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

Most of my clients describe me as being fully engaged, compassionate, intuitive, and challenging. I tend to be direct, authentic and kind. Over my 30 years of clinical practice, I have worked in a wide variety of settings, including mental health clinics, psychiatric hospital, corporate settings, taught graduate school and maintained a private practice. I have also provided critical incident debriefings and corporate trainings. During COVID, I closed my on-site office and now maintain a 100% remote private practice.

I am a seasoned therapist with extensive experience supporting individuals dealing with addiction, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). My work focuses on helping clients develop practical coping strategies, build resilience, and achieve meaningful personal growth. In addition to clinical mental health support, I specialize in career development and helping individuals facing challenges related to re-entering the workforce. My background in Correctional and Mental Health Services has given me a broad and adaptable skill set to meet a variety of client needs. I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC), Master Addiction Counselor (MAC), and National Certified Counselor (NCC). I provide ethical, results-driven care to people ready to move toward a brighter, more stable future.

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

I’m a therapist who offers a thoughtful, practical space to help you understand patterns, navigate emotions, and move forward. I work collaboratively, blending evidence-based tools with a warm, human approach tailored to your needs. My style is calm, direct, and supportive, helping you make sense of what’s happening and what to do next. I offer a steady, nonjudgmental space to explore challenges and build healthier ways of relating to yourself and others. Provides measurement-informed care and therapeutic alliance.

Greetings Fellow Traveler! My name is Marcy and I have been working as a mental health therapist for a little over 17 years. I have worked in a variety of settings from community-based to college counseling centers. I have worked with folks from ages 2 and up as well as people from a variety of backgrounds. I have come to specialize in working with folks from marginalized and/or unconventional populations, including BIPoC, ENM relationships and the queer community. I have also worked with folks from a variety of religious backgrounds. I take an existential approach to the therapeutic experience - believing each of us to be on a journey with the ultimate goal being self-actualization. As you'll likely face many hurdles towards that end goal, therapy can be a great way to accommodate your forward momentum! I love this work, and I bring myself and my energy to each session 100%. I tend to use my sense of humor a good deal in my work. During our sessions, the focus will be on you and you only. We will focus on the content you choose to prioritize and individualize our work to meet your goals. I have been fortunate to share in a lot of peoples' journeys thus far in my career, and I look forward to the honor of being a part of yours. Thanks for your consideration!

MALES-ONLY THERAPIST*** Jason has experience working with Males with a variety of presenting concerns, such as substance use, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting, and trauma. Jason earned his Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Johns Hopkins University in 2020. He gives a lot of feedback--not-like what you see in the movies. He’s a dog-person and mixes-up how he takes his coffee--but it's usually an Americano.

Hi, I’m Dinisha, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to helping adults navigate anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, relationship challenges, and life transitions. I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where clients can feel heard, understood, and empowered to create meaningful change. My approach is compassionate, practical, and collaborative, helping clients build healthier coping skills, improve emotional wellness, and gain clarity while working through life’s challenges.

Transitioning from teaching to integrative therapy, my core mission has always been guiding people to realize their full potential. I support clients through tough life phases and mental health challenges by looking at the whole person. By incorporating your unique spiritual principles into our work, we can accelerate your healing and strengthen your problem-solving skills, establishing deeply rooted, long-lasting positive change.

Dr. Kidd Colt, Ed.D; LCPC , LMHC is a licensed clinical professional counselor in Maryland and Florida. He provides psychotherapy to individuals. Dr. Colt earned his (Ed.,D) degree in counseling psychology from Argosy University. He earned his masters degree in counseling psychology (MA) from Towson University. Dr. Colt worked for over 22 years of service in the Sarasota community and specialized in treating clients with mood disorders; ADD/ADHD, stress mgmt, life changes, grief and chronic mental illnesses. Dr. Colt has flexible office hours and looks forward to meeting with you.

Peace!! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Maryland and I have a passion for uplifting and empowering others and, overall, helping people find clarity and peace in their lives. My approach to therapy is one that centers around helping you build awareness, restore balance, and feel empowered. My hope is that you walk away with more clarity and an overall feeling of being more equipped to manage life's stressors.

I am a Licensed therapist with deep roots in education and counseling, bringing over 25 years of experience working alongside young people, families, and adults through some of life's most demanding seasons. Before entering private practice, I spent 9 years as a teacher and 17 years as a school counselor, giving me a rich, grounded understanding of the challenges that unfold in schools, families, and the developmental journey from adolescence into adulthood. Like many of my clients, I live the realities of a full and layered life. I am the parent of two young adults, one navigating college and one stepping into the working world, and I am also a caregiver for my mother, who is experiencing the cognitive changes that can accompany aging. These personal experiences deepen my empathy and my genuine understanding of what it means to love people through transitions, uncertainty, and change. I come to this work not only with professional training, but with the lived knowledge of someone who understands, firsthand, how meaningful the right support can be.

