Our counselors provide therapy 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.

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.

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.

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. 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.

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.

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.

Markelle Handy is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 20+ years of experience in the mental health field. She specializes in working with adult clients to address issues with depression, anxiety, relationship issues and family problems.

Markelle holds a Doctoral degree in Counseling Psychology from Argosy University and completed her Master's degree at Towson University. She supports her clients with solution-focused (SFT) therapeutic goals.

If you are facing current challenges in your everyday life and are looking to explore ways to develop healthier strategies and improve your emotional wellbeing, schedule with Markelle today.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

Tori Mills is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who has over 20 years of experience in mental health. She works as a clinical therapist providing a variety of mental health services to adolescents, adults, and couples, and she specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy, family therapy, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, parenting issues, codependency, and self-esteem. Tori partners with clients to increase self-awareness, cultivate empowerment, encourage positive change, and most importantly to work toward achieving the goals that clients set forth for themselves. 

Tori has a B.A. in Psychology from Hampton University and a Master's Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from Coppin State University.  Some of her experience includes Needs Assessment, School Therapy, Partial Hospitalization, and Care Coordination. She has also completed the Level 1 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy. The framework of Tori's approach is developed from cognitive behavioral therapy and infused with components of rational emotive behavior therapy and dialectical behavior therapy. She is experienced with diverse cultures and populations in a wide variety of life situations, which includes experience working with individuals with dual diagnosis and dual sensory impairments. 

Have you been in search of discovering the "new you" where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being? Ever been frustrated trying to find the right person to talk to without feeling rushed or judged? Tori's goal is to provide a safe, calm, and compassionate space for you to uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. "Hi, my name is Tori Mills, LCPC and I invite you to book an appointment with me to begin your journey of self-discovery," she says. "During our initial meeting, we will identify your personal needs and goals so that I can be your GPS as we work together to explore different routes to your own self-empowerment and personal growth."

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.