Our Team
Did you know that the quality of your relationship with your therapist is the single strongest predictor of your progress in therapy? When you feel safe, heard, and genuinely understood, real change becomes possible. At GIA, each therapist on our team has a deep understanding of this.
GIA is founded on the belief that an outstanding therapist is one who is dedicated to lifelong learning and conscientiously invests in ongoing education, clinical supervision, mentorship, and case consultation with other veteran clinicians.
Whether you seek treatment with a Senior or Associate clinician, you can take comfort knowing that our team is highly committed to providing excellent, personalized care.
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We don’t see things as they are. We see things as we are. - Rabbi Shemuel ben Nachmani
I’ve been your therapist next door for over 25 years. Through word-of-mouth referrals, I've built successful practices in Monmouth, Camden, and Atlantic Counties.
You’ll often hear me say that it’s just as important to laugh as to cry in therapy. So when I work with clients, we might spend the first five minutes joking about our crazy Italian families or what it’s like to be a parent. But even though we’re having a conversation, it is grounded in therapeutic approaches that work. And I’ve built my practice with other therapists like me who strive to be up-to-date while staying down-to-earth.
As early as elementary school, I remember being curious about people, always asking questions about their lives and experiences. My fascination with people drove me to pursue a doctorate in clinical social work from the University of Pennsylvania.
I draw on modern attachment and intersubjective theories and utilize relational, narrative, and cognitive-behavioral therapies (CBT) in my work with clients. I’m also trained in EMDR, specializing in trauma and complex trauma.
I grew up in South Jersey and enjoy owning a practice in the heart of a community so dear to me. I love Freud, hate therapist mumbo-jumbo, can’t tolerate long, awkward silences, and I’m often a therapist for other therapists (yes, that’s still a thing). I’m also a college professor, guest lecturer, clinical consultant, and the married mother of two beautiful children.
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Adults, Teens, Couples, Families, LGBT
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Anxiety, Depression, Complex Trauma & Trauma, Relationship Conflict
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Somers Point, NJ
Virtual
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University of Pennsylvania, Doctor of Clinical Social Work, 2015
New York University, Advanced Clinical Social Work Certification, 2005
Rutgers University, Master of Social Work, 1997
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CBT, EMDR, Narrative and Relational Therapies
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Psychotherapy Session (60 min) $300
Initial Evaluation $350
Click here to find out if you have out-of-network (OON) benefits and how much you can expect to get reimbursed by your insurance company.
GIA Senior Clinicians
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Human dignity is more precious than prestige. - Claudia McKayson
I see adults who struggle with a variety of issues, such as anxiety, depression, or relationship problems. I also specialize in trauma and grief.
We often believe we are stuck or that there is something abnormal about how long it’s taking us to feel “normal” again. Whether dealing with the loss of a family member, friend, or beloved pet, or facing divorce, a cancer diagnosis, unresolved trauma, or an empty nest, the intense feelings can leave us feeling isolated from others, as if no one else can understand.
Growing up, my parents cared for my uncle, who had Down syndrome. That experience taught me the importance of empathy and advocating for others. I also learned early that kindness can be life-changing for someone feeling isolated.
Later, I pursued a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in social work. Working in sub-acute rehab and oncology, I discovered a deep connection to the art of helping people work through grief and trauma.
Clients have said that they feel seen, heard, and understood when they work with me. As a therapist, I want to help you increase your awareness of your feelings and needs and become comfortable with your authentic self. I am trained in EMDR and draw on relational and attachment theories to support clients.
Outside of practice, I’m married with two children and a golden retriever, who is like a third child to us. And as a lifelong athlete who played college volleyball, I still love athletics – even if it is only in the backyard with my family.
My clients energize me. Being able to walk with someone through their pain is a privilege. I’m looking forward to guiding you toward the best version of yourself.
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Adults ages 18+, Couples
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Anxiety, Depression, Geriatrics, Grief, Trauma
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Somers Point, NJ
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Fordham University, Master’s in Social Work,
Millersville University, Bachelor’s in Social Work
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EMDR, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy
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Psychotherapy Session (60 min) $225
Initial Evaluation $250
Click here to find out if you have out-of-network (OON) mental health benefits and how much you can expect to get reimbursed by your insurance company.
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Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony. — Mahatma Gandhi
Clients often say to me, “You've said things to me that I've always thought in my head, but have never heard anybody else say out loud.” I’m willing to hear and talk about the hard things without judgment. If you are struggling, there’s a chance you may have had early experiences that are impacting you now. But with the right tools, you don't have to struggle anymore.
I specialize in the treatment of trauma and complex trauma. I am trained in EMDR and foundationally trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). I’m a strong believer in the DBT approach, incorporating and using those skills in my own life.
