Play Therapy in Neptune City, NJ
![Photo of Laurel Mallon, LPC, RPT, CSC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b7563360-2e4f-44b5-8428-20cb5dcb8f6b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Laurel Mallon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT, CSC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Neptune City, NJ 07753
Specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents, and young adults, I utilize a strength based approach and creative interventions to connect with each person, child, and/or family in a meaningful way. I have specific training in play therapy and incorporate those techniques as well as other empirically supported modalities into my treatment to produce positive change in a solution oriented style.
Specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents, and young adults, I utilize a strength based approach and creative interventions to connect with each person, child, and/or family in a meaningful way. I have specific training in play therapy and incorporate those techniques as well as other empirically supported modalities into my treatment to produce positive change in a solution oriented style.
![Photo of Adam J Kiernan - Solutions Counseling LLC, MA, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c5b95f2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Solutions Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Neptune City, NJ 07753
I like working with people who are struggling. I believe that we all go through hard times; we struggle with life events as well as things that are more internal such as depression or anxiety. I believe that each person has an innate potential to grow but that we often live life on autopilot continuing to do the same things that perpetuate our struggles and pain. Therapy is a chance to slow down and look at these struggles. It is a chance to intentionally explore them and how to deal with them.
I like working with people who are struggling. I believe that we all go through hard times; we struggle with life events as well as things that are more internal such as depression or anxiety. I believe that each person has an innate potential to grow but that we often live life on autopilot continuing to do the same things that perpetuate our struggles and pain. Therapy is a chance to slow down and look at these struggles. It is a chance to intentionally explore them and how to deal with them.
![Photo of Tierra Henry, Lpc , Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/00bb5d1a-995c-4cdf-b59a-1c379791b872/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tierra Henry
Licensed Professional Counselor, Lpc
Verified Verified
Neptune City, NJ 07753 (Online Only)
I specialize depression, anxiety, oppositional behaviors, self-esteem, trauma, and anger management. I will provide a safe and "judgment-free" environment to explore your feelings and gain insight into your situation. I utilize a custom-tailored plan for each client by combining their unique needs and personality with evidence-based treatments.
I specialize depression, anxiety, oppositional behaviors, self-esteem, trauma, and anger management. I will provide a safe and "judgment-free" environment to explore your feelings and gain insight into your situation. I utilize a custom-tailored plan for each client by combining their unique needs and personality with evidence-based treatments.
![Photo of Taja L Conover, MA, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3313f184-f88f-47ca-bbb9-d176b0421347/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with extensive experience providing clinical services for children, adolescents, adults, and families in a variety of settings including private practice, outpatient treatment, and in-home/community. I have clinical experience in the areas of trauma, anxiety, substance use, self-esteem, stress management, family, and child/adolescent behavioral challenges.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with extensive experience providing clinical services for children, adolescents, adults, and families in a variety of settings including private practice, outpatient treatment, and in-home/community. I have clinical experience in the areas of trauma, anxiety, substance use, self-esteem, stress management, family, and child/adolescent behavioral challenges.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Lauren Tenenbaum, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd9c705e-c332-410c-acc0-20fa84cd81a0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren Tenenbaum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wall Township, NJ 07719
Children are able to work through their feelings in play therapy, and teens thrive best in an environment where they feel accepted and understood.
Is your child or teen struggling with school issues, peer issues, attention, or behaviors? I can help make a positive change for your youth that will be reflected at home, in school, in the community, and for your family as a whole. I specialize in issues specific to school aged children and adolescents. In addition to attention and behavioral issues, I work with school refusal, depression, anxiety, the struggle to "fit in". I also treat youth with Autism Spectrum disorder, and provide behavioral/social support. My mission is to connect with youth and their families and to help them grow in the areas most needed.
Children are able to work through their feelings in play therapy, and teens thrive best in an environment where they feel accepted and understood.
