OptumHealth Complex Medical Conditions Therapists in Maryland

Finding a therapist who accepts OptumHealth Complex Medical Conditions coverage can make accessing specialized mental health support easier and more affordable. With 130 verified therapists in Maryland who accept OptumHealth Complex Medical Conditions, you can filter by therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and supportive counseling to address concerns like anxiety, depression, or stress related to complex health conditions. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist listed below is currently welcoming new clients and has availability within the next 30 days, ensuring you receive timely, compassionate care tailored to your needs and covered by your OptumHealth Complex Medical Conditions insurance plan.

Pamela Altemos

(she/they)

Pamela Altemos, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LCSW-C
20 years of experience
Virtual
In-person
2900 Chestnut A...
Hi, I'm Pamela Altemos, Are you experiencing a mind-body disconnection? Perhaps you are feeling emotionally numb and detached from physical sensations and present experiences. Trauma disrupts the foundation of the body as a safe place, affecting survivors’ trust of self needed to establish and maintain healthy relationships with others. As a yoga instructor and therapist specializing in trauma, I help survivors rebuild a sense of trust and safety in the body by incorporating somatic exercises, breathwork, and relational skills. Through this holistic approach, clients are able to tolerate sensory and emotional experiences to cultivate a compassionate relationship with their bodies. In addition to the breathwork and somatic techniques, I incorporate modalities such as Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS). My practice honors an integrative approach that cultivates gentleness, acceptance, and compassion toward ourselves and others.

Stacey Kauffman

(she/her)

Stacey Kauffman, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LCSW-C
11 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Texas and Maryland. I received my Masters from the University of Louisville and have been practicing for 11 years. I help women and men through life transitions and stressors. I also help caregivers in their role for caring for another family member or older adult. I have experience in long term care and working with dementia.

Angela Welch

(she/her)

Angela Welch, LPC - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LPC
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I am Angela Welch, a licensed counselor in Maryland. I have practiced mental health therapy for 10 years and worked in the human services field for 15 years before becoming a counselor. I am certified in EMDR and DBT skills training, but my approach is tailored to each client's needs. I strive to help people with anxiety, depression, and PTSD manage their symptoms and live life to the fullest.

Nancy Juila

(she/her)

Nancy Juila, LPC - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LPC
15 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Maryland, where I was initially licensed. I have also been licensed in 8 other states (AZ, CO, ID, NE, NV, VA, UT, WI). I have been actively working as a mental health therapist for 15 years. I have been helping adults with anger issues, adults who want to gain coping skills and strategies, discussing different perspectives and insights toward self, relationships with others, and their situations. I have been working with adults with existential crises, issues with motivation, low self-confidence, and communication challenges effectively. Additionally, I like working with older adults and adults who are going through phase of life changes. ***Due to my externship hours, my availability is extremely limited and subject to change frequently. If you feel that I could be a good fit for you but scheduling was a problem, please reach out to me; we can explore options. I apologize for the inconvenience.

Oscar Mejia Cruz

Oscar Mejia Cruz, LPC - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LPC
6 years of experience
Virtual
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.

Matt Loveland

Matt Loveland, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LCSW-C
25 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and I love the outdoors and most anything to do with water. I have 25+ years of experience helping people as a clinical social worker. My practice has been primarily geared toward adults, but I also have extensive experience with youth ages 12-17. In recent years, my clientele has gravitated to men's issues.

Eric Ndichu

(he/him)

Eric Ndichu, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LCSW-C
15 years of experience
Virtual
I am a licensed clinical social worker and practice in the District of Columbia, Maryland and Virginia. I have been providing therapy for close to 15 years to help my client address mental health symptoms including depression, trauma, life transitions and anxiety. I believe people are inherently capable of managing their circumstances but sometimes require some assistance from a therapist to succeed.

Katherine Roth

(She/Her)

Katherine Roth, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LCSW-C
15 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and provide virtual counseling services to those residing in FL, MD, MI, and VA. I received my Masters from the University of Michigan and have been practicing for 15 years. I specialize in women-specific counseling, addressing the unique challenges that women face, including issues related to self-esteem, confidence, fertility, pregnancy and postpartum concerns, anxiety, grief, stress and life transitions. I also specialize in working with women and families with a connection to adoption.

