Debra DaCosta, LCSW — Therapist in New Jersey

Hi there, I'm Debra!

I specialize in working with adolescents and adults navigating substance use, trauma, and emotional challenges. My goal is to create a space where you feel genuinely seen, supported, and empowered to make meaningful, lasting change.

My focus

Adolescents and adults navigating substance use, trauma, anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, and relationship challenges. I help clients build coping skills, deepen self-understanding, and create meaningful change in a supportive, nonjudgmental therapeutic space.

My approach

My approach to providing care is collaborative, client-centered, and grounded in both evidence-based practices and insight-oriented work. I believe that meaningful change happens when clients feel both supported and appropriately challenged, so I strive to create a therapeutic environment that is safe, nonjudgmental, and rooted in connection.

My communication style

My communication style is warm, authentic, and collaborative. I strive to create a space where clients feel comfortable being open and honest, while also providing clear, thoughtful feedback that supports growth. I incorporate appropriate and genuine therapeutic use of self to foster trust and encourage open communication.

My journey to mental healthcare

My journey to becoming a provider is rooted in my passion for supporting individuals who feel unseen or misunderstood. Through work in community and clinical settings, I gained experience helping clients navigate trauma, substance use, and emotional challenges, shaping a compassionate, skill-based, and insight-driven approach.

My goals for you

I help clients reach their goals by first working collaboratively to clearly define what those goals are and ensuring they are realistic, meaningful, and aligned with their values. Throughout the process, I provide consistent support, accountability, and feedback while reinforcing progress and celebrating small wins.

Our first session

A first session with me is focused on creating a safe, comfortable space where you can begin to share your story at your own pace. I will ask questions to understand what brings you in, your current challenges, and any goals you may have, while also getting a sense of your background and supports. We will begin identifying areas of focus.

I identify as...

Female
Black or African American, Hispanic or Latinx
Christian

Expertise

Treatment approaches

Motivational Interviewing

Psychodynamic

Solution Focused Brief (SFBT)

+ 9 more

Therapy types

Individual Therapy

Ages served

Children
Minors
Preteens
Adults

Practice

Accepted insurance providers

Aetna
Allegiance
Allied
Arlo
Ascension-SmartHealth

+ 17 more

Languages spoken

English, Patois

Education

Master of Social Work (MSW) from Rutgers University College, New Brunswick.

Sessions

60 minutes

Virtual sessions

Debra DaCosta