Bonita Hutchinson
Hello, my name is Bonita Hutchison. I am a Nationally Certified Trauma Therapist and hold dual licensure in Mental Health and Substance Abuse Counseling in North Carolina / International Certification in Alcohol and Addiction Counseling / New Jersey Professional Mental Health Counselor Licensure and my License in California for Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counseling . Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio is where I earned my Masters Degree in Agency and Community Counseling in 1998. Over the years, I have learned that many people who come in for depression or anger sometimes have drinking, eating or substance use issues they are also struggling with or have used to cover up their pain. Each year to better serve you and provide the help needed to live and feel better I have continued to master additional skills to support your needs and recovery. These methods and approaches to counseling include Mindfulness, Couples Counseling, Psychodynamic therapy, Motivational Interviewing and how to improve Sleep Habits. My career as a Professional Counselor started with caring for children and teaching them to make better choices. I learned how I could help Parents and their children address challenges and barriers to success in facilitation of groups, individual and family therapy. After attending the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and earning Post Graduate Certification as a Drug Counselor in 2010, then my North Carolina License Professional Counselor (LCMHC #7953) credential and in 2020 due to the pandemic New Jersey Temporary Licensure (LPC # 010006) to provide mental health Counseling and Alcohol and Addiction treatment ( LADC # 014783) I applied recently to the California Board for Behavioral Health Licensure and Continue to hold International and National credentials to support you where ever you find yourself. In September of 2022, after over two years of temp licensure in New Jersey the Board of Marriage and Family Therapy issued my Permanent NJ license as a Professional Mental Health Counselor. I’m a good listener and educator that provides a warm and person centered approach to counseling that allows others to feel safe and supported in therapy. I work with consumers from all over the world and hold the IC&RC International Certification (ICAADC) to provide therapy and coping skills to better manage life situations as a Licensed Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. My work through mental health Counseling and as a Clinical Supervisor (LCMHC-S #S7953) in North Carolina is very rewarding and teaches me how to reduce your anxiety, manage depression symptoms, cope with ADHD, move past Guilt and Shame, process Grief and Relationship/Family issues. My Substance Abuse licensure in North Carolina (LCAS #2313) and California (LAADC #RA8620417) as well as Mental Health Professional Counselor in New Jersey (#37PC00850200) has allowed me to help people struggling with abuse, problems and explore the questions you have about relationships, eating disorders or emotions. Alcoholism, Mental Health and Drug Addiction do not discriminate and working in this field has allowed me to support and assist many people and families from a variety of cultural and spiritual backgrounds, races and relationship situations that were keeping them from reducing mental health symptoms, maintaining recovery or sobriety. I might be able help and I look forward to working with you!
Phyllis Nehra
Hi, my name is Phyllis. I am licensed in New Jersey and have over 15 years of working with people in different capacities, including social work and as a therapist. I have a graduate degree in Human Services with a Specialization in Marital, Couple, and Family Therapy. I tend to view people and their concerns in relation to their relationships with others. I enjoy helping clients find their voice and learn skills they can use to get their needs met. My approach to therapy is individualistic, positive, and strengths-based. I use a tailored approach to therapy for each client’s individual needs. I know it can be scary to be vulnerable with a therapist and will do my best to ensure you feel safe while working toward your goals at a pace that feels comfortable to you. I use a mix of person-centered, solution-focused, and narrative therapy. I enjoy helping clients feeling empowered to make changes in their lives. I enjoy watching clients feel strong enough to set boundaries in their relationships and change behaviors that no longer serve them. I like sparking curiosity and hope abut the future. My ultimate goal is to create an atmosphere that allows for free expression so you can feel empowered to live your best life. Please be advised I cannot hold sessions in a moving vehicle. Please join session once you are parked if you are driving. I can only hold sessions if you are located in New Jersey. I give a 15 minute grace period. At 15 minutes, I will disconnect and the session will be count as missed. Specialties: *Grief *Anger Management *Women’s concerns *Family Dynamics *Relationships *LGBT community
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.
