EAP:United Healthcare Optum Therapists in Silver Spring, MD

Hello, my name is Zacharia, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Therapist with 20 years of experience providing compassionate, culturally responsive, and evidence-based mental health services to children, adolescents, young adults, and families. I specialize in working with young people who have experienced trauma, anxiety, depression, behavioral challenges, and co-occurring mental health and substance use concerns, and I am deeply passionate about serving individuals and families from underserved and multicultural communities who deserve access to high-quality, affirming mental health care. My approach to therapy is warm, collaborative, and strength based. I draw from a variety of evidence-based therapeutic modalities including Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Mindfulness-Based Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and the Gottman Method, tailoring my approach to the unique needs, goals, and cultural background of each individual client and family I serve. I firmly believe that the therapeutic relationship is the foundation of meaningful healing and from our very first session, my priority is to ensure that you feel genuinely seen, heard, valued, and never alone in your journey. Whether you are a young person navigating the complexities of growing up, a caregiver seeking support for your child, or a family working to strengthen your bonds and communication, I am here and I am honored to be a part of your healing story. I look forward to the privilege of working with you.

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

I 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.

I’m a therapist dedicated to helping individuals and couples navigate life’s challenges and build more meaningful connections. I work with adults facing anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, life transitions, and self-esteem concerns, as well as couples seeking to improve communication and strengthen their bond. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space where you can better understand yourself, develop new tools, and move toward the life and relationships you truly want. Together, we can work toward healing, growth, and lasting change.

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Maryland with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe that you are the expert on your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Hi, I'm Gabriella, I have been a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) since 2013, but I have been in the mental health field since 2006. We all know that in recent years, specifically starting in 2020, our life as we knew it drastically changed. Our relationships with our family, friends, coworkers and even ourselves appeared to stall indefinitely. We had to learn to maneuver in different ways to try and have a sense of "normalcy." But as we tried to navigate this new way of life, our mental health has suffered. We have noticed that depression, anxiety, and relationship/interpersonal issues have been rising because we have isolated ourselves for so long. As people, we are social beings and tend to gravitate towards social situations. Within the last year, rules and mandates have eased, and we are resuming to our "new normal," and maybe we are feeling hesitant and vulnerable to step out. Reaching out for help is very difficult but the most rewarding decisions you make. We can work together to make step by step goals so you can achieve your success.

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.

You look like you have it all together—but inside, your mind rarely slows down. You replay conversations, second-guess decisions, and put pressure on yourself to get everything "right." Saying "no" feels uncomfortable, asking for what you need feels selfish, and somewhere along the way you've started believing your worth depends on how much you do for everyone else. If this sounds familiar, you're not alone. I specialize in working with adults who struggle with anxiety, perfectionism, people-pleasing, and boundaries. My clients are often thoughtful, dependable, and deeply caring—but they're exhausted from carrying the weight of everyone's expectations while ignoring their own needs. In therapy, we'll do more than manage symptoms. We'll explore the patterns that have shaped how you relate to yourself and others, helping you understand the "why" behind your anxiety, inner critic, and difficulty speaking up. Together, we'll build practical skills to quiet overthinking, set healthier boundaries, communicate with confidence, and create a life that feels more balanced and authentic. My approach is warm, collaborative, and practical. I believe therapy should feel like a place where you can exhale—not perform. You'll find a space where you can be honest, ask difficult questions, and develop skills that create lasting change. If you're ready to understand yourself more deeply, break old patterns, and build a life that feels more peaceful and authentic, I'd be honored to walk alongside you.

