Therapists in Toms River, NJ

My ideal client is a young adult facing overwhelming life challenges. They might feel lost amid trauma, loss, or big changes, even though they seem okay to others. They struggle with emotions like sadness and stress and need a safe place to talk, heal, and learn healthy ways to cope. They want to find peace and purpose, and they seek support to understand themselves better, grow, and face life with confidence. They're ready to explore, heal, and become the best version of themselves, knowing they don't have to do it alone.
My ideal client is a young adult facing overwhelming life challenges. They might feel lost amid trauma, loss, or big changes, even though they seem okay to others. They struggle with emotions like sadness and stress and need a safe place to talk, heal, and learn healthy ways to cope. They want to find peace and purpose, and they seek support to understand themselves better, grow, and face life with confidence. They're ready to explore, heal, and become the best version of themselves, knowing they don't have to do it alone.

I use EMDR and other Trauma- Focused interventions to help you sort out what's getting in the way of you feeling/knowing your worth and living an authentic life. What would change for you if your past stopped getting in the way? Would you find that loving/supportive partner? Take better care of yourself? Would you wake up with ambition? If you are struggling with, Intense Emotions, Flashbacks, Self-Sabotaging Behavior, Toxic Relationship Patterns, Feeling Disconnected, and Anxiety my integrative approach to therapy can help.
I use EMDR and other Trauma- Focused interventions to help you sort out what's getting in the way of you feeling/knowing your worth and living an authentic life. What would change for you if your past stopped getting in the way? Would you find that loving/supportive partner? Take better care of yourself? Would you wake up with ambition? If you are struggling with, Intense Emotions, Flashbacks, Self-Sabotaging Behavior, Toxic Relationship Patterns, Feeling Disconnected, and Anxiety my integrative approach to therapy can help.

“Asking for help is never a sign of weakness. It’s one of the bravest things you can do. And it can save your life.” By seeking help, you have already taken the first step in your healing journey. As a counselor, I seek to provide clients a supportive and safe space by playing on your strengths and potential for growth and to make my clients feel seen. My approach to therapy is collaborative and person-centered in nature and is focused on finding what works best for the individual as all clients bring their own unique story with them. Together we will work to find goals that are achievable and realistic.
“Asking for help is never a sign of weakness. It’s one of the bravest things you can do. And it can save your life.” By seeking help, you have already taken the first step in your healing journey. As a counselor, I seek to provide clients a supportive and safe space by playing on your strengths and potential for growth and to make my clients feel seen. My approach to therapy is collaborative and person-centered in nature and is focused on finding what works best for the individual as all clients bring their own unique story with them. Together we will work to find goals that are achievable and realistic.

Mary T Dugan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAS, ACH
1 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08755
Not accepting new clients
"I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker(LCSW) and Certified Addiction Specialist(CAS) with 29+ years of experience working with individuals, couples and families. I counsel individuals when they are facing difficulties related to anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and marital issues to name a few. I provide respectful, caring, and trusting treatment in a safe, comfortable environment. My areas of specialization include: depression, anxiety, substance abuse, separation/divorce issues, and loss/ bereavement issues. Sometimes when we face difficult situations, we feel no one could understand. LET ME HELP! You are not ALONE!!!
"I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker(LCSW) and Certified Addiction Specialist(CAS) with 29+ years of experience working with individuals, couples and families. I counsel individuals when they are facing difficulties related to anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and marital issues to name a few. I provide respectful, caring, and trusting treatment in a safe, comfortable environment. My areas of specialization include: depression, anxiety, substance abuse, separation/divorce issues, and loss/ bereavement issues. Sometimes when we face difficult situations, we feel no one could understand. LET ME HELP! You are not ALONE!!!

