Dr. Harvey Cottrell, LCSW, PhD

Dr. Harvey Cottrell, LCSW, PhD

Psychotherapist
NJ
5.00
“We all need help from time to time. When I was searching for said help I sought a few providers who were not a good fit for me. Then, along came Harvey. From our very first appointment he came across as professional, attentive and friendly. I was able finally start my journey of self betterment. Highly recommend him, the road has not been easy but I have tools in my box that help me more than I could've imagine 1 year ago.”
JT
Highly recommended
100% of patients gave this doctor 5 stars
Excellent wait time
100% of patients waited less than 30 minutes
New patient appointments
Appointments available for new patients on Zocdoc

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What patients are saying

Overall rating

5.00

Average wait time

4.92

Bedside manner

4.96
“We all need help from time to time. When I was searching for said help I sought a few providers who were not a good fit for me. Then, along came Harvey. From our very first appointment he came across as professional, attentive and friendly. I was able finally start my journey of self betterment. Highly recommend him, the road has not been easy but I have tools in my box that help me more than I could've imagine 1 year ago.”
JTLess than 1 month ago
“My visit was great. Harvey gives great feedback and interpersonal care with every visit. I highly recommend Harvey for your mental health needs. ”
DWLess than 6 months ago

About Dr. Harvey Cottrell

Clientele seen

Young adults (18-24)
Adults (25-64)
Individuals

Treatment approaches

Acceptance and Commitment (ACT)
Family Systems
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Humanistic
Existential
Integrative

Identity

Gender

Male

Faith

Christian

Ethnicity

White

Languages spoken

English

Getting to know Dr. Harvey Cottrell

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and the founder of Serenity Integrative Psychotherapy, where I provide thoughtful, evidence-based care for adults experiencing anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, grief, relationship concerns, life transitions, identity questions, and chronic stress. I believe people are more than a diagnosis or a collection of symptoms. My approach is integrative, trauma-informed, and grounded in the understanding that healing begins by understanding the whole person—their history, relationships, biology, values, culture, spirituality, strengths, and the ways they have adapted to life's challenges. Rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all approach, I tailor treatment to each individual using evidence-based therapies, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems (IFS)-informed interventions, cognitive and behavioral approaches, mindfulness, narrative therapy, and attachment-focused work. Throughout treatment, I use validated psychological measures when appropriate to help guide care, monitor progress, and ensure that treatment remains individualized and effective. Before entering private practice, I worked in child protective services, inpatient psychiatry, crisis intervention, and community mental health, experiences that continue to inform my work with clients facing complex emotional and relational challenges. My goal is to provide a therapeutic relationship that is compassionate, collaborative, and grounded in respect. Together, we work to understand not only what is causing distress, but also what gives your life meaning, helping you build greater resilience, psychological flexibility, and a life that feels more authentic and aligned with your values.

What should a new client know about working with you?

Patients can expect me to be warm, grounded, thoughtful, and direct when needed. I believe therapy works best when there is enough safety and trust to speak honestly, examine difficult patterns, and move toward meaningful change without shame or judgment. My style is collaborative and active. I do not use a one-size-fits-all model. I tailor therapy to each person’s history, goals, values, strengths, relationships, culture, and lived experience. My work draws from evidence-based approaches including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems (IFS)-informed work, mindfulness, narrative therapy, attachment-focused interventions, cognitive and behavioral strategies, and trauma-informed care. Many patients I work with are navigating anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, grief, burnout, relationship difficulties, identity questions, life transitions, spiritual or religious trauma, or the long-term effects of childhood and family experiences. I also work with LGBTQ+ clients, helping professionals, and individuals seeking greater meaning, purpose, authenticity, and emotional stability. My goal is not only symptom reduction. I aim to help patients better understand themselves, develop psychological flexibility, build healthier relationships, and create a life that feels more coherent, grounded, and aligned with their values.

What is your typical process for working with clients?

