Photo of Calming Waves Counseling, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Calming Waves Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08753
Just as a wave in the ocean comes in different shapes, sizes, and intensities, so do different mental health struggles. Here at Calming Waves, I strive to meet you where you are and to help uplift you to your new potential.
Just as a wave in the ocean comes in different shapes, sizes, and intensities, so do different mental health struggles. Here at Calming Waves, I strive to meet you where you are and to help uplift you to your new potential.
(609) 564-5456 View (609) 564-5456
Jason T Ruch, Psy.D
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
Perhaps you're down or anxious - maybe you're unsure about the future of a relationship, or just feel that you aren't living the life you were meant to lead. Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support. Therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery, and in my sessions I promote behavioral transformation by encouraging a positive outlook and the adoption of new attitudes and reactions. I have the tools and professional experience to help you get back on track.
Perhaps you're down or anxious - maybe you're unsure about the future of a relationship, or just feel that you aren't living the life you were meant to lead. Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support. Therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery, and in my sessions I promote behavioral transformation by encouraging a positive outlook and the adoption of new attitudes and reactions. I have the tools and professional experience to help you get back on track.
(848) 224-6154 View (848) 224-6154
Photo of Christina McCormack, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Christina McCormack
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, VAWC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here. I know sometimes the journey to finding help may be bumpy. So give yourself some props for making it here. At times we all face struggles internal, external, and often a combination of both. I have observed that often we can feel stuck from these experiences, even if we’ve tried to move on from them. That is because we need a little guidance to process and buff out the imprint that remains in our system. It is my hope to help facilitate a path to finding more ease, feeling better, and move towards the life you want.
Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here. I know sometimes the journey to finding help may be bumpy. So give yourself some props for making it here. At times we all face struggles internal, external, and often a combination of both. I have observed that often we can feel stuck from these experiences, even if we’ve tried to move on from them. That is because we need a little guidance to process and buff out the imprint that remains in our system. It is my hope to help facilitate a path to finding more ease, feeling better, and move towards the life you want.
(732) 795-5993 View (732) 795-5993
Photo of Eliezer Defranca LCSW, LCADC, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Eliezer Defranca LCSW, LCADC, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC, NCRC-1
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08753  (Online Only)
I have worked in the field of addictions for over 20 years. People suffering from addictions and their families may have other underlying mental health issues such as trauma, depression and anxiety. Throughout my career, I have worked tirelessly with adults, adolescents, and as well as their families to address these issues and find a path to healing. My philosophy is simple: to treat the person in the surrounding environment, to see a person in the context of family, school, job, and community (and to evaluate the impact of these relationships), and to focus on the person's strengths as well as embrace their difficulties.
I have worked in the field of addictions for over 20 years. People suffering from addictions and their families may have other underlying mental health issues such as trauma, depression and anxiety. Throughout my career, I have worked tirelessly with adults, adolescents, and as well as their families to address these issues and find a path to healing. My philosophy is simple: to treat the person in the surrounding environment, to see a person in the context of family, school, job, and community (and to evaluate the impact of these relationships), and to focus on the person's strengths as well as embrace their difficulties.
(848) 251-0827 View (848) 251-0827
Photo of Chiara Barone, Licensed Professional Counselor in 08753, NJ
Chiara Barone
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08753  (Online Only)
I work with families and individuals on various matters including substance use, impulse control, trauma, anxiety, depression, anger management, communication and relationship difficulties.
I work with families and individuals on various matters including substance use, impulse control, trauma, anxiety, depression, anger management, communication and relationship difficulties.
(973) 528-1986 View (973) 528-1986
Photo of Empower And Thrive Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in 08753, NJ
Empower And Thrive Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients! Are you ready to find relief from anxiety, stress, or depression? Are you going through a stressful time in your life or relationships and need support in navigating that? Are you struggling with eating or body image? Do you have difficulty focusing or a mind that just won't "shut off"? If you are looking to make some positive changes in yourself and in your life, lets start today. There's no time like the present, and every step towards health and happiness is a win. Let's tackle these challenges together and build the life you want. Get matched with the right therapist today!
Accepting new clients! Are you ready to find relief from anxiety, stress, or depression? Are you going through a stressful time in your life or relationships and need support in navigating that? Are you struggling with eating or body image? Do you have difficulty focusing or a mind that just won't "shut off"? If you are looking to make some positive changes in yourself and in your life, lets start today. There's no time like the present, and every step towards health and happiness is a win. Let's tackle these challenges together and build the life you want. Get matched with the right therapist today!
(609) 593-2664 View (609) 593-2664
Photo of Kate Martin: Therapy and Parenting Consultation, Licensed Professional Counselor in 08753, NJ
Kate Martin: Therapy and Parenting Consultation
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
