About Us

Office Manager

Hey there! I’m Jess Arabia, the friendly face behind the scenes making sure everything runs smoothly. I recently got married (yay!) and when I’m not keeping things and the billing organized at work, you’ll find me in the kitchen whipping up something sweet or savory or I'm spending quality time with my family. I’m a big believer in building relationships, so whether it’s a client question or just a quick chat, I’m always here and happy to help.

I love keeping things running like clockwork and ensuring our clients always feel supported and taken care of. If you ever need anything, don't hesitate to reach out—I’m always just an email or phone call away!

Owner/Clinical Director, MA, LPC, ACS

Being a therapist is more than just my job, it is my passion. I truly enjoy each of my sessions: working with new clients and clients that I've been with for years. It is an honor to be a small part of your story. Outside of being a dedicated therapist, I enjoy spending time with my husband, two children, and my dog child as well. I love shopping, spending time being crafty, and traveling!

I utilize techniques and strategies from a variety of theoretical approaches in order to best meet the needs of my clients. I bring a unique relationship based approach to the forefront of my session, and find it to be relatable and validating. I have experience working with all ages, but am most passionate about working with children, teens, &young adults.

In session, I hope you find that I provide a warm and supportive environment to explore and achieve all your goals. At the end of a session, it is my goal that you leave feeling validated and confident applying our work to improve your daily life.

Lead Clinician, MA, LPC

Hi, I’m Katie! My journey began at Drew University where I was a collegiate soccer player. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Psychology and my passion for the field led me to pursue my master’s in Clinical Counseling. I acquired extensive experience in various settings ranging from private practice, schools, and an eating disorder facility that offered intensive outpatient therapy (IOP) and partial hospitalization (PHP) programs. I am a published contributor for a chapter on Diagnostic Considerations in Counseling Individuals with Co-Occurring Addictive and Mental Disorders: A Comprehensive Approach. Additionally, I am the owner of Pure Life Counseling, LLC.

In my opinion, the core of healing is a trusting, genuine, and nonjudgmental therapeutic relationship. I provide clients with an opportunity to have a voice in a validating and relaxing atmosphere.

I believe in a collaborative relationship where my clients and I can work together to navigate through their own unique and equally important journeys. With my expertise in mental health and your motivation for change, we can create the life you deserve.

Outside of being a therapist, I love spending time with my fiancé, my dog Finn, and my friends and family! I enjoy fitness, traveling and being in nature.

Follow my Instagram below for words of wisdom, testimonials, and mental health resources!
@Purelifecounseling_

MA, LAC

Hello! My name is Nicole Lawson, I am currently a licensed associate counselor.

My journey began at Montclair State University where I earned a bachelor's degree in Clinical Psychology. My experience working in the mental health field as an adolescent group therapy facilitator led me to pursue my masters in Mental Health Counseling at Kean University.

My experience includes working with adolescents and their families in outpatient programs, with a variety of diagnoses. Some cases I have worked closely with include individuals with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Autism, and more. To me, the key is not in the diagnosis but instead the symptoms currently causing an individual or their family distress. I work closely with my clients to target these symptoms and achieve the life they envision.

I have extensive experience in the school system working as a current school counselor. I firsthand understand the struggles students face on a day to day basis.

I believe there is always room to grow and learn to better the lives of my clients and am constantly seeking ways to do so. I hope to provide a warm, inviting, and validating space where my clients feel driven to grow and learn about themselves as well.

I was born and raised in New Jersey and enjoy spending time with my three dogs! I am also an avid “Swiftie”.

Congratulations on taking the first steps in your healing, let’s get talking!

MA, LPC

My journey into therapy began with a genuine curiosity about why we do what we do and how our minds work. But it was the moments of connection and support I witnessed – seeing firsthand how they could change lives – that truly ignited my passion for this path.

I prioritize your unique experiences and strengths, employing a client-centered approach that fosters collaboration and empowerment. With fluency in both English and Spanish, I endeavor to ensure accessibility and inclusivity for individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Drawing from a diverse array of therapeutic modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and Psychodynamic therapy, I tailor our sessions to suit your specific needs and preferences.

