Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Ellicott City, MD

Sarah Sloane Donovan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, PMH-C
4 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21043
You thought you’d have it all figured out. Instead, everything feels heavy, loud, and relentless. You’re a high-achieving woman or couple navigating motherhood, burnout, or old wounds parenting has stirred awake. You snap more easily, feel resentful toward family, and carry intrusive thoughts from pregnancy or birth. You love your child AND some days still fantasize about escape.You’re grieving what you didn’t receive while trying to give your child something better. You’re not broken, but you know something has to change. Healing here is measured in quieter ways: clearer boundaries, fewer shame spirals, and more choice.
You thought you’d have it all figured out. Instead, everything feels heavy, loud, and relentless. You’re a high-achieving woman or couple navigating motherhood, burnout, or old wounds parenting has stirred awake. You snap more easily, feel resentful toward family, and carry intrusive thoughts from pregnancy or birth. You love your child AND some days still fantasize about escape.You’re grieving what you didn’t receive while trying to give your child something better. You’re not broken, but you know something has to change. Healing here is measured in quieter ways: clearer boundaries, fewer shame spirals, and more choice.
(443) 785-5126 View (443) 785-5126
Sharlita Boyd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW, MSW, TFCBT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting new clients! I work with teens and adults who are ready to heal from past hurts, understand unhealthy family and relationship patterns, and make meaningful changes in their lives. Many come to therapy feeling stuck in patterns of anxiety, people-pleasing, difficult relationships, unresolved childhood experiences, or ways of coping that no longer serve them. The goal isn’t just to understand your past—it’s to help you recognize what you want to do differently now and develop the skills to actually make those changes.
Accepting new clients! I work with teens and adults who are ready to heal from past hurts, understand unhealthy family and relationship patterns, and make meaningful changes in their lives. Many come to therapy feeling stuck in patterns of anxiety, people-pleasing, difficult relationships, unresolved childhood experiences, or ways of coping that no longer serve them. The goal isn’t just to understand your past—it’s to help you recognize what you want to do differently now and develop the skills to actually make those changes.
(240) 384-4980 View (240) 384-4980
Shaniqua Parrish-Bacon
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC, MA
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in using a combination of CBT, DBT and person-centered care.
Life can often feel overwhelming, with its constant challenges, uncertainties, and demands. Whether it's coping with anxiety, managing the weight of depression, or navigating the daily stresses that seem never-ending, you're not alone in facing these trials. These experiences can leave you feeling stuck, exhausted, or disconnected but Serenity Wellness, LLC is here to help. As a therapist, I offer a safe, compassionate space where you can explore and understand these struggles. Together, we will develop personalized strategies to help you cope, heal, and regain control of your life.
I specialize in using a combination of CBT, DBT and person-centered care.
Life can often feel overwhelming, with its constant challenges, uncertainties, and demands. Whether it's coping with anxiety, managing the weight of depression, or navigating the daily stresses that seem never-ending, you're not alone in facing these trials. These experiences can leave you feeling stuck, exhausted, or disconnected but Serenity Wellness, LLC is here to help. As a therapist, I offer a safe, compassionate space where you can explore and understand these struggles. Together, we will develop personalized strategies to help you cope, heal, and regain control of your life.
(443) 338-9338 View (443) 338-9338
Joanne Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Online Only
If you lack compassion for self or are suffering from repeated patterns that are negatively impacting your life and desire freedom and space to heal and transform, I can help. I firmly believe that you possess the inner strength and self-love to overcome obstacles, and my role is to be your companion on this path to healing and self-discovery. Together, we'll navigate the complexities of life, identify patterns that may be overwhelming you, and work collaboratively towards meaningful change and personal growth.
If you lack compassion for self or are suffering from repeated patterns that are negatively impacting your life and desire freedom and space to heal and transform, I can help. I firmly believe that you possess the inner strength and self-love to overcome obstacles, and my role is to be your companion on this path to healing and self-discovery. Together, we'll navigate the complexities of life, identify patterns that may be overwhelming you, and work collaboratively towards meaningful change and personal growth.
(443) 238-0865 View (443) 238-0865
Kate Scott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My training integrates the practical, skill-building focus of Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) with the introspective, compassionate methods of Internal Family Systems (IFS), & EMDR, but ultimately, this is a collaborative process.
