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We're Here to Listen and help you pursue your goals and dreams.
Treatment
Our Practice
Our Treatment Focus
Our Treatment Focus
Our experience enables us to offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychological care. We treat a number of mental health disorders, including specialization in addiction services and trauma. We provide a neutral ground to individuals, children, families, and couples.
Our Treatment Focus
Our Treatment Focus
Our Treatment Focus
Our focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan.
Our Patient Promise
Our Treatment Focus
Yoga Wellness and Mindful Movement Group with Olivia, LSW
We promise to be there for you every step of your journey. Our goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
Yoga Wellness and Mindful Movement Group with Olivia, LSW
Yoga Wellness and Mindful Movement Group with Olivia, LSW
Yoga Wellness and Mindful Movement Group with Olivia, LSW
This group will explore wellness through breathwork, mindfulness and intentional movement. Practice provides relief from experiences of stress, anxiety, and depression, improvements in self and body awareness and inner strength, enhanced focus, pain relief, and skill acquisition for wellness and healing
Teen Art Group with Laura, LPC
Yoga Wellness and Mindful Movement Group with Olivia, LSW
Overcoming Anger and Frustration with Amir and Michael
This group is designed to use creative outlets, such as drawing, painting collage, or sculpting, to explore difficult emotions and issues. Through these outlets teens can gain a platform to share experiences, receive peer support, and build self-esteem. Ages 14-18. Every Saturday at 11:30am.
Overcoming Anger and Frustration with Amir and Michael
Yoga Wellness and Mindful Movement Group with Olivia, LSW
Overcoming Anger and Frustration with Amir and Michael
Our goal for this group is to offer support, provide education and encourage healthy behaviors to those who struggle with anger by helping them gain more insight into their thoughts, cognitive distortions, underlying assumptions and how to reframe them as needed. In addition, stress management, emotional regulation and tolerance strategies are identified and explored. Through discussions, interactive examples and psychoeducation, the group gains a better understanding of their internal and external triggers. Topics include Anger as a secondary emotion, coping skills, consequences of actions, acceptance and tolerance of uncomfortable feelings, mindfulness and relaxation exercises. The overall objective of the group is to create an understanding of difficult emotions and develop more effective ways to cope with these emotions.
Reiki for Mind, Body and Wellness with Sadaqah
Reiki for Mind, Body and Wellness with Sadaqah
Reiki for Mind, Body and Wellness with Sadaqah
Reiki is designed to promote relaxation, known to reduce stress and anxiety. Reiki promotes a better mental health status with continuous hourly sessions every week. The goal for Reiki is to have the client leave feeling relaxed and pampered.
Medication Management with Kene, APN
Reiki for Mind, Body and Wellness with Sadaqah
Reiki for Mind, Body and Wellness with Sadaqah
If you are looking for more than a counseling session and feel you may be a candidate for medication management, we can set you up with our APN on staff who can provide assistance.
Meet the CEO and Owner of Serenity Counseling Center
Rosemarie Genovese - Licensed Professional Counselor and Owner of Serenity Counseling Center NJ LLC.
Rosemarie Genovese, LPC and Owner of Serenity Counseling Center NJ LLC.
Rosemarie has over 15 years experience helping clients reach their goals and skills to cope with life challenges. She handles cases involved with children, teens, adults, couples, and families. Rosemarie also works with grief, trauma, eating disorders, women’s issues, anxiety/depression, bipolar disorder, specialization in addiction treatment, MAT, legal issues such as DUI and substance abuse assessments. Rosemarie believes that life can stand in the way of pursuing your dreams. Rosemarie guides her clients from feeling “stuck” and help them to move forward to live a meaningful life. Rosemarie believes in a holistic approach in helping clients utilize mind, body, and spirit with a primary focus on Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing techniques. Rosemarie provides a safe, comfortable therapeutic environment and utilize various treatment approaches that best meet the needs of each client. Skilled in Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Group Therapy, Crisis Intervention, and Mental Health Counseling. Strong healthcare services professional with a Master's degree in Science with special focus in Counseling Psychology from Monmouth University.
