Therapists in Toms River, NJ

As licensed therapist I believe we can transform our struggles into chances to learn and grow. I strive to help clients gain insight into how to cope with their various life circumstances and emotional health. I work with various populations, specializing in anxiety, depression, addiction, relational concerns, parenting needs, self-esteem, substance use, and trauma. My therapy style is open, direct, genuine, accepting, nonjudgmental, honest, and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. Your needs are unique, and I believe therapy should be also.

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.

I'm a strengths based play therapist who believes that EVERYONE has GREATNESS inside of them! My goal when working with children and families is to focus on their strengths to build positive self esteem and to help restore peace and balance to the family unit. I specifically work with children who are trying to process change, divorce/separation, bullying, social rejection, grief, and school anxiety, just to name a few. I help children to recognize their own greatness, develop coping and problem solving skills, process trauma, and provide parents with the tools to help manage behaviors and emotionally support their kids at home.

Paul Santasieri is a Licensed Professional Counselor certified in individual and marriage and family therapy, with over 25 years experience in the field. Paul graduated from The College of NJ with a Masters in Counseling. Prior to coming to Pathways, Paul was a full time Lecturer in Psychology at Ocean County College. Prior to that, Paul was the Supervisor of Student Personnel Services at Colts Neck High School. Paul specializes in all facets of therapy including, individual, marriage and family and an emphasis on adolescents.

There are three essential things that everyone needs: 1) to belong and be loved, 2) to be productive & 3) to have a meaningful life. If you are having difficulty in any of these areas, you are not alone! Life can be difficult or overwhelming at times and we can all use a little guidance and inspiration. I believe that you have the power to make your life richer and more fulfilling. I'm here to help you find a personalized plan for success.

Kat Schaffer

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.

Emotions can be overwhelming. Not understanding how to process and cope with them becomes exhausting. Negative thinking is a daily habit that you may have developed. Let me guide you a different way to help you regulate your emotions and make positive choices for yourself. I listen to what has happened and help guide you through the process of those events. We can figure out together the triggers that are causing issues. Therapy is a collaborative effort. It is built on trust, understanding , and compassion. Let's find ways to grow and find the balance that you are looking for in your life.

Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, addiction, depression, divorce, anxiety, or major life changes? There comes a time when we need help from a professional to learn how to cope with many of life’s challenges. I would love to help you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery.

My personal goal is to facilitate healing, inspire, educate as well as empower individuals, married couples and/or families on their journey to renewal, restoration and/or enhancement within their lives. I believe every individual has their own personal influential strength and unique extraordinary qualities that are uniquely established within us, and when identified, can bring enrichment and revival into their everyday life. Recognizing how to identify, utilize, and ignite that greatness that lies deep within us should be discovered on a daily basis as it can affect each one of us, our families, interpersonal relationships, etc.

Nationally Recognized Therapy at We Level Up Treatment Center. Free 24/7 hotline & assessments. Get help, take your first step to get better! Your call is FREE. We're top addiction & behavioral experts backed by Joint Commission's Accreditation pending held by top 10% of treatment centers. Specializing in the treatment of alcohol & substance abuse along with dual-diagnosis mental health cases like depression, mood, & thought disorders. Treatment via cutting-edge therapy programs using advanced evidence-based modalities for improved recovery results. Offering on-site medical detox programs via world-class specialists to counseling.

I have been in practice for thirty-two years and I have learned much about human nature. The most important lesson, 'everyone is an individual and unique'. I, therefore, frame my sessions to 'fit' my patient's individual personalities. For the most part, I practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). CBT is the only orientation clinically proven to help patients. It allows patients to reflect and partake in the therapy sessions. This orientation allows the patient more control over their own wellbeing. When working with teens I practice Solution Focused sessions. Solution Focused is a CBT geared towards younger patients.