Megan Cannone

(she/her)

Megan Cannone, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LCSW-C
15 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I’m Megan Cannone, and I’m here to support you on your journey toward healing and growth. With over 15 years of experience in the mental health and oncology fields, I bring a compassionate, relationship-based approach to therapy. I earned my MSW from Western Carolina University in 2009, and since then, I've had the privilege of working with a diverse range of individuals. From my early days in a psychiatric unit to over six years in hospice care and more recently, supporting young adults with cancer, I’ve developed a deep understanding of the emotional challenges people face during difficult times. As a certified oncology social worker and oncology patient navigator, I specialize in helping individuals navigate not only the emotional aspects of cancer but also the intersection of mental health and chronic illness. Whether you're coping with grief, illness, or life transitions, I’m here to meet you where you are with empathy, respect, and expertise. My approach is rooted in empathy, active listening, and collaboration. I work alongside you, providing guidance and tools that are tailored to your individual needs. My goal is to help you gain clarity, build resilience, and find meaningful ways to navigate life’s challenges. If you’re ready to take the next step toward a more balanced, fulfilling life, I would be honored to walk with you through this process.

Nikis Ellis

Nikis Ellis , LPC - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LPC
3 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Texas. I received my Masters from LeTourneau University and have been practicing for 3 years. I work with adult clients living with self-esteem issues, anxiety, depression, and anger. The goal is to provide a safe space for clients to openly talk, gain self-awareness, and identify ways to overcome their challenges.

Susan Lohr

(she/her)

Susan Lohr, LPC - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LPC
8 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who completed my master’s degree in clinical psychology at Loyola University Maryland. I have experience in working with a variety of diverse clients through individual therapy from young adulthood through older adulthood. I have experience in working with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, stress, life transitions and adjustments, spirituality, and more. I tend to allow the client to direct the session to what is most important to address at that moment via person-centered techniques. I also utilize various other therapeutic modalities such as cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), coping/stress management techniques, mindfulness skills, motivational interviewing, positive psychology, and more. I enjoy building connections with clients in order to create a warm, trusting, safe environment where others can feel comfortable discussing difficult matters. I also strive to help others enhance their abilities to make positive changes emotionally and in their thought processes to achieve more fulfillment and happiness in their lives.

Renée Council

(she/her)

Renée Council, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LCSW-C
5 years of experience
Virtual
I am passionate about helping people heal and grow from their past and live an authentic life. I help adults experiencing depression, anxiety, life transitions (e.g. aging parents, menopause), childhood trauma and grief. My work includes helping people navigate relationships with emotionally unavailable/immature parents and adults. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) with a background in higher education and career counseling.

Marcia Trejo

(she/her)

Marcia Trejo, LPC - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LPC
10 years of experience
Virtual
I’m delighted to see that you have taken a step towards investing in You! I will challenge you to think outside of the box. My priorities in therapy are helping clients build awareness around negative thoughts and finding the drive to build skills needed to support change. I pride myself on being empathetic, authentic, and open. I will consider your life experiences, cultural background, and values to meet you where you are. My goal is to create the most positive therapeutic relationship and open atmosphere. I am an Army Veteran, and I have a master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Capella University. I am also a certified transformation and life coach that empowers individuals to make and sustain positive life changes. I help individuals who are struggling with different aspects of their lives. As a clinician, I work with individuals who are seeking mental health care for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, individuals who may have a lack of motivation, needing guidance towards self-care, and ways to become a better person in general. The motivation to begin a private practice came from years of working with many different individuals in mental health and realizing that there is not a ‘one fits all’ scenario to helping people. I wanted to reach more people in a more authentic manner.

Rashid Jalloh

(he/him)

Rashid Jalloh, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LCSW-C
13 years of experience
Virtual
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.

Ashleigh Athen

Ashleigh Athen, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LCSW-C
12 years of experience
Virtual
I have over a decade of experience helping clients learn unique ways to manage the challenges associated with depression, anger, grief, trauma, and anxiety. Additionally, I enjoy supporting clients who experience challenges related to parenting children with mental health or special needs, co-parenting, foster care, adoption, pregnancy, and post-partum. I am a Trauma Focused - CBT certified therapist, with a strong skill set for identifying trauma's impact and for developing strategies to reduce that impact in day-to-day life . I am also a Certified Grief Professional and am a board-approved Supervisor for both social workers and counselors in the State of Maryland.

Annette Hackey

Annette Hackey, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LCSW-C
27 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I am a licensed clinical social worker based in Maryland. I received my Master's 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 a strong background in solution-focused therapy assisting clients to find solutions to problems to improve their daily, quality of life.

Emily Yee

(she/her)

Emily Yee, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LCSW-C
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, my name is Emily! I'm a licensed clinical social worker, and I'm passionate about helping people gain the skills to cope with everyday stressors and life transitions. The majority of my practice focuses on anxiety, depression, and life transitions ranging from school, work, perinatal period, and motherhood. My approach is warm and down-to-earth. My goal is to create a safe and welcoming space for clients to be themselves.

Cierra Edmonds

Cierra Edmonds, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LCSW-C
5 years of experience
Virtual
Greetings, I am a licensed mental health clinician based in Maryland with over five years of experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds and life experiences. My approach to therapy is holistic and strength-based, focusing on helping clients navigate and resolve a wide range of life’s challenges. By drawing upon each individual’s unique strengths, I work to foster resilience and encourage a continuous journey of healing, growth, and self-discovery. My goal is to create a supportive environment that empowers clients to uncover deeper insights, develop effective coping strategies, and enhance their overall well-being.

Latisha Christensen

(she/her)

Latisha Christensen, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LCSW-C
8 years of experience
Virtual
Latisha S. Christensen is a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in complex trauma, race issues, and financial therapy for the treatment of money-related disorders. She practices virtually at Money Talks Baltimore LLC for clients residing Maryland, Virginia, NC and SC and Money Talks Tampa, LLC for clients in Florida. "The most ignored relationship is our relationship with money despite the meaning it has in all the spaces of life. It dictates your status, where you live, what your drive and who you associate with. I believe a healthy relationship with money is the key to wholeness and mental health."

Courtney Harris

Courtney Harris, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LCSW-C
16 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I'm Courtney a psychotherapist. It has been a dream of mine to work with others since a very young age. Interesting story, growing up my mother and grandmother watched soap operas. One of the actresses was a psychotherapist and helped people. From that point on, I said I wanted to be a psychotherapist when I got older. Before I was old enough to work, I volunteered. My experience over many years in the field has provided me with so many opportunities that I believe have shaped the person I am today. I have been fortunate to work in communities, hospital, group homes, jails, and a head start program. These experiences helped me to see individuals in different environments with various challenges and complexities these individuals faced. I bring all of this experience to my role as a psychotherapist. My experience allows me to understand how certain environments and experiences directly affect people. It also gives me insight into the overall picture which is extremely important when treating clients who have had traumatic experiences and mental illness.

John Magee

(he/him)

John Magee, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LCSW-C
14 years of experience
Virtual
I have been a practicing clinician for over 14 years and have worked with individuals from a diverse range of disorders including severe anxiety, severe depression (and other mood disorders such as bipolar disorder) , addiction, trauma, chronic health issues, and psychosis. I have received my Master's degree from University of Maryland, Baltimore and have my clinical social work license.

Lisa Hewick

Lisa Hewick, LPC - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LPC
15 years of experience
Virtual
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.

Dawn Smith

(she/her)

Dawn Smith, LPC - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LPC
3 years of experience
Virtual
As a mother of five, wife, and career educator, I have a wide range of experience from which to guide, advise, and assist clients in their personal pursuit of happiness and self-fulfillment. I take an integrative approach with clients as partners in their own care. A strong therapeutic relationship is at the core of my practice, with a healthy dose of cognitive behavioral therapy, a person-centered approach, and mindfulness training. Providing a space of warmth and compassion offers the safety clients need to confidently make changes. I require clients to schedule a free consultation before scheduling an intake session. I believe that the right fit must be a significant consideration before moving forward with therapy.

Veronica Logan

Veronica Logan, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LCSW-C
10 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome! I am Logan. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW-C) with over 10 years of experience providing therapy. Many of us yearn for a sense of peace, connection, and well-being in our lives. However, life circumstances and internal struggles can often hinder our ability to experience these deeply fulfilling states. I believe in creating a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your challenges and emotional pain. My goal is to support your growth and healing journey, empowering you to cultivate greater self-awareness, develop effective coping mechanisms, and live a more fulfilling life. Outside of my practice, I enjoy spending time with my family (two teenagers and three dogs), practicing Pilates, and cheering on the Celtics. I am licensed in Maryland, Virginia, and Ohio.

