Our counselors provide therapy in Edison, NJ

Reena Pawar is a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in treating clients who are going through life changes, including divorce, career changes, adapting to college life as a young or older adult, and more. Reena’s background has equipped her with skills that are attuned to listening and working with individuals. She completed her Master of Arts (MA) in Counseling at Saint Peter’s University.

Reena’s superpower is being a good listener, offering understanding, and being patient. She believes you can build empathy by not interrupting the client, not dismissing the client’s beliefs, not being judgmental, and not talking too much in general.

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.

Aunteryo Malcom is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia and New Jersey with 10 years of experience supporting adults, teens, couples, and families experiencing depression, anxiety, adjustment challenges, mood disorders, family conflict, and relationship concerns. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Albany State University and his Master of Education in Counselor Education from Georgia Southern University.

Aunteryo takes an integrative, person-centered approach, grounded in the belief that the therapeutic relationship is foundational to growth and healing. He incorporates elements of cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, systems theory, and strengths-based approaches, tailoring treatment to meet each client’s unique needs.

Patricia Ruggiero is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience supporting individuals with anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. She has managed community programs, led clinical teams, and provided psychotherapy in agency and private settings. She works best with individuals seeking guidance, structure, and a supportive space to grow. Her ideal client is someone ready to explore meaningful change, improve emotional resilience, build greater independence in their life, and thrive.

Pat earned a Master’s in Social Work from Kean University. She uses a solution-focused, person-centered approach rooted in cognitive behavior therapy to help clients identify strengths and set goals with clarity. Her crisis intervention and advocacy experience allow her to support complex needs with compassion and structure for real-life progress.

Pat understands how overwhelming life can feel when you’re trying to navigate challenges alone. Therapy is a space where you don’t have to have it all figured out. She offers a calm, supportive environment where you will work at your pace. She would be honored to walk with you toward greater peace and confidence.

David Wojtkowski is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 11 years of experience supporting adolescents, adults, and older adults through stress, trauma, anger, anxiety, depression, and substance use concerns. David is passionate about helping clients set clear goals, work through barriers, and move toward meaningful change in ways that feel safe and empowering.

David earned his Master’s in Clinical Psychology from Walden University. His therapeutic approach blends cognitive behavior therapy, solutions-focused therapy, and trauma-informed practices with free association and mindfulness, always tailored to meet the client’s unique needs and pace.

David is a Marine Corps veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom and the father of twin teenagers. He brings a deep understanding of military trauma, anxiety, and depression, and is committed to helping clients feel seen and supported through every step of their healing journey. Reach out today!

Hi there, my name is Phyllis Darkwa, and I have been a clinician since 2017. I have helped many clients, each with their own stories and experiences, overcome much of what life throws at them. Clients who have experienced childhood trauma, painful heartaches, anxiety, depression, stress, and just by existing in this vast world of ours. I have worked with some over the past six years and seen a tremendous amount of growth from the day they started, and all the way up to now. 

I start by getting to know you and what is happening uniquely to you. Although therapists are all trained to understand how the mind and body work and how we are all interconnected — which is nice to know, as it means we are not all alone — I like to tailor my treatment approach to each unique story.

I am looking forward to meeting you and getting to know you. I encourage you to be as open as you possibly can and let's work together to help you help yourself.

Cassie Repert is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of New Jersey who has over 3 years of valuable experience working one-on-one with adolescents and adults in settings ranging from shelters, transitional housing, and college counseling environments. Throughout this time, Cassie has worked with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, mood disorders, low self-esteem, PTSD, and trauma.

Cassie completed her Bachelor’s degree in Family Science and Human Development from Montclair State University and went on to earn her Master’s degree in Social Work from Monmouth University soon afterward. Cassie takes a humanistic approach to therapy, understanding that the client is the master of their own life. While cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) are Cassie’s specialties, she pulls from many therapeutic approaches and adjusts based on the need of the client.

Cassie understands that taking the first step and choosing to seek therapy can be frightening and wants to make sure that all her clients feel as safe and as comfortable as possible during each session. She will ensure that you feel in control and leave with lifelong skills to improve your mental wellbeing going forward.

