Play Therapy in Sayreville, NJ

Photo of Ruth Churak, MSW, LCSW, DSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ruth Churak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, DSW
Verified Verified
Sayreville, NJ 08871  (Online Only)
Tired of being unhappy? Having difficulty in your relationships or watching members of your family struggle? Don't suffer from worry, depression, anxiety and uncertainty alone. You can take charge of your situation or guide your children to a better start in life. Sometimes we become overwhelmed and unsure of which direction to go. I can help you clarify your goals using different techniques and tools to help you make the small steps that lead to big progress. I foster an accepting, safe, caring, environment utilizing a variety of therapeutic methods to tailor therapy to fit your needs and situation.
Tired of being unhappy? Having difficulty in your relationships or watching members of your family struggle? Don't suffer from worry, depression, anxiety and uncertainty alone. You can take charge of your situation or guide your children to a better start in life. Sometimes we become overwhelmed and unsure of which direction to go. I can help you clarify your goals using different techniques and tools to help you make the small steps that lead to big progress. I foster an accepting, safe, caring, environment utilizing a variety of therapeutic methods to tailor therapy to fit your needs and situation.
(732) 333-8520 View (732) 333-8520
Photo of Christie White, LCSW, CCS, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christie White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCS, CSW
Verified Verified
Sayreville, NJ 08872  (Online Only)
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been in practice since 2010. In addition to providing individual, couples, and family psychotherapy, I also routinely provide supervision hours for LSW’s and LAC’s working on achieving their clinical licenses. My goal is to provide a compassionate, respectful and safe environment in order for you to explore and capitalize on your strengths to help you face life's challenges head on. I utilize evidence-based techniques and a person-centered approach, working with you from where you are at the present time.
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been in practice since 2010. In addition to providing individual, couples, and family psychotherapy, I also routinely provide supervision hours for LSW’s and LAC’s working on achieving their clinical licenses. My goal is to provide a compassionate, respectful and safe environment in order for you to explore and capitalize on your strengths to help you face life's challenges head on. I utilize evidence-based techniques and a person-centered approach, working with you from where you are at the present time.
(732) 785-4818 View (732) 785-4818
Photo of Michelle Persad, LCSW, CAMS-II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Persad
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sayreville, NJ 08872
Waitlist for new clients
I am proud to serve both the English and Spanish speaking communities. I keenly focus on children, adolescents, and adults for individually tailored therapy sessions. I hold a Master’s Degree in Social Work and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology/ Psychiatric Rehabilitation from Kean University and the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. My passion for helping others has led me to work with the underprivileged population of NJ & NYC. I provide various clinical and evidence-based mental health approaches as I have been trained to work with complex anger management issues.
I am proud to serve both the English and Spanish speaking communities. I keenly focus on children, adolescents, and adults for individually tailored therapy sessions. I hold a Master’s Degree in Social Work and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology/ Psychiatric Rehabilitation from Kean University and the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. My passion for helping others has led me to work with the underprivileged population of NJ & NYC. I provide various clinical and evidence-based mental health approaches as I have been trained to work with complex anger management issues.
(848) 233-4352 View (848) 233-4352
Photo of Amber Rodriguez, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amber Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Sayreville, NJ 08871
Do you frequently overthink, lack confidence, and feel like you are not good enough? Do you find yourself emotionally drained and unable to enjoy things that you once did? Is your child struggling with emotion regulation and social skills? I’m dedicated to supporting children, adolescents, teens, and college-aged adults in achieving their goals, developing tools and skills to navigate life’s difficulties, and guiding them on their journeys toward personal growth.
Do you frequently overthink, lack confidence, and feel like you are not good enough? Do you find yourself emotionally drained and unable to enjoy things that you once did? Is your child struggling with emotion regulation and social skills? I’m dedicated to supporting children, adolescents, teens, and college-aged adults in achieving their goals, developing tools and skills to navigate life’s difficulties, and guiding them on their journeys toward personal growth.
(848) 368-0129 View (848) 368-0129
Photo of Michael Maffei, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael Maffei
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Sayreville, NJ 08871
Are you someone dealing with anxiety, depression, or trauma, who is looking for a supportive and empathetic environment to navigate their challenges? Do you need a compassionate listener who understands your unique mental health struggles and helps you to find effective solutions? Perhaps your goals include finding emotional stability, developing upon resilience you already possess, and cultivating healthy relationships. I’ll work to help you gain an understanding of your circumstances to better lead a fulfilling and balanced life, which may be driven by a desire for positive change and personal growth.