Associates at Serenity Counseling Center NJ LLC
Laura Christopher, LPC
Laura has been a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey for over ten years. In her experience as a therapist, Laura has had the privilege of working with clients who have experienced emotional and physical trauma. Laura's counseling style is empathetic, open, and warm. Laura wants to assure you while in presence, you are in a safe space for you to share and explore whatever may be weighing on you. Your therapeutic relationship with Laura will be based on trust, compassion, and a desire for growth. Laura gravitates toward humanistic psychology with a focus on cognitive behavioral explorations. Laura approaches every client as an individual and develop a treatment specifically tailored to each of her clients needs. Laura has always been drawn to helping people; even more so, Laura feels passionate about allowing people a safe space to ask for help without astigmatisms or judgements. Taking the first steps toward a better, more fulfilling life takes courage and vulnerability. Laura is committed to her clients' well-being and guides them through their emotional struggles. Laura believes mental health therapists are compasses for clients to find their path to a happier self. Laura is committed to helping you through all obstacles. She looks forward to taking this journey with you!
Ashley Leeds, LMSW
- Ashley is our Virtual Counselor. She is a Licensed Social Worker in the State of New Jersey and New York. She graduated Summa Cum Laude from Rider University where she obtained her Bachelors in Psychology with Minors in Social Work and Gender and Sexuality Studies with a Certificate in Leadership Development. She also graduated with her Masters in Clinical Social Work from Columbia University. She has enjoyed counseling diverse groups of individuals falling into multiple demographics, including children (in preschool and public school settings), adolescents/ college students (first-year and international students and LGBTQIA+ identifiers), adults (in an intermediate care unit in a hospital) and more. She is passionate about working with individuals, families, and groups and specializes in anxiety and depression utilizing a client-centered
strengths-based perspective. Ashley also has experience in working with individuals using a trauma-informed lens. Ashley guides individuals in areas of healthy versus unhealthy attachments, relational obstacles, loss and bereavement, academic support, social support, and beyond. Ashley has also worked with others on adapting to new environments and balancing academic, social, and extra-curricular lives. Ashley is an advocate for ensuring that quality mental health care is delivered to vulnerable groups. She is an American Association for Psychoanalysis in Clinical Social Work (AAPCSW) Master’s Student Award for the Diana Siskind Excellence in Writing Awards 2020 Recipient, American Academy of Addiction Psychiatry (AAAP) and Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Yale Medical School Certificate Recipient, author of an Oxford Publishing chapter on School Social Work, and New York City Health Naloxone Trainee. At Columbia University School of Social Work, she was the Mental Health Caucus Leader and developed programming related to psychoeducation and implementation of mental health accessibility and resources. Ashley trains in latest modalities and brings an integrative approach to best serve clients. Some of her techniques include meditation, play, acting, music,
and movement in sessions when seen as useful. She looks forward to building a therapeutic alliance together, collaborating with you to create goals, and embarking on this journey together!
Zisa Belfer, LSW
Zisa is a Columbia University MSW graduate with six years of experience. She speaks fluent Spanish and Hebrew. Zisa specializes in trauma , grief, addictions, eating disorders and toxic eating. Zisa enjoys working with adults, couples, and families. She also works with clients stuggling with depressive disorders, bipolar, and anxiety disorders. She will work with each client to help them achieve their individual goals and help them live the lives they deserve!
Amir Sarrafian, MA/Ed.S, NCC, LAC
Amir is a Seton Hall University graduate with a Master’s in Professional Counseling and is on track towards his LPC status by 2022. Amir graduated with his Bachelor’s in Sociology with a minor in Psychology at Drew University. Amir is certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and has been working as a mental health associate for over 3 years at Penn Medicine Princeton Health. Amir has had experience working with a wide range of clients who have been suffering from depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. Amir strives to create a comfortable environment for his clients with a focus on unconditional empathy and an awareness of intersectionality. Amir believes that though each individual has a different upbringing and struggles, we all experience the same complex emotions that make us human and deserving of professional care. His goal is to not only learn from and teach his clients, but ensure that they can become the best versions of themselves in the coming future.
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Diane Barnes, LCSW
Diane Barnes, LCSW, LCADC is a New Jersey Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor.
She received her Master of Social Work (MSW) with Highest Honors from Monmouth University.
