LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in River Edge, NJ
![Photo of Craig Cutler - Equality Mental Health, LLC, LCSW, NCPsyA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e1d25267-87f7-4e0c-93bb-9a46e8265e9c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Equality Mental Health directly helps with issues specific to the LGBTQ+ community: Questioning/Negotiating/Understanding Sexual Identity and Gender Identity. Navigating the Coming Out Process. Dating and Relationship Challenges. Family, Work and School Difficulties. Sex & Porn Addictions. Parenting Skills and Support. Parents of Children who are Coming Out. Same-Sex Parents Raising Children. Preparing for and Navigating the Journey of Transition. Coping with and Addressing Societal Discrimination and Prejudice. We welcome people of all races, cultures, ethnicities, religions, abilities, sexual orientations and gender identities.
Equality Mental Health directly helps with issues specific to the LGBTQ+ community: Questioning/Negotiating/Understanding Sexual Identity and Gender Identity. Navigating the Coming Out Process. Dating and Relationship Challenges. Family, Work and School Difficulties. Sex & Porn Addictions. Parenting Skills and Support. Parents of Children who are Coming Out. Same-Sex Parents Raising Children. Preparing for and Navigating the Journey of Transition. Coping with and Addressing Societal Discrimination and Prejudice. We welcome people of all races, cultures, ethnicities, religions, abilities, sexual orientations and gender identities.
![Photo of Scott Marqueling, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4611b21-26e0-4f3d-979b-b95d3c879d71/1/320x400.png)
My name is Scott Marqueling (pronounced "Mark-ling"), LMFT. I've been a practicing therapist for seven years, working in a variety of community-based settings with clients ranging from 5 to 65 years old.
My name is Scott Marqueling (pronounced "Mark-ling"), LMFT. I've been a practicing therapist for seven years, working in a variety of community-based settings with clients ranging from 5 to 65 years old.
![Photo of Peter McMullen, LAC, MA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4425ae59-d2f1-4a45-a4da-0aef5b21c482/1/320x400.jpeg)
Peter McMullen, LAPC Peter McMullen is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2022. He has a BA in English from Boston College and an MA in Mental Health Counseling from New York University. Many people wait the entirety of their lives for the "perfect time" to make improvements, yet this moment merely does not exist. We are all human and therefore face adversity or struggle in some capacity, whether it be individually as humans or collectively as a society.
Peter McMullen, LAPC Peter McMullen is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2022. He has a BA in English from Boston College and an MA in Mental Health Counseling from New York University. Many people wait the entirety of their lives for the "perfect time" to make improvements, yet this moment merely does not exist. We are all human and therefore face adversity or struggle in some capacity, whether it be individually as humans or collectively as a society.
![Photo of May De La Cruz, LAC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/86148ed9-a025-4d22-b9b9-621bad3e41a5/1/320x400.jpeg)
May De La Cruz is a Bi-lingual Licensed Associate Counselor in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2022. She received a Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling and Wellness from New York University and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminology from John Jay College of Criminal Justice. May is passionate about helping clients find themselves and see things from a better and different perspective. She wants clients to understand their emotions and where they are coming from. May works with clients to apply healthy ways of coping with their stress, thoughts, and feelings.
May De La Cruz is a Bi-lingual Licensed Associate Counselor in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2022. She received a Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling and Wellness from New York University and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminology from John Jay College of Criminal Justice. May is passionate about helping clients find themselves and see things from a better and different perspective. She wants clients to understand their emotions and where they are coming from. May works with clients to apply healthy ways of coping with their stress, thoughts, and feelings.
![Photo of Rebekah Thompson, LPC, MA, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53610c26-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS!!! I strive to create a non-judgmental environment for my clients where they feel welcomed, respected, heard, and have the support they deserve while collaboratively working towards their goals. The most rewarding part about being a mental health counselor is being able to witness individuals bettering themselves and overcoming obstacles whether they are big or small. As a counselor, I know that every individual is unique; therefore, I work with the client based on their needs and at a pace they are comfortable with, while also trying to challenge them in making steps towards their progress.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS!!! I strive to create a non-judgmental environment for my clients where they feel welcomed, respected, heard, and have the support they deserve while collaboratively working towards their goals. The most rewarding part about being a mental health counselor is being able to witness individuals bettering themselves and overcoming obstacles whether they are big or small. As a counselor, I know that every individual is unique; therefore, I work with the client based on their needs and at a pace they are comfortable with, while also trying to challenge them in making steps towards their progress.
![Photo of Edeline Elcin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/91703b10-af4a-4ea4-8f64-e1030149d368/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in both New Jersey and New York Edeline Elicin has made it her calling to help individuals, couples, and family in overcoming life adversities. Edeline Elicin received her Bachelor's degree from Rutgers University- Newark in Psychology, Sociology and minoring in African American Studies. She continued her journey of higher education by attending Seton Hall University, studying in Marriage and Family Therapy with a concentration in Drug and Alcohol Counseling.
