Therapists in Maryland

I am a compassionate and dedicated trauma-focused therapist specializing in helping individuals heal from the emotional and psychological effects of trauma, or helping couples work through their trauma together to strengthen their relationships. Helping navigating life's challenges, including depression, anxiety, and the stressors that can often feel overwhelming. I strive to provide a safe and nonjudgmental space for clients to process and recover from difficult experiences.

Hello! I am Ana Milena Are you struggling with keeping up with your relationship(s), work, and health? Do you miss the spontaneity and excitement that existed earlier in your personal relationship? Is it hard for you to accept compliments or be kind towards yourself? I enjoy learning about each person I encounter and through various types of therapy and conversation finding the root of their struggles. Together we will figure out what hasn't worked, find balance and inner peace in an environment that feels safe and allows you to grow.

Hello, my name is Shondelle Johnson-Pugh. I am licensed as an LCSWC in the state of Maryland. Although I have worked with individuals and families for over 22 years. Most recently, I have been blessed with the opportunity to provide therapeutic services for the last five years. My background consists of providing services to those seeking support in the areas of maternal mental health, depression, relationship issues, improvement in self-esteem, and defining coping skills. Services are provided via telehealth services only during selective evening hours. During scheduled sessions, clients can expect honest and supportive feedback on areas addressed in sessions. If you are looking for someone to bring energy and a sense of humor during sessions when needed, look no further. Together, we can find healthy solutions to the concerns that keep you up at night or keep you in a cycle of questioning what you should do next in your life. It is my hope that I can help plant a seed of hope in each person's life that comes to treatment, and eventually, that seed will grow into a strong fruit!

I believe therapy should feel like a safe and supportive space where you can be yourself without judgement. As a therapist, I bring warmth, compassion, and careful listening to every session, helping you feel truly heard and understood. My style is both thoughtful and practical-I draw on years of experience and a variety of therapeutic approaches to meet you where you are and guide you toward where you'd like to be. I was raised in Florida then Maryland and have always felt a deep connection to people and nature. Just as time outdoors can bring calm and perspective, I strive to create that same sense of grounding and clarity in our work together. Outside of my practice, family life continues to shape my appreciation for relationships, growth and the challenges that come with change. Clients often describe me as a good listener who helps them discover new ways to cope, grow and move forward with confidence. My goal is simple-to help you feel supported, understood and empowered to create the changes you seek.

I'm Annetta Dunklin, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with more than 20 years of experience supporting young adults, adults, children, and adolescents, couples, and families through life's challenges. I believe therapy should be a place where you feel safe, heard, and understood without judgment. I work with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship concerns, life transitions, and emotional stress. My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to each person's unique needs. Together, we will build on your strengths, explore obstacles that may be holding you back, and develop practical tools to help you create meaningful and lasting change. Whether you are seeking healing from past experiences, support through a difficult season, or personal growth, I am committed to helping you move forward with greater confidence, resilience, and hope.

I have been a Social Worker since 2014, I have worked in a spectrum of places from inpatient hospitals to schools. I have a comprehensive view to mental health and how to improve lives. In a prior career I worked in health care and have a broad knowledge of illness and how it can impact functional and mood. I can help client mentally maneuver their health conditions.

My name is Leslie Dalencour, I have been a therapist for over 20 years. With over two decades in mental health and nearly a decade in private practice, I bring a holistic, integrative approach to well-being through sound healing and holistic and somatic therapies. As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and a long-standing practitioner in the field, I specialize in blending traditional psychotherapy with body-centered modalities to support lasting resilience and inner balance.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has worked in the mental health field for over 15 years providing an array of mental health services to clients. I currently provide therapeutic services for adults, couples, and families. I am also trained as a forensic interviewer and work with victims of Sexual Abuse. I also work with clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, and personal crises. I have been trained in various psychotherapy models such as Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive-Behavioral, and Trauma therapies. I make every effort to understand my clients' needs and to help them work through challenging situations. I strongly believe in the value of therapy and the impact it has on helping heal past traumas and anxieties. I am here to support and guide you through the healing process so that you can live the life you choose to live. Joy-Ann also utilizes faith-based methods for clients who prefer therapy from a Christian perspective

