Sharon Rothbart, RN, LCSW

“Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. Be kind. Always.”

I am here to listen to your inner voice that may be hurting, a battle you may be afraid to face alone. I am here to understand and assist you in using the tools and strengths you already have, and to help them flourish.

There is a story about a glass of water. If you hold it high for a few seconds or even a few minutes, it isn’t a problem. But if you hold the glass for many hours, day after day, it becomes unbearable; a burden that steals the joy of life. How long have you been holding your glass of water? Is it blocking your joy in life? I am here to help you unload your burdens and to understand different perspectives of your life, and new ways to achieve balance and peace.

I have a deep understanding of the developmental cycles of life and the impact it has. I have experience supporting clients with life circumstances such as childrearing, relationship building, intimacy issues, marriage, separation, divorce, career issues, and the grief and sorrow associated with illness or loss. I have experience helping parents understand and accept children who are questioning their gender, and I have assisted young adults who do not “fit into the box,” who may be experiencing mood swings, cutting or substance use issues.

I have specialized training in EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) for couples/relationship counseling, and I am also trained in Attachment Focused EMDR (Eye Movement and Desensitization Reprocessing) for treatment of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. I incorporate numerous modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, Psychodynamic therapy, and Interpersonal and Relational therapy. I have extensive experience in the LGBTQ community and am an avid supporter of gender fluidity.

Along with my social work career, I have been a La Leche League leader, a volunteer for Jewish Family Services, a CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) volunteer, and a volunteer advocating for the LGBTQ community. I believe in empowering people to experience the full value of their individuality and uniqueness, regardless of race, ethnicity, culture or gender identity.

I received a Bachelors Degree in Psychology, an Associates Degree in Nursing, and a Masters Degree in Social Work from Rutgers University. I have experience as a Registered Nurse in hospital, home and hospice settings, and ten years of experience as a Senior Clinical Project Manager of global FDA Pharmaceutical Studies. I belong to The National Association of Social Workers, The New Jersey Society for Clinical Social Workers, The National Alliance on Mental Illness, and I am a member of the Phi Alpha Honor Society.

Due to my 20+ years experience as a Registered Nurse, I have a strong appreciation for using approaches that help our body and mind work together. I believe in viewing people in a gestalt framework, or as a “unified whole.” Stress, anger, depression, anxiety and uncertainty can invite headaches, gastrointestinal distress, back and body aches, and rapid heart rates among many other symptoms. The mind, body and environment interact continually and, when appropriate, I suggest techniques such as cognitive exercises, meditation, nutrition and relaxation to enhance emotional and physical health.