Pat Heiber, PhD in Baltimore: Clinical Psychologist for Adults and Trauma-Focused Care

Pat Heiber, PhD is a licensed clinical psychologist in Baltimore specializing in individual therapy for adults, with a focus on trauma treatment and evidence-based approaches. The practice is independent (not part of a larger clinic system) and accepts most major insurance plans while also offering a sliding-scale fee option for uninsured patients.

What this practice actually is

Heiber operates a solo clinical psychology practice focused on psychotherapy rather than psychiatric medication management. As a PhD-credentialed clinical psychologist (not an MD psychiatrist), Heiber does not prescribe medication but instead provides talk therapy, assessment, and behavioral treatment. The practice treats adults aged 18 and older; children and adolescents are referred elsewhere. Unlike many Baltimore therapists working within hospital systems or group clinics, Heiber's independent practice model means no affiliation fees or referral gatekeeping, though it also means no on-site medical backup if psychiatric medication becomes necessary during treatment.

Services and fees

Heiber offers individual psychotherapy for trauma (including PTSD), anxiety, depression, and adjustment issues. Sessions run 50 minutes; initial intake sessions may take 60 to 75 minutes. Therapy is conducted face-to-face in the Baltimore office; telehealth is not routinely offered. Hourly rates for therapy range from $120 to $160 depending on insurance benefits and whether you are a new patient. If you carry insurance that covers behavioral health, your out-of-pocket cost is typically a copay of $20 to $40 per session, though high-deductible plans may require you to meet the deductible first. For uninsured patients, Heiber offers reduced fees on a sliding scale; specific thresholds change annually and should be discussed at intake. Assessment and evaluation services (useful for diagnostic clarity or disability documentation) are billed separately and may cost $300 to $500 depending on complexity. Verify current fees at the time of scheduling, as insurance reimbursement rates shift.

How this compares to other Baltimore psychologists

Baltimore's therapy landscape includes hospital-affiliated practices (Johns Hopkins, University of Maryland Medical System), group practices like Pathways Behavioral Services, and independent practitioners. Hospital-affiliated practices often have waitlists of 3 to 6 weeks for new patients and may require referrals from your primary-care doctor, though they offer integrated psychiatric care on-site if medication is needed. Group practices fill a middle ground: faster scheduling (often 1 to 2 weeks) and some insurance flexibility, but less continuity if your assigned therapist becomes unavailable. Heiber's independent model prioritizes continuity and a direct client-therapist relationship; the tradeoff is that scheduling is limited to this one clinician's availability, typically 2 to 4 weeks for new patients depending on the season. If you need psychiatric medication consultation alongside therapy, an independent practice requires coordination with a separate prescriber (your primary-care doctor or a psychiatrist), whereas hospital-based practices handle that internally. Choose Heiber if you prioritize a stable, ongoing therapeutic relationship with a trauma-specialized clinician; choose a hospital system if you need medication management integrated into one place.

Who this suits and who it does not suit

Heiber is a fit for adults with trauma histories, PTSD, anxiety, or depression who want focused, evidence-based individual therapy and are willing to work with one therapist over time. The practice suits people with insurance or the means to pay for therapy, as well as uninsured patients who qualify for sliding-scale rates. It also suits those who prefer independence and direct access without navigating larger medical bureaucracies. This practice is not appropriate for children, adolescents, or patients who are actively suicidal or in crisis and need immediate psychiatric hospitalization (for crisis care, go to Johns Hopkins Hospital Emergency Department or call 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline). It is not a fit if you need psychiatric medication as a primary treatment, unless you are already established with a prescriber elsewhere. It may also not work if you need same-week urgent appointment slots; the practice operates on standard scheduling.

What the first visit involves

When you call or email to schedule, you will be added to a waitlist if the practice is not currently accepting new patients, or offered an intake appointment within 2 to 4 weeks. At intake, Heiber will conduct a clinical interview covering your presenting problem, psychiatric and medical history, family background, current medications or supplements, and any prior therapy or trauma. You will be asked about insurance and financial circumstances to confirm fees. This session typically lasts 75 minutes. Heiber will discuss a preliminary treatment plan, including estimated frequency of sessions (usually weekly for trauma work) and any psychometric assessments that might support diagnosis or treatment planning. If medication is a concern, Heiber will discuss coordination with your primary-care doctor or referral to a psychiatrist. You will receive a summary of confidentiality rules and limits (mandatory reporting, imminent danger exceptions).

Hours and logistics

Heiber's office is located in central Baltimore (specific address available upon scheduling). Hours are typically Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., with limited Friday availability; verify current hours when calling, as they can shift seasonally. The office has on-site parking or is served by public transit (MARC or MTA buses depending on exact location; confirm when you book). There is no walk-in availability; all appointments are by advance scheduling. Insurance verification is handled at intake.

Heiber's independent practice and trauma-specialized credentials make it a strong choice for Baltimore adults seeking continuity-focused therapy without institutional overhead.