Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Columbia, MD covered by Cigna

Your therapy should be as unique as you are. I’m here to provide a safe, collaborative space where you can process your experiences and story at your own pace and be in the driver's seat. We'll collaborate to find a mix of tools that make sense for your life, pulling from various evidence-based methods (without leaving you in the dark). Mental health is a vital part of overall wellness, and I'm passionate about helping you get the support you deserve. We'll explore your brain's air traffic control system, and figure out how it best manages and sorts information.

I find it incredibly rewarding to witness individuals overcome obstacles, develop new coping strategies, and work toward self-actualization and enhanced self-worth. I consider it a privilege to be a part someone's journey and lived experience.

I believe that every person deserves to be heard, respected, and supported without judgment. My goal is to create a safe, compassionate, and collaborative environment where clients feel comfortable exploring life’s challenges and building meaningful change.

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I use a strengths-based, person-centered approach that recognizes each client’s unique experiences, resilience, and goals. I understand that seeking therapy can feel vulnerable, and I strive to make the process approachable, empowering, and tailored to your individual needs.

Whether you are navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship concerns, grief, trauma, chronic illness, or work-related stress, I will meet you where you are. Together, we will develop practical tools, increase self-awareness, and work toward lasting emotional well-being at a pace that feels right for you.

My commitment is to provide culturally responsive, evidence-based care while building a therapeutic relationship grounded in trust, empathy, authenticity, and respect. I consider it a privilege to walk alongside my clients as they move toward healing, growth, and a more fulfilling life.

I am a Christian that helps others connect to their emotional and spiritual selves. My degree from Lancaster Bible College and my years of experience as a Christian counselor will help clients improve their relationship with themselves, others, and God.

I work with people who feel like life is happening to them—those carrying anxiety, depression, or overwhelming stress, still feeling the weight of past experiences or painful relationships, or noticing that old coping patterns like substance use no longer do what they used to. Most of the people I see arrive with a growing sense that something isn't working, and a willingness to try something different. My approach is collaborative, warm, and focused on understanding what's getting in the way and building a path forward together.

I am committed to providing compassionate, individual care in a welcoming and respectful environment. I believe that every client deserves to be listened to and treated with dignity. My goal is to foster a trusting therapeutic relationship where you feel comfortable discussing your concerns and actively participating in your treatment

Welcome

Hello, and thank you for considering me as your therapist. My name is Tarianda Ruston, and I have more than 25 years of experience working in the helping profession. I am a licensed clinical social worker in both Maryland and the District of Columbia, with a diverse background that has allowed me to support individuals and families through many of life's challenges.

Throughout my career, I have worked in child welfare, foster care and adoption, inpatient mental health, custody cases, special education, and school mental health. These experiences have provided me with a deep understanding of the unique challenges people face across different stages of life. My passion is helping individuals discover their strengths, overcome obstacles, and build the tools needed for lifelong emotional wellness.

I believe therapy is a partnership built on trust, respect, and authenticity. My role is not to tell you what to do or make decisions for you. Instead, I provide a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences openly. Through thoughtful questions, compassionate reflection, and evidence-based strategies, I will help you gain insight, clarify your values, and make choices that align with the life you want to create.