Abe Clabby is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who specializes in treating relationship issues, workaholism, trauma, codependency, depression, anxiety, autism, and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Abe spent the last 6 years at the Love Is Respect hotline and the National Domestic Violence Hotline, where he has seen the best and the worst that family and relationships have to offer. He is the author of "Cool Off the Burnout: Feel Better at High-Pressure Jobs".

Abe completed his master's degree in Counseling at St. Edward's University, where he earned a 3.7 GPA and spent an extra semester taking courses in marriage and family therapy. In postgraduate training like the Gottman method, Abe found what some couples do that makes them thrive. There are things that help with a partner, but they also help with our parents, our jobs, and our friends. Abe uses motivational interviewing in a client-centered way, empowering people to change the narrative and find an existential purpose for what they do and using the tools of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to get around the obstacles where people feel stuck.

Abe works with a lot of good-hearted people. They're compassionate and want to do good in the world and to help people they love. Caring people can be taken for granted, taken advantage of, and even hurt and used. They can be left feeling empty, unfulfilled, and unloved. But with the right mindset, boundaries, and self-care, they can be respected, appreciated, and live a life that they're proud of. Abe helps people care for others and in turn, care for themselves. With therapy, people can troubleshoot their troubles in jobs and relationships. Everyone has more options than they realize.

Rica Puazo is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Registered Art Therapist (LPC, RAT) who holds more than 4 years of experience working in residential treatment facilities and inpatient acute care with children, adolescents, young adults, college students, young professionals, adults, and geriatrics. She has experience working with individuals diagnosed with ADHD, bipolar disorder and mood disorders, schizophrenia, conduct disorders, depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, substance abuse, intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder, and neurocognitive disorders such as dementia and Alzheimer’s. Rica also has experience working with families, couples, the LGBTQIA+ community, and individuals with disabilities.

She received her Master’s degree in Counseling and Art Therapy from Adler School of Professional Psychology and her Bachelor's in Psychology from Baylor University. Rica’s approach to therapy is adapting the different theories, applying appropriate intervention, and finding the right tools and support for the client’s therapeutic goals. 

As an Art Therapist, Rica encourages exploring the art process to help individuals visualize inner struggles as well as encourage self-expression. Rica believes in building confidence in oneself to overcome and accept personal struggles. Work with her to start building self-confidence, happiness, and healthier relationships.

Georleena Douglas is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) with 4+ years of experience practicing with adolescents and adults. Georleena specializes in anxiety, depression, sexual wellness and minor trauma, especially within the black community.

Georleena earned her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Queens College. She earned her Master's degree in North Carolina State University, where she received her Master's degree. She utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy (SFT), and holistic therapy, among other approaches.

Georleena will work with clients to address the source of their concerns and issues and how to use their strengths and mindfulness to overcome them. She looks forward to helping clients from all backgrounds, especially those in the black community. Schedule your session today.

I am a Licensed Social Worker with 4 years of experience helping clients navigate life transitions, identity exploration, and the challenges of balancing relationships, work, and personal well-being. My approach is warm, collaborative, and relational, creating a space for growth and trust. I specialize in supporting individuals managing anxiety, depression, or trauma, and I have a passion for empowering young adults to build self-awareness, resilience, and meaningful connections.

I earned my Master’s in Social Work from Smith College School of Social Work. My style is trauma-informed and client-centered, integrating cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and strengths-based approaches to help clients explore emotions, build insight, and develop healthy coping skills.

Therapy with me is a collaborative process rooted in trust and empathy. I aim to help clients reconnect with their inner strengths, find balance, and create lasting change. Whether you’re processing past experiences, improving relationships, or seeking greater emotional clarity, I would be honored to support your path toward healing and growth.

Elijawon is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over nine years of experience in the mental health field. He has experience working with children, adolescents, adults, families, couples, and individuals with developmental disabilities. Elijawon is passionate about helping others navigate unique challenges to improve their quality of life and achieve their goals and dreams. Elijawon is an eclectic counselor that does not believe in being a "One-Trick Pony," as each approach applies to the individual's different needs.

Elijawon (Eli) completed his Masters of Arts in Counseling at Kean University. He has clinical counseling, case management, and school counseling experience working with many individuals. Elijawon utilizes multiple treatment approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy, and mindfulness.

