Blog Archives


James Whitaker

James has specialized in the mental health and substance abuse treatment field for over eighteen years. He has seen first-hand how establishing a good therapeutic relationship throughout the counseling process makes treatment a successful experience. Through various strategies and techniques that are evidenced based, patients have been able to raise their own insights and gain a healthier sense of self.  As a result, patients have been able to develop and establish positive coping skills to assist with combating their own self-defeating behaviors associated with anxiety, depression and addiction.

In addition, James is an approved provider able to conduct assessments for individuals who have been found guilty of driving under the Influence (DUI) in New Jersey and surrounding states. If you have completed your required 12 or 48 hour classes or have been identified as a Multiple Offender, he is authorized to complete your evaluation and provide the mandatory treatment needed to comply with your IDRC requirements.

Of particular interest to Camden County Probationers, James is a preferred provider for drug and alcohol assessment and anger management classes. He understands how important it is to have your evaluations completed and forwarded to your Probation Officer especially when this is the last task a client needs done before completing probation. All reports are completed and faxed within 24 hours from the clients initial meeting.

Types of Therapy: 

Gestalt, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Person-Centered and Family Systems

Modalities:

Individuals, Couples and Groups

Specialties:      

Substance Use, Dual Diagnosis, Mood Disorders, Early Intervention (EI), Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Strength-Based and Rational Emotive Behavior (REBT)

 

 

                                                                                  

 

 

 

                                                                                                                          

 

 

 

Pat O’Connor

Pat has been working with helping families to lead healthier lives by offering programs such as:

  • Active Parenting,
  • Active Parenting for Teens, and
  • Cooperative Parenting and Divorce.

She also helps partners and families heal from the effects of Trauma and Sexual Addiction. Pat believes that, hope can be regained, lives can be rebuilt, and meaningful change can be created within a caring environment.

Erik Jervis

Erik received his graduate degree in Social Work from Rutgers University and is a Licensed Social Worker in the state of New Jersey. He studied and is interested in working with vulnerable populations. He initially served as an intern at The Starting Point and chose to remain after his graduation to start his own practice.

Erik works with children, adolescents, and adults who are seeking help with issues such as self-esteem/worth, anxiety, sexuality, recovery from trauma, feeling stuck in life, codependency, and relationship issues. He offers his services in individual and family sessions, implementing various therapeutic approaches catered to the client’s needs. He is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for his clients.

Erik’s philosophy is that the role of the counselor is to take the journey of healing with the client, not lead the client.

Geoff Farnsworth

Geoff is a Certified Hakomi Mindful Somatic Therapist (CHT), life & relationship coach who helps people who are feeling stuck, struggling with relationship issues or just want more out of life.

He specializes in assisting people to free themselves of unresolved emotions and limiting beliefs so they are free to make new choices for a happier and more fulfilling life and create vibrant, loving relationships that last. He specializes in codependency and ACOA issues. Geoff draws from his studies of mindfulness, psychology, compassionate communication, addictions, spirituality and life coaching. He provides coaching in person at his office in Haddon Township, New Jersey or by telephone or Skype call. Geoff offers a wide range of programs and services from individual and couples coaching to webinars and workshops.

Vince Di Pasquale – Founder

Vince, a noted lecturer and educator in the tri-state area, has been active in the field of addiction since 1977. He is the founder and former director of The Starting Point, Inc. of NJ in Haddon Township, New Jersey. The Starting Point is an outpatient counseling center specializing in the areas of dependencies and functions as a support system for each individual’s personal growth.

With his friendly manner and down-to-earth lectures, has assisted many to enter a new sense of awareness and come to realize and accept that the power to institute change comes from within. While sharing his own spiritual and emotional growth, he guides his listeners in increasing their self-esteem and allowing old fears and behaviors to make way for a new and fulfilling lifestyle.