Culturally Sensitive Therapists in Westfield, NJ

Photo of Margaret Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westfield, NJ
Margaret Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, SSW
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
I will be a companion on the journey to assist with self-exploration in a non-judgmental, person-centered, trauma-focused, culturally sensitive manner that identifies the strengths that have assisted you thus far.
My ideal client would be someone who is sick and tired of being sick and tired of struggling mentally. This person would have years of experience with close relationship failure and consistent loss, have seen or been a victim of domestic violence, been verbally or physically abused as a child, and or experienced poverty. They will have either ignored the signs or continued to survive because of fear of what others would think. The person will need to understand what they are experiencing is not their fault, and their goal is to break free of the cycle that has continued for so long.
I will be a companion on the journey to assist with self-exploration in a non-judgmental, person-centered, trauma-focused, culturally sensitive manner that identifies the strengths that have assisted you thus far.
My ideal client would be someone who is sick and tired of being sick and tired of struggling mentally. This person would have years of experience with close relationship failure and consistent loss, have seen or been a victim of domestic violence, been verbally or physically abused as a child, and or experienced poverty. They will have either ignored the signs or continued to survive because of fear of what others would think. The person will need to understand what they are experiencing is not their fault, and their goal is to break free of the cycle that has continued for so long.
(908) 495-6225 View (908) 495-6225
Photo of Nixzaliz Rojas Pridgen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westfield, NJ
Nixzaliz Rojas Pridgen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090
You’ve been together for so long, yet lately it feels like you're drifting apart. The once familiar warmth and comfort have been replaced by an unsettling feeling of being strangers in your own home. Conversations that used to flow effortlessly now feel strained. The vibrant and passionate connection has faded, leaving you feeling disconnected and alone. Have you fallen into a monotonous routine, a cycle of rejection and emotional distance, and your communication has suffered? Do you want to feel that love and closeness you once had, and repair what you've lost to build a stronger, more fulfilling relationship together?
You’ve been together for so long, yet lately it feels like you're drifting apart. The once familiar warmth and comfort have been replaced by an unsettling feeling of being strangers in your own home. Conversations that used to flow effortlessly now feel strained. The vibrant and passionate connection has faded, leaving you feeling disconnected and alone. Have you fallen into a monotonous routine, a cycle of rejection and emotional distance, and your communication has suffered? Do you want to feel that love and closeness you once had, and repair what you've lost to build a stronger, more fulfilling relationship together?
(908) 867-9186 View (908) 867-9186
Photo of Jacqueline Finch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westfield, NJ
Jacqueline Finch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LLC
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
I believe that therapy's primary goal is to help a person reach their best and most balanced self. While therapy can be emotional work, it can also be one of the best gifts we can provide ourselves.
I believe that therapy's primary goal is to help a person reach their best and most balanced self. While therapy can be emotional work, it can also be one of the best gifts we can provide ourselves.
(201) 579-0603 View (201) 579-0603
Photo of Michelle Barber, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westfield, NJ
Michelle Barber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
I believe strongly that clients come in all different shapes and sizes and from different walks of life. Therefore, I do not have an ideal client, as my wish is to help anyone who needs it regardless of their experiences, needs, and goals. I welcome the experiences I will gain from having diverse clients.
I believe strongly that clients come in all different shapes and sizes and from different walks of life. Therefore, I do not have an ideal client, as my wish is to help anyone who needs it regardless of their experiences, needs, and goals. I welcome the experiences I will gain from having diverse clients.
(908) 923-3257 View (908) 923-3257
Photo of Mary Giovinazzo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westfield, NJ
Mary Giovinazzo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
I have an interactive approach involving nonjudgmental listening and insightful feedback. I specialize in depressive, anxiety, trauma and stress disorders, as well as couples and family therapy. I work with adolescents (12-17), young and middle aged adults and seniors. I have clinical training and experience in CBT, DBT, psychodynamic and trauma-informed therapy; mindfulness training; bereavement, grief and loss; and families in transition. I utilize the Gottman Method for couples and help clients manage conflict, deepen friendship and intimacy, and develop tools to work through fights, prevent escalation and avoid relapse.
I have an interactive approach involving nonjudgmental listening and insightful feedback. I specialize in depressive, anxiety, trauma and stress disorders, as well as couples and family therapy. I work with adolescents (12-17), young and middle aged adults and seniors. I have clinical training and experience in CBT, DBT, psychodynamic and trauma-informed therapy; mindfulness training; bereavement, grief and loss; and families in transition. I utilize the Gottman Method for couples and help clients manage conflict, deepen friendship and intimacy, and develop tools to work through fights, prevent escalation and avoid relapse.
(908) 913-6195 View (908) 913-6195
Photo of Ashley Grayson, Counselor in Westfield, NJ
