Michael Shulman
Hello! My name is Mike Shulman, LCSW-C, and I want to start off by saying, you’ve made the right choice. Gaining insight into life’s trials, tribulations, and joys is an amazing experience and is bolstered by the help of professionals who are trained in stimulating and guiding the mind to a happier, healthier existence. I am here to support and empower you on that journey. My professional practice comprises over 12 years of working with adults, adolescents, couples, and families as they navigated through difficult transitions and events that have impacted their lives. The range of issues that I have tackled with clients is vast, ranging anywhere from sever substance abuse to schizophrenia, to break-ups and divorce and everywhere in between. I am EMDR trained and I am in constant study of multiple modalities, including Cognitive based approaches, Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness, and Existential Therapy, as well as addiction and trauma. I received my Masters in Social Work from the Tulane School of Social Work in 2017, where I also received a certification in Trauma Mental Health and Crisis Intervention. I feel that whatever issues you may be facing, we can face them together. My approach is very much client-driven and client centered, highlighted by the relational aspect of therapy. This means you are the expert! I am not here to tell anyone what to do, but instead be an empathetic companion, asking questions and helping to investigate the dynamic aspects of your life, and to do so without judgment. As we move through the therapeutic process, we will get to know each other, begin to develop a plan, incorporate strategies to assist you in increasing calm, collectedness, and confidence, ultimately leading to better decision making and better outcomes. The way I see it, let’s take the pressure off. Every experience is practice for the next experience. No one here is perfect (sorry to break it to ya!), but with every experience we can gain insight and knowledge into who we are and who we want to become. If you feel like we would be a good match, please don’t hesitate to contact me. I look forward to hearing from you. Be easy. -Mike
Darren Wiley
Hello, I am currently a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of West Virginia, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Maryland, and have worked as a mental health counselor/ Psychotherapist providing, home-based, school-based, and outpatient (office-based) counseling to individuals, families, and couples since 2014. In addition, I have been actively providing telehealth-based therapy for the last three years. I graduated with my Master of Arts in Human Services Counseling with a concentration in Marriage and family Therapy in 2014 then again with my second Master of Arts degree from Liberty University in Professional Counseling in 2017. I have worked with an array of clients with varying mental health disorders including trauma, serious depression, anxiety, personality disorders, gender identity issues, life changes/adjustment issues, bipolar disorders and psychotic disorders. I consider myself an eclectic therapist who whole-heartedly believes in the importance of individualizing my counseling approaches to best meet the needs of each member I work with. I have specialized training in Trauma-Based Play therapy, Trauma Focused- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and am currently a Nationally Certified Counselor. My professional style incorporates Existential, Cognitive Behavioral, Person-Centered and Narrative Therapy approaches to provide treatment that is unique to each of the member's needs. In addition, I have extensive experience providing vocational counseling and working with people and families of people who have intellectual disabilities. I believe in the power of therapy and am a strong clinician ready to assist with motivation and eliciting positive change. I would be happy to work with you!
Penny Walters
I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical from Maryland with 29 years experience. I am experienced in helping clients develop goals to help them overcome their life stressors that are impacting their daily living activities. I have experience working with clients with trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD and childhood physical, emotional and sexual abuse. I will help my clients develop their goals and utilize Cognitive Behavior Therapy and other techniques to meet their goals. I believe in providing clients with support and guidance while allowing them self determination. I look forward to working with you and helping you meet your goals!
Constance Raines
Hello my name is Constance, I am a License Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the states of Virginia and Florida. I have 7 years of experience employed in behavioral health facilities, outpatient therapy clinics, correctional centers, and also providing medical social work/ therapy to oncology, emergent, and crisis patients in the hospital setting. Focusing on the client through a strength-based approach and building resilience is key in obtaining a therapeutic relationship and striving for successfully outcome. My professional experience includes working with adults with minor to severe mental illness, grief and loss, survivors of traumatic experiences, individuals with major medical conditions, suicidal ideations, domestic violence, child abuse and substance misuse. My niche is providing trauma informed care in addition to several other treatment modalities with all my clients since just living today can be traumatic. Therapy modalities I found through research displaying positive outcomes are Trauma Informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focus, and Narrative therapies. I'm currently enrolled in a doctoral program specializing in trauma informed care which can be used with any population or individual experiencing a wide range of psychosocial issues. Collaborating with you to build a safe and trustworthy partnership is something I am fully dedicated in doing. Together we will work on treatment goals and conflict resolutions. Most importantly you will be the driver in the front seat. I am compassionate and determined to ensure that you will be successful in your journey towards healing and emotional fortitude. Any issue had is worth being addressed and resolved. I look forward to working with you soon.
