First Responders Therapists in Sykesville, MD
I specialize in Military, First Responders, and LGBTQ+ but all walks of life are welcomed!
Hello! My name is Mikala, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Maryland. I work with adults whose concerns range from anxiety to PTSD. If you are looking to manage day-to-day stressors or process deeper complexities of your emotions, you have found the right place.
I specialize in Military, First Responders, and LGBTQ+ but all walks of life are welcomed!
Hello! My name is Mikala, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Maryland. I work with adults whose concerns range from anxiety to PTSD. If you are looking to manage day-to-day stressors or process deeper complexities of your emotions, you have found the right place.
My trauma-informed approach is grounded in my belief that all of my client's have the capacity to heal. My passion is serving as a partner on my client’s journey towards repairing trauma, and attachment wounds, and walking with client’s on the path to self-love and acceptance. I focus on clients who may be hesitant to bring their past trauma to therapy, and need the patience, skills, and attunement of a truly sensitive, caring and trauma-informed approach that works at your pace. Therapy, for me, is a passion and a vocation rooted in relationship, not a "job." I look forward to working with and helping my clients each day.
My trauma-informed approach is grounded in my belief that all of my client's have the capacity to heal. My passion is serving as a partner on my client’s journey towards repairing trauma, and attachment wounds, and walking with client’s on the path to self-love and acceptance. I focus on clients who may be hesitant to bring their past trauma to therapy, and need the patience, skills, and attunement of a truly sensitive, caring and trauma-informed approach that works at your pace. Therapy, for me, is a passion and a vocation rooted in relationship, not a "job." I look forward to working with and helping my clients each day.
Accepting new patients! As a body image therapist, my mission is to empower individuals to develop a healthy, compassionate relationship with their bodies in Maryland. I am deeply committed to helping clients break free from the societal pressures and unrealistic beauty standards that often lead to negative body image, disordered eating, and self-doubt. I am passionate about guiding individuals on their journey toward self-love, where they can embrace their bodies as they are, and live in alignment with their authentic selves. In addition, I am Board Approved Supervisor for LGPCs in Maryland.
Accepting new patients! As a body image therapist, my mission is to empower individuals to develop a healthy, compassionate relationship with their bodies in Maryland. I am deeply committed to helping clients break free from the societal pressures and unrealistic beauty standards that often lead to negative body image, disordered eating, and self-doubt. I am passionate about guiding individuals on their journey toward self-love, where they can embrace their bodies as they are, and live in alignment with their authentic selves. In addition, I am Board Approved Supervisor for LGPCs in Maryland.
My experience with veterans/ first responders comes from my own experience as a spouse and my work with Tunnel to Towers providing mental health services to heroes and their loved ones.
You feel like your past is still very much alive in your present, or that you’re 'stuck' in the aftermath of a loss that the world expects you to be over by now. Maybe you’re a high-achiever who is tired of the constant background noise of anxiety, or you feel like you’re just surviving the heavy waves of grief. My role is to help you untangle the 'stuck' parts of your story so you can stop living in a state of survival. Together, we’ll build a path toward a life where you feel grounded in your body, at peace with your history, and truly resilient.
My experience with veterans/ first responders comes from my own experience as a spouse and my work with Tunnel to Towers providing mental health services to heroes and their loved ones.
You feel like your past is still very much alive in your present, or that you’re 'stuck' in the aftermath of a loss that the world expects you to be over by now. Maybe you’re a high-achiever who is tired of the constant background noise of anxiety, or you feel like you’re just surviving the heavy waves of grief. My role is to help you untangle the 'stuck' parts of your story so you can stop living in a state of survival. Together, we’ll build a path toward a life where you feel grounded in your body, at peace with your history, and truly resilient.
I work with children through adults who experience trauma, parents with burn out from special needs children, teachers, and first responders.
I am a Certified Trauma Professional (CTP). I focus on a whole mind-body approach using physio-psychology to inform the trauma healing process. I spent many years as a special education music teacher in public schools and transferred that to working with neurodivergent children and parents.
I work with children through adults who experience trauma, parents with burn out from special needs children, teachers, and first responders.
I am a Certified Trauma Professional (CTP). I focus on a whole mind-body approach using physio-psychology to inform the trauma healing process. I spent many years as a special education music teacher in public schools and transferred that to working with neurodivergent children and parents.
I specialize in working with young men and adult males, with a focus on military, police, fire, and EMS personnel-particularly those struggling with trauma, PTSD, and disorders of despair.
What I ask from you is simple, but not easy: come ready to work. Show up engaged, prepared, and open to the process. Be willing to step into discomfort, because that’s where real change occurs. You will only get out of this process what you’re willing to put in, so I need your honesty—don’t just share the polished parts of yourself, also show the raw, messy, and ugly elements—because real growth only comes when we deal with the whole story, and pretending will only slow us down. If you bring your effort and your truth, I’ll bring my energy, my tools, and unwavering commitment, so that together we can create meaningful change.
