Toddler Therapists in Ramsey, NJ

Photo of Richard Drobnick - Mars & Venus Counseling Center, LCSW, DCSW, CPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mars & Venus Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DCSW, CPC
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446
Manhattan, and Parsippany, Denville, Hackensack, Teaneck, Oradell, Ridgewood, Ramsey, Paramus, NJ - Full-service counseling - Adult counseling - Couples counseling - Relationship counseling - Premarital counseling - Marriage counseling - Family counseling - Child counseling - Teen counseling - ADHD - Addiction counseling - Grief & bereavement counseling - Pet loss therapy - Stress and anxiety - Depression - Low self-esteem - Perfectionism - Worry - Indecision - Procrastination - Phobias - Assertiveness issues - Panic - Life Coaching / Daytime, evenings, weekends available / Spanish-speaking counselors / Most insurances welcomed.
Manhattan, and Parsippany, Denville, Hackensack, Teaneck, Oradell, Ridgewood, Ramsey, Paramus, NJ - Full-service counseling - Adult counseling - Couples counseling - Relationship counseling - Premarital counseling - Marriage counseling - Family counseling - Child counseling - Teen counseling - ADHD - Addiction counseling - Grief & bereavement counseling - Pet loss therapy - Stress and anxiety - Depression - Low self-esteem - Perfectionism - Worry - Indecision - Procrastination - Phobias - Assertiveness issues - Panic - Life Coaching / Daytime, evenings, weekends available / Spanish-speaking counselors / Most insurances welcomed.
(201) 468-6760 View (201) 468-6760
Photo of Breann Polidore, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Breann Polidore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ramsey, NJ 07446
I am a Licensed Social Worker and have a certificate in Violence Against Women and Children. I received my Bachelors in Family and Child Studies from Montclair State University, and my Masters in Social Work from Rutgers University. I have experience working with individuals, couples, groups, and families in various mental health settings. My therapeutic model combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). I understand that all clients come from different backgrounds, and therefore believe in using techniques that are specific and accommodating to individual clients.
I am a Licensed Social Worker and have a certificate in Violence Against Women and Children. I received my Bachelors in Family and Child Studies from Montclair State University, and my Masters in Social Work from Rutgers University. I have experience working with individuals, couples, groups, and families in various mental health settings. My therapeutic model combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). I understand that all clients come from different backgrounds, and therefore believe in using techniques that are specific and accommodating to individual clients.
(551) 266-5518 View (551) 266-5518
Photo of Dr. Jennifer Politis, PhD, LPC, SchPsy, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Jennifer Politis
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, SchPsy, ACS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ramsey, NJ 07446
Are you looking for more fulfilling relationships in your life? Do you want to regain balance and have less anxiety? Are you worried about your child and want them to have more confidence, perform better in school and be more prepared for the world around them? I help you feel more fulfilled in your job, family life and relationships. I help you sort through your feelings and find the barriers in your life holding you back. Identifing the patterns from your childhood that creep into your everyday interactions are a focus so they aren't a driving force anymore and you are more self aware.
Are you looking for more fulfilling relationships in your life? Do you want to regain balance and have less anxiety? Are you worried about your child and want them to have more confidence, perform better in school and be more prepared for the world around them? I help you feel more fulfilled in your job, family life and relationships. I help you sort through your feelings and find the barriers in your life holding you back. Identifing the patterns from your childhood that creep into your everyday interactions are a focus so they aren't a driving force anymore and you are more self aware.
(201) 744-2712 View (201) 744-2712
Photo of Kristine Bersch, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristine Bersch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446
Kristine is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who provides individual and family therapy adolescents and adults. Additionally, Kristine is Certified to Provide LSW Supervision in the State of New Jersey. She employs a strength-based, solution-focused approach and utilizes the latest evidenced-based treatment models, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), to facilitate positive change in both sessions and in clinical study's. Kristine is passionate about creating a collaborative and confidential environment where clients can reach their goals and where clinicians can feel safe to process and grow.
Kristine is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who provides individual and family therapy adolescents and adults. Additionally, Kristine is Certified to Provide LSW Supervision in the State of New Jersey. She employs a strength-based, solution-focused approach and utilizes the latest evidenced-based treatment models, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), to facilitate positive change in both sessions and in clinical study's. Kristine is passionate about creating a collaborative and confidential environment where clients can reach their goals and where clinicians can feel safe to process and grow.
(201) 862-8332 View (201) 862-8332
Photo of Maureen C Kelley, PsyD, Psychologist
Maureen C Kelley
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446
As a licensed psychologist for 19 years, I'm devoted to the treatment of children, adolescents, adults, and families. I've worked in various medical and educational settings and am licensed in NJ, NY and FL. I treat children, adolescents, and adults with a broad range of psychological and behavioral disorders, including: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, school refusal, divorce, adolescent issues, & behavior disorders. I am skilled in psychological testing of children, adolescents, and their families and conduct psychoeducational evaluations for school placement. I am available for in-person and virtual sessions.
As a licensed psychologist for 19 years, I'm devoted to the treatment of children, adolescents, adults, and families. I've worked in various medical and educational settings and am licensed in NJ, NY and FL. I treat children, adolescents, and adults with a broad range of psychological and behavioral disorders, including: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, school refusal, divorce, adolescent issues, & behavior disorders. I am skilled in psychological testing of children, adolescents, and their families and conduct psychoeducational evaluations for school placement. I am available for in-person and virtual sessions.
(201) 327-0844 View (201) 327-0844
Photo of Michelle Y Pearlman, PhD, Psychologist
Michelle Y Pearlman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446
I work with people of all ages to face challenges and conquer difficulties in a warm and supportive environment. I have over twenty years of experience helping people feel less anxious, sad, and alone, and more capable and empowered to live their best lives. I specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which is a therapeutic approach proven effective in the treatment of a wide range of problems, from anxiety, depression and trauma to children’s behavior and positive parenting. If you are struggling, or simply want to handle life and stress more effectively, I am here to help. Together, we can work to create lasting change.
I work with people of all ages to face challenges and conquer difficulties in a warm and supportive environment. I have over twenty years of experience helping people feel less anxious, sad, and alone, and more capable and empowered to live their best lives. I specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which is a therapeutic approach proven effective in the treatment of a wide range of problems, from anxiety, depression and trauma to children’s behavior and positive parenting. If you are struggling, or simply want to handle life and stress more effectively, I am here to help. Together, we can work to create lasting change.
(201) 639-8779 View (201) 639-8779
Photo of Angela Prestifilippo, MA, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Angela Prestifilippo
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ramsey, NJ 07446  (Online Only)
While everyone is facing challenging times based on many circumstances that life is presenting, its important to know that you are not alone. Often times, we have difficulty coping with life stressors. That can result in becoming withdrawn, experience difficulty in relationships, or face increased anxiety. I believe that our experiences from birth, adolescents years, and into our adult life have a tremendous impact on our worldview. My approach involves collaborating with my clients to explore the impact of past experiences in order to develop the healthy coping skills needed to face life's challenges.
While everyone is facing challenging times based on many circumstances that life is presenting, its important to know that you are not alone. Often times, we have difficulty coping with life stressors. That can result in becoming withdrawn, experience difficulty in relationships, or face increased anxiety. I believe that our experiences from birth, adolescents years, and into our adult life have a tremendous impact on our worldview. My approach involves collaborating with my clients to explore the impact of past experiences in order to develop the healthy coping skills needed to face life's challenges.
(201) 389-9077 View (201) 389-9077
Photo of Vanessa Gourdine - Specialized Therapy Associates, PsyD, APN-C, CFMP, Psychologist
Specialized Therapy Associates
Psychologist, PsyD, APN-C, CFMP
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446
Where special concerns deserve special care, Specialized Therapy Associates has been in operation since 1994 with a staff of psychologists, psychiatrists, and therapists in Hackensack, Ramsey, Short Hills, & Fort Lee. STA provides the full range of psychological services: individual, couples, family & group therapy. We also provide a full range of psychological testing services for all age ranges.STA offers specialized programs which includes but not limited to eating disorders, substance abuse, trauma, academic success, child and parenting. We are staffed with Board certified adult & child psychiatrists & psychiatric nurse practitioners, clinical social workers, licensed clinical alcohol & drug counselors & licensed professional counselors.