Jessica "J. Marie" Garrett
I am licensed in Maryland and D.C. with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family conflicts, & anger management. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Rolanda Jones
I am licensed in Maryland with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Betsy Carpenter
Welcome! I am very glad you are here. I am licensed in Maryland with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with Challenging Situations or Life Stressors, Aging and Geriatric Issues, Pregnancy and Child Birth, PTSD, Infidelity, Depression, Stress and Anxiety, Trauma and Abuse, Self Esteem Issues, Parenting Issues, Separation and Divorce, Adjustment Issues, Emotional Support for Terminal Illness, Grief and Loss Issues, and Relationship Conflict & Concerns. A safe, non judgmental, supportive environment is key to bringing about the changes clients are seeking in their lives and in their relationships. It is my primary goal to create that environment for you. Additionally, I bring a large scope of therapeutic training and experience that allows me to utilize a blend of approaches to counseling dealing with a wide range of concerns. I believe the therapeutic relationship is the most important element of a helpful counseling experience. Your issues, concerns, personal history, and worldview will inform our work together. I will strive to provide a safe and consistent relationship with you while challenging you to examine how you relate with the world around you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Sabrina Heller
I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 19 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, trauma and abuse, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
De'Trece Lavender
I am licensed in Maryland with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with life changes, & executive and professional coaching. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Darryl Marshall Sr
I am licensed in Florida and Maryland with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
How to find a therapist for counseling in Charlestown
Finding the best therapist close by in Charlestown can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services with therapists in Charlestown that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.
Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Charlestown. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of support of this kind with BetterHelp therapists can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Charlestown, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.
It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses for therapists. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained able to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Charlestown region and in the state of Maryland. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.
A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Charlestown or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A Charlestown therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers and therapists can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.
There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Charlestown area offering:
- CBT
- DBT
- Substance use therapy
- Couples therapy
When you're ready to start your search keep in mind what support you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Charlestown, elsewhere in Cecil, or in the greater state of Maryland. Get matched with one of the therapists working on the BetterHelp platform today.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services
Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Charlestown area can be found below:
How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Charlestown therapist?
The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US with most therapists is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Charlestown due to a higher cost of living, and a limited number of therapists taking new clients. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:
- Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
- Counseling with therapists: $100-300
- Therapy with a psychologist: $100
While many psychologists in Charlestown may not take health insurance, some in the state of Maryland may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of Maryland you can expect significantly more affordable options, with therapists sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).
How is a licensed therapist on this Charlestown online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Charlestown, Maryland working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. Therapists have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, therapists here all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy.
Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from Charlestown psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.
How does working with a professional counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?
BetterHelp clinicians and therapists treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Charlestown above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.
Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. Get matched today.
What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?
BetterHelp's verified therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.
Our therapists specialties on BetterHelp include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy - This is provided by professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
- Behavior therapy - Behavior therapy techniques are used to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
- EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
- Talk therapy - Clients explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
- Depression - This counseling is designed to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
- Anxiety disorders - Sessions for anxiety disorders, offer strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
- Stress - Tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
- Eating disorders - Professionals experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
- Grief - Support and guidance are offered to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
- Attachment therapy - Therapists use this to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
- Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
- Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
- Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
- Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
- Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
- Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
- Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
- Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
- Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
- OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
- ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
- Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
- Sex addiction
- Complex trauma
- Life transitions
You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Charlestown provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists.
How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Charlestown?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Charlestown therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors and therapists are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.
Therapists in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of Charlestown therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.
Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Charlestown therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words with a psychotherapist.
With a lot of people in MD, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles or therapists above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 21914 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site where you can schedule a session based on your and the therapist's schedule. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.
How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Charlestown counselor?
Before seeing your Charlestown therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, you can let our therapists know if you have any concerns or feel unsure about what to talk about. Charlestown therapists here may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.
Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy if I feel fine?
Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what it might entail. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or specific condition. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback. A Charlestown licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.
Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find with a Charlestown counselor can be dependent on your process.
People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles that a counselor can help with.
Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?
Therapy with a licensed counselor is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health therapist has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Charlestown, Maryland can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.
Charlestown has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online sessions to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.
Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions during telehealth appointments?
The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.
Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform for Charlestown, Maryland
To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.
Take some time today to learn more about the team of Charlestown therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out to customer service through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.
If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.
If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Charlestown:
21901, 21914