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

Greetings. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in Maryland. I have 15 years experience in trauma-informed care and have experience in many mental health challenges. I believe in holistic approaches to treatment. My goal as a provider is to assist others in developing tools to suit their uniqueness. Our unique lived experience shapes us but we do not have to be defined by it.

I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker – Certified (LCSW-C) licensed in both Maryland and Colorado. I received my Masters from the University of Maryland, Baltimore and have been doing therapy for 5+ years. I help adults struggling with anxiety, depression and other issues. As a licensed social worker and therapist, I work with adults to explore how past experiences shape their lives today, tackle current mental health challenges, and create a path toward lasting well-being.

Greetings, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensed in both Texas, Maryland and Wisconsin. I hold a Master’s degree from the University of Louisville and have been practicing for over 11 years. My expertise lies in supporting individuals—both women and men—through various life transitions and stressors. Additionally, I specialize in assisting caregivers in managing the complexities of caring for family members or older adults. I have extensive experience in long-term care, particularly in working with individuals affected by dementia. I also provide treatment for a wide range of mental health concerns, including dissociative disorders, bipolar disorder, ADHD/ADD, grief, anxiety, and self-esteem issues, among others. *I do not treat addiction, sexual disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder or borderline personality disorder. * Throughout my career, I have worked with clients facing career-related stress, helping them find clarity and navigate challenges effectively. My goal is to form a meaningful connection with each client to provide support, guidance, and insight as they work through life's obstacles. Thank you for considering me as a resource on your journey toward healing and growth.

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 Dr. Anita Marade and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over thirty years of experience in mental health. I have also worked with the Department of Defense and as a contractor with the U.S. Navy, Air Force and Army have a very good understanding of the military culture. In addition, I was the Psychological Health Coordinator with the U.S. Army and worked at The Arlington National Guard Bureau in Arlington, Virginia. Further, I received my Doctorate in Education Counseling Psychology in August '2011 and the title of my dissertation is "Examining Anger and Alcohol Use To Risk of Assault Among Adult Male Offenders of Domestic Violence." Moreover, I am a Board Approved Supervisor for Social Work in the state of Maryland. In addition, I have worked as an Employment Assistance Program Counselor for the military and with the private sector. Lastly, I am licensed as a Clinical Social Work in the states of Virginia, D.C. and Maryland and have my Board Certified Diplomate credential.

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.

You can come back from anything no matter how bad you think the situation is. It is all about your mindset. Reprogramming your mindset is the key to your success. The power of change rest in your desire to want change. I believe that people have the power to change their circumstances within themselves by changing their thought pattern first. Reprogramming your mindset is the key to your success.

Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in DC and Maryland. I received my training from the University of Pennsylvania and have been practicing for 7 years affording me the privilege of working with brave individuals like yourself. In our world, we constantly interact with others, yet let's be honest, relationshipping in any capacity is one of the toughest jobs. I am passionate about helping individuals identify barriers, look inward, and develop skills to promote healthier, workable relationships. Together, we can do the work so that you can replace things like regret, anxiety, circular conversations, and hopelessness. Instead, you will be equipped with the tools to not only improve how you interact with others, but also how you manage and love yourself.

I am Angela Velez, a Licensed Professional Counselor in the greater Atlanta area, and I’d love to help you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery. At this time, all sessions are conducted using HIPAA compliant telehealth formats for the states of Connecticut, Maryland, and Georgia. I've been a therapist for 19 years, graduating from East Tennessee State University and Arizona State University, with graduate degrees in counseling and applied behavioral analysis.

I am a Licensed Certified Clinical Social Worker with over twenty years experience working with individuals, families and groups. I work from the perspective of a client centered approach in the fact every client is unique and treatment should reflect their personal goals. I use a reality based approach and humour is imperative in overcoming trauma. In addition to my clinical practice, I also have over ten years experience in clinical supervision and professional growth empowerment. I have certain interventions I do not practice and they are CBT, Christian Counseling/directed spiritual guidance, EMDR and Hypnosis. I look forward to discussing your individual needs further when meeting you soon.

