LGBT therapists in Laurel, MD

I am a therapist based in Maryland, dedicated to helping Maryland individuals, couples, and families navigate life’s challenges and build meaningful skills for growth. My path to this work began with a belief in the importance of accessible, evidence-based care for anyone seeking support—whether during difficult times or as part of personal development.

I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work and Psychology from UMBC in 2015 and a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Maryland, Baltimore in 2016. My professional experience includes supporting individuals with developmental disabilities, working with transitional-age youth, providing outpatient therapy in community mental health, and serving Veterans through the VA. These diverse roles shaped my therapeutic style, which is compassionate, practical, and results-oriented.

I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, and sleep difficulties, with advanced training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I), Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT), and other evidence-based treatments. I also have extensive experience supporting LGBTQ+ clients and survivors of trauma.

In therapy, I strive to create a safe and collaborative environment where clients feel understood and empowered. My approach is evidence-based and goal-directed, while always tailored to each person’s needs. Therapy can be a place not only to work through challenges but also to build skills, strengthen resilience, and foster long-term growth.

I have a double Master's and a Doctoral degree in psychology. I began my graduate study In NYC in 2006 doing research and clinical work in attachment theory both with young children and adults. It was there that I witnessed the impact of early and adult attachments. I have trained and worked in a variety of settings and each time I witnessed the fundamental human need of a secure, responsive and safe connection and the impact of isolation and trauma.

I am a dedicated mental health professional with 13 years of experience in the field, specializing in supporting individuals facing a range of mental health challenges. I can provide my services in English and Spanish. My areas of expertise include working with clients experiencing bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders. I hold dual licenses: Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Maryland and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in Washington, DC. This allows me to provide comprehensive care to clients across both jurisdictions.

Welcome to Thrivewell Counseling Services. I’m Kevin Stafford, LICSW, a clinical social worker with over 20 years of experience helping individuals manage life’s challenges with confidence and clarity. I specialize in supporting adults experiencing mild depression, anxiety, and adjustment difficulties. My goal is to create a space where you feel seen, heard, and supported as we work together to help you move from simply getting by to truly thriving.

I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in comprehensive, evidence-based care for individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and other mental health conditions. With years of healthcare experience and a compassionate, patient-centered approach, I provide personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique goals and needs.

Whether you're seeking medication management, psychotherapy, or a combination of both, I work collaboratively with you to develop an individualized plan that promotes lasting wellness and improved quality of life.

I also offer Spravato® (esketamine) treatment for eligible adults with treatment-resistant depression and depressive symptoms associated with major depressive disorder. To better meet the needs of busy professionals, students, and families, evening and weekend Spravato appointments are available in a comfortable, supportive clinical setting.

My goal is to provide accessible, high-quality mental health care that empowers you to achieve emotional wellness and long-term recovery.

I have been supporting the emotional and mental health of adolescents and young adults for a decade as a social worker. I specialize in family intervention and working with separated and divorced parents. I love working with parents who want to improve their relationships with their children and also work well with teens and young adults on enhancing self-esteem and finding balance in life.