Adoption Therapists in West Orange, NJ

Photo of Meryl Weinman Dorf, Psychologist in West Orange, NJ
Meryl Weinman Dorf
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
West Orange, NJ 07052
Waitlist for new clients
Adoption-related issues are another area of expertise.
If you are struggling with feelings of depression, relationship issues, marital stress, job loss, anxiety, or other life challenges, feel free to contact me. I am a warm, respectful, experienced clinician who brings 30+ years of practice in consulting confidentially with a wide variety of people. You will find me to be open and caring and my office a safe and inviting place to talk. I am most effective with people who are thoughtful and willing to look inside themselves.
Adoption-related issues are another area of expertise.
If you are struggling with feelings of depression, relationship issues, marital stress, job loss, anxiety, or other life challenges, feel free to contact me. I am a warm, respectful, experienced clinician who brings 30+ years of practice in consulting confidentially with a wide variety of people. You will find me to be open and caring and my office a safe and inviting place to talk. I am most effective with people who are thoughtful and willing to look inside themselves.
(862) 324-7025 View (862) 324-7025
Photo of Lauren Block, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West Orange, NJ
Lauren Block
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Orange, NJ 07052
I am psychotherapist devoted to helping adult individuals and couples achieve improved relationships, contentment, self-confidence and acceptance. I work with clients through teletherapy or in-person sessions to identify underlying problems and improve ways of coping, with specialization in couples counseling, grief and complicated grief, anxiety, depression and adoption. My post-graduate training includes psychodynamic psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, marital/couples issues, adoption throughout the life cycle, grief and bereavement and the spectrum of issues relating to trauma.
I am psychotherapist devoted to helping adult individuals and couples achieve improved relationships, contentment, self-confidence and acceptance. I work with clients through teletherapy or in-person sessions to identify underlying problems and improve ways of coping, with specialization in couples counseling, grief and complicated grief, anxiety, depression and adoption. My post-graduate training includes psychodynamic psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, marital/couples issues, adoption throughout the life cycle, grief and bereavement and the spectrum of issues relating to trauma.
(973) 528-7517 View (973) 528-7517
Photo of Ronald G Silikovitz, Psychologist in West Orange, NJ
Ronald G Silikovitz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
West Orange, NJ 07052  (Online Only)
I, Ron Silikovitz, Ph.D., am a licensed clinical psychologist. I have offices in West Orange and Elizabeth, New Jersey. My specialty areas include: Forensic psychology (parent coordination, therapeutic visitation, custody/parenting time evaluation, relocation evaluation, risk assessment, personal injury, assessment and treatment of sexual offenders and victims, competency, termination of parental rights and adoption, and expert witness testimony), individual psychotherapy, couples therapy,family therapy.
I, Ron Silikovitz, Ph.D., am a licensed clinical psychologist. I have offices in West Orange and Elizabeth, New Jersey. My specialty areas include: Forensic psychology (parent coordination, therapeutic visitation, custody/parenting time evaluation, relocation evaluation, risk assessment, personal injury, assessment and treatment of sexual offenders and victims, competency, termination of parental rights and adoption, and expert witness testimony), individual psychotherapy, couples therapy,family therapy.
(862) 245-1967 View (862) 245-1967
Barbara Holton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Orange, NJ 07052
I am an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in the treatment of children, teens, adults. I opened my practice in New Jersey after working in NYC in clinical and leadership positions. The areas of ADHD, ODD, RAD, Depression, Anxiety, self esteem, gender identity, adoption, PTSD and marital discord are some of the issues I provide psychotherapy. I also treat Compassion Fatigue that occurs with First Responders, as well as, Bereavement and Trauma. I use Play Therapy with young children while using art and other modalities with teens. Adult therapy is goal oriented often using CBT as well.
I am an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in the treatment of children, teens, adults. I opened my practice in New Jersey after working in NYC in clinical and leadership positions. The areas of ADHD, ODD, RAD, Depression, Anxiety, self esteem, gender identity, adoption, PTSD and marital discord are some of the issues I provide psychotherapy. I also treat Compassion Fatigue that occurs with First Responders, as well as, Bereavement and Trauma. I use Play Therapy with young children while using art and other modalities with teens. Adult therapy is goal oriented often using CBT as well.
(973) 797-9228 View (973) 797-9228
Photo of Jeff Melman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West Orange, NJ
Jeff Melman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Orange, NJ 07052
Over the years, I have developed and facilitated therapeutic groups focusing on social skills and life skills, bullying and conflict resolution, college readiness, and adoption.
For the past 20 years I have worked with young people and their parents in community-based, academic, and private practice settings. I excel in developing a strong therapeutic relationship that leads to lasting change as my clients navigate through some of life's most stressful transitions. I help teens and young adults develop the insight and skills necessary to be successful in school, at home, and in the community while providing parents with guidance and support.
Over the years, I have developed and facilitated therapeutic groups focusing on social skills and life skills, bullying and conflict resolution, college readiness, and adoption.
For the past 20 years I have worked with young people and their parents in community-based, academic, and private practice settings. I excel in developing a strong therapeutic relationship that leads to lasting change as my clients navigate through some of life's most stressful transitions. I help teens and young adults develop the insight and skills necessary to be successful in school, at home, and in the community while providing parents with guidance and support.
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Photo of Alice K Forsyth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West Orange, NJ
Alice K Forsyth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Orange, NJ 07052
My approach to clinical practice is to create a warm, compassionate place where you can be heard, and heal. The process unfolds at your pace by using a variety of treatment modalities that best fit your specific goals and problem solving strengths. Human beings come from all walks of life, and share all manner of painful human experiences. Psychodynamic therapy can help address anxiety, depression, anger, caregiver stress, sexual identity, and painful loss from divorce, death, separation through foster care and adoption. From employment crisis to mid-life crisis, let me help you restore the peace of mind you deserve.
My approach to clinical practice is to create a warm, compassionate place where you can be heard, and heal. The process unfolds at your pace by using a variety of treatment modalities that best fit your specific goals and problem solving strengths. Human beings come from all walks of life, and share all manner of painful human experiences. Psychodynamic therapy can help address anxiety, depression, anger, caregiver stress, sexual identity, and painful loss from divorce, death, separation through foster care and adoption. From employment crisis to mid-life crisis, let me help you restore the peace of mind you deserve.
(973) 255-8206 View (973) 255-8206
Photo of Melissa D. South, Licensed Professional Counselor in West Orange, NJ
Melissa D. South
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Orange, NJ 07052
Melissa South is a compassionate, affirming, and caring counselor dedicated to helping children, teens, couples & families grow and thrive. Melissa specializes in treating a wide range of issues affecting youth and families including: coping skills for stress & anxiety, school challenges, bullying, behavioral issues, mood regulation, trauma--including youth sexual trauma, adoption & foster care, parenting, and more. Additionally, she is an experienced, competent, & inspiring Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS) for LACs seeking outside clinical supervision to develop their professional identity & grow clinical skills.
Melissa South is a compassionate, affirming, and caring counselor dedicated to helping children, teens, couples & families grow and thrive. Melissa specializes in treating a wide range of issues affecting youth and families including: coping skills for stress & anxiety, school challenges, bullying, behavioral issues, mood regulation, trauma--including youth sexual trauma, adoption & foster care, parenting, and more. Additionally, she is an experienced, competent, & inspiring Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS) for LACs seeking outside clinical supervision to develop their professional identity & grow clinical skills.
(201) 389-9308 View (201) 389-9308
Photo of Dr. Janet Hoffer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West Orange, NJ
Dr. Janet Hoffer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
West Orange, NJ 07052
Many of the people I work with have complicated stories and families. They have struggled with relationships and symptoms of different kinds and come to therapy to share their experiences, perhaps for the first time. I work with adults and adolescents to help them have healthier relationships and build self-esteem. As a Certified EMDR therapist, I use EMDR skills to assist in treating traumatic events and relational trauma. I help parents and adolescents address emotional needs. I help couples develop trust and intimacy through Emotionally Focused Therapy.
Many of the people I work with have complicated stories and families. They have struggled with relationships and symptoms of different kinds and come to therapy to share their experiences, perhaps for the first time. I work with adults and adolescents to help them have healthier relationships and build self-esteem. As a Certified EMDR therapist, I use EMDR skills to assist in treating traumatic events and relational trauma. I help parents and adolescents address emotional needs. I help couples develop trust and intimacy through Emotionally Focused Therapy.
(973) 310-2117 View (973) 310-2117
Photo of Susanne Ciancio, Licensed Professional Counselor in West Orange, NJ
Susanne Ciancio
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
West Orange, NJ 07052  (Online Only)
My most successfull work has been with clients struggling with issues related to anxiety, depression, unresolved grief and all types of boundary issues including: assertiveness training, power/control issues, dependent personality, parenting, co-dependency and conflict resolution. Marital therapy and interpersonal relationship issues are also a specialty which includes work, peer, dating and family issues. People need support, guidance and a working connection with a professional who has experience and can help them navigate through life's struggles. I help people untangle knots and long held beliefs that are holding them back.
My most successfull work has been with clients struggling with issues related to anxiety, depression, unresolved grief and all types of boundary issues including: assertiveness training, power/control issues, dependent personality, parenting, co-dependency and conflict resolution. Marital therapy and interpersonal relationship issues are also a specialty which includes work, peer, dating and family issues. People need support, guidance and a working connection with a professional who has experience and can help them navigate through life's struggles. I help people untangle knots and long held beliefs that are holding them back.
(973) 435-4850 View (973) 435-4850
Photo of Sally Attia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West Orange, NJ
Sally Attia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR, SEP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West Orange, NJ 07052  (Online Only)
Hello there brave one! My diverse background and experience enables me to be very comfortable counseling different groups of people. My passion is to help you restore your inner peace with your thoughts and feelings. I aim to strengthen you by building awareness and resiliency as you face life’s challenges. Providing meaningful and effective clinical interventions/treatments through individual and group therapy will transform lives, empower, and instill hope in the lives of each individual.
Hello there brave one! My diverse background and experience enables me to be very comfortable counseling different groups of people. My passion is to help you restore your inner peace with your thoughts and feelings. I aim to strengthen you by building awareness and resiliency as you face life’s challenges. Providing meaningful and effective clinical interventions/treatments through individual and group therapy will transform lives, empower, and instill hope in the lives of each individual.
(732) 629-9663 View (732) 629-9663
Photo of Vicki Beckerman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West Orange, NJ
Vicki Beckerman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Orange, NJ 07052
Seeking therapy for your child can be overwhelming and is important to work with a therapist who is collaborative and consistently available to parents. I specialize in play therapy with young children and psychotherapy for teens and I work with youngsters coping with chronic medical illness. My approach is creative, warm and accessible to all family members and I utilize a variety of treatment modalities, including cognitive behavioral strategies, art therapy, sand play therapy and group counseling. I assist parents in becoming "on the same page" regarding their children and I help caregivers to review their own parenting styles.
Seeking therapy for your child can be overwhelming and is important to work with a therapist who is collaborative and consistently available to parents. I specialize in play therapy with young children and psychotherapy for teens and I work with youngsters coping with chronic medical illness. My approach is creative, warm and accessible to all family members and I utilize a variety of treatment modalities, including cognitive behavioral strategies, art therapy, sand play therapy and group counseling. I assist parents in becoming "on the same page" regarding their children and I help caregivers to review their own parenting styles.
(973) 287-4221 View (973) 287-4221
Photo of Orly Shulman-Kennan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West Orange, NJ
Orly Shulman-Kennan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Orange, NJ 07052
I am here to listen and understand your distress, clarify your goals and support you in the process of changing feelings and interactions. You will find me easy to talk to, deeply caring, motivating and empowering. I treat adults and children who struggle with anxiety and depression, issues of self esteem , medical crisis, career related issues and adjustment to major life transitions. A large part of my practice focuses on relationship problems with significant others, intimacy and sexuality, parenting to children and adolescents. I specialize in supporting families in crisis due to divorce, substance abuse or financial crisis.
I am here to listen and understand your distress, clarify your goals and support you in the process of changing feelings and interactions. You will find me easy to talk to, deeply caring, motivating and empowering. I treat adults and children who struggle with anxiety and depression, issues of self esteem , medical crisis, career related issues and adjustment to major life transitions. A large part of my practice focuses on relationship problems with significant others, intimacy and sexuality, parenting to children and adolescents. I specialize in supporting families in crisis due to divorce, substance abuse or financial crisis.
(973) 204-1005 View (973) 204-1005
Photo of Stacy-Ann D Lambert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West Orange, NJ
Stacy-Ann D Lambert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCS, CSS
Verified Verified
West Orange, NJ 07052  (Online Only)
Seeking therapeutic help is challenging, therefore my utmost reward as a therapist is assisting my client(s) to explore ways to make life changes that allows them to look forward to a future with hope. I specialize in trauma focused treatment and working with adults, adolescents and their families.
Seeking therapeutic help is challenging, therefore my utmost reward as a therapist is assisting my client(s) to explore ways to make life changes that allows them to look forward to a future with hope. I specialize in trauma focused treatment and working with adults, adolescents and their families.
(848) 229-9606 View (848) 229-9606
Photo of Relationship Solutions NJ, Psychologist in West Orange, NJ
Relationship Solutions NJ
Psychologist, PhD, LCADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Orange, NJ 07052
We are highly experienced (30 years), very caring, and effective psychologists. Clients often remark that it is a pleasure to be treated in a very personable manner. We determine with whom you will meet at our first phone conversation. For example, Dr. Mark is licensed in NJ as a Psychologist and a Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor. At your initial visit, either Dr. Mark or Dr. Tamara will meet with you to discuss your presenting concerns in a comprehensive manner. We evaluate your problems, strengths, history and goals. We then develop a treatment plan that is unique for your needs.
We are highly experienced (30 years), very caring, and effective psychologists. Clients often remark that it is a pleasure to be treated in a very personable manner. We determine with whom you will meet at our first phone conversation. For example, Dr. Mark is licensed in NJ as a Psychologist and a Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor. At your initial visit, either Dr. Mark or Dr. Tamara will meet with you to discuss your presenting concerns in a comprehensive manner. We evaluate your problems, strengths, history and goals. We then develop a treatment plan that is unique for your needs.
(973) 669-3333 View (973) 669-3333
Photo of Sean Michael Gilligan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West Orange, NJ
Sean Michael Gilligan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Orange, NJ 07052
I specialize in working with individuals and couples struggling with their relationships, dealing with trauma, and coping with feelings of stress, anger, depression, and anxiety. Regardless of the challenge, I believe the most important piece of therapy is the tailoring of the treatment to the unique needs of the persons involved. My vast experience in a wide variety of psychotherapeutic techniques allows me, as your therapist, to develop a course of treatment that will assist you on your journey to personal growth and transformative change.
I specialize in working with individuals and couples struggling with their relationships, dealing with trauma, and coping with feelings of stress, anger, depression, and anxiety. Regardless of the challenge, I believe the most important piece of therapy is the tailoring of the treatment to the unique needs of the persons involved. My vast experience in a wide variety of psychotherapeutic techniques allows me, as your therapist, to develop a course of treatment that will assist you on your journey to personal growth and transformative change.
(646) 495-9895 View (646) 495-9895
Photo of Erica C Lander Miller, Psychologist in West Orange, NJ
Erica C Lander Miller
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
West Orange, NJ 07052
Making the decision to come to therapy is not always easy. I look forward to making this a helpful experience and to building a close collaborative relationship with you. Therapy provides an opportunity to learn more about yourself and to learn how to continue moving your life in a valued direction when you are feeling stuck. Childhood and adolescence can be a difficult time. I believe in taking a compassionate and focused approach to helping each person and their family find the support to continue moving their lives in a valued direction.
Making the decision to come to therapy is not always easy. I look forward to making this a helpful experience and to building a close collaborative relationship with you. Therapy provides an opportunity to learn more about yourself and to learn how to continue moving your life in a valued direction when you are feeling stuck. Childhood and adolescence can be a difficult time. I believe in taking a compassionate and focused approach to helping each person and their family find the support to continue moving their lives in a valued direction.
(973) 557-4864 View (973) 557-4864
Photo of Karen J Lazar, Psychologist in West Orange, NJ
Karen J Lazar
Psychologist, PhD, NCPsyA, ACS
Verified Verified
West Orange, NJ 07052
Waitlist for new clients
Many things can trigger a call to a therapist: Overwhelming anxiety, persistent feelings of depression, unfulfilling or problematic relationships at home or at work, or sudden changes in life circumstances (health, financial, or interpersonal). Talking to a therapist in a supportive environment can be very helpful. Therapy helps you figure out what you want to get out of life, identify what gets in your way, and work out new ways of approaching your goals. When you come in regularly to talk, exploring patterns and identifying factors that interfere with achieving goals, your life tends to improve.
Many things can trigger a call to a therapist: Overwhelming anxiety, persistent feelings of depression, unfulfilling or problematic relationships at home or at work, or sudden changes in life circumstances (health, financial, or interpersonal). Talking to a therapist in a supportive environment can be very helpful. Therapy helps you figure out what you want to get out of life, identify what gets in your way, and work out new ways of approaching your goals. When you come in regularly to talk, exploring patterns and identifying factors that interfere with achieving goals, your life tends to improve.
(973) 317-8223 View (973) 317-8223
Photo of Susan Saler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West Orange, NJ
Susan Saler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West Orange, NJ 07052
If you are a member of the LGBTQ+ community you may want a therapist who is as well. It can be difficult to find someone with whom you feel comfortable and confident in sharing your deeply personal feelings and experiences uncensored. I am compassionate, relatable, unassuming and honest. I aim to normalize thoughts and behaviors while counseling my clients to make the changes they need to increase their self-awareness and the way they relate to challenging people, situations, and relationships.
If you are a member of the LGBTQ+ community you may want a therapist who is as well. It can be difficult to find someone with whom you feel comfortable and confident in sharing your deeply personal feelings and experiences uncensored. I am compassionate, relatable, unassuming and honest. I aim to normalize thoughts and behaviors while counseling my clients to make the changes they need to increase their self-awareness and the way they relate to challenging people, situations, and relationships.
(917) 525-5657 View (917) 525-5657
Photo of Barbara Rosen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in West Orange, NJ
Barbara Rosen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Orange, NJ 07052
As a psychotherapist I treat adolescents, adults, and couples. My approach is warm, strength based and collaborative. Together we will create a space that is free from judgement, allowing your most authentic self to emerge. We will explore the areas of your life that are creating challenges and difficulties with the goal of helping you find contentment and fulfillment in your life. I received post graduate training in child and adolescent relational psychotherapy from the William Alanson White institute in NYC, as well as training in Emotionally focused Couples Therapy.
As a psychotherapist I treat adolescents, adults, and couples. My approach is warm, strength based and collaborative. Together we will create a space that is free from judgement, allowing your most authentic self to emerge. We will explore the areas of your life that are creating challenges and difficulties with the goal of helping you find contentment and fulfillment in your life. I received post graduate training in child and adolescent relational psychotherapy from the William Alanson White institute in NYC, as well as training in Emotionally focused Couples Therapy.
(973) 559-6093 View (973) 559-6093
Photo of Alexis Menken, Psychologist in West Orange, NJ
Alexis Menken
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Orange, NJ 07052
Dr. Menken developed her career at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center, where she ran women's groups, trained psychology interns and developed a specialty in Maternal Mental Health. She co-founded The Pregnancy and Postpartum Resource Center at CPMC where she was Assistant Professional Psychologist. Dr. Menken currently serves Postpartum Support International on the Presidents Advisory Council and as the NJ Coordinator. She was a member of Governor Codey's Professional Education Committee on Postpartum Depression. She currently sits on The Maternal Mortality Review for the state of NJ.
Dr. Menken developed her career at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center, where she ran women's groups, trained psychology interns and developed a specialty in Maternal Mental Health. She co-founded The Pregnancy and Postpartum Resource Center at CPMC where she was Assistant Professional Psychologist. Dr. Menken currently serves Postpartum Support International on the Presidents Advisory Council and as the NJ Coordinator. She was a member of Governor Codey's Professional Education Committee on Postpartum Depression. She currently sits on The Maternal Mortality Review for the state of NJ.
(973) 310-2285 View (973) 310-2285

