Play Therapy in Princeton, NJ
Cara Natale Ruddy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
Post masters, I have received advanced training in child development, attachment theory, Play Therapy, Mindfulness Based Play-Family Therapy, Sandplay Therapy, EMDR, and DDP (Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy).
There are times in life when we find ourselves feeling unbalanced, unsatisfied, lonely, or hurt. Healing and change begin when we feel deeply heard. I am a Registered Play Therapist and am skilled at helping children express their feelings, experiences and deep emotions. I meet each client with warmth and genuine curiosity as I am taught about their life experiences. Together we identify and challenge roadblocks to healthy coping, growing and thriving. I approach my therapeutic work with the ability to listen, to play and to be solutions-oriented.
Post masters, I have received advanced training in child development, attachment theory, Play Therapy, Mindfulness Based Play-Family Therapy, Sandplay Therapy, EMDR, and DDP (Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy).
There are times in life when we find ourselves feeling unbalanced, unsatisfied, lonely, or hurt. Healing and change begin when we feel deeply heard. I am a Registered Play Therapist and am skilled at helping children express their feelings, experiences and deep emotions. I meet each client with warmth and genuine curiosity as I am taught about their life experiences. Together we identify and challenge roadblocks to healthy coping, growing and thriving. I approach my therapeutic work with the ability to listen, to play and to be solutions-oriented.
Mindful Minds
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08540 (Online Only)
Different modalities used Parts Work, Internal Family Systems, Mindfulness, Play Therapy, Dialectal Behavioral Therapy, and Restorative Justice.
The primitive brain can take over, when it does we can be harsh on ourselves and carry feelings like an anchor. When one area of our life is off, it impacts others areas like a leaky faucet too slow to notice and life begins to flood. We know to swim to survive but don't think float to save our energy. This struggle leads to exhaustion and a series of emotions that create new issues. Hurt people; hurt people. Becoming present & reflecting, leads to peace. If we could take a step back to see what needs solving? Things are not black and white, there is a lot of gray in between; things can co-exist. www.mindfulmindscounseling.com
Different modalities used Parts Work, Internal Family Systems, Mindfulness, Play Therapy, Dialectal Behavioral Therapy, and Restorative Justice.
The primitive brain can take over, when it does we can be harsh on ourselves and carry feelings like an anchor. When one area of our life is off, it impacts others areas like a leaky faucet too slow to notice and life begins to flood. We know to swim to survive but don't think float to save our energy. This struggle leads to exhaustion and a series of emotions that create new issues. Hurt people; hurt people. Becoming present & reflecting, leads to peace. If we could take a step back to see what needs solving? Things are not black and white, there is a lot of gray in between; things can co-exist. www.mindfulmindscounseling.com
Whether your child enjoys connecting through art, sand tray, imaginary play, reading or simply connecting through conversation, they will find whatever they need in our sessions.
If you're here, it's likely that you're concerned about your child's ability to handle big feelings and life situations. Maybe you've noticed that they are spending a lot of time worrying, having trouble with friends, or perhaps are acting out at school. As a counselor, I'm here to support your child in finding their own path towards self-discovery and growth. My approach is centered on the power of play, which I believe is one of the most important tools for supporting children in their journey towards emotional well-being. My goal is to help your child access their own courage, determination, resilience and strength.
Whether your child enjoys connecting through art, sand tray, imaginary play, reading or simply connecting through conversation, they will find whatever they need in our sessions.
If you're here, it's likely that you're concerned about your child's ability to handle big feelings and life situations. Maybe you've noticed that they are spending a lot of time worrying, having trouble with friends, or perhaps are acting out at school. As a counselor, I'm here to support your child in finding their own path towards self-discovery and growth. My approach is centered on the power of play, which I believe is one of the most important tools for supporting children in their journey towards emotional well-being. My goal is to help your child access their own courage, determination, resilience and strength.
Sara Takla - Child And Teen Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
I am a licensed clinical social worker and registered play therapist.
Reaching out to a therapist is not easy. Regardless of the reason, calling a stranger to ask for help for you or your child can feel intimidating. I would like to take a moment to reassure you that this first step is often the hardest, but it does get easier. I'm here to support you on this journey. I offer a warm, empathic, and client-centered approach focused on making you feel heard, seen, and supported. I believe the client-therapist relationship is the most essential part of therapy and will work to build your trust. I focus on making sessions a safe space to share your feelings, learn new skills, and begin to make changes.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and registered play therapist.
Reaching out to a therapist is not easy. Regardless of the reason, calling a stranger to ask for help for you or your child can feel intimidating. I would like to take a moment to reassure you that this first step is often the hardest, but it does get easier. I'm here to support you on this journey. I offer a warm, empathic, and client-centered approach focused on making you feel heard, seen, and supported. I believe the client-therapist relationship is the most essential part of therapy and will work to build your trust. I focus on making sessions a safe space to share your feelings, learn new skills, and begin to make changes.
