Therapists

Sarah Mello, MA, MS, LPC, ACS

she/her

Owner, Therapist

NJ#37PC00607500

Sarah is the owner and Clinical Director of Here and Now Counseling and has been in private practice since 2014.  She received her counseling degree from Capella University and completed a three-year post graduate training program at The Gestalt Training Institute of Philadelphia, where she is also a member of the faculty. Sarah works with individuals ages 16 and up, couples, and families. 

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"I draw on my training in gestalt therapy, yoga, and creative arts in my work with clients. Ultimately, my goal is for you to find peace, a sense of wholeness and deeper satisfaction with your life."

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Specialties: Anxiety, Depression, Couples Therapy, Divorced families, Gender Issues

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Hobbies and Interests: Fiber arts, encaustic painting, and roadside attractions.

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Fun Fact: I have a tattoo of The Velveteen Rabbit

Marina Bednarek, LAC
she/her

Licensed Associate Counselor

#37AC00588300

Marina Bednarek earned her Master of Arts in Counseling Degree at Stockton University in 2021. Marina is a Transgender therapist. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, Marina often works with others in the LGBTQ+ community, however, she enjoys working with all populations including children 8 and older, Adolescents, and Adults.

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“I find that one of the most important parts of counseling is the therapeutic relationship. I work hard to ensure that my clients feel heard, accepted, and valuable within our relationship. I also understand that everyone is different, and therefore, I find it valuable to use a personalized approach. I emphasize the importance of working with you, to create a goal that works best for you moving forward, so that we can work together to help you grow and flourish in a way that works best for you.”

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Special Interests: LGBTQ+ Issues, Anxiety, Depression, and Trauma.

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Hobbies and Interests: Spending time with friends and family, cooking, Arts and Crafts, trying new things, and binge watching my favorite shows!

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Fun Fact: I played many sports growing up before transitioning including: basketball, football, and swimming. I am also a huge Star Wars geek!

Clinical Interns

Clinical Interns are individuals who have completed the academic portion of their graduate training and are providing therapy as a part of their field training.  Interns provide therapy under the supervision of the Clinical Director and their graduate faculty.  Working with an intern is an affordable way to receive therapy and benefit from the background support of experienced therapists.  

Sarah LaFleur, Intern
she/her

Clinical Intern

Sarah is a counselor intern, poet, and yoga teacher. Sarah is currently earning her Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family therapy. Sarah’s approach is relational, interweaving creative modalities with mindfulness approaches to increase connection, self-awareness, and presence.

“I believe in the wisdom of the body, the power in creative expression, and the art of relationship.”

Specialities: Substance use disorders, complex trauma, faith transitions, blended families, teens

Hobbies and Interests: Poetry, cats & coffee, ashtanga yoga

Fun Fact: I’ve traveled to India and can read Sanskrit!

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Mariah Vargo, Intern

she/her

Clinical Intern

Mariah earned her Bachelor's Degree in Psychology where she is currently enrolled as a graduate student pursuing her Master's Degree in Counseling.  Mariah enjoys working with all populations, especially children and adolescents.  She is looking forward to becoming an advocate for young children and promoting mental health awareness for young children.

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“Therapy to me is an experience where individuals  are supported and are encouraged to be comfortable with being vulnerable to promote positive change.  My goal as a counselor is to provide the necessary skills and tools to allow clients to obtain and sustain their desired outcomes.”

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Specialties: Children experiencing grief and/or divorce

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Hobbies and Interests: guitar, bass clarinet, and piano. traveling, off roading with my Jeep, reading, cooking, and any outdoor activity.

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Fun Fact: As a member of an orchestra, I was able to travel to 5 countries in Europe while playing.