Book a therapist or psychiatrist in East Brunswick, NJ covered by Aetna

I specialize in working with clients who are experiencing challenges in relationships (such as w/ a partner, friends, family or coworkers); LGBTQIA+ clients; and clients who are moving through life changes or transitions. Whether you’re navigating emerging adulthood and "adulting" for the first time, redefining a relationship, grieving a loss, questioning your sexuality, coming out, adjusting to an empty nest, exploring spirituality, or learning how to show up in life as your true authentic self, I am here to walk beside you on your journey!

I’m Rocio Jenkins, MSN, APN, PMHNP-BC, a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing evidence-based, compassionate care to adults and adolescents across New Jersey.

I specialize in anxiety disorders, ADHD, depression, trauma-related conditions, and women’s mental health. Many of my clients come to me feeling overwhelmed, stuck, burned out, or unsure whether medication is the right next step. My role is to help you gain clarity, emotional stability, and confidence in your treatment plan.

At Child and Adolescent Psychiatry of Southern New Jersey, we specialize in psychiatric care for children, adolescents, and adults, and we've spent decades doing this work at every level — from a child struggling to focus in school, to complex cases involving severe autism, suicidal behavior, substance use, and everything in between. We don't cherry-pick the easy cases. We show up for the hard ones.

What makes us different: We're not content to offer what every other practice offers. We are constantly evolving — because psychiatry is evolving — and we believe our patients deserve access to the most advanced, effective tools available anywhere.

With 29 years of experience in the field, I remain deeply committed to helping individuals and families impacted by the far-reaching effects of mental illness and every day life stressors. I believe meaningful change begins when clients feel safe, seen, heard and supported. I create a nurturing, emotionally safe environment and emphasizes the importance of a strong therapeutic relationship as the foundation for healing. Known for my nonjudgmental, compassionate approach.

My work is collaborative and individualized, integrating evidence-based practices through a trauma-informed and attachment-based lens. I draw from cognitive-behavioral, strengths-based, and relational approaches while incorporating Sandplay Therapy, expressive and play-based techniques, mind-body practices, meditation, stress management, and psychoeducation. When clinically appropriate, these methods are thoughtfully blended into a comprehensive approach that supports healing, growth, and overall wellness.

I earned my undergraduate degree in Family Studies from the University of Maryland in 1998. After returning to New Jersey, I began working in community mental health while pursuing my Master of Social Work at Rutgers University, graduating magna cum laude in 2002. I completed three years of study and specialized training in Sandplay Therapy. I went on to provide intensive in-home family and individual therapy to children, adolescents, adults, and parents in crisis. After four years of postgraduate supervision and clinical work, I earned my Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) credential in 2008.

I continued to provide therapeutic services through New Jersey’s Children’s System of Care and I also worked in outpatient settings, supporting children, teens, adults, and parents.

Hi! My name is Claudine Destine; I am a Dual-Certified Family/Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 9 years of experience. I have a Master's degree in Nursing. I have experience treating Depression, Anxiety, OCD, ADHD, and other mental illnesses.

MSN, APN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC

A Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner provides mental health services for patients from adolescence through adulthood (12-65+). Leona went to Widener University for Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing, Walden University for Master of Science in Nursing as a Family Nurse Practitioner, and Wilkes University for Post-Masters Certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.

I work with teens and adults, tailoring therapy to each person’s experiences, needs, and goals. I offer a supportive space to explore challenges, build coping skills, and develop a stronger sense of self.

I specialize in trauma, anxiety, PTSD, depression, OCD, eating concerns, and borderline personality disorder (BPD). My practice is LGBTQIA+ affirming, with experience supporting people navigating gender identity, gender dysphoria, and related personal and social challenges.

I draw from CBT, Narrative Therapy, mindfulness-based approaches, and Motivational Interviewing, with Trauma-Focused CBT for adolescents when appropriate. Together, we work to understand patterns, process difficult experiences, and create meaningful change. For teens, I involve parents or caregivers when appropriate while respecting the young person’s privacy and growing independence.

I’m a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a background in both medical and behavioral health care. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and grounded in real-world experience—helping clients feel understood while working together toward meaningful change.

My professional journey has included years of practice across inpatient, community, and outpatient settings, where I’ve supported individuals and families navigating mental health challenges, substance use recovery, and life transitions. I value creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients can explore their goals and develop strategies for wellness and resilience.

I believe effective care blends clinical knowledge with empathy, respect, and open communication. My goal is to meet you where you are, honor your unique story, and help you move toward a more balanced and fulfilling life.