Hello! I am a licensed clinical social worker based in Maryland. I received my master's degree from the University of Maryland School of Social Work and have been practicing for 14 years clinically and working in the human services field for 27 years. I have experience working in law enforcement and have an undergraduate degree in criminal justice. I have an Employee Assistance Program certification which focuses on the work/life balance and solution-focused therapy which assists in finding solutions to problems to improve clients' daily quality of life.

I have been a licensed clinician for almost 10 years. I have worked with many types of patients who have struggled with varying degrees of anxiety, depression, relationship stressors, struggles with infertility and pregnancy losses, mood disorders and instability, and history of trauma, among other mental health conditions. I specialize in utilizing Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Dialectal Behavior Therapy as well as being certified in Trauma therapy to help my patients overcome their challenges in life.

Amr El-beshir, LCPC, is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Maryland who has been practicing since 2001. He has obtained M.A. in counseling psychology from Towson University. Amr understands and believes that life's journey can be messy and filled with detours, unexpected turns and stops along the way, and that the therapeutic process is a collaborative relationship which leads the clients to deep insight and self-awareness, to find a clearer perception of themselves in a safe space to increase personal strength while working to reduce maladaptive behaviors in pursuit of a more meaningful life experience. Outside of the therapy room, he recharges through movies, poetry, working out, biking, horseback riding, reading, traveling abroad, meditating, playing video games, and socializing with friends.

“Sick and Tired of being sick and Tired?” Let’s talk it out. I am a practical, interactive, cognitive behavioral and solution focused therapist and Certified Coach. My treatment approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients resolve current problems and long-standing patterns. I incorporate a blend of conventional and alternatives approaches. With sensitivity and compassion, I work with each client to help them build on their strengths to identify and achieve life goals. I look forward to talking to you. I have specialties in the following issues: Mood Disorders: Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Life Changes/Life Coaching, PTSD-Trauma, “The Worried Well”, Veterans and Gerontology. Employee Assistance and routine outpatient mental health services. I have 27 years of experience as a licensed clinical social worker/clinician and coach. I am also a cancer survivor, former athlete and emotional support human to a 12 year old Chihuahua named Uncle Nicky.

Hello, I’m a licensed therapist with over a decade of experience supporting individuals, couples, and families. I work with adults and teens navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and acute crisis. A significant focus of my practice is relationship and family dynamics. Whether you are partners working through communication breakdowns, recurring conflict, and intimacy issues, or a family balancing generational differences and evolving expectations, I provide a grounded space to untangle these patterns. I am an Asian Indian male therapist and regularly work with clients from a wide range of diverse backgrounds. My approach is collaborative and tailored to what you need. You set the goals, agenda, and pace of our work together, ensuring therapy feels safe, relevant, and aligned with your life.

In today's fast-paced world, our emotions can become a tangled mess, causing us to feel overwhelmed, anxious and helpless. As a mental health therapist, my goal is to help you untangle these knots of emotions that are holding you back and keeping you from living your life to the fullest. I work with you to identify the underlying causes of your distress, helping you develop effective coping strategies and empowering you to reclaim your mental health and happiness. With my guidance and support, together, we can help you to overcome your challenges, heal your emotional wounds, and create a brighter future for yourself.

I work with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, relationship issues, etc. Learning distress tolerance skills is a way to improve the quality of life and allows for a person to be empowered. I specialize in CBT, DBT, PCT, and various other therapeutic modalities. It is my goal to create a safe place for my clients to express their thoughts and feelings, while assisting in pushing forward. FMLA/Disability Forms: Completion of FMLA, disability, and other administrative paperwork is available for established clients for an additional fee. Requests are evaluated on a case-by-case basis and must be supported by clinical documentation. Completion of paperwork does not guarantee approval of leave, benefits, or accommodations, as all decisions are made by the requesting organization.

