This is Tracy Carpenter's avatar and link to their profile

Tracy Carpenter

Offering therapy in NJ
License: M.A.,C.S.S.W.,L.P.C
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
25 years of experience

I have been working as a psychotherapist for over twenty-five years. I love working with people, helping them to find the path they want to take and supporting them in meeting their goals. I work with a wide variety of clients. I am a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor and have been Certified as a (CADC) Certified Addictions Counselor, School Social Worker (to do in school assessments) and most recently Certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I see clients who struggle with a wide range of mental health mental health issues, addiction, or a combination of the two. I also work with clients struggling with stress, family issues, communication issues, grief, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and young adults' who live at home and are struggle to become independent I also have experience with autism spectrum disorders. Finally, I see many clients who are older and need support transitioning into retirement. I use a wide variety of therapeutic styles. Before I settle on a precise therapy I get to know my clients and establish a relationship based on trust. It is important for me to understand my clients’ needs so I can understand what therapies will best work for them. In addition, I help my clients find tools, diversions, activities, and services I may not be able to provide, such as case management. As a therapist my goal is to help my clients navigate the issues they are facing. I want them to know that they are in charge, but not alone. The thoughts and feelings of my clients are extremely important to me and I believe each client knows him or her self best even if they do not feel that way at first. I aim to act as someone who can listen and offer advice, insights, and a different perspective but I ultimately respect a client’s autonomy in making their own decisions. Part of my role is to provide support as a client works through their issues, and sometimes even just beginning to receive support can provide a huge relief.

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Lisa Drew

Offering therapy in NJ
License: MA,LPC,CCTP
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseEating disordersDepression
16 years of experience

Hi, I’m Lisa Marie, and I’m so glad you’re here. It takes tremendous courage to seek support for a personal matter, and I appreciate you taking the time to learn about my practice. I am a licensed psychotherapist in private practice with over 15-years of professional experience working with teens and adults across many settings. I specialize in developmental and complex trauma, anxiety disorders, process addictions, disordered-eating behaviors, and relational and attachment issues. Through a trauma-informed, cross-cultural perspective, I creatively integrate somatic and experiential therapies, mindfulness principles, and holistic practices to create a balanced, whole-person approach to healing and personal growth. My therapeutic style is collaborative and dynamic, emphasizing the intimate relationship between the human body and psychological wellbeing. Learning to listen and trust our body’s innate wisdom is an effective strategy for building self-trust and self-worth, two critical components of a healthy relationship with our authentic-Self. I encourage clients to use body-centered exercises, visualization, and artistic expression to find their voice and reconceptualize their fears with a more direct approach. Emotional safety is paramount when helping clients process their trauma, work through complex emotions, and address maladaptive behaviors. With compassionate intention, I hold space for clients to be vulnerable and share their sacred stories. As a transformational alchemist, I help clients transcend their limiting beliefs by exploring creative ways to utilize their unique strengths to foster personal growth and success. It would be my pleasure to join you on your journey towards emotional health and wellness.

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Dr. Dianne Fabii

Offering therapy in NJ
License: Ph.D.,LPC,NCC, MCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefCareer difficultiesDepression
20 years of experience

Warmest greetings and thank you for visiting! You have made the first important step in seeking solutions to current challenges in your life. It is my hope that by sharing your journey, you will emerge stronger, healthier, and more confident in handling personal difficulties. It would be my honor to support you and to help you find the resources and support you need. Our mental and emotional health is as important as our physical health. This courageous step of seeking counseling will empower you to overcome personal trials, and to achieve your best sense of self. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of New Jersey, though I currently live in Florida, where I work as a school counselor. I am available a few evenings per week and on weekends to work with Better Health clients. During the summer and school holidays, I have daytime availability. With more than 20 years of extensive experience working with adults and children of all ages on a variety of issues, I have heard both heartbreaking and inspirational personal stories. The wide range of concerns of my clients include but are not limited to anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, grief, loss and extended bereavement, trauma, career development, parenting challenges, children of divorce, executive functioning skills, and self-esteem. I draw from a variety of theories and holistic approaches to inform my practice, and to help you achieve your wellness goals. Additionally, I have helped hundreds of clients with job search strategies and finding fulfilling employment. A unique aspect of my background is that I have spent extensive time in southern India, and am well-versed in Indian culture, especially as it relates to marriage and family relationships. My doctoral dissertation focused on arranged marriage practices among Indian-American families and how young adults are driving change in this tradition. Therefore, I am quite comfortable in working with clients of this cultural background. One of the most important factors in creating change is establishing and maintaining mutual trust in the therapeutic relationship. This partnership requires honesty, respect, empathy, compassion, communication, and commitment to do the work of increasing self-awareness, practicing self-care, and growing in understanding to achieve potential. I very much look forward to working with you to help you find your path toward your best life, filled with joy, meaning and satisfaction.

