Our therapists offer DBT / dialectical behavior therapy in Columbia, MD

I am a licensed Social Worker (LMSW) in Maryland and I graduated from Salisbury University. I have experience working with people of all ages, with different cultural backgrounds, and experiencing various mental health challenges. Much of my experience comes from working with adults recovering from addictions and I am very knowledgeable about different recovery programs. I have worked with youth (ages 5-17) from traditionally under-served communities and I have worked in hospital-based crisis-intervention services. I am happy to offer a safe space for people of all identities and I proudly identify myself as a 2SLGBTQIA+ ally.

I often utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques (CBT) such as analyzing cognitive distortions that are creating distress for my clients. I also am very enthusiastic about Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) including the modalities of deep-breathing techniques and mindfulness/meditation to help my clients learn how to regulate their emotions.

I strongly believe in approaching life from the perspective of "one day at a time" and striving for acceptance of whatever life throws our way. My deep sense of empathy enables me to "put myself in another person's shoes" and thoroughly identify with my clients' struggles and difficult feelings they are experiencing.

Hi, I'm Jillian Block, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Maryland. I work with teens (16+) and adults navigating bipolar disorder, substance use disorders, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and self-esteem challenges. Many of my clients feel overwhelmed, stuck in unhelpful patterns, or disconnected from the life they want. Together, we focus on building insight, developing healthy coping skills, strengthening resilience, and creating meaningful, lasting change that aligns with your goals and values.

My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to your unique needs. I integrate CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, mindfulness, and person-centered therapy to help you better understand yourself, manage difficult emotions, improve relationships, and build practical skills that support lasting growth.

Starting therapy can feel like a big step, but you don't have to do it alone. You deserve a space where you feel heard, accepted, and supported. If you're ready to invest in yourself and create meaningful change, I'd be honored to be part of your journey.

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.

Kalkidan Yilma is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) with 2 years of experience in the mental health field. She is dedicated to fostering positive change, growth, and empowerment in the lives of her clients. She is committed to providing a safe and supportive space for individuals to navigate life's challenges. Kalkidan specializes in helping clients navigate issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and relationship dynamics. Kalkidan completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at the University of Maryland, Baltimore.

With a background working in both clinical and community settings, she was able to hone her skills in individual and group therapy. She tailors her methods to meet the needs of her clients by utilizing various treatments such as trauma-informed therapy, motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, and mindfulness-based therapy.

Kalkidan's warm and empathic demeanor creates a space where clients feel heard and understood. She actively involves clients in therapy and believes in the power of collaboration in developing a sense of empowerment and self-discovery. Her goal is to guide individuals in building resilience, improving well-being, and strengthening their quality of life.

I have spent over a decade working in nonprofits with people living under various forms of oppression, such as poverty and homelessness. I bring my experience as a therapy survivor who found healing both in and out of traditional mental health treatment, and as my work examining and deconstructing systems of oppression in myself and life. The person that fits for my experience is someone who has a curiosity and open mindedness toward themselves and their life, who likes to laugh (especially if the joke is a bit off color), who understands or is curious about how society and culture shape us, and who wants to live their most authentic life.

I create an open, nonjudgmental space, that allows me to reflect your own inherent capability for safety, security, and transformation. I bring a unique perspective to therapy– therapy is not the only piece of the puzzle. I specialize in alternative and complementary therapies, to help my clients build a life that supports their dreams–and nervous systems.

Life can be challenging, especially in the culture we live in now. It makes sense that you may be struggling to feel happy, safe, or connected. There is nothing wrong with you. You've developed incredible survival skills to keep your head above water. Unfortunately, the skills that help us survive don't always help us thrive. I’ve been there, and I can help.