Is your child or teen struggling with school issues, peer issues, attention, or behaviors? I can help make a positive change for your youth that will be reflected at home, in school, in the community, and for your family as a whole. I specialize in issues specific to school aged children and adolescents. In addition to attention and behavioral issues, I work with school refusal, depression, anxiety, the struggle to "fit in". I also treat youth with Autism Spectrum disorder, and provide behavioral/social support. My mission is to connect with youth and their families and to help them grow in the areas most needed.
![Photo of Lauren Casas - Symbol of Hope Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/462cfdb8-f283-4626-b566-3480ee1399e0/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Bianca Lindstrom, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67af7de2-9476-4032-8be4-78daa8e9b3c1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Specialties include Sand Play Therapy, EMDR, mindfulness based stress reduction, strengths based approach, CBT and trauma focused CBT, yoga, body movement and somatic expression and art.
NOW accepting new clients! I work with ages 6 through 106 helping to resolve and navigate issues of complex trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, interpersonal relationship issues, family conflict and phase of life transitions. I have extensive trauma training and have worked specifically with survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse in both group and individual settings. Visit www.creatingyourselfcounseling.com
Specialties include Sand Play Therapy, EMDR, mindfulness based stress reduction, strengths based approach, CBT and trauma focused CBT, yoga, body movement and somatic expression and art.
NOW accepting new clients! I work with ages 6 through 106 helping to resolve and navigate issues of complex trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, interpersonal relationship issues, family conflict and phase of life transitions. I have extensive trauma training and have worked specifically with survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse in both group and individual settings. Visit www.creatingyourselfcounseling.com
![Photo of Nicholas Stanco, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43d07f2c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Nicholas Stanco
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Neptune, NJ 07753 (Online Only)
Life is sometimes a difficult process especially when a partner or child needs, but doesn't want therapy. It can become very painful for yourself or the loved one whose behavior is affecting the whole family. You may even be combing these ads trying to sort out where to start. Sometimes you need someone who knows how to allow a person to open up in their own time. Someone who can work with them through their fears. I have experience in: Child Therapy, Addressing resistance, Mandated clients and LGBTQ concerns. I utilize a variety of techniques toward this aim including EMDR and Play (Sandtray) therapy.
Life is sometimes a difficult process especially when a partner or child needs, but doesn't want therapy. It can become very painful for yourself or the loved one whose behavior is affecting the whole family. You may even be combing these ads trying to sort out where to start. Sometimes you need someone who knows how to allow a person to open up in their own time. Someone who can work with them through their fears. I have experience in: Child Therapy, Addressing resistance, Mandated clients and LGBTQ concerns. I utilize a variety of techniques toward this aim including EMDR and Play (Sandtray) therapy.
![Photo of Nicole Berardi, MSW, LCSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ea706be-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have been extensively trained in play as well as sandplay therapies and work together closely with parents while treating their children.
Are you or your child overwhelmed with life's stressors? Perhaps you may be experiencing feelings of anxiety or depression and would like to learn to them manage differently. In my practice I offer compassionate mental health counseling services to people of all ages including children as young as 3 years old.
I have been extensively trained in play as well as sandplay therapies and work together closely with parents while treating their children.
Are you or your child overwhelmed with life's stressors? Perhaps you may be experiencing feelings of anxiety or depression and would like to learn to them manage differently. In my practice I offer compassionate mental health counseling services to people of all ages including children as young as 3 years old.
![Photo of Jennifer Lawerence - Children's Wellness & Developmental Center, FNP, LPC, ATR, BC, Art Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7e958e50-a315-44da-94e0-42d3592f4308/1/320x400.jpeg)
Children's Wellness & Developmental Center
Art Therapist, FNP, LPC, ATR, BC
Verified Verified
Belmar, NJ 07719
Mary utilizes a play therapy approach in addition to using solution-focused, motivational interviewing & behavioral techniques to help her clients grow.
We are multi-disciplinary practice committed to improving the health & mental wellness of children, adolescents, young adult & families, who affected by behavioral & developmental disorders. We offer a wide range of services from individual therapy/counseling, medication management, integrative/holistic treatments & nutritional counseling. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, behavioral or emotional difficulties and are feeling frustrated or overwhelmed, you don't have to do this alone. Our experienced therapists/practitioners are here to help, by offering a variety of individual treatment options.