I specialize in working with young men and adult males, with a focus on military, police, fire, and EMS personnel-particularly those struggling with trauma, PTSD, and disorders of despair.
What I ask from you is simple, but not easy: come ready to work. Show up engaged, prepared, and open to the process. Be willing to step into discomfort, because that’s where real change occurs. You will only get out of this process what you’re willing to put in, so I need your honesty—don’t just share the polished parts of yourself, also show the raw, messy, and ugly elements—because real growth only comes when we deal with the whole story, and pretending will only slow us down. If you bring your effort and your truth, I’ll bring my energy, my tools, and unwavering commitment, so that together we can create meaningful change.
You have a story. You may be just starting out, mid-way through, or looking at the conclusion. If you're here, then your story isn't done yet. It would be an honor to walk through this next chapter with you. With almost 20 years of experience and education, I use a variety of approaches to find the solutions that work for you. I'm an author and trainer in areas of attachment, trauma and adoption but also work with grief and loss, anxiety, depression, and other symptoms that are impacting your story. I'm ready to walk alongside you so remember you don't have to walk alone.
You have a story. You may be just starting out, mid-way through, or looking at the conclusion. If you're here, then your story isn't done yet. It would be an honor to walk through this next chapter with you. With almost 20 years of experience and education, I use a variety of approaches to find the solutions that work for you. I'm an author and trainer in areas of attachment, trauma and adoption but also work with grief and loss, anxiety, depression, and other symptoms that are impacting your story. I'm ready to walk alongside you so remember you don't have to walk alone.
If you feel isolated, not understood, overwhelmed, struggling with anxiety, depression, loss, self-esteem, life changes, strained relationships and want to be understood and have a trained expert who cares there to help create more insights and be with you. I would be honored to join you on your healing journey and help the best I can! Life is hard and support can help! Proud of you for looking for guidance!
I enjoy helping many clients throughout the life span.
If you feel isolated, not understood, overwhelmed, struggling with anxiety, depression, loss, self-esteem, life changes, strained relationships and want to be understood and have a trained expert who cares there to help create more insights and be with you. I would be honored to join you on your healing journey and help the best I can! Life is hard and support can help! Proud of you for looking for guidance!
I enjoy helping many clients throughout the life span.
Madison Elie-Thompson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I have been working with first responders and veterans since 2018.
Are you the one everyone counts on, but feel like you are running on empty? You keep going, stay calm in chaos, and carry more than most people know. If you are a first responder, veteran, healthcare worker, or high-stress professional, you have likely learned to put your own needs last. Underneath the strength, you may feel anxious, numb, disconnected, or burned out. Therapy gives you space to slow down, process what you have been carrying, and start healing in a way that works for you.
I have been working with first responders and veterans since 2018.
Are you the one everyone counts on, but feel like you are running on empty? You keep going, stay calm in chaos, and carry more than most people know. If you are a first responder, veteran, healthcare worker, or high-stress professional, you have likely learned to put your own needs last. Underneath the strength, you may feel anxious, numb, disconnected, or burned out. Therapy gives you space to slow down, process what you have been carrying, and start healing in a way that works for you.
I specialize in anxiety and trauma, and I start from a simple belief: your symptoms aren’t random—they’re part of how your mind and body learned to protect you. With curiosity and compassion, we’ll explore what’s fueling the anxiety, what keeps the cycle going, and what you need to feel safer and more in control. We’ll work toward change while honoring the reasons these patterns showed up in the first place.
I specialize in anxiety and trauma, and I start from a simple belief: your symptoms aren’t random—they’re part of how your mind and body learned to protect you. With curiosity and compassion, we’ll explore what’s fueling the anxiety, what keeps the cycle going, and what you need to feel safer and more in control. We’ll work toward change while honoring the reasons these patterns showed up in the first place.
More Therapists Nearby
I also work with military members, first responders, and survivors of intimate partner violence, providing a trusted guide to help them reclaim their strength, voice, and sense of safety.
Drawing on my experience in a domestic abuse shelter, my work is grounded in compassion & understanding of trauma’s impact. Together, we explore your experiences & gently reframe life narratives to support healing & growth. I use evidence-based tools like CBT and mindfulness, while regarding the whole person & systemic influences, in a safe, affirming space.
I also work with military members, first responders, and survivors of intimate partner violence, providing a trusted guide to help them reclaim their strength, voice, and sense of safety.
Drawing on my experience in a domestic abuse shelter, my work is grounded in compassion & understanding of trauma’s impact. Together, we explore your experiences & gently reframe life narratives to support healing & growth. I use evidence-based tools like CBT and mindfulness, while regarding the whole person & systemic influences, in a safe, affirming space.
