Therapy for Children, Teens, Women & Parents Based out of Allendale & Oradell, NJ

Surrendering gets a bad rep - we think it means giving up or waiving the 🏳️- but the reality is surrendering simply means to stop fighting sometimes, and often times that means to stop fighting yourself. Slowing down, and accepting what is so that you can navigate it more adeptly, is a powerful approach to take. What can you notice and remember when you surrender to the moment? #njtherapist #thoughtsfromthecouch #mentalhealth #women #kids #teens #anxiety #ocd #trauma #depression #grief #overcome #release #surrender #accept

We're so excited to announce we'll be exhibiting at the @NJMOM Baby Expo on April 28 at the beautiful W Hoboken! Over 50 baby and toddler exhibitors, educational demos, AMAZING RAFFLES, VIP swag bags, exclusive show-only discounts and more. And, we're giving away 2 sets of general admission passes to 2 mamas to attend the show with whoever you choose! To enter, simply tag a parent to be who needs to know about the baby expo, follow @njbabyexpo and @njmom and @aworkofheart_counseling, and we’ll select 2 winners on April 13th to win 2 tickets each! Bonus entries for every friend you tag. Good luck! 🩷🫶🏻🫄 #njmom #njbabyexpo #expecting #pregnancy #postpartum

April showers ☔ bring...lots of events and resources from AWOH! Join us for so many wonderful happenings with some of our favorite collaborators and new collaborations! Groups for new parents (including our FREE Postpartum Unplugged Group!) as well as our Mommy & Me Music Class with @saddleriversong ❤️ We have a FREE Sensory Mornning at @wrtsbergen + the return of our Maternal Wellness Hour with @mamameetupsnj as well as a collab workshop with @treehousetherapynj & some webinars and virtual groups! Find community and connection to resources with us 🫶🏻 #mentalhealth #women #womenshealth #childmentalhealth #bergencountynj #bergenmom #bergendad #parenting #postpartum #wellness #findcommunity #parenthood

Clinical Director Kara Kushnir, LCSW, was recently interviewed by @laurenbwestro of @parents on the emotions that will make their debut in "Inside Out 2" As a therapist who works with children and teens (as well as parents!) she offered some insights on the new emotions we will meet and why we may see them emerge in adolescence! Check out the link 🔗 in our story and below: https://www.parents.com/meet-the-new-emotions-from-inside-out-2-8610430 #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #parenting #teammotherly #trauma #ocd #anxiety #motherhood #parenthood #stress #wellness #childhood #childtherapist #disney #pixar #insideout #ennui #embarassment #envy

Looking for a fun and engaging way to help your little one tame their temper, learn about feelings or increase body awareness? Join us for SEL Yoga this May/June with our amazing child and adolescent therapist, Ali Driben, LSW, CYT! We will be indoors if it rains and outdoors in the sunshine ☀️ when weather cooperates at Hoffman Field in Oradell! Register at the link in our bio! #yogi #sel #toddlers #mommyandmeyoga #grandparents #dads #familyfun #bigfeelings #familywellness

Our assistant clinical director, @kdelventhal_lcsw was quoted in this new article from @parents on how young girls perceive themselves. As an expert in working with children and adolescents, we are so proud of Kristen's insights into this topic! Head to the link in bio to read the article 🫶🏻

Head to the link 🔗 in bio to read more about health trends for women - especially #boundaries - and why this should be more than just a trend!

With St. Patrick's Day 🍀 just around the corner and being so close to 2,000 followers, we thought we'd do a fun giveaway to spread some love and while someone gets lucky and wins a $50 gift card to @pourcityroasters and $50 gift card to @amazon on @aworkofheart_counseling - because we could all use some self care, and coffee and Amazon sound like two great ways to make that happen (especially since Pour City is the BEST coffee in the county!) Help us reach our goal to spread more awareness of mental health and the resources and events we are offering to build community for everyone from new parents and kids, to teens and young adults, and be entered to win! Just like this post/be sure to follow us, share this post, and tag a friend below. Bonus if you follow @climboutbergen so you are in the know about our upcoming Climb - and of course follow Pour City Roasters and support local! ☕️

We are SO excited to share 2 upcoming events for April! In honor of Autism Accetpance Month 🌈 we are hosting a FREE morning of sensory play for 10 children at We Rock the Spectrum in Paramus @wrtsbergen + We are hosting our Sensory Friendly Song class in Oradell with Ms. Carly of @saddleriversong - ALL Events are inclusive for children with and without disabilities! Space is limited at each so head to the 🔗 link in our bio to register today or link below! If Classes sell out, please email kara@aworkofheartcounseling.com to join our waiting list! Sensory Play & Connect: https://calendly.com/kara-kushnir-lcsw/sensory-play-wrts Sensory Friendly Song: https://calendly.com/kara-kushnir-lcsw/sensory-friendly-song #autismacceptance #neurodivergence #inclusion #thespectrum #celebrateinclusion #musicistherapy #supportfamilies #momowned #femaleowned #mompreneur #disabilitysupport #autism #downsyndrome #extralucky #differentnotless

Another great Song & Support with one of our favorite collabs! @saddleriversong and @mamameetupsnj 🩷

👋🏻 Welcome to the instagram for @aworkofheart_counseling 🫶🏻 and let me reintroduce myself! I'm Kara Kushnir, LCSW & PMH-C, owner and clinical director for A Work of Heart Counseling & Wellness! I started this practice almost 5 years ago, and what started out as my side gig became my full time passion/profession during the pandemic and my first pregnancy! I am so proud to have created a practice focused on the wellbeing of women and their children/teenagers, and created this space because I believe therapy is hard work because it's heart work - it matters. YOU matter! And the care you receive should reflect the significance of your life, endeavors and aspirations. We hope to be a place of hope, holding and healing for all who come through our doors in Allendale or Oradell 🚪, or our computer screens 💻 virtually! On International Women's Day, I am thrilled to to share that we've grown from 1 therapist to a team of 13 incredible, all female therapists in just shy of 5 years time. THAT is girl power! 🩷 #inspireinclusion #womenowned #womenled #womenran 📸: @jessicajanephotography_ny

As an all female practice supporting so many women and mothers, we want to wish you a happy international women's day 💐 we also want to continue to advocate for a world with equality, respect and safety for women everywhere. Thank you to every woman who allows us to support her or her child on the journey, we are grateful to be part of your support system 🫶🏻 #inspireinclusion

🏳️‍🌈 Clinician Jackie Emerson, LSW is proud to offer a LGBTQ Group for Teens this summer called "True Colors" - the group will be a safe place for queer youth to discuss their identities, experiences and gain insight into helpful tools and resources as well as peer support. Link is in our bio to register! 🫶🏻 🏳️‍🌈 or use the QR code in the photo above ⬆️ Link ⬇️ https://form.jotform.com/kkushnirlcsw/true-colors #summer2024 #lgbtq #pride #support #ally #bergencountynj

