JOELLE DERE, LCSW, C-SSWS

Founder, Clinical Director, Therapist

No matter what you’re struggling with, there can be peace in your current situation and hope for your future. Joelle founded Align Counseling Center as a safe space for children, teens, young adults, men, and women—and their families—to find support and healing, without the fear of judgment.

A Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified School Social Worker, she has extensive experience working with special needs students as well as individuals suffering from anxiety, depression, behavioral and adjustment disorders, developmental issues, post-traumatic stress disorder, low self-esteem, family conflict, and more. She also has expertise with social skills training and providing support for caregivers and loved ones.

Joelle received a MSW with a certificate in Violence Against Women and Children from Rutgers University, MA in Educational Leadership and Administration from Montclair State University, and a BA in Family and Child Studies with a certificate in Child Advocacy and Policy from Montclair State University. Having worked in settings including public schools, charter schools, outpatient programs, and private practice, she possesses a unique ability to meet clients where they are and help them move toward goals for personal flourishing.

JOSEPH LEE, LPC

Therapist

Joseph is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has worked with adults and adolescents in outpatient group practices as well as collaborative interdisciplinary inpatient settings. Utilizing various therapeutic techniques, he helps clients facing issues related to emotional healing, relationships, identity, spirituality, anxiety, depression, grief, loss, and more.

Joseph believes healing happens most effectively in a safe judgment-free space in which each person’s experience and perspective is honored. His approach to therapy is person-centered and utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing. He comes alongside clients and draws out the strength they possess so that they can live life with greater clarity and freedom.

Joseph received a MA in Mental Health Counseling from Alliance Graduate School of Counseling, MA in Biblical Literature from Alliance Theological Seminary, and a BA in History from Wheaton College.

MARIA BELLARDINO, LSW

Therapist

Maria is a compassionate therapist dedicated to helping individuals overcome challenges and achieve personal growth. Specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and a person-centered approach, she integrates empathy, understanding, and evidence-based techniques to facilitate healing and positive change. She has expertise in a multitude of mental health issues such as substance use disorders, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, grief, and more. She empowers individuals to explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in a supportive and non-judgmental environment.

Maria is passionate about guiding individuals towards a path of healing, resilience, and personal growth. She helps clients challenge and reframe negative thoughts with the ultimate goal of achieving emotional well-being and healthier perspectives.

Maria completed her MSW and BA in Psychology at Ramapo College, where she obtained a strong foundation in psychological theories and therapeutic interventions. This academic background combined with practical experience empowers her to tailor treatment plans to be effective and personalized to each client's unique needs.

MARTINE ACANFORA, LSW, CADC

Therapist

Martine is an expert therapist and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) who specializes in addiction treatment and helping individuals navigate a range of mental health challenges including anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, grief, life transitions, substance use disorders, and more. Her trauma-informed client-centered approach meets clients where they are and honors each person’s unique journey. She believes therapy is most effective when it is collaborative and she can work closely with clients to develop personalized treatment plans in safe compassionate environments.

Martine draws from evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Attachment Theory, and Mindfulness-Based Interventions. She integrates the bio-psycho-social-spiritual model to address the whole person in a holistic way. Her collaborative approach equips clients to create actionable steps to overcome obstacles and pursue lasting healing. She is committed to providing compassionate holistic care to support clients of all ages.

Martine received her MSW from Rutgers University and BS in Applied Nutrition and Food Science from Montclair State University.

JOHN DERE, PHD, PMP

Operations Manager

As someone who highly values organizational health, John’s goal as Operations Manager at Align Counseling Center is to ensure that all current and prospective clients have an excellent experience from start to finish. Some of his key areas of focus include strategic leadership and planning, communication, logistics, marketing, community outreach, partnerships, and various administrative tasks.

Throughout the course of his career, John has served in a multitude of vocational settings with experience in corporate, non-profit, educational, and faith-based settings. He received a PhD in Administration and Supervision from Fordham University, ThM from Princeton Theological Seminary, MDiv from Alliance University, and BA in Journalism and Media Studies from Rutgers University. His is a Project Management Professional (PMP) and possesses a Certificate in Fundraising from La Salle University.