Photo of Ashley Sweet, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westminster, MD
Ashley Sweet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MEd, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Westminster, MD 21157
I have experience with queer identities, sexual dysfunction, & relationship exploration, as well as anxiety, depression, and other life transition concerns.
I get it: opening up to someone new is scary. But if you’re reading this, you’ve probably been thinking about making a change. Maybe you’re ready to grow, expand your awareness of yourself and your relationships. Maybe you’re struggling with life’s ups and downs. The first step is the hardest, and you’ve already done that! I believe in building trust in a non-judgmental, accepting space where we can develop a strong therapeutic relationship. Together, we explore your world, the influences of people and society around you, the history that informs where you are now, and how we can facilitate healing from past and current pain.
I have experience with queer identities, sexual dysfunction, & relationship exploration, as well as anxiety, depression, and other life transition concerns.
I get it: opening up to someone new is scary. But if you’re reading this, you’ve probably been thinking about making a change. Maybe you’re ready to grow, expand your awareness of yourself and your relationships. Maybe you’re struggling with life’s ups and downs. The first step is the hardest, and you’ve already done that! I believe in building trust in a non-judgmental, accepting space where we can develop a strong therapeutic relationship. Together, we explore your world, the influences of people and society around you, the history that informs where you are now, and how we can facilitate healing from past and current pain.
(443) 233-0179 View (443) 233-0179
Photo of Judith Viers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westminster, MD
Judith Viers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westminster, MD 21157
Waitlist for new clients
If you or your child are struggling with feelings of depression, anxiety, feeling misunderstood, struggling with a loss or having conflict in a relationship, I would be honored to help you on your healing journey! Sessions are individualized; tailored to your goals. I use supportive reflection and can use CBT, provide trauma informed care, studied Gottman and many other therapeutic approaches. I am also an Art Therapy Practitioner and specialize in memorial art (memorial bookmarks, magnets, buttons, painted rocks, picture frames). I hope therapy is a positive empowering chapter in clients' lives.
If you or your child are struggling with feelings of depression, anxiety, feeling misunderstood, struggling with a loss or having conflict in a relationship, I would be honored to help you on your healing journey! Sessions are individualized; tailored to your goals. I use supportive reflection and can use CBT, provide trauma informed care, studied Gottman and many other therapeutic approaches. I am also an Art Therapy Practitioner and specialize in memorial art (memorial bookmarks, magnets, buttons, painted rocks, picture frames). I hope therapy is a positive empowering chapter in clients' lives.
(410) 559-9414 View (410) 559-9414
Photo of Heather M Stackus, Counselor in Westminster, MD
Heather M Stackus
Counselor, MEd, LCPC, NCC, NCSC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westminster, MD 21158  (Online Only)
I help clients reduce anxiety and depression who have experienced trauma.
I work with children, adults, families, and couples. I work to help strengthen the development of parenting skills, boundary setting, communication, decision making and behavioral management. I assist with the development of emotional intelligence including self-awareness, self-regulation, social skills, and empathy for others. For children, I see ages 3+.
I help clients reduce anxiety and depression who have experienced trauma.
I work with children, adults, families, and couples. I work to help strengthen the development of parenting skills, boundary setting, communication, decision making and behavioral management. I assist with the development of emotional intelligence including self-awareness, self-regulation, social skills, and empathy for others. For children, I see ages 3+.
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Photo of Martha Smith, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Westminster, MD
Martha Smith
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Westminster, MD 21157
My approach to counseling is a strengths based one. I specialize in treating children, teenagers and adults. I have advanced training in play therapy, ABA therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and trauma. I believe that when people are going through serious life events they can change for the better with active listening, empathy, unconditional acceptance and the use of an eclectic approach to meet the patients individual needs.
My approach to counseling is a strengths based one. I specialize in treating children, teenagers and adults. I have advanced training in play therapy, ABA therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and trauma. I believe that when people are going through serious life events they can change for the better with active listening, empathy, unconditional acceptance and the use of an eclectic approach to meet the patients individual needs.
(410) 324-6312 View (410) 324-6312
Photo of Amy Heikkinen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westminster, MD
Amy Heikkinen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Westminster, MD 21157
Carroll Creative Therapy is a psychotherapy practice serving clients of all ages, and provides evidence-based play therapy for children. For older children and teens, we combine strategies and wisdom from play therapy along with traditional talk therapy, often using age-appropriate tools like the creative arts, video games, and social media. Our work with adults tends to look more like traditional talk therapy, but incorporates many of these same elements through conversation. We are also proud to support gender-diverse and LGBTQ+ clients of all ages, and have a deep knowledge of the community.
Carroll Creative Therapy is a psychotherapy practice serving clients of all ages, and provides evidence-based play therapy for children. For older children and teens, we combine strategies and wisdom from play therapy along with traditional talk therapy, often using age-appropriate tools like the creative arts, video games, and social media. Our work with adults tends to look more like traditional talk therapy, but incorporates many of these same elements through conversation. We are also proud to support gender-diverse and LGBTQ+ clients of all ages, and have a deep knowledge of the community.
(443) 201-7850 View (443) 201-7850
Photo of The Counseling Renaissance, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Westminster, MD
The Counseling Renaissance
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westminster, MD 21157
We have Immediate Openings! Christlyn McCaskill, ATR-BC, LCPAT, LCPC, Sheena Anthony, LGPC, and Rachel Scholnick, LMSW are available to work with teens and adults struggling with mood, anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem, and more, both in-person and virtually. We offer clients a safe space to discover, explore, and process. Christlyn has special skills with trauma work and art therapy. Sheena uses Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. Rachel uses a strengths-based, collaborative approach, and especially works with grief, and women's issues.
We have Immediate Openings! Christlyn McCaskill, ATR-BC, LCPAT, LCPC, Sheena Anthony, LGPC, and Rachel Scholnick, LMSW are available to work with teens and adults struggling with mood, anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem, and more, both in-person and virtually. We offer clients a safe space to discover, explore, and process. Christlyn has special skills with trauma work and art therapy. Sheena uses Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. Rachel uses a strengths-based, collaborative approach, and especially works with grief, and women's issues.
(410) 657-8749 View (410) 657-8749
Photo of Joy Martin, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Westminster, MD
Joy Martin
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westminster, MD 21157
I begin therapy by building a strong relationship with my clients. It is my goal that you feel safe and cared for when we are together, and I do my best to step into your experience with you and feel what you are feeling. Clients find me nurturing and have confidence that I am helping them reach their goals. I enjoy working with couples, children, and individuals. With couples, I help uncover destructive relationship patterns and establish new patterns that bring healing, and mutual satisfaction. With children, I provide play therapy and work as a team with their parents and caregivers to reach their goals.
I begin therapy by building a strong relationship with my clients. It is my goal that you feel safe and cared for when we are together, and I do my best to step into your experience with you and feel what you are feeling. Clients find me nurturing and have confidence that I am helping them reach their goals. I enjoy working with couples, children, and individuals. With couples, I help uncover destructive relationship patterns and establish new patterns that bring healing, and mutual satisfaction. With children, I provide play therapy and work as a team with their parents and caregivers to reach their goals.
(410) 873-9825 View (410) 873-9825

