Dr. Allison Bethea , MD

Dr. Allison Bethea developed an interest in psychology during her high school years in the 1980s, a path that led to earning a Doctor of Clinical Psychology degree in 1992 and licensure as a psychologist in Maryland in 1993. She approaches her work by forming collaborative relationships with clients and building on individual strengths, combining practical techniques with a respect for each person’s experience.

Her theoretical orientation includes cognitive behavioral techniques and mindfulness, alongside elements of Positive Psychology. She is interested in how physical health affects mental well-being and integrates knowledge of neurology and brain function when selecting therapeutic strategies. This informs her choice of interventions and helps tailor care to each client's needs.

Clinically, she has specialty training in anxiety and stress management, depression, and coping strategies for attention deficit disorders. She also has substantial experience supporting individuals who are blind or visually impaired and counseling parents of children with special needs. Dr. Bethea emphasizes strengths-based, collaborative work and invites prospective clients to consider whether her background and approach may be a good fit for them.

Therapeutic Approaches and Online Care with Dr. Allison Bethea

Dr. Allison Bethea uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness Therapy as core tools in her practice. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying unhelpful thought and behavior patterns and then practicing concrete strategies to change them; it can be especially helpful for anxiety, depression, and stress management. Mindfulness Therapy teaches attention and awareness skills to reduce reactivity and increase present-moment coping, which supports emotional regulation and stress reduction.

She also incorporates Solution-Focused techniques that prioritize practical steps and goals to create change quickly, useful for clients seeking direction during life transitions or specific problem solving. Finding the right mix of these approaches is part of the therapeutic process - Dr. Bethea works collaboratively with clients and licensed professionals to determine which methods best match a person’s needs, goals, and preferences.

Online therapy with Dr. Bethea is available by video call, phone, live chat, or text-based messaging, offering flexibility for different schedules and comfort levels. These options make it easier to access consistent care from home or other convenient locations, while allowing therapists and clients to focus on progress and practical outcomes.