Play Therapy in Brick, NJ
Free To Be Me, Creative Counseling Center LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ACS, RPT, EdS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brick, NJ 08723
What is Creative/ Play Therapy? Play is a child's first language.
I'm a strengths based play therapist who believes that EVERYONE has GREATNESS inside of them! My goal when working with children and families is to focus on their strengths to build positive self esteem and to help restore peace and balance to the family unit. I specifically work with children who are trying to process change, divorce/separation, bullying, social rejection, grief, and school anxiety, just to name a few. I help children to recognize their own greatness, develop coping and problem solving skills, process trauma, and provide parents with the tools to help manage behaviors and emotionally support their kids at home.
What is Creative/ Play Therapy? Play is a child's first language.
I'm a strengths based play therapist who believes that EVERYONE has GREATNESS inside of them! My goal when working with children and families is to focus on their strengths to build positive self esteem and to help restore peace and balance to the family unit. I specifically work with children who are trying to process change, divorce/separation, bullying, social rejection, grief, and school anxiety, just to name a few. I help children to recognize their own greatness, develop coping and problem solving skills, process trauma, and provide parents with the tools to help manage behaviors and emotionally support their kids at home.
I am trained in EMDR and Sand Play.
Being positive does not mean you have to be happy all the time and ignore reality, it means trusting that even on the hard days, you know that better ones are coming. Having hope is such an important part of getting through the hard times. I offer a safe space for you to come and take some time to take care of yourself. I think we can all benefit from a neutral support and perspective, so we can continue to grow into who we desire to be, no matter how old we are.
I am trained in EMDR and Sand Play.
Being positive does not mean you have to be happy all the time and ignore reality, it means trusting that even on the hard days, you know that better ones are coming. Having hope is such an important part of getting through the hard times. I offer a safe space for you to come and take some time to take care of yourself. I think we can all benefit from a neutral support and perspective, so we can continue to grow into who we desire to be, no matter how old we are.
Ocean Counseling and Wellness, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brick, NJ 08724
I will help you find emotional balance through the use of psychotherapy, sand play therapy and mindfulness principles that will be tailored to your specific needs, challenges and concerns.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience working with individuals, teens, couples and families. Recognizing your need for help with life's challenges and choosing to begin therapy takes hope and a great deal of courage. My practice offers a safe, warm and calming environment where you can share your life story and begin the journey of healing, growth and change. I can help you with life's transitions, relationship and communication issues and personal growth, specializing in women's empowerment and strengthening families.
I will help you find emotional balance through the use of psychotherapy, sand play therapy and mindfulness principles that will be tailored to your specific needs, challenges and concerns.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience working with individuals, teens, couples and families. Recognizing your need for help with life's challenges and choosing to begin therapy takes hope and a great deal of courage. My practice offers a safe, warm and calming environment where you can share your life story and begin the journey of healing, growth and change. I can help you with life's transitions, relationship and communication issues and personal growth, specializing in women's empowerment and strengthening families.
Julia Ann Gollas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brick, NJ 08724
A combination of behavioral, cognitive, and psychosocial theories are incorporated into my approach as well as a combination of play, strength-based, cognitive-behavioral, and solution-focused therapy.
Once stated by Erik Erickson, "Children love and want to be loved and they very much prefer the joy of accomplishment". My passion comes from working with children, adolescents, and families as they learn and grow together while celebrating the joys of their own accomplishments. Providing support while managing a variety of life stressors including but not limited to school difficulties, ADHD, anxiety, and defiance are my specialty. I have gained this specialty through my work while providing therapy in Partial Hospitalization, Intensive Outpatient, and School Based Programs. Having the privilege to provide you with empathy, warmth, and empowerment on this journey is my hope.
A combination of behavioral, cognitive, and psychosocial theories are incorporated into my approach as well as a combination of play, strength-based, cognitive-behavioral, and solution-focused therapy.
Once stated by Erik Erickson, "Children love and want to be loved and they very much prefer the joy of accomplishment". My passion comes from working with children, adolescents, and families as they learn and grow together while celebrating the joys of their own accomplishments. Providing support while managing a variety of life stressors including but not limited to school difficulties, ADHD, anxiety, and defiance are my specialty. I have gained this specialty through my work while providing therapy in Partial Hospitalization, Intensive Outpatient, and School Based Programs. Having the privilege to provide you with empathy, warmth, and empowerment on this journey is my hope.
Swan Therapy Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brick, NJ 08723
We also specialize in Play Therapy for the younger children and have a fun and unique approaches for the teenagers.
If you're looking for help with your child/teenager, family dynamic or you yourself, you've come to the right place! We also provide adult therapy and couples therapy. At Swan Therapy Group, we strive on helping everyone in the community one family at a time, on the most personalized basis that we can. Through empathy and support we can provide you or your family the tools to navigate through any life challenges that come your way in a positive and healthy manner. Please visit our website to see each of our individualized profiles!