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Erika Lewis-Vallila

Offering therapy in NJ
License: LPC,M.Ed
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a School Counselor in the state of New Jersey. I have 8 years of experience working with under-served and at-risk youth, I have worked with individuals, families, and children. My experience includes, but is not limited to, working with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, learning/intellectual disabilities, life adjustments, homelessness, lack of resources, and emotional and social issues. My approach to therapy is warm and supportive while using collaborative, cognitive-based, and solution-focused interventions. I believe in working with clients to offer support and assistance, all while building a strong rapport and working relationship between counselor and client. Therapy can seem overwhelming but I am here to support you through the process and together we can work to get you where you want to be! We are all on our own journey and I would be honored to be a part of yours.

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Drucilla Williams

Offering therapy in NJ
AddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in New Jersey with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & bipolar disorder. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Salina Mecham

Offering therapy in NJ
License: MSW,LCSW,LSUDC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
6 years of experience

Hey there! My name is Salina Mecham. I attended the University of Utah and received a bachelor's and master's degree in Social Work and a certification in substance use treatment. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Master Addiction Counselor (MAC), and Domestic Violence Intervention Treatment Counselor (DVP). I am fully licensed in the states of Utah, Washington, and New Jersey. I have worked with adults and adolescents and enjoy all ages. I got my start in group homes for troubled youth, and I can truly say that I have never felt more fulfillment in my life than when I was getting chairs thrown at my head, and called names that I can never repeat, because in those moments, I was present and doing what I could to help a person in pain. I eventually moved on to work in a behavioral health hospital where people came when they hit their limit and could no longer cope with living, or their mental health was affecting their ability to function in their lives. I am currently the CEO of Willapa Behavioral Health & Wellness, a community behavioral health agency. I continue to offer treatment at the agency for mental health, substance use disorders, domestic violence intervention treatment, and couples counseling. I also serve clients on BetterHelp because I love providing therapy and don't get to do it nearly enough as a CEO. I am working on getting trained in the Gottman method (couples counseling). My preference is to utilize video sessions so that I can read the situation more clearly. I can, and do, use the phone, but will not use the live chat option because I have found that concepts and meanings tend to get lost because so many nonverbal queues are not seen. I also utilize the email option often, and return all emails sent to me within 48 hours. When time permits, I can open up special times for sessions if there is an emergency. I feel it is important for my clients to spend their week being aware of the things that happen around them, and how those things affect them, and to be prepared with those and other things they would like to address in their session. I also value honest feed back said to me in the moment. I can make adjustments in my approach if I know it isn't hitting where you need it to. Honesty and openness is so important in therapy and can add so much to the quality of your experience. I tend to take an eclectic approach to counseling because one size does not fit all. I pull from CBT, ACT, DBT, REBT, and I am trained in, and use EMDR for trauma treatment. It is very important to me that I create a safe place for all my clients. Judgement has no place in my practice. I believe strongly in the golden rule and kindness, curiosity, validation, comfort, and safety are very important to me. No matter the issue, I am open and ready to help you navigate it in a way that can help keep you intact and moving forward.

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Michelle Lakefield

Offering therapy in NJ
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefAnger management
20 years of experience

I am licensed in New Jersey with 20+ years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety. 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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This is Dr. Robert Crawford's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Robert Crawford

Offering therapy in NJ
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changesCoaching
20 years of experience

I am licensed in New Jersey with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, sexual & pornography addictions, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & coping with life changes. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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This is Megan Zarucha's avatar and link to their profile

Megan Zarucha

Offering therapy in NJ
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

I am licensed in New Jersey with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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. 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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This is Larry Litras's avatar and link to their profile

Larry Litras

Offering therapy in NJ
AddictionsFamily conflictsAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
30 years of experience

I am a Social Worker/Therapist(LCSW) in NewJersey and Pennsylvania. I am also a Licensed Addiction Therapist (LCADC) in New Jersey with. I have over 30 years of professional work experience with various populations and in different modalities. I have experience in helping clients cope with addictions, family conflicts, anger management, and self worth. 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. 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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How to find counseling in Lavallette

Finding the best therapist close by in Lavallette 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 Lavallette. 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 Lavallette, 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 Lavallette 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 Lavallette 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 Lavallette, 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 Lavallette area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Lavallette 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 Lavallette 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 Lavallette 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 Lavallette, 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 Lavallette 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 Lavallette 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 Lavallette 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 Lavallette 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 Lavallette 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 08735 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 Lavallette 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 Lavallette 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 Lavallette, 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.

Lavallette 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 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 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 Lavallette.

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

08735

Popular cities near Lavallette, NJ

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