Living in a small town is great for people who love to know their neighbors and see friends everywhere they go. There are many people who never met a stranger because they just seem to like everyone. However, you do not like being around people and get anxious when you think of talking to anyone. This can be a sign of social anxiety, which is easy to treat. 

Summit has many wonderful mental health professionals who are trained in diagnosing and treating social anxiety as well as other mental health conditions. Talking to one of these professionals can help you get out and enjoy life and make some friends. 

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Psychologist Bonita Hutchinson providing different types of therapy in Summit

Bonita Hutchinson

Clinician
License Type(s): NJ LPC 37PC00850200, NC LCMHC 7953
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsDepression
12 years offering treatment

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!

Psychologist Elizabeth Bates providing different types of therapy in Summit

Elizabeth Bates

Clinician
License Type(s): NJ LCSW 44SC05643700
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesDepressionADHD
22 years offering treatment

Finding a therapist is a profoundly personal way to begin the process of addressing whatever obstacle or issue you're facing. It's not that you have "issues or problems", but rather how you respond to them that's important. I am committed to working together to find an approach that's right for you with the ultimate goal of helping you find better ways of coping with the inevitable obstacles we all face-- in life, in relationships, in our careers, personal goals, crises, destructive patterns of behavior--and the list goes on., etc. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and received my degree from the State University of New York at Albany, in 2004. I have over 20 years of working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. My approach has been influenced by many contemporary theories and therapies. My background is in Gestalt Therapy, a holistic approach that builds on awareness of oneself and one's relationships with others. I often draw from other approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure Response Treatment Therapy, mindfulness and psycho-education, depending on what we decide will be most beneficial for you. I will work collaboratively with you to help bring meaning and understanding to your life, resulting in a richer fuller life in the present. I embrace all people and have many years of experience working with people from a wide variety of backgrounds. Patients find me to be genuine, approachable, inclusive, warm and interactive. In my experience, humor and lightheartedness can be very helpful in developing that secure bond between patient and therapist. I believe an open-minded atmosphere creates the safe space you need in order to speak about truly personal matters. www.betterhelp.com/elizabeth-bates.

Psychologist Julia Montoto Eguino providing different types of therapy in Summit

Julia Montoto Eguino

Clinician
License Type(s): NJ LCSW 44SC00268000
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
25 years offering treatment

I am licensed in New Jersey with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, family conflicts, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with depression. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Jaime Grunfeld providing different types of therapy in Summit

Jaime Grunfeld

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LMHC 005829, NJ LPC 37PC00659300
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
17 years offering treatment

Life's hardships sometimes deplete our emotions. Loss, trauma, anxiety, depression, and confusion consume our inner resources, and we might need help from a "neutral" person to detect what's going on and help us restore our inner peace, so we should be capable of having passion and delight in work, relationships and feel good about ourselves. I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the States of New York and New Jersey and a trained Psychoanalyst. In psychoanalytic therapy, you'll gain mastery over your emotional world and feel empowered to deal with life's circumstances.

Psychologist Paul Clark providing different types of therapy in Summit

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 michael geisert providing different types of therapy in Summit

michael geisert

Clinician
License Type(s): NJ LCSW 44SC05428600
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
27 years offering treatment

I am licensed in New Jersey with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in working and empowering clients manage stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, addictions, supportive counseling and anger symptoms in an array of settings. Some approaches I employ to assist you to meet your goals include Client Centered, Positive Psychology, EFT, ACT and Mindfulness. Some of these settings include outpatient and inpatient Addictions and mental health, Juvenile Justice, US Military and Veteran mental health, Public School and College. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, as we navigate this journey together. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out strategies and awareness to move forward. I am here to support, develop tools to manage yourself and clear these disruptions and enhance your life.

Psychologist Carolyn Appell providing different types of therapy in Summit

Carolyn Appell

Clinician
License Type(s): NJ LPC 37PC00567200
Mental Wellness Specialties: AddictionsParenting issues
9 years offering treatment

I am licensed in New Jersey with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients coping with substance use disorders, as well as relationship 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.

Psychologist Louise Abitbol providing different types of therapy in Summit

Louise Abitbol

Clinician
License Type(s): NJ LCSW 44SC06253800, NY LCSW-R 071904
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
18 years offering treatment

I am licensed in New York with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. I believe that you are the narrator of your story and that your body, mind and soul have the ability to shift, change and heal trauma. Our work together will help you learn how to use your body and mind's energy system to better manage your life. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy does take courage. I am here to guide you towards a direction of clarity and hope as we start this process together.

Psychologist Charu Bhardwaj providing different types of therapy in Summit

Charu Bhardwaj

Clinician
License Type(s): NJ LPC 37PC00981500
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
12 years offering treatment

I am licensed in New Jersey with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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.

Psychologist Gregor Thomas providing different types of therapy in Summit

Gregor Thomas

Clinician
License Type(s): PA LCSW CW024848, NJ LCSW 44SC05839300
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
10 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Pennsylvania & New Jersey, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on helping clients develop resilience, self-understanding, and meaningful strategies for personal growth. I have extensive experience addressing challenges like stress, anxiety, family dynamics, trauma recovery, and self-esteem development. My therapeutic work focuses on supporting youth, adolescents and adults through critical life transitions, workplace challenges, and emotional wellness. I'm particularly passionate about helping individuals struggling with isolation, social anxiety, mood disorders, and finding deeper life purpose. By creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space, I collaborate with clients to explore their inner strengths and develop personalized pathways toward healing and self-discovery. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I aim to empower clients to cultivate self-love, build emotional skills, and transform challenging life experiences into opportunities for personal development. My commitment is to walk alongside you with genuine empathy and professional expertise as you navigate your unique journey.

Psychologist Renee Riddell providing different types of therapy in Summit

Renee Riddell

Clinician
License Type(s): NJ LPC 37PC01078300
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years offering treatment

I am licensed in New Jersey with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief, coping with loss, & depression. 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.

Psychologist Shirley Panjabi providing different types of therapy in Summit

Shirley Panjabi

Clinician
License Type(s): NJ LPC 37PC01027800
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years offering treatment

I am licensed in New Jersey with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & despression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Psychologist Richard Rivera providing different types of therapy in Summit

Richard Rivera

Clinician
License Type(s): NJ LCSW 44SC01028000
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefCoping with life changes
40 years offering treatment

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.

Psychologist Jacqueline Albertson providing different types of therapy in Summit

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 Summit , 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 Summit.

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 Summit 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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