Our therapists offer PTSD & trauma therapy in Edison, NJ

Gabriella Tavarez is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) of Puerto Rican descent and is a strong supporter of marginalized populations, such as people of color and those within the LGBTQ+ community. She enjoys working with adolescents and adults to help them navigate through different life circumstances in a way where they feel understood and empowered. Gabriella specializes in anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, women’s issues, and self-esteem issues.

Gabriella completed her Bachelor's degree in Sociology at Rider University and her Master's degree in Social Work at Rutgers University. She utilizes an evidence-based approach in order to tailor her practice to best match your individual needs, resulting in an effective and client-centered treatment process. Gabriella involves different treatment modalities within her treatment, including mindfulness-based approaches, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and trauma-informed (TIF) practices.

Gabriella’s form of treatment is founded on a strong therapeutic relationship, and ensuring that clients feel safe whenever in her care. As a therapist, it is her goal to help people become the best versions of themselves whatever that may look like. She looks forward to helping others achieve their therapeutic goals and live prosperous lives.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. I work with clients who have experienced depression, both childhood and adult trauma, codependency issues, anxiety, grief/loss, stress, life transitions, and PTSD. I also work with individuals suffering from grief, divorce, and issues pertaining to aging. I offer counseling to teens, adults, and families through a down-to-earth counseling approach.

Together, we'll create a schedule that works for you-whether it's weekly or bi-weekly, in person or online. I'll regularly check in to ensure you're satisfied with your progress, and I'm always open to feedback to adjust your treatment as needed.

My core beliefs are grounded in unconditional positive regard for all. My passion is to help others reach their full potential of emotional peace. If you are ready to begin your journey, feel free to call and make an appointment. I am here and ready to listen!

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.