Family therapy and counseling in Easton, MD

Welcome

Hello, and thank you for considering me as your therapist. My name is Tarianda Ruston, and I have more than 25 years of experience working in the helping profession. I am a licensed clinical social worker in both Maryland and the District of Columbia, with a diverse background that has allowed me to support individuals and families through many of life's challenges.

Throughout my career, I have worked in child welfare, foster care and adoption, inpatient mental health, custody cases, special education, and school mental health. These experiences have provided me with a deep understanding of the unique challenges people face across different stages of life. My passion is helping individuals discover their strengths, overcome obstacles, and build the tools needed for lifelong emotional wellness.

I believe therapy is a partnership built on trust, respect, and authenticity. My role is not to tell you what to do or make decisions for you. Instead, I provide a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences openly. Through thoughtful questions, compassionate reflection, and evidence-based strategies, I will help you gain insight, clarify your values, and make choices that align with the life you want to create.

I work with adults and teens who feel overwhelmed, anxious, or emotionally drained. They may be struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood changes, trauma, or life stress and feel stuck despite trying to cope alone. Others seek clarity around symptoms or support during major life transitions. Children and adolescents may struggle with emotional regulation, attention, mood changes, or behavioral concerns. Often, individuals or parents want relief and a clear path forward with a provider who listens and helps them feel more balanced, focused, and hopeful.

I am a LCSW-C (Licensed Certified Social Worker- Clinical) who works with adults of all ages, families and couples. I was awarded my MSW in Clinical Behavioral Health from the University of Maryland, Baltimore. I earned my B.A. from Georgetown University and an MBA from George Washington University. I have been honored to work with people of many diverse backgrounds, hospice patients, military populations and those living with developmental disabilities. As a former Peace Corps volunteer in Central America (RPCV), I speak Spanish with non-native fluency and have lived and worked in several countries.

I help clients manage anxiety, depression, and stress one step at a time by offering practical tools and supportive, empowering therapy in a safe, nonjudgmental space.

I’m glad you’re here. I'm passionate about working with couples and individuals. Cooperatively, we navigate relationships, family issues, trauma, anxiety, depression and more. Healing happens through relationships rooted in reciprocity and respect. I strive to create a space where you feel safe, supported and understood. My approach is collaborative and down-to-earth. You don’t need to have everything figured out... we’ll move forward together at a pace that feels right for you.

EVENING TELEHEALTH HOURS/FREE CONSULTATION!! As a therapist, connecting with clients and walking with them through their journey of triumphs and challenges, I have found that the connection between counselor and client is paramount. I strive to meet my clients where they are, focusing on their strengths and empowering them to make the changes they see fit rather than prescribing issue or diagnosis. I value treating each individual client with the respect they deserve. Placing emphasis on developing a relationship that is based on warmth, trust, respect, and genuine care. The ease of conversation, is client driven and casual.

Many people seek out therapy because, despite their best efforts to change, they might end up in the same cycles. These cycles of behavior are driven by our life experiences and long-standing behavior patterns. Together, we will explore these patterns so that we can begin to create understanding of our motivations and create space for positive change.

For 16 years I have worked with clients impacted by anxiety, depression, and grief. My experience has provided me a unique perspective in working with individuals and couples, parents and families. I understand the need to get to know a counselor before scheduling a session. To help, I offer a free 15 min phone consultation. Look forward to hearing from you.