Duarte Aguiar is licensed in the state of Maryland as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). He is a graduate of Loyola University with a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and has over 8 years’ experience providing therapy in Maryland to a diverse client-base in a variety of clinical settings including school-based (adolescent and adult), substance abuse/recovery clinic, marriage and family, individual, groups, and psychoeducation. Duarte specializes in the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Trauma-Focused CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Person-Centered Approach, and Pastoral Counseling to treat various diagnoses. Duarte’s philosophy of care as a spiritually oriented therapist consists of a holistic perspective of the person(s) present in therapy. Inspired and informed by the person-centered approach, Duarte believes in the value of being present in a non-judgmental, therapeutic relationship while helping to challenge the client(s) to live up to THEIR own expectations. Duarte comes from the Catholic tradition and is ready, willing, and able to incorporate spirituality in sessions insofar as the client is desiring to do so. With that said, Duarte believes in bringing the client’s own beliefs, aspirations, and values to the forefront and using those unique aspects of the client’s virtues to guide the development of a trusting and open therapeutic atmosphere. Duarte is committed to providing a safe space where the client can feel heard, accepted, encouraged and even challenged.

I am an energetic, humorous, passionate, mother of 2 with 20+ 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. Yoga and reading are two of my most favorite activities. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community I am most passionate about helping those in the community.

Hi my name is Carilyn Rego, but I go by Carrie. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of Maryland and Florida who has been working in the mental health field for 17 years. I specialize in working with clients 18+ and those who identify as Neurodiverse and LGBTQIA+. I have my MSW from Monmouth University and have worked in a variety of different settings and in different states.

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with adults navigating anxiety, depression, burnout, and life transitions. I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can feel comfortable being yourself while also working toward meaningful change. My approach is collaborative and practical. I believe therapy works best when it’s a partnership—I bring clinical insight and tools, and I stay open to your perspective and lived experience. Together, we’ll explore patterns, build coping skills, and find strategies that actually fit your life. I often use cognitive-behavioral and solution-focused approaches to help clients feel less stuck and more in control. Whether you’re overwhelmed, unsure where to start, or ready to make changes, I’ll meet you where you are. I welcome individuals from all backgrounds and identities and strive to create an inclusive space where you feel respected, heard, and supported. Please note, my hours are Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays 9AM-3:30PM. I do not have evening or weekend availability at this time.

Kevin Smith is a Licensed Clinical Practicing Counselor (LCPC)) in the state of Maryland. He has over 12 years of substance use disorder treatment experience and four years of mental health therapy experience. He specializes in dealing with depression, bipolar, PTSD, schizophrenia and anxiety disorders. Kevin completed his Master's degree in Counseling Psychology at Capella University in 2014. He is a former substance abuser with 21 years of sobriety and has overcome a myriad of disabilities and childhood traumas in his own life. This coupled with his professional experiences, enables him to provide the guidance, support, and encouragement his clients are seeking. Kevin utilizes a wide variety of therapy techniques, including but not limited to, CBT, motivational interviewing, person-centered therapy, existentialism, EMDR and solution-focused therapy modalities. We all face dark times, mountains, and challenges in our lives. Kevin is confident he has the ability to make you feel comfortable and confident as you begin this journey to a new you. If you are ready and willing to do the work to make the next chapter of your life your best chapter, schedule an appointment with him today.

I have been working for over 20 years helping both individuals and families cope with difficult situations. As a husband and a father I also understand how difficult it can be to raise children and the different things that we are led to believe about each of the many roles that we all play in our day to day lives.

Greetings! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Maryland with a Master's degree from Bowie State University. I’ve been practicing as a therapist for seven years and have over ten years of experience in the mental health field, working in areas such as case management, crisis intervention, addictions, and domestic violence. As a therapist, I like to think of myself as a driving instructor—you’re in the driver’s seat of your life, steering the way. My role is to provide support, guidance, and course correction when needed, helping you develop the skills to navigate life with confidence and purpose.

Hello! My name is Douglas (Doug) Starliper and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-C) licensed to practice psychotherapy in both Maryland and Virginia! Before becoming a licensed therapist, I spent a career as a Paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division where I deployed four times. The struggles many Veterans are facing today are what galvanized my interest and desire to begin my 2nd career as a therapist. I utilized my GI bill to complete my undergraduate degree at McDaniel College in Westminster, MD and my graduate degree at University of Maryland Baltimore. I recently completed the supervised portion of my career and am currently fully licensed to practice independently as a LCSW-C.