Hello to everyone, I'm Kim! Whether you're dealing with being overwhelmed, have relationship issues or cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to help. Seeking therapy can feel scary but you're making the right choice. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the hang ups and habits holding you back. Let's work together!

Thanks for taking the time to visit my listing. If you've come this far, you're on the brink of an important decision--and what a difference the right choice can make. As a Social Worker, I've made a difference in people's lives for nearly 15 years -- helping children, adolescents, adults, and families to overcome life/situational problems and gain emotional freedom. Everyone wants quick relief; therapy is a process, which requires some hard work from the individuals who are participating in therapy. My goal is to foster an interactive therapeutic experience, providing support and practical feedback to effectively address personal life challenges. I offer a personalized approach tailored to your needs. With compassion and understanding, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns and negative perceptions that are holding you back while we build on your strengths to help you attain the personal growth you are committed to accomplishing. As such this will begin the process of healing, growth, and self-empowerment. Our sessions will have a single focus -- helping you to rise above your current obstacles . . . whether that means conquering emotional issues, overcoming blocking beliefs, or repairing important relationships in your life.

I am a down-to-earth, compassionate therapist who believes that real, lasting change happens when people feel truly heard, understood, and accepted. I create a space where you can feel comfortable being yourself—without judgment—and explore your thoughts and feelings at your own pace. Humor is a natural part of how I connect with others, and I’ve found that it often helps lighten the emotional load, making it easier to open up. It’s not just about laughter—it’s about creating safety and trust so we can dive into those difficult conversations that can often feel overwhelming. Whether you’re navigating a specific challenge or simply seeking personal growth, I’m here to help you develop the tools to manage life’s ups and downs with more clarity, confidence, and resilience. Together, we’ll build a path that feels right for you, using a combination of insight, support, and yes, even a little laughter when it’s needed most.

Hi, my name is Candace, but you can call me Candy, You have taken the first and often hardest step in bettering your life by seeking help! Beginning therapy can be scary and people often feel vulnerable when doing this. One of my attributes is to try and make this journey as comfortable as possible for you. I have worked in the mental health field for more than 28 years and have been licensed for 8 years. My vast experience has allowed me to gain knowledge in the many stressors that people may face during their life. . I have been honored by each person that I’ve worked with as they have allowed me a windows view of their life and the issues each of them had. My thought on counseling is that the person seeking therapy and the therapist are a team and work together as a team to identify goals, find solutions and overcome the issues at hand. I have a desire to use my empathetic and compassionate nature along with my experience to help people find and utilize services, coping skills and solutions that will assist them in gaining a better quality of life. I do this by providing a confidential safe and judgment free place for those seeking therapy to discuss their situations and needs. I use a strengths-based approach along with solution focused and cognitive behavioral therapy. I am good at thinking outside the box to help people in identifying and reaching their goals.

Hi, I’m Dr. Josh Gonsher, a licensed clinical psychologist with a warm, down-to-earth approach to healing. I specialize in helping people navigate anxiety, worry, and stress—not by fighting their symptoms, but by creating a new internal landscape where those struggles no longer take center stage. My approach is grounded in Contextual Therapy. I don’t just help clients “fix” thoughts or behaviors—I work with them to build a more meaningful life, one where old patterns and problems naturally begin to lose their grip. It’s about shifting the frame, not just adjusting the picture. I offer a space that’s collaborative, gently challenging, and deeply respectful of your unique path. You don’t need to “have it all figured out”—just a willingness to begin. Whether you’re dealing with social anxiety, overthinking, burnout, or a general sense of feeling stuck, my goal is to help you move toward a version of life that you choose, one that often feels more grounded, spacious, and aligned with whom you truly are.

