Meet Tara
My Experience
My experience includes having worked in private practice since 2012 counseling adults, teens, and adolescents. I have counseled families in their homes in addition to working in both middle school and high school settings since 2008. Being certified as a New Jersey School Counselor, a New Jersey SAC, and Licensed Professional Counselor, helps enable me to provide even more knowledge and expertise to all of my adolescent and teenage clients.
There are many different approaches that a counselor can take with individuals and families. I look at a client’s entire life i.e. social, family, personal beliefs, environment, and genetics. Counselors are based on the Wellness Model, meaning that I take into consideration the stage of life you are in and where you are developmentally.
Furthermore, I view mental health as a continuum, where clients should be continuing to the next stage and reaching their highest quality of life. I believe in and use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. The basis of this orientation is around the concept of peoples’ thoughts affecting their actions and if their thoughts change, their actions can change, even if the situation stays the same. For clients suffering from OCD, I use ERP, CBT, and ACT counseling techniques. I will also use many different strategies and techniques in this school of thought, along with borrowing from others if I believe it will be beneficial for my client.
My ability to connect with each individual client and form a warm, trusting relationship has helped my clients enjoy therapy and take full advantage of the therapeutic process.
Degrees and Credentials:
Bachelor of Arts, Psychology
(William Paterson University, 2006)
Masters of Education in Counseling
(William Paterson University, 2009)
Licensed Professional Counselor (NJ)
School Counselor (NJ)
Student Awareness Coordinator (NJ)
Director of Guidance (NJ)
National Certified Counselor
Approved Clinical Supervisor
Affiliations:
American Counseling Association
National Board for Certified Counselors
A Little Bit About My Practice
Anew Counseling Services was established in 2012 and has successfully treated many teenagers and adults. My goal is to create a supportive, warm environment in which my clients can explore their emotional needs and overcome barriers that limit their full potential. I take an open-minded approach and consider every aspect of my clients’ lives. I offer individual counseling to my teen and adult clients.
My Office
Contact me now to set up a free 15 minute consultation!
When My Therapy Hat Comes Off
I always preach to clients that self-care and work-life balance is so important and I practice what I preach in my own personal life. I have two German Shepherds that are my babies! Some may say I am slightly obsessed with them! I love gardening, cooking, and crafts. I love making wreaths and turned that hobby into a tiny business on Etsy too! I love nature and being outside. In the summer you can find me at the beach or in the pool and during the spring and fall, I am usually at a park or on a hike with my pups! Horror movies are my favorite to do on Friday nights (which are always pizza nights!)
My Commitment to You
Counseling has always been something I was passionate about well before I became a Licensed Professional Counselor. I always tell people that I never feel like this is work because I love it so much. My clients well-being and success are my top priorities. I will always create an environment where you feel comfortable, are never judged, and are being heard.
I am dedicated to working collaboratively with you—never as the expert over you, but as a guide walking with you. Together, we will figure out what is standing in your way, build insight, and develop practical tools that empower you to create meaningful, lasting change. Your goals and values will shape our work, and therapy will unfold at a pace that feels safe and manageable for you.
Take the time today to fill out my contact form and we can start your journey together!