About Me

Welcome to Connection Counseling LLC! I'm so happy you're here! My name is Cara Bonsma and I'm the founder of Connection Counseling LLC as well as the sole practitioner.

I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Hillsborough NJ with over a decade of experience supporting teens and adults through life’s most challenging seasons. Whether you're a teenager navigating anxiety, social pressure, or friendships, or an adult feeling overwhelmed by stress, relationships, parenting, or life transitions — you’ve come to the right place.

My passion lies in helping people build better relationships — with others, and most importantly, with themselves. I believe in meeting my clients where they are, and walking alongside them with compassion, curiosity, and evidence-based strategies that actually help.

I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Rhode Island in 2008, followed by a Master’s degree in Counseling from Capella University in 2012. In 2013, I completed additional advanced training in Couple and Family Therapy, further deepening my understanding of relational dynamics. I became a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) in 2015, and after continued clinical work and supervision, I earned my full Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) credential in 2019.

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working in a wide range of therapeutic settings — including public schools, hospital-based behavioral health programs, community mental health centers, and in-home therapy services. These experiences have given me a deep appreciation for the many ways people show up in therapy, and the importance of a therapeutic relationship that feels safe, supportive, and empowering.

How I Work
I draw from approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused Therapy, offering clients tools to better understand their thought patterns, regulate emotions, and move toward meaningful, sustainable change. Whether we’re working together short-term or long-term, my focus is always on helping you feel more connected — to your values, your relationships, and your inner strengths.

What You Can Expect
At Connection Counseling LLC, you’ll never feel like just another name on a schedule. This is a solo practice, which means you’ll be working one-on-one with me from start to finish. Therapy here is tailored, intentional, and grounded in trust.

If you're feeling anxious, stuck, or unsure of your next steps — let’s talk. You don’t have to figure it all out alone.

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