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17 licensed therapists, psychiatrists, & psychiatric providers in Maryland—2 in Columbia. Available as soon as today, in person and online
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94% of patients feel truly understood by their provider. 3 out of 4 see improvement in depression & anxiety symptoms within 3 months
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Trust is important in building a relationship and the relationship you have with a therapist should include a genuine and positive...
About
Trust is important in building a relationship and the relationship you have with a therapist should include a genuine and positive regard for the client. Clients have to trust you before they can begin sharing their innermost struggles with a therapist.
Carol Jones-Pinckney is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Board Approved Supervisor in the state of Maryland. She has over 20 years of experience in the human services field working with various nonprofits but for the last 8 years provided therapy for children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples.
Carol applies a nonjudgmental, caring, strength-based, and integrative approach to therapy. Individualized assessments and treatment plans are key to achieving client goals. Carol maintains that collaboration, trust, and building a partnership are key ingredients to navigate through life’s struggles presented in therapy. Success is measured by how the client’s perception of the therapeutic process and engagement in sessions that work to achieve healthy and successful outcomes.
Therapeutic modalities utilized in therapy include but are not limited to cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems, person-centered, couples therapy, and integrative interventions. The goal is to provide a caring and supportive environment for clients to feel comfortable sharing.
Carol recognizes that clients often feel vulnerable and reluctant to begin counseling. Her approach is very warm and inviting acknowledging that this was a big step but the right decision to share emotions and feelings with someone new. Therapy is at the client’s pace and being mindful of the support each client needs.
Education and training
Good to see you today. You must have something bothering you, and need to find the right place to go. How may I be of help?...
Good to see you today. You must have something bothering you, and need to find the right place to go. How may I be of help?
Nicolas Kuiate Tekam is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) since 2021. Nicolas manages and treats adult patients with a range of mental health issues. He specializes in treating anxiety, depression, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), sleep issues, and stress across the lifespan. Nicolas is compassionate and dedicated to his patients and looks forward at their speedy recovery. His aim is to make a difference in people’s lives and community. He was initially drawn to the mental health field to have a positive effect on people and to help those in need of care. Nicolas enjoys helping a wide range of patients of all ages, races, genders, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Nicolas completed both his Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and his Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) at the University of Maryland Baltimore School of Nursing. He completed his PMHNP at Walden University in Minneapolis, MN. Nicolas uses a holistic approach coupled with the latest evidence-based research for treatment and management of his patients. He also applies patient-centered care and ethical consideration in his approach to treatment.
Nicolas was born and raised in Cameroon. Growing up, he witnessed people suffer with mental illness but could not pinpoint what was going on. But today Nicolas understands better and cannot wait to positively impact people's lives.
I'm here to listen, support, and partner with you on your journey to better health because your well-being is my priority....
I'm here to listen, support, and partner with you on your journey to better health because your well-being is my priority.
Guy-Edgard Doltaire is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 2 years of experience. He employs a compassionate and diverse approach to mental health care, emphasizing clinical expertise and cultivating meaningful relationships with his clients and their families. His work with children and adolescents, especially those facing ADHD, autism, and learning disabilities, is vital as these individuals often require specialized support. His experience with grief, postpartum depression, and chronic pain management highlights his versatility in tackling a broad spectrum of emotional and psychological challenges.
Guy-Edgard received his Master’s in Nursing from Grand Canyon University. His holistic approach integrates traditional and contemporary mental health interventions while maintaining an awareness of the cultural factors that influence how cognitive health is understood and addressed.
Guy-Edgard’s experience growing up in a community where mental health was stigmatized and psychotic crises were often misunderstood gave him a unique empathy and understanding of the challenges families face in addressing mental health issues in environments where such topics remain taboo. He looks forward to prioritizing your mental health.
My goal is to help you achieve a mentally, physically, and socially healthy life using the client-centered approaches that help yo...
My goal is to help you achieve a mentally, physically, and socially healthy life using the client-centered approaches that help you to succeed and reach your counseling goals.
Dr. Judy Ann Upshaw is a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) with more than 43 years of clinical experience. While she is experienced in general mental health treatment, her specialty is substance use treatment. Dr. Judy has worked in inpatient as well as outpatient treatment as well as individual, group, couples and family counseling. She enjoys assisting people in finding their true selves and achieve their highest goals. Dr. Judy has developed programs and supervised other therapist. She is also an adjunct college professor.
Dr. Judy completed her Bachelor's degree in Behavior Sciences at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, MI. She then received a Master's degree in Psychology from Temple University-Philadelphia, and a Doctorate in Counseling Psychology from Argosy University-Arlington. She utilizes many treatment modality such as music and art therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and much more.
Life is full of challenges, especially in this post-pandemic era. Now more than ever, Dr. Judy sees our societies the need for counseling. She would like to have the opportunity to support you in your life's journey and is confident in her ability to help you reach your goals. Schedule your first session with her today.
I believe therapy works best when people feel genuinely seen, so I bring warmth, honesty, and real-world compassion into the room ...
I believe therapy works best when people feel genuinely seen, so I bring warmth, honesty, and real-world compassion into the room while helping clients navigate anxiety, relationships, selfworth, and life transitions.
Hi, I'm Bianca Johnson, LCPC, a licensed therapist with experience supporting individuals, couples, and adolescents through anxiety, depression, self-esteem challenges, relationship concerns, life transitions, and emotional overwhelm. I work with clients who are often seeking deeper self-understanding, healthier coping skills, stronger communication, and more balance in their daily lives. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in helping clients feel safe, supported, and empowered throughout the therapeutic process.
I use a collaborative, compassionate approach that blends CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and practical coping strategies to help clients build self-awareness, improve communication, manage emotions, and navigate life's challenges with greater confidence. Clients can expect a supportive space that encourages growth, accountability, and lasting change.
Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to navigate things alone. I strive to create a space where clients feel heard, supported, and empowered to grow at their own pace. If you're ready to begin your healing journey, I'd be honored to walk alongside you.
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As a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), with several years of experience, I am committed to providing...
As a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), with several years of experience, I am committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care in a safe, supportive, and judgment-free environment. I strive to create a warm, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel deeply heard, valued, and supported, and I approach each therapeutic relationship with empathy, cultural sensitivity, and a genuine commitment to helping individuals get to their utmost functional goal.
I am a mental health advocate and psychiatric nurse practitioner with 5+ years of experience helping individuals navigate depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and more. I combine clinical expertise with genuine compassion to create safe spaces where clients feel heard, supported, and empowered. Focused on real results, strong connections, and breaking barriers in mental health care—one client at a time.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my approach is compassionate and collaborative. I combine psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and supportive counseling to create treatment plans for each client's needs. I have experience with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, stress, and life transitions, emphasizing resilience and wellness.
I understand that reaching out may feel like an insurmountable step. I provide a safe space where you feel heard. Through psychiatric care, medication management, and emotional support, I help clients move toward balance and well-being. You do not have to face life's challenges alone—I would be honored to walk alongside you toward healing and growth.
Having been an intensive care unit nurse for over 10 years, I have developed an understanding of and empathy for the special circu...
Having been an intensive care unit nurse for over 10 years, I have developed an understanding of and empathy for the special circumstances that patients find themselves in, and I have compassion built into my interactions with my clients.
Why did you decide to become a counselor or psychiatric provider?
In the course of my personal dealings with patients and their family members as a Family Nurse Practitioner, I became sensitized by the isolation and stigma felt in society by those with mental health issues. I felt inclined to explore more and provide the needed help. Also, my exposure to family members and friends dealing with mental health issues has had a profound impact on my pursuit of more knowledge and awareness of mental health.
What's one thing you wish all clients knew?
"That they are not alone".
Why did you choose to practice at Thriveworks?
To prioritize my community and make a difference in the mental healthcare space.
What inspires you?
Alleviating the Mental Health Care stigma and providing patient-centered care that inspires a feeling of improvement after every encounter.
What can clients expect in their first session with you?
Getting to know one another, assessing possible diagnosis and providing an understanding of the fundamentals of treatment.
What do you want to accomplish with an individual in their first session?
To understand the patient's thought process and provide available support and resources.
What should clients know about you before scheduling a first session?
My qualifications and my commitment to their care and treatment goals.
What do you do for fun/on your time off?
I enjoy cooking, spending time with family, listening to music and traveling
What's one thing about you that defines you (non-professional)?
