Welcome to Strive Counseling—a supportive, inclusive therapy practice dedicated to helping children, adolescents, adults, and families feel more connected, understood, and empowered. With over 10 years of experience, I offer compassionate, trauma-informed care tailored to each individual’s needs. I specialize in supporting the LGBTQIA+ community, and work with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, identity exploration, ADHD, mood disorders, and more. Whether you're seeking in-person or telehealth therapy, I’m here to meet you where you are—with empathy, clinical expertise, and a genuine commitment to your growth and healing.
I’m Kelly McIntyre, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, young adults, adults, and families in feeling more connected, understood, and empowered. I’ve worked in a variety of settings, including crisis intervention, alternative school placements, and in-home therapy. I am deeply committed to supporting the LGBTQ+ community and specialize in working with clients navigating trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, chronic stress, self-esteem challenges, and mood disorders.
No matter where you are in life, my goal is to meet you with compassion, curiosity, and care.
Over a decade of experience working with Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, ADHD, Gender Dysphoria, Mood Disorders, Self Esteem Issues, Suicidal Ideation, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorders, Crisis Intervention, Self-Injurious Behavior, Oppositional Behaviors, Panic Disorders, Coping Skills and Self Management Techniques.
My therapeutic approach is rooted in building authentic, trusting relationships. I believe that healing happens in spaces where people feel safe, seen, and supported—exactly as they are. I strive to create an affirming environment where clients of all ages can explore their thoughts, emotions, and identities with compassion and curiosity.
Using a trauma-informed lens, I tailor each session to meet your unique needs and goals. I draw from a range of evidence-based modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Interpersonal Therapy, while integrating practical tools for emotional regulation, self-awareness, and personal growth.
No matter where you are in life, my goal is to walk alongside you with empathy, clinical insight, and a deep respect for your lived experience—helping you move toward meaningful, lasting change.
Do you find it easier to connect from home, work, or on the go? Does a virtual format feel more accessible or comfortable for your lifestyle? Telehealth therapy makes it possible to receive meaningful support—no commute or waiting room required.
Through secure video sessions, I provide therapy for adults navigating a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, life transitions, identity exploration, and relationship challenges. Whether you're managing a busy career, caregiving responsibilities, or just prefer a more flexible option, telehealth can help therapy fit seamlessly into your life.
All you need is a smartphone, tablet, or computer with internet access. It’s a private, convenient way to prioritize your mental health—wherever you are.
Are you or a loved one exploring your gender identity, gender expression, or sexual orientation? Are you facing challenges related to self-esteem, identity, or emotional well-being? Whether you’re a child, teen, or adult, navigating the world as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community can come with unique stressors. Discrimination, shame, fear, and misunderstanding can take a toll on mental health, often contributing to increased anxiety, depression, and feelings of isolation.
You deserve a safe, affirming space to process your thoughts, emotions, and experiences—no matter your age or where you are in your journey. I’m here to provide compassionate, knowledgeable support to help you move toward healing, empowerment, and self-acceptance.
I also work closely with families, offering guidance and support as they walk alongside their LGBTQIA+ loved ones. I have extensive training, education, and experience supporting individuals across the lifespan who identify as LGBTQIA+.
I’m deeply committed to helping people of all ages embrace their authentic selves and build the confidence to thrive.
Does your child or teen need support, but your family’s schedule makes it hard to get to in-person sessions? Do they feel more comfortable talking from home? Telehealth therapy can be a great fit—and I find it just as effective as traditional, in-person care.
I have experience working with children as young as 6 years old in virtual settings. I use creative, engaging approaches to keep them connected and supported throughout the session. Whether it’s play-based techniques, interactive activities, or simply providing a safe space to talk, I tailor each session to meet your child’s developmental needs.
Telehealth offers the flexibility to access therapy from the comfort of your home, helping remove barriers like transportation, time constraints, or geographical distance. It’s a convenient, compassionate way to ensure your child or teen gets the support they need.
I believe deeply in the importance of family involvement in the therapeutic process, especially when working with young children. I’ve successfully supported children as young as 5 years old, and I know that lasting progress is most effective when caregivers are included in the journey.
Through family support sessions, I offer education, guidance, and resources to help you better understand your child’s experiences, behaviors, and emotional needs. These sessions are designed to strengthen communication, improve connection, and foster a more nurturing, supportive environment at home.
I’m here to support both you and your child—working together to create lasting, positive changes for your entire family. My goal is to ensure that all families feel equipped and empowered to support their loved ones with confidence and care.
Our services are available through private pay but also accessible at no cost to you through the NJ Children’s System of Care as a contracted provider in Monmouth County. If you feel your child is in need of immediate support or crisis intervention please contact PerformCare directly for Children’s Mobile Response and Stabilization Services. Speak to your case manager regarding linkage to Strive Counseling. *We do not determine eligibility for services through PerformCare*
PerformCare can be reached at 1-877-652-7624
24hrs a Day / 7 Days a Week