Individual Counseling
Family Counseling
Group Counseling
Couples Counseling
Clinical Supervision for LCSW Candidates
*All services are offered in-person or via Telehealth throughout the state of New Jersey, New York, & Pennsylvania
As clinician my services revolve around providing specialized support and healing to individuals who have experienced complex trauma. Complex trauma is the repeated and ongoing experience of being neglected, abused, or witness to violence at the hands of someone who was supposed to be safe. My priority is to create a safe and empathetic environment where clients feel comfortable sharing their experiences. Together we identify the impact of past traumas on the client's mental, emotional, relational and physical well-being. I work collaboratively with clients to process and reframe traumatic memories and beliefs. Grounding and relaxation techniques are integrated to manage distressing emotions and promote emotional regulation. Additionally, I help clients rebuild a sense of safety, self-esteem, and resilience. Throughout the therapeutic journey, I encourage self-compassion and gradual exposure to triggers, supporting clients in their gradual healing and reintegration of traumatic experiences into their life narratives. With sensitivity and dedication, my ultimate goal is to empower clients to find strength, meaning, and hope beyond their trauma and move toward a healthier and more fulfilling life.
As a therapist specializing in Prenatal and Postpartum Mental Health, I offer comprehensive support and guidance to individuals navigating the emotional challenges of infertility, pregnancy, pregnancy loss, and the postpartum period. Therapy provides a safe and confidential space for clients to express their feelings and fears while learning coping strategies to manage their mental health effectively. Additionally, for clients who have experienced complex trauma I integrate best practice navigating pregnancy, birth, and infant care which can be particularly triggering. I offer couples counseling to address relationship dynamics and stressors couples may experience surrounding pregnancy and in adjusting to their new roles as parents. Safety planning and risk assessments are implemented for those at higher risk, and appropriate referrals and collaboration with other healthcare professionals are coordinated when necessary. Assisting expectant parents in creating postpartum plans ensures adequate support during the immediate post-birth period. Empathy and compassion underpin all my services which fosters a nurturing environment for clients to heal and thrive during this transformative time.
I offer a range of services tailored to support individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder through a trauma-informed lens. Many survivors of trauma experience mood disorders. I create a welcoming and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. Treatment is tailored to the individual's needs using various evidence-based therapeutic approaches such as eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), or mindfulness-based techniques that help clients develop coping skills and strategies to manage their symptoms effectively. Psychoeducation plays a vital role in providing clients with information about their condition and treatment options, empowering them to actively participate in their healing journey. Ultimately, my goal is to provide compassionate and individualized care, helping clients regain control over their lives and work towards improved emotional well-being.
My goal in supporting clients managing life transitions is to create space for clients to explore their feelings, fears, and uncertainties surrounding the transition. Through active listening and validation, I help clients gain clarity about their emotions and develop a deeper understanding of their strengths and coping mechanisms. Together, we explore strategies to manage stress, build resilience, and foster adaptability to embrace the new phase in their lives. Whether it's adjusting to college, a new job, entering or exiting a relationship, or becoming a parent, I tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of each individual. My goal is to empower clients to navigate life transitions with greater confidence, self-awareness, and a renewed sense of purpose, allowing them to embrace change as an opportunity for growth and personal development.
I worked as a school social worker for 15 years prior to transitioning to private practice full-time. While my practice specialize on perinatal mental health I continue to enjoy working with adolescents and college aged students. I have extensive experience in supporting families navigate educational systems including support for individualized learning needs. Additionally I specialize in working with youth who are coping with the effects of trauma and loss which may manifest as depression, anxiety, and difficulty maintaining healthy relationships. I integrate various evidence based practices that support healthy coping, emotional regulation, and relational skills leading to improved self-esteem and good mental health.
Dr. Sharon Bale-Peña, DSW, LCSW, PMH-C
234 Madison Avenue, Wyckoff, New Jersey 07481
Virtual Appointments in NY State
(201) 477-8011
sbalepena@verdantcounselingnj.com
N.J. Lic. #44SC05801800
N.Y. Lic. # 097142-01
P.A. Lic. # CW024514
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