Hello! I'm Megan, a licensed clinical social worker based in New Jersey. With over a decade of experience as a therapist, I've always been passionate about stories. I've had the privilege of helping people craft the next chapter of their lives in a way that brings them peace and joy. I believe that meaningful change in therapy stems from a strong connection and collaboration between client and therapist, so I strive to create a comfortable, judgment-free space for everyone I work with. When I'm not in session, I love spending time with my family, reading, dancing, and discovering new places.
Hello! I'm Megan, a licensed clinical social worker based in New Jersey. With over a decade of experience as a therapist, I've always been passionate about stories. I've had the privilege of helping people craft the next chapter of their lives in a way that brings them peace and joy. I believe that meaningful change in therapy stems from a strong connection and collaboration between client and therapist, so I strive to create a comfortable, judgment-free space for everyone I work with. When I'm not in session, I love spending time with my family, reading, dancing, and discovering new places.

Dee has been a therapist for over 33 years. She brings her gentle, supportive, encouraging, and very effective modalities into play every session. She is accepting and skillful. Dee’s therapy has benefited those who struggle with addiction, dependence, trauma, depression, and anxiety. She received clinical training in Family and Marital Systems Therapy congruent with the theories of Menuchen. Her clinical training included depth therapies to get to the heart of the matter. Many of her clients report feeling heard and understood in a deep and meaningful manner that improves their relationship with themselves.
Dee has been a therapist for over 33 years. She brings her gentle, supportive, encouraging, and very effective modalities into play every session. She is accepting and skillful. Dee’s therapy has benefited those who struggle with addiction, dependence, trauma, depression, and anxiety. She received clinical training in Family and Marital Systems Therapy congruent with the theories of Menuchen. Her clinical training included depth therapies to get to the heart of the matter. Many of her clients report feeling heard and understood in a deep and meaningful manner that improves their relationship with themselves.

If you feel stuck, unmotivated, directionless or unfocused, I am glad you found me. I am here to help create a "Road Map" to get you from where you are, to where you want to be. We will identify the blocks holding you back from reaching your full potential, in your life. I will learn what your values and goals are to help you make internal changes and accomplish lasting external results. I specialize in personal development and relationships to create balance for greater abundance of happiness, health, wisdom, and wealth. Together we will "Turn Your Dreams Into Your Life." Available in-person or by phone.
If you feel stuck, unmotivated, directionless or unfocused, I am glad you found me. I am here to help create a "Road Map" to get you from where you are, to where you want to be. We will identify the blocks holding you back from reaching your full potential, in your life. I will learn what your values and goals are to help you make internal changes and accomplish lasting external results. I specialize in personal development and relationships to create balance for greater abundance of happiness, health, wisdom, and wealth. Together we will "Turn Your Dreams Into Your Life." Available in-person or by phone.

Christa Adduchio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I approach therapy with empathy, compassion, and a commitment to fostering growth and resilience in the individuals and families I serve. My work involves utilizing evidence-based therapeutic interventions and incorporating techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, movement, and solution-focused therapy to build towards overall emotional well-being and personal development. Over the past 6 years in practice I have worked extensively with children, teens, and families in crisis, as well as with adults experiencing chronic and terminal illness across the life cycle.
I approach therapy with empathy, compassion, and a commitment to fostering growth and resilience in the individuals and families I serve. My work involves utilizing evidence-based therapeutic interventions and incorporating techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, movement, and solution-focused therapy to build towards overall emotional well-being and personal development. Over the past 6 years in practice I have worked extensively with children, teens, and families in crisis, as well as with adults experiencing chronic and terminal illness across the life cycle.

I'm Dawn McIlwaine, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Drug and Alcohol Counselor. I earned my Master’s Degree in Social Work from Rutgers University in 2001, and I bring over 20 years of experience in behavioral health outpatient settings. Throughout my career, I've primarily focused on providing direct care to individuals grappling with mental health and addiction challenges.
I'm Dawn McIlwaine, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Drug and Alcohol Counselor. I earned my Master’s Degree in Social Work from Rutgers University in 2001, and I bring over 20 years of experience in behavioral health outpatient settings. Throughout my career, I've primarily focused on providing direct care to individuals grappling with mental health and addiction challenges.

Clinical Health Psychological Services LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Toms River, NJ 08755
Waitlist for new clients
My patient population is comprised of adults suffering from Generalized Anxiety, Panic Disorder, OCD, mood disorders, and PTSD. I also have special experience in treating law-enforcement/corrections and healthcare professionals.
My patient population is comprised of adults suffering from Generalized Anxiety, Panic Disorder, OCD, mood disorders, and PTSD. I also have special experience in treating law-enforcement/corrections and healthcare professionals.

