Photo of Melissa Cramutolo, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Cramutolo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Lawrence, NJ 08648
Are you tired of experiencing the same patterns and want to heal at the root of your symptoms? I specialize in treating trauma, addictions, and self esteem issues - in particularly with women and teenagers. When my clients first come in, their lives are overrun by fear and insecurities. They carry around deep shame about who they are and never feel quite “good enough”. They want to be confident and heal the patterns that are holding them back but do not know where to start.
Are you tired of experiencing the same patterns and want to heal at the root of your symptoms? I specialize in treating trauma, addictions, and self esteem issues - in particularly with women and teenagers. When my clients first come in, their lives are overrun by fear and insecurities. They carry around deep shame about who they are and never feel quite “good enough”. They want to be confident and heal the patterns that are holding them back but do not know where to start.
(640) 223-7159 View (640) 223-7159
Photo of Rebecca Austin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Austin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lawrence, NJ 08648
I am a Licensed Social Worker with a passion for decreasing the stigma surrounding mental health and promoting the health and well being of my clients. For my undergraduate degree, I moved from Central Jersey (Yes! It exists!) to South Jersey to attend Stockton University. I received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Social Work with a Minor in Behavioral Neuroscience from Stockton, and then moved on to attend graduate school in Philadelphia. I received my Master of Social Work Degree with a clinical concentration from the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Social Policy and Practice in May of 2020.
I am a Licensed Social Worker with a passion for decreasing the stigma surrounding mental health and promoting the health and well being of my clients. For my undergraduate degree, I moved from Central Jersey (Yes! It exists!) to South Jersey to attend Stockton University. I received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Social Work with a Minor in Behavioral Neuroscience from Stockton, and then moved on to attend graduate school in Philadelphia. I received my Master of Social Work Degree with a clinical concentration from the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Social Policy and Practice in May of 2020.
(609) 722-7354 View (609) 722-7354
Photo of Susan Buchalter, MA,  LPC, LPAT, CGP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susan Buchalter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPAT, CGP
Verified Verified
Lawrence, NJ 08648  (Online Only)
I am both an art therapist and counselor with many years of experience working with individuals challenged with issues such as anxiety, low self-esteem and difficulties adjusting to life's changes. I can help you express and explore your core beliefs and concerns in a safe, calming, non-judgmental environment. In addition to traditional verbal therapy, I offer art therapy, mindfulness, and creative writing/journaling. *Art Therapy allows for expression of feelings using materials such as markers, paint, and pastels. It is a non-threatening and more immediate method to voice issues; drawing ability is not important.
I am both an art therapist and counselor with many years of experience working with individuals challenged with issues such as anxiety, low self-esteem and difficulties adjusting to life's changes. I can help you express and explore your core beliefs and concerns in a safe, calming, non-judgmental environment. In addition to traditional verbal therapy, I offer art therapy, mindfulness, and creative writing/journaling. *Art Therapy allows for expression of feelings using materials such as markers, paint, and pastels. It is a non-threatening and more immediate method to voice issues; drawing ability is not important.
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Photo of Alaine Robertson-Ali, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alaine Robertson-Ali
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lawrence, NJ 08648
I have 23 years of training and experience working with adults who struggle with low self-esteem, imposter syndrome, anxiety, depression, bipolar, and anger. I'm also very experienced with clients working on transitions such as going to college, new job, marriage, starting a family, a divorce, or coping with a past or recent trauma. I've worked for many years in drug treatment too. I think clients are looking for a way to gain insight and awareness of how challenges effect their thinking, and want to learn new skills to improve how they feel and function in the world.
I have 23 years of training and experience working with adults who struggle with low self-esteem, imposter syndrome, anxiety, depression, bipolar, and anger. I'm also very experienced with clients working on transitions such as going to college, new job, marriage, starting a family, a divorce, or coping with a past or recent trauma. I've worked for many years in drug treatment too. I think clients are looking for a way to gain insight and awareness of how challenges effect their thinking, and want to learn new skills to improve how they feel and function in the world.
(609) 798-7162 View (609) 798-7162

See more therapy options for Lawrence

Online Therapists

Is online therapy as effective as in-person?

Numerous studies suggest that online therapy can be as effective as in-person therapy. However, further research is needed to determine if online therapy provides the same benefits across all client populations. Individuals with severe mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, or those who may benefit from in-person check-ins, like those with eating disorders, may not experience the same level of benefit from online therapy. Nonetheless, the success of online therapy, much like in-person therapy, often hinges on the quality of the therapeutic relationship between the therapist and the client rather than the specific modality of therapy used.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of therapy conducted online?

One of the main advantages of online therapy is its convenience for both clients and therapists. It also allows clients who require specialized therapy to access a wider range of professionals than they could with only in-person sessions. Additionally, online therapy may be a more affordable option in some cases and often offers the same insurance benefits as in-person therapy. However, online therapy may not be suitable for everyone, especially those who value face-to-face interaction with a therapist. Therapists may find it more challenging to assess clients accurately in an online setting due to reduced nonverbal cues on camera. There is also the increased risk that disruptions caused by external factors, such as technology malfunctions, can hinder the therapy session. For these reasons, many therapists offer a "hybrid" therapeutic approach, alternating between seeing clients in-person and online.

Is online therapy suitable for children and adolescents?

Just like with adults, the accessibility and convenience of online therapy can greatly benefit children and adolescents. In fact, children and adolescents may be more accustomed to navigating online platforms than older adults, making online sessions feel more natural for them. Teens might also be interested in using additional online tools, such as therapist-recommended apps, as an adjunct to online therapy sessions. Apps for developing CBT skills, practicing mindfulness exercises, or tracking thoughts and moods can be helpful for teens receiving therapy. However, it's important to note that not all therapeutic modalities are well-suited to online therapy, especially those used with younger children. For example, play therapy, which helps younger children express their emotions, often requires in-person sessions to be fully effective.

Can I receive prescriptions and medication management with online therapy?

The ability for psychiatrists to prescribe medications through online therapy varies based on the medication and the states where the medical professional and client are located. While many prescribing regulations were relaxed during the COVID-19 pandemic, some states still enforce rules, especially concerning controlled substances, which may mandate an in-person visit before prescribing. Generally, however, medical professionals can prescribe non-controlled substances through online therapy sessions just as they do during in-person sessions.