Does life feel like a day at the boardwalk, full of beautiful views, fun things to do, and adventurous rides to be had? Or does it feel like a day fishing on the pier with no fish to bring home at the end of the day? For most of us, our lives fluctuate somewhere in the middle. For some of us, most days feel empty handed.
If you're struggling with mental health issues, you may have forgotten what the boardwalk days feel like. Please reach out to an Absecon-area professional today to get the support you need to start feeling better, and start enjoying more boardwalk days again.
Dr. Stella Diai
Welcome! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of New Jersey. I have a doctorate degree in Psychology and Behavioral Health with a specialization in Education and Counseling Psychology. The primary focus of my practice is to help my clients to reach their potentials. I have been privileged to work in the helping profession for the past fifteen years. I believe that the entire process begins by identifying those stumbling blocks in the lives of the individuals that prevented them from achieving their desired goals. I maintain a high level of openness with my clients having realized over the year that what matters most in therapy is the client /therapist relationship. I truly believe that it is the relationship that heals. My practice incorporates the client-centered, non-directive approach, the cognitive behavior approach and the eclectic approach. This is important to me because every individual is unique and should be treated as an individual by entering into each clients own world. The use of compassion, empathy and unconditional positive regard are the core elements of treatment in my practice. I specialize in psychotherapy with individuals of all ages with various mental health diagnoses and behavioral issues. I have extensive experience working with families and children and I also have a great interest in community development. Additionally, I run Anger management courses, Parenting courses and Coping skills courses for interested individuals and also for those who are mandated by the legal system to do so. I look forward to working with you.
Elizabeth Bates
Finding a therapist is a profoundly personal way to begin the process of addressing whatever obstacle or issue you're facing. It's not that you have "issues or problems", but rather how you respond to them that's important. I am committed to working together to find an approach that's right for you with the ultimate goal of helping you find better ways of coping with the inevitable obstacles we all face-- in life, in relationships, in our careers, personal goals, crises, destructive patterns of behavior--and the list goes on., etc. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and received my degree from the State University of New York at Albany, in 2004. I have over 20 years of working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. My approach has been influenced by many contemporary theories and therapies. My background is in Gestalt Therapy, a holistic approach that builds on awareness of oneself and one's relationships with others. I often draw from other approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure Response Treatment Therapy, mindfulness and psycho-education, depending on what we decide will be most beneficial for you. I will work collaboratively with you to help bring meaning and understanding to your life, resulting in a richer fuller life in the present. I embrace all people and have many years of experience working with people from a wide variety of backgrounds. Patients find me to be genuine, approachable, inclusive, warm and interactive. In my experience, humor and lightheartedness can be very helpful in developing that secure bond between patient and therapist. I believe an open-minded atmosphere creates the safe space you need in order to speak about truly personal matters. www.betterhelp.com/elizabeth-bates.
Marcy King
Hello! My name is Marcy King and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker located in northern New Jersey. I have been active in this field for the past 14 years. As a social worker, I have worked in community mental health settings, schools and private practice. I have worked with individuals with anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, those dealing with life stressors and transitions, parenting, family issues and anger management. My number one goal when working with an individual, couple or family is to ensure that all involved feel safe and comfortable in our therapeutic relationship. The relationship and connection between therapist and client make all the difference in the work that can be achieved in session. I feel very strongly that the relationship between therapist and client should be built on mutual respect, honesty, and trust. This allows the client to feel comfortable and safe so they can fully participate in our work together. My therapeutic approach is eclectic and tailored to each individual client. I employ a strengths based approach to social work and therapeutic services. I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I believe that getting in touch with your feelings, learning to communicate them and being true to them allow you free your mind to work through the presenting problem.
Tara Porphy
Hi! I'm Tara. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of New Jersey. I have been working in the mental health industry for ten years. I have experience working with a variety of different settings (home, office, residential, telehealth), ages, and issues. I have worked with individuals across the life-span (3-70+). Some of my clinical work includes working with men in a dual-diagnosis residential program for substance abuse/addiction and mental health. During my time at the residential program, I led groups and conducted individual/family-based counseling for our residents. I was also responsible for supporting the family members of our residents. I have experience working with motivational interviewing, psychoeducation, and working with individuals in recovery as well as their family members. I believe addiction is a family disease and am comfortable working with all whom are affected. I also have extensive experience working with anxiety, panic disorders, depression, and other mental health challenges. I have experience working with intellectual/developmental disabilities (including individuals with autism), trauma, and self-harm. However, I am not limited to these areas. I have worked with at-risk children, teens, and their families in their home environment. However, there have been many moments where I work with parents individually or with the family unit as a whole. While some of my specializations including working with children, I am able to work with parents to help better support their children, or the daily struggles of parenting that may be negatively impacting your mental health. My approach is very flexible and adaptable based on the needs of my clients. I use an eclectic approach when working with my clients. I use a variety of different approaches including but not limited to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Person-Centered. No matter what you are going through, there is no problem too big or small. I am so happy you are here, and I look forward to working together on the path toward healing!
