Helana Russo MA, LPC, LCADC, AAMFT Supervisor
Hi there! Welcome to My Therapy Connection™. My name is Helana. I am dually licensed in the State of New Jersey as a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor. My primary goal is to help you navigate life’s unchartered territories, and make clear decisions based on your needs and core values. My passion for helping others began at a young age and I have been on a life-long journey to be an instrument of change.
If overcoming your addiction, working through trauma, or improving the relationships in your life are one or some of the areas that you would like to change, I think we would be a perfect match! Previous clients have described me as nonjudgmental, down to earth, relatable, and safe. Maintaining this reputation and providing these same comforts to you are my ultimate goals. I have a passionate belief that you and every person deserve to be respected and treated kindly, no matter what they are struggling to overcome. However, this atmosphere is vital when working to repair relationships, overcome addiction or any type of trauma or abuse.
I earned my undergraduate degree from Stockton University in psychology. I chose psychology as a major because the focus is on an individual’s ability to change and overcome obstacles regardless of circumstance. I believe this is possible in all situations, even when it may seem impossible. I continued my education at Atlantic Cape Community College to gain specialized knowledge in the drug and alcohol field and was trained by some of the most prominent figures in the field. While I attended school, I worked in both inpatient and outpatient drug and alcohol treatment settings, which served men and women of all ages. After completing my drug and alcohol education, I attended Rowan University for a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Finally, I returned to school at Capella University and received a graduate certificate in Couples and Family Systems.
While furthering my education, I continued to work with adults and then expanded to adolescents by facilitating substance abuse groups at a residential treatment center. Simultaneously, I began working as an in-home therapist with children and families through the New Jersey Children’s System of Care. My work as an in-home therapist afforded me the opportunity to obtain specialized training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and ARC GROW, which is an intervention program for caregivers of youth who have experienced trauma. I also received training in working with families that are impacted by incarceration or domestic violence.
In 2020, I expanded my skills set to include couples. I have truly found enjoyment in witnessing and helping to guide couples to a healthy place. It can be difficult to maneuver the journey of a relationship, whether rebuilding or strengthening, but am passionate about assisting. I completed the Level 1 Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy training and I am Level 1 & 2 trained in The Gottman Method for couples. I have received specialty training in treating affairs and trauma in relationships, as well as couples and addiction recovery also through the Gottman Institute.
In 2022, I completed The American Association of Marriage & Family Therapist’s Fundamentals of Supervision Course and earned the approved supervisor designation to be able to provide supervision to Marriage & Family Therapists & Interns. Most recently, I participated in a training focused on support for those experiencing grief and loss.
My lifelong vision to help, support, guide, and listen to others has finally come alive and led me to where I am today, which is ready and willing to meet your needs. Every existence is precious, and every person deserves to live out their wildest dreams and see the greatness that resides in them. No addiction, person, or emotion can extinguish a flame that is meant to shine ever so brightly. As your therapist, I intend to guide your path to mastery and happiness, both as an individual and in relationships.
As an individual, I am very family oriented and prioritize spending time with my loved ones. On the weekends, I love to relax and care for myself. At functions I am the one that usually bakes, but I also love to cook. Summer makes me smile, but because football season is in the fall, that makes it my favorite. I’m also always up for friendly competition and game night.
If you want to begin by sharing in a conversation with me about how I can help you, please call and I will be available for a ten-minute consultation at no charge to you.
NJ License: 37PC00747500
LCADC License: 37LC00241600
Helana’s Rate: $175
1919 Kings Highway, Swedesboro, NJ 08085