This is Laura Gryniewich-Franklin's avatar and link to their profile

Laura Gryniewich-Franklin

Offering therapy in MD
License: LCSW-C,CCM
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefParenting issuesSelf esteem
20 years of experience

Hi and welcome! My name is Laura Gryniewich-Franklin and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am licensed to practice in Pennsylvania and Maryland. I have had the opportunity to work in a variety of settings which include outpatient therapeutic services, in-home services with children and families, education and medical social work. I have nearly 20 years of experience, working with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship/family conflicts, grief and loss, parenting issues, life transitions, abuse/neglect, trauma and crisis counseling. I have experience in a multitude of therapeutic techniques such as Person Centered and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. However, I believe that the most important therapeutic technique that I can offer is my complete, open-minded, non-judgmental presence. I consider it a privilege to be trusted with your struggles and to be able to share in your accomplishments. I am committed to creating a trusting, professional relationship where we can have difficult conversations and work together to resolve any issues that you may have. Whether you are seeking support regarding a specific issue or just need an empathetic, non-judgmental ear to listen, I am here to support you in any way that I can. I look forward to working with you.

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Karl Kaliher

Offering therapy in MD
License: NCC,LCPC,LPCMH
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
15 years of experience

I am a professional counselor licensed in Delaware and Maryland with over 15 years of experience as an individual, couples, and family therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of diagnoses including depression, bipolar d/o, anxiety d/o's, adhd, ocd, PTSD, gender dysphoria, and substance use d/o's. I also have experience working with clients with a wide range of concerns, including relationship, parenting, and family issues; diversity, equity, and inclusion concerns; LGBTQ+ concerns; and academic, occupational, financial, and housing concerns. My counseling style is warm, affirming, and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines humanistic/person-centered therapy, mindfulness-based cognitive-behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and trauma-focused treatment methods. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs and challenges, in collaboration with your input. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life, and to take the first steps towards making a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Christy Stinton

Offering therapy in MD
License: LPC,LMHC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

I am a licensed counselor, with over 15 years of experience. I have worked with a variety of issues, including infertility, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, career challenges, and life changes. I have also helped people with parenting, attachment and divorce related issues. I have a warm and interactive style. I believe that real change occurs in a safe and accepting counseling environment. My approach is to combine cognitive-behavioral, developmental and person centered counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Munsu Kwon

Offering therapy in MD
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
24 years of experience

My last 24 years experience is mainly focused on the client's population with Severe Mental Illness with schizophrenia, schizoaffective, and mood related disorders with paranoia and delusion. From telehealth therapy, I can provide therapeutic direction for the client and family based on my experiences. If I believe that the client needs a higher level of care, I will specify the care plan and explain what additional services might work best for the client.  I am licensed in Maryland. I got an MS in counseling from Johns Hopkins University. I got a BS in psychology in George Mason University.

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Taneka Hamond

Offering therapy in MD
Relationship issuesSelf esteem
22 years of experience

I am licensed in Maryland with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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!Thanks for being confident in you and me.

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Veron Johnson

Offering therapy in MD
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Maryland with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, & relationship issues. I also have experience working with depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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.

This is Al Balaa's avatar and link to their profile

Al Balaa

Offering therapy in MD
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCoaching
12 years of experience

I am licensed in Maryland with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.

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Carrie Freshour

Offering therapy in MD
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoaching
15 years of experience

My name is Carrie Freshour, LCSW-C. I am a clinical social worker licensed in Maryland with over 20 years of experience working as a clinician, leader, trainer, writer, facilitator, and expert in trauma impact and response, which addresses issues such as control, self-esteem, self-sabotage, and conflict management—utilizing the best practices in trauma-informed theories to empower my clients to implement effective strategies to achieve their aspirations and sustain those results. My approach is purpose-driven, drawing from my lived experience, clinical expertise, and years of coaching and development. I believe in having difficult conversations to help people overcome obstacles and achieve sustainable results. As a therapist who specializes in working with teens and adults who have experienced trauma, abuse, and violence, I understand the unique issues that you may be facing. I am here to provide a safe and supportive space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings. Whether you're dealing with school-related stress, career decisions, toxic environments, or relationship issues or want to talk to someone who understands, I'm here to listen and help you develop the tools you need to thrive. Let's work together to help you achieve your goals and live your best life. I understand that signing up for therapy can be daunting, but taking that first step is courageous. Congratulations on taking that step, and I look forward to meeting you! Stronger together, Carrie

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Krista Healy Schaefer

Offering therapy in MD
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Maryland with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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.

This is Mandi Mader's avatar and link to their profile

Mandi Mader

Offering therapy in MD
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSleeping disordersParenting issuesDepression
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Maryland and New York with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, sleeping disorders, & parenting issues. 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.

How to find counseling in Brentwood

Finding the best therapist close by in Brentwood 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 that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Brentwood. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Brentwood, 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. 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 to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Brentwood or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers 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 Brentwood area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy 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 Brentwood, elsewhere in Prince George's, or in the greater state of Maryland.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Brentwood area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Brentwood therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Brentwood due to a higher cost of living. 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 Brentwood 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 BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Maryland you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Brentwood, 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. They 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, they 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 psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Brentwood 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 lead by a therapist in Brentwood helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Brentwood 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.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

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 Brentwood therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a 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 are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist 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 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 Brentwood 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 lot of people in MD, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles 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 20722 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Brentwood counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy 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, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. 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 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 therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Brentwood 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 through therapy 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.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy 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 professional 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 Brentwood, 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.

Brentwood has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy 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?

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

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of 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 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 Brentwood.

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

20722

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