Children Therapist

Life doesn’t always follow a straight path—and healing rarely does either. I believe that every person has the capacity to grow, to heal, and to thrive when given the space, tools, and support to do so. As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), National Certified Counselor (NCC), and LCADC candidate, I offer a compassionate, empowering, and trauma-informed space for clients to explore their story, reconnect with their strengths, and move forward with clarity and purpose. My work is deeply rooted in my own lived experiences and a long career with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. There, I supported veterans navigating traumatic brain injuries, PTSD, co-occurring disorders, and serious mental illness. My personal journey through trauma and recovery helped shape the way I connect with others—I understand what it means to feel broken, and what it means to rebuild. I specialize in working with: Veterans, First Responders, Survivors of sexual abuse, domestic violence, and adults navigating the criminal justice system and incarceration trauma, individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders LGBTQ+ clients, including those exploring gender identity, sexuality, or living with HIV. My therapeutic approach is integrative, collaborative, and always tailored to your unique needs. I draw from evidence-based practices including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Trauma-Informed Care.
I am certified in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy—a body-based modality that helps process trauma physically as well as emotionally—and in Sandplay Therapy, which supports healing through expressive, nonverbal exploration. I also incorporate psychodynamic elements to help deepen insight and uncover underlying patterns that may be getting in the way of lasting change. I’ve worked in a variety of settings, from court-mandated treatment programs and detention centers to outpatient clinics and correctional facilities. No matter where I’m working or who I’m working with, my goal is always the same: to create a space where you feel seen, heard, and supported as you move toward your full potential. I can’t promise the work will always be easy, but I can promise that it will be real—and that I’ll meet you with empathy, authenticity, and a deep belief in your ability to grow beyond your circumstances. “Every saint has a past, and every sinner has a future.” This quote guides much of the work I do. We are all works in progress, and I am here to walk with you on your journey—wherever that path leads.

Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, and I commend you for taking this step. My goal is to create a warm, safe space where you feel heard and supported. I take a collaborative, personalized approach and have experience with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and substance use. You don’t need to have it all figured out—just be ready to begin.

Megan is an experienced psychotherapist and Licensed Associate Counselor. She earned her Master’s in Professional Counseling from Kean University. Megan consistently ensures positive, lasting health outcomes through high-quality care. She listens to her clients' concerns, explains their conditions, and develops customized treatment plans to meet their needs, goals, and preferences. Megan frequently sees clients for ADHD and depression.

Hi, I’m Lauren! I’m a Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist with a master’s degree
in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University. Prior to this deeply meaningful work, I
earned a master’s degree in Industrial-Organizational Psychology and spent several years in
Corporate America, helping individuals and teams identify, develop, and leverage their strengths
to become the best versions of themselves.
Whether in my previous professional roles or in my current passion-driven practice, my mission
has always remained the same: to guide others in discovering their purpose and living
authentically—aligned with their highest potential.
My therapeutic work is grounded in Family Systems Theory, which emphasizes understanding
individuals within the context of their relationships. This approach explores how family
dynamics, roles, and relational patterns shape our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. By
looking at these interconnected relationships, I help clients gain insight into recurring patterns
and how they impact their well-being, empowering them to create healthier, more fulfilling
connections.
My style is authentic—after all, I believe in practicing what I preach! I bring compassion,
empathy, a sense of humor, and, most importantly, a non-judgmental presence to the
therapeutic space. Building a strong, trusting relationship is the foundation of the work I do, and
I strive to create a safe and collaborative environment where clients feel empowered and in
control of their own healing journey.

