Life is all about motion, and any disturbances in your mental state can affect your motion. When you're depressed, it can feel like you're not moving at all. When you have anxiety, the motion is much too fast. If you want a motion that’s right for you, a counselor based in Hackensack can help you. 

Hackensack is known as “A City in Motion.” If you live here, your life is indeed in motion, and it’s up to you to learn how to move along with it. Speak to a counselor today, and they can help you move to the motions of life. 

This is Maria Abada's avatar and link to their profile

Maria Abada

Offering therapy in NJ
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

Welcome! My name is Maria and I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of New Jersey. I have over 15 years experience working in the mental health field. I have worked in a variety of settings including residential, partial care, outpatient, in-home, and addictions. Although that seems like a mouthful, it simply means that I have had experience working with a broad range and severity of clinical issues. I have the most experience working with anxiety, family/relationship conflicts, life transitions, and complex trauma/abuse. I also have experience working with depression, intellectual/developmental disabilities, mild autism, and immigration/acculturation issues. In the last 5 years I have also worked with individuals with perinatal mental health issues. My dedication to the field of mental health stems from my personal experience with it. I grew up with close loved ones living with mental illness and I have personally overcome some mental health challenges, too. I know firsthand that getting help can be a challenge. There is still so much stigma around having mental health issues, the process for getting help can be overwhelming, and it can feel so frustrating and lonely. However, I also know from experience how much life can change for the better when you find support and take steps towards taking care of yourself! I use a person-centered, holistic, multicultural, and integrative approach in treatment. This means I begin where you are and tailor the treatment approach to your needs while being sensitive to how your individual cultural identities and lifestyle choices impact your experience. I use evidence based techniques including cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused counseling. I also incorporate trauma-informed care into my work with clients. However, I do incorporate more "classical" approaches to counseling as well. I would describe my style as warm and supportive, and I am ready to help you tackle your struggle head-on. Collaboration is important - together we can work on establishing concrete goals and steps for you to help overcome your current problems. If you are looking for quick fixes, I am not the best counselor to work with. I believe in taking time and working on wellness slowly, holistically, and consistently. Just as physical health takes time and consistency, so does mental health. I look forward to helping you in any way I can! Please be advised I am currently available to provide services only to female clients. Thank you again for taking time in learning more about me.

Get started View profile
This is Maria Farraye-Biggs's avatar and link to their profile

Maria Farraye-Biggs

Offering therapy in NJ
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepressionADHD
30 years of experience

Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in NJ with over 25+ years of experience in a variety of settings including managing a private practice. I have worked with people from different backgrounds/ages and with a wide variety of concerns including stress, anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, women's issues, parenting issues, ADHD, acculturation/assimilation issues and life transitions. I believe that to have a successful outcome in therapy, the client and therapist must first develop rapport and trust in their relationship. This takes time; however, I will be there with you to achieve that. Just a little about me, I know what it is like to be in your chair as I myself have been in therapy and I can relate to what you may be feeling/thinking. However, I can definitely say that therapy does help. I have had to deal with my own medical issues, have dealt with the challenges of being a first generation, American born daughter of immigrant parents and have struggled with being the parent of an ADHD child. I have come to learn about myself, laugh, cry and be okay and I can help you to do the same. In my work I will use several different therapeutic modalities, depending on the issue at hand. These modalities may include psychodynamic psychotherapy, client centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, psychoeducation and solution-focused therapy. An integrated, client strength-based approach can be used as well. I am known for being a caring, sensitive, authentic, reflective and compassionate listener. I believe in an interactive approach, and I will guide you and challenge in the therapeutic relationship. I strive to make the therapy experience genuine, respectful and safe. I believe that you are the master of your story and that you have it within you to do great things and overcome the obstacles that get in your way. I will be there with you on this journey to assist you. Seeking therapy is not an easy decision to make. I want to commend you for taking the first step for wanting a better life for yourself. If you are ready to take the next step, I am here to support and empower you to identify your goals and achieve them. I look forward to hearing from you and working with you!

Get started View profile
This is Debbie Bradham McElveen's avatar and link to their profile

Debbie Bradham McElveen

Offering therapy in NJ
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesAnger managementDepression
7 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has worked as a mental health professional for the past 16 years in New Jersey. During the past seven years I have also worked in the capacity of a Licensed Social Worker. I have enjoyed helping individuals navigate through life's journey. My area of expertise includes substance abuse; depression; anxiety; anger management; communication challenges; elderly care; relationship conflicts; goal planning; blended family challenges; and parenting. I have enjoyed linking the consumer to services that will help them to overcome obstacles in their life. While working with individuals and families I have helped consumers to develop coping skills to manage various life challenges. During my years of practice, I have provided compassionate and client centered therapy. I am a good listener and have a passion for helping consumers achieve their full potential.