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Samantha Norris, Counselor in Westminster, MD
Samantha Norris
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manchester, MD 21102  (Online Only)
Samantha is passionate about working with children and adolescents by engaging in play and expressive based therapies. Specifically working with any adjustment challenges, trauma, identity/role exploration, and neurodivergent umbrella needs. In addition to working with children and teens, Samantha has a passion for working with attachment, exploring neurodivergent identity, family of origin,parent/child relationships, prenatal, perinatal, working with young mothers and building general meaning, resiliency and connection in all lives! She aims to provide an integrative approach that is tailored to the comfort and style of the person.
Samantha is passionate about working with children and adolescents by engaging in play and expressive based therapies. Specifically working with any adjustment challenges, trauma, identity/role exploration, and neurodivergent umbrella needs. In addition to working with children and teens, Samantha has a passion for working with attachment, exploring neurodivergent identity, family of origin,parent/child relationships, prenatal, perinatal, working with young mothers and building general meaning, resiliency and connection in all lives! She aims to provide an integrative approach that is tailored to the comfort and style of the person.
(410) 304-7104 View (410) 304-7104

Online Therapists

Photo of Jeff Percacciante, Pre-Licensed Professional in Westminster, MD
Jeff Percacciante
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
We all carry stories in our heads that inhibit us from being our best selves. My intention, through creative, therapeutic collaboration, is to gently challenge those stories and clear away the obstacles to happiness. My clients face a variety of issues, ranging from depression, anxiety and adjustment disorders to problematic attachment patterns, unresolved trauma and fractured body image. The common thread between these obstacles is the bedrock of my practice: taking a mindful look at all parts of our being, past, present and future, quieting shame, and empowering you to see a brighter future for yourself.
We all carry stories in our heads that inhibit us from being our best selves. My intention, through creative, therapeutic collaboration, is to gently challenge those stories and clear away the obstacles to happiness. My clients face a variety of issues, ranging from depression, anxiety and adjustment disorders to problematic attachment patterns, unresolved trauma and fractured body image. The common thread between these obstacles is the bedrock of my practice: taking a mindful look at all parts of our being, past, present and future, quieting shame, and empowering you to see a brighter future for yourself.
(443) 727-1250 View (443) 727-1250
Photo of Amphora Psychotherapy , Counselor in Westminster, MD
Amphora Psychotherapy
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20902  (Online Only)
Hello, and welcome! What a big step you've taken by looking for help; we know it wasn't easy, but you made it! Amphora Psychotherapy was created out of our passion for supporting people on their journey to finding themselves. Along the way, our top priority is to hold compassionate space for all of you - all of your joy and sorrow, your fear and anger, your old wounds and new. We specialize in working with adults struggling with numbness, anger, depression, anxiety, codependency, or low self-esteem due to trauma related to relationships, family, or adverse experiences.
Hello, and welcome! What a big step you've taken by looking for help; we know it wasn't easy, but you made it! Amphora Psychotherapy was created out of our passion for supporting people on their journey to finding themselves. Along the way, our top priority is to hold compassionate space for all of you - all of your joy and sorrow, your fear and anger, your old wounds and new. We specialize in working with adults struggling with numbness, anger, depression, anxiety, codependency, or low self-esteem due to trauma related to relationships, family, or adverse experiences.
(301) 381-3491 View (301) 381-3491
Photo of Penny Zimmerman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westminster, MD
Penny Zimmerman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20904  (Online Only)
My clients are smart, successful people who want to create change in their lives. Does your life look good on paper, but you don't feel happy or fulfilled? Experiencing mild to moderate anxiety or depression? Maybe, like many, you suffered trauma, now interfering with your quality of life. You want insight and action, process and results, to feel and perform better. Maybe you are the concerned parent of a child, seeking help for emotional or behavior problems. You want a trusted therapist for your child who will include you in their treatment, and who will provide you with information and realistic strategies you can use at home.
