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Photo of Erika Kao - Erika Kao: Couples Therapy & Mindfulness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Erika Kao: Couples Therapy & Mindfulness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
(973) 370-8295
or
Photo of Erika Kao - Erika Kao: Couples Therapy & Mindfulness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW

Erika Kao: Couples Therapy & Mindfulness

Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW (she, her)

Verified by Psychology Today Verified by Psychology Today
7 Endorsed
Union, NJ 07083
(973) 370-8295
Let's Connect (973) 370-8295
Photo of Erika Kao - Erika Kao: Couples Therapy & Mindfulness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Couples therapy isn’t about fixing each other—it’s about breaking cycles that block progress and connection in your relationship. Therapy can be hard and messy, but where you are right now may also be hard and messy. If you’re both willing to be honest and vulnerable, therapy can become a powerful space for healing, growth, and real connection—where you can stop repeating old cycles and start building something stronger, healthier, and more honest together.
I blend practical tools with deeper insight work to help you shift unhelpful patterns and feel close again. I work with all couples, particularly LGBTQ+ couples and those navigating addiction or ADHD. I practice from a social-justice lens and engage in ongoing anti-racism work, mindful of my role as a white therapist.
I see couples in person in Bloomfield, NJ and via telehealth in NY, NJ, CT & PA. I’m part of Cultivate Therapy, an out-of-network practice—we check your benefits, explain how it all works, and submit claims for you. Most clients pay between $40 and $90 per session after deductible. I work Sunday through Thursday.
Call or Erika Kao: Couples Therapy & Mindfulness now for a free 15 minute consultation - (973) 370-8295

Practice at a Glance

Available both in-person and online

Union, NJ 07083

(973) 370-8295

Cultivate Therapy

Secaucus, NJ 07094

Website
I offer telehealth across NY, NJ, CT, and PA, and in-person sessions in Bloomfield, NJ.
I specialize in ADHD, Addiction and Marital and Premarital 
$200 Per Session  
I see individuals and couples  
I work with couples using a hybrid approach that incorporates accessing and sharing emotions through self-awareness and mindfulness.
Erika Kao: Couples Therapy & Mindfulness
Let's Connect (973) 370-8295
Photo of Erika Kao - Erika Kao: Couples Therapy & Mindfulness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW

Practice at a Glance

Available both in-person and online

Union, NJ 07083

(973) 370-8295

Cultivate Therapy

Secaucus, NJ 07094

Website
I offer telehealth across NY, NJ, CT, and PA, and in-person sessions in Bloomfield, NJ.
I specialize in ADHD, Addiction and Marital and Premarital 
$200 Per Session  
I see individuals and couples  
I work with couples using a hybrid approach that incorporates accessing and sharing emotions through self-awareness and mindfulness.
Erika Kao: Couples Therapy & Mindfulness

Finances

Fees

  • Individual Sessions $200
  • Couple Sessions $200

Payment Methods

American Express, Discover, Health Savings Account, Mastercard, Visa

Insurance

  • Out of Network
"
We'll help you maximize your out-of-network coverage. My clients usually get 50-70 percent of their fee reimbursed after deductible. I will explain your insurance during our free consult call. Until then, use my free therapy cost calculator by copying and pasting this link HERE: bit.ly/mentayaEG
Photo of Erika Kao - Erika Kao: Couples Therapy & Mindfulness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Erika Kao: Couples Therapy & Mindfulness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Call or for a free 15 minute consultation now - (973) 370-8295
"
We'll help you maximize your out-of-network coverage. My clients usually get 50-70 percent of their fee reimbursed after deductible. I will explain your insurance during our free consult call. Until then, use my free therapy cost calculator by copying and pasting this link HERE: bit.ly/mentayaEG
Photo of Erika Kao - Erika Kao: Couples Therapy & Mindfulness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Erika Kao: Couples Therapy & Mindfulness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Call or for a free 15 minute consultation now - (973) 370-8295

Qualifications

    Clinical Social Work/Therapist: Erika Kao
  • Verified by Psychology Today Licensed by State of New Jersey / 44SC06529700 Erika Kao

    • Education and Years In Practice

  • In Practice for 7 years
  • Attended Columbia University School of Social work, Master of Science in Social Work, Graduated 2006

    • Additional Credentials

  • License: The University of the State of New York Education Department 123144-01 / 2024
  • License: Connecticut Department of Public Health 15802 / 2025
"
I'm licensed in New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, and Pennsylvania, and I hold additional certification in mindfulness-based interventions and emotionally-focused therapy.
Photo of Erika Kao - Erika Kao: Couples Therapy & Mindfulness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Erika Kao: Couples Therapy & Mindfulness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Call or for a free 15 minute consultation now - (973) 370-8295
"
I'm licensed in New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, and Pennsylvania, and I hold additional certification in mindfulness-based interventions and emotionally-focused therapy.
Photo of Erika Kao - Erika Kao: Couples Therapy & Mindfulness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Erika Kao: Couples Therapy & Mindfulness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Call or for a free 15 minute consultation now - (973) 370-8295

