Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Somers Point, NJ covered by Aetna

I am a very laid-back therapist. I value the therapeutic relationship we build. I view our experience as a travel we go on together to help remove obstacles leading to your chosen goals. This is also your safe place to talk about things you may not feel comfortable talking to with people in your day-to-day life. My approach is to provide a nonjudgmental safe space.

I have extensive experience in behavioral health. I will partner with you to identify goals and approaches that meet your needs.

I strive to create a space that is comfortable, accepting and lighthearted at times. I enjoy creating a therapeutic relationship that involves a direct approach while also being welcoming and open-minded.

I was an educator for almost 14 years when I began my training in clinical mental health. I initially worked with teens and families in intensive in-home therapy. I transitioned to outpatient where I worked with women and men who had histories of abuse. My training and experience have been predominantly in trauma and grief. I have worked with individuals who suffer from mood disorders as well as personality disorders, particularly those with complex traumas and abuse in their histories.

As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Perinatal Mental Health-Certified (PMH-C) therapist, I specialize in perinatal mental health, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and other therapeutic modalities (IPT, DBT, IFS) to help women reduce anxiety and depression during this season. With a background in women's studies, I offer personalized and compassionate support for moms, moms-to-be, and women in general.

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.

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.

If you're a parent worried about your child, or a young person trying to keep it together — I see you, and I'm here to help.

Maybe your child is melting down in ways you can't explain. Maybe your teen is shutting down, struggling at school, or carrying something heavy that nobody's been able to name yet. Maybe you've tried to get help before and it didn't quite fit. Whatever brought you here, you're not overreacting — and you don't have to keep navigating this alone.