RYAN | Symmetry of Self

“You’re not alone. You’re never alone. Hold the line.”

Gen. James Mattis

“I don’t take any credit other than the fact I worked really hard, I never gave up and I depended on my faith.”
— Don Beebe

Ryan Holak, MSW, LSW

Therapist

(Pronouns: He/His)

My name is Ryan Holak, and I am a licensed social worker in New Jersey. I have a strong commitment to helping individuals and communities find healing, strength, and connection, especially those who have served or sacrificed for others. With a diverse background in public health, leadership, and behavioral services, my focus lies in supporting veterans, first responders, and individuals navigating trauma, addictions, transition, and personal growth. I currently volunteer with Soldiers to Sidelines, Stop Soldier Suicide, and the Tough Ruck as part of this journey. What drives me most is the opportunity to walk beside those striving to regain balance and purpose in their lives, helping them confront difficult chapters, reframe their narratives, and step into their potential.

Before entering the field of social work, I served as a commissioned officer in the U.S. Army for over seven years. My military career included assignments as a Medical Platoon Leader in 2-22 Infantry Battalion with the 10th Mountain Division in Afghanistan, where I led medics in over 30 coalition medical evacuations and delivered humanitarian medical care to thousands of civilians. I later served as an Environmental Science Officer and Company Commander in Japan with CHPPM-Pacific, overseeing force protection and environmental health for over 200,000 personnel. These experiences cemented my desire to continue serving, this time by supporting those who have borne the weight of service themselves. It is my honor to stand beside them in the pursuit of healing, stability, and transformation.

NJ Lic #: 44SL07302600 ┃ NPI #: 1558247684

MY SPECIALTIES

Addictions

Breaking the Cycle

I support individuals in identifying the underlying drivers of addiction, helping them disrupt harmful cycles and reconnect with a sense of purpose, stability, and inner calm. Together, we explore the emotional triggers and patterns that contribute to these behaviors, paving the way for lasting change and personal growth.

Professional Trauma

Exposure & Stress Recovery

I guide military and first responders in recovering from their professional experiences and critical incidents. As a battle buddy in the mission to restore their mental health, I help them to mitigate re-experiencing, avoidance and reactivity responses that are still impacting their lives. Learn how to take leave of the past and look forward to a healthier future.

Life Transitions

Navigating Pivotal Shifts

I assist individuals through the next phase of life, navigating moments of change with clarity, confidence, and purpose. Whether stepping into military life for the first time, transitioning out, or adjusting after service, we'll prepare you for what’s ahead and carry forward the strengths you’ve built—whether in uniform or in life—to shape a purposeful path forward.

Self-Leadership

Accessing Your True Nature

I work with individuals ready to take ownership of their growth, developing the clarity, discipline, and resilience to lead themselves forward. Together, we strengthen self-awareness, align actions with values, and build the confidence to navigate challenges with purpose—putting you firmly in command of your own path.

MY APPROACH

Social & Emotional Wellbeing

Holistic Healing

My counseling approach is grounded in the Social and Emotional Wellbeing (SEWB) framework, which recognizes the broader cultural and social factors that shape emotional health. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of social, emotional, spiritual, cultural, and physical aspects of life, fostering resilience and supporting the capacity to live a fulfilling and balanced life.

Person-Centered Care

Non-judgmental Support

I help clients feel accepted and supported by fostering camaraderie and trust, while gently guiding them toward self-discovery. My approach emphasizes understanding each client’s unique experiences, allowing them to explore their identities in a safe, nurturing environment.This helps clients develop a stronger sense of self and authenticity, cultivating the conditions for more robust interpersonal relationships.

Psychoeducation

Resources & Tools

Psychoeducation is a service that I offer to my clients where I share my knowledge and expertise on various mental health topics. As someone who values education, I believe that providing my clients with information and resources can help them better understand and manage their mental health. By equipping clients with the right tools and insights, I aim to foster greater self-awareness and help them make informed decisions about their well-being.

Make an appointment today!