Dawn is a New Jersey licensed clinical social worker dedicated to empowering individuals who are motivated to change and create a brighter future. As the founder of Brighter Day Counseling in Forked River, New Jersey, she has cultivated a thriving practice built on compassion, expertise, and a deep commitment to her clients’ well-being. Dawn’s approach to therapy is grounded in the belief that true and lasting change comes from understanding the intricate connections between our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. She expertly guides individuals through a process of self-discovery, helping them to unravel the often complex tapestry of their behaviors, habits, and beliefs. Through this exploration, clients gain valuable insights into the root causes of their challenges, empowering them to make conscious choices that foster positive and sustainable change.

As a trauma-informed therapist, Dawn recognizes the profound impact that past experiences can have on present-day functioning. She creates a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive environment where individuals can explore sensitive issues. Her approach is gentle yet effective, allowing clients to feel seen, heard, and understood while guiding them forward. In addition to her clinical expertise, Dawn is trained in mindfulness meditation and offers a variety of relaxation techniques to help reduce anxiety, increase self-awareness, and cultivate a sense of inner peace and contentment. She believes that integrating mindfulness practices into daily life can be a powerful tool for managing stress, enhancing emotional regulation, and fostering a deeper connection to oneself.

Dawn is a life-long learner and self-proclaimed geek, always researching best practices in the field to provide effective and evidence-based care. She is a respected member of the professional community and is passionate about helping others live fulfilling and meaningful lives. After raising their two daughters, Dawn and her husband relocated to Ocean County, NJ.

Kirsten Askins has been a student of Astrology and Yoga for forty years. In the 1980’s, both artistic expressions did not have formal training, so she sought out teachers and apprenticed to learn one-on-one. Since that time, each has grown in practitioners and training, and over the years Kirsten has completed formal schooling in both Astrology and Yoga. She considers each a lifelong commitment to practice, learn and teach. Kirsten feels that all creative expressions are a way to know yourself and to connect to one’s soul. For her, Astrology and Yoga have been tools to wholeness and wellness, and it is her goal to assist others to open and expand their own self-expression. Kirsten is also a certified Aromatherapist, Reiki Master Teacher, Tarot Reader and is currently a student of Herbalism. In 2011, she opened Hanu Yoga Studio & Holistic Arts Center, located in historic downtown Barnegat, New Jersey. At Hanu Yoga, you can find more teachers of Yoga, Astrology, Reiki, Tarot, Acupressure, Psychic Development, and Sound Meditation. They are all there to assist you to yoke or join divine creation within yourself. At Hanu Yoga, you will be amongst others who wish for the same divine connection. www.hanuyoga.com.