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Psychologist Francesco Rizzo providing different types of therapy in Toms River

Francesco Rizzo

Clinician
License Type(s): NJ LMFT 37FI00193600
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflicts
13 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in New Jersey, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients address stress, anxiety, relationship challenges, and personal growth. I bring deep expertise in LGBTQ+ experiences, addiction recovery, and supporting individuals through life transitions. My therapeutic approach is compassionate and affirming, with a focus on helping clients develop self-love, improve communication, and overcome barriers like social anxiety, isolation, and personal limitations. I work collaboratively to explore underlying emotional patterns, supporting healing across diverse experiences including workplace stress, relationship dynamics, and personal identity challenges. I am committed to creating a supportive, non-judgmental space where individuals can explore their unique journeys, develop resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal transformation. Whether you're struggling with life transitions, interpersonal challenges, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I'm here to support your path toward emotional wellness.

Psychologist Dr. Joseph Prewitt-Diaz providing different types of therapy in Toms River

Dr. Joseph Prewitt-Diaz

Clinician
License Type(s): NJ LPC 37PC00050700
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
52 years offering treatment

Pastoral Counselor with more than 30 years of experience. I have worked with survivors of disasters or crises, people who have experienced a humanitarian crisis, or who are survivors of migration-related trauma. I have also worked with disaster workers experiencing compassion fatigue and/or veterans experiencing adjustment issues. I consider it important to walk with people who seek accompaniment and a compassionate ear after a traumatic experience, as well as those people who because of their age feel overwhelmed and without desire to move forward, as well as those who have suffered loss and hope. Consejera Pastoral con más de 30 años de experiencia. He trabajado con sobrevivientes de desastres o crisis, personas que han experimentado una crisis humanitaria o que son sobrevivientes de traumas relacionados con la migración. También he trabajado con trabajadores de desastres que experimentan fatiga por compasión y / o veteranos que experimentan problemas de adaptación. Considero importante caminar con personas que buscan acompañamiento y un oído compasivo después de una experiencia traumática, así como con aquellas personas que por su edad se sienten abrumadas y sin ganas de seguir adelante, así como con aquellas que han sufrido pérdida y esperanza.

Psychologist Dr. Augustine Bessong providing different types of therapy in Toms River

Dr. Augustine Bessong

Clinician
License Type(s): NJ LPC 37PC00462400
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionADHD
22 years offering treatment

Hello! My name is Augustine and some people call me Dr. B. I am a family and marriage counselor licensed in New Jersey with over 25 years of experience, working in the mental service in different capacities. I had my Ph.D. since 2000 from an APA approved University at Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including developmental disabilities, forensics, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, porn-related issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma and/or emotional trauma. And on several occasions, I have rendered services to members of the LGBTQ community. My counseling style is warm, interactive, empathic and I believe that a therapist should have effective listening skills and be able to join with the client during the counseling process. I believe in treating anyone with respect, total acceptance, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. I believe that clients have the capacity to grow in therapy and the therapist should be a catalyst in that process. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and rational-emotive counseling. I can say I'm eclectic in my approach, as clients come in therapy with different problems and no one modality in counseling is the answer to their particular problems. I will tailor our conversation and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I believe that the client must be the driver to this therapeutic journey with the therapist. Of course, it takes courage to seek for a more pleasing, satisfying and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. Change will always start from accepting that you have a problem. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you! SPECIALTIES Stress, Anxiety, PTSD, Depression Relationship issues Self esteem Career difficulties ADHD Forensics Also experienced in: Addictions , Porn-related issues, LGBT , Family conflicts , Trauma and abuse , Grief , Intimacy-related issues , Eating disorders , Sleeping disorders , Parenting issues , Anger management , Depression Years of Experience: 25 years SERVICES OFFERED

Psychologist Kimberly Puleo providing different types of therapy in Toms River

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 Dr. Gagan Luthra providing different types of therapy in Toms River

Dr. Gagan Luthra

Clinician
License Type(s): NJ LPC 37PC00248000, NJ CSW 44SW00317400
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseDepression
38 years offering treatment

Hello, I am Dr. Gagan Luthra (Ph.D), licensed professional counselor (LPC), Certified Social Worker (CSW) and Board Certified in Addictions (CCS). I am trained in psychiatry and addictions with over 35+ years of experience in this field. I have worked at the largest hospital in NJ as the head of psychiatry, addictions, and practice evidence approach when addressing mental health issues. I am a trained in Trauma -Informed Care in Behavioural Health services and cover several aspects of therapeutic issues that you had suffered during this Pandemic environment . I will encourage all of you who are facing extreme stressors to contact me and prevent rise in use of addictions and other serious mental health issues that may impact your lives . LGBT Affirmative Therapy is effective way of treating the issues of this community. I want LGBTQ clients to know that I support them and their families and have treated couple issues related to their own relationships as well their children school concerns successfully . PTSD Diagnosis is very common with our Veterans and their challenging mental health issues are well recognized by me . Addiction is one of my strong skills and i have helped many clients . Those clients who are struggling with ADDICTIONS , I will be able to introduce them to alternative successful M.A.T approach / Recovery Models etc. I also use Brief therapy models for 8-12 sessions for Sexual abuse, Grief, Anger management , Stress , Social media :Depression & Anxiety etc. Very knowledgeable about Teenage issues and ran several programs at the request of school systems related to Addictiona as well LGBTQ concerns. . My goal is to give you the understanding of different perspectives to your issues to make you feel empowered when you leave the session with new options . I provide the clients the model of therapy like Texting chat , phone call and video chats which is comfortable for them .

Psychologist Laura Hennessy providing different types of therapy in Toms River

Laura Hennessy

Clinician
License Type(s): NJ LCSW 44SC05694100
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
13 years offering treatment

My name is Laura Hennessy. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor in New Jersey. Much of my work has been at a nonprofit community mental health center where I worked with adolescents and adults. I have experience working with individuals with mental health and substance use disorders. I use an approach focused on engagement, insight building and motivation. I believe that our feelings and experiences are valid and deserve to be expressed freely and without judgment. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you.

Psychologist Cheryl Chiarello providing different types of therapy in Toms River

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 Cynthia Barrett providing different types of therapy in Toms River

Cynthia Barrett

Clinician
License Type(s): AL LICSW 3807C, FL LCSW SW10154
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in AL and MA and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in FL and NJ with 25 years of experience as a therapist and counselor in a variety of settings. I have helped people with a wide range of challenges including depression, anxiety, stress, career concerns, family and couples issues and military issues. I also have experience working with trauma and abuse survivors. My therapy style is warm, inviting and open. I believe in treating people with respect, sensitivity and compassion, avoiding labels and other stigma. My background is in cognitive behavioral therapy and client-centered counseling. My goal is to work with you to develop treatment plans that fit you and your specific needs and concerns. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and the first steps it takes towards change. If you feel you are ready to take those steps, I am here to support and encourage you. At this time I am only available on Saturdays. Please visit my calendar to schedule an initial session. I look forward to working with you!

Psychologist Mitchell Rouzie providing different types of therapy in Toms River

Mitchell Rouzie

Clinician
License Type(s): NJ LCSW 44SC05947200
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issues
35 years offering treatment

I am a psychotherapist licensed in New Jersey and New York with over 30 years of experience working with adult individuals. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues and effects of trauma. I have been able to help many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. I have worked with first responders, survivors of the World Trade Center attack and combat veterans. My therapy style is interactive and validating. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and empathy, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and integrative psychotherapy. You and I will tailor our interaction and specific treatment plan to meet your unique needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I offer my support in your journey. I look forward to working with you.

