Tamara (Tammy) Payne, LCSW, NJ | Psychotherapist

What patients are saying

Overall rating

4.94

Average wait time

5.00

Bedside manner

5.00

“Tammy did a really great job at squeezing me in last minute and really helping me learn how to deal with the issues we discussed. Have seen a significant improvement in my life since we started. Would reccmend!”

VMLess than 1 month ago

“I just had my first session with Tammy, and she really took the time to understand what I was going through and created a warm and supportive environment. I am looking forward to my next session with her!”

SSLess than 1 month ago

About Tamara (Tammy) Payne

Focus areas

Anxiety

Relationship Struggles

Depression

Infertility Trauma

Clientele seen

Adults (25-64)

Seniors (65+)

Individuals

Treatment approaches

Acceptance and Commitment (ACT)

Eclectic

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

Psychodynamic

Dialectical (DBT)

Identity

Gender

Female

Ethnicity

Asian, White

Languages spoken

English

Getting to know Tamara (Tammy) Payne

On the outside, you may be managing responsibilities, showing up for others, and keeping things together. But internally, it can feel overwhelming, exhausting, or hard to sustain. You might find yourself overthinking, feeling emotionally drained, or unable to slow down — even when everything looks fine on the surface. If that resonates, you're not alone, and you don't have to keep pushing through it on your own. With over 20 years of experience as an LCSW, I work with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship stress, infertility-related challenges, and major life transitions. I especially work with people who are used to being the ones others lean on — and who find it difficult to make their own needs a priority. My practice, A Tranquil Room, is designed to be exactly that — a calm, supportive space where you can slow down, feel understood, and do meaningful work at your own pace. My approach is warm, collaborative, and thoughtful, helping you build insight, clarity, and lasting change. Please note: I am a licensed therapist, not a psychiatrist or prescriber. My work is focused exclusively on psychotherapy and emotional support. I do not prescribe or manage medications, though I'm happy to provide referrals if needed. Before booking: I am not in network with Medicaid, Medicare, or NJ FamilyCare — please verify your insurance before scheduling. To confirm your benefits and exact out-of-pocket cost, please upload a clear photo of the front and back of your insurance card at the time of booking. Evening and weekend hours may be available upon request.

What should a new client know about working with you?

New clients can expect a supportive, thoughtful, and collaborative experience. I work with individuals who are often used to handling a great deal on their own, so therapy becomes a space where you can slow down, feel understood, and focus on yourself without pressure or judgment. Our work is tailored to your needs and goals. Some sessions may focus on practical strategies to manage anxiety, stress, or relationship challenges, while others may explore deeper patterns that are contributing to how you’re feeling. I aim to balance insight with real-life application so the work feels both meaningful and helpful in your day-to-day life. I value consistency, open communication, and creating a space where you feel comfortable being honest. My approach is warm and engaged, while also helping you build clarity, emotional awareness, and lasting change over time.

What is your typical process for working with clients?

Beginning therapy is an important step, and I want you to have a clear sense of what it’s like to work with me. From the first session, my goal is to create a space where you feel safe, heard, and supported. We’ll start with a conversation about what brought you to therapy, what you’re currently experiencing, and what you hope to gain from the process. This initial meeting is also an opportunity for both of us to determine whether it feels like a good fit to move forward together. If we decide to continue, we will collaboratively develop treatment goals that are meaningful to you. These goals are flexible and can evolve over time as your needs shift and new insights emerge. I will help you break them down into clear, manageable steps so that progress feels realistic and grounded. I tailor each session to your unique needs, drawing from evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Psychodynamic Therapy. Whether we are building coping strategies, exploring relationship patterns, managing anxiety or stress, or deepening self-awareness, our work remains guided by your values and priorities. Therapy with me is active and engaging. I offer reflections, ask thoughtful questions, and provide honest feedback. I also check in regularly to ensure the process feels helpful and aligned with your goals. My goal is for you to leave therapy feeling more grounded, empowered, and connected to yourself. The process may not always be easy, but you don’t have to navigate it alone—I will be there to support you every step of the way.

Is this doctor in your insurance network?

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In-network insurances

Aetna

BlueCross BlueShield

Cigna

UnitedHealthcare

+17 more in-network plans

More information on payments and coverage

My out of pocket fee is $125 per hour. Sliding scale fees are available. Payments accepted via Venmo or Zelle. I am not in network with Medicaid, Medicare, or NJ FamilyCare — please verify your insurance before booking. Evening and weekend hours may be available upon request based on current openings.

Popular visit reasons

Agoraphobia

Depression

New Patient Visit

Pre-Move In Couples Counseling

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit

Sleep Problems

Worry

Agoraphobia

Depression

New Patient Visit

Pre-Move In Couples Counseling

Education and background

Practice names

A Tranquil Room

Education and training

Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Master's in Social Work

NPI number

1275841231

Patient reviews

All reviews have been submitted by patients after interacting with the practice.

Overall rating

4.94

Wait time

5.00

Bedside manner

5.00

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

36 reviews

Most relevant

Tammy makes me feel very comfortable when talking during our session!

Less than 1 month agoLV

She was a good listener and very pleasant to talk to.

