Our therapists offer anger management therapy in Dumont, NJ

Lauren Nickerson is a Licensed Social Worker in the state of New Jersey with over 3 years of experience in mental health care. She is passionate about providing therapeutic care for adolescents and adults who are seeking coping skills and support to manage life’s difficulties. Lauren specializes in anxiety, depression, stress management, life transitions, women’s issues, and more. At Rutgers University, Lauren earned her Master of Social Work (MSW) following the completion of her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology.

Lauren utilizes a variety of evidence-based therapies based on the client’s needs, including cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, psychodynamic, and internal family systems. Lauren’s approach to treatment is person-centered and culturally sensitive, as her goal is to ensure that each client feels understood, validated, and respected.

Starting therapy is a vulnerable experience, but it does not have to be intimidating. Lauren strives to offer a welcoming, collaborative environment where you begin to realize your strengths, inherent value, and worth as you find your most authentic self. When the time feels right, Lauren is ready and eager to meet you!

I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with over 9 years of experience providing compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma-related disorders, OCD, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, and addiction. I take a collaborative, client-centered approach and work closely with each individual to develop personalized treatment plans that support symptom management, improved daily functioning, and long-term emotional well-being.

I earned my master’s degree from the University of North Dakota and bring a thoughtful, integrative approach to care that may include education, coping strategies, and medication management when appropriate. My work is grounded in empathy, clinical insight, and evidence-based practices, allowing me to tailor treatment to each client’s unique needs and goals.

Seeking mental health support can feel challenging, and I strive to create a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard and supported. Together, we will build practical strategies to help manage symptoms, build resilience, and move toward lasting emotional wellness. I invite you tobegin your journey toward healing and growth.

Bill DeFilippo is a Licensed Professional Counselor with more than 20 years of experience providing mental health services to adults, children, families, and couples. He is an advocate for strengthening one's ability to understand and improve oneself in an often complex world. He prides himself on the ability to quickly develop rapport with clients as they journey together toward achieving greater life balance. Bill's specialties include—but are not limited to—life stress, anxiety, depression, grief, family discord, and relationship dysfunction.

Bill completed his master's in counseling at Montclair State University in 2000. Bill uses many treatment modalities (family systems theory, structural family therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, psychoanalysis, behavior modification) but lands on the one that is uniquely suited for you during your presentation.

Life can be tough, and the decision to enter counseling can be even tougher. But whatever brings you to Bill, understand that he will be committed to your journey toward improved well-being and help provide you with the tools you need to get back at it independently. His services are just a click away!

Rica Puazo is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Registered Art Therapist (LPC, RAT) who holds more than 4 years of experience working in residential treatment facilities and inpatient acute care with children, adolescents, young adults, college students, young professionals, adults, and geriatrics. She has experience working with individuals diagnosed with ADHD, bipolar disorder and mood disorders, schizophrenia, conduct disorders, depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, substance abuse, intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder, and neurocognitive disorders such as dementia and Alzheimer’s. Rica also has experience working with families, couples, the LGBTQIA+ community, and individuals with disabilities.

She received her Master’s degree in Counseling and Art Therapy from Adler School of Professional Psychology and her Bachelor's in Psychology from Baylor University. Rica’s approach to therapy is adapting the different theories, applying appropriate intervention, and finding the right tools and support for the client’s therapeutic goals. 

As an Art Therapist, Rica encourages exploring the art process to help individuals visualize inner struggles as well as encourage self-expression. Rica believes in building confidence in oneself to overcome and accept personal struggles. Work with her to start building self-confidence, happiness, and healthier relationships.

Tusharbala Sethy is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 14 years of experience helping individuals and families navigate the complexities of mental health and emotional well-being. She has worked in a variety of treatment settings treating clients with a diverse range of clinical needs including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, PTSD, trauma, intimate partner violence, grief, adjustment disorders, self-esteem issues, and other behavioral health disorders. Tusharbala aims to provide a safe, nonjudgmental space for clients to begin their therapeutic process, work towards their goals, and feel supported through life changes.

Tusharbala has a Master’s in Social Work from New York University. She utilizes modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, dialectical behavior therapy, psycho-education, grief counseling, person-centered therapy, and motivational interviewing.

Working through life's challenges can often feel overwhelming. Whether you are dealing with moments of uncertainty, managing past experiences, or struggling with daily emotions, you do not have to face these alone. Tusharbala provides a compassionate environment and a safe space to explore your thoughts and feelings. Reach out today!