Our counselors in Baltimore, MD offer child therapy

Guy-Edgard Doltaire is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 2 years of experience. He employs a compassionate and diverse approach to mental health care, emphasizing clinical expertise and cultivating meaningful relationships with his clients and their families. His work with children and adolescents, especially those facing ADHD, autism, and learning disabilities, is vital as these individuals often require specialized support. His experience with grief, postpartum depression, and chronic pain management highlights his versatility in tackling a broad spectrum of emotional and psychological challenges.

Guy-Edgard received his Master’s in Nursing from Grand Canyon University. His holistic approach integrates traditional and contemporary mental health interventions while maintaining an awareness of the cultural factors that influence how cognitive health is understood and addressed.

Guy-Edgard’s experience growing up in a community where mental health was stigmatized and psychotic crises were often misunderstood gave him a unique empathy and understanding of the challenges families face in addressing mental health issues in environments where such topics remain taboo. He looks forward to prioritizing your mental health.

Elionore is a multilicense, compassionate Doctorate of Nurse Practice Student, Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner, and Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner. She has three years of experience in chronic pain and mental health disorders, leveraging expertise in chronic pain disease management, pain management, and mental health disorders.

“Being able to be your true self is one of the strongest components of good mental health.” - Lauren Fogel Mersy, n.d.

Amanda Valltos is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 5 years of experience, primarily working with children and adolescents. She is a caring advocate for her clients, patiently working through their anxieties and concerns by using a variety of mental health approaches that benefit clients individual needs.

Amanda completed her Master’s degree in Social Work at Salisbury University. She has always been drawn to kids and teens, especially those who are struggling. Amanda has experienced struggles socially and with her own self-confidence. Due to this Amanda is not only able to support teens and children’s needs but also relate to them on a level only someone who has “been there” can provide. Amanda utilizes problem solving, emotional expression and mindfulness as techniques to support her clients.

Amanda has a reputation for building strong relationships based on a foundation of genuine respect, trust, and communication. Her ability to break through message barriers and uncertainties is based on a working collaboration with clients, their family and in the school if applicable. She looks forward to addressing your therapeutic needs and goals as a team.

Magyarita Anderson is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) who has over 30 years of professional experience working with adults and seniors who are struggling to cope with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, low self-esteem, trauma, and more. 

Magyarita is an expert at helping adolescents and adults recover from hidden and invisible traumas of adverse childhood events. She has a passionate burden to support those recovering from the trauma of narcissistic abuse. The confusion of life is solvable and self-acceptance is possible.

Magyarita uses a multifaceted approach that includes lifestyle, nutrition, and meditation, integrated with evidence-based clinical mental health practices. Together, you'll work to remove the barriers your personal barriers to emotional freedom and fulfillment.

Sara Smoley is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and adjusting to life. She received her Master of Social Work from the University of Maryland at Baltimore and her Bachelor of Arts from Concordia College, Bronxville.

"I will listen to your story and help you get to the heart of the matter. You are the expert on your journey and I am here to help you get to where you want to be," says Sara. "Everyone needs someone to talk to sometimes. I would be honored to be that person and help you to realize your full potential."

Carol Jones-Pinckney is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Board Approved Supervisor in the state of Maryland. She has over 20 years of experience in the human services field working with various nonprofits but for the last 8 years provided therapy for children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples.  

Carol applies a nonjudgmental, caring, strength-based, and integrative approach to therapy. Individualized assessments and treatment plans are key to achieving client goals. Carol maintains that collaboration, trust, and building a partnership are key ingredients to navigate through life’s struggles presented in therapy. Success is measured by how the client’s perception of the therapeutic process and engagement in sessions that work to achieve healthy and successful outcomes. 

Therapeutic modalities utilized in therapy include but are not limited to cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems, person-centered, couples therapy, and integrative interventions. The goal is to provide a caring and supportive environment for clients to feel comfortable sharing.  

Carol recognizes that clients often feel vulnerable and reluctant to begin counseling. Her approach is very warm and inviting acknowledging that this was a big step but the right decision to share emotions and feelings with someone new. Therapy is at the client’s pace and being mindful of the support each client needs.

