Our therapists offer grief & loss counseling in Towson, MD

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.

Megan Mills is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) who is committed to providing quality treatment for anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, adjusting to life changes, and other issues. Megan has over 8 years of experience helping children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples for treatment of mental illnesses in inpatient and outpatient settings. 

Megan completed her Master of Science (MS) in Clinical Community Counseling at Johns Hopkins University. She has also completed the Level 1 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy.

Megan believes that the choice to enter therapy exhibits bravery and self-compassion. She seeks to provide a safe, supportive, nonjudgmental environment where people can share emotions and experiences and learn skills to improve confidence, communicate more effectively, change unhelpful thoughts or habits, and overcome past or current obstacles in order to move forward in their lives. Megan sincerely desires to support you in your counseling journey.

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.

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.

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!

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with 14 years of experience helping individuals navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. I create a supportive environment where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to explore the patterns that shape their experiences. My approach is collaborative and compassionate, focusing on helping clients uncover their strengths and move toward greater emotional balance and fulfillment.

I earned a Master’s in Professional Counseling from Loyola University. Depending on client needs, I integrate an eclectic blend of emotionally focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and intensive short-term dynamic psychotherapy. These approaches are especially effective for clients managing moderate to severe anxiety and depression.

My goal is to help clients recognize and shift automatic responses that cause stress, turning these insights into meaningful growth. By sharing practical coping skills and fostering awareness of mind, body, and spirit, I guide clients toward resilience, self-compassion, and lasting happiness.

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.

Dr. Deborah Jones is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 10 years of experience. She supports young adults and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, and life transitions. Dr. Jones blends evidence-based therapy with medication management to help clients gain emotional clarity and resilience. She values honest, collaborative relationships and creates a safe, supportive space for healing and personal growth.

Dr. Jones holds a Doctorate in Nursing Research from the University of Alabama. She uses a compassionate, client-centered approach that integrates therapy and medication management. Her clinical style is grounded in collaboration, respect, and helping individuals find clarity and lasting wellness.

Dr. Jones understands how overwhelming life can feel when your mind is unsettled. She offers a nonjudgmental space where young adults and adults feel heard, supported, and empowered. If you're ready to take the next step toward healing, she’s here to walk alongside you on your journey.

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.

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.

I am a doctorate-prepared, dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I bring over 7 years of experience in mental health and more than 25 years in nursing, working across a variety of specialties in New York. I enjoy working with individuals 16 and older who are navigating challenges with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and substance use. My approach includes supportive therapy, medication management, and referrals when needed.

I earned my Doctorate in Nursing from the University of Cincinnati. My focus is on tailoring evidence-based treatment plans that emphasize resilience, balance, and lasting wellness. I specialize in combining medication management with supportive therapy to create a safe and collaborative space for clients.

Taking the first step toward care can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. I provide a supportive and judgment-free space where your story matters. When you are ready, I welcome you to begin this process with me. Together, we will work toward building the tools and confidence to achieve mental wellness.

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.

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.

I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical with 26 years of experience supporting adolescents and adults. I specialize in helping clients navigate challenges such as depression, anxiety, grief and loss, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, trauma, and relationship difficulties. My goal is to create a safe, compassionate space where clients feel empowered to explore their experiences, gain insight, and build healthier patterns. I help clients achieve a sense of meaning, purpose, and peace in their lives.

I earned my Master’s in Social Work Mental Health from Columbia University. My approach integrates cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and dialectical behavior therapy to help clients regulate emotions and challenge negative thought patterns. I also draw from psychodynamic therapy to address the impact of early life experiences.

I am passionate about helping clients find balance, healing, and fulfillment. While the journey can feel challenging, the rewards of growth and self-discovery are worth it. I encourage you to take the first step toward care and I look forward to connecting with you and supporting your path toward lasting change.

My name is John DeHart, and I am a licensed psychologist with 14 years of experience. I work primarily with adults, college students, millennials, individuals who identify as neurodivergent or creative, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. I often help clients navigate life transitions, attachment and relationship issues, depression, anxiety, and concerns related to sexuality. While I adapt my approach to meet each person’s needs, my training is rooted in psychodynamic theory. I believe in a holistic and depth-oriented approach to therapy, one that explores the underlying causes of symptoms to create lasting change.

I earned my doctorate from Chestnut Hill College in Philadelphia and have trained at several colleges and community mental health agencies. My experience spans both rural and urban settings, which has given me perspective on the unique challenges people face in different environments. As a gay man living with chronic health issues, I am particularly sensitive to matters related to sexuality, diversity, and health, and I strive to bring that awareness into my work with every client.

I understand that connecting with a new provider can feel intimidating. My goal is to create a laid-back, safe, and supportive environment where you can confront challenges openly and begin making meaningful, sustainable changes in your life. I look forward to connecting with you and invite you to reach out to schedule an appointment when you feel ready.

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.

Michelle is a Licensed Clinical Certified Social Worker (LCCSW) in Maryland and Pennsylvania. She is passionate about educating people about domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. Michelle works with adults with anxiety, depression, along with those with trauma.

Michelle received her Bachelor’s degree from Shippensburg University and Master’s degree in Social Work from Indiana University. Michelle uses cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) approach in treatment along with other therapeutic interventions.

We all go through challenges in life. Michelle is confident that she would be able to support you on your journey to gain new perspectives that allow you to cope with life struggles. If you are ready to do the work, schedule an appointment with her today.

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.

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.

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.