LaToya Nkongolo, MD, LCSW-C

LaToya Nkongolo is a Maryland-licensed clinician who holds an MD, a Doctor of Medicine, and an LCSW-C, a clinical social work license. With 29 years of counseling experience and 10 years practicing as a licensed therapist, she combines long-term clinical perspective with focused, licensed practice. She supports people working through substance use challenges, stress and anxiety, low motivation and self-esteem, career difficulties, depression, and life transitions. Her work also addresses co-morbidity, codependency, commitment and communication struggles, drug and alcohol addiction, family of origin and fatherhood issues, guilt and shame, impulsivity, midlife crisis, veteran and armed forces concerns, financial stress, postpartum depression, and experiences of prejudice and discrimination.

LaToya approaches therapy from a strengths-based stance, honoring that each person is the expert of their own story and already carries resources to draw on. She frames the decision to seek help as a courageous step toward greater fulfillment and offers support and empowerment throughout the process. Her practice emphasizes practical, evidence-based techniques tailored to the individual’s goals, helping clients build coping skills, clarify priorities, and move toward meaningful change.

Evidence-based techniques and flexible online support

LaToya uses practical, evidence-informed approaches that focus on skill building and real-world change. One approach emphasizes teaching coping and stress-management skills to reduce anxiety and improve day-to-day functioning, helping clients develop routines and techniques they can apply between sessions. Another approach centers on behavioral strategies for substance use and related challenges, focusing on concrete steps to reduce harm, manage triggers, and strengthen recovery efforts. A strengths-based focus helps boost self-esteem and motivation by identifying existing resources and building on personal values and goals.

Finding the right mix of approaches is a collaborative process. LaToya works with each person to assess needs, set goals, and adjust methods over time so the plan fits the client’s preferences and life circumstances.

Online therapy options include video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging, which offer flexibility for scheduling and consistent access to care. These formats make it easier to maintain momentum between appointments, accommodate work and family demands, and connect with a licensed professional from different locations.