I work with adults facing a wide range of challenges, including depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, psychosis, and major life transitions. A particular passion for me is working with families who are supporting loved ones living with psychosis. Experiencing these issues can be confusing, overwhelming, and deeply isolating. My goal is to help you feel more equipped and less alone as you find your way through it.
My training integrates the practical, skill-building focus of Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) with the introspective, compassionate methods of Internal Family Systems (IFS), & EMDR, but ultimately, this is a collaborative process.
I work with adults facing a wide range of challenges, including depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, psychosis, and major life transitions. A particular passion for me is working with families who are supporting loved ones living with psychosis. Experiencing these issues can be confusing, overwhelming, and deeply isolating. My goal is to help you feel more equipped and less alone as you find your way through it.
(410) 498-6363 View (410) 498-6363
Brie Hardeman
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Online Only
I especially enjoy working with BIPOC individuals, teens, and people navigating life's many transitions. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, questioning your identity, coping with anxiety or depression, healing from difficult experiences, or adjusting to a new chapter, I'm here to walk alongside you. Together, we'll work toward helping you feel more connected to yourself, more confident in who you are, and more hopeful about what's ahead.
I especially enjoy working with BIPOC individuals, teens, and people navigating life's many transitions. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, questioning your identity, coping with anxiety or depression, healing from difficult experiences, or adjusting to a new chapter, I'm here to walk alongside you. Together, we'll work toward helping you feel more connected to yourself, more confident in who you are, and more hopeful about what's ahead.
(443) 373-5604 View (443) 373-5604
Chris Aitken
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LGPC
1 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21043
I work with all ages, and my approach is tailored to every patient’s needs. While I specialize in working with couples, I love working with individuals. We all grapple with issues of freedom, isolation, meaninglessness, and mortality. My practice draws from a blend of therapeutic approaches, life experience, and professional knowledge to help individuals navigate life’s challenges.
I work with all ages, and my approach is tailored to every patient’s needs. While I specialize in working with couples, I love working with individuals. We all grapple with issues of freedom, isolation, meaninglessness, and mortality. My practice draws from a blend of therapeutic approaches, life experience, and professional knowledge to help individuals navigate life’s challenges.
(443) 776-2179 View (443) 776-2179
Lillian Marie Streaker
Art Therapist, LCPAT
1 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21043
Throughout our work together, I will use Motivational Interviewing, CBT, mindfulness, DBT, strengths based, and solution focused approaches.
Throughout a therapeutic journey with me, we will work together to formulate goals, combat your challenges, leading to solution based practices. My belief is that humans hold all the answers to their current challenges within them, and the support of an unbiased professional can be helpful throughout interpersonal exploration.
Throughout our work together, I will use Motivational Interviewing, CBT, mindfulness, DBT, strengths based, and solution focused approaches.
Throughout a therapeutic journey with me, we will work together to formulate goals, combat your challenges, leading to solution based practices. My belief is that humans hold all the answers to their current challenges within them, and the support of an unbiased professional can be helpful throughout interpersonal exploration.
(667) 218-4281 View (667) 218-4281
Sharnet Chavis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Dr. Sharnet Chavis is a clinical social worker that is licensed in Maryland and the District of Columbia. I have been dedicated to supporting children, adolescents, and adults with diverse needs for over 30 years, specializing in helping them regulate their emotions and develop self-management skills. My background includes Special Education (MS), Mindfulness (CMIP, RYT-200), Wellness (CWP) and DEI initiatives. Additionally, I am committed to promoting mindfulness and movement-based practices to enhance self-management for individuals and those in caregiving roles.
Dr. Sharnet Chavis is a clinical social worker that is licensed in Maryland and the District of Columbia. I have been dedicated to supporting children, adolescents, and adults with diverse needs for over 30 years, specializing in helping them regulate their emotions and develop self-management skills. My background includes Special Education (MS), Mindfulness (CMIP, RYT-200), Wellness (CWP) and DEI initiatives. Additionally, I am committed to promoting mindfulness and movement-based practices to enhance self-management for individuals and those in caregiving roles.
