About Doug Martinson, LAC
Hi! My name is Doug Martinson and I am a psychotherapist at Anchor Therapy in downtown Hoboken, NJ. I offer both in-person and virtual therapy to residents of New Jersey. I am a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) with several years of experience working with teens (15+) and adults navigating life transitions, anxiety, relationship challenges, and self-esteem. My approach draws from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused, and person-centered techniques.
You’re a young adult trying to figure out your next step while life keeps moving fast. Lately, you’ve been feeling more on edge, less like yourself, and unsure who to talk to about it. You may be adjusting to a new job, trying to make new friends, or figuring out how to feel independent in a relationship. Depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem can show up during these transitions. My goal is to give you room to work through these feelings and grow through this stage of life. We’ll tackle what’s been weighing on you and build the tools to move forward with confidence.
I help teens and adults work through depression, anxiety, substance use, and relationship challenges. Our sessions are conversational and collaborative, and I tailor each one to your needs so you don’t feel like you’re doing this alone.
I’m proud of you for taking the first step in finding help. I’m here to offer a safe and comfortable space where you can work toward your goals.
Fun facts about me: I’m an avid video game player and comic book reader! In my free time I enjoy hiking, traveling, and trying new foods. After work I unwind by reading and spending time with my fiancé and our two cats!
More about how I could help…
+ Anxiety
- I help clients manage anxiety ranging from generalized worry to more chronic patterns. Together, we identify triggers, understand how anxiety shows up for you, and build coping strategies to reduce intensity. We also work on accepting what can’t be controlled so anxiety feels more manageable and less overwhelming.
+ Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- I use CBT to help clients understand how thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are connected. Together, we identify patterns that may be keeping you stuck and work on gently challenging unhelpful thinking. Tools like the cognitive triangle help make these shifts clearer so you can respond to life’s stressors in more balanced and effective ways.
+ Depression
- I help clients understand how depression shows up in their thoughts, emotions, and daily life. Together, we identify triggers and patterns while building coping skills to improve mood and make difficult periods easier to move through. We also work on accepting feelings without judgment and rebuilding motivation over time.
+ LGBTQIA+
- I welcome and affirm LGBTQIA+ clients and provide a supportive space to explore identity, relationships, and life stressors. You may be navigating coming out, questioning identity, or simply looking for a therapist who feels safe and understanding. I am an ally, use he/him pronouns, and aim to create an inclusive, respectful therapeutic space.
+ Life Transitions
- I help clients navigate life changes such as new jobs, school transitions, relationship beginnings or endings, and other major milestones. Together, we explore the thoughts and emotions that come with change and build ways to cope with uncertainty so transitions feel more manageable and less overwhelming.
+ Motivational Interviewing
- Motivational Interviewing allows me to meet you where you are and support you in identifying your own reasons for change. I believe you are the expert on your life. My role is to help you explore what feels stuck, clarify what matters most to you, and build motivation and direction at a pace that feels right.
+ Relationships
- I work with individuals navigating relationship stress, communication challenges, dating concerns, and breakups. Together, we explore patterns in relationships, strengthen boundaries, and build confidence in how you show up with others. Our work focuses on helping you feel more secure, understood, and connected in your relationships.
+ Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)
- Solution Focused Brief Therapy helps us focus on what is already working and build practical steps toward change. I use this approach when you know something needs to shift but aren’t sure how to get there. Together, we set clear goals and build confidence in your ability to create meaningful progress.
+ Substance Use Counseling
- I support clients exploring their relationship with substances or working toward change. My approach is non-judgmental and collaborative, helping you understand triggers, build coping strategies, and clarify your goals. Whether reducing use or pursuing sobriety, we move at a pace that feels realistic and supportive.
+ Telehealth
- I offer secure video telehealth sessions for clients located anywhere in New Jersey. Virtual therapy provides flexibility when you’re traveling, busy, or prefer meeting from home. I approach telehealth with the same level of engagement and care as in-person sessions so our work remains consistent and effective.
What the next steps would look like…
The next step, if you feel I may be a good fit to help you or your loved one, would be to reach out to our intake coordinator by filling out the form at the bottom of this page. Our intake coordinator will share details about scheduling, answer any questions, and help confirm that I’m the right therapist for what you’re looking for. When reaching out, it’s helpful to share a bit about yourself (or who you’re seeking therapy for) and what you’d like support with. We’ll then review availability and schedule your intake session.
You have the option of in-person for sessions or virtual therapy (video or phone). I currently have availability Mondays through Thursdays, including evenings. During the intake, we’ll talk through your concerns, goals for therapy, and relevant history to get a clear starting point.
The hardest part of starting therapy is often finding a therapist who feels like the right fit and has availability. That’s why I try to transparent here about how I work.If this sounds like a good fit, I encourage you to reach out! Our intake coordinator responds to every inquiry submitted through the website. If I’m not the best match, she will help connect you with another Anchor Therapy clinician or a trusted referral in the area.
Please feel free to contact our intake coordinator so we can begin the process of helping you or your loved one feel better.
BACKGROUND
Master of the Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Rider University
Bachelor of Arts in History, Rider University
New Jersey Licensed Associate Counselor, License #37AC00708500
Clinical Supervisor: Michele Passman, LCSW, LCADC, ACS License #44SC05764300
National Certified Counselor (NCC)
Doug has experience working with the following:
Doug’s areas of specialization include:
As your therapist, Doug finds it important to adapt and individualize each client’s plan of care to better fit your needs. Doug has training in and incorporates the following evidenced-based practice methods:
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Eclectic
Gestalt
Harm Reduction Therapy
Motivational Interviewing
Narrative Therapy
Person-Centered Therapy
Positive Psychology
Strength-Based Therapy
Browse our beautiful Hoboken counseling office photos below…
Contact Us
WORKING WITH US IS EASY
Fill out the contact form below.
Our intake coordinator will get back to you with more information on how we can help and to schedule an appointment. We will set you up with an experienced licensed therapist who specializes in what you're seeking help with and who understands your needs.
You’ll rest easy tonight knowing you made the first step to improve your life.