Join us on 3/16 where we will be with so many other incredible perinatal wellness experts at @buybuybaby_paramus registry event! Scan the QR code to get VIP entrance, and access to discounts, live demos, and chat with us about all of our resources for pregnancy and postpartum from a mental health perspective! Postpartum mental health conditions are the #1 complication of childbirth! Prevention can help! We are so excited to be a part of this event ☘️ #pregnancy #postpartum #bergenmama

So excited to send two lucky parents $50 to Amazon and Starbucks! Parents can definitely use these resources 🩷 thanks to all the parents who chatted with us at @mamameetupsnj Family Fun Day this weekend! 🫶🏻

As spring nears, it's a good time to remind yourself that Mother Nature starts over every spring, so why can't you? Every day is a chance to start something new, including improving your wellness and relationship with yourself. Take the time to invest in yourself! You deserve it and are worth it! 🌺 🌹 🌸 💐 🌱 . . . #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #postpartumjourney #parenting #teammotherly #trauma #ocd #anxiety #perinatal #postpartum #pregnancy #infertility #motherhood #parenthood #stress #wellness #childhood #childtherapist

🫶🏻 You asked, we listened! 🩷🎶 Join us in our Allendale office for a Swiftie's inspired girls group focused on empowerment and self esteem for girls ages 7-10! We will be working on vision boards, mantra bracelets and building each other up all while utilizing Taylor inspired themes and music. A healthy dose of empowerment fused with your daughter's favorite musician - what could be better!? Link 🔗 is in bio and our website to join - and space is limited! Hope to see you there 🤗 #summer2024 #whoruntheworldgirls #empowerment #selfesteem #njmom #bergencountynj #bergenmama #bergencountymom #daughter #childtherapist #supportourgirls #confidence

What an awesome morning with @mamameetupsnj 🫶🏻 it was so nice meeting so many awesome families, sharing the resources we have, and destigmatizing mental health! Thrilled to have made so many awesome connections with other amazing businesses in Bergen as well! Thank you to @kdelventhal_lcsw who also came and represented us and shared all about A Work of Heart! Can't wait to have a lucky winner from our raffle! 🩷🎶👶🏻😍 #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #postpartumjourney #parenting #teammotherly #trauma #ocd #anxiety #perinatal #postpartum #pregnancy #infertility #motherhood #parenthood #stress #wellness #childhood #childtherapist

For every parent that waits while their child goes to speech, OT, PT, DI or therapy with us - we see you. It is hard to watch your child work harder than other kids to do things we deem as simple. It can feel very lonely and your mind can wander in that waiting room. How are they doing in there? Is this really helping? Are my expectations realistic? Will my son have friends? Will my daughter ever speak? Are there other moms or dads out there who can relate? I filmed this while waiting for my son in his own therapy appointments (shout out to incredible SLPs and OTs) because we have to normalize parents seeking support. It takes a VILLAGE and we are so proud to be part of that village, for both parents and their kids. We get what hard and heart work all of this is. If you found this and you're in NJ or PA, please reach out. We can help 💗🫶🏻 #disability #disabilityparenting #autism #downsyndrome #differentnotless #neurodivergent #affirming #families #njmom #njdad #bergencountymom #bergencountynj #passaiccountynj #thoughtsfromthecouch #childtherapist #motherhood #postpartum #parenting #youarenotalone

Mean it 💜

Join us for a grief group just for teens this summer at our Oradell office. Sign up on our website! 🫶🏻 https://form.jotform.com/240583849293165

Snap 🫰 crackle 🔥 pop ❗️ - remember those commercials as a kid? I remember pouring a bowl of cereal and listening to the milk make the sounds I associated with this cereal, and it would make me laugh or smile. It made me NOTICE my breakfast and what I was doing. Kids (and adults) often struggle to slow down and tune in - which is a skill (mindfulness/self awareness etc). But everyday activities can be a chance for us to notice things around us and our reactions to them, which can in turn build self awareness, emotional identification, and vocabulary around body sensations. For example, ever feel nervous and it feels like your stomach is bubbling? That could be a word learned from watching soup cook. Are you overwhelmed, but zooming in on something in front of you helps slow you down? A bowl of cereal might just help you do that. It may seem silly or small, but little things that build awareness can be big for kids (and for us!) #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #momowned #bergencountynj #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #postpartumjourney #parenting #teammotherly #trauma #ocd #anxiety #perinatal #postpartum #pregnancy #infertility #motherhood #parenthood #stress #wellness #childhood #childtherapist #grounding #emdr #emotions #playtherapy

Don't forget to take time to slow down and de-stress! It's so important to find what works for you! #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #postpartumjourney #parenting #teammotherly #trauma #ocd #anxiety #perinatal #postpartum #pregnancy #infertility #motherhood #parenthood #stress #wellness #childhood #childtherapist

Calling all Tween & Teen #swifties who want to build their empowerment and confidence this summer! Join us for this amazing girls group (for tween/teen girls ages 11-15!) being held in our Oradell office! The group will be facilitated by @kdelventhal_lcsw 🎶🫶🏻 Link to register: https://form.jotform.com/240557292184157 also on our website! #teentherapy #empowerment #femaleempowerment #taylorswift #swiftie #nj

Very excited to be hosting the EMDR NJ Meet-Up for the North Region this April! If you're a practicing EMDR therapist, please join us in Oradell for refreshments, giveaways and networking! Link in bio to sign up 🔗 #emdr #emdrtherapi̇st #njtherapist

If you haven't seen our Postpartum Song & Support Groups yet, check them out! These are mommy and me music classes followed by a brief support group style discussion to help foster connections and communication amongst the moms - because community matters!!! We are always in awe when we see these moms and babies, and it's the best feeling when they start to see themselves doing great too 🩷🎶🥹 Shoutout to @bgallagherlcsw for facilitating the group part on behalf of @aworkofheart_counseling and @saddleriversong who always brings the beat!!!