(240) 303-7648 View (240) 303-7648
Gila Chamama
Counselor, LGPC
Online Only
I utilize an integrative, evidence-based approach tailored to your unique needs, including Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I provide evidence-based therapy for OCD, anxiety, and related disorders, helping clients reduce intrusive thoughts, compulsions, and chronic worry. I also support individuals with depression, ADHD, relationship concerns, and life stressors, offering practical tools in a compassionate, collaborative space.
I utilize an integrative, evidence-based approach tailored to your unique needs, including Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I provide evidence-based therapy for OCD, anxiety, and related disorders, helping clients reduce intrusive thoughts, compulsions, and chronic worry. I also support individuals with depression, ADHD, relationship concerns, and life stressors, offering practical tools in a compassionate, collaborative space.
(410) 498-5737 View (410) 498-5737
Christina Wagoner
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
2 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21043
I am certified in EMDR and have training in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
I work with clients of many needs and backgrounds; however my specialties include trauma, grief, infertility, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, low self-esteem and communication problems. My goal is to help my clients learn to cope with the problems and stress they may be experiencing and to help them identify ways to alleviate these issues, learn more about themselves, achieve their goals, create more more fulfilling personal relationships and improve overall health. While my physical office is located in Ellicott City I offer teletherapy allowing me to be available to clients across Maryland.
I am certified in EMDR and have training in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
I work with clients of many needs and backgrounds; however my specialties include trauma, grief, infertility, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, low self-esteem and communication problems. My goal is to help my clients learn to cope with the problems and stress they may be experiencing and to help them identify ways to alleviate these issues, learn more about themselves, achieve their goals, create more more fulfilling personal relationships and improve overall health. While my physical office is located in Ellicott City I offer teletherapy allowing me to be available to clients across Maryland.
(240) 616-1730 View (240) 616-1730
Olivia Medoff
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC-S, NCC, C-DBT
8 Endorsed
Online Only
I use integrative and evidence-based interventions in my approach to therapy; such as, Play Therapy, Expressive Arts Therapy, Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness Techniques.
Now Accepting New Clients Being human is dynamic and complex, and we all need a safe space to explore, reflect, and return to ourselves. I know that honoring our own wants and needs can be challenging and vulnerable at times, and I strive to establish an open, supportive, and collaborative therapeutic environment, to meet you wherever you are at in your life. I truly believe in the power of self-expression, and am willing to get as creative as possible, within the realms of evidence-based practice, in order to help you achieve your goals.
I use integrative and evidence-based interventions in my approach to therapy; such as, Play Therapy, Expressive Arts Therapy, Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness Techniques.
Now Accepting New Clients Being human is dynamic and complex, and we all need a safe space to explore, reflect, and return to ourselves. I know that honoring our own wants and needs can be challenging and vulnerable at times, and I strive to establish an open, supportive, and collaborative therapeutic environment, to meet you wherever you are at in your life. I truly believe in the power of self-expression, and am willing to get as creative as possible, within the realms of evidence-based practice, in order to help you achieve your goals.
(443) 222-0261 View (443) 222-0261
Dr. Leah Johnson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC
Online Only
Are you in need of restoration, guidance, empowerment, or simply unwavering support? I could be your person! I have almost 20 years worth of experience creating a counseling experience that encourages my people to rest, to be kind to self, to think beyond their current situation, to explore the unknown, to embrace what could be and to just exist. If you’re willing to do the work, I’m willing to work with you. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I am accepting new clients for secure Telehealth sessions via online scheduling.
Are you in need of restoration, guidance, empowerment, or simply unwavering support? I could be your person! I have almost 20 years worth of experience creating a counseling experience that encourages my people to rest, to be kind to self, to think beyond their current situation, to explore the unknown, to embrace what could be and to just exist. If you’re willing to do the work, I’m willing to work with you. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I am accepting new clients for secure Telehealth sessions via online scheduling.
(301) 960-3296 View (301) 960-3296
Paula da Silva-DeBrew
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Online Only
I support individuals who feel overwhelmed, anxious, and mentally “on” all the time—helping them slow down, feel grounded, and reconnect with themselves. I provide a warm, supportive space where you can feel heard and begin to make sense of what you’re experiencing—without pressure or judgment. My approach is collaborative and grounded in meeting you exactly where you are. I work with individuals navigating anxiety, stress, and life transitions, as well as those feeling emotionally overwhelmed or burned out. Many of my clients are children, adolescents/young adults, young and seasoned parents alike. I welcome the lifespan!
