Alison Gartner, PhD in Baltimore: Cognitive-Behavioral and Trauma-Focused Therapy for Adults

Alison Gartner, PhD, runs a small private practice in Baltimore offering cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and trauma-focused treatment to individual adults, with no group classes, corporate contracts, or medication management on-site.

What this practice actually is

Dr. Gartner holds a doctorate in clinical psychology and practices under Maryland license. The practice operates as a one-on-one outpatient office, not affiliated with a health system or clinic. Sessions are conducted in-person in a private office setting. The focus is on evidence-based short- to medium-term therapy for adults dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and related conditions. She does not evaluate children, prescribe medication, or provide couples therapy or family mediation. If a client needs psychiatric medication management, Dr. Gartner can refer to collaborating physicians but does not coordinate prescribing herself.

Services and pricing

Individual sessions are 50 minutes, billed at $175 per session (as of the date stated below). Insurance is not billed directly; Dr. Gartner provides itemized receipts that clients can submit to their own insurers for potential reimbursement as out-of-network claims. The practice accepts payment by card or check at the time of each session. A typical course of CBT runs 12 to 20 sessions, though length depends on presenting issues and client goals. Trauma-focused work may extend longer. Fees for missed appointments without 48 hours' notice are generally charged at the full session rate; the practice can clarify its cancellation policy during the intake call.

Verification note: Fees and insurance policies change. Confirm the current session fee and cancellation terms by calling the practice directly.

How this compares to other Baltimore therapists and practices

Baltimore has a broad mix of private therapists, group practices, and clinic-based providers. For clients with insurance coverage, community mental health centers such as Bon Secours Baltimore and Chesapeake Health System often operate on a sliding-fee basis and accept many insurance plans, making them lower-cost entry points but with longer wait times and less control over provider continuity. For therapists similar to Dr. Gartner's approach, solo practitioners and small practices in Federal Hill, Canton, and Roland Park typically charge $120 to $200 per session, also on an out-of-network basis. Larger group practices such as Insight Behavioral Health Centers and Greater Baltimore Therapy Services offer in-network billing and faster scheduling but may limit the number of sessions per year or assign therapists rather than letting clients choose. Dr. Gartner's model suits clients who have insurance with strong out-of-network benefits, prefer a single consistent provider, and can absorb upfront costs for later reimbursement. It does not suit those without out-of-network coverage, those seeking immediate crisis stabilization, or those who need medication management as part of a coordinated care plan.

Who this practice is and is not for

This practice works best for adults with mild to moderate anxiety, depression, or trauma histories who are stable enough for weekly or biweekly outpatient therapy and can pay out of pocket while managing insurance reimbursement. Clients who are motivated by structured, problem-focused talk therapy and who prefer continuity with a single experienced clinician will find a fit. The practice is not appropriate for active suicidality or psychosis (which require immediate emergency or inpatient care), current substance dependence (which usually calls for specialized addiction treatment), or situations where financial or language barriers make out-of-network payment unfeasible. Teenagers and children are outside the scope of this office.

What the first visit involves

New clients typically call to schedule a phone intake, usually offered within one week. During that call, Dr. Gartner gathers a brief history, asks about presenting concerns and goals, clarifies fees and insurance expectations, and answers questions. If both parties agree to proceed, an in-person appointment is scheduled, usually within 1 to 3 weeks. The first session runs 50 minutes, covers more detailed history and current symptoms, and establishes a treatment plan. No testing, assessments, or reports are administered during intake unless requested for a specific reason (such as providing documentation to an employer or another clinician). Clients should bring a photo ID and insurance card and be prepared to provide payment at the appointment.

Hours, location, and logistics

The office is located in Baltimore; verify the specific address and parking information when you call to schedule. Sessions are offered Monday through Thursday, with afternoon and early evening slots available. The office does not maintain a waiting room; clients are asked to arrive a few minutes early and can wait in their car. Street parking is available nearby. There is no elevator; confirm floor accessibility if needed. The practice is closed on weekends, holidays, and occasional days when Dr. Gartner is at a conference or clinic role.

Alison Gartner's practice fills a clear role for Baltimore adults who benefit from focused, relationship-based therapy with a licensed doctorate-level provider and who can navigate the out-of-network payment model as an advantage rather than a barrier.