Oakland, NJ was recently ranked the 3 rd best place in New Jersey on Business Week’s list of “Great Places to Raise Kids – for Less.” Local school test scores, the number of schools in the area, crime risk, living costs, and cultural and recreational activities all factored into the award. While Oakland has many features that make raising a family easier than in other places, sometimes, you may need a bit of help through both family-related and personal struggles.

Oakland-area counselors are available now to assist you and your family with a multitude of things. These mental health professionals can provide you with support confidentially, including teaching you coping skills for dealing with the issues you’re facing. If you or your family need help, consider reaching out to a nearby counselor today.

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Psychologist Joselin Herrera providing different types of therapy in Oakland

Joselin Herrera

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LCSW 085271, NJ LCSW 44SC05889000
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
10 years offering treatment

Hello!) My name is Joselin Herrera. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of New Jersey and New York. I earned my Bachelor in Psychology at Stony Brook University and my Master of Social Work at Hunter College. I was a psychotherapist at an outpatient mental health clinic in NY working on issues such as depression, anxiety, parenting and family struggles, trauma and abuse, as well as life changes. I worked with diverse population in regards to ethnicity/cultures, sexual orientation, disabilities, and socio-economic status. I believe in a strengths-based approach utilizing cognitive behavioral and solution focused techniques. You can identify your strength during this reading as you have already made a brave decision to seek help. It's imperative that a trusting therapeutic relationship is built so you feel confident to express yourself in a safe and supportive environment. I believe our work is based on a team approach where we work together to achieve your desired goals. Once we identify your desired goals I can provide tools to help you achieve those goals. I look forward to working with you. SPECIALTIES Stress, Anxiety Parenting issues Depression Coping with life changes Self esteem

Psychologist Elrita Godbold providing different types of therapy in Oakland

Elrita Godbold

Clinician
License Type(s): NJ LCSW 44SC05304200
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
16 years offering treatment

Hello. My name is Elrita Godbold and I am glad you are here. Congrats on taking your first step towards wellness, I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I received my Bachelor's Degree from Lincoln University in PA and my Master's Degree in Social work from Rutger's University in NJ. I received my clinical license 2006. I have worked as an administrator, a clinician and I currently have a private practice. I have worked with diverse populations who's presenting problems have included Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, Anxiety and Work related stress. I take pride in my work and enjoy helping others learn how to live their best lives. I specialize in Anxiety, as it has exploded as an initial diagnosis hard over the past few years, especially since the pandemic hit in 2020. Everyone is looking for a way to make sense out of the events over the past 2 years and often the type of support offered by Better Help is what is needed. In my therapeutic approach I utilize CBT which connects your thoughts and emotions to your behaviors. I also use DBT along with psychoeducation which empowers you and gives you the appropriate tools to be successful. I believe in treating the whole person, mind and body. I teach mindfulness strategies such as visualization, and meditation, as well as other relaxation strategies to help you manage life's daily stressors. I hope that you will allow me to walk with you on your journey. Looking forward to meeting you.

Psychologist Kimberly Puleo providing different types of therapy in Oakland

Kimberly Puleo

Clinician
License Type(s): NJ LPC 37pc00432800
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
20 years offering treatment

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.

Psychologist Beverly Hodsden providing different types of therapy in Oakland

Beverly Hodsden

Clinician
License Type(s): NJ LPC 37PC00054800
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
38 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in New Jersey, I bring nearly four decades of compassionate clinical experience to supporting individuals through life's complex challenges. My approach is deeply rooted in understanding the unique emotional landscapes of each person's journey, with specialized expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, trauma recovery and addiction recovery. I am committed to creating a supportive, non-judgmental therapeutic environment where clients can explore personal growth, heal from past experiences, and develop meaningful strategies for emotional well-being. My practice focuses on empowering individuals to cultivate self-love, improve communication, navigate life transitions, and overcome barriers that prevent personal fulfillment. With extensive training in addressing diverse concerns—including social anxiety, mood disorders, attachment challenges, and multicultural experiences—I offer a holistic, person-centered approach. My goal is to walk alongside you, providing thoughtful guidance and compassionate support as you move toward greater emotional resilience and personal understanding.

