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315 verified Psychotherapists in Baltimore, MD
Zocdoc verifies all providers before they can appear in Zocdoc search results. Every provider that appears in search is open to new patients.
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Availability last updated 07/31/2026
Availability last updated 07/31/2026
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·7 reviews
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 2 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
I have a passion for helping individuals and couples navigate their mental health journeys. I offer virtual therapy sessions, making it convenient for you to receive support from the comfort of your own space. Fluent in both English and Swahili. My journey to becoming a provider has been both person...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 43 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
I am Juliana Sarkodee a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I have been working with the deaf, hard of hearing, and hearing clients for over ten years, mostly in person until the pandemic led me to provide services online. I am glad that you are taking steps to address issues in your life ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·5 reviews
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Howdy! I'm Gabe! I'm an LMHC in Florida, an LCPC in Maryland, and a LMHC in Indiana. I graduated from UCF in 2021 and right away fell into working with high-need clients Florida. (I now also have licenses in Indiana and Maryland!) I have over 5 years of experience working with client with mood dysre...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Aug 2
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
I’m a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) with a focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). As a cognitive-behavioral therapist, I specialize in helping individuals understand the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Through evidence-based techniques, I work with clients ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.94
·16 reviews
Dr. Kamara allowed me the space to feel comfortable enough to express myself with zero hesitation. Session felt natural and unrushed. I felt heard. I would highly recommend. - May 17, 2025 by Garon B.Click to read more
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 58 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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I am an independently licensed individual and family therapist for the states of Massachusetts and Delaware. I hold a Master’s in Social Work from Simmons University. For over 6 years, I have had the honor of working with individuals from diverse backgrounds on issues impacting their lives. I approa...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
If you've been feeling anxious, down, or stuck in old patterns, you don't have to go through it alone. My name is Anna Vaught, and I've been a licensed social worker / therapist for 12+ years, serving clients struggling with a variety of life challenges. I consider it an honor and a privilege to wal...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·6 reviews
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 55 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Hello, my name is Brendette, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I bring 12 years of experience as a therapist dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey toward healing and growth. My therapeutic approach is goal-oriented and person-centered, focusing on helping individuals naviga...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Aug 2
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.62
·47 reviews
Very reaffirming and flexible but not best for the action oriented cognitive based care I’m looking forClick to read more
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 56 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
My name is Circe Dunwoody. I am a licensed psychotherapist with a Master's in Social Work from Barry University in Miami Shores. In my psychotherapy practice, I help couples and individuals overcome life difficulties by using cognitive behavior therapy. Many couples and individuals feel overwhelmed ...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Aug 2
Psychotherapist
1.5 mi · 1800 N Charles St, Ste 804, Baltimore, MD 21201
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Shakyra Howell is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with extensive experience providing evidence-based, trauma-informed therapy to adolescents and adults. She specializes in supporting clients navigating substance use disorders, co-occurring mental health conditions, anxiety, depress...Click to read more
Next available: today
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·4 reviews
Baltimore, MD
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
I'm a Christian, foster and adoptive mom, and part of a beautiful, blended family, which gives me a personal understanding of the joys and challenges families face. I'm passionate about supporting individuals, couples, and children through life's transitions and struggles, helping them grow, heal, a...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 53 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
My career began with a strong community focus, including service at the first free health clinic dedicated to supporting the HIV-impacted community and early work in community mental health. In my 28 years of clinical experience I have maintained a child and family-centered approach while broadening...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, Aug 2
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I work with clients who are going through difficult times and need a supportive ear and an optimistic perspective. I have worked with teens, young adults, adults and seniors. It is a great joy to watch people move from needing extra support to obtaining wellbeing and existing in a better space. I am...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Aug 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
My lived experience, healing from the throes of unrealistic expectations and metrics, in a world that so rewards them, allow me a deeply empathetic perspective that makes you feel seen and heard. I became a therapist because I'm passionate about helping people navigate life's challenges and find rel...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Aug 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.93
·45 reviews
I was very happy with my appointment. She listened and offered wonderful advice. I will recommend her to family and friends. - Dec 31, 2024 by Jacqueline T.Click to read more
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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I am LCSW-C (Licensed Certified Social Worker Clinical) psychotherapist. I have been working in the clinical environment since 2006. I have an MSW (Master's Degree in Social Work) with a clinical mental health emphasis. I am also a Certified Clinical Telemental health provider (CTMH). I enjoy worki...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Aug 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.73
·11 reviews
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 53 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
I believe that when you face a crisis, it presents an opportunity to discover your hidden strengths and abilities. I work with people of all faiths and believe in a spirituality that transcends religion. With my guidance, you can transform negative energy into positive, practical energy. You are uni...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Aug 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·31 reviews
Wonderful! Myra was so so sweet and friendly. I felt very welcomed and comfortable during our appointment and she made it such a safe environment to discuss some of the issues I've been dealing with without judgment and with open ears. I felt listened to, all of my concerns were heard and discussed,...Click to read more
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Hi there, I'm Myra, Life takes turns we don't expect, and sometimes we're able to get through them. Other times we become stuck. Allow me to partner with you to help you navigate through challenging times and move forward. I will accomplish this by offering you a safe space to process, identify, an...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Aug 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 43 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I work with adults in Arizona and Oregon who are dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, trauma, and family estrangement. Many of my clients are high-functioning on the outside but feel overwhelmed, emotionally drained, or stuck in patterns shaped by past experiences or complicate...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Aug 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.17
·6 reviews
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hello! I am a licensed clinical social worker based in Maryland. I received my master's degree from the University of Maryland School of Social Work and have been practicing for 14 years clinically and working in the human services field for 27 years. I have experience working in law enforcement and...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Aug 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·29 reviews
