Our counselors in Edison, NJ offer child therapy

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.

Agnes Kontoh is a Licensed Social Worker with 2 years of experience providing therapeutic services to children, adolescents, adults, and families in various mental health settings. Agnes integrates a trauma-informed and social justice-oriented perspective into her practice, ensuring that each client feels seen, heard, and supported in the context of their lived experience. Agnes has worked with clients navigating depression, trauma, anxiety, substance misuse, and ADHD.

Agnes earned a Master’s in Social Work from Montclair State University. She draws on evidence-based modalities tailored to each client’s unique needs, including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, trauma-informed care, Christian counselling, strengths-based therapy, solution-focused therapy, and family systems theory.

Agnes believes that healing begins with connection and empowerment. If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply need someone to talk to, she welcomes you to reach out. Agnes is ready to meet you where you are and walk alongside you on your journey toward healing and personal growth.

My name is Lilah Souza. I am a licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and licensed professional counselor (LPC) who works with a variety of different backgrounds including children, teens, young adults, adults,  LGBTQ+ individuals, neurodivergent individuals, and so on. 

I consider my approach to be warm, empathetic, client-centered, and eclectic. I do CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and expressive arts based therapy with my clients to help them get to a place where they can cope with life's challenges and feel like they're enough. 

Reaching out for the first time is always the hardest step. Thank you for taking the time and the courage to reach out and I hope we can work as a team in your mental health journey. 

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!

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.

I am an experienced Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctoral degree from Rutgers University. I have almost 10 years of experience in psychiatry where I've worked with children, adolescents, and adults addressing anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, autism, substance use, life circumstances, and more. 

My practice is to collaborate with clients to find the best solution that fits their needs. I provide therapy and medication management. I utilize evidence-based techniques in the care of all patients. 

Every client is unique and deserves an individualized plan of care to improve their quality of life. As a provider, I hope clients find that I serve my community with compassion, empathy, encouragement, and consideration. 

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.

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 began my career in behavioral health in 1998 as a nursing assistant at a state hospital. I earned my BSN in 2005 and my MSN as a family psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner in 2016. Since 2018, I have worked as an advanced nurse practitioner providing comprehensive psychiatric care to diverse populations. I work with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and life stressors—many seeking clarity, symptom relief, and practical strategies to improve their well-being. My approach is holistic and collaborative, integrating medication management with psychotherapy to support each person's unique goals. 

I begin with a comprehensive evaluation covering psychiatric, medical, and social history. We then develop a structured, individualized treatment plan that addresses underlying causes—not just symptoms. I integrate medication management with therapeutic support and close follow-up, with ongoing adjustments until we reach stability and lasting progress.

Reaching out can feel like the hardest part, but you don't have to carry this alone. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply ready for a change, your story deserves to be heard with compassion and without judgment. When you're ready, I invite you to schedule an appointment so we can begin working together toward healing, clarity, and balance.

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.

Jacquelyn Farasat is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She holds National Counselor Certification and is also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. She has 8 years of experience supporting the emotional, social, and personal growth and well-being of children, adolescents, and adults in both individual and group formats.

Jacquelyn has a Master’s degree in Counseling and a Master’s degree in Education. She strives to develop a caring relationship with the client that is built on trust, respect, and collaboration. Jacquelyn integrates mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing with a strengths-based, person-centered approach to support the client in becoming his/her best self. When working with children and families, she often uses play therapy to foster relational skills, develop emotional awareness and self-regulation skills, and promote positive problem-solving. 

Jacquelyn recognizes that each client has a unique set of strengths, desires, and needs. Thus, she continually maintains flexibility and tailors strategies in response to the client’s needs and personal goals. Her goal is to encourage and empower you throughout your journey to becoming.

I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 13 years of nursing experience. My career began in the emergency room, where I spent a decade caring for patients and families during moments of crisis. Those experiences taught me that every individual’s story is unique, and healing requires more than a one-size-fits-all approach. Today, I bring that same perspective into psychiatry, creating a space where clients feel supported, understood, and empowered on their path to wellness.

I earned my Master’s in Nursing from Walden University, and I provide psychiatric care with a focus on individualized treatment planning. My approach blends clinical expertise with compassion, ensuring that I understand each client’s unique needs, strengths, and challenges while working together toward meaningful progress.

My goal is to create a safe, welcoming space where clients feel truly heard. I strive to partner with individuals in developing treatment plans that fit their lives and empower them to achieve lasting wellness. I believe in walking alongside each client, offering support, encouragement, and a personalized path to healing.

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!

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!