New to Grow
Dr. Opelt earned his Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology at New Mexico State University after completing his Master’s of Science in Educational Psychology: Community Counseling from the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee. During his graduate training, he earned certifications in Trauma Counseling and Multicultural Knowledge Basis in Mental Health Practices, and a graduate minor in Integrated Behavioral Health. Dr. Opelt has completed postdoctoral fellowships in research in Rehabilitation Psychology, with an emphasis on Multiple Sclerosis, at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, and in clinical Rehabilitation and Pain Psychology at MedStar Health National Rehabilitation Hospital. He has focused his clinical work on adults who have concerns about insomnia, cognitive impairment, addiction, LGBT+ concerns, caregiver support, transplants, burn survivors, cancer, musculoskeletal diseases like MS and Parkinson’s disease, and those who have amputations. He is a licensed psychologist in Maryland and Illinois.
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
The first couple of sessions will focus on gathering background information, such as your personal relationships, previous experiences in therapy, and any previous mental health diagnoses that you may have been given in the past. We will explore the reasons and your goals for coming to therapy. During this time, any questions that you have about the therapy process will be addressed. Last, we will brainstorm goals that you would like to accomplish in therapy and discuss the payment process
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
When it's time for clients to say goodbye, they frequently share that they felt profoundly safe, seen, and heard throughout our journey together. They leave with a renewed sense of self and clarity about their identity. Each client highlights how my personalized approach addressed their unique needs, empowering them to understand and navigate their world more effectively.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
If you are new to therapy or have prior experience, I am here to support you on your journey of self-discovery. Together, we will establish meaningful goals that empower you to create a life that resonates with your values and aspirations. Even if you're unsure of what you seek, let's explore it together. I invite you to approach our sessions with an open mind, ready to uncover new insights about yourself. While there may be challenges ahead, I urge you not to lose hope—I'm here to guide you through every obstacle you encounter. My expertise focuses on clients aged 18 and older, and I am committed to helping you thrive. Let’s embark on this transformative journey together! I am here to help guide you over those obstacles. Clients who are 18+ are the clients have been the focus of my training.
Interpersonal
As a foundation, my initial viewing of client's concerns are through the multiple factors that play out in their life and how these factors influence the way they navigate their relationships with others.
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
With Acceptance and commitment therapy, I apply components to help clients find a non-judgmental approach to understanding themselves, their thoughts, and their feelings.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-i)
Sleep is vital to our success and I have been trained to apply both structured and individualized treatment for insomnia.
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
I integrate mindfulness-based therapy into multiple treatment styles (i.e., ACT and CBT-i) to help with experiences of anxiety and depression.
Motivational Interviewing
I utilized motivational interviewing (MI) in treatment to help those who are struggling with a change. I also apply MI in helping with adjustment to progressive conditions like multiple sclerosis (MS).