My clients are smart, successful people who want to create change in their lives. Does your life look good on paper, but you don't feel happy or fulfilled? Experiencing mild to moderate anxiety or depression? Maybe, like many, you suffered trauma, now interfering with your quality of life. You want insight and action, process and results, to feel and perform better. Maybe you are the concerned parent of a child, seeking help for emotional or behavior problems. You want a trusted therapist for your child who will include you in their treatment, and who will provide you with information and realistic strategies you can use at home.
(301) 888-5343 View (301) 888-5343
Photo of Stephanie Trisi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westminster, MD
Stephanie Trisi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Hyattsville, MD 20782  (Online Only)
I work with adults with a gamut of issues, including PTSD, anxiety, depression and chronic pain.
My mission as a therapist is to create a completely non-judgmental, loving container in which your transformation unfolds. I believe that all mental—and many physical—health “symptoms” are all parts of us with good intentions, calling frantically for our loving attention. I believe in healing, not coping. We are so much more than a diagnosis and a bundle of symptoms; we are so much more than our pain and trauma. I believe that in each of us resides a marvelous, pure, all-loving essence that is the home base of our healing. My role, as the therapist, is to simply guide you there.
I work with adults with a gamut of issues, including PTSD, anxiety, depression and chronic pain.
My mission as a therapist is to create a completely non-judgmental, loving container in which your transformation unfolds. I believe that all mental—and many physical—health “symptoms” are all parts of us with good intentions, calling frantically for our loving attention. I believe in healing, not coping. We are so much more than a diagnosis and a bundle of symptoms; we are so much more than our pain and trauma. I believe that in each of us resides a marvelous, pure, all-loving essence that is the home base of our healing. My role, as the therapist, is to simply guide you there.
(240) 883-5697 View (240) 883-5697
Photo of Dr. Leda Kaveh, Psychologist in Westminster, MD
Dr. Leda Kaveh
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Kaveh & her team sees individuals for a range of issues including anxiety, depression, unsatisfying relationships, LGBTQ issues, overwhelming emotions, self-esteem, academic challenges, family discord, lack of motivation as well as workplace challenges.
Dr. Kaveh is the owner/director of Washington Psychological Wellness. Dr. Kaveh is passionate about helping people live the lives they have envisioned by bringing values of honesty, kindness, humor & compassion to the practice. She works to inspire change, create greater self-awareness & improve one's life. She provides a comfortable and collaborative environment in which you can take risks and explore different ways of thinking, feeling & being. Her aim is to help you gain clarity about the underlying causes of your problems, provide strategies to help you cope & empower you to trust your inner voice & live each day authentically.
Kaveh & her team sees individuals for a range of issues including anxiety, depression, unsatisfying relationships, LGBTQ issues, overwhelming emotions, self-esteem, academic challenges, family discord, lack of motivation as well as workplace challenges.
Dr. Kaveh is the owner/director of Washington Psychological Wellness. Dr. Kaveh is passionate about helping people live the lives they have envisioned by bringing values of honesty, kindness, humor & compassion to the practice. She works to inspire change, create greater self-awareness & improve one's life. She provides a comfortable and collaborative environment in which you can take risks and explore different ways of thinking, feeling & being. Her aim is to help you gain clarity about the underlying causes of your problems, provide strategies to help you cope & empower you to trust your inner voice & live each day authentically.
(240) 209-9124 View (240) 209-9124
Photo of Sara Giuliani, Counselor in Westminster, MD
Sara Giuliani
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Its hard to be a teenager. Often my clients have a desire to better understand themselves and how experiences in their past inform who they are now. They may experience anxiety and depression or feel overwhelmed by stressors in their lives. Oftentimes, they struggle to cope with emotions or day to day stress and can be hard on themselves. I will work with you to process the emotions and beliefs that accompany relationship issues, identity exploration, emotional challenges, or past trauma, so you can move towards a life of fullness and connection with self and others.
