On the banks of the Patuxent River you will find Laurel, Maryland, which is a small town that is known for Laurel Park, which is a thoroughbred horse racetrack. Some people like to go there and place bets on the horses for fun. However, for some, betting can turn into a gambling habit that can become an addiction.

The City of Laurel has many professional addiction therapists who can help with gambling and other addictions. If you or someone you know is having trouble with gambling, talk to a therapist before it damages your life anymore than it already has.

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Dr. Elizabeth Nyang

Offering therapy in MD
License: LCPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
16 years of experience

My name is Dr. Elizabeth Nyang. I have a masters degree in counseling from Seton Hall University and a doctorate degree in counseling psychology from the American School of Professional Psychology. I work with clients (adults and couples) that have issues with mental health, relationships/marriage, and/ life issues. I accept clients with depression, anxiety, problems at work, problems within the marriage/family, mood disorders, and adjustment issues. I use a cognitive behavioral approach, Gottman approach for marriages, and Gestalt techniques integrated with meditation and tai chi to help clients gain insight into the root causes of their problems and/or marriage issues and reduce stress. My communication style is relaxed, honest, caring and factual. When working with clients, I find that they appreciate honesty and my being able to listen with respect and without judgement. My personal acknowledgement that I am not perfect allows me to be able to form a genuine relationship with my clients by accepting them where they are in life. I started using meditation ten years ago and began practicing Tai Chi nine years ago. Today, I integrate meditation and Tai Chi into my therapy sessions. Some of my clients enjoy doing seated tai chi movements during online counseling. Water aerobics is my passion, and I try to take a water aerobics class three times a week. After water aerobics, I enjoy going for a short swim. Exercise is how I add balance to my life. We will work together to help you find ways to resolve issues and add balance to your life. I am looking forward to working with you.

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Michael Misterka

Offering therapy in MD
License: LCSW-C
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesAnger management
15 years of experience

As a therapist my goal is to assist people with making practical changes in their lives. Making therapeutic progress can alleviate suffering and increase satisfaction with life but the process can be a painful journey especially when family of origin or significant others are involved. The counseling strategies I use are a mix of developmental, psycho-dynamic, cognitive, reality therapy and experiential practices. The heart of my effort is client centered and client motivated. I encourage authentic discussion about these strategies and value decision making by those I serve. As the client it is your decision to determine what you want from therapy and about what changes you want to make in your life. I will be your partner and will walk with you until you reach your goals. I have fifteen years of experience in counseling practice. The areas of my practice have focused a lot on men and women, relationship conflict, trauma and abuse, parenting issues and families with substance abuse, incarceration and reentry, combat veterans and readjustment to civilian life, anxiety, depression, anger management and coping with life changes.

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Karima Nero-Woodfork

Offering therapy in MD
License: MSW,,LICSW,,LCSW-C
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
10 years of experience

Karima Nero-Woodfork, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C, earned her Bachelor of Science degree in psychology from Bowie State University, in Bowie, MD and her Master of Social Work degree from Howard University in Washington, DC. She is dually licensed by the State of Maryland and Washington, DC as a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. Her education and career have always focused on her passion for working with children and families in the community. Karima has over 20 years of counseling experience in a variety of settings and with diverse clients, including long-term and brief clinical interventions, relationship counseling, teen mothers, autism support, adoption education, functional family therapy with families of teens as well as post-placement supervision, support and counseling for foster youth. Karima is a dedicated professional with strong organizational skills and attention to detail which is vital when assisting families through the various life altering barriers. Karima believes that change happens when people are given the guidance, support and information needed to draw on their own strengths and realize their potential to live fulfilling, happy lives. Karima provides an environment of compassion and support that assists individuals and families overcome obstacles, move forward, and thrive. She has most recently added to her credentials through extensive training and externship completion to become a certified Supervisory Functional Family Therapist. Achieving this certification created the opportunity to better support at risk youth and their families through intensive short-term, research supported psychotherapy that provides hope and change for families in need. Karima has focused a significant portion of her Social Work career as a tenacious advocate for children with special needs as well as Karima has over 23 years of personal experience as a married woman/homemaker and has successfully enjoyed the journey of parenting with three children: 1 productive adult, 1 recent college graduate and 1 precocious pre-teen. Karima believes the family is the fabric of your society and when necessary, weaving the therapeutic process around the family unit can help to resolve many familial conflicts. Karima specializes in engaging, supporting, developing youth, and guiding them into adulthood. As your Counselor Karima will be easily approachable, calming to interact with, highly experienced and well versed on various subject matters, non-judgmental, compassionate, and warm in her delivery to clients. Karima is prepared to work with you on the journey towards your desired destinations. Karima finds the most exciting part of this telehealth platform is the convenience of merging technology with clinical theory and training, which equals total convenience for you. No need to commute or leave the safety of your home. Karima's Social Work philosophy is based on the premise that all people deserve mutual opportunities and respect. The most vulnerable client’s voices should be heard, understood, and connected with viable resources to maintain and increase hope for the future.

