Poolesville, Maryland is a gem in a haystack. A town of only 4 square miles in the heart of Montgomery farm country, Poolesville is close to several small towns and cities, but its wide-open spaces make it feel a bazillion miles away from the hustle and bustle of larger towns. It’s not uncommon to feel mentally and emotionally distant at times.

It’s not necessary to feel detached and unsociable for long. Despite the small town flavor of Poolesville, professional mental health counselors are available in the local area. Getting back to feeling connected is as easy as getting matched with a professional who can help.

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Dr. Deborah Gioia-Hasick

Offering therapy in MD
License: PhD,LCSW-C
Stress, AnxietyEating disordersSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
37 years of experience

I received my MSW in 1981 and my clinical licensing a couple of years later. My early career was engaged in mostly working with teens, young and emerging adults. I worked for 18 years with young adults with schizophrenia and their family supports. This is where I really learned about serious mental illness (SMI) and its consequences on individuals and families. I also learned about the team's approach to the thoughtful application of any diagnosis for an individual. I ran groups with young adults and monthly multi-family groups. The evidence-based practices I used with this group of individuals was focused on psychosocial education, symptom-management and building back communication and cognitive skills. I received additional training for a year in sexual health and sex therapy interventions at UCLA and did couples counseling through this program. The training I have pursued on my own is centered on mindfulness-based stress reduction treatments which I have taught to students and used in group settings. Since 2001, I have taught Master's and PhD students after completing my PhD in 2000. The title of my dissertation was Meaning of Work for Young Adults with Schizophrenia. I am very interested in vocational identity development and helping the young adult attain their personal goals in this realm. I have taught clinical and research courses. The clinical courses involve hands-on evidence-based treatments including CBT, DBT, MBSR. I favor always using motivational interviewing as my philosophical approach prior to the client's agreement to begin to do the work required of the more targeted approach based on their diagnosis. Currently, I have received training on climate-focused trauma and resiliency and am very interested in seeing clients who are experiencing issues related to climate

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Dr. LaKeesha Woods

Offering therapy in MD
License: PhD,Licensed Psychologist
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

Hello, I am a Licensed Psychologist in Maryland with a PhD in Clinical Psychology. I have over 10 years of experience working with clients with concerns including depression, anxiety, adjustment challenges, relationship difficulties, parenting and family challenges, and family violence. My professional experiences in counseling as well as consulting in the private sector have focused on promoting holistic well-being and helping people live out their full purpose and potential. My counseling style is client-centered, supportive, and empathic, and I incorporate cognitive-behavioral, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused approaches. My approach is grounded in trust, collaboration, and a deep appreciation and respect for clients’ multicultural experiences, identities, and perspectives. We will work together to discuss strengths and resources, identify areas of focus and change, set goals, and develop a tailored plan and tools to address your concerns and achieve your goals. I look forward to supporting and partnering with you in this process. Thank you for taking this step and be well!

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Mary Hales

Offering therapy in MD
License: MA, LPC, LCMHC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
22 years of experience

Hello! I am Mary Hales, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist. I obtained my Masters in Mental Health Counseling from Medaille College in NY. I have over 15 years of experience in various settings such as outpatient clinics, hospitals, residential settings, community-based agencies, and private practice. My specialties include anxiety, depression, PTSD, mood disorders, substance and other addictions, trauma, and abandonment, couples, and grief therapy, to name a few. I believe that each individual is unique, and it is important to address each client’s issues with an individualized personal approach, one that is relevant to the person and their current presenting problem. I approach counseling in a manner that empowers individuals to create positive change in their situations. My approach is to use a range of therapeutic modalities, to focus on the clients and their needs. I believe in creating a therapeutic relationship in which clients can feel safe while discussing and exploring their problems. Counseling should be considered a journey of personal exploration, which may lead to major changes in your life perspectives and decisions. It takes courage to take the first steps towards seeking this journey of personal exploration for a more fulfilling and happier life. So, if you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you to achieve your personal goals. I look forward to working with you!

