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OUR TEAM
We help our clients reach their highest selves
CARA BALTIMORE
Divine Counseling Owner & Chief Therapist
"I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (MD, VA, & DC) specializing in children, adolescents, and families. I have a passion for helping others reach their highest self and offer a safe, comfortable, and culturally competent atmosphere. I provide a holistic approach that allows you to be the author of your own treatment. I am a hands-on therapist that encourages others to apply skills directly in practice. I am most passionate about helping individuals move trauma from the mind and body, equipping them with the skills necessary to take control of their lives and begin truly living. I have experience working with individuals who struggle with trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety, mood, psychosis, adjustment, and personality disorders.
I have specialized training in Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), & Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I'm also a Certified Anger Management Specialist- Trainer (CAMS II) & Nationally Certified Parenting Instructor for court ordered persons."
The Divine Counseling Team
Our team provides a holistic approach that allows you to be the author of your own treatment. We are hands-on therapists that apply oiur joint skills directly in practice.
MONICA HARDY
Monica Hardy, LCSW-C, has over 20 years of social work experience working with children, adults, and their families. She has provided clinical services in diverse settings such as the Baltimore City Department of Social Services, various hospitals, private mental health clinics, and school-based settings. Monica earned an undergraduate degree in Social Work from Coppin State University and a Master's in Social Work from the University of Maryland - School of Social Work.
Monica primarily enjoys working with adults and their families, providing individual, couples, and family therapy. She utilizes patient-focused and strength-based interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Trauma-Informed Care. Monica helps her clients develop individualized treatment plans, learn coping skills, explore community-based referrals, and develop strategies to support their therapeutic goals.
She looks forward to joining clients on their journey to wellness.
Monica primarily enjoys working with adults and their families, providing individual, couples, and family therapy. She utilizes patient-focused and strength-based interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Trauma-Informed Care. Monica helps her clients develop individualized treatment plans, learn coping skills, explore community-based referrals, and develop strategies to support their therapeutic goals.
She looks forward to joining clients on their journey to wellness.
JASMINE YANDOC
Jasmine Yandoc, LMSW, is a Licensed Master Social Worker in the states of Maryland and Pennsylvania. Jasmine is an informed Dialectical Behavioral Therapist (DBT) that has completed specialized training in delivering a dialectical approach to therapy. A DBT assumption that she carries with her is “everyone is doing the best they can”. Her view of therapy is meeting others where they are currently at in their lives and allowing them to see the skills/strengths they already possess over time.
Jasmine has experience working with several diagnoses to include but not limited to borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, major depression, anxiety, and adjustment disorders.
It can be difficult getting started with therapy or even changing therapist - she is here to make that transition easier.
Jasmine has experience working with several diagnoses to include but not limited to borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, major depression, anxiety, and adjustment disorders.
It can be difficult getting started with therapy or even changing therapist - she is here to make that transition easier.
KATHLEEN MCLNERNEY
Kathleen McInerney, LCADC, is a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor with over 28 years of experience providing therapy to individuals impacted by substance use, depression, and other mental health issues.
Kathleen has a proven track record of helping clients reach their goals and live more fulfilling lives.
She looks forward to assisting her clients in taking a new path toward health and freedom, guiding them from their problems to continued growth. Kathleen has successfully helped clients move forward from life’s challenges in the past and is dedicated to helping you "reach your highest self."
Additionally, Kathleen is a Board-approved counselor for counselors and drug and alcohol counselors.
Kathleen has a proven track record of helping clients reach their goals and live more fulfilling lives.
She looks forward to assisting her clients in taking a new path toward health and freedom, guiding them from their problems to continued growth. Kathleen has successfully helped clients move forward from life’s challenges in the past and is dedicated to helping you "reach your highest self."
Additionally, Kathleen is a Board-approved counselor for counselors and drug and alcohol counselors.
DOMINIC WILLIAMS
Dominic (aka Dom) is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in the state of Maryland. A Loyola graduate who takes pride in his relationship building and authenticity, he utilizes an eclectic approach emphasizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) when focusing on his clients’ needs. He has experience with mood disorders, PTSD and trauma- related disorders, ADHD and developmental disabilities, as well as impulse control disorders.
Dom enjoys working with community members across the lifespan, but has a majority of his experience working with adolescents. His favorite quote and career inspiration is, “It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men,” but always strives to help cultivate fertile soil for everyone to bloom into the best version of themselves.
Dom enjoys working with community members across the lifespan, but has a majority of his experience working with adolescents. His favorite quote and career inspiration is, “It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men,” but always strives to help cultivate fertile soil for everyone to bloom into the best version of themselves.
