Therapists serving clients in Ridgefield, NJ

I have always seemed to be in a helping position. Before graduating high school I started work at a large veterinarian hospital/boarding kennel in Blue Bell, PA as an animal health technician and then the hospital administrator, where I stayed for over 15 years. I decided to return to school to pursue a degree in psychology and have been in the mental health field since 1998, working for such organizations as Special Equestrians as a side aid volunteer assisting people with physical and/or mental health disabilities and Lenape Valley Foundation as both a house advisor and a Partial Hospital Program group therapist for people with severe and persistent mental illness. I also worked for Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia for their Narcotic Addict Rehabilitation Program where I was a counselor for people addicted to heroin. I recently worked for Catholic Charities in NJ in the roles of therapist for the Adolescent Intensive Outpatient Program working with kids diagnosed with substance abuse or dependence, as well as a clinical supervisor for the Comprehensive Family Treatment of Addictions Program (CFTA). This led to the position of Program Director for CFTA, the Therapeutic After-School Program (a therapeutic group for kids ages 8-12) and an In-home therapy/case management program, while also carrying a small direct-service caseload at my private practice. Finally, after taking the position of Service Area Director, with responsibility for 13 substance abuse, mental health and social service programs, I realized that I was moving further and further away from my original ambition of providing one to one service to clients. This realization led to my decision to get back into direct service. The ability to provide a safe environment for people to share their feelings, thoughts, and experiences is essential to effective counseling. Studies have shown no one therapeutic modality utilized by therapists is superior to another; rather, clinicians themselves ultimately determine whether treatment will prove effective. It’s not about the model being used; it’s the relationship between the counselor and client. This principle guides my work, in that I strive to provide a client-centered, strength-based counseling setting to individuals, couples and adolescents for issues related to addiction, anxiety, career or relationships. I look to my clients to be the experts of themselves, which encourages them to guide the therapy where it needs to go. What I offer is a space to gain insight in order for that insight to become the catalyst for change. I believe that once a person sees their truth, they have no choice but to accept that truth…though we often do our best not to. Each of us develops psychological schemas that teach us how to interact with people and the world. When we grow accustomed to a certain pattern of behavior, however, we look to repeat it, even after it’s outlived its usefulness. Addiction, for instance, is a maladaptive coping skill that worked at one time but does no longer. With a background in English literature, I bring a decidedly post-modern perspective to my therapeutic approach. One of the concepts I utilize is Narrative Therapy, which encourages and compassionately challenges clients to be mindful of the story they’re telling to better utilize their strengths. This theory acknowledges the power of language, in that not only does the language we use reflect how we feel, it also affects how we feel. Therefore, the words we choose to use can help to manifest the changes we hope to bring about. The idea is to encourage the use of more positive words as opposed to negative words while telling our life story. I have found this approach to be remarkably effective in helping clients confront the challenges of their lives in order to bring about lasting and meaningful change. Other approaches and techniques I draw from include Humanistic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Motivational Enhancement Therapy (with a strong working knowledge of Motivational Interviewing), Trauma Informed Therapy, and Systems Theory. I find it satisfying to be part of helping people discover who they can be and realize that perhaps they’re more than who they thought they were. Ultimately, if each of us can achieve balance and make our own little corner of the world a little bit more satisfying and a little safer, we help to create a better reality for all of us. Degrees and Credentials Bachelors Degree in Psychology/English Literature from Arcadia University in Glenside PA Masters Degree in Clinical/Counseling Psychology from La Salle University in Philadelphia PA PA Board Licensed Professional Counselor PA Board Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor PA Board Certified Clinical Supervisor PA Board Certificate of Competency in Problem Gambling NJ Board Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor NJ Board Licensed Professional Counselor NJ Board Certified Clinical Supervisor Member of the Psi Chi, Phi Theta Kappa, and Sigma Tau Delta National Honor Societies. Modalities and techniques I draw from include Humanistic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Enhancement Therapy (with a strong working knowledge of Motivational Interviewing), Trauma Informed Therapy, Mindfulness, and Systems Theory. I have experience in dealing with: Relationship issues Anxiety/stress Chemical addiction Gambling addiction Compulsive behaviors (such as sexual “addiction”) Anger Management Codependency Self Esteem PTSD

