Therapists in Maryland

I am an experienced therapist with years of expertise in helping individuals deal with addiction, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). I also assist clients with career development and re-entry challenges. My background in Correctional and Mental Health Services, along with my Ph.D. and credentials (Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, Master Addiction Counselor, and National Certified Counselor), enables me to provide reliable, knowledgeable support to individuals who are ready to work toward a brighter future.

My name is Tamika Earle, LCSW, and I work with adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and relationship challenges. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and focused on helping you gain insight, develop healthy coping skills, and create lasting positive change. I combine evidence-based methods such as CBT, mindfulness, and solution-focused therapy to support you in achieving emotional balance and personal growth.

When everything feels like it’s piling up, having a space that feels steady and supportive can be a relief. I show up with warmth, calm energy, and genuine curiosity. Clients often describe me as someone who listens closely, helps them feel understood, and brings clarity without judgment. I’m practical and down-to-earth, but gentle in how I guide the work. I value honesty, balance, and helping people reconnect with who they are beneath the stress. My goal is to create a space where you feel supported, seen, and able to move at a pace that feels right for you.

I’m a therapist with a social work background, and I work with young and middle-aged adults who are dealing with all kinds of stress in their lives. Over the past decade, I’ve worked with many LGBTQ+ and BIPOC individuals as they navigate the emotional ups and downs that can come with living in a changing social and political climate. Sometimes that stress shows up as anxiety, low mood, or intrusive thoughts that come and go. Other times, it can feel heavier or harder to manage on your own. I aim to create a space that feels warm, genuine, and welcoming—one where you can show up as you are and talk openly about what’s going on. Our work together is centered on what you need and what healing looks like for you. I’m thoughtful, curious, and supportive, and I also know when to be direct. My goal is to help you build tools to cope, make sense of your experiences, and move forward in a way that feels grounded and sustainable.

My name is Renea Slaughter, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and owner of Renew Your Mind LLC. I believe in meeting you where you are, walking with you along your path, and helping you learn to navigate experiences to live a life you desire. I care, create time and space for you, and help you explore those scary, sad, uncomfortable things so you’re not alone in your process. Healing is hard. You can try it alone or with me.

I hold a doctorate (Ph.D.) in Psychology and a Master's in clinical social work. I am licensed as a clinical social worker in Florida, Maryland, Nevada, Virginia and South Carolina with 37 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & family conflicts. I have authored two books (Bad Therapy Good Therapy: And How to Tell the Difference; and Grow Up, America!); five booklets; and thousands of articles, as well as a self-help column, "Life's a Beach," published in Gannett newspapers since 2005. My primary goal is to help you help yourself. I will guide and coach you, not tell you what to do. We'll reason and think our way to what makes sense together.

I have a passion for helping individuals and couples navigate their mental health journeys. I offer virtual therapy sessions, making it convenient for you to receive support from the comfort of your own space. Fluent in both English and Swahili. My journey to becoming a provider has been both personal and deeply meaningful. I have always been drawn to the idea of walking alongside others in their process of healing, growth, and transformation. For me, therapy is not just a profession—it's a calling. The ability to witness another person's story unfold, to hold space for their pain.

I am a compassionate mental health provider dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity, resilience, and confidence. I believe that healing begins in a safe, supportive space where you feel heard, respected, and understood. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, relationship concerns, stress, and challenges related to motivation and personal growth. Many of my clients come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, stuck, uncertain, or emotionally exhausted. Others are seeking deeper self-understanding or meaningful change. No matter where you are in your journey, I meet you with empathy, curiosity, and without judgment. My approach is collaborative and strengths-based. I integrate evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), grief therapy, and Motivational Interviewing to help clients better understand their thoughts and emotions, develop healthier coping strategies, and build confidence in their ability to move forward. The impact of our work together often includes: Increased emotional awareness and regulation Reduced anxiety, depression, or distress Healthier thinking patterns Greater self-compassion and confidence Improved decision-making and motivation The ability to process loss in a meaningful way A renewed sense of purpose and direction My goal is not simply symptom relief, but lasting growth. I strive to empower clients with practical tools and insight so they feel more in control of their lives, more connected to their values, and more capable of handling future challenges independently. Therapy is a courageous step. I am honored to walk alongside my clients as they heal, grow, and create meaningful change in their lives.

