Find a Therapist in Montclair, NJ

Laura Applegate is a compassionate Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in helping children, adolescents, adults, and parents navigate life stressors, relationship challenges, and personal growth journeys. She understands the complexities of anxiety, depression, and overall functioning difficulties, and her eclectic and collaborative approach ensures that she tailors her methodologies to meet the unique needs and therapeutic goals of each client. When working with younger clients, Laura emphasizes the importance of engaging parents to support the family system and foster positive outcomes. With a diverse background in treatment modalities including trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), play therapy, integrative techniques, and psychodynamic approaches, she is well-equipped to address issues such as trauma and PTSD, parenting concerns, and child development. Moreover, Laura's foundation in fine art adds a creative dimension to her practice, enriching her therapeutic relationships. She believes that finding the right therapist is crucial for effective psychotherapy, and she is open to conversations that address clients' needs and concerns prior to their initial appointments.

Elise Aronov is a compassionate and dedicated Clinical Social Worker and Therapist, LCSW, specializing in guiding individuals and couples who face challenges in making meaningful changes in their lives. She is committed to fostering a safe and collaborative therapeutic environment. Known for her warmth, empathy, and engagement, Elise believes that personal transformation is a journey that requires both insight and action. With extensive experience in crisis intervention, she assists clients in articulating and achieving clear goals through her effective short and long-term therapy strategies. Elise's expertise encompasses a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, relationship issues, depression, grief and loss, parenting, infertility, menopause, and the pressures of everyday life. Her postgraduate training in Interpersonal and Relational Psychoanalysis enriches her work, underpinning her belief that individuals can create transformative change in their lives and relationships by gaining a deeper understanding of their inner experiences and interpersonal dynamics.

Kathleen Aveno Porter is a dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master's degree in Education and extensive experience in individual psychotherapy focused on improving emotional and mental health. She expertly addresses depression and anxiety disorders in adults, alongside behavioral challenges in adolescents and teenagers. With specialized training in relationship dynamics, family conflict, low self-esteem, and academic struggles, Kathleen is well-equipped to guide individuals through their unique life journeys. Her keen insight into identity exploration, as well as her experience working with individuals in interracial relationships and blended families, underscores her multicultural focus. Kathleen warmly welcomes clients from all backgrounds who seek to cultivate a therapeutic relationship aimed at facilitating meaningful change.

Dr. Peter Avery is a dedicated psychologist with a PhD, specializing in long-term psychodynamic therapy for adults and couples. He emphasizes the exploration of interpersonal and trauma-based patterns that shape personality, emotions, and everyday functioning. With an adaptable approach, Dr. Avery integrates mindfulness, problem-solving techniques, and other strategies to meet the unique needs of each individual. He believes that meeting more than once per week can deepen this therapeutic process while remaining flexible to client preferences. Dr. Avery strives to foster an open, engaged, and constantly evolving therapeutic relationship that empowers clients to navigate their struggles. He values clients' strengths, autonomy, and unique emotional pain points, particularly focusing on the effects of relational, physical, or sexual trauma on their emotional health. Dr. Avery connects well with those who have previously felt skeptical or dismissive of therapy and supports those unsure about what to discuss during sessions. He invites individuals seeking a compassionate and tailored therapeutic experience to consider working together.

Kathryn Cummings, LCSW, is a compassionate Clinical Social Worker and therapist dedicated to creating a safe and accepting atmosphere for her clients. She understands that individuals often seek therapy for hope and a pathway to restoration in the face of challenges such as depression, anxiety, and self-esteem issues. Kathryn believes in the power of the therapeutic relationship as a foundation for healing and growth. She positions herself as an ally and collaborator, guiding her clients towards self-acceptance and personal development. Through her trauma-focused, culturally sensitive, and eclectic approaches, clients can expect an experience filled with deep understanding and continual validation, paving the way for newfound hope and brighter futures.

Derek Bacharach, MA, LPC, CCTP-II, is a compassionate counselor who understands that individuals are inherently wired for connection and emotional survival. He recognizes that various factors, including upbringing, can lead to conflicts between these essential drives, influencing thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations. As a trauma-informed therapist, Derek is dedicated to guiding clients toward comfort, peace of mind, and improved emotional regulation. He creates a safe and non-judgmental space where individuals and couples can reflect, process, and heal their most significant relationships, whether with themselves or their partners. Specializing in trauma and post-traumatic stress, relationship challenges, parenting, life transitions, and grief, Derek collaborates with clients to honor their complex experiences and facilitate self-rediscovery and growth. He invites those ready to take the next step in their journey to explore the therapeutic services he offers, both in-person and virtually.

Pooja Bakri is a dedicated Art Therapist with credentials including MPS, LCAT, and ATR-BC, who bridges the gap between creativity and healing. With expertise in treating a range of ages from toddlers to adults, Pooja specializes in addressing anxiety and navigating life transitions through expressive arts and play therapy. Her warm, person-centered approach focuses on creating a safe, multicultural environment that fosters personal growth and healing. Utilizing modalities such as trauma-focused therapy and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), Pooja empowers her clients to explore their thoughts and emotions while encouraging resilience and self-expression. Whether working with individuals, families, or in group settings, Pooja Bakri is committed to guiding others on their journey towards psychological well-being.

