Our licensed counselors provide individual therapy in Maryland

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.

Janay Taylor is a Licensed Certified Social Worker, Clinical (LCSW-C) who has experience working with children and adults with a wide range of mental health needs. Janay is seeking to work with clients who are looking to receive guidance with depression, anxiety, parenting education, communication, and relationship issues. 

Janay completed both her Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and her Master of Social Work (MSW) at Salisbury University. She comes from an environment of working with people involved in the Child Welfare system, guiding them toward reunifying children with birth families. 

Janay utilizes empathetic listening, guided practice, collaboration, and strengths-based approaches to help clients reach their own understanding of how to make their life better. She works with clients to find a path to their own happiness. Janay wants to build an understanding and accepting environment where people can feel confident about their own abilities in reaching and maintaining their goals, with the ultimate outcome of living an enriching and meaningful life.

My career path began in the retail/wholesale industry, which created a path for me in therapy. I’ve worked in roles in ministry, education, and leadership, and have immersed myself in critical race theory, history, and the Black experience. I’ve worked with a wide range of clients of different races, cultures, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Much of my confidence in working with people from all walks of life was inspired by my upbringing. I grew up a military brat, which made me more social and adaptable. I understand trauma does not escape the human experience, but effort and will are the ingredients for healing and transformation.

My approach is rooted in person-centered therapy and CBT, though I have grown into a more eclectic practice that allows for broader interventions and coping strategies. More recently, I have integrated internal family systems (IFS), somatic experiencing, and EMDR techniques to best meet each client where they are.

If you have found yourself on this page, I hope you will act with the same courage that brought you here. In that act of bravery, you have the opportunity to experience all that possibility can give to you. Our journey in therapy will not be easy, but it is an alliance that is unforgettable and rewarding.

I'm a counselor who helps people make sense of what they're currently going through, process past experiences, and develop tools to move forward. My background includes working in crisis services and outpatient counseling settings, where I supported individuals facing a wide range of emotional and life challenges. I especially enjoy working with people who feel stuck in patterns of overthinking, self-doubt, or emotional exhaustion. Together, we'll work toward greater self-understanding, healthier coping strategies, and a stronger sense of confidence in navigating life. 

I believe therapy works best when you feel supported while also being encouraged to reflect, grow, and challenge unhelpful patterns. Together, we explore thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that may be contributing to distress, while building practical strategies to manage stress and anxiety. 

I understand that reaching out for support can sometimes feel difficult or uncertain. You may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure where to begin. Therapy can offer a space where you feel heard, supported, and able to explore what you're going through. If you feel therapy may be helpful, I welcome the opportunity to support you in taking that next step. 

I am a licensed graduate professional counselor (LGPC) with 6 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, young adults, and adults in clinical and school-based settings. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, emotional regulation challenges, family conflict, identity concerns, and life transitions. My work focuses on helping clients gain clarity, strengthen resilience, and develop practical tools to navigate everyday challenges.

I earned my master’s degree in mental health counseling from Johns Hopkins University. My clinical approach is cognitive behavioral therapy-focused and trauma-informed, helping clients identify unhelpful thought patterns, build practical coping strategies, and create sustainable behavior change through structured, goal-oriented sessions.

You do not have to navigate this season alone. I offer a collaborative, culturally responsive, and compassionate space where your experiences are honored and your goals guide our work. Together, we will move at your pace to support healing, emotional growth, and renewed hope.

I am a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) with 5 years of experience supporting adults navigating anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, life transitions, and emotional challenges. I provide a thoughtful, insight-oriented approach to therapy and believe that meaningful change begins with understanding the deeper roots of your struggles. I am committed to creating a safe, supportive space where you feel heard and respected.

I earned my master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Northwestern University, where I received training in psychodynamic psychotherapy and psychoanalysis. I draw from multiple evidence-based approaches and tailor treatment to each client’s unique needs, allowing therapy to unfold in a way that feels authentic and effective.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or isolated, you don’t have to face it alone. I offer an engaged, compassionate, and collaborative environment where we can explore challenges together and work toward clarity, relief, and lasting growth. I look forward to supporting you on your journey.

I am a licensed certified social worker-clinical (LCSW-C) with over six years of experience in behavioral health services, working with adults struggling with a wide range of mental health challenges. I specialize in working with clients who have complex needs and those within marginalized populations and communities, approaching each person through a humanistic lens. I recognize that each client's needs are unique, and my therapeutic style—grounded in empathy and unconditional positive regard—is not one-size-fits-all.

I am task-centered and solution-focused, drawing on other approaches interchangeably in order to address individuals. I am direct, and will identify and discuss a client's ambivalence or resistance, as needed, in order to help the client continue on their healing process through their individual treatment plan.

