Schedule with a licensed

Greater Baltimore Therapist

Irene is currently offering online-only therapy appointments

〰️

Irene is currently offering online-only therapy appointments 〰️

Irene Burks, LGPC, PGSS-C

Accepting clients for daytime appointments — Schedule today!

A headshot of LifeSpring's Irene Burks, LGPC
A clear glass bubble sitting on top of a stacked rock in the middle of a river.

Hi! My name is Irene (she/her/hers). I am a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor. I am excited to work with you on your journey of healing and transformation. I offer a collaborative solution-focused, and client-centered approach.

Aside from being a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor (LGPC), I am certified through the American Academy of Grief Counseling as a Pet-Loss Grief Support Specialist (PGSS-C).  I provide a safe and empathetic space for individuals navigating the profound pain of losing a beloved animal companion. I employ a holistic approach, integrating traditional therapeutic techniques with mindfulness practices to help clients process their grief and find healing. As an avid animal lover and pet parent, my commitment to supporting pet owners in their time of need is reflected in my personalized, client-centered approach, ensuring that each person feels heard, understood, and supported.

I am committed to honoring diversity and embracing an approach that supports your worth, dignity, potential, and uniqueness.  If you find it difficult to work through some of life’s challenges, come talk to me. Together, we will work on strategies that allow you to address the root causes of your difficulties and work towards a happier and healthier you. Sometimes it is outside influences or people who affect your well-being.  Sometimes we get in our own way.  Whatever the issues may be, we can work together to address them and create a plan for continued wellness.  I enjoy working with people of color, especially women.

Women of color are often expected to be strong and resilient yet we are still disproportionately affected by higher rates of depression, anxiety, and physical illness. Whether it is inter-generational trauma or the stress of navigating day-to-day life, I am here for you.

Prior to being a mental health counselor, I was a law enforcement professional which gives me a unique perspective and understanding of the culture.  Not only do I have first-hand experience in understanding trauma faced by first responders, but I also have an understanding of what first responders experience psychologically and how the job changes a person over their career, and how it affects their families.  I welcome first responders or their family members who need support to reach out.

Lastly, I personally understand that being gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, nonbinary, or queer comes with unique experiences, struggles, and strengths. Coming out to one’s family, coping with discrimination and oppression, and sorting out an “authentic” sense of self in the face of social expectations and pressures can lead to higher levels of depression, anxiety, and other mental health concerns for LGBTQ+ people. Let me help you through those struggles and celebrate your strengths.

My goal in providing therapy for you is to help you be your best self.  Sometimes we need a little bit of help and support to get to that point.  I offer a safe and compassionate space for you.  Our time together will be an opportunity for you to explore what is stopping you from being your best self.  This can be done through Brainspotting, traditional talk therapy, CBT, and sometimes just a good laugh.  I am looking forward to working with you!

“For me, becoming isn't about arriving somewhere or achieving a certain aim. I see it instead as forward motion, a means of evolving, a way to reach continuously toward a better self.”

— Michelle Obama

A singular dandelion in a green grassy area with dew

Irene’s Work

  • Anxiety
    Depression
    Online Brainspotting
    First Responders
    • LGBTQIA+ Concerns
    • Pet-Loss Grief Support
    • Life Transitions
    College Students
    • Relationship Difficulties
    Pandemic-Related Stress & Anxiety

  • Tuesdays (Virtual)
    11:00 AM - 8:00 PM

    Wednesdays and Thursdays (Virtual)
    11:00 AM - 8:00 PM

  • Irene is currently in-network with CareFirst/BCBS, Cigna/Evernorth, United Healthcare, & Aetna health plans.

    Cash, HSA Cards, and major credit cards are all accepted forms of payment.

  • Intake (90791)
    $170

    Individual Session (53-60 minutes)
    $170

Outside of the office…

When I am not at work, I enjoy spending time with my wife, who is also my best friend. Together, we own a family-friendly billiards and cafe where we socialize and shoot pool for hours! We also have two adult children, both of whom are exceptional track and field athletes. I also enjoy traveling and prefer a cultural immersion experience over the traditional tourist experience. I am fortunate to have traveled to five of the seven continents.

Educational Background

I obtained a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Capella University, an accredited educational institution. I also have a Master of Science in Management from Johns Hopkins University. Additionally, I have completed Brainspotting Phase 1, 2, & 3 and participated in a Brainspotting Intensive. I have also completed Level 1 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy.

A drop of water causing a ripple, with reflections of the rainbow on the water's surface

Get in Touch.

Whether you are interested in having a brief consultation or scheduling an appointment, please be in touch.

Contact us to schedule today!

Intake line: (410)497-8451
Intake email: hello@lifespringcounseling.net

Contact Irene
(443)228-3013
irene@lifespringcounseling.net

Meet our other mental health therapists here.

“My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.”

— Maya Angelou