We also specialize in Play Therapy for the younger children and have a fun and unique approaches for the teenagers.
If you're looking for help with your child/teenager, family dynamic or you yourself, you've come to the right place! We also provide adult therapy and couples therapy. At Swan Therapy Group, we strive on helping everyone in the community one family at a time, on the most personalized basis that we can. Through empathy and support we can provide you or your family the tools to navigate through any life challenges that come your way in a positive and healthy manner. Please visit our website to see each of our individualized profiles!
Elisabeth Kvalo-Savino
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brick, NJ 08724
I am trained in play therapy, motivational interviewing, client centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and Trauma Focused CBT.
I am a licensed professional counselor with over 30 years of experience working with children, adolescents, individuals and families . I am very passionate about helping others. I provide a warm, empathetic, non-judgmental environment where a trusting relationship is built so we can begin to do the work to help bring about positive change in your life. I use a multi-modal approach, taking each client's individual needs into consideration.
I am trained in play therapy, motivational interviewing, client centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and Trauma Focused CBT.
I am a licensed professional counselor with over 30 years of experience working with children, adolescents, individuals and families . I am very passionate about helping others. I provide a warm, empathetic, non-judgmental environment where a trusting relationship is built so we can begin to do the work to help bring about positive change in your life. I use a multi-modal approach, taking each client's individual needs into consideration.
By Design Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS Ed, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Brick, NJ 08723
In young children who are learning to express their emotions and develop coping strategies, Amy has found great success with a play-based therapy approach.
Everyone faces a unique set of challenges in life; there is no single approach or therapy modality that works best for everyone. This is why By Design Social Skills provides a variety of services to assist those struggling with behavioral, emotional, or school-based difficulties. Whether you are looking to enhance your child’s social skills through our popular Lego Clubs, seeking treatment for their issues with anxiety, or are interested in counseling for yourself to help navigate life’s challenges, we are here to help. Amy L. Young is a Licensed Professional Counselor providing assistance in a nurturing, safe, caring environment.
In young children who are learning to express their emotions and develop coping strategies, Amy has found great success with a play-based therapy approach.
Everyone faces a unique set of challenges in life; there is no single approach or therapy modality that works best for everyone. This is why By Design Social Skills provides a variety of services to assist those struggling with behavioral, emotional, or school-based difficulties. Whether you are looking to enhance your child’s social skills through our popular Lego Clubs, seeking treatment for their issues with anxiety, or are interested in counseling for yourself to help navigate life’s challenges, we are here to help. Amy L. Young is a Licensed Professional Counselor providing assistance in a nurturing, safe, caring environment.
Lisa DiBernardo - Clients Aged 6-14
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MEd
Verified Verified
Brick, NJ 08723
Through play therapy, cognitive-behavioral techniques, & expressive arts, I empower clients to explore their emotions, develop coping skills, & build resilience.
With 17+ years experience providing mental health support to children and adolescents, my primary goal is to foster a safe and trusting environment where your child can thrive and develop their emotional well-being. I understand that entrusting your child's mental health to someone else can be a challenging decision. However, I want to assure you that my approach to counseling is rooted in empathy, compassion, and a genuine commitment to your child's growth. By creating a non-judgmental and supportive space, I strive to establish a therapeutic relationship that encourages open communication, active listening, and collaboration.
Through play therapy, cognitive-behavioral techniques, & expressive arts, I empower clients to explore their emotions, develop coping skills, & build resilience.
With 17+ years experience providing mental health support to children and adolescents, my primary goal is to foster a safe and trusting environment where your child can thrive and develop their emotional well-being. I understand that entrusting your child's mental health to someone else can be a challenging decision. However, I want to assure you that my approach to counseling is rooted in empathy, compassion, and a genuine commitment to your child's growth. By creating a non-judgmental and supportive space, I strive to establish a therapeutic relationship that encourages open communication, active listening, and collaboration.
I offer sand play therapy, mandalas and art, music, reiki, yoga and meditation for all ages, in addition to traditional talk therapy.
Congratulations on taking the first step towards self improvement for yourself or your child! I often tell my clients, family and friends that therapy is the ultimate gift you can give yourself or your child. Imagine devoting a set time each week in a comfortable and calm environment to focus on yourself. This time is devoted to you and only you. I will ensure that the space is held and that you, or your child, feel safe and supported during this time of healing. With over a decade's worth of experience, I help individuals with challenges stemming from issues such of anxiety, depression, trauma, inattention, and family conflict.
I offer sand play therapy, mandalas and art, music, reiki, yoga and meditation for all ages, in addition to traditional talk therapy.