Malik Akbar

(he/him)

Malik Akbar, LPC - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LPC
6 years of experience
Virtual
Greetings! I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) based in Florida and the owner/CEO of Breaking BHAD Counseling, LLC. I am a US Army veteran and graduate of Webster University with a Master of Arts in Counseling (Clinical Mental Health Track). I have been practicing in various mental health settings for six years, working with diverse adult populations from a wide demographic range. I am seriously passionate about helping people overcome challenges like addiction, anxiety, depression, adjustment to life after incarceration or going through pre-trial release/probation, and relationship issues.

Sophie Nathan

(she/her)

Sophie Nathan, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LCSW-C
7 years of experience
Virtual
I am Sophie. As a therapist I bring a warm conversational approach to meet you where you are now. I will support you in processing your present, past and connecting those into making positive changes in your life that lead to feeling more confident in yourself and in your relationships with others. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe, heard and understood. I tailor my style and approach to each individual person I am working with in hopes to best support you in coping, processing and growing where you are.

Aisha McClain

(she/her)

Aisha McClain, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LCSW-C
8 years of experience
Virtual
Hi there! I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker -Clinical. I graduated from the University of Maryland School of Social Work. I have 8 years of experience providing clinical services to adults, families, and children. In my practice, I use a stregth based approach to help adults who struggle with managing the complexities of life - home, family, and career.

Diane Younkins

(she/her)

Diane Younkins, LPC - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LPC
10 years of experience
Virtual
Are you looking to grow in wisdom and compassion? For yourself? Your situation? Others? Diane Younkins provides support for adults who feel stuck or are in transition and want to develop in wisdom and maturity, love and compassion. Using mindfulness insight and other techniques, she encourages authentic living with awareness, gentleness, humor, creativity and courage. As a trained pastoral counselor, she encourages clients to bring the strength of their faith and belief systems into the mix as part of their healing work. Diane is trained in EMDR, Brainspotting, Counting and Mindfulness to help people heal from trauma.

Sharon Sonko, MSW, MS

(she/her)

Sharon Sonko, MSW, MS, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LCSW-C
11 years of experience
Virtual
I am an independent licensed clinical/certified Social Worker. I first started my career in Child Welfare in various states/levels of government as an investigator and elevated to a supervisory role. I also hail from the US Department of Veterans Affairs in a Management role. However, it is my pleasure to now serve as Therapist and in my private practice. My main specialty areas include, but are not limited to Depression, Anxiety, Trauma/PTSD, Intimate Partner Violence, Grief and Loss, Narcissism, Codependency, Geriatric, etc.

Ari Rosner

Ari Rosner, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LCSW-C
7 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, Ari here. Are you constantly putting out fires? Do you ever feel like a better life is waiting for you but you just can't seem to reach it? You know what you need to do but you're still nervous. I’m here for you. Together, we will put you in the best position to make clear choices about your life with confidence. Working together, we will help you regain control of your automatic thoughts and feelings so that YOU can make conscious choices and own them.

James Howard

James  Howard, LPC - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LPC
4 years of experience
Virtual
Greetings and salutations. I am, James Howard, your Licensed Clinician that will be assisting you on your journey to Maslow's Self-actualization (Trust me, you'll understand the reference later.) I sit in the Therapeutic counseling chair not by chance, but by hard earned life experiences and a great deal of studying that I look to enrich my clients with to help them find their mental peace and balance to a life that is rancorous and boisterous. I earned my Master’s Graduate Degree in Mental Health Counseling in 2020, graduating with honors from Bowie State University in the top 1 percent of the class and currently am doctoral candidate. I read and give a great deal of study to learning and practicing the use of various modalities to be able to assist my clients in finding their path. Within the field of psychology, I have authored papers dealing with relationships and family, as well as trauma. When not seeing Clients, I am a father of two young men who are about to enter into the world. I enjoy singing badly at karaoke and reading fiction novels. In my spare time, I author my own works of fiction and currently have published novels, screenplays, and graphic novels.