Hi! I look forward to the possibility of meeting and working with you. I know that selecting a therapist can be challenging - I hope reading more about me and my practice helps you determine if you think we'd be a good fit. I work with those struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship challenges, feelings of overwhelm, difficulty acclimating to a new phase of life, or uncertainty of what comes next. I like to help my client work through the obstacles that are preventing them from living their best lives and learn the skills to create a life that brings them joy.
Hi! I look forward to the possibility of meeting and working with you. I know that selecting a therapist can be challenging - I hope reading more about me and my practice helps you determine if you think we'd be a good fit. I work with those struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship challenges, feelings of overwhelm, difficulty acclimating to a new phase of life, or uncertainty of what comes next. I like to help my client work through the obstacles that are preventing them from living their best lives and learn the skills to create a life that brings them joy.

Trauma, Relationship Issues, and Anxiety Therapist
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Toms River, NJ 08753
We live in a face-paced world, often forgetting to take care of ourselves. We can become overwhelmed, anxious, disconnected in relationships, depressed, experience trauma, and so much more. Counseling allows us to process our emotional pain and use skills that will help us move forward, in a safe and nurturing environment.
We live in a face-paced world, often forgetting to take care of ourselves. We can become overwhelmed, anxious, disconnected in relationships, depressed, experience trauma, and so much more. Counseling allows us to process our emotional pain and use skills that will help us move forward, in a safe and nurturing environment.

As a seasoned Licensed Clinical Alcohol & Drug Counselor specializing in mental health and behavioral addiction, I provide empathetic support, aiming to empower individuals for lasting recovery. I prioritize compassion, respect, and personalized approaches in a secure environment to enhance self-awareness and develop healthier coping strategies.
As a seasoned Licensed Clinical Alcohol & Drug Counselor specializing in mental health and behavioral addiction, I provide empathetic support, aiming to empower individuals for lasting recovery. I prioritize compassion, respect, and personalized approaches in a secure environment to enhance self-awareness and develop healthier coping strategies.

Do you feel so overwhelmed and numb that you feel everything and nothing at the same time? Do you struggle with self-doubt, low self-esteem, depression, or anxiety? My approach works to address the internal dialogue that contributes to problematic patterns of behavior and painful emotions. I understand how limiting it can be when critical, perfectionistic, or other negative self-talk inhibits you from making the positive changes that you are seeking. I aim to help you become your greatest supporter instead of your biggest critic and to learn to relate with yourself in a new way that promotes growth and healing.
Do you feel so overwhelmed and numb that you feel everything and nothing at the same time? Do you struggle with self-doubt, low self-esteem, depression, or anxiety? My approach works to address the internal dialogue that contributes to problematic patterns of behavior and painful emotions. I understand how limiting it can be when critical, perfectionistic, or other negative self-talk inhibits you from making the positive changes that you are seeking. I aim to help you become your greatest supporter instead of your biggest critic and to learn to relate with yourself in a new way that promotes growth and healing.

I am a Licensed Psychologist with 25 years of experience in a broad range of mental health settings. I specialize in treating concerns such as mental stress, behavioral issues, life transitions, ADHD, depression, anxiety, grief, obsessive-compulsive disorder, trauma and PTSD, relationship issues, and bipolar disorder. I offer individual counseling to clients aged 14 and up.
I am a Licensed Psychologist with 25 years of experience in a broad range of mental health settings. I specialize in treating concerns such as mental stress, behavioral issues, life transitions, ADHD, depression, anxiety, grief, obsessive-compulsive disorder, trauma and PTSD, relationship issues, and bipolar disorder. I offer individual counseling to clients aged 14 and up.

