This is Melissa Albano's avatar and link to their profile

Melissa Albano

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ, Wood-Ridge
Counselor License Type(s): MSW, LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTGriefDepression
5 years of experience

Hello and welcome to BetterHelp, reaching out to seek counseling is a major step in addressing and managing concerns in your life. I realize how important it is to find a counselor that you can connect with to see progress during challenging times. It is important to establish a healthy relationship to move forward with managing changes in your life. I would like to provide some information about myself and my counseling style, to determine if we would be a good match. I have 20 years of social work experience. I received my masters degree from New York University. My experience working with clients has been managing cases related to anxiety, panic attacks, depression and crisis intervention, substance abuse and domestic violence. I have worked with chronically ill clients and their families to better cope with their ongoing needs. I am passionate and experienced with counseling related to the LGBTQ+ community. My practice style is upfront and honest. I feel establishing a strong working relationship with a client to work effectively to manage concerns. I am compassionate and easy to engage with. We will work together to determine the best approach to address your current concerns. THERAPEUTIC RELATIONSHIP AND SELF-DETERMINATION POLICY One of the ethical values of the Social Work profession is giving each individual the right to self-determination. You have the right to pick your own therapist, so if at any point you feel that we are not a good fit, please let me know so we can address/ try to resolve these issues and get you the right support/ therapist. You can also change counselors by clicking on “change counselors” in the top right of your dashboard- I would encourage you to let me know first so we can formally end our therapeutic alliance. There are times when people feel their needs are met and no longer need this support, I would also encourage you to bring up these discussions with me as they are part of the healing process and ending the therapeutic relationship. I look forward to speaking with you to best determine a method to communicate. I have availability to work via video chat, or phone. I check my email frequently to coordinate a time frame that will meet your needs and provide open availability.

Get started View profile
This is Dr. Debra Sandler's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Debra Sandler

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ, Wood-Ridge
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW, E.d.D.
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
39 years of experience

I am a laid back, friendly, caring counselor and mediator. I can listen to your issues and help you to to make a plan and learn new ways to deal with your feelings and relationships. Learn strategies to deal with stress, anxiety, anger and depression. Improve communication with family members and coworkers. I received my masters degree from the University of Pennsylvania and my doctorate from Nova Southeastern University. I have worked in private practice for over thirty years.

Get started View profile
This is Michelle Harmolin's avatar and link to their profile

Michelle Harmolin

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ, Wood-Ridge
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of New Jersey. I am a resourceful and motivated Counselor skilled in building therapeutic rapport and developing an appropriate and effective skillset for each client. I have worked in various roles and settings in the mental health field providing services to different populations and cultures. I have worked with clients who struggle with Depression, Anxiety, relationships and LGBTQ+ issues, among many other issues people struggle with daily. I have the education and experience along with the compassion and patience needed to make clients feel comfortable and open-up while providing the highest quality of services and care that all clients deserve. I strive to provide a warm and non-judgmental space for my clients as I ensure their thoughts and feelings are validated. I will ask questions to clarify what is being said so I fully understand the client and their needs. It is important to me that I collaborate with the client in their therapy journey as they know themselves best. Sometimes we don't know where to start and I will be there to help. Seeking help is never easy as it can be daunting and can leave us feeling vulnerable and misunderstood. I am here to make this process less stressful and will answer any questions the client may have about the therapeutic process.

Get started View profile
This is Flora Pazos's avatar and link to their profile

Flora Pazos

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ, Wood-Ridge
Counselor License Type(s): MS,LMHC,PA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

My name is Flora Pazos, and I have been a mental health practitioner for over 40 years. I am fluent in English as well as Spanish and I pride myself in helping those in need. I have experience in individual therapy, couples and family therapy, and a wide range of adult and pediatric issues. In my practice, I am devoted to adapting services to meet the individual needs of each client, with compassion, understanding, dignity, and respect, while promoting self-determination and self-growth. My therapeutic style is goal-oriented and individualized to the needs of each client. I believe that anyone can benefit from therapy and one does not need to have a mental health illness or an emotional issue to benefit from therapy; therapy can help achieve a life-long dream and a sense of happiness in the individual. I teach clients strategies and techniques to reinforce their inner strengths as well as to better cope with their current situations/issues. After each session, you will not only gain the tools to carefully examine each life decision but a much-needed serenity that will help you through the process.

Get started View profile
This is John MacDonald's avatar and link to their profile

John MacDonald

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ, Wood-Ridge
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
11 years of experience

I am licensed in New Jersey with over 10 years of professional work experience. I help clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, confidence, depression, and other mental health issues. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I have taught addictions counseling as an Adjunct Graduate Professor of Psychology. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage. You should be proud of yourself for undertaking this crucial step on your journey to a better, more fulfilling life. My work as a psychotherapist has been been recognized in the 75th Edition of Marquis Who's Who in America. I am a former president of the New Jersey Mental Health Counselors Association and I am the Ethics Chair of the New Jersey Counseling Association.

