Therapists in Maryland

You may feel like you're struggling, that its too hard to change, or that relief simply isn't possible. Perhaps anxiety keeps you up at night, sadness follows you through your days, or your relationships leave you feeling misunderstood and emotionally drained. I believe there is an integrative center within each of us that naturally guides us toward healing. The situations, losses, and difficulties that arise in life, as painful as they are, can become the very impetus we need to grow into a fuller, more joyful version of ourselves. Healing isn't about fixing what's broken. It's about reconnecting with who you already are beneath the weight of everything you've been carrying. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years of experience helping people untangle the thoughts, wounds, and patterns that keep them stuck. My work spans anxiety disorders, depression, stress management, trauma, addiction, illness, and relationship issues. I have a particular passion for supporting individuals recovering from toxic or controlling relationships — people who have spent years doubting themselves or wondering if what they experienced was "bad enough" to deserve support. It was. You do. My therapeutic style has been described as warm, respectful, and collaborative. I create a supportive environment where you feel genuinely seen, not just heard, and where an honest, trusting relationship can develop at your own pace. I don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, I draw from a range of evidence-based modalities tailored to what you truly need. I enjoy working with clients from a wide variety of cultural backgrounds and bring both clinical depth and genuine curiosity to every therapeutic relationship. You deserve to feel lighter. You deserve to understand yourself more deeply, release what no longer serves you, and build relationships that feel safe, nurturing, and real.

Even though you may be struggling with something right now, you can choose to: see it in a new way... be open to feeling differently about it... and ultimately, transform. Everything you need is already within you. My role is to help you access it, and use it. I bring curiosity, empathy, and evidence-based therapies -- usually leading with mind-body approaches (e.g., EFT tapping, energy work, breathwork, meditation/mindfulness) and the principles of ACT (acceptance and commitment therapy) and IFS (internal family systems therapy) and spiraling out from there as your story leads us. You bring openness, willingness to practice, and neuroplasticity, and you can change -- literally re-wire -- your brain. When you do, you'll be amazed at the cascade of positive changes this creates... not only within you, but all around you in your life. I'm a licensed mental health professional (LCSW-C) in Maryland and have experience as a social worker and therapist working with children and adults of all ages and backgrounds, providing individual and family therapy in a variety of settings (community mental health agency, schools, inpatient and outpatient healthcare). I learn something valuable from each client with whom I'm privileged to work, and deeply appreciate the insights I gain through our work together. It is hard to be vulnerable in therapy. And while I don't yet know your story, I do know that if you are considering therapy, you are already doing the hard work of introspection. It takes courage to seek out more for yourself. You already have my respect and my empathy, and I would love to be part of your journey of healing and discovery.

I am a person-centered therapist who believes that meaningful change begins with a strong, trusting therapeutic relationship. I strive to create a space where you feel heard, respected, and understood—without judgment. Your experiences, values, and goals guide our work together. I specialize in working with individuals managing anxiety, OCD, depression, and the relational impacts that often accompany these challenges. Whether you’re feeling stuck in worry, caught in repetitive thought patterns, struggling with low mood, or noticing strain in your relationships, we will work collaboratively to understand what’s happening and identify practical, sustainable ways forward. I integrate Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to provide evidence-based tools alongside compassionate support. Together, we may explore how your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors interact, build skills to respond more effectively to distress, and clarify what truly matters to you so you can move toward a fuller, more connected life. My approach balances structured strategies with genuine human connection. I believe therapy works best when you feel safe enough to be authentic, supported enough to take meaningful risks, and empowered to create lasting change

Greetings, my name is John Luke. I am a licensed clinical social worker and specialize in helping people to effectively manage anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns using cognitive behavioral techniques. I have worked with a range of populations, nearly all ages, and also have experience with addiction treatment and life-coaching. I work with people to develop insight into the source of their problems, how their core beliefs about the world might be hindering their progress, and focus on their natural strengths to overcome those barriers with practical skills that generate sustainable change. Some of my other specialties include short-term, solution-focused therapy; cognitive behavioral therapy techniques; psychodynamic approaches; and marital counseling. Some of the problems I am particularly keen on solving with my clients include issues with self-image and confidence; dating and relationships; boundary-setting and assertive communication; as well as general anxiety management; and learning to identify and productively resolve emotional unrest. I am also very experienced in cognitive restructuring, which is just a fancy way of saying helping to change the way a person thinks about the world and their place in it. I also enjoy aiding people in goal setting and identification, meaning-making, and navigating family conflicts. If you feel any of this could be helpful or useful to you, please do not hesitate to reach out! (Note: I do work with couples, but only on a cash-pay basis. Also, I only work with ages 18+)

Hey there! I’m a licensed psychologist helping adults who feel overwhelmed by anxiety, stress, sleep problems, or trouble focusing. If life feels exhausting even when everything looks “fine” on the outside, therapy with me offers a calm, practical space where you can slow things down, be understood, and build tools that actually help you feel better in daily life. I blend evidence-based techniques with a down-to-earth style, just therapy that fits you. I create a supportive, inclusive environment for people from diverse backgrounds, including LGBTQ+ clients. I also commonly help clients who are struggling with relationship difficulties, life transitions, anger management, depression, self-esteem, and social difficulties. If you’re ready to feel less stuck and more grounded, let’s get started. I look forward to connecting with you!

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Tennessee. I received my Masters from the Howard University and have been practicing for 5 years. My focus is on helping clients manage stress, anxiety, and identity development while encouraging them to live authentically and in alignment with their core values. Through our work together, I aim to create a safe and empowering space for personal growth and resilience.

Hello! I’m Nina, a Licensed Clinical Therapist who has been working in trauma intervention for 17+ years. Before becoming a therapist, I worked as a rape crisis counselor, a trauma-healing self-defense instructor, and trauma-informed care consultant for non-profits. I approach therapy using multiple modalities. I believe in the mind-body connection and integrate mindfulness and body-based interventions where needed, including a focus on the physiology of stress and emotions. I use a wholistic approach to therapy, exploring all your identities, ambivalences, and values, and believe that understanding your upbringing and cultures are critical to how you cope and relate to the world and yourself in it.

Hi, I’m Nancy Paz Welsh, a bilingual (English & Spanish) Licensed Clinical Social Worker serving clients in Maryland and Virginia. As a proud second-generation American of Salvadoran descent, I’m passionate about advocating for mental health awareness and normalizing therapy as an essential part of overall well-being. I specialize in helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with compassion, curiosity, and evidence-based support. My goal is to create a safe, affirming space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered. Together, we’ll build on your strengths, develop effective coping strategies, and foster greater self-awareness to support lasting, meaningful growth. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, and life transitions. My therapeutic style is warm and collaborative, combining empathy with gentle accountability to help you make progress at your own pace. Starting therapy can feel like a big step, and I’m here to meet you exactly where you are—without judgment. Whether you’re overwhelmed by emotions or simply seeking more balance, I’ll walk alongside you with compassion and curiosity as you move toward the life you want. Outside of therapy, I’m a wife, mom to two toddlers, and dog mom of three—so life is rarely quiet! I enjoy reading, video games, trying new foods, and teaching my kids about their Salvadoran roots (yes, they’re already pupusa fans). My self-care must-haves? Coffee strong enough to launch a spaceship, food that makes me dance, podcasts that keep me grounded, and laughs that double as ab workouts! If you’re ready to explore new perspectives and make meaningful change, I’d be honored to support you on that journey!

Hi!, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Maryland. I received my Masters from Howard University in Washington DC and have been practicing for the last 13 years. I help people struggling with life issues cope and overcome their struggles and continue to function as best as they can.

My name is Nikki Smith. I’m a licensed clinical professional counselor licensed in the state of Maryland. I have been practicing for over 15 years. I work with individuals, groups and families to identify treatment goals and collaboratively execute those goals, using a range of modalities such as CBT, ACT, Mindfulness, Person Centered, etc. I am very eclectic in my therapeutic approach and treatment is tailored to meet the individual and/or family needs of each client. I’m so eager to start this journey of self-love with you and bring a little “easy” to your life.

My name is Arega Gera. I always work to strive to create a safe and welcoming environment that allows clients to explore obstacles with concerns related to anxiety, depression, and/or . I focus on helping clients develop assertive communication & boundaries with themselves and those around them that can help improve their quality of life. Counseling can foster personal development in whatever way you may be seeking and help build the life you so deeply deserve. If that's what you're looking for, I'm here when you're ready to share.

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia and Maryland, helping adults and couples work through anxiety, depression, relationship stress, burnout, and major life transitions. My style is warm, collaborative, and goal-focused. I use evidence-based approaches like CBT, ACT, and person-centered therapy, blending compassion with practical strategies so clients gain clarity, build confidence, and create meaningful, lasting change they can feel in daily life.

My name is Samuel and I have deep respect and admiration for any person willing to seek improvement in a therapeutic environment. I was born in Ethiopia, raised in Maryland. I have worked as a counselor/therapist since 2004 and have had great success working with people to improve their quality of life. My approach to therapy is to treat each person as a unique individual with potential to improve emotional health. Oftentimes, emotional injuries such as abandonment, betrayal, injustice, rejection, humiliation and loss can cause long term damage, preventing us from experiencing peace of mind or joy. Similar to physical injuries, emotional injuries can heal if treated with the proper amount of care and nurture. Therapy is a tool to learn how to heal emotional injuries, and trauma, in order to have the strength to strive towards our ultimate potential. Depression, anxiety, anger and many other symptoms are often the byproduct of unresolved emotional injuries. Also, therapy is able to increase self-awareness in order to form better relationships with loved ones and stop a cycle of despair and self-destructive behavior. I wish you the best in your journey towards wellbeing.

I specialize in working with women and birthing parents through fertility journeys, pregnancy, postpartum, and the many transitions of parenthood. I know this season can feel both beautiful and overwhelming, and my role is to offer a safe, nonjudgmental space where you don't have to carry it alone. I approach therapy with warmth, compassion, and a genuine respect for the unique challenges each individual faces. I aim to hold the space for you that might feel difficult to find on your own.

Hello! I'm Dr. Arthur Chen, a licensed psychologist in and the Clinical Director of a group practice dedicated to fostering mental wellness. My expertise centers on helping individuals navigate prevalent challenges such as Major Depressive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, eating disorders, and substance abuse recovery. (www.DrChenPsyD.com) (https://CrossBridgeClinicalAsso.com) Beyond these core specializations, our practice is uniquely equipped to address severe mental health issues, including bipolar disorder and psychosis. As Clinical Director, I oversee a team committed to providing comprehensive care across the full spectrum of mental health needs. I'm also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional – Level 2 (CCTP-II), meaning I'm highly trained in addressing the lasting effects of trauma. My therapeutic approach integrates powerful, evidence-based models like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT). I also utilize the cutting-edge Unified Protocol for Transdiagnostic Treatment of Emotional Disorders, allowing me to tailor effective strategies that lead to tangible, positive changes in your life. In therapy, my goal is to help you build resilience and develop strong coping skills. We'll work collaboratively to understand your struggles, challenge unhelpful thought patterns, and cultivate a stronger, more adaptable you. Whether you're seeking relief from anxiety or depression, working through recovery, or exploring personal growth, I offer a supportive and non-judgmental space. I believe investing in therapy is investing in your emotional well-being and happiness. As an engaged therapist, I provide practical tools and insights you can apply to everyday life, guiding you towards lasting fulfillment. Fluent in both English and Mandarin, I'm passionate about empowering individuals to achieve greater emotional balance and a more satisfying life. Ready to take the next step?

Hi! I’m a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker based in the DMV area ( Washington, DC, Maryland, VA) and Florida with over 11 years of experience helping kids, teens, young adults, and families. I provide telehealth only in the DMV and (both telehealth and in person) services in Florida. I love working with people who are figuring out school, friendships, family, big emotions, and all the tricky parts of growing up. I’m here to listen to what you’re going through and support you as you build confidence, learn coping skills, and take small steps toward feeling better. Together, we’ll figure out what works for YOU — in a calm, caring, and judgment-free space.

Hello, I’m Kumi Pledger, LCPC, and I am currently accepting new clients. I am also available on Sundays to better accommodate busy schedules. I provide therapy for children, adolescents, adults, couples, families, and LGBTQ+ clients. I support individuals facing a wide range of concerns, including healing from traumatic experiences, navigating relationship challenges such as narcissistic abuse, managing anxiety, low motivation, and stress, supporting new and expectant mothers, addressing eating disorders, adjusting to new environments or careers, coping with grief and loss, and improving sleep and insomnia. My work is grounded in creating a safe, compassionate, and supportive space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered. I combine professional training with personal insight to help clients reduce anxiety, eliminate unwanted behaviors, restore emotional balance, and reconnect with joy, purpose, and confidence in their lives. I work best with clients who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or pulled in many directions, particularly during life transitions or periods of identity change. Many of my clients appear strong and capable on the outside but feel exhausted, disconnected, or uncertain internally. I understand the complexities of cultural expectations, family dynamics, and the pressure to manage multiple responsibilities. My ideal client is ready to gain clarity, strengthen boundaries, and live more authentically. Clinically, I integrate evidence-based approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based techniques, and culturally responsive therapy. These approaches help clients increase self-awareness, identify patterns contributing to distress, and develop practical coping strategies that support long-term growth and healing. If you often feel overwhelmed, emotionally drained, or unsure of your next steps, you are not alone. Life transitions, parenting responsibilities, cultural pressures, and personal identity challenges can create stress and uncertainty. With the right support, meaningful change is possible, and I am here to help guide you on that journey.

