Practical therapy for New Jersey adults

Substance-use counseling in New Jersey

When alcohol or other substances have become a primary way to cope—and are beginning to create additional problems. Explore your usage in a practical, judgment-free setting.

Schedule my free 15-minute call

Private conversation. No pressure to begin.

$125 private pay
Applicable insurance benefits may be accepted
Benefits verified before treatment

This may be affecting more than one part of your life.

Relying on substances to unwind, sleep, or manage stress
Noticing an increase in how much or how often you are using
Feeling defensive or secretive about your substance use
Experiencing negative consequences at work or in relationships
Trying to cut back or quit but struggling to maintain the change

What this can look like day to day

  • Using substances to numb uncomfortable feelings or anxiety
  • Hiding the extent of your use from family or friends
  • Feeling sluggish, unmotivated, or unwell the next day
  • Losing interest in activities that do not involve drinking or using
  • Worrying about your health or what the future looks like
  • Knowing your coping methods are creating new problems but not knowing how to stop

A practical, collaborative approach

Shawn is a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC). He provides a collaborative space to examine your relationship with substances, understand your triggers, and develop healthier ways to cope.

Identify the underlying stress or patterns driving your use
Establish clear, realistic goals (harm reduction or abstinence)
Develop practical relapse-prevention and coping strategies
Address co-occurring concerns like anxiety or work pressure

What to expect

1

Start with a free fit call

A brief, private conversation to discuss what has been happening and determine if we are an appropriate clinical fit.

2

Get clear on cost and next steps

Review applicable benefits, expected costs, and the private onboarding process before deciding to continue.

3

Begin with a practical plan

Start therapy with a clear direction and, when clinically appropriate, a useful tool or next step.

Fit and Scope

Who this is for

Adults in New Jersey looking to evaluate, reduce, or stop their substance use in a supportive outpatient setting.

What is not provided

Synergy does not provide medical detoxification, inpatient rehab, or management of severe physical withdrawals. If medical detox is required, I will recommend a higher level of care.

If Synergy is not the appropriate fit, I will communicate that honestly and try to suggest a better path.

W. Shawn Welty
Meet your therapist

W. Shawn Welty, MA, LPC, LCADC, ACS

Owner and Therapist • He/him/his

Shawn brings more than two decades of counseling experience across school, agency, private-practice, and substance-use settings.

His approach is direct and collaborative. Therapy with Shawn focuses on identifying patterns, building on existing strengths, and developing practical skills for life outside the session.

Cost & Insurance

$125 per individual therapy session

Blue Cross Blue Shield commercial benefits may apply, subject to eligibility and benefit verification.

Medicaid and Medicare are not accepted.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to commit to complete abstinence?

No. Treatment goals are collaborative. Some clients choose complete abstinence, while others work toward harm reduction and moderation. We will discuss what makes sense for you.

Will you force me to go to AA or NA?

No. While 12-step programs are helpful for many, they are not the only path. We focus on finding the support systems and strategies that work best for your specific situation.

Is outpatient counseling enough?

It depends on the severity of the substance use. During the fit call or initial sessions, we will determine if outpatient therapy is appropriate or if a higher level of care is recommended.

Is my information kept confidential?

Yes. Your privacy is strictly protected by state and federal laws, allowing you to discuss your substance use honestly and safely.

Can we address my anxiety at the same time?

Absolutely. Substance use is often intertwined with anxiety, stress, or depression. We will address these co-occurring concerns together.

Can we meet via telehealth?

For substance-related concerns, Shawn generally encourages in-person care. Telehealth may be considered individually when clinically appropriate.

You do not need to have everything figured out before reaching out.

Schedule my free 15-minute call

If Synergy is not the appropriate clinical fit, I will say so honestly.