I begin with a comprehensive intake process designed to understand the whole person, not just a diagnosis or symptom list. Early sessions focus on your history, current concerns, strengths, relationships, identity, values, and goals for therapy. When appropriate, I also use validated psychological measures to better understand symptoms, clarify diagnosis, and guide treatment planning. My sessions are conversational, collaborative, and insight-oriented, while also remaining practical and goal-focused. Depending on a patient’s needs, therapy may include exploring emotions and past experiences, developing coping strategies, improving psychological flexibility, building mindfulness and nervous system regulation skills, strengthening communication and boundaries, or working through painful experiences in a paced and supportive way. I use a collaborative care model. If medication evaluation or medication management may be helpful, I can refer patients to psychiatric providers with whom I have an established working relationship. This allows care to be coordinated, thoughtful, and aligned across providers when appropriate. I integrate evidence-based approaches including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems (IFS)-informed work, cognitive and behavioral strategies, mindfulness, attachment-focused interventions, narrative therapy, and trauma-informed care. I also pay attention to how identity, culture, spirituality, family systems, and life experiences shape emotional well-being and relationships. Some patients come to therapy seeking support through a specific crisis or transition, while others are looking for deeper long-term healing and self-understanding. Treatment is individualized, and we regularly revisit goals together to make sure the work remains meaningful, effective, and aligned with what matters most to you.

Is this doctor in your insurance network?

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In-network insurances

Aetna
BlueCross BlueShield
UnitedHealthcare
150+ more in-network plans
Out-of-pocket fees and assistance
Initial session: $180 for 60 minutes
Ongoing session: $150 for 60 minutes

    More information on payments and coverage

    I am in-network with several major insurance plans, including **Aetna, Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey, UnitedHealthcare, Oxford, Oscar, and other participating plans depending on state and eligibility**. Copays, coinsurance, deductibles, and coverage requirements vary by plan, so patients are encouraged to review their behavioral health benefits before their first appointment. Insurance billing is typically managed electronically through the appropriate billing platform. Patients are responsible for any copays, coinsurance, deductibles, denied claims, or other balances not paid by insurance. Payment methods are processed securely through the applicable client or billing portal. For patients using out-of-network benefits or private-pay services, documentation or superbills may be available upon request when clinically and administratively appropriate. The standard out-of-pocket fee is **$180 per session**. A sliding scale may be available in limited circumstances.

    Popular visit reasons

    Adjustment Disorder
    Anxiety
    Anxiety Disorder
    Childhood Trauma
    Depression
    Psychotherapy
    Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit
    Therapy
    Adjustment Disorder
    Anxiety
    Anxiety Disorder
    Childhood Trauma

    Education and background

    Practice names

    Education and training

    • Saybrook University, PhD in Clinical Psychology
    • Monmouth University, Master's in Clinical Social Work
    • Montclair State University, Master's in Child Advocacy and Policy

    Professional memberships

    • National Association of Social Workers
    • Society for Social Work Leadership in Health Care
    • Association for Humanistic Psychology

    Awards and publications

    • Hero Award from Legal Services of New Jersey (2019), honoring his extraordinary passion, dedication, and effort in helping to make families whole again
    • the Human Rights and Social Justice Award from the Monmouth University School of Social Work (2019),