Patricia Robison is a Licensed Psychologist (LP) in the state of Maryland with more than 15 years of experience working with young adults and adults seeking assistance with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, identity issues, transition issues, stress, grief, and loss. 

She earned her MA and Ph.D. degrees in psychology from the Fielding Graduate University. She also has a Ph.D. in Pharmacology from Thomas Jefferson University and certifications from the Barbara Brennan School of Healing and the Center for Mind-Body Medicine. Patricia uses an integral approach with key insights and interventions from pharmacological, psychodynamic, cognitive, humanistic, existential, multicultural, and transpersonal approaches to psychotherapy. This inclusive stance confronts the breadth of psychological complexity and meets the needs of each unique person without blending the approaches into one.

Patricia seeks to form a warm, caring, and collaborative therapeutic relationship with you to build on your strengths and understand you–mind, body, heart, and spirit–so that she is able to help you meet your goals and live the meaningful life you seek and desire.

Lisandra Lysaith is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 4 years of experience. She works with individuals facing a wide spectrum of mental health concerns, including depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, schizophrenia, impulse control, and neuro-developmental disorders. Lisandra supports individuals struggling with daily functioning, navigating life transitions, or seeking greater emotional stability and clarity.

Lisandra earned a Master’s in Nursing from Walden University. Through medication management, psychoeducation, and therapeutic support, she empowers clients to understand symptoms, build coping skills, and achieve lasting wellness. Her focus is on empowering clients to build resilience and improve their overall quality of life.

Lisandra understands that seeking help can feel overwhelming. She provides a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where clients are truly heard and supported. If you’re ready to take control of your mental health and find balance, Lisandra invites you to reach out and begin your journey toward lasting mental wellness.

Dr. Pamela Oriaifo is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 2 years of experience. She specializes in supporting those struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief, OCD, trauma, stress, and bipolar disorder, among other concerns. Dr. Oriaifo’s devotion to mental health care stems from an early patient encounter during which her strength was redirected to the support of all persons with mental health issues. She brings to her practice the totality of her professional experiences in other healthcare areas such as general nursing and family care.

Dr. Oriaifo holds Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Liberty University. She draws upon clinical techniques including cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and motivational interviewing in addition to engaging patients with a warm and welcoming interpersonal approach.

If you are seeking a comfortable and reassuring environment where you can engage in safe, open-ended discussion, Dr. Oriaifo is ready to meet you! She will develop an individualized treatment plan to help you meet your goals. Schedule an appointment today!

Nicolas Kuiate Tekam is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) since 2021. Nicolas manages and treats adult patients with a range of mental health issues. He specializes in treating anxiety, depression, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), sleep issues, and stress across the lifespan. Nicolas is compassionate and dedicated to his patients and looks forward at their speedy recovery. His aim is to make a difference in people’s lives and community. He was initially drawn to the mental health field to have a positive effect on people and to help those in need of care. Nicolas enjoys helping a wide range of patients of all ages, races, genders, and socioeconomic backgrounds. 

Nicolas completed both his Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and his Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) at the University of Maryland Baltimore School of Nursing. He completed his PMHNP at Walden University in Minneapolis, MN. Nicolas uses a holistic approach coupled with the latest evidence-based research for treatment and management of his patients. He also applies patient-centered care and ethical consideration in his approach to treatment.

Nicolas was born and raised in Cameroon. Growing up, he witnessed people suffer with mental illness but could not pinpoint what was going on. But today Nicolas understands better and cannot wait to positively impact people's lives.

Rachel Holmes is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 5 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping children, adolescents, and adults address life challenges and find healing and understanding in hopeless situations. Rachel specializes in eating disorders, depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief, and stress management.

Rachel completed her Master's degree in Social Work (MSW) at Salisbury University in Maryland. Her experience spans a variety of clinical settings, including crisis intervention, residential treatment, school-based outpatient services, inpatient psychiatric facilities, and large non-profits. Rachel's professional experience enables her to understand the importance of identifying all aspects of an individual's life that impact their well-being. This includes their physical health, support systems (family, friends, etc.), work or school environment, and faith/spirituality.

