Grief counselors and therapists in Upper Marlboro, MD

Laneka Montgomery is a compassionate therapist with experience supporting individuals navigating stress, trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, and life transitions, including end-of-life concerns. She works with adults, women, and couples facing relationship challenges and emotional distress.

Laneka is committed to creating a supportive, affirming space where clients feel heard and valued.

Hi, I’m glad you’re here. I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania, and I work with children, teens, and adults who are dealing with trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, and family struggles. Over the years, I’ve supported families facing tough transitions, kids on the autism spectrum, and people who are trying to rebuild after life has knocked them down.

My style is down-to-earth, supportive, and focused on helping you feel stronger and more hopeful. In our sessions, you’ll have space to be heard without judgment while we work together to move toward the goals that matter most to you.

I hold a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, a Master of Science in Health Service Administration, and a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition. My education and professional experience in mental health, health care, and nutrition offer a depth and breadth of experience that enables me to view the whole person holistically.

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 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.

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.

Clients who seek counseling may feel overwhelmed, stressed out, frustrated and anxious. My warm, compassionate demeanor coupled with a straightforward approach creates a supportive environment in which clients learn skills and receive guidance to become more engaged in their lives.

I also understand that the workplace can be rewarding, but also challenging, impacting a person’s happiness. Client’s leave therapy with coping strategies, helpful problem-solving abilities, and hope for the future.