NJ therapy for teens and young adults
Who I Work With
Welcome! I'm Lauren Hernandez, a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey, who works with teens and young adults navigating the chaos of life. I also partner with parents or guardians when helpful, offering guidance to support their teen's growth. We tackle school, work, relationships, surviving the occasional existential crisis, and everything in between.
Life can get messy, and you don't have to do this alone. Together, we can work through:
Anxiety, stress, or feeling overwhelmed & exhausted by life
Depression, low mood, or slumps you can't seem to shake
Life transitions like moving away for college or starting a new job
Relationship or family challenges
Coping with chronic health conditions
How we'll work together
My Approach
Therapy isn't about fixing you—you're not broken. It's about helping you feel seen, heard, and understood. Using a person-centered approach, we focus on your experiences, your goals, and your pace. I view each client through a holistic lens, meaning that I look beyond isolated symptoms and consider the full picture of who you are. This includes honoring the mind-body connection, physical well-being, relationships, life stressors, and the internal beliefs that shape the way you move through the world. This whole-person approach allows us to address both immediate concerns and the deeper patterns that influence well-being. Our sessions will include practical, evidence-based tools alongside some humor (because life can be pretty absurd). I bring my authentic, imperfect self to every session so you feel safe to do the same.
Coming soon | April - October
Walk & Talk and Eco-Therapy
Starting in April 2026, I will be offering Walk & Talk therapy and outdoor sessions (eco-therapy) locally in Monroe Twp., New Jersey. These sessions are available April through October, weather permitting, and are offered at my private pay rate as this practice does not submit eco-therapy sessions to insurance. Limited sliding scale available, more information can be found below under Insurance and Fees.
Staring at a laptop for therapy is not for everyone, and after a long day of eye strain at school or work, getting outdoors may be just what you need. Clients may choose to:
Walk together at a local park
Sit together outdoors on a blanket or bench in a quiet, private area.
Eco-therapy offers meaningful mental and emotional benefits including:
Reduced stress and anxiety
Easier conversation for clients who feel overwhelmed by face-to-face therapy
Gentle movement that supports nervous system regulation
Fresh air and sunlight which support circadian rhythms, mood, energy levels, and overall well-being
A sense of grounding and connection through nature
A healthy break from screen time
Join the waitlist and secure your spot today!
get to know Lauren
A little about me
I've worked with people of all ages over the course of 13 years, in settings including schools, hospitals, and outpatient practices. Working with teens and young adults holds a special place in my heart—it's what inspired me to make this my life's work.When I'm not in session, there's a 90% chance I'm hanging out with my dog, Jax, grabbing coffee with old friends, or getting my true crime binge on.My goal is to create a space where you can be your full self, ask the hard questions, and build tools to navigate life with confidence and clarity (while not losing your sanity—I promise it's possible!).
To know me is to know Jax— and there's a good chance you'll hear him pop in from time to time.
Coverage and Fees
Insurance and Fees
Virtual / Telehealth Sessions
I am in-network with Aetna, Horizon BCBS of NJ, and Quest Behavioral Health.Out-of-network clients and private-pay sessions are also welcome at $150 per 50 minute session. Superbills can be provided for possible insurance reimbursement. Please check with your plan for details.
Walk & Talk / Outdoor Sessions
Walk & Talk/ Outdoor sessions are offered seasonally in Monroe Township, NJ. Eco-therapy is offered as a private pay service at $150 per 50 minute session and are not billed to insurance in this practice.
Get Started Today
Book a Consultation
Start with a Free Consultation
Let's chat for 10 minutes to explore whether we're a good fit. No pressure, just a quick conversation to ask each other a few questions and see if moving forward feels right.