Congratulations on taking the first step towards self improvement for yourself or your child! I often tell my clients, family and friends that therapy is the ultimate gift you can give yourself or your child. Imagine devoting a set time each week in a comfortable and calm environment to focus on yourself. This time is devoted to you and only you. I will ensure that the space is held and that you, or your child, feel safe and supported during this time of healing. With over a decade's worth of experience, I help individuals with challenges stemming from issues such of anxiety, depression, trauma, inattention, and family conflict.
Licensed in Texas, NJ, PA -My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, narrative therapy, existential, and psycho-dynamic. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you to thrive now!
Licensed in Texas, NJ, PA -My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, narrative therapy, existential, and psycho-dynamic. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you to thrive now!
Lori Lepore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brick, NJ 08724
Waitlist for new clients
I believe all people deserve a place to come as they are, with the full weight of their struggles, conflicts and grief. As a seasoned therapist, I use a collaborative approach focusing on relational, strength-based, solution-focused, cognitive, emotional, and holistic therapies catering to each individual's needs. My goal is to provide a down to earth environment blending empathy and humor to create a safe and comfortable space.
I believe all people deserve a place to come as they are, with the full weight of their struggles, conflicts and grief. As a seasoned therapist, I use a collaborative approach focusing on relational, strength-based, solution-focused, cognitive, emotional, and holistic therapies catering to each individual's needs. My goal is to provide a down to earth environment blending empathy and humor to create a safe and comfortable space.
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Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, addiction, depression, divorce, anxiety, or major life changes? There comes a time when we need help from a professional to learn how to cope with many of life’s challenges. I would love to help you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery.
Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, addiction, depression, divorce, anxiety, or major life changes? There comes a time when we need help from a professional to learn how to cope with many of life’s challenges. I would love to help you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery.
Danica Gurdinak - Depression, Anger Management
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brick, NJ 08723
I hope to give my clients the support, guidance, & mindset to overcome & find their strengths. In DBT, the objective is to build a life worth living & that's the work I do with my clients. In my career, I tend to treat teens and young adults but I'm open to all populations. I currently hold my LAC, offer services in Brick, & specialize in mood disorders (depression, bipolar, anger), anxiety, BPD, & trauma. I have worked in all levels of care from residential/hospitals down to outpatient.
I hope to give my clients the support, guidance, & mindset to overcome & find their strengths. In DBT, the objective is to build a life worth living & that's the work I do with my clients. In my career, I tend to treat teens and young adults but I'm open to all populations. I currently hold my LAC, offer services in Brick, & specialize in mood disorders (depression, bipolar, anger), anxiety, BPD, & trauma. I have worked in all levels of care from residential/hospitals down to outpatient.
John D Avella
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, NBCC, NJSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brick, NJ 08723 (Online Only)
Through a combination of therapeutic techniques, I engage my clients in identifying their beliefs and collaboratively develop new coping mechanisms that address their concerns. My counseling practice offers a warm and confidential atmosphere where the services are goal directed, aiming for resolution of issues and improving the quality of life within an optimum period of time.
Through a combination of therapeutic techniques, I engage my clients in identifying their beliefs and collaboratively develop new coping mechanisms that address their concerns. My counseling practice offers a warm and confidential atmosphere where the services are goal directed, aiming for resolution of issues and improving the quality of life within an optimum period of time.
Can talking about your problems really make things better? Well, sometimes a thoughtful structured approach to life's challenges can be very helpful. But sometimes talking just doesn't seem to make our lives different. When we go through something challenging, upsetting, or overwhelming, our bodies are involved in the response. This means to resolve the issue, our bodies need to be involved in addressing the solution.
Can talking about your problems really make things better? Well, sometimes a thoughtful structured approach to life's challenges can be very helpful. But sometimes talking just doesn't seem to make our lives different. When we go through something challenging, upsetting, or overwhelming, our bodies are involved in the response. This means to resolve the issue, our bodies need to be involved in addressing the solution.
Hello! I specialize in the treatment of emotional/behavioral issues. I treat children, adolescents, and adults. I am an individual, couples, and family therapist. I am also a divorce mediator. I can also provide evaluations for hormone therapy and medical marijuana. Give me a call and we can discuss your situation. I hope my positive energy can help you!
Hello! I specialize in the treatment of emotional/behavioral issues. I treat children, adolescents, and adults. I am an individual, couples, and family therapist. I am also a divorce mediator. I can also provide evaluations for hormone therapy and medical marijuana. Give me a call and we can discuss your situation. I hope my positive energy can help you!
