Professional Counseling

My name is Dr. Alwin E. Wagener, PhD, LPC, NCC, and I have an expertise in working with dreams and nightmares. I treat counseling clients in New Jersey (Lic# 37PC00948000) and Pennsylvania (Lic# PC016381) as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), and I am Board Certified through the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC) as a National Certified Counselor (NCC) (cert# 303179).

I have over a decade of experience counseling, teaching graduate counseling students, and researching, with a focus on dreams and nightmares. I have published numerous articles on the topic and educate 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, dreamwork is central to my approach and help me to tailor my approach to each client’s unique needs.

My work is guided by the Embodied Cognition Theory of Dreaming (ECTD) and also incorporates Culturally Responsive Dreamwork (CRD) to ensure that dream exploration is meaningful, personally relevant, and grounded in both scientific and culturally attuned perspectives.

Throughout my work, 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

Session Details

As a board certified professional counselor, licensed in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, I offer in-depth support for a range of mental health and wellness concerns, including PTSD, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and grief. My work begins with seeing you- the whole you- someone with strengths, challenges, pain, and potential. I use dreamwork to reveal deeper patterns and to clarify your values and move toward meaningful goals. With nightmares, I use Imagery Rehearsal Therapy (IRT), an evidence-based treatment shown to reduce nightmares and improve PTSD and anxiety symptoms.

If you’re interested in counseling or targeted nightmare treatment, feel free to reach out. If you’re already in therapy, I can collaborate with your provider to offer coordinated IRT nightmare support—typically 2–4 sessions, tailored to your needs.

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

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

  • Out-of-Network Provider- I strive to make my services as accessible as possible. I am not paneled with insurance companies but can provide a superbill for out-of-network reimbursement from your insurance provider.

  • If you have any questions, please call 908-777-1393 or email alwinwagener@dreamingindepth.com. We can discuss the services I offer and schedule a session.

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

Personalized Counseling focusing on Dreamwork and Nightmare Treatment for Healing, Growth, and Wellness

Counseling Approach

As a professional counselor, I work collaboratively with you to explore your challenges and develop a plan tailored to your personal growth and goals. With 13 years of experience in clinical counseling and counselor education, I create a safe, supportive environment that fosters self-exploration and meaningful change. My background includes work in community counseling agencies, integrated care clinics, and college counseling centers, where I have supported clients with diverse diagnoses and concerns. I integrate a range of evidence-based approaches, with a special focus on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Imagery Rehearsal Therapy (IRT), and dreamwork—helping clients harness their dreams for insight, growth, and healing. My work also draws on Gestalt techniques and a humanistic perspective, ensuring a holistic, client-centered approach.