November 14, 2025Christine S.Verified patientVideo visit

Tammy did a really great job at squeezing me in last minute and really helping me learn how to deal with the issues we discussed. Have seen a significant improvement in my life since we started. Would reccmend!

Less than 1 month agoVM

I just had my first session with Tammy, and she really took the time to understand what I was going through and created a warm and supportive environment. I am looking forward to my next session with her!

Less than 1 month agoSS

Tammy is a kind, thoughtful, and honest therapist. She's really helped me in meaningful ways, and I continue to grow and get closer to where I want to be.

Less than 1 month agoMS

I have been working with Tammy for 4 months now. The sessions have had such an impact on my life it's hard to put into words. From my very first session I felt heard and understood. I would highly recommend Tammy her approach is compassionate yet direct.

More than 1 year agoCS

Tamara truly cares about what's going on in my life and I have learned how to use different coping skills that have greatly reduced my anxiety. She doesn't just listen but actively participates in my sessions and the insight she provides is an instrumental part of my personal growth.

More than 1 year agoVK

Tammy's expertise and compassionate approach created a safe space for me to explore my thoughts and emotions. The strategies she provided me have helped me tremendously over the 2 years I have been with her.

More than 1 year agoLH

Tammy is an very caring therapist who has helped me a great deal these past two years. She has helped me learn coping skills to help me manage my circumstances.

More than 1 year agoBC

Tammy's compassionate and professional approach helped me navigate my challenges with empathy and understanding. I felt truly heard and supported throughout our sessions

More than 1 year agoMP

Ms. Payne is very caring and respectful. She is a very good listener and helps me understand my problems and how to get better. She gives a lot of tips and advice that have helped me gain healthier behaviors for myself.

More than 1 year agoLC

I’ve been seeing Tamara for about 2 years now. Sessions with her has helped me tremendously in my life. She is attentive, easy to talk to and professional.

More than 1 year agoCR

Tammy is a wonderful therapist who is always relaxed, understanding, and ready to discuss methods for how to make day to day maintenance a little easier.

More than 1 year agoAML

I have been working with Tammy for individual therapy for about a year and a half now. When we started working together, I was in a pretty bad place and wasn't entirely sure how to navigate it. The space that Tammy has provided allowed me to make some necessary changes in my life, while feeling safe and supported. I would describe Tammy as empathetic, non-judgemental, and a great listener. Highly recommend working with her!

More than 1 year agoRC

Tammy's the first therapist I have ever seen and so glad she made the experience so beneficial for me. Because of Tammy, I have family and friends who have noticed a change in me that has been for the better. For a long time, I was nervous to seek help for my mental health and during some hard moments this first half of the year, she was able to help me through and continues to, to this day. I'm always so thankful for her!

More than 1 year agoSS

April 2, 2026Della L.Verified patientVideo visit

July 30, 2025Francisco N.Verified patientVideo visit

Less than 1 year agoInitials hiddenVideo visit

More than 1 year agoTabetha F.Verified patientVideo visit

August 29, 2024Stephen K.Verified patientVideo visit

August 5, 2024Kathryn T.Verified patientVideo visit

More than 1 year agoInitials hiddenVideo visit

May 15, 2024Francetta M.Verified patientVideo visit

More than 1 year agoInitials hiddenVideo visit

April 10, 2024Jane F.Verified patientVideo visit

More than 1 year agoInitials hiddenVideo visit

February 6, 2024Jessica C.Verified patientVideo visit

January 25, 2024James C.Verified patientVideo visit

More than 1 year agoInitials hidden

Frequently asked questions

How soon can I make an appointment with Tamara (Tammy) Payne?

Generally, Tamara (Tammy) Payne has appointments available on Zocdoc within 1 week. You can see Tamara (Tammy) Payne's earliest availability on Zocdoc and make an appointment online.

Is Tamara (Tammy) Payne accepting new patients?

Tamara (Tammy) Payne generally accepts new patients on Zocdoc. You can see Tamara (Tammy) Payne's earliest availability on Zocdoc and schedule an appointment online.

Does Tamara (Tammy) Payne accept my insurance?

Choose your insurance plan to verify if Tamara (Tammy) Payne is in-network.

Can I make an appointment with Tamara (Tammy) Payne online?

Yes, you can make an appointment online with Tamara (Tammy) Payne using Zocdoc. It’s simple, secure, and free.

What practice does Tamara (Tammy) Payne work with?

Tamara (Tammy) Payne works with A Tranquil Room.

What are common reasons for patients to see Tamara (Tammy) Payne?

Tamara (Tammy) Payne frequently sees patients for Depression, New Patient Visit, Psychotherapy, Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit, and Sleep Problems. You can see other visit reasons for Tamara (Tammy) Payne on their profile.

What languages does Tamara (Tammy) Payne speak?

Tamara (Tammy) Payne speaks English.

How do patients rate Tamara (Tammy) Payne in reviews?

36 patients have reviewed Tamara (Tammy) Payne. The overall rating for this doctor is 4.94/5. They have a 5/5 rating for bedside manner and a 5/5 rating for wait time. You can read individual reviews and ratings on their profile.