The Psych Center THERAPISTS Edgewater, nj

Joseph Retik, LPC, CCTP-||, BCPC, CCH, NBCCH.

Joseph Retik is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of New Jersey in addition, he is certified as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. He has a Master's Degree in counseling from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Joseph has experience with providing individual therapy to adults and adolescents who have anxiety and depression.

Joseph has extensive experience in working with individuals struggling through grief and loss as well as substance abuse obstacles. Modalities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Humanistic, Client Centered Therapy, Hypnosis, meditation/relaxation, progressive muscle relaxation, and other approaches that are effective with clients of all ages. He is a member of the American Counseling Association and American Psychotherapy Association. In addition, Retik is a Board Certified Professional Counselor from the American Board of Professional Counselors and holds a certification as a National Board Certified Clinical Hynotherapist. Also, he is a Certified Tobacco Cessation Treatment Specialist. Retik is bilingual and speaks fluent Spanish.

With over 25 years of experience, Joseph is passionate and confident as a counselor/psychotherapist with integrating mindfulness-based approaches into effective therapy.

Contact Joseph: 201-606-2592

CARINA GARCIA-TORRADO MSW, LCSW, ADHD-CCSP

Carina Garcia-Torrado is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with many types of clients to achieve their personal goals. Carina believes that everyone’s reasons for seeking therapy are unique.

For Carina, therapy is a collaborative effort and as your therapist she can help you build the road to get you where you want to be. Garcia-Torrado feels that taking care of your mental health is as normal as getting a physical at your doctor. She hopes that the space you both create is comfortable for you to share your feelings, safe enough to practice the skills learned in session and realize that change is possible.

Carina enjoys working with individual clients, couples, and families. She is bilingual and bicultural and can relate to clients who are first-generation and come from multigenerational backgrounds. She is also a fluent Spanish speaker. Garcia-Torrado's concentration and passion is working with those who have been diagnosed with ADHD as adults and the challenges they face. Carina is an ADHD certified clinical service provider and focuses on skills training to improve executive skills function and emotional regulation.

Carina is a member of the Phi Alpha Honor Society and the National Association of Social Workers. In addition, she serves as an adjunct professor in the School of Communication and Media at Montclair State University. She received her undergraduate degree at Montclair State University and her Masters degree in the School of Social Work at Rutgers University.

Contact Carina at 201-606-2592

Alison Russo, MS, LAC

Alison has earned an MS in Clinical Mental Heath Counseling from Capella University, a CACREP accredited program, and is an active member of the Chi Sigma Iota National Honor Society, the National Society of Leadership and Success, the American Counseling Association, as well as the New Jersey Counseling Association.

She is proud to be a new member of the Psych Center family as she begins her journey as a Clinical Mental Health Counselor.

Alison is open to working with individuals, couples, and families of all ages and ethnicities. She has a strong appreciation for diverse populations, and acknowledges that each client is unique, and has different needs, values, and worldviews. She believes that counseling sessions need to be tailored to each unique individual, couple, or family, for the best therapeutic outcome.

Alison has experience in treating anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and she has a deep understanding in working with children who have behavioral issues, and have difficulty in regulating their emotions.

Alison’s theoretical approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, and Behavioral Therapy, and she has a deep understanding of Gestalt Therapy. Her approach to counseling sessions includes empathy, compassion, respect, and skillful listening.

Contact Alison 201-606-2592

Ingrid Diaz-Balart, MSW LSW

Ingrid Diaz-Balart has a Master Degree in Social Work with a concentration in Children and Families from Monmouth University in New Jersey. In addition, she is a Licensed Social Worker in the State of New Jersey.

Ingrid Diaz-Balart is a member of the National Association of Social Workers.

Ingrid Diaz Balart is a first-generation immigrant. As such, she is bicultural and is fluent in Spanish.

For the past 34 years, Ingrid has worked with children of all ages, with families, with individuals, and with couples. Ingrid has wide-ranging knowledge in working with a diverse population who are encountering different challenges in their personal and professional lives. The following are some of the modalities that she prescribes to: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Humanistic, Client Center, and Strength-Based.

Throughout her work, children, families, individuals, and couples were able to achieve their goals, move forward with their lives and used the learned skills to empower themselves.