“I’m just so frustrated and angry! I don’t even know why!” Have you ever felt that? That sense of confusion or desperation to know WHY you feel the way you do or what emotion you are even feeling?? Well, My name is Amanda and I am a licensed clinical professional counselor and I hope to help you with that! I have my Masters in Counseling psychology and my overall goal is to allow my clients a safe space to open up and process any thought or feelings that they have. I have almost 5 years experience, with 4 of those being post-grad. I have a good bit of experience working as a crisis counselor, so crisis intervention, management, safety planning, and solution based therapy is an area that I do not shy away from. I also enjoy outpatient therapy, that means you! 😊 I have worked with many clients who have suffered with trauma (childhood, relational, adult, etc), anxiety, depression, ADHD, and much more. I strive to maintain a safe and nonjudgmental environment for my client. In relation to my style, I tend to be personable and warm. I want to listen to your story and what has shaped you into you before jumping head on into the deeper emotions. I plan to put myself into your shoes and into your darkness so we can find the light together!

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.

I am a clinically licensed social worker in Virginia with over 10 years experience working as a counselor with adolescents and adults. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including anger management, relationship issues, goal setting and achievement, and parenting problems. My counseling style is upbeat, motivational, and interactive. I believe in getting to know each person as a unique individual and working creatively to incorporate your beliefs, values, and important life experiences into reaching your goals. My approach is very client-centered with a focus in cognitive-behavioral therapy. I will work with you to understand and meet your specific needs and desires.

I am a solo single mother, solo private practice owner, and licensed clinical social worker – certified (LCSW-C), with more than 20 years of experience in the Mental Health Field working with a variety of mental and emotional issues such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, anger and stress management, childhood/adolescent developmental stressors, and life transitional stages. The remarkable moments and the the difficult ones ( in some obvious ways or in subtle ways that sometimes sneak up on us) can cause us to go through life merely surviving or struggling, often feeling alone. It doesn't stop there. Often the life and soul work is also challenging (but rewarding process) , that can make you feel alone too! My role is to fill in that gap. You do not need to be alone. The work should be experienced in a safe, loving, and understanding environment. As a holder of your pain, your hope, and your light, let me stand by your side and empower you to face obstacles and challenges. Let us go beyond surviving this life, but healing our hearts and mind so we can love and enjoy the moments we have right now, the best we can.

Welcome to my page! I greatly appreciate you taking the time to read through and get to know a little bit more about me. I went into mental health therapy because I enjoyed learning about the mind and the brain, and I love being able to help people. While my background is in mental health, I have a license in social work. I enjoy the broader scope that my license affords me. I feel that it allows me to offer a broader perspective on things and serve a wider variety of people. I aim to expand as I grow and develop in my practice. I want to be able to give the best therapy I can. Which is why I am not only honest with myself about my strengths but also where my limitations are. My goal is for everyone to get the help they need, whether I am the person who provides that or not. Without going into too much detail, I have had my fair share of adverse experiences. While I was fortunate enough to have people who were well-meaning, they were unable to support me in the way that I needed them to. Being a therapist allows me to be that person who has the tools to support people.

I feel honored that you, my client, have chosen to trust me with deeply personal feelings and memories. I have been a psychotherapist helping clients for more than 30 years, and have worked with people of many different backgrounds, issues, ages, and cultures, including those in the LGBTQ community. If I have the privilege of working with you, you will enjoy my thoughtful questions and empathic comments. We will find out your goals – what you want to change - and work towards those, at your pace, aiming to improve your mental health and relationships. Having been in the field nearly 50 years, I have developed specialties in: helping people with chronic illness, with trauma, parenting, adult marital and partner relationships, adult sibling relationships, and work-related issues.

I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker, Clinical (LCSW-C) offering individual and couples counseling to adults navigating personal goals and mental health concerns. My counseling style is warm, interactive, and collaborative — I believe deeply in treating every client with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I tailor my approach to meet each client's unique needs, drawing on cognitive-behavioral and solution-focused therapy to help you move toward meaningful, lasting change. I meet you where you are, and we work together to define and achieve your goals at a pace that feels right for you. I have experience working with a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting challenges, ADHD, chronic health conditions, and perinatal mental health — including postpartum depression. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling life and to take that first step toward change. If you're ready, I am here to support and empower you.

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.

Welcome! My name is Kelini and I am committed to supporting both individuals and couples through life’s unique challenges. I work diligently to be your safe sounding board. I aim to help clients to understand that not only are they learning from me, but I from them as well. I create a safe space for you to navigate your stressors. We will move at your pace, build a trusting relationship, and discover a custom-fit key to unlocking YOUR best life.

