This is Kim Cassano's avatar and link to their profile

Kim Cassano

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW ,LMSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
30 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a LCSW with 30 years plus experience in the field of mental health and substance abuse. I have worked with all age populations and different mental health problems. I believe in treating everyone with the respect that I would expect from my therapist. I have worked with adults and elderly adults in my practice. I have also worked with teens and preteens.

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Karen McDougal

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ
Counselor License Type(s): LPC, MA, MS
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
14 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hi! My name is Karen McDougal, I am a LPC (licensed professional counselor) with 14 years of experience. My scope of practice includes general mental health issues (anxiety, depression, etc.) life adjustments/transitions, trauma informed therapy, familial conflicts, crisis intervention, career exploration and planning, and self esteem. I have conducted crisis assessments, provided crisis interventions, created, and implemented treatment plans, and discharge plans; in a hospital setting, outpatient services, and in home agencies. As well as provided education: on parenting behavioral issues and healthy relationships. I have facilitated and co-facilitated social skills groups, a psycho-educational group on anger management, and healthy teen/pre-teen dating relationships. I have assisted in observations for functional behavioral analysis reports, data collection, and treatment recommendations for children with behavioral disturbances. Also worked with children, teens, and adults on career exploration and planning. Clinical approaches: My orientation to counseling is person- centered therapy, mindfulness, trauma informed with a focus on helping clients find and reach their desired goals to achieve happier and fuller lives. Experiences include: Stress, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, trauma, anger management, healthy dating, self-esteem, domestic violence, career exploration and planning, parenting issues, crisis, self harm, healthy relationship education, and communication issues

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Dr. Sonya Boone

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ
Counselor License Type(s): DBH,LCSW,MHSA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepressionADHD
13 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Doctorate in Behavioral Health and over ten years of mental health experience, and I am a military officer. My education includes a B.S. in psychology, a Masters in Health Service Administration, a Masters in Social Work, and a Doctorate in Behavioral Health (clinical) with five years of studying integrated care. I use a holistic approach and solution-focused approach when providing therapy to my clients which involves assessing if a client has co-morbid issues such as diabetes and depression or chronic pain and anxiety. I believe it is vital to assist clients with health management while addressing mental health issues. I am caring and compassionate and recognize that there is still a stigma associated with seeking mental health treatment. As a result, I appreciate anyone that takes time to care for their state of mind as it is just as important as maintaining physical health. Additional treatment modalities that I use include mindfulness practice, dialectal behavior therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing. In addition to providing services to the civilian population, I also have experience working with the military community to include Active Duty, Reserves, National Guard, and Veterans. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, personality disorders; i.e., borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorders, trauma, sexual abuse, self-esteem issues, and PTSD. I am a military Victim Advocate who completed Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) which provides me with additional skills to assist those that are survivors/victims of sexual assault and to intervene appropriately and prevent the risk of suicidal thoughts and suicidal behaviors. I also have experience working with clients dealing with substance abuse issues, adjustment problems, grief and loss, and work-related stressors.

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Stacey Polson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ
Counselor License Type(s): MS,LPC,NBCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
26 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello! My name is Stacey Polson and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Wyoming with 26 years of counseling experience. I have worked in the mental health field primarily as a Middle School Counselor, but have extensive experience counseling individuals, families, couples, and groups outside of the school setting. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Developmental Psychology and a Master’s in Counseling, both from the University of Wyoming. I enjoy working with clients with a wide range of concerns including, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, grief, relationship issues such as divorce and infidelity, parenting concerns, family conflict, careers and job satisfaction, disability issues, self-esteem and confidence, trauma, and abuse. My counseling style is fun and personable. I use a person centered approach in which the client is the leader and I am the supporter. I am here to break down problems, help set goals, and find manageable ways to meet them. I also often like to incorporate a rational-emotive approach that helps clients see the connections between their thoughts and patterns and how they affect behavior. My goal is to help my clients develop a more positive outlook on life by restructuring their thoughts and beliefs so they may reach their fullest potential. I am passionate about helping people find their way through tough times. My priority is meeting your unique and specific needs. Sometimes the hardest step towards change is the first one and I am here to help you take that risk. I look forward to working with you to reach your goals!