Adoption Therapists

Does my adopted child need therapy?

Not every adopted child needs therapy. However, many can benefit from seeing an adoption-informed therapist, especially if they were victims of abuse or neglect, appear withdrawn or disconnected, have behavioral or developmental issues (which may or may not be related to their adoption), are struggling with feelings of grief or loss surrounding their birth parents, or find it difficult to establish an identity, a challenge that often becomes most apparent during adolescence.

When should adoptive parents seek therapy?

Prospective parents can benefit from therapy even before an adoption—for example, to voice worries and fears; to reconcile infertility struggles, if relevant; or simply to prepare themselves for parenthood. After the adoption, parents who are struggling to bond with their child; are unsure how to talk about adoption or related issues, such as race; or whose child is dealing with developmental, behavioral, or psychiatric concerns can address these and other issues with the help of an adoption-competent therapist.

Is family therapy appropriate for adoptive families?

Family therapy can be invaluable for strengthening the bond between adoptive parents and children, helping the latter feel more secure in their place in the family. Family therapy can also help adoptive families navigate complex communication issues—for example, parents who feel uncomfortable discussing race with their child, who in turn feels invalidated by their silence, or a child who has questions about his birth parents but avoids asking them out of fear of hurting his adoptive parents’ feelings.

What therapy is not appropriate for adoption issues?

A discredited therapy known as “attachment therapy” (sometimes called “holding therapy” or “rebirthing therapy”) should not be used to treat adopted and foster children, though it was largely designed for this population. Attachment therapy involves restraining, coercing, and punishing the child in order for them to “release” negative emotions and attach to their new caregivers—techniques that are abusive and dangerous and have even proven fatal in some cases.