Jacob Kafka Psychotherapy, LCSW

Throughout my life, I have felt a potent drive to help others. My first jobs were in mentoring, counseling, and case management for youth in Jersey City, some of whom were returning home from periods of incarceration. Working with impoverished children and families in Bolivia broadened my awareness of the spectrum of human experience and the impact of childhood trauma. My own journey with depression, psychosomatic pain, and healing through various therapeutic approaches further cemented my direction and passion for the work. My twenty-plus year relationship with music and songwriting has allowed me to share, connect, and relate to others, providing me with powerful insights into the use of creative expression in healing and mental health. After getting my MSW from Rutgers, I worked at a community mental health center in addition to providing in-home therapy. These jobs allowed me to work with a diverse client base providing individual, group, and family therapy in English and Spanish.

You are your own expert and the only person capable of making changes in your life. My role is to provide an accepting space where you can work courageously with whatever thoughts and emotions are coming up. We will begin wherever you feel most comfortable and organically explore your history and roots as the process unfolds. Each client has a unique song to sing in the world and I tailor my approach to harmonize with the client’s lead melody. I help clients develop relationships with their different parts and gain awareness of their unique internal makeup guided by the principles of internal family systems (IFS).

The breaking down of stigmas and increased access to appropriate care are shifting the trajectory of mental health treatment. The growth of teletherapy has enabled countless people to begin this process of self-discovery from home. In addition, the reemergence and vital importance of plant medicine and psychedelic therapy in mental health, spiritual exploration, and soul searching paves an expansive path for deep and lasting personal transformation.

You and your inner peace are the most important projects of your life. In our busy world, we pursue a plethora of initiatives and goals while convincing ourselves that we don't have the time or don't deserve the dedicated space to tend to ourselves. Starting therapy is a courageous step and one that can have infinite positive ripple effects. When you make the time to invest in yourself, your family, and your friends, the world benefits and feels the impact of your growth.