Grief Therapists in Ringwood, NJ

"Nothing changes if nothing changes". I am a licensed therapist who will work with you, your family or your partner to help find the change that is specific to you. I believe in working without judgement and together establishing agreed upon goals. I do not believe in "cookie cutter" therapy where one approach is used for all and the goals are determined by the therapist. Now is the time for YOU to start making the changes needed for a fulfilling tomorrow. Your successful tomorrow is my hope.

Do you feel anxious, overwhelmed, stressed out and doubtful? I partner with individuals and new (or experienced!) parents who feel anxious, overwhelmed or uncertain and bring them to calm, confident and hopeful. I work with men and women using empathy and listening. I will work alongside you, empower you and guide you toward freedom. With specialized training in peripartum mental health I can support you as you explore parenting and recognize when the "baby blues" have become more than you can handle. If worry, fear and stress are consuming, I have tools to offer to support you as you explore hope. Are you ready to gain freedom?

I am a Licensed Social Worker in both New Jersey and New York and received my Master’s Degree in Social Work from Ramapo College of New Jersey. I am trained in EMDR and specialize in working with children, adolescents, adults and couples with a focus on anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, grief and trauma. I also come from a creative background and love utilizing skills such as photography, soul collage and other expressive therapy modalities as tools to engage with clients. I'm focused on providing person-centered and trauma-informed care while creating a safe and compassionate environment.

Our therapists provide thoughtful and reliable therapy support for individuals, families, children and adolescents navigating life’s challenges. We are trained in a wide variety of evidence based techniques and our approach is to create a therapeutic plan that is unique to you and your loved ones. We specialize in CBT, Mindfulness, Substance Use Disorders, Trauma, Grief, Play Therapy, Creative Arts Therapy along with many others.

Many years ago, in a college library, I stumbled across a very early psychology book, printed in the early 1900's. Inside the front cover I found a Taoist inscription that I believe holds great truth, and best summarizes my philosophy of treatment: "....he who knows how to cleanse the current of a stream begins by clearing out it's source. And he who would strengthen the end of a process must commence with making it's beginning correct."

Welcome! My name is Tara and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor with over 10 years of experience working in the mental health field in various settings and with diverse populations. My areas of expertise include addiction, mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, severe mental illness, attachment, adjustment, behavioral, identity and esteem issues. Additionally, I have experience with racial and social justice and marginalized communities.

The purpose of counseling is to help people cope with problems in daily living and to deal with inner conflicts which hinder various aspects of their personal satisfaction and functioning. This purpose is usually accomplished by increasing the client's personal awareness, increasing the client's acceptance of self and others, and having the client make behavioral and cognitive changes to attain personal goals. To achieve this, I utilize a combination of research-based practices such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectic behavior therapy, solution focused therapy, reality therapy, motivational interviewing, and client-centered therapy.

Are you overwhelmed and looking to make changes. I can help you. I focus on my client's strengths. I work with all mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, stress and alcohol related issues. I specialize in transitions such as marriage, divorce, widowhood and retirement. In my 25 plus years of practice I have helped many people using Cognitive-Behavior, Eclectic and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy. This is a nurturing, non-judgmental place for growth.

I'm motivated to help people get past their pain and become who they were meant to be. Doing this requires trust, curiosity, careful listening, thoughtful feedback, and a commitment to what is most alive in you. The reward for me is that I get to be present when the next, better, freer and more flexible version of you comes into the world. It's exciting, meaningful work.

Embarking on a journey of self-discovery and healing is a courageous step, and I am honored that you are considering me as your partner in this transformative process. As a therapist, my mission is to create a safe and empathetic space where you can explore the depths of your emotions, navigate life's challenges, and ultimately, find the strength within to cultivate a more fulfilling and authentic existence.

Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed by anxieties about the future and burdened by the pressures of daily life? Do you long for deeper connections in your relationships as well as inner peace? What if you could prioritize self-care without guilt or hesitation? Imagine waking up feeling refreshed and energized and ready to tackle the day ahead.

Everyone has "seeds of greatness in them." I believe that a good therapeutic relationship is paramount in making positive life changes. I employ an empathetic,non-judgmental and welcoming approach that creates as safe environment for all clients. My down to earth nature allows me to understand the many challenges life presents and clients endure. I have a innate ability to recognize the inner strengths of clients and empower them to utilize their strengths to pursue their goals and dreams. In the therapeutic relationship, I will help you to cope with many obstacles and implement steps and strategies to ensure you reach your goals.