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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 05/11/2026
Availability last updated 05/11/2026
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I’m an open, accepting individual with a genuine passion for helping people. From an early age, I found myself drawn to understanding others and supporting them through their challenges. Listening has always come naturally to me, and over time it became clear that I have a talent for identifying bli...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 3 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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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)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 55 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I'm bilingual independent Clinical social worker with background public health. Working in physical and mental health sector for about 17 years. I specifically working on mental health therapy for the last 6 years. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them increase self-awareness, understa...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 66 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Kevin Smith is a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor LGPC and a certified Addictions Counselor LADC. He has over 12 years of substance use disorder treatment experience and one year of mental health therapy experience. He specializes in dealing with depression, bipolar, and anxiety disorders. K...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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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
·4 reviews
- Jan 13, 2026 by Jaylen S.Click to read more
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 67 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Greetings, I am a licensed mental health clinician licensed in Maryland, DC and Virginia with over seven years of experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds and life experiences. My approach to therapy is holistic and strength-based, focusing on helping clients navigate and resolve...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·29 reviews
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare + 15 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: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi, I’m Kirstie and I believe that you are the expert of your own story. Within you already exist the strengths, resilience, and insight needed to move through life’s challenges. Sometimes we just need support in reconnecting with them. Reaching out for help takes courage, and I’m honored to walk al...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, May 13
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.73
·11 reviews
- Sep 20, 2023 by Jack K.Click to read more
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 67 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: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 67 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I have lived a life much like most of my clients. I have experienced hardships and achievements, sadness and joy, and disappointment in myself and in others. For most of my life, I have been lucky enough to somehow figure it out on my own. At one point in my life, I made a commitment to myself that ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.79
·58 reviews
Amazing listener. Didn’t interrupt, very informative and perceptive. Helpful. Already booked my next appointment and am looking forward to it. Best I’ve had in a long time. I’d recommend a hundred times over. - Mar 3, 2026 by Urico S.Click to read more
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 65 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Are you feeling a little “off” lately? Down, anxious, or unsure what comes next in life, especially after the last year or so? Or maybe you just don’t feel like yourself and aren’t sure why. You are not alone. To have problems means that you are human; but there is hope. I provide a warm, accepti...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·3 reviews
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 67 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: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, UnitedHealthcare Oxford + 12 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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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: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.89
·9 reviews
Jen Bowman was very professional. She listened and asked questions to get an understanding of my background in my first session. Very easy to talk to. - Jun 19, 2024Click to read more
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 65 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Hi, my name is Jen Bowman, and I have been a Social Worker since 2007. I earned my Master's in Social Work from the University of Maryland, Baltimore. I am passionate about helping young adults and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, and grief and loss. Over the years, I have worked in ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 3 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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With a Master of Arts Degree from Liberty University, I am a compassionate counselor, licensed in the State of Maryland, who helps someone to develop alternative ways of thinking and behaving in order to reduce their psychological distress. Life presents circumstances that are often complex and aff...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.44
·9 reviews
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 67 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Are you feeling depressed and anxious? Is your life in turmoil because you have to make a change? Maybe you are changing careers or jobs, recently divorced, facing an empty nest, or retiring. These are just a few of life’s transitions that can bring on depression and anxiety. Unfortunately, many of ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi, I'm Keisharely, a bilingual (English/Spanish) therapist specializing in anxiety, trauma, and emotional development in children, adolescents, and young adults. I help clients who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to manage their emotions build confidence, coping skills, and stronger relation...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, May 13
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I have been a Social Worker since 2014, I have worked in a spectrum of places from inpatient hospitals to schools. I have a comprehensive view to mental health and how to improve lives. In a prior career I worked in health care and have a broad knowledge of illness and how it can impact functiona...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
My journey to becoming a mental health professional started with a deep curiosity about how the mind and body work together, and a passion for holistic approaches that support emotional well-being. Over the years, I've gained experience in a variety of clinical settings including outpatient mental h...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 14
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
3.75
·4 reviews
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 67 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: Thu, May 14
