Meet Our Team
About Ingrid Ponciano, LCMFT
Behavioral Health Expert & Administrative Support for Patient Wellness
Ingrid Ponciano, LCMFT, is a highly respected mental health professional and the Founder & CEO of Vertex Counseling and Wellness. With extensive experience in individual, family, and couples therapy, she brings a unique and compassionate perspective to patient care and practice development.
Ingrid holds a Master’s degree in Couples and Family Therapy from Drexel University in Philadelphia, PA, and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Maryland, College Park. Her clinical expertise and leadership play a pivotal role in supporting both patients and clinicians at this practice.
A Dedication to Mental Health & Holistic Wellness
Ingrid began her career in community mental health, working at Crosswinds Mental Health Center in Kansas. After obtaining her clinical license, she established a thriving private practice, serving clients across all life stages—from adolescents to older adults. At the same time, she worked as a counselor at Emporia State University, guiding young adults through academic, career, and personal challenges.
In 2017, Ingrid returned to her hometown in Maryland, where she expanded her private practice, specializing in couples counseling using the Gottman Method. Her strength-based, solution-focused approach empowers individuals and families to overcome communication barriers, manage stress, and navigate major life transitions.
Bringing Behavioral Health Expertise to Hormone Optimization
Recognizing the strong connection between mental health and hormonal balance, Ingrid attended specialized training in Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) through Evexias Health Solutions. This advanced education allows her to support both patients and clinicians at the administrative level, ensuring a seamless and informed experience for those seeking bio-identical hormone optimization .
With hormonal imbalances often linked to mood disorders, stress, and emotional well-being, Ingrid’s knowledge helps bridge the gap between physical and psychological health, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive, well-rounded care.
A Passion for Leadership & Patient-Centered Care
In addition to her clinical work, Ingrid is a state-approved clinical supervisor in Maryland, mentoring mental health interns and professionals in their careers. Her expertise in counseling, practice management, and behavioral health training makes her an invaluable administrative leader in this practice.
While Ingrid is not currently accepting new therapy clients, her role in guiding operations, patient education, and clinical support ensures that every patient receives personalized, high-quality care.
"Wellness isn’t just about the body—it’s about the mind, emotions, and spirit. My goal is to support patients and providers in achieving true balance and well-being."
Serving Patients in Hagerstown & Surrounding Areas – Ingrid Ponciano, LCMFT
About Dr. Ever Ponciano, MD
Compassionate Care for Every Stage of Life
Dr. Ever Ponciano is a dedicated physician with a passion for comprehensive, patient-centered care. His journey in medicine began in Hyattsville, Maryland, where he developed a deep appreciation for science and healthcare. He pursued his undergraduate studies at the University of Maryland, College Park, earning dual degrees in Biochemistry and Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics. As part of the Honors Program, he received the prestigious Howard Hughes Fellowship, which allowed him to conduct groundbreaking research and present a thesis at the conclusion of his program.
A Lifelong Commitment to Medicine and Community Care
Dr. Ponciano continued his education at Drexel University College of Medicine in Philadelphia, where he developed a passion for community service. Under the mentorship of Dr. Vincent Zarro, he worked at the Chinatown Clinic, providing essential medical care to underserved communities of diverse ethnicities and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Following medical school, he completed his residency at Albert Einstein Medical Center in Philadelphia, where he discovered his love for full-spectrum patient care. Seeking to practice medicine in its most traditional and holistic form, he moved to Kansas, where he joined a private practice and quickly became a partner within two years.
Expanding Expertise: Geriatrics, Hospice & Palliative Care
Expanding Expertise: Geriatrics, Hospice & Palliative Care
Dr. Ponciano’s dedication to continuity of care led him to expand his expertise beyond primary care. He became a Medical Director for two nursing homes, ensuring his patients received the same compassionate care in their later stages of life. His commitment deepened as he transitioned into hospice care, becoming a Hospice Physician and advocating for dignified, comfortable end-of-life care.
After seven years in Kansas, his commitment to family and community called him back home to Maryland. He joined Meritus Medical Center and Hospice of Washington County, where he earned his Hospice Medical Director Certification and was recently appointed as the Medical Director for Palliative Care.
Bringing the Future of Medicine to Maryland: Hormone Replacement Therapy & Wellness
Dr. Ponciano’s pursuit of advanced, evidence-based treatments led him to specialize in Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) and Integrative Wellness. He completed specialized training and certification through Evexias Health Solutions, gaining expertise in bio-identical hormone optimization using the EvexiPEL Method. This innovative approach to HRT utilizes patented pellet therapy to provide consistent, long-term hormone balance for both men and women
Why Hormone Optimization?
As a physician who has cared for patients at every stage of life, Dr. Ponciano understands that hormonal health is critical for overall well-being. Through EvexiPEL's cutting-edge HRT, he now helps patients struggling with:
✔ Fatigue & Low Energy
✔ Weight Gain & Metabolic Issues
✔ Brain Fog & Cognitive Decline
✔ Mood Swings, Anxiety & Depression
✔ Hormonal Imbalances Related to Aging
His goal is to help men and women regain vitality, energy, and overall health through personalized wellness plans that incorporate HRT, nutraceuticals, and lifestyle optimization.
A Personal Commitment to the Community
Dr. Ponciano and his wife, a dedicated family therapist, are thrilled to have settled back in Maryland with their family. As a family, they are actively involved in music, cross-country running, and community service. Their return to Maryland marks not just a homecoming, but a renewed commitment to serving the community—helping patients live healthier, fuller lives at every stage.
"Your health is a lifelong journey—I’m here to help you feel your best at every step." – Dr. Ever Ponciano
Serving Patients in Hagerstown & Surrounding Areas