Colonized in 1675 by Quakers looking for a safe place to practice their religion, Salem, New Jersey received its namesake from the word ‘shalom,’ meaning peace. In the center of the city, a 500-year-old oak tree stands, lending stability to the community.
Even when surrounded by a peaceful, unwavering environment, there are times when one might feel turbulent and unsteady inside. If the rich history and tranquility of the Salem area aren’t enough to appease, there are local specialists who can guide you to mental harmony once matched.
Maria Abada
Welcome! My name is Maria and I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of New Jersey. I have over 15 years experience working in the mental health field. I have worked in a variety of settings including residential, partial care, outpatient, in-home, and addictions. Although that seems like a mouthful, it simply means that I have had experience working with a broad range and severity of clinical issues. I have the most experience working with anxiety, family/relationship conflicts, life transitions, and complex trauma/abuse. I also have experience working with depression, intellectual/developmental disabilities, mild autism, and immigration/acculturation issues. In the last 5 years I have also worked with individuals with perinatal mental health issues. My dedication to the field of mental health stems from my personal experience with it. I grew up with close loved ones living with mental illness and I have personally overcome some mental health challenges, too. I know firsthand that getting help can be a challenge. There is still so much stigma around having mental health issues, the process for getting help can be overwhelming, and it can feel so frustrating and lonely. However, I also know from experience how much life can change for the better when you find support and take steps towards taking care of yourself! I use a person-centered, holistic, multicultural, and integrative approach in treatment. This means I begin where you are and tailor the treatment approach to your needs while being sensitive to how your individual cultural identities and lifestyle choices impact your experience. I use evidence based techniques including cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused counseling. I also incorporate trauma-informed care into my work with clients. However, I do incorporate more "classical" approaches to counseling as well. I would describe my style as warm and supportive, and I am ready to help you tackle your struggle head-on. Collaboration is important - together we can work on establishing concrete goals and steps for you to help overcome your current problems. If you are looking for quick fixes, I am not the best counselor to work with. I believe in taking time and working on wellness slowly, holistically, and consistently. Just as physical health takes time and consistency, so does mental health. I look forward to helping you in any way I can! Please be advised I am currently available to provide services only to female clients. Thank you again for taking time in learning more about me.
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. Specialties: *Grief *Anger Management *Women’s concerns *Family Dynamics *Relationships *LGBT community
Traci Neville
I am a marriage and family therapist licensed in New Jersey with over 15 years of experience working as a therapist with children and families. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, self-harm, parenting problems, substance abuse , and ADHD. I also helped many children and families who experienced physical, emotional and sexual abuse. My therapy style is warm and compassionate. I believe in treating everyone with dignity and respect. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral and reality therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. A little progress each day adds up to big results. I look forward to working with you!
Edi Peterson
I believe in getting results. As an active and lifelong learner, I bring evidence-based techniques to my over 20 years of experience as a clinician to help people identify and achieve the goals that match their values. In pursuit of those techniques, I have obtained a Doctorate in Behavioral Health to complement my dgrees and licensure in Counseling. I hold certifications in Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) and biofeedback. My background provides me with the experience to assist with a wide range of concerns including depressed mood; anxiety, relationship, communication, and boundary issues; substance misuse; long-term pain and or chronic health issues; and stress. I currently hold licenses in Texas (LPC),New York (LMHC), and NJ (LPC). I have deep compassion for anyone who is trying to self-manage emotional and physical pain and realize that seeking help is truly a courageous first step. My style is to work collaboratively with you to set goals and define measurable steps to increase success and achieve a healthier life, whatever that looks like to you.
Kristen Williams
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 5 years of experience providing therapy. I specialize in trauma as a Clinical Complex Trauma Therapist and Trauma educator. I use body-oriented therapy to help you work through trauma. Body-oriented therapy provides a more holistic approach as it integrates the mind and body connection to address trauma. Focus on the body is essential because traumatic experiences cause us to live in a state of survival-mode where we interpret much of life through the lens of our traumatic past constantly assessing for threats and employing defenses. These defenses become patterns and are often overwhelming physical sensations. Body-centered trauma work is about releasing old patterns and creating new patterns and experiences through sensory awareness. Centering the body places focus on the trauma effects experienced through perceived body sensations. Mindfulness can help you increase present moment awareness and provide opportunity for you to learn to alleviate distressing emotions and release trauma response patterns that were once adaptive but no longer serve you. Healing can happen anywhere. I'll help you become equipped with the skills and resources you need to foster your healing in any space you feel safe enough in to do so.
