expert type icon EXPERT

Dr. Melanie Sholtis, PSY.D

Psychologist | Clinical

I have 20 years of experience providing psychotherapy and assessment for individuals with a wide range of referring questions and issues. My philosophy as a clinician is that change requires work one small step at a time, and I am happy to be an active guide in this process of change. My approach is active and goal-focused, and I tailor my approach to the unique needs of each individual or couple that I meet.
I specialize in assessments for ages 7- the elderly including psychological, psychoeducational, neuropsychological, and bariatric referrals. I also specialize in the treatment of adults and couples with adjustment issues, grief, anxiety, mood disorders, co-occurring ADHD, and conjunctive therapy for individuals with stable recovery programs in addiction.
If you are in a place where you are committed to the process of change and need a guiding hand, I would look forward to working with you. One day or day one? This is a choice many of us have to make every day. One small step at a time, your goals will be within reach.
Dr. Melanie Sholtis, PSY.D
  • Frederick, MD
  • Accepting new patients

What treatments work for drug addiction?

A program tailored to substance use disorders usually a rehabilitation center for 30 days followed by intensive outpatient and/or 12 step program to maintain recovery. Melanie READ MORE
A program tailored to substance use disorders usually a rehabilitation center for 30 days followed by intensive outpatient and/or 12 step program to maintain recovery. Melanie Sholtis, Psy.D. Licensed Psychologist (240)-210-9003

How long is therapy for panic attacks?

The length of the therapeutic process varies from individual to individual and is based a number of factors- typically for panic and related anxiety disorders a minimum of 6 months READ MORE
The length of the therapeutic process varies from individual to individual and is based a number of factors- typically for panic and related anxiety disorders a minimum of 6 months is needed. Melanie Sholtis, Psy.D. Licensed Psychologist (240)-210-9003

How long should I take medications for panic attacks?

This is a question better suited for a psychiatrist who prescribes medication. Melanie Sholtis, Psy.D. Licensed Psychologist (240)-210-9003

Can gambling addiction be fixed with therapy?

There are specific therapies that can be effective for Gambling addiction- a specific program tailored to this type of addiction would be a better option typically. Melanie Sholtis, READ MORE
There are specific therapies that can be effective for Gambling addiction- a specific program tailored to this type of addiction would be a better option typically. Melanie Sholtis, Psy.D. Licensed Psychologist (240)-210-9003

Should I see a doctor for my anxiety attacks?

Yes a psychotherapist will be the treatment provider to start with then together you can develop a treatment plan. Melanie Sholtis, Psy.D. Licensed Psychologist (240)-210-9003

Can panic attacks be fixed with medications?

The best treatment for panic attacks is a combination of medication and psychotherapy- typically cognitive-behavioral therapy. Melanie Sholtis, Psy.D. Licensed Psychologist (240)-210-9003 READ MORE
The best treatment for panic attacks is a combination of medication and psychotherapy- typically cognitive-behavioral therapy. Melanie Sholtis, Psy.D. Licensed Psychologist (240)-210-9003

How long does it take for antidepressants to work?

This is not my area of expertise- should ask a psychiatrist for detailed information. Typically; however, it takes most SSRI medications 4-6 weeks to be effective. Melanie Sholtis, READ MORE
This is not my area of expertise- should ask a psychiatrist for detailed information. Typically; however, it takes most SSRI medications 4-6 weeks to be effective. Melanie Sholtis, Psy.D. Licensed Psychologist (240)-210-9003

How long is a psychotherapy course for anxiety?

The process of psychotherapy varies from person to person when anxiety is the primary referral question. For some, 2-3 months can be sufficient, others need 6 months, others stay READ MORE
The process of psychotherapy varies from person to person when anxiety is the primary referral question. For some, 2-3 months can be sufficient, others need 6 months, others stay in maintenance therapy to manage their anxiety throughout their lives. Melanie Sholtis, Psy.D. Licensed Psychologist (240)-210-9003

Can a psychiatrist help with my anxiety?

