ABOUT ME

Hi there! Welcome to my “About Me” page, where I’d love to tell you a bit about myself and, hopefully, help you see how I can support you on your journey toward growth and healing.

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I’m Judi Dagostino, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) with over 25 years of experience in the mental health and counseling fields. My career began in 1987 as a Social Worker at an inpatient psychiatric hospital, a role that I found deeply inspiring. It was there that I discovered my calling to help others—an insight I remain profoundly grateful for, as it set me on a path full of diverse, fulfilling experiences.

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For  the past  25 years, I worked at Rutgers Behavioral Health (formerly UMDNJ), in many different roles. From providing therapy to coordinating programs and clinically supervising emerging therapists, each role taught me the art of creating strong therapeutic relationships. I also had the privilege of  serving as a research clinician for a CBT program targeting PTSD. Helping individuals navigate the complexities of trauma and facilitating their personal growth was one of the most rewarding phases of my career.

Later, I supervised a Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) program for individuals struggling with opioid addiction while continuing to provide counseling to clients

and clinical supervision to staff. This combination of leadership and hands-on therapeutic work enriched my understanding of the many ways therapy can transform lives.

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In 2019, a life-changing medical diagnosis gave me the opportunity to step back and reflect on my career.

Following medical leave, I returned to my roots—working directly with clients. I provided therapy for individuals and groups dealing with mental health and substance use challenges and even developed a training program on group therapy for newer clinicians at Rutgers Behavioral Health. In 2024, I retired from Rutgers Behavioral Health to open my private practice, Blue Sky Personal Growth Counseling.

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At Blue Sky Personal Growth Counseling, I strive to help others find their metaphorical “blue skies”—a space where happiness, peace, clarity, and possibilities come together. Whether you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or trapped in a cycle of overthinking, I’m here to help you break through those feelings and move toward a brighter future.

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So, what does all this mean for you? If you’re looking for a therapist who is warm, compassionate, direct, and maybe even a little humorous, you’re in the right place. I specialize in evidence-based therapies such as CBT, DBT, and ACT (don’t worry, I’ll explain those when we meet!) to help you foster self-compassion and personal growth. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship stress, grief, or navigating a tough medical diagnosis, I provide a safe, supportive space where you can talk it out and work toward better days.

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Life is challenging, and being human is hard—but you don’t have to face it alone. Together, we’ll create a space where understanding, clarity, and self-kindness pave the way to the life you want. If you’re ready to take the next step, I’m here to walk with you every step of the way.

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Let’s find your blue sky together.