Accepted insurance & self-pay
About Denise
Hello, my name is Denise Mitchell, and I am a National Board Certified Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor licensed in Maryland and Virginia. I have over 20 years of experience in the school system and private therapy. I have experience providing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Trauma-Informed therapy with teens, adults, and couples. My goal as a therapist is to help everyone reach a place where they can be their best self. I look forward to supporting you in your journey.
My approach is collaborative, helping you build awareness and practical tools for daily life. I integrate evidence-based practices focused on communication and healthy boundaries to better understand yourself and your relationships. I specialize in anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions, grief, and patterns like people-pleasing and self-doubt.
You don't have to navigate everything on your own—whatever you're carrying, there is space for it here. When you're ready, I invite you to take that next step and begin your journey toward healing and growth.

"As an African-American woman, I understand the unique challenges, and I believe healing happens through honest connection, so I offer a warm, grounded space where you can feel truly seen, supported, and empowered to grow at your own pace."
Get to know Denise
Why did you decide to become a counselor or psychiatric provider?
I chose to become a counselor because I’ve always been drawn to understanding people more deeply and creating space where others feel truly heard and supported. I’ve seen how powerful it can be when someone feels safe enough to be open, and I wanted to be part of that process—helping people navigate challenges, build self-awareness, and move toward a more grounded and fulfilling life.
What types of clients do you work best with?
I work best with individuals who are open to self-reflection and ready to explore their thoughts, emotions, and patterns in a supportive, nonjudgmental space. I especially connect with clients navigating anxiety, relationship challenges, life transitions, and grief, as well as those working through peoplepleasing, boundary-setting, and self-worth. My approach is a good fit for clients seeking both emotional support and practical tools to create meaningful, lasting change.
What's one thing you wish all clients knew about therapy, mental health, or the healing process?
One thing I wish all clients knew is that healing is not a straight line—progress often comes in small, meaningful shifts that build over time, and even the moments that feel like setbacks are part of the growth process.
What can clients expect in their first session with you and in the early stages of therapy?
The first session is an opportunity for us to get to know each other and begin building a foundation of trust. I understand that starting therapy—especially the first session—can bring up a mix of emotions: hope, nervousness, uncertainty. That’s completely normal. There’s no pressure to tell your whole story all at once. This is your time and space, and we’ll move at a pace that feels safe and respectful for you. My goal is for you to leave the session feeling heard, supported, and a bit more grounded in what our work together might look like. Most importantly, the first session is an opportunity for you to gauge whether I’m the right fit for you. If it feels like a good match, we’ll talk about next steps and how often we might meet.
What personal experiences or values inform your practice as a therapist/provider?
Clients often tell me they feel genuinely seen and deeply understood in our work together. One of my greatest strengths is creating a warm, nonjudgmental space where people can be honest, even about the parts of themselves they usually keep hidden. I listen closely, ask meaningful questions, and help clients make sense of their experiences in ways that lead to real insight and change. Ultimately, my goal is to help you feel more connected to yourself, more confident in your choices, and more capable of navigating life’s challenges in a way that feels true to who you are. Ultimately, my goal is to help you feel more connected to yourself, more confident in your choices, and more capable of navigating life’s challenges in a way that feels true to who you are.
How do you tailor therapy to meet each client’s unique needs?
I tailor therapy by taking time to understand your unique experiences, goals, and what feels most helpful to you, rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach. I draw on a range of evidence-based methods and adjust our work to your pace, preferences, and what’s coming up in your life, so our sessions feel relevant and supportive. Throughout the process, I check in regularly and collaborate with you to ensure the approach continues to fit your needs and support your growth.
Other areas of focus
Education and training
- Years in practice
- 15 years
- Graduating institute
- University of Pittsburgh
- Graduating degree
- Master's in Education/Counseling
