Therapists in Maryland

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.

My ideal client is someone who is open to self-exploration, committed to their personal growth, and actively engaged in the therapeutic process. They are willing to be honest and vulnerable, providing insight into their thoughts and feelings while remaining receptive to feedback. This client values the therapeutic relationship and collaborates with the therapist to set and achieve meaningful goals, contributing to a positive and productive therapy experience.

Michael J. di Salvo, Psychotherapist, LICSW, LCSW-IC, C-DBT, CTTP, C-GIP, CCATP, EMDR, is a Nationally Board Certified Licensed Clinical Independent Social Worker with over thirty-year's experience. He is licensed and certified in multiple states and works with adults (18 Years +). He has several specialty care areas in mental health therapy, including but not limited to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered, Trauma-Focused, Grief and Loss Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Positive Psychology and EMDR. He works with various Life Transitions, Coming-Out, Sexual Orientation, Gender Issues, Men's Issues, Mood Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Geriatrics, LGBTQ+, Bias, Race, Ethnicity, Discrimination, Trauma, Career, Vets/Emergency Responders and Co-Occurring Disorders. Mr. di Salvo works with many diverse populations and works with persons who have experienced trauma, discrimination, racism, defamation, prejudice, hate and bias in any form. He is also a long-time advocate and mental health treatment provider for persons minority/oppressed populations, LGBTQ+ Community and many other persons in need. Mr. di Salvo provides a safe, supportive, welcoming, affirming, and nonjudgmental space for all people. *Virtual Sessions are available to all patients at this time in the following states: DE, FL, GA, MA, MD, NJ, NY, NV, PA, SC, VA, & WA. Mr. di Salvo graduated with honors. He obtained his undergraduate and post-graduate studies, research and internships through The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C.