Very grateful for the opportunity to present on such an important topic for military families today through the @wwp . First responders, especially those who experienced injury during a tour of duty, are trauma survivors and may experience birth - especially if they have a higher risk pregnancy or more medical interventions - as traumatic as well. Each year I get the chance to meet with some families who are expecting and share ways they can be mindful of past experience and plan for a better birth experience and process with providers to reduce the risk their trauma will be more intensive, their partner will have a hard time during labor/delivery, and that their birthing experience won't be what they deserve. Such a privilege to honor these men and women with my time on a topic I'm so passionate about 🫶🏻 🇺🇸 #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #postpartumjourney #parenting #teammotherly #trauma #ocd #anxiety #perinatal #postpartum #pregnancy #infertility #motherhood #parenthood #stress #wellness #birthtrauma #militaryfamilies #pamoms #birth

Music is a powerful tool for coping, healing and feeling. When clients share music in session I am always so inspired by the connections they've made. This song was a recent share and I've been listening to it on repeat, thinking about how dissociating and jarring it is for some folks to return "home" when their childhood home or town doesn't feel like a safe place and holds painful memories. It is a privilege to hold space for folks seeking to work through these wounds. Here, we want you to feel safe, seen, valued, grounded. #childhoodtrauma #traumasurvivor #home #growingup #healing #emdr #ifs #therapistsofinstagram #njtherapist #postpartum #parenthood #therapyjourney

Grief is a fickle thing. It swallows us whole sometimes. Traumatic loss, unexpected or expected, can shake someone and leave them in disbelief, immeasurable pain, with a hole in their heart. I have been reflecting on this lately as a common thread of loss has run through many clients, both children and adults. And in experiencing my own loss recently, I reflected and sat with these 2 "friends" of mine, who often feel at odds with one another. I hope in your grief, in your child's grief, in a loss that feels unseen or one that is so big it's impossible to avoid even if you wish it were a dream, that you find your way to co-exist with the love that you aren't sure where to send. I hope you learn how all emotions fit in your heart and that you are gentle with yourself while you learn to move through this new life. I wish you peace 🩷 know that our doors are open if you can't imagine ever finding it, and we will sit with you in the dark as long as you need. #grief #griefjourney #griefsupport #childloss #mentalhealthmatters

Need a mom friend? How about another woman navigating pregnancy who might get the anxiety, excitement, apprehensions, nausea, fatigue etc to boot!!? Head to the link in our bio to join - there's no commitment! Come to any group that you're able to 💗 https://tr.ee/TYdCrn1BS6

Join us for our next Song & Support 🎶 a music class and support group for moms and littles 0-5! We are so excited to continue our partnerships with @saddleriversong and @mamameetupsnj to offer this in the conference room space at our Oradell office complex location! This class will fill FAST! Head to the link in our bio to register 🩷 additional sibling registrations, DM us!

What a morning!!! Ms. Carly of @saddleriversong held down the fort today and provided an AMAZING sensory friendly, inclusive music class for the littles who attended! Our intention with starting this program was to offer an inclusive and stress free space for ALL little ones to engage with music in a social environment, where parents can feel at ease, as all are accepted and welcome here 💗 we hope to keep partnering with @saddleriversong to continue to offer amazing music classes and programs for families, especially moms, dads and little ones! Drop a 💜 if you love this and would like to see more of this and other programs continue!!! #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #postpartumjourney #parenting #trauma #ocd #anxiety #perinatal #postpartum #pregnancy #infertility #motherhood #parenthood #stress #wellness #childhood #childtherapist #musicistherapeutic

This is a hot topic in the therapy world as well as medicine in general! In NO WAY are we trying to encourage people from not working with providers who are in network (INN) with insurance BUT the reality is, with a growing number of providers going OON due to a number of reasons, you may not realize there are many benefits to seeing an OON provider! Here are some below: 1️⃣ You have way more control/say over your care. When you aren't at the mercy of your insurance company, you can dictate a bit more of your care in collaboration with your provider such as how often you are seen, the duration of your sessions, and what modalities of therapy you can participate in 2️⃣ OON providers often have smaller caseloads, so they can tend to their clients with more flexibility as well as less burn out. Imagine trying to keep up with 40 clients per week and keeping everyone's care and information clear in your mind? No way! This model of care impacts both provider and patient. A provider who has a more balanced caseload has the time and energy to provide really good care! 3️⃣ The above point also brings us to this one - being out of network allows clinicians more time to devote to additional training/continuing education which directly impacts client care. This often yields more highly specialized clinicians in the field who have extensive experience and training to effectively address specific needs more effectively. This can actually mean you spend LESS money in treatment over time because you are getting the right treatment from the beginning 4️⃣ Last, a lot of people don't realize that OON doesn't mean not covered by insurance! Your insurance may (and many commercial PPO plans do) have OON benefits! This means your insurance will likely cover a portion or all of your therapy! 5️⃣ And a BONUS 💗 A Work of Heart submits to your insurance FOR YOU so you don't have to do the leg work of seeking the reimbursement! We do it all for you! #mentalhealth #oonprovider

We are SO excited to offer this amazing event in collaboration with @shopthecraftykit in Westwood! Join us in honor of #nationalinfertilityawarenessweek in April for a night of connection and community! This 1 hour Mosaic glass tile class will be a chance to connect to other women navigating infertility and their journey to motherhood while creating something meaningful. Use the link 🔗 in bio or at our website and Code AWOH at checkout for $5 off the class (on us!) to register 🫶🏻💗 we will bring the snacks and mocktails, just bring yourself!

💛 Therapist Spotlight: Kimberly! 💛 We are so excited to welcome Kimberly to AWOH's team! She brings a wealth of experience having worked with children, teens and adults in community mental health and school based counseling roles for a decade. She is accepting new clients in our Oradell office on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 4-8pm! Head to the link in our bio to request an appointment 📆 #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #parenting #trauma #anxiety #parenthood #stress #wellness #childhood #childtherapist #teenmentalhealth #perfectionism #schoolanxiety

This was the last few lines in a piece written by an incredible single mom to a daughter with multiple disabilities. What she writes of is the fact that special needs parents don't often choose this life - they often feel they get drafted. There is nothing that makes them more uniquely qualified - yet, they get the job. In this, acknowledgment of the challenges they face and needs they have is critical. We are so proud to have specialty training in anxiety, trauma, and in supporting parents of children with chronic illness/medical conditions and disabilities - the unique experiences cannot be overlooked, and their needs are often last on the list. Here, you are first. If these lines resonated with you, I hope you know you aren't alone, and your best and your love IS enough for your child...and you also need and deserve love yourself. 🩷 #specialneedsparenting #aworkofheart #autism #downsyndromeawareness #extraluckymoms #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #postpartumjourney #parenting #trauma #ocd #anxiety #perinatal #postpartum #pregnancy #infertility #motherhood #parenthood #stress #wellness #childhood #childtherapis t

When people ask me why I got involved in #perinatalmentalhealth I often point to my own experiences with pregnancy, birth and postpartum. I struggled. And I share it because without that honesty, progress cannot happen. Therapists aren't immune. Now, our lived experience doesn't represent all experiences and can simply inform how we practice - and self disclosure should be used sparingly and only when appropriate! But I hope sharing some glimpses into this time in my life will commonize the experience and help at least 1 parent feel the courage and allowance to reach out for help. I also hope it shines a light on the deep empathy had for you when you reach out for help. You are certainly not alone. It does get better. Help is out there 🫶🏻 speaking to a trained perinatal mental health clinician can make all the difference in your life. #birthtrauma #perinatalmentalhealth #ppa #ptsd #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #bergencountywomenownedbusiness #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #postpartumjourney #parenting #trauma #ocd #anxiety #perinatal #postpartum #pregnancy #infertility #motherhood #parenthood #stress #wellness