Ashley Grayson
Counselor, MA, LAC, LCADC
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
If you're ready to embrace change, I'd love to support you along your journey. My ideal client would be willing to work together consistently to address any needs, struggles, or issues, to build self-understanding, and to strive toward personal goals and happiness.
If you're ready to embrace change, I'd love to support you along your journey. My ideal client would be willing to work together consistently to address any needs, struggles, or issues, to build self-understanding, and to strive toward personal goals and happiness.
(908) 259-6551 View (908) 259-6551
Photo of Christopher Bober, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westfield, NJ
Christopher Bober
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090
To teens and adults experiencing loneliness, anxiety, or distress from a relationship or loss, I work with you. If you keep getting bothered by unsettling thoughts or memories, I work with you too. I also work with new parents. I build trust and wellbeing, and I offer comfort, security, and space - all while you clarify what you want for yourself, or while you look to me for help. Through our work together, we will come away with a deeper understanding of you and your goals, and I expect you will feel more hopeful, more understood, and more optimistic than you were when you walked in.
To teens and adults experiencing loneliness, anxiety, or distress from a relationship or loss, I work with you. If you keep getting bothered by unsettling thoughts or memories, I work with you too. I also work with new parents. I build trust and wellbeing, and I offer comfort, security, and space - all while you clarify what you want for yourself, or while you look to me for help. Through our work together, we will come away with a deeper understanding of you and your goals, and I expect you will feel more hopeful, more understood, and more optimistic than you were when you walked in.
(908) 913-7986 View (908) 913-7986
Photo of Misty A Shores, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westfield, NJ
Misty A Shores
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090
I am a Buddhist psychotherapist with a focus on helping all clients find wellness through the Four Immeasurables - happiness, joy, compassion and equanimity. I am passionate about helping people navigate life transitions and difficulties in a practical manner. I help clients focus on the present and work through anxiety, stress, depression, ADHD, grief, and other related disorders. I am passionate about serving first responders, veterans, and their families. For more information please view my website at http://www.4ilifepractice.com.
I am a Buddhist psychotherapist with a focus on helping all clients find wellness through the Four Immeasurables - happiness, joy, compassion and equanimity. I am passionate about helping people navigate life transitions and difficulties in a practical manner. I help clients focus on the present and work through anxiety, stress, depression, ADHD, grief, and other related disorders. I am passionate about serving first responders, veterans, and their families. For more information please view my website at http://www.4ilifepractice.com.
(908) 768-3933 View (908) 768-3933
Photo of Lily Freier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westfield, NJ
Lily Freier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
EMDR and DBT therapy for adults. In person in Westfield and Telehealth. Searching for a therapist can seem daunting. After all, the relationship with your therapist is the foundation for healing. Trust, acceptance, and compassion allow you to explore your reasons for entering therapy and what you hope to get out it. Whether you are trying to heal from past experiences, overcome anxiety and depression, or make important decisions, I can help you develop insight, clarity, and skills that will last you far beyond your time in therapy. Your experience in therapy should leave you feeling balanced and prepared to tackle future challenges.
EMDR and DBT therapy for adults. In person in Westfield and Telehealth. Searching for a therapist can seem daunting. After all, the relationship with your therapist is the foundation for healing. Trust, acceptance, and compassion allow you to explore your reasons for entering therapy and what you hope to get out it. Whether you are trying to heal from past experiences, overcome anxiety and depression, or make important decisions, I can help you develop insight, clarity, and skills that will last you far beyond your time in therapy. Your experience in therapy should leave you feeling balanced and prepared to tackle future challenges.
(908) 460-8535 View (908) 460-8535
Photo of Lisa Greenstein Therapy and Consulting, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westfield, NJ
Lisa Greenstein Therapy and Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C, MPH
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
Whatever brought you here, I'm glad it did. As an integrative therapist, I utilize a number of modalities including CBT and DBT where appropriate, but most of my work is rooted in the EMDR (Eye- Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) model. As a certified EMDR therapist, I see the world through the AIP (adaptive information processing) lens. EMDR is a powerful, evidence-based modality that not only addresses trauma but can also help to rewire the brain to make current triggers less upsetting, and to draw on your own internal resources to cope. It's an effective modality for anxiety, OCD, life transitions and relationship issues
Whatever brought you here, I'm glad it did. As an integrative therapist, I utilize a number of modalities including CBT and DBT where appropriate, but most of my work is rooted in the EMDR (Eye- Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) model. As a certified EMDR therapist, I see the world through the AIP (adaptive information processing) lens. EMDR is a powerful, evidence-based modality that not only addresses trauma but can also help to rewire the brain to make current triggers less upsetting, and to draw on your own internal resources to cope. It's an effective modality for anxiety, OCD, life transitions and relationship issues
