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Ryan Pelikan, MSW(He/Him/His)

(He/Him/His)
Master of Social Work, MSW
New Jersey
Addiction-Men's issues-Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)-Substance abuse- Trauma-Performance anxiety-
AboutSpecialtiesLocationsInsurance & Fees

Professional statement

As a counselor, I believe that therapy starts with an everyday conversation between two people. I deeply respect the courage it takes to trust in the person sitting across from you, and as someone who’s been on a recovery journey for a long time, I know that it can be hard to seek help. But believe me, the risk is worth the struggle.

As a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) who is also a Licensed Clinical Drug and Alcohol Counselor (LCDAC) and Certified Trauma Professional (CTP), I work with teens and adults. My specialties include men’s issues, marriage and relationship challenges, “failure to launch,” substance abuse, trauma, grief, anxiety, and depression. My experience includes extensive work in both inpatient and outpatient settings, as well as supporting individuals navigating complex life transitions and emotional challenges.

When we meet, we’ll start by getting to know each other. I believe it’s important to build a strong connection and help you recognize what’s already working before diving into the harder parts. Therapy with me is interactive and natural. If talking feels difficult, we can shift the approach so it feels more comfortable and engaging. If you like dogs, we also have two in the office who can join sessions and help create a more relaxed environment.


Message to clients

I also recognize that for many people, faith, spirituality, and religion can play an important role in healing. If this is meaningful to you, I’m happy to integrate it into our work in a way that feels supportive and authentic. While I have a general understanding of a variety of beliefs, I approach this area with curiosity and respect, and welcome you to share your perspective so we can incorporate it in a way that fits you. If it’s not important to you, we will focus on what aligns best with your goals.

The approaches I use are personalized and may include Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), relational therapies, and goal-setting strategies. My style is practical, straightforward, and focused on helping you create real, lasting change.

I’ve been told I’m good at reading people and lightening the mood. You might not even realize we’re doing therapy at times. But no matter what you’re facing, I’ll encourage you to trust the process and believe that the life you want is possible.


Work and Education

Years of Experience: 1 year

ARS , Counselor, 2023 - Present
GIA Institute of Psychotherapy, Associate Clinician, 2025 - Present
Institue at GIA, Associate Clinician, 2026 - Present
Recovery Centers of America Lighthouse, Counselor, 2020 - 2023

EMDRIA, EMDR Trained, 2025
International Trauma Training Institute, Certified Trauma Professional, 2022

Licensure

New Jersey: 44SL07281700 - New Jersey: 37LC00405300

Supervisor: Dr. Gina Innocente(LCSW 44SC04806700)


Languages

English

Specialties

Addiction - Coping with emotional discomfort and suffering; reducing or abstaining from unwanted behaviors such as unhealthy gambling or shopping

Men's issues - Expertise in working with adult men; providing a safe and understanding space to address life challenges and promote physical and mental health

Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) - Healing painful experiences and memories from the past

Substance abuse - Reducing and preventing the negative impact of drug and alcohol use and addictions on physical, emotional, and relational health

Trauma - Coping and healing after threatening or scary events, such as witnessing accidents or experiencing sexual, verbal, emotional, or physical abuse

Performance anxiety - Underperforming, due exclusively to anxiety




Clientele

  • Adults (24+)
  • Couples
  • Families
  • Parents
  • Teenagers (13-18)
  • Young adults (18-24)

Locations & Hours


Insurance

  • Aetna
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield

Out-of-pocket fees

  • Individual sessions:$150 (60min)

Additional session information

Therapist's note

I currently accept Aetna and Blue Cross & Blue Shield (BCBS) only. I do not accept other insurance plans at this time. Sliding scale options are available, and I can provide superbills for out-of-network reimbursement. Please reach out with any questions. I'm committed to making therapy affordable.


Reach out to Connect

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