Marsha Tipelin
I am a licensed clinical therapist with a Masters degree from Columbia University in New York and over twenty years of experience in individual, couples, and family therapy. My style is solution and insight oriented to define and untangle issues and feelings which are presented as problematic in any life stage. Will work with you warmly and compassionately to reach your goals for happier relationships, joyful daily outlook and significance. I have particular experience in addressing depression or anxiety issues both within an individual and as a barrier in interpersonal or employment situations.
Dr. Joseph Prewitt-Diaz
Pastoral Counselor with more than 30 years of experience. I have worked with survivors of disasters or crises, people who have experienced a humanitarian crisis, or who are survivors of migration-related trauma. I have also worked with disaster workers experiencing compassion fatigue and/or veterans experiencing adjustment issues. I consider it important to walk with people who seek accompaniment and a compassionate ear after a traumatic experience, as well as those people who because of their age feel overwhelmed and without desire to move forward, as well as those who have suffered loss and hope. Consejera Pastoral con más de 30 años de experiencia. He trabajado con sobrevivientes de desastres o crisis, personas que han experimentado una crisis humanitaria o que son sobrevivientes de traumas relacionados con la migración. También he trabajado con trabajadores de desastres que experimentan fatiga por compasión y / o veteranos que experimentan problemas de adaptación. Considero importante caminar con personas que buscan acompañamiento y un oído compasivo después de una experiencia traumática, así como con aquellas personas que por su edad se sienten abrumadas y sin ganas de seguir adelante, así como con aquellas que han sufrido pérdida y esperanza.
Laura Bodrog
I am a LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) with an Anxiety Treatment Professional with Children and Adolescents Certification and a Certified School Social Worker. I am currently a School Social Worker working in a High School. I have about 20 years of experience working with youth in settings ranging from youth residential facilities, hospitals, and both alternative and public school settings. I also hold an Educational Supervisor Certification. I would like to note that at this time, I am only seeing clients via Chat Therapy. I take the time to really get to know my clients so that a treatment plan that works for them can be utilized. My approach is warm and caring and I think it is extremely important to actually take the time to get to know who I am working with. I enjoy getting to know my clients so that they can feel comfortable participating in therapy. I believe the most important thing in a therapeutic relationship is to build that relationship and trust and to remember to have a conversation with your client; to treat them with respect and compassion. Making them feel validated for their feelings and that there is someone that is ready and willing to listen, is something that I feel is one of my strengths. I am here and willing to support you in your courageous step towards a more positive future.
Dr. Gagan Luthra
Hello, I am Dr. Gagan Luthra (Ph.D), licensed professional counselor (LPC), Certified Social Worker (CSW) and Board Certified in Addictions (CCS). I am trained in psychiatry and addictions with over 35+ years of experience in this field. I have worked at the largest hospital in NJ as the head of psychiatry, addictions, and practice evidence approach when addressing mental health issues. I am a trained in Trauma -Informed Care in Behavioural Health services and cover several aspects of therapeutic issues that you had suffered during this Pandemic environment . I will encourage all of you who are facing extreme stressors to contact me and prevent rise in use of addictions and other serious mental health issues that may impact your lives . LGBT Affirmative Therapy is effective way of treating the issues of this community. I want LGBTQ clients to know that I support them and their families and have treated couple issues related to their own relationships as well their children school concerns successfully . PTSD Diagnosis is very common with our Veterans and their challenging mental health issues are well recognized by me . Addiction is one of my strong skills and i have helped many clients . Those clients who are struggling with ADDICTIONS , I will be able to introduce them to alternative successful M.A.T approach / Recovery Models etc. I also use Brief therapy models for 8-12 sessions for Sexual abuse, Grief, Anger management , Stress , Social media :Depression & Anxiety etc. Very knowledgeable about Teenage issues and ran several programs at the request of school systems related to Addictiona as well LGBTQ concerns. . My goal is to give you the understanding of different perspectives to your issues to make you feel empowered when you leave the session with new options . I provide the clients the model of therapy like Texting chat , phone call and video chats which is comfortable for them .