Are you someone dealing with anxiety, depression, or trauma, who is looking for a supportive and empathetic environment to navigate their challenges? Do you need a compassionate listener who understands your unique mental health struggles and helps you to find effective solutions? Perhaps your goals include finding emotional stability, developing upon resilience you already possess, and cultivating healthy relationships. I’ll work to help you gain an understanding of your circumstances to better lead a fulfilling and balanced life, which may be driven by a desire for positive change and personal growth.
(732) 333-8520 View (732) 333-8520

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Chenling Hsieh, LPC, Ed D, Counselor
Chenling Hsieh
Counselor, LPC, Ed D
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Brunswick, NJ 08901  (Online Only)
Hsieh applies research-based interventions such as Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and Play Therapy to help clients.
Dr. Hsieh is a Licensed Associate Counselor (Trilingual English/Chinese/ Taiwanese speaking) who has extensive experience working with a wide range of populations including children, adolescents, adults, and families. She received her Master’s Degree from National University, and a Doctoral Degree in Counseling & Education from Argosy University. Dr. Hsieh’s background includes working as a counselor in the school setting at the elementary, middle, and high school levels, in the youth residential treatment center providing intensive counseling services, as well as in the clinical setting.
Hsieh applies research-based interventions such as Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and Play Therapy to help clients.
Dr. Hsieh is a Licensed Associate Counselor (Trilingual English/Chinese/ Taiwanese speaking) who has extensive experience working with a wide range of populations including children, adolescents, adults, and families. She received her Master’s Degree from National University, and a Doctoral Degree in Counseling & Education from Argosy University. Dr. Hsieh’s background includes working as a counselor in the school setting at the elementary, middle, and high school levels, in the youth residential treatment center providing intensive counseling services, as well as in the clinical setting.
(908) 970-8142 View (908) 970-8142
Danielle L Sciarrino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Somerset, NJ 08873
I have a play room designed to help children express themselves appropriately through play, and a comfortable office setting for my older clients and families.
I work with a children, adolescents, and their families who are dealing with a variety of issues and needs. Some of the reasons children are brought in for therapy are for help dealing with behavioral needs, trauma, divorce/separation, mood disorders, self harming behaviors, and developmental issues such as ADHD and Autism. I will involve the family members in the therapeutic process on an as needed basis. Through a collaborative process I will help my clients meet their goals. I will also work with schools or other therapists as needed.
I have a play room designed to help children express themselves appropriately through play, and a comfortable office setting for my older clients and families.
I work with a children, adolescents, and their families who are dealing with a variety of issues and needs. Some of the reasons children are brought in for therapy are for help dealing with behavioral needs, trauma, divorce/separation, mood disorders, self harming behaviors, and developmental issues such as ADHD and Autism. I will involve the family members in the therapeutic process on an as needed basis. Through a collaborative process I will help my clients meet their goals. I will also work with schools or other therapists as needed.
(551) 231-1692 View (551) 231-1692
Photo of Janet Chiorello-Ellis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janet Chiorello-Ellis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904
Children with anxiety and other problems can look forward to both play and talk therapies.
I'am a clinician with more than 20 years of experience assisting children and adults with many of life's challenges. I look forward to providing a safe, gentle and genuine place for you to address your anxiety, depression and interpersonal issues. You will identify ways to solve the problems you face and develop the motivation and energy you need to reach your goals in every area of your life.
Children with anxiety and other problems can look forward to both play and talk therapies.
I'am a clinician with more than 20 years of experience assisting children and adults with many of life's challenges. I look forward to providing a safe, gentle and genuine place for you to address your anxiety, depression and interpersonal issues. You will identify ways to solve the problems you face and develop the motivation and energy you need to reach your goals in every area of your life.
(732) 831-7616 View (732) 831-7616
Photo of Amanda J Frey, MSW, LCSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda J Frey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
South Plainfield, NJ 07080
I have an eclectic counseling style drawing influences from a variety of theoretical models such as Cognitive Behavioral, Play Therapy, Family Systems, Psychodynamic, Jungian, Gestalt, etc.
It is my belief that through exploration and collaboration, your life can change for the better. "Courage doesn't happen when you have all the answers. It happens when you are ready to face the questions you have been avoiding your whole life." ~ Shannon L. Alder. I enjoy working closely with people and I am honored when they share their lives with me. I've spent my entire career walking with people through difficult times, mental illness and the challenges associated with parenting today's youth.
