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Frances Merz

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ, Ocean Gate
Counselor License Type(s): MA, LPC
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
19 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey with over 19 years of experience working as a clinical counselor. I believe that when individuals seek counseling it is because they want to make changes in their lives. They may want to improve a life situation, solve a particular problem, make a decision, or achieve a greater understanding of life or personal circumstances. I utilize a variety of counseling techniques from an eclectic collection of theoretical orientation, based on the needs and strengths of the individual client. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including low self-esteem/self-confidence, social anxiety, anxiety, parenting problems, career challenges , and everyday stress that we experience. I enjoy working with college students, as well as individuals trying to work through transitions in their lives. I do not work with marriage counseling, relationship counseling,, or serious mental illness online. I am also interested in working with individuals who are contemplating weight loss surgery or are post weight loss surgery patients and are looking for a counselor experienced in this area. I also like working with clients who need assistance with medical advocacy. This is when a client is having health issues and is not sure how to maneuver the medical field, brainstorm questions to ask medical providers, and to cope with the overall issues of dealing with a medical situation. I have been involved in medical field through personal experience since I was a teenager and have learned some helpful tips along the way that I would like to share with others. Counseling is a joint effort, which can not be successful without your hard work, energy, and courage. I do not use a cookie cutter approach to treatment. Meaning treatment techniques are chosen based on your needs, strengths, and weaknesses. Not every approach works for everyone and I believe in being flexible so that my clients have the opportunity to get the most out of their time in counseling. I look forward to be able to support and empower you in your therapeutic goals. I look forward to working with you! A note on my availability: I want to let you know about my general availability for counseling. I think it is important to let my clients know when I’m available so they can know when to expect a reply to a message. I am available Monday-Thursday. I will usually return messages within 24 hours.

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Gina Peccia

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ, Ocean Gate
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

My name is Gina Peccia, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of New Jersey. With over 15 years of experience, I have developed a sound and well-received reputation of being a very compassionate and effective therapist in my area. I am a graduate of Seton Hall University, and achieved high honors upon completion of my Master's degree in Counseling and my Bachelor's degree in Business Administration. After experience in a variety of community mental health settings, I started a private practice in 2011. I treat adolescents and adults with a variety of clinical issues (mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, etc.), as well as supporting and coaching clients through difficult life circumstances. I am a proponent of a 'person-centered' therapy approach, which means I will always meet the client where they are in their journey. It seems that life is so complicated these days, that there is no time for YOU. As a therapist with 15+ years of experience, I am here to help you identify those areas of your life that require change, and set reasonable goals. If you are suffering with clinical symptoms that are affecting your life, I can assist you in working to overcome them. I will always convey a sense of concern and trust essential to any therapeutic relationship. It is my priority to engage you in a calm and welcoming manner, so that you can finally just breathe and relax in order to attain your goals. I believe in the value of mindfulness in our daily lives. I will guide you slowly to focus on the present moment, rather than get stuck in the past or worry about a future that is unknown. This simple concept has a powerful effect on change, allowing a sense of well-being that will positively impact your life.

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Richard Campbell

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ, Ocean Gate
Counselor License Type(s): LPC NCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
13 years of experience

I am a New Jersey based licensed professional counselor, with seventeen years in the mental health profession, and 40 years of helping individuals, couples, and families to emotional and relational wholeness. I have worked extensively with clients on depression, anxiety, multiple and varied family crises, relationship issues, personal development and emotional issues including anger management, self-doubt, and low self esteem. I have also assisted clients with phobias and obsessive compulsive disorder. My counseling approach is a mix of cognitive-behavioral and person centered therapies. However, I have employed aspects of narrative, attachment, and psychodynamic theories at various times because each client is different, with varied strengths, comfort levels, and life perceptions. Finally, I aim to provide genuineness and acceptance first and skill second, because I believe clients need and deserve an environment in which their trust can thrive. I am at your service!

