Golden Rule Therapists in New Jersey

Finding a therapist who accepts Golden Rule insurance can make mental health care more affordable and accessible. With 304 verified therapists in New Jersey who accept Golden Rule insurance, you can filter by therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and motivational interviewing to address concerns like anxiety, mood disorders, or personal growth. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist is currently welcoming new clients and has availability within the next 30 days, ensuring timely access to quality support that aligns with your Golden Rule insurance coverage.

Availability updated: 9/18/2025

Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 67 ratings

Nicole Jennings- Girau

LPC, 10 years of experience

Warm
Authentic
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
Trauma and PTSD
Women's Issues
+9
* Please note, if you are an intake, you must complete your intake form AT LEAST 24 hours ahead of your intake assessment, otherwise you will need to reschedule your appointment. * Nicole is a wife, stepmother, business owner, and has been ever engaged in the field of healing throughout the past 11 years. She is well versed in helping others tap into the root causes of their pain and helping them move from a place of surviving to thriving. After witnessing her own father’s recovery from a brain stem stroke, she found herself at a professional crossroad. She has always been aware that healing is a tripod- the medical model seeks to heal the body, therapy seeks to heal the mind, but often times the spiritual aspect of healing remains unaddressed. It is this aspect that led Nicole to dive more deeply into integrative wellness and immerse herself into true healing. In more recent time, Nicole has become dedicated in working with individuals who are facing terminal illnesses/ children who are facing their parent's long-term illnesses. Nicole is also trained in aspects of death/dying and family dynamics. Nicole is also certified in Narcisstic abuse treatment.
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Sergio Rato

LPC, 12 years of experience

New to Grow

Specialties

Life Transitions
Men's Issues
Mood Disorders
+9
Hello, my name is Sergio and I practice a Humanistic approach which focuses on an individual's inherent and continued personal growth. I have over ten years experience which includes adults, children, couples and families within a variety of social contexts. The core principles that form the foundation of my counseling practice are the same that guide my own personal life. I love my work and I am happy and hopeful to help you.
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Rated 4.7 stars out of 5, 13 ratings

Denise Meza

LCSW, 16 years of experience

Intelligent
Open-minded
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Child or Adolescent
Depression
+3
I am a licensed clinical social worker based in New Jersey. I received my MSW from Rutger's University and have been practicing for over 16 years. My experience includes working in a hospital setting, residential settings and outpatient facilities. I work with adults, youths, and families who are dealing with various challenges in their lives such as family conflicts, trauma, and mental health disorders. I utilize various treatment modalities depending on your needs.
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Rated 4.8 stars out of 5, 28 ratings

Nicole Harris

LPC, 11 years of experience

Direct
Open-minded
Solution oriented

Specialties

ADHD
Depression
Grief
+3
My personal experience has taught me that change can be stressful and uncomfortable and that there are some things in life that we do not have control over. My belief that people are resilient and can navigate through the hard times in life with support is what drew me to my area of focus. It has also deepened my passion for the counseling process. I have worked in several settings, such as hospitals, mental health agencies, and substance abuse clinics, which has helped shape my practice by enhancing my ability to understand my clients’ needs in regard to progress in treatment. I am also trained in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, which has enhanced my ability to recognize symptoms of trauma and understand how they may impact a client and act as an obstacle that keeps them from moving forward.
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Rated 4.6 stars out of 5, 9 ratings

Sudha Gutti

LCSW, 5 years of experience

Warm
Open-minded
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
+5
The journey of healing begins with a strong therapeutic alliance based on trust and mutual respect. My worldview and core values determine my approach to therapy and engaging with you. I strongly believe in a holistic approach to therapy: I consider the art and science of healing to support the whole person – body, mind, and spirit. I have decades of rich and varied life experiences which inform my practice. I have worked in schools with children as an educator with a great understanding of human development, I am a grass-roots level community development social worker and a mental health clinician in community behavioral health.
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Seema Dhindaw

