The borough of Watchung can be found in the mountainous area of Somerset County, New Jersey and has a population of about 5949 people. The name Watchung came from the Lenni Lenape Indians and it means high hills in their Native American language. Watchung was incorporated on April 20, 1926.

The Watchung area also boasts some of the best medical care including top-notch mental health care. Whether you are looking for therapy, counseling, or just need some questions answered, you can find a mental health expert in and around Watchung who will fit your needs. Reach out to one of the counselors in the Watchung area today.

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Veronica Cruz-Martinez

Offering therapy in NJ
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
9 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California and New Jersey with over 18 years of experience working with the LGBTQIA+ community, children and adults with trauma history along with those struggling with suicidal ideation and self-harm, parenting issues, anxiety and depression. I have seen firsthand the difference a caring, empathetic, and attentive adult can make in a person’s life and feel honored when that can be me. For the last 8 years I have worked as a "crisis counselor" and clinician, seeing clients on a regular basis as well as supporting those in and through a crisis. I am able to think quick on my feet and can stay calm in high intensity situations. Throughout this time, I have assessed for safety and danger to self and others due to mental illness and have made determinations as to whether or not someone is in need of psychiatric hospitalization and am certified to make the decision that one needs to enter into a hospital for treatment. On the other side, I have also safety planned with many and have been able to connect people to supports that they need whether it be referrals that fit their current situation, assisting in making a plan to keep them safe and connecting the person to someone whom they feel comfortable with should they be in crisis again. I believe in treating the mind, body, and soul and understand as well as acknowledge, the importance of a healthy lifestyle and why it is important to utilize all the tools we have (or have yet to find) because we all have the power within us to heal, sometimes we just need some help getting there. I believe in the importance of coping skills and can help you find them or strengthen the ones you already have. This can include meditation, exercise, utilizing crystals or essential oils to help heal and calm oneself, and will seek outside supports when needed. I am a firm believer in working within my limits as a therapeutic clinician and have no problem offering referrals when necessary. My overall goal is to continue providing the support, offering guidance, and making a difference in the lives of others, using my expertise in trauma informed treatment and having an open mind.

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Flora Pazos

Offering therapy in NJ
License: MS,LMHC,PA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

My name is Flora Pazos, and I have been a mental health practitioner for over 40 years. I am fluent in English as well as Spanish and I pride myself in helping those in need. I have experience in individual therapy, couples and family therapy, and a wide range of adult and pediatric issues. In my practice, I am devoted to adapting services to meet the individual needs of each client, with compassion, understanding, dignity, and respect, while promoting self-determination and self-growth. My therapeutic style is goal-oriented and individualized to the needs of each client. I believe that anyone can benefit from therapy and one does not need to have a mental health illness or an emotional issue to benefit from therapy; therapy can help achieve a life-long dream and a sense of happiness in the individual. I teach clients strategies and techniques to reinforce their inner strengths as well as to better cope with their current situations/issues. After each session, you will not only gain the tools to carefully examine each life decision but a much-needed serenity that will help you through the process.

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Dr. Bridgette Montgomery

Offering therapy in NJ
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepression
27 years of experience

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

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Kelly Dauber

Offering therapy in NJ
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionADHD
13 years of experience

I operate with a solution-focused methodology. I will teach strategies that will get you to move beyond your current self and become a greater version of yourself. I am naturally inquisitive, empathic, slightly sarcastic. I will teach you how to look at all parts of your life with a different perspective, by employing various therapeutic modalities ranging from EMDR to Law of Attraction techniques. You will learn how to manifest abundance and greatness while healing from past pain. I will give you the tools and how to apply them to effectively change your life and stop running in circles around the preverbal therapy wheel. The sole intention is to “walk alongside” you as you learn to heal yourself. Are you ready to take the first step in this journey?

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Michelle Sheedy

Offering therapy in NJ
Sleeping disordersADHD
14 years of experience

I am licensed in New Jersey with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbt-related issues & 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.

