Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy helps people of all ages live happier, healthier and more productive lives. Psychotherapy is a collaborative treatment based on the relationship between an individual and a psychologist. Grounded in dialogue, it provides a supportive environment that allows you to talk openly with someone who’s objective, neutral and nonjudgmental. You and your psychologist will work together to identify and change adverse thought and behavior patterns, developing new skills to better cope with life's challenges.

1. Anxiety

Occasional anxiety is a normal part of life. But when anxiety is persistent throughout your daily life, it’s time to seek help. These feelings can interfere with daily activities such as job performance, school work, and relationships. There are several different types of anxiety disorders. Examples include generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder. CMHC specializes in mitigating all forms of anxiety.

2. Depression

Depression (major depressive disorder) is a common and serious medical illness that negatively affects how you feel, the way you think and how you act. Fortunately, it is also treatable. Depression causes feelings of sadness and/or a loss of interest in activities once enjoyed. It can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems and can decrease a person’s ability to function at work and at home. CMHC clinicians help treat those with depression on a daily basis. 

3. Trauma & Loss

Grief can be a long and difficult process to endure without the support of an expert. While not everyone needs counseling during these times, there is no shame in needing a little help to get through the loss of a loved one, a divorce or significant breakup, or the loss of a job, especially if you’ve experienced multiple losses in a short period of time. 

4. Addiction & Substance Abuse

When you turn outside yourself to a substance or behavior to help you feel better, your coping skills may need some fine-tuning. If you feel unable to control these behaviors or you can’t stop despite negative consequences in your life, you may be struggling with addictive or compulsive behavior that requires treatment.

5. Marriage & Relationships

According to Dr. Andrea Bonior of Psychology Today there are many reasons a couple may seek couples counseling. One of the most common is a major breech of trust. Communication may be poor. Arguments may be getting more frequent. There may be something you want your partner to know, but you've been unable to tell them. Emotional or physical intimacy may have diminished. Or maybe something definitely feels wrong, but you're not sure what or why. 

6. Other Reasons

There are so many reasons someone may be unhappy with life and need a helping hand. At CMHC your problems are ours, and we will work our best in a confidential and nonjudgemental manner to implement practices and treatments that last for life. 

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive therapy treats behavior and mental processes by focusing on faulty thought patterns and beliefs. Irrational and destructive beliefs are evaluated and changed through new internal dialogues. This form of therapy has proved highly effective for treating depression, anxiety, anger management, addiction, insomnia and bulimia nervosa. 

Nature Based Therapy

Nature-informed Psychotherapy (NIP) explores nature-based methods of psychological healing, grounded in the belief that nature has profound mental health effects. Every year millions of people flock to national parks, seeking wonder and awe, rest and tranquility. The possibility exists that people’s desire to engage with nature is linked to a spiritual impulse. Many of our clinicians offer therapy while walking in nature.

Equine Therapy

CMHC's board-certified counselors work with equine specialists at Wellspring of Life Farm and a therapy horse to create a dynamic team to support the short and long term goals of participants who are dealing with emotional, cognitive and physical challenges. Through teamwork and encouragement, participants explore in depth curriculum covering an introduction to anatomy, behavior, movement, and care of their therapy animal. Sessions focus on problem-solving strategies using interactive activities. Psychotherapy sessions are centered on the theory that horses can offer vital feedback to participants and therapists because of the horse’s extreme sensitivity. No prior horsemanship or dog experience is required to participate.

Faith Based Counseling 

This form of counseling incorporates the spiritual dimensions of clients’ experiences in the context of a professional counseling experience. A great option for those who closely link spirituality and religion to their personal lives. 

Child, Adolescent & Family

Growing up nowadays is not easy. Today's children face many challenges including:
•    Changing family dynamics, like divorce or relocation
•    Peer and academic pressures
•    Effects on emotion due to hormonal changes
At Chesapeake Mental Health Collaborative (CMHC) we will help your children, along with you, navigate life at home, school, and with their social circles.  
Our board-certified therapists have treated many children from a wide variety of backgrounds, ethnicities, income levels and sexual identities. We also welcome children with a variety of behavioral, cognitive and emotional issues across all developmental stages – from early childhood through emerging adulthood.

Our approach:
Clinically sound, research-based, family focused; we collaborate with parents every step of the way. Our therapy process begins with developing a customized treatment plan and goals. When necessary, we engage other programs within the CMHC umbrella, such as Medication Management or Art/Drama/Play Therapy to provide the most complete, comprehensive care.

Couples Counseling 

According to Dr. Andrea Bonior of Psychology Today there are many reasons a couple may seek couples counseling. One of the most common is a major breech of trust. Communication may be poor. Arguments may be getting more frequent. There may be something you want your partner to know, but you've been unable to tell them. Emotional or physical intimacy may have diminished. Or maybe something definitely feels wrong, but you're not sure what or why. 

Tele-Therapy

Tele-health services offered by CMHC are a great way to connect virtually with your clinician. Any use of tele-health services will be discussed with your clinician in advance. Tele-health services used by CMHC are HIPPA compliant. Talk to your clinician to learn more.

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