Deciding to start counseling is often pivotal for those seeking healing, personal growth, and self-improvement. Mental health professionals can help you manage mental health conditions, overcome traumatic experiences, or prepare for life’s difficult moments. Therapists can also likely help if you aren’t experiencing a threat to your mental wellness but want to focus on growing as a person, such as by gaining a better understanding of your true self or learning advanced problem-solving skills.
Mental health professionals who provide counseling services are highly trained. They typically receive at least a master’s degree and thousands of hours of supervised practice before conducting therapy sessions independently. They may also continue their education by specializing in specific groups, conditions, or treatments. For example, a therapist may specialize in providing mental health services to older adults. Others might work mainly with those who have anxiety disorders or specialize in advanced treatment modalities like dialectical behavior therapy.
No matter their specialization, most therapists consider helping their patients live better lives as one of their core treatment goals. They often help patients explore resources to address life’s struggles and are ready to provide substantial encouragement and support if their patients find those challenges overwhelming. Additionally, many therapists are adept at working with couples and families, helping families support a loved one or helping romantic partners find peace and happiness.
If you’re ready to get started with a therapist, Annapolis, MD, has many mental health professionals to choose from. Examining a practitioner’s training and background is often helpful to ensure it aligns with your therapy needs. You might also want to consider online therapy, which lets you find the services of a therapist from your home or other comfortable location, making it an extremely convenient option for many. The mental health providers listed below offer services to Annapolis and surrounding communities. It may be worthwhile to look at their profiles and reviews to see if they are a good fit for you.
Stacey Sugar
“Anyone can tell you what to do, but the true ability to grow comes from understanding who you are.” In 15 years of clinical practice, I've realized that within our uniqueness, we have one thing in common: We are all constantly writing our life stories. Many of us are passive biographers, believing that our book is already written, and that the ending is set in stone. Here's the secret: Our lives are not linear, and we have the power to edit our narrative at any--and every--moment. While we cannot change our past, we can learn to change our perspective of it. Once we unlock our unconscious defenses, we gain insight about who we've become and unleash the potential to transform into who we authentically want to be. When entering any new relationship, it is perfectly healthy--and encouraged-- to take the time you need to test it out and make sure it feels right. I promise to meet you where you are, and provide you with the tools to explore yourself deeper and make transformations at your own pace. I will support you to find the strength and motivation that will allow you to be more open and committed to making the changes you desire. In our time together, we will explore the full range of your emotions, including feelings that you may not be aware of--yet! Bringing these unconscious elements into your present experience offers you a series of a-ha moments that lay the foundation for greater self-awareness and enable you to live your best life. If you're ready to dig deep, it is my honor to join you on your journey. Let's remove the barriers that are blocking you from realizing your wants, needs, and actualizing your full potential!
Lorraine Helferich
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) in Maryland, as well. I am also board certified through the National Board of Certified Counselors (NCC) . I have been working as a licensed professional since 2014. I have been active in the mental health field working with individuals experiencing crisis, mental health concerns, and challenging life transitions for the past 13 years. I have experience working with clients experiencing a wide range of concerns and challenges including; depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, PTSD, life transitions and adjustment issues, relationship issues, parenting problems, as well as, trauma, and abuse. My counseling style is compassionate and engaging. Everyone deserves a safe and confidential space to share in which they are treated with respect and compassion. I work to collaborate with clients to help them gain insight and find ways to manage their struggles. My approach combines humanistic, and existential theories using evidence based techniques drawn from cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and psychotherapy treatments. I believe that individuals deserve to be treated with respect and compassion and that they have the ability to collaborate on treatment plans that are tailored to their personal needs and experiences. It takes a lot of courage and motivation for change to reach for additional support. I am here to provide the extra support and guidance that may be needed to assist in your reaching your personal goals for therapy. I look forward to working with you!
