Mr. Abraham Sharkas Licensed Associate Counselor

Mr. Abraham Sharkas, Licensed Associate Counselor, 37AC00788500 is practicing under the supervision of Natalia Velandia (New Jersey, LCSW, 44SC05982100) at Layers Therapy.

Please, note: A clinician listed as being “clinically supervised” is completing clinical hours toward their licensure. They have one or more fully licensed clinical supervisors that often have special training to become supervisors. They consult with their supervisor(s) on all of their cases, which means that, when working with them, you are getting the time and expertise of multiple therapists in your treatment.

Growing up in Amman, Jordan, I was always drawn to the idea of understanding and supporting others. Moving to the United States brought its own challenges and lessons, deepening my fascination with the human spirit and our capacity for resilience. My path to becoming a therapist was a winding one, from exploring psychology and philosophy at Arizona State University to working on a biodynamic farm in Vermont and then studying Sufism both experientially and intellectually. Each experience added a new layer to my understanding of what it means to be human. Today, I'm passionate about merging philosophical insights with practical therapeutic approaches. My goal is to offer a holistic and deeply empathetic form of therapy that honors the cultural and spiritual backgrounds of each client. I strive to create a therapeutic space that is both nurturing and transformative, helping individuals navigate their unique journeys toward healing and self-discovery.

When we work together, you can expect a holistic approach that integrates psychological insights with spiritual and somatic dimensions. I believe that no single theory fully captures the complexity of an individual, so I create a flexible and personalized therapeutic environment that adapts to your evolving needs. In our sessions, we'll engage in experiential and somatic exercises designed to uncover and address stored emotions and physical patterns. This approach reflects my belief that we are all capable of discovering new insights about ourselves through active, embodied participation. Our therapeutic space honors your entire being and is sensitive to all aspects of your identity. It's a collaborative and empathetic environment aimed at empowering you to discover and harness your inner strengths. As we unfold the layers of your experiences together, I remain committed to adjusting our methods to best support your journey towards healing and harmony.

The tales of Mulla Nasrudin, a wise fool from folklore, have profoundly influenced my therapeutic approach. These stories convey deep truths about human nature and the complexities of life in a simple, accessible manner. Nasrudin's folly and straightforward demeanor often reveal a higher level of emotional intelligence and understanding. This mirrors the therapeutic journey—where the path might sometimes seem perplexing, yet it holds the potential for profound insights and transformation. In my practice, I often use these stories as metaphors to help clients see their situations in a new light. They provide a gentle, humorous way to challenge assumptions and open up new ways of thinking and feeling. The tales of Mulla Nasrudin remind us that wisdom doesn't always come in serious packages and that laughter can be a powerful tool for healing and growth.

My journey as a therapist has been a rich tapestry of experiences, each contributing to my unique approach to mental health care. From my early days as a mental health fellow, I've had the privilege of serving in roles that have both challenged and fulfilled me. I've honed my skills in a range of therapeutic approaches, including Positive Psychology, Gestalt Therapy, and mindfulness practices, always with a focus on creating a nurturing and supportive environment that celebrates the uniqueness of each individual. Beyond my clinical practice, I serve as the president of Bab Al Ilm, a faith-based organization where I apply my therapeutic skills to foster spiritual inquiry and personal growth. This role has taught me the importance of integrating one's beliefs and values into the healing process, offering a holistic approach to mental health care. As a therapist with a diverse cultural background, I'm passionate about connecting with people from all walks of life. Being conversationally fluent in conversational Arabic allows me to engage with a broader client base, providing a comfortable space for self-expression. And as a published poet, I bring a creative perspective to my work, using the power of words to explore deep emotional truths and universal human experiences.