After 22 years of experience in the social services field, I pursued a master’s degree in social work. I spent many years working with kids who involved in the juvenile justice system, volunteered my time to run adult survivor of childhood abuse groups, and worked with people living with a range of complications such as family conflicts, anxiety, making/keeping relationships, human trafficking, and more. I bring this experience and skill into my work at in GIA’s group practice.
Even as a child, I knew that my life’s work would be to help people communicate what they’re going through. I help people to find the strength that they have within them to discover a life truly worth living. And it always helps to have a sense of humor - even in tough times and tough spaces.
I’m a waterfall chaser who loves hiking and being near trees. My wife and I have an adult daughter and rescue dogs we love to brag about.
Ask me about DBT and wise mind - and how it can help you achieve balance!
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LGBTQIA+, Teens, Adults, and Families
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Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma, Emotional Regulation, Relational Therapy
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Somers Point, NJ
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Rutgers University, Master’s in Social Work (MSW)
Elmira College, Bachelor’s in Psychology & Gender Studies
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Foundationally trained in DBT, DBT Group Specialist, EMDR
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Psychotherapy Session (60 min) $200
Initial Evaluation $250
Click here to find out if you have out-of-network (OON) mental health benefits and how much you can expect to get reimbursed by your insurance company.
GIA Clinicians
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“You are not a mess. You are a feeling person in a messy world.” – Glennon Doyle
I’m a therapist who believes that healing starts with feeling seen. With a Master’s in Social Work from Fordham University, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating anxiety, depression, and the often messy, beautiful process of personal growth. My approach is rooted in empathy, curiosity, and collaboration—I want you to feel safe to bring your whole self into the room, especially the parts that feel difficult to share.
In therapy, we’ll take the time to explore the patterns, relationships, and beliefs that have shaped you. I integrate evidence-based strategies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and strengths-based approaches, but I also believe that therapy is not one-size-fits-all. Together, we’ll find what works for you—whether you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply ready for change.
When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time with my husband and our two rescue dogs, Fletcher and Koda. I love getting into a good true crime podcast, watching scary movies, or losing myself in a psychological thriller—anything that dives into the complexity of human behavior. That same curiosity about what makes people tick is at the heart of my work as a clinician.
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Children, Teens and Adults.
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Anxiety and Depression
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Somers Point, NJ
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Fordham University, Master's in Social Work
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Relational Therapy, Play Therapy
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Psychotherapy Session (60 min) $165-$185.
Initial Evaluation $225
Click here to find out if you have out-of-network (OON) mental health benefits and how much you can expect to get reimbursed by your insurance company.
Associate Clinicians
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I now see how owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing that we will ever do.
― Brené Brown
As a counselor, I believe that therapy starts with an everyday conversation between two people. I deeply respect the courage it takes to trust in the person sitting across from you, and as someone who’s been on a recovery journey for a long time, I know that it can be hard to seek help. But believe me, the risk is worth the struggle.
As a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) who is also a Licensed Clinical Drug and Alcohol Counselor (LCDAC) and Certified Trauma Professional (CTP), I work with children, teens and adults. My specialties include men’s issues, marriage and relationship challenges, “failure to launch,” substance abuse, trauma, grief, anxiety and depression, kids with big emotions, and ADHD. My experience includes extensive work in both inpatient and outpatient settings, including grief counseling with children.
When we meet, we’ll start by taking some time to get to know each other. I believe it’s important to make a connection and help you see what’s good about yourself before diving into the tougher stuff. And if it’s hard to talk, we can play instead - I’m a big believer in interactive therapy. Also, if you like dogs, we have two in our office who can come and join us during our sessions.
The approaches I use are personalized to your needs, and may include goal-setting and therapeutic techniques like Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), relational therapies, and play therapy.
I’m a big fan of self-improvement, so it might not surprise you that I’m a Crossfit fan. My wife and I recently visited Bali, where we got to experience and appreciate Buddhist philosophy and spirituality first-hand. I experiment with baking something new every week, and love spending time with my dogs, Coco and Tink.
I’ve been told that I’m good at reading people and lightening the mood - you might not even realize that we’re doing therapy when we work together. But no matter what challenges you face, I will always encourage you to trust the process and believe that the life you want to have is on the way.
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Children ages 8+, Teens, and Adults
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Men’s issues, substance abuse counseling, trauma recovery, grief work with children and teens, failure to launch, ADHD, anxiety, depression.
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Somers Point, NJ and Virtual
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LSW from Stockton University, NJ
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LSW, LCADC Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor, CTP Certified Trauma Professional, Motivational Interviewing, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
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In-Network with:
Aetna
Amerihealth
Blue Cross/Blue Shield
Contact our office to confirm whether your specific plan covers our services
Fee for Service:
Psychotherapy Session (60 min) $150
Initial Evaluation $185
Click here to check whether your insurance plan includes out-of-network (OON) mental health benefits
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“You don’t have to have it all figured out to move forward.”
