Our therapists provide couples & marriage counseling in Dumont, NJ

Manuel Lima is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 10 years of experience treating adult clients who are struggling with relationship difficulties, anxiety disorders, OCD, obsessive thoughts, stress, depression, and ruminations. He loves to help his clients build the confidence and self-efficacy to overcome whatever obstacles they may be facing, whether the struggle is internal, or external.

Manuel received his Master's degree in Community Mental Health Counseling from Montclair State University. As a counselor, he is strongly versed in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and existential therapy (ET) to help clients learn to be in the moment, challenge negative automatic thoughts, and change behaviors to better cope with emotions. Manuel believes in giving his clients the necessary tools for improving their self-awareness, emotional regulation, constructive/rational thinking, and stress management outside of sessions.

Manuel respects and acknowledges each client’s individuality and tailors treatment to meet their needs. Manuel wants clients to feel safe and to improve their self-compassion and self-care. Manuel is dedicated to helping clients feel empowered to pursue what they desire personally and/or professionally. Clients will learn the skills necessary to navigate through life’s challenges and create an improved quality of life—reach out to schedule with Manuel today.

For the past 4 years, Manuel has been recognized as 3 Best Marriage Counselors in Newark, NJ per Three Based Rated!

I am a Licensed Associate Counselor with 2 years of experience. My counseling approach is person-centered and tailored to meet each individual’s biopsychosocial needs. I specialize in working with adolescents through older adults facing anxiety, depression, trauma, mood and personality disorders, substance use, self-harm, and emotional dysregulation. My professional background includes experience across outpatient programs, detox units, inpatient hospitals, and university counseling centers.

I earned my Master’s in Counseling from Stockton University. I integrate evidence-based practices, including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, rational emotive behavior therapy, and mindfulness.

I believe healing requires consistency, patience, and courage. My goal is to create a safe, inclusive, and affirming space where clients can explore their emotions and develop greater self-awareness. I am honored to walk alongside each client, offering empathy, encouragement, and tools to support lifelong well-being.

Scot King is a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) with many years experience partnering with individuals in order to help them find more fulfilling lives. He is passionate about helping adolescents, adults and couples to recognize and confront the challenges before them in order to live a more satisfying existence. He specializes in anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues as well as major life transitions.

Scot completed his Bachelor's degree in Communication from Rutgers University. He hold two Master’s degrees in Education from MaryGrove College, and Administration/Supervision from New Jersey City University, and a Master's degree in Counseling at Cairn University. He utilizes an eclectic approach to sessions.

Scot’s education and life experiences allows him to connect, empathize and support his clients. Scot has the unique ability to listen, empathize and support no matter what our challenge is. He believes that with support, each individual has the ability to gain new outlooks and recognize their potential. Schedule your session today.

Hi there, my name is Phyllis Darkwa, and I have been a clinician since 2017. I have helped many clients, each with their own stories and experiences, overcome much of what life throws at them. Clients who have experienced childhood trauma, painful heartaches, anxiety, depression, stress, and just by existing in this vast world of ours. I have worked with some over the past six years and seen a tremendous amount of growth from the day they started, and all the way up to now. 

I start by getting to know you and what is happening uniquely to you. Although therapists are all trained to understand how the mind and body work and how we are all interconnected — which is nice to know, as it means we are not all alone — I like to tailor my treatment approach to each unique story.

I am looking forward to meeting you and getting to know you. I encourage you to be as open as you possibly can and let's work together to help you help yourself.

Patricia Ruggiero is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience supporting individuals with anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. She has managed community programs, led clinical teams, and provided psychotherapy in agency and private settings. She works best with individuals seeking guidance, structure, and a supportive space to grow. Her ideal client is someone ready to explore meaningful change, improve emotional resilience, build greater independence in their life, and thrive.

Pat earned a Master’s in Social Work from Kean University. She uses a solution-focused, person-centered approach rooted in cognitive behavior therapy to help clients identify strengths and set goals with clarity. Her crisis intervention and advocacy experience allow her to support complex needs with compassion and structure for real-life progress.

Pat understands how overwhelming life can feel when you’re trying to navigate challenges alone. Therapy is a space where you don’t have to have it all figured out. She offers a calm, supportive environment where you will work at your pace. She would be honored to walk with you toward greater peace and confidence.

David Wojtkowski is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 11 years of experience supporting adolescents, adults, and older adults through stress, trauma, anger, anxiety, depression, and substance use concerns. David is passionate about helping clients set clear goals, work through barriers, and move toward meaningful change in ways that feel safe and empowering.

David earned his Master’s in Clinical Psychology from Walden University. His therapeutic approach blends cognitive behavior therapy, solutions-focused therapy, and trauma-informed practices with free association and mindfulness, always tailored to meet the client’s unique needs and pace.

