Melissa Nadler
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Professional Counselor who uses several therapeutic styles including cognitive/behavioral and reality therapies. My strengths include empathy, compassion, humor, and sensitivity to any issue that is brought to the "couch." My job is to help you help you and in doing so I am along for the ride and journey of self-discovery, healing, and growth. I work with a varied clientele covering many different issues and feel that my approach is both inviting and invigorating in terms of allowing clients the opportunity to find a healthy path that was designed especially by them for them. I have experience with many different clientele and therapeutic settings including private practice, community agency, legal system, and college counseling center. I have worked in the prison/court systems, private practice, and college counseling center, and feel that I have the perspective that is necessary and desired for a successful therapeutic relationship. I am involved in the Veterinary Community of Central Florida as a consultant, therapist, and wife of a local veterinarian. I have a Bachelor of Science majoring in psychology. I also have both a Masters and Specialist Degree in Education with a focus in Mental Health Counseling. All three of these degrees are from the University of Florida. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Florida and New Jersey.
Genna Cincogrono
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 5 years of experience working in the substance abuse/addiction field and in private practice. Currently I am the Clinical Director of a substance abuse facility, and operate a small private practice. I have helped clients with a variety of issues including substance abuse, trauma, process/cross addictions, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, relationship and family issues, stress, phase of life issues, low self-esteem, and personality disorders. I have also had a lot of experience working with many different cultures and pride myself on being highly culturally sensitive and knowledgeable. My approach to therapy is warm yet direct. I enjoy encouraging and empowering my clients to make positive changes in their lives. I provide a non-bias, non-judgmental atmosphere, and supportive atmosphere. I utilize a variety of different theories and techniques including CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, Rapid Trauma Resolution, solution-focused therapy, positive psychology, family and couples counseling, and more. I maintain several certifications and have been trained in specific therapies including: Mastered Certified Addiction Professional; Internationally Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor; Advanced Certified Relapse Prevention Specialist; Rapid Trauma Resolution w/Clinical Hypnosis; Gottman Couples Therapy, Level 1 Certified; DBT skills, and EMDR. I commend anyone who is looking to better themselves. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
Barry Wasser
Barry earned his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Yeshiva University, his Master of Social Work (MSW) from Touro College's Graduate School of Social Work, and specializes in the treatment of individuals with histories of anxiety, depression, trauma, and severe and persistent mental illness. He has over 7 years of experience working with adults, the elderly, and their families. He utilizes various therapeutic techniques and methods during his sessions in order to meet his clients' needs and establish a trusting and comfortable relationship. In turn, Barry aims to provide clients with a safe environment in which they feel comfortable expressing themselves and exploring obstacles that hinder quality of life, all while working towards the achievement of their short and long term goals. He has worked with adults of various ages across different settings including a mental health homeless shelter and a transitional residence for adults with mental illness. He also has experience facilitating group therapy sessions and mental health case management, both of which have proven to be beneficial to both clients and their families. Barry's experience has helped him focus on taking into account all factors that influence the well-being of his clients. Barry values supportive therapeutic partnerships, assertiveness, and open-mindedness; these form the foundation of his therapeutic style. Each therapy session or family meeting is viewed as a new opportunity to find ways to achieve and promote sustained personal growth.
Michelle DeFino
Welcome to BetterHelp, if you are reaching out for help it shows your are interested in recovering your life and starting to work toward solutions to challenges. My name is Michelle Defino, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 12 years experience. I graduated from Binghamton University in 2008 and have worked primarily worked with substance abuse/co-occurring clients. I have worked with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, bi-polar and other more severe mental illness. I have worked with a Federal Re-entry Substance Abuse Program for the last 3 years. I use many forms of therapy to meet the needs of my clients including motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and solution focused. I use these modalities to help to change thinking and behaviors that lead to many of the issues in daily life. Another modality I use is mindfulness to increase focus and concentration. I realize how difficult it can be to ask for assistance and how important it is for you and I am looking forward to working with you and helping you to gain the life you are hoping for. I will consider different ways to work with you, however prefer video, since we will be able to see and get to know each other easier. I am looking forward to meeting and working with you.
