Does life feel like a day at the boardwalk, full of beautiful views, fun things to do, and adventurous rides to be had? Or does it feel like a day fishing on the pier with no fish to bring home at the end of the day? For most of us, our lives fluctuate somewhere in the middle. For some of us, most days feel empty handed.

If you're struggling with mental health issues, you may have forgotten what the boardwalk days feel like. Please reach out to an Absecon-area professional today to get the support you need to start feeling better, and start enjoying more boardwalk days again.

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Maria Caruso

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ, Absecon
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,NCC,CT
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefCareer difficultiesDepression
20 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), National Certified Counselor (NCC) and Certified Thanatology (CT--Death Studies - Grief and Bereavement) with over 20 years of experience. I have worked with both adults and children, couples and families, in groups and individual settings with varied backgrounds and ideologies. I have worked with cancer patients and their families during the most stressful periods of their lives and have also accompanied them through loss and its aftermath. I have also worked in a corporate setting and have helped many people navigate through transition due to any number of life changes and challenges. I believe that counseling is a working partnership between the client and therapist: we both have a job to do to move the client in the agreed upon direction of why counseling was initiated. My approach to counseling is Integrative and Multimodal therapy: combining several types of therapy modalities to cater to the needs and personality of each client. These types include (but limited to) cognitive-behavioral (CBT), Cognitive, Gestalt, Psychodynamic, Person Centered and Relationship. I often use contracting, journaling, different forms of art therapy to help the client hone in on certain areas that may not readily be discussed or even consciously known. The mission is to provide hope, support, and knowledge to those of you who need to find meaning in your life no matter what stage you may be struggling through.

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Cynthia Odell

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ, Absecon
Counselor License Type(s): LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionADHD
10 years of experience

I know the kind of courage it takes to recognize being stuck and then to realize a shift is necessary. Not knowing what direction to head in is really hard and can be very scary. It's sad to realize that you are on a journey and maybe you're on this journey alone. The other important people in your life just don't see things the way you do and you can't find common ground. It's frightening to take that leap and wonder if you're going to be caught. It's painful to realize you've outgrown who you are and painful to grow into who you are becoming. It may feel like you're lost and it's very, very confusiong when you don't have a clear sense of direction but KNOW, absolutely KNOW that you've got to do something different. One of the greatest comforts my clients have reproted is that I have many years of practice reading road maps, the kind of road maps that will take you from here, where you are today to where you want to be, tomorrow, next week, next year. I love to explore new sites and find places of interest. When we begin to work together, it's easy. We start where you are today. I work with you to identify and clarify what is and has been so challenging. I'll be with you to uncover where you feel stuck. I'll help you dream and encourage you to create your vision. Then, I’ll help you set goals that match your desires and dreams. I’ll help you remember your destination – where you want to go. Then, together we’ll develop your own personalized road map for this journey of self-discovery, sort of like your own AAA Trip Tik. As you begin the journey into your greater self, I’ll be there every step of the way with you; you’ll never be alone. I have lots of navigation tools to move you from one point to the next. I have amazing strategies to shatter the roadblocks that have stopped you from moving forward in your life. I can help you get the life you never dreamed possible, the life you deserve. You are amazing. My job is to reflect that back to you, so you can see yourself as I see you; whole, perfect and complete.

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Dr. Augustine Bessong

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ, Absecon
Counselor License Type(s): P.h.D., M.S., LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionADHD
22 years of experience

Hello! My name is Augustine and some people call me Dr. B. I am a family and marriage counselor licensed in New Jersey with over 25 years of experience, working in the mental service in different capacities. I had my Ph.D. since 2000 from an APA approved University at Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including developmental disabilities, forensics, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, porn-related issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma and/or emotional trauma. And on several occasions, I have rendered services to members of the LGBTQ community. My counseling style is warm, interactive, empathic and I believe that a therapist should have effective listening skills and be able to join with the client during the counseling process. I believe in treating anyone with respect, total acceptance, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. I believe that clients have the capacity to grow in therapy and the therapist should be a catalyst in that process. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and rational-emotive counseling. I can say I'm eclectic in my approach, as clients come in therapy with different problems and no one modality in counseling is the answer to their particular problems. I will tailor our conversation and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I believe that the client must be the driver to this therapeutic journey with the therapist. Of course, it takes courage to seek for a more pleasing, satisfying and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. Change will always start from accepting that you have a problem. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you! SPECIALTIES Stress, Anxiety, PTSD, Depression Relationship issues Self esteem Career difficulties ADHD Forensics Also experienced in: Addictions , Porn-related issues, LGBT , Family conflicts , Trauma and abuse , Grief , Intimacy-related issues , Eating disorders , Sleeping disorders , Parenting issues , Anger management , Depression Years of Experience: 25 years SERVICES OFFERED

