Optum Therapists in Maryland

I am a doctoral-prepared, dual-certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC) and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 14 years of diverse healthcare experience. I earned my Associate Degree in Nursing from Prince George’s Community College, my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Nursing from Bowie State University, and my Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) from Brandman University. Currently, I am licensed to provide care to clients residing in Virginia, Maryland, and the District of Columbia. I specialize in comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnostic assessments, medication management, and individualized treatment planning across the lifespan, serving children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. My clinical expertise spans a wide range of behavioral and mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, PTSD, mood disorders, sleep disorders, OCD, and substance use disorders. Integrating my extensive background in both family medicine and psychiatric care, I approach mental health from a whole-person perspective. I carefully evaluate the complex interplay between physical health, emotional well-being, lifestyle, and psychosocial factors to deliver truly holistic care. Guided by an evidence-based and patient-centered framework, I work collaboratively with each individual to design practical treatment plans aligned with their specific goals and values. I am deeply committed to creating a respectful, compassionate, and nonjudgmental environment where patients feel fully heard, valued, and empowered as active partners in their care. My goal is to support my clients in achieving greater emotional stability, enhanced daily functioning, and a higher overall quality of life.

As a LMSW, I am passionate about creating a supportive and welcoming space where you can feel comfortable being yourself and talking openly about the challenges you’re facing. I have experience helping individuals navigate substance use, anxiety, grief, life transitions, and other mental health concerns. My approach is compassionate, trauma-informed, and focused on meeting you where you are. Together, we can identify your goals, build practical coping skills, and develop strategies that support meaningful change. I believe therapy is a collaborative process, and you don’t have to have everything figured out before you begin. My goal is to help you feel heard, supported, and empowered as you work toward greater emotional well-being and a healthier, more fulfilling life.

I believe that even in the darkest of times, through the power of connection, we can find the strength within to overcome and build a life worth living. Hello, my name is Char Bentley and I would like to be that therapist to connect with you and support you as you build that life. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) with over 18 years of clinical experience. Most of my professional experience has focused on assisting those who struggle with the aftermath of trauma, but I also have extensive experience working with military members, veterans, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, adjustment disorders, parenting, grief and loss, and phase of life problems. I am eager to continue my pursuit of supporting others as they overcome obstacles, strengthen resiliency, and create a fulfilling life.

Sometimes life's struggles and transitions have led to pain and feelings of being paralyzed and lost. You are not alone even though day after day it might feel like a daily battle. Counseling can be the answer to finding hope and a new beginning to finding answers, self-awareness, and self-compassion for making new choices and having a new outlook. Sarah helps you find connections between your thoughts, feelings and actions to be emotionally healthy and face past hurts that are holding you back. Thoughts aren't facts and you can learn to change that inner voice that criticizes you and shed faulty beliefs that lead you down the wrong path time and again. Sarah is certified in EMDR, a highly researched and supported therapy for trauma and PTSD. EMDR enables people to heal from symptoms and emotional pain and is also used to address multiple mental health issues. Using techniques that align with neuroscience, this therapy uses the body’s ability to heal, often producing relief from many symptoms quickly. For children, Sarah integrates play techniques with EMDR because children heal through play and imagination. The effectiveness of EMDR results in clients who feel empowered rather than paralyzed by life experiences that in the past caused them great pain. EMDR does not require extensive homework or hours of talking about the pain to find relief. Simply said, talk therapy helps clients handle emotional pain, but EMDR removes the emotional pain! This is why EMDR is almost always Sarah's go to choice for most of her clients regardless of therapy issue.

Hello, my name is Kate Pabai, and I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 8 years of experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health conditions, working with patients from age 5 through adulthood. I graduated from Walden University and am currently pursuing my Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree to further enhance my skills and continue providing the highest quality of care. My approach to care focuses on individualized, patient-centered treatment. I strive to create a compassionate, supportive environment where patients feel comfortable discussing their mental health concerns. By working closely with each patient, I aim to develop effective, evidence-based treatment plans that address their unique needs and help them achieve better mental health outcomes. Whether you’re facing challenges with depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, or other psychiatric conditions, I’m here to support you on your journey toward wellness. Treatment philosophy: As a mental health provider, my treatment methodology is rooted in a patient-centered, holistic approach that combines evidence-based psychopharmacology with therapeutic interventions. I believe in tailoring treatment plans to the unique needs of each patient, considering their mental, emotional, and social factors. Open communication, trust, and empathy are essential values that guide my practice, ensuring that patients feel heard and supported throughout their journey to mental wellness. What matters most to me is empowering patients to take an active role in their treatment, fostering resilience, and promoting long-term recovery. I believe in addressing both the symptoms and the underlying causes of mental health issues, integrating strategies like cognitive therapy.

