Manuel has completely changed my life. I was in a bad place before I started therapy with him. I struggled on a daily basis with high anxiety and depression. He's helped me work through my issues and made me feel better than I have in years.
A Thriveworks Client, verified client of Manuel
See what other clients sayAccepted insurance & self-pay
About Manuel
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!

"As a compassionate and empathetic counselor, Manuel looks forward to helping clients address mental health stressors."
What clients say
These testimonials are from real clients who completed a satisfaction survey after their sessions and agreed to share their feedback. Results may vary.
Manuel has completely changed my life. I was in a bad place before I started therapy with him. I struggled on a daily basis with high anxiety and depression. He's helped me work th....
A Thriveworks Client, verified client of Manuel
Thrive works has made it possible for me to get therapy without the worry of when it will end. I can focus on what's bothering me and address it with my therapist. I don't ever fee....
A Thriveworks Client, verified client of Manuel
I have really enjoyed being able to talk to my therapist and talk about ways I can manage my anxiety better. I don't ever feel judged when I talk about anything especially when it ....
A Thriveworks Client, verified client of Manuel
Manny is a fantastic provider who is attentive, insightful, and caring. He is always flexible with times, gives great advice, and clearly cares about me as a patient. I am very gra....
A Thriveworks Client, verified client of Manuel
Get to know Manuel
Why did you decide to become a counselor?
I know what it is like to struggle with mental health stressors and issues. I felt alone until I found an amazing therapist who helped me. This experience meant the world to me, and I hope to be there to help others.
What type of clients are you most excited to work with?
I worked at an acute partial program which is a short-term program, on average about 4 weeks. What I’m most excited about is being part of clients' mental health recovery and helping clients work through issues of depression, anxiety, grief and loss.
What's one thing you wish all clients knew?
There are so many different types of mental health treatment types. Such as CBT, DBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Existential Therapy, Exposure Therapy, etc. If you have been in treatment before do not be discouraged because therapy has more to offer.
Why did you choose to practice at Thriveworks?
I choose Thriveworks because it seems to be a different type of individual practice. I liked how they are willing to help me grow as a therapist and provide me with the support I need to help clients.
What inspires you?
Everyone who actively works on their mental health wellness. I know how difficult it is to reach out and work on your mental health wellbeing.
What can clients expect in their first session with you?
Clients can expect the first session to be an ice breaker. I hope to start to get an understanding of what your expectations for therapy are.
What do you want to accomplish with an individual in their first session?
I want to know what your goal for therapy is and how can I help you reach those goals.
What should clients know about you before scheduling a first counseling session?
I want clients to know that they are going to be driver of our therapeutic sessions. We can go as far in this mental health journey as they feel comfortable.
What do you do for fun/on your time off?
One of the things I worked on with my therapist is to have a “say yes” mentality. I have tried so many different activities form apple picking to Zumba. I enjoy spending time with friends and family so the activity doesn’t matter, except looming I hated that and won’t do that again.
What's one thing about you that defines you (non-professional)?
I have the mentality that if you are doing something look for the joy and fun to be had while doing it.
Other areas of focus
Education and training
- Years in practice
- 10 years
- Graduating institute
- Montclair State University
- Graduating degree
- Master of Arts in Community Counseling