Asking for help is the first step, and that step alone shows real strength and the innate drive toward your desire for change and growth. From there, we work together—forming a therapeutic relationship, identifying goals, strengthening coping tools, building connections, and exploring new perspectives—to help you find your personal fulfillment. 

I am a licensed graduate professional counselor (LGPC) with 17 years of experience supporting individuals and families through life transitions, stress, emotional challenges, and identity concerns. I work with clients seeking clarity, confidence, and practical tools to navigate daily demands, and I strive to create a therapeutic space where they feel seen, supported, and empowered to heal and grow.

I earned my doctorate in industrial and organizational psychology from Capella University. My approach integrates empathy, cultural humility, and strength-based, mindfulness-based, and trauma-informed practices to help clients build coping skills, improve relationships, and deepen their sense of emotional balance and resilience.

You deserve a space where your story is honored, and your healing is supported. I am here to walk with you as you gain clarity, strengthen your well-being, and develop tools that help you thrive. When you feel ready to begin, I would be honored to help you take the next step toward meaningful change and a more grounded, connected life.

I am a licensed clinical professional counselor (LPC) with 3 years of experience supporting adults navigating anxiety, depression, and ADHD. I am passionate about meeting clients where they are and providing a supportive space where healing, growth, and self-discovery can occur. My goal is to help individuals break unhealthy patterns, build resilience, and move toward a more balanced and fulfilling life.

I earned my master's degree in mental health counseling from Walden University. My approach focuses on developing practical tools and coping skills to improve well-being. I utilize evidence-based approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, and mindfulness-based practices, tailoring treatment to each client’s needs and experiences.

I strive to create a comfortable and nonjudgmental space where you can be yourself, gain insight, and develop compassion for your journey. Together, we will work toward meaningful change while building the skills needed to navigate life’s challenges. If you’re ready to take the next step toward healing and growth, I look forward to supporting you.

Life can feel overwhelming, confusing, or isolating, and it’s normal to want guidance and support. I’m a relational clinical social worker who helps adults and young adults explore how relationships and life experiences shape emotions, behaviors, and patterns.

Many clients come to therapy feeling stuck, struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, or difficult relationships. Others want to better understand themselves, improve communication, and develop healthier ways of coping.

In working together I provide a compassionate, collaborative space where you can feel heard and understood. Together, we’ll explore patterns in your relationships, uncover your strengths, and develop tools to help you manage challenges, build confidence, and create meaningful change.

I am a licensed certified social worker-clinical (LCSW-C) with 22 years of experience providing therapy across a wide range of clinical settings. I have worked with abused and neglected children, individuals experiencing homelessness, crisis intervention teams, and clients seeking faith-based counseling. My work spans individuals, couples, and families, with a strong focus on helping clients navigate trauma, life stressors, and emotional challenges.

I earned my Master of Social Work from the University of Maryland. My orientation is grounded in psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioral theory, and I utilize solution-focused and reality therapy approaches. In cases involving trauma or abuse, I incorporate ego-strengthening techniques to support resilience, healthy adaptation, and emotional functioning.

Clients often respond well to my practical, evidence-based approach to therapy. I strive to provide competent, thoughtful care tailored to your unique needs and goals. If you are seeking a clinician who values collaboration, insight, and meaningful progress, I look forward to supporting you on your therapeutic journey.

I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical with 5 years of experience helping clients navigate challenges related to mental health and substance use. My work has centered on supporting individuals seeking healing, balance, and self-discovery. I’ve worked with adults managing depression, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions, and I’m passionate about empowering clients to strengthen self-awareness and develop the skills to create lasting, positive change in their lives.

I earned my Master’s in Social Work from the University of Maryland and draw from approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, mindfulness, and trauma-informed care. My approach is collaborative and compassionate, helping clients uncover their strengths and work toward their personal goals.

I understand that seeking help takes courage, and my goal is to create a space that feels safe, empowering, and judgment-free. I invite you to begin your healing journey and take the next step toward living a life filled with purpose, growth, and peace. Together, we can work toward the changes you want and deserve.

I am a licensed clinical professional counselor (LPC) with 27 years of experience in the mental health field. I work with individuals, couples, and families navigating PTSD, anxiety, relational concerns, and life transitions. My background includes work across inpatient settings, private practice, and community-based care, with a recent focus on supporting first responders, military families, and individuals seeking healthier relationships and emotional well-being.

I earned my doctorate in couple and family therapy from Drexel University in Philadelphia, where my research focused on intergenerational patterns within families. My clinical approach is client-centered and grounded in curiosity, compassion, and trust, with an emphasis on creating a safe, supportive space for meaningful exploration and growth.