I am a Licensed Marriage and family therapist family and marriage counselor licensed in New Jersey and Delaware with 6 years working in outpatient mental health. I have also worked in residential treatment facilities for at risk youth and I have been a mental health therapist providing counseling for foster care children. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, grief, attachment issues, couples counseling which includes divorce mediation, adultery, or phase of life issues. I also work with those struggling with relationship issues. parenting problems, career challenges, and oppositional disorders. I have worked with veterans and military families during an internship in Hawaii. As a military spouse from a retired Army soldier, I have a first hand understanding of the struggles and anxiety, stress, and emotional struggles that present in the military culture. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and inviting. I am down to earth, I ask questions for a deeper understanding and most importantly I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. I like for my clients to also know I am human and despite my education or training, life presents stress and challenges for everyone. My approach to therapy is I follow the client and during the assessment, together we will discuss what treatment modality may be best. i do this because therapy models aren't always a one size fits all. With that said, its very important to asses and observe because a persons needs takes of different forms depending on circumstance and situation. I will do what is clinically necessary to get the help you need, even if its not with me. I am glad to see that you are ready to take control over your emotional and mental health. Its takes a lot of motivation and courage to work on yourself and more so not be afraid to seek help if needed. I look forward to working with you on your journey to becoming a healthier, happier and confident version of you! I look forward to working with you!

As a social worker for more than 25 years, I've had the privilege of working with people from diverse backgrounds who are struggling with a wide variety of challenges. My main focus as a therapist is to create a safe space, free of judgement where we can form a trusting, therapeutic relationship. My clinical experience has primarily focused on children, adolescents, young adults and their families. I have worked with concerns ranging from anxiety, depression, adoption, behavioral issues, divorce, parenting issues and life transitions. My approaches to therapy are cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic, solution focused and mindfulness. I look forward to working with you to achieve your clinical goals. Please be aware I am accepting referrals for clients age 22 and older for individual therapy.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has worked as a mental health professional for the past 16 years in New Jersey. During the past seven years I have also worked in the capacity of a Licensed Social Worker. I have enjoyed helping individuals navigate through life's journey. My area of expertise includes substance abuse; depression; anxiety; anger management; communication challenges; elderly care; relationship conflicts; goal planning; blended family challenges; and parenting. I have enjoyed linking the consumer to services that will help them to overcome obstacles in their life. While working with individuals and families I have helped consumers to develop coping skills to manage various life challenges. During my years of practice, I have provided compassionate and client centered therapy. I am a good listener and have a passion for helping consumers achieve their full potential.

I am licensed in New Jersey with 32 years of professional work experience. I earned a masters degree in clinical social work in 1985 and have been in continuous practice since then. My specialty is family therapy. And I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, self esteem, confidence, & career difficulties. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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, motivation, justice involvement, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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.

I know it is important to find someone you feel comfortable with to share your thoughts and feelings. More importantly I understand how much we desire validation, empathy and understanding from others. There are no judgements here. I will work to provide an open and inviting environment so that I can better understand the guidance and help you would like me to provide. I am licensed in New Jersey with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with a variety of struggles from relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, depression and coping with life transitions to name a few. 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!

I am a clinically licensed social worker in New Jersey with several years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, depression, & executive and professional coaching. 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.

I am licensed in New Jersey with 35 years of professional work experience. For over 20 years, I have provided direct clinical experience working one on one with clients/students. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, career counseling, 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. Upon request, I am also available to offer clinical counseling from a Biblical perspective. I am a certified Biblical Counselor. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

I am a licensed clinical social worker in New Jersey with 28 years of professional work experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Additionally, I was awarded a Fellowship at New York University to work with the chronically mentally ill. My years of experience in a hospital setting has sharpened my skills in supporting those with chronic illness, psychiatric issues, and end of life issues. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, eating disorders, & motivation, self esteem, and 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! Together we can strive to help improve your quality of life, build confidence and enhance your inner peace. I look forward to working with you!