Zohaa Awan – Accepting New Clients
Zohaa Awan | Specialist in South Asian Mental Health, Eating Disorders, & Pediatric Care
Clinical Therapist Insurance: Cigna, BCBS, Aetna, and Hopkins EHP
Languages: English and Urdu/Hindi (Bilingual)
Location: In-person (Catonsville Office) and Virtual
Expertise in South Asian & Muslim Mental Health
My name is Zohaa, and I am a specialist dedicated to bridging the gap between clinical excellence and cultural nuance. Growing up in the South Asian community, I recognized early on how often mental health is sidelined due to cultural expectations and religious stigma. I am an expert in helping clients navigate the “intricate dance” between traditional heritage, Muslim faith, and modern personal identity. I provide the culturally sensitive, linguistically accessible (Urdu/Hindi) support that allows you to feel truly understood without having to explain your background.
Clinical Specialty: Eating Disorders & Body Neutrality
I provide expert care for individuals struggling with Eating Disorders and Disordered Eating. I utilize a personalized, empowerment-based framework to help you rebuild a healthy relationship with food and your body. Especially within cultures where food is a central love language, navigating eating concerns requires a specialized, sophisticated approach. I help you move beyond the shame of intrusive thoughts to a place of self-compassion and empowered action.
Pediatric & Adolescent Specialist: Ages 3+
I am an expert in Child and Adolescent Therapy, utilizing age-appropriate, playful, and evidence-based techniques to help young clients express their emotions. I specialize in treating:
Peer Relationships & Social Development: Helping children navigate bullying, social anxiety, and friendship-building.
Emotional Regulation: Equipping kids with the “emotional toolkit” they need to thrive in school and at home.
Teacher & Academic Support: I have a particular clinical interest in supporting educators, understanding the unique burnout and stress that comes with the teaching profession.
A Tailored, Multimodal Approach
I believe therapy is a collaborative journey that requires a diverse clinical toolkit. I am an expert in tailoring the following modalities to fit your specific needs:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): For managing the “crippling nature” of anxiety and intrusive thoughts.
Person-Centered Therapy: To ensure your voice and values lead the healing process.
Culturally Sensitive Practices: Integrating your faith and heritage as a source of strength rather than a barrier.
Who I Work With
I specialize in working with clients across the lifespan (ages 3 to 50), with a particular focus on children, teens, and couples. Whether you are navigating a high-conflict relationship or seeking support for your child’s social growth, I facilitate healthy communication and sustainable healing.
Primary Specializations
South Asian Identity & Cultural Conflict
Muslim Faith-Based Counseling
Eating Disorder Recovery & Body Image
Child & Adolescent Therapy (Ages 3+)
Peer Relationships & Social Anxiety
High-Functioning Anxiety & Coping Skills
Bilingual Clinical Support (Urdu/Hindi)
Beyond the Therapy Room
When I’m not in the office, you can find me perfecting my Pilates practice (working on that “Pilates Princess” status!). I also have a very specific passion for Oreo-flavored treats—but it has to be vanilla cake with crushed Oreos inside; it’s the only way to do it right!
Ready to embark on a journey toward a healthier, more fulfilled you? Let’s connect and explore the possibilities together.
Watch Zohaa’s free community webinar on Eating Disorders
Check out Zohaa’s Podcast about body image issues and eating disorders