parenting Support & Coaching

Emily Siegel, LCSW-C, is a clinical social worker and therapist at WCWCW in Bethesda, Maryland, caring for children throughout Montgomery County and the Greater Washington area.

Emily enjoys working with preschool, school-aged children, and teens experiencing a variety of struggles including anxiety, ADHD, disruptive behaviors, and relationship challenges.

Emily finds that the most effective way to connect with and support children in therapy is through a playful, non-judgmental approach. She believes that the most successful interventions work to understand and support each part of the family unit in order to best serve the child in need.

Utilizing an integrative, evidence-based approach, treatment is tailored to the unique goals and needs of each client and family. In treating children, Emily values collaboration and works directly with parents and other members of a child’s “team” (e.g., school teachers, medical professionals, and other therapeutic clinicians).

With a special interest in enhancing the parent-child relationship, Emily has received training in play-based assessment and treatment models including Theraplay. Emily is currently in the process of completing coursework and clinical hours to become a certified play therapist.

Emily holds a master’s degree in social work from the University of Michigan, where she had the opportunity to learn and practice a variety of clinical approaches including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), Circle of Security, and family therapy.

Hannah Blaes-Johnson, LCSW-C

Psychotherapist
Adolescent Psychotherapy
Women’s Psychotherapy
Perinatal Psychotherapy
Trauma Therapy
Group Therapy

Hannah Blaes-Johnson, LCSW-C

Psychotherapist
Adolescent Psychotherapy
Women’s Psychotherapy
Perinatal Psychotherapy
Trauma Therapy
Group Therapy

Hannah Blaes-Johnson, LCSW-C, is a skilled and compassionate licensed clinical social worker and therapist at WCWCW, providing comprehensive care to children, adolescents, adults, and families across Montgomery County and the Greater Washington area from the office in Bethesda, Maryland and via telemedicine.

Hannah specializes in addressing a wide array of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, stress, and behavioral issues. She has a keen interest in assisting her clients in recognizing and exploring their emotions, comprehending unproductive behavioral patterns, and cultivating effective coping mechanisms. Creating a supportive and nurturing environment, Hannah encourages her patients to freely share their experiences, thoughts, and feelings.

With a special focus on assisting children and families who have encountered trauma, including intimate partner violence or domestic violence, community violence, physical abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, and traumatic grief or loss, Hannah has gained valuable experience working with families in various locations, including Baltimore City, MD, Philadelphia, PA, and Gainesville, FL.

Hannah's approach is rooted in the belief that individuals and families are the experts in their own lives. Emphasizing a strengths-based and trauma-focused foundation, she strives to recognize the historical, social, and systemic obstacles individuals face due to racism, patriarchy, and oppression, and their impact on overall well-being. Her work aims to strengthen parent/caregiver and child relationships, incorporating play therapy and restoring a sense of safety within families, while fostering skills that positively impact mood and behavioral functioning.

Moreover, Hannah has completed specialized training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP). She has also received training through Postpartum Support International on perinatal mental health and is currently in the process of obtaining certification as a PMH-C.

Lilian Gunawan, LMSW, PMH-C

Psychotherapist
Women’s Psychotherapy
Perinatal Psychotherapy
Group Therapy

Lilian Gunawan, LMSW, PMH-C

Psychotherapist
Women’s Psychotherapy
Perinatal Psychotherapy
Group Therapy

Lilian Gunawan is a dedicated clinical social worker and therapist at WCWCW, providing comprehensive care to women and birthing individuals in Bethesda, Maryland, and catering to the needs of clients across Montgomery County and the Greater Washington area. Lilian offers both telehealth and in-person appointments, ensuring accessibility and flexibility for her clients.

Specializing in perinatal mental health, Lilian focuses on assisting individuals navigating the challenges of transitioning to parenthood, coping with the complexities of pregnancy, fertility treatments, and the postpartum period, as well as providing support for those who have experienced pregnancy loss. She recognizes that these life events often bring significant shifts in roles, relationships, and identities, and collaborates with her clients to manage and overcome symptoms of perinatal anxiety, depression, and other related mood and anxiety disorders and stressors that may arise during this critical period.