Rachel utilizes multiple treatment approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, and mindfulness-based approaches. Rachel believes that each of us can be fulfilled in our lives. Therapy can be intimidating, so her goal is to provide a safe and comfortable environment where we can develop goals and determine strengths and assets to move forward in life. Schedule an appointment today to see if Rachel is the right fit for you. 

Orin Greene is a board-certified adult Primary Care and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 9 years of experience. He specializes in medication management for individuals navigating anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. Orin values open communication and takes time to understand each person’s unique needs. He collaborates closely with clients to ensure treatment is effective, well-tolerated, and aligned with their overall well-being.

He holds a Master’s in Nursing from Johns Hopkins University. Orin brings clinical expertise and a warm, attentive presence to every session. He works with clients to simplify the process, clarify options, and support sustainable progress.

Orin believes reaching out for support is a brave step; it doesn’t have to feel heavy. He brings warmth, encouragement, and positive energy to each session, creating a space where clients feel hopeful and supported. He is honored to walk alongside clients as they take that first step toward healing.

Allie Hoffer, Licensed Master Social Worker, comes to Thriveworks with over 3 years of experience. Allie brings a deep understanding of the impact of poverty, homelessness, and systemic oppression through both nonprofit work and lived experience. Allie is a good fit for those who value authenticity, laugh easily, think deeply about culture and identity, and are ready to explore their lives with curiosity and compassion.

Allie has a Master’s in Social Work from Boise State University and specializes in trauma-informed, eclectic care. They use eye movement desensitization reprocessing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and somatic techniques to support healing. Their therapy space is open, reflective, and designed to foster nervous system regulation, insight, and transformation.

Life can feel overwhelming, especially in today’s world, but there’s nothing wrong with you. Survival strategies are powerful, but therapy can help you learn to thrive. If you're seeking a safe space to reconnect with yourself, process pain, and build a more meaningful life, Allie is here to help. They’ve been there—and they get it.

Makedah Johnson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over five years of experience counseling children, teens, and adults. She specializes in treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, autism, and issues related to life changes, identity, trauma, and stress. Makedah believes in collaborating with her clients to support them on their journey of self-discovery..

Makedah earned her Master’s in Social Work from the University of Maryland. She integrates cognitive behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, internal family systems, trauma-informed therapy, and somatic therapy to help clients connect mind and body while building a strong therapeutic relationship.

Makedah understands that beginning therapy can feel overwhelming. She is committed to creating a transparent, welcoming, and safe environment where clients feel comfortable being themselves. She invites you to take the next step toward emotional wellness and begin your journey today.

Nadine Kakanou is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) who has 5 years of experience in the mental health field. Nadine completed her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) at Walden University. A PMHNP is tasked with evaluating a patient’s mental health status by assessing their relevant medical background, conducting comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, and identifying potential issues that might negatively impact a patient's mental health. The primary concern of individuals suffering from mental health problems is accessing mental health care professionals equipped with the knowledge and skills to provide comprehensive care and offer preventive strategies. Although PMHNPs receive intense training to meet mental health patients' needs, their roles are poorly understood because regulatory barriers have limited the entire scope of the practice.

Due to the complexity of human beings in understanding their lives and illness experience, a PMHNP requires the ability to access situations from different perspectives, not only through a psychological lens but also from a biological and development view, while recognizing the perspective of stakeholders affected. Besides, mental health disorders affect the ability to communicate experiences, and their symptoms may not conform to conventional diagnostic criteria. PMHNPs need to have a high tolerance of uncertainties and a willingness to frequently re-evaluate assessments upon discovering new information.