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William Ezzelle

Offering therapy in NJ
License: MA,LPC,CTMH
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas, New Jersey, and Virginia (Texas LPC: 78816; Virginia LPC: 0701010791; New Jersey LPC: 37PC00934800) with four years of counseling experience. I graduated from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte with a Master of Arts Degree in Counseling. I further specialized in Addictions Counseling at UNC Charlotte and Trauma and Disaster Counseling at East Carolina University. Currently, I am pursuing a Doctor of Education in Counselor Education and Supervision from National Louis University. I have worked with clients struggling with substance use, depression, and anxiety. I have worked in varied settings including correctional facilities, homeless shelters, psychiatric hospitals, and outpatient clinics. I am a Certified Clinical Telemental Health Provider through Evergreen Certifications. I utilize a Client Centered Approach to counseling; this means that we work together hand in hand to help you accomplish goals. I view my clients as experts on themselves, what does that mean? That means that I will not tell you what to do, but work with you to find solutions that are unique to you! I meet my clients wherever they are on their journey and considering it a privilege that you allow me to accompany you on your journey. As well as utilizing Client Center Approaches, I also use Cognitive Behavioral Techniques and Mindfulness techniques. Reaching out for help is an act of bravery. We all need additional support from time to time. Seeking a qualified counselor can be the first step towards living the authentic life that you want to live. I look forward to hearing from you!

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Monica Garnett

Offering therapy in NJ
License: LCPC,LAADC,CADTP
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
3 years of experience

Hi I’m Monica, Are you feeling stuck, unsettled and ready to regain some normalcy in your life? Are you hoping to become the best version of yourself? Allow me to assist you in becoming more self-aware and regaining more control of your life. I am a licensed counselor for the state of Illinois and a certified substance abuse counselor for California. My experiences have allowed me to work with diverse clientele ranging from children and adolescents to adults with varying needs. My therapeutic style is collaborative and engaging and I assist you in learning to live an enriched and full life. I have fifteen years’ experience working with individuals who needed help with emotional regulation, developing coping strategies, struggling with alcohol, drug or behavioral addictions as well as with individuals or couples needing to enhance their communication skills. I also have several years of experience working with veterans. I offer phone and video sessions for clients who are distancing or quarantined. I have immediate openings for new clients. Allow me to assist you in taking the next step towards living a more fulfilled life!

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Ann Alves

Offering therapy in NJ
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

Hi, I'm Ann, and I believe that every individual has the resiliency to heal and thrive. Together, we will harness those inner resources to bring positive changes into your life, creating the shift from surviving to thriving! Having gone through my own journey of self-discovery and healing, I understand that life can feel overwhelming at times, and navigating through its challenges can be tough. Having support and guidance on your journey, motivates and empowers you to make the changes you seek. I'm here to offer you a safe and compassionate space where you can freely explore your inner landscape without judgment and identify ways to move forward. As a clinical social worker and NYU graduate with years of experience working with teens, young adults, adults and families, my primary focus is empowering you to overcome obstacles in your life and challenges related to anxiety, depression and trauma, while deepening your connection with self and others. Whether you're struggling with overwhelm, a life transition, feeling unsupported or finding it difficult to navigate and cope with emotions or mental health symptoms, I can help you recenter and keep moving along your path. Using evidenced-based practices, mindfulness techniques and a holistic approach, we can restore the balance within which gets reflected in your outer world. I am also passionate about providing integration support for those exploring plant medicines and psychedelic assisted treatment. Having spent two years learning from tribes/lineages in Peru, Brazil and Costa Rica, I bring a combination of traditional and experiential education to our work together. I will help you unravel your experiences and find ways to incorporate the lessons learned into every day life, for lasting meaningful change. After your first session with me, you can expect to feel a sense of relief and validation. We'll begin by discussing your concerns, your goals, and exploring different areas of your life, pertinent history and the dynamics of your relationships. I'll create a safe space for you to openly express yourself, and together, we'll lay the foundation for our journey ahead. My approach to therapy is both eclectic and psychodynamic, recognizing that everyone has unique needs and is influenced by their past experiences. I'm trauma-informed, creating a nurturing container where you feel held to address past wounds and promote healing. Together, we'll work to identify the root cause of the issues at hand and leverage your strengths and resiliency to identify solutions that move you forward. Methods like CBT to reshape negative thought patterns and Emotion-Focused Therapy to explore & process feelings are often combined with mindfulness practices and creative expression techniques. We may use journaling for reflection or engage in role-playing to explore different perspectives. Tapping, known as Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), voice toning and muscle testing are tools used to release emotional energetic blocks. My ultimate goal is to empower you to cultivate a deeper understanding of yourself and equip you with the tools needed to navigate the ebbs & flows of life while maintaining a state of wellbeing. Whether you're struggling with a specific issue or looking to make a change in your life, I am here to support you every step of the way.

