University Park had meager beginnings as a residential subdivision, and has grown from there. However, growth has been much slower than planned or anticipated. Sometimes in any aspect of your life planned growth in any area of your personal life can be stagnant or slow to change. This can lead to frustration, stress, and depression.
If you are feeling stagnant in your personal growth and you aren’t sure how to change, counselors in the University Park area can help. These confidential therapists can guide you to new personal growth through exercises and support. Contact a counselor today.
Farah Westbrook
Thank you for taking the time out to view my profile. Finding the right therapist to meet your individual needs is a very important step and I am hopeful that I will be able to assist you. I find great passion in assisting my clients in meeting and surpassing their full potential. After I obtained my Bachelors degree in Psychology, I continued my education and received a Masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I am licensed in multiple states, a National Certified Counselor, a Certified Clinical Supervisor, and a Certified Clinical Telemental Health Provider. I have experience with working with individuals of all ages, ethnicities, races, religions, sexual orientations, and genders. Although I use multiple counseling techniques (Narrative Therapy, Person-Centered, Solution Focused, etc) in order to meet my client's individual needs, my work with clients is primarily from a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy perspective. I believe that the connections between rationality and emotion as well as mind and body are essential in accomplishing behavioral change through logical thinking. Becoming more aware of damaging automatic thoughts and acquiring the ability to revise cognitions impacts one’s behaviors and ultimately may lead to positive change. In addition, I hold a great appreciation for the unconscious and the power it has over one’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. The intimate process of making the unconscious conscious is a fundamental step toward growth, development, and change. Being able to recognize how unresolved conflicts from the past influence the present and manifests in unhealthy cyclical patterns gives one the power and confidence to take control. It is my belief that therapy is an intense, engaging, rewarding, and collaborative process. One of the main purposes of therapy is for one to gain a deeper understanding of self by exploring personal experiences, perspectives, and expectations. Regardless of the presenting issue, I provide my clients with a high level of respect, honesty, and genuineness. After successful completion of therapy, it is my hope that my clients will be able to incorporate what will be presented throughout therapy sessions into multiple life circumstances.
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.
Rachael Okun
I am licensed clinical social worker, practicing in Maryland for over 5 years. My focus involves working with people striving to break patterns and navigating through difficult seasons in life. I work with individuals affected by grief and loss, stress, anxiety and depression. My focus with couples is resolving conflict, establishing healthier patterns and becoming a stronger, more unified team. I have experience in a range of life’s challenges including grief, end of life, palliative care, family services and couples counseling. I have worked as a hospice and palliative care social worker for many years, supporting families through life’s transitions. I also have experience in the aging population and the child welfare system. Before I came into this field, I worked in project management. I still love collaborating to find solutions. I find fulfillment in caring for my children and family, and take pride in supporting my spouse’s military service. I believe therapy is meant to include hard conversations, but also joy and relief. Mostly, I believe therapy is a place for you to be seen. What brings you to therapy is only part of who you are, I look forward to learning your story.
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!
Patricia Bell
I am licensed in Ohio with over 9 years of professional work experience in Clinical Therapy. I have experience in helping clients with most mental health disorders including but not limited to stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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. My counseling philosophy is to tailor my approach to each individual’s needs and preferences.
