Our therapists offer counseling for anxiety & depression in Toms River, NJ

Jose Desiderio is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of New Jersey and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of New York. Jose has over 8 years of experience in the mental health field focused on treating anxiety, depression, stress, anger management, interpersonal relationship issues, life transitions, and men's issues. Throughout his career, Jose has been passionate about helping adolescents, adults, and couples address their concerns in a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive space.

Jose completed his Master of Arts (MA) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the College of Staten Island. He utilizes an integrative approach in therapy consisting of multiple treatment modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic theory, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), solution focused techniques, and mindfulness exercises. Jose believes that the foundation to therapy is building a connection through highlighting individuality, embracing humor, and sharing belief that it will get better.

Life is filled with challenges and stressors that often stand in our way. Jose is confident that he will be able to support you through these difficult times as you gain healthier perspectives and learn useful coping skills that will aid you on your path. Jose looks forward to doing his best to help you manage your mental health concerns and achieve your goals.

Scot King is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with many years of experience, both as a volunteer and professional, partnering with individuals in order to help them find more fulfilling lives. He is passionate about helping adults and couples to recognize and confront the challenges before them in order to live a more satisfying existence. He specializes in anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues as well as major life transitions.

Scot completed his Bachelor's degree in Communication from Rutgers University. He holds a Master’s degrees in Education from Marygrove College, a Master’s degree in Administration/Supervision from New Jersey City University, and a Master's degree in Counseling from Cairn University.

Scot’s education and life experiences allow him to connect, empathize and support his clients. Scot has the unique ability to listen, come along side and assist no matter what the challenge. He believes that with the right tools, each individual has the ability to gain new outlooks and recognize their potential in order to live a more satisfying life. Schedule your session today.

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!

I am a Licensed Associate Counselor in New Jersey with 4 years of experience. I work with children, teens, and adults navigating anxiety, depression, and mood disorders with psychotic features. I also specialize in supporting neurodiverse individuals, including those on the autism spectrum, helping them strengthen coping skills, emotional regulation, and self-confidence through empathy and collaboration.

I earned my Master’s in Counseling from the University of Phoenix. My approach is person-centered, blending cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and mindfulness-based strategies. I strive to create a warm, inclusive space where clients feel heard, supported, and empowered to achieve emotional growth.

I bring personal and professional insight to my work. I understand the challenges families face and help them find balance, connection, and hope. My goal is to guide each client toward peace, confidence, and meaningful, lasting change.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 8 years of experience providing therapeutic support to adolescents, adults, couples, and families. My clinical experience includes working with individuals facing anxiety, depression, grief, bipolar disorder, addiction and recovery, stress management, adjustment disorder, and perinatal and postpartum mood disorders. I strive to create a welcoming and supportive environment where clients feel at ease and the process of beginning therapy is as smooth as possible.

I earned my Master of Social Work from Monmouth University. My approach is collaborative and non-judgmental, drawing on evidence-based methods such as cognitive behavioral therapy, client-centered therapy, strengths-based perspectives, and motivational interviewing to best support my clients.

My goal is to help clients build resilience and create a personalized path to healing that reflects their unique needs and life experiences. I am dedicated to walking alongside clients as they navigate challenges, discover new insights, and work toward meaningful and lasting change.

I’m Sharon Ryan, a Licensed Professional Counselor with 8 years of experience supporting children, teens, and adults through a wide range of challenges. I specialize in eating disorders, anxiety, depression, self-worth, trauma, and body image. My background includes certification as a personal trainer and bariatric counselor, and expertise in weight and body neutrality. I believe that understanding the connection between mind and body is key to lasting healing and growth.

I earned my Master’s in Professional Counseling from William Paterson University. I draw on evidence-based modalities including eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, cognitive behavioral therapy, grief counseling, play therapy, and holistic approaches. My therapeutic style is client-centered, trauma-informed, and rooted in whole-person health.

I welcome clients ready to take the next step toward healing with compassion and support. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, body image, depression, trauma, or relationships, I provide a safe and nonjudgmental space to explore challenges and build resilience. Together, we’ll work toward uncovering your strengths and finding peace in daily life.