On the banks of the Patuxent River you will find Laurel, Maryland, which is a small town that is known for Laurel Park, which is a thoroughbred horse racetrack. Some people like to go there and place bets on the horses for fun. However, for some, betting can turn into a gambling habit that can become an addiction.

The City of Laurel has many professional addiction therapists who can help with gambling and other addictions. If you or someone you know is having trouble with gambling, talk to a therapist before it damages your life anymore than it already has.

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Mary Beth DeMartino

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MD, Laurel
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW-C
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesCompassion fatigue
26 years of experience

Are you ready to make a change by setting realistic, attainable goals that will lead to better relationships and an overall better quality of life? Hello, my name is Mary Beth and I have over 25 years of experience in clinical work and counseling in the State of Maryland having successfully worked with adults, children and families. My therapy approach is collaborative and supportive in nature. I am known for creating a safe environment and empowering people with the tools they need to overcome challenges, whether it be behavioral, emotional or in relationships. I will help you identify your strengths and determine what goals you have that we can work on together to achieve your best life! Some of my stronger areas involve helping individuals with anxiety and stress, overcoming loss and grief, and dealing with the past traumas and LGBTQI+ issues. I am also trained in mind/ body approaches to cope with stress and anxiety and work effectively with people of faith and/or those with a sense of spirituality. I look forward to assisting you in becoming the best version of yourself possible.

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Amy Conneely

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MD, Laurel
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW-C
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
15 years of experience

I am a a licensed certified social worker - clinical in Maryland with over 15 years experience. I received my Bachelor's in Social Work and my Master's in Social Work from Delaware State University. I have experience working in a variety of settings including medical social work (including hospital, hospice, oncology and home health), geriatric settings (nursing homes and assisted livings), substance abuse treatment centers, and residential programs for adults. I have experience helping clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, caregiver fatigue, family conflict, and parenting concerns. I believe in the importance of the therapeutic relationship. I believe in that all clients should be treated with dignity, respect and without judgement. I utilize motivational interviewing, CBT, DBT, mindfulness, solution-focused therapy, and client-centered therapy. I believe in a strengths based approach.

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Jeffrey Becker

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MD, Laurel
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW-C,CEAP
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
36 years of experience

Hi - my name is Jeff Becker. I am a therapist licensed in Maryland with over 30 years of experience. I have worked with clients on a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, family and relationship issues, parenting problems, trauma, and addiction. I have particular expertise in work based problems, especially within school systems. I live and work in an area where the population is diverse, and my caseload has always reflected this. My therapy style is straight forward, supportive and interactive. I believe in treating all my clients with respect and dignity. I have learned that when people come into therapy they mostly wish to be heard and understood. I try to create an environment where this can happen. It is within such a setting I can best facilitate your ability to come up with solutions that will work for you. As with most experienced therapists, my approach is eclectic. My training includes elements of client centered, solution focused, CBT, and couples approaches (Gottman and Imago). I also have extensive training in trauma, including Mitchell Model and EMDR. I have helped many people who have recently experienced a trauma. Your decision to seek assistance is a big step that takes a lot of courage. I know you are looking to feel better and I would be happy to help find the best path for you.

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Dr. Annette Burns Porter

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MD, Laurel
Counselor License Type(s): PsyD, LCPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
21 years of experience

I am very collaborative in my work and believe that the client is the expert when it comes to his/her own life experiences. I work with each client to help them develop more satisfying interpersonal relationships and guide them toward making the changes they desire to accomplish their personal goals. I have 20 years of experience working in both inpatient and outpatient settings with populations varying across the life span and from culturally diverse backgrounds. I use an Integrative therapeutic approach according to the client’s individual needs. My areas of practice include individual and family therapy. My areas of specialty are anxiety, mood and adjustment disorders, substance-related and addictive disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, family conflict, relational issues and life transitions (i.e. loss, phase of life issues). I also provide trauma-informed treatment for adolescents, young adults, adults, and seniors. My educational background includes a M.S. in Counseling Psychology from Bowie State University and a Doctor of Clinical Psychology from Argosy University in Virginia. I have a B.A. in Family and Community Development from the University of Maryland at College Park.

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Egypt Buie

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MD, Laurel
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Maryland with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & anger management. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Sarah Riggs

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MD, Laurel
Addictions
30 years of experience

I am licensed in Maryland with 28 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions. 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. 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.