    NPI number

    1700551819

    Patient reviews

    All reviews have been submitted by patients after interacting with the practice.
    Overall rating
    5.00
    Wait time
    4.92
    Bedside manner
    4.96
    Trust Banner Shield
    Your trust is our top concern, so providers can't pay to alter or remove reviews. We also don't publish reviews that contain any private patient health information. Learn more here
    32 reviews
    Most relevant
    Absolutely love Dr. Harvey. I recommend him to everyone!
    Cool guy, no complaints. Can’t wait for future sessions.
    Verified patient
    We all need help from time to time. When I was searching for said help I sought a few providers who were not a good fit for me. Then, along came Harvey. From our very first appointment he came across as professional, attentive and friendly. I was able finally start my journey of self betterment. Highly recommend him, the road has not been easy but I have tools in my box that help me more than I could've imagine 1 year ago.
    My visit was great. Harvey gives great feedback and interpersonal care with every visit. I highly recommend Harvey for your mental health needs.
    Harvey has been a wonderful and amazing therapist. He has helped me tremendously. I feel heard, listened to and most importantly, he has helped me feel like a person.
    My visit was great, as it was insightful and helpful (as always). I am thankful for the tools that Dr. Cottrell has given me outside the session to use and fill out to help move our sessions further. I finally feel comfortable seeing a therapist thanks to Dr. Cottrell.
    Outstanding! I can't wait for my next visit
    Verified patient
    Harvey has such a calming and accepting energy. He meets you where you're at and has great insight to provide. I recommend him, and I look forward to continue working with him.
    I look forward to my sessions with Harvey every two weeks. Harvey has helped me through some of my darkest times and I would highly recommend anyone who is looking for therapy to see Harvey.
    I have been seeing Harvey for half a year and he has changed my life little pieces at a time. He’s caring, compassionate, observant, and talks to me and not down to me. I’d recommend anyone to see him.
    What truly distinguishes Harvey is his genuine compassion. He doesn't shy away from the tough conversations, guides with honesty, and approaches every session with empathy and understanding. He listens intently, validates my experiences, and offers unwavering support every step of the way. Harvey's empathy creates a space where I feel heard, valued, and accepted without judgment.
    Harvey was the first therapist I ever had. Harvey is knowledgeable, friendly, compassionate , patient, kind and funny. He helped me through a difficult time in my life and I am grateful. I highly recommend Harvey if you are in need of therapy.
    Harvey always creates a safe space for me discuss all of my concerns. His expertise, authentic approach, fine sense of humor and no nonsense personality make Harvey an ideal therapist.
    Harvey is an amazing therapist. He has a great sense of humor. I realize not all therapist would be confident having another therapist as a client. Harvey did not hesitate to start working with me. Harvey believes in me while also empowering me to a better individual more each session. I not only respect his views but I trust he wants what’s best for my future. In a short time it is evident Harvey Is invested in me as a person and a fellow clinician. I’m so grateful.
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    Frequently asked questions

    How soon can I make an appointment with Dr. Harvey Cottrell?

    Generally, Dr. Harvey Cottrell has appointments available on Zocdoc within 1 week. You can see Dr. Cottrell's earliest availability on Zocdoc and make an appointment online.

    Is Dr. Harvey Cottrell accepting new patients?

    Dr. Harvey Cottrell generally accepts new patients on Zocdoc. You can see Dr. Cottrell's earliest availability on Zocdoc and schedule an appointment online.

    Does Dr. Harvey Cottrell accept my insurance?

    Choose your insurance plan to verify if Dr. Cottrell is in-network.

    Can I make an appointment with Dr. Harvey Cottrell online?

    Yes, you can make an appointment online with Dr. Cottrell using Zocdoc. It’s simple, secure, and free.

    What practice does Dr. Harvey Cottrell work with?

    What are common reasons for patients to see Dr. Harvey Cottrell?

    Dr. Harvey Cottrell frequently sees patients for Anxiety, Depression, Psychotherapy, Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit, and Therapy. You can see other visit reasons for Dr. Harvey Cottrell on their profile.

    What languages does Dr. Harvey Cottrell speak?

    Dr. Harvey Cottrell speaks English.

    How do patients rate Dr. Harvey Cottrell in reviews?

    32 patients have reviewed Dr. Harvey Cottrell. The overall rating for this doctor is 5/5. They have a 4.96/5 rating for bedside manner and a 4.92/5 rating for wait time. You can read individual reviews and ratings on their profile.

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    ZocdocJersey City, NJ PsychotherapistsDr. Harvey Cottrell, LCSW, PhD