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.
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)
Lauren Mirkin
Are you feeling stuck, down, depressed, unmotivated, unfocused? Are you trapped in overwhelming emotions or unhelpful thinking? Are your relationships causing you distress? I am here to help you on your journey to greater inner harmony, balance, joy, and aliveness. I am an experienced psychotherapist who finds great fulfillment in helping my clients overcome their emotional hurdles and enabling them to live more productive and fulfilling lives. I work with adults, adolescents, couples, and families. I am here to help you discover your strengths and see the sunny side of life more often. I specialize in treating the whole spectrum of eating disorders from anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorder to emotional eating, yo-yo dieting, and disordered eating. I also work with those experiencing depression and mood concerns, anxiety, relational difficulties, family dysfunction, significant stress, ADHD, and chronic health challenges I am also a clinical nutritionist specializing in integrative nutrition and a health and wellness coach who takes a whole person' strengths-based approach. In addition to extensive education in working with eating disorders, I have had significant training in mindfulness, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, self-hypnosis, and personality type.
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
Desiree Monroe
Greetings, my name is Desireé Monroe. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in the state of Maryland. Via using a client-centered eclectic approach, my goal is to motivate healthy behavior, of which I have been doing since 2009 when I began my professional career in counseling. My experience involves working with children, adolescents, adults and seniors, in both outpatient and inpatient treatment facilities. I have a history of working with individuals diagnosed with severe and persistent mental illness, alcohol and drug use disorders, trauma survivors, victims and offenders of crime, children in foster care and first responders. As a Board of Professional Counselors and Therapist (BOPC) Approved Clinical Supervisor in Clinical Professional Counseling, I hold a Master’s of Arts degree in Counseling Psychology (Eclectic track) from Bowie State University, and a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Psychology, Sociology-Anthropology from Towson University. Opportunities to educate, advocate, empower, and support others in all walks of life is what I value. I use my counseling skills to encourage change, teach people to cope with mental health challenges, promote wellness, and motivate trauma and addiction recovery. I am on a mission is to help, heal, foster hope and support individuals in need…come with me on this journey!
Kaitlin Savarese
With over 11 years of clinical experience, I work with high-functioning adults who may appear to have everything together on the outside while privately struggling with anxiety, relationship challenges, burnout, life transitions, overthinking, low self-confidence, or feeling stuck. My approach is collaborative, strategic, and action-oriented. I believe that insight is important, but lasting change happens when insight is paired with practical implementation. Together, we'll work to better understand the patterns that keep you feeling stuck while developing realistic strategies that help you move toward the life and relationships you want. I strive to create a space where you feel genuinely understood, challenged when appropriate, and supported throughout the therapeutic process. My style is thoughtful, direct, and compassionate, balancing meaningful exploration with practical problem-solving and accountability. You are the expert on your own life. My role is to help you gain greater clarity, strengthen your confidence, and develop the tools needed to navigate challenges with intention and resilience. Seeking therapy is an investment in yourself, and reaching out can be one of the most courageous steps you take. If you're looking for a therapist who combines warmth with a structured, goal-oriented approach, I'd be honored to support 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.
Victoria Guthrie
Hello, and welcome! I am a licensed professional in Maryland with over six years of dedicated experience supporting individuals like you on their journeys to growth and well-being. My expertise includes helping clients navigate stress and anxiety, relationship challenges, family conflicts, and building motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I believe in fostering a space where everyone feels respected, understood, and cared for. My approach is grounded in sensitivity and compassion, and I’m committed to creating a dialogue and treatment plan that are tailored to your unique needs and goals. Taking that first step toward a more fulfilling and joyful life is an act of bravery, and I deeply admire your courage. I’m here to walk alongside you, offering guidance and support as you embark on this meaningful path. Together, we can work toward the brighter, more balanced life you deserve. **ONLY ACCEPTING CLIENTS VIA CHAT/MESSAGING**
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.
Christina Stanley
As a licensed therapist in Maryland, I bring over 15 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on empowering clients, particularly those navigating women's issues, mood disorders, and multicultural experiences. I specialize in helping individuals heal from stress, anxiety, and life transitions while addressing attachment challenges and promoting self-love. My therapeutic approach is deeply compassionate and culturally responsive. I understand the profound impact of systemic challenges like prejudice and discrimination, and I create a supportive space where clients can explore their experiences authentically. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I help individuals develop resilient coping strategies and cultivate meaningful personal growth. I am committed to walking alongside my clients with genuine understanding, respect, and professional expertise. Whether you're experiencing depression, caregiver stress, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I'm here to support your unique journey toward emotional wellness.
