Couples & marriage counseling in Jersey City, NJ

Alexander "Alex" Arici is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 4 years of experience, who specializes in the treatment of individuals experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, depression, personality disorders, and more. He is passionate about serving the needs of youth and young adults, as well as any who are navigating the struggles of managing life transitions throughout middle and late adulthood.

Alex was able to complete a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Montclair State University. He is a former foster care youth with personal experiences of navigating "the system" with all of its ups and downs. His eclectic approach draws from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), person-centered therapy (PCT), mindfulness, and motivational interviewing (MI).

Life is complicated and hard enough as it is with all its joys and hardships. Therapy can be a place for you to be and express yourself without having to worry about what anyone else thinks about you. It's a place for you to safely self-reflect and build the life you desire. Alex cares about your growth and well-being. Go online or give the office a call to start working with him: You'll learn the tools, techniques, and strategies that you'll need to navigate this thing we call life.

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.

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.

Leslie Small is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 15 years of experience. He has worked with adults, teens, couples, and other populations dealing with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and many other concerns. Leslie has spent time in community mental health and private practice settings. His broad background enables him to assist a wide range of people.

Leslie received his Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling from Capella University. He utilizes a humanistic clinical approach that focuses on connecting with his clients and helping them discover their inherent strengths so that they can be the best version of themselves.

Leslie believes the partnership between therapist and client is the foundation for success and growth. He promises to provide support while fostering capabilities, setting goals, and developing a plan for life’s challenges. Schedule an appointment with him today!