Judy Derosena is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and National Certified Counselor (NCC) with extensive experience supporting adults, young adults, and adolescents. A certified school counselor based in New Jersey, Judy specializes in addressing anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, work-related stress, career counseling, and relationship and intimacy challenges. She is skilled in working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, tailoring her approach to meet each client’s unique needs and goals.
Judy’s therapeutic methods incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Person-Centered Counseling, and Faith-Based Counseling, providing a holistic and practical framework for personal growth. Fluent in Creole French and conversational in Spanish, Judy brings an inclusive and culturally sensitive perspective to her practice.
Judy earned both her bachelor’s degree, with a dual major in Political Science and Sociology, and her Master’s degree in Professional Counseling from William Paterson University. Before joining the Center for NeuroWellness, she served as Vice President of Counseling and Social Services at the YMCA of Greater Monmouth County, overseeing counseling programs across Monmouth, Ocean, and Middlesex Counties.
Judy is passionate about creating a safe and judgment-free environment where clients can explore their emotions, process past trauma, and achieve meaningful, positive change. By fostering trust and open communication, she empowers clients to clarify treatment goals and work toward building fulfilling, balanced lives.

Annaliese is a Licensed Social Worker and graduated from Fordham Graduate School of Social Service with a Master’s of Social Work. She has experience as a social worker in various schools, including Montclair High School.
Providing a supportive space to help you explore your emotions, build coping skills, and navigate whatever life brings your way—whether you're dealing with stress, anxiety, relationship challenges, family dynamics, or major transitions.
Working with clients of all ages and tailor my approach to meet you where you are. My style is warm, collaborative, and down-to-earth. I believe therapy should feel like a conversation—one where you feel seen, heard, and empowered to take the next steps forward.
Offering both in-person and virtual sessions to fit your comfort and lifestyle. Whether you're new to therapy or returning, I’d be honored to support you in this next chapter. Let’s connect and start the work together.
Morgan is a Licensed Social Worker and earned her Master’s in Social Work from Rutgers University. She strives to maintain a caring, friendly, and empathetic relationship with her clients, ensuring they express themselves freely. After understanding her clients’ unique concerns, needs, and goals, Morgan prepares individualized treatment plans. She combines various evidence-based therapies to help them progress on their healing journey. Morgan stays updated on mental health trends, research, and advancements to provide the best possible care for her clients.
Hi, I’m Alessia but most of my clients call me Allie. Therapy isn’t just a career for me; it’s my calling. I believe it should feel empowering, collaborative, and judgment free. This is your journey: you're in the driver’s seat, and I’m in the passenger seat, to guide and challenge when needed, but always at your pace.
I hold a Master’s degree in Forensic Psychology and a Master’s in Social Work concentrating in Trauma, along with advanced certifications in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Trauma-Informed Practice in Advocacy.
I work with adults navigating relationship challenges, anxiety, depression, ADHD, betrayal, self-esteem struggles, and life transitions. My style is warm, open, and honest and yes, humor has its place when the moment calls for it. I view therapy as a partnership striving to create a space where you feel heard, understood, and supported.
I use evidence-based methods, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), TF-CBT, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills, mindfulness, attachment-focused work, and Gottman Method principles to strengthen communication and rebuild connection in relationships.
My years at Wynona’s House Child Advocacy Center gave me extensive experience supporting survivors of trauma, including childhood sexual abuse and other abuses. That work shaped me into a trauma-informed therapist who understands how past experiences influence the way we love, trust, and set boundaries. Today, I help adults unpack those patterns, heal old wounds, and build healthier relationships with themselves and others.
I’m also passionate about women’s mental health and empowerment, earning the 2025 Caldwell Women’s Impact Award for my advocacy. Whether you’re processing trauma, navigating relationships, or building confidence, I’m here to support you!