Hello, I'm Nazli Fouladi. I'm a clinical psychologist who is genuinely committed to helping you navigate life's challenges through mental well-being and emotional balance. I have a profound passion for delving into the complexities of the human mind and assisting others in their journey towards healing, personal growth, and living their best life. My approach is built on empathy, trust, and a strong belief in each person's capacity for positive change, all within a non-directive therapeutic space. I value a holistic approach to mental health including the mind, body and spirit. In addition to my doctoral studies in clinical psychology, I also have a postgraduate background in lifespan developmental psychology. That’s why I’m particularly aware of the difficulties that may come up during the intricate stages and events of life. For example, going off to college, marriage, parenthood, work-life balance caring for older loved ones, generational events/trauma etc. My academic journey includes a Doctoral and Masters training in clinical psychology from the American School of Professional Psychology which I earned in the year 2009. Before that, I received a Master’s degree in lifespan Developmental Psychology from Johns Hopkins University. I also have a graduate background in the Fine Arts and Biology. I have been a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of Maryland since 2013 and finished my doctoral internship at George Mason Counseling and Psychological Services. Prior to that, I received two years of supervised practicum training at two clinical private practice facilities where I provided assessment, testing and psychotherapy for individuals from various age groups and ethnicities. For example, I have worked with individuals suffering from trauma/ crisis management, depression, general/specific anxiety, Traumatic Brain Injury, various neurological disorders, schizophrenia, phobia, eating, bipolar, body dysmorphic and personality disorders. Besides English, I am also fluent in Farsi.

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.

Hello! I’m Carolyn, and I’m here to support you through whatever challenges you may be facing. Life can be overwhelming, and sometimes it helps to talk to someone who’s not part of your inner circle. Whether you're dealing with immediate concerns or looking to explore deeper-rooted issues, I’m here to help you navigate your path. Personal growth is a journey, and I believe that everyone is a work in progress! In our sessions, you’ll guide the conversation. You’re in charge of what we discuss, and I’m here to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore those topics. I use an eclectic counseling approach, tailoring my methods to suit your unique needs and concerns. My areas of expertise uniquely combine sleep medicine with mental health. With over 20 years of experience in the Sleep Medicine field and a background in both private practice and inpatient care, I have worked alongside numerous talented physicians and have developed a deep understanding of how physical and psychological health intersect. I specialize in helping individuals improve their sleep with techniques like focusing on sleep hygiene, mindfulness based practices, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I).

Hi, I'm Laura, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Maryland and Virginia. With over 6 years of experience, I have worked with clients from childhood through adulthood, helping those navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, family challenges, stress and other complex concerns. I have worked in various settings including in the community, schools, outpatient mental health, primary care, and residential substance use treatment. My goal is to empower you to move forward into a life marked not by fear, but by healing, strength, and possibility.

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been in private practice for the past two years. However, my clinical experience goes far beyond that. I have worked in an inpatient setting, as well as along side of victims of domestic abuse. I love working with teen and women specifically. I have done a good bit of family therapy as well as crisis intervention in my previous clinical work. I feel passionate about empowering my clients and meeting them where they are in their journey toward meeting their own personal goals.

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.

Hello, and welcome. I am Dr. Diari Banigo, Ph.D, LCSW, a Christian, doctoral‑trained clinician, and adjunct professor. I am dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence‑informed therapy that honors the whole person. My approach emphasizes emotional resilience, meaningful connection, and healing from life’s stressors. I believe therapy is most effective as a collaborative process, and I encourage patients to actively engage in their care with me and with other providers who support their overall wellbeing. Important Notice: Dr. Banigo provides psychotherapeutic services. Requests for administrative documentation—such as disability certification, FMLA, or emotional support animal letters—will be referred to another mental health provider. This policy ensures that therapy sessions remain focused on clinical care and your healing process.