Welcome to New Hope For This Season Counseling LLC! My name is June Faith Dickerson and I am the founder and owner of New Hope For This Season Counseling LLC. This counseling practice was created to provide hope, encouragement, and emotional wellness while meeting the needs of clients with a heart full of compassion and empathy. I began my career in the Maryland area in 2019 working with individuals and families in crisis. I always had a heart to help people and spent many years volunteering at schools and youth detention centers which birthed into my passion to begin my counseling educational journey. To receive the credentialing, I obtained my bachelors in Criminal Justice with a minor in Sociology and my master's in Clinical Mental Health.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-C), with many years of experiences, providing high-quality, personalized therapy for individuals seeking meaningful and lasting change. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, psychosis, substance use, relationship challenges, and personal growth. My approach is collaborative, insight-driven, and results-oriented—designed for clients who are ready to better understand themselves, break unhelpful patterns, and build a more grounded, fulfilling life.

Hi I am Asia, but not like the continent. Think Aseeyah! Welcome to The Fabulous Life Wellness Collective I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) based in Maryland. I received my Master's in Clinical Psychology from Loyola University Maryland, and my MBA from UMGC. I have been practicing for 6 years and have been in the mental health field for over 14 years. I am also a Goodwill Career Coach and Navigator. I help those in transition figure out how to live their best and fabulous lives. I would love the opportunity to do the same for you. As part of The Fabulous Life Wellness Collective, I also love hosting workshops and events. More can be found on TheFabulousLIfeWellness.com

Hi there, I'm Dawit. A Licensed psychotherapist with a master’s degree in clinical social work and Master Addiction Counselor with a total of 16 years of experience with adult population challenged with Substance dependence and any addiction. Every day-to-day life pulls us in many directions, and sometimes when we feel overwhelmed lose focus. You may have tried to deal with your problems, and your way may not be enough and you may not be able to deal with them on your own. Let's work together to develop a more effective plan so you can achieve your life goals. Are you struggling with your life directions due to addiction? Is it hard for you to be positively selfish and focus on your own problems as a priority? Whether you're dealing with any substance addiction or negative behavioral dependence, I'm here to help. Understanding that your way was not working and Seeking therapy is the first crucial step to make the change. You're making the right choice now. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the hangups and habits holding you back. Let's work together!

Have you been carrying the weight of anxiety, past trauma, relationship challenges, or overwhelming stress while trying to hold everything together? You don't have to navigate it alone. I believe therapy should be a place where you feel genuinely heard, respected, and supported. My goal is to create a safe, compassionate environment where you can show up as your authentic self without fear of judgment. I work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship concerns, stress, burnout, and life transitions. Together, we'll identify the patterns that may be keeping you stuck, build healthy coping skills, and develop practical tools that support lasting emotional wellness. My approach is collaborative, strengths-based, culturally responsive, and tailored to your unique experiences. I integrate evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person-Centered Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and EMDR when appropriate. Whether you're seeking support for a difficult season or ready to begin deeper healing, I'd be honored to walk alongside you.

Hi I am a licensed Clinical Social worker who has worked with clients ranging from 4-90 years of age. Currently I work with people between the ages of 17 and 90 who are able to use the remote platform effectively. I I have seen many people transform what they saw as impossible difficulties into manageable issues that they are able to overcome. Clients develop a more profound sense of what their life means to others and are able to confidently feel strong, unique and a deep sense of self love.

I have over 15 years of experience helping to improve the lives of my clients through compassionate, client-focused care. I specialize in anxiety, depression, PTSD, relationship issues, stress management, grief, and chronic illness, among other mental health and substance use issues. I utilize various evidence-based techniques, including, but not limited to, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), solution-focused therapy, and mindfulness-based approaches, to empower my clients on their journey.

