Alexis Abate, LAC

As a therapist, I believe in person-centered therapy, as each of us have our own unique stories and experiences that have shaped to become who we are today. I have immense experience working with those struggling with a variety of mood disorders such as anxiety, depression and even personality disorders. I am highly skilled at working with those going through adjustment disorders, and constant lifestyle changes. During my sessions, I create a safe, non-judgmental environment for each person to be their authentic-self, and work through the challenges and changes of life. My sessions will allow you to heal and understand yourself better by processing your experiences, using psychoeducation and different forms of therapy that best fit, which will assist you on becoming the best version of yourself.

I am a Licensed Associate Counselor and National Board-Certified Counselor. I received my Master’s degree at Kean University in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, which provided me with the skills needed to; diagnose individuals with bio-psychosocial disorders and conduct group and individual counseling sessions. During my graduate experience, I interned at Richard Hall Mental Health Community Center where I worked in partial care and intensive outpatient programs for adults experiencing severe and persistent mental illnesses. I also became a certified facilitator and conducted support groups for adolescents going through the grieving and bereavement process at Imagine, A Coping Center for Loss.

My Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from West Virginia University provided me a strong foundation for human behavior. During undergrad, I volunteered countless hours for WVU Medicine at Ruby Memorial Hospital psychiatric unit, working and observing doctors, nurses, and other mental health professionals. This volunteer work has allowed me to become knowledgeable in psychopharmacology and gain hands-on experience with mental health disorders.

I am currently a Clinical Therapist for Hackensack Meridian Health in the Emergency Department where I evaluate patients who present for a variety of struggles such as, suicide ideation, depression, anxiety, and psychosis by using a biopsychosocial format. I collaborate with Psychiatrists, ED physicians and nurses to determine appropriate level of care and refer accordingly. I also provide coverage on the inpatient behavioral health unit where I conduct intake assessments upon admission, collaborate with a psychiatrist and nursing team to determine an appropriate level of follow up care, address housing needs when applicable, facilitate group therapy and communicate with family members identified by the patient to ensure a comprehensive discharge plan.

I am an adjunct faculty member for Union County College in the Undergraduate Psychology Department. I very passionate about educating and guiding individuals to connect with resources that can best benefit them. I strongly believe that in the world we live in today, psychoeducation is a necessity, for personal growth, and human interaction.

Additionally, I am a member of the New Jersey Counseling Association, where I have gained valuable insight from clinicians and professors from all over the state. I am a member of Chi Sigma Iota (International Honor Society for counseling students) and was a selected applicant to present research on Adolescent Development and the Interconnection of Birth Control and Depression at the 2020 American Counseling Association. I was a presenter for the 2021 New Jersey Counseling Association on Transgenerational Trauma, and Psychological Effects of Loneliness.