This is Sarah DuVall Murray's avatar and link to their profile

Sarah DuVall Murray

Offering therapy in NJ
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

Hello, my name is Sarah, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of New Jersey. As a therapist I aim to provide a safe, nonjudgmental space in which individuals can seek help in understanding issues they are facing in order to guide them towards healthy, more balanced functioning. Grounded in a respect for each person’s unique life perspective and choices, I listen closely with a goal of working collaboratively to address individual therapeutic needs. I believe that change and growth take place in the context of the authentic relationship between client and therapist, which is based upon acceptance, compassion, and care. Additionally, I believe that distress is a part of life, and rather than having the unrealistic goal of eliminating distress, I strive to help individuals tolerate, accept, and find meaning in struggle. I treat adults coping with depression, anxiety, stress, life transitions, relationship issues, and grief using a variety of treatment approaches based on the client’s needs, to include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) among others. I draw on Eastern philosophy in my practice and like to incorporate an element of psychoeducation by sharing articles, books, or other resources when applicable. I have a Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University, and a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee. As a clinician I have provided both outpatient and inpatient treatment, worked in psychiatric emergency services, and got my start in community mental health working with seriously mentally ill adults.

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Amanda Berger-Semko

Offering therapy in NJ
License: MS,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

Life moves pretty fast. You don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it. -Ferris Bueller In the busy, fast paced world we live in, I want to offer people a time out to look around and reflect on life.  We all go through times in which we need the opportunity to process our lives, and the emotions that come along for the ride, with a fellow traveler.  Give yourself the gift of time away from your list of to-dos, roles, and responsibilities to tell me your story.  Bring your favorite tea or coffee as we laugh and cry about life’s ups and downs, twists and turns.  Sometimes we feel lost along the way, I hope to help you find your self, meaning, and purpose. I have been a therapist for over 15 years. Through the years I have worked in schools, churches, courts, community based and private practice settings. I enjoy working with all different people at any stage of their lives. I have a special place in my heart for each person I hold space for. It is my honor to sit with you and experience you and your personal journey. Each person and their story is a part of the greater whole we collectively experience this one life with. We were all created to live out a unique journey with shared human experiences that connects us all. The last several years, we were all forced to rethink life and what we truly value. Take the time you need for yourself, from the comfort of your own home, to reassess your life, values, and purpose. As they say, YOLO… make it a life you can truly love! Your fellow traveler, Amanda

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Amber Thomason

Offering therapy in NJ
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
10 years of experience

I am licensed in New Jersey with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, confidence, and 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!

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Dr. Stephanie Warren- Meltzer

Offering therapy in NJ
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
35 years of experience

I am licensed in New Jersey with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, life changes, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & depression. I also help families managing children's developmental issues. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. You are most likely wondering what type of therapy approach I use. My therapeutic approach is eclectic which simply means that I may use a combination of therapy approaches, based on your individual needs. For example, psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral approaches might be intertwined. I also find that a person-centered approach is very helpful. 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.

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Moishe Shayland-Williams

Offering therapy in NJ
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesAnger managementADHD
16 years of experience

I am licensed in New Jersey with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & anger management. I work with 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.

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Dr. Lisa Cooney

Offering therapy in NJ
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseGrief
25 years of experience

I am licensed in California, Arizona, District of Colombia, Oregon, New Jersey and Texas with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, LGBT-related issues, & trauma and abuse. I work with couples to repair trust, improve communication, and strengthen their emotional intimacy and provide a nurturing environment for their children. 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. By signing up for therapy you are taking the first step to help you reach for your goals and move any obstacles out of the way. I look forward to supporting you on your journey to your best life.

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Heidi Agramonte

Offering therapy in NJ
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in New Jersey with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & 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!

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Csilla Hajnal

Offering therapy in NJ
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteem
10 years of experience

We all know what bothers us, but what is it that you want to achieve? Taking that first step is the hardest part and by looking at this website you are already one step closer to your goal. I am licensed in New Jersey with many of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, and anger management. Most recently I have been working with adolescents and assisting them in getting closer to their treatment goal. I believe we all have our unique perspective and one kind of therapy does not fit all. I will work with you according to an individualized treatment plan that we create according to your needs and wishes. I will work with you according to an individualized treatment plan that we create according to your needs and wishes. I am a certified Prepare Enrich Facilitator for couples' counseling. When using this assessment we can find the relationship strengths and growths areas and talk about how you can make the relationship stronger. For parenting issues I use the Nurtured Heart Approach that provides guidelines for installing desirable behavior in children.

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Heather Revill

Offering therapy in NJ
License: MS, LPC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
12 years of experience

Welcome! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor that believes in working collaboratively with her clients to meet goals set forth by the client. The journey to wellness includes validation, empowerment, and a comfortable therapeutic relationship to allow you to grow and reach each goal that you set. I specialize in Cognitive-Behavioral and Solution Focused approaches that allow you to get specific about your goals and empower you to achieve them, however I do not believe in a "one size fits all" approach to therapy and adjust my approaches according my clients and their therapy goals. My approach is warm and friendly and building the therapeutic alliance is important to me. My Master's Degree is in Human Behavior with a specialization in counseling. I have been a licensed clinician for over 5 years and worked closely with clients suffering from depression, stress/anxiety, self-esteem, and trauma/abuse. I also have experience in regard to substance abuse, life transition, family dynamics, career counseling, and foster care/adoption. No matter what the presenting issues my approach is compassionate and non-judgmental. I believe you are the expert of your life. When I am not working you can find me spending time with my family and our dog. I enjoy being outside whenever possible, to just enjoy the sunshine or go for walks/hikes. I am an avid sports fan and follow the Boston Red Sox and Bruins. My favorite wellness activities include yoga and meditation. The decision to engage in therapy is a huge step toward a happier and healthier life. I look forward to working with you!

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Gail Braxton

Offering therapy in NJ
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
38 years of experience

I am licensed in New Jersey with 38 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & depression. 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.

How to find counseling in Lakewood

Finding the best therapist close by in Lakewood 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 that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Lakewood. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Lakewood, 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. 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 to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Lakewood or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Lakewood area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy 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 Lakewood, elsewhere in Ocean, or in the greater state of New Jersey.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Lakewood therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Lakewood due to a higher cost of living. 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 Lakewood 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 BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of New Jersey you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Lakewood, 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. They 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, they 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 psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Lakewood 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 lead by a therapist in Lakewood helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Lakewood 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.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

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 Lakewood therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy 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 Lakewood 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 lot of people in NJ, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 08701 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Lakewood counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy 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, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. 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 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 therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Lakewood 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 through therapy 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.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy 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 professional 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 Lakewood, 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.

Lakewood has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy 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?

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

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

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out 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 Lakewood.

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

08701

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