Great to meet you!
I earned my bachelor degree in psychology at NJCU (New Jersey Ciy University) and recieved my Masters in Social Work at Rutgers University. I am a NJ State Licensed Social Worker. I have had my license for over a year and have been a therapist since recieving my license. I've been a substance abuse counselor and I currently also do in home therapy with youth and families. Prior to becoming therapist, I did a few years in case management with families and children, daycare worker, and in home behavioral assistant. I have wanted to be a therapist since I was about 17 years old when I took my first psychology course in high school. I have always been passionate about working with children and families and providing support for others to process and understand their behaviors or others in an easy going environment.
A bit about my approach to therapy
My counseling philosophy is rooted in the concept of establishing a safe space that is non-judgmental, where clients can heal and grow at their own pace. Clients will be able to counseling and it won't feel like a task to complete constantly the work will built naturally and solution focused base on what the clients needs and wants. I do lean towards the humanistic approach to counseling, which believes that people are basically good, and have an innate need to make themselves and the world better. I work with each client to build a strong therapeutic alliance utilizing empathetic dialogue, to develop a unique therapeutic plan that is shaped by each client’s own personal needs and goals. I try to see the world as my clients see it, as such I listen empathically and without judgment. My goal is to help people to find their personal worth and to help them understand that they have the ability to overcome hardship, pain and despair. Within this framework and within an environment of compassion and tolerance, I make sure that my clients feel heard and respected, and that we act as joint participants in their therapeutic journey.
About Me
In my free time I enjoy spending time with partner and family, playing video games or visiting my favorite places to relax. My favorite hobby is playing basketball. I enjoy hiking, reading, gaming, and travelling. I am always looking forward to a beach day any chance I get.
Esther's style is
Humorous
Empowering
Creative
Warm
Affirming
Direct
Open-minded
Energetic
Specializes in
Family Issues
Gay / Lesbian / Bisexual Issues
Grief / Bereavement
Women's Issues
Trauma
More about Monique
MSW (Masters in Social Work) at Rutgers University
License type: LSW
Gender: Female
Ethnicity: Black or African descent
Languages: English
Works with: Children, Adolescents, Women and Adults
More specialties: ADD/ADHD, Trauma, Anger Management, Sleep disorder, OCD, and Eating Disorders
Modalities: Motivational Interviewing, SDialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Strength-Based, Trauma Focused, and Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)