Maura Mendes

(she/her)

Maura Mendes, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LCSW-C
8 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I'm a licensed independent clinical social worker (LICSW. I received my Master's from the University of Maryland, Baltimore and have been practicing therapy for the last 3 years. I bring a client-centered approach to my work and help young adults struggling with anxiety, life transitions, and identity formation.I am committed to making a positive impact through compassionate, evidence-based practices and look forward to supporting others on their healing journey.

Suzanne Day

(she/her)

Suzanne Day, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LCSW-C
20 years of experience
Virtual
Hey there! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker that practices Behaviorism. What that means is that we will work together to target behaviors that can help you improve your current mental state. I want to help you see quantifiable progress from our work together. A little about me: My name is Suzanne. I’m a person that loves the sun, being by water and dogs! In my free time I volunteer with a Great Dane rescue. I enjoy those huge, goofy, couch potato dogs. I’ve moved around a lot and went to school at Syracuse University and graduate school in Washington D.C. I have two decades of experience specializing in trauma, grief, relationship issues, anxiety, addiction and depression. I’ve been heavily involved in working with military, veterans and first responders. You are the subject matter expert in what you need and I will supply tools, support, information and backing. We will work together on making goals and action steps on how to reach your goals.

Sharon Bruner

Sharon Bruner, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LCSW-C
30 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been in the helping profession for 22 years and have experience in a variety of areas that range from depression to couples counseling. I have worked with people with a broad variety of mental illnesses and emotional difficulties. My therapeutic approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) which concentrates on realizing that your thought patterns affect your emotions, which, in turn, can affect your behaviors. I look forward to working with you to help you to eliminate or control troubling symptoms so that you can function better and can increase well-being and healing.

Tracy Meyer

(she/her)

Tracy Meyer, LPC - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LPC
4 years of experience
Virtual
In-person
100 West Henrie...
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) practicing in the state of Maryland. I have my master's degree in a CACREP accredited program from Liberty University. I am a doctoral student pursuing a degree in Counseling Education and Supervision. I am trained in EMDR therapy. I am in the process of training to become an EMDR consultant. I am also training to become a certified trauma specialist. I have completed specialized training for treating adolescent and adult ADHD.

Tracy Gordon

(she/her)

Tracy Gordon, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LCSW-C
8 years of experience
Virtual
I have experience working with people suffering from depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, and trauma. I used Strengths-Based therapies, Solution-Focused Brief therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Trauma-Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I believe that you have the power within yourself to overcome and conquer that which is keeping you from moving forward to a better you. Working together, we can find your inner strength to succeed in life. Let’s get to work.

Priscilla Reaves

(she/her)

Priscilla Reaves, LPC - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LPC
7 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) based in Maryland. I received my Masters from Coppin State University and have been practicing for 7 years. I am enthusiastic and excited for the opportunity to collaborate with you on your wellness journey. Together, we will explore your unique challenges and work towards meaningful, lasting change. I look forward to supporting you every step of the way as we create a path toward a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Patricia Lane

(she/her)

Patricia Lane, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LCSW-C
25 years of experience
Virtual
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.

Mahi Alemnew

(she/her)

Mahi Alemnew, LPC - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LPC
6 years of experience
Virtual
I provide clients with a nonjudgmental, empathetic, and safe space to help them enhance their quality of life and overall well-being. My approach is culturally informed, as I acknowledge the social context and experiences that shape individuals' daily lives. I enjoy working with a diverse range of clients, supporting them as they tackle various challenges, and empowering them to discover effective coping skills for managing difficulties. I find fulfillment in helping clients overcome relationship issues, trauma, anxiety, depression, and other concerns. I truly believe that therapy, and the therapeutic relationship I build with clients, creates a space for healing, self-awareness, and personal growth. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and my Master’s in Counseling Psychology from Towson University. I specialize in working with adults, utilizing Person-Centered, Solution-Focused, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness techniques. I’m passionate about helping clients feel a sense of belonging while exploring different facets of their identity. I also have a strong understanding of Ethiopian and immigrant experiences, and I am a dedicated ally of the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities. I work with many clients from these communities, addressing cultural and individual trauma. Additionally, I am bilingual in Amharic and able to support clients whose primary or only language is Amharic.