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.

**Hello there! My name is Alexis Staton, LCSW-C.** I am a first-generation graduate and postgraduate African American cisgender female dedicated to breaking generational cycles. My own life experiences have drawn me to this field, and I understand that doing the work on oneself is a significant and challenging task. I hold both a Bachelor of Arts in Communications and a Master of Social Work with a focus on Urban Child Welfare and Families from Morgan State University. As an interventionist, I strive to connect authentically with my clients, empowering them to embrace all their experiences, which ultimately shape who they are and how they "show up in the world." As a Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical (LCSW-C) mental health therapist, I bring almost a decade of clinical experience to my practice. I have provided both intensive and outpatient treatment, helping clients overcome anxiety, depression, and trauma through various treatment modalities designed to promote optimum functionality. My work often included participating on interdisciplinary teams, maintaining ongoing collaboration with primary care providers, psychiatrists, and public school IEP teams, among others. This holistic approach ensures comprehensive care and supports the diverse needs of my clients. My goal is to facilitate healing and growth, helping individuals achieve their best possible mental health and well-being.

Greetings, my name is John Luke. I am a licensed clinical social worker and specialize in helping people to effectively manage anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns using cognitive behavioral techniques. I have worked with a range of populations, nearly all ages, and also have experience with addiction treatment and life-coaching. I work with people to develop insight into the source of their problems, how their core beliefs about the world might be hindering their progress, and focus on their natural strengths to overcome those barriers with practical skills that generate sustainable change. Some of my other specialties include short-term, solution-focused therapy; cognitive behavioral therapy techniques; psychodynamic approaches; and marital counseling. Some of the problems I am particularly keen on solving with my clients include issues with self-image and confidence; dating and relationships; boundary-setting and assertive communication; as well as general anxiety management; and learning to identify and productively resolve emotional unrest. I am also very experienced in cognitive restructuring, which is just a fancy way of saying helping to change the way a person thinks about the world and their place in it. I also enjoy aiding people in goal setting and identification, meaning-making, and navigating family conflicts. If you feel any of this could be helpful or useful to you, please do not hesitate to reach out! (Note: I do work with couples, but only on a cash-pay basis. Also, I only work with ages 18+)

Hello! My name is Douglas 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.

Appointments are available Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings. Welcome! I’m an LCSW-C practicing in Maryland, and I earned my MSW from the University of Maryland School of Social Work in Baltimore. With almost 40 years of experience in mental health settings, I bring a warm, thoughtful, and grounded approach to helping people better understand what they need and where to begin. Having worked in mental health across several decades, I’ve seen the field become both richer and more complex. There are now many more kinds of therapists, areas of specialization, and approaches to care than most clients know how to sort through on their own. I’m especially helpful for people who have struggled to find the right therapist fit. Many come in feeling overwhelmed, discouraged by past starts and stops, or unsure why therapy has not felt as helpful as they hoped. One of my strengths is listening carefully, noticing patterns, and helping people clarify what kind of support may fit them best. For some, that may mean continuing therapy with me. For others, it may mean leaving with more clarity about what kind of therapist, style, or approach they may want to look for. I offer virtual therapy throughout Maryland and make evening appointments available because I know many people need options that are both convenient and accessible.

Hello! My name is Dr. Steia Williams, and I am a licensed clinical social worker and licensed psychology associate in Maryland and Virginia. I have a Master's in social work and a Doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology. I have over 8 years of experience in providing individual and couples therapy. I help clients struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and relationship difficulties.

Would you like to feel more in control and empowered in your life? Have more self-love and the self-awareness to recognize and understand your thoughts, emotions, and beliefs? If so, I am the therapist for you! Working with me, you will gain a deeper understanding and mastery of your inner world. I will assist you in cultivating self-love, self-awareness, and self-empowerment. Together, we will strengthen your ability to regulate your emotions, thoughts, actions, and relationships. My goal as your therapist is to have you feeling and acting with supreme love and confidence.

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 Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-C) with over five years of experience supporting individuals through grief, trauma, anxiety, and attachment-related challenges. I take a compassionate, trauma-informed approach, integrating CBT, and attachment-based therapies to meet each client’s unique needs. I strive to create a warm, nonjudgmental space where clients feel supported, understood, and empowered to move toward meaningful change and emotional well-being.