Post masters, I have received advanced training in attachment theory, trauma informed approaches, Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Sandplay Therapy, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing).
I am a licensed clinical social worker specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents, and families. I have numerous years experience working with children across a variety of clinical and educational settings, incorporating the use of play therapy and informed by current research in child development. I meet my clients with warmth, respect, and a desire to work to facilitate a relationship of deep understanding. Utilizing an integrative perspective, I engage my clients in creative and individualized therapeutic approaches, help them deepen their understanding of themselves, and support their work towards greater emotional health and well-being.
Post masters, I have received advanced training in attachment theory, trauma informed approaches, Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Sandplay Therapy, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing).
I am a licensed clinical social worker specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents, and families. I have numerous years experience working with children across a variety of clinical and educational settings, incorporating the use of play therapy and informed by current research in child development. I meet my clients with warmth, respect, and a desire to work to facilitate a relationship of deep understanding. Utilizing an integrative perspective, I engage my clients in creative and individualized therapeutic approaches, help them deepen their understanding of themselves, and support their work towards greater emotional health and well-being.
Angela Konin
Licensed Social Worker, MA, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
Waitlist for new clients
Offering down-to-earth, trauma-informed, affirming therapy services for children through adults in person and via telehealth, I help clients feel seen and appreciated for their authentic selves. As we work together to understand current issues, uncover root causes, and explore possible solutions, client dignity and autonomy are centered. With connection, sensitivity, and curiosity, I utilize a combination of approaches including Internal Family Systems, somatic psychotherapy, mindfulness and self compassion, art, play, and more, to help clients gain insight and make positive changes.
Offering down-to-earth, trauma-informed, affirming therapy services for children through adults in person and via telehealth, I help clients feel seen and appreciated for their authentic selves. As we work together to understand current issues, uncover root causes, and explore possible solutions, client dignity and autonomy are centered. With connection, sensitivity, and curiosity, I utilize a combination of approaches including Internal Family Systems, somatic psychotherapy, mindfulness and self compassion, art, play, and more, to help clients gain insight and make positive changes.
Interventions include academic and organization strategies, play therapy, CBT, behavior management, and stress reduction/mindfulness.
Life is filled with many opportunities as well as challenges. My goal is to help children and adolescents recognize and seize those opportunities and overcome any challenges and obstacles that get in their way. By helping them create a positive mindset, build effective coping strategies, and expand their repertoire of problem-solving skills, they can live a healthy, satisfying, and successful social and academic life. The earlier these skills are cultivated within the child or adolescent, the greater the opportunities to practice and utilize them to their benefit. Please visit my website: www.childresilience.com
Interventions include academic and organization strategies, play therapy, CBT, behavior management, and stress reduction/mindfulness.
Life is filled with many opportunities as well as challenges. My goal is to help children and adolescents recognize and seize those opportunities and overcome any challenges and obstacles that get in their way. By helping them create a positive mindset, build effective coping strategies, and expand their repertoire of problem-solving skills, they can live a healthy, satisfying, and successful social and academic life. The earlier these skills are cultivated within the child or adolescent, the greater the opportunities to practice and utilize them to their benefit. Please visit my website: www.childresilience.com
Julia Ann Gollas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08540
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.
I use multiple therapeutic techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Therapy and Play Therapy.
I recognize that mental health is an integral part of for our overall well-being. My mission is to provide professional help, in a safe, comfortable and non-judgmental environment, to those facing mental health or behavioral challenges. My services are highly personalized and tailored to my client's needs to ensure growth and satisfaction during the therapeutic process. I am here for you, with help, hope and healing, every step of the way.
I use multiple therapeutic techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Therapy and Play Therapy.
I recognize that mental health is an integral part of for our overall well-being. My mission is to provide professional help, in a safe, comfortable and non-judgmental environment, to those facing mental health or behavioral challenges. My services are highly personalized and tailored to my client's needs to ensure growth and satisfaction during the therapeutic process. I am here for you, with help, hope and healing, every step of the way.
My clinical approach is interpersonal and relationship based and I have experience in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy as well as play therapy.
It's that "A-ha" moment. It's that look of recognition and relief. Those are the feelings I love to see when I've finally crossed the "psychological" bridge and have developed a connection with someone. Over the past 10 years, I have worked with children/adolescents struggling with numerous issues, such as ADHD, depression and family conflict. I provide a supportive and nurturing environment and in conjunction with positive reinforcement from parents, you start to see a change.
My clinical approach is interpersonal and relationship based and I have experience in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy as well as play therapy.