Rachael Funk

(she/her)

Rachael Funk, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LCSW-C
17 years of experience
Virtual
I am an energetic, humorous, queer, mother of 2 with 17+ years experience in helping people with mental health struggles. I use an eclectic approach including CBT and mindfulness to help clients deal with symptoms of depression of anxiety. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community I am most passionate about helping those in the community including those dealing with issues surrounding gender identity.

Desrene Sesay

Desrene Sesay, LPC - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LPC
4 years of experience
Virtual
Life is a journey with highs and lows, and sometimes, we just need help navigating. I am happy to be part of that with you. I believe that support makes all the difference in a person’s life when they face challenges and provides a safe space that is full of compassion, empathy, and free of judgment. Each person is unique, and worthy of unconditional positive regard and acceptance, regardless of personal circumstances or challenges. By spending time strengthening my relationships with clients, I am better able to understand their needs and how to best support them. Counseling is a partnership between the client and the counselor. I have an undergraduate in psychology and a master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and I am licensed in the state of Maryland

Kumi Pledger

(she/her)

Kumi Pledger, LPC - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LPC
9 years of experience
Virtual
Now I am taking on new clients!!! Also, I am available on Saturdays!!! I, Kumi Pledger, LCPC work with all ages: children, adolescents, couples, LGBTQ Clients, families and adults for various issues including, hearing from traumatic experiences, relationship challenges such as dealing with narcissistic abuse, struggling to manage anxiety, having no motivations, supporting new and expectant mothers, eating disorders, adjustment to new places/new jobs, grief and loss. I use personal insight and professional experience to provide clients with a safe place to be heard, find themselves again, free of fears, reduce anxieties, have a stress-free life, find happiness and joy in their lives, eliminate unwanted behaviors, grow, improve and conquer insomnia

Malorie Gibson

Malorie Gibson, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LCSW-C
4 years of experience
Virtual
I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical (LCSW-C) based in Maryland, with 4 years of experience as a therapist and over 10 years as a medical social worker. I specialize in helping adults and families navigate difficult life transitions, empowering them to overcome challenges and become the best versions of themselves in a supportive and compassionate environment. I meet clients where they are in their journey, viewing life through their lens and offering support that aligns with their unique experiences, goals, and needs.

Melonie Clarke, DSW, LCSW-C

(she/her)

Melonie Clarke, DSW, LCSW-C, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LCSW-C
7 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I am Dr. Melonie Clarke, and I have nearly eight years of experience. At different times in our lives, we may need support to deal with challenges, break free from unhealthy patterns, or handle difficult emotions. In my work, I focus on working together with individuals to help them understand themselves better and make sense of their experiences. My goal is to support personal growth, build resilience, and encourage positive change in a safe and nurturing environment. With extensive experience in working with both individuals and small groups, I draw upon a variety of therapeutic techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which helps to reshape negative thought patterns; Narrative Therapy, which allows individuals to reframe their personal stories; and Mindfulness, which encourages present-moment awareness and acceptance. Furthermore, I have specialized training in Motivational Interviewing (MI), which facilitates a person's intrinsic motivation to change, and trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), aimed at addressing the impact of trauma.

Darlene Waldt

Darlene Waldt, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LCSW-C
20 years of experience
Virtual
I want to inspire you to be the best you can be. Life is full of challenges and your perspective on how you face them can make the difference in your ability to meet your full potential. I want to help you identify your challenges and find solutions so that you can set and achieve your goals. I have worked in a variety of settings including child welfare, outpatient mental health clinics, as a ACT Clinician, a Clinician with the IAFF COE, and have had my own private practice. I specialize in working with a variety of mental illnesses and utilize a variety of treatment methods depending on the individual and their needs.

Kenya Pace

(she/her)

Kenya Pace, LPC - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LPC
6 years of experience
Virtual
I am the wife of a Retired Combat Veteran and a mother to four beautiful children. I understand the complexities of being separated from your spouse for extended periods and feeling alone in the relationship and raising the children. Even the most well-prepared and successful person can find themselves wondering how things became so complicated, messy, or challenging, and feel at a loss when it comes to what to do to put the pieces back together. People have been shaped and molded by their past experiences, both good and bad. Often, people feel drawn to focus on the bad experiences, leading to pain and struggles of many kinds.