Dr. Rita Smith
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia. I am also a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. I have seen transformation in the lives of individuals, couples, and families over the 25 years I have worked in the helping profession. I have worked in agencies with diverse population, universities, private practices, and military installations using expertise and counseling techniques to bring dynamic change and wholeness. I believe everyone can create a life that is enjoyed and full of meaning. I use Person Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Brief Therapy. My goal is to meet you where you are and support your steps forward to success and well-being. Special Ties • Stress, Anxiety • Relationship issues • Career difficulties • Communication issues • Coping with life changes • Self-esteem Licensing LPC # 006779 (09/30/2020)
Julie Elliott
Greetings, I am Julie Elliott a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 30 years of experience. Currently living and working in my home state of Texas, I have international experience having worked in both Canada and the South Pacific. I received my Masters of Social Work from the University of Houston in 1990 and since earned the most advanced clinical social work license and was one of the first licensed Marriage and Family Therapists in Texas. I have expertise in numerous specialties including the following: Crisis Intervention, Addictions, Child and Adolescent Therapy, Family and Marriage Therapy, Sexual Trauma, and PTSD. I look forward to joining you on a new therapeutic journey.
Sarah Riggs
I am licensed in Maryland with 28 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Dr. Timothy Ibutu
ABOUT ME Greetings, I am Timothy Murungi Ibutu, a Licenced Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), Licenced Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCAD) in the State of Maryland (MD), Registered Peer Supervisor (RPS), and a National Certified Counselor (NCC). Additionally, I hold a PhD in counselor education and Supervision, specializing in situation-specific counseling sessions. With over 19 years of experience, I have dedicated my career to working with diverse demographics facing crisis, addictions issues (substance abuse), trauma, homelessness, and various life challenges. As a seasoned counselor, I have worked extensively with clients who have completed court-ordered sessions, offering a continuum of care to support individuals throughout their life journey. My counseling modality/style is characterized by warmth, understanding, and interactivity. I firmly believe in treating anyone with dignity, respect, sensitivity, empathy, and compassion. I steer clear of labelling and categorizing people into boxes. My approach integrates Choice Theory, Motivational Interviewing (MI), experiential techniques, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and psychodynamic counseling. I specialize in trauma-informed care, and substance abuse, recognizing that everyone is unique with distinct needs. Tailoring counseling to these specific needs is crucial in guiding individuals through their life journey. Taking the initial steps towards change can pave the way for a more fulfilling and happier life. When you are prepared, I am ready and willing to accompany you on your life journey.
Shashana Carter
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Therapist. Licensed in the state of Maryland with overall 10 years of services, training and experience working in Professional settings such as the Department of Social Services, Department of Probation Adult and Juvenile services and Opioid maintenance centers. Within the last 4 years I have worked providing individual therapy and empowering client's to overcome obstacles to achieve realistic goals and to find solutions to problematic issues getting in the way of living a healthier life. My counseling style is being a great listener, warm , compassionate, respectful, providing honest supportive communication and feedback. I will say is this; healing can happen through deliberate and intentional work that we will do together, and by making the first steps in allowing me to work with you I will always offer a safe space to be heard, a new way to communicate and explore your truth and to move forward in a positive direction. Specialties - Depression - Anxiety/stress - Grief - Bipolar - Trauma - PTSD Also experienced in Addictions, weight loss issues, coping with life changes, couples counseling, family issues Clinical approaches -Psychodynamic - Cognitive Behavioral - Mindfulness - Task centered - Problem solving Years of experience 10
John Caruso
As a licensed therapist in Maryland with two decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex life transitions and emotional challenges. My professional focus encompasses trauma recovery, mood disorders, military and veteran mental health, and life stage transitions including divorce, grief, and end-of-life counseling. As a former firefighter in the Baltimore area, I bring a deep expertise in addressing posttraumatic stress, first responder mental health, and traumatic brain injury. My approach centers on understanding each individual's unique journey, offering compassionate support for those experiencing stress, anxiety, and emotional complexity. With a commitment to holistic healing, I work closely with clients to develop resilience, process challenging experiences, and rediscover personal strength. Whether supporting veterans, first responders, or individuals facing significant life changes, I provide a supportive, understanding environment where healing and growth can flourish. My therapeutic practice is grounded in evidence-based approaches that honor each client's individual experience and potential for transformation.