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Michelle Sheedy

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ
Sleeping disordersADHD
14 years of experience as a mental health therapist

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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Christy Hopwood

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepressionADHD
21 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I began working in the mental health field in 1993. I worked in residential treatment facilities with teenage girls and boys until I received my Master's in Social Work at the University of Louisville in 1999. Since 1999, I have been employed as a social worker for severe mentally ill adults, counselor and a director in foster care settings, counselor in psychiatric residential treatment facility for teenage girls and prepubescent boys, intensive in home counselor for children and teenagers with their families for the past 15 years, and outpatient mental health counselor for adults, families, and couples. I opened my private practice in 2008 where I see adults and couples who are dealing with depression, anxiety, marriage problems, relationship issues, grief, loss, parenting issues, anger, substance abuse, domestic violence, PTSD, trauma, stressors, work place problems, financial difficulties, ADHD, bipolar, mood disorders, and personality disorders. I use person centered therapy where I focus on the totality of the client that includes their mental, physical, emotional, relational, spiritual (if applicable), and recreational health and how they are meeting those needs. I use cognitive behavior therapy to help clients identify thinking patterns and cognitive distortions/faulty thinking errors that are impeding their progress and ways to replace those thinking errors with rational thought. I ask about family history, trauma, and if those trauma's are impeding present day life. I used shot term solution therapy where needed to help client's develop goals and strategies with their input to meet their needs. I help clients identify coping skills for problems and ways to implement those skills.

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Kelly Shope

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
28 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in New Jersey with 28 years of professional work experience. Certified under The Board of Marriage and Family Therapy, I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, depression, & coping with life changes. My clinical background includes working with children, adolescents, and adults in community mental health, residential and school settings. Nearly three decades of mental health experience has given me a wealth of experience over a wide range of areas within the field of mental health. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My therapeutic approach is cognitive- behavioral, with an emphasis on client-centered and solution-oriented perspectives. Developing a trusting and empathic therapeutic relationship will be essential to devising a treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Congratulations on considering mental health therapy as part of your plan for self-care! It takes courage to embark on the first step towards seeking support and treatment with the intention of creating a more healthy and fulfilling life. I would be honored to help empower you on this journey if you allow me the opportunity. I look forward to working with you!

This is Awilda Perez-Lane's avatar and link to their profile

Awilda Perez-Lane

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
26 years of experience as a mental health therapist

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!

This is Catherine Fierro's avatar and link to their profile

Catherine Fierro

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ
Stress, AnxietyGriefParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in New Jersey with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, parenting issues, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Marjorie Steinfeld's avatar and link to their profile

Marjorie Steinfeld

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefParenting issuesCoping with life changes
25 years of experience as a mental health therapist

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

How to find a therapist for counseling in West Wildwood

Finding the best therapist close by in West Wildwood 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 West Wildwood 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 West Wildwood. 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 West Wildwood, 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 West Wildwood 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 West Wildwood 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 West Wildwood area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find West Wildwood 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 West Wildwood, elsewhere in Cape May, 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 West Wildwood 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 West Wildwood 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 West Wildwood 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 West Wildwood 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 West Wildwood online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in West Wildwood, 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 West Wildwood 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 West Wildwood 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 West Wildwood 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 West Wildwood 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 West Wildwood 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 West Wildwood?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a West Wildwood 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.

West Wildwood 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 West Wildwood 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 West Wildwood 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 08260 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 West Wildwood counselor?

Before seeing your West Wildwood 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 West Wildwood.

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 West Wildwood 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 West Wildwood 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 West Wildwood, 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.

West Wildwood 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 West Wildwood, New Jersey

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 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:

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

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

08260

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