Jonathan Hannum
As a licensed therapist in New Jersey, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex life challenges, with a particular focus on stress, anxiety, workplace dynamics, and neurodiversity. My approach centers on understanding each person's unique experiences, especially within LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent communities. I bring a compassionate, evidence-based perspective to addressing isolation, impulsivity, and personal growth. Whether you're managing ADHD, exploring professional transitions, or seeking support for autism spectrum experiences, I'm committed to creating a supportive, affirming therapeutic environment. My practice is grounded in creating collaborative, non-judgmental spaces where individuals can explore their strengths, develop coping strategies, and work towards meaningful personal transformation. I'm dedicated to helping clients build resilience, self-understanding, and practical tools for navigating life's challenges.
Tiffany Francis
I am licensed in New Jersey with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, family conflicts, & career difficulties. 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.
Dr. Valerie Stephens
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!
Schaune Gamble
As a licensed therapist in New Jersey, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on empowering clients to develop deeper self-understanding and resilience, particularly when addressing challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and life transitions. I bring a compassionate, culturally responsive perspective to my practice, drawing from extensive experience working with diverse populations. My therapeutic style focuses on creating a supportive environment where clients can explore personal growth, heal from past experiences, and develop meaningful strategies for emotional well-being. My expertise spans a wide range of areas, including self-esteem building, communication skills, managing social anxiety, workplace challenges, and supporting individuals through significant life changes. I am committed to helping clients reconnect with their inner strength, cultivate self-love, and move toward more fulfilling personal and professional lives.
Dr. John Hudome
I am licensed in New Jersey with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, motivation, self esteem, confidence, bipolar disorder, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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.
Kimberly Higgins
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 25 years of experience. I provide therapy to adolescents, adults, couple, and families. I am committed to helping my clients reach their personal treatment goals and learn skills to cope with the many life challenges that come are way. I provide a safe, empathetic, non-judgmental environment and utilize various treatment approaches that best meet the needs of each client. I believe in a holistic approach in helping clients to utilize their mind, body, and spirit. If you have been feeling alone in your struggles this may be the time to reach out. I will provide you with an uplifting, positive, and hopeful experience. Engaging in therapy will help bring clarity, growth, understanding, and change. It is my personal goal to make sure that you are supported through your journey toward self-care and emotional fulfillment. Issues: Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, PTSD, Grief/Loss, Marital/Couples, Divorce, Relationship Issues, Self-esteem, Women's Issues, Chronic Medical Illness, and Oncology/Cancer are just a small list of issues that I can address. Treatment Approach: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Integrative, Person Centered, Strength Based, Solution Focused Bried Therapy, Positive Psychology, and Motivational Interviewing.
Find a Therapist Near You in Absecon , New Jersey
Finding a licensed therapist near you in New Jersey can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.
With a population of New Jersey_POPULATION, New Jersey is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in New Jersey, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in New Jersey (NJ). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.
People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.
Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across New Jersey_COUNTIES, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.
What concerns can therapists help with?
Therapists on BetterHelp support adults across New Jersey with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:
- Anxiety and stress
- Depression and mood-related concerns
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Grief and loss
- Relationship and family challenges
- Life transitions and adjustment concerns
- Self-esteem and confidence
- Job stress and burnout
- ADHD-related challenges
- Sleep concerns
- Parenting stress
- Eating disorder support
Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in New Jersey
When searching for a therapist near me in New Jersey, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:
- Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
- Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as 24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
- Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
- Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across New Jersey, not just nearby offices
Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across New Jersey.
Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance
Many people looking for a therapist near me in New Jersey want to know whether insurance is an option.
Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.
When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.
If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in New Jersey
BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in New Jersey without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.
Here’s how it works:
- Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
- Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in New Jersey (NJ)
- Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat
BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.
You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.
Therapists near you in New Jersey
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across New Jersey, including residents in New Jersey_COUNTIES.
Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.
Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in New Jersey do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me
How much does therapy cost near me?
Therapy costs vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Is online therapy effective?
Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.
How quickly can I start therapy?
Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.
Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?
Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.
Is online therapy private and secure?
Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.