Anxiety and depression therapists and psychiatrists in Columbia, MD

Throughout my graduate and professional experiences, I have had the privilege of working with individuals from diverse backgrounds on issues including anxiety, self-esteem and identity, stress management, and life transitions. As a mother, I also have a passion for supporting expecting and new mothers as they prepare for and adjust to expanding their families. I prioritize developing a supportive, collaborative relationship with each client, helping them feel heard, understood, and empowered as they navigate life’s challenges.

My name is Dr. CJ Polihronakis (pronounced Pol-eh-ron-ah-kiss) (he/him/his), and I am a licensed psychologist in New York, Maryland, & Virginia. After earning my undergraduate degree in Psychology & English from Georgetown University, I obtained a Mental Health Counseling Ed.M. and a Counseling Psychology Ph.D. from Columbia University. I have over 10 years worth of education, training, and professional experiences providing mental health services to diverse client populations. ​

I have ample experience providing support to:

• Undergraduate & Graduate Students
• Adults
• Caregivers
• Professionals Navigating Career Concerns
• Other Mental Health Providers

​Some of my areas of expertise include:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Interpersonal Concerns
• Family of Origin Concerns
• Career & Professional Concerns
• Life Transitions
• Intersectional Identity Development
• Bisexuality, Pansexuality, Non-monosexuality
• LGBTQIA+ Identities & Queer Issues
• Men and Masculinities
• Sex, Intimacy, Kink, & Sexual Health (from a Sex-Positive Approach)
• Trauma​ (e.g., Identity-based, Adverse Childhood Experiences)​​​ ​

Nevertheless, I have worked with clients on a wide breadth of presenting concerns throughout my education and training. I look forward to having the opportunity to support you on your journey towards addressing your mental health concerns!

I am beyond grateful to be able to provide a safe space for my client's to process stress, learn new things, and have their most vulnerable moments. So much of the time we try to ignore or push away our problems, but part of my job is to remind you that its okay not to be okay and sometimes life just sucks. I love helping teens and young adults with all of the transitions that come with growing up, the good and the bad. I also have experience with and enjoy working with individuals with Autism.

As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I provide personalized assessments, therapy, and medication management designed for you and your loved ones. Whether you’re facing depression, substance use, or personality challenges, I work with you to create a plan that helps you feel stable, supported, and able to live at your best.

I am a Maryland Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical, dedicated to supporting individuals through life's challenges with compassion and expertise. As a proud veteran of the Iraq War (2005-2006), I bring a unique understanding and empathy to those who have served, along with a commitment to serving all communities.

I hold a Master of Social Work Degree with a primary concentration in Clinical Practice and a specialization in Health—Child, Adolescent, and Family Health (CAFH)—from the University of Maryland School of Social Work.

My practice welcomes adults from 18 to 65+ years old. I am especially dedicated to serving veterans, service members, LGBTQ+ individuals, new mothers, and older adults. Whether you're navigating mental health concerns, life transitions, or seeking personal growth, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space tailored to your unique needs.

Together, we can work toward resilience, healing, and a more fulfilling life. Reach out today to start your journey to well-being.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, unsure where to start, or worried about your child, you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Maryland who works with children, teens, families, and young adults, supporting concerns such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma. I believe healing happens best when clients feel safe and supported just as they are.