Get started View profile
This is Amanda Smith's avatar and link to their profile

Amanda Smith

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ, Wood-Ridge
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in NJ, NY and TX, with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+-related issues, relationship issues, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Get started View profile
This is Yancun Wisseh's avatar and link to their profile

Yancun Wisseh

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ, Wood-Ridge
AddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

The helping profession which is often referred to as therapy or counseling has been my life-long goal. My desire has made me a patient, attentive, and non-judgmental listener and has shaped my approach to understanding clients’ needs better. I am also supportive and seek positivity in every situation presented. I thrive to make clients feel safe including even reluctant clients to find their own way during treatment but also help clients to learn how to take personal responsibility to take charge of their behavior. I facilitate, encourage, empower, and help the client discover their potential to overcome barriers to treatment and find solutions and subsequently heal. I utilize approaches that are tailored to the client dependent on the issues, goals, and outcomes. Clients must be willing to participate to reach enlightenment to help them understand themselves in a new way and break from their own poor mindset and maladaptive behaviors. I hold a master’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in mental health counseling and am a licensed professional counselor in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey with 10 years of experience helping children, adolescents, adults, and families. I am a multicultural counselor who believes that endogenous factors can control individual behavior. Hence, when clients realize and acknowledge the inside factor, it eventually can bring about healing. That is, I am not there to prove my client wrong but help them find their own way out of their self-entanglement or damaging belief. No one approach fits all clients. The therapeutic alliance that is the client-therapist relationship will become the greatest change agent-Trust, genuineness, and participation.

Get started View profile
This is Tamara Gold's avatar and link to their profile

Tamara Gold

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ, Wood-Ridge
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesCareer difficultiesCoaching
20 years of experience

I am licensed in New Jersey with 20 years of professional work experience. In addition to being a therapist, I am a certified parenting coach, childcare author, and media expert for shows such as Good Morning America, The Today Show, CBS, and Fox News. I wrote a book called "Secrets of the Nanny Whisperer" which helps parents take their child's developmental needs and match them with an ideal caregiver/daycare. I am passionate about helping others strengthen themselves and their relationship.s I created Therapeutic Parenting Method to help parents understand their children and, ultimately - better communicate with them and advocate for them. I use this formula for the entire familial lifespan for children to aging parents helping logic supersede emotion and chaos, so families can better bond and communicate. I have experience helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, parenting issues, 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. I believe in being supportive and nonjudgemental to patients so that therapy can make them feel unconditionally accepted and cared for, and it's a positive experience they enjoy. I have worked with families for 20 years and I know the first step of signing up is hard, but I see how many people feel safe and supported as soon as our work together begins. I can't wait to meet you!

Get started View profile
This is Christina Hall's avatar and link to their profile

Christina Hall

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ, Wood-Ridge
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionADHD
9 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in that state of New Jersey with 9 years of professional work experience. My treatment approach is creatively individualized to fit the unique strengths, needs, talents, and interests of my clients. It is my goal for my clients to walk away from our sessions feeling empowered as the expert in their own mental health and life challenges. I am passionate about supporting others working through various issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem, ADHD, mood disorders, family conflict, trauma, and more.

Get started View profile
This is Stephanie Willems's avatar and link to their profile

Stephanie Willems

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ, Wood-Ridge
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am licensed in New Jersey with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, trauma, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open, safe, nonjudgemental environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared with validation and acceptance. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage, whatever it is that brought you here, I hope you find what you're looking for.

Get started View profile

How to find a therapist for counseling in Wood-Ridge

Finding the best therapist close by in Wood-Ridge 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 Wood-Ridge 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 Wood-Ridge. 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 Wood-Ridge, 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 Wood-Ridge 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 Wood-Ridge 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 Wood-Ridge 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 Wood-Ridge 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 Wood-Ridge, elsewhere in Bergen, 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 Wood-Ridge 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 Wood-Ridge 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 Wood-Ridge 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 Wood-Ridge 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 Wood-Ridge online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Wood-Ridge, 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 Wood-Ridge 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 Wood-Ridge 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 Wood-Ridge 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 Wood-Ridge?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Wood-Ridge 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 Wood-Ridge 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 Wood-Ridge 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 07075 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 Wood-Ridge counselor?

Before seeing your Wood-Ridge 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. Wood-Ridge 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 Wood-Ridge 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 Wood-Ridge 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 Wood-Ridge, 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.

Wood-Ridge 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 Wood-Ridge, New Jersey

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

Take some time today to learn more about the team of Wood-Ridge 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 Wood-Ridge.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Wood-Ridge:

07075

Popular cities near Wood-Ridge, NJ

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist