Jennifer can be reached directly at 609-937-9702 or [email protected]
My name is Jennifer Hilligus. My company name is JLH Counseling, LLC. Thank you for your interest in my background. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a National Certified Counselor providing individual (child, adolescent and adult), couples and family counseling through my private practice in East Brunswick, New Jersey. I graduated with honors from an accelerated Master's Program at Fairleigh Dickinson University-College at Florham. I am currently serving as a private practitioner working with clients with a broad range of difficulties. My goal is to create an environment conducive to social and emotional growth for any individual, couple or family interested in change. YOU can do it. I can help.
In addition to being a private practitioner, I have been a counselor in a middle school and elementary school and an adjunct assistant professor at a local college. I started my private practice in order to have more time with my sons, Ethan & Mason. I love to teach so occasionally I satisfy that craving by being a Post-Graduate Workshop Presenter for Rutgers University-School of Social Work. I have been asked to contribute to a few different things. Please scroll down for a list of professional contributions and positions held.
My experience in education has given me the knowledge and tools to help children and their families with difficulties in the academic setting. I am aware these problems can affect the entire family and can help you navigate the process of I&RS, 504 under the ADA and classification for special education, if necessary. I also have experience working with students in grades K-12 in the school settting. In addition to my experience with younger students, I was an adjunct professor for over 7 years teaching introductory and upper level courses in the field of psychology.
I also have numerous clients who are dealing with gender dysphoria and/or struggling with their sexual orientation. I have had success with helping clients navigate the difficult journey to being comfortable with their attraction(s) and their bodies. My skills also allow me to discuss this difficult topic with parents as well as include data-based, nonjudgemental education during that discussion.
A significant portion of my experience is with individuals who self-injure (cut). This was a topic I have been familiar with since I was in the school system and have had success treating in my practice. I am also able to provide biological based information regarding this practice to both clients and parents and provide a treatment plan that should reduce and eventually eliminate the behavior.
I am happy to explain my approach regarding any topic. Please feel free to call me. A comfortable feeling is necessary for a good rapport and you can begin to assess that in a telephone conversation at no charge. I tell everyone: Therapists are like clothing. They can look good on the rack (or on this website) but they have to fit! Please let me know how I can help.
I am also a lifelong student. I love learning and being a 'student' as much as I love teaching. I continue to engage in professional development opportunities including additional graduate courses, workshops and training programs. I currently have 39 credits beyond my Master's degree in different areas, including counseling and education classes. I take courses in whatever interests me and would love recommendations for training programs, courses or even books and articles that you find interesting.
Please find a quick info sheet about me below:
EDUCATION
1999-2004 Fairleigh Dickinson University-College at
*MA Counseling
*BA Psychology
*Graduated with honors from an accelerated Master’s program.
NEW
*Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
NATIONAL BOARD OF CERTIFIED COUNSELORS
NEW JERSEY DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION CERTIFICATIONS
*School Counselor
*Substance Awareness Coordinator
THE CENTER FOR MEDIATION & TRAINING
Completed 40-hour basic training in divorce mediation-Divorce Mediator
ADDITIONAL GRADUATE COURSEWORK (Currently 39 credits beyond my MA)
Fairleigh Dickinson University & Amberton University
*Additional Counseling Classes
Staff Development Program
*Assessment and Special Education Inclusion classes
Kean University-Union, NJ
*Holocaust and Genocide Studies Certification Program
PROFESSIONAL POSITIONS & CONTRIBUTIONS
Featured on Divorce Happy Hour podcast discussing how to help children navigate the difficult process of divorce. This was live on the radio on station 1450 WTCT and is now available in Podcast form here: http://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-36-mitigate-damage-to-your-children-during/id1452110904?i=1000462038559
Please scroll to Episode 36
Facebook Live Interviews
When It's Not Just Tummy Ache: How to Identify Anxiety in Your Little Ones http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pYriypi29Jg&t=802s
How to Deal with Cabin Fever https://www.facebook.com/pnlawnj/videos/1070818789955336
Keynote Speaker at the East Brunswick Public Library
MTV True Life in November 2015, filmed a therapy session with a couple who was being followed by the show. The episode aired in February 2016.
Professional Contributor to Parenting Magazine article in the December/January 2013 issue. Cover article: 'One and Done'
Professional Contributor to Miss Mommy Blog Article: 'How to Talk to Your Children about the CT shooting'
Professional Consultant to Little Bear Blue (Children's book dedicated to the young survivors of the CT shooting)
Adjunct Assistant Professor at Raritan Valley Community College teaching Introduction to Psychology, Abnormal Psychology & Theories of Personality (2004-2011)
Student Assistance Specialist at East Brunswick Public Schools at both the Elementary and Middle School Level (2006-2013)
Post-Graduate Workshop Presenter in Parenting Education for Rutgers University-School of Social Work
PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS & POSITIONS
American Counseling Association
National Board of Certified Counselors
Executive Board member of the Walter C. Black PTO
School Planning Committee Member for Walter C. Black (3 year term)