I have an eclectic counseling style drawing influences from a variety of theoretical models such as Cognitive Behavioral, Play Therapy, Family Systems, Psychodynamic, Jungian, Gestalt, etc.
It is my belief that through exploration and collaboration, your life can change for the better. "Courage doesn't happen when you have all the answers. It happens when you are ready to face the questions you have been avoiding your whole life." ~ Shannon L. Alder. I enjoy working closely with people and I am honored when they share their lives with me. I've spent my entire career walking with people through difficult times, mental illness and the challenges associated with parenting today's youth.
(908) 206-4476 View (908) 206-4476
Photo of Lauren Meyer, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Meyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Old Bridge, NJ 08857
I can offer supports through Play Centered Therapy and through a Strengths based approach.
My ideal client is a child or adolescent who is struggling with anxiety and their goal would be to learn effective coping skills and strategies to better manage this. Usually children want a quick fix- so I like to provide them with lots of quick breathing exercises or creating a "tool box" with fidgets and anything that we have worked on together to help them when they are feeling anxious or overwhelmed.
I can offer supports through Play Centered Therapy and through a Strengths based approach.
My ideal client is a child or adolescent who is struggling with anxiety and their goal would be to learn effective coping skills and strategies to better manage this. Usually children want a quick fix- so I like to provide them with lots of quick breathing exercises or creating a "tool box" with fidgets and anything that we have worked on together to help them when they are feeling anxious or overwhelmed.
(848) 281-3084 View (848) 281-3084
Photo of Jean Provance, MSW, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jean Provance
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Brunswick, NJ 08902
Evidenced based care modalities of EMDR, TF-CBT and play therapy for younger children integrate well to support symptoms reduction in sessions and out in the world day to day.
Now Accepting New Clients In-Person and via Telehealth for people who need to help with traumatic experiences that have caused stress in their lives. After traumatic events supportive counseling goes a long way to getting you back to your life. You do not need to suffer with nightmares, flashbacks, dissociation, panic or depression; working together we will get you to your goals. If you have experienced complex lifelong traumatic symptoms from foster care, abuse, neglect, adoption this is the specialized care you need. Nothing is too big or too small to step towards healing.
Evidenced based care modalities of EMDR, TF-CBT and play therapy for younger children integrate well to support symptoms reduction in sessions and out in the world day to day.
Now Accepting New Clients In-Person and via Telehealth for people who need to help with traumatic experiences that have caused stress in their lives. After traumatic events supportive counseling goes a long way to getting you back to your life. You do not need to suffer with nightmares, flashbacks, dissociation, panic or depression; working together we will get you to your goals. If you have experienced complex lifelong traumatic symptoms from foster care, abuse, neglect, adoption this is the specialized care you need. Nothing is too big or too small to step towards healing.
(732) 631-3597 View (732) 631-3597
Marie Kifun Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCN, QEEGD
Verified Verified
Monroe Township, NJ 08831
I use cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness techniques, Dialectical Behavior Therapy and play therapy.
I work with adults, couples, children and adolescents combining a variety of approaches including talk therapy and neurotherapy. I emphasize the value of our relationship, building trust by listening and understanding your needs. Treatment is geared to removing barriers that prevent you from having a meaningful life, developing the skills to support your journey towards healing and free you from negative emotions such as guilt, shame, fear, anxiety and anger. Through a process of self- exploration, problem solving, skills development, you can learn to overcome obstacles, clarify your values and reach your goals..
I use cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness techniques, Dialectical Behavior Therapy and play therapy.
I work with adults, couples, children and adolescents combining a variety of approaches including talk therapy and neurotherapy. I emphasize the value of our relationship, building trust by listening and understanding your needs. Treatment is geared to removing barriers that prevent you from having a meaningful life, developing the skills to support your journey towards healing and free you from negative emotions such as guilt, shame, fear, anxiety and anger. Through a process of self- exploration, problem solving, skills development, you can learn to overcome obstacles, clarify your values and reach your goals..
(609) 385-9703 View (609) 385-9703
Photo of Gitty Gordon, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Gitty Gordon
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904
My practice is founded in CBT and DBT, although I integrate psychodynamic approaches, mindfulness and acceptance-based models, play therapy, and attachment-focused approaches, to meet the specific needs of each individual.
