Our therapists provide depression counseling in Edison, NJ

I am an experienced Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctoral degree from Rutgers University. I have almost 10 years of experience in psychiatry where I've worked with children, adolescents, and adults addressing anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, autism, substance use, life circumstances, and more. 

My practice is to collaborate with clients to find the best solution that fits their needs. I provide therapy and medication management. I utilize evidence-based techniques in the care of all patients. 

Every client is unique and deserves an individualized plan of care to improve their quality of life. As a provider, I hope clients find that I serve my community with compassion, empathy, encouragement, and consideration. 

My name is Lilah Souza. I am a licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and licensed professional counselor (LPC) who works with a variety of different backgrounds including children, teens, young adults, adults, LGBTQ+ individuals, neurodivergent individuals, and so on. 

I consider my approach to be warm, empathetic, client-centered, and eclectic. I do CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and expressive arts based therapy with my clients to help them get to a place where they can cope with life's challenges and feel like they're enough. 

Reaching out for the first time is always the hardest step. Thank you for taking the time and the courage to reach out and I hope we can work as a team in your mental health journey. 

Kyra Baumstark is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 8 years experience viewing people as just that, people. She specializes trauma, anxiety, depression, and general life challenges.

Kyra received her Master's degree in Social Work with a Concentration in Clinical Practice with Children and Families from Monmouth University. She knows that every step you take is a big one, therapy might even count as two.

Take those two steps and schedule an appointment with Kyra. Then sit back and be proud of yourself that you did. She looks forward to working together as a team.

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!

Hello, I'm Shivani, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's challenges with compassion, authenticity, and evidence-based care. As a South Asian woman of color with lived experience navigating mental health, I understand the courage it takes to seek support and the importance of feeling truly seen and understood. I primarily work with adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, OCD, eating disorders, life transitions, relationship challenges, self-esteem concerns, and cultural or identity/LGBTQIA+ related issues. 

My approach to therapy is collaborative, compassionate, and strengths-based. I integrate evidence-based modalities, including CBT, DBT, ACT, ERP, and mindfulness-based techniques to help clients understand their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors while building on their strengths. Clients can expect a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment. 

Taking the first step toward therapy can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to navigate life's challenges alone. I would be honored to walk alongside you on your journey. Healing is possible, and together we can build on your strengths to help you feel more confident, resilient, and connected to the life you want to live. When you're ready, reach out. 

I'm a licensed social worker with 5 years of experience. I've worked with people at all stages of life, including young children just beginning to understand their emotions, adolescents finding their identity, and adults rebuilding after incarceration or major setbacks. Each person has taught me something about strength, healing, and what it means to start over. What brings people to my practice is a shared desire to heal from what's happened, to feel more confident and at peace, and to create a life that feels genuinely right for them. My role is to support and collaborate with you and to help you discover what works for you.

I earned my Master of Social Work from Rutgers University. I work from a client-centered, strengths-based approach, which means you're always in the driver's seat. I draw from CBT, narrative therapy, and mindfulness techniques, and we'll tailor our work together based on what resonates and what you need.

A core part of my approach is highlighting what's already working in your life. Recognizing your existing strengths and coping skills builds real confidence and momentum toward change. I look forward to partnering with you as you create the life you're seeking.

*Children under the age of 11 must be seen for in-person sessions.*

Aunteryo Malcom is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia and New Jersey with 10 years of experience supporting adults, teens, couples, and families experiencing depression, anxiety, adjustment challenges, mood disorders, family conflict, and relationship concerns. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Albany State University and his Master of Education in Counselor Education from Georgia Southern University.

Aunteryo takes an integrative, person-centered approach, grounded in the belief that the therapeutic relationship is foundational to growth and healing. He incorporates elements of cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, systems theory, and strengths-based approaches, tailoring treatment to meet each client’s unique needs.

Julie Burnett is a counselor with 11 years of experience. Her focus is working with clients ages 11 and older — individuals, couples, and/or families. Julie believes that all people deserve to be treated with respect and, therefore, respect is a foundational part of her counseling sessions. Julie specializes in general mental health, relationships, grief and loss, domestic abuse, and parenting. She believes that clients are the experts on their own lives, so they are the ones to choose the topics for each session while Julie brings various techniques that can help. Together they create healthy life goals and decide what techniques they want to try. Julie believes that she is here simply to be a helping hand, a listening ear, and a friendly guide as the client navigates through difficult times. In order to help clients find their way to healing on the other side of pain, Julie provides new insights, teaches new skills, introduces new knowledge, helps to broaden the client’s focus, and encourages clients to practice new skills. While Julie will never preach to the client or try to change their beliefs about faith, as a Christian, she views the world through a biblical lens.

Since she was young, Julie has wanted to help people work through their problems so they can have happier, healthier lives. She often found herself being the one her friends went to for help with their problems. She saw counseling as a way to help others. During her studies she was excited to learn that the best helping skill is listening non-judgmentally, the one skill she had been practicing since she was young. She also learned many other counseling techniques and skills that she integrates into sessions with clients. Since earning her counseling degree in 2011, she has served in a variety of settings. She has worked with victims of domestic violence and sexual assault survivors, with active and recently retired military personnel, and with high school students. She has also kept a private practice where she has been able to work with all ages and a variety of issues. As she has worked with clients throughout the years, she has found that, regardless of age, healthy relationships and boundary setting are typically common goals for clients as we all strive to live a healthy, productive life. Julie allows the client to lead the session while she helps keep it focused on the path toward healing and healthy life goals. Some of the therapies Julie uses include person-centered, Adlerian, cognitive behavioral, and mindfulness.

Julie understands that reaching out for counseling can be a scary time for clients. But she would like you to know that you have nothing to fear from her. Counseling with Julie is a safe space where all emotions are welcome, she will not judge you for your thoughts, actions, or emotions! Julie has been told that she is a very down-to-earth counselor, and she is excited to meet you and help you begin your journey on the path to a healthier and more joyful life.

I began my career in behavioral health in 1998 as a nursing assistant at a state hospital. I earned my BSN in 2005 and my MSN as a family psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner in 2016. Since 2018, I have worked as an advanced nurse practitioner providing comprehensive psychiatric care to diverse populations. I work with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and life stressors—many seeking clarity, symptom relief, and practical strategies to improve their well-being. My approach is holistic and collaborative, integrating medication management with psychotherapy to support each person's unique goals. 

I begin with a comprehensive evaluation covering psychiatric, medical, and social history. We then develop a structured, individualized treatment plan that addresses underlying causes—not just symptoms. I integrate medication management with therapeutic support and close follow-up, with ongoing adjustments until we reach stability and lasting progress.

Reaching out can feel like the hardest part, but you don't have to carry this alone. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply ready for a change, your story deserves to be heard with compassion and without judgment. When you're ready, I invite you to schedule an appointment so we can begin working together toward healing, clarity, and balance.

Cassie Repert is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of New Jersey who has over 3 years of valuable experience working one-on-one with adolescents and adults in settings ranging from shelters, transitional housing, and college counseling environments. Throughout this time, Cassie has worked with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, mood disorders, low self-esteem, PTSD, and trauma.

Cassie completed her Bachelor’s degree in Family Science and Human Development from Montclair State University and went on to earn her Master’s degree in Social Work from Monmouth University soon afterward. Cassie takes a humanistic approach to therapy, understanding that the client is the master of their own life. While cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) are Cassie’s specialties, she pulls from many therapeutic approaches and adjusts based on the need of the client.

Cassie understands that taking the first step and choosing to seek therapy can be frightening and wants to make sure that all her clients feel as safe and as comfortable as possible during each session. She will ensure that you feel in control and leave with lifelong skills to improve your mental wellbeing going forward.

Jacquelyn Farasat is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She holds National Counselor Certification and is also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. She has 8 years of experience supporting the emotional, social, and personal growth and well-being of children, adolescents, and adults in both individual and group formats.

Jacquelyn has a Master’s degree in Counseling and a Master’s degree in Education. She strives to develop a caring relationship with the client that is built on trust, respect, and collaboration. Jacquelyn integrates mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing with a strengths-based, person-centered approach to support the client in becoming his/her best self. When working with children and families, she often uses play therapy to foster relational skills, develop emotional awareness and self-regulation skills, and promote positive problem-solving. 

Jacquelyn recognizes that each client has a unique set of strengths, desires, and needs. Thus, she continually maintains flexibility and tailors strategies in response to the client’s needs and personal goals. Her goal is to encourage and empower you throughout your journey to becoming.

I earned my Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The College of New Jersey. Through my experience in addiction and mental health treatment, I earned my Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) credentials. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, family-origin concerns, life stressors, and substance use concerns. I also work with couples and families seeking to improve communication, strengthen relationships, and foster healthier connections.

