Marlena Hood, LPC, CCTP
Marlena Hood, LPC, CCTP
Co-owner, Therapist
Co-owner, Therapist
Introducing Marlena
Marlena graduated undergraduate school at the State University of New York at Oneonta, with a Bachelor’s Degree in Child and Family Studies. After gaining several years of valuable life experience, she went on to attend graduate school at Kean University and graduated with a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Marlena has also completed specialized training in Jungian Sand Play Therapy, EMDR and trauma informed care.
Marlena has experience working as an outpatient therapist in community mental health, as a trauma therapist at a domestic violence program for women and children and as an outpatient therapist at a group practice before starting the private practice Luminous Journeys Counseling with Yvonne.
Fun Facts About Marlena
Marlena is an animal lover, and an avid animal rescue volunteer foster mom for cats and kittens. She has two cats of her own, named “Brody” and “Foxtrot”, who sometimes like to make guest appearances during telehealth sessions. She loves time spent outdoors, and activities like hiking, kayaking, running, gardening, swimming, walking the boardwalk, spending time at the beach, and casually playing sports such as tennis and soccer with family. Marlena also has an adventurous side and enjoys whitewater rafting, mountain coasters, horseback riding, obstacle courses, and 5k mud runs. She is also a Reiki master and has an interest in energy and spirituality.
A Note from Marlena
Hello! My name is Marlena Hood. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor passionate about guiding individuals through their unique journeys toward healing, growth, and empowerment. I specialize in working with clients who have experienced trauma, clients who identify as LGBTQIA+, and clients seeking to learn healthy boundaries and clear communication in relationships.
My Approach
I believe that every person has the capacity for resilience and transformation. With a warm and caring approach, I create a safe, supportive, judgment free environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings openly. I am dedicated to helping you navigate the challenges you face and empower you to reclaim your narrative. I value laughter and joy in the therapeutic process. I believe that humor can be a powerful tool for healing, and I strive to create an environment where you feel comfortable to laugh and be yourself.
I help clients understand, make sense of, and embrace their inner experiences. I utilize trauma-informed techniques that prioritize your safety and well-being. I often integrate techniques from a modality called Internal Family Systems (IFS) or "parts work". The IFS informed techniques allow us to explore different “parts” of you—as we all have parts of us that think, feel and believe differently about situations and relationships in our life. Connecting with these parts allows for a deeper understanding of yourself, and fosters healing from within. This approach is particularly effective for those who have experienced trauma, as it emphasizes self-compassion, healing the relationship with different parts of yourself, and the importance of listening to and nurturing all aspects of your being.
My practice is rooted in a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community. It is a top priority for me to create a safe, affirming space for all. I am passionate about providing compassionate care that acknowledges and honors your identity, experiences, and personal journey. I also support LGBTQIA+ clients in finding their voice and embracing their authentic selves. Together, we will work to navigate challenges or obstacles you face, helping you build resilience, confidence and self-acceptance.
Whether you’re looking to enhance your relationships, navigating a life adjustment or transition, processing grief, seeking personal growth, or looking to improve your overall mental health, I offer practical tools, strategies and insights to help you achieve your goals. My approach emphasizes open dialogue and collaboration, allowing us to create a plan that feels right for you and that will help you to achieve your goals. I am committed to walking alongside you as you navigate your unique journey toward a more fulfilling and authentic life. If you’re ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery, healing, and empowerment, I invite you to reach out. Let’s work together to create a path toward the life you envision!
Click below to view Marlena's availability and schedule a free 15-minute consultation call.
*Marlena works in person at our Toms River office location and provides telehealth appointments statewide in NJ.
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