Specializing in assisting individuals through life transitions such as career changes, relocations, and coping with anxiety, depression, trauma, or grief, my aim is to cultivate a supportive and nurturing environment where you can explore, heal, and thrive.

Let’s work together through your journey of growth and transformation, where you will discover solace, validation, and the tools needed to navigate life's challenges with resilience and confidence.

MA, LAC

Hello! My name is Angelica Marinelli and I am a licensed associate counselor.

I am a NJ based counselor who specializes in child and adolescent therapy services. With training from various methodologies and theories alike, my counseling style revolves around compassion and acceptance.

With a background and training in “Holistic Studies” paired with a Clinical Mental Health Counseling master degree from Lesley University I began my professional journey as a counselor. 

This specialty in Holistic Studies, is where I focused on a baseline learning of my graduate studies revolving around understanding each client from their specific worldview and fostering individual growth throughout their personal goals.

My professional practice is centered on mindfulness-based interventions and using expressive arts that incorporate the individual's interests to be able to explore further different concept depths. I like to focus on a Humanistic, Whole-Person counseling mentality in all sessions regardless of age, race, or sexual orientation!

MSW, LSW

Welcome to a place of acceptance, self love, and self-compassion! My name is Sharetta DeLuca! My journey began at Ramapo College where I earned my bachelor's degree in Social Work and pursued my masters at Fordham University whereas I gained exposure to individuals in the community with severe psychiatric disabilities. Over the years I have obtained experience working with an array of people in various settings such as the older age population in nursing homes, assisted with children in the field of dentistry and over 15+ years with individuals with developmental disabilities.

The love for connecting with people is why I became a social worker, the desire to hear others tell their story and find their strengths, and accomplish their goals is why I became a therapist. Available to meet you where you are at and light your path to get you to where you want to go! Therapy in my sessions are customized to fit your needs. My approach is typically client-led, my contributions are aiding in identifying strengths and utilizing adversities to strengthen and catapult you through life’s challenges.

Outside of being a therapist, I am a mother of two boys, I enjoy my family and friends, I indulge in self-care by journaling, taking walks, attending concerts, sporting events, and traveling! I am always exploring new ideas, activities, and believe in living outside my comfort zone to maximize life!

Your healing begins with your initiative! Let your journey begin...

Clinical Intern

Hi, my name is Caitlin Monahan! I am currently a counseling intern pursuing my MA from William Paterson University. I obtained my bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education and Psychology from William Paterson University and immediately decided to further pursue my studies in the Clinical Mental Health Professional Counseling masters program. I have experience working with children in a variety of different settings and I am eager to learn more about working with children, teens, and adults in the clinical setting.

Thus far, I have enjoyed utilizing play therapy techniques, CBT, and Self-Regulation. I have found drawing from a variety of approaches is best to help all clients meet their goals. It is my hope that as I continue to grow as a clinician, I help you to feel supported and heard by utilizing a collaborative approach in session.

I believe having a warm and comfortable environment creates a supportive space that encourages a collaborative relationship. Sessions are non judgemental and tailored towards the individual goals of each client to allow for growth and to learn more about themselves and their journey.

Outside of the office, I enjoy staying active through sports and exercise, specifically softball and pickleball! I love to travel to new places, be outdoors and I love to read!

Clinical Intern

Hi my name is Elizabeth Tactuk! I am currently a Clinical Mental Health Counseling Intern pursing my Masters at William Paterson University! I have experience working with children as a Behavioral Assistant and Counseling Intern. Additionally, through my program, I have gained extensive experience working with adult populations with various needs.

I have an eclectic approach to counseling and pull from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy and a Solution Focused approach. I find drawing from different forms of therapy helps tailor counseling to the client to help achieve their goals. My passion for the field inspires me to continue to learn and grow as a clinician and support my clients in the best possible way.

I am fluent in Spanish and English. I aim to create an environment of inclusivity and work with diverse backgrounds.

I believe creating a safe and comfortable environment encourages a collaborative relationship. I hope to provide a judgment free, validating and warm space to help clients feel motivated to grow and learn!