Psychologist Maria Abada providing different types of therapy in Lavallette

Maria Abada

Clinician
License Type(s): LPC
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseCoping with life changes
15 years offering treatment

Welcome! My name is Maria and I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of New Jersey. I have over 15 years experience working in the mental health field. I have worked in a variety of settings including residential, partial care, outpatient, in-home, and addictions. Although that seems like a mouthful, it simply means that I have had experience working with a broad range and severity of clinical issues. I have the most experience working with anxiety, family/relationship conflicts, life transitions, and complex trauma/abuse. I also have experience working with depression, intellectual/developmental disabilities, mild autism, and immigration/acculturation issues. In the last 5 years I have also worked with individuals with perinatal mental health issues. My dedication to the field of mental health stems from my personal experience with it. I grew up with close loved ones living with mental illness and I have personally overcome some mental health challenges, too. I know firsthand that getting help can be a challenge. There is still so much stigma around having mental health issues, the process for getting help can be overwhelming, and it can feel so frustrating and lonely. However, I also know from experience how much life can change for the better when you find support and take steps towards taking care of yourself! I use a person-centered, holistic, multicultural, and integrative approach in treatment. This means I begin where you are and tailor the treatment approach to your needs while being sensitive to how your individual cultural identities and lifestyle choices impact your experience. I use evidence based techniques including cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused counseling. I also incorporate trauma-informed care into my work with clients. However, I do incorporate more "classical" approaches to counseling as well. I would describe my style as warm and supportive, and I am ready to help you tackle your struggle head-on. Collaboration is important - together we can work on establishing concrete goals and steps for you to help overcome your current problems. If you are looking for quick fixes, I am not the best counselor to work with. I believe in taking time and working on wellness slowly, holistically, and consistently. Just as physical health takes time and consistency, so does mental health. I look forward to helping you in any way I can! Please be advised I am currently available to provide services only to female clients. Thank you again for taking time in learning more about me.

Psychologist Dr. Tammy Freeman providing different types of therapy in Lavallette

Dr. Tammy Freeman

Clinician
License Type(s): EdD,LPC,LMHC
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
21 years offering treatment

Hello- I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been working in this field for over 20 years in various behavioral healthcare positions. I enjoy my profession! There are not many professions that challenge you as a practitioner to grow and develop just as much as the clients . I like to think of counseling as the gift that keeps on giving! If you met me about 24 years ago, I would have introduce myself as a elementary school teacher who loves working with children. I enjoyed my profession but I was not fulfilled. Through a series of highs and lows in my life, educators, family, friends and sometimes strangers were strategically placed at various points of my life which tilted me like a pinball in an arcade game to what I feel I was truly meant to do with my life. I guess you can tell I was an english literature major! I truly believe that every life has value and purpose. Sometimes it takes some of us longer than others to figure out what that purpose is but although we are apart of the human race, life is not a race. I have experience working in hospital settings, non-profit agencies, as well as private practice. Everyone will not agree with the choices that we make in our lives but if we can look in the mirror and be happy with the person you see looking back at you, you've won! I try to provide my clients with a safe place to learn, grow and sometimes to simply breathe and put yourself first. There is not one definition of happiness. Every person's idea of happiness is different and unique. I would welcome the opportunity to hear your idea of happiness and if you do not know it right now, help you define happiness for you. I look forward to hearing from you soon! Be Well, Dr. Tammy Freeman SPECIALTIES Stress, Anxiety Relationship issues Self esteem Depression Coping with life changes Also experienced in: Family conflicts , Trauma and abuse , Grief , Intimacy-related issues , Sleeping disorders , Parenting issues , Anger management , Career difficulties , Bipolar disorder , Coaching , working with Veterans and First Responders. Years of Experience: 20

Psychologist Michael Mcbrearty providing different types of therapy in Lavallette

Michael Mcbrearty

Clinician
License Type(s): LCSW, CASAC, LLC
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefAnger managementDepression
20 years offering treatment

My therapy style is open, genuine, accepting and non-judgmental. I believe in treating everyone with dignity, respect and compassion. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, motivational interviewing and mindfulness-based approaches. Through a warm, empathetic and supportive environment we can begin to work together to provide relief and to help work through any challenges or obstacles you may be experiencing. I graduated from Rutgers University with a Master Degree in Social Work and I'm a licensed clinical therapist in both New Jersey and New York. I am also a credentialed alcohol and substance abuse counselor in the state of New York. My path started in college when i decided to switch majors and decided that I wanted to go into the helping field and to be able to help others. Therapy takes commitment and courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to be able to work towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you.

Psychologist Dr. Sheri Balsam providing different types of therapy in Lavallette

Dr. Sheri Balsam

Clinician
License Type(s): Psy.D.
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years offering treatment

Hello, and welcome! My name is Dr. Sheri Balsam. I am a licensed psychologist, and earned my Psy.D. with a concentration in Multicultural Psychology from Rutgers University. I have completed extensive clinical training working with teenagers and adults in a variety of settings, and have specialized postdoctoral training in CBT. I am passionate about providing effective, empirically-based care, integrating CBT, DBT, and psychodynamic techniques into my work. Drawing from these modalities, I formulate appropriate, individualized interventions that target symptom relief and reduce emotional distress. In my practice, I aim to help you discover, utilize, and maximize personal strengths in order to cultivate meaningful, long lasting change. I am experienced in treating a range of anxiety and depressive disorders, those struggling with life transitions, relationship/marital issues, and eating disorders. Through the myriad of interventions at my disposal and the profound power of a therapeutic relationship, clients learn to understand the factors preventing them from experiencing life satisfactions they deserve and/or the kind of close, intimate relationships they desire. I strive to create a warm, nonjudgmental atmosphere where my clients can acquire effective coping skills, communication techniques, and the tools necessary to facilitate the change desired in their life or relationship. My approach to therapy is collaborative, supportive, and empathetic. I seek to make each client feel comfortable, heard, and understood. I am committed to helping you understand yourself on a deeper level and employ new tools to overcome beliefs and patterns that are no longer serving you, so that you can live a life in accordance with your personal goals and values. I view any individual’s entrance into therapy as an expression of courage and hope. It is a privilege to be invited into your narrative to navigate this journey of personal healing and transformational growth. Thank you for visiting this site and for taking the time to read about me! I understand that choosing the right therapist for you is an important decision. Please do not hesitate to reach out to me by email, as I am more than happy to answer any questions you may have. I look forward to speaking with you!