Emmanuel Acquaye
I am licensed in Maryland with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Rachel Maina
I am licensed in Maryland with over 10 years of professional work experience with diverse and multicultural populations. I have worked in the past, with adolescents, teenagers, adults and geriatrics in a behavioral hospital set up in Georgia. I use evidence-based approaches which include, CBT, Solution Focused therapy, psychotherapy, Mindfulness- Based therapy and behavioral therapy. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, grief and loss, depression and relationships issues. I also have experience working with people who have criminal recidivism, having worked in a State Correctional facility. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs, working very closely with each client. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! I am very excited to undertake this therapeutic journal with you.
Dawn Shanklin
I am a dedicated and licensed therapist in Maryland and Massachusetts with 10 years of professional work experience helping people learn how to work through life difficulties. I have experience working with those struggling with anxiety and depression, specifically, learning how to manage stress and anxiety and improve confidence to cope with life changes. Each person I meet is treated with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My therapeutic approach is eclectic in integrating other therapeutic techniques such as client-centered, cognitive behavioral, and psychodynamic to promote healing and growth. I look forward to meeting you and helping you meet your life goals.
Erica Burns
Seeking therapy is a brave step toward healing, growth, and creating the life you deserve. Whether you're struggling with past wounds, relationship challenges, self-doubt, or major life transitions, you don’t have to go through it alone. With over 25 years of experience as a licensed social worker in Maryland, I specialize in helping individuals navigate emotional healing, build self-worth, and develop healthier , more fulfilling relationships. We will provide you with: A safe, nonjudgmental space to process your thoughts and emotions. Tools and strategies to help you manage stress, improve communication, and set healthy boundaries. Support in identifying and releasing patterns that no longer serve you. A collaborative approach to help you gain clarity and confidence in all your goals. Please note my current availability is limited to weekday mornings.
Taniyah Abdulbarr
As a licensed therapist in Maryland, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on helping clients develop self-love, improve communication, and discover their life purpose. I have extensive experience addressing challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and self-esteem concerns. My therapeutic practice is deeply rooted in understanding the unique experiences of individuals, offering a compassionate and culturally responsive space for healing. I believe in empowering clients to overcome social anxiety, work through family conflicts, and develop strategies for personal growth. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I collaborate with clients to explore their inner strengths, heal from past experiences, and build resilience. Whether you're struggling with feelings of abandonment, seeking forgiveness, or wanting to enhance your interpersonal connections, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance.
Janay Taylor
Janay Taylor is a Licensed Certified Social Worker, Clinical (LCSW-C) who has experience working with children, adults, and couples with a wide range of mental health needs. Janay is currently seeking to work with couples and adult clients who are looking to receive guidance with depression, anxiety, stress, 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. She has a diverse experience working with clients dealing with a variety of stress-related challenges, helping them improve their overall quality of life. Janay has been a therapist for 5 years after obtaining her Clinical License in Social Work in 2021, working with couples and individuals looking to make a change in their life. 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.
Find a Therapist Near You in Annapolis , Maryland
Finding a licensed therapist near you in Maryland can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.
Maryland is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in Maryland, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in Maryland (MD). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.
People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.
Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across Maryland, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.
What concerns can therapists help with?
Therapists on BetterHelp support adults across Maryland with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:
- Anxiety and stress
- Depression and mood-related concerns
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Grief and loss
- Relationship and family challenges
- Life transitions and adjustment concerns
- Self-esteem and confidence
- Job stress and burnout
- ADHD-related challenges
- Sleep concerns
- Parenting stress
- Eating disorder support
Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Maryland
When searching for a therapist near me in Maryland, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:
- Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
- Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as 24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
- Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
- Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across Maryland, not just nearby offices
Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across Maryland.
Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance
Many people looking for a therapist near me in Maryland want to know whether insurance is an option.
Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.
When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.
If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Maryland
BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in Maryland without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.
Here’s how it works:
- Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
- Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in Maryland (MD)
- Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat
BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.
You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.
Therapists near you in Maryland
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Maryland, including residents in Annapolis.
Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.
Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in Maryland do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me
How much does therapy cost near me?
Therapy costs vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Is online therapy effective?
Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.
How quickly can I start therapy?
Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.
Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?
Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.
Is online therapy private and secure?
Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.