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.

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.

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.

Lillian Morales is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor for the state of Maryland. She has provided individual, family, and group therapy in a variety of settings. Lillian is bilingual and can provide services in Spanish. Lillian enjoys working with children, adolescents, and young adults and specializes in anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief, relationship issues, adjustment disorders, life transitions, self-esteem, relationship/family issues, and stress management. Lillian received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Stevenson University and her Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from Loyola University.

Lillian uses a holistic and eclectic approach to therapy but has also used play therapy, art therapy, CBT, cognitive therapy, person-centered therapy, and REBT, depending on what the client's needs are. Lillian emphasizes building a connection at first while continuously providing a safe and nurturing environment for the client's therapeutic journey.

Lillian is very familiar with the nerves and uncertainty of starting something new. Starting therapy is a huge step and Lillian can relate, having been in a client's shoes, to what that can entail. Lillian believes in having an impact on all her clients and would love to help you on your therapeutic 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.

I am a Licensed Master Social Worker with 17 years of experience supporting individuals through life’s most difficult challenges. I specialize in helping clients navigate anxiety, depression, grief and loss, chronic illness, gender identity, and addiction. With compassion and deep understanding of generational trauma, I work to empower clients to break free from the patterns that hold them back so they can step into a healthier, more fulfilling life.

I earned my Master’s in Social Work from the University of Oklahoma, where I graduated summa cum laude. My approach to care is holistic, recognizing that healing requires nurturing the mind, body, and spirit. I create safe, supportive spaces where clients feel heard, valued, and empowered to explore their thoughts and emotions.

I am inspired by the words of Martin Luther King, Jr.: “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, what are you doing for others?” Guided by this principle, I go above and beyond to ensure my clients receive the care, tools, and encouragement they need to achieve their goals and begin their journey toward true 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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

Kaitlin is a Licensed Certified Social Worker Clinical (LCSW-C) in the state of Maryland with over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families in various treatment settings. She focuses on treating those who are experiencing impacts in various areas of life as a result of anxiety, stress, depression, ADHD, self-harm behaviors, and more. Kaitlin is certified as an ADHD clinical services provider focusing primarily on young adults and adults with ADHD.

She completed her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work at Hood College; and received her Master’s of Social Work Degree with a specialization in children and families, through the University of Maryland, Baltimore. Kaitlin has had the opportunity to help clients manage anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, family and relationship conflicts during different phases of life. She has also worked with adults and juveniles in the legal system while detained and preparing for re-entry into the community. 

Kaitlin uses a person-centered and strengths-based approach while drawing on various treatment models including, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solutions-focused therapy (SFT), mindfulness-based and systems theory methods. Kaitlin strives to create a calm, safe, therapeutic environment for each client while working together to help clients achieve their goals. She is an active listener providing encouragement, empathy, and compassion to all of her clients. Kaitlin also challenges clients to push themselves out of their comfort zones to encourage growth and guidance in their life’s journey.

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.

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.

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.

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.