Our Company

Since 1996, Safe Harbor has been more than a name. It’s been a promise. We believe in providing therapy that feels human, not clinical. Our team of dedicated therapists and psychiatric providers work closely with individuals, couples, and families to create meaningful change.
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Our Leadership

Our leadership team is made up of dedicated professionals who guide Safe Harbor with empathy and purpose. Each leader brings years of expertise in mental health care, ensuring that our practice continues to grow while staying true to our mission.
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Our Process

We believe that finding the right support should feel simple. That’s why our process is designed to meet you where you are, every step of the way. When you first reach out, our team will listen to your needs and guide you toward the services and providers best suited for you
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Our Company

Support for Every Stage of Life

Safe Harbor Behavioral Care was founded in 1996 by Erik Sundquist for the purpose of establishing a space where clients could enhance their mental health and personal relationships. Our team of 200+ clinicians specialize in creating a warm, engaging environment for clients. In collaboration with clients and a strong clinical knowledge base, Safe Harbor clinicians have helped enhance the quality of life for thousands of clients every year.

91%

Client satisfaction Rate

1996

Founded by Erik Sundquist

Our vision is to make a lasting impact by bringing hope and healing wherever brokenness exists by providing clinically excellent, wholistic, mental health services.

200+

Licensed Counselors

Values That Shape Your Experience

Our values guide every conversation, every session, and every step we take in supporting your mental health journey.

Compassion First

We meet every individual with kindness, empathy, and respect—because healing begins when you feel seen and heard.

Clinical Integrity

Our therapists and providers follow evidence-based practices rooted in professionalism, experience, and continuous learning.

Accessibility Matters

Mental health care should be available to all. We offer in-person and virtual options, accept insurance, and welcome clients from all backgrounds.

Whole-Person Care

We understand that emotional well-being is deeply connected to mind, body, and spirit—and our care reflects that holistic view.

Diversity & Inclusion

We honor and affirm each person’s unique story, identity, and lived experience in a space that is safe, supportive, and free of judgment.

Growth Through Connection

Whether it’s a single session or a long-term journey,
we believe in the transformative power of meaningful therapeutic relationships.

For anyone looking for faith-based counseling, this has been an incredible experience. The integration of faith and therapy felt natural and meaningful. I felt both supported and challenged in the best way.

Rachel, Bel Air, MD

I was able to get an appointment within just a few days, which made all the difference when I needed help the most. From the first visit, I felt welcomed and supported. The process was simple and stress-free.

Amanda, Towson, MD

My therapist truly listens and creates a space where I feel understood without judgment. I’ve been able to work through things I’ve struggled with for years. This has been a life-changing experience.

Chris, Baltimore, MD

The scheduling process was incredibly easy, and the team helped match me with the right therapist quickly. Everything felt organized and efficient from the start. That level of care really stood out to me.

Danielle, White Marsh, MD

I appreciate how knowledgeable and compassionate my provider is. They take the time to explain things clearly and make sure I feel comfortable with my treatment plan. I feel confident in the care I’m receiving.

Marcus, Columbia, MD

I’ve tried therapy before, but this experience has been completely different. I finally feel like I’m making real progress and learning tools I can actually use. I look forward to my sessions each week.

Nicole, Ellicott City, MD

The entire staff is friendly, responsive, and genuinely cares about your well-being. Communication is clear, and they make everything easy to navigate. It’s a very supportive environment.

Kevin, Bel Air, MD

I came in feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what I needed. My therapist helped me gain clarity and gave me practical strategies that I use every day. I feel more in control of my life now.

Stephanie, Frederick, MD

Meet Erik Sundquist

CEO at Safe Harbor

Erik Sundquist founded Safe Harbor Behavioral Care in 1996 with a vision to create a mental health practice where compassion and clinical excellence go hand in hand. What began as a small, local initiative has grown under Erik’s leadership into one of the East Coast’s most trusted providers of outpatient therapy and psychiatric care.

With a background in behavioral health and over two decades of executive experience, Erik brings a deep understanding of both the clinical and operational aspects of mental healthcare.

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WE ARE HIRING...

Grow Your Career With
Safe Harbor

We’re more than just a mental health practice—we’re a purpose-driven team committed to making a difference. If you're a licensed therapist or psychiatric provider who believes in compassionate, client-centered care, we’d love to meet you.
See Open Positions

Our Leadership

Erik Sundquist, LCSW-C

Founder & CEO

Erik Sundquist founded Safe Harbor Behavioral Care in 1996 with a vision to create a mental health practice where compassion and clinical excellence go hand in hand. What began as a small, local initiative has grown under Erik’s leadership into one of the East Coast’s most trusted providers of outpatient therapy and psychiatric care. With a background in behavioral health and over two decades of executive experience, Erik brings a deep understanding of both the clinical and operational aspects of mental healthcare.
Angela Ryan

President

Angela Ryan is the President of Safe Harbor Network, overseeing multiple outpatient mental health practices dedicated to accessible, high-quality care. With over 20 years of leadership experience, she has driven significant growth in services, operations, and community impact. Angela has been instrumental in expanding clinical programs, strengthening administrative systems, and securing key insurance partnerships. Her strategic vision and commitment to excellence continue to position Safe Harbor as a trusted leader in behavioral health across the region.
Ryan Blankenship

Director of Business Development

Ryan Blankenship is Director of Business Development, Marketing, and Technology at Safe Harbor Behavioral Care, bringing over 15 years of experience in strategy, operations, and growth. Since joining in 2022, he has led major initiatives including technology modernization, automation systems, and brand development. Ryan combines technical expertise with a people-focused approach, helping streamline operations and support scalable growth. His background across multiple industries and nonprofit leadership informs his practical, solutions-driven mindset.
Dr. Jennifer Maxfield-DeCarlo, LCSW-C, Ph.D.