Diane’s proven ability to counsel adults of all ages, young adults and children enables her to work effectively with individual clients, each who have unique requirements and personal challenges. She is experienced in addressing multiple aspects of mental health issues to include depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues and substance abuse. She expertly employs proven methods for successful behavior modification.
Diane’s highly professional, nonjudgmental process of therapy builds on removing obstacles while creating a foundation of achievable accomplishments that assist her clients in finding the solutions they need to attain their goals. Her work in individual and group therapy treatment services allows for client’s challenges to be identified, explored, examined and addressed. Through skill development focused treatment, she works together with her clients to develop an effective plan to achieve positive, successful outcomes.
Eric Diamond MA, LCADC
I have 25 years of experience working with co-occurring clients struggling with addiction (substance abuse, sex, gambling, etc...) I am familiar with all treatment modalities utilizing the ASAM Patient Placement Criteria for the Treatment of Substance-Related Disorders. I have obtained a Masters degree in Addiction Studies from Farleigh Dickinson University. I am also a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor and a Certified Clinical Supervisor. My philosophy of working as an addiction counselor requires patience, dedication, and a desire to help people especially when one is in crisis. I provide confidential counseling and support to individuals and families. Goals in treatment include educating and encouraging a healthy, addiction-free lifestyle for each client.
Olivia Donini, LSW, Yoga Instructor
Olivia Donini is a Licensed Social Worker who specializes in using mindfulness, movement, art, play, and breathwork in therapeutic work with children, teens and adults. She received her masters degree in Clinical Social Work from Columbia University in NYC and has experience helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life's experiences to cultivate growth, healing and relief. Therapy with Olivia is grounded in a client-centered approach, where she collaborates with you to determine the best ways to meet your personal needs and goals. As a registered yoga teacher and trained mindfulness instructor, Olivia uses compassion and acceptance to help others improve emotional, mental and physical resiliency.
Sadaqah Barr, Reiki Practitioner
Sadaqah has been working for Serenity Counseling Center over the last few years as our manager and Reiki Practitioner. She has been in the medical field and mental health field for over 15 years. Sadaqah owns her own Reiki business "Spiritual Balance and Tranquility Center" as well as her own medical billing company Therapeutic Billing for Mental Health Providers, LLC. which is now part of Serenity Counseling Center’s billing company. Sadaqah focuses on Mind, Body and Spirit. Sadaqah is currently studying at Stockton University to become a Licensed Professional Counselor and studying to obtain her certification in Mediumship. Sadaqah has volunteered at the Military Veterans Hospital Mental Health Facility and many other Mental Health Facilities.
On her spare time, she loves to volunteer, spend time with her four children and family as well as traveling.
Jillian Kessler, LPC, LCADC
Jillian Kessler is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Substance Abuse Counselor through the State of New Jersey. Jillian has an extensive background of over 15 years assisting adults struggling with addiction in various levels of care. She most recently served as a clinical supervisor in a MAT setting providing guidance to new clinicians beginning in the field. Jillian's current focus and true passion is supporting moms as they navigate their way through the phases of parenthood.
Jillian utilizes an eclectic style of therapy but primarily comes from a person centered approach with a heavy emphasis on the therapeutic relationship. Components of CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and mindfulness based approaches are also incorporated into sessions.
Michael Natalewicz, Mental Health Professional
Mike is an advanced Masters student at Seton Hall University studying Professional/School Counseling. Mike received his Bachelors degree in Psychology with a minor in Spanish at The College of New Jersey. Mike has extensive training in Sport Psychology and experience with coaching youth sports. Mike’s humanistic counseling approach emphasizes a non-judgmental, empathetic, and collaborative environment to assist clients in reaching their therapeutic goals. Mike incorporates mindfulness techniques that focus on fostering motivation, goal setting, resiliency, attentional control, and relaxation. Mike is dedicated to helping client’s acknowledge the full potential within themselves by providing a safe space of support and trust to explore their personal challenges. Mike believes that therapy is a gateway for self-love and living a more fulfilled life. He looks forward to working together on your path to growth and development!What's something exciting your business offers? Say it here.
Sarah Shasho, LSW
Sarah Shasho is a Licensed Social Worker who received her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work through Concordia College. She then went on to pursue her Master’s Degree in Social Work from Wurzweiler School of Social Work.
