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Meet the Counselors: Selena Horton, LSW
Prior to joining Nutley Family Service Bureau (NFSB) in 2024, Selena Horton, LSW had enjoyed a successful career as a mental health counselor for more than 15 years. However, Selena was drawn to NFSB because she found the organization’s comprehensive wraparound services very appealing.
“People don’t just come here for therapy and go home,” Selena said. “Many clients are struggling in other areas of their lives. Onsite case management and the Food Pantry allow us to connect people with programs and resources and advocate on their behalf. I like being able to provide support beyond counseling to help reduce their stress and anxiety.”
Selena works evening hours at NFSB, which allows her to see clients after work and school. Many people are unavailable during traditional business hours and may decide not to seek counseling due to schedule limitations. Selena has found that evening hours can put a client’s mind at ease because they don’t miss work or school or feel rushed.“Little things can make people more comfortable sharing their thoughts, feelings, and experiences,” Selena said. “Whether it’s scheduling appointments at times that are more convenient, or me being a woman who speaks Spanish, I’ve found that these details matter, and they help.”
Selena brings a diverse background to NFSB. As Director of Social Services for Elizabeth Seton Children’s Center in Yonkers, NY, she helped children with severe disabilities, seniors with chronic medical illnesses, and families in need of hospice services.
Selena recalls seeing a mother whose 14-year-old daughter became completely disabled after a horrible auto accident. Each time they went to the hospital, the mother would relive the trauma of the accident, which would trigger uncontrollable outbursts, often directed at hospital staff. Selena would make sure the child arrived at the hospital safely, help the mother calm down, and bring her something to eat. Over time, Selena helped the mother express and process her feelings and deal with these experiences more productively.
“I spent most of my career in hospice and palliative care, supporting people who were medically fragile and processing grief, and needed advocacy,” Selena said. “Helping them cope with the toughest experiences of their lives, especially children who just wanted to live with some sense of normalcy, was very gratifying for me.”
Selena has also served as a social worker at St. John’s Riverside Hospital in the Archway outpatient clinic in Mount Vernon, NY. She earned a Master of Social Work from Fordham University and a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from Lehman College.
Selena is grateful to be part of such a welcoming team at NFSB, where she sees clients treated with warmth and compassion from the moment they walk through the door. She looks forward to continuing to support people of all ages and cultures in the Nutley community.
If you or someone you know is struggling through a difficult time, contact us at NFSB to schedule an appointment for counseling. Immediate appointments are available and we’ll always respect your privacy. Call 973-667-1884 extension 1 today.