Yes, a psychiatrist can prescribe medication to help reduce anxiety; however, the most effective treatment for anxiety is a combination of medication and cognitive-behavioral therapy. READ MORE
Yes, a psychiatrist can prescribe medication to help reduce anxiety; however, the most effective treatment for anxiety is a combination of medication and cognitive-behavioral therapy.

Can anti-anxiety medications help with depression?

Antidepressant medications are first line treatment for depression. Some antidepressants also treat anxiety but drugs used primarily to treat anxiety would not usually be indicated READ MORE
Antidepressant medications are first line treatment for depression. Some antidepressants also treat anxiety but drugs used primarily to treat anxiety would not usually be indicated to treat depression. Melanie Sholtis, Psy.D. Licensed Psychologist (240)-210-9003

Is a psychiatrist goof for treating panic attacks?

A psychiatrist can prescribe medication that can reduce the intensity and severity of panic symptoms; however, cognitive-behavioral work is needed in psychotherapy to manage the READ MORE
A psychiatrist can prescribe medication that can reduce the intensity and severity of panic symptoms; however, cognitive-behavioral work is needed in psychotherapy to manage the panic symptoms and root causes of the anxiety. Melanie Sholtis, Psy.D. Licensed Psychologist (240)-210-9003

Should I go to therapy for depression?

Yes. Research shows that the combination of medication and psychotherapy is the most effective treatment for depression. There are often behavioral changes, lifestyle changes, READ MORE
Yes. Research shows that the combination of medication and psychotherapy is the most effective treatment for depression. There are often behavioral changes, lifestyle changes, and changes in thinking that need to occur as part of the treatment process for depression, which would be work completed in psychotherapy. Melanie Sholtis, Psy.D. Licensed Psychologist (240)-210-9003

Do antidepressants help with aggressive behavior?

There isn't a direct answer to this question because there could be many causal factors for aggressive behavior to include modeling behavior from family of origin, an undiagnosed READ MORE
There isn't a direct answer to this question because there could be many causal factors for aggressive behavior to include modeling behavior from family of origin, an undiagnosed mood disorder, psychosis, substance abuse, and the list could be exhaustive. Antidepressant medication alone typically won't curb aggressive behavior, but the patient would need an accurate diagnosis to determine the appropriate treatment method.

What do counselors do for anxiety?

Therapists typically do cognitive-behavioral therapy for anxiety which is a systematic way of challenging irrational thoughts while also developing behavioral strategies for managing READ MORE
Therapists typically do cognitive-behavioral therapy for anxiety which is a systematic way of challenging irrational thoughts while also developing behavioral strategies for managing anxious symptoms. Melanie Sholtis, Psy.D. Licensed Psychologist (240)-210-9003

How can family therapy help with OCD?

OCD is best treated with Exposure and Response Prevention Treatment, which research has proven is the most effective treatment method. Family members can best help an individual READ MORE
OCD is best treated with Exposure and Response Prevention Treatment, which research has proven is the most effective treatment method. Family members can best help an individual with OCD by educating themselves on the disorder and avoiding reinforcing the obsessions/ compulsions when interacting with the family member.

What are the best methods used to treat depression?

Depending on the severity of depression, research indicates combination treatment of psychotherapy and medication tends to be the most effective in treatment of depressive symptoms. READ MORE
Depending on the severity of depression, research indicates combination treatment of psychotherapy and medication tends to be the most effective in treatment of depressive symptoms. Melanie Sholtis, Psy.D. Licensed Psychologist (240)-210-9003

What is the recommended treatment for childhood schizophrenia?

Typically, once a child is diagnosed with Schizophrenia, the treatment is a combination of medication, individual and family psychotherapies. I don't treat children in my practice READ MORE
Typically, once a child is diagnosed with Schizophrenia, the treatment is a combination of medication, individual and family psychotherapies. I don't treat children in my practice but would recommend the treatment providers you choose specialize in psychosis in children as it is not common. Melanie Sholtis, Psy.D. Licensed Psychologist (240)-210-9003