Hello! I'm Wandayi Solani, I have over thirteen years in health care and currently are dual certified with both Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner . My passion is to offer compassionate, patient-centered care by combining my extensive experience in family health and specialized skills in mental health. Currently, I work at Balance Point Wellness in Baltimore where I did my internship, I focus on caring for individuals with diverse mental health needs. I strongly believe in building trusting and supportive relationships with my patients and their families. My approach is holistic, ensuring all aspects of a patient’s health are considered in treatment. Previously, I honed my skills in neurology and headache management at Johns Hopkins University, where I helped patients manage various headache conditions, working alongside them to develop personalized lifestyle and treatment plans. I also managed my patients mental health disorders as they often often coexist with headaches/migraines. Throughout my career, I've worked in different healthcare settings, providing a wide range of care including critical care in hospitals and specialized procedures for headache patients. I’m here to make a difference, one patient at a time, through expert care and open communication. I look forward to working with you towards better health. Specialties & Conditions • Mental Health • Adult Psychiatry • Nursing • Neurology • Anxiety • Bipolar disorders • PTSD • ADHD • Eating disorders • Insomnia • Trauma • Mood disorders • Learning disabilities • Personality Disorders • Headaches • Dizziness • Tremors • medication management Treatment philosophy I believe in a compassionate, patient-centered approach to healthcare. My goal is to provide individualized care, focusing on the unique needs of each patient. I engage deeply with my patients, fostering trust and open communication. Together, we create personalized treatment plans that blend evidence-based practices with holistic care. I specialize in neurology and mental health, and I emphasize the importance of lifestyle changes in managing conditions. I educate patients and their families, ensuring everyone understands the treatment journey. By collaborating with a multidisciplinary team, I strive to achieve the best outcomes while prioritizing each patient’s comfort and well-being. Your health is my mission. Treatment approach • Patient-Centered Care • Evidence-Based Interventions • Lifestyle Modification Education • Pharmacologic Management • Psychotherapy & Psychoeducation • Collaborative Treatment Planning • Holistic Patient Assessments • Botox and Nerve Block Procedures • Trauma-Informed Care Approach • Interdisciplinary Team Collaboration • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(CBT) • Culturally Sensitive • Coaching • Person-Focused

Hello! I’m Zekarias Abessa, a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 20 years of experience in mental health care. My journey has been shaped by academic excellence, with a Master of Nursing degree from Walden University, where I graduated with an impressive GPA of 3.92, and a deep commitment to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care. I believe that every individual deserves respect, dignity, and fairness in their care. My approach integrates evidence-based psychotherapy, medication management, and holistic interventions tailored to meet each patient’s unique needs. By fostering open communication and collaboration, I aim to empower patients and improve their quality of life. Outside of work, I stay actively engaged in healthcare communities, continuously learning and refining my skills to bring the best care to my patients. I’m here to listen, support, and guide you with empathy and understanding on your mental health journey. Please feel free to reach out—I’m always ready to help. Specialties • Mental Health • Adult Psychiatry • Child Psychiatry • Behavioral Medicine Conditions Treated • Depression • Anxiety • Bipolar Disorders • Schizophrenia • PTSD • ADHD • Eating Disorders • Addiction • Insomnia • Mood Disorders • Panic Attacks • Substance Abuse • Phobias • Sleep Disorders Insurance Accepted • Aetna • Blue Cross Blue Shield • Cigna • Oscar Health • BHS | Behavioral Health Systems • Medicare • Medicaid • Optum Practice Description Zekarias Abessa, MSN, PMHNP-BC, is a highly skilled and compassionate mental health provider dedicated to improving the well-being of his patients. With over 20 years of nursing experience, he specializes in mental health assessments, personalized treatment planning, and patient education. Zekarias is known for his respectful, empathetic approach and his ability to work collaboratively with healthcare teams to provide comprehensive care. Whether addressing anxiety, depression, or other complex mental health concerns, Zekarias is committed to guiding patients toward healing and recovery. Treatment Approach • Psychopharmacology and evidence-based treatments • Holistic health promotion and psychoeducation • Trauma-informed care and crisis intervention • Culturally sensitive mental health practices • Collaborative care with interdisciplinary teams • Patient-centered, dignified care plans