Mary utilizes a play therapy approach in addition to using solution-focused, motivational interviewing & behavioral techniques to help her clients grow.
We are multi-disciplinary practice committed to improving the health & mental wellness of children, adolescents, young adult & families, who affected by behavioral & developmental disorders. We offer a wide range of services from individual therapy/counseling, medication management, integrative/holistic treatments & nutritional counseling. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, behavioral or emotional difficulties and are feeling frustrated or overwhelmed, you don't have to do this alone. Our experienced therapists/practitioners are here to help, by offering a variety of individual treatment options.
![Photo of Elizabeth Couturier, LPAT, ATR-BC, Art Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d2894d5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Beth has been in private practice for over 10 years and uses art therapy and play therapy techniques for individual counseling, group therapy, and social skills training.
Elizabeth Couturier (Beth) is a Board-Certified Art Therapist. She received her M.A. in Art Therapy from George Washington University (2008). As an art therapist, she has seen how art can be a powerful tool of self-expression which leads to positive self-esteem, social interaction, and an overall increase in well-being. In addition to her art therapy background, she has extensively studied Play Therapy through trainings at The Play Therapy Training Institute, as well as the Association for Play Therapy.
Beth has been in private practice for over 10 years and uses art therapy and play therapy techniques for individual counseling, group therapy, and social skills training.
Elizabeth Couturier (Beth) is a Board-Certified Art Therapist. She received her M.A. in Art Therapy from George Washington University (2008). As an art therapist, she has seen how art can be a powerful tool of self-expression which leads to positive self-esteem, social interaction, and an overall increase in well-being. In addition to her art therapy background, she has extensively studied Play Therapy through trainings at The Play Therapy Training Institute, as well as the Association for Play Therapy.
![Photo of Dr. Tara Chalakani, PsyD , LPC, ACS, NCC, RN, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4f880fe-5223-49eb-be59-86667057b9ae/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Tara Chalakani
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD , LPC, ACS, NCC, RN
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Wall, NJ 07719
Waitlist for new clients
), Trauma (sexual, physical, emotional), Grief/Loss, Infertility, Self-Defeating Thoughts/Behaviors (low self-esteem), Improving Relationships, Communication, Personal Growth/Self-Improvement, Co-dependency, Sand Play Therapy, Holistic therapy (Reiki/Acupressure/Nutrition), Clinical Supervision.
Dr. Tara is a Licensed Professional Counselor who is passionate about her work. To help people grow, heal, and overcome obstacles brings her great joy. Her expansive knowledge makes her a well-known expert in her field. She believes that her clients possess the capacity to heal, but sometimes they need the right environment to foster their true potential. She is holistic and views each person as an individual. Dr. Tara has extensive experience and is well versed in several counseling modalities and understands that each person's needs are unique.
), Trauma (sexual, physical, emotional), Grief/Loss, Infertility, Self-Defeating Thoughts/Behaviors (low self-esteem), Improving Relationships, Communication, Personal Growth/Self-Improvement, Co-dependency, Sand Play Therapy, Holistic therapy (Reiki/Acupressure/Nutrition), Clinical Supervision.
Dr. Tara is a Licensed Professional Counselor who is passionate about her work. To help people grow, heal, and overcome obstacles brings her great joy. Her expansive knowledge makes her a well-known expert in her field. She believes that her clients possess the capacity to heal, but sometimes they need the right environment to foster their true potential. She is holistic and views each person as an individual. Dr. Tara has extensive experience and is well versed in several counseling modalities and understands that each person's needs are unique.
![Photo of Joanne R Laush, L, C, S, W, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/649634fc-293b-4bc1-a466-f5f80d5a3843/3/320x400.jpeg)
Other complementary therapies that I use along with psychodynamic, interpersonal, cognitive behavioral, mindfulness-based and rational emotive behavioral therapies are hypnosis, Emotional Freedom Technique, Psychodrama and play therapy.