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Mary Ann Godefroy

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ, Ocean Gate
Counselor License Type(s): LPCC,LPC,LAADC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) I am committed to maintaining a personal environment that ensures my clients receive the individual attention and the services that best meet their needs. I work mainly with the individual adult population who are seeking to address a variety of issues and I provide comprehensive psychological services in a warm, supportive, and professional atmosphere. I help my clients effectively work through the problems they face in response to stress, difficult life transitions, relationship issues, emotional and behavioral difficulties as well as substance abuse and addiction. I use an integrative treatment approach to promote insight, individual growth, improved coping and interpersonal skills, and movement toward a contented and more fulfilling life. Cognitive-Behavioral (CBT), Psychodynamic/Insight-Oriented, Interpersonal and Motivational Interviewing Therapy Techniques are used to facilitate personal growth and treat an array of specific issues. Some of the issues worked on include but are not limited to: Depression & other Mood Disorders, Anxiety, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Panic Disorder, Substance Abuse/Addictions & Major Life Transitions. By applying complementary therapy approaches & techniques we will help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating!

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Julie Schehr

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ, Ocean Gate
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am licensed in New Jersey with 25 years of professional work experience. I am warm and engaging and I am usually able to connect with most. I would say my expertise would be helping those who are facing a life change or transition. Someone going through a break-up, graduating college, changing jobs. Also, with an extensive background working on the medical side, I am very comfortable helping those facing a medical diagnosis, or helping their loved one cope with one. I primarily treat using the CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) model, and mostly provide short term therapy with the idea that you learn new strategies and tools to manage life stressors, and you no longer need therapy. I firmly believe no two experiences are the same, so although I have talked to many people, I want to hear your story and how things impacted you. We will focus on the goals you have set for treatment. It takes courage to seek help and take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey. My goal is for you to feel as comfortable as possible in speaking with me and to work as a team to meet your desired goals.

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Mideline Belcher

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ, Ocean Gate
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
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, 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!

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Hilda Santiago

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ, Ocean Gate
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
9 years of experience

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!

This is Maureen Hinds's avatar and link to their profile

Maureen Hinds

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ, Ocean Gate
Self esteem
20 years of experience

I am licensed in New Jersey with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients find solutions for success by promoting positive changes in attitude and emotional functioning, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. 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.

This is Toyin Obajinmi's avatar and link to their profile

Toyin Obajinmi

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ, Ocean Gate
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementDepression
10 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor in New Jersey with 10 years of professional work experience. Also, I am a Certified Telemental Health Provider, Certified Dialectical Behavioral Therapy-Provider, and Certified Clinical Trauma Provider. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & 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 takes courage and getting started could be overwhelming. Healing begins when you seek help, it progresses when you start receiving help. Connect with me for therapeutic support and be well again.

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Rebecca Butz

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ, Ocean Gate
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

Hi! I'm so glad you're here. I am a New Jersey licensed clinician with 12 years of professional experience. I enjoy connecting with people from a wide range of backgrounds and life experiences. My interpersonal style can be described as warm, nonjudgmental, unconditionally accepting, and encouraging. If you are seeking help managing stress and anxiety, depression, relationship issues, the effects of trauma and abuse, motivation, or self confidence, I am here to help.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Ocean Gate

Finding the best therapist close by in Ocean Gate 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 Ocean Gate 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 Ocean Gate. 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 Ocean Gate, 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 Ocean Gate 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 Ocean Gate 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 Ocean Gate 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 Ocean Gate 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 Ocean Gate, 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 therapists and mental health services

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Ocean Gate 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 Ocean Gate 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 Ocean Gate 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 Ocean Gate 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 Ocean Gate online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Ocean Gate, 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 Ocean Gate 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 Ocean Gate 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 Ocean Gate 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 Ocean Gate?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Ocean Gate 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 Ocean Gate 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 Ocean Gate 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 08740 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 Ocean Gate counselor?

Before seeing your Ocean Gate 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. Ocean Gate 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 Ocean Gate 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 Ocean Gate 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 Ocean Gate, 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.

Ocean Gate 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 Ocean Gate, 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 Ocean Gate 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 Ocean Gate.

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

08740

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