As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in both New Jersey and New York Edeline Elicin has made it her calling to help individuals, couples, and family in overcoming life adversities. Edeline Elicin received her Bachelor's degree from Rutgers University- Newark in Psychology, Sociology and minoring in African American Studies. She continued her journey of higher education by attending Seton Hall University, studying in Marriage and Family Therapy with a concentration in Drug and Alcohol Counseling.
![Photo of Stacey Dutil, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/56a5918f-f2b6-44a4-82f9-6a937bdbe793/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Stacey Dutil is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2012. She has a Bachelor of Science from Champlain College as well as MSW and DSW degrees from New York University. Dr. Dutil has extensive experience with adolescents and adults in a variety of settings. Dr. Dutil believes that individuals are the experts in their own life, and she is here to assist in identifying existing strengths and skills as well as new ways of coping. Dr. Dutil uses a trauma-informed approach to therapy and treat each person based on their unique needs and strengths.
Dr. Stacey Dutil is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2012. She has a Bachelor of Science from Champlain College as well as MSW and DSW degrees from New York University. Dr. Dutil has extensive experience with adolescents and adults in a variety of settings. Dr. Dutil believes that individuals are the experts in their own life, and she is here to assist in identifying existing strengths and skills as well as new ways of coping. Dr. Dutil uses a trauma-informed approach to therapy and treat each person based on their unique needs and strengths.
![Photo of Chris Buro, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f3a20be-f6e0-4ba0-955a-35f98070ca38/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chris obtained his Master's Degree in Counseling with a concentration in Mental Health Counseling from Montclair State University. He is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of New Jersey as well as a National Certified Counselor. Chris has been working in the mental health field for the last 14 years with experience in individual, couples, substance use, and group treatment in a variety of settings which include outpatient and residential programs. The approach Chris takes in his treatment involves building a working relationship with clients to enable trust between client and counselor.
Chris obtained his Master's Degree in Counseling with a concentration in Mental Health Counseling from Montclair State University. He is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of New Jersey as well as a National Certified Counselor. Chris has been working in the mental health field for the last 14 years with experience in individual, couples, substance use, and group treatment in a variety of settings which include outpatient and residential programs. The approach Chris takes in his treatment involves building a working relationship with clients to enable trust between client and counselor.
![Photo of Alicia Belmonte, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f6d4c42b-690f-4aec-a465-6bf44fbf759f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alicia Belmonte is a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2017. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from UDELAR in Uruguay and a Master of Art in Counselor Education from Kean University. Alicia believes in a client centered philosophy where she meets the client where they are and establishes a trusting relationship with them. She feels that aligning the client's view of the problem with a sound diagnostic criterium is important not only for reimbursement purposes, but also to choose the appropriate theoretical framework and the right techniques or tools to use in the therapeutic process.
Alicia Belmonte is a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2017. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from UDELAR in Uruguay and a Master of Art in Counselor Education from Kean University. Alicia believes in a client centered philosophy where she meets the client where they are and establishes a trusting relationship with them. She feels that aligning the client's view of the problem with a sound diagnostic criterium is important not only for reimbursement purposes, but also to choose the appropriate theoretical framework and the right techniques or tools to use in the therapeutic process.
![Photo of Nadine Abdelaziz, LAC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb6aa20e-aad4-4a1d-8877-939a4a4cec29/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nadine Abdelaziz is a Licensed Associate Counselor and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional in New Jersey who Joined Lifestance in 2024. She has a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, a Masters in Criminal Justice, and a Bachelor’s in Psychology. Through her clinical experience and education, Nadine has learned many skills that will help her aid the client on their journey. She offers patience, understanding, empathy and compassion. Outside of work, Nadine enjoys reading psychological thrillers, engaging in pyrography, and enjoying the sport of fencing.
Nadine Abdelaziz is a Licensed Associate Counselor and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional in New Jersey who Joined Lifestance in 2024. She has a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, a Masters in Criminal Justice, and a Bachelor’s in Psychology. Through her clinical experience and education, Nadine has learned many skills that will help her aid the client on their journey. She offers patience, understanding, empathy and compassion. Outside of work, Nadine enjoys reading psychological thrillers, engaging in pyrography, and enjoying the sport of fencing.
![Photo of Adam Herbert, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae01d36c-506a-441c-a06f-4a0302572ce0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Adam Herbert is a Psychologist in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2023. He holds a doctoral degree (Psy. D. ) in Clinical Psychology from the Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology (GSAPP), Rutgers University. Adam is thoughtful, empathic, and client-centered in his approach to therapy. He prioritizes establishing and fostering trust and safety in the therapeutic relationship, while working in collaboration with the client to achieve their goals and reach their true potential. His theoretical approach is based in psychodynamic theory and integration.