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare + 10 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Simone Blanchard is the Executive Director and Lead Therapist of Inner Light Consulting and Therapeutic Services in the metro Washington DC area. She is a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and holds her LCPC (Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor) in Maryland and Washington, DC. She is also...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Aug 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna + 2 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I am Grace Marudas, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over nine years of experience supporting individuals through various stages of adulthood. I offer an integrated, person-centered approach tailored to your unique goals and needs. My clinical focus includes anxiety, depression, ADHD,...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Aug 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi, I'm glad you're here. I work with individuals who may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck and are looking for support and clarity. My approach is warm, collaborative, and practical I'll help you better understand your thoughts and emotions while also giving you tools you can actually use i...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Aug 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended
Next available: Mon, Aug 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 50 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi! I’m a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker based in the DMV area ( Washington, DC, Maryland, VA) and Florida with over 11 years of experience helping kids, teens, young adults, and families. I provide telehealth only in the DMV -- I see ages 12 and up for telehealth and (both telehealth a...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Aug 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.67
·3 reviews
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 43 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 10+ years working with a range of clients dealing with mental health and life issues. Life as we all know can be very challenging at times. I know this feeling all too well. I will be providing a safe space so that you can not only share your challe...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Aug 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Cigna
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I serve as a practical assistant and thought partner for individuals seeking to process their thoughts, organize daily habits, and explore personal development strategies to increase personal growth. I enjoy using solution focused methods to help brainstorm coping strategies, learn psychological fra...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Aug 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield + 42 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
My practice is built on the belief that healing happens in connection with others. Together, we will navigate a path toward your goals-whether that means silencing the persistent hum of anxiety or finding ways to step away from the exhaustion of chronic stress. Some of us carry the effects of life-t...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Aug 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·4 reviews
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Hi I am Asia, but not like the continent. Think Aseeyah! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) based in Maryland I received my Masters in Clinical Psychology from Loyola University Maryland,and my MBA from UMGC. I have been practicing for 6 years and have been in the mental health f...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Aug 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·6 reviews
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 47 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
My main area of specialty is Trauma-Focused CBT. Lets use what you love! Moves, TV, Poetry, Music, Gardening, Pottery. We'll talk through your struggles, process your grief and your pain each week, but we'll also use your interest and passions to help us work through your pain. We'll always move at ...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Aug 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 43 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hello! I am a holistic & eclectic therapist with specialized training in mindfulness, hypnotherapy, trauma, depression, anxiety, women's studies, yoga & deep nature connection. Authenticity, compassion & connection are the pillars of my practice. I consider myself down to earth, egalitarian, empower...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Aug 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 2 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
My name is Leslie Dalencour, I have been a therapist for over 20 years. With over two decades in mental health and nearly a decade in private practice, I bring a holistic, integrative approach to well-being through sound healing and holistic and somatic therapies. As a Licensed Clinical Professional...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Aug 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Welcome to my page! I greatly appreciate you taking the time to read through and get to know a little bit more about me. I went into mental health therapy because I enjoyed learning about the mind and the brain, and I love being able to help people. While my background is in mental health, I have a ...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Aug 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
I'm a compassionate Licensed Clinical Social Worker-Certified (LCSW-C) with over 10 years of experience. I specialize in Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, trauma, anxiety, and mindfulness, using a combination of IFS, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to ...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Aug 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
If you're experiencing inner turmoil that’s affecting your peace of mind and daily life, therapy can help—and I’m here to support you through it. Often described as a “therapist’s therapist,” I offer a grounded, compassionate approach to help you reconnect with your sense of clarity and purpose. Lif...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Aug 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I am a licensed therapist who works with individuals and couples navigating anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and life transitions. I offer a supportive, nonjudgmental space where clients can better understand their emotions, patterns, and relationships, while developing practical tools ...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Aug 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.50
·2 reviews
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 55 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Many people are grappling with anxiety, depression, and trauma, which can make daily life extremely challenging. If you're reading this, you or someone you care about is probably searching for a way to improve their situation. I’m here to assist in that journey. I’m skilled in addressing a broad spe...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Aug 6
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.92
·12 reviews
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Hey there. I am a licensed therapist with over 13 years of experience helping individuals navigate life's challenges and uncover their strengths. I specialize in providing compassionate, evidence-based care for those dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, and life transitions, blending approaches...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Aug 6
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.99
·46 reviews
Great experience! - Sep 21, 2022 by Jason B.Click to read more
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Hello, my name is Reginald Burgess. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a Master's in Counseling from Johns Hopkins University. My specialty of interest is providing brief, short-term counseling services to individuals seeking support for anger issues, self-esteem challenges, and de...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Aug 6
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·6 reviews
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 43 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
You can come back from anything no matter how bad you think the situation is. It is all about your mindset. Reprogramming your mindset is the key to your success. The power of change rest in your desire to want change. I believe that people have the power to change their circumstances within themsel...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Aug 7
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 43 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
I decided to become a counselor because I've always been the go to person and one that people trusted. I have a passion for helping other's and felt being a counselor would fulfill my purpose in life. I genuinely care about the wellbeing of others. I'm non-judgmental and easy to talk to. Most of all...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Aug 7
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 2 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I am a Behavioral Health Clinician dedicated to helping individuals navigate high-stakes life transitions, from the complexities of perinatal mental health to the intensity of acute crisis. My approach is deeply collaborative, blending the clinical structure of CBT and DBT with creative, low-pressur...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Aug 7
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1-3 days