Where special concerns deserve special care, Specialized Therapy Associates has been in operation since 1994 with a staff of psychologists, psychiatrists, and therapists in Hackensack, Ramsey, Short Hills, & Fort Lee. STA provides the full range of psychological services: individual, couples, family & group therapy. We also provide a full range of psychological testing services for all age ranges.STA offers specialized programs which includes but not limited to eating disorders, substance abuse, trauma, academic success, child and parenting. We are staffed with Board certified adult & child psychiatrists & psychiatric nurse practitioners, clinical social workers, licensed clinical alcohol & drug counselors & licensed professional counselors.
(201) 366-7096 View (201) 366-7096
Photo of Robert Galarowicz - Dr. Robert's Clinical Hypnosis & Mind/Body Therapy, ND, ACH, CH
Dr. Robert's Clinical Hypnosis & Mind/Body Therapy
ND, ACH, CH
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446
Discover How My Clinical Hypnosis & Mind/Body Therapy Service Can Help You ... If You Want To Improve Your Anxiety, Depression, Boost Confidence, or Improve Other Mental/Emotional Problems or Life Challenges I Have The Service FOR YOU! I ENJOY to help people & your Children use hypnosis and many mind-body therapies to improve their health. Discover how I can help you ... lose weight, stop smoking & addictions, sleep better, end stress/fear, be happy, control thoughts, change/build habits, end pain, and MORE ... Visit my other website http://www.drrobertg.com for $187 of FREE Goodies! Plus a no-charge phone
Discover How My Clinical Hypnosis & Mind/Body Therapy Service Can Help You ... If You Want To Improve Your Anxiety, Depression, Boost Confidence, or Improve Other Mental/Emotional Problems or Life Challenges I Have The Service FOR YOU! I ENJOY to help people & your Children use hypnosis and many mind-body therapies to improve their health. Discover how I can help you ... lose weight, stop smoking & addictions, sleep better, end stress/fear, be happy, control thoughts, change/build habits, end pain, and MORE ... Visit my other website http://www.drrobertg.com for $187 of FREE Goodies! Plus a no-charge phone
(201) 425-6339 View (201) 425-6339
Photo of Richard Drobnick - Mars & Venus Counseling Center, LCSW, DCSW, CPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mars & Venus Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DCSW, CPC
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446
Tele-counseling available - Hackensack, TEANECK, Paramus, Ramsey, ORADELL, Ridgewood, DENVILLE, Parsippany, MANHATTAN: Adult counseling - Couples counseling - Relationship counseling - Premarital counseling - Marriage counseling - Family counseling - Child counseling - Teen counseling - ADHD - Addiction counseling - Grief & bereavement - Pet loss therapy - Stress and anxiety - Depression - Low self-esteem - Perfectionism - Worry - Indecision - Procrastination - Phobias - Assertiveness issues - Panic - Life Coaching / Weekends available / Spanish-speaking / Most insurances welcomed / Full-service counseling for over 35 years.
Tele-counseling available - Hackensack, TEANECK, Paramus, Ramsey, ORADELL, Ridgewood, DENVILLE, Parsippany, MANHATTAN: Adult counseling - Couples counseling - Relationship counseling - Premarital counseling - Marriage counseling - Family counseling - Child counseling - Teen counseling - ADHD - Addiction counseling - Grief & bereavement - Pet loss therapy - Stress and anxiety - Depression - Low self-esteem - Perfectionism - Worry - Indecision - Procrastination - Phobias - Assertiveness issues - Panic - Life Coaching / Weekends available / Spanish-speaking / Most insurances welcomed / Full-service counseling for over 35 years.
