Anthony Cinelli, LAC, M.ED

"We all want to be great men, and there's nothing romantic about it. I just want to know that I did all I could with what I was given". - The Wonder Years

This lyric by my favorite band, The Wonder Years, has been a guiding principle in my life both personally and professionally. I have always been connected to words and lyrics to help make sense of the difficult questions and situations life can bring us. I think all people strive to create a life of purpose, one based on intention, connection, and meaning. Inevitably, there are roadblocks along the way that sometimes take us off course. Lots of times, when you look back, these roadblocks proved to be pivotal moments and catalysts for change within a person's journey. Seeking out help along the way and creating a network of support is one of the most important things you can do. We do not get through the challenges of life alone, whether we are accomplishing something great or set back by one of life's dilemmas, I truly believe therapy can be a vital tool for everyone.

I pride myself on being a warm and welcoming presence and strive to create an environment where our dialogue can help you find alignment with the ebbs and flows that life has in store. Being a new father to two boys has only strengthened my work as a helper in building perspective and capacity for working with children and families in the challenges they face.

I completed my undergraduate work in 2012 at Quinnipiac University, where I studied psychology and was the captain of the school's Division 1 baseball program. I went on to complete my Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling with specializations in both Sport and Performance Psychology and School Counseling in 2015 from Boston University. While my journey as a therapist is still quite new, for the last 12 years, I have been working with families and students as a School Counselor locally in Monmouth County. I also serve as a youth and high school baseball coach and find some of the greatest joys in life helping young people gain confidence and feel comfortable in their own skin. I utilize treatment modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and solution-focused therapy, as well as working to strike a balance in looking at the connection that movement and nutrition can play into our overall mental health.

My background, education, training, and life's work as an athlete, school-based counselor, and coach have equipped me with the tools to help children, teens, and young adults. Areas and issues that I focus on are: anxiety, depression, ADHD and executive functioning, social skills, self-esteem, identity, relationship and friendship building, school phobia and communication skills, as well as family changes, career changes, life transitions, and mental skills training for sport and performance.