This is Tonya Pleasant's avatar and link to their profile

Tonya Pleasant

Offering therapy in MD
License: MEd, LCPC, NCC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
25 years of experience

Hello! I am Tonya Pleasant and a graduate of the University of Maryland, College Park, where I completed my Masters in Rehabilitation Counseling, and Bachelors of Science in Family Therapy and Community Development. I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the State of Maryland, and also hold licenses and certifications in Marriage and Family therapy (VA), Board Certified Professional Counselor and Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. I’ve worked in the counseling and mental health field for 25+ years, and have worked with clients from all walks of and interests in life. I’m really grateful to avail myself/skills to effectively help my clients make positive, measurable changes in their lives in achieving their identified goals. My primary therapeutic approaches are Adlerian and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Adlerian therapy primary believes in encouraging individuals and is a growth/wellness model of therapy; which takes an optimistic approach and focuses on your unique strengths, creativity and capabilities. CBT will help you understand your mind body connection of how your thoughts shape our behaviors and actions. In working with you I will listen to you; provide you with coping skills and behavior change techniques to consider implementing; focus on your strengths and abilities; and celebrate your progress and success, as you achieve your identified goals.

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Linda Johannisson

Offering therapy in MD
License: L.C.S.W.-C.
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesEating disordersDepression
30 years of experience

Welcome to Better Help Counseling! Please give yourself credit for taking this difficult and important step towards improving your health and your life. I most certainly give you credit. I know it is not always easy to open up to someone that you don't really know. So, Big Time Congratulations on having the courage to do something that will be both valuable and helpful for you and quite possibly those around you as well. My name is Linda Johannisson. I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical (L.C.S.W.-C.) in the state of Maryland. I earned my Masters of Social Work degree in 1994 from the School of Social Work at the University of Maryland, with a subspecialty in Mental Health. For over 26 years I have practiced as a therapist in many settings, from the fast-paced environment of the Emergency Room to the more relaxed setting of Private Practice. I have had the honor of working with individuals, couples, families, adolescents, veterans, the homeless and medically complex care patients. These clients brought a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety (including PTSD), relationship issues, parenting problems, family conflict, alcohol, drug, food, and behavioral addictions, grief and loss, anger management, emotional abuse, career challenges and more. Additionally, I have had two other careers which afford me a great broad perspective and ability to understand life from a non-therapist view. In 1978, I graduated from San Diego State University, CA with Bachelor’s of Art in Telecommunications & Film, with a Minor in Spanish. I worked as a producer and writer at the local ABC Television station in San Diego and learned many skills including video competence, the importance of knowing my audience and the impact of emotional connection. In 1984 I graduated from Officer’s Candidate School in Newport, Rhode Island and worked on the beginnings of the Internet. I learned many skills including computer proficiency, the importance of being prompt and available. My second duty assignment was as the Admiral’s Aide at the Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. Again I learned many skills such as the ability to work with people from different countries and cultures from all over the world and the importance of attention to detail. Because your experiences are unique, I will do my best to meet you where you are. I want what is best for you just as much as you do! As a therapist I strive to be supportive, empathetic, validating, and comfortable to talk with because when sharing private thoughts or fragile topics it is imperative that you feel at ease and safe. Additionally, I will help you set individual and realistic goals. Adjectives that might describe my style are: engaged, respectful, down to earth, relaxed, practical, mindful, insight-oriented, and solution focused. I lean more towards a collaborative, engaging and interactive approach so that feel you are not doing all the talking. I do my best to go at your pace and have a youthful, somewhat playful demeanor. I honor your innate intelligence and know that when you look within, you gain confidence in yourself and your choices. At times I might recommend reading a short book, or give you a handout, or have your complete a creative assignment to deepen your process between sessions. If you believe in balancing mind, body, and spirit, then we might be a good fit for each other, as each is essential to the healing process. Finally, it is important to me that you feel better after meeting with me. I offer my warm welcome and offer my help to get you on your path to health, happiness, self confidence and peace.

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Dr. Jarrell McRae

Offering therapy in MD
License: LCSW-C
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesDepression
14 years of experience

I am a therapist with 11 years of practice within the realm of Clinical Social Work and 18 years experience in the Human Service profession. I am experienced in working with adolescents, families and adults from a holistic, resiliency and trauma informed perspective. My areas of specialty include: adolescent behavioral issues, anger management, stress management, ADD/ADHD, gender identity concerns and other issues related to the LGBTQIA+ community. My services include individual and family therapy. My therapeutic approach, while eclectic, is specific to the client while utilizing cognitive and behavioral techniques (CBT).