Are you tired of hearing people say things like "it's just anxiety" or "just stop thinking about it?" YES. us too. That's not how #anxiety or #OCD works - it requires an approach to the thoughts that devalues them without giving them a whole lot of energy, which can be confusing and feel really counterproductive and even triggering to us when we're suffering.... So what does that look like? ⏸️PAUSE and notice your thought ⏺️ If the thought is distressing, and you're getting stuck on it/obsessing, what is it stopping you from doing right now? One option is to notice the thought and then keep going/doing what you WANT or actually need to do instead of continuing to obsess. ▶️what is OCD asking you to do to try and make the anxiety go away? Do the opposite! If wants you to wash your hands? Nah, we good. It wants you to check on your baby because there's no way the monitor is actually working? NOPE, we can stay in the shower and finish it instead. This will be hard but it prevents compulsions and shows OCD who is boss ▶️ speaking of which, BOSS BACK that loud bully/ MOFO in your brain!!! "I don't have to listen to you," or "thank you, next" are totally valid responses to unhelpful thoughts ↔️ practice #cognitiveflexibility - when you allow your brain to think about things in a different way it is a good way to prove to yourself that you don't have to listen to fear; in fact, you can do things differently whenever you want. OCD and Anxiety love routine, structure, sameness and knowing what to expect. Doing things with spontaneity, change and silliness can really mess them up! There are so many ways to combat anxiety, follow for more on anxiety, ocd, trauma and all things maternal/women's #mental health 🤍 #bergencountynj #bergenmama #mentalhealth #maternalmentalhealth #anxietyrelief #ocdawareness #erp #cbt #thoughtsfromthecouch #recovery #healing #resilience

It's been a labor of love but we can officially say we're done moving into our #Oradell space 🫶🏻 we still have openings for new clients (children, adolescents and women!) so please reach out if you want to see a therapist in person (or virtually throughout NJ!) and Ali, Brittany and soon Kimberly will be happy to assist 🩷 #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #bergencountywomenownedbusiness #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #postpartumjourney #parenting #trauma #ocd #anxiety #perinatal #postpartum #pregnancy #infertility #motherhood #parenthood #stress #wellness #childhood #childtherapist

🙌 Registration for our Summer Kindergarten Readiness Mini Camp is OPEN! 🙌 Join us at the Mahwah Public Library for 4 nights of fun and exposure to kindergarten lessons related to core skills and strategies for a successful transition to K! Program is open to any child entering kindergarten in the fall, and parents must attend as we will be teaching them how to support their child beyond the camp and throughout their journey in elementary school! You won't want to miss this! 3 experts in the field: 🍎 Reading Specialist/Certified PreK-8 Dually Certified Teacher (Special Ed/General Ed) 🍎 20+ year Kindergarten Teacher & Licensed Professional Counselor 🍎 NJ Kids Top Doc + Child/Adolescent Therapist, Former Child Study Team Case Manager Head to the 🔗 in our bio to sign up today or www.aworkofheartcounseling.com/events #summercamp #summer2024 #parents #bergencountynj #bergencountymom #mahwah #ramsey #pascackvalley #bergenmama #kindergarten #school #camp #njcamp #bergencountycamp #schoolreadiness #schoolanxiety #summerfun #bergen

Hey mama 👋🏻 if you're new here, welcome. A Work of Heart Counseling & Wellness was created with women and their families in mind, and we thrive on offering enriching opportunities to connections with others in the community and to other community partners who provide amazing programs and resources! Postpartum Song & Support is one such group - a mommy and me Music class that focuses on mommy just as much as baby! We make time for connection and sharing following class, provide you with some much needed caffeine and highlight how we are all in it together 🩷 Next class has 3 spots left for Feb! Head to the link in our bio to join the group and see it gets better, together 🥰 And if you need your own support individually, we have openings for perinatal clients (those who are pregnant/postpartum) for in person or virtual therapy, as well as new groups forming! #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #bergencountywomenownedbusiness #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #postpartumjourney #parenting #trauma #ocd #anxiety #perinatal #postpartum #pregnancy #infertility #motherhood #parenthood #stress #wellness #childhood #childtherapist

Yeah...#ocd tends to be really loud! Learning how to co-exist with this voice is really critical AND hard. Sometimes we can make peace and sometimes we need to boss it back. Knowing how and when to do this is not easy, takes time and learning what works best for you! After all, postpartum OCD tends to target the things you care about most - your loved ones, your safety, your morals and values. It's not an easy existence but living with and recovering from ocd is possible! 🩷 #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #bergencountywomenownedbusiness #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #postpartumjourney #parenting #trauma #ocd #anxiety #perinatal #postpartum #pregnancy #infertility #motherhood #parenthood #stress #wellness #childhood #childtherapist #iocdf

The funny thing about parenthood is we place the most unreasonable and unrealistic expectations on ourselves a lot of the time. Some of the top things I wish I had learned sooner (and strive to share with all of my clients)? 1️⃣ nobody knows what they're doing. No...really. There's no handbook. There's no secret map. We're all winging it to the best of our ability! 2️⃣ showing up is half the job. Truly - we are our kids whole world when they're little, and being present with them makes the biggest difference! More than any toy, gift or experience we try to make perfect or insta worthy, I promise. 3️⃣ Kids are messy, wild and curious. Learning to lean into their chaos with curiosity and a set of strong grounding techniques and tools will absolutely make you a better parent. If you don't know how to do that yet, it's never too late to learn. That's often what therapy can be for too! Above all else, parenting with love and intention is where it's at! We can't be perfect, and we shouldn't be. But we can strive for greatness 🩷 #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #bergencountywomenownedbusiness #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #postpartumjourney #parenting #trauma #ocd #anxiety #perinatal #postpartum #pregnancy #infertility #motherhood #parenthood #stress #wellness #childhood #childtherapist

Susan has over 2 decades of experience working with youth and their families! She specifically has interests and training in supporting LGBTQ 🏳️‍🌈 Youth and their families, individuals navigating grief and loss, anxiety around school and academic challenges, and self-esteem. She presently has openings on Monday evenings and Saturday mornings in our Allendale offices! #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #bergencountywomenownedbusiness #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #parenthood #stress #wellness #childhood #childtherapist #teentherapist #adolescenttherapy #anxiety #depression #lgbtqia #lgbtq #queerfamily

When you're a new parent and people feel the need to impose their opinion on you... 🙃 "Ahh yes, I will try that thing I have already tried 10 times, random grandma in ShopRite." When your kid is having a meltdown and instead of feeling shame you acknowledge the pain but look at the people staring with a look that could sear ice. When you're at the gym lifting and working on yourself and someone makes a passive aggressive smirk or sneer. This is where your inner empowered woman deserves to shine. This is where we help kids lean into speaking up for themselves (albeit maybe without an f-bomb 😂). This is where recovering #peoplepleasers recognize their worth. We promise, you're crushing this parenthood/personhood thing, and if you're not or you are carrying some extra worry or circumstances that make you feel like you aren't or bad shoot yourself, we're here for that. You deserve to be able to speak up about your worth, set boundaries with people who make you feel less than or uncomfortable, and feel empowered (including around the negative voices that may live inside your own head!)We are here to remind you of that and help you feel more empowered than ever. #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #bergencountywomenownedbusiness #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #postpartumjourney #parenting #trauma #ocd #anxiety #perinatal #postpartum #pregnancy #infertility #motherhood #parenthood #stress #wellness #childhood #childtherapist

Friendly reminder - you don't need a "good enough reason" to start therapy (for you or your child). YOU ARE a good enough reason 🩷 #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #bergencountywomenownedbusiness #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #postpartumjourney #parenting #trauma #ocd #anxiety #perinatal #postpartum #pregnancy #infertility #motherhood #parenthood #stress #wellness #childhood #childtherapist

A huge congratulations to @bgallagherlcsw on the completion of her Perinatal Components of Care & Advanced Psychotherapy Training with @postpartumsupportinternational - one step closer to PMH-C! Brittany is accepting new clients in Oradell and virtually!!! #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #bergencountywomenownedbusiness #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #postpartumjourney #parenting #trauma #ocd #anxiety #perinatal #postpartum #pregnancy #infertility #motherhood #parenthood #stress #wellness #childhood #childtherapist

We know this is easier said than done, but taking time is critical. When things feel heavy, hard or overwhelming, leaning into the small moments and sensory experiences can soothe your nervous system 🌾 this is particularly important when you just feel like it must be a full moon 🌕 (fun fact - it is right now 🙃) and you're just trying to keep your head above water. #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #bergencountywomenownedbusiness #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #postpartumjourney #parenting #trauma #ocd #anxiety #perinatal #postpartum #pregnancy #infertility #motherhood #parenthood #stress #wellness #childhood #childtherapist

📚TRAINING/CEU Opportunity for NJ #socialworkers and #counselors as well as perinatal providers for March!📚 Register at link in bio 🔗 https://calendly.com/kara-kushnir-lcsw/perinatal-workshop?back=1&month=2024-03

When kids talk to a therapist it can feel, well...scary, weird, strange, exciting, relieving and so much in between! Therapy should not feel the same with kids and teens as it does with adults because they don't communicate like we do. Interaction through play and experiential activities is one of the primary channels for getting kids to open up, as are other creative approaches. Child and teen therapists also strive to make therapy a collaborative process with parents because we know that that improves outcomes. We can still protect confidentiality while including parents in the process. Things to look for in a child/teen therapist? ✅ how do they talk to kids/do they speak to your child directly and not just you? ✅ warm, approachable and caring attitude ✅ utilization of creativity and flexibility in session activities (to the point where you may even ask yourself how is this therapy!) ✅ willingness to collaborate and include you in the process ✅ training and experience in specific techniques or modalities useful for kids and parents like CBT, SPACE, DBT, TF-CBT, EMDR and play-based therapy We currently have a handful of openings for kids and teens in Allendale and Oradell! Reach out if we may be a good support 🩷

🎶🩷Our February #postpartum song and support group is officially open for registration! Join us for a baby music class followed by connection, conversation and resources 🩷 🔗 in bio to register or head to the website (flyer to be updated on the site by end of today!) . . . #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #bergencountywomenownedbusiness #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #postpartumjourney #parenting #trauma #ocd #anxiety #perinatal #postpartum #pregnancy #infertility #motherhood #parenthood #stress #wellness #childhood #childtherapist

A little reflection after todays song and support 🩷 we hope you'll join us again! Head to the link in bio to join our newsletter where you'll hear more updates from us! #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #bergencountywomenownedbusiness #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #postpartumjourney #parenting #trauma #ocd #anxiety #perinatal #postpartum #pregnancy #infertility #motherhood #parenthood #stress #wellness #childhood #childtherapist

Check this out! So excited to be partnering with @treehousetherapynj on this awesome offering for parents of babies 0-12 months. We often get asked "how am I supposed to play with my baby to help them develop?" Or "is this normal?! Are they behind?! Am I doing this right?!" Cue *panic* If this sounds like you, join us for this informative and interactive workshop! Contact Treehouse to register 🩷🌳

⭐️ Class Alert! ⭐️ Sensory Friendly Song with @saddleriversleepandsong in February! Registration is open on our site and limited to 10 kids! This will sell out first so register now 🩷🎶

A peek at our ⭐️ Oradell, NJ Offices ⭐️ - more to come, and more touches to be added but we are open and ready to welcome you in! Immediate Appointments Available! Head to the link in bio if you are in NJ and need therapy. We are available virtually or in person and we put our heart and soul into our services. 🩷

That's a wrap on @aworkofheart_counseling team building and new year's celebration! 🎉 this team is the absolute best crew of therapists who puts their heart into EVERYTHING! Beyond grateful, and know every child/teen, woman and family who works with us is in good hands 🩷🩷🩷 #teambuilding #aworkofheart #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #bergencountywomenownedbusiness #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #postpartumjourney #parenting #trauma #ocd #anxiety #perinatal #postpartum #pregnancy #infertility #motherhood #parenthood #stress #wellness #childhood #childtherapist

Looking for a therapist who is accepting new clients? We have openings in our new #oradellnj offices! Head to the link in bio to request an appointment 🩷💻

It's National Stick to New Years Resolutions Day - but we're all about "intentions" over the here! And here is why: ⭐️ intentions alleviate the pressure people feel to make a change. This can lead to more purposeful and functional goals ⭐️ the idea of "resolving" something carries a negative connotation implying the need to fix. You aren't broken. ⭐️ being intentional with yourself means you can finally be a priority - and mental health should be something we all intend to focus on, as it has a ripple effect

⭐️ 🎶 Join us and @saddleriversleepandsong for an amazing baby music class followed by a support group for new moms! This FREE class will offer moms a chance to connect with other new moms and expose their infant to developmentally stimulating music programming led by Music teacher, pediatric sleep consultant and our incredible intake coordinator Carly Bickoff! Registration is Required as space is limited! Head to link in bio to register 😊🩷 or our website!

New year means the website gets a face lift 🙌⭐️ if you're wanting to be intentional about the wellness of you or your family, consider adding therapy to the mix! #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #bergencountywomenownedbusiness #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #postpartumjourney #parenting #trauma #ocd #anxiety #perinatal #postpartum #pregnancy #infertility #motherhood #parenthood #stress #wellness #childhood #childtherapist

Excited to share that Kara will be a volunteer presenter at the 2024 @iocdf Online Camp this January! She is presenting a workshop for high school students called "From What If to What Is" which focuses on music as a tool for present focus and managing #ocd symptoms!