As a therapist, Ingrid believes that everyone has the potential to empower themselves, achieve their goals, and lead the lives that they envision.

Contact Ingrid at (201)606-2592.

Thomas Larson, MSW, LCSW

Thomas Larson received his BA from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1977 and his Masters in Social Work from Loyola of Chicago in 1984. He has four post-masters certificates from the Silver School at NYU in:

Forensic Mental Health
Adult Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse
Psychotherapy and Addictions
Spirituality and Social Work

He has achieved a certification in gambling addiction (May 2021) from Rutgers University, as well as a certification in trauma treatment (September 2022) through the New Jersey Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers.

Thomas is interested in treating depression and anxiety. He also has an interest in treating survivors of sexual abuse. He enjoys and welcomes treating the LGBTQ+ community. Thomas works with individuals and couples in a psychodynamic modality.

Contact Thomas: 973-587-8040

Lauren Marotta, LPCA

As a dedicated therapist, I specialize in providing compassionate and effective therapy to individuals navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and life transitions. My approach integrates cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness practices and psychodynamic insight, tailored to meet each client's unique needs. My therapeutic approach is grounded in empathy, respect, and collaboration. I believe in creating a safe and non-judgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences openly. Together, we can work towards identifying and changing negative patterns, fostering personal growth, and enhancing overall well-being.

Contact Lauren: 973-587-8040

Masters level Clinical Interns

Patricia Solares

As a second-year bilingual and bicultural Master of Social Work student and clinical intern at the Psych Center, Patricia Solares is dedicated to advocating for and empowering individuals of all ages and diverse backgrounds. Her commitment to the core values of Social Work- service, dignity and worth of the person, the importance of human relationships, integrity, and competence- guides her practice and interactions with clients. She believes in a holistic approach to therapy, recognizing the importance of addressing psychological, social, and environmental factors that influence mental health.

In her role at the Psych Center, she engages with clients to develop personalized treatment plans that reflect their unique needs and strengths. She employs evidence-based interventions, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness techniques, while also integrating creative therapeutic approaches that foster healing and growth of the individual. Her goal is to provide bicultural comprehensive care that goes beyond symptom management to promote overall well-being, resilience, and a better quality of life. In line with her bicultural upbringing and background, she especially enjoys addressing the mental health needs of the Spanish speaking community, minorities, and first-generation Americans. Patricia’s empathetic nature and dedication to social work values ensure that each client receives compassionate and effective mental health care.

Nicole DeMarco

I am a Masters/Ed.S Professional Counseling student at Seton Hall University. I believe in creating a safe and non-judgmental environment for my clients. I want to work with diverse populations to help them with their emotional and psychological issues and encourage them to lead healthier lives and build resilience. I believe in looking at an individual’s overall wellbeing and collaborating with my clients to achieve their mental health goals. I will treat my clients with compassion to ensure that a strong therapeutic foundation is built and will continue to help clients grow and reach their potential. I believe that my clients are unique individuals that are deserving of ethical and culturally competent care. I have an interest in working with clients who are struggling with life adjustments and anxiety related issues.

Harleen Bhoombla

I am currently a clinical intern in my second year of the Master of Arts Professional Counseling program at Seton Hall University. With a passion for helping others navigate life's challenges, I have dedicated my studies and experiences to supporting individuals struggling with various mental health concerns. Throughout my journey, I have gained valuable experience in counseling adults facing a range of challenges including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and ADHD. I approach counseling with empathy, understanding, and a commitment to fostering a safe and supportive environment for clients to explore their thoughts, emotions, and goals. Also, I’m fluent in the Hindi and Punjabi languages.

Angelica Mercado

Angelica is a dedicated clinical intern pursuing her Master of Arts Degree in Counseling at Kean University. As a member of Chi Sigma Iota National Honor Society and recipient of the J. Barry Mascari Heart of a Counselor Award, she is committed to her client's personal growth and well-being.

Her experience with diverse populations, fluency in Spanish, and person-centered approach place her client's experiences, values, and goals at the heart of sessions, creating an inclusive space where they feel supported. Angelica uses evidence-based approaches, such as mindfulness and creative interventions to help her clients explore new perspectives and promote self-discovery. She is also passionate about helping adolescents and young adults navigate challenges and discover their strengths.

