Find a therapist, counselor or psychologist in Toms River, NJ

"My practice is about you. This approach lets me focus on creating an environment of positive change and accountability while getting you back on your feet again, which means less time in therapy."

Lindsey Mattsson is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 10 years of experience working in both private practice and in the community with children, adolescents, and adults. She specializes in depression, personality disorders, social anxiety, women's issues, behavioral and intellectual/developmental disabilities in children and adolescents, disordered eating, trauma, and online addictions. Lindsey earned her bachelor's degree in Psychology from Indiana University Bloomington and her master's degree in Professional Counseling from Monmouth University.   Lindsey utilizes active listening and clinical approaches such as solution-focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, or, if necessary, psychodynamic techniques to help the client identify past traumas. Lindsey does her best work as a clinician working with clients who are ready to work on themselves and who are receptive to treatment.   Lindsey would love to help you work on becoming your most optimal self and is confident that her approaches to treatment, easygoing and professional personality, and developed clinical skills will make this journey more rewarding and enjoyable.

"As your therapist and fellow traveler on life's journey, I’m here to support you on your path toward well-being and a life filled with meaning."

Shua Waxman, a licensed social worker with three years of experience in the mental health field, is dedicated to guiding individuals on their journey toward mental well-being and fulfillment. With a warm and empathetic approach, Shua collaborates with clients to explore their unique struggles and aspirations, helping them gain insight into barriers and pathways to mental wellness. Shua brings genuine curiosity, active listening, and practical tools into each session, ensuring clients feel truly heard and understood.

Shua holds a Master of Social Work with a clinical focus from Wurzweiler School of Social Work and is currently pursuing a Doctor of Social Work at Long Island University. Specializing in anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues, Shua utilizes a blend of therapeutic modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, motivational interviewing, and internal family systems. These approaches empower clients with practical tools and insights to manage their mental health more effectively.

Feeling overwhelmed by stress and mental health struggles is a normal part of the human experience, but you don’t have to face these challenges alone. Shua is here to support you and help you explore positive changes for a better life. Take that first step today—schedule a session and start your journey to well-being.

"As a seasoned individual, I have found that age and experience allows us to see things with a different perspective and recognize that there is hope in the future."

Scot King is a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) with many years experience partnering with individuals in order to help them find more fulfilling lives. He is passionate about helping adolescents, 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 hold two Master’s degrees in Education from MaryGrove College, and Administration/Supervision from New Jersey City University, and a Master's degree in Counseling at Cairn University. He utilizes an eclectic approach to sessions.

Scot’s education and life experiences allows him to connect, empathize and support his clients. Scot has the unique ability to listen, empathize and support no matter what our challenge is. He believes that with support, each individual has the ability to gain new outlooks and recognize their potential. Schedule your session today.

Lindsay Dunnells is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCSW, LCADC) who has worked in the behavioral health field with a focus on substance use disorders, anger and stress management, anxiety and depression, and healthy relationships since graduating from Columbia University School of Social Work in 2007.

Lindsay employs an eclectic, solutions-focused approach to working with individuals based on their presenting needs, including cognitive, dialectical, and rational emotive behavior therapies, acceptance and commitment therapy, psychotherapy, motivational enhancement therapy, and mindfulness-based techniques.

Lindsay strives to create an environment where individuals feel seen, heard, and comfortable to share openly, cultivate self-awareness, and develop self-efficacy applying tools developed to achieve their goals.

"I am a seasoned therapist who thoroughly enjoys supporting others in their own personal journey towards achieving and maintaining their own personal wellness."

Elizabeth Woods is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who brings over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. Elizabeth's experience as a clinical social worker and psychotherapist spans over 7 years and includes work with adolescents and adults with a range of symptoms and challenges, including depression, anxiety, trauma, difficulty with relationships, behavioral issues, personality disorders, life transitions and loss.

She recognizes that all clients are unique and require a tailored plan of care that incorporates different therapeutic approaches including but not limited mindfulness, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), motivational interviewing, and solutions-focused therapy (SFT) to achieve their goals. Prior to pursuing a career as a social worker, she worked in the corporate sector in the heart of New York City. In 2012, Elizabeth obtained her degree in Social Work from New York University after making a career change.

Her style is engaging and supportive, and she considers the role of the therapist to be a collaborative one. There are times when we need a little help along the way to find the road back to our own selves and live a full life. Therapy can help us make new meanings of old stories, explore our choices with intention and integrity, and experience our lives and those around us with greater compassion. Work with Elizabeth if you are ready to enact positive change and growth in your life.

"As a father, husband, and entrepreneur, I believe in the capacity of every individual to overcome challenges and live their best lives."

Greg Caiafa, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), has helped dozens of people overcome their limitations and work towards their goals. Greg believes in a strength-based approach, which helps you identify your strongest assets and build on them to overcome your challenges. Greg believes strongly in the cognitive behavioral approach and will guide you toward a stronger mindset by identifying distorted thought patterns and helping you reshape your outlook. Regardless of where you're starting, Greg wants to help you get to your best destination. Greg has his MSW from Fordham University.

Greg also dedicates himself to his marriage and his role as a father to his children. Thus, Greg is uniquely qualified to help people find balance as they manage a multitude of challenges. Greg is well-versed in a variety of modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy, and utilizes a strengths-based approach.

