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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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Laura Gryniewich-Franklin

Offering therapy in MD
License: LCSW-C,CCM
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefParenting issuesSelf esteem
20 years of experience

Hi and welcome! My name is Laura Gryniewich-Franklin and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am licensed to practice in Pennsylvania and Maryland. I have had the opportunity to work in a variety of settings which include outpatient therapeutic services, in-home services with children and families, education and medical social work. I have nearly 20 years of experience, working with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship/family conflicts, grief and loss, parenting issues, life transitions, abuse/neglect, trauma and crisis counseling. I have experience in a multitude of therapeutic techniques such as Person Centered and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. However, I believe that the most important therapeutic technique that I can offer is my complete, open-minded, non-judgmental presence. I consider it a privilege to be trusted with your struggles and to be able to share in your accomplishments. I am committed to creating a trusting, professional relationship where we can have difficult conversations and work together to resolve any issues that you may have. Whether you are seeking support regarding a specific issue or just need an empathetic, non-judgmental ear to listen, I am here to support you in any way that I can. I look forward to working with you.

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Pamela Byrd

Offering therapy in MD
License: LCPCS,LCPC,ADS
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesGriefDepression
23 years of experience

I am the founder and owner of PBMJ Consultants and Associates, L.L.C. located in Baltimore, Maryland and established in 2012. As a licensed clinician and board-certified supervisor; I believe a cognitive behavioral approach to therapy along with the use of wholistic supportive techniques will help clients become more aware of the impact challenges of life have on thoughts and behavior. I completed my BS, MS and post graduate studies at Johns Hopkins University; and I am a public speaker and facilitator who cares and is willing to share how to attain a better way of life. I have traveled and trained nationally and internationally with a combination of over 20 years of professional, academic and personal experiences. During my years as a licensed practitioner and clinical supervisor, I counseled thousands of clients and trained hundreds of individuals in the counseling profession. As a mental health provider I offer the following services: grief counseling, anger management, stress management; conflict resolution; gambling and substance dependence counseling; professional seminars and workshops. I have counseled people from all walks of life and believe true healing begins – in spirit, mind and body - when change is made and a wholistic approach to life is experienced.

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Robin Shell

Offering therapy in MD
License: LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
10 years of experience

Hello. My name is Robin Shell. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Maryland. I graduated from Howard University with a B.A. in Economics and from Capital Bible Seminary with a M.A. in Counseling. I provided counseling with a Christian counseling organization and in my own practice for over ten years working with individuals, couples, and families coping with stress, anxiety, depression, family conflict, self-esteem, and life changes. I utilize a variety of treatment modalities based on each client’s needs, which include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Brief Therapy, and Client Centered Therapy. Each therapeutic approach that I use remains client-centered and honors individuals’ diverse backgrounds, cultures, and experiences. Making the decision to seek counseling is important, and I look forward to building a collaborative therapeutic relationship where you feel supported in achieving your desired goals. I am committed to assisting you in identifying healthy solutions to your concerns and look forward to working with you.

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Keith Welsh

Offering therapy in MD
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteem
23 years of experience

PLEASE NOTE: Presently I am only available for unlimited messaging but am not available for live appointments except very sporadically when I have cancellations week to week with my full caseload of clients. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified EMDR Therapist. My primary specialties are treating general and specific anxiety, panic attacks, low self-esteem, "imposter syndrome," anxiety which has led to depression, and confidence issues. I am also well versed in coaching, relationship dynamics, parenting, and family history complications. I am a very solution focused therapist with the notion of helping you achieve emotional wellness and happiness in your life as soon as possible. I earned a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice at Shippensburg University where I graduated Magna Cum Laude and as the Distinguished Military Graduate. I served six years as a Commissioned Officer in the US Army and later spent eleven years in the private sector employed by behavioral health companies. I earned a Masters in Social Work from Temple University, entered private practice and practiced traditional talk therapy including cognitive behavioral interventions, marriage and relationship counseling, family counseling, group therapy, and EMDR therapy.​ I later spent two years working as a therapist and administrator for an International Mission agency based in the UK. While living, traveling and working in fourteen countries on five continents, I gained experience with mental health interventions across cultures in treating trauma, depression, anxiety and PTSD. ​During this time I evolved my practice into specializing in EMDR Therapy which I have practiced now for 22 years and virtually since 2016. In 2018 I became a Senior Executive Fellow at the Harvard Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University. I am honored to serve our all clients including Veterans as I am also a Veteran myself and enjoy serving people from all walks of life. I continue my clinical practice virtually from Pennsylvania and Delaware serving clients all over the United States and around the world, having treated clients on every continent so far except Antarctica!

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Colin Roberts

Offering therapy in MD
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a Master of Science in Clinical Community Counseling and a Post Masters Certificate in Counseling. I have over 20 years of experience working with a diverse population. I have enjoyed providing support to adolescents, young adults, and families. I have experience working in a variety of settings, including school and office settings. I use an eclectic approach to providing therapeutic interventions. I believe that therapeutic interventions and techniques must be tailored to meet the individual’s learning/communication style. Therapy is most beneficial when a strength-based approach is utilized. I believe that an individual’s strengths are used to help develop lagging skills. In my years of experience, I have utilized techniques from a reality therapy approach which helps to acknowledge small increments of success (evidence based). This helps to increase competence in individuals of all ages. Therapy is individualized to help individuals develop and identify their life purpose (spirituality). Of great importance, I believe in modeling the importance of building relationships through communication. I have experience working with stress, anxiety, depression, anger management and issues that involve coping with transitional stages of life. I enjoy reading, spending time in nature, and learning and exploring cultures from around the world.

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Egypt Buie

Offering therapy in MD
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Maryland with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & anger management. 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!

This is Destinee Smith's avatar and link to their profile

Destinee Smith

Offering therapy in MD
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuse
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Maryland and the District of Columbia and have experience helping clients with stress, anxiety, and trauma. Dancing was my escape from my adverse childhood experiences and adverse community environments, and upon graduating from college at UNC-Greensboro, I became a professional dancer in the DMV (DC, MD, VA). Movement, breath, and how toxic stress lives in the body were always within my awareness. I rely on my personal history to cultivate a safe, genuine, healing space for those on a wellness journey. I am a Black, Queer, Cis-gender counselor. Therefore, I utilize my intersectional identities to assist individuals and families in skill-building to manage anxiety, interpersonal concerns, transitions, adjustments, and striving for self-actualization. I am here to support and empower you in that journey.

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Al Balaa

Offering therapy in MD
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCoaching
12 years of experience

I am licensed in Maryland with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.

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Dr. Godwin Oshegbo

Offering therapy in MD
License: LCPC,LCADC,NCC
AddictionsFamily conflictsBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
16 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical professional in the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia. In addition, I am a licensed clinical alcohol and drug counselor (LCADC) in Maryland, and a national certified counselor (NCC). I have over 20 years of professional and clinical work experience. I have extensive experience working in different clinical settings over the years. I have experience in helping individuals with substance use issues and disorders, anxiety, family conflicts, bipolar disorder, & depression, including issues of faith and spirituality in wellness. I have a special interest in mind and body medicine, integrative care, spirituality, and trauma care. As such, I use a variety of therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy (including mindfulness practices), crisis intervention, substance use/addictive disorder, and Family-focused interventions. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, I will tailor our dialogue and treatment approaches to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life. You have taken the first step toward that change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey. I look forward to partnering with you on your journey to optimal wellness. https://therapist.com/clinician/godwin-oshegbo-57463/

How to find counseling in Mount Airy

Finding the best therapist close by in Mount Airy 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 Mount Airy. 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 Mount Airy, 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 Mount Airy 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 Mount Airy 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 Mount Airy, elsewhere in Carroll, 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 Mount Airy area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Mount Airy 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 Mount Airy 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 Mount Airy 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 Mount Airy, 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 Mount Airy 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 Mount Airy 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 Mount Airy 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 Mount Airy 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 Mount Airy 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 21771 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 Mount Airy 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 Mount Airy 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 Mount Airy, 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.

Mount Airy 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 Mount Airy.

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

21771

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