Wow 2023 🥹 what a year! We are so grateful to have had such a huge role in the lives of countless families this year and we look forward to 2024 with open hearts 🫶🏻 Looking back at the impact helps us move forward with purpose. #newyear #2024 #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #bergencountywomenownedbusiness #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #postpartumjourney #parenting #trauma #ocd #anxiety #perinatal #postpartum #pregnancy #infertility #motherhood #parenthood #stress #wellness #childhood #childtherapist

This time of year, in the "lull" before new years, we encourage you to slow down and reflect. The upcoming New Year doesn't have to be all about resolutions - reflection and awareness are just as valuable! #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #bergencountywomenownedbusiness #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #postpartumjourney #parenting #trauma #ocd #anxiety #perinatal #postpartum #pregnancy #infertility #motherhood #parenthood #stress #wellness #childhood #childtherapist

With holiday events and gatherings still in swing this week, check out the latest article featuring A Work of Heart Counseling's Kara Kushnir and some of the advice she shares! Link in story! 7 Things You Can Do Right Now to Alleviate Last-Minute Holiday Stress, According to Therapists

Wishing a very Merry Christmas to all who celebrate! 🎄

700 Kinderkamack Road, Suite 308 is underway! Almost ready to open! We are SO grateful for the incredible team helping build out this space so we can have another location to support the wonderful work we are doing with children, teens and families. We are excited this location also has a meeting room we can secure for trainings and continuing education events, as well as community events. What we do is hard work because it's heart work 🩷 this is quite a way to close out a long week, but with full hearts we are thrilled to share a #sneakpeek at the new space! #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #bergencountywomenownedbusiness #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #postpartumjourney #parenting #trauma #ocd #anxiety #perinatal #postpartum #pregnancy #infertility #motherhood #parenthood #stress #wellness #childhood #childtherapist #allendalenj #oradellnj

🧠 When people hear the word #dissociation they often have no idea what it means or have a strong reaction to it. It's also a pretty trendy word that's thrown around on social media these days. The thing is, we all dissociate a little at some point. Ever drive somewhere and be like "how did I get here?" - that's often referred to as "highway dissociation" The problem becomes when you're "checking out or zoning out" so often that you feel you're losing chunks of time, getting lost in conversations or can't remember things from the past. This is often a sign that you experience hypoarousal when faced with various triggers or situations, and it's often a part of you trying to protect you from the pain associated with a memory or the overwhelm you're feeling in a moment. At times it's also just a sign of feeling burned out, and can also be a common experience for neurodivergent folks, serving as a "brain break" when the world is loud or sensory stimuli is too much. Working with a trauma therapist can be helpful in all of these scenarios because they can help explore dissociation with you and how this shows up in your life, as well as how it may have impacted your progress and ability to participate in therapy up until this point. It's also good to understand how your brain works and why it's happening to reduce fear and embrace empathy towards yourself and the parts of you that feel "turning off" is the most protective way to support you in that moment. ⭐️EMDR is a wonderful therapeutic approach that explores and takes great care with dissociation. It is useful for all kinds of trauma including #birthtrauma #perinataltrauma or #relationaltrauma where numbing or checking out may have been necessary to help you survive but is now becoming maladaptive. If you're interested in EMDR, you can find a trained therapist on the provider directory on EMDRIA's website @emdr_ia who can help you navigate the complexity of this experience. 🩷

A few friendly reminders for anxiety over the holidays (especially anxious mamas!) #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #bergencountywomenownedbusiness #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #postpartumjourney #parenting #trauma #ocd #anxiety #perinatal #postpartum #pregnancy #infertility #motherhood #parenthood #stress #wellness #childhood #childtherapist

Wishing you and yours, a very happy and healthy holiday! Our team will be enjoying a post holiday gathering in January and looks forward to continuing to support you and your children in 2024 and beyond 🩵🎄🕎❄️⭐️

⭐️ Welcome, Brittany! ⭐️ We are so excited to welcome another incredible therapist to our team at A Work of Heart! Brittany brings incredible experience in working with families, especially parents, and is eager to continue to support new parents as well as those navigating the journey of having a child with a disability or in need of support at school, adults with anxiety, and individuals navigating stress or low self esteem. She will be available both in office and virtually on Tuesdays and Wednesdays in the new year in our new offices! We are so grateful that more moms, dads, adults and college students will have another resourceful support to turn to on our team 🫶🏻 #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #bergencountywomenownedbusiness #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #postpartumjourney #parenting #trauma #ocd #anxiety #perinatal #postpartum #pregnancy #infertility #motherhood #parenthood #stress #wellness #childhood #childtherapist

The holidays are a time of connection but also so. much. freaking. pressure. From making the holidays "perfect", to navigating family dynamics/boundaries (or lack thereof) and the pressure to do and be all the things, it's a lot! We wanted to take a moment to remind you what matters and to really try and lean into it, no matter what you celebrate! 🎄🕎⭐️ #holidays #christmas #hannukah #holidaystress #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #postpartumjourney #parenting #trauma #ocd #anxiety #perinatal #postpartum #pregnancy #infertility #motherhood #parenthood #stress #wellness #childhood #childtherapist

Check out our latest contribution to @bergenliving_bvm Franklin Lakes Living Magazine on holiday boundaries 🎄🎁❄️🫶🏻🕎

We are SO excited to share this summer program offering with you! We know it's early, but we wanted to get the word out as people start to make summer camp plans in the winter ☀️ ❄️ our exact location is TBD, though we are aiming to host this workshop at the Mahwah Public Library! sign up today by emailing us 📧 kara@aworkofheartcounseling.com - you won't want to miss this program! #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #bergencountywomenownedbusiness #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #postpartumjourney #parenting #trauma #ocd #anxiety #perinatal #postpartum #pregnancy #infertility #motherhood #parenthood #stress #wellness #childhood #childtherapist #separationanxiety #kindergarten

Did you know we send out a newsletter periodically with great insights, tips, and resources - completely for free!? Make sure you head to "FREE Wellness Newsletter" link in our bio to sign up 🫶🏻 https://mailchi.mp/aworkofheartcounseling/wellness-news

⭐️🎄 It is not too late to help us fulfill the holiday wishes of children and parents in 3 different families in north Jersey this season! Together with @mamameetupsnj and Perinatal Professionals of North Jersey, we've compiled the wishlists of 3 families in need in our community - we are asking for you to support us in helping them to have the best holiday season by completing their wish list! Head the link in our bio or here below to purchase a gift 🎁 every gift is appreciated immensely! https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/TAXGHA9U2U04?ref_=wl_share

