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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 05/31/2026
Availability last updated 05/31/2026
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, Cigna + 3 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 + 68 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 adults and adolescents & the families of adolescents in Florida. (I now also have licenses in Indiana and Maryland!) I have over 5 years o...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield + 52 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)
4.73
·11 reviews
- Sep 20, 2023 by Jack K.Click to read more
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 68 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, 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)
5.00
·4 reviews
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 67 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Hi Im a Licensed Professional Counselor LPC in the state of Texas. I received my Masters from LeTourneau University and have been practicing for 3 years. I work with adult clients living with selfesteem issues, anxiety, depression, and anger. The goal is to provide a safe space for clients to openly...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist
1.5 mi · 1800 N Charles St, Ste 804, Baltimore, MD 21201
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 21 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients ·
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Darius Brittingham is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with 12 years of experience providing mental health and substance abuse therapy. He holds a Master's degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore and a Bachelor of Science from Wilmington Uni...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist
1.5 mi · 1800 N Charles St, Ste 804, Baltimore, MD 21201
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 16 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Channell Fortt is a Licensed Certified Social Worker – Clinical (LCSW-C) with independent practice authority, passionate about guiding individuals toward healing and overall well-being. Her therapeutic approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and collaboration as she works alongside clients to ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist
1.5 mi · 1800 N Charles St, Ste 804, Baltimore, MD 21201
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 17 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: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Cigna + 3 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hello there, my name is Myron. I am an engaging and goal-oriented therapist who aims to assist you in building towards your future. I have been told that I am a people person. I love people, and being able to help people feel more confident about life is something that I thoroughly enjoy. I seek to ...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Jun 2
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: Tue, Jun 2
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Cigna + 2 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Thank you for visiting my page and Welcome, I have worked in the field of mental health for over 20 years, and I have worked with individuals who are struggling with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, grief, relationship struggles etc... I am deeply committed to supporting you in your journey tow...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Jun 2
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 68 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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: Tue, Jun 2
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.00
·3 reviews
- Dec 4, 2025 by Ayo B.Click to read more
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 69 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Hello! I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with over 18 years of experience, proudly serving clients in Maryland and Virginia. I hold a Master’s degree from Towson University and specialize in supporting adults navigating anxiety, depression, and life transitions. My goal is to hel...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 53 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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: Tue, Jun 2
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 13 years of experience. I am dedicated to supporting children, adolescents, and adults as they navigate life's challenges and build healthier, more fulfilling lives. I specialize in working with individuals experiencing anger management difficulties, behav...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Jun 2
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.44
·9 reviews
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 68 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)
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
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
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: Tue, Jun 2
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.97
·37 reviews
She was a very kind and helpful counselor! Even though she couldn’t treat my problem, she made sure I got the right treatment by giving me a list of counselors that could provide treatment for me. Thanks to her, I am on the right treatment track and in the process of healing. Thank you, Ms. Welsh!...Click to read more
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 64 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: Tue, Jun 2
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·3 reviews
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 68 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: Tue, Jun 2
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 67 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
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: Tue, Jun 2
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Cigna + 3 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with adolescents and adults navigating anxiety, depression, burnout, and life transitions. I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can feel comfortable being yourself while also working toward meaningful change. My approach is collaborat...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Jun 2
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 53 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: Tue, Jun 2
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Cigna + 2 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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: Wed, Jun 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·29 reviews
- Apr 28, 2023 by Kendra B.Click to read more
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare + 16 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: Wed, Jun 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.67
·3 reviews
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 67 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Life is a journey with highs and lows, and sometimes, we just need help navigating. I am happy to be part of that with you. I believe that support makes all the difference in a person’s life when they face challenges and provides a safe space that is full of compassion, empathy, and free of judgment...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Jun 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.62
·21 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 + 66 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: Wed, Jun 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 55 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Navy veteran, and mother of three, I bring a diverse life perspective to my therapeutic practice. With over 20 years of experience as a military spouse and professional roles in medical administration and youth programs, I offer a grounded, empathetic approach t...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Jun 3
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Cigna + 2 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Michelle's therapeutic approach is grounded in Humanistic principles and thoughtfully integrates Existential, Emotionally Focused, Attachment-Based, and Cognitive Behavioral therapies. She works collaboratively with clients to support personal growth, deepen emotional insight, and help them navigate...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Jun 4
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Cigna + 2 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 15 years of experience helping patients work through complex and diverse issues. Holds a Master's in Counseling Psychology from Bowie State University and a Bachelor's degree from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. Adept in performing cl...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Jun 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Cigna + 2 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
I’m Melissa Perlin, a dedicated and compassionate therapist committed to supporting individuals on their journey toward healing and personal growth. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences at their own pace.Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Jun 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.80
·59 reviews
Very easy to establish a rapport - May 25, 2023 by Vivian W.Click to read more
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 66 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: Fri, Jun 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
4.69
·45 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 + 70 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: Fri, Jun 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 74 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Georgia, Maryland, and New Jersey. I received my Masters from the University of Maryland Baltimore and have been practicing for 25 years. I help young adults, adults, and elderly adults struggling with life transitioning issues that may cause...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Jun 5
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 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: Sat, Jun 6
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
Accepts 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: Sat, Jun 6
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, Jun 8
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 69 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Hello, My name is Tierra Evans. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Work Supervisor and Mental Health Clinician. I have been a licensed Social Worker for nine years and counting. I am a Texas native and have traveled extensively. I received my Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Texas...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jun 8
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
Baltimore, MD
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, Jun 8
Psychotherapist (Virtual)
5.00
·3 reviews
Baltimore, MD
Accepts Cigna + 3 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: Tue, Jun 9
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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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