Welcome to Purpose Mental Health! My name is Sandy Shehata. I am the founder and owner of Purpose Mental Health and a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of New Jersey. I am dedicated to providing counseling services to clients experiencing a range of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, family conflict, complex PTSD, and trauma. I am currently pursuing my doctorate in Counseling Psychology at Saint Elizabeth University, where I am specializing in trauma-informed care. I hold a Master’s degree in Professional Counseling from Seton Hall University.

My clinical experience spans community mental health centers, hospitals, private practice, and nonprofit humanitarian organizations. I have provided individual therapy, crisis intervention, and psychological evaluations for children, adolescents, and adults impacted by trauma, abuse, displacement, and systemic inequities. I have worked extensively with survivors of war, trafficking, interpersonal violence, and other complex forms of trauma, as well as children and families involved with child protective services.

Drawing on a trauma-informed approach, my therapeutic style is grounded in safety, trust, empowerment, and cultural responsiveness. I am fluent in Arabic and experienced in collaborating with interpreters, and I am passionate about supporting clients from diverse backgrounds. My mission is to create a space where every individual feels seen, valued, and supported on their healing journey.

More about my identity: I am an Egyptian immigrant and a Coptic Orthodox Christian. These meaningful parts of who I am have deeply shaped both my personal journey and the mental health professional I have become. They inform my understanding of resilience, faith, community, and healing. I am committed to providing culturally responsive and inclusive care, honoring each client’s unique identity, lived experience, and story. I believe every person deserves to feel understood, respected, and supported in a space where their whole self is welcomed.