Jeffrey Thoelen
I provide anxiety-focused counseling for Millennials and Gen Z adults, offering a space to openly process stressors, worries, and life transitions. My approach emphasizes supportive listening and straightforward, practical feedback to help clients better understand their experiences and move toward meaningful change. Therapy should be designed for the real world -simple, straightforward, and supportive.
Kimberly Puleo
I am a NJ licensed professional counselor (LPC) and NJ school counselor who has experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families with a wide range of social and emotional difficulties. I completed my BA at William Paterson University in psychology with a minor in sociology. I went to graduate school at Montclair State University where I obtained her MA in school counseling. I graduated as a Chi Sigma Iota National Counseling Honor Society member. Subsequently, I became a certified NJ school counselor, National Certified Counselor (NCC), and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). I have worked in several school districts in NJ as a district wide school counselor, anti-bullying specialist, and social worker on a Child Study team creating Individualized Education Plans (IEP’s). I served on 504 committees, Intervention and Referral Services committee (I&RS), created behavior improvement plans, social evaluations, and is familiar with standardized testing. I have attended trainings on the NJ anti-bullying law, suicide prevention and risk assessment, cyber-bullying, crisis prevention and Division of Youth and Family Services (now DCP&P), relational aggression particularly among girls, mindfulness, among many other character building educational topics. I supervised a school psychologist and a school social work intern. I worked collaboratively as a team with Early Intervention, Perform Care-crisis assessment, physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, food therapists, nutritionists, ABA trained behaviorists, among other related specialists and referring community resources. I can help with transition issues including college preparation and job coaching. In addition, I have multiple years of experience working for a psychiatrist specializing in addictions as well. My specialties include social skills groups, children with developmental disabilities, changing families/divorce, depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, anger management, ADHD, adjustment disorders, grief and loss, academic difficulties, adoption issues, relationship issues, sibling issues, parenting issues, low self esteem, improving your confidence and self worth, addictions, personality disorders, increasing coping skills, among many other life stressors and difficulties. I am a married, mother of two young school aged children. I approach things as a solution focused therapist and use a variety of cognitive behavioral strategies, play therapy, and art therapy. Why get therapy? Because your mental health is just as important as your physical health.
Meredith McCabe
Hi, I'm Meredith and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with adults and teens struggling to determine who they are currently and to understand their own personal developmental process. Using a mixture of cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, humor, and person-centered work, your counseling will start with building a trusting and welcoming rapport and then supporting you as you work at your own pace towards your goals. As adults and teens, we are often in positions to care for others. We help, we volunteer, we go the extra mile even if that extra mile costs us an hour less sleep. And in everything we do, there is so much pressure to be the perfect woman, the perfect employee, the perfect student, the perfect mother. For some of us, "perfect" feels more like "impossible." As a counselor, I see the struggles that so many people have on a daily basis with the idea that they need to be perfect and how it reframes their idea of self I have also seen firsthand the long term impact of being everything to everyone. I’d like to get to know you and work together to go the extra mile for you and your personal wellness and happiness. It is my hope that by working together we can challenge those thoughts of perfection, work to help you accept yourself, and learn to breathe, balance and grow. I began my private practice part-time in 2012 while also working for a local university as a professor/clinical supervisor for graduate students in a mental health counseling program and continues to work extensively with college and graduate students and the unique pressures they face. In addition, I have an extensive background as a mental health and social justice activist and recognize both the sociocultural and environmental issues that women face, particularly women of color, and do not shy away from giving that side of my clients' perspective time and support. My practice is secular and inclusive, all are welcome.
