You’re already stronger than you think you are.

about Ellen

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey and a Licensed Mental Health counselor in New York.  I obtained my Bachelor degree in Science from New York University and my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Hounseling from Touro University.  I have also completed an externship in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT-CP) for couples through NYCEFT . That said, I believe that my life experience is no less valuable than my professional training. 

I am bilingual (English/Russian) therapist born and raised in Odessa, Ukraine. I emigrated to the U.S. at the age of 16. I have first-hand experience with immigration, life transitions and identity search.  My first profession is nursing. I have worked in diverse health care settings including Level 1 Trauma Emergency department at NYU Langone Brooklyn.  Being dually licensed as a counselor and a registered nurse gives me a unique perspective on mental health and wellness. 

I am passionate about empowering my clients to be the best version of themselves and to realize their full potential.  I specialize in couples therapy, men’s issues, supporting adults with special needs,  parents of special needs children and first responders..

My Style

My approach to therapy is comprehensive, integrating various modalities and tailored to your unique situation. I value honesty, accountability and direct communication.

I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all approach.  Instead, I ask thought provoking and probing questions to get to know you, your story and to get the core of your concerns and inquires.  

Schedule a session

My Office

My office is located in Lawlings Park office building, Wyckoff, NJ. Just off NJ-208, this location is within close proximity to Bergen, Passaic, and Rockland counties. Parking in the adjacent parking lot is free of charge and always available.

Contact Ellen

I’m looking forward to meeting you!

Meet the Team

  • Ellen Usatin

    Ellen Usatin

    Practice Director

    Adults • Couples • Families

    In person | Virtual

    Relationships • Men’s Issues • First Responders

    EFT | Psychodynamic | Soluitons Focused

    Meet Ellen
  • Heather Gross

    Heather Gross

    Licensed Associate Counselor

    Young adults • Adults • Couples

    Virtual

    Relationships • Parenting • Self-Eslteem

    CBT | ACT | Solution Focused

    Meet Heather
  • Lia Legath

    Lia Legath

    Mental Health Intern

    Young adults • Adults • LGBTQ+

    Virtual

    Substance use • Trauma • Crisis Management

    CBT | ACT | Somatic | Soluiton Focused

    Meet Amanda
  • Danielle Yannotta

    Danielle Yannotta

    Mental Health Intern

    Young adults • Adults •

    In Person | Virtual

    Women’s Issues • Life Transitions • Eating Disorders

    Solution Focused | Person Centered

    Meet Danielle
  • Shayna Philips

    Shayna Philips

    Mental Health Intern

    Young adults • Adults • Couples • Families

    In person | Virtual

    Relationships • Career Change • Self-Esteem

    CBT | ACT | Person Centered

    Meet Shayna
  • Nikki Asquini

    Nikki Asquini

    Mental Health Intern

    Young adults • Adults • Couples

    In person | Virtual

    ADHD • Self-Esteem • Trauma

    CBT | Narrative | Existential

    Meet Nikki