Therapists in Northfield, NJ

"Adulting" is one of the hardest things we will ever have to do! What happens when you are looking for an "adultier" adult to help you through the challenges of life and you realize that you are all you have? You might find yourself here, and you are in the right place! My name is Nakia and I am a Masters level Licensed Professional Counselor. I am based out of New Jersey and have over ten years of experience, working in a variety of settings, with people suffering from symptoms of Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Bi polar, or simply those looking to improve their life in some way. I have also facilitated groups on self care and several other areas of growth, mental health, and wellness. My therapeutic approach is Person centered, as I feel rapport is the most important part of a successful client-therapist relationship; Motivational Interviewing, because the therapeutic relationship should be more collaborative than authoritative; and Cognitive Behavioral, because if we can confront our irrational, or problematic, thinking patterns while building healthier ones, we can improve our behaviors, which will lead to a happier life. If you are struggling with symptoms of mental illness, feelings of low self esteem, feeling anxious, stuck in a rut, seeing common themes in your relationships, or generally dissatisfied in life, you have already made the first step to improve by being here! The second step is one "click" away!

I have been a grief counselor for 15 years. We know that grief does not come isolated, there are many issues that may be entwined with grief. Therefore, my experience is with all aspects of end-of-life issues (dying, death and bereavement), spiritual crisis, spirit versus religion, discussions of spirit (signs, symbols, visitations, dreams), relationship issues, self-esteem and confidence, trauma, forgiveness, reinvestment in life, life coaching, career coaching, pet loss and other disenfranchised griefs (unacknowledged relationship, suicide, overdose, homicide, etc.). I am an eclectic counselor and like to use many different techniques as appropriate to the client and their goals. My most used techniques are cognitive behavioral, mindfulness, affirmation and positive techniques. My passion is to help spread kindness, positivity and healing throughout the world. My belief is that each one of us can be a beacon of hope and healing for others and the world. I look forward to working with you in the future. Sincerely, Diana Sebzda

Hi there. My name is Darci Shinn, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of New Jersey. Below is some background information about my education, professional experiences, and therapeutic approaches. It is my hope that you see how I've incorporated my understanding of science and therapy in to one clinical practice. In 2006, I completed my undergraduate degree in Biology at William Patterson University. There I built my foundation for understanding how both internal and external events/stimuli impact a person's functioning. Following graduation, I worked for 2 years in Assisted Reproductive Technology. I was able to use my love of science to help folks create the families they desired. I moved on from there to work in pharmaceuticals as a compound technician. In this setting I gained deeper insight into how chemicals interact with bodies and minds. Although I had great satisfaction using my scientific strategies and knowledge, the lab setting left me feeling disconnected from my emotions and rigid in my thinking. I had known since about age 18 that I wanted to be a sex therapist. I did not have the courage to pursue until 2010 when I found the dual master's degrees in Social Work and Human Sexuality at Widener University. Through both programs I gained a wealth of clinical skills, learned theory, engaged in self-reflection, became a flexible thinker, and grew my understanding of how structure impacts function. Since graduation, I have worked in both school and agency settings. The majority of my experience has been with adults presenting with a wide variety of issues they have wanted to address. To that extent, I am a person-centered and solution-focused therapist. I am there to support individuals as they work to build their own insights and embrace solutions that fit their needs. Moment by moment, thought by thought, they do the work, and we examine together the missteps and the progress. Recognizing that small changes over time are what is necessary and knowing that it is okay to make mistakes are fundamental aspects of the work. I often like to harken back to my days in biology. I think about how structure relates to function, which translates to everyday thoughts, behaviors, decisions and habits. By structure, I mean your brain and body, and your daily routine. When we take care of the structure- give it the time, attention, and resources it needs, we influence the function. The function includes, but is not limited to, the ability to think, make decisions, process information and experiences, influence interpretations and have awareness. This way of thinking falls in line with Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT). That is to say, what we think, dictates our behavior. Our behavior in-turn impacts the structures of the brain and body. By purposefully altering thoughts and reactions, by exposure to new meaningful stimuli, by manipulating our environment and building awareness to everyday habits, the physical neurobiology of the brain can change. We can build the option to choose which thoughts are embraced and which are simply acknowledged, and effectively change the way we experience life. One of my favorite ways to use CBT is to address self-talk and work to make it more helpful and less harmful. Self-talk and thoughts are pretty similar, and while the science is still out on where exactly thoughts come from, it does seem clear they can often be detrimental. The pre-historic parts of our brain seem to be responsible for focusing on the negative aspects of experiences. CBT strategies can work against this innate thought manufacturing and allow for the more modern and sophisticated parts of the brain to have control. As I said before, taking care of the structure is an important part of functioning. I am a huge fan of incorporating movement and exercise into my CBT approach. The science does not waver when it comes to the physical and mental health benefits that simply moving the body provides. The advantages of improved mood, sleep, blood flow, energy, digestion and prevention of myriad diseases, to name some, are all fantastic ways to care for those all-important structures. When it comes to human sexuality, I am a sex-positive professional who advocates for healthy communication in relationships in order to achieve mutual satisfaction. I strive to help others understand the nature and scope of sexual behaviors in a non-judgmental atmosphere. I have engaged in extensive self-reflection which has helped me to develop neutrality, flexibility and compassion for many presenting problems. Through my training, I have been exposed to the broad spectrum of human behavior and thoughts related to sex. I have a thorough understanding of consent, power and control, social norms and outliers, stigma, gender, orientation, and identity. In adhering to my understanding of sexuality, Existential Therapy is one approach I use to assist individuals in creating meaning and understanding around their physical and mental sexual experiences. The brain/mind and body are integrated structures and as such, are subject to many given experiences in which they coordinate a response. Exploration and acceptance of those responses is facilitated to create purpose, satisfaction, and balance in sexual well-being. Just as many folks are, I am a work in progress. To be clear, I am working towards becoming certified with the American Association of Sexual Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT). My over-arching goal to be a bona fide sex-therapist is on its way!