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Theresa Huffines

Offering therapy in MD
License: LCSW-C
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

Theresa Huffines, LCSW-C, is a strengths-based, solution-focused therapist who is dedicated to empowering others, improving their personal growth, life skills, decision making when faced with life challenges, and overall emotional regulation through therapeutic evidenced-based treatment modalities. She is passionate about working with young adults, couples, and geriatric clientele. A graduate of Regent University and Salisbury University, she earned a Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology in 2011 and Masters of Social Work in 2013. Theresa’s experience includes internships at the Richard A. Henson Cancer Institute at Peninsula Regional Medical Center and Salisbury University Counseling Center, case management in therapeutic foster care, substance abuse outreach, advocating for military families, and outpatient mental health as a therapist and agency site supervisor, specializing in anxiety, depression, grief, conflict resolution, and couples counseling. Theresa has fostered relationships with community partners within the area, thereby developing a comprehensive network of resources. She has been recognized for her accomplishments and awarded Summa Cum Laude and Employee of the Year.

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Marvelyn Fowler

Offering therapy in MD
License: LCSW-C
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
35 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Md. I chose the career of Social Work because I truly believe in the courage and resilience of the human spirit. I have worked extensively with individuals, families and couples for 36 years. My years of experience have afforded me the opportunity to interact with people from all walks of life which continues to be one of the most rewarding aspects of the work that I do on a daily basis. I listen and support you with assessing what you need and want and then identify the necessary tools to get you there. I am honest, direct and respectful in my work. As a result, you are an integral part of your journey towards wellness. I know how to gently push, encourage and challenge each step along the way. I am excited about being on your journey with you.

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Lacey Gaters

Offering therapy in MD
License: LCSW-C
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
11 years of experience

Let me start off by saying, I admire your braveness for seeking support and your dedication to yourself! Sometimes life can be overwhelming for a variety of reasons or for unknown reasons. It's very common to not feel okay and to not know what to do to make it better. What are your goals and what is in stopping you from reaching them? These are some of the concerns that bring people into counseling. I find Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to be a beneficial technique to help people make changes in their thinking, which ultimately leads to changes in their behaviors. As a therapist, I will not tell you what to do or push my own agenda. Instead, I will challenge your current beliefs and thoughts to give you the confidence and tools to help you help yourself. If you are nervous about starting this process, therapy or counseling does not have a specific look and will be tailored to what you need. Respect, active listening and a nonjudgemental approach are very important factors in building a strong therapeutic rapport. A little bit about me, I am a clinical social worker who is licensed in the state of Maryland. I earned my Bachelors degree in psychology from James Madison University and my Masters of Social Work (MSW) from University of Maryland. I have over 11 years of experience and have worked in a variety of environments including hospitals and outpatient clinics. I have worked with clients who have many different needs, so please feel free to be open about what you are experiencing. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, parents and young adults. Depression, mood disorders, life changes, ADHD, anxiety, stress management, behavioral concerns and family issues are some of the reasons that brought people into therapy. I wish you much success in your journey of becoming the best version of yourself.

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Dr. Barbara Wasowska

Offering therapy in MD
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepression
14 years of experience

I am licensed in Maryland with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma, and abuse, intimacy-related issues, & motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. 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!

This is John Reardon's avatar and link to their profile

John Reardon

Offering therapy in MD
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Rhode Island with 4 years of professional work experience. 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 Andrea Sadrakula's avatar and link to their profile

Andrea Sadrakula

Offering therapy in MD
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseCareer difficultiesDepression
10 years of experience

Hi there! I am a therapist with over ten years of experience helping adults navigate life's challenges. I particularly enjoy helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & career difficulties. I view my role as a guide alongside your journey and plan to help you discover your own unique strengths and resilience. Sessions with me are warm and inviting, but also "no nonsense," as I know you are here because things are not ideal, and we want you feeling better ASAP! Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage, and I am here to support you in that process. It would be a lot easier to just go along with the status quo, but also a lot less fulfilling, That being the case, let us get started! I look forward to working with you!

This is Mercides Palmer's avatar and link to their profile

Mercides Palmer

Offering therapy in MD
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemADHD
3 years of experience

I am licensed professional counselor in Maryland with three years of professional experience, I specialize in supporting clients facing challenges related to relationship issues, trauma, and abuse, as well as those navigating grief and loss. Additionally, I address concerns related to motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. My therapeutic approach focuses on creating an open and safe environment where clients feel free to share their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. Recognizing that initiating therapy requires courage, I commend you for taking this important step on your journey toward healing and personal growth.

How to find counseling in Keedysville

Finding the best therapist close by in Keedysville 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 Keedysville. 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 Keedysville, 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 Keedysville 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 Keedysville 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 Keedysville, elsewhere in Washington, 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 Keedysville area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Keedysville 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 Keedysville 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 Keedysville 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 Keedysville, 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 Keedysville 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 Keedysville 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 Keedysville 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 Keedysville 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 Keedysville 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 21756 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 Keedysville 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 Keedysville 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 Keedysville, 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.

Keedysville 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 Keedysville.

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

21756

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