Sarah has experience treating clients with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, social anxiety, ADHD, and substance abuse. In her practice she uses a variety of treatment approaches including, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Inner child therapy, Expressive Arts, Music Therapy, Child-centered Therapy, and Psychodynamic Therapy.
Sarah believes in creating a warm and safe environment for clients to truly heal and maximize their full potential. In addition, she focuses on each client’s individual strengths and helps clients to use their strengths to overcome the challenges they are facing in life.
Mary Luby, LCSW
Mary is a Monmouth University graduate and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 10 years. Clients use hands-on and practical interventions, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, in a strengths-based, solution focused way. Our shared focus and goal is to choose to heal wounded memories by exchanging false expectations and assumptions for healing and transforming insights. Together, new coping strategies are explored to mend varied concerns, including sleep issues, depression and anxiety, trauma based and otherwise.
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Psychiatric Services
Kene-Booker Mahatha
As a talented and highly qualified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am backed by more than 12 years of blended expertise in nursing leadership and bedside care for patients across the lifespan with behavioral health needs. I offer proven experience in both inpatient and outpatient care settings where I have been highly successful in delivering person-centered recovery-oriented care for the mind and body which has empowered my patients and their families to lead rich, fulfilling lives. My colleagues have commended my strengths in communication, organization, leadership, and collaboration; and my supervisors have praised my ability to quickly create positive rapport with clients and staff, drive elevated levels of productivity and performance, and consistently implement initiatives that improve healthcare experiences. Reading Peplau's Interpersonal Relations helped me understand that as a nurse, I am as concerned with educating the patient on disease as I am with treating disease and promoting health. Peplau talks about patients asking questions concerning their disease in the phases of nurse-patient relationships. Peplau states we often think that treating the disease itself is the most important thing; however, when we investigate further, we understand differently. We know that in many cases, without education, the patient will probably experience similar circumstances. For example, if a person is treated for an elevated blood sugar of 412 mg/dl and diagnosed with Type II Diabetes, we should provide education on diet and exercise (Peplau, 1988). Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime. (Chinese Proverb)
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Patient Care Coordinator
our newest member of the Serenity Counseling Center team. She has years of experience in coordinating patient care. She is our front desk coordinator. All scheduling and questions will go through her.
Our Therapy
Addictions, Depression & Anxiety
Addictions, Depression & Anxiety
Addictions, Depression & Anxiety
Depression, fear, and anxiety are some of the most common and uncomfortable emotions that we can experience at some point in our lives. Through counseling and treatment, we are able to help you recover motivation, perspective, and joy that you once had in your life.
Trauma & PTSD
Addictions, Depression & Anxiety
Addictions, Depression & Anxiety
Many individuals can experience symptoms associated with painful and traumatic circumstances. Anxiety, fear, and hopelessness are a few emotions that can linger post traumatic events. We can help you overcome these symptoms and guide you through the process of grief and healing.
Relationships
Addictions, Depression & Anxiety
Relationships
Relationship counseling can be beneficial to couples who are looking to strengthen their emotional connection, in all stages of their relationship. Therapy sessions are held with both couples and is a supportive place to discuss issues and solutions to better strengthen your relationship.
Adolescents
Group Therapy
Group Therapy
At Serenity Counseling Center we are here to help young people identify with each other, connect, express themselves in a safe environment and develop better coping skills to decrease feelings of frustration and anger. Serenity Counseling Center NJ Is pleased to announce we will be offering an Adolescent Anger Management group for age
At Serenity Counseling Center we are here to help young people identify with each other, connect, express themselves in a safe environment and develop better coping skills to decrease feelings of frustration and anger. Serenity Counseling Center NJ Is pleased to announce we will be offering an Adolescent Anger Management group for ages 14-19. Each group will run 6-8 weeks consecutively. Please call 732-577-7930 to facilitate a spot in the group.
Group Therapy
Group Therapy
Group Therapy
Our therapeutic groups are specifically designed and include :
Art Therapy-Children
Overcoming frustration and anger for teens-Adolescents
Healing Yoga- Adults
Reiki-individual and Energy Healing-individual sessions.
We now provide psychiatric services and medication management. Our psychiatric nurse practitioner accepts MEDICAID and MEDICARE in addition to INN
Insurances We Accept