Kira Markoff, PhD, LCSW-C, CCTP, YTT200

(she/her)

Kira Markoff, PhD, LCSW-C, CCTP, YTT200, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LCSW-C
5 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome. I'm a clinical social worker licensed in Maryland and Pennsylvania. I also have a PhD in psychology, a clinical trauma certification, and am a 200-hr trained yoga instructor. My passion in life is to learn and understand things so that I can pass it on to others in a practical way to help improve lives and relationships.

Josh Kay

(he/him)

Josh Kay, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LCSW-C
20 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years experience in the mental health field. I received my Master's from the University of Illinois at Chicago. I have spent my career helping individuals and families with trauma, child abuse, substance abuse, and domestic violence, but you are the expert on your own life. I offer individual therapy via telehealth for individuals in Illinois and Maryland. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Lauren Ruest

(she/her)

Lauren Ruest, LCSW-C - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LCSW-C
5 years of experience
Virtual
Do you feel overpowered by your emotions? Do you have a hard time communicating to others how you feel? You are not alone. I know from my years of experience working in mental health that we all have the power to make changes in our lives. My therapeutic approach is to help individuals take a look at how their thought patterns and emotional responses impact their actions and behaviors. Our work together will focus on the present so you can build towards an emotionally healthy future. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I have a passion for helping others overcome their feelings of constant worry, overwhelm, and disconnectedness. And while reaching out for help is not easy, it is a necessary first step towards your goal. If you are ready and willing to put in the work you will be amazed at what you can learn and accomplish.

Carolyn Lensch

(she/her)

Carolyn Lensch, LPC - Maryland Therapist at Grow Therapy
OptumHealth Com...
LPC
4 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! My name is Carolyn, and I am here to help. I have been in healthcare, mental health, and sleep medicine fields for over 20 years. Do you need to vent, need someone to lend an ear, or someone to bounce ideas off of? We are all going through something, and sometimes it helps to have someone outside of your personal circle to talk with. I am here to help you work through immediate concerns going on in your life right now. I can also work with you to dig deeper into the bigger concerns you may have, for your situation as well as for personal improvement. We are all a work in progress! You lead the way, you are in charge of topics we cover, and I am here to provide a guiding hand, in a safe, non-judgmental space.

Frequently asked questions

Why filter by Maryland rather than a city like Baltimore?

When looking for online therapy, you can see anyone that is credentialed in the state. We want you to find the best fit, therefore, Grow Therapy shows available therapists across Maryland from Hagerstown to Ocean City! If you’d rather see someone in-person, you can change the filter from virtual and find a therapist near you in Maryland.

Will my therapist take OptumHealth Complex Medical Conditions?

Yes! If you use OptumHealth Complex Medical Conditions you’ll be asked to verify your Member ID at the time you book the appointment. However, if you don’t have OptumHealth Complex Medical Conditions you can select cash. Our therapists will have their cost of appointment on their profile. Individual session costs will vary.

How does the Specialty Filter work? Can I find a therapist that focuses on a specific issue?

The specialty filter is optional. You don’t need to check any boxes to see a provider. However, fit is very important when selecting an online therapist. If you have knowledge or experience to recognize what specialties you may need.

What are the "Clients say I'm" badges?

Grow Therapy asks patients about their experience with therapists after they have had a certain number of sessions. After enough responses, we add those characteristics to their profiles to help you find the best online therapists for you. We're still working on collecting this information from all our therapists.

Why use Gender, Age, and Identities filters?

Finding a provider with a similar life experience can be beneficial because it can be easier to establish rapport and potentially be understood quicker and clearer.

What to expect during your first session?

Your first therapy session is for you and your therapist to meet each other and to ask any questions that you have about the counseling process. This is where you can expect your therapist to do the same as they will ask questions to gain insight into your specific situation. In this first session the therapist is doing their part to gather as much information so they can better assess if they are able to meet your therapeutic needs.

Depending upon your provider's specialty, you may also discuss the methods the therapist will use. For additional information on therapy methods, please visit the Grow Therapy Help Center. Some people feel nervous before their first appointment, and that is totally normal! Coming prepared with a list of questions for your therapist may help. Remember, you're taking a brave step by seeking therapy, and it is okay to be nervous as you try something new.
OptumHealth Complex Medical Conditions Therapists