Its hard to be a teenager. Often my clients have a desire to better understand themselves and how experiences in their past inform who they are now. They may experience anxiety and depression or feel overwhelmed by stressors in their lives. Oftentimes, they struggle to cope with emotions or day to day stress and can be hard on themselves. I will work with you to process the emotions and beliefs that accompany relationship issues, identity exploration, emotional challenges, or past trauma, so you can move towards a life of fullness and connection with self and others.
(301) 246-2956 View (301) 246-2956
Photo of Naomi Karp, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westminster, MD
Naomi Karp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Kensington, MD 20895
Waitlist for new clients
She has worked with a range of clients with learning disabilities, ADHD, anxiety, depression and mood disorders, high achieving students, emotion regulation difficulties, and trauma.
Naomi Karp (she/her) is a Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical (LCSW-C) practicing in Maryland with licenses in both Maryland and Washington, DC. Naomi is committed to developing a trusting therapeutic relationship and providing a safe space for people to be themselves and engage with challenging and emotionally charged topics. She is known for her warm demeanor and thoughtfulness, which she strives to bring to every encounter. Naomi believes in the power of play and incorporating playfulness into life, as well as the capacity we all have to develop and change.
She has worked with a range of clients with learning disabilities, ADHD, anxiety, depression and mood disorders, high achieving students, emotion regulation difficulties, and trauma.
Naomi Karp (she/her) is a Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical (LCSW-C) practicing in Maryland with licenses in both Maryland and Washington, DC. Naomi is committed to developing a trusting therapeutic relationship and providing a safe space for people to be themselves and engage with challenging and emotionally charged topics. She is known for her warm demeanor and thoughtfulness, which she strives to bring to every encounter. Naomi believes in the power of play and incorporating playfulness into life, as well as the capacity we all have to develop and change.
(301) 701-2065 View (301) 701-2065
Photo of Classen-Miller and Associates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westminster, MD
Classen-Miller and Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MSW
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852
Specialties of our therapists include depression, anxiety, addiction, substance abuse, bipolar, borderline personality, dual diagnosis, self-harm, OCD, psychosis, eating disorders, adoption, learning disability, ADHD, autism, insomnia, divorce, women's issues, infertility, cross-cultural, marital, couples, relationships, family conflict, trauma, PTSD, grief.
TELETHERAPY AND IN-OFFICE APPOINTMENTS with experienced psychotherapists who are licensed at the highest level of their profession. We accept mayor insurance plans and work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families, Our clinicians reflect the full diversity of our community. We provide a safe and nonjudgmental environment that enables our clients to work towards solutions, develop coping skills and have a better understanding of the issues that interfere with self-esteem and a sense of well being.
Specialties of our therapists include depression, anxiety, addiction, substance abuse, bipolar, borderline personality, dual diagnosis, self-harm, OCD, psychosis, eating disorders, adoption, learning disability, ADHD, autism, insomnia, divorce, women's issues, infertility, cross-cultural, marital, couples, relationships, family conflict, trauma, PTSD, grief.
TELETHERAPY AND IN-OFFICE APPOINTMENTS with experienced psychotherapists who are licensed at the highest level of their profession. We accept mayor insurance plans and work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families, Our clinicians reflect the full diversity of our community. We provide a safe and nonjudgmental environment that enables our clients to work towards solutions, develop coping skills and have a better understanding of the issues that interfere with self-esteem and a sense of well being.
(301) 918-5312 View (301) 918-5312
Photo of Karen Kochen Silverman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westminster, MD
Karen Kochen Silverman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LLC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21210
We all face various challenges in life. If your child is struggling in any way, it is natural to sometimes feel discouraged or overwhelmed. Perhaps you’ve noticed behavioral changes, or maybe they seem anxious, depressed, or angry. Whatever your concerns may be, I assure you that it is not too late! I am dedicated to helping you and your child or adolescent overcome their challenges and thrive. The therapy I offer will help them explore thoughts and emotions, work through any difficult experiences, and discover their inner strengths.
We all face various challenges in life. If your child is struggling in any way, it is natural to sometimes feel discouraged or overwhelmed. Perhaps you’ve noticed behavioral changes, or maybe they seem anxious, depressed, or angry. Whatever your concerns may be, I assure you that it is not too late! I am dedicated to helping you and your child or adolescent overcome their challenges and thrive. The therapy I offer will help them explore thoughts and emotions, work through any difficult experiences, and discover their inner strengths.
(443) 400-7248 View (443) 400-7248
Photo of Shandelle Hether-Gray, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westminster, MD
Shandelle Hether-Gray
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lutherville, MD 21093
My practice has focused on working with adults, adolescents, and queer folx suffering from low self-esteem, perfectionism, negative self-talk, anxiety (generalized, panic, OCD, due to adjustment, trauma) depression, familial rejection, and emerging parenthood.
I am trained in using CBT, EMDR, and other evidence-based approaches to help people make lasting changes to their self-image that lead to real changes in their lives. My approach is hands on, goal-oriented, strengths based, and gender/identity affirming. I help clients challenge unrealistic patterns of thinking, deconstruct who they are from who they have learned to be, learn how to feel safe and regulated in their body, identify options for difficult life situations that align with their values, and learn the skills to meet their needs e.g. assertiveness, boundary setting, communication, mindfulness, relaxation and grounding.
My practice has focused on working with adults, adolescents, and queer folx suffering from low self-esteem, perfectionism, negative self-talk, anxiety (generalized, panic, OCD, due to adjustment, trauma) depression, familial rejection, and emerging parenthood.
I am trained in using CBT, EMDR, and other evidence-based approaches to help people make lasting changes to their self-image that lead to real changes in their lives. My approach is hands on, goal-oriented, strengths based, and gender/identity affirming. I help clients challenge unrealistic patterns of thinking, deconstruct who they are from who they have learned to be, learn how to feel safe and regulated in their body, identify options for difficult life situations that align with their values, and learn the skills to meet their needs e.g. assertiveness, boundary setting, communication, mindfulness, relaxation and grounding.
(443) 446-4718 View (443) 446-4718
Photo of Michelle Priddy, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Westminster, MD
Michelle Priddy
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LATC
Verified Verified
Centreville, MD 21617
Have you experienced trauma that has left you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed? Do you struggle to cope with daily life and feel like your past experiences are holding you back? As a trauma-informed therapist, I understand the unique needs of people impacted by trauma and am able to use evidence-based techniques to help you heal and recover. With a safe, non-judgmental, and empowering therapeutic environment, you can process your experiences, develop coping skills, and work towards a brighter future. Don't let trauma define your life - schedule an appointment and let's begin trauma-informed therapy today.
Have you experienced trauma that has left you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed? Do you struggle to cope with daily life and feel like your past experiences are holding you back? As a trauma-informed therapist, I understand the unique needs of people impacted by trauma and am able to use evidence-based techniques to help you heal and recover. With a safe, non-judgmental, and empowering therapeutic environment, you can process your experiences, develop coping skills, and work towards a brighter future. Don't let trauma define your life - schedule an appointment and let's begin trauma-informed therapy today.
(410) 449-7502 View (410) 449-7502
Photo of Jessica Unger, Counselor in Westminster, MD
Jessica Unger
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Crofton, MD 21114
Welcome! My goal is to provide a safe and judgment free space that allows my clients to feel comfortable expressing their inner thoughts and challenges. I want to create a partnership where I am able to empower my clients to develop skills in order to manage their symptoms and be successful in their goals. I can help with such issues as anxiety, depression, grief, chronic illness, life stressors, or self-esteem. Overall, I strive to help people find the skills to handle life challenges confidently and independently.
Welcome! My goal is to provide a safe and judgment free space that allows my clients to feel comfortable expressing their inner thoughts and challenges. I want to create a partnership where I am able to empower my clients to develop skills in order to manage their symptoms and be successful in their goals. I can help with such issues as anxiety, depression, grief, chronic illness, life stressors, or self-esteem. Overall, I strive to help people find the skills to handle life challenges confidently and independently.
(410) 844-6272 View (410) 844-6272