In addition to diagnosing and treating disease, PMHNPs nurture resilience and growth capacity because of the impact of psychiatric disorders on patients' growth and development abilities. The existing healthcare system may fail to address the complexity of problems suffered by patients completely. Consequently, PMHNPs need to effectively advocate for patients to acquire all the services needed to meet their mental health needs. They also need to push for the development of more effective services. In conclusion, PMHNPs are well prepared and equipped to provide independent and effective psychiatric care and treatment to effectively meet the needs of mental health patients.

Carol Garey is a Licensed Certified Clinical Social Worker with 30 years of experience in the mental health field. She works with adolescents, adults, and seniors, both individually and in groups. Carol specializes in helping individuals, couples, and families navigate anxiety, ADHD, depression, and relational stress through a collaborative, trauma-informed approach.

Carol earned her Master’s in Social Work from the University of Maryland. She blends trauma-informed care, cognitive behavioral therapy, and family systems approaches to support long-term healing. Carol helps clients ease anxiety, sharpen focus, heal relational wounds, and build resilience using both practical skills and insight work.

Carol understands how anxiety, grief, burnout, or isolation can create self-doubt. She offers a warm, judgment-free space where clients feel safe, heard, and empowered. She invites prospective clients to connect and explore how therapy might support their healing journey.

John DeHart is a licensed psychologist with 14 years of experience. He primarily works with adults, college students, millennials, individuals who identify as neurodivergent or creative, and folks in the LGBTQ+ community. He often helps people to work through life transitions, attachment and relationship issues, depression, anxiety, and concerns related to sexuality. John adapts his approach to meet the needs of his clients, but his training is rooted in psychodynamic theory. Generally, he believes in a holistic and depth-oriented approach to therapy, one that helps people to address the underlying causes of their symptoms. John received his doctorate from Chestnut Hill College in Philadelphia. He has trained at several colleges and community mental health agencies, and has worked in both rural and urban settings. He is a gay man with chronic health issues and is particularly sensitive to matters related to sexuality, diversity, and health.

Connecting with a new provider can be intimidating. John aims to create a laid-back and safe environment so that you can confront the challenges you're facing and bring about sustainable changes in your life. He looks forward to speaking with you. Please reach out to schedule an appointment.

Paul McClellan, LCSW-C is a therapist practicing in Columbia, MD, and a Child and Family therapist practicing in Silver Spring, MD. His primary focus is providing honest and authentic communication with clients, and being a resource for active listening and problem solving. He completed his Master’s degree in Social Work at the University of Chicago in 2015, and he has over 4 years of clinical experience.

Paul uses an eclectic blend of therapy styles, including Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused, Reality Based, and psycho-education to individuals age eight and up. Paul uses a holistic approach, exploring with and educating clients about how mind, spirit and body are interconnected. His theory is that a person-centered, nonjudgmental approach best serves the client and that together, we can help a client explore and experience change.

Tammy Holmes is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 20 years of experience in counseling patients and families impacted by health related illnesses including births of the tiniest premature infants to supporting families through the death a loved one. She is passionate about helping clients recognize and accept their deepest feelings of grief and anger while also experiencing the duality of joy and happiness. She firmly believes that feelings of guilt can either lead the way to change or when misguided can steal away personal growth.

Tammy earned her Master's degree in Social Work at University of Maryland as a nontraditional student. She is a wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, and sister to a large complex family and understands the importance of flexibility, forgiveness, and humor in dealing with relationships. She uses an eclectic approach to therapy but firmly believes that self growth and healing occurs when a person pays attention to their inner dialog and the impact it has on their behavior and feelings. Tammy, believes that creating a safe place for the hardest of thoughts and feelings to be explored can bring relief.

If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed by a difficult thoughts or life situations, sabotaging your successes, or struggling with creating safe boundaries in your relationships, Tammy can support you by creating the space to think about what changes you want to make. Schedule with her today to gain new perspectives and techniques that will allow you to grow into a healthier you.

Kalkidan Yilma is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) with 2 years of experience in the mental health field. She is dedicated to fostering positive change, growth, and empowerment in the lives of her clients. She is committed to providing a safe and supportive space for individuals to navigate life's challenges. Kalkidan specializes in helping clients navigate issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and relationship dynamics. Kalkidan completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at the University of Maryland, Baltimore.