(201) 467-4173 View (201) 467-4173
Photo of Christine Ziegler - Hudson Valley Center for Cognitive Therapy, PhD, Psychologist
Hudson Valley Center for Cognitive Therapy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ramsey, NJ 07446
I am the Director of the Hudson Valley Center for Cognitive Therapy (HVCCT). Our psychologists work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Two of our primary areas of specialization are mood and anxiety disorders, such as depression, panic, phobias, OCD, chronic worry,and social anxiety. Our therapists also have expertise in working with ADHD, academic and career issues, grief/loss, relationship/marital issues, parent training, and health psychology. We also offer psychoeducational evaluations. More detailed information regarding our services can be found at http://www.hvcct.com.
I am the Director of the Hudson Valley Center for Cognitive Therapy (HVCCT). Our psychologists work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Two of our primary areas of specialization are mood and anxiety disorders, such as depression, panic, phobias, OCD, chronic worry,and social anxiety. Our therapists also have expertise in working with ADHD, academic and career issues, grief/loss, relationship/marital issues, parent training, and health psychology. We also offer psychoeducational evaluations. More detailed information regarding our services can be found at http://www.hvcct.com.
(845) 353-3399 x12 View (845) 353-3399 x12
Photo of Carley Aroldi, LPC, IMH-E, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carley Aroldi
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, IMH-E, MA
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446
I am a clinical play therapist specializing in supporting young children and their families. I help overwhelmed parents create more calm, connection and cooperation in their homes using mindful parenting practices and brain based play therapy techniques. When YOU understand how to help your kid cope with big feelings and tough moments, everybody wins. Raising a resilient kid takes understanding, skill and SUPPORT. Let me help you become the parent your kid needs and deserves.
I am a clinical play therapist specializing in supporting young children and their families. I help overwhelmed parents create more calm, connection and cooperation in their homes using mindful parenting practices and brain based play therapy techniques. When YOU understand how to help your kid cope with big feelings and tough moments, everybody wins. Raising a resilient kid takes understanding, skill and SUPPORT. Let me help you become the parent your kid needs and deserves.
(646) 791-2847 View (646) 791-2847
Photo of Doreen Maria H Greco - Doreen H. Greco, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Doreen H. Greco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446  (Online Only)
Welcome and thank you for considering to use my counseling services. Whether you are feeling life stress from work, family or friends, are struggling to understand yourself or how to feel better, together in a warm supportive confidential environment, we can explore your concerns and discover how to help you find the best solutions. I work with individuals that are adults, children or adolescents, couples and families. People come for help for a variety of issues such as dealing with stage of life adjustments, parenting, overcoming anxiety, depression and addictions, improving relationships and reaching personal and professional goals.
Welcome and thank you for considering to use my counseling services. Whether you are feeling life stress from work, family or friends, are struggling to understand yourself or how to feel better, together in a warm supportive confidential environment, we can explore your concerns and discover how to help you find the best solutions. I work with individuals that are adults, children or adolescents, couples and families. People come for help for a variety of issues such as dealing with stage of life adjustments, parenting, overcoming anxiety, depression and addictions, improving relationships and reaching personal and professional goals.
(201) 297-6939 View (201) 297-6939
Photo of Mary J Jose, LPC, MA, EMDR, CCTP, ADHD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary J Jose
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, EMDR, CCTP, ADHD
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446
Do you ever feel like I used to, thinking that overcoming some elusive, unidentified obstacle would lead to stepping into my best life? Perhaps you recognize its name. Maybe intrusive thoughts persist, accompanied by uncontrollable anger or flashbacks, leaving you uncertain about improvement. Whether you've tried therapy without success or are considering it for the first time, if this resonates with you, you're in the right place!
Do you ever feel like I used to, thinking that overcoming some elusive, unidentified obstacle would lead to stepping into my best life? Perhaps you recognize its name. Maybe intrusive thoughts persist, accompanied by uncontrollable anger or flashbacks, leaving you uncertain about improvement. Whether you've tried therapy without success or are considering it for the first time, if this resonates with you, you're in the right place!