Melissa is a Licensed Associate Counselor and earned her Master’s in Counseling from Northeastern University. She can diagnose and treat various mental, emotional, and behavioral health issues. Melissa commonly sees clients for ADHD and depression.
Being neurodivergent, part of the LGBTQIA community, or in a non-monogamous relationship can feel isolating and like you are moving through life differently than everyone else around you. It can make you feel like you are not socially accepted and like adjusting to change is impossible. I am here to support you through all parts of your journey, including transitions, communication between partners, external judgment, or anything else that you feel is prohibiting you from being the best version of yourself.
My goal is to provide you with a space where you can be yourself and discover the beautiful and unique characteristics that make you, you. I will help you identify your strengths and navigate your lived experiences so you can understand how they play a role in your daily life.
Together, we will determine behavioral patterns that create discomfort for you, and develop coping skills to improve your sense of wellbeing. You deserve to be your true, authentic self at all times, and I am here to help you achieve that. I will empower you to be confident and comfortable in your own skin, as you deserve to be.

Gerald received his Master of Science in Rehabilitation
Counseling on the Clinical Mental Health Track at Rutgers University. Gerald's approach to counseling consists of a mixture o f Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. Gerald utilizes the body and mind connection to help clients learn bodily coping skills such as grounding and breathing exercises that will aid
them in regulating their emotions. Gerald aims to empower every client and aid them in learning coping skills that will help them manage distress on their own effectively.

Hi, I'm Lexi — a passionate mental health therapist dedicated to helping others find healing, balance, and purpose. I earned my master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Montclair State University, and for me, therapy is much more than a career — it's a calling.
I bring a kind, compassionate, and collaborative approach to therapy. My work is grounded in mindfulness and often incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques to help clients better understand themselves, develop healthy coping strategies, and move toward lasting change. No matter what you're going through, I'm here to support you — always at your pace.
My background as a competitive dancer has taught me the value of expression and the importance of finding outlets that bring us joy. I believe that doing what we love can be a powerful form of therapy — helping us reconnect with ourselves and create space for healing and growth.
I've had the privilege of working with both children and adults in previous clinical settings, and those experiences have given me a strong foundation in understanding the unique challenges that individuals face at different life stages. These opportunities have shaped me into the therapist I am today and continue to inspire the way I support future clients.
I'm especially passionate about promoting self-care and helping clients align their mind, body, and soul. I truly believe that with the right tools, support, and self-belief, anyone can achieve greatness — and I'm honored to walk alongside you on your journey.

Christina is a licensed social worker with a passion for helping individuals, couples, and teens navigate life’s inevitable twists and turns. Her approach is warm, grounded, and often infused with humor—because sometimes laughter really is the best medicine. She uses an integrative style that blends the deep, transformative insights of Eastern traditions, particularly Buddhist philosophy, with the practical tools of evidence-based Western psychology. Certified in EMDR, Christina specializes in trauma, depression, and anxiety, and brings both compassion and clinical expertise to support clients in finding relief, resilience, and growth.
Kerry is a Licensed Social Worker who has been in the mental health & counseling field for over a decade. She has a wide array of experience from working with adults who have severe mental health diagnoses, individuals with chronic medical conditions, as well as children and adolescents within the community who are in crisis. Over the years, Kerry has helped individuals understand and cope with anxiety, depression, panic attacks, PTSD, and many other diagnoses. She aims to provide a safe space to anyone who she is working with. Her philosophy is to meet others where they are and help uplift them to where they want to be using therapeutic strategies that meet their individual needs.

Michaelle earned her master's degree in counseling from Montclair State University. Since then, she has been committed to helping communities receive mental health support. Michaelle listens to her patients' concerns, explains their conditions, and helps them to select an appropriate treatment plan.

Kerline is a Licensed Social Worker who knows that life can sometimes be challenging causing depression, anxiety or other distressing mental health issues. Her desire is to be of assistance to those affected by these challenges with tools and resources. Kerline is here to provide some insight, tools, and support. She utilizes a strength-based as well as solution focused approach while providing a non-judgmental environment where you can feel comfortable sharing. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and play therapy also yield positive outcomes with those Kerline works with. She commonly sees clients for ADHD and depression.
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Hi! My name is Nicole Lavoura. I graduated from William Paterson University with my Bachelors in 2022 where I double majored in psychology and criminal justice with a minor in sociology. I am currently in my final year of the Clinical Mental Health masters program at William Paterson University.
I have about 5 years of experience working with people overcoming addiction as well as people involved in the criminal justice system. I have worked in various levels of treatment including inpatient, outpatient, MAT clinics, and jails.
I have experience working with different treatment modalities such person-centered, motivational interviewing, CBT, and DBT.
My goal is to continue learning about different treatment modalities while continuing to serve the community. I enjoy playing video games, spending time with my family, and playing with my dogs!