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Cheryl Chiarello

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ, Absecon
Counselor License Type(s): MS,LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefDepression
17 years of experience

From what I've observed personally, therapy is useful to anyone who is human. Why should you talk to a therapist instead of a friend or your mother? The difference is that therapists are expert listeners who do not judge, criticize, or contradict, but who want to hear everything you have to say and how you are feeling. You may want help discussing difficult thoughts and feelings or need guidance on particular issues, or you may not be sure how you feel. The therapy session offers a private, safe place where you can feel free to say everything. And if you have trouble talking, the therapist can help with that too. My mission is to offer that safe space where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment or criticism. Taking the first step to seek therapy takes courage. I’m here to support you in that process.

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michael geisert

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ, Absecon
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
27 years of experience

I am licensed in New Jersey with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in working and empowering clients manage stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, addictions, supportive counseling and anger symptoms in an array of settings. Some approaches I employ to assist you to meet your goals include Client Centered, Positive Psychology, EFT, ACT and Mindfulness. Some of these settings include outpatient and inpatient Addictions and mental health, Juvenile Justice, US Military and Veteran mental health, Public School and College. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, as we navigate this journey together. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out strategies and awareness to move forward. I am here to support, develop tools to manage yourself and clear these disruptions and enhance your life.

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Mike Conte

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ, Absecon
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
4 years of experience

I am licensed in New Jersey with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. I also have experience working with depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Kimberly Massey

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ, Absecon
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesAnger managementDepressionADHD
7 years of experience

I am licensed in New Jersey with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, anger management, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Olayinka "Mary" Akeju

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ, Absecon
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
17 years of experience

I am licensed in New Jersey with 19 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & anger management. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Linda Schmidt

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ, Absecon
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in New Jersey with 7 years of professional work experience and working with alcohol and substance abuse clients. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Barbara Carhart

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ, Absecon
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
31 years of experience

I am licensed in New Jersey with 31 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Absecon

Finding the best therapist close by in Absecon can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services with therapists in Absecon that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Absecon. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of support of this kind with BetterHelp therapists can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Absecon, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses for therapists. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained able to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Absecon region and in the state of New Jersey. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Absecon or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A Absecon therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers and therapists can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Absecon area offering:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search keep in mind what support you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Absecon, elsewhere in Atlantic, or in the greater state of New Jersey. Get matched with one of the therapists working on the BetterHelp platform today.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Absecon area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Absecon therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US with most therapists is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Absecon due to a higher cost of living, and a limited number of therapists taking new clients. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Absecon may not take health insurance, some in the state of New Jersey may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of New Jersey you can expect significantly more affordable options, with therapists sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). 

How is a licensed therapist on this Absecon online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Absecon, New Jersey working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. Therapists have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, therapists here all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from Absecon psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

How does working with a professional counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians and therapists treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Absecon above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. Get matched today.

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Our therapists specialties on BetterHelp include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This is provided by professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Behavior therapy techniques are used to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
  • EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
  • Talk therapy - Clients explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - This counseling is designed to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Sessions for anxiety disorders, offer strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Professionals experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Support and guidance are offered to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use this to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
  • Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
  • Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
  • Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
  • Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
  • Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
  • Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
  • Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
  • Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
  • Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
  • OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
  • ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
  • Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
  • Sex addiction
  • Complex trauma
  • Life transitions

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Absecon provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Absecon?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Absecon therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors and therapists are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

Therapists in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of Absecon therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Absecon therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words with a psychotherapist.

With a lot of people in NJ, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles or therapists above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 08201 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site where you can schedule a session based on your and the therapist's schedule. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Absecon counselor?

Before seeing your Absecon therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, you can let our therapists know if you have any concerns or feel unsure about what to talk about. Absecon therapists here may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what it might entail. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or specific condition. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback. A Absecon licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find with a Absecon counselor can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles that a counselor can help with.

Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?

Therapy with a licensed counselor is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health therapist has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Absecon, New Jersey can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Absecon has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online sessions to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions during telehealth appointments?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform for Absecon, New Jersey

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of Absecon therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out to customer service through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Absecon.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Absecon:

08201

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