One of our favorite things about the holiday season is all of the #giving that gets to happen, and we are so excited to be doing a #giveaway of our own this season that features some of our favorite things in our offices and that we use for grounding and self care ourselves! There's make great stocking stuffers for moms, kids and teens alike - so maybe cross something off your list (or add something for yourself) by entering to win! ⭐️ Prizes Include ⭐️ 🩷Buddha Buddy breathing tool 🩷Self Care & Coping Card Deck 🩷 Starbucks Gift card 🩷 Fluffy Faux Fur Throw 🩷 Cuss & Color Coloring Book for Women 🩷 New Home Scented Candle 🩷 Stanley Dupe Hydration Cup 🩷 Tea Pigs Chamomile Tea 🩷 Fuzzy Socks How to Enter: ⭐️Make sure you're following us @aworkofheart_counseling ⭐️ Share our post to your story and tag us! ⭐️ Tag a friend (or as many as you'd like!) Winner will be announced December 15th and all items will be shipped to you! #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #bergencountywomenownedbusiness #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #postpartumjourney #parenting #trauma #ocd #anxiety #perinatal #postpartum #pregnancy #infertility #motherhood #parenthood #stress #wellness #childhood #childtherapist

We had a lot of moms comment on their thoughts on the #elfontheshelf and there was SO much variety - but we decided to compile that data Into 1 streamlined piece of advice for parents during the holiday season, especially moms. 🩵 No matter what you choose, you're still a good mom! 🎄 That being said - 1 more edit - if you choose to use the elf, please don't have him be a spy for Santa. The elf can spread Christmas cheer without being a spy and instilling fear 😉

We are looking for amazing therapists to join our Oradell team in the new year! Email your resume to kara@aworkofheartcounseling.com if you are interested! Preferences for therapists who can work after school/work hours! LCSW supervision available 🫶🏻 #childtherapy #perinataltherapy

Kara was recently interviewed by @newjerseyfamily magazine on this article about effective co-parenting strategies and considerations for children of divorced parents. We hope the strategies provided will be helpful and encourage you to take a look at the article at the 🔗 in our bio! #divorce #childrenofdivorce #childrenofdivorcedparents #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #bergencountywomenownedbusiness #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #postpartumjourney #parenting #trauma #ocd #anxiety #perinatal #postpartum #pregnancy #infertility #motherhood #parenthood #stress #wellness #childhood #childtherapist

⭐️Welcome, Ali, to the Team!⭐️ Ali is our newest therapist who will be seeing children ages 3 and up, teens and young adults in our #Oradell offices and virtually 🖥️! She has experience with preschool aged children and up, and specialized training in ERP for OCD, as well as child and adolescent mental health. Ali will be working under the supervision of Kara Kushnir, Clinical Director, as she completes her hours towards her LCSW and independent practice. We are so excited to welcome her! She is taking clients now on Tuesdays and Thursday afternoons/evenings virtually until the new space opens! Call or email the office today to request an appointment 😊

Here are some helpful tips for your Monday, and great ways to optimize #pause in your day to slow down, especially when feeling stressed! #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #bergencountywomenownedbusiness #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #postpartumjourney #parenting #trauma #ocd #anxiety #perinatal #postpartum #pregnancy #infertility #motherhood #parenthood #stress #wellness #childhood #childtherapist

We are so excited to be a part of another wonderful article, this time on #sleep for babies, kids and parents (especially #postpartum parents!) - the focus of this article is on the amazing offering two amazing colleagues in the field are offering on Newborn & Baby Sleep - @yourzenbabysleep and @montclair_baby 🩵 Our clinical director and founder was quoted here on the importance of sleep for parents as well as kids, dispelling the myth that parents should just suffer in sleep deprivation. In fact, sleep is one of the most protective things to the mental health of new parents! 🔗 in bio #sleeptraining #parenting #sleepwell #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #bergencountywomenownedbusiness #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #postpartumjourney #parenting #trauma #ocd #anxiety #perinatal #postpartum #pregnancy #infertility #motherhood #parenthood #stress #wellness #childhood #childtherapist @montclairlocalnews

You may not realize it, but many of your local favorite providers are small businesses, including @aworkofheart_counseling - and by being a smaller, locally owned practice we have the ability to be in tune with the community, the challenges specific to the area as well as the cultures and vibe of the geographic area we serve. When you see a therapist here you not only forgo the possibility of your privacy being forsaken (as is often the case with big tech giant practices/chains) but you also support the dream of therapists in your area who want to give back and make a living by helping others. Remember to shop local and support #smallbusiness this holiday season and all year round! The benefits to you are powerful! 🫶🏻 #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #bergencountywomenownedbusiness #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #postpartumjourney #parenting #trauma #ocd #anxiety #perinatal #postpartum #pregnancy #infertility #motherhood #parenthood #stress #wellness #childhood #childtherapist @bcpwn @bergenliving_bvm

Happy Thanksgiving ☺️🍁🦃 from all of us at A Work of Heart

BIG NEWS 📣 we can finally share what has been in the works now - we are expanding to a 2nd location!! We are so grateful to be able to continue to support so many amazing children, teens, women and parents and will now have even more capability to do so along with a group space and conference space where we can host more trainings and CEUs! We could have never gotten here without the amazing families we serve, the trust and relationships we have formed with the community and countless providers, and the heart of a therapy team that truly embodies what hard work and heart work mean 🫶🏻🩷 beyond grateful to share this ahead of a holiday all about gratitude. More amazing things to come in 2024! 🎉 #newoffice #oradellnj #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #bergencountywomenownedbusiness #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #postpartumjourney #parenting #trauma #ocd #anxiety #perinatal #postpartum #pregnancy #infertility #motherhood #parenthood #stress #wellness #childhood #childtherapist

Grateful hearts 💕

A HUGE congratulations to Kristen Delventhal, LCSW, PMH-C and Kara Kushnir, LCSW, PMH-C on your 5th year nominated to @newjerseyfamily NJ Kids Top Docs! While the practice doesn't only serve children and teens, our roots are in pediatric psychotherapy and that is what sparked the desire to have a group practice focused on the needs of children, teens, and parents as well as those hoping to become parents or embarking on their parenting journey. We are so honored to be a trusted resource in #bergencountynj and beyond! 🫶🏻 @kdelventhal_lcsw #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #bergencountywomenownedbusiness #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #postpartumjourney #parenting #trauma #ocd #anxiety #perinatal #postpartum #pregnancy #infertility #motherhood #parenthood #stress #wellness #childhood #childtherapist

Want to do something meaningful for the holidays? How about purchasing a gift for a child or parent on the wishlist we've helped curate from several local families who you can support this season!? Link in bio shortly/in our stories - head to @mamameetupsnj for more info and their bio which has the link up and running to the Amazon wishlists! Any purchase helps us that much closer to our goal of crossing off this list in time for the December Holiday wrapping party and delivery in time for the holidays 🎄⭐️ #community #giveback #momsformoms #families #perinatalprofessionals #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #bergencountywomenownedbusiness #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #postpartumjourney #parenting #trauma #ocd #anxiety #perinatal #postpartum #pregnancy #motherhood #parenthood #stress #holidays