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Amanda Clark

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MD, Laurel
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Maryland with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, depression, & coping with life changes. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Angela Blake

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MD, Laurel
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
34 years of experience

I am licensed in Maryland with 34 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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. Additional Information: Welcome to Better Help. Thank you for sharing information about yourself. I'm so happy that you reached out for help. I am Angela Blake LCSW-C, a registered therapist. I have been in this field for 34 years. You can read more about my background, education, experience, and therapy approach by clicking on my name on this page. Remember when you consented to treatment you understand this platform is not intended for crisis situations and urgent needs. In a crisis, you agree to call 988 or local emergency services, or visit the nearest emergency room. I only work part-time on this platform. Be sure to review my calendar and schedule your first apt. as soon as possible. Ideally, it’s best to schedule weekly sessions for the first 4/6 weeks. At the 4/6 week point in time we can reassess your needs and goals. Sessions are usually scheduled for 45 minutes. That’s an average time most people can focus and stay on topic. Times for sessions can be increased or decreased depending on clinical needs. Make sure you are on your laptop, desktop, cell phone or other device at least 10 minutes before your scheduled time. This way you can make sure your device is charged up and any other technical issues are worked out. If you are using a cell phone, download the Better Help App prior to your session. Be sure to have a quite space with little to no interruptions. If you are using a cell phone, please keep it still during the session. This helps with a steady connection. Being punctual on this platform is a must. If you are late, often we will have to reschedule. The timer on the calendar will not allow you to sign into the session. I am here to assist you through your journey of emotional health and wellness. I look forward to working with you. Angela Blake LCSW-C Scheduling and Messaging Tips: I work part-time at Betterhelp.com. The schedule that is posted shows my availability. As soon as you are accepted, schedule your first appointment. After each session it’s best to schedule for the following week. My schedule does fill up quickly, so please make yourself a priority. If you need more availability for scheduling, please research other therapists on Betterhelp. It’s okay to seek a time that may suit your schedule. Messages are usually answered in 24 hours; however, it could be longer if it’s a day I am not scheduled for sessions, evenings or a weekend. Remember that Betterhelp.com is not a crisis intervention or response platform. IF you are having a mental health crisis you MUST call 988 or go to your nearest Emergency Room.

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Victoria Cole

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MD, Laurel
Self esteemCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

In putting together every puzzle there is a center piece. I acknowledge that you are that center piece. With that you are able to connect your unique puzzle pieces to promote healing, learning, and growth. Different life situations may bring you to allow a therapist to assist you as you believe is needed, in uncovering your genuine self to achieve inner peace revolving around your life’s puzzle pieces. Listening and working with your requests to change areas of your life that are of concern, is one of my many abilities. My practice approach includes, knowing that you are a unique individual, with specific concerns now in your life. With your uniqueness comes strengths you can use to focus on promoting healing, learning, and growth. As you do the work of processing your emotions and feelings, which at times may not be easy but you will be able to develop coping skills you can implement in various life situations. After reading the above if you feel we may be a good fit to work together please schedule a session for us to review. Thank you.

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Kendra Blue

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MD, Laurel
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
24 years of experience

I am a licensed professional in Maryland with 24 years of experience helping individuals navigate life's challenges. My expertise includes supporting clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, and adapting to life changes. I am dedicated to creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where you feel comfortable exploring your thoughts and emotions. Taking the first step toward a more fulfilling and happier life requires courage, and I am here to guide and empower you on this transformative journey. Together, we can work towards achieving your goals and building a more balanced and rewarding life.

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How to find a therapist for counseling in Laurel

Finding the best therapist close by in Laurel 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 Laurel 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 Laurel. 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 Laurel, 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 Laurel 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 Laurel 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 Laurel 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 Laurel 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 Laurel, elsewhere in Prince George's, 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 Laurel 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 Laurel 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 Laurel 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 Laurel 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 Laurel online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Laurel, 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 Laurel 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 Laurel 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 Laurel 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 Laurel?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Laurel 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 Laurel 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 Laurel 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 20707 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 Laurel counselor?

Before seeing your Laurel 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. Laurel 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 Laurel 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 Laurel 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 Laurel, 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.

Laurel 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 Laurel, 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 Laurel 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:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Laurel.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Laurel:

20707, 20709, 20725, 20726

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