#USA #mental health #Old Bridge #Innerspace Counseling #Ira Hays

Innerspace Counseling Welcomes Ira Hays as Director of Clinical Services

Innerspace Counseling has made a significant move to bolster its mental health services with the appointment of Ira Hays, LCSW, as the new Director of Clinical Services. Hays brings over twenty years of clinical expertise, particularly in youth and family mental health, which will play a crucial role in expanding the organization’s service offerings.

Enhanced Mental Health Programs

Under Hays' leadership, Innerspace Counseling aims to enhance its Primary Mental Health Intensive Outpatient Programs and Partial Hospitalization Programs (IOP & PHP). These initiatives cater to a broad spectrum of clients, including children, teenagers, and adults. The core therapy modality utilized is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), renowned for its effectiveness in managing emotional dysregulation and other mental health challenges.

Additionally, Hays will spearhead the expansion of Innerspace’s Perinatal Wellness Program, which focuses on supporting new mothers during their transition to parenthood, addressing both mental health and wellness concerns. A groundbreaking addition to their service lines is the OCD & Anxiety track, set to launch in Fall 2025. This program will be the first of its kind in New Jersey that is in-network and will utilize Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy, a proven method for treating obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Fostering Wellness Through Expertise

Ajita Shah, the CEO and Founder of Innerspace Counseling, expressed confidence in Hays' ability to elevate the organization’s programs. Shah emphasized Hays’ deep understanding of complex clinical presentations and the importance of matching clients to appropriate levels of care. This approach reinforces Innerspace’s commitment to providing a holistic and empowering pathway toward long-term mental health recovery.

Hays, who possesses a robust background in clinical assessment and differential diagnosis, will be instrumental in improving treatment outcomes. His expertise allows him to effectively differentiate between conditions such as school refusal and anxiety disorders. These skills are vital in ensuring accurate diagnoses, leading to appropriate treatment placements and ultimately preventing misclassification that could hinder a patient’s recovery.

The Future of Mental Health Care

In speaking about his new role, Hays stated, “Innerspace is at the forefront of delivering accessible and specialized mental health care. I’m looking forward to being part of a team that addresses not just symptoms, but also fosters the skills needed for sustained recovery and wellness.” His enthusiasm reflects the organization’s mission to equip individuals not only for immediate challenges but for enduring stability.

With Hays at the helm of clinical services, Innerspace Counseling strengthens its position as a trusted provider of evidence-based mental health services across New Jersey, advocating for those in need from childhood through adulthood. The organization’s comprehensive model includes personalized, multidisciplinary treatment options leveraging modalities such as DBT, CBT, ERP, and Brainspotting.

About Innerspace Counseling

Founded in Old Bridge, New Jersey, Innerspace Counseling specializes in delivering a wide range of mental health services through Intensive Outpatient Programs and Partial Hospitalization Programs tailored for various age groups. Their commitment to employing evidence-based approaches ensures that patients receive the highest standard of care, addressing diverse psychological needs effectively.

As they embark on this new chapter with Ira Hays, Innerspace Counseling is poised to continue making impactful contributions to the mental health landscape, paving the way for innovative and compassionate service that resonates with their community.