I am also passionate about working with first responders, and I have first-hand experience as a first responder, myself.
Do you struggle with anxiety, trauma, or OCD in your day-to-day life, relationships, or career? Do you feel overwhelmed by a high-stress career? Are you feeling isolated and exhausted by life’s stress and trauma? You are not alone in experiencing distress from life’s daily challenges, especially when it feels like there is no path forward. I believe that every person is whole and capable of success when provided with a safe and supportive environment.
I am also passionate about working with first responders, and I have first-hand experience as a first responder, myself.
Do you struggle with anxiety, trauma, or OCD in your day-to-day life, relationships, or career? Do you feel overwhelmed by a high-stress career? Are you feeling isolated and exhausted by life’s stress and trauma? You are not alone in experiencing distress from life’s daily challenges, especially when it feels like there is no path forward. I believe that every person is whole and capable of success when provided with a safe and supportive environment.
I work with late adolescents and adults, with a focus on high-stress populations, including First Responders, Frontline Healthcare workers, and Veterans.
If you’re carrying the weight of past experiences—whether from childhood, recent events, or the cumulative impact of chronic stress and anxiety—you don’t have to carry it alone. My practice is centered on helping you move beyond what’s been painful and the patterns that keep you feeling stuck. Through EMDR therapy and integrative, somatic-based practices, we work to gently recalibrate your nervous system, restore a sense of stability, and transform wounds into wisdom—so you can live with greater steadiness, peace, and resilience.
I work with late adolescents and adults, with a focus on high-stress populations, including First Responders, Frontline Healthcare workers, and Veterans.
If you’re carrying the weight of past experiences—whether from childhood, recent events, or the cumulative impact of chronic stress and anxiety—you don’t have to carry it alone. My practice is centered on helping you move beyond what’s been painful and the patterns that keep you feeling stuck. Through EMDR therapy and integrative, somatic-based practices, we work to gently recalibrate your nervous system, restore a sense of stability, and transform wounds into wisdom—so you can live with greater steadiness, peace, and resilience.
I've worked on a crisis response team and have experience working with first responders and veterans.
I support adolescents and adults who may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, anxious, depressed, or challenged by life's transitions and relationships. Many come to therapy carrying burdens they have managed alone for far too long and are looking for a safe space to process, heal, and grow. I believe meaningful change happens when people feel genuinely heard, understood, and supported. Through a compassionate, collaborative approach, we help clients build coping skills, gain confidence, strengthen relationships, and create a more fulfilling and balanced life.
I've worked on a crisis response team and have experience working with first responders and veterans.
I support adolescents and adults who may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, anxious, depressed, or challenged by life's transitions and relationships. Many come to therapy carrying burdens they have managed alone for far too long and are looking for a safe space to process, heal, and grow. I believe meaningful change happens when people feel genuinely heard, understood, and supported. Through a compassionate, collaborative approach, we help clients build coping skills, gain confidence, strengthen relationships, and create a more fulfilling and balanced life.
I am trained as a Clinical Social Worker, licensed in both MD & PA. I work exclusively with adults, specializing in anxiety and thought-based disorders. Challenges with mental health, trauma, grief, or life transitions can keep us from connecting with ourselves and others. It can be difficult to slow down our thoughts and regulate our emotions and we live life on autopilot. We will work on healing from the past, practicing healthier coping skills, learning new tools to manage challenges, and adopting healthier thought patterns.
I am trained as a Clinical Social Worker, licensed in both MD & PA. I work exclusively with adults, specializing in anxiety and thought-based disorders. Challenges with mental health, trauma, grief, or life transitions can keep us from connecting with ourselves and others. It can be difficult to slow down our thoughts and regulate our emotions and we live life on autopilot. We will work on healing from the past, practicing healthier coping skills, learning new tools to manage challenges, and adopting healthier thought patterns.
I have extensive experience working with diverse populations, including women, military veterans, and first responders.
As a licensed therapist in Maryland and the District of Columbia, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex life transitions, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. My professional approach centers on addressing stress, anxiety, and interpersonal challenges with compassion and cultural sensitivity.
Through a collaborative and affirming approach, I aim to support each person's unique journey toward emotional wellness and resilience. My goal is to provide a safe, respectful space where you can explore your experiences and cultivate meaningful personal growth.
I have extensive experience working with diverse populations, including women, military veterans, and first responders.
As a licensed therapist in Maryland and the District of Columbia, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex life transitions, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. My professional approach centers on addressing stress, anxiety, and interpersonal challenges with compassion and cultural sensitivity.
Through a collaborative and affirming approach, I aim to support each person's unique journey toward emotional wellness and resilience. My goal is to provide a safe, respectful space where you can explore your experiences and cultivate meaningful personal growth.