Adam Herbert is a Psychologist in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2023. He holds a doctoral degree (Psy. D. ) in Clinical Psychology from the Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology (GSAPP), Rutgers University. Adam is thoughtful, empathic, and client-centered in his approach to therapy. He prioritizes establishing and fostering trust and safety in the therapeutic relationship, while working in collaboration with the client to achieve their goals and reach their true potential. His theoretical approach is based in psychodynamic theory and integration.
![Photo of Jesenia Vergel, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d7020e9e-d6bb-4383-a307-e1403140d824/2/320x400.png)
Jesenia Vergel is a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey with 27 years of experience. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Biology from New York University, a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from Montclair State University, and a Post-Masters from New Jersey City University.
Jesenia Vergel is a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey with 27 years of experience. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Biology from New York University, a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from Montclair State University, and a Post-Masters from New Jersey City University.
![Photo of Jose Luis Posos, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c98887c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
My journey as mental health counselor has led me to work closely with survivors of intimate partner violence, providing a compassionate space for healing and growth. Currently, I oversee all of children's behavioral health services at Jersey Shore University Medical Center, I advocate for the mental well-being of our younger population, ensuring they receive the care and support they need. I'm a dedicated mental health counselor with over a decade of experience specializing in aiding couples, individuals grappling with depression or ADHD, and guiding adolescents through their unique struggles.
My journey as mental health counselor has led me to work closely with survivors of intimate partner violence, providing a compassionate space for healing and growth. Currently, I oversee all of children's behavioral health services at Jersey Shore University Medical Center, I advocate for the mental well-being of our younger population, ensuring they receive the care and support they need. I'm a dedicated mental health counselor with over a decade of experience specializing in aiding couples, individuals grappling with depression or ADHD, and guiding adolescents through their unique struggles.
![Photo of Dr. Ayden Ferstenberg, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/26952cd5-bf17-44e7-86ad-da7c53f2ccee/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in working with individuals and couples who struggle connecting with themselves or each other. Many of my clients have difficulty navigating life transitions, perfectionism, people-pleasing, harsh self-criticisms, fears of failure or losing control, or feeling empty or broken inside. You might be great at intellectualizing, have wonderful insights about yourself, but still feel stuck or powerless in making change. You might struggle to connect with your feelings and needs, walking through life feeling like something is missing, or feeling resentful of how others take up more space in the world than you do.
I specialize in working with individuals and couples who struggle connecting with themselves or each other. Many of my clients have difficulty navigating life transitions, perfectionism, people-pleasing, harsh self-criticisms, fears of failure or losing control, or feeling empty or broken inside. You might be great at intellectualizing, have wonderful insights about yourself, but still feel stuck or powerless in making change. You might struggle to connect with your feelings and needs, walking through life feeling like something is missing, or feeling resentful of how others take up more space in the world than you do.
![Photo of Shy Krug, PhD, CST, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47d4921c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Pain is an unfortunate reality of the human experience. Sometimes, our attempts to control or avoid pain, whether it's physical, psychological, or otherwise, also pulls us away from other things in our lives that are important to us, resulting in a less fulfilling life. Your decision to pursue therapy is a significant step towards finding a more workable way to manage the things in your life that cause pain. My therapeutic approach is focused on learning to step out of the struggle against your pain and use the strengths you already possess to put you in the driver's seat of your life and be your best and most genuine self.
Pain is an unfortunate reality of the human experience. Sometimes, our attempts to control or avoid pain, whether it's physical, psychological, or otherwise, also pulls us away from other things in our lives that are important to us, resulting in a less fulfilling life. Your decision to pursue therapy is a significant step towards finding a more workable way to manage the things in your life that cause pain. My therapeutic approach is focused on learning to step out of the struggle against your pain and use the strengths you already possess to put you in the driver's seat of your life and be your best and most genuine self.
![Photo of Amy Consovoy, LPC, LCADC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41fe9db3-1264-43c1-b290-7ec78390971f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Consovoy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, NCC
Verified Verified
River Edge, NJ 07661 (Online Only)
Ever wonder if drinking, substance use, or disordered eating are starting to become a problem? Look no further. People come to me to figure out how to heal their relationship with food and their bodies - to overcome perfectionism and people pleasing - to stop relying on alcohol and drugs to make the pain stop. Taking the first step towards asking for help is hard, but know that I will welcome you without judgement. I know that you’re here because you want the cycle to stop. I want to help you develop the skills to stop obsessing, to stop beating yourself up, and to remove the things that get in the way of you living your life.