Average time it takes to be seen by a provider

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Verified providers with a 4.8 average rating

Primary Care Physician
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In the business of finding quality care for patients

Patients trust Zocdoc
This was my first Zocdoc experience and everything went perfectly!
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I had resisted counseling for a long time...I could not find anyone who had room for me...Enter Zocdoc...I am so grateful.
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Frequently asked questions

How many Psychotherapists are available in Baltimore?

There are currently 55 Psychotherapists in Baltimore available for booking on Zocdoc. Filter by insurance, language, or appointment time to find your best match.


Are there Psychotherapists in Baltimore accepting new patients?

Yes. 34 Psychotherapists in Baltimore are accepting new patients right now. Many offer appointments within the next few days.


Which insurance carriers are most accepted by Psychotherapists in Baltimore?

Among psychotherapists in Baltimore:

  • 81.3% accept Aetna
  • 77.2% accept UnitedHealthcare
  • 73.1% accept CareFirst Blue Cross Blue Shield (Health)
Filter by insurance to see which providers take your plan.


How can I make a same-day appointment with a Psychotherapist in Baltimore?

On average, patients who use Zocdoc can search for a Psychotherapist in Baltimore, book an appointment, and see the Psychotherapist within 24 hours. Same-day appointments are often available, you can search for real-time availability of Psychotherapists in Baltimore who accept your insurance and make an appointment online.


How can I find a Baltimore Psychotherapist who takes my insurance?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a Baltimore Psychotherapist who takes your insurance. Just choose your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. If you’re not sure which plan you have, you can use Zocdoc’s insurance checker to find out.


How can I book an appointment online with a Psychotherapist in Baltimore?

Zocdoc is a free online service that helps patients find Psychotherapists in Baltimore and book appointments instantly. You can search for Baltimore Psychotherapists by symptom or visit reason. Then, choose your insurance plan. Based on that information, you’ll see a list of providers who meet your search criteria, along with their available appointment slots.


How can I find a female Psychotherapist in Baltimore?

When you search for Baltimore Psychotherapists on Zocdoc, you can filter your results by gender, in addition to other criteria. That way, you’ll only see Psychotherapists in Baltimore who match your preferences.


How can I find a Baltimore Psychotherapist who sees patients after hours?

On Zocdoc, you can search specifically for Baltimore Psychotherapists with availability after 5 p.m.


