Esperanza Ballenilla

Hello, I’m Esperanza Ballenilla, LCSW-C, a licensed psychotherapist serving adults and seniors in Maryland through virtual and in-person therapy. My journey into this work began with a genuine passion for helping people heal, grow, and reconnect with the parts of themselves that may have been lost through stress, pain, or difficult life experiences. I hold a Master’s degree in Social Work and bring years of mental health experience in outpatient settings and private practice, supporting clients through some of life’s hardest and most meaningful moments. I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, grief, ADHD, anger management, and everyday life stressors. I know that reaching out for therapy can feel intimidating, especially when you’ve been carrying so much on your own. That’s why I focus on creating a warm, welcoming, and nonjudgmental space where you can feel safe, respected, and truly heard. I also offer therapy in both English and Spanish. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and tailored to your unique needs. I use evidence-based methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing, Internal Family Systems (IFS) Parts Work, and strength-based approaches. Whether you are healing from past wounds, managing anxiety, navigating relationship challenges, or trying to feel more like yourself again, we will work together at a pace that feels comfortable and supportive for you. My goal is for therapy to create real, lasting change, not just insight, but practical tools and growth you can carry into your everyday life. Many clients leave sessions feeling lighter, more grounded, more hopeful, and more connected to their own inner strength. You don’t have to figure it all out alone.