(908) 336-9727 View (908) 336-9727
Photo of Sydnee VanDyke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westfield, NJ
Sydnee VanDyke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
I thrive when working with young women. Whether they’re struggling with school-related stress or struggling to process a breakup, I can quickly build rapport with folks in this demographic. My treatment plans include goals dedicated to helping people identify their triggers for emotional dysregulation. I believe in the importance of somatic and cognitive level wellness strategies and work to have my clients learn and implement both sets of skills. I have enjoyed working with a variety of diagnoses, including adjustment disorder, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD.
I thrive when working with young women. Whether they’re struggling with school-related stress or struggling to process a breakup, I can quickly build rapport with folks in this demographic. My treatment plans include goals dedicated to helping people identify their triggers for emotional dysregulation. I believe in the importance of somatic and cognitive level wellness strategies and work to have my clients learn and implement both sets of skills. I have enjoyed working with a variety of diagnoses, including adjustment disorder, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD.
(908) 680-0414 View (908) 680-0414
Photo of Dr. Chelece Atavia Brown, Licensed Social Worker in Westfield, NJ
Dr. Chelece Atavia Brown
Licensed Social Worker, DSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
Hello! My name is Dr. Chelece-Atavia Brown, a Pre-Licensed Social Worker (LSW) for New Jersey and a certified facilitator in Teen Mental Health First Aid by the National Council of Well-Being. I have experience in providing therapeutic services for children, teens, adults, couples, and groups. I assist high-achieving Black women and men with navigating life stressors. I'm passionate about bridging the gap between faith and mental health to increase an individual's quality of life.
Hello! My name is Dr. Chelece-Atavia Brown, a Pre-Licensed Social Worker (LSW) for New Jersey and a certified facilitator in Teen Mental Health First Aid by the National Council of Well-Being. I have experience in providing therapeutic services for children, teens, adults, couples, and groups. I assist high-achieving Black women and men with navigating life stressors. I'm passionate about bridging the gap between faith and mental health to increase an individual's quality of life.
(908) 681-8687 View (908) 681-8687
Photo of Jamie Quigley, Counselor in Westfield, NJ
Jamie Quigley
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
My ideal client would be motivated to achieve better for themselves. They could be coming for anxiety, issues in relationships, or a stressful life event. They would be choosing to focus on themselves, what they need, and seeking help. They may be struggling with negative self-thoughts and emotional regulation or simply need guidance in how to identify and verbalize their feelings. Their goals for therapy would be to process their thoughts and emotions while developing long-term skills to use in the future.
My ideal client would be motivated to achieve better for themselves. They could be coming for anxiety, issues in relationships, or a stressful life event. They would be choosing to focus on themselves, what they need, and seeking help. They may be struggling with negative self-thoughts and emotional regulation or simply need guidance in how to identify and verbalize their feelings. Their goals for therapy would be to process their thoughts and emotions while developing long-term skills to use in the future.
(908) 503-5909 View (908) 503-5909
Photo of Nixzaliz Rojas Pridgen- Westfield, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westfield, NJ
Nixzaliz Rojas Pridgen- Westfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
Parents, let’s be honest- parenting is one tough journey. Are you wondering if you’re doing this parenting thing right? Struggling with a child that has big feelings, who worries a lot, or has other challenges? Are you feeling disconnected from your family and wondering if it’s possible to repair these bonds and come back together? It’s possible to enjoy your child again, to navigate your child’s challenges with confidence, and rediscover a connection with your family filled with harmony, happiness, and close connections. Let’s work together!
Parents, let’s be honest- parenting is one tough journey. Are you wondering if you’re doing this parenting thing right? Struggling with a child that has big feelings, who worries a lot, or has other challenges? Are you feeling disconnected from your family and wondering if it’s possible to repair these bonds and come back together? It’s possible to enjoy your child again, to navigate your child’s challenges with confidence, and rediscover a connection with your family filled with harmony, happiness, and close connections. Let’s work together!
(908) 443-9456 View (908) 443-9456
Photo of Michele R Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westfield, NJ
Michele R Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090
Discover the real reasons behind your eating, weight, and body image issues. Do you hate your job and binge eat at night? Are you compensating for poor relationships with food? Do you hate getting dressed each morning? It's time to take a deeper look. As a Psychological Counselor, I am trained to get to the root of your eating and body image challenges. We all turn to food for so many reasons that have nothing to do with hunger. Make peace with food and your body. Learn to cope with your emotions and discover what you're really hungry for!
Discover the real reasons behind your eating, weight, and body image issues. Do you hate your job and binge eat at night? Are you compensating for poor relationships with food? Do you hate getting dressed each morning? It's time to take a deeper look. As a Psychological Counselor, I am trained to get to the root of your eating and body image challenges. We all turn to food for so many reasons that have nothing to do with hunger. Make peace with food and your body. Learn to cope with your emotions and discover what you're really hungry for!
