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Therapists answer…

Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?

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Eleni Paris

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
From a young age, I knew I wanted to be in the helping profession and focused on the field of psychology as early as high school. I was a psychology major throughout college with a minor in sociology and never once doubted this path. After college, I decided to work as a preschool teacher and it is during this time that I felt compelled to further my studies and expand upon my focus on psychology by attaining a Masters in Human Development, with an emphasis on Marriage and Family Therapy. I attended the best MFT program at the time, at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (also, received my Bachelors degree from Va Tech). My love for relationships, family, and personal development have stayed with me throughout my journey. During the years that I was raising my two daughters, I practiced clinically in various settings and immersed myself in anything professionally relevant that I could, in addition to remaining focused on how to grow within the marriage and family therapy field. I can honestly say, that as much as my personal relationships and family motivate me to continue, my clients are the true motivating factor. I am often in awe in what they accomplish during their therapy journey.
Eleni Paris is a licensed marriage and family therapist, working with individuals, couples, and families. She has over 20 years of professional experience including clinical work, workshop and seminar presentations, discussion and support groups, writing contributions, collaborative work with various health professionals, and wellness coaching. Eleni works from a strength-based, family systems approach specializing in Solution-Focused, Emotionally-Focused and Narrative Therapies. Her areas of specialty include relationship coaching techniques that enhance couples’ communication, strengthen family bonds between parents and children, and improve one’s approach to health and well-being. She is a Clinical Fellow of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy and has been published in the Journal of Marital and Family Therapy.
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Karita Nussbaum

Therapist with specialties in substance use, adolescents, and most mental health concerns
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a therapist because of my passion for helping people overcome challenges, manage difficult emotions, and achieve their goals. My academic background and personal interest in human behavior led me to this field. I am motivated by the fulfillment of witnessing my clients' growth and progress, and the belief in the power of therapeutic relationships. The opportunity to explore solutions and support clients in a non-judgmental environment keeps me dedicated. Additionally, my love for adventure and the outdoors rejuvenates me and brings fresh perspectives to my practice.
I have a PhD in Counseling Psychology and masters in social work, I’m a Licensed Independent Social Worker and Licensed Independent Chemical Dependence Counselor. I like to help anyone find solutions to their problems, manage difficult feelings, and reach their goals. I also enjoy helping both youth and adults increase communication. I use a variety of therapy techniques including motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, rational emotive therapy, gestalt, and psychodynamic primarily. I generally do what I can to help clients reach their treatment goals. I am an independently licensed clinical social worker and chemical dependency counselor. I’ve provided therapy to a variety of mental health and substance problems for people ages 12-75. I enjoy helping people figure out the underlying obstacles to growth and success. I come alongside each client and we work together to explore the known and unknown, identify barriers, problems, and solutions, and set goals for the future. I’m not judgmental, I do my best to understand and encourage each person I work with. We are in this together! I believe that problems come from a variety of sources, sometimes our upbringing teaches us, sometimes thoughts influence what we do, and sometimes we have beliefs that aren’t in alignment with our goals. I believe we can change behavior if we change thoughts and beliefs. I believe everyone wants to live a better life, whatever that is for each of us. I also believe that two are better than one, which is why it’s so helpful to have an outside perspective! In my free time, I enjoy backpacking in the mountains, traveling, and making videos of the trips. I’m always ready for a fun adventure!
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Jaquelyn Romano

Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a therapist to help people navigate life’s challenges with compassion and support. Seeing clients heal, grow, and regain control of their lives motivates me every day. Knowing I can provide a safe space for transformation keeps me passionate about this work.
*About me Hi, I’m Jacquelyn Romano, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Therapist with 15 years of experience helping individuals and couples navigate a range of emotional challenges. At Mind Over Matter Marriage and Family Therapy, I specialize in working with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, postpartum depression and anxiety, and other parenting-related concerns. I take a holistic, compassionate approach to therapy, grounded in mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and trauma-informed practices. My goal is to create a safe, judgment-free space where you can feel heard, understood, and supported. I believe in a collaborative approach—working together to build the skills, coping strategies, and insight that will empower you to make meaningful changes in your life. Life can present many challenges, but with the right support, it’s possible to heal and create the life you desire. It takes great courage to embark on a journey of change, and I’m here to walk alongside you as you build a more fulfilling and balanced life. Remember, it’s never too late to begin healing, and I look forward to being a part of your journey toward growth and empowerment. *Treatment philosophy I take a holistic, compassionate approach to therapy, integrating mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and trauma-informed care. My goal is to create a safe, collaborative space where clients can explore their emotions and build resilience. I help individuals and couples identify and challenge negative thought patterns, using mindfulness to foster self-awareness and emotional regulation. I specialize in trauma recovery, anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges, including postpartum support. Ultimately, I empower clients with practical tools to navigate life’s challenges, heal from past wounds, and build healthier, more fulfilling lives. *Practice Description At Mind Over Matter Marriage and Family Therapy, we provide compassionate, evidence-based therapy tailored to individuals, couples, and groups facing a wide range of life challenges. Whether you’re struggling with relationship difficulties, managing day-to-day stress, or navigating transitions in life, our approach is designed to help you gain insight, build coping strategies, and foster emotional well-being. For Individuals: We work with clients to address issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, and work-life balance. Through techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and trauma-informed care, we help individuals understand their emotions, shift unhelpful thought patterns, and develop skills for resilience. For Couples: Our couples therapy focuses on improving communication, rebuilding trust, and resolving conflicts. We utilize Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to help couples reconnect emotionally and strengthen their bond, whether they’re dealing with relationship challenges, life changes, or parenting stress. For Groups: We offer group therapy sessions to provide a supportive community for those facing similar struggles, from coping with stress to managing anxiety. Group therapy fosters shared experiences, encourages personal growth, and helps participants develop new strategies for navigating life's challenges. At Mind Over Matter, we’re committed to creating a safe, collaborative space where you can feel heard, supported, and empowered to take control of your mental health and relationships.
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Leellon Martin

Leellon Martin, AGPCNP-BC
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I’ve dedicated my career to healthcare because I believe in the power of compassionate, patient-centered care. My experience in ICU and long-term care settings has reinforced my commitment to improving lives. Seeing my patients gain confidence in managing their health continues to drive my passion for this work.
Hello! I'm Leellon Martin, and I'm passionate about healthcare. With 35 years of experience as a nurse, I am dedicated to providing top-notch care for my patients. I specialize in adult-gerontology primary care, having earned a Master of Science in this field. Currently, I serve as the primary nurse practitioner at a facility caring for patients needing ventilator support and dialysis. I'm committed to improving patient health, preventing diseases, and offering education to help individuals take charge of their well-being. Through my extensive experience in ICUs, including the challenging Covid ICU settings, I've honed my skills in patient care. I also leverage telemedicine to meet men's healthcare needs, ensuring accessible and timely medical interventions. Whether it’s prescribing medications or triaging patient requirements, I aim to make healthcare experiences smooth and supportive. Patient well-being is at the heart of my work, and I'm here to make healthcare easier and more effective for everyone. Treatment philosophy As a dedicated healthcare provider with over 35 years of nursing experience, my philosophy centers on patient care and compassion. I believe in treating each patient as a unique individual. My approach combines clinical expertise with heartfelt support. I’m committed to improving health and promoting wellness through education and preventive measures. I carefully assess and address the needs of my patients, especially those requiring ventilator and dialysis care. Telemedicine allows me to connect with patients conveniently, providing a personal touch in men’s health. My goal is to foster a partnership that promotes healing and empowerment, helping patients navigate their health challenges effectively. Together, we can achieve better health outcomes.
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Aicha Katty

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner because of my passion for helping individuals achieve their best mental and physical well-being. The holistic approach to care—considering every aspect of a person's life—deeply resonates with me. What motivates me to continue is the privilege of walking beside my clients on their health journeys, witnessing their progress, and contributing to their growth and fulfillment. Your unique health story inspires me to stay committed to providing compassionate, comprehensive care.
Welcome! It's a privilege to have you here where your health is a primary focus. I'm an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner, with a passion for delivering care that considers every aspect of your well-being. My professional background has enriched my practice with the ability to offer you truly personalized, holistic healthcare. In my practice, I take a comprehensive approach, which means I'm committed to understanding who you are beyond your health concerns. Together, we'll create a care plan that speaks to your individual needs. Through careful health assessments and diagnoses, I'll guide you through treatment options—be it medications, nutraceuticals, lifestyle coaching, or other supportive therapies—with clear communication so you're always an informed participant in your own care. I believe that understanding your health is key to managing it, so I place great emphasis on educating and empowering you. By discussing your health in straightforward terms, I aim to demystify the complexities of healthcare. Together, we'll navigate lifestyle changes and self-care practices that can elevate your day-to-day life. Rest assured, you're not alone on this journey—I collaborate with you to ensure you receive a comprehensive and integrated care. My dedication to professional growth means I'm constantly learning the latest evidence based treatment and practices—bringing you the most current knowledge in our sessions. Let’s work together in pursuit of your best mental and physical well-being. Your health story is unique, and I'm here to listen, support, and walk beside you every step of the way.
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Olufemi Martins