Navigating the complex landscape of mental health challenges, whether personal or within your family, can feel overwhelming. My mission is to provide a supportive environment that not only addresses immediate challenges but also empowers you and your loved ones to achieve long-term relief and live more fulfilling, engaged, free, and balanced lives. I provide individual therapy to children, teens, young adults, and families dealing with a wide range of challenges, including anxiety disorders, Tourettes, OCD, PTSD, depression, severe emotional dysregulation, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and comorbid learning and emotional challenges.
My practice is founded in CBT and DBT, although I integrate psychodynamic approaches, mindfulness and acceptance-based models, play therapy, and attachment-focused approaches, to meet the specific needs of each individual.
Navigating the complex landscape of mental health challenges, whether personal or within your family, can feel overwhelming. My mission is to provide a supportive environment that not only addresses immediate challenges but also empowers you and your loved ones to achieve long-term relief and live more fulfilling, engaged, free, and balanced lives. I provide individual therapy to children, teens, young adults, and families dealing with a wide range of challenges, including anxiety disorders, Tourettes, OCD, PTSD, depression, severe emotional dysregulation, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and comorbid learning and emotional challenges.
(732) 838-7843 View (732) 838-7843
Photo of Leigh Fagerstrom, LCSW, LCADC, C-DBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leigh Fagerstrom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
East Brunswick, NJ 08816
Waitlist for new clients
My therapeutic modalities are eclectic and vary with each unique individual, however, I generally work towards skills building utilizing dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), IFS/parts work and sand play therapy.
I look forward to collaborating with you throughout this empowering process. I specialize in the treatment of trauma and PTSD, addiction, family conflicts and difficulty managing stress and emotions. I am trained in sand play therapy and certified in DBT. I hope to offer you a safe and authentic space while we work towards your sustainable wellness and post traumatic growth. I have extensive experience working with older children, teens, adults and families.
My therapeutic modalities are eclectic and vary with each unique individual, however, I generally work towards skills building utilizing dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), IFS/parts work and sand play therapy.
I look forward to collaborating with you throughout this empowering process. I specialize in the treatment of trauma and PTSD, addiction, family conflicts and difficulty managing stress and emotions. I am trained in sand play therapy and certified in DBT. I hope to offer you a safe and authentic space while we work towards your sustainable wellness and post traumatic growth. I have extensive experience working with older children, teens, adults and families.
(732) 838-9887 View (732) 838-9887
Photo of Edward H. Callaghan, PhD, Psychologist
Edward H. Callaghan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Metuchen, NJ 08840
I also have expertise in play therapy, parenting support, and consultation with Child Study Teams.
Hi! My name is Dr. Ed Callaghan. I have a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and am fully licensed in the state of New Jersey. I am a Founder of the Integrative Therapy Institute of NJ and it’s Director of Child Services. I specialize in working with preschool and school-age children as well as adolescents and adults. I am especially proficient at working with children with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, behavioral problems, and school-related difficulties--especially problems related to academics and poor drive/motivation. I am also VERY SUCCESSFUL at bridging conflictual relationships between children and their parents.
I also have expertise in play therapy, parenting support, and consultation with Child Study Teams.
Hi! My name is Dr. Ed Callaghan. I have a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and am fully licensed in the state of New Jersey. I am a Founder of the Integrative Therapy Institute of NJ and it’s Director of Child Services. I specialize in working with preschool and school-age children as well as adolescents and adults. I am especially proficient at working with children with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, behavioral problems, and school-related difficulties--especially problems related to academics and poor drive/motivation. I am also VERY SUCCESSFUL at bridging conflictual relationships between children and their parents.
(732) 902-2181 View (732) 902-2181
Photo of Emily S Lowenfels, MSW, LSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily S Lowenfels
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Morganville, NJ 07751
I am also a huge proponent of play therapy.
My ideal client is person who has been experiencing some difficulties understanding and or manipulating through their environment. Perhaps this client needs a group to work overcome shyness and learn to speak up for themselves or perhaps this client misreads social situations. My ideal clients range from 3-35. I service struggling parents/families and teens/young adults/adults in areas of depression, anxiety, and self-care. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, I will be offering teletherapy sessions as an option to any individuals who are having a difficult time adjusting to this ever evolving health crisis.
I am also a huge proponent of play therapy.
My ideal client is person who has been experiencing some difficulties understanding and or manipulating through their environment. Perhaps this client needs a group to work overcome shyness and learn to speak up for themselves or perhaps this client misreads social situations. My ideal clients range from 3-35. I service struggling parents/families and teens/young adults/adults in areas of depression, anxiety, and self-care. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, I will be offering teletherapy sessions as an option to any individuals who are having a difficult time adjusting to this ever evolving health crisis.