Angelica is eager to embark on this transformative journey with her clients, supporting them in achieving their desired goals and creating a brighter future.

Grace Brenzel

Grace is a master's student at Seton Hall University. Grace believes in the intrinsic value of each individual. She is committed to working with clients to create a warm and nonjudgmental space where clients can express themselves openly and authentically. She hopes this allows for a safe space to explore thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to foster self-compassion and promote well-being. Through a collaborative process, Grace empowers clients in taking an active role in their journey and actualizing their potential. She believes in an integrative approach as each client has unique needs. She works to create a safe and affirming space that celebrates diversity and is committed to advocating for positive change inside and outside of counseling. Grace has three years of experience working with children as a special education aide. She is open to working with children, adults, and couples with varying needs.

Madeleine Starr

I am currently a student at Seton Hall University in the process of completing my Masters/Eds Professional Mental Health Counseling degree. I have always had a strong passion for mental health and helping those through life’s wild journey. Graduate studies, real world experience, and a desire to improve the mental health profession have all contributed to my mental health education. I believe in a comfortable and confidential environment where the client feels safe and heard. I have an interest in working with those struggling with trauma and loss as well as with persons dealing with depression and anxiety related difficulties.

Ruchi Lal

Ruchi Lal, a dedicated Master or Arts student intern pursuing her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health. With a compassionate heart and a keen understanding of the diverse cultural backgrounds that shape individual experiences, Ruchi is committed to fostering a safe and inclusive space for her clients. Her cultural insights allow her to navigate biases with sensitivity, ensuring that mental health support is both relevant and effective. Ruchi employs a unique blend of therapeutic techniques tailored to each client’s specific needs, empowering them to explore their challenges and cultivate resilience. With Ruchi, clients find not just a therapist, but a partner in their journey toward healing and growth. Ruchi is also fluent in Hindi and Urdu languages. When time permits she enjoys working at her non profit which also aims to address societal reluctance or negative perceptions surrounding mental health .

CJ Koskulitz

I am currently pursuing my Master's Degree in Sports Psychology with the goal of achieving my PhD. I am open to working with all different populations of various ages. I believe that therapy should be available to everyone and everyone can benefit from having someone to talk to. As an athlete, I have the advantage of understanding what other athletes go through and as such can provide them with assistance related to sports counseling. In addition, having worked at the YMCA for nine years in various roles, I have many experiences related to being a support, advocate, and helper to those in need. Some of my personal interests include woodworking, gardening, and traveling the country to play volleyball.

Tia Lee

Tia Lee is a third-year student pursuing a Doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from Capella University. She holds a master's degree from NYU in Counseling for Mental Health and Wellness and is a Licensed Mental health Counselor in New York City. With a strong commitment to advocating for individuals facing mental health challenges, she draws from her diverse background in psychology and counseling to empower clients of all ages. Her professional experience spans various roles in substance abuse and mental health services, where she has successfully implemented evidence-based interventions and developed comprehensive treatment plans tailored to meet each client's unique needs.
In her practice, Tia embraces a holistic approach that recognizes the intricate interplay between psychological, social, and environmental factors affecting mental health. She is passionate about fostering resilience and promoting well-being through compassionate, client-centered care. Tia's background includes working with diverse populations, and she is particularly committed to addressing the mental health needs of underserved communities. Her empathetic nature and dedication to her clients ensure they receive effective and supportive mental health services as they navigate their journeys toward healing and personal growth.

Shanita Russell

I am a Master of Social Work (MSW) student at Capella University and bring a unique perspective to psychotherapy combining my Bachelors degree in Criminal Justice with my passion for supporting mental health. As a therapist in training, I am passionate about providing culturally sensitive and affirming psychotherapy services to individuals from diverse backgrounds, including the LGBTQ+ community. My approach is collaborative, empathetic, empowering, and person-centered. I believe that every individual has the strength and resilience to overcome challenges and achieve their goals. I strive to create a safe, inclusive and welcoming space for everyone while we navigate life's challenges, explore your identity and foster personal growth to reach your full potential. Let’s work together to support healing, growth and positive change.