In my professional capacity as a licensed social worker and psychotherapist, I have had the honor to accompany persons of all ages and backgrounds in their quest for insight and self-discovery. I believe that trust and vulnerability are at the core of the client-therapist relationship and that the client’s innate wisdom and judgment rule supreme. With that in mind, strategies and interventions in achieving clearly defined yet dynamic goals arise through a process of critical inquiry. In this process, I have witnessed individuals redefine and recreate who they are as they move toward greater lucidity and self-fulfillment.
Other complementary therapies that I use along with psychodynamic, interpersonal, cognitive behavioral, mindfulness-based and rational emotive behavioral therapies are hypnosis, Emotional Freedom Technique, Psychodrama and play therapy.
In my professional capacity as a licensed social worker and psychotherapist, I have had the honor to accompany persons of all ages and backgrounds in their quest for insight and self-discovery. I believe that trust and vulnerability are at the core of the client-therapist relationship and that the client’s innate wisdom and judgment rule supreme. With that in mind, strategies and interventions in achieving clearly defined yet dynamic goals arise through a process of critical inquiry. In this process, I have witnessed individuals redefine and recreate who they are as they move toward greater lucidity and self-fulfillment.
![Photo of Trish J Parratt, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46e3831b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I use approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, and other modalities to work with clients towards the development of coping skills, improvement of communication, and overall happiness in their lives.
CLINICAL SUPERVISION AVAILABLE Therapy can help you change and improve your life. A therapist is an unconditional, non-judgemental listener. I am committed to your goals and want to make therapy comfortable and refreshing. I work with a variety of age groups, including children and adolescents, and conduct individual and family sessions. CERTIFIED CLINICAL ANXIETY TREATMENT PROFESSIONAL (CCATP)
I use approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, and other modalities to work with clients towards the development of coping skills, improvement of communication, and overall happiness in their lives.
CLINICAL SUPERVISION AVAILABLE Therapy can help you change and improve your life. A therapist is an unconditional, non-judgemental listener. I am committed to your goals and want to make therapy comfortable and refreshing. I work with a variety of age groups, including children and adolescents, and conduct individual and family sessions. CERTIFIED CLINICAL ANXIETY TREATMENT PROFESSIONAL (CCATP)
![Photo of Amy L Young - By Design Counseling Center, MS Ed, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b9a075e-e6d6-43a8-bc14-c95651245845/2/320x400.jpeg)
By Design Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS Ed, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Wall Township, NJ 07719
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.
![Photo of Stephanie Siciliano, MSW, LCSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f85861ab-eeac-4c2c-88d2-f5d5461b3e9e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Siciliano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
Loch Arbour, NJ 07711
Welcome to my page! I greet you with great respect and compassion. My name is Stephanie Siciliano; I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Registered Yoga Teacher, and certified in Sand Play and EMDR. I provide counseling, trauma informed yoga, sand play, and EMDR to adults, children, and families. I have served the community for 15 years; specializing in trauma and its effect on the human spirit and well being. I graduated from Marymount Manhattan College in 2008 with a BA in Psychology and later received my MSW at Hunter College School of Social Work.
Welcome to my page! I greet you with great respect and compassion. My name is Stephanie Siciliano; I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Registered Yoga Teacher, and certified in Sand Play and EMDR. I provide counseling, trauma informed yoga, sand play, and EMDR to adults, children, and families. I have served the community for 15 years; specializing in trauma and its effect on the human spirit and well being. I graduated from Marymount Manhattan College in 2008 with a BA in Psychology and later received my MSW at Hunter College School of Social Work.
![Photo of Dolores Reilly, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d8b8a82-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I know that choosing the right psychologist for your needs is a big step; one that takes courage. I treat each person and their concerns with respect, confidentiality, and nonjudgmentally. I have expertise in providing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT); skills I honed during my training at Harvard Medical School/McLean Hospital. This approach allows you to better understand how your thinking patterns may lead to unnecessary distress in your life. We work together to set goals in many areas of your life: anxiety, fears, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem, obsessions/compulsions, to name a few.