NICOLE JONES
Nicole Jones is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-C) from Baltimore. She obtained a Masters in Social Work. She specializes in working with the adolescents, LGBTQ+, adolescents and adults impacted by Chemical Dependency populations. Nicole also holds a Masters in Addiction Counseling from the National Association for Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors (NAADC). Nicole is also a Peer Support Specialist Supervisor for the The Maryland Addiction & Behavioral-Health Professionals Certification Board (MABPCB).
Nicole has extensive training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focus, Motivational Interviewing/ Stages of Change Theory. She provides a holistic approach that allows clients to lead their own treatment. Nicole has a passion for helping clients reach their highest self, and aligns deeply with Divine Counseling’s mission.
Nicole has extensive training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focus, Motivational Interviewing/ Stages of Change Theory. She provides a holistic approach that allows clients to lead their own treatment. Nicole has a passion for helping clients reach their highest self, and aligns deeply with Divine Counseling’s mission.
VALERIE HERANDEZ
Valerie Hernandez (she/her/hers) is a Latinx Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) in the states of Maryland and Virginia. Valerie graduated with her master’s in social work from Barry University in Miami, FL. She is our Psychiatric Rehabilitation Program Director here at Divine Counseling.
Valerie’s therapeutic approach is guided by her decolonial, humanistic, affirming, and strengths-based perspectives. She approaches her work with a holistic lens that works to integrate the whole person’s experience and makes space for the exploration of interpersonal and intergenerational dynamics and their impact on one’s mental health. Central to Valerie’s work are the values of liberation, self-compassion, connection, empowerment, authenticity, and radical self-acceptance. She believes that every person has a wealth of knowledge and experiences to bring into their healing space and to flourish from.
Valerie’s therapeutic approach is guided by her decolonial, humanistic, affirming, and strengths-based perspectives. She approaches her work with a holistic lens that works to integrate the whole person’s experience and makes space for the exploration of interpersonal and intergenerational dynamics and their impact on one’s mental health. Central to Valerie’s work are the values of liberation, self-compassion, connection, empowerment, authenticity, and radical self-acceptance. She believes that every person has a wealth of knowledge and experiences to bring into their healing space and to flourish from.
WREN DOUGLASS
Pronouns: she/her & they/them
Wren is a graduate student at Notre Dame of Maryland University, currently pursuing a Masters of Art in Art Therapy.
Using an art-based approach allows Wren to work alongside clients as they explore their strengths, work towards their goals, and navigate life’s challenges. Wren values a relational aesthetic that values art making for its ability to build and maintain healthy relationships with the self, with others, and with the broader community.
"I honor that each client is the expert of their own life, and as such, seek to co-create a space for growth and self-efficacy in the therapeutic process. I believe that everyone can benefit from the practice of art making." - Wren Douglass-Robinson
Wren's areas of experiences include anxiety, depression, ADHD, LGBTQIA+, and sensory perception differences.
Wren is a graduate student at Notre Dame of Maryland University, currently pursuing a Masters of Art in Art Therapy.
Using an art-based approach allows Wren to work alongside clients as they explore their strengths, work towards their goals, and navigate life’s challenges. Wren values a relational aesthetic that values art making for its ability to build and maintain healthy relationships with the self, with others, and with the broader community.
"I honor that each client is the expert of their own life, and as such, seek to co-create a space for growth and self-efficacy in the therapeutic process. I believe that everyone can benefit from the practice of art making." - Wren Douglass-Robinson
Wren's areas of experiences include anxiety, depression, ADHD, LGBTQIA+, and sensory perception differences.
PAULETTE HENDRICKS
Paulette is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-C) in the state of Maryland. She enjoys working with children, teens, and adults from diverse backgrounds. She has significant training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solutions Focused Therapy (SFT), Grief and Loss, and Trauma-Informed Care. Paulette is a creative, strength-based clinician who enjoys incorporating social-emotional learning skills into her work. Paulette also integrates mindfulness practices and coping strategies.
Paulette has worked in a variety of settings, including as a school social worker at Baltimore City Public Schools for over 20 years. She received her master’s degree in social work from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, with a specialization in clinical/administration. Paulette has gained experience working in both the public and private sectors in the areas of healthcare, education, and outpatient mental health centers.
Specializing in working with children, youth, and families on a multitude of issues and stressors, Paulette is dedicated to helping individuals with Reaching their Highest Self.
Paulette has worked in a variety of settings, including as a school social worker at Baltimore City Public Schools for over 20 years. She received her master’s degree in social work from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, with a specialization in clinical/administration. Paulette has gained experience working in both the public and private sectors in the areas of healthcare, education, and outpatient mental health centers.
Specializing in working with children, youth, and families on a multitude of issues and stressors, Paulette is dedicated to helping individuals with Reaching their Highest Self.
DIOR NDIAYE
Dior is a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor in the state of Maryland.
She received her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of North Texas and her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Johns Hopkins University. Dior is eager to work with populations from all age ranges, but has experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults who struggle with mood, anxiety, trauma, and stress-related disorders.
She utilizes an eclectic approach to counseling with an emphasis on Person-Centered and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy depending on the client’s needs. Her goal is to provide a safe space for everyone to explore their intersecting identities and uniqueness in a way that allows them to be vulnerable and be their authentic selves. Dior is passionate about working with multicultural and minoritized clients who yearn to have a voice and feel empowered. When working with clients, she ensures that a strong rapport is built while focusing on enhancing the client’s self-fulfillment, self-acceptance, and self-actualization. Dior is excited to tackle the challenges that come with the initial stages of therapy and is looking forward to helping you reach your goals!
She received her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of North Texas and her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Johns Hopkins University. Dior is eager to work with populations from all age ranges, but has experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults who struggle with mood, anxiety, trauma, and stress-related disorders.
She utilizes an eclectic approach to counseling with an emphasis on Person-Centered and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy depending on the client’s needs. Her goal is to provide a safe space for everyone to explore their intersecting identities and uniqueness in a way that allows them to be vulnerable and be their authentic selves. Dior is passionate about working with multicultural and minoritized clients who yearn to have a voice and feel empowered. When working with clients, she ensures that a strong rapport is built while focusing on enhancing the client’s self-fulfillment, self-acceptance, and self-actualization. Dior is excited to tackle the challenges that come with the initial stages of therapy and is looking forward to helping you reach your goals!
TRYSTAN BALDERSTON
Trystan recognizes the first step on the path of growth and healing is recognizing your ability to do so. It is his genuine belief that all people are capable of leading a fulfilling and meaningful life.
Trystan's background as a personal trainer and behavior coach, coupled with an M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling has equipped him to help those who are struggling with mental health issues. Trystan's approach is based on helping people access their strengths and values, get in touch with their physical and mental needs, and to process and overcome the unique challenges that have presented themselves. Trystan utilizes a holistic approach following the tenets of CBT, DBT, and Adlerian therapy.
Trystan's background as a personal trainer and behavior coach, coupled with an M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling has equipped him to help those who are struggling with mental health issues. Trystan's approach is based on helping people access their strengths and values, get in touch with their physical and mental needs, and to process and overcome the unique challenges that have presented themselves. Trystan utilizes a holistic approach following the tenets of CBT, DBT, and Adlerian therapy.
ZAINAB AWOSANYA
Zainab is a seasoned Social Worker holding a Master's degree from the University of Southern California. Her professional focus centers on providing client-centered psychotherapy, where she lends a compassionate ear to your narratives and cultivates a secure and welcoming environment.
Equipped with comprehensive training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Problem-Solving Therapy, and various therapeutic modalities, Zainab tailors her approach to meet your unique needs.
Recognizing the challenges that can accompany the decision to seek therapy, Zainab affirms that your presence here signifies a commendable first step towards progress.
Beyond her professional pursuits, Zainab is an avid animal lover and caregiver to two cats. In her leisure time, Zainab appreciates travel, cinema, the wonders of nature, and, notably, she is passionate about exploring diverse culinary experiences.
If you're ready to see progress in your goals and reach your highest self, Zainab is here to guide you with professionalism and dedication.
Equipped with comprehensive training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Problem-Solving Therapy, and various therapeutic modalities, Zainab tailors her approach to meet your unique needs.
Recognizing the challenges that can accompany the decision to seek therapy, Zainab affirms that your presence here signifies a commendable first step towards progress.
Beyond her professional pursuits, Zainab is an avid animal lover and caregiver to two cats. In her leisure time, Zainab appreciates travel, cinema, the wonders of nature, and, notably, she is passionate about exploring diverse culinary experiences.
If you're ready to see progress in your goals and reach your highest self, Zainab is here to guide you with professionalism and dedication.
TANIQUA CARTHENS
Taniqua is a Licensed Master Social Worker serving clients in Maryland. She graduated from the University of Maryland, Baltimore with a Masters in Social Work in 2021 where she studied the relationship between people's environment and experiences with their community.
Taniqua has over 7 years experience supporting persons from youth to older adults, in residential settings, individual and group therapy. Taniqua's approach seeks to enhance the wellness of cross-cultural & historically marginalized groups like Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) and persons who are LGBTQIA+. She specializes in holistic interventions that address the mind, body and spirit of the whole person. Taniqua has experience treating anxiety, depression and adjustment disorders using interventions such as mindfulness, deep breathing, meditation and yoga.
Taniqua encourages clients to be their authentic selves by creating brave spaces where they are free to explore, be vulnerable and express themselves without fear of discrimination or judgment. All emotions and expressions of self are welcome and invited (so yell, curse, or cry if you need to!)
