Today we’d like to introduce you to Jen Yawger.
Hi Jen, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I began my career in Social Work in 2005 and since then my professional path has evolved in meaningful and diverse ways. I have worked across multiple settings—including juvenile justice, inpatient and outpatient care, and school social work—each experience shaping my perspective and deepening my clinical skills. Ultimately, these experiences led me to open my own private practice in 2024, where I could bring together the full scope of my work and values.
In the early stages of my career, I knew I was passionate about working with children. At the same time, I was intentional about not rushing into private practice. With a young child at home, I wanted the flexibility to be present for my son while continuing to grow professionally. Finding a supportive and collaborative school community allowed me to strike that balance, and it became an incredibly meaningful chapter of my career.
During my years in the school system, I came to see working with children, families and adults not only as a passion, but as a privilege. Their energy, adaptability, and resilience are both inspiring and humbling, and they continually reminded me of the strength that exists even in the face of challenges.
At the same time, I discovered how much I value the connection, mentorship, and shared growth that come from working with adults. In my private practice, I have the opportunity to walk alongside individuals through their personal journeys—witnessing their insight, progress, and transformation over time. That process is a profound and meaningful part of the work I do.
Today, I work with both children and adults, supporting them in navigating life transitions, managing anxiety and depression, strengthening relationships, managing symptoms of ADHD and Autism and building resilience from trauma and overall well-being. In addition to my clinical work, I am grateful to give back to the field by supervising fellow social workers and serving as a preceptor for nurse practitioner students, helping to guide and support the next generation of clinicians.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Throughout my career, I have encountered obstacles at many different stages—particularly because the work I do requires me to be grounded, present, and emotionally well in order to truly support others. Like anyone, I have navigated personal challenges alongside my professional journey. My own health experiences, including aspects of women’s health, have tested me at times, but they have also become a source of strength—deepening my resilience and enhancing my ability to empathize with and support my clients.
Balancing career and family has been another meaningful and, at times, complex part of my path. I have made intentional choices to ensure I could be present for my family, to support my son, and to open our home to children in need when the opportunity arose. These experiences have shaped not only who I am as a professional, but who I am as a person.
I often reflect on how much I have learned from the people around me—my clients, colleagues, friends, and family. The growth in this field is never one-sided; it is shared, evolving, and deeply human. When people ask if I ever feel burnt out, I pause and consider what else I might do—and I always come back to the same answer: I cannot imagine doing anything else. This work is part of who I am.
To sustain myself, I strive to live the same guidance I offer to others. I prioritize connection, curiosity, and self-care—nurturing my mind, body, and spirit in ways that feel authentic to me. Whether I am hiking in nature, swimming, spending time with my dogs, singing in a choir, reading, volunteering, or simply trying something new, I find renewal in both stillness and adventure. Exploring new places and experiences continues to broaden my perspective and reminds me of the importance of growth, balance, and presence.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
A private practice in mental health field supporting clients of all ages. I strive to create a compassionate, collaborative space where you can feel safe to explore what you’re carrying. Drawing from CBT, DBT, and IFS, I help clients understand patterns, build resilience, and reconnect with their inner strength. We’ll work at your pace, honoring your voice and story. Healing and growth happen when you feel seen, heard, and safe.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
From an early age, my life has been rooted in working with children and supporting others. Whether I was babysitting, coaching with the Special Olympics, teaching swim lessons at the YMCA, or learning sign language in high school to better connect with hearing-impaired students, I was consistently drawn to meaningful human connection.
Interestingly, my undergraduate path began in political science—seemingly a departure from my natural inclination toward helping others. Yet even then, I found myself volunteering with the Boys & Girls Clubs of America and working as a nanny. A transformative study abroad program at University of Oxford ultimately helped me recognize that my true passion lay in working with people on a more personal, day-to-day level. That realization guided me to pursue my Master’s in Social Work.
Athletics have also played a significant role in shaping who I am. As a lifelong athlete, I developed a deep appreciation for the connection between physical and mental wellness—something I continue to integrate into both my personal life and my clinical work with clients.
My time at Rutgers University was not only academically enriching but also a period of profound personal growth. Like many entering the helping professions, I began my career believing I could “save the world.” Over time, and with experience, I came to understand a more sustainable and impactful truth: in order to effectively support others, I must first take care of myself. This philosophy continues to ground my work today, allowing me to show up with presence, empathy, and authenticity for those I serve.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.nurturingheartsandmindstherapy.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nurturingheartsminds/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenifer-y-99152843/
- Other: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/jen-yawger-rockaway-nj/1420719