Hi! I am Alyson Davis, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am a millennial and military brat that grew up in Northern Virginia. Currently, I reside in Maryland and have licenses in both Maryland and Virginia. I am taking clients in both states via telehealth. For undergrad, I attended the University of Alabama (ROLL TIDE!) and for my graduate education and clinical training I practiced at Valdosta State University. The therapeutic modality I use the most often is Narrative Therapy. Using Narrative Therapy, I help clients change the problem stories in their heads to preferred stories to improve their behaviors, relationships, and life outlook. With this practice, I enjoy using journal prompts, metaphors, and media. I am not a trained Christian therapist, but I do identify as a Christian, and enjoy using all religion and spirituality in my practice, but it is not required. I am LGBTQ-IA+ affirming and believe in honoring and creating space for all identities in session. A personal joy of mine is working with Black clients who are first-timers in therapy to work on destigmatizing mental health and healing the impacts of white supremacy. More specifically, I prioritize supporting Black clients who grew up in predominantly White spaces who did not feel "Black enough." My favorite problem to work with is when someone says "I'm stuck," to help a client not only get moving but move in a healthy direction. In my personal life, I am married, am a mother to a sickle cell warrior son, have a wonderful bonus-daughter and playful Aussiedoodle. That being said, I have an appreciation for working with blended families and exploring dating post-divorce. For self-care I enjoy writing fiction, listening to 90's and 2000s R&B, and watching romcoms. Looking forward to helping your healing journey.

Hi there. Thank you for visiting my profile. My name is Sylvia Bikos, I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker, Clinical (LCSW-C). I received my Masters from university of Maryland School of Social Work. I worked at the inpatient and emergency department in the Psychiatric department where I worked with adults and children. I later transitioned to Employee Assistance Program (EAP) where I work with adult employees.

Hello and welcome! I am a Licensed Individual Clinical Social Worker in DC (LICSW); and also a Clinical Social Worker in MD (LCSW-C). I received my Master's degree in Counseling Psychology in 1985 and my Master's degree in Social Work in 1999. I earned my LICSW in DC in 2002. In December 2024, I earned my Clinical license in Maryland (LCSW-C). I like talking with people--but more importantly, listening to people. To me, therapy is a block of time. It is an opportunity for people to talk to someone who is not a parent, brother, sister, spouse or even best friend. My goal is to listen to you and to help you consider options in your life.

Hi, I’m Nicole– I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-C) with a background in working with teens, young adults, and women since 2017. Therapy is a collaborative process, and I strive to create an environment in which you'll feel safe to be fully authentic. Bringing warmth, positivity, and humor into each session, I help clients appreciate their unique abilities and enhance their self-esteem to empower each person in living the life they have dreamed about. In 2017, I graduated from the University of Maryland, College Park with my Bachelor’s of Science in Family Science with a concentration in LGBT studies. In 2019, I graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a Master’s in Clinical Social Work. I’m also a dog-mom to a French bulldog, Dobby, a proud aunt to my toddler niece & nephew , and a spouse to my wife, Rachel.

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.

Hi! My name is Lisa and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist in the state of North Carolina. I am also cross licensed in the state of Nevada, Montana, New Mexico, Vermont, Virginia, Maryland, and Texas. I have been in the Substance Abuse field since 1996 working as an alcohol counselor in an outpatient setting. I received my applied AAS degree in 1996 and went on to receive my BS in Community Health and Human Services with an emphasis on Grief and Gerontology. I have two Masters degrees from Liberty University in Professional Counseling and Criminal Justice.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counsellor (LPC) and holder of a Masters Degree. I have been practicing for approximately 10 years. I have experience with adults who have struggled with Depression, Trauma, Anxiety, Adjusting to new circumstances, and other mood and relationship disorders. I am a people-person and really enjoy the helping profession. My personality affords me to successfully interact with many individuals who seek assistance in overcoming their life challenges.