Joyce Baldinucci is a dedicated clinical social worker and therapist holding credentials as an LCSW and LCADC. In today's world, many individuals face significant challenges, often with fewer resources and overwhelming stressors. Joyce understands that increased substance use, strained relationships, and activated past traumas can impact one's life deeply. With extensive training in EMDR, DBT, and EFT, she is committed to helping clients not just survive, but truly thrive during uncertain times. Whether someone is grappling with addiction, relationship issues, or feelings of being overwhelmed, Joyce equips them with the tools needed to navigate life's complexities. Through her individualized treatment plans, she leverages DBT skills to enhance emotional management, utilizes EMDR for trauma processing, and applies EFT to improve marital relationships. As a specialist in addiction recovery, Joyce guides clients every step of the way. She warmly welcomes individuals into her practice, offering guidance, support, and encouragement as they navigate their journey in the new world. Together, clients and Joyce will collaborate to build on innate strengths, gain valuable insights, and effectively tackle challenges, fostering a greater sense of control and peace in their lives.

Tim Barrett is a dedicated marriage and family therapist with a Doctor of Ministry degree, committed to guiding individuals through the complex challenges of today's world. Recognizing that work demands and family issues often lead to bumps in the road, Tim encourages his clients to focus on personal growth rather than being held back by guilt or regret. He specializes in working with motivated individuals aiming for positive change, particularly those addressing depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. Tim believes in the power of effective communication, as he understands that much of life's beauty is derived from our differences. Through his guidance, clients learn to communicate more effectively, enriching their interactions and minimizing feelings of misery that can arise from misunderstandings. Additionally, his expertise extends to navigating the intricate politics within institutions, which he has taught through organizational dynamics and conflict resolution at Drew University. With experience consulting on organizational matters, Tim is well-equipped to assist individuals faced with challenging workplace environments.

Katherine Barton Webber, LCSW, is a dedicated Clinical Social Worker and Therapist with a wealth of experience in helping adults navigate a variety of challenges, including depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. Before establishing her private practice, Katherine served as a Clinical Manager at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, where she provided critical counseling to employees impacted by trauma following the September 11th attacks. Her remarkable commitment to aid those in need is further evidenced by her co-founding of the NYC Balkan Rape Crisis Task Force in 1993, which involved traveling to Croatia to support war survivors. Katherine has extensive post-graduate training, holding a Certificate from the Women's Therapy Centre Institute in Eating and Body Image Problems, as well as from the Center for Psychotherapy and Psychoanalysis of New Jersey in Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy. Her approach to therapy is both eclectic and culturally sensitive, adapting to each individual's unique needs. Whether offering brief, goal-oriented sessions or more extended therapeutic support, Katherine focuses on drawing out the strengths of each client to alleviate symptoms and enhance their quality of life. She enjoys working on a wide range of issues, including anxiety, stress management, eating and body image concerns, transitional phases in life, and relationship dynamics. Katherine is an active member of professional organizations such as the National Association of Social Workers and the NJ Association of Women's Therapists.

Safiya Bashir is a dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, committed to providing quality mental health services to clients aged 5 to 65+. With a graduation from Montclair State University in 2010, Safiya works diligently to help her clients enhance their quality of life for themselves and their families. Her focus is on assisting clients in developing essential skills to navigate life’s challenges, fostering positive communication, and empowering them to evolve into their best selves. Safiya specializes in addressing trauma, anger management, depression, self-esteem, coping skills, social skills, relationship issues, and self-awareness. Her eclectic approach to psychotherapy incorporates diverse techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, to support individuals, families, and groups in their healing journeys.

Michelle Bauer is a dedicated Clinical Social Worker and Therapist with extensive experience working with adults, particularly in addressing challenges such as depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. Holding a Master's degree in Social Work and accredited as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Michelle employs various therapeutic approaches tailored to meet her clients' needs. Her expertise spans couples therapy, psychoanalytic, psychodynamic, interpersonal, and relational modalities, creating a comprehensive environment for growth and healing. With a warm and empathetic approach, Michelle supports her clients on their journey to self-discovery and emotional well-being.

Alanna Ben-David is a compassionate Clinical Social Worker and therapist who truly listens and understands the challenges her clients face. Many individuals search for a therapist who can empathize with their unique experiences and help them navigate through life's difficulties. With her extensive knowledge in mental health, Alanna offers a supportive environment that can significantly ease the journey towards better emotional well-being. Her therapeutic approach, rich with mindfulness-based techniques, compassion-focused strategies, and trauma-informed practices, empowers clients to discover their strengths. She specializes in guiding individuals through issues such as grief, trauma and PTSD, anxiety, divorce, depression, life stress and transitions, and relationship challenges. The therapy room that Alanna creates serves as a safe and judgment-free space, inviting clients to explore their identities and embark on a path toward healing and recovery.