Dr. Opelt earned his Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology at New Mexico State University after completing his Master’s of Science in Educational Psychology: Community Counseling from the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee. During his graduate training, he earned certifications in Trauma Counseling and Multicultural Knowledge Basis in Mental Health Practices, and a graduate minor in Integrated Behavioral Health. Dr. Opelt has completed postdoctoral fellowships in research in Rehabilitation Psychology, with an emphasis on Multiple Sclerosis, at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, and in clinical Rehabilitation and Pain Psychology at MedStar Health National Rehabilitation Hospital. He has focused his clinical work on adults who have concerns about insomnia, cognitive impairment, addiction, LGBT+ concerns, caregiver support, transplants, burn survivors, cancer, musculoskeletal diseases like MS and Parkinson’s disease, and those who have amputations. He is a licensed psychologist in Maryland and Illinois.

I am a dedicated Clinical Social Worker with experience supporting individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and relational challenges. I am committed to providing structured, goal-oriented care that promotes emotional wellness, resilience, and long-term growth. I utilize evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to help clients build insight, regulate emotions, process trauma, and develop practical coping skills. My approach is collaborative, strengths-based, and trauma-informed. With experience in clinical supervision and program oversight, I am passionate about maintaining high standards of care while empowering both my clients and clinical teams to grow with confidence and clarity.

My name is Dawn Sheree Paramore, a Licensed Professional Counselor of Mental Health with a Doctorate in Prevention Science, which aligns with my passion for helping individuals heal, grow, and thrive. With over a decade of experience in the mental health field, I specialize in working with individuals navigating trauma, depression, anxiety, and significant life transitions. My approach is rooted in compassion, evidence-based practices, and a deep understanding of the impact of adversity on mental and emotional well-being. I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and trauma-informed techniques to help clients recognize and reframe unhelpful thoughts, manage overwhelming emotions, and develop practical coping skills. Through Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), I support individuals in safely processing difficult experiences, building resilience, and regaining a sense of control and safety in their lives. I also incorporate psychoeducation into my work, believing that when clients understand what they’re experiencing and why, they're empowered to take active steps toward recovery. Whether someone is dealing with the effects of childhood trauma, struggling with feelings of worthlessness, or facing significant life changes like loss, career shifts, or relationship challenges, I walk alongside them with empathy and professional insight. I meet people where they are, offering a safe space to explore their story and rewrite it with strength and purpose. My mission is to help people move from surviving to thriving by providing therapeutic support that is both affirming and transformative. Healing is possible, and I’m here to guide that journey with care, skill, and a belief in every person’s ability to rise.

I have worked in the behavioral health field for over 25 years, in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I am a licensed mental health professional in multiple states. I have earned progressively higher leadership responsibilities throughout my career, including providing clinical and executive leadership. Additionally, I have been providing telehealth services and striving to improve access to quality behavioral health services across the country since 2015. I have been fortunate to gain experience in diverse areas and feel I am equipped to help people with a variety of issues. I received a Master’s Degree in Professional Counseling from Lindenwood University and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology from McKendree University.

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.

As a therapist, I strive to create a non-judgmental space for my clients through warmth, engagement, and sometimes humor. It is my hope that my clients always feel supported by me, even when I challenge them to take accountability and change their patterns. I love to listen, learn, and form relationships with people from all walks of life. I have over 5 years of experience working with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, perfectionism, disordered eating, and stress from work, school, relationships, and/or their families.

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.

Are you looking to improve your communication, strengthen your relationships, and manage conflict more effectively? Interpersonal skills are the foundation of healthy and thriving relationships—both personal and professional. If you are recovering from an emotionally abusive or narcissistic relationship and feel disconnected from yourself, therapy can also help you rebuild your identity, strengthen your relationship with yourself, and develop healthier relationship patterns. I am a relationship counselor, currently providing individual and group therapy for adults aged 18 and older. I specialize in helping clients improve their relationship with themselves through personal growth and the development of healthier interpersonal skills, including communication, conflict resolution, anger management, boundary-setting, emotional regulation, and problem-solving skills. Many individuals struggling in unhealthy, emotionally abusive, or narcissistic relationship dynamics often lose their sense of self, confidence, voice, and emotional balance within those relationships. A major focus of my work is helping clients reconnect with themselves, rebuild healthier patterns, and strengthen how they show up in relationships with others. How you relate to yourself impacts every relationship in your life. When you learn to communicate effectively, set healthy boundaries, manage emotions, and navigate challenges in healthier ways, your relationships often become stronger, more balanced, and more fulfilling. This growth can improve confidence, reduce stress, and support overall emotional wellness. I provide a supportive environment where clients can increase self-awareness, create meaningful change, and develop healthier connections with themselves and others. Schedule an appointment with me to begin your wellness journey.

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!!!