In today's world, we are subject to a multitude of stressors. Greg believes that one of the biggest challenges lies in cultivating the best mindset so that we can embrace the possibilities in life and not be overwhelmed by stress. Pick a destination and Greg can help you get there.

"I will help teach children the skills they need while working with the family to support the child through this journey."

Courtney Sarro is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 8 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about working with children and adults to learn appropriate coping skills to difficult feelings and adjusting to lifes daily changes and stressors. Courtney specializes in adjustment disorder, anxiety, depression, aggression, and trauma.

Courtney completed her Master's degree in Social Work (MSW) at Stockton University. She grew up in a home with 2 adopted siblings, both with very different but significant mental health needs. This, coupled with her professional experience, enables her to provide the guidance and support her clients are seeking. Courtney uses multiple treatment approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and play therapy.

Being a kid is hard! Courtney will support the entire family while working with your child to process triggers, develop skills to cope with the challenges of daily life and how to positively interact with their family and peers. If you think your child or you may need extra support, schedule an appointment with her today.

"As a licensed therapist, I look forward to collaboratively creating therapeutic goals with you that best serve your needs and help you overcome the difficulties that you are facing today."

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 5 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.

"One of my gifts is the ability to build a rapport with the individuals who participate counseling with me."

Michelle Nirenberg is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). Additionally, Michelle is a certified Trauma Counselor (TC) for adults, adolescents, and children. With over 16 years of experience also has a strong affinity for working with first responders and individuals who have either witnessed or experienced various forms of trauma.

Michelle earned her Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision (CES) with a specialization in Trauma and Crisis, and a Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling (MHC). She utilizes an eclectic treatment approach.

Michelle looks forward working with you to address your mental health needs as a team. If you're ready to schedule a session, reach out to book with her today.

"I believe that life is a journey and my role is to provide guidance and support to help you find your way."

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!

"Life brings on many challenges and complexities; it is an experience we both share. I understand how challenging it can be, and I’m here to support you through it."

Chedva Berger is a Supervisee in Social Work who specializes in treating trauma, anxiety, familial and relational conflict, and life transitions, across a spectrum of diverse populations. Chedva’s myriad experiences give her compassion and a deep understanding of human experience. 

Chedva completed her Bachelors in Arts and Sciences at Excelsior University and graduated with a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Rutgers University. Chedva seeks to establish an understanding and safe space to help you identify those beliefs and feelings that are holding you back from living the meaningful life you desire. Chedva will create a personalized treatment plan that meets your specific needs, using a client centered and strength-based approach. Her practice is psychodynamic, and attachment focused, and utilizes the Internal Family Systems model (IFS), EMDR, and mindfulness-based therapy interventions. Chedva also infuses other modalities into her practice to help meet each client where they are at.

Chedva believes that you may not be able to change your past, but you can change your future. If you are unsure about therapy, give it a try--you and your future deserve it!

"I know what it is like to feel anxious, depressed, and unsure of where to turn to for support and what that support is going to look like. I am extremely proud of you for taking this step. You're extraordinarily brave."

Florencia Medina-Godoy is a Latinx Licensed Social Worker (LSW) who is passionate about supporting individuals and couples with their challenges and goals. She views herself as an avid supporter and advocate of marginalized communities like the LGBTQIA+ community and the undocumented community. Florencia has experience working with adolescents, adults, parents, and communities. She specializes in depression, anxiety, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD), self-esteem challenges, LGBTQIA+-centered challenges, stress management, eating disorders, and relationship issues.

Florencia completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) from New York University. Florencia uses a range of approaches that are individualized to each client, including mindfulness, motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), and psychodynamic therapy.

Florencia aims to empower individuals, help them recognize their own resilience, and create everlasting positive change in their lives. Taking the first step on your mental health journey can seem like an insurmountable feat, but once you do, Florencia will be there to support you. If you are ready to start your journey, please schedule with her today.

"We have been living in challenging times for quite awhile. It seems to be getting even more difficult--just when we think that it can't get any harder. Family, financial and social stressors can impact our everyday functioning and take a toll on important aspects of our lives. I have seen this with so many individuals for some time, and understand the effect."

Staci DiMattia is a licensed independent practitioner in New Jersey with over 25 years of professional work experience in multiple clinical settings–with 17 of those years as a therapist; helping clients with a variety of concerns, including but not limited to stress and anxiety, mood disorder-related symptoms, substance abuse and recovery, relationship issues, coping with life changes, pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum difficulties, as well as interpersonal and family conflicts. Born and raised in New Jersey, Staci completed her undergraduate and graduate work at Rutgers University, New Brunswick and Monmouth University, respectively. She has worked in a variety of settings throughout her career as a behavioral health clinician, and when she isn't working, dedicates a great deal of her time within her community. A common theme throughout both her professional and private life is in providing assistance and support to individuals, children and families by meeting them wherever they are, with the hope that she will leave them in a better place from when they initially found each other.

Staci works with her clients to create a relationship of trust within an open, inclusive and safe environment, where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step toward seeking a more fulfilling and happier life is a STRENGTH--as it is an important and healthy step toward wellness! She is here and will be glad to support you with this process--if you are willing to reach out and ready to do some work, schedule an appointment with Staci today!