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.

I am Dr. Steven F. Murphy, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and heal from difficult experiences. In my practice, I primarily use Integrative Developmental Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to support meaningful and lasting change. Together, we will explore what has brought you to therapy and identify the most effective path forward. My approach focuses on helping you recognize and reshape unhelpful thought patterns, behaviors, and long-standing life dynamics that may be limiting your growth. As you develop healthier perspectives and coping strategies, you will strengthen your emotional and social foundation. This process empowers you to build resilience, gain clarity, and move beyond obstacles with greater confidence and purpose. My goal is to provide a supportive environment where you feel understood, equipped, and capable of creating the positive changes you deserve.

I am a clinical mental health counselor licensed in Maryland and Florida. The connection I make with clients is the most important aspect of my practice. I offer a kind, open, nonjudgmental environment that is welcoming to everyone. My style is calm, but upbeat; gentle, but firm; and always authentic. I am here to help you make sense of what you are going through and identify a path through it. I believe that you are the expert of your life. It is my job to walk with you as you find your own way.

I’m a licensed therapist who believes healing is possible when mind, body, and spirit are supported; not just symptoms managed. I help individuals navigating anxiety, stress, trauma, grief, relationship concerns, and major life transitions. My approach blends evidence-based therapy (CBT, DBT, trauma-informed and attachment-focused care) with practical tools that help you shift patterns, strengthen boundaries, and improve emotional regulation. Therapy with me is both supportive and forward-moving: you’ll feel seen, challenged in a healthy way, and equipped with strategies you can use in real time. Faith integration is available for clients who want it.

Welcome to my profile! Thank you for being here. I am Crystal, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am excited that you are ready to embark on a journey self care focused on improving overall health and wellness. I would love to collaborate with you on this incredible and transformative journey! Therapy is about curating a safe space where you can be your authentic self, while crafting intentional goals that assist you in becoming the very best version of yourself. I bring a wealth of professional experience that is both culturally aware, and non judgmental.

Hello! I'm Taylor Douthitt, a licensed therapist in Maryland. I have been a therapist for over 9 years in the outpatient and inpatient setting. I have worked with individuals of all backgrounds, family orientations, age groups, and needs. I work with individual clients, family, and couples. My goal as a therapist is to be present and assist the client in working through current and past stressors, challenge unhealthy thought patterns, develop coping strategies, and emphasize the need of daily self-care. We can only be our best self when giving back to ourselves consistently!

Hi, I’m glad you’re here. I work with individuals who may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck and are looking for support and clarity. My approach is warm, collaborative, and practical—I’ll help you better understand your thoughts and emotions while also giving you tools you can actually use in your day-to-day life. I strive to create a space where you feel comfortable being yourself, without judgment, while we work together toward meaningful change.

As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) specializing in Medical Family Therapy and Trauma-informed practices, I offer a supportive, culturally responsive, and nonjudgmental virtual space for individuals, couples, and families. My approach is grounded in Intergenerational Family Systems Theory, exploring how family dynamics and systemic factors shape your well-being and relationships. I also integrate evidence-based models, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), to support meaningful and practical change. In our first session, we’ll collaborate to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique concerns, whether you're navigating the challenges of a blended family, coping with trauma or grief, or working through the early years of marriage. With experience across outpatient, partial hospitalization, residential treatment, and community-based settings, I’m committed to trauma-informed care that honors cultural identity, systemic influences, and life transitions. I also warmly welcome military members, veterans, and their families who are seeking psychotherapy support. My goal is to help you identify patterns, build on strengths, and develop tools for healthier relationships and emotional resilience. Please note that clients experiencing active suicidal or homicidal thoughts, self-harm, substance abuse or addiction, domestic violence, eating disorders or disordered eating, or those involved in any legal issues, including custody disputes, will be referred to a higher level of care or in-person therapy for appropriate, specialized support. Together, we’ll work toward your goals in a way that feels collaborative, safe, and attuned to your lived experience.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, proudly continuing a family legacy of service and commitment to helping others. With over a decade of experience, I have worked in a variety of clinical settings, including hospitals, home health, outpatient centers, and most recently within a K–12 school system. Throughout my career, I have considered it a true privilege to support individuals during some of their most vulnerable and transformative moments. I specialize in individual therapy and am now opening my practice to teens. My recent experience as a School Social Worker allowed me to provide direct therapeutic services to students across all grade levels, supporting them through anxiety, depression, academic stress, peer and family challenges, and crisis situations. This chapter feels especially meaningful, as I originally pursued my education with the goal of becoming a School Social Worker. In many ways, this transition represents a full-circle moment in my professional journey. I bring the insight, developmental understanding, and collaborative approach from the school setting into my practice, offering teens and their families compassionate, structured, and informed support.

