Find a Therapist in Rutherford, NJ

Derrick Alloway is a compassionate and dedicated clinical social worker who prides himself on helping individuals navigate through emotional hardships. He recognizes the immense challenges that come with managing depressed moods, anxiety, and the complexities of relationships, as well as the impact of past experiences on present life. Equipped with behavioral approaches and motivational interviewing techniques, Derrick provides a supportive environment that empowers clients to develop practical tools and strategies to create meaningful changes in their lives. He believes in a strengths-based approach that emphasizes mindfulness, which promotes emotional wellness. Derrick understands that seeking help is a courageous step, reflecting a willingness to engage in vulnerability and growth. Trust is essential in the therapeutic process, and he values the opportunity to build this trust with his clients. Together, they can embark on a journey toward wellness, where Derrick serves as a partner in cultivating a healthier, more fulfilling life.

Mary Pillarella is a dedicated clinical social worker and therapist with over 40 years of experience. Through her extensive practice, she has learned effective methods that lead to true happiness and fulfillment, reinforcing her belief that it is never too late to enhance one’s life. Mary is committed to helping her clients realize that self-esteem can flourish, relationships can thrive, and self-acceptance is within reach. For those who are ready to embark on a journey of growth and self-discovery, she offers a collaborative approach to create a more satisfying and joyous life together. Mary provides support letters for gender affirming surgeries and HRT, and possesses a robust background in LGBTQ/GAD therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-informed therapy, solution-focused therapy, grief therapy, conflict resolution, anger management, career counseling, and navigating weight and dating issues. She firmly believes that individuals possess the resources within themselves to progress through their healing process. By providing a nonjudgmental and supportive environment, she fosters a space where clients can be their authentic selves. Her holistic approach is individualized to meet the unique needs of each person, ensuring a therapeutic experience that resonates with their journey.

Dr. Brielle Ann Marino is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with specialized training in neuropsychology, focusing on the intricate relationships between brain and behavior through the application of evidence-based practices. Having trained at esteemed institutions such as Weill-Cornell Medical College, Columbia University, and Yale University, Dr. Marino brings a wealth of knowledge to her practice. Currently an adjunct professor at NYU in the department of Applied Psychology, she employs cognitive-behavioral techniques, fostering an active, collaborative, and scientific approach to therapy aimed at reducing symptoms and enhancing quality of life. Her research and clinical expertise encompass psychotic disorders, including post-COVID-19 psychosis, the psychiatric consequences of brain injuries, and the cognitive and psychological dimensions of various dementias. Furthermore, Dr. Marino provides not only psychotherapy but also psychological, cognitive, and neuropsychological evaluations as well as cognitive remediation services. As a dedicated advocate of the recovery model, she firmly believes that all individuals facing mental health challenges can lead rich, fulfilling lives using proven methods.

Alyssa Farkas, a licensed professional counselor (LPC) and certified rehabilitation counselor (CRC), understands that life presents its fair share of challenges. She recognizes that seeking assistance is a natural and important step toward finding balance and healing amid stress and adversity. Whether clients are grappling with feelings of unhappiness, anxiety, anger, relationship challenges, or trauma, Alyssa is dedicated to guiding them on their journey. She emphasizes the cultivation of coping skills and provides tailored support that respects each individual’s unique circumstances. With a commitment to fostering joy, peace, and purpose, Alyssa brings a wealth of diverse clinical mental health experience to her practice. Her positive, action-oriented approach empowers individuals, couples, and families to navigate through difficulties and emerge with greater understanding and resilience. Together, they work towards creating a brighter, more fulfilling future.

Cindy Gelber is a dedicated Clinical Social Worker and Therapist, LCSW, with extensive expertise in addressing a broad spectrum of mental health challenges, including mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, and substance abuse. With a compassionate focus, she excels in guiding clients through interpersonal relationship struggles and work-related stress. Her innate curiosity and comprehensive training empower her to foster positive therapeutic relationships with clients from diverse backgrounds, including first responders battling recovery and mental health issues. Cindy has devoted the past 20 years to the mental health field, effectively treating individuals ranging from teens to middle-aged adults. Her practice caters to clients seeking personal growth and coping strategies, as well as those navigating severe crises or various stages of addiction recovery. While she primarily employs a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approach, Cindy is known for her ability to tailor her methods to meet each individual’s unique needs. Her therapeutic style combines warmth and empathy with directness and active engagement, ensuring a supportive environment conducive to healing and transformation.

Patricia Hageman Ungaro is a warm, outgoing, and personable Licensed Professional Counselor with over twenty years of experience in the field. She adopts a client-centered approach and utilizes a variety of counseling methods to effectively assist her clients, addressing issues such as depression, anxiety, and relationship challenges. Having graduated in 1995 from Montclair State University, Patricia brings a multifaceted approach to therapy that includes Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Positive Psychology, and techniques drawn from Dialectical Behavior Therapy and the work of Virginia Satir. Patricia specializes in working with couples in crisis as well as families, believing that liking oneself is an essential step toward healing. She empowers her clients to recognize their full potential and learn skills that foster effective and productive living. Patricia views crisis and difficulties as opportunities for growth and assists clients in identifying and replacing negative thought patterns with healthier alternatives. By focusing on the present moment, she helps individuals cultivate a calmer and happier life.

Janine Hurley-Nicoll is a compassionate and dedicated Clinical Social Worker and Therapist with an MSW and LCSW. She specializes in working with a diverse clientele, from preteens to adults and elders, addressing issues such as school challenges, trauma, and PTSD. Janine employs a variety of therapeutic modalities, including Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Play Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), ensuring a tailored and culturally sensitive approach for each individual or family she works with. Her commitment to fostering connections is evident in her use of Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) and Family Systems techniques, aimed at empowering clients on their therapeutic journeys while promoting relaxation and stress reduction. With Janine's expertise in interpersonal and relational therapy, clients can expect a nurturing environment where healing and growth thrive.

Rachel Mahoney Rengifo, PhD, is a dedicated psychologist specializing in women's mental health. Many individuals wake up each day and mask their struggles, presenting a facade of confidence to their families and careers while grappling with self-doubt and anxiety. Rachel recognizes that women often feel the pressure to do more, be more, and give more, which can lead to a sense of being overwhelmed and stuck in life transitions. With a strong focus on helping women navigate these challenges, Rachel employs various therapeutic modalities, including Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). She works compassionately with individuals, couples, and families, guiding her clients to stop comparing themselves to others and to heal from their past experiences. Rachel's warm and approachable style fosters a strong therapeutic relationship, where true growth and healing can flourish. With fifteen years of clinical experience in diverse settings, she is flexible in her approach, effectively supporting mothers navigating the complexities of parenting at all stages. Her commitment to creating a safe space for clients allows them to unpack their emotions and cultivate a healthier relationship with themselves.

Kelly Schuller is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who understands the significance of making intentional choices that shape one's life. With a conviction that challenging and altering negative behaviors to positive, healthy ones is achievable, she collaborates closely with her clients during their sessions. Kelly brings over five years of experience from working in a hospital setting and an additional two years in private practice. Throughout her career, she has provided compassionate counseling to individuals and families facing issues such as anxiety, self-esteem challenges, marital discord, depression, postpartum depression, and unresolved grief. Kelly also facilitates supportive groups focusing on anxiety, depression, and self-esteem. Utilizing an integrative approach at KES Therapy, she incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), and Psychodynamic principles tailored to meet the unique needs and strengths of each client. She believes in the crucial collaboration with clients, families, medical practitioners, schools, and agencies. Kelly firmly holds that every individual possesses the ability and opportunity to heal and lead a fulfilling life, and she works diligently to empower her clients to become their best selves and achieve the changes they desire. Through self-reflection and dedicated effort, individuals can reach their personal goals under her guidance.

Jamielee Smith is a Licensed Professional Counselor dedicated to supporting individuals in managing their emotions and behaviors. She recognizes that life can be confusing and that everyone makes mistakes. Known for her warm and compassionate demeanor, Jamielee has a special interest in working with adults, children, adolescents, and families. Her commitment lies in helping clients discover their strengths, accept their flaws, and motivate themselves to embrace positive changes in their lives. Utilizing a Cognitive Behavioral Approach, she guides individuals in understanding their own thoughts and behaviors, as well as those of others around them. Together, they identify unhealthy patterns and develop actionable plans for meaningful change. Jamielee is passionate about the field of mental health and seeks to demystify the therapy process, empowering clients to feel more confident in themselves, their choices, and the world around them. Through her work, she invites individuals to embark on a journey toward creating a better version of themselves.

Queenie Vartoukian is a warm, empathic therapist with over 20 years of experience in clinical social work. Holding multiple credentials, including LCSW, MSW, MA, and DCSW, Queenie has specialized certification and focused experience in areas such as codependency and recovery, adoption, infertility, depression, and anxiety issues, as well as adolescent treatment. She views therapy as a collaborative process where both the client and therapist engage in a trusting and purposeful conversation, ultimately fostering skill-building that promotes coping abilities in the face of both internal and external stressors. For those feeling overwhelmed, anxious, angry, confused, or depressed, Queenie’s therapeutic approach can lead to meaningful positive change. Utilizing nonjudgmental, cognitive, and psychodynamic techniques, she effectively helps clients achieve their goals. Known for her active listening and conversational style, Queenie creates a safe space for clients to express themselves.