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Dr. Carissa Ferguson-thomas

LCSW

Dr. Carissa Ferguson-thomas , LCSW

Therapist in New Jersey

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Online therapy - get matched and start messaging.

About Carissa

Dr. Carissa Ferguson-thomas brings more than two decades of clinical experience to her psychotherapy practice, combining extensive academic training with a pragmatic, person-centered approach. She earned a Doctorate and a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, and holds a Master’s and a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Temple University. In addition to being a Licensed Clinical Social Worker - LCSW, she is also a licensed psychologist, credentials that reflect advanced training in assessment and therapeutic intervention.

Trained in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Dr. Ferguson-thomas integrates CBT with trauma-informed and eclectic, person-centered methods to meet each client where they are. This flexible stance allows her to address a wide range of concerns including stress, anxiety, depression, panic disorder, grief, trauma and abuse, relationship and intimacy challenges, parenting and family issues, and life transitions. She also supports clients dealing with caregiver stress, communication and control issues, divorce and separation, and difficulties with self-esteem, guilt, or forgiveness.

Her work spans individual, couples, and family therapy, focusing on collaborative planning to overcome obstacles and build on strengths. Dr. Ferguson-thomas emphasizes a warm, trusting therapeutic relationship as the foundation for change, offering steady compassion and practical strategies to help clients move toward their goals.

CBT-informed and Person-Centered Care Online

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a structured, goal-oriented approach that helps clients identify unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns and develop practical strategies to change them. It is often used for anxiety, depression, panic, and stress-related concerns. Trauma-informed approaches prioritize understanding how past traumatic experiences affect current reactions and relationships, emphasizing safety, empowerment, and pacing so clients can process difficult material at a manageable rate. Person-centered methods focus on empathy, respect, and collaboration, meeting clients where they are and supporting their own goals and strengths.

Finding the right therapeutic approach is part of the work itself. Dr. Ferguson-thomas collaborates with clients to determine which methods fit their needs, goals, and preferences, adapting techniques over time as progress and circumstances evolve. This collaborative stance helps ensure therapy feels relevant and effective for each individual.

Online sessions by video, phone, live chat, or text-based messaging offer flexibility for people balancing work, family, or caregiving responsibilities and those who prefer remote access. These options make it easier to maintain consistent appointments and to access licensed professionals from home or other convenient locations, supporting continuity of care and expanded access to therapeutic support.

Frequently asked questions

How much experience does Dr. Carissa Ferguson-thomas have?

Dr. Carissa Ferguson-thomas has 22 years of experience providing individual, couples, and family therapy.

Is Dr. Carissa Ferguson-thomas a licensed therapist?

Yes. She holds the credential LCSW, which stands for Licensed Clinical Social Worker. License details include NJ Psychologist 35SI00552800 and PA LCSW CW014630.

In which languages does Dr. Carissa Ferguson-thomas provide therapy?

Dr. Carissa Ferguson-thomas provides therapy in English.

Where is Dr. Carissa Ferguson-thomas located?

Dr. Carissa Ferguson-thomas is located in New Jersey.

How can I work with Dr. Carissa Ferguson-thomas as my therapist?

You can work with Dr. Carissa Ferguson-thomas through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.

Does Dr. Carissa Ferguson-thomas work with international clients?

Dr. Carissa Ferguson-thomas does not currently work with international clients.

How much does therapy with Dr. Carissa Ferguson-thomas cost?

The cost of therapy can vary depending on factors such as your location and the therapist's availability. Sessions are billed through a subscription that can be canceled at any time, for any reason. For current details, click the "Start Therapy" button on this page.

How can I get started with therapy?

Getting started with therapy is quick and straightforward. Click the "Start Therapy" button and complete a short questionnaire that helps match you with your therapist. Depending on availability, you can then schedule your first session, which may take place by phone, video call, live chat, or in-app messaging.

Areas of expertise

Primary focus

Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression

Also works with

Trauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes

Additional focus areas

Caregiver issues and stressCommunication problemsControl issuesDivorce and separationEmptinessFamily of origin issuesFamily problemsFatherhood issuesForgivenessGuilt and shameInfidelityIsolation / lonelinessJealousyLife purposePanic disorder and panic attacksPhobiasPostpartum depressionSelf-loveSocial anxiety and phobiaWomen's issuesWorkplace issues

Therapeutic approaches

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Experience

22+ years

Licensed

New Jersey, Pennsylvania

Languages

English

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