Taniqua has over 7 years experience supporting persons from youth to older adults, in residential settings, individual and group therapy. Taniqua's approach seeks to enhance the wellness of cross-cultural & historically marginalized groups like Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) and persons who are LGBTQIA+. She specializes in holistic interventions that address the mind, body and spirit of the whole person. Taniqua has experience treating anxiety, depression and adjustment disorders using interventions such as mindfulness, deep breathing, meditation and yoga.
Taniqua encourages clients to be their authentic selves by creating brave spaces where they are free to explore, be vulnerable and express themselves without fear of discrimination or judgment. All emotions and expressions of self are welcome and invited (so yell, curse, or cry if you need to!)
CHRISTINA WILEY
Christina Wiley is a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor, as well as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, in the state of Maryland. She obtained her Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Bowie State University with a specialization in Adlerian counseling.
Christina has experience working with individuals and families in various settings. These include residential, hospital and medication assisted treatment programs. Ms.Wiley has a vested interest in working with individuals and families in addressing chemical dependency, mood disorders, and developmental disabilities. Christina utilizes an eclectic approach in the therapy that is tailored to meet the specific needs of each individual. She believes that “therapy can be life changing and everyone deserves to experience that change.
Christina has experience working with individuals and families in various settings. These include residential, hospital and medication assisted treatment programs. Ms.Wiley has a vested interest in working with individuals and families in addressing chemical dependency, mood disorders, and developmental disabilities. Christina utilizes an eclectic approach in the therapy that is tailored to meet the specific needs of each individual. She believes that “therapy can be life changing and everyone deserves to experience that change.
EKUNDAYO SOGBESAN
Ekundayo is a licensed therapist with ten years of experience working with youth and family. She earned her Master's degree from Walden University in 2021 and practices eclectic therapy, blending various approaches to best meet her clients' needs. Ekundayo is passionate about helping others and works as a rehabilitation specialist at Divine Counseling LLC, where she fosters a supportive environment for clients to navigate their journeys towards healing and growth.
Passionate about making a positive difference in the lives of others, Ekundayo's work is driven by a deep commitment to helping her clients overcome challenges and achieve their goals. She brings cultural competence to her practice, ensuring that individuals from diverse backgrounds feel understood and valued. With a genuine love for listening and understanding, Ekundayo fosters a supportive environment where clients feel empowered to take charge of their own journeys.
In Ekundayo's view, clients are the drivers of their own destinies, and her role as a Rehabilitation Specialist is to serve as a trusted navigator and ally. She believes in walking alongside her clients, providing guidance, encouragement, and unwavering support as they navigate life's twists and turns.
Passionate about making a positive difference in the lives of others, Ekundayo's work is driven by a deep commitment to helping her clients overcome challenges and achieve their goals. She brings cultural competence to her practice, ensuring that individuals from diverse backgrounds feel understood and valued. With a genuine love for listening and understanding, Ekundayo fosters a supportive environment where clients feel empowered to take charge of their own journeys.
In Ekundayo's view, clients are the drivers of their own destinies, and her role as a Rehabilitation Specialist is to serve as a trusted navigator and ally. She believes in walking alongside her clients, providing guidance, encouragement, and unwavering support as they navigate life's twists and turns.
KRISTIN WILKERSON
Kristin is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) in the State of Maryland. She earned a Bachelor of Social Work from UMBC and her Masters of Social Work Degree from Salisbury University. Kristin completed her Reiki Certification in June 2022.
Kristin has many years of experience in the field of social work at the private, local, and state levels. Her career began in child welfare over 15 years ago. She has focused the past five years working in Treatment Foster Care, working with children and families. She utilizes several approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and person centered techniques to encourage growth and promote healing. Kristin has training in trauma informed CBT and experience working with diagnosis such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, ODD, BPD and more. Kristin takes a strength based, humanistic, holistic approach. Kristin is passionate about wellness and providing a nonjudgmental and safe space for all individuals.
As a certified Reiki Practitioner Kristin applies alternative therapies such as meditation and energy work to heal the mind body and spirit. Reiki can be instrumental in healing depression, anxiety, pain and so on. Kristin is able to help align your chakras and clear any blockages you may be experiencing.
Kristin has many years of experience in the field of social work at the private, local, and state levels. Her career began in child welfare over 15 years ago. She has focused the past five years working in Treatment Foster Care, working with children and families. She utilizes several approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and person centered techniques to encourage growth and promote healing. Kristin has training in trauma informed CBT and experience working with diagnosis such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, ODD, BPD and more. Kristin takes a strength based, humanistic, holistic approach. Kristin is passionate about wellness and providing a nonjudgmental and safe space for all individuals.
As a certified Reiki Practitioner Kristin applies alternative therapies such as meditation and energy work to heal the mind body and spirit. Reiki can be instrumental in healing depression, anxiety, pain and so on. Kristin is able to help align your chakras and clear any blockages you may be experiencing.
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