Melody Green
As a licensed therapist with two decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life challenges. My practice centers on helping clients navigate depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. I bring a compassionate, culturally responsive approach to therapy, drawing from extensive work with diverse populations including young adults, veterans, and individuals facing workplace and family challenges. My therapeutic style is rooted in understanding each person's unique journey, with a particular focus on addressing trauma, social anxiety, and multicultural experiences. I offer a warm, supportive environment where clients can explore difficult emotions, develop healthy coping strategies, and work towards healing and personal transformation. I am committed to creating a safe, affirming space that honors each individual's background, experiences, and personal goals. Whether you're struggling with life transitions, relationship issues, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy and professional expertise.
Kimberly Tawney
As a dedicated therapist, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes, with a particular focus on mood disorders, communication challenges, and personal growth. My approach centers on helping clients address depression, grief, and feelings of isolation while exploring life purpose and meaningful connections. I have worked with those strugging with trauma, anger and acute mental illness for over 20years, 17 of those were prior to becoming a therapist. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I create a compassionate and collaborative therapeutic environment where individuals can develop deeper self-understanding and practical coping strategies. I'm committed to walking alongside my clients as they work through challenging emotional experiences and cultivate personal resilience. My professional training equips me to provide nuanced, empathetic support for those struggling with bipolar disorder, communication difficulties, and periods of profound loneliness. I believe in honoring each person's unique journey and supporting their individual path toward emotional wellness and personal fulfillment.
Courtney Lee
I am a licensed clinical social worker serving adolescents and adults in Maryland, Texas, and Mississippi. I support clients experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship challenges, low self-esteem, and unhealthy patterns connected to past experiences or generational cycles. My therapy style is warm, supportive, and collaborative. I strive to create a safe, welcoming space where clients feel heard, respected, and understood. My approach incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), DBT-informed interventions, trauma-informed therapy, and EMDR. I tailor treatment to each client’s individual experiences, strengths, needs, and goals. Beginning therapy takes courage. Together, we can explore the patterns that may be keeping you stuck, strengthen your coping skills, and help you develop greater self-awareness, confidence, and healthier ways of navigating life. You do not have to go through this alone. I look forward to supporting you on your journey toward healing and growth.
Kelly Saraceno
Are you ready to change patterns in your life that are holding you back? I specialize in treating individuals who are overwhelmed by circumstances or life events. I believe in using a variety of modalities including cognitive behavior therapy, dialectical behavior therapy and trauma informed care to help clients transition from surviving to thriving lives.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in University Park, Maryland
Finding a therapist near you in University Park, Maryland starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. Maryland is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, which can make it challenging to find care. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist through tailored matching, so you can begin care from home or wherever works for you.
The network includes over 30,000 licensed therapists globally, and over 4 million people have used BetterHelp to find support through online therapy. During matching, 93% of user preferences are met, which helps you connect with a therapist suited to what you are looking for. Whether you are searching for help with anxiety, trauma, affordable or insurance covered therapy, weekend or flexible scheduling, or virtual sessions, you can find a therapist and get started when you are ready.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you gives you access to professional mental health support from someone trained to help you understand and manage what you are going through. A licensed therapist can offer evidence-based approaches, a steady space to talk, and guidance tailored to your situation. In Maryland, online therapy can make that care more accessible, since sessions happen from home or wherever you are, without the need to travel to an office. This can help if your schedule is full, if travel is difficult, or if you simply prefer a more discreet setting. You can learn more about what a therapist does on the therapist role page.
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 can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem and identity, people-pleasing and fear of rejection, insomnia and racing thoughts, workplace stress and burnout, substance use, parenting and co-parenting stress, grief and loss, and relationship and family challenges. Therapists on BetterHelp may draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), depending on your needs and goals. You can explore support for specific concerns on pages such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders.
Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Maryland
Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In Maryland, online therapy through BetterHelp lets you have sessions by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet from home or on a schedule that fits your life. In-person therapy takes place at an office and may involve travel and set appointment windows. Online therapy may be more accessible for people with busy schedules, limited transportation, or a preference for a more discreet setting. Both formats can support meaningful progress, so the right choice often comes down to what fits your life.
Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in Maryland
BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session.
You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Maryland
BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Maryland through personalized matching that considers your needs, preferences, and goals. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, you can be matched with a licensed therapist from a network of over 30,000 professionals, and 93% of user preferences are met during matching. The search and location matching cover common near-me needs, including anxiety, trauma, affordable or sliding-scale support, weekend or flexible scheduling, and virtual sessions. If your first match is not the right fit, you can switch therapists at no extra cost. When you are ready, you can get started and begin the process.
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 near you can vary by provider, format, and payment method. With BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
Is online therapy effective?
Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.
How quickly can I start therapy?
You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.
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 discreet?
Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.
Find a Therapist in University Park, Maryland
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving University Park and the surrounding MD area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.