I take a collaborative, client-centered approach, recognizing you as the expert on your own life. I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing, and attachment- and family systems perspectives to support meaningful, lasting growth.

Reaching out for therapy can be the first step toward creating meaningful change. I would be honored to support you in exploring the changes you hope to make while providing a compassionate, collaborative space to grow. Our first session will focus on understanding your story, identifying your goals, and creating a plan that feels right for you.

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.

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.

Danielle is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor in the State of New Jersey. Danielle has 20 years of experience working with young adults, adults and families seeking support for addiction, depression, anxiety, life transitions such as divorce or career change, women's issues, relationship issues and self-esteem. Danielle received her BA in Psychology from Mount Saint Mary College and her MSW from Fordham University. Danielle utilizes various evidence-based approaches in her work including cognitive behavioral, strengths based and psychodynamic. Her hope is to work together to identify feelings, increase awareness and implement coping tools that will create the meaningful changes you are seeking. Danielle believes the cornerstone of the healing process is a strong therapeutic relationship. This is achieved through creating a safe and supportive environment where change can thrive. As your therapist Danielle will listen to your needs and work in collaboration with you to develop strategies that best meet your goals. Danielle understands the decision to seek therapy is difficult. She further understands the challenges surrounding change and is eager to guide you in navigating these challenges.

Nicole Schaefer is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over four years of clinical experience providing counseling services to adolescent and adult clients who were experiencing depression, anxiety, relational conflict, life transitions, and difficulties coping with stressors.

Nicole completed her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Rutgers University and received her Master of Arts in Forensic Mental Health Counseling from the City University of New York, John Jay College of Criminal Justice. She also received an Advanced Certificate in Victimology Studies. She has worked in academic and residential settings with clients of varying backgrounds. Nicole utilizes an eclectic evidence-based approach with her clients to adjust services to best meet the needs of the individual client. Nicole’s therapeutic modality draws upon cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), person-centered therapy, motivational interviewing, and positive psychology.

With a sense of genuineness and compassion, Nicole is committed to creating an atmosphere of safety and support, through which clients can feel comfortable opening up and working through the difficulties that brought them to counseling. Her mission is to support clients on their journey toward healing, self-discovery, and personal growth in order to achieve desired goals, reduce distress, and improve overall functioning. Nicole looks forward to supporting you on your own therapeutic journey.

Marya Slater is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Professional Registered Nurse who is experienced working with individuals and couples. Her specialties include infertility issues, LGBTQ+ issues, depression, anxiety, stress management, grief, relationship issues, and chronic illness. Subscribing to the philosophy that all people bring unique perspectives and strengths to the therapeutic process, Marya strives to help clients recognize their own strengths and build on those assets within the framework of a supportive and nurturing therapeutic relationship.

Marya obtained her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from New York University and her Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University. Her diverse educational background has enabled Marya to explore therapeutic issues through a broad lens. She maintained a private therapy practice in Manhattan for over 10 years. 

Marya works from a psychodynamic perspective believing that underlying patterns of behavior can be addressed by utilizing the therapeutic relationship as a vehicle for change. Rather than endorsing a singular methodology, Marya also utilizes techniques from other therapeutic perspectives such as cognitive behavioral therapy and solution-­focused approaches to help clients achieve short-­term goals while working to address deeper issues in order to live more satisfying, fulfilling lives.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 7 years of experience assisting adolescents, adults, and seniors to better manage the effects of anger, depression, anxiety, poor communication, or underdeveloped coping skills. I earned my Master's degree in Social Work from Rutgers University. I identify as a therapist, mother, wife, daughter, aunt, niece, cousin, friend, and co-worker. Wearing all of these hats has taught me to value relationships. As a therapist, I’m also a firm believer that all relationships begin with the individual. Self-awareness is the first step to a better understanding of oneself.

I value self-awareness as the cornerstone of personal growth. I believe that understanding oneself is the first step toward improving relationships with others and navigating the world more effectively. I’m dedicated to helping clients unpack past experiences, resolve internal or external conflicts, and break free from patterns.

My approach is compassionate, supportive, and non-judgmental, and I use humor to help clients feel at ease in the therapeutic space. My goal is to empower you to develop the skills and strategies necessary to live a positive, productive, and purposeful life. If you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, I’m here to guide you on your journey.