Thomas Floyd
I am licensed in Maryland and The District of Columbia with over 46 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Dr. Chriselda Fleming
Hi, I am Dr. Chriselda Fleming, a licensed psychologist in Maryland. For more than 25 years, I have helped adults move through life’s ups and downs - depression and anxiety, ADD/ADHD and bipolar disorder, relationship and family conflicts, trauma and PTSD, work stress and burnout, and the stuck, low-confidence moments that make life feel smaller than it should. My style blends practical tools from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) with the depth and insight of brief psychodynamic work. We will focus on what’s happening now—habits, thoughts, and patterns that can actually change - while also getting curious about the experiences beneath the surface that still shape how you feel and relate today. Therapy should feel safe, respectful, and useful. I aim to create a steady, supportive space where you can understand yourself more clearly, practice new skills, and make decisions that align with who you want to be. Together, we will set a few clear goals, track progress, and adjust as we learn what works best for you. Starting therapy can feel like a big step. It is also a powerful one. My hope is that, over time, you feel more at ease in your daily life, more confident in your choices, and more connected to the version of yourself you are trying to grow into. My style blends practical tools from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) with the depth and insight of brief psychodynamic work. We wil focus on what’s happening now—habits, thoughts, and patterns that can actually change - while also getting curious about the experiences beneath the surface that still shape how you feel and relate today. Therapy should feel safe, respectful, and useful. I aim to create a steady, supportive space where you can understand yourself more clearly, practice new skills, and make decisions that align with who you want to be. Together, we will set a few clear goals, track progress, and adjust as we learn what works best for you. Starting therapy can feel like a big step. It’s also a powerful one. My hope is that, over time, you feel more at ease in your daily life, more confident in your choices, and more connected to the version of yourself you’re trying to grow into. ************************* For a smooth and reliable process, I manage the calendar on my end. My hours are Monday through Friday, 11 AM to 5 PM EST. Share three daytime windows that work for you, and I will place the first good fit on the calendar.
Robert Gonder
I have been serving Maryland residents since 1998 and have experience working with a vast array of populations. I offer a unique skill set of solution focused, behavioral, and holistic modalities. Helping people to rewrite the stories that no longer serve them has become a passion; exploring family dynamics and facilitating both individual and environmental changes. I work primarily with adults age 18 and over. My preference is in working with individuals trying to manifest real change, and improve their ability to communicate, and experience a feeling of empowerment. I have an extensive history working with persons suffering from chronic mental illnesses. 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.
Alisha Powell
I am licensed in Georgia, Minnesota and Virginia with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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.
Kathleen Crawford
I am licensed in Maryland with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, coping with grief, coping with loss, & bipolar disorder. I also have experience working with depression. 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.
Tonia Guzman
I am licensed in Maryland with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with 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!
Denise Butcher
As a licensed therapist in Maryland, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on compassionate, holistic care, with a deep understanding of challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions. I'm particularly passionate about helping clients develop self-compassion, improve communication, and overcome social anxiety. My therapeutic work focuses on empowering individuals to reconnect with their inner strength, especially those experiencing isolation, workplace stress, or personal transformations like divorce or pregnancy. I offer a faith-sensitive approach that respects each person's unique spiritual journey and personal growth. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I create a supportive environment where clients can explore difficult emotions, heal from past experiences, and develop healthier coping strategies. My goal is to walk alongside you as you rediscover purpose, build resilience, and cultivate meaningful connections in your life.
Lauren Meier
My goal as a therapist is to create a supportive and nonjudgmental space where clients feel comfortable being themselves and exploring what they’re going through. I work with individuals navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, life transitions, and self-esteem, while also supporting those who are seeking personal growth, improved communication, and a stronger sense of self. I believe therapy can be a powerful space for self-discovery and change. Together, we work to better understand patterns, build effective coping skills, and develop tools that help you move forward with confidence. I have been providing therapy for over 10 years in a variety of clinical settings and with clients from diverse backgrounds. Since 2020, I have owned and operated my own virtual practice, where I continue to support individuals in reaching their goals and creating meaningful, lasting change.
Renee Stewart
As a licensed therapist in Maryland, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping young adults, women, and caregivers work through challenging life experiences, including stress, relationship dynamics, trauma, and personal growth. My therapeutic approach is deeply rooted in understanding attachment, family systems, and individual resilience. I'm passionate about helping clients explore issues of identity, purpose, and healing—particularly around guilt, shame, and personal empowerment. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I create a compassionate space where clients can courageously examine their experiences and develop meaningful strategies for emotional well-being. With over a decade of clinical experience, I bring both professional expertise and genuine commitment to supporting individuals as they transform challenging life patterns and rediscover their inner strength. My work honors each person's unique journey, focusing on holistic healing and personal growth.
Find a Therapist Near You in University Park , 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 University Park.
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.