Blue Shield Therapists in Columbia, MD

I believe that we are all wired to connect, change and heal. As a therapist, I work with adults (18+) who want to spark and kindle these innate abilities. Consider reaching out to me if you want help with anxiety, shame, low self-esteem, and/or depression. I aim to heal the root of pain, such as adversity, trauma, grief/loss, and toxic messages from society. I also enjoy working with clients who want help expanding on growth and change and effectively integrating them into existing life and relationships.

I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. I want to help you achieve whatever solutions and life changes you are looking for while enjoying the therapeutic process as much as possible and experiencing yourself in new ways. Reaching out to a therapist can often be hard. You may fear being judged or being vulnerable with a stranger. But I am confident that given the chance, you will see the benefits in talking with me as I really want to help you succeed. My hope is that you take this leap of faith and see how I can best support you. We can only do the best that we can.

“Mental health is not a destination, but a process. It’s about how you drive, not where you’re going” – Noam Shpancer, PHD. Sometimes in life we reach a point where we lose focus on the things critical to improving/maintaining our mental health and overall quality of life. I myself have once reached that point and it was then I realized the importance of having a strong network of support, including a therapist. I have come to learn that a tremendous amount of people feel alone, left out, or unheard; and so, I strive to create a safe space for people to be seen, heard, understood, and valued.

My focus in the counseling relationship is on promoting growth and healing by exploring the role of individual identity, coping strategies, support systems, and trauma in your life. I hope to help you find meaning, achieve personal goals, engage in healthy relationships, and confront past hurtful or painful experiences. I use a client-centered approach to therapy while also incorporating aspects of CBT, DBT, and existential psychotherapy.

‘Change is constant’… but that does not mean it is easy. Deciding to make personal changes to enhance your quality of life is the first step. Therapy can provide support and perspective, through obtaining greater understanding and healing. As a result, personal growth occurs. Jillian Parente is a licensed clinical social worker, board-approved social work supervisor, board-approved counseling supervisor, peer recovery specialist supervisor, and an Adjunct Professor, with over 8 years of experience, specializing in women’s issues, such as trauma and perinatal mental health (including, but not limited to pregnancy and postpartum).

“I don't feel cared for.” “When I bring up the ‘hard stuff,’ I’m met with silence." “Whatever I give is never enough.” “Why do I feel so alone?” “We keep having the same fights.” “I just want to be heard.” If these statements resonate with you, I'm glad you've landed on my page! Navigating these struggles alone can be overwhelming. In couples therapy, I can offer effective and compassionate help for your relationship, tailored to meet the needs of your situation. Working together, we can develop the skills you need to move away from a cycle of conflict and frustration and move towards greater connection, communication, and intimacy.

Moving through life we collect stressors, unhealthy or poor coping skills, negative thoughts, traumas and more. Collecting these experiences may lead you to feel lost, unprepared, and overwhelmed. However they manifest, realigning with yourself and working through these life experiences can be a journey that we take together. We will work together to address your needs and goals in a non-judgmental, safe environment where you can better understand yourself and find progress forward.