James Riley, MA, LPC
Life often brings moments where we find ourselves questioning our direction, our purpose, or how we want to show up in the world. Our work together will view these moments as opportunities—not only to reduce distress, but to better understand ourselves and move forward with greater clarity based upon what matters most to you.
My approach often involves exploring the deeper questions that shape our lives: responsibility, meaning, and the choices we make in response to life’s challenges. Rather than focusing only on symptoms, our conversations become a process of understanding how patterns of thinking, emotion, and behavior influence the life you’re living.
My professional experience and area of focus centers on understanding and helping clients navigating anxiety, stress, anger, relationship challenges, and major life transitions. People are often accustomed to carrying pressure, keeping it in, solving problems on their own, or feeling uncertain about how to understand what they’re experiencing. But working together, we can take a step back, examine what’s happening, and develop more effective ways of responding.
Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP)
Let’s address the patterns that maintain anxiety. Let’s confront the way it leads to avoidance of meaningful challenges, the way it tricks us into overestimating risks and paralyzes our decision-making, how it attacks our confidence in ourselves and our abilities, how it saps us of energy and narrows our view of life’s possibilities. Let’s starts regaining a sense of control, build lasting resilience, to thrive, and act in alignment with our values and goals.
Certified Specialist in Anger Management (CSAM)
Anger is often misunderstood; when explored thoughtfully, it can reveal important information about boundaries, stress, and unmet needs. But when unmanaged, anger can damage relationships, negatively impact our workplace performance, lead to impulsive decisions and social isolation, and have adverse physical health effects. My approach focuses on helping clients recognize triggers, identify the patterns that may be holding you back and develop a more intentional path forward, strengthen emotional regulation, and respond in ways that align with values and long-term goals. Developing emotional regulation skills allows men to recognize anger earlier, understand what it is pointing to, and respond in ways that are consistent with their values and long-term goals.
I am in-network with:
Horizon BCBS of New Jersey
UnitedHealthcare
Aetna (4/9/2026)
Cigna (Pending)
AmeriHealth (Pending)
If you plan to use insurance, your out-of-pocket cost will depend on your individual benefits, including deductible, copay, and/or coinsurance. I recommend contacting your insurance provider prior to your first session to confirm your mental health coverage.
For clients choosing to self-pay or using out-of-network benefits, I can provide documentation (superbills) upon request.
I provide virtual therapy throughout New Jersey and offer in-person sessions in the Woodbridge area. Insurance benefits typically apply to both virtual and in-person services.
Frequently Asked Questions
You may still have questions? Feel free to take a look at the FAQ. If you’re feeling ready, go ahead and reach out.
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You can reach out through the contact form on my website to request a consultation or initial appointment. Once scheduled, you’ll receive access to the secure client portal to complete intake paperwork. Of course, there is no cost associated with our phone call.
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Standard therapy sessions are 50 minutes. Longer or extended sessions may be available when clinically appropriate.
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Most clients begin with weekly sessions to build momentum and consistency. Frequency may adjust over time based on your goals and progress.
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The therapeutic relationship is important. If at any point you feel we’re not the right match, I’m happy to provide referrals to ensure you receive the support you need.
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Your out-of-pocket cost depends on your individual plan and may include:
A copay
Coinsurance
Meeting a deductible before insurance begins paying
If you have a high-deductible plan, you may be responsible for the full contracted rate until your deductible is met. I get started?ting started is simple. Reach out through our contact form or schedule a call—we’ll walk you through the next steps and answer any questions along the way
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As a courtesy, I may review benefit information provided by your insurance company; however, coverage details are ultimately determined by your insurer. Clients are responsible for understanding their own benefits.
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If a claim is denied, the balance becomes the client’s responsibility. I will notify you promptly and discuss next steps if this occurs.
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I provide virtual therapy throughout New Jersey and in-person sessions in the Woodbridge area. Most insurance plans cover telehealth services similarly to in-person sessions, but coverage should be confirmed with your provider.
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Sure. Before your first session, please contact your insurance provider and ask:
What is my mental health copay or coinsurance?
Do I have a deductible? If so, how much has been met?
Do I need preauthorization for outpatient therapy?
Are telehealth sessions covered the same as in-person visits?
Is there a limit to the number of sessions per year?
Understanding your benefits ahead of time helps prevent unexpected charges.
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For virtual sessions:
Choose a quiet, private space where you feel comfortable speaking openly.
Use a secure internet connection.
Test your camera and audio beforehand.
Log in a few minutes early to avoid technical delays.em description
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You don’t need to have everything figured out — but it may help to consider:
What led you to seek therapy at this time?
What changes would feel meaningful to you?
What has or hasn’t worked in the past?em description
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Once your initial appointment is scheduled, you will receive an email invitation to access the secure client portal through TherapyNotes. All intake paperwork must be completed electronically through the portal prior to your first session. This includes informed consent, practice policies, and insurance information (if applicable).
Appointments may be rescheduled if intake documents are not completed in advance, as this time is reserved for your clinical session.
A photo ID will be requested for uploading to our portal.
A valid credit/debit card to your file will allow for billing for copay, coinsurance, deductible unless self-pay applies.
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No. Therapy does not have to be a lifelong commitment. Many people come to therapy with specific goals—such as managing anxiety, improving communication, or navigating a life transition—and once those goals are met, therapy can naturally come to an end. In fact, a temporary working relationship can be our goal if you choose.