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·3 reviews
- Apr 17, 2026 by Ryan D.Click to read more
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 65 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Would you like to feel more in control and empowered in your life? Have more self-love and the self-awareness to recognize and understand your thoughts, emotions, and beliefs? If so, I am the therapist for you! Working with me, you will gain a deeper understanding and mastery of your inner world. I...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 14
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.60
·20 reviews
My therapist was knowledgeable and thorough. She was also very kind and willing to listen and find viable options for treatment. by Maria M.Click to read more
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 64 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
I, Kumi Pledger, LCPC, hold a Master's in Mental Health Counseling from Nova Southeastern University. I work with all ages: children, adolescents, couples, LGBTQ clients, families, and adults for various issues including relationship challenges, supporting new and expectant mothers, eating disorders...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 14
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
My name is Juanita Fontenot, and I believe in a person-centered approach to everything, as we are humans first. I also think the resiliency of the human spirit is often unnoticed but should be celebrated. We all have value, and once you believe this, the impact is life-changing. I want to work with...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, May 16
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, UnitedHealthcare Oxford + 12 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Hi, I’m Vivian K. Henderson, LCSW-C, LCSW. I am a licensed clinical social worker in Maryland and Texas with over 17 years of experience in the mental health field. I provide evidence-based, trauma-informed therapy for individuals navigating anxiety, grief, trauma, and life transitions. My practice ...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, May 16
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with seven years experience working with teens and adults of all ages, with a particular focus on women’s and parental issues. I specialize in supporting women—especially mothers—who are navigating parenting stress, overwhelm, and the loss of self that...Click to read more
Next available: Sun, May 17
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 69 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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, May 17
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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, May 18
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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: Mon, May 18
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Cigna + 1 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, May 18
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 71 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
It sounds like you're describing feelings that can be incredibly tough to deal with. Experiencing sadness, low energy, negative thoughts, and isolation can be overwhelming. When physical symptoms like shaking, increased heart rate, or tightness in the chest appear, they can amplify feelings of embar...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, May 18
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.80
·5 reviews
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 68 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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: Mon, May 18
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 65 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
I am from Washington, DC. I have 14 years of experience in the therapy field. I am passionate about creating a safe space to begin your healing journey. I am able to meet you where you are and empowers healthy decision making. I am innovative, creative and uses cognitive behavioral therapy, motivati...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, May 18
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Welcome! Take a breath you're in the right place. My name is Chelsea ; I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's challenges with compassion, insight, and practical support. Reaching out for support isn't always easy, but it's a powerful first step. Wheth...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, May 19
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 3 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
You’re truly welcome here. I love nature, walking, spending time with animals, and meaningful connection. I work with people who experience stress, anxiety, grief, traumatic experiences, boundary challenges or low self esteem. My approach is gentle and collaborative, offering a safe, non-judgmenta...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, May 18
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 68 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: Wed, May 20
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi, I’m Jacqueline Gordon, a perinatal mental health therapist and the owner of Open Book Counseling. I specialize in supporting mothers and birthing parents who are navigating anxiety, depression, identity shifts, and the emotional weight that can come with pregnancy and postpartum. I also work wit...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 21
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 68 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I earned my Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology in Washington, DC. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) currently practicing in the state of Maryland. I have 9 years of experience working with adults and adolescents d...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 21
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.97
·37 reviews
Dr. Paz was very friendly and inviting. It was my first therapy session and she helped me feel comfortable and really listened to what I was saying.Click to read more
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 63 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Hi, I’m Nancy Paz Welsh, a bilingual (English & Spanish) Licensed Clinical Social Worker serving clients in Maryland, Virginia, and Illinois. As a proud second-generation American of Salvadoran descent, I’m passionate about advocating for mental health awareness and normalizing therapy as an essenti...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 28
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 68 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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: Fri, May 29
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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. 


Every provider on Zocdoc has a unique profile that includes a brief introduction, education qualification, practice locations, professional expertise, languages they speak, and whether they provide pediatric care. Therefore, you get to know everything you need about a particular psychotherapist near you on a single platform. 


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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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