A Different Approach! Traditional methods of treatment join together with Alternative practices. Talk therapy, CBT, psycho-dynamic work and Parts Therapy blend with Frequency-based Sound Healing, Tarot Psychology, Meditation and more to create a balancing of Mind, Body, Emotion and Spirit. My approach is down-to-earth, accessible and welcomes people of every belief system and/or faith. approach is based on empowerment and is perfect for people with or without a specific spiritual practice, whether they believe in the Divine or just feel drawn to Nature or energy work.
A Different Approach! Traditional methods of treatment join together with Alternative practices. Talk therapy, CBT, psycho-dynamic work and Parts Therapy blend with Frequency-based Sound Healing, Tarot Psychology, Meditation and more to create a balancing of Mind, Body, Emotion and Spirit. My approach is down-to-earth, accessible and welcomes people of every belief system and/or faith. approach is based on empowerment and is perfect for people with or without a specific spiritual practice, whether they believe in the Divine or just feel drawn to Nature or energy work.

We all experience changes on a daily basis. However, its during the more difficult times that we may want some guidance and support to help us navigate through the storm. I assist clients toward developing steps toward meeting their goals, processing through identified barriers and maintaining focus thru treatment. I believe that even the difficult changes have the potential to transform into positive outcomes.
We all experience changes on a daily basis. However, its during the more difficult times that we may want some guidance and support to help us navigate through the storm. I assist clients toward developing steps toward meeting their goals, processing through identified barriers and maintaining focus thru treatment. I believe that even the difficult changes have the potential to transform into positive outcomes.

Seeking help is never easy! It can be daunting and, often, leave you feeling vulnerable and misunderstood. I am here to make this process smooth by answering any questions that you may have about the therapeutic process. I provide an empathic non-judgmental safe space to ensure that your thoughts and feelings are validated. I will ask clarifying questions so I fully understand you and your needs. I will provide you with resources and accountability to achieve your goals. It is important to me that this is a collaborative therapeutic journey. You are not alone! If you don't know where to start, I am here to help.
Seeking help is never easy! It can be daunting and, often, leave you feeling vulnerable and misunderstood. I am here to make this process smooth by answering any questions that you may have about the therapeutic process. I provide an empathic non-judgmental safe space to ensure that your thoughts and feelings are validated. I will ask clarifying questions so I fully understand you and your needs. I will provide you with resources and accountability to achieve your goals. It is important to me that this is a collaborative therapeutic journey. You are not alone! If you don't know where to start, I am here to help.

I am Elizabeth Woods, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. My experience as a clinical social worker and psychotherapist spans over 7 years, during which I have worked with adolescents and adults facing a wide range of symptoms and challenges, including depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship difficulties, behavioral issues, personality disorders, life transitions, and loss.
I am Elizabeth Woods, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. My experience as a clinical social worker and psychotherapist spans over 7 years, during which I have worked with adolescents and adults facing a wide range of symptoms and challenges, including depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship difficulties, behavioral issues, personality disorders, life transitions, and loss.

BetterWay Counseling Tamara Leah Sauer-Diner LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Tamara Leah Sauer-Diner is an experienced therapist licensed in both NJ and California. Tamara tailors her approach to best suit the client and their needs and draws from a variety of evidence-based modalities to create a tailored approach for the individual or couple. Tamara has experience with trauma, relationship issues, anxiety, eating disorders, depression, body image and infertility. Tamara is passionate about helping her clients improve their relationship with themselves, their loved ones, and their perception of the world. Tamara accepts insurance for individual therapy and out of pocket for couples counseling .
Tamara Leah Sauer-Diner is an experienced therapist licensed in both NJ and California. Tamara tailors her approach to best suit the client and their needs and draws from a variety of evidence-based modalities to create a tailored approach for the individual or couple. Tamara has experience with trauma, relationship issues, anxiety, eating disorders, depression, body image and infertility. Tamara is passionate about helping her clients improve their relationship with themselves, their loved ones, and their perception of the world. Tamara accepts insurance for individual therapy and out of pocket for couples counseling .
See more therapy options for Toms River
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Toms River, NJ
500+
Average cost per session
$150
Therapists in Toms River, NJ who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
89% | Depression |
81% | Self Esteem |
80% | Coping Skills |
78% | Stress |
74% | Relationship Issues |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
93% | Aetna |
80% | Cigna and Evernorth |
79% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Toms River, NJ see their clients
59% | In Person and Online | |
41% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
82% | Female | |
17% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Toms River?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.