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Katie Rella, licensed therapist in New Jersey

Hi, I'm Katie and I'm glad you're here.

Finding the right therapist is hard. There are a lot of us out there and not every fit is going to be the right one. I get that.

I'm warm, direct, and collaborative. I always say that you're driving the bus and I'm just in the passenger seat as your co-pilot. This is your life and your therapy. I'm here to support you through it.

I specialize in trauma and CPTSD and I work with teens and adults who are trying to figure out why they feel the way they feel and what to actually do about it.​ I might not be the right fit for everyone and that's okay. But if any of this resonates with you, I'd love to connect.

Session Vibes

I usually start by checking in. What's been going on, how your week went, anything that's been sitting with you. If we're in the middle of something from a previous session, we'll often just pick up right there instead.


Get comfortable. Kick your shoes off, grab a fidget toy, your favorite snack, or a cup of coffee. Even though the session is virtual, this is your space, and I want you to feel like yourself here.

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Treatment Modalities

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I draw from a few evidence-based approaches depending on what is most helpful for you, including CBT (the connection between your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors) and DBT (emotional regulation and grounding skills).

 

I also specialize in trauma-focused care, including complex trauma (CPTSD). We'll work through what's stayed with you at a pace that actually feels safe, without you having to relive every detail to heal from it.

Working with Katie

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I believe therapy works best when it actually feels like a conversation, not a clinical checklist. I'm collaborative, but I'm also direct. If I notice a pattern, or think something needs to be said, I'll say it. I'm not going to nod along just to keep things comfortable.


That doesn't mean sessions are confrontational. It means I'll be honest with you, the same way I'd want a good therapist to be honest with me.

My Background

I earned my MSW from Fordham University in 2019 and my Doctor of Social Work from Tulane University in 2026. I'm licensed as an LCSW in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, and as an LCADC in New Jersey.


I've worked with teens and adults across inpatient, outpatient, and community settings, supporting people through trauma, substance use, anxiety, and depression. I also work as an adjunct instructor, helping train the next generation of social workers.

Outside of the therapist chair

When I'm not in session, you can usually find me hanging out with my dogs, reading, attending concerts, playing video games, or fueling myself with too much coffee. I'm also a fan of true crime, tattoos, musicals, and exploring new places whenever I get the chance. 

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Meet Benny

Katie Rella with her dog, Benny.

There's a good chance Benny will make an appearance during our sessions, usually by climbing onto the chair behind me like he owns the place. He's become a bit of a fan favorite with clients and honestly, he has great timing. 


He doesn't have any credentials. He's just a very good boy.

Chief Comfort Officer

Benny, Chief Comfort Officer at Rella Counseling

© Rella Counseling LLC.

I am a Safe Space
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