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Sean Blade

Offering therapy in MD
License: MS,LMHC
LGBTTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

Hi there! Reaching out for help takes courage. I am glad you are here! My name is Sean Blade. I am a clinical mental health counselor licensed in Florida and Maryland. I have a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Florida International University. I have spent much of my career, to this point, working with a highly diverse population, including BIPOC, immigrants, and the LGBTQIA+ community. My approach to counseling is a combination of Person-Centered and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. However, I never stray far away from the ultimate goal of healing your heart. I believe that the relationship I build with those I work with is the most important factor to growth. I bring with me a unique and unusually wide-ranging array of personal experiences that allow me to connect with others in a warm, non-judgmental, and empathetic way. I am honored when people choose to share their pain with me and allow me to walk with them on their journey.

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Dr. Launa Duffy

Offering therapy in MD
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am a licensed counselor in Maryland with over a decade of education in psychology and counseling. I have half a decade experience in the field in a number of different settings from emergency rooms to outpatient clinics. I gained my PhD in Counseling in May 2022. I am a National Certified Counselor and am a Board Certified Telemental Health Counselor. I have had training in an array of mental health issues from depression, anxiety, bipolar, career concerns, life transitions, racial or identity discrimination, and trauma. While I don't exclusively work in these therapies, I heavily borrow from CBT, ACT, Motivational Interviewing, and Narrative Therapy. Working in the settings from inpatient to outpatient has afforded me the skill to shape keen diagnostic skills, and you receive the benefit of knowing I will take on the most efficient treatment for your diagnosis. I work first and foremost with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. As a counselor, I know it takes courage to seek and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey. At Liberty University I became keenly aware of the five domains of the individual: the cognitive, the behavioral, the emotional, the social and the spiritual. While I attended Liberty University I know our faiths, spirituality and walks of life all look different. I will support you in your journey.

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John Caruso

Offering therapy in MD
Stress, Anxiety
16 years of experience

I am licensed in Maryland with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety. 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.

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Tabitha Mann

Offering therapy in MD
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Tenesha Jeffery

Offering therapy in MD
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Maryland with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Jeffrey Bright

Offering therapy in MD
Stress, AnxietyLGBTSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

As a committed mental health therapist, my specialty lies in supporting adolescent males and men battling depression and anxiety, with a keen focus on those exploring their sexual identity. I provide a compassionate environment for individuals contending with the discord between their newly accepted self and long-held values or religious beliefs. Collaboratively, we strive to enhance self-esteem, nurture confidence, and initiate a rewarding journey towards self-discovery. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! As a NLP practitioner and trained in CBT, DBT, mindfulness, positive psychology, I employ a blend of traditional, evidence-based methods and innovative approaches to offer a holistic treatment. My expertise is targeted towards supporting adolescent males and men navigating identity conflicts, focusing on self-confidence, and personal discovery. Raised in a conservative environment, I spent 19 years married with 4 wonderful children before embracing my truth. This journey of rediscovery and establishing a new spiritual path was challenging, yet incredibly rewarding. If you're wrestling with self acceptance or with conflicting values, I'm here to support your journey towards self-truth.

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Kelly Hawkins

Offering therapy in MD
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
18 years of experience

I am licensed in Maryland and New Hampshire with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, depression, & coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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How to find counseling in Laurel

Finding the best therapist close by in Laurel 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 Laurel. 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 Laurel, 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 Laurel 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 Laurel 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 Laurel, elsewhere in Prince George's, 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 Laurel area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Laurel 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 Laurel 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 Laurel 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 Laurel, 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 Laurel 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 Laurel 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 Laurel 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 Laurel 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 Laurel 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 20709 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 Laurel 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 Laurel 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 Laurel, 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.

Laurel 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 Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, 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 Laurel.

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

20707, 20709, 20725, 20726

Popular cities near Laurel, MD

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