Mandy Smith, LCPC, CCDC, SAP
Our increasingly fast-paced, demanding and stressful society has multiplied the strains on our time and attention. This affects our relationships with others and ourselves, making it difficult to just be, to enjoy the present fully. Counseling can be a place to center yourself and find the strength to tackle whatever issues you are facing. When you gain insight, you can heal, feel alive, connected and content.
Sometimes you need a catalyst to begin moving towards a richer and more meaningful life. Family and friends are not always enough to guide, support and challenge you to see things from a different perspective. It can be hard to know where to start.
My Approach to Therapy:
I believe therapy is an integrative, collaborative and individualized relationship where the goal is to help you determine what is causing and maintaining current problems, and to make the necessary changes that result in greater health and happiness.
Why Counseling?
I can help you navigate a variety of issues, including:
*Stress & Anxiety (such as frequent worrying, difficulty relaxing or sleeping)
*Addiction (substance abuse, gambling, and other compulsive behaviors)
*Low Self-Esteem (frequently putting self down or comparing to others)
*Relationship Skills (healthy communication and boundaries)
*Life Transitions (even positive changes can bring up stress & loss)
*Grief & Loss (death of a loved one, break-up and other loss)
*Loss of Meaning (spirituality, belief and values)
*EMDR (for PTSD, complex trauma, addiction and phobias)
Why me?
With 25 years of experience working in various settings, I will work with you to build a strong therapeutic relationship and figure out the best course of action. I obtained my Bachelors Degree in Philosophy, traveled extensively and then went to work as a Community Organizer. As part of my Masters Degree in Psychology Counseling, I researched how mindfulness and the mind/body connection can enhance all aspects of life, which continues to be a focus in my personal and professional life.
I work with young adults through seniors facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse due to physical or emotional pain, as well as people with relationship issues and other life struggles. Research shows that an authentic and caring therapeutic relationship, coupled with evidence based treatments, provides a strong foundation for success.
SAP Evaluations for DOT:
If you are a Department of Transportation (DOT) safety-sensitive employee
and are in violation of DOT's drug and alcohol testing regulations, you will
be required to complete the 'return-to-duty' process which involves being
evaluated by a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP). Initial evaluations
are by appointment only. Although SAPs are licensed professionals, these
services are typically not covered by health insurance companies.
Call today:
I participate with BCBS and EHP (Johns Hopkins Employer Health Programs). I can also help you with information to obtain out of network reimbursement. Call me at 443-470-5656 to discuss a course of action. The initial phone consultation is free of charge.