I support individuals who feel overwhelmed, anxious, and mentally “on” all the time—helping them slow down, feel grounded, and reconnect with themselves. I provide a warm, supportive space where you can feel heard and begin to make sense of what you’re experiencing—without pressure or judgment. My approach is collaborative and grounded in meeting you exactly where you are. I work with individuals navigating anxiety, stress, and life transitions, as well as those feeling emotionally overwhelmed or burned out. Many of my clients are children, adolescents/young adults, young and seasoned parents alike. I welcome the lifespan!
(240) 332-1740 View (240) 332-1740
Rebecca Cooney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, RYT-200
7 Endorsed
Online Only
My approach includes aspects of CBT, DBT, IFS & EMDR, mindfulness and meditation, cultivating self-compassion, and the therapeutic use of humor, empathy and human connection.
Seeking therapy requires MOXIE! You sense that a painful experience from your past is affecting your present life. You recognize that you're caught in a cycle, but finding a way out seems impossible. Typically, you're the kind of person who can navigate through any challenge, so it's incredibly frustrating that this time feels different. I specialize in working with adult & adolescents in the treatment of depression, anxiety, stress, relationship difficulties, family conflict, self-esteem, trauma, abuse, grief/loss and emotion dysregulation.
My approach includes aspects of CBT, DBT, IFS & EMDR, mindfulness and meditation, cultivating self-compassion, and the therapeutic use of humor, empathy and human connection.
Seeking therapy requires MOXIE! You sense that a painful experience from your past is affecting your present life. You recognize that you're caught in a cycle, but finding a way out seems impossible. Typically, you're the kind of person who can navigate through any challenge, so it's incredibly frustrating that this time feels different. I specialize in working with adult & adolescents in the treatment of depression, anxiety, stress, relationship difficulties, family conflict, self-esteem, trauma, abuse, grief/loss and emotion dysregulation.
(443) 917-3770 View (443) 917-3770
Ana Rivera-Ortiz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Ellicott City, MD 21043
My clinical approach integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) to help clients better develop coping strategies.
Hello my name is Ana and I am a clinically driven and macro-oriented social work professional with a strong commitment to transparency, collaboration, and equitable mental health care. Throughout her professional experiences, she has demonstrated a deep understanding of the challenges associated with Medicaid regulations, insurance limitations, and the complexities of serving underinsured populations.
My clinical approach integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) to help clients better develop coping strategies.
Hello my name is Ana and I am a clinically driven and macro-oriented social work professional with a strong commitment to transparency, collaboration, and equitable mental health care. Throughout her professional experiences, she has demonstrated a deep understanding of the challenges associated with Medicaid regulations, insurance limitations, and the complexities of serving underinsured populations.
(443) 715-6021 View (443) 715-6021
Amelia Nigro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, C-DBT, BSP
2 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21043
I often use Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) in my practice.
You’re on the hamster wheel—constantly going, trying to keep up, feeling overstimulated and overwhelmed. I see you, and you’re not alone. I’m Amelia, and my goal is to help you build the awareness, skills, and tools to live with more balance and fulfillment. Growth can be uncomfortable, but together we’ll create your blueprint for a happier, more grounded life.
I often use Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) in my practice.
You’re on the hamster wheel—constantly going, trying to keep up, feeling overstimulated and overwhelmed. I see you, and you’re not alone. I’m Amelia, and my goal is to help you build the awareness, skills, and tools to live with more balance and fulfillment. Growth can be uncomfortable, but together we’ll create your blueprint for a happier, more grounded life.
(443) 267-9953 View (443) 267-9953
Sarah Jacques
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
3 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21042
I use ACT, contextual DBT, narrative therapy, play and art therapy, and mindfulness, with certifications in S
In-person and virtual openings are now available! Are you struggling to stay afloat? Maybe you're doing your best to get through each day, but keep feeling pulled down by stress and despair in relationships, at work, and in managing daily tasks. You're craving relief, a breath of fresh air, but feel like each time things get a little better, you're knocked over by yet another wave. You tell yourself that you just have to try harder, be different—but keep finding yourself burnt out and overwhelmed. You want to be able to meet challenges calmly and confidently instead of struggling against the current.