Empathetic
Does Pamela prescribe medications effective for the treatment of ADHD?
Yes - when clinically appropriate, I may prescribe both non-stimulant (all ages) and stimulant (adults only) medication for the treatment of ADHD.
Years in practice
3 years in Psychiatry, 7 years in as a Family Nurse Practice and 10 years as Registered Nurse
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I understand that life can feel heavy, confusing, or isolating, and I’m here to offer a safe, supportive space to work through it....
I understand that life can feel heavy, confusing, or isolating, and I’m here to offer a safe, supportive space to work through it.
Life can feel overwhelming, confusing, or isolating, and it’s normal to want guidance and support. I’m a relational clinical social worker who helps adults and young adults explore how relationships and life experiences shape emotions, behaviors, and patterns.
Many clients come to therapy feeling stuck, struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, or difficult relationships. Others want to better understand themselves, improve communication, and develop healthier ways of coping.
In working together I provide a compassionate, collaborative space where you can feel heard and understood. Together, we’ll explore patterns in your relationships, uncover your strengths, and develop tools to help you manage challenges, build confidence, and create meaningful change.
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You deserve dedicated time with a mental health professional — it can be life-changing.
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Licensed Clinical Social Worker - Certified (LCSW-Certified)
In Columbia, your cost depends on whether you use insurance or pay out of pocket. With insurance, most patients pay a copay between $0 and $55 per session. If you’re self-pay, rates vary by state—typically $200 to $240 for your first therapy session and $160 to $195 for follow-ups, or $300 to $375 for an initial psychiatry session and $210 to $300 for follow-ups. Contact our Columbia office or visit our pricing page to learn more.
Yes, Thriveworks Columbia accepts insurance to help cover services, including individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, and psychiatry. Couples and family therapy aren’t always covered the same way, since some plans only cover sessions considered medically necessary.
We’ll verify your insurance and estimate your out-of-pocket cost for you before your first session, but it’s still worth confirming your specific benefits with your insurer, especially if your plan requires pre-authorization (advance approval from your insurer before certain treatments are covered).
Fit matters more than almost anything else in therapy. Research consistently shows the relationship between you and your therapist is one of the strongest predictors of whether treatment actually works, no matter their approach. Start by thinking about what you want help with, then browse provider profiles in Columbia and filter by specialty, insurance, and availability to find someone who feels right for you. If your first session doesn’t click, no problem. You can switch providers anytime, no fees, no hassle.
All three support mental health in different ways. A therapist provides talk therapy to help you work through challenges; a psychologist also provides therapy, but their doctoral training lets them do psychological testing and formal evaluations; a psychiatrist is a medical provider who can prescribe medication.
Thriveworks Columbia offers therapy and psychiatry together, so you can get the right type of care—or a combination—in one place. For more detail, see our straightforward guide to mental health care professionals.
Most patients at Thriveworks Columbia see a provider within six days. We offer flexible scheduling, including evenings and weekends. Book online or call our Columbia office to find the soonest session with a therapist or psychiatric provider.
Yes. Psychiatric providers at Thriveworks Columbia can prescribe and manage medication, and many patients pair that with talk therapy from a separate provider. Our team coordinates the two together.
Your first session is mostly about getting to know each other. Your therapist will ask what brought you in, talk through your history and goals, and start shaping a plan for care. There’s no pressure to share more than you’re comfortable with—the first session is a conversation, not a test. Want more detail? Here’s exactly what to expect, step by step.
Yes. Thriveworks Columbia offers both in-person sessions at our local office and online (telehealth) sessions, so you can choose what’s most convenient and switch between the two as your needs change.
Includes individual, couples, child/ teen, & family therapy
Includes reducing symptoms with medication & management
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Columbia is located in the Shoppes at Wilde Lake and near the intersection of Lynx Lane and Twin Rivers Road, off Governor Warfield Parkway. It is right by Wilde Lake and just off the campus of Howard Community College and Johns Hopkins Howard County Medical Center. The office is in a multi-story brick and glass shopping complex with attached grocery store. Enter through the small lobby on the left side of the building to access Suite 285 on the second floor.
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17 therapists available in Maryland, including 2 in Columbia
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