I help people cope with difficult situations and learn ways to manage stress at home, work, or school. People work with me to develop effective communication skills and the ability to advocate for themselves, their needs, and their interests. My clients find more meaning, purpose, and connection in their day-to-day lives by better understanding themselves and their capacity for self-compassion, peace, and joy. I also help people learn practical skills for managing time and responsibilities, navigate life transitions and changes, explore body image and relationships with food, and process LGBTQIA+ issues and experiences.
I help people cope with difficult situations and learn ways to manage stress at home, work, or school. People work with me to develop effective communication skills and the ability to advocate for themselves, their needs, and their interests. My clients find more meaning, purpose, and connection in their day-to-day lives by better understanding themselves and their capacity for self-compassion, peace, and joy. I also help people learn practical skills for managing time and responsibilities, navigate life transitions and changes, explore body image and relationships with food, and process LGBTQIA+ issues and experiences.
(732) 338-7091 View (732) 338-7091
Photo of Christopher Ross, Licensed Professional Counselor in 08753, NJ
Christopher Ross
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, MA, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08753  (Online Only)
I'm Chris, a seasoned Licensed Professional Counselor with over 20 years of experience guiding individuals towards their optimal well-being. If you're navigating anxiety, depression, or feeling overwhelmed by life's pressures, I'm here to offer support. Whether wrestling with past emotional hurdles or seeking to reconnect with your true self, I am dedicated to being a compassionate companion on your journey. If you envision a secure, judgment-free space to engage with a skilled therapist, congratulations – you've already embarked on the path towards positive change. Let's work together to help you live your best life.
I'm Chris, a seasoned Licensed Professional Counselor with over 20 years of experience guiding individuals towards their optimal well-being. If you're navigating anxiety, depression, or feeling overwhelmed by life's pressures, I'm here to offer support. Whether wrestling with past emotional hurdles or seeking to reconnect with your true self, I am dedicated to being a compassionate companion on your journey. If you envision a secure, judgment-free space to engage with a skilled therapist, congratulations – you've already embarked on the path towards positive change. Let's work together to help you live your best life.
(609) 804-5949 View (609) 804-5949
Photo of Diana Allen, Licensed Professional Counselor in 08753, NJ
Diana Allen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
In a relaxed, nonjudgemental environment, I will help you find peace with your past, take control of your future, be mindful of the present. Together we will develop an empowering personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Focus will be on challenging your belief systems, gaining insight into self-destructive behavior patterns, learn alternative skills & techniques for coping with stress, anxiety, depression, parenting, relationships, and managing your emotions. I have extensive experience helping those with addictive/obsessive thoughts/ behaviors, toxic relationships and emotional eating. You have the power to thrive, not just survive! In addition to office visits, video conferencing / phone counseling available.
In a relaxed, nonjudgemental environment, I will help you find peace with your past, take control of your future, be mindful of the present. Together we will develop an empowering personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Focus will be on challenging your belief systems, gaining insight into self-destructive behavior patterns, learn alternative skills & techniques for coping with stress, anxiety, depression, parenting, relationships, and managing your emotions. I have extensive experience helping those with addictive/obsessive thoughts/ behaviors, toxic relationships and emotional eating. You have the power to thrive, not just survive! In addition to office visits, video conferencing / phone counseling available.
(973) 685-6961 View (973) 685-6961
Photo of Dr. Silvia Stark, Licensed Professional Counselor in 08753, NJ
Dr. Silvia Stark
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753  (Online Only)
Realistically, we all struggle with something at some point in our lives. Anxiety, depression, interpersonal and familial conflict, PTSD, grief, trauma, and substance use/misuse/abuse can intercept and hijack our lives at any given moment. Navigating the path to wellness can be difficult. Adjusting to change in your life can also be challenging and overwhelming. You don't have to navigate it alone. As an educated and experienced mental health professional, I will provide you with creative, caring, and compassionate care to support and guide you through life's adverse events.
Realistically, we all struggle with something at some point in our lives. Anxiety, depression, interpersonal and familial conflict, PTSD, grief, trauma, and substance use/misuse/abuse can intercept and hijack our lives at any given moment. Navigating the path to wellness can be difficult. Adjusting to change in your life can also be challenging and overwhelming. You don't have to navigate it alone. As an educated and experienced mental health professional, I will provide you with creative, caring, and compassionate care to support and guide you through life's adverse events.
(732) 785-4405 View (732) 785-4405
Photo of Jamie A. Landsman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Jamie A. Landsman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08753  (Online Only)
We will establish clear, concise goals for what you wish to achieve by participating in therapy, along with the steps which we will take,as a team,to help you achieve those goals. We will work only at a pace at which you are comfortable & which will always remain flexible for adjustments. You remain the driver at all times. I routinely refer to myself as “a support tool for you to utilize, providing you new sets of lenses to view your world through, a set of listening ears & similar to an umbrella on a rainy day.” It is up to you to remember to open your umbrella & to try out your new tool set during your personal journey of change.
