Our licensed counselors provide individual therapy in New Jersey

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!

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.

Jose Desiderio is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of New Jersey and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of New York. Jose has over 8 years of experience in the mental health field focused on treating anxiety, depression, stress, anger management, interpersonal relationship issues, life transitions, and men's issues. Throughout his career, Jose has been passionate about helping adolescents, adults, and couples address their concerns in a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive space.

Jose completed his Master of Arts (MA) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the College of Staten Island. He utilizes an integrative approach in therapy consisting of multiple treatment modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic theory, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), solution focused techniques, and mindfulness exercises. Jose believes that the foundation to therapy is building a connection through highlighting individuality, embracing humor, and sharing belief that it will get better.

Life is filled with challenges and stressors that often stand in our way. Jose is confident that he will be able to support you through these difficult times as you gain healthier perspectives and learn useful coping skills that will aid you on your path. Jose looks forward to doing his best to help you manage your mental health concerns and achieve your goals.

Margaret Ginter is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has been practicing as an outpatient therapist for over 20 years. Margaret has experience with a variety of issues and diagnoses including anxiety (ie. general and social), obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), depression, self-esteem challenges, trauma, addiction, life adjustments, relational and emotional issues, grief/loss, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.

Margaret's approach is warm, welcoming, client-centered, empathetic, and nonjudgmental, striving to help individuals heal and learn tools of self- acceptance and find power to move through adversities, finding inner resilience. She uses eclectic approaches from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, solution-based, and recovery/12-step ideology. Margaret’s dedication is evidenced by the commitment she makes to build relationships with her clients.

Robin Carlock is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) who specializes in treating addiction, mental health symptoms, trauma/post-traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD), life transitions, women’s issues, and LGBTQ+ or other sexuality issues in adolescents, teens, and adults. In Robin’s career, she has worked with individuals, couples, and families providing clinical assessment and therapeutic interventions.

Robin completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at Monmouth University. In addition to being a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC), Robin is also problem gambling certified. She is empathic and provides a safe space to explore sensitive topics. She encourages her clients to exercise their creativity, personal beliefs, and cultural practices for the best success rates. Robin traveled abroad and stayed in Spain for some time, which helped her gain skills in cultural competence, and she has integrated this into her style. 

Robin hopes to create a therapeutic relationship that makes you feel safe within sessions and to assist in reaching your goals. Two of her top priorities are maintaining confidentiality and providing a nonjudgmental space for you to vent about any and all subjects. Robin utilizes multiple modalities of evidenced-based practices to provide the best care. Her therapeutic style consists of strength-based, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness practices, motivational interviewing, and positive psychology. She promotes a client-centered and holistic approach to incorporate the mind and body into treatment. Robin believes that therapy is a place for growth and patience for yourself to see the growth to happen.