Psychologist Anne Boyd  Hinton providing different types of therapy in Oakland

Anne Boyd Hinton

Clinician
License Type(s): NJ LPC 37PC00320600
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepression
26 years offering treatment

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.

Psychologist Cheryl Chiarello providing different types of therapy in Oakland

Cheryl Chiarello

Clinician
License Type(s): NJ LPC 37PC00621400
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefDepression
17 years offering treatment

From what I've observed personally, therapy is useful to anyone who is human. Why should you talk to a therapist instead of a friend or your mother? The difference is that therapists are expert listeners who do not judge, criticize, or contradict, but who want to hear everything you have to say and how you are feeling. You may want help discussing difficult thoughts and feelings or need guidance on particular issues, or you may not be sure how you feel. The therapy session offers a private, safe place where you can feel free to say everything. And if you have trouble talking, the therapist can help with that too. My mission is to offer that safe space where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment or criticism. Taking the first step to seek therapy takes courage. I’m here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Paul Clark providing different types of therapy in Oakland

Paul Clark

Clinician
License Type(s): DC LICSW LC200001647, AZ LCSW LCSW-21787
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoaching
10 years offering treatment

Hello and thank you for reaching out, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Virginia who received my Bachelors and Master’s degree in Social Work from Norfolk State University (NSU) School of Social Work. I am a retired Chief Petty Officer with 20 years of active duty service, grew up in the Washington D. C. area who recognizes and embraces difference and ethnic diversity. I am well known for being an extremely knowledgeable, compassionate, and caring mental health professional who has worked with clients including active duty military and Veterans with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. My clinical experience includes the use of Solution Focus, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness, and other evidence-based theoretical models and perspective. My counseling style is warm, interactive but, straight forward. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I do not believe in stigmatizing labels. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. My goal is to provide World Class Service, collaborate, and empower you, the client, and build upon what is working for the client by using various therapeutic models and perspectives tailored to meet the clients individual and specific needs. I am here to support and assist you as you work towards reaching your desired goals. I look forward to working with you!

Psychologist Henry Meyerson providing different types of therapy in Oakland

Henry Meyerson

Clinician
License Type(s): NJ Psychologist 35SI00553300
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesDepression
50 years offering treatment

I earned my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the University of Houston with a specialty in clinical psychology and a subspecialty in the psychosocial aspects of physical disorders. I began my clinical private practice after having acquired a firm foundation from my internship at the University of Chicago Hospitals and Clinics. In addition to my 20 years in private practice i was also consultant to various psychotherapy clinics and long term physical rehabilitation facilities. While my private practice was general (parent (child issues, marital discord, separation and aging), I also maintained a focus on the psychological effects of chronic autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, as well as other chronic disorders. I feel that a cognitive behavioral therapy approach , within a framework of client-centered and emotionally supportive interactions, is the most conducive to helping my clients to deal with their life's conflicts and hurdles.

Psychologist Jacqueline Hendrickson providing different types of therapy in Oakland

Jacqueline Hendrickson

Clinician
License Type(s): NJ LCSW 44SC05540500
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
33 years offering treatment

I am licensed in New Jersey with 32 years of professional work experience. I earned a masters degree in clinical social work in 1985 and have been in continuous practice since then. My specialty is family therapy. And I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, self esteem, confidence, & career difficulties. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist Michael Vaillancourt providing different types of therapy in Oakland

Michael Vaillancourt

Clinician
License Type(s): NJ LCSW 44SC05629600
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementDepression
20 years offering treatment

I have extensive clinical experience providing both individual and group psychotherapy to diverse populations.