I use ACT, contextual DBT, narrative therapy, play and art therapy, and mindfulness, with certifications in S
In-person and virtual openings are now available! Are you struggling to stay afloat? Maybe you're doing your best to get through each day, but keep feeling pulled down by stress and despair in relationships, at work, and in managing daily tasks. You're craving relief, a breath of fresh air, but feel like each time things get a little better, you're knocked over by yet another wave. You tell yourself that you just have to try harder, be different—but keep finding yourself burnt out and overwhelmed. You want to be able to meet challenges calmly and confidently instead of struggling against the current.
(301) 804-2812 View (301) 804-2812
Matt Mazick
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
10 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21042
Waitlist for new clients
Do you keep adding "Find a Therapist" to your to-do list, but end up feeling overwhelmed by the process? At its core, this search can be extremely nerve-racking for many folks - and you're not alone! Sometimes our current needs make it harder to take the next steps. Whether you're managing symptoms of depression and anxiety, learning who you are again after a breakup, noticing an unhelpful behavior getting in the way of your ability to thrive, or simply looking for purpose, I've been there. Guess what? I'm here to support you with creating a life of meaning and finally finding some relief.
Do you keep adding "Find a Therapist" to your to-do list, but end up feeling overwhelmed by the process? At its core, this search can be extremely nerve-racking for many folks - and you're not alone! Sometimes our current needs make it harder to take the next steps. Whether you're managing symptoms of depression and anxiety, learning who you are again after a breakup, noticing an unhelpful behavior getting in the way of your ability to thrive, or simply looking for purpose, I've been there. Guess what? I'm here to support you with creating a life of meaning and finally finding some relief.
(443) 594-7776 View (443) 594-7776
ADHD Assessments, Ages 6-64
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Online Only
We specialize in thorough ADHD assessments as well as cognitive assessments for children, adolescents, and adults (ages 6-64). Our streamlined evaluation process is designed for efficiency without sacrificing any details, and we can typically see new clients within 2 business days. If you or your child are struggling with focus, organization, or executive functioning, we provide a clear path forward with a timely, thorough assessment. The fastest way to get scheduled is to complete the contact form on our website. We check submissions regularly and will respond promptly to set up your appointment.
We specialize in thorough ADHD assessments as well as cognitive assessments for children, adolescents, and adults (ages 6-64). Our streamlined evaluation process is designed for efficiency without sacrificing any details, and we can typically see new clients within 2 business days. If you or your child are struggling with focus, organization, or executive functioning, we provide a clear path forward with a timely, thorough assessment. The fastest way to get scheduled is to complete the contact form on our website. We check submissions regularly and will respond promptly to set up your appointment.
(443) 648-9188 View (443) 648-9188

See more therapy options for Ellicott City

Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists
Who is DBT for?
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is designed for people who experience extreme emotional suffering because they lack the skills of emotion regulation and distress tolerance. The basic affliction can underlie a wide range of conditions, from borderline and other personality disorders to PTSD and treatment-resistant anxiety and depression. The therapy is helpful to those whose emotional reactivity is so intense it is disruptive to everyday functioning and leads to frequent crises.

Why do people need DBT?
The ability to regulate emotions is a core psychological skill that enables people to function in life and pay attention to the world outside themselves; it is consistently associated with well-being. DBT is designed to help people learn how to manage and regulate their emotions. Originally developed to treat people with borderline personality disorder whose extreme emotional suffering led to self-harming behavior and suicide attempts, the therapy is now applied to other conditions involving emotion dysregulation, particularly when other treatments have failed.

What happens in DBT?
Individuals meet weekly with their therapist to discuss their experiences relating to moods, behavior, and skills. Using checklists they maintain, they review emotional experiences and positive practices they engage in. The diaries help individuals discern what led up to a specific problem encountered, this is followed by discussion of the consequences of their actions. In addition, individuals may meet in class-like small groups to learn skills such as mindfulness, emotion regulation and distress tolerance.

How long does DBT last?
Because it is intended to establish long-lasting behavioral change among those with persistent problems, DBT is designed to last six months to a year. DBT includes both weekly sessions of individual therapy and weekly skills-training sessions conducted in small groups. Studies of DBT have documented improvement within a year of treatment, particularly in controlling self-harmful behavior; nevertheless, individuals may require therapy for several years.