What kind of therapist am I?
She stared at me with a blank expression. “Well, this is awkward,” I thought. Throughout my years of being in therapy (on and off but consistent since 2020), I could feel my skin crawl because of the silence and deadpan face of my therapist. I reminded myself that she is there to help, but it is not for me. Since the first time being a client in a therapy office, I vowed to never be that kind of therapist.
What makes me different? I am straight forward, highly interactive, and expressive. The therapeutic relationship is the foundation of our success. I bring to the room a warm energy that makes you feel comfortable and relaxed. Clients find it really easy to talk to me. I am not your best friend but, for those that I have seen for a few months, the sessions certainly mimic the characteristics of a close friend. We laugh, sometimes cry and I walk shoulder to shoulder with you through your journey.
I have a Masters Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from George Washington University. I’m a licensed clinical professional counselor with over a decade of experience. My focus of study was on dual diagnosis (those who suffer from a substance use disorder and a mental health disorders). Most of my experience has been with Johns Hopkins and Maryland Treatment Centers before moving into private practice.
My approach is person centered, analytic, and I have training to help you apply cognitive behavioral therapy techniques. However, I tailor my interventions to best suit your personality.
I was born in Washington DC and raised in that area so diversity is the norm and as an Asian American, I understand what it's like to be a minority. However, I successfully help people of all walks of life. For several years, my career focused on helping people overcome their substance use in residential (in the front lines of the opioid epidemic) and outpatient settings. For the past few years, I have become a generalist; I have experience helping clients cope with:
bipolar disorder
depression
anxiety
trauma/abuse
job stressors
infidelity
relationship challenges
low self esteem
isolation
gender identity conflicts (I am an ally), sexuality, and becoming part of the LGBTQ community.
substance abuse
Maryland LCPC license #LC8639
I am also a certified supervisor with the Maryland Board of Professional Counselors & Therapists.
At Liberty Counseling LLC, we are committed to providing professional counseling services that adhere to the highest standards of practice. Our licensed therapists hold valid credentials in accordance with state regulations and are trained to address a variety of mental health concerns. We prioritize confidentiality and ethical treatment.
What’s in a name?
It took me some time to produce the name for my business and it has a few layers to it. I believe in the ability to be free of emotional torment and self-defeating thoughts; a mental freedom from the limitations put on you and felt from within- Liberty. Liberty counseling – a safe space to free your mind. You have the power and the answers to what is causing distress and pain in your life. It is my job to provide a space for you to explore and discover that power within. I am your mirror.
The other part of Liberty Counseling has to do with my father who lost his battle to cancer in 1993. He was a physician who owned and operated several urgent care centers in rural parts of Maryland during the 1980’s (named Liberty Med). I built my practice in his honor and will expand to integrate modern, innovative therapy techniques with traditional ones.
Our rates
Talk therapy
Online or in-person, this is designated for individuals to process, challenge and explore their thoughts. Typically, meetings are weekly. Adults only (age 18+).
60 mins | $175 | Get started
Get started with feeling FREE today.
“You helped me in one of the darkest periods of my life. Now, when I sit alone, I still think of him but I have much more hope.””
“I appreciate you, your kindness, support, concern and believing in me. I appreciate it all more than you know.”
“Lina is an excellent counselor. She took the time to get to know me, my background, and my goals. She always remained optimistic about my future - even when I felt it was impossible. She was an attentive listener, patient, passionate, knowledgeable and flexible. She will go above and beyond for her clients.”