I value working with individuals who are ready and willing to engage in the work needed to overcome their challenges. I understand the importance of meeting clients where they are at while also providing gentle encouragement and support when needed. Together, we work towards building resilience, enhancing self- awareness, and cultivating lasting change
I value working with individuals who are ready and willing to engage in the work needed to overcome their challenges. I understand the importance of meeting clients where they are at while also providing gentle encouragement and support when needed. Together, we work towards building resilience, enhancing self- awareness, and cultivating lasting change
I always meet clients where they are at. Therapy can be a crucial first step in the healing process and I recognize the strength that first step takes. We are human, so one would assume we can face a unique combination of barriers. We will make a treatment plan unique to your needs and goals. I am here to assist and give you the resources to feel secure and supported.
I always meet clients where they are at. Therapy can be a crucial first step in the healing process and I recognize the strength that first step takes. We are human, so one would assume we can face a unique combination of barriers. We will make a treatment plan unique to your needs and goals. I am here to assist and give you the resources to feel secure and supported.
Throughout my experience thus far I am still open to working with most to all clients while I am still exploring who I am as a counselor and any particular niches I may have. Ideally my clients would come open minded to the therapeutic experience and willing to work with me in helping them throughout their journey!
Throughout my experience thus far I am still open to working with most to all clients while I am still exploring who I am as a counselor and any particular niches I may have. Ideally my clients would come open minded to the therapeutic experience and willing to work with me in helping them throughout their journey!
Coming from a marriage and family therapy training background, I tend to view client issues from a systemic and trauma informed lens. I am passionate about helping you learn how to manage your current stressors, process past trauma and give you the tools you will need to lead a healthy and fulfilling life. I want to help you grow and maybe even elevate your self esteem along the way! I guarantee that you will leave my office feeling at least 1 % better if not more! I like to challenge my clients with self reflective questions, while also being sensitive to their trauma, by going at their pace.
Coming from a marriage and family therapy training background, I tend to view client issues from a systemic and trauma informed lens. I am passionate about helping you learn how to manage your current stressors, process past trauma and give you the tools you will need to lead a healthy and fulfilling life. I want to help you grow and maybe even elevate your self esteem along the way! I guarantee that you will leave my office feeling at least 1 % better if not more! I like to challenge my clients with self reflective questions, while also being sensitive to their trauma, by going at their pace.
See more therapy options for Brick
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Brick
- Belmar
- Brielle
- Howell
- Island Heights
- Lakewood
- Manasquan
- Point Pleasant
- Point Pleasant Beach
- Sea Girt
- Toms River
- Wall
- Wall Township
Play Therapy
Who is play therapy for?
Play therapy is generally targeted to children between the ages of 3 and 11 who have social, emotional, or behavioral difficulties. Play therapy has also been found helpful for children who have experienced physical or emotional abuse or witnessed atrocities. Play therapy is also often recommended for children who are undergoing major medical procedures or who are suffering from chronic illness; many children’s hospitals are equipped to offer play therapy on-site. Play therapy is also sometimes used for adults; creative writing, music, and art are expressive forms that can all be adapted for therapeutic purposes.
Why do people need play therapy?
Children often do not have the language skills or words to know or to express what is troubling them. Yet they often spontaneously draw or use playthings to depict scenarios that reflect problems in their everyday life. Play therapy provides children with an array of objects and play situations to act out their feelings or experiences so that therapists can get a clear picture of what children might be struggling with and help them find solutions. In addition, play therapists are skilled at helping children understand their inner experience and find words for them, necessary steps toward helping children learn to control their own behavior and come up with solutions to problems they encounter.
What happens in play therapy?
A child enters a comfortable playroom where they are free to choose the objects they want to play with. The play therapist will typically observe how they play with the toys—whether a sandbox, puppets, dolls and action figures, trucks, costumes, drawing and painting materials, or more—because such play provides clues to a child’s family and social relationships, difficulties they are encountering in the world, and what going on inside themselves. Sometimes the therapist may ask the child to use the play objects to tell a story about their family. Using the same instruments of play, therapists can help children discover more advantageous ways of thinking and behaving.
What kinds of problems do play therapists treat?
Play therapy can help children who display destructive or self-destructive impulses; children who seem angry, sad, or fearful; children who experience frequent social, emotional, family, or school difficulty. Play therapy is often of value to children who have experienced a loss or distressing family experience, who are regularly exposed to family conflict, or who have been physically or emotionally abused. Play therapy can help children who are perpetrators of bullying as well as those who are targets of bullying. It helps children learn to identify their feelings, to express them in constructive ways, and to regulate them so they can get on with the business of development.
How long does play therapy last?
Play therapy sessions may last for 30 to 45 minutes, and they usually occur weekly for about 20 sessions. Each session is tailored to the individual child and the kinds of problems they are struggling with. Play that is highly repetitive often indicates a problem requiring further exploration. Therapists typically measure progress through session-to-session changes in play behavior.