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Zebrina Rhem

Offering therapy in MD
License: LCSW-C
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemCareer difficulties
7 years of experience

A Social Worker providing therapeutic services to clients with all needs.

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Beverly Jordan

Offering therapy in MD
Stress, AnxietyGriefIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesDepression
8 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 8 years of experience working as a psycho-counselor and play therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach techniques combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and rational-emotive therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Desiree Monroe

Offering therapy in MD
License: LPC,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementDepression
12 years of experience

Greetings, my name is Desireé C. Monroe. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in the state of Maryland. Via using a client-centered eclectic approach, my goal is to motivate healthy behavior, of which I have been doing since 2009 when I began my professional career in counseling. My experience involves working with children, adolescents, adults and seniors, in both outpatient and inpatient treatment facilities. I have a history of working with individuals diagnosed with severe and persistent mental illness, alcohol and drug use disorders, trauma survivors, victims and offenders of crime, children in foster care and first responders. As a Board of Professional Counselors and Therapist (BOPC) Approved Clinical Supervisor in Clinical Professional Counseling, I hold a Master’s of Arts degree in Counseling Psychology (Eclectic track) from Bowie State University, and a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Psychology, Sociology-Anthropology from Towson University. Opportunities to educate, advocate, empower, and support others in all walks of life is what I value. I use my counseling skills to encourage change, teach people to cope with mental health challenges, promote wellness, and motivate trauma and addiction recovery. I am on a mission is to help, heal, foster hope and support individuals in need…come with me on this journey!

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Lynly Curtis

Offering therapy in MD
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker in Maryland with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, life changes, trauma and relationships. I like to focus on identifying your strengths and helping you maximize them. I am here to offer a safe place to explore and express yourself without fear of judgement. My therapy style is warm and understanding. We can incorporate your faith as much or as little as you would like to. I believe everyone deserves to be treated with respect, compassion, and empathy. I like to incorporate aspects from multiple therapeutic approaches primarily CBT, EMDR, Client Centered Approach, and IFS. I also believe your treatment should be custom tailored to your specific needs and we will work together to achieve just that. Seeking help is the most important and probably most difficult step to take but you did it and you are not alone.

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Donna Swope

Offering therapy in MD
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
40 years of experience

I am licensed in Maryland with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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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Arleatha Jeffrey

Offering therapy in MD
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
13 years of experience

Choosing a counselor is an extremely important decision, trust and a good rapport is essential to success in the therapeutic relationship. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker my work is rooted in a client-centered approach and led by the desires of those whom I am working with. You can expect a a warm and respectful approach, professionalism, and affirmation of your values and desires. My overall approach to counseling is holistic and I am well versed in approaches which include cognitive-behavioral, Person Centered and mindfulness therapy. I have happily worked in the mental/ behavioral health field for over 10 years in a variety of settings to include private practice, outpatient mental health clinics, and non profit organizations. I have developed the skill set and expertise in working with individuals ranging in age, diverse backgrounds and clinical needs such as depression, parent/child conflict, abuse/ neglect, relationship conflict, life adjustments and coaching. I also have specialized training in anxiety where I am a Certified Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP). I think it is important to have a safe space to communicate your needs, fears, desires for the future and using those things to foster change in a positive way. I believe in the power of the helping relationships to transform the way we feel, think and behave. Should you be ready, together we will explore and develop solutions in order for you to live your best life now. It would be an honor to work with you!

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Lisa Ford

Offering therapy in MD
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am licensed in District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania and Virginia with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, career difficulties, & 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.

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How to find counseling in Poolesville

Finding the best therapist close by in Poolesville 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 Poolesville. 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 Poolesville, 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 Poolesville 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 Poolesville 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 Poolesville, 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 Poolesville area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Poolesville 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 Poolesville 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 Poolesville 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 Poolesville, 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 Poolesville 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 Poolesville 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 Poolesville 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 Poolesville 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 Poolesville 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 20837 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 Poolesville 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 Poolesville 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 Poolesville, 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.

Poolesville 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 Poolesville.

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

20837

Popular cities near Poolesville, MD

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