(908) 386-4571 View (908) 386-4571
Photo of Fayth Risso, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westfield, NJ
Fayth Risso
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090
As a licensed professional counselor, I aim to help individuals identify their unique inner strengths and facilitate personal growth dealing with a variety of issues such as substance use and addiction, trauma, depression, anxiety, and adjusting to transitions of everyday life. I strive to create a warm, supportive, genuine, and nonthreatening atmosphere where individuals can feel that they are being listened to and understood as well as feeling safe to explore those areas most important to them.
As a licensed professional counselor, I aim to help individuals identify their unique inner strengths and facilitate personal growth dealing with a variety of issues such as substance use and addiction, trauma, depression, anxiety, and adjusting to transitions of everyday life. I strive to create a warm, supportive, genuine, and nonthreatening atmosphere where individuals can feel that they are being listened to and understood as well as feeling safe to explore those areas most important to them.
(908) 224-7001 View (908) 224-7001
Photo of Marissa Geist, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westfield, NJ
Marissa Geist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090  (Online Only)
Brène Brown: "Integrity is choosing courage over comfort." Often it is not easy to ask for help, to step outside of your comfort zone, but sometimes it is easier to have someone in your corner who can provide counseling and psychotherapy support. I work with children and adolescents to alleviate anxiety, stress, and ADHD symptoms. My focus to continually create a positive self-narrative and overall well-being for my clients. I want my clients to feel a sense of safety, sensitivity and wellness within themselves and with others. Please reach out if you are looking for ongoing therapeutic support through online counseling services.
Brène Brown: "Integrity is choosing courage over comfort." Often it is not easy to ask for help, to step outside of your comfort zone, but sometimes it is easier to have someone in your corner who can provide counseling and psychotherapy support. I work with children and adolescents to alleviate anxiety, stress, and ADHD symptoms. My focus to continually create a positive self-narrative and overall well-being for my clients. I want my clients to feel a sense of safety, sensitivity and wellness within themselves and with others. Please reach out if you are looking for ongoing therapeutic support through online counseling services.
(908) 224-5721 View (908) 224-5721
Photo of Gina DiNiro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westfield, NJ
Gina DiNiro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
It is hard to say what my ideal client is because I believe that I am capable of working with various types of people and that each person is unique. Even with a "challenging" client, I have learned a lot and found value in the work. With that being said, my ideal client has a history of trauma that has impacted their ability to connect with others and themselves. They are struggling with body image, intrusive thoughts, and anxiety about how others are perceiving them. They want to be empowered to advocate for themselves when necessary and create a wellness routine that serves as a preventative measure for mental health problems.
It is hard to say what my ideal client is because I believe that I am capable of working with various types of people and that each person is unique. Even with a "challenging" client, I have learned a lot and found value in the work. With that being said, my ideal client has a history of trauma that has impacted their ability to connect with others and themselves. They are struggling with body image, intrusive thoughts, and anxiety about how others are perceiving them. They want to be empowered to advocate for themselves when necessary and create a wellness routine that serves as a preventative measure for mental health problems.
(908) 224-7151 View (908) 224-7151
Photo of Katy Engel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westfield, NJ
Katy Engel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
You feel stuck, anxious, overwhelmed and/or depressed. You don't know where to turn. What you have been doing thus far isn't working for you. You want to make positive changes in your life but aren't sure where to start. You are in the right place.
You feel stuck, anxious, overwhelmed and/or depressed. You don't know where to turn. What you have been doing thus far isn't working for you. You want to make positive changes in your life but aren't sure where to start. You are in the right place.
(908) 578-7824 View (908) 578-7824
Photo of Averi Baker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westfield, NJ
Averi Baker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
It's important to recognize that all individuals vary greatly; a black gay individual seeking therapy may have specific concerns, needs, and goals. Issues could include navigating identities, coping with societal discrimination, managing mental health challenges, and addressing relationship dynamics. A client's goals could encompass enhancing self-acceptance, giving oneself grace, improving mental well-being, and setting healthy boundaries. Clinically, they might seek support in processing the impact of societal and familial biases, developing coping mechanisms, and working towards a more positive emotional understanding.
It's important to recognize that all individuals vary greatly; a black gay individual seeking therapy may have specific concerns, needs, and goals. Issues could include navigating identities, coping with societal discrimination, managing mental health challenges, and addressing relationship dynamics. A client's goals could encompass enhancing self-acceptance, giving oneself grace, improving mental well-being, and setting healthy boundaries. Clinically, they might seek support in processing the impact of societal and familial biases, developing coping mechanisms, and working towards a more positive emotional understanding.
(908) 460-1066 View (908) 460-1066