Lilian practices with compassion and relational understanding, emphasizing the client's unique perspective and life experiences, while also considering the diverse social and cultural factors that have shaped their journey. Drawing on evidence-based modalities, including mindfulness techniques, cognitive-behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, motivational interviewing, and attachment-based approaches, Lilian tailors her approach to suit each client's specific needs. Her ultimate aim is to alleviate suffering, foster effective coping strategies, cultivate acceptance for aspects beyond one's control, and encourage proactive changes based on personal values, with the goal of leading a purposeful and fulfilling life.

Graduating from the University of Baltimore, School of Social Work, Lilian holds a deep commitment to her field, as demonstrated by her PMH-C certification in Perinatal Mental Health from Postpartum Support International. She has contributed extensively to the organization through her work and volunteering. Prior to her work in the mental health field, Lilian was involved in international development and has lived in various countries in Europe and Asia. Her global experiences and multicultural background contribute to her unique cultural perspective, enriching her interactions with clients and shaping her personal outlook on life.

Staff

Eliska Robins

Office Manager

Eliska Robins

Office Manager

Eliska Robins, the brilliant and compassionate Office Manager at WCWCW, brings a wealth of expertise and a nurturing spirit to our practice. With a degree in accounting and economics from SOU Zemedelska' in Trebon, Czech Republic, Eliska seamlessly combines her analytical skills with a heartfelt dedication to the well-being of our team and patients.

In her spare time, Eliska's creativity shines through her passion for sewing English Renaissance gowns. Her exceptional craftsmanship has even led to some of her gowns gracing the cover of New York Times bestselling books, showcasing her talent and artistry to a broader audience.

Eliska is deeply committed to mental health, particularly as a mother to twins with autism. Her personal experience fuels her passion for creating a nurturing and supportive environment for all, emphasizing empathy and understanding in all interactions. Her genuine care and warmth are evident in the attentive support she provides to our clinicians, staff, and patients.

Despite her many responsibilities, Eliska still finds time to indulge her love for baking. Her ridiculously delicious butter cookies have become a beloved treat within the practice, reflecting her ability to spread joy and comfort through her various talents. Eliska's dedication to the well-being of those around her makes her an invaluable and cherished member of the WCWCW family.

Clarke Thompson-Gay

Intake Coordinator

Clarke Thompson-Gay

Intake Coordinator

WCWCW’s extraordinary Intake Coordinator, Clarke Thompson-Gay is an enthusiastic recent graduate from the University of Pittsburgh, holding a Bachelor of Science in Natural Sciences. With a deep commitment to social issues, Clarke pursued minors in Gender, Sexuality, and Women’s Studies, as well as Africana Studies, underscoring her dedication to fostering a more inclusive and equitable society. Her proficiency in American Sign Language reflects her dedication to effective communication and accessibility for all.

Driven by her passion for women’s reproductive health, Clarke aspires to attend medical school and make a significant impact in the field of Perinatology. Her unwavering dedication to promoting the well-being and safety of expectant mothers and their infants underscores her commitment to ensuring comprehensive and compassionate care throughout the perinatal journey. With a strong academic background and a genuine passion for improving women's and children’s health, Clarke is poised to make meaningful contributions to the field of Perinatology and to the broader healthcare community.

"Dr. Wendy Hookman is caring and compassionate. She provides high quality care and makes you feel very comfortable. Highly recommend Dr. Wendy Hookman."

ANNMARIE K.

"For anyone considering reaching out and looking for support, guidance, and sense don't hesitate. I have only wonderful things to say about WCWCW..."

SASKIA E.

"Amazing place for pre-pregnancy, pregnancy, surrogacy, adoption and post-pregnancy support. These folks will hold your hand at all phases of the process..."

ANONYMOUS

"Congratulations! If you have found WCWCW you are on the right track and in the right place to improve your current situation."

ANONYMOUS

"Absolutely in a heartbeat I would recommend. Me and my daughter are patients and I am so happy I found this place. Amazing Doctors and Therapists."

JULIA H.

"The level of expertise and genuine care is unparalleled. I am eternally grateful"

RENEE G.

Our Team

Physicians

Wendy Hookman, MD

Alexis Wesley, MD

Linda Ojo, MD

Aeva Gaymon-Doomes, MD

Therapists

Joy Paul, LCSW-C

Susan Felzer, PsyD

Jordana Ravick, LCSW-C

Amy Pelletier, LCSW-C

Emily Siegel, LCSW-C

Hannah Blaes-Johnson, LCSW-C

Lilian Gunawan, LMSW, PMH-C

Staff

Eliska Robins

Clarke Thompson-Gay

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