Anne Boyd Hinton
Hi, if you are reading this ,it means you are seeking assistance in taking better control of your life to feel good about yourself and develop the skills necessary to solve what you view as problems. Today, many people are now seeking and receiving help to better control their lives. So, you are not alone. My goal will be to help you focus on the things that you see as impediments to your progress with expectation of assisting you in reordering your thoughts, and how and why your current thought process has led to where you feel you are emotionally today. I believe this approach can aid you in learning new ways to handle feelings and new ways of viewing the world around you. In other words, place a focus on your understanding affective stance and assist you in acquiring additional skills that possess the potential to help you be happy, healthy and have a good life. I formerly worked for twenty years at Rutgers University as a therapist serving clients who were working on successfully reintegrating into society. As such I had regular on-going collaborative relationships with State and Federal Authorities. I am a New Jersey based Licensed Based Counselor (LPC) with 26 years’ experience as a Mental Health Therapist. While I started at Better Help in 2021, I had to limit my involvement until 2025. My experience includes behavioral health centers, correctional institutions, schools, and in-home situations. My therapeutic approach focuses on assisting clients through focusing on evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Solution Focused Counseling.
Sirribi Atanga
As we navigate through life, various aspects around us undergo transformations – our surroundings, friendships, and our bond with family. However, amidst these changes, we carry our struggles wherever we go. If you're currently facing difficulties while traversing a certain phase in your life, I can assist you in understanding and dealing with these changes in a constructive manner. By being here today, I want you to know that you possess remarkable resilience, uniqueness, and worthiness. I value your decision to embark on this meaningful therapeutic journey. With a focus on cultural understanding and sensitivity, my aim is to create a positive and secure environment for you, allowing you to explore any challenges you may be facing. Together, we can work towards achieving your goals and leveraging your strengths to become the best version of yourself. In my role as your therapist, you can expect me to approach our work with cultural humility, acknowledging and respecting your individual background and experiences. I will also adopt a strengths-based approach, recognizing and building upon your personal strengths.
Thomas (Tom) Malek-Jones
I am licensed in New Jersey with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, intimacy related issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.
Kryse Skye
I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for the past 19 years and am located in the State of Maine. My experience comes from working in a mental health agency and for a hospital outpatient program with the vast majority of my time being spent in private practice. I have seen clients from ages 2 to 94 with my clients being men, women, teens, children and families. If I were to say that I specialize in anything it would be trauma. As a certified Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, I understand trauma from a professional perspective as well as understanding trauma from a personal perspective. In regards to my personal life I love children, animals, cooking, reading, coloring, music, spending time with my 9 month old granddaughter, and most anything water related most especially paddle boarding.
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!
Laurence Scappa
I am licensed in New Jersey with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & intimacy related issues. 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. 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.
Mark Amoroso
I am licensed in New Jersey with 20 years of professional work experience. 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.
James Alfano
I am licensed in New Jersey with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, & family conflicts. I also have experience working with 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. 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.
Richard Rivera
I am licensed in New Jersey with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, coping with grief, & coping with loss. I also have experience working with 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. 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.
Sharaya Wallace-Collins
As a licensed therapist serving New Jersey and Delaware, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex life transitions, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. My approach centers on understanding each client's unique experiences, with a deep commitment to culturally responsive and empathetic care. I have extensive expertise in addressing relationship challenges, grief, self-esteem concerns, and career difficulties. My practice focuses on helping clients develop meaningful strategies for managing mood disorders, communication barriers, attachment issues, and multicultural experiences. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I create a compassionate and affirming therapeutic environment where clients can explore their challenges, build resilience, and cultivate personal transformation. My background as a therapist of color allows me to bring nuanced understanding and authentic connection to our work together. I believe in honoring each individual's journey, recognizing that healing is a collaborative process rooted in mutual respect, understanding, and genuine human connection.
Jennifer Long
Life can feel overwhelming at times, whether you’re struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, or family challenges. You don’t have to face it alone. I work with children, teens, and adults to help them gain clarity, strengthen coping skills, and build on their natural resilience. Together, we’ll explore what’s holding you back and develop strategies that bring real and lasting change. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard, valued, and empowered to move forward with confidence. In our sessions, I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and strengths-based approaches to help you understand how your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors connect. I’ll guide you in building on your strengths while turning challenges into opportunities for growth. If it feels meaningful to you, we can also integrate faith into the work we do together. I am a Christian, and for those who would like to include the Bible and prayer in sessions, I am prepared to do so as well. I want you to feel comfortable. Taking the first step toward therapy is a powerful choice. I offer a warm, non-judgmental environment where meaningful progress is possible. Let’s work together to help you or your loved one thrive. Click the website link to learn more or schedule your first session—I look forward to connecting with you.
Find a Therapist Near You in North Bergen , 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 North Bergen.
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.