Everyone faces challenges and situations that they try to overcome. Elijawon is adamant about guiding individuals to their goals, is an empathetic and active listener, and provides the resources to educate and empower others. If you are ready to take that leap of faith and gain new strategies to cope and conquer, please reach out and schedule an appointment!

Emily Bunyon is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 6 years experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping adolescents and adults better understand themselves and how to embrace life's challenges. Emily specializes in depression, anxiety, trauma, gender exploration, and LGBTQIA issues.

Emily completed her Master's degree in Social Work (MSW) at Rutgers University. She has spent a majority of her career helping underserved populations improve their mental health. Emily utilizes a collaborative approach and meets clients where they are at. She utilizes a mixture of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and trauma-informed therapeutic approaches.

Life presents different challenges and it is helpful to have support along the way. Emily is confident she would be able to support you to better understand yourself and to gain new tools to approach life's challenges. If you are ready to begin this journey with Emily, schedule an appointment with her today.

I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) with 7 years of experience supporting adults navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship challenges, grief, trauma, and identity concerns. I often work with high-achieving professionals who feel emotionally exhausted, stuck, or disconnected and are seeking greater clarity, balance, and meaningful change in their lives.

I earned my master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Capella University. My approach is warm, collaborative, and trauma-informed, drawing from evidence-based modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy to help clients build insight and practical coping skills.

If you are feeling overwhelmed, unsure where to begin, or ready for meaningful change, therapy can be a supportive step forward. I offer a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where you can feel seen, understood, and empowered to move forward at your own pace with intention and confidence.

Haley Smith is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Pennsylvania who has over 11 years of experience working with children and their families seeking help with depression, anxiety, anger management, and mood disorders. 

Haley has a Master's degree in Counseling and Psychology from Rosemont College, and is trained to help her clients learn cognitive behavioral (CBT) techniques to overcome difficulties such as anxiety and depression. In addition to these therapy modalities, Haley also utilizes mindfulness training to help keep her clients in the present moment and focused on the here and now. With mindfulness training comes a sense of calm that can help alleviate depression, anxiety, and stress. 

Haley encourages you to start your journey to mental health wellness so that you can start to live a life where you feel confident and at ease. She seeks to establish an inviting and caring approach with you in order to help build a strong therapeutic relationship with her in order to help you build upon your strengths and help you live a more meaningful and valuable life. If you are ready to become the best version of yourself, schedule an appointment with Haley today!

Danielle is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor in the State of New Jersey. Danielle has 20 years of experience working with young adults, adults and families seeking support for addiction, depression, anxiety, life transitions such as divorce or career change, women's issues, relationship issues and self-esteem. Danielle received her BA in Psychology from Mount Saint Mary College and her MSW from Fordham University. Danielle utilizes various evidence-based approaches in her work including cognitive behavioral, strengths based and psychodynamic. Her hope is to work together to identify feelings, increase awareness and implement coping tools that will create the meaningful changes you are seeking. Danielle believes the cornerstone of the healing process is a strong therapeutic relationship. This is achieved through creating a safe and supportive environment where change can thrive. As your therapist Danielle will listen to your needs and work in collaboration with you to develop strategies that best meet your goals. Danielle understands the decision to seek therapy is difficult. She further understands the challenges surrounding change and is eager to guide you in navigating these challenges.

Talisah Harrison is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field. She has worked in a variety of settings including inpatient, outpatient, and community-based programs. She is passionate about educating individuals and families on the challenges of living with or supporting someone with a psychiatric condition and how to manage stressors. She specializes in treating mood disorders, anger and stress management, self-esteem issues, interpersonal communication, and family issues. Talisah completed her Master of Social Work at Rutgers University and her undergraduate at Temple University.

Talisah offers culturally sensitive, client-centered treatment that helps individuals identify strengths and develop a sense of self-awareness and positive self-esteem. She utilizes integrative treatment modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, strength-based therapy, and solution-focused therapy.

Initiating therapy can be a significant step in developing positive relationships with yourself and those around you. Talisah understands that everyone is at a different place in life and may struggle with navigating life’s challenges. However, if you are willing to start the journey, Talisah will be there to guide you and support you along the way.