Many people are grappling with anxiety, depression, and trauma, which can make daily life extremely challenging. If you're reading this, you or someone you care about is probably searching for a way to improve their situation. I’m here to assist in that journey. I’m skilled in addressing a broad spectrum of mental health issues, but I particularly focus on anxiety, depression, and trauma. This specialization allows me to tailor more effective and personalized treatment plans. I prioritize truly understanding your experiences and perspectives, and I provide strategies that are crafted to meet your specific needs. Your well-being is my utmost priority. Using proven methods and drawing on extensive experience, I am dedicated to supporting your path to healing and self-discovery. Choosing to work with me means you're not just hiring a professional; you're engaging with someone who is committed to helping you find hope and resilience in the face of adversity.

Hi, my name is Brittney. I am a licensed clinical social worker. I have worked with all ages from children to elderly adults. I am empathetic and compassionate and I meet people where they are. I customize the therapeutic approach based on the clients needs, and I create a safe space to be able to have tough conversations. My goal is to equip you with tools and coping skills in order to face life’s challenges, but also be a support during your most vulnerable moments.

Welcome! My name is Gisele THompson, and I am happy that you are here. It means that you need some sort of help or support as you navigate an issue in your life. It can be from childhood, the more recent past or is a current issue with which you are dealing right now. Please know that everyone goes through these things and it is just a matter of finding someone to work through these issues, and challenges with you. I am happy to do that with you. I have worked with people with issues for over thirty years. Whether it has been children, teens, young adults, adults, individuals, couples, families or seniors who are dealing with life challenges, we have successfully navigated down their path so that they could get to the other side of the challenge. For some, it has been easy without a lot of work to do, just understanding the hows and whys of what is occurring. For others, more work is involved as they deal with relationships of one sort or another. There is always work for the client to do and it is my job and my honor to help you to do these things. You are not alone. I am here and we will work together in whatever challenge you have that is creating an issue in your life.

Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming, and I believe one of the most important parts of therapy is feeling safe enough to be yourself. My goal is to create a space where you feel accepted, understood, and never judged. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, or neurodivergence, I'll meet you with compassion, curiosity, and genuine respect. Being autistic gives me a unique perspective on what it can feel like to move through a world that isn't always designed for different ways of thinking and experiencing life. Combined with my professional training, this helps me provide affirming, practical, and empathetic care for neurodivergent and neurotypical clients alike.

Hello and Welcome! I am Tammy Jones, a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Maryland. I have been in the helping profession for many years and thoroughly enjoy working with and helping others. I aspire to ensure that clients feel safe in the therapeutic environment and that they are comfortable talking with me about their personal selves. I will meet the client where they are in their journey and strive towards providing them with the tools to navigate through their depression, anxiety, and grief and loss, so they may improve their individual functioning. Therapy can stimulate personal development in areas that you wish to grow. I am willing and ready to listen when you are ready to begin your journey.

Usually, my clients seek therapy and counseling after struggling with challenges for days and sometimes months. Over time, these same challenges create maladaptive behavior patterns that must be corrected to facilitate change. However, my clients tend to dig in while inserting a host of new concerns. Albert Einstien wrote: "We can't solve today's problems with the mentality that created them" With this in mind, it is better to seek professional services and resources: Recognizing you're not alone in this healing process. I understand that therapy cannot solve all things of the past that challenge us, but clients can seek support, understanding, and better days. My passion is to help the world heal through community and humanity. I'm ready to help you define and rewrite your new beginning. This will allow you to sculpt the person you want to be.

Hey there, I'm Paris a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in MD and a National Board Certified Counselor. I have over 8 years of experience in the mental health field. I work with children, adolescents, and adults fostering an environment where you can tackle anxiety, depression, family issues, self-esteem, life transitions and more. I am all about encouraging mindfulness, creating self-care routines, and setting realistic boundaries for a healthier/happier life. I approach therapy through a holistic lens meaning I am seeing you as a whole not just how you present certain parts. Together we can start this journey of self-discovery and growth to navigate this wonderful and messy thing we call life.