I use the newest advances in neuroscience to heal emotional pain, anxiety, trauma, depression and PTSD. These issues cannot be solved with TALK THERAPY as recent research has found that the emotional pain of past events is stuck and resides within your body and nervous system. Adrenaline is flowing through your system which is keeping you anxious. Research shows that we have to remove the trauma from your body-mind, reduce the adrenaline/cortisol, and only then activate your conscious medial cortex to "reframe and rethink" the issues. First we heal the body, then we will heal the mind. I work with people of all faiths. I believe in a spirituality that transcends religion. With my guidance, you can transform negative energy into positive growth. You are unique, and your struggles have never been experienced by anyone else in the world. That's why I am committed to helping you on your journey towards finding meaning, purpose, and self-actualization. I will guide you towards a happier, more fulfilling life. If you are ready to take the first step towards a better tomorrow, please reach out to me to schedule an appointment. I have developed a transformative program called Consciousness that helps individuals overcome feelings of sadness, anger, and loss. My approach acknowledges that crises can be opportunities to tap into hidden strengths and abilities, rather than mere setbacks that can break us. I will help you embrace a more positive, hopeful and energetic approach to life. You can learn more about Consciousness in my book Stay Woke and Ignite Your Soul. The challenge you are currently facing is your special project or mission. You can do this. I will help guide you on your continuing journey toward self-discovery. Take the first step toward growth and a better life.

I am licensed with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, LGBT-related issues, relationship issues, & family conflicts. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

I have been a practicing Clinician for the past 20+ years. I have worked with a broad range of individuals from ages 8 yrs. old through adulthood and into old age. My two plus decades in the field have been dedicated to assessing, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of mental and emotional challenges, building a strong foundation of competence and professional reputation. I have cultivated a deeper understanding of human behavior and resilience which enhances my ability to help clients navigate their own complexities.

Welcome! My name is Marian Robinson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Virginia, Maryland, and the District of Columbia with over 20 years of professional mental health experience. I have experience in helping clients with low motivation, relationship issues (individual), self-esteem and confidence, career difficulties, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, grief, and end of life issues. I take an eclectic, person-centered approach, CBT and psychodynamic approach where you are in the driver seat in your own recovery. I am here to support you in that process and will meet you where you’re at, without judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage and I would be proud to help you get started.

I am licensed in Maryland with 10 years+ of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, career difficulties, coping with life changes, & executive coaching. I have particular expertise working with First Responders. Starting therapy can feel like a big step, and you're not alone in taking it. If you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply in need of support, I invite you to reach out. I'm here to listen, understand, and walk alongside you as you move toward healing and growth.

Hello, my name is Brendette, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 12 years of experience supporting individuals on their path to healing and growth. My work is grounded in empathy, compassion, and inclusiveness, and I believe every person deserves to be seen, heard, and valued. My approach is both goal-oriented and person-centered. I often work with clients navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions, and I use evidence-based techniques to help them find healthier ways to cope and move forward. Together, we focus on building on your strengths while developing tools that will support long-term change.

