Our counselors offer substance abuse counseling in Toms River, NJ

Robin Carlock is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) who specializes in treating addiction, mental health symptoms, trauma/post-traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD), life transitions, women’s issues, and LGBTQ+ or other sexuality issues in adolescents, teens, and adults. In Robin’s career, she has worked with individuals, couples, and families providing clinical assessment and therapeutic interventions.

Robin completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at Monmouth University. In addition to being a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC), Robin is also problem gambling certified. She is empathic and provides a safe space to explore sensitive topics. She encourages her clients to exercise their creativity, personal beliefs, and cultural practices for the best success rates. Robin traveled abroad and stayed in Spain for some time, which helped her gain skills in cultural competence, and she has integrated this into her style. 

Robin hopes to create a therapeutic relationship that makes you feel safe within sessions and to assist in reaching your goals. Two of her top priorities are maintaining confidentiality and providing a nonjudgmental space for you to vent about any and all subjects. Robin utilizes multiple modalities of evidenced-based practices to provide the best care. Her therapeutic style consists of strength-based, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness practices, motivational interviewing, and positive psychology. She promotes a client-centered and holistic approach to incorporate the mind and body into treatment. Robin believes that therapy is a place for growth and patience for yourself to see the growth to happen.

Kathryn Ashley is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LCSW, LICSW) who has over 35 years of experience providing clinical assessments and therapeutic care for adults with a diverse range of clinical needs, including addiction, depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, and life transitions.

Kathryn completed her Bachelor's degree in Social Work at Niagara University, Niagara Falls NY, and received her Master's degree in Social Work from Yeshiva University-New York. Kathryn utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), strengths-based therapy (SBT), solutions-focused therapy (SFT), and mindfulness approaches.

Kathryn's success lies within her ability to put clients at ease, ensuring their well-being is her focus. She has cultivated relationships with her clients empowering them with greater strength, sensitivity, and perseverance in pursuit of their mental health goals. Kathryn hopes to work with you to accomplish whatever you set your mind to—go online or give our office a call today.

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 board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with nearly 20 years of experience in psychiatry, including inpatient, outpatient, and substance use treatment settings. I work with adolescents and adults navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, trauma, and substance use challenges. Many of my clients are seeking support with emotional balance, stress management, recovery, and daily functioning. My goal is to provide compassionate, patient-centered care where you feel heard, supported, and empowered throughout your mental health journey.

My approach is collaborative and evidence-based, drawing on CBT and supportive therapy to help clients build insight, develop coping skills, and work toward emotional wellness. I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, and co-occurring disorders, and I strive to create a nonjudgmental space focused on healing, growth, and practical solutions.

Healing begins with feeling heard and understood. Wherever you are in your journey, you don't have to face it alone. I'm committed to providing a safe, compassionate space where you can grow, heal, and regain balance. I encourage you to take that next step toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.

I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate, client-centered mental health care. I work with adolescents ages 14 and older through older adults facing depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, insomnia, dementia-related behaviors, and substance use challenges. I strive to create a supportive, judgment-free environment where clients feel heard and empowered. My goal is to help individuals improve emotional wellness, develop healthy coping skills, achieve stability, and enhance their overall quality of life. 

I use a compassionate, collaborative, and evidence-based approach tailored to each client's individual needs. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders, trauma, insomnia, and substance use disorders. Clients can expect a nonjudgmental environment focused on symptom management, emotional wellness, and long-term stability. 

Seeking support can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to navigate life's challenges alone. I am committed to providing a safe, supportive space where you feel heard, respected, and empowered in your healing journey. I look forward to helping you take meaningful steps toward emotional wellness, balance, and personal growth.