(201) 383-8441 View (201) 383-8441
Photo of Alana Adler, LSW, MAT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alana Adler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ramsey, NJ 07446
I provide individualized and evidence-based therapy to children, adolescents, and their families. Partnering with my clients, we work together to develop their skills and insight to help them better tackle the challenges they encounter. Whether it be struggles in the classroom, at the playground, or around the kitchen table, I am here to help. I offer a collaborative and compassionate approach, which includes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), play and art therapies, SPACE treatment, and parent training.
I provide individualized and evidence-based therapy to children, adolescents, and their families. Partnering with my clients, we work together to develop their skills and insight to help them better tackle the challenges they encounter. Whether it be struggles in the classroom, at the playground, or around the kitchen table, I am here to help. I offer a collaborative and compassionate approach, which includes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), play and art therapies, SPACE treatment, and parent training.
(551) 231-7842 View (551) 231-7842
Photo of Erika Oak, PsyD, Psychologist
Erika Oak
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446
Not accepting new clients
Please know that Dr. Oak is not currently accepting new clients. I am a New Jersey licensed psychologist. I offer compassionate therapy geared towards children, adolescents, and adults. Specific areas of service include (but are not limited to) depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, and developmental delays. I typically offer a cognitive behavioral based approach.
Please know that Dr. Oak is not currently accepting new clients. I am a New Jersey licensed psychologist. I offer compassionate therapy geared towards children, adolescents, and adults. Specific areas of service include (but are not limited to) depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, and developmental delays. I typically offer a cognitive behavioral based approach.
(201) 210-5163 View (201) 210-5163
Photo of Halley Stringham, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Halley Stringham
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446
Not accepting new clients
Couples and parents face many challenges, not just in raising children, but in their adult relationships as well. Anxiety, stress, conflict, and difficult past experiences can affect the way we show up in the world for ourselves and for each other. Gradual work in understanding these experiences in a therapeutic and judgement free environment will help improve sense of self, strengthen relationships, reduce conflict, and increase confidence in the future.
Couples and parents face many challenges, not just in raising children, but in their adult relationships as well. Anxiety, stress, conflict, and difficult past experiences can affect the way we show up in the world for ourselves and for each other. Gradual work in understanding these experiences in a therapeutic and judgement free environment will help improve sense of self, strengthen relationships, reduce conflict, and increase confidence in the future.
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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Janine Kelly, LCSW, C-NDAAP, ASDCS, PMH-C, RPT-S™, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janine Kelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-NDAAP, ASDCS, PMH-C, RPT-S™
Verified Verified
Upper Saddle River, NJ 07458
Do you feel like you're living in a world that wasn't made for you, constantly trying to bridge the gap between who you are and who the world expects you to be? Like no matter how hard you try, there’s something different about you that others just don’t seem to understand? You might find yourself overwhelmed by social situations, exhausted by sensory overload, or feeling like you have to hide your true self just to fit in. Maybe you’ve recently stumbled upon the possibility that Autism or ADHD could explain your lifelong struggles, or you’ve been diagnosed later in life, leaving you with a mix of relief and uncertainty.
Do you feel like you're living in a world that wasn't made for you, constantly trying to bridge the gap between who you are and who the world expects you to be? Like no matter how hard you try, there’s something different about you that others just don’t seem to understand? You might find yourself overwhelmed by social situations, exhausted by sensory overload, or feeling like you have to hide your true self just to fit in. Maybe you’ve recently stumbled upon the possibility that Autism or ADHD could explain your lifelong struggles, or you’ve been diagnosed later in life, leaving you with a mix of relief and uncertainty.
(908) 484-9865 View (908) 484-9865
Photo of Debra D Castaldo, PhD, LCSW, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Debra D Castaldo
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LCSW, MS
Verified Verified
Upper Saddle River, NJ 07458
Is your marriage CRASHING? Are you in need of a RELATIONSHIP REBOOT? (tm) Is your child testing limits? Are you struggling with depression and anxiety? Dr. Castaldo is a nationally recognized relationship expert who has been featured on CNN, FOX, NBC, in Ladies Home Journal, Woman's Day, Redbook, & More magazines, and has authored 3 books. Founder of the Center for Family and Couple Solutions, she uses a unique solution focused, brief approach to help clients build solutions quickly. She has special expertise in Divorce Prevention, Remarriage, Step Parenting, Child Management, Behavioral Issues, Family Conflict, Depression, Anxiety, Adoption, & Women's Issues.
Is your marriage CRASHING? Are you in need of a RELATIONSHIP REBOOT? (tm) Is your child testing limits? Are you struggling with depression and anxiety? Dr. Castaldo is a nationally recognized relationship expert who has been featured on CNN, FOX, NBC, in Ladies Home Journal, Woman's Day, Redbook, & More magazines, and has authored 3 books. Founder of the Center for Family and Couple Solutions, she uses a unique solution focused, brief approach to help clients build solutions quickly. She has special expertise in Divorce Prevention, Remarriage, Step Parenting, Child Management, Behavioral Issues, Family Conflict, Depression, Anxiety, Adoption, & Women's Issues.
(201) 494-2580 View (201) 494-2580
Photo of Susan Esserman Msw Lcsw, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Esserman Msw Lcsw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Allendale, NJ 07401
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (MSW and LCSW), Susan has worked with women and their families around issues of pregnancy, birth and parenting since 1987.  Susan counsels individuals and couples on many issues.  She has in-depth experience in the areas of women and children's health including pregnancy, birth, postpartum and parenting issues as well as pediatric health concerns -- illness, palliative and hospice care.  She has led parenting groups that focus on new motherhood as well as bereavement groups for parents.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (MSW and LCSW), Susan has worked with women and their families around issues of pregnancy, birth and parenting since 1987.  Susan counsels individuals and couples on many issues.  She has in-depth experience in the areas of women and children's health including pregnancy, birth, postpartum and parenting issues as well as pediatric health concerns -- illness, palliative and hospice care.  She has led parenting groups that focus on new motherhood as well as bereavement groups for parents.
(201) 579-1254 View (201) 579-1254
Toddler Therapists

What are the behavioral signs indicating a toddler might need counseling?

Common behavioral signs that a child may need counseling include high levels of emotional distress or anxiety, learning challenges, interpersonal conflict, anger, or social withdrawal. Any drastic changes in toddler behavior or self-esteem can be indicative that a child may benefit from therapy. Seeing a therapist at the early stages of any behavioral changes can be most impactful on behavior, as well as helpful to caregivers who may receive guidance on what symptoms to look for in their child in the future, even if therapy is not warranted at that time.

Can a two-year-old see a psychologist?

Children and adults of all ages can see psychologists and other forms of mental health professionals, such as counselors, psychiatrists, and social workers. Families seeking therapy for their toddler should just be aware that any guidance they seek should come from a professional who has specific experience working with young children, as well as the specific modalities that are appropriate for young children, such as play therapy.

What is the most effective type of therapy for toddlers and preschoolers?

In general, play therapy is the most effective and common form of therapy for young children. Play therapy helps facilitate behavior change by offering an age-appropriate way for children to express their emotions and develop more effective coping strategies. Toddlers with specific concerns may benefit from more specialized forms of therapy, such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy for children with autism or Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) for toddlers in families in which there is significant parent-child relational conflict.

What happens during therapy sessions for toddlers?

What occurs in therapy sessions for toddlers depends on the therapeutic approach being used by the therapist. Most toddler therapists will use some form of play therapy in sessions to encourage toddler engagement. In play therapy sessions, children are encouraged to use toys within the therapy setting to express their emotions; subsequent responses by the therapist and/or family members can help guide toddler behavior and behavior change. Toddler therapy sessions can also involve family therapy or Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), which can help improve parenting behaviors and reduce strain on families.