Our Professionals
Bridge Mental Health’s staff of professionals provides psychotherapy for children, adolescents, adults and seniors in Point Pleasant, NJ. Here are brief biographies of our experienced and dedicate staff:
Dr. Helen Demetriades, PsyD
Dr. Helen Demetriades is a N.J. Licensed Clinical Psychologist. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree from New School for Social Research in New York City, and then went on to New York University where she received her Master of Social Work degree. Dr. Demetriades continued her studies at Columbia University where she received her Master of Arts degree in Developmental Psychology. She completed her studies at Long Island University where she obtained a Master of Science degree and ultimately a Doctor of Psychology degree in Clinical Psychology with a concentration in Severe and Persistent Mental Illness.
Dr. Demetriades is a seasoned therapist with over 20 years of experience serving others. Dr. Demetriades’ understanding of depression and bipolar disorder led her to writing and publishing the book entitled Bipolar Disorder, Depression, and Other Mood Disorders, which was stocked in libraries and schools across the country. Dr. Demetriades is a certified Grief Recovery Specialist, and a Critical Incident Stress Debriefer. She is proficient in Personality Assessment, including projective testing (e.g., Rorschach Ink Blot Test and Thematic Apperception Test).
Dr. Demetriades offers a compassionate and non-judgmental atmosphere wherein patients are guided through an exploration of self, leading to a greater understanding of themselves and those around them. She believes that the critical ingredient for therapeutic progress is the therapeutic relationship, which requires mutual respect and safety.
Janet Wolff, L.C.S.W.
Ms. Janet Wolff is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the State of New Jersey. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey in 1978. After working several years in the field of human services she returned to school and earned her Master of Social Work degree from the Rutgers University School of Social Work, New Brunswick, New Jersey in 1984. She concentrated her studies in Clinical Casework, Administrative Practice and Policies, and Minored in Gerontology.
Ms. Wolff has over 35 years of experience working with clients affected by childhood abuse and neglect, addiction, anxiety, depression, trauma, violence, and behavioral and mental health challenges. She has assisted individuals and families manage the psychological effects of significant life changes related to loss of employment, chronic illness, homelessness, parenting, step parenting, divorce, grief, dementia and end-of-life issues.
She has worked in coordination with schools, courts, hospitals, nursing homes, long term care facilities, county offices and state agencies, Child Advocacy Boards, Mental Health Boards, Drug & Alcohol Boards and many Ocean and Monmouth County Mental Health Agencies.
Ms. Wolff is a Disaster Response Crisis Counselor for the State of New Jersey and a member of the Monmouth County Disaster and Critical Incident Response Team since 1996.
In a non-judgmental manner, Ms. Wolff utilizes her knowledge and experience to offer a safe space for individuals to explore their thoughts, feelings, issues and concerns. She feels that the foundation of the therapeutic relationship is built on respect and compassion. Ms. Wolff works with each individual to move toward their personal goals and obtaining a sense of well-being.
Ms. Wolff offers support, encouragement, and empathy throughout the therapeutic process. She believes that when someone engages in the therapeutic process it is a sacred place that is to be respected and valued.
Mary Jean Gibbons, C.M.T.
Mary Jean Gibbons is a Nationally Certified and New Jersey Licensed Massage and Bodywork Therapist with over 20 years of professional experience. She has worked with individuals at all stages of life in a variety of settings, including long term care facilities, chiropractic offices, schools, spas, and wellness centers.
Ms. Gibbons believes that bodywork is a wonderful way to reduce stress, help manage pain, and bring a sense of harmony, balance and peace to life. She has studied both Western and Eastern healing methods, and brings an integrated and compassionate approach to her work with each individual. Among the techniques she frequently employs are Swedish, Deep Tissue, Myofacial, Thai, Reflexology, Reiki, Zero Balancing, Hot Stone and Towel Techniques, and Aromatherapy. Her personal practices of Yoga, Qigong and Mindfulness Medication have also influenced her work. She has facilitated Creative Self Care workshops that include gentle expressive movement, body treatments and meditation.
Ms. Gibbons has a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from the College of New Rochelle, N.Y., and has studied Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction through the Penn Program for Stress Management. She is a member of the American Massage Therapy Association, Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals, and the Zero Balancing Health Association.
Ms. Gibbons is currently working at Bridge Mental Health as an independent contractor. Please call to schedule an appointment and ask about our monthly specials!
Lori Cartaino, L.C.S.W.
Lori Cartaino is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of New Jersey since 1994, and a member of the Academy of Certified Social Workers since 1987. Ms. Cartaino has over 30 years of experience working with clients affected by childhood abuse, domestic violence, loss of control, chronic physical illness and pain, end-stage renal disease, dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, grief, and caregiver stress. Ms. Cartaino is a seasoned social worker assisting individuals with depression, anger, anxiety, bereavement, stress, and general coping issues.
Ms. Cartaino has worked in various settings including hospitals, long term care facilities, assisted living facilities, and private homes. Ms. Cartaino has worked in Ocean, Monmouth, and Bergen counties within New Jersey.
Ms. Cartaino earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Work and Sociology from Rutgers University, Newark, N.J. She went on to receive her Master of Social Work degree from Rutgers University School of Social Work, New Brunswick, N.J. Ms. Cartaino became certified as a Grief Recovery Specialist in 2015.
Ms. Cartaino’s education and experience, along with her patience and caring, allow for an enhanced therapeutic process. She has the ability to engage patients in a safe journey toward developing effective coping skills and reaching personal goals. With compassion and skill, Ms. Cartaino assists patients in fortifying self understanding to reduce maladaptive behaviors and symptoms.