Angelica Romero
From a young age, a deep-seated desire to make a positive impact in others’ lives has been a guiding force for me. Growing up in an immigrant family with limited resources, I recognized the transformative power of education. This realization led me to join the military, where I not only pursued my educational goals but also embarked on a journey that exposed me to a tapestry of diverse cultures, backgrounds, and religions.Witnessing the richness of human diversity during my military experiences, I came to appreciate how our distinctions make each of us uniquely fascinating. However, I also acknowledged that these differences, while beautiful, can sometimes sow conflict both within ourselves and in the broader world. Factor in the intricate web of life’s complexities—from childhood to adulthood, the ebb and flow of experiences, and various influences—and it becomes evident how these elements shape us in myriad ways.Motivated by a profound understanding of the intricate dynamics of the human experience, I made a deliberate choice to become a social worker. My mission is to contribute to positive change on a global scale, one person at a time. Through empathy, understanding, and dedicated service, I aim to navigate the complexities of individuals’ lives, offering support and fostering positive transformations in the face of life’s challenges.
David Rice
I am licensed in New Jersey with over 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with school related issues & parenting issues. Primarily, my is experience is with children, teens and their parents. I, however, am currently focused on working with adults. 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. Additionally, clients can feel comfortable talking to me about depression , anxiety and LGBTQ related issues. Additionally, I have Biblical knowledge, which can be applied when appropriate. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Jillian Holguin
Hello, My name is Jillian Holguin and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am licensed in New Jersey, Virginia and Florida with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in providing therapeutic services to individuals, couples/martial counseling, group, and family therapy as well as within a higher level of care settings. I have worked with an at-risk early childhood to late adulthood populations as well as having the honor of working with military personnel, and veterans. I specialize in trauma, and am a certified trauma provider. I work with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, life transitions, and the desire to create healthier patterns. My style is both warm and direct—I will hold space for you with empathy, while also encouraging insight and action. From approaches such as CBT, EMDR, trauma-informed care, and mindfulness-based practice. I went to Seton Hall University for my Bachelor of Arts in Social Work. From there, I completed the accelerated MSW program at Rutgers University graduating Summa Cum Laude. I also received a certificate in advanced assessment and diagnosis from New York University, a certificate in pharmacology from Harvard University and a certified Telehealth practitioner from Thomas Jefferson University. Seeking therapy is one of the bravest steps you can take toward healing, growth, and self-discovery. As a therapist, I believe every person carries an untold story, and within that story lies the strength to overcome challenges and build a life that feels authentic and fulfilling. My role is to help you uncover that strength while offering compassion, guidance, and evidence-based tools tailored to your unique journey.
Elizabeth Miller
I am licensed in New Jersey with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, family conflicts, & 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. 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.
Ebony White
I am licensed in New Jersey with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Themistoklis Bakelas
Hello! I'm Tohm and I’m a LCSW in New Jersey. I have worked in various psychiatric hospitals since 2012. My passion in counseling is to create a relationship built on safety, trust, and hope, where people feel accepted, heard, and challenged to grow in new and meaningful ways. I specialize in working with individuals aged 18 and older who struggle with depression, stress, grief, trauma, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and life changes. It's my privilege to assist someone through their difficulties and help them experience healing and relief. I believe therapy is most productive when it is supportive and casual, with a conversational tone and an open mind toward different strategies to address challenges. The key is a collaborative approach between both client and therapist. I offer lunchtime, evening, and some weekend hours. All sessions are virtual. Reach out for my exact availability. My counseling style is supportive, strength-based and rooted in direct inquiry. I believe in the dignity and worth of each person, and that the human spirit is quite resilient. As Kurt Vonnegut once boldly wrote, "It is hard to adapt to chaos, but it can be done. I am living proof of that: It can be done."
Shirley Panjabi
I am licensed in New Jersey with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & despression. 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.
Find a Therapist Near You in Longport , 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.
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, 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 Longport.
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.