Psychologist Dina Vitorino providing different types of therapy in Toms River

Dina Vitorino

Clinician
License Type(s): NJ LPC 37PC00508700
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
12 years offering treatment

I am licensed in New Jersey with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and 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. 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 Dr. Tiffany Leone-Vespa providing different types of therapy in Toms River

Dr. Tiffany Leone-Vespa

Clinician
License Type(s): NJ LPC 37PC00365600
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesAnger managementDepression
19 years offering treatment

Hello! My name is Dr. Tiffany Leone-Vespa, Psy.D, LPC. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (New Jersey license # 37PC00365600) with over 19 years of experience working in the mental health field. I have earned my Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from St. Joseph's University, Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology from Immaculata University, and Doctorate Degree in Clinical Psychology from Alliant International University. I provide a range of psychological treatments. I have an extensive background in treating toddlers, children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. Along with a belief in holistic care for both mind and body, I utilize a variety, of therapeutic techniques, in addition to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), to treat various emotional and psychological concerns, such as anxiety and mood disorders, ADHD, life stressors, trauma, PTSD, behavioral concerns, parenting strategies, coping skills development, emotional regulation training, social skills training, anger management, and many other therapeutic concerns. I am well-versed in the assessment of psychological diagnoses, psychopathology, personality, intelligence, as well as Fit for Duty Evaluations, ADHD Assessments, School Threat Risk Assessments, and Bariatric Evaluations. I have experience facilitating domestic violence groups for victims and anger management groups for adults. I believe in building a therapeutic alliance with each patient for encouraging self-exploration and self-awareness resulting in positive transformation. 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 Stephanie Dudley providing different types of therapy in Toms River

Stephanie Dudley

Clinician
License Type(s): MD LCSW-C 18380, NJ LCSW 44SC06208500
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
11 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Maryland and New Jersey with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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!

Psychologist Jessica Peres providing different types of therapy in Toms River

Jessica Peres

Clinician
License Type(s): NJ LPC 37PC01150900
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
9 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in New Jersey, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on compassionate, holistic care, with expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, trauma, and addiction. I'm deeply committed to helping clients develop self-love, improve communication, and overcome challenges like social anxiety, isolation, and workplace stress. My therapeutic practice focuses on empowering individuals to heal from past experiences and build meaningful connections. I work collaboratively with clients experiencing diverse challenges, including relationship difficulties, personal growth obstacles, and emotional healing. Whether you're struggling with life transitions, self-esteem issues, or seeking deeper understanding of yourself, I provide a supportive, non-judgmental space for transformation. I draw from evidence-based practices to help you develop resilience, cultivate self-awareness, and create positive life changes. My goal is to support you in discovering your inner strength and moving toward a more fulfilling, authentic life.

Psychologist Themistoklis Bakelas providing different types of therapy in Toms River

Themistoklis Bakelas

Clinician
License Type(s): NJ LCSW 44SC05894900
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
9 years offering treatment

Hello! I'm Tohm and I’m a LCSW in New Jersey. I have worked in various psychiatric hospitals since 2012. My passion in counseling is to create a relationship built on safety, trust, and hope, where people feel accepted, heard, and challenged to grow in new and meaningful ways. I specialize in working with individuals aged 18 and older who struggle with depression, stress, grief, trauma, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and life changes. It's my privilege to assist someone through their difficulties and help them experience healing and relief. I believe therapy is most productive when it is supportive and casual, with a conversational tone and an open mind toward different strategies to address challenges. The key is a collaborative approach between both client and therapist. I offer lunchtime, evening, and some weekend hours. All sessions are virtual. Reach out for my exact availability. My counseling style is supportive, strength-based and rooted in direct inquiry. I believe in the dignity and worth of each person, and that the human spirit is quite resilient. As Kurt Vonnegut once boldly wrote, "It is hard to adapt to chaos, but it can be done. I am living proof of that: It can be done."

Find a Therapist Near You in Toms River , 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 Toms River.

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 Toms River 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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