Loretta Collins (Begg) , MD, LCPC

Loretta Collins (Begg) is an MD and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) who practices in Maryland. She returned to clinical training after a 25-year career in sales, earning a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling to build on her interest in psychological care.

She blends client-centered methods with cognitive-behavioral techniques, creating a therapy style that emphasizes collaboration and practical strategies. In sessions she frames therapy as a partnership, working with people to set goals and develop skills rather than delivering one-sided direction.

Loretta has substantial experience supporting individuals with substance use disorders and co-occurring diagnoses. Her clinical work includes treating post-traumatic stress disorder, major depressive disorder (MDD), eating disorders, bipolar disorder, and anxiety, among other challenges. This background informs a practical, symptom-focused approach alongside empathic listening.

One motivation for Loretta’s career change was to challenge stigma around mental health. She advocates for recognizing brain-related conditions on the same footing as physical health concerns, and she brings that conviction into therapeutic conversations and treatment planning.

Client-Centered and CBT Approaches Delivered Online

Client-centered therapy places the client at the heart of the process, emphasizing empathy, active listening, and the development of a trusting relationship. This approach helps people explore their values, strengthen self-understanding, and build motivation for change, which can be useful for issues like identity, caregiver stress, and relationship concerns.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying unhelpful thinking patterns and testing practical strategies to change thoughts and behaviors. CBT is often used to address anxiety, depression, mood symptoms, and patterns that contribute to substance use or impulsivity.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process, and the therapist will collaborate with each person to determine which methods best match their needs, goals, and preferences. That collaborative process helps tailor sessions and tools to the individual.

Online therapy options such as video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging offer flexibility for people with busy schedules or limited local resources. These formats make it easier to maintain continuity of care, fit sessions into daily life, and access licensed professionals and therapists from a distance.