Director of Clinical Services

Dr. Jennifer Maxfield-DeCarlo is Executive Director of Clinical Services at Safe Harbor Behavioral Care, bringing over 25 years of experience in behavioral health, academia, and program development. She leads clinical strategy and innovation, including the implementation of measurement-based care and development of specialized programs like DBT. A licensed clinical social worker and experienced educator, she has held leadership roles in higher education and is a published researcher. Her expertise centers on trauma, grief, and complex mental health needs.
Nichole Blankenship

Director of Operations

Nichole Blankenship is Executive Director of Operations at Safe Harbor Behavioral Care, with over 15 years of experience in healthcare leadership. She has led significant organizational growth, including large-scale expansion through strategic operational improvements and workforce development. Nichole specializes in human resources strategy, systems integration, and building scalable infrastructure that supports long-term success. Known for her steady leadership and collaborative approach, she plays a critical role in aligning teams, optimizing performance, and strengthening organizational culture.
L.J. Baker

Financial Controller

L.J. Baker serves as Financial Controller at Safe Harbor Behavioral Care, where he oversees bookkeeping and billing operations while advancing the organization’s data-driven decision-making. Since joining the executive team in 2022, he has played a key role in strengthening financial systems and data integrity. Prior to Safe Harbor, L.J. spent 17 years in higher education, rising to Dean at Harford Community College. His background in accounting, leadership, and public service brings both strategic insight and operational discipline to the organization.

Regional Directors

Anne Arundel County, Maryland

Selena Eldridge, MS, Christian Life

Coach, Director

946 Nabbs Creek Rd
Glen Burnie, MD 21060
410-263-0222

Northern Virginia

Jeff Crosson

Director

8020 Greeley Blvd
Springfield, VA 22152
703-838-0000 ext. 502
WE ARE HIRING...

Grow Your Career With Safe Harbor

We’re more than just a mental health practice—we’re a purpose-driven team committed to making a difference. If you're a licensed therapist or psychiatric provider who believes in compassionate, client-centered care, we’d love to meet you.
See Open Positions

Our Process

How Care at Safe Harbor Begins

Seeking help can feel overwhelming, but we’re here to make the process feel simple, supportive, and human. At Safe Harbor, we walk with you from day one helping you navigate each step with clarity, comfort, and care that’s tailored to your unique story.

SCHEDULE

Schedule Your First Appointment with Ease

Getting started is simple. Whether you call, chat, or submit a request online, our team is here to guide you through the intake process and match you with the right provider based on your needs, preferences, and availability. This first step is about comfort, clarity, and support—no pressure, just progress.
Request An Appointment

Assess What You Need in a Safe, Judgement Free Space

Your first session is all about being heard. We take the time to understand what you’re going through, your experiences, your goals, and what support looks like for you. This collaborative assessment forms the foundation of your care, helping us create a plan that’s built around you.
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ASSESS

ENGAGE

Engage in a Personalized Care Plan That Works for You

Patient participates in individual sessions with a trained mental health counselor.
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Track Progress and Evolve Your Path as You Grow

Progress is tracked by a series of formal tools, like our Blueprint engagement app, as well as informal subjective methods. We celebrate milestones, adjust goals, and ensure your care stays aligned with your growth. Whether you’re ready to transition or dive deeper, we’re here every step of the way.
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TRACK

What Makes Safe Harbor Different

Our integrated care model brings together licensed therapists and psychiatric providers under one roof, allowing you to receive the support you need without starting over.
Clinically Grounded

Our care is backed by evidence-based practices and delivered by experienced professionals who are licensed, highly trained, and continually learning.

Compassion First

At Safe Harbor, we believe meaningful healing begins with compassion. Our team is committed to providing compassionate, person-centered care that helps every client feel heard, supported, and valued from their very first interaction.

Accessible Care

We believe access to quality mental health care should never feel out of reach. Safe Harbor is committed to reducing barriers to treatment by providing prompt access to therapy, psychiatry, and support services, with most appointments scheduled within 1–6 days so clients can begin receiving care when they need it most.

Frequently Asked Questions

We’ve answered some of the most common questions below to help you feel more informed and confident as you begin your journey with us.
Can I schedule an appointment online?

Yes, our online scheduling system makes it easy to find a therapist near me and book an appointment quickly.

How quickly can I get an appointment for mental health therapy near me?

Most clients looking for mental health therapy near me can be seen within just a few days. At Safe Harbor, we prioritize fast access to care, often offering appointments within 1–6 days depending on your needs, location, and provider availability.

What types of counseling services do you offer?

We provide a wide range of counseling near me services, including individual therapy, couples counseling, family therapy, and specialized mental health counseling in Maryland, DC, and VA. Our therapists support anxiety, depression, trauma, and more.

Do you offer psychiatry near me or medication management?

Yes, we offer psychiatry near me along with medication management services. Our psychiatric providers work closely with therapists to deliver comprehensive mental health counseling and treatment plans tailored to your needs.

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