Culturally Sensitive Therapists

How does culturally sensitive therapy work?

A culturally sensitive therapist will tailor their approach to therapy based on the individual client’s background. This may include changing their style of interaction (asking open-ended questions vs. being the “expert” voice), their affect (seeming warm or “neutral”), how much personal information they disclose about themselves, and more. It’s also important for a culturally sensitive therapist to acknowledge larger societal forces that may impact their client due to the client’s background.

How effective is culturally sensitive therapy?

Some professionals have expressed concern about highlighting cultural differences in therapy, suggesting that it might promote stereotypes and harm the therapeutic bond; however, many experts agree that cultural sensitivity tends to strengthen the connection between therapist and client and help clients feel heard and understood. A culturally sensitive approach to therapy can be especially helpful for those not in the cultural majority, especially when combined with proven therapies like Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

What are the limitations of a culturally sensitive approach to therapy?

While being culturally sensitive is generally a valuable skill to have, a therapist cannot treat every client from a similar background the same way. Each client is an individual with their own values, personal preferences, and life experiences that will need to be explored during therapy. In addition, it’s rare for a therapist and client to have identical backgrounds, so there may be some cross-cultural differences to navigate during therapy, but a culturally sensitive therapist can do so with empathy and respect.

Can culturally sensitive therapy be done online?

Yes, online therapy using a culturally sensitive approach can be beneficial. Therapy can sometimes be difficult to access for clients from diverse backgrounds and socioeconomic standing. The array of mental health support available through the internet makes it possible for clients to find a good therapist match regardless of where they live.