— Unknown
I’ve always had a heart for people, and it’s a major reason I became a counselor. Helping people in their toughest times, showing compassion, and being a listening ear is tremendously important in a world where so many feel unheard.
As a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC), I mostly work with teens and adults. My specialties include teens, stressed-out moms, family dynamics, grief, anxiety and depression. Before pursuing a career as a counselor, I taught high school, and learned that the most important thing you can do is to meet people where they're at. It’s important to hear what’s going on in someone's heart, always making room for the moment as part of your plan.
When we meet for the first time, I’ll ask about your perspective and previous experience with counseling so we can figure out the most effective approaches for your situation. Therapy can be conducted in many ways, and everyone has their own way of expressing themselves. So if sitting and talking doesn’t feel right, we can walk, draw, play a game.
Many of the teenagers I work with are dealing with high expectations from their families or from school, and are figuring out how to handle life’s challenges on their own as they become more independent. We often talk about how to manage stress in their bodies and their minds, and how to handle issues such as online bullying and phone addiction. I’m familiar with many local school counselors, and truly enjoy collaborating with them to serve our shared clients.
I’m a lifelong resident of this area and deeply care for this community. When I’m not working, you’ll find me on the water, captaining charters or surfing. I’ve been told that some of my biggest strengths are acceptance, compassion, and kindness.
I’m truly grateful to serve my community as a mental health counselor and look forward to meeting you when you’re ready!
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Teens, Families, and Adults
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School mental health, teens and moms, grief, anxiety, depression, OCD
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Somers Point, NJ and Virtual
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Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC)
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In-Network with:
Aetna
Amerihealth
Blue Cross/Blue Shield
Contact our office to confirm whether your specific plan covers our services
Fee for Service:
Psychotherapy Session (60 min) $150
Initial Evaluation $185
Click here to check whether your insurance plan includes out-of-network (OON) mental health benefits
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“The need for approval destroys our capacity for happiness.” - Thomas Merton
I believe that the same mindset that helps us push through a hard workout can also help us navigate life’s toughest moments. As a Licensed Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor with a Master’s in Social Work, I bring experience in addiction and mental health counseling, individual therapy, and facilitating outpatient groups. I have worked extensively with adolescents, young adults, and families in therapeutic settings. My work centers around helping individuals build sustainable, meaningful recovery through both clinical and holistic approaches.
A lifelong athlete and former collegiate athlete, I’ve always valued movement, discipline, and growth through challenge. I’m also a Level 2 CrossFit coach and trained in both adventure and art therapy. Whether it’s through physical activity, creativity, or conversation, I help clients develop tools like mindset shifts and positive self-talk to strengthen resilience—both in and out of therapy.
Outside of my clinical work, I’m passionate about outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and snowboarding. Spending time in nature helps me recharge and inspires how I encourage clients to find balance and grounding in their own lives. I believe that challenging ourselves physically and mentally, whether on a trail or in therapy, builds strength and resilience that transfers to everyday life.
My approach is grounded and team-oriented. I’m here to listen, understand, and support you without judgment. Together, we’ll move forward at a pace that feels right for you, focusing on your strengths and what matters most.
I’m especially passionate about supporting individuals through life transitions and coaching, as well as challenges with relationships, substance use, anxiety, and depression. And if we happen to connect over fitness, the outdoors, a good laugh, or a shared love of good food, even better.
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Children, Teens, and Adults
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Men’s issues, substance abuse counseling, failure to launch, anxiety, depression.
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Somers Point, NJ
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BS from Bloomsburg University, PA
MSW from Walden University, IN
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CADC Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, Adventure Therapy, Art Therapy
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In-Network with:
Aetna
Amerihealth
Blue Cross/Blue Shield
Contact our office to confirm whether your specific plan covers our services
Fee for Service:
Psychotherapy Session (60 min) $150
Initial Evaluation $185
Click here to check whether your insurance plan includes out-of-network (OON) mental health benefits.
Emotional Support Animal
And last but not least, our beloved support animal, Maise. A central character at GIA, Maise is our standard poodle puppy and a sweet, loving presence in the office. She is always excited to meet new people, eager to win over even the most hesitant dog skeptics, and never far from a good cuddle with anyone who enjoys animals.
We also offer animal-free spaces for anyone who is nervous around dogs or has allergies.
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Masie is a registered and insured emotional support animal-in-training poodle. Most of our clients find her comforting and supportive, but please let us know if you have any questions or concerns about Masie’s presence in our office.