Psychologist Shannon Dahse providing different types of therapy in Lavallette

Shannon Dahse

Clinician
License Type(s): LPC
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCoping with life changes
10 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey and I have over ten years of experience in counseling. I have worked with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, motivation, learning difficulties, relationship issues, substance abuse, and grief. I have worked with the LGBTQ population, as well as with people who have dealt with physical and emotional trauma. I believe that we are all capable of making changes to support our overall well-being. Determining positive coping strategies and emotional support are key focuses in my work with clients. Therapy is a great way to express your feelings, discuss your struggles, and identify areas of strength. I look forward to supporting you in your journey towards better mental health!

Psychologist Gregory Speed providing different types of therapy in Lavallette

Gregory Speed

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Trauma and abuseGriefCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
47 years offering treatment

I am licensed in New Jersey with 47 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, career difficulties, & depression. I have experience working with Veterans and currently sit on the Board of a local Veterans group called Citizens Veterans Advisory Committee. I have worked with Veterans impacted by a number of combat related tours. My son is currently a Lt. Colonel in the USAF and a combat veteran of multiple tours in Afghanistan. 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.

Psychologist Hilda Santiago providing different types of therapy in Lavallette

Hilda Santiago

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
9 years offering treatment

I am licensed in New Jersey with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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!

Psychologist Sharon Smith-Kemper providing different types of therapy in Lavallette

Sharon Smith-Kemper

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
16 years offering treatment

I am licensed in New Jersey with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & 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.

Psychologist Adolfo Lopez-Quintero providing different types of therapy in Lavallette

Adolfo Lopez-Quintero

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
16 years offering treatment

I am licensed therapist in New Jersey with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Ashley Mistak providing different types of therapy in Lavallette

Ashley Mistak

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
3 years offering treatment

I am licensed in New Jersey with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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.

How to find a licensed therapist serving clients in Lavallette, New Jersey

Finding the best therapist close by in Lavallette can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area. You can get connected with a clinician 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 that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing. 

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist. 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, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

Licensed therapists & mental health professionals available through BetterHelp

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 clinician or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained able to treat individuals and couples, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Lavallette 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 professional working through their own in-person therapy practice in Lavallette or online may assist 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  may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers 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 Lavallette area offering therapy for:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use
  • Couples

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 Lavallette, elsewhere in Ocean, 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 licensed therapists and mental health services

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

How does the cost of an in-person therapist compare to BetterHelp?

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 Lavallette 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:

  • With a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • With therapists: $100-300
  • With a clinician: $100

While many psychologists in Lavallette 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 sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

Read more about this cost related question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.

How are therapists on a Lavallette online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in 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. 

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

Read more about this license question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.

How does BetterHelp online therapy work?

BetterHelp clinicians 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 Lavallette 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 for in person sessions.

Through BetterHelp, 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, and more. Get matched today.

Read more about this question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.

What mental health issues can a therapist address?

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.

Lavallette therapists' specialties available through the BetterHelp platform

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 provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain.us, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists.

Read more about this psychotherapist question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.

Is BetterHelp right for me?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a 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 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 therapy in Lavallette 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 therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of 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 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 08735 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 around or in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

Read more about this family question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Lavallette therapist?

Before seeing your therapist near you, 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. therapists near you 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 how to best help and support you.

Read more about this first session question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.

Should I find a Lavallette 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 Lavallette 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 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.

Read more about this question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.

Is therapy 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. An experienced clinician 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 licensed clinician in Lavallette, 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.

Counseling with an online Lavallette provider

Lavallette 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 trying it online, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change 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 treatment.

Do therapists judge you in therapy?

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 BetterHelp, the leading therapist platform serving the population of 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 therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to BetterHelp 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.

  • Thehotline.org - National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
  • Suicidepreventionlifeline.org - National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
  • Crisistextline.org - Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
  • Veteranscrisisline.net - Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
  • Thetrevorproject.org - Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386 
  • Samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline - SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
  • Nationaleatingdisorders.org/help-support/contact-helpline - National Eating Disorder Association Helpline :1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
  • Childhelphotline.org/resources-for-teens/ - Child Help Hotline:  Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
  • Fraternallaw.com/help-us-stop-hazing - National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293) 
  • Physiciansupportline.com - Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
  • Rainn.org - Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673

 

Therapy with a therapist online.
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Finding therapy in Lavallette can change your life. Expert therapy provides valuable insights into managing stress, building resilience, and nurturing emotional growth. With personalized guidance and compassionate support, from a licensed mental health therapist serving clients in your area, you can gain tools to overcome life’s obstacles and improve overall well-being. It's beneficial to embrace therapy in order to unlock new paths toward happiness and lasting self-improvement. Experience renewed strength and clarity with BetterHelp online counseling services. Seeking expert guidance from a seasoned therapy counselor can foster resilience and personal growth. Embracing professional therapy allows individuals to address emotional challenges effectively while gaining insight and self-assurance. Therapy enhances overall well-being, inspires healthier relationships, and empowers you to navigate life's obstacles with renewed clarity and confidence beyond measure.
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