HI I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker , I am licensed in New York , New Jersey, Pennslyvania and Delaware and I have been a Social Worker since 2001. I graduated from Hunter College School of Social Work and I have worked in the mental health for over 30 years.I provide psychotherapy with an eclectic, person-centered, and non-judgemental approach. I provide a safe, secure, and empathetic warm environment. The world can be scary, cold, and insensitive place to be and there is a lot of uncertainty going around, but together we can get through it. I have a certificate in Intergerated Trauma , newly trained in EMDR, and AEDP as well. i am also part of the BIPOC community. I also have experience working with LGBT community, relationships, intimacy issues, and attachment issues , career difficulties, coaching, and compassion fatigue. My clinical approach includes CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic, Trauma, abuse and family conflict. I use Zoom, Face time, Doxyme and Google Meet.

Hello. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) based in the state of Maryland. I received my Master's Degree from Lincoln University (PA) in 2004. I have been licensed as an LCPC since 2017. I provide Individual Therapy towards adults struggling with emotional and mental challenges in an effort to bring out the best person in a safe environment.

With over 20 years of clinical experience, I have dedicated my career to walking alongside individuals through their healing and growth journeys, beginning as a child and adolescent therapist before expanding my practice to work with adolescents and adults. My approach is grounded in evidence-based modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Trauma-Focused CBT, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and my training as a Certified Clinical Trauma Specialist, always adapted to honor each client's unique story and strengths. I believe deeply in advocacy; both as something I practice on behalf of my clients and as a critical skill I help them develop for themselves, because sustainable wellness requires individuals to have the tools, voice, and confidence to advocate for their own needs. Beyond the therapy room, I extend this commitment to advocacy through my consulting work, partnering with organizations to build psychologically safe, inclusive, and equity-driven environments where all people can thrive.

Over 20 years of experience guiding individuals and couples from struggle to strength. I trained at both Johns Hopkins psychiatry department and McGill university center for cognition and medicine. In recent years, I have specialized in working with clients struggling with mood disorders, chronic pain, depression, anxiety, cognitive disorders, eating disorders, weight management, and career-related challenges As a Cognitive Therapist, I believe that people have a choice: they can change their behavior, reframe their thought patterns, move forward, and regain hope. “If anxiety has been taking up more space in your life than you'd like, we can work together to understand what is driving it and build practical tools for responding differently. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is my foundation, and we'll look at the thoughts and habits that keep you stuck.” “Living with bipolar disorder or an eating disorder can feel isolating. I bring more than 20 years of experience to this work, and my goal is for you to feel safe being honest with me. I'm direct, and I'll always be upfront about what I see, with respect for where you are.” “In our first session, we'll talk through what brought you in and what you hope will change, and we'll begin shaping a plan together.”

I’m a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) with a focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). As a cognitive-behavioral therapist, I specialize in helping individuals understand the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Through evidence-based techniques, I work with clients to identify and challenge unhelpful thinking patterns, develop healthier coping strategies, and make meaningful changes in their lives. My goal is to create a supportive and collaborative environment where you can gain insight, build resilience, and achieve your personal goals. Whether you're seeking to manage stress, overcome addiction, anxiety or depression, or improve your overall well-being, I am here to support you on your journey toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.

Congratulations on making it this far. Whether you're going through a particularly difficult situation or you've always struggled, change is possible and life can actually be pretty awesome. I'd love to help you experience that. I help people figure out how to best address the mental health challenges they're facing and move towards a life of increased meaning, joy, and peace. I help clients identify and build upon the strengths they already have and find new ways of navigating challenges, whether through open discussion or practical exercises and skill-building. Life doesn't always have to feel so hard, and I'd love to help you discover that for yourself.

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.

Welcome! I am Kimberly. I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 14 years of experience providing therapy. Many of us desire a sense of peace, connection, and well-being within ourselves and in our life. Yet life circumstances and even parts of ourselves can prevent us from having these experiences in our day to day lives. Providing a safe and non-judgmental place to explore your struggles and emotional pain is essential to my practice. I feel grateful to be able to support those who desire to grow and heal. PLEASE NOTE: I work from 9am-2:30pm Mon-Thurs. I do not have late afternoon or evening sessions available.

