Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Chester, NJ covered by Aetna

I believe the therapeutic relationship is the cornerstone of healing and growth and am dedicated to creating a collaborative and empathetic environment. I have been a licensed NJ therapist for 3 years, working with individuals of various ages, cultures, and points of view. I especially enjoy working with those in transitional periods of life - preteen and adolescents, young adults/college students, and adults navigating a new role or challenge for the first time.

I have the experience of years in the field and I'm open to experience of those who come seeking help.

My path to being a therapist involved listening to feedback I've received most of my life. For many years I experienced others coming to me in crisis, whether I knew them well or not. I often wondered why others felt comfortable sharing with me and why they were confident in coming to me for assistance. What makes me suited to be a therapist is a natural talent and motivation to assist others in transformation. Providing therapy is my second career; previously, I worked as a hospital administrator for many years. I went into the profession of health administration for compensation and prestige. Security was my motivation at the time. After several years of not feeling fulfilled, I decided to pursue what was missing and lead with my heart

I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with advanced training in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health conditions. I hold a Master of Science in Nursing with a specialization in Psychiatric-Mental Health and have over 15 years of experience working in psychiatry across outpatient, inpatient, and telehealth settings.

I work with adolescents, adults, and older adults, with a focus on anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, and recovery support.

I am trained in the research-based Gottman Method for couples counseling, Level 1 and 2. I'm also EMDR certified for trauma resolution counseling. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in good standing in NJ and FL. I'm fluent in English and Spanish. My personal experiences ignited in me a desire to grow and to help others feel empowered, supported, and hopeful. My professional experiences have fueled my passion to heal and help people achieve the life they desire. I love working with couples and helping partners rebuild connection and trust. Please note that most insurance plans do not cover couples therapy, as it is not considered a medically necessary service. For this reason, couples sessions are offered on a private-pay basis.

If you’re looking for a therapist who will validate your feelings and gently (or not so gently) challenge your patterns, we might be a great fit. I bring warmth, honesty, humor, and accountability into the therapy room. I show up as a real human who will laugh with you, sit in the hard stuff, and call things out when they need to be called out.

I have a Master's degree in Counseling and am a License Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) with 36 years-experience working with Psycho active substance abuse disorder including: long-term, short-term care, IOP, OP, detox and sober living. I worked 30+ years in a rehab and worked my way up to Executive Director, but my passion remains in direct individual care.

Justin Salandanan has been in the field of psychiatry for over a decade and has been treating adult clients of various ethnic backgrounds for several years. Justin specializes in the medication management of depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbances.