Our counselors provide therapy in Edison, NJ

Hi, I'm Nahshira McKay, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience supporting individuals, couples, and families. I work with clients navigating identity, relationship concerns, emotional regulation, and life transitions, and I strive to create a space where you can show up as your full, authentic self—without fear of judgment. I earned my Master of Social Work from Rutgers University. Working with diverse populations facing anxiety, depression, trauma, and co-occurring challenges has shaped my ability to meet you where you are—whether you're overwhelmed, stuck, or looking for support, clarity, and growth. 

My approach is warm, collaborative, and strengths-based. I believe you already have the capacity for change, and my role is to help you tap into those strengths while building practical tools along the way. I incorporate evidence-based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), tailored to your unique needs.  

I'm especially passionate about working with individuals exploring their identity, as well as couples and families who want to improve communication, rebuild trust, and strengthen their connections. My goal is to help you feel heard, supported, and empowered to create meaningful, lasting change in your life.

Agnes Kontoh is a Licensed Social Worker with 2 years of experience providing therapeutic services to children, adolescents, adults, and families in various mental health settings. Agnes integrates a trauma-informed and social justice-oriented perspective into her practice, ensuring that each client feels seen, heard, and supported in the context of their lived experience. Agnes has worked with clients navigating depression, trauma, anxiety, substance misuse, and ADHD.

Agnes earned a Master’s in Social Work from Montclair State University. She draws on evidence-based modalities tailored to each client’s unique needs, including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, trauma-informed care, Christian counselling, strengths-based therapy, solution-focused therapy, and family systems theory.

Agnes believes that healing begins with connection and empowerment. If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply need someone to talk to, she welcomes you to reach out. Agnes is ready to meet you where you are and walk alongside you on your journey toward healing and personal growth.

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.

Gabriella Tavarez is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) of Puerto Rican descent and is a strong supporter of marginalized populations, such as people of color and those within the LGBTQ+ community. She enjoys working with adolescents and adults to help them navigate through different life circumstances in a way where they feel understood and empowered. Gabriella specializes in anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, women’s issues, and self-esteem issues.

Gabriella completed her Bachelor's degree in Sociology at Rider University and her Master's degree in Social Work at Rutgers University. She utilizes an evidence-based approach in order to tailor her practice to best match your individual needs, resulting in an effective and client-centered treatment process. Gabriella involves different treatment modalities within her treatment, including mindfulness-based approaches, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and trauma-informed (TIF) practices.

Gabriella’s form of treatment is founded on a strong therapeutic relationship, and ensuring that clients feel safe whenever in her care. As a therapist, it is her goal to help people become the best versions of themselves whatever that may look like. She looks forward to helping others achieve their therapeutic goals and live prosperous lives.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

I am a Licensed Social Worker with 4 years of experience helping clients navigate life transitions, identity exploration, and the challenges of balancing relationships, work, and personal well-being. My approach is warm, collaborative, and relational, creating a space for growth and trust. I specialize in supporting individuals managing anxiety, depression, or trauma, and I have a passion for empowering young adults to build self-awareness, resilience, and meaningful connections.

I earned my Master’s in Social Work from Smith College School of Social Work. My style is trauma-informed and client-centered, integrating cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and strengths-based approaches to help clients explore emotions, build insight, and develop healthy coping skills.

Therapy with me is a collaborative process rooted in trust and empathy. I aim to help clients reconnect with their inner strengths, find balance, and create lasting change. Whether you’re processing past experiences, improving relationships, or seeking greater emotional clarity, I would be honored to support your path toward healing and growth.

Laura Stark is a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and National Certified Counselor with over 25 years of experience as a psychotherapist working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. She has over 10 years of clinical experience providing care for adolescents and adults in residential treatment centers and hospitalization programs. Laura also spent 5 years as a special education teacher and program coordinator for emotionally challenged students. She has an interest in mood, anxiety/panic disorders, ADHD, late-diagnosed ADHD, OCD, adjustments to life changes, Tourette Syndrome, and neurodiversity.

Laura obtained a Bachelor of Arts at the University of North Texas and a Master of Arts in Counseling from Amberton University in 1997. She became a licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in 2007. Laura utilizes an eclectic counseling approach. She finds CBT, REBT, experiential, and systems therapies to be most successful with the clients she works with.

Laura’s therapeutic process assists clients in gaining more self-awareness while navigating through life’s challenges and struggles. She provides support and guidance as clients learn about themselves and patterns in their lives. She brings awareness to healthy coping skills and strategies to help with healing and then continued growth.

Georleena Douglas is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) with 4+ years of experience practicing with adolescents and adults. Georleena specializes in anxiety, depression, sexual wellness and minor trauma, especially within the black community.

Georleena earned her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Queens College. She earned her Master's degree in North Carolina State University, where she received her Master's degree. She utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy (SFT), and holistic therapy, among other approaches.

Georleena will work with clients to address the source of their concerns and issues and how to use their strengths and mindfulness to overcome them. She looks forward to helping clients from all backgrounds, especially those in the black community. Schedule your session today.

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!

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.

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.

Talisah Harrison is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field. She has worked in a variety of settings including inpatient, outpatient, and community-based programs. She is passionate about educating individuals and families on the challenges of living with or supporting someone with a psychiatric condition and how to manage stressors. She specializes in treating mood disorders, anger and stress management, self-esteem issues, interpersonal communication, and family issues. Talisah completed her Master of Social Work at Rutgers University and her undergraduate at Temple University.

Talisah offers culturally sensitive, client-centered treatment that helps individuals identify strengths and develop a sense of self-awareness and positive self-esteem. She utilizes integrative treatment modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, strength-based therapy, and solution-focused therapy.

Initiating therapy can be a significant step in developing positive relationships with yourself and those around you. Talisah understands that everyone is at a different place in life and may struggle with navigating life’s challenges. However, if you are willing to start the journey, Talisah will be there to guide you and support you along the way.

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.

Haley Smith is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Pennsylvania who has over 11 years of experience working with children and their families seeking help with depression, anxiety, anger management, and mood disorders. 

Haley has a Master's degree in Counseling and Psychology from Rosemont College, and is trained to help her clients learn cognitive behavioral (CBT) techniques to overcome difficulties such as anxiety and depression. In addition to these therapy modalities, Haley also utilizes mindfulness training to help keep her clients in the present moment and focused on the here and now. With mindfulness training comes a sense of calm that can help alleviate depression, anxiety, and stress. 

Haley encourages you to start your journey to mental health wellness so that you can start to live a life where you feel confident and at ease. She seeks to establish an inviting and caring approach with you in order to help build a strong therapeutic relationship with her in order to help you build upon your strengths and help you live a more meaningful and valuable life. If you are ready to become the best version of yourself, schedule an appointment with Haley today!