How can I find a top-rated Psychotherapist in Baltimore?

You can use Zocdoc to find Psychotherapists in Baltimore who are highly rated by other patients. These ratings are based on verified reviews submitted by real patients. Every time a patient completes an appointment booked on Zocdoc, they’re invited to review their experience. Each review must comply with Zocdoc’s guidelines.


How can I find a video visit with a Psychotherapist online in Baltimore?

Psychotherapists in Baltimore on Zocdoc who see patients through online video visits will have a purple video icon on their profiles. You can also filter your search results to show only Psychotherapists who offer video visits.


Are video visits with a Psychotherapist online covered by my insurance?

Most insurers provide coverage for video visits at the same cost as in-person visits. You can search on Zocdoc specifically for Psychotherapists in Baltimore who accept your insurance for video visits by selecting your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. We recommend you check with your insurance carrier directly to confirm your coverage and out of pocket costs for video visits.


How can I find a Psychotherapist in Baltimore who sees patients in the morning or evening?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a Psychotherapist who has appointments available before 10:00 am, or after 5:00 pm. Just choose the special hours filter at the top of our search page.


How can I find a Psychotherapist in Baltimore who sees patients during the weekend?

Zocdoc let's you see real-time availability for Psychotherapists in Baltimore. Many Psychotherapists offer appointments on Saturdays and Sundays.


All numbers and provider counts reflect Zocdoc data as of December 2025

Who is a psychotherapist?

A psychotherapist is a trained and licensed mental healthcare professional with expertise in psychotherapy. They use talk therapy to treat various mental illnesses and emotional difficulties in people. The psychotherapist can help control or eliminate troubling mental symptoms and enable a person to function better, improving their overall mental health, well-being, and healing. 


Talk therapy can help address various difficulties in daily life, such as medical illnesses, mental disorders, chronic illnesses, the impact of trauma, the death or loss of a loved one, anxiety, stress, and depression. There are different approaches to psychotherapy, and some methods may work better or effectively treat specific mental issues or problems. Psychotherapy can also be used with ongoing medication or therapies for better healing.


Education and training of a psychotherapist

Psychotherapists undergo specialized education and training in psychology and counseling to become proficient practitioners. This process involves several steps following the completion of an undergraduate degree:

 

  • Doctoral degree: Becoming a psychotherapist involves obtaining a doctoral degree. While some individuals may choose to practice with a master's degree, they are generally categorized as counselors rather than psychologists or psychiatrists. The specific requirements for practicing as a psychotherapist vary from state to state.

 

  • Professional licensure examination: As part of the process, aspiring psychotherapists must pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP). This comprehensive examination assesses their knowledge and competency in various areas of psychology and psychotherapy.

 

  • Practicum hours: To gain practical experience and develop hands-on skills, individuals pursuing a psychotherapist career must complete a specified number of practicum hours. These hours typically range between 1500 and 1600 and involve supervised, real-world experience in a clinical or therapeutic setting.


Difference between psychological counseling and psychotherapy

Psychological counseling and psychotherapy differ in the treatment's length and primary focus. Counseling is a short-term treatment focusing on one particular issue, such as stress or addiction to alcohol and drugs. It helps the patients devise strategies to avoid situations that trigger their problems and formulate strategies to cope with them if they arise. 


Psychotherapy, however, helps change a person's behavior and thoughts, thus taking care of a broader range of mental health issues. It is a long-term treatment and can be helpful for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, etc. Psychotherapy helps patients understand how their illness affects their daily lives and how to regulate their responses when stressful situations arise. It also helps them learn new behavioral patterns and coping mechanisms to replace harmful practices.


The types of approaches to psychotherapy

Psychotherapy encompasses several approaches with unique principles and techniques to help individuals overcome various mental health issues. The appropriate type of psychotherapy for an individual depends on their specific condition or situation. After evaluating a patient's problems or disease, a psychotherapist can choose the best approach for the individual's needs.  


The American Psychological Association (APA) broadly categorizes psychotherapy into five approaches:

  

1. Cognitive therapy: This approach emphasizes the role of an individual's thoughts in shaping their emotions and actions. Cognitive therapists believe changing negative or dysfunctional thoughts can lead to healthier behaviors and emotions.


2. Behavioral therapy: It focuses on modifying maladaptive behaviors and environmental contingencies that influence behavior to alleviate symptoms and address issues. 

 

3. Psychoanalytic and psychodynamic therapy: These approaches involve exploring the unconscious meaning and motivations behind disturbing thoughts, behaviors, and emotions to bring about change.  


