This is Ashley Williams's avatar and link to their profile

Ashley Williams

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MD
Counselor License Type(s): LCPC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello! Thank you for taking the time to practice self-care today. My belief is that searching for help is the first step in the process of healing and as a therapist my personal mission is to provide each client with supports, tools and a safe space to express themselves. I am a licensed therapist within the state of Maryland. I attained my M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Washington Adventist University and hold a B.A. in Psychology from American University. I have worked tirelessly within inpatient, community based and outpatient mental health facilities with a focus on mood, personality and conduct disorders. During my employment within the inpatient mental health facility I oversaw patient care, conducted daily meetings with the psychiatric team, and performed multiple group and individual therapy sessions per day. I reconstructed the behavior modification system for the child unit in collaboration with the president of the hospital and was a primary team member in the “Go Live” process for the first electronic medical record system within the hospital’s history. Since then, I have enjoyed the privilege of working with low income individuals within a community-based agency and currently manage a private practice catering to all ages. My focus is currently on supporting emerging therapists while still providing counseling to those in need. My approach to working with clients is considered “client centered.” This means my goal is to provide you with a professional support system that will help guide you in understanding how to meet the goals you have set for yourself. As part of my client centered approach, I do ask that clients are “active participants” in the therapeutic process. As an active participant, you will be able to try various methods to improve and develop the life that you wish to have. I value a holistic approach to therapy which includes examination of the person and how they respond to their behaviors, beliefs, and the community around them by incorporating talk therapy and some expressive therapeutic techniques. I look forward to meeting with you soon!

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John Doleski

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MD
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW-C
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
11 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a clinical social worker licensed in Maryland. For the last 9 years I've been working with active duty members of all branches and their families in the areas of family advocacy, substance abuse, and psychotherapy. I have worked with individuals on issues related occupational stress, parenting, divorce, complex trauma, depression, anxiety, LGBTQ, family conflict, domestic violence, and child welfare. My treatment modalities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, Interpersonal Therapy, and Problem Solving Therapy. I believe in providing a safe, friendly space for my clients by offering kind and honest treatment without judgment. I look forward to working with you!

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Erin Clegg

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MD
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW-C,LICSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issues
15 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Clinical Social Worker licensed in Maryland and the District of Columbia with 15 years’ experience as a therapist, clinical consultant, and trauma trainer. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Throughout my practice, I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families struggling to manage their emotional and behavioral health due to the impact of trauma, maltreatment, grief, loss, mental health challenges, and stressful life experiences. My style is warm, compassionate, and strengths-based. I believe that everyone deserves a safe space free of judgment and open to exploration. My approach is grounded in healing-centered, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive interactions that promote empowerment. My practice integrates the latest research in neuroscience, trauma, attachment theory, and cognitive-behavioral techniques. I believe in leveraging the healing power of the brain-body connection. Stress and adverse experiences can impact how we experience ourselves, our relationships, and the world around us. I partner with my clients to explore how their past and present experiences may impact how they think, feel, and act. By raising awareness of body signals, triggers, and patterns of responses, we position ourselves to identify and reinforce restorative pathways that promote growth and healing. Together, we develop strategic and personalized interventions that build upon their unique set of strengths, meaningful connections, and interests to help them achieve goals one step at a time. I believe that attuned and responsive relationships are essential to transformational healing and growth. Everyone deserves to be seen, heard, and valued for who they are, not simply what they do. As your partner in this process, you can count on me to be fully engaged, meet you where you are, and affirm your worth every step of the way. The therapeutic process should be intriguing, empowering, and rewarding throughout the journey. I look forward to working with you!

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Luca Hawkins

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MD
Stress, AnxietyLGBTSelf esteemDepressionADHD
5 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Luca is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a demonstrated history of working in the mental health community. He has completed his Master's degree focused in Mental Health Counseling/Counselor from Walden University, specializing in working with adolescents and young adults who have depression, ADHD, anxiety, with an emphasis on gender-diverse youth. with a passion for the LGBTQ population. He has completed training in several interventions including: rational emotive behavior therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, exposure therapy, and extensive training in gender affirming care, LGBTQ youth, self-mutilation, suicide assessment and treatment of symptoms with safety planning. He is an LGBTQ gender affirming therapist. He has life and professional experience working with this population. He will make therapy fun while working through serious stuff together. He also have extensive training in adult issues. He prefers video or phone sessions. He is not good at chat only sessions.

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Kelini Coker

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MD
Counselor License Type(s): MS,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello! My name is Kelini Coker and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I received my bachelor's degree in Psychology and master's degree in Community Counseling at McDaniel College where I cultivated a passion for supporting others through difficult seasons. My heart's work is to help clients navigate challenges due to life-event transitions, family of origin struggles, trauma, depression, anxiety, identity formation, and more. My sessions are a safe space within which I utilize an eclectic framework comprised of Person-centered Counseling, Existential Counseling, Cognitive reframing and Mindfulness. I am committed to meeting you where you are, moving at your pace, helping you find meaning in your journey, and assisting you in moving closer to your goals. I look forward to walking alongside you on the path towards your personal best self!

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Dr. Ashley Velasquez

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MD
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Maryland with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Michelle Crawford

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MD
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Maryland with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I also use EMDR therapy to assist with overcoming trauma. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Paula Sponaugle's avatar and link to their profile

Paula Sponaugle

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MD
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
35 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Maryland with 35 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, family conflicts, & parenting issues. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I use a combination of solution focused, Cognitive Behavioral and other therapies to provide the most effective and appropriate treatment to each individual. I have a relaxed and flexible style to allow individuals to feel at ease as they work through difficult issues.

This is Jamie Funk's avatar and link to their profile

Jamie Funk

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MD
Stress, AnxietySleeping disordersDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
10 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Maryland with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, sleeping disorders, depression, & coping with life changes. 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Amanda Clark's avatar and link to their profile

Amanda Clark

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MD
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Maryland with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, depression, & coping with life changes. 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

How to find a therapist for counseling in Preston

Finding the best therapist close by in Preston can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services in Preston that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Preston. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Preston, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Preston region and in the state of Maryland. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Preston or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Preston area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Preston therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Preston, elsewhere in Caroline, or in the greater state of Maryland.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Preston area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Preston therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Preston due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Preston may not take health insurance, some in the state of Maryland may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of Maryland you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). If you're looking for a therapist, Cincinnati offers a variety of professionals who can help with your mental health needs at a price you can afford.

How is a licensed therapist on this Preston online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Preston, Maryland working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from Preston psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

How does working with a professional counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health therapist, including the therapists in Preston above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Preston helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified Preston therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This type of therapy is provided by therapists who are professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Therapists use behavior therapy techniques to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
  • EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
  • Talk therapy - Therapists engage clients in talk therapy to explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - Therapists offer counseling to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Therapists specialize in anxiety disorders, offering strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Therapists provide tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Therapists experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Therapists provide support and guidance to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use attachment therapy to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
  • Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
  • Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
  • Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
  • Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
  • Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
  • Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
  • Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
  • Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
  • Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
  • OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
  • ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
  • Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
  • Sex addiction
  • Complex trauma
  • Life transitions

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Preston therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Preston?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Preston therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

Preston therapists in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of Preston therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Preston therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words with a psychotherapist.

With a lot of people in MD, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 21655 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Preston counselor?

Before seeing your Preston therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy in Preston.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice from a therapist. A Preston licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy with a Preston counselor can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles that a counselor can help with.

Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?

Therapy with a licensed counselor is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health therapist has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Preston, Maryland can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Preston has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions during telehealth appointments?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform for Preston, Maryland

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out to customer service through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Preston.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Preston:

21655

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