Psychologist Priscilla Tixi providing different types of therapy in Oakland

Priscilla Tixi

Clinician
License Type(s): ME LCPC CC8586, NJ LPC 37PC01067400
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changes
5 years offering treatment

My name is Priscilla Tixi, and I have my masters in Mental Health Counseling. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in New Jersey and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Maine. I have worked in the mental health field for 10 years, primarily for non-profit agencies, and 5 of those years as a mental health therapist. I provide individual therapy for primarily women 18 and up. I specialize in supporting individuals through life's complexities. My approach centers on understanding each person's unique journey. I offer compassionate, person centered, and solution-focused care that will honor your experiences. My expertise spans a wide range of focus areas, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, workplace/home life challenges, trauma recovery, stress, relationship dynamics, personal growth, women's issues, grief, navigating significant life transitions, etc. My therapeutic style emphasizes empowerment, self-discovery, and healing. I create a supportive environment where clients can explore their emotions, develop meaningful coping strategies, and cultivate greater self-understanding. I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance.

Psychologist Jennifer Long providing different types of therapy in Oakland

Jennifer Long

Clinician
License Type(s): PA LCSW CW026545, NJ LCSW 44SC06213000
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
26 years offering treatment

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.

Psychologist Teresa 'Terri" Dawe providing different types of therapy in Oakland

Teresa 'Terri" Dawe

Clinician
License Type(s): NJ LCSW 44SC04642500
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
34 years offering treatment

Terri Dawe, LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has over 34 years of experience working with individuals, families and groups. She attended the University of South Carolina for her undergraduate degree and Rutgers University for her MSW. In addition, Terri completed a Post Master’s Certificate Program in Marriage and Family Therapy at the Family Institute (currently the Multicultural Family Institute). In addition, Terri was trained in the Duluth Model of Domestic Violence at the Family Institute. Terri has worked in outpatient settings where she has supervised interns and provisionally licensed clinicians working towards their licensure. Terri has held numerous Administrative positions where she developed clinical programs with positive, evidence- based outcomes. Terri also has 16 years experience in managing Employee Assistance Programs working with employees and consulting with Unions and Human Resources. In addition, Terri provides training and consultation to other professionals on family and couples cases. Terri utilizes a family systems framework in helping clients understand the context of their own histories and its impact on current life and relationships. She also utilized CBT, MI and psychoeducation to support the therapeutic process. Terri has experience treating depression, anxiety, PTSD and mood disorders. I offer a collaborative therapeutic journey leading to gained insight, growth, change and happiness. In addition, my approach is one that “holds space” with compassion and non-judgement for those who are struggling and looking to gain a better sense of self.

Psychologist Jacqueline Albertson providing different types of therapy in Oakland

Jacqueline Albertson

Clinician
License Type(s): NJ LCSW 44SC05532600
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist with over a decade of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating life's complex emotional landscapes. My practice focuses on helping clients address depression, anxiety, stress, and family dynamics, with a compassionate approach to personal growth and healing. I am deeply committed to supporting individuals through challenging life transitions, particularly those experiencing isolation, struggling with self-worth, or seeking greater life purpose. My therapeutic approach centers on fostering self-love, working through feelings of guilt and shame, and developing meaningful pathways to personal forgiveness and emotional resilience. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I create a supportive environment where clients can explore their inner experiences, develop effective coping strategies, and cultivate a deeper understanding of themselves. My goal is to empower individuals to reconnect with their inherent strengths and move toward more fulfilling, authentic lives.

Find a Therapist Near You in Oakland , 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:

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:

  1. Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
  2. Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in New Jersey (NJ)
  3. 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 Oakland.

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.

Finding therapy with a therapist in Oakland can change your life. Expert therapy provides the most valuable insights into managing stress, building resilience, and nurturing emotional growth. With the personalized guidance and compassionate support, from a licensed mental health therapeutic expert serving clients in your area, you can gain therapy tools to overcome life’s obstacles and improve overall well-being. It's beneficial to embrace therapy in order to unlock new paths toward happiness and lasting self-improvement. Experience renewed strength and clarity with BetterHelp online therapy services and therapists. Seeking expert therapeutic guidance from a seasoned therapy counselor can foster resilience and personal growth. Embracing professional therapy allows individuals to address their emotional challenges effectively while gaining theraprutic insight and self-assurance. Therapy enhances overall well-being, inspires healthier relationships, and empowers you to navigate their life's obstacles with renewed clarity and confidence beyond measure.
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