Our counselors provide therapy in Dumont, NJ

Lauren Nickerson is a Licensed Social Worker in the state of New Jersey with over 3 years of experience in mental health care. She is passionate about providing therapeutic care for adolescents and adults who are seeking coping skills and support to manage life’s difficulties. Lauren specializes in anxiety, depression, stress management, life transitions, women’s issues, and more. At Rutgers University, Lauren earned her Master of Social Work (MSW) following the completion of her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology.

Lauren utilizes a variety of evidence-based therapies based on the client’s needs, including cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, psychodynamic, and internal family systems. Lauren’s approach to treatment is person-centered and culturally sensitive, as her goal is to ensure that each client feels understood, validated, and respected.

Starting therapy is a vulnerable experience, but it does not have to be intimidating. Lauren strives to offer a welcoming, collaborative environment where you begin to realize your strengths, inherent value, and worth as you find your most authentic self. When the time feels right, Lauren is ready and eager to meet you!

Manuel Lima is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 10 years of experience treating adult clients who are struggling with relationship difficulties, anxiety disorders, OCD, obsessive thoughts, stress, depression, and ruminations. He loves to help his clients build the confidence and self-efficacy to overcome whatever obstacles they may be facing, whether the struggle is internal, or external.

Manuel received his Master's degree in Community Mental Health Counseling from Montclair State University. As a counselor, he is strongly versed in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and existential therapy (ET) to help clients learn to be in the moment, challenge negative automatic thoughts, and change behaviors to better cope with emotions. Manuel believes in giving his clients the necessary tools for improving their self-awareness, emotional regulation, constructive/rational thinking, and stress management outside of sessions.

Manuel respects and acknowledges each client’s individuality and tailors treatment to meet their needs. Manuel wants clients to feel safe and to improve their self-compassion and self-care. Manuel is dedicated to helping clients feel empowered to pursue what they desire personally and/or professionally. Clients will learn the skills necessary to navigate through life’s challenges and create an improved quality of life—reach out to schedule with Manuel today.

For the past 4 years, Manuel has been recognized as 3 Best Marriage Counselors in Newark, NJ per Three Based Rated!

I am a Licensed Associate Counselor with 2 years of experience. My counseling approach is person-centered and tailored to meet each individual’s biopsychosocial needs. I specialize in working with adolescents through older adults facing anxiety, depression, trauma, mood and personality disorders, substance use, self-harm, and emotional dysregulation. My professional background includes experience across outpatient programs, detox units, inpatient hospitals, and university counseling centers.

I earned my Master’s in Counseling from Stockton University. I integrate evidence-based practices, including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, rational emotive behavior therapy, and mindfulness.

I believe healing requires consistency, patience, and courage. My goal is to create a safe, inclusive, and affirming space where clients can explore their emotions and develop greater self-awareness. I am honored to walk alongside each client, offering empathy, encouragement, and tools to support lifelong well-being.

Dr. Jacqueline Nelson, M.A., Ph.D, LPC-S, is a caring and passionate Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor with over 10 years of experience working with teens, adults, and seniors who are struggling to cope with anxiety, depression, anger, dysfunctional relationships, ADHD, coping skills, divorce, family conflict, low self-esteem, sexual abuse, stress, trauma, PTSD, women’s issues, grief, infidelity, difficult life transitions, OCD, parenting, racial identity, and more. 

Jacqueline graduated from Liberty University with her Master’s degree in Professional Christian Counseling and has her Ph.D. in Professional Counseling, Education, and Supervision from Walden University. Jacqueline also has a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Houston—Central Campus. Jacqueline has worked in several roles as a Therapist, Crisis Psychotherapist, and Assistant Professor, which has allowed Jacqueline to harvest a plethora of knowledge and expertise in issues and concerns that affect everyday people in everyday life. Jacqueline has experience in supervising counseling students which has enhanced her capabilities in mentoring and coaching counseling professionals. Jacqueline also recently wrote a book: If It's In Your Head, It's In Your House: How to Process and Heal from Reoccurring Thoughts and Memories of Tragedy and Trauma by: Jacqueline Nelson LPC-S, M.A. B.A., PhD

Jacqueline is a cognitive behavioral (CBT) therapist who also utilizes the strategies, tools, and principles of solutions-focused, person-centered, existential, positive psychology, Gestalt, and Psychodynamic therapeutic approaches. Her experience working with individuals and families has promoted a dedication to try to understand, assist, and evolve the emotional, mental, and physical well-being of human development at all stages in life. Jacqueline's approach to therapy is eclectic and individualized because each client is unique and may require a unique and different approach to their healing and wellbeing.

I am a Licensed Associate Counselor with 2 years of experience providing evidence-based mental health care to diverse populations. I specialize in anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, family conflict, and couples. My ideal client is someone who may be facing life transitions, stress, or self-doubt, and is ready to seek support and make positive changes. They may need help developing coping strategies, building confidence, or finding new perspectives to navigate challenges. Their goals often include improving emotional well-being, strengthening relationships, and achieving greater self-understanding and resilience.

I earned a Master of Science in Professional Counseling from Grand Canyon University. I use diverse therapeutic approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, mindfulness therapy, and emotional freedom techniques. I take pride in tailoring various methods to best support clients' needs. 

I know how important it is to feel heard, supported, and respected, especially during challenging times. With genuine empathy, I strive to create an environment where we can work toward meaningful change. If you are seeking support and a fresh perspective, consider reaching out—your journey toward growth and healing can start here.