Julie Burnett is a counselor with 11 years of experience. Her focus is working with clients ages 11 and older — individuals, couples, and/or families. Julie believes that all people deserve to be treated with respect and, therefore, respect is a foundational part of her counseling sessions. Julie specializes in general mental health, relationships, grief and loss, domestic abuse, and parenting. She believes that clients are the experts on their own lives, so they are the ones to choose the topics for each session while Julie brings various techniques that can help. Together they create healthy life goals and decide what techniques they want to try. Julie believes that she is here simply to be a helping hand, a listening ear, and a friendly guide as the client navigates through difficult times. In order to help clients find their way to healing on the other side of pain, Julie provides new insights, teaches new skills, introduces new knowledge, helps to broaden the client’s focus, and encourages clients to practice new skills. While Julie will never preach to the client or try to change their beliefs about faith, as a Christian, she views the world through a biblical lens.

Since she was young, Julie has wanted to help people work through their problems so they can have happier, healthier lives. She often found herself being the one her friends went to for help with their problems. She saw counseling as a way to help others. During her studies she was excited to learn that the best helping skill is listening non-judgmentally, the one skill she had been practicing since she was young. She also learned many other counseling techniques and skills that she integrates into sessions with clients. Since earning her counseling degree in 2011, she has served in a variety of settings. She has worked with victims of domestic violence and sexual assault survivors, with active and recently retired military personnel, and with high school students. She has also kept a private practice where she has been able to work with all ages and a variety of issues. As she has worked with clients throughout the years, she has found that, regardless of age, healthy relationships and boundary setting are typically common goals for clients as we all strive to live a healthy, productive life. Julie allows the client to lead the session while she helps keep it focused on the path toward healing and healthy life goals. Some of the therapies Julie uses include person-centered, Adlerian, cognitive behavioral, and mindfulness.

Julie understands that reaching out for counseling can be a scary time for clients. But she would like you to know that you have nothing to fear from her. Counseling with Julie is a safe space where all emotions are welcome, she will not judge you for your thoughts, actions, or emotions! Julie has been told that she is a very down-to-earth counselor, and she is excited to meet you and help you begin your journey on the path to a healthier and more joyful life.

Marya Slater is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Professional Registered Nurse who is experienced working with individuals and couples. Her specialties include infertility issues, LGBTQ+ issues, depression, anxiety, stress management, grief, relationship issues, and chronic illness. Subscribing to the philosophy that all people bring unique perspectives and strengths to the therapeutic process, Marya strives to help clients recognize their own strengths and build on those assets within the framework of a supportive and nurturing therapeutic relationship.

Marya obtained her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from New York University and her Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University. Her diverse educational background has enabled Marya to explore therapeutic issues through a broad lens. She maintained a private therapy practice in Manhattan for over 10 years. 

Marya works from a psychodynamic perspective believing that underlying patterns of behavior can be addressed by utilizing the therapeutic relationship as a vehicle for change. Rather than endorsing a singular methodology, Marya also utilizes techniques from other therapeutic perspectives such as cognitive behavioral therapy and solution-­focused approaches to help clients achieve short-­term goals while working to address deeper issues in order to live more satisfying, fulfilling lives.

I'm a licensed social worker with 5 years of experience. I've worked with people at all stages of life, including young children just beginning to understand their emotions, adolescents finding their identity, and adults rebuilding after incarceration or major setbacks. Each person has taught me something about strength, healing, and what it means to start over. What brings people to my practice is a shared desire to heal from what's happened, to feel more confident and at peace, and to create a life that feels genuinely right for them. My role is to support and collaborate with you and to help you discover what works for you.

I earned my Master of Social Work from Rutgers University. I work from a client-centered, strengths-based approach, which means you're always in the driver's seat. I draw from CBT, narrative therapy, and mindfulness techniques, and we'll tailor our work together based on what resonates and what you need.

A core part of my approach is highlighting what's already working in your life. Recognizing your existing strengths and coping skills builds real confidence and momentum toward change. I look forward to partnering with you as you create the life you're seeking.

*Children under the age of 11 must be seen for in-person sessions.*