Get started View profile
This is Cynthia (Cindi) Stewart's avatar and link to their profile

Cynthia (Cindi) Stewart

Offering therapy in NJ
License: LPCC,LPC,MA
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

Hello, Life is about moving forward and growing. As individuals we should continue to grow and never stop learning. I work with individuals of all ages including families and couples in need. I work successfully with a wide range of concerns including, Motivation, Lifestyle changes, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression as well as the many other life struggles that need professional and confidential attention (assistance). I am very familiar with drug and alcohol addictions, and feel that I can be of help in this area. As well I work with the LGBT population and am an active proponent while understanding the struggles that might be encountered. I am a member of the Kentucky Counseling Association and American Psychological Association. I joined a private practice with a Psychiatrist in Northern Kentucky that I had been with for the last 17 years until moving back home to Missouri 2 years ago. I was also employed for 10 years with a State agency. I have a Masters degree in Professional Counseling and I am presently earning a PhD in General Psychology. A bit more about myself; My counseling style is based on The Carl Roger's idea of unconditional positive regard. In simple terms; for a person to grow they need an environment of genuine openness and self-disclosure with total and unconditional acceptance. Therefore with full empathy I will inquire and interact respectfully to fully understand your specific situation. When appropriate I also use ideas based on Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) which include: Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Interpersonal Effectiveness and Emotional Regulation. I am very eclectic and interactive with my clients. My counseling is based in The Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) model. To make life changes or improve our situational well being we must likewise change our mental thought process. I can help you understand this process. I am here to help you; with your goals challenges or struggles. Thank you for looking at my profile and good Karma to You.

Get started View profile
This is Lisbeth Helsel's avatar and link to their profile

Lisbeth Helsel

Offering therapy in NJ
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
25 years of experience

Hi! I’m Lis an (LCSW) with 25 years of professional experience. I specialize in helping clients to manage and alleviate their stress, anxiety, depression and addiction issues. Working together we will set achievable goals that work for you. You’ll be encouraged (never pressured )to share openly and without fear of judgement. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I’m glad you’ve come this far! Please check out my calendar to schedule your first appointment. If you don’t find an opening that you’re looking for, please message me and I’ll do my best to accommodate you! I’m looking forward to meeting up with you soon!☺️

Get started View profile
This is Jennifer King's avatar and link to their profile

Jennifer King

Offering therapy in NJ
License: LCSW,MPH
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

My name is Jennifer King, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, licensed in both New Jersey and Florida. I earned my Master of Social Work degree at the University of South Florida in 2007. I've worked in various settings with individuals and families who have a variety of personal issues such as depression/anxiety, stress, relationship problems, trauma/abuse, addictions and individuals who have experienced homelessness. Over the past 15 years as a clinician I've learned that the most valuable part of therapy is the connection one feels with the person they have chosen to share their experiences with. I feel that we can all experience growth through challenging experiences that increase our self-awareness. Often a person who is not a part of our personal circle can offer a fresh perspective or additional emotional support to help us through a difficult time. I believe it is very important to be able to share our feelings and emotions and to feel accepted and understood. It takes courage to ask for help and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

Get started View profile
This is Christy Hopwood's avatar and link to their profile

Christy Hopwood

Offering therapy in NJ
License: LCSW
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepressionADHD
21 years of experience

I began working in the mental health field in 1993. I worked in residential treatment facilities with teenage girls and boys until I received my Master's in Social Work at the University of Louisville in 1999. Since 1999, I have been employed as a social worker for severe mentally ill adults, counselor and a director in foster care settings, counselor in psychiatric residential treatment facility for teenage girls and prepubescent boys, intensive in home counselor for children and teenagers with their families for the past 15 years, and outpatient mental health counselor for adults, families, and couples. I opened my private practice in 2008 where I see adults and couples who are dealing with depression, anxiety, marriage problems, relationship issues, grief, loss, parenting issues, anger, substance abuse, domestic violence, PTSD, trauma, stressors, work place problems, financial difficulties, ADHD, bipolar, mood disorders, and personality disorders. I use person centered therapy where I focus on the totality of the client that includes their mental, physical, emotional, relational, spiritual (if applicable), and recreational health and how they are meeting those needs. I use cognitive behavior therapy to help clients identify thinking patterns and cognitive distortions/faulty thinking errors that are impeding their progress and ways to replace those thinking errors with rational thought. I ask about family history, trauma, and if those trauma's are impeding present day life. I used shot term solution therapy where needed to help client's develop goals and strategies with their input to meet their needs. I help clients identify coping skills for problems and ways to implement those skills.

Get started View profile
This is Jeanette Jackson's avatar and link to their profile

Jeanette Jackson

Offering therapy in NJ
LGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementDepression
4 years of experience

Hi my name is Jeanette Jackson. I am a licensed Marriage, Couples & Family therapist. I also work with teens, Individuals, and the LGBTQ community, who are seeking to make life changes. I am licensed in New Jersey with 4 years of professional work experience. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Get started View profile
This is Patxi Martinez's avatar and link to their profile

Patxi Martinez

Offering therapy in NJ
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesAnger management
4 years of experience

I am licensed in New Jersey and Texas with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. I also have experience working with anger management. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Get started View profile
This is Rashidah Hansen's avatar and link to their profile

Rashidah Hansen

Offering therapy in NJ
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am licensed in New Jersey with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Get started View profile

How to find counseling in Hackensack

Finding the best therapist close by in Hackensack can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Hackensack. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Hackensack, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Hackensack or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Hackensack area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Hackensack, elsewhere in Bergen, or in the greater state of New Jersey.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Hackensack area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Hackensack therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Hackensack due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Hackensack may not take health insurance, some in the state of New Jersey may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of New Jersey you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Hackensack, New Jersey working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Hackensack above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Hackensack helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Hackensack therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Hackensack therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Hackensack therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in NJ, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 07602 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Hackensack counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Hackensack licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Hackensack, New Jersey can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Hackensack has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Hackensack.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Hackensack:

07601, 07602

Popular cities near Hackensack, NJ

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist