With over 25 years’ experience as a NJ and NY licensed clinical social worker, Candice Covington-Thomas (she/her) provides counseling to individuals, couples and families in a private practice setting working with a broad spectrum of clients. Among her areas of expertise are the treatment of Depression, Anxiety, and Relationship Challenges utilizing a blend of treatment modalities including CBT, DBT, EMDR, Systems Work with a strong appreciation for metaphysical influences that impact both the person and their natural environments.

In addition to being a compassionate and competent therapist, she also teaches graduate level social work students as a Part Time Lecturer 2 at Rutgers University–New Brunswick campus.

She is a personable empath who employs a myriad of thinking and sensing faculties to provide a unique, interactive, and genuine experience to the clients I work with. Her therapeutic approach is eclectic and designed to mimic the multiplicity of living a full and often challenging life, which must include both comedy and drama in the exploration of current challenges as they are and as we perceive them.

Candice is a Certified Clinical Supervisor offering clinical supervision to LSWs/LACs and independent clinical consultation to practicing therapists.

My family consists of my husband of 18 years and my 22 year old stepdaughter.  When I’m not working, you can find me in any cozy place, preferably with sunlight, comfortably curled reading a book and cat napping with my 2 cats, Silky and Seven.

Education
William and Mary School of Law, Williamsburg, Virginia, Juris Doctor (JD)
New York University, New York, New York, Master of Social Work (MSW)
Hampton University, Hampton, Virginia, Bachelor of Arts – Sociology (BA)

License, Certifications & Awards
Admitted to New York Bar – License No. 4089454
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), New York – License No. 048251-1
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), New Jersey – License No. 44SCO5288700

Additional Training
EMDR Trained
Mediation and Conciliation Skills Training, NJ Administrative Office of the Courts
Certificate in Adult Forensic Mental Health, New York University
Prepare/Enrich Certification
Multicultural Family Institute Certificate Training, Level 1
Clinical Supervision Series

Professional Activities and Memberships
National Association of Social Workers
American Bar Association

Supervisees
Falasade Harris, LAC
Dr. Amml Hussein, LSW
Nadia Ghnaim, LSW
Renae Bush, LAC, SAC

Marianne Gabrael (she/her) is a compassionate Licensed Professional Counselor with a strong background in clinical mental health and psychiatric rehabilitation. She is dedicated to providing supportive and client-centered therapy to individuals, couples, and families, with a special focus on adolescents and adults navigating life transitions, executive dysfunction, depression, and anxiety. Marianne holds a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Nathan Weiss Graduate College – Kean University, where she graduated with distinction. She also earned a dual Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Psychiatric Rehabilitation from Kean University and UMDNJ. As a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Marianne brings a depth of understanding and empathy to her practice.

In her role at RIST Team 1, Middlesex County, Bridgeway Behavioral Health Services, Marianne has experience helping clients through periods of change and challenge. She utilizes a range of therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Trauma-Informed Care to address issues such as executive dysfunction, depression, and anxiety. Her experience also includes crisis intervention and crafting personalized treatment plans that resonate with each client’s unique needs.

Marianne’s commitment to her clients extends beyond the therapy room. She is enthusiastic about continuous learning and integrating innovative techniques to provide the best possible support. Her warm and approachable style, along with her ability to speak and understand the Egyptian dialect of Arabic, demonstrates her cultural competence and enhances her ability to connect with clients from diverse backgrounds. Marianne is particularly attuned to the nuanced experiences of first-generation clients, offering a sensitive and informed perspective that acknowledges the unique challenges they face.

When she’s not working, Marianne enjoys reading, going to the movies, taking wellness walks, and practicing hot yoga. These activities help her stay balanced and energized, allowing her to bring her best self to her clients and their journeys.

Education
Nathan Weiss Graduate College – Kean University, Hillside, NJ, Master of Arts in Counseling (MA)
Kean University, Union, NJ , Bachelor of Science, Psychology – (BS)

License, Certificates & Advanced Credentials
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) – New Jersey – License No. 37PC01024300
National Certified Counselor (NCC)

Helping Areas of Interest
Life Transitions:  Family, School/Work, and Relationships
Pre-Teen and Adolescent Behavioral Issues: Academic Challenges, Peer Relations, Social Connections
Adult Emotional Dysregulation: Life Coaching Support, Grief Counseling, and Adjustment Challenges to major life events
Trauma Informed Care

Helping Orientation Preferences
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Solution Focused Therapy
Trauma Informed Care
Psychiatric Rehabilitation

Client Focus
Marianne specializes in guiding adolescents and adults through life changes, addressing executive dysfunction, and managing depression and anxiety. Her goal is to offer a supportive and empathetic approach that empowers clients to achieve their therapeutic goals and improve their overall well-being.

Marianne is excited to bring her expertise and culturally sensitive approach to Lessons N Sessions contributing to a nurturing and effective therapeutic environment.

Rosenna Pemberton (she/her) is a Board Certified Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Psychoanalyst. She obtained a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Walden University and has a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Barton College. She also obtained a Certification in Psychoanalysis from the Institute of Psychoanalytic Studies, Teaneck NJ.

Rosenna began her clinical experience working in private practice for the past seven years after having worked in the community for almost two.  Rosenna has assisted clients from many different walks of life and considers herself blessed to serve others within a compassionate and collaborative effort.  She has an empathetic heart for all people and utilizes an eclectic and warm approach to counseling via CBT, psychoanalysis and person-centered modalities. Her passion for therapy comes from helping others to feel empowered from both the triumphs and challenges of life.

When she is not working, Rosenna enjoys being with her husband of 28 years, her two adult daughters and her brother.

Education
Walden University, Minneapolis, MN, Master of Science (MS)
Barton College, Wilson, NC, Bachelor of Science – (BS)

License, Certificates & Advanced Credentials
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) – New Jersey – License No. 37PC00630300
Certified Psychoanalyst: The Institute for Psychoanalytic Studies, Teaneck, NJ
Therapist Type: Board Certified Licensed Professional Counselor

Helping Areas of Interest
Emotional Management:  Anger, OCD, Anxiety, Depression, and High Functioning Autism (HFA)
Pre-Teen and Adolescent Behavioral Issues, Parenting Support and Family Counseling, Family Conflict, Couples Counseling, Relationship Issues
Career Counseling and Life Coaching Support, Grief Counseling, and Self-Esteem Issues
Sexual Abuse Trauma, Spirituality

Helping Orientation Preferences
Psychoanalytic, Psychodynamic
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Emotionally Focused
Humanistic, Interpersonal and Mindfulness modalities

Client Focus
I have a special interest in treating clients seeking support in these areas: Self-Empowerment Skills Building, Adolescent Developmental Stages, Transitional Issues and Christian Counseling

Rosenna is a skillful therapist and is looking forward to bringing her expertise, skills, and person-centered modalities to Lessons N Sessions and is a welcomed addition to our clinical team.

Supervisees
Kyra Williams, LAC

Astrid is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years dedicated to advocacy and counseling.

Astrid utilizes warmth, compassion, and often humor to create a comfortable space when working with clients.  She is understanding and responsive to each person’s unique needs and believes in a collaborative approach to empower clients to bring forward their hidden strengths and find hope and healing through the process.

Astrid utilizes a blend of CBT, ACT and Solution-Focused methods to support clients; specializing in treatment with teens and young adults as they navigate their transition into life independence , with a focus on identity conflicts, anxiety, depression, communication skills, and anger management. She is also experienced in working with adults navigating life transitions, experiencing relationship challenges, and healing from trauma.

When not supporting clients, Astrid’s personal time is dedicated to the beautiful chaos of her own home life. Astrid lives with her partner, teen children, and very large and loving mastiff, Luci.  Astrid also enjoys traveling, spending time outdoors, especially at the beach, cooking, having impromptu dance parties, and being a horror movie enthusiast.

Education
Monmouth University, West Long Branch, NJ, Master of Social Work (MSW)
Slippery Rock University, Bachelor of Science, Social Work – (BSW)

License, Certificates & Advanced Credentials
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) – New Jersey – License No. 44SC05700700

Helping Areas of Interest
Relationship Challenges
Life Transitions and Adjustment Challenges
Anxiety and Depression Management
Trauma and Unresolved Past Issues

Helping Orientation Preferences
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
Trauma Informed Care
Solution Focused Therapy

Client Focus
Astrid works with adolescents and emerging, young adults who are navigating the challenges of growing independence, identity exploration, and emotional ups and downs. With a focus on anxiety, depression, communication and anger, she offers practical tools and compassionate support to help clients feel more confident, connected, and in control of their lives.

Astrid is excited to bring her skills and gifts to Lessons N Sessions offering a compassionate, warm and natural approach to therapy in a supportive environment

Falasade Harris (she/her) has been a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) for over five years and a certified School Counselor for twelve years in the state of New Jersey. She specializes in working with young adults and women with an emphasis on black, indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC). Her areas of specialty include anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, stress, life transitions, and personal development.

Sometimes the changes you desire may seem impossible or far out of reach. You know where you want to go in life, but the path forward is blocked by challenges like past trauma, anxiety, depression, or relational issues. Falasade wants to assist you with breaking through these barriers by helping you learn new ways of coping, thinking, and behaving. She utilizes Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you understand how your beliefs impact your thoughts and decision making. In addition, Falasade will empower you with therapeutic tools to assist in changing behaviors for the better.

While the journey to your destination will include difficult emotions, tough decisions, and harsh truths, Falasade’s intention is to guide you with care and create an environment of trust. Falasade prides herself on being down to earth and approachable as your comfort is essential to your engagement in therapy. She believes that YOU are the captain on your journey, and she serves as the co-captain, providing support and guidance as you head towards your destination.

When Falasade is not counseling, she enjoys traveling (especially to Panama to visit her family), hosting parties, cooking, and listening to music. She is currently beginning her new journey as a sewist.

Education
Seton Hall University, South Orange, New Jersey, Master of Arts (MA)
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Bachelor of Arts (BA)

License, Certificates & Advanced Credentials
Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC), New Jersey – License No. 37AC00471600
Certified School Counselor, New Jersey – Certificate No. 861813
Supervisor: Candice Covington-Thomas, JD, LCSW, CCS

Additional Training
Disaster Response Crisis Counseling – MHANJ
ARC Grow – Rutgers University
Conversations about Race and Racism in Child Welfare: Part 1 – Stockton University

Client Focus
I have a special interest in working with both the Emerging Adult (ages 18 – 25) and Young Adult (ages 22 – 34) populations around issues of anxiety, depression and stress.

Falasade is a creative and engaged therapist and is looking forward to bringing her skills, perspective and client-centric practices to Lessons N Sessions and is a welcomed addition to our clinical team.

Sarah Osterberg (she/her) is a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor  with nearly a decade of experience in mental health care. She specializes in trauma informed therapy, integrating evidence-based approaches to help clients navigate anxiety, depression,  executive dysfunction, and major life transitions. With advanced training in Eye Movement  Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Art Therapy, she utilizes creative and holistic  methods to support emotional healing and resilience.

Sarah’s professional journey stems from her passion for blending the transformative power of art  therapy with clinical best practices. She holds a Master’s degree in Art Therapy and Clinical  Counseling and has worked extensively with diverse populations,  including teenagers, adults, and veterans. Her experience in both inpatient and outpatient care  settings has provided her with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges her clients face.

Known for her empathetic, approachable, and genuine style, Sarah fosters a collaborative  therapeutic relationship. She sees herself as both a guide and a witness, walking alongside clients  as they rediscover their strengths and work toward meaningful, lasting change. Drawing from a  rich therapeutic toolkit—including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior  Therapy (DBT), mindfulness practices, and Internal Family Systems (IFS)—she excels at  integrating creative modalities for those who find healing through artistic expression.

Sarah specializes in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, life transitions, and personal  growth. Her trauma responsive approach ensures a safe and supportive space where clients can  explore their emotions, develop resilience, and achieve their goals.

Throughout her career, Sarah has built a reputation for creating deeply supportive and authentic  therapeutic relationships. Her warmth, humor, and genuine compassion provide a nonjudgmental  space where clients feel empowered to embrace and express their true selves. By crafting  personalized treatment plans and committing to continuous professional growth, she helps clients  cultivate meaningful connections and lasting inner peace.

Outside of her professional life, Sarah enjoys spending time with her family, chasing after her  two energetic boys, hiking trails with her husband and their golden retriever, and experimenting  in the kitchen to recreate the breakfast tacos she fell in love with in Austin, Texas. She also finds  joy in traveling, expressing her creativity, and cherishing moments with loved ones.

Education
Albertus Magnus College, New Haven, CT Master of Arts in Art Therapy and Clinical Counseling (MA)
Drew University, Bachelor of Arts, Psychology – (BA)

License, Certificates & Advanced Credentials
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) – New Jersey – License No. 37PC01091100
National Certified Counselor (NCC)
EMDR Trained Clinician

Helping Areas of Interest
Trauma Recovery and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Life Transitions and Adjustment Challenges
Anxiety and Depression Management
Executive Dysfunction and Emotional Regulation

Helping Orientation Preferences
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
Internal Family System (IFS)
Art Therapy and Expressive Arts Intervention
Solution Focused Therapy
Trauma Informed Care

Client Focus
Sarah works with adolescents and adults, providing individualized care to address trauma, emotional dysregulation and life transitions. She strives to create a therapeutic experience that fosters self-awareness, resilience and healing.

Sarah is excited to bring her expertise to Lessons N Sessions offering a compassionate and evidence based approach to therapy in a supportive environment.

Kyra Williams (she/her) is a Licensed Associate Counselor.  She obtained a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Capella University and has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Farleigh Dickinson University.

Kyra has extensive experience working with clients with both behavioral health and co-occurring substance abuse concerns. She has experience in facilitating psychoeducational groups as well as supportive  individual counseling. Kyra enjoys working in the community with clients focusing on distress tolerance and learning ways to function within the community. Kyra specializes in working primarily with adults and young adult populations  who suffer with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and other mental health concerns that impact daily living. Kyra uses a variety of modalities in her therapy sessions in order to provide individualized care. She primarily utilizes a person-centered approach and uses mindfulness and motivational interviewing in her sessions.

When she is not working, Kyra enjoys practicing healthy self-care by relaxing at home or at the movies watching a horror or comedy. She encourages her clients to work to identify a variety of self-care techniques.

Education
Capella University, Minneapolis, MN, Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MS)
Fairleigh Dickinson University, Madison, NJ,  Bachelor of Arts in Psychology – (BA)

License, Certificates & Advanced Credentials
Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) – New Jersey – License No. 37AC00663800
Motivational Interviewing Certificate
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Certificate
AMSR Outpatient Training Zero Suicide Certificate
Supervisor: Rosenna Pemberton, LPC, PsyA, ACS

Helping Areas of Interest
Anxiety, Depression and Mood Disorders
Co-Occurring Addictions
Trauma
Women’s Issues

Helping Orientation Preferences
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
Supportive Reflection
Motivational Interviewing

Client Focus
I enjoy providing a person-centered approach to any client seeking support with emotional distress, unhealthy coping mechanisms and lack of motivation.

Kyra is a committed and developing therapist and is looking forward to working in partnership with clients to facilitate hope and healing at Lessons N Sessions and is a welcomed addition to our clinical team.

Dr. Amml Hussein (she/her) is a seasoned social worker, educator, and researcher with over 12 years of practice experience in several domains including medical social work, utilization management, complex managed care, psychiatric crisis stabilization, curriculum and instruction, and instructional design.

Dr. Hussein is also a full time Assistant Professor at the Temple University College of Public Health, School of Social Work where she is a lead course instructor in Human Behavior in the Social Environment and Seminar in Social Work Practice. Dr. Hussein also teaches across the social work curriculum including Research Methods, Theory Informed Direct Practice, and Integrative Seminar. Dr. Hussein has chaired Symposium and Conference Paper Panels for the Eastern Psychological Association during the annual conference.

When she is not working, Dr. Hussein enjoys aromatherapy and meditation.

Education
East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania, East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, Doctor of Education, Educational Leadership and Administration (Ed.D.)
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Graduate School of Social Work, Master of Social Work (MSW)
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, School of the Arts and Sciences-New Brunswick, New Jersey. Bachelor of Arts – Social Work, Journalism and Media Studies (BA), minor in Psychology.

License, Certificates & Advanced Credentials
Licensed Social Worker (LSW), New Jersey – License No. 44SL05734600
Violence Against Women and Children
Supervisor: Candice Covington-Thomas, JD, LCSW, CCS

Helping Orientation Preferences
Solution Focused Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Trauma Informed Care

Client Focus
I have a special interest in providing counseling to individuals, couples and families experiencing a broad spectrum of issues.

Dr. Hussein is enthusiastic about bringing her Violence Against Women and Children concentration and area of interest in Women and Children to the Lessons N Sessions team.

Nadia Ghnaim (she/her) has been a Licensed Social worker for the past three years. She graduated with a Master’s of Social Work from New York University and a Bachelors in Social Work from Adelphi University.

Weather you’re struggling with managing daily life, overcoming trauma, or simply feeling overwhelmed, it is Nadia’s number one goal to create a safe space that will help you feel comfortable and ready to address whatever has been causing you emotional distress. She will assist you learning healthy and positive skills to help you achieve your goals both in your mental health journey, and in life! Nadia has a strengths-based approach that focuses on the client’s strength and resilience in the face of adversity. Nadia also uses CBT, DBT skills, trauma informed care, is solution focused, and person centered.

Nadia’s clinical focus is young adults, adolescents, and couples. Her specialties are Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorders, Eating Disorders, and Borderline Personality Disorder.

Education
New York University, Master of Social Work (MSW)
Adelphi University, Bachelor in Social Work (BSW)

License, Certificates & Advanced Credentials
Licensed Social Worker (LSW), New Jersey – License No. 44SL06798500
Supervisor: Candice Covington-Thomas, JD, LCSW, CCS

Helping Orientation Preferences
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Trauma Informed
Strength Based
Solution Focused
Person Centered

Client Focus
Emerging adults, adolescents, and couples. Mood Disorders including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorders, Eating Disorders, and Borderline Personality Disorder.

When she is not supporting others, Nadia enjoys taking long walks in nature, collecting crystals, hanging out with her three pets, and enjoying her friends and family’s company.

Renae Bush (she/her) is a Licensed Associate Counselor with over twenty years of experience in education who believes everyone deserves a secure and supportive therapeutic space to navigate life’s challenges.  Her passion lies in assisting individuals in overcoming difficulties and achieving meaningful progress. Her expertise extends to working with children and adolescents who grapple with the stresses of daily life, as well as those facing challenges related to trauma, bullying, anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, and interpersonal relationships.

Renae’s primary goal is to cultivate a positive, collaborative, and thought-provoking environment for her clients. Through the therapeutic relationship, traditional talk therapy, and the innovative approach of sand play therapy, Renae can collaboratively address your child/ren and/or adolescent’s goals and aspirations.

Education
Kean University, Master of Counselor Education and Reading Specialization (MA)
William Paterson College, Bachelor in English and Secondary Education (BA)

License, Certificates & Advanced Credentials
Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) – New Jersey – License No. 37AC00607000
Specialized Training in Sandplay and Mindfulness
Supervisor: Candice Covington-Thomas, JD, LCSW, CCS

Helping Orientation Preferences
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Sand Play Therapy
Solution Focused
Person Centered

Client Focus
Children and Adolescents experiencing issues with anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, bullying, trauma, crisis, grief and loss and low self esteem.

When not working, Renae loves reading, gardening, going to the gym, and spending time with family, friends, and her dogs.

Khadijah Grant (she/her) has a passion for supporting pre-teens, teens, and their families that drives her professionally. She  earned her Master’s Degree in Social Work from Rutgers University and her undergraduate degree from Howard University. During her 25 years as a School Social Worker, she has provided individual/group counseling and case management to children in a variety of public and private school settings. She is as comfortable working with youth involved with the Juvenile Justice System as she is supporting those traveling the road to college preparation and beyond. 

Additionally, during her work with teens, Khadijah has witnessed the struggles of their caregivers that often go unnoticed. As a result, she has also developed a keen interest in not only supporting teens, but their adult caregivers as well. Her interest in supporting caregivers extends to new mothers, parents caring for special needs children, families providing kinship care, members of the “sandwich” generation, working and single parents. Her definition of, and concern for, “caregivers” extends to professional caregivers such as teachers as she is keenly aware of the challenges and pressures they often face. 

Khadijah pulls from an eclectic approach that is tailored to the unique needs of each client. She draws from a systemic approach that incorporates attachment, strength-based, cognitive therapeutic approaches and mindfulness-based interventions to promote healing, resilience, and growth. She utilizes technology, themes from popular culture (music, movies, social media) along with psychoeducation from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to engage teens and adults from diverse backgrounds. Khadijah sees her clients as being the true “experts” in their own lives and sees herself as a guide along their paths. She naturally uses humor and authenticity in the therapy process, which allows her to easily engage with people, even those new to engaging in therapy. 

Outside of her professional realm, she enjoys family time with her husband and sons (ages 23 & 10). She can often be found scrolling IG for a new restaurant or recipe, daydreaming about her plans to travel the world and contemplating her list of top hip-hop artists. Fun fact, Khadijah once appeared on Wheel of Fortune and she actually won! 

Education
Rutgers University, M.S.W
Howard University, B.A. Sociology & Criminal Justice

License, Certificates & Advanced Credentials
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) – New Jersey – License No. 44SC05708600
School Social Worker – New Jersey – License No. 01148101
Educational Supervisor – New Jersey – License No. 01389119

Helping Areas of Interest
Pre-Teen and Adolescent Behavioral Challenges 
Supporting Families with Special Needs Children, Including Teen Sibling Support 
Anxiety Management for Students: Academic Performance, Peer Relationships, and Social Pressure and Self Esteem Enhancement
College and Post-Secondary Life Planning 
Parenting and Caregiver Support (including Teachers) 
Life and Career Transitions Counseling 
Grief and Loss Counseling 

Helping Orientation Preferences
Psycho-education  
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Client Centered, Compassion & Solution Focused
Strengths Based and Mindfulness Modalities  
Family Systems

Client Focus
Khadijah has experience effectively supporting teens and adults from diverse backgrounds, cultures and belief systems.

To be posted soon