Trauma and PTSD therapists & psychiatrists in Laurel, MD

Whether you are struggling with the far-reaching impact of past trauma, relationship challenges, anxiety, depression, PTSD, or other ongoing health issue or simply wanting to invest in a bit of self-exploration and growth, I am so glad that you have begun your search for the best facilitator in that journey. I believe in meeting people where they are and allowing you to set your own pace for healing. I look forward to assisting on your healing journey in any way that I can.

I specialize in treating bipolar disorder, depression, and anxiety, with a particular focus on ADHD. My approach centers on compassion, honesty, and cultural competence. I want every client to feel genuinely seen and understood, not just heard. Many of the people I work with come to me feeling overwhelmed, depressed, or caught in cycles of mood instability, often after carrying those feelings alone for a long time. I bring patience and clear, effective communication to every session, so you never feel rushed or unsure of what comes next in your care.

Finding psychiatric care where you feel truly heard—rather than rushed through an appointment—can be challenging. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I provide thorough psychiatric evaluations and personalized medication management for adults navigating ADHD, anxiety, mood disorders, depression, and major life transitions.

My clinical background spans high-acuity critical care and outpatient psychiatry, giving me a grounded, whole-person perspective on mental wellness. I look closely at how physical health, sleep, daily routines, and brain chemistry interact so we can address the root causes of what is holding you back. If you are looking for clarity, diagnostic precision, and a supportive medical provider to guide your care, I welcome the opportunity to partner with you.

I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner for over 5 years, and I am also a board certified adult nurse practitioner for over 12 years. I began my nursing career graduating from university of MD with my bachelors, and then attended Johns Hopkins University for my masters. I decided to further my education by attending Brandman University to obtain my Doctorate and psychiatric mental health certification in 2018.

I work with adults and teens who feel overwhelmed, anxious, or emotionally drained. They may be struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood changes, trauma, or life stress and feel stuck despite trying to cope alone. Others seek clarity around symptoms or support during major life transitions. Children and adolescents may struggle with emotional regulation, attention, mood changes, or behavioral concerns. Often, individuals or parents want relief and a clear path forward with a provider who listens and helps them feel more balanced, focused, and hopeful.

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.

I believe therapy begins with feeling safe enough to be honest and being heard without judgment. I want my clients to know that you don't have to have all the answers before coming to therapy. Sometimes taking the first step is the hardest part.

I earned my Master of Social Work (MSW) from the University of Maryland and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-C) licensed in Virginia and Maryland. I have worked in behavioral health for many years, with a particular focus on substance use, co-occurring mental health concerns, and trauma. My experience includes working with adults from diverse backgrounds and supporting individuals through residential, intensive outpatient, and outpatient levels of care.

I genuinely enjoy helping people recognize strengths they may have forgotten they have. I believe that your diagnosis, substance use, trauma, or past experiences are only part of your story—they do not define who you are. I will meet you where you are and work with you to identify where you want to go next.

I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years of nursing experience and extensive work in inpatient psychiatry. I hold a Master of Science in Nursing with a specialization in psychiatric mental health and care for individuals across the lifespan.

I treat depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and women’s mental health concerns, including postpartum depression.