Find a Therapist in Montclair, NJ

Michael Lepak is a compassionate Clinical Social Worker and therapist dedicated to helping teens, adults, and elders navigate the challenges of anxiety, depression, work issues, and relationship conflicts. With years of experience, he specializes in supporting individuals and couples in overcoming the internal and external barriers that hinder them from achieving their desired lives. Michael’s expertise in mindfulness-based practices, trauma-focused therapy, and strength-based approaches allows him to assist clients in healing from various issues, including low self-esteem, emotional disconnection, and chronic arguing. Known for his empathic listening, he helps individuals uncover and resolve the emotional patterns, thoughts, and behaviors that contribute to their struggles. Many couples approach him feeling trapped in cycles of unresolved conflict or experiencing loneliness and disappointment in their relationships. Michael works with them to restore connection, reduce conflict, and enhance intimacy. His therapy is tailored to meet each client's unique goals, fostering tangible changes that promote well-being. Together, clients and Michael confront life’s most challenging problems, transforming frustration, pain, and limitations into opportunities for growth and healing.

Roland Romano is a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor with several credentials, including MACC and LPC. He specializes in providing therapeutic support to adults and elders aged 65 and older, addressing essential issues such as nicotine dependency, anxiety, and the challenges of domestic abuse. Roland utilizes an eclectic approach, blending humanistic, psychodynamic, and cognitive behavioral therapies to tailor his sessions to the unique needs of each client. Whether working with individuals, couples, or groups, he fosters a safe and supportive environment, encouraging personal growth and healing through Motivational Interviewing and Interpersonal therapy. His commitment to helping clients navigate their emotional landscapes makes him a trusted partner in the journey towards wellness.

Kristen Palmieri, MSW, LCSW, is a compassionate Clinical Social Worker and Therapist specializing in Eating Disorder therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). She works collaboratively with children, adolescents, adults, and families to nurture resilience through evidence-based techniques. With expertise in treating the full spectrum of eating disorders, including Anorexia, Bulimia, and Binge Eating Disorder, Kristen firmly believes in achieving complete recovery as the ultimate treatment goal. As a professional member of the International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals, she has undergone post-graduate training in DBT from Behavioral Tech, the training institute founded by Marcia Linehan. Through her Resilience DBT Program, Kristen offers comprehensive Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, including Individual DBT and DBT Skills Groups. Her dedication to DBT extends beyond treatment to serving as a valuable prevention tool against emotional dysregulation in various age groups. She also addresses depressive and mood disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and trauma. Kristen emphasizes the importance of building relationships grounded in trust, transparency, and hope to facilitate client growth, providing a supportive, evidence-based environment where individuals can achieve their goals while feeling understood and accepted. Her collaborative and strengths-based approach motivates positive personal development in her clients.

Dr. Susan Parente, a licensed psychologist with over 20 years of clinical experience, brings an integrative approach to emotional healing, modeling her psychological treatment on the family doctor paradigm. She believes that just as a physician tailors treatment for physical pain, the same level of individualized care is essential for emotional challenges. Dr. Parente expertly explores, assesses, and addresses the unique life issues presented by her patients, fostering knowledge, positivity, and creativity throughout the therapeutic process. Her practice encompasses a wide range of age groups, including preteens, children, teens, adults, and elders. With training in psychodynamic psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapies, expressive arts, play therapy, trauma-focused therapy, EMDR, mindfulness-based approaches, and family systems therapy, Dr. Parente employs pragmatic and developmentally informed strategies to help clients gain confidence, enhance relationships, and manage distressing emotions. Her strengths-based and supportive therapeutic approach positions her as an emotional ally and advocate, dedicated to promoting self-awareness, healing, resilience, and personal growth for her patients and their families.

Bijal Patel is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a profound commitment to helping individuals, couples, families, and groups navigate life's challenges. She views therapy as a process of unpacking the often unspoken emotions that can lead to anxiety and other difficulties. Recognizing that staying in touch with emotions can be challenging, Bijal believes that facing them is often the first step toward healing. Her extensive clinical experience equips her with a deep understanding of how environment and relationships can influence well-being, and she is dedicated to facilitating positive change through supportive and validating resources. Utilizing empathy, exploration, and empowerment, Bijal assists her clients in addressing relational issues, communication hurdles, intimacy challenges, trauma, anxiety, depression, anger management, and a wide range of mental and emotional disorders. With experience working at the Essex County Sexual Assault and Violence Education Center, she brings a trauma-informed perspective to her practice. Bijal also conducts therapeutic process groups, providing a safe space for clients to share their experiences and develop effective coping strategies. Through her use of diverse therapeutic modalities, including Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness-Based approaches, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and more, she stands ready to help clients achieve their personal goals.

A has a deep commitment to ensuring that individuals do not have to navigate life's challenges, changes, and uncertainties alone. As a licensed clinical social worker, A emphasizes the importance of self-care and advocates for putting clients first. They provide invaluable support, kindness, and a non-judgmental listening ear, empowering clients to enhance their mental health and overall well-being. Whether facing a diagnosed mental illness or simply seeking to improve their current mental health, A is dedicated to helping clients navigate each milestone and stage of their lives. Together, they can embark on this journey from the comfort of their chosen location through teletherapy.

