John Caruso, MD, LCSW-C, LCSW

John Caruso is a Maryland-based therapist with 20 years of clinical experience helping people navigate complex life transitions and emotional challenges. He combines medical training and social work expertise - MD (Doctor of Medicine) and LCSW-C and LCSW (licensed clinical social worker credentials) - to address trauma recovery, mood disorders, military and veteran mental health, and life-stage concerns such as divorce, grief, and end-of-life support.

Drawing on his background as a former firefighter in the Baltimore area, he brings particular knowledge in treating posttraumatic stress, first responder mental health, and traumatic brain injury. His practice emphasizes a personalized understanding of each person - the history, strengths, and contexts that shape their experience - and aims to reduce stress, anxiety, and emotional overwhelm while building resilience.

John uses evidence-based methods and a holistic view to help clients process difficult experiences and regain a sense of agency. He works with veterans, first responders, and individuals facing major life changes to foster recovery, practical coping skills, and renewed purpose. His approach is steady, compassionate, and focused on real-world strategies for healing and growth.

Approaches for Online Healing and Practical Change

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thoughts and behaviors. It is a structured, goal-oriented approach that helps with anxiety, depression, stress, and many everyday coping challenges by teaching practical skills for managing thoughts and reactions.

Solution-Focused Therapy emphasizes small, achievable steps and the client’s existing strengths to create forward momentum. It is often brief and action-oriented, useful for people seeking concrete change, clearer goals, or relief during transitions such as divorce, career shifts, or parenting adjustments.

Finding the right approach is a collaborative process. John Caruso and the client work together to assess needs, preferences, and goals, then tailor methods accordingly. He uses clinical judgment and client feedback to adapt strategies so therapy remains relevant and effective for the individual.

Online therapy offers flexible ways to connect - video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging - making it easier to fit support into busy lives or from different locations. These options allow for consistent progress while accommodating scheduling, mobility, and geographic constraints, and they help maintain continuity of care for veterans, first responders, and anyone managing life changes.