In-person and virtual therapy for individuals, couples, and families, including first responders and reentry support.
Today can be the start of something different. Change begins with awareness and the willingness to do something new. Over the last 20 years, Cheryl Johnson has supported individuals and families across a variety of settings, including legal systems and other high-demand environments. Through these experiences, she has witnessed how stress, disconnection, and unmet emotional needs impact relationships, family systems, and overall well-being, shaping her passion for helping clients reconnect, strengthen communication, and build healthier patterns that support lasting growth, stability, and stronger connections.
In-person and virtual therapy for individuals, couples, and families, including first responders and reentry support.
Today can be the start of something different. Change begins with awareness and the willingness to do something new. Over the last 20 years, Cheryl Johnson has supported individuals and families across a variety of settings, including legal systems and other high-demand environments. Through these experiences, she has witnessed how stress, disconnection, and unmet emotional needs impact relationships, family systems, and overall well-being, shaping her passion for helping clients reconnect, strengthen communication, and build healthier patterns that support lasting growth, stability, and stronger connections.
The working relationship between client and therapist provides a safe haven where clients can share complicated feelings, examine the past and present influences that impact their choices, and explore new directions. As the therapist and client work together, mutual respect and trust deepen and a bond develops that supports the difficult but rewarding work of therapy.
The working relationship between client and therapist provides a safe haven where clients can share complicated feelings, examine the past and present influences that impact their choices, and explore new directions. As the therapist and client work together, mutual respect and trust deepen and a bond develops that supports the difficult but rewarding work of therapy.
Specialty areas include first responders, veterans and active duty, and men’s mental health.
At my Annapolis office, I offer psychological testing to clarify diagnoses, guide treatment, and support academic or workplace accommodations. I provide Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD and nexus evaluations, with services tailored to first responders, veterans/active duty, and men’s mental health.
Specialty areas include first responders, veterans and active duty, and men’s mental health.
At my Annapolis office, I offer psychological testing to clarify diagnoses, guide treatment, and support academic or workplace accommodations. I provide Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD and nexus evaluations, with services tailored to first responders, veterans/active duty, and men’s mental health.
Dr. Monya Cohen
Psychologist, PsyD, MSW, RYT-200, IAYT900
Rockville, MD 20851
Waitlist for new clients
I'm so glad you reached out! You have taken the hardest and most important step. I have 25 years of experience working with symptoms like yours - sadness, anxiety, difficulty sleeping, feeling disconnected, as well as survivors of trauma.
I'm so glad you reached out! You have taken the hardest and most important step. I have 25 years of experience working with symptoms like yours - sadness, anxiety, difficulty sleeping, feeling disconnected, as well as survivors of trauma.
See more therapy options for Sykesville
Nearby First Responders Therapists Searches for Sykesville
- Catonsville
- Columbia
- Eldersburg
- Ellicott City
- Hunt Valley
- Mount Airy
- Olney
- Owings Mills
- Pikesville
- Roland Park
- Timonium
- Westminster
First Responders Therapists
Why is mental health important for first responders?
As part of their work, first responders are often exposed to high levels of stress, trauma, and physical injury that can put them at a greater risk for serious mental health conditions than the general population. Conditions like PTSD, anxiety, substance use, and depression are more common in first responders, which can greatly reduce quality of life and lead to burnout, sleep disruption, and even suicidal thoughts. Therapy can offer an opportunity for first responders to process difficult on-the-job experiences and develop coping skills to better manage any mental health symptoms they may experience.
How can first responders get access to mental health support?
Many first responders can access therapy for free or at a very low cost through their employer, such as through an Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Workplaces may also offer or have referral recommendations for support groups, where first responders can meet with others in their profession to receive support. Individuals who would like to access mental health services outside of their employer may use their insurance benefits to see a therapist, which they can find by searching for therapists online or asking for recommendations from their primary care physician.
What type of therapy is best for first responders?
The best therapy approach depends on the mental health concerns of the client. Since many first responders struggle with trauma or PTSD, they may benefit from trauma-specific therapeutic approaches, such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy, Exposure Therapy, or Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT). Individuals with symptoms of anxiety, depression, or stress may alternatively benefit from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or mindfulness-based therapeutic approaches, which can help clients develop coping skills to manage distressing thoughts.
Can therapy for first responders help with trauma and PTSD?
Therapy can be highly effective in both treating and preventing trauma and PTSD in first responders. Typically, therapy for trauma and PTSD focuses on developing stress management skills and managing intrusive or unwanted thoughts. Therapists working with first responders often help clients strengthen their relationships and reduce harmful coping mechanisms, such as excessive substance use. Additionally, therapists assist first responders in establishing daily habits that support overall mental and physical health and enhance resilience to future stress, such as regular physical exercise, mindfulness practices, and improved eating habits.