4. Humanistic therapy: It emphasizes individuals' capacity for rational decision-making and development to reach their full potential. Client-centered, existential, and gestalt therapy are the three most effective types of humanistic therapy. Client-centered therapy emphasizes the therapist's care and interest in helping patients change, while existential therapy emphasizes self-determination and the search for meaning. Gestalt therapy emphasizes awareness of surroundings and accepting responsibility for oneself.  


5. Integrative or holistic therapy: Many therapists blend elements from different approaches into a single treatment plan tailored to the patient's needs.


When do you need to see a psychotherapist near you?

Mental illness can affect your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Talking to a trained specialist mental health professional goes a long way in helping you cope with your mental illness and leading a good quality of life. 


There are various signs indicating the need for psychotherapy. However, these are unique to every individual. You must seek therapy if experiencing any of the following discomforts:


  • Persistent feelings of sadness
  • Unable to concentrate or confused thinking
  • Mood swings with extreme highs and lows
  • Extreme feelings of guilt
  • Excessive worries or fears
  • Suicidal thinking
  • Low energy or significant feeling of tiredness
  • Disruptive sleeping or problems getting sleep
  • Withdrawal from friends and daily activities
  • Unable to cope with everyday stress, anxiety, and problems
  • Delusions, hallucinations, or paranoia
  • Changes in sex drive
  • Major eating habit modifications
  • Excessive violence, hostility, or anger
  • Drug or alcohol overuse or abuse
  • Trouble understanding or relating to people or situations


Symptoms of mental disorders may also appear as physical health problems, like headaches, stomach pain, back pain, or other unknown aches and pains in the body.

If ignored or left untreated, mental issues can lead to various chronic illnesses such as heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, kidney ailments, and stroke. Therefore, good mental health is vital at every stage, from childhood to teenage through adulthood and beyond. Further, it determines how well you can handle stress and anxiety, make healthy decisions, and relate or communicate with others. 


Finding the best psychotherapist near you in Baltimore, Maryland

With Zocdoc, you can easily find Baltimore, Maryland's best and most experienced board-certified psychotherapists. Zocdoc has an extensive and regularly updated directory of qualified psychotherapists.


Start by creating a free account on Zocdoc. Next, choose the specialty or condition, location, date, and insurance plan. Based on your search entries, a list of psychotherapists will appear. Zocdoc has partnered with qualified, experienced psychotherapists across the US who provide comprehensive advice and treatment to patients. You can also use the Zocdoc insurance detector if you need clarification on your insurance plan. 


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Statistics for mental health providers, depression and childhood adverse experiences in Maryland, USA


According to data by America's Health Rankings, in September 2022, Maryland had about 328 mental health providers, higher than the US average of nearly 305 per 100,000 population. Mental health providers include psychologists, psychiatrists, counselors, clinical social workers, family and marriage therapists, and advanced nurse practitioners. Mental health providers per 100,000 population have increased by about 50%, from 219 in 2017 to 328 in 2022. 


A 2021 report by America's Health Rankings states that about 16.6% of adults reported having a depressive disorder, including dysthymia, depression, minor depression, or major depression, lower than the national average of approximately 20.5%. Adults in the 18-44 age group reported the highest incidence of depression compared to other age groups at about 20.2%, lower than the national average of 22.2%. Depression cases were reported more among the women residents in Maryland at about 21.4%, lower than the national average of approximately 24.4% among the women populace. At about 24.7%, the depression rate was highest in the less than $25,000 annual income group in Maryland, compared to other income groups, but lower than the national average of 28.0% for the same group. 


During 2020-2021, about 12% of children in the 0-17 age group experienced two or more adverse childhood experiences, lower than the US average of approximately 14%. These negative childhood experiences include:


  • Parental separation or divorce
  • Observing or suffering from violence in the neighborhood
  • Living with people who had drug or alcohol problems
  • Being severely depressed or suicidal
  • Living with mentally ill people
  • The death of a parent,
  • Being unfairly judged or treated due to race or ethnicity
  • Having a parent serve a jail term or 
  • Witness domestic violence


About 19.7% of adverse childhood experiences were due to the parent or guardian separation or divorce, ranked the highest in Maryland compared to other adverse experiences categories. The rate was, however, lower than the US average of 22.7% for the said category.


Sources

WebMD[1]

American Psychiatric Association

Mayo Clinic

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

America's Health Rankings[1]

America's Health Rankings[2]

America's Health Rankings[3]

WebMD[2]

The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 immediately.

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