Hi! My name is Kaela and I am a Licensed Associate Counselor and I want to start by saying this: therapy can feel really scary and intimidating. I’ve been there too. Opening up to someone new, not knowing what to expect, wondering if you’ll be judged or misunderstood… it’s a lot. But I want you to know, you won’t be alone. I’ll be with you every step of the way, creating a safe, supportive space where you can be yourself. Growing up as a gymnast, my sport was a big part of who I was. It brought me both joy and a lot of anxiety and stress. The pressure to perform was intense and often overwhelming, shaping how I handled stress and challenges in life. When I eventually had to step away from something I loved so much, I felt lost and unsure of who I was without it. Therapy helped me find my new identity and find new ways to care for my mental and emotional health. That experience inspired me to become a therapist. I earned my Master’s in Rehabilitation Counseling with a focus in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Rutgers University. I bring a warm, person-centered, and collaborative approach to therapy, meeting you where you are and moving at your pace. Whether you’re facing anxiety, depression, life transitions, or just feeling overwhelmed, I’m here to walk alongside you. Outside the therapy room, I enjoy spending time with my family, going for nature walks, watching hockey, and finding comfort in the little moments. If you’re thinking about therapy, I’d be honored to support you on your journey.

Hello, I’m Katherine- a compassionate licensed associate counselor who earned her master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling with a focus on Clinical Mental Health from Rutgers University. Additionally, I received a bachelor’s degree in Community Health Science from Hofstra University. With over a decade of experience in the healthcare field and my educational background, I’ve had the privilege of working with individuals from diverse backgrounds and walks of life. These roles have deepened my empathy, strengthened my ability to meet people where they are, and reinforced my passion for supporting others through life’s challenges. Mental health has always been a passion of mine, and I’m dedicated to offering a space for healing, reflection, and personal growth.
As a therapist, my goal is to provide you with a welcoming space where you can share your own experiences openly without fear of judgment. I know that starting therapy can feel intimidating—I’ve been there myself. But taking that step was one of the best choices I made for my own healing, and it’s what inspires me to walk alongside others with empathy and patience. We’ll move forward together at a pace that feels right for you, and I’ll be alongside you each step of the way. I bring a warm, collaborative, and person-centered approach, focused on helping you gain new insights and perspectives that can guide you toward greater clarity and self-understanding. Life is full of challenges, but with the right tools and support, I believe that you are able to achieve a more balanced, fulfilling life. It’s never too early or too late to improve the way you feel and interact with the world around you. It all starts with you, and you’ve taken a meaningful step in helping yourself, and that is something you should be proud of.
In my personal time, I enjoy doing the things I love, such as spending time in nature, engaging in movement through yoga, pilates, and dancing, spending time with family and friends, going to the beach, exploring new places, and trying out new restaurants. These self-care activities help me stay present and remind me of the importance of finding joy in the simple things.

Ashley Barbosa, LAC, CCS, is a compassionate Mental Health Therapist who takes a client-centered approach to therapy. She works with children, teens, and adults, providing a safe and affirming space for clients from all walks of life. Ashley specializes in supporting individuals and families seeking marital or family counseling, as well as those navigating substance use, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, postpartum challenges, or neurodivergence.
Ashley is dedicated to helping clients feel truly heard and supported while empowering them to strengthen their sense of self and restore balance in their lives. Outside the therapy office, she is a huge fan of the band Queen, so much so that she even has a Freddie Mercury tattoo!





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