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Lara Peter

Offering therapy in MD
License: LCPC, BC-TMH, NCC
Stress, AnxietyGriefEating disordersSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

Finding the right fit with a counselor matters, just like any other healthy relationship. It is of the utmost importance to feel supported and understood by your therapist; that you feel you can talk about everything and anything that you need or want to without fear of judgment. It may be helpful for you to know that I have also been the client in the therapeutic relationship and I understand the courage it takes to be vulnerable with another person. We will go at your pace in our work together so that the process is just as impactful as the destination. My name is Lara Peter and I am a licensed therapist (LCPC), a Board Certified-TeleMental Health Provider (BC-TMH), a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC), and a Board Approved Clinical Supervisor in Professional Counseling (ACS). I have both a B.A. and M.A. in Psychology. All of that alphabet soup aside, I have 15 years of experience in the field of mental health; 10 of those years as a therapist providing individual, family, and group therapy. I have had clients as young as 4 and through the lifespan; however, I specialize in providing individual therapy to adults. I have worked in a variety of settings including outpatient, in-home, residential, public school and universities. I believe my role as a therapist to be like that of a sponge and a mirror. I soak in what you share with me during our conversations together and reflect back to you your disclosures to foster greater self-awareness and insight into the root of the concern. My theoretical orientation is foundationally person-centered and solution-focused; however, I am eclectic in my interventions and draw from an array of theoretical approaches to best meet your needs. What this means is that I take an empowering non-judgmental stance to my work and will not only listen but also provide you with feedback, tools, and resources to help you actively achieve your goals. I believe there is no one-size-fits-all approach to counseling and I creatively partner with you to help bring about the changes you seek. I find building therapeutic relationships with my clients to be very fulfilling and genuinely appreciate the trust placed in me with the intimate details of your life. Thanks for taking the time to read a bit about me and I look forward to hearing more from you!

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Alan Kahn

Offering therapy in MD
License: LCPC, ,CCMHC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesAnger managementCompassion fatigue
3 years of experience

Hi, my name is Alan and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the states of Georgia, Maryland and the District of Columbia. I have been Licensed as a Professional Counselor since 1996. I have a master’s degree from the University of Connecticut at Bridgeport CT, as well as course work in professional counseling from Georgia State University, Capella University and the William Alanson White institute for psychotherapy. Currently I run a Human Service Program at a college in Maryland where I teach students how to be “Helpers” I teach courses in individual, family, addiction and group counseling. I have over 40 years of counseling experience working with people from all walks of life as well all ages, (i.e. nationalities, race sex & sexual orientation etc.) I have worked in such diverse settings as prisons, community mental health centers, college counseling centers, state mental hospitals, drug treatment centers Veterans hospitals & Vet Centers, inpatient psychiatric hospitals and private practice What makes me a good clinician is rooted is my ability to connect with people in a genuine and egalitarian way. I am a firm believer that the “relationship” between client and therapist is the key to successful outcome in therapy. We all come to counseling with a “broken” narrative about our life. I see my task as helping people replace that broken narrative, with a healthy narrative where the client is the hero of their narrative. Unfortunately, some of us (me included) have faced “adverse experiences and even trauma “that can derail our “life narrative” and send us down the road of despair, depression, addiction and even criminality. By building a strong relationship with client’s I help them re-write their “narrative’ so they can a become a hero of their own story rather than a minor player in a drama in life they cannot escape. Whether I am a teacher or therapist “keeping it real” (as my students say) is my credo. If we work together I will always be honest, genuine, caring and help you address your issues in a practical, problem solving ways as well as help you understand the larger issues of depression, anxiety, isolation, loneliness and meaning in your life. I promise I will listen, support, care, help you problem solve and focus on helping you understand who you are and what you want in life, as if we were sitting together in a face to face consulting room. One final comment Although we will have a designated time to talk, I want you to feel free to contact me anytime day or night, I check my computer very frequently and I am never bothered by my clients who contact me out of genuine need and concern. I look forward to working with you in the future Sincerely Alan Specialty Trauma issues, especially Veterans issues Intimacy issues Life Span and Sexual identity issues Relationship Issues Depression, anxiety and alienation

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Justin Davis

Offering therapy in MD
License: LCPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

Hello and Welcome! I'm glad that you are taking the first steps towards making changes in your life. I am hopeful that you will find the right person to aid you in this journey. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and Board Approved Supervisor in the state of Maryland. I currently have 5 years of experience working in the wonderful world of mental health. I have a wide range of experience and have worked with individuals in a traditional outpatient setting, as a crisis counselor, and with individuals in a crisis residential setting. I have worked with individuals who have depression, anxiety, relationship issues, difficulty coping with life stressors, and bipolar disorders. I believe in the motto, "Life begins at the end of your comfort zone" and I understand that therapy can be uncomfortable at times. My approach in the therapeutic process is warm and inviting. I believe that everyone should be treated with respect and compassion and I stay away stigmatizing labels. My counseling style is a mixture of cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, and client focused therapy. My goal is to meet you where you're at, and to help you create an individualized treatment plan that helps you meet your specific needs. It takes a lot of courage to reach out and share you concerns and I appreciate the opportunity to work with you.

