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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Alison Russell

Offering therapy in MD
License: LCSW-C
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

Alison Russell, LCSW-C Hi. I’m Alison Russell! I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical and have been in the Social Work field for over 25 years. One of the many things I learned during my extensive experience working with First Responders, adults, adolescents and children is that people are resilient. I have hope and believe in those who are ready, willing and able to self reflect and work towards positive change. I received my Bachelors degree in Sociology from the University of Maryland and after many years of working with the adolescent population and family systems, earned my Masters degree in Social work from Delaware State University. Some areas of my expertise include working with adults, children and families involved in the child welfare system encompassing victims/survivors of child sexual abuse, childhood trauma, victims/survivors of the foster care system, dysfunctional family systems, grief and loss, anxiety, as well as adjustment issues. Most recently and during the COVID pandemic, I have been a Hospice Social Worker focusing on end of life issues which impact patients and families including issues related to grief, loss, anxiety, depression, and bereavement. My approach to working with those in need includes the Eclectic approach along with being Trauma-informed. I use Motivational Interviewing, the Strengths perspective, the Client Centered approach, and Behavior Modification. I believe that if the client is ready to engage in the therapeutic relationship, learning all aspects of their lives, including the past, present and future is most beneficial to them. I believe in starting where the client is and aspire to achieve goals set forth in an effort to enhance overall functioning. I look forward to processing life together, one session at a time.

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Marvelyn Fowler

Offering therapy in MD
License: LCSW-C
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
35 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Md. I chose the career of Social Work because I truly believe in the courage and resilience of the human spirit. I have worked extensively with individuals, families and couples for 36 years. My years of experience have afforded me the opportunity to interact with people from all walks of life which continues to be one of the most rewarding aspects of the work that I do on a daily basis. I listen and support you with assessing what you need and want and then identify the necessary tools to get you there. I am honest, direct and respectful in my work. As a result, you are an integral part of your journey towards wellness. I know how to gently push, encourage and challenge each step along the way. I am excited about being on your journey with you.

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Dr. Annette Burns Porter

Offering therapy in MD
License: 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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Catherine Sechrist

Offering therapy in MD
License: MS, LPC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
9 years of experience

I believe that every individual is unique and therefore not one approach works for everyone. With nearly ten years of experience as a therapist, I utilize a range of therapeutic approaches to fit the needs of the client. I focus on a strength based approach to build rapport and together I co-journey with the client on their way to fulfilling their potential. I specialize with stress, anxiety as well as grief and life changes. I have experience in working with teens who struggle with bullying, body image, and anxiety.

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Tara Bowles

Offering therapy in MD
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
12 years of experience

Hi! I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Virginia, District of Columbia and Maryland with over ten years of experience providing counseling services to children, teens, adults and families coping with a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, relationship problems, grief/loss, trauma and substance abuse. I am originally from California where I received my undergraduate degree at San Francisco State University. My master's degree is from Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond VA. My therapy approach is open, compassionate, focused and goal oriented. I am passionate about helping people recognize and build on their strengths to become the very best versions of themselves. The right therapist fit is a key element in a successful therapy experience, and I want to be that for you.

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John Caruso

Offering therapy in MD
Stress, Anxiety
16 years of experience

I am licensed in Maryland with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety. 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. 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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Stephen Murphy

Offering therapy in MD
License: MSW,LICSW,PIP
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
9 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of Alabama, Virginia, Georgia, the District of Columbia, and Maryland. My experience includes clinical social work, risk management, regulatory compliance, quality assurance, case management, crisis intervention, advocacy, brokerage, education, and facilitation working with diverse groups of children, adolescents, and adults in medical social work, child welfare, mental health/chemical dependency, corrections, HIV/AIDS, and Veteran Affairs. While working with these clients, I have acquired necessary clinical skills relevant to culturally diverse practice and effective outcomes. I am a well-organized, highly motivated, and an energetic team player dedicated to meeting my clients where they are through both micro and macro level social work interventions. Working in Mental Health for over 12 years, I've learned that people are literally trying to put the pieces of their life together just to make it through the day. Being sensitive to this, I've developed my practice model around the following quote, "We're only as strong as our weakest link; therefore do your best to strengthen someone today!" My goal every day is to strengthen someone (self-included) in some area. Let's Live in Purpose so we can Win on Purpose!

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This is Erin Porter's avatar and link to their profile

Erin Porter

Offering therapy in MD
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
21 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida, New Jersey, Maryland, Arkansas, Washington and South Carolina with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, LGBT-related issues, relationship issues, & family conflicts. 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.

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This is Vanessa Patton-Scott's avatar and link to their profile

Vanessa Patton-Scott

Offering therapy in MD
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesCareer difficultiesADHD
18 years of experience

I am licensed in Maryland with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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!

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This is Jaimey McClurkin's avatar and link to their profile

Jaimey McClurkin

Offering therapy in MD
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Maryland with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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. In regards to sessions, I utilize CBT and DBT-informed therapies. I feel that looking at how we think can help us change how we feel and eliminate those negative behaviors. Lasly, I engage with clients via live chat sessions, video, and phone. However, I do not do daily messaging. I will send a check in message or provide reminders for sessions or homework, but I prefer to keep therapy to the scheduled session times.

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How to find 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 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 Laurel. 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 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. 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 Laurel 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 Laurel 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 Laurel, 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 Laurel area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Laurel 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 Laurel 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 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 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 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. 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 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 lead by a therapist in Laurel 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 Laurel 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 Laurel 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 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 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 20725 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 Laurel 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 Laurel.

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

20707, 20709, 20725, 20726

Popular cities near Laurel, MD

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