Ever wonder if drinking, substance use, or disordered eating are starting to become a problem? Look no further. People come to me to figure out how to heal their relationship with food and their bodies - to overcome perfectionism and people pleasing - to stop relying on alcohol and drugs to make the pain stop. Taking the first step towards asking for help is hard, but know that I will welcome you without judgement. I know that you’re here because you want the cycle to stop. I want to help you develop the skills to stop obsessing, to stop beating yourself up, and to remove the things that get in the way of you living your life.
![Photo of Judith L. Hart, MSW, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0f85a095-69e9-4de5-8cec-24d7794ea637/3/320x400.jpeg)
Judith L. Hart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
River Edge, NJ 07661 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I work with adolescents (aged 18 and up) and adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, narcissistic abuse recovery, disordered eating, gender, sexual and cultural identity issues, relationship issues, intimate partner violence, health issues, infertility and adoption related issues. I use a variety of therapeutic techniques and approaches in order to tailor treatment to fit your needs. I use a strength based approach with all clients to help them develop coping skills and techniques to manage the stressors in their lives.
I work with adolescents (aged 18 and up) and adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, narcissistic abuse recovery, disordered eating, gender, sexual and cultural identity issues, relationship issues, intimate partner violence, health issues, infertility and adoption related issues. I use a variety of therapeutic techniques and approaches in order to tailor treatment to fit your needs. I use a strength based approach with all clients to help them develop coping skills and techniques to manage the stressors in their lives.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Maria Pedraza, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1294320e-6eb7-4c2e-9ffe-d45c01828a46/1/320x400.jpeg)
I'm passionate about helping individuals navigate life's challenges and find fulfillment. With a specialization in LGBTQ issues, anxiety, depression, and innovative therapies like Geek therapy, I provide a safe and supportive space for clients of all ages to explore their emotions, build resilience, and achieve personal growth.
I'm passionate about helping individuals navigate life's challenges and find fulfillment. With a specialization in LGBTQ issues, anxiety, depression, and innovative therapies like Geek therapy, I provide a safe and supportive space for clients of all ages to explore their emotions, build resilience, and achieve personal growth.
![Photo of Christopher Guico, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/013ea098-b341-461f-ae38-863159233bc2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Whether it's for navigating a difficult time in your life, struggling to achieve your goals, or even feeling overwhelmed by current events, everyone needs support. The type of support I provide combines motivational interviewing, psychodynamic, and cognitive behavioral therapies filtered through a trauma-informed, feminist, anti-oppression, and empowerment lens. In my practice, I strive to create a safe space that is culturally-sensitive and is affirming of all identities and spiritual paths, with a special interest in the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities, as well as adolescents.
Whether it's for navigating a difficult time in your life, struggling to achieve your goals, or even feeling overwhelmed by current events, everyone needs support. The type of support I provide combines motivational interviewing, psychodynamic, and cognitive behavioral therapies filtered through a trauma-informed, feminist, anti-oppression, and empowerment lens. In my practice, I strive to create a safe space that is culturally-sensitive and is affirming of all identities and spiritual paths, with a special interest in the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities, as well as adolescents.
![Photo of Rachel Dobkins, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b1deb638-9e7b-47be-bc28-3e3caf168a4a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel Dobkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Paramus, NJ 07652
My specializations include working with LGBTQ+ individuals, couples, and families, as well as parenting support for parents of LGBTQ+ children.
Today you have taken the first step in your journey towards positive change, growth, and well-being. I strive to create a genuine, safe, and supportive environment for you to engage in self-reflection and remove obstacles to realizing your goals. We will empower you to embrace and nurture your most authentic selves. I work with individuals, couples, and families across the lifespan from teen age through elder adulthood experiencing mood, trauma, adjustment, identity, relational, and developmental challenges.
My specializations include working with LGBTQ+ individuals, couples, and families, as well as parenting support for parents of LGBTQ+ children.
Today you have taken the first step in your journey towards positive change, growth, and well-being. I strive to create a genuine, safe, and supportive environment for you to engage in self-reflection and remove obstacles to realizing your goals. We will empower you to embrace and nurture your most authentic selves. I work with individuals, couples, and families across the lifespan from teen age through elder adulthood experiencing mood, trauma, adjustment, identity, relational, and developmental challenges.
See more therapy options for River Edge
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for River Edge
- Bergenfield
- Cresskill
- Dumont
- Hackensack
- Haworth
- Lodi
- Oradell
- Paramus
- Rochelle Park
- Saddle Brook
- Teaneck
- Tenafly
LGBTQ+ Therapists
Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?
Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialized training, either during their degree program or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.
Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalization in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.
How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.
How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?
Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.
Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?
While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialized training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.