LPC, 3 years of experience

New to Grow

Specialties

Anxiety
Couples Counseling
Self Esteem
+10
My path to counseling has been shaped by more than 20 years of experience working in universities and nonprofits across the U.S., including two decades in academic medicine and biomedical research administration. As a former biomedical researcher and a leader in administrative research operations, I understand the pressures of high-achievement environments, the complexity of navigating institutional systems, and the emotional toll that can come with careers in science, healthcare, and technology. This unique perspective allows me to connect deeply with students, academics, and professionals working in demanding fields.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 40 ratings

Cherrelle Barton

LCSW, 13 years of experience

Warm
Empowering
Open-minded

Specialties

Depression
Older Adults
Trauma and PTSD
+7
Hello and Welcome! My name is Cherrelle Barton and I am a therapist whom genuinely cares. I commend you in taking the first step toward self discovery. I believe that what's most important in the therapeutic process is choosing a therapist that is the right fit. So just a little about me, I have 13 years of experience in the behavioral field, I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology in 2008 and went on to obtain my Master of Social Work degree in 2011. Those closest to me would describe me as kind, compassionate and patient. These qualities catapulted me into the behavioral health field. When working with clients I prefer to utilize strengths based, solution focused methods. Joining with clients in problem solving and analyzing to find solutions for troublesome symptoms. I believe that you are your best healer; I am simply the catalyst to guide you along the pathway to finding what it is you are needing and longing for.
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Elena Wood

LP, 25 years of experience

New to Grow

Specialties

Family Conflict
Grief
Health/Medical Issues
+8
I have a background in community mental health leadership, psychological testing, and university counseling, and have extensive experience in treating a wide variety of emotional issues and psychiatric conditions. I have a passion for all things mental health related since a teen, and have had the privilege of working as a Psychologist for well over 25 years. I enjoy leading complex clinical mental health operations for patients and families and have a straightforward vision in delivering interventions and support, destigmatizing mental healthcare, and being a leader on approaches to revolutionary mental health treatment. I emphasize creating a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive space for clients to explore their thoughts and feelings. My sessions tend to be conversational and reflective, and I make space for both structure and flexibility depending on what you’re needing in the moment.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 17 ratings

Kayla Hanley

LCSW, 11 years of experience

Solution oriented
Authentic
Direct

Specialties

Depression
First Responders/Healthcare Workers
Trauma and PTSD
My name is Kayla and I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker. I earned my Masters of Social Work from Fordham University and am currently working on my Doctorate of Social Work from Rutgers University with a focus on first responder trauma. I have worked in the field for over ten years and have experience working with individuals across the lifespan. My specialty is trauma-focused therapy, which helps to resolve prior and current experiences. I also enjoy working with adults feeling depressed and anxious.
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Glenis Contreras

LCSW, 12 years of experience

New to Grow

Authentic
Warm
Solution oriented

Specialties

ADHD
Anxiety
Depression
+10
I am a warm and caring therapist who feels truly honored to walk alongside people on their journey toward healing and growth. My own diverse life experiences have shaped how I connect with and understand others, allowing me to offer genuine empathy and support. Over the years, I have been blessed to work in many different settings, including medical facilities, schools, and private practice, giving me a deep appreciation for the many ways life can impact our mental and emotional well-being. I strive to create a safe and welcoming space where you can feel heard, understood, and supported as you work toward positive change. It is my privilege to be part of your journey and to help you discover the strength and resilience you already carry within you.
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 56 ratings

Patricia Jacobs

LPC, 22 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Authentic
Solution oriented
Empowering

Specialties

Trauma and PTSD
Hi! I am a licensed mental health therapist, currently practicing in 5 states (NJ, NC, FL, GA and TX). I received my Master's Degree in Clinical Counseling and Psychology from LaSalle University, over 10 years ago. My goal is to give you the tools needed to stop surviving, and start living an authentic life. In a safe and secure place, we will face the past, heal it and bring you to become the best version of yourself.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 1 ratings

Amy Aracena

LCSW, 5 years of experience

Intelligent
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
+10
Hi. I’m Amy Aracena, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Certified School Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in clinical, school, and community mental health settings. As the founder of Pura Vida Family Psychotherapy, I am committed to providing bilingual (English/Spanish) therapy that is inclusive, compassionate, and practical. My professional journey includes serving as a psychiatric clinician, child and family therapist, and school social worker—experiences that give me a deep understanding of the challenges clients face across the lifespan.
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 61 ratings

Liz Henriques

LPC, 5 years of experience

Warm
Open-minded
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
LGBTQ
Life Transitions
+2
First and foremost, my work is always person-centered; empathy and collaboration are the core of my therapeutic approach. We know that when it comes to your life, you are the expert. Whether you've uncovered it or not, you hold the deepest understanding of your past experiences, future goals, fears, desires, regrets, joys, and every other component of who you are. My role as your therapist is joining you on your journey to self-improvement and understanding, while being fully present and actively listening to ensure you feel heard and understood. As we dive into your mind, I engage by drawing from my education and training to give insight, offer a new perspective, propose solutions for change, identify helpful coping skills, and assist in various ways based on your individual needs.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 18 ratings

Frances Merz

LPC, 19 years of experience

Authentic
Direct
Humorous

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Self Esteem
+9
Welcome! I have been in the counseling field for over 19 years. I provide counseling services for individuals 16 years of age & older. I believe people seek counseling for several reasons. They may want to improve a life situation, solve a problem, make a decision, or achieve a greater understanding of life. Anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and social issues often accompany the desire to change. I am here to help you identify and work through these challenges by finding practical solutions to them. Counseling is a joint effort, where I support and encourage your hard work, courage, and commitment to create the life you desire. I am a friendly, compassionate & enthusiastic person. I utilize a variety of counseling techniques from an eclectic collection of theoretical orientations based on the needs and strengths. I specialize in working with individuals on various topics. Once we establish an understanding of your situation, we work together to achieve mutually agreed upon goals. I use a dynamic, personalized approach. I am highly empathetic to people's lived experiences. Areas of interest: Adjusting to life events or changes Coping with stress Anxiety Depression Low self-esteem/Low-self confidence Wanting to make a change in their life and need support Medical advocacy Parenting I also love working with young professionals who are in the first few years of their careers. My clients are eager to improve, but don't yet have the tools needed to make this goal a reality. They often feel stuck, overwhelmed and anxious about their careers.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 4 ratings

Christina Pallotta

LCSW, 7 years of experience

Authentic
Intelligent
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Post Partum
Trauma and PTSD
As a results driven psychotherapist, specializing in helping individuals overcome challenges, achieve clarity and understand how they relate to the world around them. Christina does this by helping clients cope with and decrease symptamology to unlock their full potential. Christina uses a kind approach in sessions while encouraging interaction and is not just a "tell me how you feel" therapist.
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Adriane Villanueva

LPC, 6 years of experience

New to Grow

Specialties

Depression
Grief
Substance Misuse
+8
With over five years of experience in private practice, I am passionate about helping people break free from the patterns that keep them stuck whether it’s addiction, anxiety, depression, or unresolved pain from the past. I offer a compassionate and empowering space where clients feel safe to explore, heal, and grow. My approach blends evidence-based techniques with spiritual insight for those seeking Christian counseling, guiding each person toward lasting transformation and deeper self-understanding.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 8 ratings

Paul Cassidy

LPC, 24 years of experience

Authentic
Solution oriented
Warm

Specialties

Anger Management
Anxiety
Mood Disorders
+9
Twenty-four years of experience working with a wide range of individuals with a wide range of presenting problems and needs. I have helped individuals work through grief, trauma, adjustment disorders, difficult life transitions, acculturation issues and end of life counseling. I have helped many individuals gain new insights and coping abilities in managing chronic mood disorders, anxiety and fear disorders, personality disorders and impulse control disorders. I have experience working with addiction and recovery including compulsive gambling and sex addictions. I have also worked with individuals in various stages of commitment to change. I began my career working in community mental health serving individuals with severe and persistent mental illness/primary psychosis disorders such as schizophrenia, schizoaffective, delusional and bipolar affective disorders. I have worked in a variety of settings within the mental health field including hospital settings, partial hospitalization settings, outpatient therapy, intensive case management, as well as remote services. I have been clinical director of two outpatient treatment centers. I have facilitated many therapy groups including anger management, anxiety management, wellness and recovery, co-occurring disorders and trauma-focused groups.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 17 ratings

Caitlin Regan

LPC, 6 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Bipolar Disorder
Personality Disorders
Trauma and PTSD
+10
I am Caitlin, a licensed mental health counselor who is trained in multiple trauma techniques and has years of experience working with both adult and adolescents. I work hard to help my clients create positive and healthy change in their lives and sustain that healthiness. I believe all deserve to be accepted and understood no matter what they may struggle with and I work to provide a safe and caring space.
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 115 ratings

Jerry Fuller

LCSW, 22 years of experience

Solution oriented
Authentic
Intelligent

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Men's Issues
+6
Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug counselor. I am located in New Jersey. I have been in practice for 12+ years as a therapist and have another 10+ years as a case worker and administrator. Outside of my practice, I am married and have two children. I enjoy travel and running and often try to weave an overall concept of fitness=wellness into my work.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 10 ratings

Sondra J Dublinsky

LCSW, 35 years of experience

Authentic
Solution oriented
Warm

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Child or Adolescent
Sondra J. Dublinsky, LCSW, LCADC, CCTP has a Master’s degree in Student Personnel Services (School Guidance Counseling) from Glassboro State College ( currently Rowan University) and a Master’s degree in Social Work from Rutgers University. Sondra has been an influential leader in the Mental Health/Substance Abuse field for the past 35 years, serving as a teacher, bilingual (Spanish/English) therapist, Substance Abuse Assessment specialist, Professional Trainer, Supervisor and Executive Director. Sondra has experience working with children, adolescents and adults utilizing the following treatment modalities: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Brief Solution Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Gestalt therapy and Family-Based Therapy in an individual, group and family therapy setting. Sondra also has experience providing counseling in an Outpatient, Intensive Outpatient, and Partial Care setting with DCP &P, Drug Court and IDRC referred clients. Over the years, she has participated in training and implementing evidenced based practices to help to empower clients/counselors to move clients forward in recovery. Sondra has dedicated her life’s work to making programs better for the community, the families and the clients that use them and places high value on bringing about sustainable change.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 33 ratings

Steve Woodward

LPC, 12 years of experience

Solution oriented
Authentic
Intelligent

Specialties

Anger Management
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Hi. I'm Steve. Do you ever wonder why, no matter how many different things you've tried, you fall back into old behaviors that hurt you and/or those you love? Do you wonder why your emotions take over and leave you feeling incapable or overwhelmed? Do your emotions get in the way of effectively communicating when it matters the most? We all face questions like this, and the most fulfilling part of my work is helping people like you find answers to those questions. I don’t have any “one-size-fits-all” solutions, but together we will work to identify what drives your responses and what you can do to make lasting changes. We will work to help you anticipate and prevent issues before they appear, to feel emotional intensity rising and calm it down, and to exit stressful situations before doing or saying something you’ll regret. I don’t believe that our worst moments define us. I DO believe that each of us is capable of overcoming past struggles and finding a new path. I look forward to working with you as you try to find yours.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 5 ratings

Stacey Lear

LCSW, 5 years of experience

Authentic
Open-minded
Solution oriented

Specialties

Coping Skills
Life Transitions
Perinatal Mental Health
+5
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in female-centered therapy, including perinatal mental health, trauma recovery, and life transitions. I provide a supportive and empowering space for women to heal, grow, and create meaningful change. Using evidence-based approaches like CBT, ACT, DBT, and mindfulness-based therapy, I help clients navigate challenges, build resilience, and reconnect with their strengths. My goal is to support women in living authentically, managing stress, and finding balance in their personal and professional lives.
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 42 ratings

Michael Ham

LCSW, 35 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Direct
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
LGBTQ
Welcome! Starting therapy takes a lot of courage. Having the best fit with your therapist is so important. Maybe if I tell you a bit about myself, this would help you in the process. I have been in the field for many years working with adolescents to seniors in a variety of settings. I’ve worked in private psychiatric hospitals, outpatient clinics, schools, prisons and private practice. Most of my clients experience depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues or relationship struggles. I take a very active approach in therapy as opposed to just listening. I try to modify my approach most suited for the client to facilitate change.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 1 ratings