It's that "A-ha" moment. It's that look of recognition and relief. Those are the feelings I love to see when I've finally crossed the "psychological" bridge and have developed a connection with someone. Over the past 10 years, I have worked with children/adolescents struggling with numerous issues, such as ADHD, depression and family conflict. I provide a supportive and nurturing environment and in conjunction with positive reinforcement from parents, you start to see a change.
Paint the Stars Art Therapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCAT, NCC, ATR-BC, LPAT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08540
We specialize in Clinical Art Therapy, utilizing additional creative outlets such as play therapy techniques including sand-tray, and traditional psychotherapy techniques.
As dedicated therapists, our top priority is to help you not only achieve greatness but to believe in that greatness as well. Have you tried other counseling options but none have helped? Paint The Stars Art Therapy offers a wide variety of creative outlets to be used alongside traditional psychotherapy in order to help children, teen and adults cope with various issues. We specialize in working with children/teens/college students ages 3-22 and adults 23+ in need of alternatives to talk therapy or those who want something more. We are happy to lend an ear and a paintbrush.
We specialize in Clinical Art Therapy, utilizing additional creative outlets such as play therapy techniques including sand-tray, and traditional psychotherapy techniques.
As dedicated therapists, our top priority is to help you not only achieve greatness but to believe in that greatness as well. Have you tried other counseling options but none have helped? Paint The Stars Art Therapy offers a wide variety of creative outlets to be used alongside traditional psychotherapy in order to help children, teen and adults cope with various issues. We specialize in working with children/teens/college students ages 3-22 and adults 23+ in need of alternatives to talk therapy or those who want something more. We are happy to lend an ear and a paintbrush.
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Susan Glaser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540 (Online Only)
I find expressive arts therapy to be particularly effective with adolescents, and I use play therapy with younger children.
I am here to support you as an individual, a couple, or a family. If you are experiencing stress, depression, or anxiety due to a change in your circumstances, or to ongoing relationship problems, my goal is to assist you to heal and resolve difficulties. I work with many different family and marital issues, including helping adoptive families. I welcome couples and families, including young children, with whom I work in close consultation with their parents. Cómo terapeuta bilingual, estoy aquí para apoyar a Ud. como individuo, pareja, o familia.
I find expressive arts therapy to be particularly effective with adolescents, and I use play therapy with younger children.
I am here to support you as an individual, a couple, or a family. If you are experiencing stress, depression, or anxiety due to a change in your circumstances, or to ongoing relationship problems, my goal is to assist you to heal and resolve difficulties. I work with many different family and marital issues, including helping adoptive families. I welcome couples and families, including young children, with whom I work in close consultation with their parents. Cómo terapeuta bilingual, estoy aquí para apoyar a Ud. como individuo, pareja, o familia.
Emily Anne Mattek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08540
My therapy modalities include cognitive behavior therapy, multicultural family therapy, narrative therapy, Trauma-focused CBT, play therapy and feminist therapy.
I believe in meeting clients where they are at! Every person is resilient. I intend our collaboration to remind you of your strengths, provide you tools to weather the storms of life, and a safe space to gain insight into your truest self. I come to social work from a social justice background and recognize that trauma and oppression are often intertwined. Acknowledging systemic issues is a vital part of my practice, particularly for youth and families directly impacted by it. Teaching you to advocate successfully on your own behalf, whether it be in your relationships or larger systems, is also essential.
My therapy modalities include cognitive behavior therapy, multicultural family therapy, narrative therapy, Trauma-focused CBT, play therapy and feminist therapy.
I believe in meeting clients where they are at! Every person is resilient. I intend our collaboration to remind you of your strengths, provide you tools to weather the storms of life, and a safe space to gain insight into your truest self. I come to social work from a social justice background and recognize that trauma and oppression are often intertwined. Acknowledging systemic issues is a vital part of my practice, particularly for youth and families directly impacted by it. Teaching you to advocate successfully on your own behalf, whether it be in your relationships or larger systems, is also essential.
Carolyn Flynn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CD, IMH-E
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08540
I utilize psychodynamic and current trauma practices for adults, and offer play therapy and parent coaching for young children.
I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, difficulty with life transitions, relationship issues, and traumatic stress as well as young children with behavioral difficulties, anxiety/depression or who have experienced a traumatic event. My clients come to me for help moving through difficult times with the goal of emerging more fully aligned with their true self.
I utilize psychodynamic and current trauma practices for adults, and offer play therapy and parent coaching for young children.
I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, difficulty with life transitions, relationship issues, and traumatic stress as well as young children with behavioral difficulties, anxiety/depression or who have experienced a traumatic event. My clients come to me for help moving through difficult times with the goal of emerging more fully aligned with their true self.
