Professional Counseling

Dr. Alwin E. Wagener, PhD, LPC, NCC is an expert in working with dreams and nightmares and treats clients in New Jersey (Lic# 37PC00948000) and Pennsylvania (Lic# PC016381) as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). Additionally he is Board Certified through the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC) as a National Certified Counselor (NCC) (cert# 303179).

Dr. Wagener has a decade of experience counseling, teaching graduate counseling students, and researching with a focus on dreams and nightmares. He has published numerous articles on the topic and educates students on how to understand and support client healing through dreamwork in combination with other counseling approaches. For more information see the Dr. Alwin E. Wagener Bio section of the website.

I believe dreams are deeply connected to our understanding of ourselves and the world around us. They serve as powerful tools for self-discovery, personal growth, and healing. Because of this, I integrate dreamwork and nightmare treatment whenever possible, tailoring my approach to each client’s unique needs.

My work is guided by Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), helping clients develop psychological flexibility while navigating life’s challenges. I also incorporate Culturally Responsive Dreamwork (CRD) and the Embodied Cognition Theory of Dreaming (ECTD) to ensure that dream exploration is meaningful, personally relevant, and grounded in both scientific and culturally attuned perspectives. Gestalt techniques further enhance this process, fostering deep insight and experiential engagement with dreams.

Above all, I prioritize your beliefs and values, ensuring that our work aligns with your goals and lived experience. Whether you're struggling with distressing nightmares, seeking to understand your dreams, or navigating mental health challenges, I invite you to set up an appointment and explore how dreamwork can support your healing journey.

Who I am and my Qualifications

Nightmares can be distressing and disruptive, often linked to trauma, anxiety, or other psychological challenges. Yet, despite their impact, addressing nightmares directly is not a common focus in traditional counseling and psychotherapy. I specialize in nightmare treatment, helping individuals reduce the frequency and intensity of distressing dreams while improving overall well-being.

To address nightmares, I often use Imagery Rehearsal Therapy (IRT)—an evidence-based method with studies showing it can decrease nightmare severity, reduce PTSD and anxiety symptoms, and promote more restful sleep. Through IRT, we work together to reshape distressing dream content, empowering you to take control of your sleep and regain a sense of safety.

If nightmares are interfering with your life, treatment can help. Reach out to learn more about how we can work together to restore restful, restorative sleep.

Nightmare Treatment

My Approach to Dreamwork

Schedule a Session

Session Details

I provide professional counseling services for residents of Pennsylvania and New Jersey, offering in-depth support for a range of mental health and wellness concerns, including PTSD, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and grief. My expertise in dreamwork and nightmare treatment allows me to integrate these approaches into sessions when appropriate, helping clients gain deeper insight and relief from distressing dreams.

  • Session Fee: $150 for a 50-minute Telehealth session

  • Availability: Ongoing and short-term counseling options are available

  • I do not accept insurance, and payment is required prior to each session. However, I strive to make my services as accessible as possible. If you have out-of-network benefits, I can provide a superbill for potential reimbursement from your insurance provider.

I also offer Nightmare Treatment using Imagery Rehearsal Therapy (IRT) as a supplemental service for individuals already engaged in counseling. If you are currently working with a therapist and would like to address nightmares through IRT, I can collaborate with your provider to ensure a coordinated approach. In these cases, nightmare treatment generally consists of 2-4 sessions tailored to your specific needs.

If you're interested in exploring counseling or nightmare treatment, I invite you to reach out to discuss how we can work together.

Dr. Alwin E. Wagener, PhD, LPC, NCC

Focusing on Nightmare Treatment and Dreamwork for Healing, Growth, and Wellness