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) in the state of New Jersey. I have over nine years of experience working with substance use, mental health, and dual-diagnosis/co-occurring populations. I have worked in community agencies as well as hospital-based programs, and I have experience in several levels of care such as inpatient, outpatient, Intensive Outpatient (IOP), Partial Hospitalization (PHP/APH), and Medication Assisted Treatment (Methadone, Vivitrol, Suboxone). I also have experience working with trauma in addition to severe and persistent mental illness (Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia/Schizoaffective Disorder, Personality Disorders) and coordinating crisis intervention with this population. My counseling style is warm, non-judgmental, and person-centered. I believe you are the expert on you, and as your counselor I am here to assist you in achieving the goals you wish to accomplish in therapy. Together we will collaborate to form a treatment plan, measurable and achievable goals, assessing your progress and adjusting accordingly as necessary. One of the most significant reasons I entered this profession, is that I am a firm believe that "a little compassion goes a long way". It only takes one person to help you see the light when you feel trapped in the darkness. I also believe in the importance of empowerment in order to rebuild self esteem, self worth, and self efficacy - and I am looking forward to working with you!

I am licensed in New Jersey with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

I'm a licensed professional counselor in New Jersey and Pennsylvania with 7 years of experience. I specialize in helping women cope with life transitions, depression, and generalized anxiety. I have extensive experience working with women of color and the Sunni Muslim population. Cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy and behavior activation are modalities I use with a holistic approach believing that the mind, body and soul are connected. Feel free to schedule with me if you want to work towards increasing your optimism, challenge unhelpful thoughts and improve overall well-being.

Whatever your reasons are for seeking therapy, I am here and I am committed to helping you resolve your problems. I often share that no one is exempt from experiencing life’s difficulties. At some point in life, we all will face some challenges. What I have learned is that not everyone has the proper skills to manage problems effectively. Seeking support puts you on the right track to identifying ways to address those problems you are dealing with more appropriately. To give you an idea of who I am and what I do, I am Dr. Montgomery, a licensed clinical social worker in PA, DE, NJ, and OH. I have over 27 years of professional work experience in the field. I consider myself to be a trauma therapist, utilizing a generalist approach. My treatment modalities consist of psychoanalysis, psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and person-centered therapies. These approaches are at the core of my practice. I treat a range of social, emotional, and behavioral disturbances. I have experience in helping clients manage and/overcome OCD, Anxiety, Depression, Complex Trauma/PTSD, and Sexual Abuse issues. I am a National Certified Sex Offender Treatment Specialist. My Forensic Specialty is treating individuals with deviant sexual acting behaviors. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Yes, change is hard and seeking help can be a frightening experience. My only goal is to encourage, empower, and assist you in becoming a better version of yourself. So, call today.

I am licensed in New Jersey and New York with over 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, violence, aggression, parenting issues, anger management, depression, anxiety and 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. I am so glad you have taken the first step to living a healthier, more fulfilling life. Let's achieve that together.

My approach is flexible and eclectic, and I adapt the treatment plan to each individual. I enjoy helping clients from all walks of life and have worked extensively within the LGBT community. I hold clinical licenses in both New York and New Jersey, and am board certified by the National Association of Social Workers. I received my Masters in Social Work from Hunter College School of Social Work/CUNY. I achieved Diplomate Status from the National Association of Social Workers, and was the Greta Singer Memorial Lecturer at Monmouth University (2011); and adjunct faculty for both graduate schools of Social Work and Mental Health Counseling at Hunter College/CUNY. I have also served as a Field Instructor for Columbia, NYU, Fordham, and Yeshiva. I am an Accredited Teacher of T'ai Chi Chih®, a non-martial arts form of T'ai Chi. I am a member of the New York Zen Center for Contemplative Care (NYC).

I am a licensed professional counselor with three years of experience in Texas. My expertise lies in helping clients navigate relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma, abuse, and intimacy-related concerns. My approach is based on treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I understand the importance of creating a treatment plan that is tailored to your unique needs. I acknowledge that it takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life, and I am here to support and empower you throughout your journey.