The Franklin Lakes Nature Preserve is known for its excellent hiking trails. Your life’s path can be just as beautiful as a walk in the woods, but pain, loss, and stress can leave you too emotionally exhausted to make the progress you desire.
When your mental health is not at its best, moving forward with your life can be emotionally tiring and painful. With the right help, you can find the strength and self-knowledge you need to keep going. Talk with a counselor in the Franklin Lakes area to find your unique path to a better life.

Dana Spitz
I am an LCSW licensed in the state of New Jersey with over 20 years of experience working as a therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma, emotional abuse, and parenting struggles. I have worked with adults, families, children and teenagers. When I engage a client in counseling, my approach is client centered. I will work with you to determine what the underlying cause is of your struggles and develop goals with you to lessen and manage those struggles. I work with sensitivity and sensitivity and compassion. I work as a partner with my client, focusing on their strengths and moving them forward to healing. My approach combines cognitive behavioral and solution focused therapy. We will develop a treatment plan together to meet your specific needs, and when we identify a barrier that gets in the way of your specific needs, we will work on a plan to remove that barrier. It takes courage and humility to admit that you need help, and to seek counseling for that help, but taking that first step toward a change will lead to insight about why you are struggling and new skills to manage your struggle and heal from your pain. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support you and empower you in your journey of healing through your pain. My goal is for your healing, and to walk with you in the process. I truly look forward to working with you!

Dana Phillips
I believe the human connection is one of life's most powerful gifts. Meaningful relationships can propel people to do great things and be the best version of themselves, which is why I approach every counseling relationship with the utmost respect and a humble heart knowing how brave people are to allow me into their innermost thoughts and feelings. My twelve years of diverse experience in the counseling field has taught me that establishing trust, non-judgment, and open dialogue is essential to best outcomes when working in the counseling relationship. My graduate work was completed at The College of New Jersey, a CACREP accredited counseling program, with a focus in school counseling and substance use prevention, education, intervention, and referrals. My twelve years of field and professional experience include working with children and families in the school counseling setting in areas of concern such as academic, social, emotional counseling, and crisis intervention. Common counseling topics that surface for youth and families are emotional health concerns (i.e., anxiety, depression, anger management, etc.), loss and grief, self-esteem and self-image, relationship and dating issues, family conflict, substance use and abuse, college and career planning, time management and organization, post traumatic stress, and perfectionism, to name a few. My educational background, national and state certifications (National Board Certified Counselor, Licensed Professional Counselor, Student Assistance Coordinator, and Masters in School Counseling), and professional experience have allowed me the opportunity to also work with clients of diverse backgrounds in a private practice setting and through contracted work within my state's Children's System of Care. I intentionally work within a client-centered philosophy that encourages a variety of theoretical and practical therapeutic approaches to counseling as I genuinely believe there is "no one way" to approach every client, situation, or session. Theoretical practices that frequently guide my work with clients include Positive Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Humanistic and Systems Theory. I have also found that displaying genuine concern and regard for the well being of those whom I work with is the most effective way to ensure positive outcomes. I would love to work with clients whose commitment toward emotional growth and health compliment my dedication and enthusiasm to support and encourage them during their personal journey.

Doreen Guddemi
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of New Jersey with decades of experience , I understand that taking the first step to reach out for help and outside support oftentimes can be hard. In fact, doing so is a sign of strength. Are you feeling stressed, overwhelmed at home or work; do you have strained relationships with others , unresolved issues from your past, or not feeling good about yourself? Whatever challenges you are currently facing or obstacles getting in the way of your inner peace and happiness, it is important for you to find a safe place where you feel respected, valued and affirmed. I utilize a strength based, reality and client centered approach in working with individuals, couples and families. Here, you will be listened to with empathy and compassion. The bottom line is you are not alone. We will work together to navigate your journey toward a better, brighter and more fulfilling tomorrow. One of my clients said it best (used with her permission) "Each week it feels like you ask to hold something heavy that I've been carrying for years. You have me explain how I got it, why I've kept it and why I no longer need or want to carry it anymore. By doing that, you keep it for me and I don't have to pick that weight back up. You've made me feel so much lighter, thank you". Therapy will be a journey we will navigate together and it will be my honor to do so.

Beverly Hodsden
I have been a behavioral therapist for over thirty years. I am licensed as a Professional Counselor and Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor. Counseling is a collaborative partnership between the therapist and client to help move the client forward in their life. I believe in supporting the dignity of all people and that they should be treated with respect and compassion regardless of what issues they may have.

Dr. Denise Horton
I am licensed in New Jersey with 40 years of professional work experience. I am a counseling psychologist looking towards your strengths and capabilities. I have experience in helping clients with anger management, motivation, self esteem, confidence, and coping with life changes. 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. I would NOT tell you what to do, but guide you to what you think is best for you.

