Prenatal and postpartum therapists & psychiatrists in New Jersey

I have a M.S. Mental Health Counseling graduate degree with a specialization in Substance Abuse Disorder, a M.A. Psychology graduate degree and an undergraduate B.A. Psychology degree.

I have worked in a variety of settings including hospitals, detox and rehab facilities, outpatient PCP and IOP mental health and individual private practice. I have worked with a range of different clients from many different backgrounds and ages (children, preteen, teen, adult and elderly).

I hold a Master’s degree in Applied Psychology from New York University and have experience working across a variety of settings, including outpatient counseling, community work, and crisis intervention.

My goal is to help my clients find a greater sense of purpose in life. My practice focuses on individual therapy for late teens, young adults, and middle-aged adults. If you are ready to set and achieve your personal goals, I am here to walk alongside you. I will provide you with a safe space to explore your thoughts, emotions and memories.

I will challenge the way you think, help you establish coping skills, teach you effective communication, and ultimately be the best version of yourself!

Welcome to my practice! My name is Nichola Lydon, and I’m excited to work with you. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC), and Certified Peer Recovery Specialist. I hold a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Montclair State University.

With over six years of experience, I’ve had the privilege of working with individuals facing a wide range of challenges—including substance use disorders, perinatal mood disorders, and the overwhelming stressors of daily life. Whether you’re struggling with substance use dependency, navigating a difficult transition, or feeling stuck, I’m here to help.

My approach is honest, direct, and always rooted in compassion. I believe in having the tough conversations without judgment—because healing starts with truth, not sugarcoating. My practice is a safe, stigma-free space, where you can feel supported, heard, and empowered to create meaningful change.

If you're ready to do the work, face challenges head-on, and build a more resilient life, I’m ready to walk alongside you every step of the way.

Let’s begin your journey toward healing and growth—together.

With the proper support and guidance, therapy helps you cultivate your strengths, regain control, learn ways to overcome challenges, enrich your life, and take steps toward a more fulfilling future. I can help you identify patterns in your life so that you can develop a clearer understanding of your life experiences and create more positive relationships and productive behavior change. I take an active and empathetic approach to psychotherapy by establishing mutually agreed upon therapeutic goals with my clients and providing a comfortable space to explore, discuss, and be heard.

My specialty areas include anxiety, depression, life transitions, disordered eating, and interpersonal and relationship difficulties. My therapy style combines psychodynamic, CBT and DBT therapies based on the specific needs of each client.

If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're simply ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.

I’m the owner of a growing group practice Guided Hope Center, where our focus is helping individuals and couples who feel overwhelmed, mentally drained, or stuck in patterns that aren’t working especially around anxiety, relationships, and life transitions.

With over 10 years in the mental health field, I’ve worked across outpatient and in-home settings and have advanced training in trauma. I’m also trained in the Gottman Method (Level 2) for couples work and provide clinical direction and support to my team in this approach.

When you reach out, I take time to understand what you’re looking for and thoughtfully match you with a clinician in my practice who fits your needs, personality, and goals. Our goal is not just to get you into therapy but to get you connected with the right therapist.

Please note: Couples counseling is offered as a self-pay service and is not billed through insurance. This allows us to focus treatment on the relationship rather than insurance billing requirements. We'd be happy to discuss fees and answer any questions during your consultation.