Hello there! My name is Britany and I am a licensed therapist here in the Grow community. I look forward to walking with you on your therapeutic journey and helping you meet your needs. I look forward to working with you. My current treatment modalities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Solution Focused Based Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. If you are looking for problem-solving in a judgment-free setting, and to work on solving any other issues, then I would love to work with you. I especially have a passion for working with those who experience anxiety, depression, relationship issues and just being overwhelmed with life. There is no time greater than now to begin your therapeutic journey! *ONCE YOU DO NOT SHOW UP FOR YOUR INITIAL SESSION-you are no longer eligible for treatment with me and a referral will be sent out for additional providers IF I feel that it is needed. You will NOT be eligible for re-admission with me as a provider! Thank you! AS OF RIGHT NOW I DO NOT CHARGE A NO SHOW FEE, however if you no show with out any explanation, you will be discharged and referred to another provider.

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.

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.

Hello! I am so glad you came across my profile; and that you are considering taking this very important step towards changing your life. I am a licensed clinical social worker, based in the Raleigh Durham area of North Carolina. I am licensed in North Carolina, Connecticut, Florida, and Texas. I received my undergraduate degree from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington and my graduate degree from the University of Georgia. I have spent the majority of my career in healthcare settings and working with adults who are experiencing challenges with mental health. I help clients with long-term health conditions find effective coping skills as well as meaning and acceptance in their diagnosis. I have also worked with children who have a loved one facing a life-altering medical diagnosis. My experience is not limited to working with individuals who are facing a medical diagnosis, as I also have worked extensively with clients facing depression, anxiety, interpersonal challenges, self-esteem issues, and end-of-life challenges. I view therapy as a collaboration, as you are the expert of your own life; we will work jointly to create a treatment that is both realistic and meaningful so that you can live a full and value-driven life! I have a certificate to provide tobacco cessation counseling for individuals looking to live a smoke-free lifestyle.

Summer Post is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with over 7years of experience working with individuals who are coping with severe persistent mental illness, depression, anxiety, trauma, family conflict, substance use, and many other presenting issues that individuals may be struggling with. Summer Post utilizes a wide range of tools to address clients' presenting issues. Summer is looking forward to meeting with you.

Dr. Simone Blanchard is the Executive Director and Lead Therapist of Inner Light Consulting and Therapeutic Services in the metro Washington DC area. She is a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and holds her LCPC (Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor) in Maryland and Washington, DC. She is also a Trauma Specialist whose training includes working with children impacted by childhood sexual abuse. Dr. Blanchard is a sought-after speaker by both lay and professional audiences. To the general community, she speaks about parenting skills, relationship healing and building, childhood development, and natural healing modalities. To professional audiences, her presentations include mental health diagnoses, interventions, treatment, and prognoses; relationship healing and building; suicide prevention; mind-body connection; and global trauma. Dr. Blanchard earned her graduate degree with high honors in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Marymount University. She was inducted into the Psi Chi International Honors Society in Psychology and the Delta Epsilon Sigma National Honor Society. She is an International Psychology with a special concentration in global trauma. She has studied with master practitioners in spirituality, human development, and restitution.

I’m a therapist within the field of Mental Health with over 12 years of experience. I have experience in helping clients with anxiety, stress management, adhd, depression/mood disorders, and simply navigating through life. My preferred therapy approach is providing a safe and warm-welcoming environment. It is important for clients to be challenged as many of us are resistant to change. I utilize an eclectic approach with clients based on their needs.

Hello, My core belief is that all people are created equal; therefore, everyone has equal right to leave to their fullest potential. I earned my master’s in social work from University of Maryland, School of Social Work, Baltimore, MD in 2010. I have Licensed Certified Social Worker - Clinical (LCSW-C) in MD, Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in DC and Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW) in VA. For more than 10 years, I have utilized Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), humanistic, person-center, strength-focused therapy and other psychotherapy Intervention to assess, plan, implement and evaluate individual or family in diverse therapy environment. I am commented to assist people to live life to their fullest potential because we all have one life to live, and we deserve to be in peace with ourselves. I have worked with people in LGBTQ+ community both in individual and couple session. I am WPATH qualify to write gender affirming surgery letter.

Hello, I'm Shashana Carter. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and board-approved supervisor, with over 15 years of professional, life and clinical experience. I work with individuals 18-70 to resolve conflict and improve functioning in the lives of my clients. My specialty areas include depression, trauma, grief, life direction, excessive eating, stress, anxiety and relationship issues. Using an evidence-based person-centered approach, and solution-focused perspective will empower clients to overcome obstacles achieve realistic goals and provide solutions to problematic issues getting in the way of living a healthier lifestyle and having a more positive mindset.