We will establish clear, concise goals for what you wish to achieve by participating in therapy, along with the steps which we will take,as a team,to help you achieve those goals. We will work only at a pace at which you are comfortable & which will always remain flexible for adjustments. You remain the driver at all times. I routinely refer to myself as “a support tool for you to utilize, providing you new sets of lenses to view your world through, a set of listening ears & similar to an umbrella on a rainy day.” It is up to you to remember to open your umbrella & to try out your new tool set during your personal journey of change.
(609) 948-8174 View (609) 948-8174
Cara F. Paolillo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has experience working with a wide variety of ages and populations. I have training from the Albert Ellis Institute in New York for Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy, which is a form of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). CBT is an evidenced based model, meaning that their is research showing it really does work!
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has experience working with a wide variety of ages and populations. I have training from the Albert Ellis Institute in New York for Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy, which is a form of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). CBT is an evidenced based model, meaning that their is research showing it really does work!
(848) 235-7535 View (848) 235-7535
Photo of Tyler Kennedy, Pre-Licensed Professional in 08753, NJ
Tyler Kennedy
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
My goal is to facilitate mindfulness-based efficacious approaches, watchfulness and compassion in the therapeutic context, to strengthen and ignite greatness within. I have experience treating a wide variety of mental disorders, brain, neurodivergent presentations, behavioral challenges, and guiding people of all ages through difficult periods of life. I look forward to exploring your road to recovery together, whether through individual, family, or marriage counseling, utilizing mindfulness or music therapies! If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, or lifelong cycles of dysfunction, call today!
My goal is to facilitate mindfulness-based efficacious approaches, watchfulness and compassion in the therapeutic context, to strengthen and ignite greatness within. I have experience treating a wide variety of mental disorders, brain, neurodivergent presentations, behavioral challenges, and guiding people of all ages through difficult periods of life. I look forward to exploring your road to recovery together, whether through individual, family, or marriage counseling, utilizing mindfulness or music therapies! If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, or lifelong cycles of dysfunction, call today!
(732) 538-9431 View (732) 538-9431
Photo of Erica Marriaga, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Erica Marriaga
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08753  (Online Only)
If you are here today because you are contemplating taking the first step toward prioritizing yourself, I applaud you. You are halfway there and the first step is always the hardest. On your therapeutic journey, we will work as a team so that you never feel alone. I believe the therapeutic relationship is the most significant part of therapy and together we will focus on creating a vision where you can learn to validate and trust yourself. In our work together I will emphasize positive self-regard and empathy through a nonjudgmental stance.
If you are here today because you are contemplating taking the first step toward prioritizing yourself, I applaud you. You are halfway there and the first step is always the hardest. On your therapeutic journey, we will work as a team so that you never feel alone. I believe the therapeutic relationship is the most significant part of therapy and together we will focus on creating a vision where you can learn to validate and trust yourself. In our work together I will emphasize positive self-regard and empathy through a nonjudgmental stance.
(848) 600-6072 View (848) 600-6072
Photo of Molly Clarke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Molly Clarke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC, CTTS
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753  (Online Only)
Accepting new telehealth clients! My clients describe me as a relaxed, real, calm, upfront, "kind yet challenging" sort of therapist. I strive to create a safe, open and collaborative space for you to dig in and explore. I have experience working with lots of issues but my specialties include: anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, infertility and life coaching. I primarily use techniques such as CBT, DBT, IFS and Motivational Interviewing and I feel strongly that each and every one of us has the innate resiliency and power to make the positive changes we want in our lives. Take charge of your life today and give me a call:)
Accepting new telehealth clients! My clients describe me as a relaxed, real, calm, upfront, "kind yet challenging" sort of therapist. I strive to create a safe, open and collaborative space for you to dig in and explore. I have experience working with lots of issues but my specialties include: anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, infertility and life coaching. I primarily use techniques such as CBT, DBT, IFS and Motivational Interviewing and I feel strongly that each and every one of us has the innate resiliency and power to make the positive changes we want in our lives. Take charge of your life today and give me a call:)
(848) 253-6038 View (848) 253-6038
Photo of Gerri Dierking, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Gerri Dierking
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08753
Not accepting new clients
I have devoted my practice to helping teens, college students, and adults create more satisfying, productive, and peaceful lives. I am compassionate and an empathetic listener, striving to create an environment in which my clients feel safe and empowered to learn about themselves, grow and make positive life changes. I believe in providing feedback, support, and teaching my clients valuable CBT based skills. I specialize in working with individuals suffering with depression, anxiety, poor self esteem, adjustment disorders, relationship issues, life changes, grief and loss.
I have devoted my practice to helping teens, college students, and adults create more satisfying, productive, and peaceful lives. I am compassionate and an empathetic listener, striving to create an environment in which my clients feel safe and empowered to learn about themselves, grow and make positive life changes. I believe in providing feedback, support, and teaching my clients valuable CBT based skills. I specialize in working with individuals suffering with depression, anxiety, poor self esteem, adjustment disorders, relationship issues, life changes, grief and loss.
(848) 224-6253 View (848) 224-6253
Compassion Focused Therapists

