Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Freehold, NJ covered by Cigna

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.

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.

Welcome! I'm Jackie. Are you or your teen feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of how to move forward? I specialize in supporting adolescents, young adults, and adults in navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, family dynamics, life transitions, and school-related challenges. My goal is to provide a safe and validating space where you feel heard and supported.

My journey began as a deeply personal quest for healing, shaped by significant challenges such as abandonment, neglect, and trauma. Overcoming hardships like poverty, familial substance abuse, and toxic relationships led me to a lifelong struggle with anxiety and feelings of isolation. In my search for relief, I explored countless self-help resources, pursued degrees in psychology, and experimented with therapeutic techniques, yet nothing seemed to offer lasting change.

Everything shifted for me about three years ago when I experienced a transformative moment that inspired the creation of the Blue Lotus Approach. This method has not only helped me heal but has also profoundly impacted my clients, guiding them toward self-awareness and resilience.

I am a Psychotherapist and Psychoanalyst with over 30 years of clinical, supervisory and administrative experience, licensed in the states of NY and NJ. I graduated from NYU School of Social Work with Master's Degree in Social Work, and NJ Institute for Psychoanalytic Studies with PsyA Degree. I provide individual therapy to adults and seniors, as well as I do consultations, coaching and clinical supervision.

I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor and the owner of Transformative Journey Counseling, LLC. I hold a Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Springfield College and a Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis from Saint Joseph’s University. I also earned my Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies from The Pennsylvania State University.

I specialize in helping adults navigate anxiety, stress, trauma, and adjustment-related challenges. My work focuses on empowering clients to gain insight, build resilience, and find healthy ways to cope and grow through life’s transitions.