Depression Therapists

What is the goal of therapy for depression?

Therapy for depression has several major goals. One is to relieve the mental pain of depression, which distorts feeling and thinking so that sufferers cannot see beyond their current state of mind or envision feeling better. Another is to give people the mental tools to recognize and correct the kinds of distorted thinking that turn a problem into a catastrophe and lead to despair. Therapy also teaches people how to process negative emotions in constructive ways, so they have more control over their own emotional reactivity. And it helps people regain the ability to see themselves positively, the motivation to do things, and the capacity for pleasure.

What happens in therapy for depression?

Perhaps most important, no matter the type of therapy, patients form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Patients learn to identify and to challenge their own erroneous beliefs and thoughts that amplify the effects of negative experiences. They learn to identify situations in which they are especially vulnerable. And they learn new patterns of thinking and behaving. They may be given “homework” assignments in which they practice their developing skills. In addition, good therapists regularly monitor patients to assess whether and how much the condition is improving.

What therapy types help with depression?

Several types of short-term therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioral activation (BA) is a form of therapy often used in conjunction with CBT; it focuses on engagement in rewarding activity as a pathway to changing negative feelings and disturbed mood. Another widely used approach is interpersonal therapy (IPT), which targets the social difficulties that both give rise to and get exacerbated by depression. Therapists may combine approaches as needed.

Can therapy for depression be done online?

Studies have found that online therapy can be highly effective for treating depression, although it may be more challenging to build a good therapist-patient alliance on screen than in person—at least at first. However, online therapy can offer considerable advantages. Accessibility and convenience are tops among them. Some people actually find it easier to talk about problems online than in person. While online therapy typically limits visibility of facial expression and body gestures that give important nonverbal cues to a patient’s state of mind, it can give therapists a glimpse into a patient’s world and life, providing information that can be highly useful in guiding therapy.

How effective is therapy for depression?

Many studies show that therapy is highly effective provided that patients complete the prescribed course of therapy, commonly 16 to 20 sessions. Over the long term, it is more effective than medication and the effects are more enduring. As a result, psychotherapy has the power not just to relieve current suffering but to prevent future episodes of the disorder. Therapy reverses the dysfunction in neural circuitry that disposes individuals to a negative view of themselves, the world, and their future and they acquire coping techniques, problem-solving skills, and understanding of their own vulnerabilities that are useful over the course of a lifetime.