Drs. Kinderman and Yanek have over 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents & adults. Providing meaningful dialogue, adventure, and fun in a safe, "outside the box" setting is our way of redefining therapy. Our unique cottage office is located on a beautiful 20 acre farm where we often incorporate animals and nature into the treatment process. We utilize evidence-based therapeutic techniques found in CBT, DBT/Mindfulness, & Wilderness Therapy with the goal of empowering individuals to move outside of their comfort zones and tap into their full potential.
Drs. Kinderman and Yanek have over 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents & adults. Providing meaningful dialogue, adventure, and fun in a safe, "outside the box" setting is our way of redefining therapy. Our unique cottage office is located on a beautiful 20 acre farm where we often incorporate animals and nature into the treatment process. We utilize evidence-based therapeutic techniques found in CBT, DBT/Mindfulness, & Wilderness Therapy with the goal of empowering individuals to move outside of their comfort zones and tap into their full potential.
Elizabeth W Semrod
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
I believe that everyone has the potential to live a fulfilling and happy life. I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space for my clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Collaborating on your unique goals, I will guide you towards finding your purpose.
I believe that everyone has the potential to live a fulfilling and happy life. I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space for my clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Collaborating on your unique goals, I will guide you towards finding your purpose.
Licensed NJ Psychologist, Past school psychologist. Current Availability, virtual & in person. Work with children, adolescents, and adults. Counseling and testing. Support for anxiety, depression, attention deficits, cognitive and memory issues. Mindfulness for better focus, relaxation, memory retention. as well as CBT techniques. Caring mental health professional and consultant. Afternoons, nights and weekends available through virtual services or in office, easy location off route 27 South Brunswick/Kingston/Princeton near Middlesex/Mercer counties. Call, email for quick appointment scheduling. :)
Licensed NJ Psychologist, Past school psychologist. Current Availability, virtual & in person. Work with children, adolescents, and adults. Counseling and testing. Support for anxiety, depression, attention deficits, cognitive and memory issues. Mindfulness for better focus, relaxation, memory retention. as well as CBT techniques. Caring mental health professional and consultant. Afternoons, nights and weekends available through virtual services or in office, easy location off route 27 South Brunswick/Kingston/Princeton near Middlesex/Mercer counties. Call, email for quick appointment scheduling. :)
Jasmine Ueng-McHale
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08542
Not accepting new clients
With compassion and acceptance, I guide clients through a therapeutic process towards change, healing and growth. Supportive and direct, I will strive to work collaboratively with you to support your development and to help you to build strong connections with others, to discover new insights, and to find relief from feelings of depression, anxiety, harsh self-criticism, or difficulties in relationships, work, or marital conflict. I respect the unique background that each person brings, and I work together with my clients to individualize treatment to meet their needs.
With compassion and acceptance, I guide clients through a therapeutic process towards change, healing and growth. Supportive and direct, I will strive to work collaboratively with you to support your development and to help you to build strong connections with others, to discover new insights, and to find relief from feelings of depression, anxiety, harsh self-criticism, or difficulties in relationships, work, or marital conflict. I respect the unique background that each person brings, and I work together with my clients to individualize treatment to meet their needs.
Richard Vereneck (adolescent/teen specialist)
Licensed Social Worker, LSW
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
I am a LSW with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. My areas of specialty and focus are depression, anxiety, low self esteem, mood disorders, and trauma. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
I am a LSW with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. My areas of specialty and focus are depression, anxiety, low self esteem, mood disorders, and trauma. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
The Nomad Center for Counseling, Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
My goal in working with all who come into my office, be it child, adolescent or adult is healing. I founded The Nomad Center for Counseling out of a desire to offer healing in a compassionate and creative therapeutic setting regardless of culture or country of origin. I believe that each individual has an innate ability to heal and the capacity to move beyond the resolution of symptoms to a deeper, more authentic understanding of themselves and of life. I strive to create a safe and nurturing environment where people can allow their true selves to emerge, whether they are 4 or 74 years old.
My goal in working with all who come into my office, be it child, adolescent or adult is healing. I founded The Nomad Center for Counseling out of a desire to offer healing in a compassionate and creative therapeutic setting regardless of culture or country of origin. I believe that each individual has an innate ability to heal and the capacity to move beyond the resolution of symptoms to a deeper, more authentic understanding of themselves and of life. I strive to create a safe and nurturing environment where people can allow their true selves to emerge, whether they are 4 or 74 years old.
See more therapy options for Princeton
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Princeton
- East Windsor
- Hamilton
- Hillsborough
- Lawrence Township
- Lawrenceville
- Monmouth Junction
- Montgomery
- Pennington
- Plainsboro
- Skillman
- South Brunswick
- West Windsor
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.