Tyantha is a licensed clinical social worker who has over twenty-six years of experience in mental health and addiction settings. Utilizing a clinical approach based in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Tyantha assists clients to understand the connectivity between their thoughts, feelings, and actions. She provides a holistic approach to mental wellness while appreciating the impact unresolved trauma has on current functioning. Tyantha provides a non-judgmental, safe space for clients to develop skills and strategies to improve their quality of life. With an extremely high degree of client success, she specializes in treating adults who are coping with Complicated Grief and Loss, Major Depressive Disorder, Substance Use Disorders and Anxiety Disorders.

Chinelo Okpalobi is a Licensed Mental Health Therapist with over 11 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. Let's celebrate this first win of many; deciding to embark on your therapy journey. I'm here to be your teammate, but most importantly, your accountability partner. I take a client-centered, collaborative approach to therapy, tailoring each session to your unique needs and goals. There isn't a manual on how to start; once you feel ready, I'm here to guide you through conversation. I’m here to provide a safe and supportive environment where you can be yourself and learn more about yourself.

Hello. Thank you for stopping in. I have over twenty years of clinical practice working with adults. Much of my clinical experience has been working with our Military and Veterans. I appreciate working with individuals from diverse backgrounds. As my client I will engage you in broad conversation about how you are functioning and together we will develop strategies and skills to improve your day to day life. Although therapy is a place of 'work' therapy is also a place where you can expect to feel listen to and know your opinion matters. I frequently hear clients tell me they looked forward to their next session. So, in the tone of 'looking forward' I hope to meet you soon.

As a licensed clinical mental health counselor with 11+ years of experience, I have worked with a range of clients and mental health challenges. My expertise centers around helping people heal from past hurt, calm down anxious thoughts, and find their voice to create healthier relationships. My approach is collaborative, strength based, and holistic. I believe everyone has everything they need within them to live their best life. My role is to support and encourage you on your journey to uncover your inner strengths to live a life in peace and wholeness. Together we will explore multiple aspects of your life and set goals in each area. I will teach you new skills and support you as you become stronger and more resilient in overcoming your stressors.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is dedicated and committed to transforming lives by instilling hope in my clients and empowering them to maintain psychological well-being in the face of adversity. I am passionate about meeting the emotional and mental health needs of my clients. I have a genuine interest in making a meaningful impact on individual's lives, by supporting them through emotional challenges and personal growth. I enjoy being a positive force in someone’s life by providing guidance and support.

I am an independently licensed Individual and Family Therapist in the states of Massachusetts and Delaware. For over 7 years, I have had the privilege of supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds as they navigate challenges impacting their emotional well-being and daily functioning. My therapeutic approach is collaborative, strengths-based, and grounded in the belief that each person is the expert of their own lived experience. I view my role as a partner in your process of self-exploration—helping you identify patterns, gain insight, and work toward meaningful and lasting change. I provide a calm, empathetic, and nurturing environment where clients feel safe, heard, and understood. Together, we will explore the underlying emotions and behaviors that contribute to distress and develop practical strategies to promote resilience, emotional balance, and personal growth.

Hello! I am a holistic & eclectic therapist with specialized training in mindfulness, hypnotherapy, trauma, depression, anxiety, women's studies, yoga & deep nature connection. Authenticity, compassion & connection are the pillars of my practice. I consider myself down to earth, egalitarian, empowering and sensitive to issues of diversity and neurodivergence. I've done deep inner work on myself, as a trauma survivor - so I know what it's like to be the person receiving therapy. I have lived in both urban & rural areas & worked in a variety of settings: residential, public mental health clinics, school based therapies, holistic practices & in private practice. I bring a spirit of joyfulness, laughter & calmness to sessions, & invite those I am honored & privileged to serve into a deeper love of their intrinsic amazing one of a kind self! I will walk with you through the difficult, gritty and frightening places you may need to metabolize/unpack & will also uplift and celebrate your strengths, growth & resilience. All things are possible with Love, Respect & Wisdom!!!

