About

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor practicing in NJ for the past 16 years. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive and Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Applied Behavior Analysis. I specialize in working with clients with (and without) neuro, physical or sensory diversities. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other anxiety disorders, sexual violence and abuse, healthy relationships and sexuality related needs are also areas of focus in my practice. In addition to private practice, for the past 20 years I have also worked as a consultant, educator and trainer for various non-profit and community based organizations, educational institutions and colleges, mental health , social service and developmental and intellectual disabilities agencies. Through these work experiences and private practice I have helped countless clients meet their school, work, and other life goals and to find happiness and safety in their lives.

I am committed to providing quality education and counseling to individuals of ALL abilities. My overall mission is to empower individuals with the education, skills, support and resources they need to meet their fullest potential in the relationship they hold with themselves, with others and with their community.

I practice from a Cognitive-Behavioral perspective; that is I believe that a person’s life experiences and interactions influences how a person thinks and behaves in regards to self, others and their world. I also believe that most behavior serves a purpose for an individual and discovering that purpose can be an essential part of counseling in the achievement of positive life change. To meet the needs of a diverse range of client needs I use theory and techniques from Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Mindfulness and Psychoeducation among other modalities. In attempting to reach your therapeutic and/or educational goals, I may at times engage you in activities and homework designed around these principles.

Reaching out for help and support for many can be scary and trust in the therapeutic process often takes time. I promise my online space will always be affirming and my response non-judgmental and compassionate. Your time in therapy is valuable and ultimately the focus is yours to decide. My job while on this therapeutic journey with you is to help you meet your maximum potential through guiding not dictating. I don’t see my job as a therapist as one where I endlessly listen with no resolve but rather where I help you to develop the skills needed to achieve independence, self-sufficiency, success and happiness in their desired aspects of life.

Although I prefer video sessions so that we can get to know each other better, I am also available to you via phone and text if that is more comfortable for you. I hope this message finds you well and I look forward to meeting you. Tracy A. Higgins, MA, LPC