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Desiree Hatton

Offering therapy in NJ
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGrief
20 years of experience

I am licensed in New Jersey and Pennsylvania with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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.

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Dr. Kourtney Vaillancourt

Offering therapy in NJ
License: PhD,LMFT,LADAC
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGrief
14 years of experience

Thank you for taking the time to read through my profile, I am glad that you are taking the step to reach out for help! To begin, I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, a Licensed Drug and Alcohol Counselor, and a Life Coach in New Mexico. For the past 14 years I've worked with individuals, couples, and families across the lifespan to tackle challenges that they're facing in their lives. I have specialized training in family relationships, marriage/couples, substance abuse, sexuality, mindfulness, grief and loss, trauma, and military families. I engage in a non-judgmental approach to helping clients identify their strengths and use those to tackle the problems they face. I think that it is important for me to note that I really love the work that I do, and I love being able to provide therapy through a platform that is convenient and available 24/7. Online therapy is new and exciting, but also may be a little scary at first. I'm here to take things at your pace and to help you to navigate the platform and to help you feel at ease with this style of work. :) I engage in client-centered practice where your needs and wishes are respected and honored. I practice from a systems perspective that involves considering how the challenges you face are impacted by, and likewise impact, the systems to which you belong (i.e., family, work, community). I am also a strengths-based therapist who avoids pathologizing anyone, we all experience challenges and need help from time to time, that is not an indication of some inherent weakness. I am comfortable working with liberals and conservatives, religious and non-religious individuals alike. Because I adopt a non-judgmental approach and one that allows you to be the expert in your own life, my own perceptions and beliefs take a back seat. Of course it is impossible to completely avoid bias, but I actively address with my clients their beliefs and values and we work together to understand one another and respect differing perspectives. So please do not be confused or discouraged because I list in my profile that I can work with people from opposite spiritual, religious, or otherwise beliefs...the client-centered practice that I have built allows an opportunity for this. I am also happy to discuss this further if questions arise. :) Personally, I am the mother of two young and energetic boys who keep me running! I have been married for 15 years, my husband and I enjoy watching movies, camping, hiking, and most of all laughing. We also have two very spoiled dogs who round out our household. I take pride and joy in my work and look forward to engaging with you as you begin your journey to a better you!

How to find counseling in Watchung

Finding the best therapist close by in Watchung 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 that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Watchung. 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 Watchung, 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. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Watchung or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. 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 Watchung area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find 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 Watchung, elsewhere in Somerset, or in the greater state of New Jersey.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Watchung area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Watchung 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 Watchung 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 Watchung 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 BetterHelp or clinicians 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).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Watchung, 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 psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a 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, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Watchung 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 Watchung helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Watchung 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:

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 Watchung 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?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a 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.

A psychologist 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 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 Watchung 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 lot of people in NJ, providers 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 07069 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Watchung counselor?

Before seeing your 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. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist 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. A Watchung 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 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.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy 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 professional 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 Watchung, 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.

Watchung 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?

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

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, 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 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:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Watchung.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Watchung:

07069

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