Huge thank you to @nvd_wellness for having us last week at their Wellness Fair for students 🫶🏻 #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #bergencountywomenownedbusiness #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #postpartumjourney #parenting #trauma #ocd #anxiety #perinatal #postpartum #pregnancy #infertility #motherhood #parenthood #stress #wellness #childhood #childtherapist

Social media has been a stressor for parents for quite some time - with the rise of chat bots and AI, new hurdles are on the horizon. Kara was recently interviewed for this article on Meta's AI bots and discussed her concerns for how they could impact kids - particularly tweens - and also be a gateway for child predators. 🔗Head to the link in bio to read more. #childtherapist #meta #AI #chatbots #socialmediaimpact #familytherapy #njtherapist @fortune

Grateful to be speaking with over 75 students this morning at @nvd_wellness Wellness Fair this morning on a "College Roadmap" where we will discuss things to consider that can help once you've decided you want to go to college/get in! Things like 💴 money management, 👫 social scenarios, 🏡 adjusting to living on your own, ♿️ seeking accommodations, and ❤️‍🩹maintaining mental health and wellness are all major parts of college that we often forget about when thinking about college. But it's not all about admissions, it's about what happens after! Grateful to share this resource with the students and staff and meet other professionals in our community 😊👩‍🎓 . . . #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #bergencountywomenownedbusiness #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #postpartumjourney #parenting #trauma #ocd #anxiety #perinatal #postpartum #pregnancy #infertility #motherhood #parenthood #stress #wellness #childhood #childtherapist #collegebound #teentherapy #stressmanagement

We will have some very exciting news coming in the next couple of weeks as details are finalized! Stay tuned 😊🎉🫶🏻 . . . #aworkofheart #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #bergencountywomenownedbusiness #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #postpartumjourney #parenting #trauma #ocd #anxiety #perinatal #postpartum #pregnancy #infertility #motherhood #parenthood #stress #wellness #childhood #childtherapist #bergenmama

Thrilled to announce the launch of an additional support group for parents of children ages 0-3 with complex medical needs, developmental delays or disabilities and/or in early intervention! This group will be facilitated by me and/or other NJ trained provider volunteers for @psinjchapter 🩵 link will be up in bio and PSI's bio shortly to register! Use QR code to register as well! . . . @njcouncilondd @arcbp @arcessex @arcmorrisnj @partnership_mch @valleyhospitalnicu @valleyhealthsystemnj @atlantichealth

We are so excited to see Clinical Director Kara Kushnir featured in Authority Magazine this month! Head to the link in our bio to read the full article on self-care practices. 🖐 @medium

Who is joining us tomorrow at the Mahwah Library with @mamameetupsnj for our Maternal Wellness Hour?! We will be covering all things holiday #boundaries and of course caffeinating the mamas!!! Link is in bio of @mamameetupsnj to register - it's free!

Many young girls and women struggle with self esteem, but the issues they face are more rampant than ever due to social media and the exposure to beauty trends and "standards" that warp reality. Kara was recently interviewed for this @huffpost article for parents on how to support their daughters - including tweens - who are showing clear signs of body dysmorphia, poor self image and even anxiety about their looks. 🔗 Link in bio to read the full article! . . #selfesteem #bodyimage #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #bergencountywomenownedbusiness #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #postpartumjourney #parenting #trauma #ocd #anxiety #perinatal #postpartum #pregnancy #infertility #motherhood #parenthood #stress #wellness #childhood #childtherapist

Very excited to offer this new support group starting in January 2024 for parents of little ones (0-4) with special medical or developmental needs. Calling all parents of kids in early intervention, transitioning to pre-school, NICU parents, and more! 😊 This group will provide the community, support, understanding and empathy you need as well as possible resources you and your child could benefit from. Caring for and raising a child with extra needs is challenging, and finding a village who "gets it" without judgement is so important. Together we can discuss all things ranging from feeding challenges and doctors appointments to behavioral difficulties, accessing early intervention services and the transition to school. Come join our village ❤️ . . . @psinjchapter @valleyhospitalnicu @hmhnewjersey @rwjbarnabas_health @monmouthmedical @pmad.centernj @dearnicumama @nicu.warriors @mamameetupsnj @kdelventhal_lcsw @erinsmithlcsw #disabilityparenting #therapist #njtherapist #njmom #parenting #medical #chronicillness #nicuparents #youarenotalone #pamom #flmom #autismmom #stoma #tubielife #developmentaldisabilities

The realities of postpartum vary, but in the immediate after math and months that follow, a lot of women (1 in 7) struggle with their mental health. In general, 2/3 of women will perceive their birth experience as traumatic, and while birth is normal I don't personally believe all of it is beautiful. However, by making space for more adaptive expectations in pregnancy and postpartum, these kinds of conversations can shift. Bottom line - moms and dads matter too. And if you aren't feel supported in your journey, connecting with a therapist, doula or nurse who specializes in postpartum is an incredible resource. Check out some of these colleagues below who are also incredible perinatal professionals: @fourthtrifoundations @psinjchapter @empoweredpelvichealth @mamabear_pt @expectingwell @lactationnationllc @littlemilkyway.nj @bergendoula @erinsmithlcsw @aworkofheart_counseling @kdelventhal_lcsw . #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #bergencountywomenownedbusiness #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #postpartumjourney #parenting #trauma #ocd #anxiety #perinatal #postpartum #pregnancy #infertility #motherhood #parenthood #stress #wellness #childhood #childtherapist

We had such a great morning at The Perinatal Expo this morning in Midland Park! Huge thank you to all who sponsored - was so great to meet @bergendoula and have her be our self care raffle winner! Thank you @beautifuljrcc @pelvic_health_and_awareness_ and for hosting such a great event and for including @psinjchapter as a resource for families!

🫶🏻A huge thank you to everyone who came out today for our "sip and see" networking event where we also got to celebrate being in business for 4 years! We are so grateful to be able to support children, teens, women and families every day and rely on the support and connections we make with others every day as well - referral to additional resources is a huge piece of our core values in community and we are grateful to have such an amazing village of support we can link our clients to! And a special thank you to the amazing small businesses (owned by other women/moms in Bergen County!) who helped us out with the day!!! check them out 👀 🍱 @platedbyd 🎈 @sweetpballoons 🍪 @moonlight_confections @aworkofheart_counseling #mentalhealth #aworkofheart #bergencountywomenownedbusiness #momowned #bergencountynj #womenowned #bergenmoms #njmoms #bergenmamas #bergencountymoms #femaleowned #bergencountylocalbusiness #postpartumjourney #parenting #trauma #ocd #anxiety #perinatal #postpartum #pregnancy #infertility #motherhood #parenthood #stress #wellness #childhood #childtherapist