Erica Burns

Hi, I’m Erica Burns, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Frederick, Maryland. I work with clients who are ready to understand themselves more deeply, heal old wounds, and create healthier, more fulfilling lives and relationships.

Many of the people who find their way to my practice are thoughtful, self-aware people who have already done a lot of reflecting, yet still feel stuck in certain patterns. Maybe anxiety shows up at the worst possible moments. Maybe relationship dynamics leave you feeling confused, hurt, or questioning your own worth. Or maybe you’re simply exhausted from trying so hard to hold everything together.

If you’ve ever wondered, “Why do I keep repeating the same patterns?” or “Why can’t I seem to quiet my mind no matter how hard I try?” — you’re not alone. These struggles often come from experiences, beliefs, and coping strategies that once helped you survive but may no longer serve you.

My approach to therapy is warm, collaborative, and grounded in curiosity rather than judgment. I believe the most meaningful therapeutic work happens when clients feel safe, understood, and supported in exploring the parts of their story that may have never had space before. At the same time, I’m not a “just nod and listen” kind of therapist. I bring over 20 years of experience helping people explore patterns, gain insight, and make meaningful, lasting changes.

Together, we’ll look at the experiences and beliefs that shaped how you see yourself, others, and the world around you. We’ll gently untangle the patterns that are keeping you stuck and begin building new ways of thinking, relating, and responding that feel more aligned with who you truly are.

My work integrates trauma-informed therapy, mindfulness practices, somatic awareness, and evidence-based relationship approaches, including training in the Gottman Method. I’m also a Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapist, which allows me to incorporate mind-body awareness for clients who find that helpful in processing emotions and reconnecting with themselves.

Therapy with me is both reflective and practical. While insight is important, we’ll also focus on building real-life tools and skills that help you move forward with greater clarity and confidence. Our work may include learning to:

• recognize and shift unhelpful emotional patterns
• strengthen self-esteem and self-trust
• communicate needs and boundaries more confidently
• navigate relationship challenges with greater clarity
• reduce anxiety and feel more grounded in daily life

Healing doesn’t require you to become someone new. More often, it involves reconnecting with the parts of yourself that may have been overshadowed by stress, pain, or self-doubt.

If you’re looking for a therapist who will meet you with warmth, compassion, and honesty while helping you move toward meaningful change, we may be a great fit.