Founder | Director
Paul Lavella Jr.
MA, LPC, LCADC, ICGC-II, CSAT, ACS, CCS
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MA Counseling - Fairleigh Dickinson University
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NJ Licensed Professional Counselor # 37PC00455600
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NJ Licensed Clinical Alcohol & Drug Counselor # 37LC00174800
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International Certified Gambling Counselor, Level II # 1419
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Approved Clinical Supervisor # 1593
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Certified Clinical Supervisor # CCS-50004
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Certified Sex Addiction Therapist # 2021-3379
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Integrative Nutrition Health Coach
Telehealth
Availability:
Florham Park
Cherry Hill
How would you describe your Training and Education?
Paul received his dual BA/MA in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. His early career was dedicated to adolescent early intervention services, where his passion for working with young adults and families began. Through this work, Paul developed a strong reputation for prevention within the local community and was frequently invited to speak on related topics to numerous groups, schools, and professional organizations.
Paul has been intensively trained in trauma treatment, studying under Judy Crane, Tian Dayton, and other notable experts. Trauma-informed work remains at the heart of his clinical practice.
How would you describe your Professional Approach and Style?
Following the traditions of his training, Paul approaches counseling from a functionalist framework, believing that "everything that exists does so for a reason." The purpose of the therapeutic relationship, as Paul sees it, is to uncover the function behind the behaviors or symptoms causing distress and to make the necessary changes to heal and grow from them.
Paul views counseling as a collaborative process, encouraging clients to play an active role in developing their personalized wellness plan. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing personal values and understanding how they influence decision-making. Paul challenges his clients to closely examine these values, explore what they represent, and consider whether they are living their lives in alignment with them.
What areas would you say you have Expertise in?
With over two decades of experience in treating mental health conditions and substance use disorders, Paul has developed a specialized focus on treating Addiction Interaction Disorders (AID), working with individuals who present with multiple compulsive behaviors such as substance use, gambling, gaming, and pornography. Paul also continues to provide adolescent and young adult family services, consistently advocating for prevention.
On a Personal Note
Paul strives to practice what he preaches by maintaining a steady work-life balance. As a father of boys, he stays on his toes! His family loves to travel, try new foods, and experience new things. Paul is also an avid reader, enjoying both leisure books and field-related literature. Whenever the opportunity arises to do something that scares him, Paul always says yes!
"Experience is simply the name we give our mistakes."
Oscar Wilde