PMHNP-BC
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner to help individuals overcome mental health challenges and improve their quality of life. What keeps me motivated is seeing my patients make progress, knowing I can make a difference in their mental well-being.
My name is Olufemi Martins, and I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in South Jersey. With over a decade of experience in psychiatric nursing, I focus on diagnosing and treating a variety of mental health disorders. I've worked with exceptional teams in several healthcare settings, treating acute and chronic psychiatric conditions, prescribing psychotropic medications, and provided mental health education to individuals and families. My passion lies in offering compassionate care. From psychopharmacological management to reinforcement of coping mechanisms, supporting my clients on their mental health journeys. I believe in a holistic approach, integrating multidisciplinary services to ensure comprehensive care. I'm also experienced in coordinating care for clients with complex psychiatric issues, ensuring they get the specialized treatment they need. My prior roles in various healthcare institutions have also equipped me with skills in Medicaid claims adjudication and compliance with state regulations. When working with patients, I prioritize creating a safe and supportive environment where they can openly discuss their mental health needs. I'm certified in Nonviolent Crisis Intervention and hold a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner license. I look forward to supporting you and your family on your mental health journey with kindness and dedication.
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Hana Kuc

Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a therapist because I have always been passionate about helping others navigate their mental health challenges. Seeing clients work through their issues and find relief from their symptoms is incredibly rewarding. My motivation to continue stems from witnessing the positive changes in my clients' lives. Whether it's helping someone overcome anxiety, cope with trauma, or build self-esteem, the progress my clients make inspires me daily. I am driven by the belief that everyone has the potential to heal and grow, and I am honored to be a part of that journey. The diverse therapeutic approaches I use, including RECBT, EMDR, Gestalt therapy, DBT, and IFS, allow me to tailor my practice to meet each client's unique needs, ensuring they receive the most effective care possible.
I am licensed in New York with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I am trained in Rational Emotive Cognitive Behavior Therapy (by the Albert Ellis Institute of New York), EMDR (by EMDRIE) and my practice also includes interventions from Gestalt, DBT, Internal Family Systems, and other therapy approaches. I believe that when addressing fears and anxieties, the most effective approach is to work toward facing those fears a little bit at a time with tenderness, patience, acceptance, and imagination. I often see clients work through their problems and experience relief from symptoms after getting to the bottom of their core fear. In my practice, I also see a lot of individuals with perfectionistic styles, traumatic backgrounds, and self-neglect, that result in procrastination or overwork, burnout, and self-blame. I am here to support and empower you to change these symptoms by shifting to flexible attitudes and beliefs, which frees up room for problem-solving and behavior change.
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Anne Stephen

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a therapist to make a positive impact on people’s lives, providing the care and support needed for mental wellness. My passion for helping others and seeing their progress motivates me to continue. Knowing that I can offer a safe space for patients to heal and grow is what drives me every day.
"Hello! I’m Anne N. Stephen, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over two decades of experience in various nursing roles. My passion is to provide the best care possible while making sure my patients feel safe and supported. I specialize in mental health care, offering evaluations, consultations, and ongoing support to individuals and families. I have extensive experience managing patient medications and partnering closely with psychiatrists to ensure comprehensive care. Throughout my career, I’ve worked with all age groups, from children to the elderly. My goal has always been to educate patients and their families about their health, providing the information and support they need to achieve the best outcomes. I am fluent in English, French, and Creole, which helps me connect with a diverse range of patients. Whether it’s creating a safe environment for children or providing emotional support to those with chronic conditions, I am committed to making a positive difference in the lives of my patients. Thank you for considering me as your healthcare provider. I look forward to working with you!"