I know that choosing the right psychologist for your needs is a big step; one that takes courage. I treat each person and their concerns with respect, confidentiality, and nonjudgmentally. I have expertise in providing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT); skills I honed during my training at Harvard Medical School/McLean Hospital. This approach allows you to better understand how your thinking patterns may lead to unnecessary distress in your life. We work together to set goals in many areas of your life: anxiety, fears, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem, obsessions/compulsions, to name a few.
![Photo of Caterina Carlin, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93dacbb2-f651-4e9d-9da7-6294430bf306/1/320x400.jpeg)
Caterina Carlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wall Township, NJ 07719
Change, it is something we all have to face at some point in our lives. Change looks different to everyone; postpartum depression as our body changes from bringing a new life into this world, grief after we have lost a loved one that played a crucial role in our life, traumatic events that altered our life’s path, or anxiety that causes us to no longer enjoy the things we used to. Sometimes change is good, and other times it is not so good, but ultimately change is inevitable. Sometimes we need support and guidance to navigate change and therapy is a great place to learn how to navigate and overcome change.
Change, it is something we all have to face at some point in our lives. Change looks different to everyone; postpartum depression as our body changes from bringing a new life into this world, grief after we have lost a loved one that played a crucial role in our life, traumatic events that altered our life’s path, or anxiety that causes us to no longer enjoy the things we used to. Sometimes change is good, and other times it is not so good, but ultimately change is inevitable. Sometimes we need support and guidance to navigate change and therapy is a great place to learn how to navigate and overcome change.
![Photo of Gail Poverman-Kave, BCD, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba5c109b-7db4-4945-ba97-276f3180c287/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gail Poverman-Kave
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BCD, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wall, NJ 07719
I offer a cognitive-behavioral, client centered approach to counseling. Using a combination of therapies and approaches, I provide a nurturing, safe environment where clients can freely explore and express their thoughts and feelings and learn how to take control of them and their lives. Supportive Psychotherapy techniques lay the foundation for a successful experience toward a client's journey to self-awareness, insight, and healthy relationships with both the self and others. I enjoy working with clients of all ages, backgrounds, ethnicities and faiths and I welcome the opportunity to assist you in acheiving your goals.
I offer a cognitive-behavioral, client centered approach to counseling. Using a combination of therapies and approaches, I provide a nurturing, safe environment where clients can freely explore and express their thoughts and feelings and learn how to take control of them and their lives. Supportive Psychotherapy techniques lay the foundation for a successful experience toward a client's journey to self-awareness, insight, and healthy relationships with both the self and others. I enjoy working with clients of all ages, backgrounds, ethnicities and faiths and I welcome the opportunity to assist you in acheiving your goals.
![Photo of Marzena Kobrzynski, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a3f34e7-43bd-4778-ad0e-7dbb9541e9c1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marzena Kobrzynski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Neptune, NJ 07753 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Worker (LCSW) with over 25 years of experience working with children, teens, adults, couples & families. During my career, I have worked with individuals of varied cultural backgrounds, life situations and in settings such as schools (K-8th), outpatient mental health offices, intensive outpatient programs, hospitals, universities and within the military. I am a Certified Clinical Supervisor (LCSW-NJ), Certified School Social Worker (NJ), Disaster Response Crisis Counselor (DRCC-NJ) and former Military Family Life Counselor (MFLC).
I am a Licensed Clinical Worker (LCSW) with over 25 years of experience working with children, teens, adults, couples & families. During my career, I have worked with individuals of varied cultural backgrounds, life situations and in settings such as schools (K-8th), outpatient mental health offices, intensive outpatient programs, hospitals, universities and within the military. I am a Certified Clinical Supervisor (LCSW-NJ), Certified School Social Worker (NJ), Disaster Response Crisis Counselor (DRCC-NJ) and former Military Family Life Counselor (MFLC).
See more therapy options for Neptune City
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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.