I believe healing happens through strong therapeutic relationships built on safety and collaboration. I will work with you to focus on your priorities, explore difficult experiences at your pace, and support personal and relational growth. Seeking therapy is a courageous step, and I am honored to support you in that process.

Karen Ortman is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 5 years of experience in the mental health field. She has worked with children to assist them in improving their emotional and behavioral challenges, and she has worked with adults to learn and improve their daily living and social skills. Karen specializes in ADHD, anger, behavioral issues, coping skills, family therapy, and adjustment disorders.

Karen completed her Master's degree in Social Work at the University of Maryland, Baltimore. Karen is very motivated to help her clients achieve progress towards their personal goals. Karen utilizes a variety of therapeutic approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, behavioral therapy, and structural family therapy (SFT).

Karen is willing to put in the time to help you discover new ways to understand and improve your quality of life. Be sure to schedule an appointment with her to begin working towards a healthier you.

Alex Johnson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of experience. She works with clients 18+, and specializes in anxiety disorders, depression, self-esteem issues, and ADHD management.

Alex has her Master's in Social Work from the University of Michigan. She holds a child welfare certificate from Michigan State University and has experience in crisis intervention, foster care systems, and trauma-informed care.

Alex believes therapy should be collaborative and rooted in trust. She creates a warm, judgment-free space and focuses on building strong therapeutic relationships as the foundation for meaningful change.

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.

Ericka Lee is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 15 years of experience working with children, adults, couples, and families. She specializes in assisting with a range of concerns including stress, career, anger, behavioral issues, and life transitions. Ericka helps others learn how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors impact choices, communication, and relationships. She focuses on bringing clients out of the past and future by teaching skills to anchor them to the present.

Ericka holds a Master's in Social Work from the University of Maryland Baltimore. She utilizes approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, culturally sensitive therapy, person-centered therapy, and motivational interviewing to tailor treatment to client needs.

From academic pressure to professional stress to the uncertainty of later years, our lives are filled with transitions. Ericka will challenge you to stop judging yourself as you work together to reset your thinking, reassess your priorities, and shift from blame to critical reflection. Schedule an appointment today!

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.

I am a licensed certified social worker-clinical (LCSW-C) with 12 years of experience supporting clients across the lifespan. I specialize in helping adults manage anxiety, depression, grief, emotional imbalance, trauma, relationship concerns, life transitions, and stress. I also work with individuals navigating communication challenges, family dynamics, attention-related issues, intimacy concerns, and job-related stressors.

I earned my master’s degree in social work from Morgan State University and use a solution-focused, direct, and compassionate approach. I incorporate motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, existential therapy, and faith-based interventions, along with skills such as communication and decision-making support.

My goal is to provide a grounded, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard, understood, and supported. You do not have to navigate life’s challenges alone. Together, we will identify what you need to heal, grow, and move forward with greater confidence and clarity.

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.

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.

Denise Carmela Katz is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 30+ years of clinical experience. Due to Ms. Katz's background in IMAGO Relationship Therapy and Advanced Professional Training in Emotionally-Focused Therapy and EMDR, she is especially well suited to serve clients wishing to improve or repair their relations as well as individuals working through trauma. Ms. Katz has a passion for creating and leading group therapy because it allows clients to meet others who can give them support and perspectives on how they deal with or have dealt with similar issues. Ms. Katz aims to create safe, nurturing judgment-free zones whether it is individual or group therapy. Ms. Katz is attuned to the “Open Generation” and enjoys working with the LGBTQIA+ and all queer clients.

Ms. Katz completed her Bachelor's degree in Psychology in 1987 from the University of Maryland at College Park with a minor in dance therapy. Ms. Katz also obtained a Master's degree in clinical social work with a specialization in employee assistance programs in 1990. Ms. Katz utilizes a variety of techniques to suit her clients including acceptance and commitment therapy, psychodynamic approaches, mindfulness, family systems, cognitive behavioral guided meditation, and eye movement desensitization reprocessing, which has been shown to accelerate the healing of traumas. Ms. Katz's mother was a psychotherapist for 50 years who also told stories about her own family history including survivors of World War II and how this generational trauma in all diverse cultures and faiths can impact how a person experiences the world. 

We all go through challenges in life — "trauma" is a relative word everyone's pain is unique to them. Ms. Katz is confident that if you are ready to experience being even a little bit open to sharing your life story in a judgment-free zone you may reap big rewards in your life and relationships. If you are ready to do the work, schedule with her today. Carmela works best with ages 20 to 65 years. Ask Carmela about her current ZOOM group therapy openings