Specialties and Expertise

Top Specialties

  • ADHD
  • Addiction
  • Marital and Premarital

Expertise

  • ADHD Coaching
  • Alcohol Use
  • Anxiety
  • Behavioral Issues
  • Bisexual
  • Body Image
  • Chronic Relapse
  • Coping Skills
  • Drug Abuse
  • Lesbian
  • LGBTQ+
  • Life Transitions
  • Open Relationships Non-Monogamy
  • Parenting
  • Relationship Coaching
  • Relationship Issues
  • Self Esteem
  • Sleep or Insomnia
  • Stress
  • Substance Use
  • Transgender
  • Women's Issues
"
As a couples therapist, I guide partners in building stronger bonds through effective conflict resolution and meaningful conversation skills. My approach fosters understanding and empathy, helping you navigate challenges and enhance your relationship with improved communication and mutual support.
Photo of Erika Kao - Erika Kao: Couples Therapy & Mindfulness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Erika Kao: Couples Therapy & Mindfulness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Call or for a free 15 minute consultation now - (973) 370-8295
"
As a couples therapist, I guide partners in building stronger bonds through effective conflict resolution and meaningful conversation skills. My approach fosters understanding and empathy, helping you navigate challenges and enhance your relationship with improved communication and mutual support.
Photo of Erika Kao - Erika Kao: Couples Therapy & Mindfulness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Erika Kao: Couples Therapy & Mindfulness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Call or for a free 15 minute consultation now - (973) 370-8295

7 Endorsements

Annia Raysberg
Annia Raysberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Erika is a compassionate, warm, and empathetic therapist. She helps individual and couples navigate life's challenges with confidence. She specializes in ADHD, addiction, and couples work. She has an authentic presence that is so vital in a therapist.
Rebecca Walsman: Teens, Couples, PPD, Sex Therapy
Rebecca Walsman: Teens, Couples, PPD, Sex Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Erika is intelligent, gentle, and will create a safe space for you to heal. She is an expert with addictions, couples work, and helping people make lasting changes. I recommend clients to her all the time, and I highly recommend her to you!
Allison Gaydos: EMDR, IFS, Trauma, Hypnosis
Allison Gaydos: EMDR, IFS, Trauma, Hypnosis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Erika excels at improving communication, transforming conflicts into productive discussions, and offering tools for deeper understanding. Her compassionate approach fosters growth and strengthens relationships.
Zahayra: ADHD, DBT, Postpartum, Anxiety
Zahayra: ADHD, DBT, Postpartum, Anxiety
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
I highly recommend Erika as a therapist for individuals and couples. She has an exceptional ability to create a safe, supportive environment where clients can explore their challenges and achieve meaningful growth.
Zahayra Carino: Couples Therapy, ADHD, Infertility
Zahayra Carino: Couples Therapy, ADHD, Infertility
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
I highly recommend Erika as a therapist for individuals and couples. She has an exceptional ability to create a safe, supportive environment where clients can explore their challenges and achieve meaningful growth.
Alison Urban RPT™: Kids, Play Therapy, Parents
Alison Urban RPT™: Kids, Play Therapy, Parents
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPT™
Erika is a compassionate therapist specializing in adult ADHD. She offers personalized support, helping clients manage symptoms, improve focus, and navigate daily challenges with practical strategies and care.
Audrey Augustave: High Conflict Couples
Audrey Augustave: High Conflict Couples
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCADC, NCC
Erika is an exceptional therapist with a strong eye for her client's needs. I trust her implicitly with her clinical insight and find that she stands out in her ability to establish rapport. Highly recommend.

Client Focus

Age

Adults

Participants

Individuals , 
Couples

Communities

Bisexual Allied , 
Gay Allied , 
Lesbian Allied , 
Non-Binary Allied , 
Queer Allied , 
Single Parent , 
Transgender Allied

Ethnicity

Asian , 
Black and African American

Age

Adults

Participants

Individuals , 
Couples

Communities

Bisexual Allied , 
Gay Allied , 
Lesbian Allied , 
Non-Binary Allied , 
Queer Allied , 
Single Parent , 
Transgender Allied

Ethnicity

Asian , 
Black and African American

Treatment Approach

Types of Therapy

  • Acceptance and Commitment (ACT)
  • Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
  • Compassion Focused
  • Culturally Sensitive
  • Emotionally Focused
  • Mindfulness-Based (MBCT)
  • Person-Centered
  • Solution Focused Brief (SFBT)
  • Strength-Based
"
While I select treatments and interventions based on the individual and their needs and goals, I primarily function from a mindfulness-based perspective, drawing from emotionally-focused, person-centered, and strength-based methodologies.
Photo of Erika Kao - Erika Kao: Couples Therapy & Mindfulness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Erika Kao: Couples Therapy & Mindfulness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Call or for a free 15 minute consultation now - (973) 370-8295
"
While I select treatments and interventions based on the individual and their needs and goals, I primarily function from a mindfulness-based perspective, drawing from emotionally-focused, person-centered, and strength-based methodologies.
Photo of Erika Kao - Erika Kao: Couples Therapy & Mindfulness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Erika Kao: Couples Therapy & Mindfulness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Call or for a free 15 minute consultation now - (973) 370-8295

Location

Primary Location

Union, NJ 07083

(973) 370-8295

Email us

Website

Additional Location

Cultivate Therapy

Secaucus, NJ 07094

(973) 370-8295

Nearby Areas

Cities

Counties

Zips

"
I offer telehealth across NY, NJ, CT, and PA, and in-person sessions in Bloomfield, NJ.
Photo of Erika Kao - Erika Kao: Couples Therapy & Mindfulness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Erika Kao: Couples Therapy & Mindfulness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Call for a free consultation now - (973) 370-8295
"
I offer telehealth across NY, NJ, CT, and PA, and in-person sessions in Bloomfield, NJ.
Photo of Erika Kao - Erika Kao: Couples Therapy & Mindfulness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Erika Kao: Couples Therapy & Mindfulness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Call for a free consultation now - (973) 370-8295