Michelle Sheedy
Congratulations on your first step to a healthier you. It takes courage and you have fo allow yourself to be vulnerable to take this journey. I’d love to join you. My experience is heavily focused on anxiety, depression, and insomnia. Got the blues? I can help.* Feeling anxious? I can help with that, too.* Can’t sleep? I have a few tricks*. I started my career in 2006 when I finished graduate school. I have served in several capacities as a social worker over the last almost 20 years to include In Home Community Based Therapy, Family Advocacy Program- Fort Dix, NJ, Walter Reed, Washington, NJ, Homeland Security, Washington, DC, Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, Administration for Children and Families, Department of Veterans Affairs. Chances are…I’ve heard it! ???? *using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Salina Mecham
Hey there! My name is Salina Mecham. I attended the University of Utah and received a bachelor's and master's degree in Social Work and a certification in substance use treatment. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Master Addiction Counselor (MAC), and Domestic Violence Intervention Treatment Counselor (DVP). I am fully licensed in the states of Utah, Washington, and New Jersey. I have worked with adults and adolescents and enjoy all ages. I got my start in group homes for troubled youth, and I can truly say that I have never felt more fulfillment in my life than when I was getting chairs thrown at my head, and called names that I can never repeat, because in those moments, I was present and doing what I could to help a person in pain. I eventually moved on to work in a behavioral health hospital where people came when they hit their limit and could no longer cope with living, or their mental health was affecting their ability to function in their lives. I am currently the CEO of Willapa Behavioral Health & Wellness, a community behavioral health agency. I continue to offer treatment at the agency for mental health, substance use disorders, domestic violence intervention treatment, and couples counseling. I also serve clients on BetterHelp because I love providing therapy and don't get to do it nearly enough as a CEO. I am working on getting trained in the Gottman method (couples counseling). My preference is to utilize video sessions so that I can read the situation more clearly. I can, and do, use the phone, but will not use the live chat option because I have found that concepts and meanings tend to get lost because so many nonverbal queues are not seen. I also utilize the email option often, and return all emails sent to me within 48 hours. When time permits, I can open up special times for sessions if there is an emergency. I feel it is important for my clients to spend their week being aware of the things that happen around them, and how those things affect them, and to be prepared with those and other things they would like to address in their session. I also value honest feed back said to me in the moment. I can make adjustments in my approach if I know it isn't hitting where you need it to. Honesty and openness is so important in therapy and can add so much to the quality of your experience. I tend to take an eclectic approach to counseling because one size does not fit all. I pull from CBT, ACT, DBT, REBT, and I am trained in, and use EMDR for trauma treatment. It is very important to me that I create a safe place for all my clients. Judgement has no place in my practice. I believe strongly in the golden rule and kindness, curiosity, validation, comfort, and safety are very important to me. No matter the issue, I am open and ready to help you navigate it in a way that can help keep you intact and moving forward.

Mideline Belcher
I am licensed in New Jersey with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & bipolar disorder. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Dr. Lawrence Mintzer
I am licensed in New Jersey and Pennsylvania with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. 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. 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.

Eric Losada
Eric Losada is a compassionate psychotherapist, counselor, and life coach who wants to make a difference in people’s lives. He thrives on empathy and strives to create a safe environment for every client. Eric works tirelessly to empower his clients to reach their goals and create the lives they long for—because he believes every individual has the strength to heal and grow. In private practice, I like to take a hands-on approach in assisting my clients. I also take a nonjudgmental approach toward my clients and accept them as who they are, while also assisting them to become the people they want to be. Through my 20 years of experience I have become skilled in providing therapy for adults and couples. I work with clients (and their families) in a collaborative and respectful manner utilizing a combination of treatment approaches tailored to meet each client's specific needs.
Find a therapist serving clients in New Jersey
What types of therapists are available to clients in Franklin Lakes?
Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist. Be sure to narrow your search for therapists in Franklin Lakes that can offer psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), therapeutic talk therapy, group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy depending on your needs.
Licensed therapists & mental health professionals available through BetterHelp's online platform
Mental health therapists in Franklin Lakes available through BetterHelp are accredited as psychologists to help individuals and couples. Franklin Lakes therapists' credentials can include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinician or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, Franklin Lakes therapists are trained in any type of therapy in the Franklin Lakes region and in the state of New Jersey.
How can a therapist help you destress, manage your emotions, and guide you towards the life you want?
Therapists in Franklin Lakes can help clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples challenges, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family life, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist in Franklin Lakes may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment.
Is it better to find a mental health counselor or therapist in Franklin Lakes offering online therapy or in person?
Studies show online therapy can be just as effective as in-person counseling. Online therapy with licensed counselors is often more affordable, with BetterHelp pricing ranging from $65-$100 weekly, while in person therapy can cost up to $200 per session.