How does compassion-focused therapy work?

Compassion-Focused Therapy is based on the idea that humans have at least three emotion regulation systems, including one that responds to threats and another that allows us to self-soothe. Those who experienced serious childhood adversity, the theory goes, have a hyperactive threat system and an underperforming self-soothing system, leaving them vulnerable to shame and a hypercritical mindset. CFT focuses on bringing these systems back into balance, helping the client be kinder to themselves and better able to accept kindness from others.

Is compassion-focused therapy a type of CBT?

Compassion-focused therapy is closely related to cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and employs many of its techniques. In addition to CBT, CFT also draws from the fields of biology, evolutionary psychology, neuroscience, developmental psychology, and Buddhism. It also has similarities to some types of trauma-focused therapies.

Is compassion-focused therapy evidence based?

Evidence suggests that CFT can be helpful in the treatment of anxiety, mood disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, psychosis, and other mental illnesses. It has also been shown to be beneficial for individuals who may not have diagnosable psychiatric disorders but who still struggle with persistent self-criticism and feelings of shame.

What are the limitations of compassion-focused therapy?

Compassion-focused therapy is still a relatively new therapy, and research on its efficacy is still in its early stages; while some studies have found positive results, many have suffered from quality issues or small sample sizes. And while most CFT clients find it difficult to practice self-compassion at first, some—especially those who actively fear compassion or are deeply uncomfortable being cared for—may not be fully open to the tenets of CFT, potentially limiting the therapy’s long-term effectiveness.