Supervised by Jessica Deutsch, LCSW - Supervisee in Social Work
Harold (Hal) Benz Jr.
Supervised by Jessica Deutsch, LCSW
Supervised by Jessica Deutsch, LCSW
Harold (Hal) Benz Jr.
Hi! My name is Hal. You'll find me licensed as Harold E. Benz, Jr. I am a clinical social worker with over 22 years of experience helping individuals and couples navigate life's challenges. My professional experience led me to work in a variety of outpatient settings, where I have supported clients dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and significant life transitions. I also have specialized expertise in helping individuals and families cope with the complexities of chronic and life-threatening illnesses, as well as grief & loss. Using a wide range of behavioral and cognitive approaches, I craft personalized strategies to meet each client's unique needs and goals. In addition to my work as a clinical social worker, I have spent the past decade as a performance coach for small business owners and entrepreneurs. During this time, I have empowered hundreds of individuals to harness their inner strengths, overcome obstacles, and create thriving businesses and more fulfilling lives. My approach combines practical strategies with deep personal insights to inspire meaningful and lasting growth.
I remember a time when I helped a young woman make peace with a disfiguring cancer surgery. She was struggling with feelings of loss, anger, and fear about how her changed appearance would affect her sense of self and her relationships. Through our work together, we explored her emotions, reframed her inner narrative, and focused on rediscovering her inherent worth beyond physical appearance. Using techniques to build self-compassion and resilience, she began to see herself as whole and capable, despite the challenges she faced. Over time, she not only found acceptance but also reclaimed her confidence, pursuing her goals with renewed strength and hope.
Clients can expect their counseling process with me to be collaborative, personalized, and grounded in mutual respect. From the start, we will work together to identify your goals and clarify the challenges you want to address. Each session will provide a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences without judgment.I tailor the counseling process to your unique needs, drawing from a range of evidence-based approaches, to help you build insights and develop practical tools. Along the way, you can expect to set meaningful goals, and gain greater self-awarenes.
We will begin by discussing your goals, concerns, and what brought you to seek support. I’ll take the time to understand your unique story, challenges, and strengths while answering any questions you may have about the process. Together, we’ll explore what you hope to achieve and start outlining a plan tailored to your needs. My goal in the first session is to create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard and understood, setting the stage for meaningful progress in the sessions ahead.
I’ve always been drawn to understanding people—their stories, struggles, and resilience—and I believe in the power of connection and meaningful conversations to create positive change. Witnessing the transformative impact of support and empathy inspired me to dedicate my career to guiding others toward healing, growth, and empowerment.
Highlights
Harold Benz Jr, Supervisee in Social Work, is under the clinical supervision of Jessica Deutsch, LCSW, 505 Main St. Toms River, NJ 08753, 646-907-9171, while obtaining supervised post-master’s degree experience per the laws and regulations governing the practice of Social Work.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
Clients can expect a session with me to be a collaborative, supportive, and focused experience. My approach is tailored to each client, ensuring that the session addresses their unique challenges and goals. I combine evidence-based strategies with a compassionate and solution-oriented perspective. I believe that all of us are naturally creative, resourceful, and whole. During our sessions, clients can expect me to hold a safe space to explore their thoughts and feelings, provide practical tools to tackle immediate concerns, and actionable steps to move closer to their desired outcomes.
What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?
I utilize evidence-based therapies, including Psychotherapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy & Structural Family Therapy.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
Most clients would likely consider my biggest strengths to be my deep empathy, unwavering belief in their resilience, and ability to create a safe, nonjudgmental space for growth. My combined experiences as a clinician and performance coach provide me with a unique perspective and approach to supporting clients. I specialize in working with adult populations, guiding them through life’s challenges and empowering them to achieve meaningful growth and fulfillment.
Specialities