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Erin Clegg

Offering therapy in MD
License: LCSW-C,LICSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issues
15 years of experience

I am a Clinical Social Worker licensed in Maryland and the District of Columbia with 15 years’ experience as a therapist, clinical consultant, and trauma trainer. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Throughout my practice, I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families struggling to manage their emotional and behavioral health due to the impact of trauma, maltreatment, grief, loss, mental health challenges, and stressful life experiences. My style is warm, compassionate, and strengths-based. I believe that everyone deserves a safe space free of judgment and open to exploration. My approach is grounded in healing-centered, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive interactions that promote empowerment. My practice integrates the latest research in neuroscience, trauma, attachment theory, and cognitive-behavioral techniques. I believe in leveraging the healing power of the brain-body connection. Stress and adverse experiences can impact how we experience ourselves, our relationships, and the world around us. I partner with my clients to explore how their past and present experiences may impact how they think, feel, and act. By raising awareness of body signals, triggers, and patterns of responses, we position ourselves to identify and reinforce restorative pathways that promote growth and healing. Together, we develop strategic and personalized interventions that build upon their unique set of strengths, meaningful connections, and interests to help them achieve goals one step at a time. I believe that attuned and responsive relationships are essential to transformational healing and growth. Everyone deserves to be seen, heard, and valued for who they are, not simply what they do. As your partner in this process, you can count on me to be fully engaged, meet you where you are, and affirm your worth every step of the way. The therapeutic process should be intriguing, empowering, and rewarding throughout the journey. I look forward to working with you!

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Dr. Jennifer Outlaw

Offering therapy in MD
License: MS,MSW,LCSW-C
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSleeping disordersBipolar disorderDepression
10 years of experience

Greetings! My name is Dr. Jennifer Outlaw and I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker - Clinical/Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Licensed Independent Social Worker in the states of Maryland, Georgia, South Carolina, and Texas. I have experience in working with adolescents, adults, service members, and veterans. I have extensive experience working inpatient and outpatient mental health and promote well-being through assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental illness and substance abuse. I have provided professional counseling and psychotherapy services for the past 10 years to adults with severe and persistent mental illness to include schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, bipolar disorder, major depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. I also provide counseling services for individuals with a wide array of mental, behavioral, and emotional challenges. I specialize in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I bring to you authenticity, genuine compassion, and support to help you through what is bringing you here. I look forward to working with you.

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Keisha Broyles

Offering therapy in MD
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
19 years of experience

I am licensed in Maryland with 19 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! I have years of professional experience serving with children, adolescents, families, and adults in various settings. I believe that all children (within the support of their familial unit) and adults have the power within themselves to evoke healing despite their race, socioeconomic status, gender identity, or zip code. I am a liberation-focused clinician who supports clients in freeing themselves from oppressive systems and conforming to oppressive thoughts. I am certified in Grief and Loss from the National Institute for Trauma and Loss in Children and in Telemental Health and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional via Evergreen Certifications. I enjoy working with individuals from all walks of life by utilizing an eclectic approach to various treatment modalities that evoke healing and wellness.

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Victoria Parson

Offering therapy in MD
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker practicing as a therapist. I am licensed in Maryland with 8 years of professional work experience. I have worked in many settings from healthcare, foster care, the school system, a community mental health clinic, and an eating disorder clinic (to name a few). I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

This is Dr. Henry Apencha's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Henry Apencha

Offering therapy in MD
Stress, AnxietyGriefParenting issuesAnger managementDepression
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Maryland with over nine years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, parenting issues, & anger management. I believe that you are the expert of 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.

This is Robin Ristenbatt's avatar and link to their profile

Robin Ristenbatt

Offering therapy in MD
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
40 years of experience

I am licensed in Maryland with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without judgment. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

This is Jesaira Glover's avatar and link to their profile

Jesaira Glover

Offering therapy in MD
Relationship issuesGriefCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Maryland with 7+ years of professional work experience in mental health, coaching, and behavioral science. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, career difficulties, & coping with life changes. I tend to cater more specifically to the woman who has been conditioned to show up for everyone else but herself. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey by cultivating a safe and brave therapeutic space.

How to find counseling in Garrett Park

Finding the best therapist close by in Garrett Park can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Garrett Park. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Garrett Park, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Garrett Park or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Garrett Park area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Garrett Park, elsewhere in Montgomery, or in the greater state of Maryland.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Garrett Park area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Garrett Park therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Garrett Park due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Garrett Park may not take health insurance, some in the state of Maryland may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Maryland you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Garrett Park, Maryland working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Garrett Park above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Garrett Park helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Garrett Park therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Garrett Park therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Garrett Park therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in MD, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 20896 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Garrett Park counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Garrett Park licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Garrett Park, Maryland can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Garrett Park has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Garrett Park.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Garrett Park:

20896

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