I have worked at a hospital, community mental health center, group and private practice. I worked with people with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma and PTSD, addiction problems, minority/ identity and multicultural issues, life transition problems. Also, I worked with people with ADHD and developmental disorders. I understand that you would like to learn about your problems to change and navigate your life in a better way.

First of all, I love what I do and to witness the positive changes clients make in their lives as a result of choosing therapy to help them accomplish what they want. Often the goal is to achieve symptom relief so as to not be overwhelmed by anxiety, mood disorders or be better able to manage the challenges of ADHD. Sometimes there is not a specific outcome identified but a need for ongoing support for dealing with life transitions or difficult people. Sometimes clients use therapy as a confidential sounding board where they can talk to an objective outsider about situations and sort out their perspective. I offer various ways to see and respond to situations that might otherwise not be considered. Your opinion as a client is the most important one and I will also honestly provide mine when asked for. I believe therapy can actually be something that you can look forward to and an opportunity to learn new skills to use long after you discontinue, and we can even have some fun and laughs along the journey.

Often, we all go through difficult times. Times of despair, painful circumstances, and distress; Situations that many times affect our peace of mind and our relationships with ourselves and others. Sometimes, we even question the purpose of our lives because we feel like there is no purpose for what we are going through. As a caring clinician, I allow and encouraged my client to create a space for healing, where they feel in control of choosing their own path to freedom and sense of control.

I'm a psychotherapist with 35-plus years of experience. After completing training in clinical social work and psychology at the University of Maryland (M.S.W., 1988) and Saybrook Institute (Ph.D., 1991), I began practicing as a family, couples and individual therapist. I have hosted on radio/podcasts, have written two books and thousands of self-help articles in my "Life's a Beach" column for nationwide Gannett media. I love working with clients in the here-and-now, and finding solutions to move forward with life. My primary goal is to help you help yourself. I will guide and coach you, not tell you what to do. Diagnostic labels are useful at times, but you are not your labels. I'm your thinking partner: We'll reason and think our way to what makes sense together.

I believe therapy is a collaborative process where you should feel comfortable being yourself without judgement. My goal is to create a safe supportive space where you feel heard, understood and respected. We will collaborate on your treatment and at the pace that feels comfortable for you. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, stress, a major life change, or simply feeling stuck in life. We will work at your pace to reach your mental health goals. I enjoy working with clients from diverse backgrounds including being an LGBTQ+ ally and affirming.

I am the founder of PRETZEL THERAPY, a new therapeutic approach using the newest advances in neuroscience to heal emotional pain, anxiety, trauma, depression and PTSD. Check out the PRETZEL APP to untwist your emotional pain. SEARCH UNTWIST ON THE APP STORE AND PLAY STORE 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. 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. 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 a Licensed Mental Health Therapist in Virginia and Maryland. I maintain my National Certified Counselor certification and possess a Clinical Dependency Counselor-Intern License in Texas. I have achieved an MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, an MS in Psychology, and an MS in Organizational Psychology. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and groups. I employ cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic, client-centered therapy, trauma-focused therapy, and various modalities as part of my humanistic approach. I additionally focus on methods of Gestalt, Gottman, Existentialism, mindfulness, and family systems while carefully considering cultural concerns, sexuality, and practices. I have experience working with court-mandated clients with various criminal offenses, anxiety, depression, trauma-related diagnoses, and other life experiences.

I'm a compassionate Licensed Clinical Social Worker-Certified (LCSW-C) with over 10 years of experience. I specialize in Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, trauma, anxiety, and mindfulness, using a combination of IFS, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to empower clients with the tools and strategies they need to take control of their mental health and achieve lasting positive change.