Dual Diagnosis Therapists in Spotswood, NJ

Are you struggling with interpersonal problems and need insight into your thoughts, behaviors, and feelings while actively working towards improving your life? Or are you struggling with substance use, trauma, PTSD, or dual diagnosis? Look no further. I have a diverse background working with individuals, families, groups, and also in the community, in settings such as schools, inpatient and outpatient substance abuse treatment facilities, and in homes, to create the space for individuals to grow.

My aim while working with clients is to empower them to feel safe approaching therapy as an outlet to discover, grow and utilize tools to work through challenges. As clients embark on working in treatment my goal is that they will have a better understanding - through empathy, compassion and mindfulness.

My ideal clients are individuals suffering from behavioral disorders (addiction and mental disorders), who are willing to get help through the treatment services we provide. They represent a person who requires resources such as learning to build the coping skills necessary to better manage their conditions and maintain sobriety long-term.

I have many years of successful counseling experience working with adolescent and adult clients in the areas of: Alcohol and Substance Abuse, Dual Diagnosis, Depression and Anxiety, Stress and Transition, Impulse Control Disorders and Domestic Violence which includes working with individuals that struggle with Anger and Rage Issues. I work with individuals who often have additional, legal, occupational or school related involvement. I am both a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor.

Do you want or need to make some changes in your life? Are you ready to overcome anxiety, depression or addictions? Do you find yourself struggling in your relationship? Therapy and change can be both difficult and challenging experiences. I have been helping people with these problems for many years and we can work collaboratively. I help individuals learn more about themselves and how to live more authentically. I love supporting people in harnessing their own individuality while helping them navigate the world and its chaos. We will figure out your best qualities and personal resources and virtues to help you heal and grow.

My clinical experience includes working with individuals and groups experiencing anxiety (generalized, OCD), depression, bipolar disorder, substance use disorder, attachment-related issues, adjustment issues, and grief. I have worked with various populations across different settings including working with adolescents in a community program, dual diagnosis clinical setting, and in crisis intervention in a hospital setting. Using a strengths-based and client-centered approach to therapy, I work collaboratively with clients to address their current difficulties by identifying root causes and individualized goals for change.

My ideal clients are individuals suffering from behavioral disorders (addiction and mental disorders), who are willing to get help through the treatment services we provide. They represent a person who requires resources such as learning to build the coping skills necessary to better manage their conditions and maintain sobriety long-term.

My ideal client represents someone willing to accept their situation and find the solution to their addictive behaviors and mental health problems. This includes utilizing our comprehensive treatment programs and resources to set recovery goals, find support, and learn the necessary skills to successfully recover and maintain sobriety.

My ideal client represents someone willing to accept their situation and find the solution to their addictive behaviors and mental health problems. This includes utilizing our comprehensive treatment programs and resources to set recovery goals, find support, and learn the necessary skills to successfully recover and maintain sobriety.

My ideal client is at a place where they are ready and willing to accept their issues and want to do therapeutic work. They may have issues with depression, anxiety, or substance use. They may need to work on self-acceptance, medication management, or developing and implementing coping skills.

I strive to uphold cultural humility each day. Specifically, respecting all individuals and their values, beliefs, and opinions. A person’s background and culture highlights the wonderful qualities about them which deserve to be recognized and respected. I also strive to continue dismantling the stigma of mental health treatment each day. Struggling with mental health issues is one that is not only common, but also can be normal! I believe that the need to talk and process life with another person should not be stigmatized. Therefore, each day I work to promote a non-judgmental, friendly, accepting, and safe space for people.

Carlos is licensed as a LCSW, an LMFT, and an LCADC. He is also a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) and does evaluations for employees in the transportation industry. Finally, he is a certified EMDR therapist. For nearly 30 years he has provided psychotherapy services to professionals in various industries. His diversity, persuasive objectivity, and ability to break down complex and emotionally-charged behavioral health issues has been appreciated among his clients.

Are you feeling stuck in the past or worried about the future? Do you want to figure out what to do in the here and now? Would you like to accomplish your vision to live a joyful and meaningful life? In addition to "talk therapy", I use Creativity in Counseling, action oriented methods of psychodrama and the playfulness and the projective techniques (including sand-tray, role-play, masks and puppets) of Drama Therapy. These techniques have been proven to be effective with all ages, not just children. By using these creative techniques you will be able to explore issues that create obstacles in a safe and affirming environment.

My ideal client is at a place where they are ready and willing to accept their issues and want to do therapeutic work. They may have issues with depression, anxiety, or substance use. They may need to work on self-acceptance, medication management, or developing and implementing coping skills.