Hello and welcome! I’m Catherine Asem, a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 17 years of experience in healthcare, serving patients across Delaware and Maryland. My career has spanned primary care, specialty practices, addiction medicine, and mental health, providing me with a deep understanding of the challenges my patients face. I am passionate about helping clients manage mental health disorders, navigate weight loss journeys, and achieve their aesthetic goals. My holistic approach is designed to uplift and empower you in achieving a balanced, fulfilling life. Whether you’re seeking mental health support, weight loss guidance, or aesthetic enhancements, I am dedicated to providing personalized care that promotes wellness and confidence. Treatment philosophy: I use a compassionate, holistic approach to care, understanding the complexities of mental health and the impact of life challenges. My treatment plans are tailored to meet your specific needs, focusing on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and trauma-focused techniques. I believe in creating a non-judgmental space where you can develop effective coping strategies, embrace positive change, and work toward mental and physical wellness.

Hello, I'm Tessa Fletcher, an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Educator based in New Market, MD. I am dedicated to offering compassionate and organized care to diverse patient groups. With solid expertise in managing chronic pain and substance abuse, I focus on both treatment and patient education. My hands-on experience ranges from conducting minor procedures, like cryotherapy and joint injections, to overseeing comprehensive wound care. Whether I'm providing urgent care in emergency settings or serving as a sole provider in correctional facilities, my priority is always patient safety and successful outcomes. As a clinical instructor, I support the development of future healthcare professionals by sharing practical knowledge and skills. My work extends to supporting public health initiatives and mental health programs. I believe in advocating for patient self-care and ensure thorough assessments to guide effective treatments. By collaborating with a wide range of healthcare professionals, I strive to provide holistic and personalized care tailored to each patient's needs. If you'd like to learn more about my practice or connect, feel free to reach out. Specialties Mental Health Conditions Treated Depression Anxiety ADHD Insomnia Practice Description At our practice, we offer compassionate and comprehensive healthcare for all ages. Led by Tessa Fletcher, ARNP, we specialize in chronic pain management, wound care, and urgent care services. With extensive experience treating diverse health conditions, we focus on empowering patients through education and preventive care. Our friendly team is here to provide personalized treatment, from minor procedures to holistic care. We believe in collaboration, working closely with specialists to ensure optimal health outcomes. Whether you need urgent care or ongoing management of chronic conditions, we are dedicated to helping you on your health journey. Treatment Philosophy I believe in compassionate, patient-centered care. My approach is to empower each individual through education and personalized treatment plans. I strive to create a welcoming environment where patients feel heard and valued. With expertise in chronic pain management, wound care, and urgent care, I ensure that care is comprehensive and tailored to each patient's needs. I am committed to collaborating with other health professionals to offer holistic solutions that address all aspects of health. My goal is to provide not just treatment, but to nurture long-term well-being through ongoing support and education. Together, we can navigate health journeys for better outcomes. Treatment Approach Pain Management Education Holistic Patient Care Mental Health Integration Behavioral Health Support Substance Abuse Counseling Patient Assessment Training Interdisciplinary Collaboration Culturally Sensitive Person-Focused

"I am Elohor Muagba, a dedicated and passionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (A-GNP), with over 12 years of experience in nursing. My focus is on providing compassionate and personalized care through my practice, Hilltop Addiction and Psychiatry. I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, PTSD, schizophrenia, ADHD, addiction, and more. Additionally, I offer weight management services to support overall wellness. At Hilltop Addiction and Psychiatry, I believe in creating a safe, non-judgmental environment where you can feel heard and respected. My approach is centered around understanding your unique needs and developing a personalized treatment plan that empowers you to achieve your mental health and wellness goals. Whether you're an adult, adolescent, child, or senior, I’m committed to helping you build resilience and hope for a brighter future. I utilize evidence-based therapies, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Structural Family Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), to ensure that every aspect of your care is tailored to your specific situation. My goal is to offer comprehensive support, whether you're facing challenges related to mental health, addiction, or weight management. I look forward to working with you on your journey to improved mental health and well-being."