David is a Marine Corps veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom and the father of twin teenagers. He brings a deep understanding of military trauma, anxiety, and depression, and is committed to helping clients feel seen and supported through every step of their healing journey. Reach out today!

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 6 years of experience in the mental health field with a certification as an ADHD-Certified Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP) and specialize in providing counseling services for ADHD and anxiety, but also work with depression, grief and life transitions while using a CBT, person-centered, solution-focused, mindfulness-based lens.

My clients usually do not have the proper support or systems they need such as time management or accountability and may feel overwhelmed with a new life circumstance. I like to highlight how a different perspective can make a difference in better understanding a situation, whether it's challenging negative thoughts, using a system or resource tool differently, or even improving boundaries.

We all have barriers preventing us from getting where we want to be in life. I'm able to help identify what is standing in the way and develop tools so we can get where we want to be, without subtracting from your life experiences. If you're ready to do the work, I'm here for it!

I received my BA in English from Rutgers University, and my MA in Professional Clinical Counseling from La Salle University. I started my counseling career in community mental health and also led IOP groups for substance abuse treatment after being in the teaching world for 5 years between NJ and PA school systems. 

Elizabeth Miller is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 10 years of experience. She has worked with people of all ages but especially enjoys the adolescent and young adult population. Elizabeth specializes in anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, and coping with life changes.

Elizabeth graduated with a Master’s degree in Social Work with a concentration in Clinical Practice from Widener University. She utilizes mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT).

Elizabeth will work with you to prioritize your own needs, while highlighting your strengths and building self-efficacy. Elizabeth loves what she does and has a true passion for helping people. If you are ready, schedule an appointment with her today.

Maria Muñoz is a Licensed Associate Counselor with 8 years of experience supporting clients through life’s most difficult seasons. She specializes in trauma and works with adolescents and young adults navigating depression, anxiety, and identity challenges. Maria provides a warm, safe, and culturally responsive space for clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and goals. She empowers clients to build resilience through unconditional acceptance, radical self-compassion, and evidence-based practices.

Maria earned her Master’s in Counseling from Cairn University. She integrates cognitive processing therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy to support clients. Her approach is rooted in cultural humility, emotional safety, and client-paced growth.

Maria helps clients feel seen, heard, and accepted while guiding them through healing and personal growth. She works collaboratively, offering tools to manage life’s challenges with confidence and clarity. Maria is passionate about reminding clients they don’t have to face their struggles alone—she’ll walk alongside them every step of the way.

I am an LCSW, LCADC, CCS, and SAP with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and a minor in Substance Abuse Counseling from Ramapo College of NJ (2012), and a Master's degree in Social Work with a concentration in Substance Abuse Counseling from Rutgers University. I have extensive experience across inpatient, IOP, and PHP levels of care, working with individuals ages 10 through adulthood, and progressed from therapist to Clinical Director. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, mood disorders, and personality disorders, and am committed to providing compassionate, client-centered care.

I utilize a range of evidence-based modalities, primarily Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing. Through compassion, empathy, and collaborative effort, I support individuals in their healing process and am honored to walk alongside them on their journey toward lasting wellness.

Taking the first step toward support can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. I strive to create a warm, safe, and supportive space where you feel heard and valued. Healing is possible, and together we can work toward meaningful growth and lasting change at a pace that feels right for you.

Elijawon is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over nine years of experience in the mental health field. He has experience working with children, adolescents, adults, families, couples, and individuals with developmental disabilities. Elijawon is passionate about helping others navigate unique challenges to improve their quality of life and achieve their goals and dreams. Elijawon is an eclectic counselor that does not believe in being a "One-Trick Pony," as each approach applies to the individual's different needs.

Elijawon (Eli) completed his Masters of Arts in Counseling at Kean University. He has clinical counseling, case management, and school counseling experience working with many individuals. Elijawon utilizes multiple treatment approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy, and mindfulness.

Everyone faces challenges and situations that they try to overcome. Elijawon is adamant about guiding individuals to their goals, is an empathetic and active listener, and provides the resources to educate and empower others. If you are ready to take that leap of faith and gain new strategies to cope and conquer, please reach out and schedule an appointment!

Abe Clabby is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who specializes in treating relationship issues, workaholism, trauma, codependency, depression, anxiety, autism, and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Abe spent the last 6 years at the Love Is Respect hotline and the National Domestic Violence Hotline, where he has seen the best and the worst that family and relationships have to offer. He is the author of "Cool Off the Burnout: Feel Better at High-Pressure Jobs".

