James Niederland (LCSW)

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of New Jersey with over 25 years of professional work experience in the field of mental health. I began my counseling career specializing in the field of substance abuse, working with adults, teens, and families in both in-patient and out-patient settings. From there I developed a thriving private practice, treating individuals, couples, families, and groups for: • Addictions • Anxiety • Depression • Grief • PTSD • And more I always bring respect, compassion, and integrity into my work, creating a safe and nurturing environment which allows healing and transformation to unfold. The purpose of my work is to empower individuals to reach their highest potential as human beings. Various treatment modalities are incorporated, providing an integrated approach designed to heal a person’s physical, emotional, and spiritual bodies. Full wellness cannot be achieved unless these three areas — body, mind, and spirit — are in balance. I recognize that unique internal and external circumstances are presented by everyone I work with, and by doing so, I treat whomever I am working with, rather than the “dis-ease”. I do not believe that one size fits all. I work with clients by promoting a lifestyle of balance. Addictions, anxiety, and depression are common symptoms of imbalance. These symptoms are addressed in much the same way that light is brought into a dark room. While darkness cannot be physically removed, in the presence of light, darkness vanishes. Likewise, in the presence of a harmonious lifestyle, imbalance simply disappears. Treatment modalities I utilize include, but are not limited to: Cognitive/Behavioral Therapy Abraham Lincoln said, “Most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be.” It is true that our thinking creates our reality. We may not be able to control external events, but we can control how we perceive them. Cognitive/Behavioral therapy empowers individuals to control their thoughts and behaviors, rather than letting their thoughts and behaviors control them. Twelve Step Programs Twelve step programs are spiritual programs of recovery designed to empower individuals to overcome addictive behaviors. When indicated, twelve step principles are incorporated into the treatment I offer. Stress Management I teach stress management techniques such as body scanning, breath work, and mental imagery. These and other techniques empower those I work with to cope with stress and anxiety in healthful ways. Nutrition I emphasize the do’s and don’ts of a healing and healthful diet, always with the intent of promoting optimal well-being. Exercise Exercise helps to lower cholesterol and strengthen the cardiovascular system. In addition, exercise stimulates the release of hormones and neurotransmitters that make people feel good. Meditation Meditation is a way of connecting with that place inside that is happy, joyous, and free. Aromatherapy Aromatherapy harnesses the energy of essential oils, extremely powerful plant material, to promote physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage and I am proud of you for getting started!