Dr. Joanne Peart is a licensed psychologist based in Montclair, NJ, who holds a degree in psychology from Harvard University and a Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Emory University. She has completed both her pre-doctoral internship and post-doctoral fellowship at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital- Weill Cornell Medical College. Dr. Peart specializes in treating preteens, teens, and adults dealing with a variety of challenges, including depression, anxiety, and personality disorders. With specialized training in addressing personality disorders and supporting individuals facing patterns of self-defeating behaviors, self-harm, or ongoing feelings of emptiness, she creates a nurturing and structured environment with clear therapeutic goals. Although her primary therapeutic orientation is psychodynamic, Dr. Peart skillfully incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques when appropriate. As an Out-of-Network provider, she ensures that clients receive the most effective, empirically-supported psychotherapy techniques, making the journey toward healing and personal growth manageable and effective. Engaging in therapy is a significant step, and Dr. Peart is dedicated to guiding clients through life’s obstacles with compassion and professionalism.

Leora Perlman is a dedicated Clinical Social Worker and therapist, LCSW, who brings a compassionate and understanding approach to her practice. With experience working with a diverse clientele that includes preteens, teens, adults, and elders, she specializes in addressing the complexities of trauma and PTSD, anxiety, and sex therapy. Leora employs a variety of therapeutic modalities, including Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems, EMDR, psychodynamic therapy, and interpersonal therapy, tailoring her methods to the individual needs of her clients. Her work encompasses both couples and individuals, fostering a safe space for exploration and healing. Leora is committed to guiding her clients through their challenges with empathy and respect, helping them to achieve emotional well-being and personal growth.

Diana Phillips-Saldana, MS, LPC, is a dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in addressing mental health concerns unique to women. Recognizing the myriad challenges women face, including sexism, trauma, relationship dynamics, and infertility, she adopts a collaborative approach in her therapy sessions. Diana particularly focuses on supporting women navigating infertility and the complexities of new motherhood. By fostering a nurturing and welcoming environment, she aims to promote growth and transformation. Her holistic approach to therapy respects the interconnectedness of mind, body, and soul, facilitating a profound understanding of the self through talk therapy. Through individualized strategies, Diana empowers women to take charge of their mental health. Her practice embraces a range of therapeutic modalities, including Culturally Sensitive therapy, Positive Psychology, and Cognitive Behavioral Techniques, making her an excellent resource for women seeking support and guidance.

Stacey Pinilis is a compassionate Clinical Social Worker and Therapist with a wealth of experience in guiding individuals toward personal growth and healing. She specializes in women's issues, parenting, and spirituality, and is dedicated to providing practical insights that empower her clients to make meaningful changes in their lives. With a focus on creating a safe, judgment-free space, Stacey partners with individuals, couples, and families to navigate challenges and uncover their inner wisdom. She also offers Virtual Parent Workshops that tackle important topics like Parenting a Child with Food Allergies and strategies for effective pause techniques. Beyond just offering advice, Stacey’s rich background in clinical therapy allows her to help clients dig deeper into the underlying issues that may hinder their progress. Whether an individual seeks support for their marriage, career, or personal development, Stacey is committed to listening, supporting, and offering creative pathways out of stuck patterns. Through her diverse modalities, she nurtures growth and joy at any stage of the journey.

Dr. Lauren Poleyeff is a dedicated psychologist and licensed clinical social worker, bringing her expertise to clients across various age groups, including teens, adults, and elders. With a focus on addressing pressing issues such as depression, relationship challenges, and emotional disturbances, she employs a diverse range of therapeutic modalities. Dr. Poleyeff’s approach is eclectic, combining techniques from clinical supervision and licensed supervisory practices, attachment-based and psychodynamic therapies, as well as strength-based strategies. Whether working with couples, families, or individuals, she creates a supportive environment that fosters healing and growth. Her commitment to understanding each client's unique journey ensures that therapy is both effective and relatable, making her a compassionate ally in the pursuit of emotional well-being.

Wendy Pollack is a compassionate clinical social worker and therapist, committed to facilitating meaningful changes in the lives of her clients. She believes that it is never too late to embrace change and pursue a fuller, happier life. Recognizing that seeking therapy can be a daunting step, Wendy focuses on building greater self-esteem, fostering more satisfying relationships, and enhancing a sense of control and fulfillment among individuals. With expertise in navigating a wide array of challenges—including mood and panic disorders, the impact of sexual abuse, parenting concerns (with both adult children and elderly parents), and life transitions—Wendy is dedicated to supporting clients on their journey toward emotional well-being and personal growth.

Jamel Porter, an experienced Drug and Alcohol Counselor (LCADC), understands the paralyzing feelings that arise when facing difficult situations, especially in the realm of addiction. He emphasizes that feelings are not facts and believes that therapy can empower individuals with life-altering perspectives and tools. Through his compassionate approach, Jamel provides counseling for individuals grappling with substance use disorders, guiding them to uncover the roots of their struggles. He employs various therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing, tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. Jamel's mission is to help clients break free from the dependencies that hold them captive, transforming thoughts and behaviors associated with addiction. As Shannon Adler wisely stated, “Your perspective on life comes from the cage you were held captive in,” and Jamel is dedicated to helping individuals achieve liberation from their constraints.