Rachel Krauser

LCSW, 12 years of experience

Authentic
Intelligent

Specialties

Life Transitions
Peer Relationships
Self Esteem
+6
Through both personal and professional experience, I understand how overwhelming life can feel when you know something needs to change but aren’t sure where to start. It can be scary and overwhelming, but with guidance it’s possible to make changes that will feel exciting and empowering. I am skilled working with teens and young adults who are just starting to explore themselves and their place in the world, individuals and families navigating and adjusting to life changes, managing interpersonal relationships, reinventing yourself and managing the expectations you’ve set and finding who you want to be when you grow up. It’s so easy to think that we’re stuck in the situations we find ourselves in but I promise you that you can rewrite your story. Our time together will be an hour in your week where you can drop your mask in a safe space without fear of judgment. By allowing yourself to feel all your feelings we can break down whatever is holding you back to help you to build confidence, find clarity and the direction you’ve been searching for. I’m excited for us to get started.
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Marissa Bruder

LCSW, 9 years of experience

New to Grow

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
School Issues
+10
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I bring years of experience working with a wide range of populations and addressing a broad spectrum of emotional, relational, and mental health needs. I help individuals, couples, and families navigate life’s challenges and transitions with compassion, clarity, and evidence-based care. Whether you’re facing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship struggles, or school-related challenges and life transitions, I offer a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where healing and growth can happen. My approach is integrative and personalized, drawing from modalities such as CBT, mindfulness, trauma-informed care, and solution-focused therapy—tailored to what works best for you. Whether you’re looking to build coping tools, heal from past wounds, improve your relationships, or feel more grounded and confident, I’m here to help. Together, we’ll work at a pace that feels right for you—toward meaningful, lasting change. Therapy with me is about more than symptom relief—it’s about reclaiming your voice, reconnecting with your values, and building the life you want. My goal is to create a safe, welcoming, and nonjudgmental space where you can feel truly seen, heard, and empowered.
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Frequently asked questions

Why filter by New Jersey rather than a city like Newark?

When looking for online therapy, you can see anyone that is credentialed in the state. We want you to find the best fit, therefore, Grow Therapy shows available therapists across New Jersey from Jersey City to Paterson! If you’d rather see someone in-person, you can change the filter from virtual and find a therapist near you in New Jersey.

Will my therapist take Golden Rule?

Yes! If you use Golden Rule you’ll be asked to verify your Member ID at the time you book the appointment. However, if you don’t have Golden Rule you can select cash. Our therapists will have their cost of appointment on their profile. Individual session costs will vary.

How does the Specialty Filter work? Can I find a therapist that focuses on a specific issue?

The specialty filter is optional. You don’t need to check any boxes to see a provider. However, fit is very important when selecting an online therapist. If you have knowledge or experience to recognize what specialties you may need.

What are the "Clients say I'm" badges?

Grow Therapy asks patients about their experience with therapists after they have had a certain number of sessions. After enough responses, we add those characteristics to their profiles to help you find the best online therapists for you. We're still working on collecting this information from all our therapists.

Why use Gender, Age, and Identities filters?

Finding a provider with a similar life experience can be beneficial because it can be easier to establish rapport and potentially be understood quicker and clearer.

What to expect during your first session?

Your first therapy session is for you and your therapist to meet each other and to ask any questions that you have about the counseling process. This is where you can expect your therapist to do the same as they will ask questions to gain insight into your specific situation. In this first session the therapist is doing their part to gather as much information so they can better assess if they are able to meet your therapeutic needs.

Depending upon your provider's specialty, you may also discuss the methods the therapist will use. For additional information on therapy methods, please visit the Grow Therapy Help Center. Some people feel nervous before their first appointment, and that is totally normal! Coming prepared with a list of questions for your therapist may help. Remember, you're taking a brave step by seeking therapy, and it is okay to be nervous as you try something new.