Abe completed his master's degree in Counseling at St. Edward's University, where he earned a 3.7 GPA and spent an extra semester taking courses in marriage and family therapy. In postgraduate training like the Gottman method, Abe found what some couples do that makes them thrive. There are things that help with a partner, but they also help with our parents, our jobs, and our friends. Abe uses motivational interviewing in a client-centered way, empowering people to change the narrative and find an existential purpose for what they do and using the tools of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to get around the obstacles where people feel stuck.

Abe works with a lot of good-hearted people. They're compassionate and want to do good in the world and to help people they love. Caring people can be taken for granted, taken advantage of, and even hurt and used. They can be left feeling empty, unfulfilled, and unloved. But with the right mindset, boundaries, and self-care, they can be respected, appreciated, and live a life that they're proud of. Abe helps people care for others and in turn, care for themselves. With therapy, people can troubleshoot their troubles in jobs and relationships. Everyone has more options than they realize.

I define connection as the energy that exists between people when they feel seen, heard, and valued; when they can give and receive without judgment; and when they derive sustenance and strength from the relationship." —Brené Brown I truly believe this philosophy represents my framework for effective and rewarding therapy. Providing a safe space for healing is of the utmost importance to me. My goal is to help my clients integrate their experiences to feel more at peace. I foster a non-judgmental, compassionate space to help clients focus on grief/loss, couple relationships, work stress, addictions, depression, anxiety, and trauma. 

My approach to psychotherapy is client-centered. I utilize various methods including cognitive-behavioral strategies, psychodynamics, mind/body connections through mindfulness and imagery, motivational interviewing, and couple/family dynamics. As an LMFT, LCSW, and LCADC, my work reflects 46 years with clients, university teaching, and postgraduate training. 

My work is informed as well by my own life cycle experiences with relationships, balancing personal life and work, as well as with life's inevitable setbacks and losses. I work collaboratively with my clients, helping you to function optimally in your life. Together we will work toward restoring your sense of well-being.

I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) with 17 years of experience supporting individuals navigating depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, and other severe and persistent mental health conditions. I also work with clients facing family dynamics, relationship concerns, identity development, and major life transitions. I take a client-centered approach that emphasizes compassion, resilience, and meaningful personal growth.

I earned my master’s degree in mental health counseling from Monmouth University. My work is grounded in trauma-informed care, and I utilize evidence-based approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, mindfulness-based interventions, and motivational interviewing, alongside reflective and exploratory therapeutic work.

I strive to create a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard, validated, and empowered. Together, we will clarify your values, identify your goals, and work toward meaningful change at a pace that feels right for you. You do not have to navigate life’s challenges alone, and I am here to support you on your healing journey.

Georges Dubois is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 10 years of experience in the mental health field. He is passionate about working with adults, families, and couples. Georges specializes in depression, drug and alcohol use, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, relationship issues, and major life transitions. During his career, Georges has worked in a variety of mental health settings including partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and outpatient programs. Georges completed his Master of Science in Psychological Counseling at Monmouth University.

Georges has also worked with different populations that include adolescents/young adults, adults, clients in recovery, and couples. Georges utilizes multiple treatment approaches including mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy.

Wherever you are in your mental health journey, Georges would love to play a role in helping you become the best version of yourself. He firmly believes that every therapist needs a therapist, and knows the importance of developing a good therapeutic relationship with one’s therapist. He looks forward to talking to you soon. Be well.

Alexander "Alex" Arici is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 4 years of experience, who specializes in the treatment of individuals experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, depression, personality disorders, and more. He is passionate about serving the needs of youth and young adults, as well as any who are navigating the struggles of managing life transitions throughout middle and late adulthood.

Alex was able to complete a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Montclair State University. He is a former foster care youth with personal experiences of navigating "the system" with all of its ups and downs. His eclectic approach draws from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), person-centered therapy (PCT), mindfulness, and motivational interviewing (MI).

Life is complicated and hard enough as it is with all its joys and hardships. Therapy can be a place for you to be and express yourself without having to worry about what anyone else thinks about you. It's a place for you to safely self-reflect and build the life you desire. Alex cares about your growth and well-being. Go online or give the office a call to start working with him: You'll learn the tools, techniques, and strategies that you'll need to navigate this thing we call life.

Leslie Small is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 15 years of experience. He has worked with adults, teens, couples, and other populations dealing with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and many other concerns. Leslie has spent time in community mental health and private practice settings. His broad background enables him to assist a wide range of people.

Leslie received his Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling from Capella University. He utilizes a humanistic clinical approach that focuses on connecting with his clients and helping them discover their inherent strengths so that they can be the best version of themselves.

Leslie believes the partnership between therapist and client is the foundation for success and growth. He promises to provide support while fostering capabilities, setting goals, and developing a plan for life’s challenges. Schedule an appointment with him today!