I am here for you. My name is Dr. Jay Rhodes, and I am a board-certified, Licensed Clinical Marriage (LPC) and Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist (LCMFT) in Maryland, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in Oklahoma and Texas., and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Florida. I have a passion for helping individuals find healing, growth, and transformation in their lives. I have extensive education, experience, and expertise in various fields of counseling, ministry, and human relations. I have worked with clients from diverse backgrounds and cultures in various settings such as military bases, combat zones, hospitals, schools, embassies, consulates, to nonprofit homeless ministries. I have helped individuals, couples, families, children, adolescents, and groups deal with a wide range of issues such as anxiety, depression, traumatic stress, and relationships. I have helped others, I can help you.

I am Angela Bates, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, National Certified Counselor, dedicated to guiding individuals on their journey to emotional well-being. My counseling style is empathetic, mindful, and client-centered. I believe in treating everyone with respect and dignity but equally important, she prides herself on demonstrating compassion, genuineness, and empathy. My treatment approach is set on the foundation of building a therapeutic relationship by establishing trust and rapport from the onset of sessions.

I believe therapy works best when it feels human, safe, and real. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who enjoys walking alongside people as they sort through life’s challenges and begin to understand themselves more clearly. Many of the individuals I work with feel anxious, stuck, disconnected, or unsure of their direction. My role is to help you slow down, gain insight, and move forward with greater clarity and confidence. My work is grounded in Internal Family Systems (IFS), Gestalt therapy, and Bowen’s concept of differentiation. In simple terms, that means we explore your thoughts, emotions, and patterns with curiosity rather than judgment. We look at the different “parts” of you that may be in conflict and help you develop the ability to stay true to yourself while staying connected to others. Over time, this often leads to healthier boundaries, stronger relationships, and a deeper sense of balance. I value honest conversation and believe meaningful growth comes from awareness paired with action. Therapy with me is collaborative and compassionate, but also practical. I want you to leave sessions with insight you can actually apply in your daily life. On a personal note, I’m married and a proud father of four adult children. I enjoy traveling, spending time on the golf course, and continuing to grow both personally and professionally. I believe growth doesn’t stop at any stage of life, and I try to live that belief myself. If you’re ready to understand yourself more fully and create lasting change, I’d be honored to support you in that process.

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.

I’m a licensed clinical social worker who believes therapy works best when it feels safe, honest, and collaborative. I bring experience from community mental health, forensic settings, and private practice, and I show up as a real person—not a blank slate. I work to create a space where clients feel understood, challenged when needed, and supported as they work toward meaningful, lasting change.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 yrs. experience in partnering with my clients to assist in maximizing their wellness. I have worked extensively with trauma, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, pain management, substance abuse, life skills, and general personal well-being. I am a resident of Maryland and have worked extensively with the Veteran population and in the community in the Baltimore Metropolitan area. I am a competent social worker, who is knowledgeable in community-based resources and services within the Maryland area. My clinical style is one of true partnership and collaboration with my patients/clients. I recognize the strengths, preferences, and potential of all my clients I have done extensive case management, individual therapy, and couple and family counseling. I have worked in inpatient mental health settings and mental health outreach within the community. I have worked in government agencies such as child welfare, corrections, and substance in/outpatient treatment. I have also worked with LBGTQ clients.

Hello. I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) based in Florida and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Maryland. I am the owner of Breaking BHAD Counseling, LLC, a U.S. Army veteran, and a graduate of Webster University with a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I specialize in working with high-functioning adults who are ready to take responsibility for their growth. Many of my clients are professionals, leaders, veterans, and driven individuals who seem successful on the outside but feel internally misaligned, overwhelmed, or stagnant. My work is structured, direct, and focused on moving forward. I don’t offer endless processing — I help clients gain clarity, confront patterns, and move intentionally toward the life they want.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Certified Social Work Clinician (LCSW-C) based in Maryland. I received my Masters from the University of Maryland and have been practicing for 16 years. I help adolescents, adults, families and couples managing emotional discourse and distress impacting their ability to function at their highest healthiest potential. I am also certified as a certified clinical trauma practitioner with expertise in various treatment modalities such as CPT, CBT, EMDR, and ACT therapies.