My name is LaTonya Thomas and I am a license clinical social worker. I have been in the mental health field for over 14 years and has worked with clients with anxiety, depression, grief, life transition and many more diagnosis. My goal is to help the clients become aware of what may be going on with them and ways to handle it.

Evan is a highly skilled psychotherapist who provides the healing space for Individuals and Couples to elevate their relationships. He's an expert at assessing the patterns of relationships and helping his clients experience the communication they deserve. He also specializes in treating Sex & Porn addiction, navigating infidelity & betrayal, and addressing sexual concerns. Evan is a both a psychotherapist as well as a masters level educator who is trained and experienced as a personal therapist, couple and family therapist, as well as group therapist. In addition to helping couples and individuals, Evan is a university guest lecturer who educates future therapists on addiction treatment. He also trains practicing therapists on the art of group therapy and teaches clinicians how they can be more comfortable and competent when addressing sexual concerns, porn, sex, and love addiction.

I’m Dr. Tyra Thompson, a licensed (LCPC) therapist who specializes in helping couples heal, reconnect, and communicate in ways that feel safe and meaningful. Whether you’re rebuilding after betrayal, stuck in recurring arguments, or simply feeling distant from one another, I offer a supportive space to deepen understanding and strengthen your relationship. I also work with individuals facing anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges. Using approaches like the Gottman Method, CBT, and EFT, my style is warm, down-to-earth, and focused on helping you grow with confidence and clarity. I also support individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, and relational stress.

My name is Circe Dunwoody. I am a license psychotherapist. In my psychotherapy practice I help couples and individuals to overcome life difficulties by using cognitive behavior therapy. Many couples and individuals feel overwhelmed by the desire to balance the high demands from work and family life. They report feelings of emptiness and loss of drive. Some report feeling of depression, anxiety and low self-esteem. Others contemplate divorce as a solution to decrease the pressure they are internalizing. You can contact me for help if you are experiencing some of the feelings I have mentioned above, and you are ready to make changes in your life. l work with couples and individuals in a safe and confidential platform environment. In life we all need support and understanding from others. Sometimes the best solution is to seek professional help. Having emotional support is extremely helpful. Relying on friends or family members is also helpful. However, you may not want to overwhelm them with problems. The most intelligent solution is seeking professional help.

Welcome! With over 20 years of experience and a Doctorate in Counseling Psychology granted at the Interamerican University of Puerto Rico, I am best positioned to serve individuals and families navigating challenges such as family conflicts, trauma, PTSD, and anxiety. My therapeutic expertise extends across various cultural contexts, having practiced in Puerto Rico and Massachusetts, and currently holding active licenses in Maryland and Virginia.

In my 5+ years of clinical experience, I have formed deep therapeutic connection with my clients. I have primarily worked with adult women & men (18+) & couples. With diagnoses ranging from anxiety, depression, panic disorder, bipolar 1&2, personality disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders, eating disorders, adjustment disorders, PTSD .I have a very wide range of experience and feel confident in my abilities to create a safe space for you to work on feeling your best self. I utilize a person-centered approach. I find it important to get to know someone and what they are going through personally before identifying best therapeutic practices. I work primarily with Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. The overwhelming majority of people have a hard time prioritizing themselves and their mental health. I encourage you to prioritize yourself and start your journey to wellness with me. This is the first step. You deserve it. Let's make strides forward, together!

You Deserve to Feel Better. I'm Here to Help. Experienced, compassionate therapy for life’s most difficult moments. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, relationship and family struggles, trauma, or simply feeling stuck, I am here to support you with care and expertise. I create a space where you can feel safe, heard, and empowered to grow. Offering virtual therapy, I meet you where you are emotionally. Services: Individual Therapy, Couples Counseling, Teen & Family Therapy, Trauma-Informed and Culturally Sensitive Care This is your invitation to breathe. To begin again. You’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself. You’ve been strong for so long. But strength doesn’t mean going it alone. If you're feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, or disconnected, therapy can offer a space to slow down and feel supported, without pressure or judgment.