(973) 287-4706 View (973) 287-4706
Photo of Cassandra E Rushin, LCSW-R, CCTP, BSP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cassandra E Rushin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CCTP, BSP
Verified Verified
Parlin, NJ 08859  (Online Only)
Within my practice, I utilize Brainspotting, mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, trauma focused, play therapy, and solution focused therapy to aid in reaching a state of homeostasis.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of New York, Colorado, and New Jersey, I've had the opportunity to work with children, teens, adults, couples, and families in various settings. While providing behavioral health supports, I've had the ability to partner through the process of healing wounds that serve as an impediment to wellness.
Within my practice, I utilize Brainspotting, mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, trauma focused, play therapy, and solution focused therapy to aid in reaching a state of homeostasis.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of New York, Colorado, and New Jersey, I've had the opportunity to work with children, teens, adults, couples, and families in various settings. While providing behavioral health supports, I've had the ability to partner through the process of healing wounds that serve as an impediment to wellness.
(848) 206-3549 View (848) 206-3549
Photo of Lynda Ackerman, PsyD, Psychologist
Lynda Ackerman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Metuchen, NJ 08840
Thanks for viewing my profile. I work from a developmental perspective with clients across the age span. My treatment approach with children who may suffer from autism, ADHD, anxiety, learning disorders, or behavioral difficulties includes cognitive-behavioral methods, play therapy and joint parent-child sessions. My experience as a school psychologist and special education teacher informs my treatment. My approach to adolescent and adult treatment focuses on establishing a trusting relationship where client concerns can be expressed and addressed in a non-judgmental, collaborative atmosphere.
Thanks for viewing my profile. I work from a developmental perspective with clients across the age span. My treatment approach with children who may suffer from autism, ADHD, anxiety, learning disorders, or behavioral difficulties includes cognitive-behavioral methods, play therapy and joint parent-child sessions. My experience as a school psychologist and special education teacher informs my treatment. My approach to adolescent and adult treatment focuses on establishing a trusting relationship where client concerns can be expressed and addressed in a non-judgmental, collaborative atmosphere.
(908) 741-8447 View (908) 741-8447
Photo of Gliceria Pérez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gliceria Pérez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904  (Online Only)
I have a vast array of training in areas such as CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, Solution Focused, Play Therapy, etc.
I enjoy working with individuals, groups and families who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, grief/loss issues, etc. I am interested in working with children (10+), adolescents, young adults, adults, couples, and People of Color who are ready and willing to work on repairing their relationships with self and others (peers, partners, family and friends).
I have a vast array of training in areas such as CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, Solution Focused, Play Therapy, etc.
I enjoy working with individuals, groups and families who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, grief/loss issues, etc. I am interested in working with children (10+), adolescents, young adults, adults, couples, and People of Color who are ready and willing to work on repairing their relationships with self and others (peers, partners, family and friends).
(848) 233-3115 View (848) 233-3115
Photo of Amy DeLuca Litkey, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy DeLuca Litkey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
East Brunswick, NJ 08816
Through the use of art/ play therapy, I work with children to help them express their feelings in healthy ways and provide skills to reduce anxiety, depression, social difficulties, and conflict.
Feeling understood is an important aspect of personal development and life satisfaction at any age. As a Columbia University trained therapist, I provide a warm and nurturing environment where children, adolescents, and adults feel supported and are better able to understand and manage their emotions and behavior. I offer a safe place for individuals to process and cope with transition and challenges such as relationship concerns, divorce, grief, and traumatic experiences. My passion is helping women, young adults and children meet their individualized therapeutic goals and live their lives to the fullest potential.
Through the use of art/ play therapy, I work with children to help them express their feelings in healthy ways and provide skills to reduce anxiety, depression, social difficulties, and conflict.
Feeling understood is an important aspect of personal development and life satisfaction at any age. As a Columbia University trained therapist, I provide a warm and nurturing environment where children, adolescents, and adults feel supported and are better able to understand and manage their emotions and behavior. I offer a safe place for individuals to process and cope with transition and challenges such as relationship concerns, divorce, grief, and traumatic experiences. My passion is helping women, young adults and children meet their individualized therapeutic goals and live their lives to the fullest potential.
(848) 216-0871 View (848) 216-0871

See more therapy options for Sayreville

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.