Dr. Sr. Marian Mikhail
Hi, My name is Dr. Marian Mikhail [Doctorate of Min., L.C.P.C. Advanced , PhD Clinical Pastoral Counseling, M.Div., LCMHC, LPC, M.A. Rel. Ed.]. I am a licensed therapist in New York and New Jersey with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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 graduated from Pennsylvania State University 2009, with a Bachelor of Science and a minor in Human Development and Family Studies. I continued my path of education afterwards. In 2018, I received a double Masters from Fordham University. The first Masters is in Pastoral Counseling and Spiritual Care. The second Masters is in Religious Education, specializing in youth and young adult ministry. In 2020, I further joined Holy Sophia Online University to obtain a Masters in Divinity. Concurrently, I graduated in 2022 after 4 years of studying Orthodoxy from the Coptic Orthodox Institute. In 2023, I received my PhD in Clinical Pastoral Counseling from the Colorado Theological School. Currently, I am pursuing my Doctorate of Ministry, specializing in pastoral counseling degree from Liberty University.
Amy Klein
I am licensed in New Jersey with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Gail Braxton
I am licensed in New Jersey with 38 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Awilda Perez-Lane
I am licensed in New Jersey and New York with 26 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I am bilingual in Spanish and English. 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!
Beth Stewart
I am a dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a passion for helping individuals and couples navigate life's challenges and achieve emotional wellness. With 34 years of experience in the field of social work and counseling, I bring a compassionate and empathetic approach to therapy, focusing on creating a safe and supportive environment for healing and growth. Online therapy offers a flexible and accessible approach to mental health care, allowing us to connect virtually. My therapeutic approach integrates evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness techniques, and strengths-based perspectives. I tailor each session to meet the unique needs and goals of my patients, fostering a safe and supportive environment where healing and growth can occur. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with diverse populations in various settings, including community mental health centers, crisis agencies, and hospitals. My experience spans individual therapy, group therapy, and couples counseling. I have successfully helped clients address issues related to anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts, and life transitions. I am dedicated to continuing education and staying updated on the latest research and therapeutic techniques to ensure the highest standard of care for my clients. My goal is to create a therapeutic alliance built on trust, respect, and empathy, guiding you towards a more fulfilling and balanced life. I invite you to take the next step towards improving your mental health by scheduling a confidential online therapy session with me. Let’s embark on this therapeutic journey together.
How to find a therapist for counseling in Salem
Finding the best therapist close by in Salem can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services in Salem that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.
Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Salem. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Salem, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.
It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Salem region and in the state of New Jersey. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.
A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Salem or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.
There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Salem area in different types of therapy, including:
- CBT
- DBT
- Substance use therapy
- Couples therapy
When you're ready to start your search and find Salem therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Salem, elsewhere in Salem, or in the greater state of New Jersey.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services
Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Salem area can be found below:
How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Salem therapist?
The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Salem due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:
- Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
- Counseling with therapists: $100-300
- Therapy with a psychologist: $100
While many psychologists in Salem may not take health insurance, some in the state of New Jersey may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of New Jersey you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). If you're looking for a therapist, Cincinnati offers a variety of professionals who can help with your mental health needs at a price you can afford.
How is a licensed therapist on this Salem online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Salem, New Jersey working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy.
Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from Salem psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.
How does working with a professional counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?
BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health therapist, including the therapists in Salem above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.
Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Salem helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more.
What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?
BetterHelp's verified Salem therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.
Specialties on BetterHelp include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy - This type of therapy is provided by therapists who are professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
- Behavior therapy - Therapists use behavior therapy techniques to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
- EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
- Talk therapy - Therapists engage clients in talk therapy to explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
- Depression - Therapists offer counseling to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
- Anxiety disorders - Therapists specialize in anxiety disorders, offering strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
- Stress - Therapists provide tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
- Eating disorders - Therapists experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
- Grief - Therapists provide support and guidance to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
- Attachment therapy - Therapists use attachment therapy to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
- Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
- Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
- Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
- Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
- Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
- Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
- Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
- Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
- Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
- OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
- ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
- Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
- Sex addiction
- Complex trauma
- Life transitions
You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Salem therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide.
How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Salem?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Salem therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.
Salem therapists in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of Salem therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.
Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Salem therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words with a psychotherapist.
With a lot of people in NJ, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 08079 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.
How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Salem counselor?
Before seeing your Salem therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy in Salem.
Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy if I feel fine?
Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice from a therapist. A Salem licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.
Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy with a Salem counselor can be dependent on your process.
People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles that a counselor can help with.
Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?
Therapy with a licensed counselor is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health therapist has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Salem, New Jersey can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.
Salem has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.
Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions during telehealth appointments?
The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.
Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform for Salem, New Jersey
To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.
Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out to customer service through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.
If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.
If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Salem:
08079