Tracy is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who creates a warm, nonjudgmental space where clients feel genuinely heard, respected, and supported. She takes a collaborative, strengths-based approach, assisting clients with feeling less overwhelmed, helping them reconnect with their resilience, and move forward with greater clarity and confidence while building practical coping skills and creating meaningful, lasting change in their daily lives.

I earned my Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology in Washington, DC. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) currently practicing in the state of Maryland. I have 9 years of experience working with adults and adolescents diagnosed with mental illness, trauma, substance use disorder and co-occurring disorders. I am an empathic therapist who takes a person-centered approach to assisting clients on their pathway to well-being. I believe the therapeutic relationship is an important partnership and clients should have an active role in the work necessary to facilitate the changes one desires.

Hello, I am Melisha Harris, a licensed clinical social worker dedicated to helping individuals, families, ministry leaders, and professionals navigate life's challenges with confidence and hope. As a therapist, I create a safe, confidential, and compassionate space where you can explore your story, heal, and grow. Whether you’re facing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, life transitions, caregiver stress, ministry burnout, leadership challenges, or simply seeking greater clarity and peace, I’m here to support you. Counseling can help you rediscover your strengths and build the life you deeply deserve. If you’re ready to take that next step, I will walk with you to create a safe and welcoming environment that allows clients to explore, heal and improve their quality of life.

My career began with a strong community focus, including service at the first free health clinic dedicated to supporting the HIV-impacted community and early work in community mental health. In my 28 years of clinical experience I have maintained a child and family-centered approach while broadening my expertise across a wide range of settings, including inpatient residential care, hospital social work, nephrology, crisis and trauma counseling for children and adults, military social work, and academia. My practice includes supporting individuals through transitions, grief, depression, chronic pain, and complex social service needs. I hold postgraduate training in social welfare and psychology, which has enriched my skills and informed my integrative, client-centered approach aimed at fostering resilience and healing.

Hi there, I'm Ladonna, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker supporting clients in Virginia, Washington DC, and Maryland. I have experience providing crisis intervention for a crisis line and providing psychotherapy services to children, adults, and families in private practice, schools, nonprofit outpatient clinics, and a local government agency. I meet my clients where they are at using an eclectic approach, pulling from multiple evidence-based therapy practices.

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!

Hi I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I received my Master's Degree in 2010 from Loyola University and have been seeing clients since then . I especially enjoy helping adults deal with stressful transitions and challenges in life. My goal is to help clients gain insight and understanding about their challenges so that we together can find helpful solutions.

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.

Kiti Jackson is a Licensed Therapist (LCPC) in Maryland. Kiti has a Bachelor of Arts in Christian Psychology and a Master of Arts in Human Services and Counseling. Led by her desire to help others, she also earned a Master of Arts in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and EMDR therapist, she specializes in helping clients with trauma. Kiti has extensive experience working with adolescents and adults. Kiti is an islander from Oahu, Hawaii, who has an affection for the outdoors. She enjoys spending time with her four children and husband. Her years as a military spouse taught her to be flexible because things can change in the blink of an eye. She enjoys long walks with her husband and their three Akitas. You will often find Kiti binge-watching Monk, biking, traveling, and exploring various foods.

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.

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.

You may feel desperate, alone, and misunderstood. You feel like you are floating in the bottom of a lake and cannot see the light above you. Everyday, you feel like you are just going through the motions. If this describes you, then I may be the therapist for you. In my nearly twenty years of experience, I have helped people like you reach their potential and achieve the recovery that they needed. There is no set system or quick fix as others may promise, but I will walk down the road with you. My primary focus is on helping you deal with ambiguity. Often our thoughts and subsequently what we teach ourselves becomes rigid and fairly black and white. Using a pragmatic and authentic approach to therapy I try and help you be okay with things that are beyond your control and work with you to establish yourself as the protagonist in your own story. This is primarily accomplished through conversation and allowing you the client to guide the therapy in the direction it needs to go.

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. I AM ONLY AVAILABLE FOR BI-WEEKLY SESSIONS AT THIS TIME. 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.