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Kumi Pledger, MD, LCPC

Compassionate MD, LCPC focused on anxiety and sleep
  • Guided imagery and mindfulness
  • IFS-informed trauma work
  • Works with families and adults

About Kumi Pledger

Kumi Pledger, MD, LCPC, works with individuals and families to help them sleep better, worry less, and enjoy life more. As a medical doctor (MD) and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), she combines clinical training with therapeutic techniques such as Guided Imagery, Mindfulness, and Trauma work that incorporates Internal Family Systems (IFS) to guide clients through healing and growth.

She draws on personal insight and professional experience to create a respectful, compassionate atmosphere where people can be heard and begin to address fears, reduce anxiety, and change unwanted behaviors. Kumi focuses on practical outcomes like improving sleep, reducing intrusive worries, and supporting meaningful change, while encouraging clients to build on their existing strengths and resources.

Her practice includes work with children, adolescents, couples, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning (LGBTQ) clients, families, and adults. She offers support for relationship challenges, assistance for new and expectant mothers, and counseling for eating disorders, adjustment problems, trauma, grief, and loss. Throughout her work she emphasizes empowerment, clearer self-understanding, and the possibility of experiencing more of the joy life has to offer.

Areas of Expertise

Primary Focus

Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes

Also Specializes In

AddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefIntimacy-related issuesSleeping disordersParenting issuesCareer difficultiesBipolar disorder

Additional Focus Areas

AbandonmentAttachment issuesCaregiver issues and stressCommunication problemsControl issuesCoping with natural or human-caused disasterDisruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD)Divorce and separationDomestic violenceEmptinessFamily of origin issuesFamily problemsFatherhood issuesFirst responder issuesGender dysphoriaGuilt and shameHospice and end-of-life counselingImpulsivityIsolation / lonelinessJealousyLife purposeMen's issuesVeteran and Armed Forces IssuesMood disordersMulticultural concernsPanic disorder and panic attacksParanoiaPhobiasPost-traumatic stressPregnancy and childbirthSeasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)Self-loveSocial anxiety and phobiaWomen's issuesWorkplace issuesYoung adult issues

Therapeutic Approach

Attachment-Based Therapy Client-Centered Therapy Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) Mindfulness Therapy Narrative Therapy Psychodynamic Therapy Solution-Focused Therapy Trauma-Focused Therapy

Frequently Asked Questions

How much experience does Kumi Pledger have?

Kumi Pledger has 10 years of experience.

Is Kumi Pledger a licensed therapist?

Yes. She holds MD and LCPC credentials. License details: MD LCPC LC10963.

In which languages does Kumi Pledger provide therapy?

She provides therapy in English and Japanese.

Where is Kumi Pledger located?

She is located in Maryland.

How can I work with Kumi Pledger as my therapist?

You can work with Kumi Pledger through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.

Does Kumi Pledger work with international clients?

Yes, Kumi Pledger works with international clients.

How much does therapy with Kumi Pledger cost?

The cost of therapy can vary depending on factors such as your location and the therapist's availability. Sessions are billed through a subscription that can be canceled at any time, for any reason. For current details, click the "Start Therapy" button on this page.

How can I get started with therapy?

Getting started with therapy is quick and straightforward. Click the "Start Therapy" button and complete a short questionnaire that helps match you with your therapist. Depending on availability, you can then schedule your first session, which may take place by phone, video call, live chat, or in-app messaging.

Could virtual sessions be a good fit?

Many people wonder whether remote therapy can truly help. For a range of common concerns - including stress, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and navigating life transitions - online therapy has been shown to be comparable in effectiveness to traditional in-person sessions.

One major benefit is the flexibility it provides. Individuals can connect with a therapist in the mode that suits them best - video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or in-app messaging - which can make it easier to fit therapeutic work into a busy schedule or across different locations.

Licensed professionals provide care through these options, and people may choose to change therapists at any time if they prefer a different fit. For many, virtual therapy offers an accessible and practical way to engage with therapeutic support.

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