With a background working in both clinical and community settings, she was able to hone her skills in individual and group therapy. She tailors her methods to meet the needs of her clients by utilizing various treatments such as trauma-informed therapy, motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, and mindfulness-based therapy.

Kalkidan's warm and empathic demeanor creates a space where clients feel heard and understood. She actively involves clients in therapy and believes in the power of collaboration in developing a sense of empowerment and self-discovery. Her goal is to guide individuals in building resilience, improving well-being, and strengthening their quality of life.

Anne Donohue is a Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical in the state of Maryland with more than 20 years of experience in various mental health settings. She earned her Master’s degree in Social Work from California State University Long Beach in 1995, and her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Florida Atlantic University in 1991. 

Anne approaches counseling as a collaboration between counselor and client and utilizes a client-centered, strength-based approach to care. She works to provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space in which she can help clients work towards meaningful change.

Rachael Funk is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 16 years of experience in mental health. She is passionate about helping adults address their unique life experiences and live life fully. She has provided mental health care in Baltimore for nearly 17 years. She is a queer-identified woman in a multi-racial family. This, coupled with her professional experience in an urban area, enables her to provide a variety of treatment services and knowledge to address life's many issues. Rachael specializes in depression, anxiety, grief, suicide grief, and trauma. Rachael also has experience with treating substance use issues.

Rachael completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at the University of Maryland at Baltimore. Rachael utilizes several treatment approaches including mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and person-centered treatment.

Almost every living being experiences some sort of trauma in their life, big or small. Rachael is confident that she can help teach coping skills, perspective, and healing techniques to deal with any issue you’re dealing with. If you are ready to find hope, live a more joyful life, and experience therapy with some humor, schedule an appointment with her.

Dr. Joseph Bullock is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) who treats a wide range of mental health issues in adults. Dr. Bullock has over 30 years of experience as a professional counselor, clinical supervisor, and administrator. His professional background includes serving as the Director of Substance Abuse Services for the Arlington County Department of Human Services in Arlington, Virginia. He has also worked as a consultant to the United States Navy providing training and clinical supervision services to counselors in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area, and has provided workshops on mental health, substance abuse, and other counseling related topics.

Dr. Bullock completed his Doctor of Education (Ed.D) from Virginia Polytechnic University. He holds the Preceptor of the Year Award 2012 from the Danya Institute. Through counseling, Dr. Bullock assists clients to find their way to emotional freedom so they can begin to experience the life they intended to live with regard to relationships and mental, physical, and spiritual wellness.

Dr. Bullock seeks to counsel, coach, and encourage those who may be struggling to achieve in a particular area of life or feel that their growth has halted. What sets Dr. Bullock apart is his expert use of insight and compassion in conjunction with working with his client to co-create the exact plan to achieve their desired life experience. Dr. Bullock’s goal as a counselor is to provide support and practical feedback to help people resolve current problems and gain more satisfaction out of life, both present and future. He works to help people find or reconnect to their own inner spiritual strength and resolve. He is committed to helping people enjoy life more fully.

Dr. Judy Ann Upshaw is a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) with more than 43 years of clinical experience. While she is experienced in general mental health treatment, her specialty is substance use treatment. Dr. Judy has worked in inpatient as well as outpatient treatment as well as individual, group, couples and family counseling. She enjoys assisting people in finding their true selves and achieve their highest goals. Dr. Judy has developed programs and supervised other therapist. She is also an adjunct college professor.

Dr. Judy completed her Bachelor's degree in Behavior Sciences at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, MI. She then received a Master's degree in Psychology from Temple University-Philadelphia, and a Doctorate in Counseling Psychology from Argosy University-Arlington. She utilizes many treatment modality such as music and art therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and much more.

Life is full of challenges, especially in this post-pandemic era. Now more than ever, Dr. Judy sees our societies the need for counseling. She would like to have the opportunity to support you in your life's journey and is confident in her ability to help you reach your goals. Schedule your first session with her today.