Play Therapy in Skillman, NJ
![Photo of Mahuya Ghosh, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/417ba351-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Edward Callaghan - Integrative Therapy Institute of NJ, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f5112b52-e269-4351-8b47-68db3b2ee0fe/1/320x400.png)
The Integrative Therapy Institute of New Jersey (ITI-NJ) is a group practice in clinical and counseling psychology that provides psychotherapy services for individuals, couples, and families. ITI-NJ operates at a number of locations throughout the state of NJ and the great majority of our therapists are in-network with all major insurance plans.
The Integrative Therapy Institute of New Jersey (ITI-NJ) is a group practice in clinical and counseling psychology that provides psychotherapy services for individuals, couples, and families. ITI-NJ operates at a number of locations throughout the state of NJ and the great majority of our therapists are in-network with all major insurance plans.
![Photo of Safe Place Therapy, LPC, NCC, LCADC, LCSW, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ae2a8fc-eb1f-4356-8b91-bfb3528cf277/2/320x400.jpeg)
Safe Place Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, LCADC, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Skillman, NJ 08558
At our practice, you will be supported by a dedicated team of compassionate and caring therapists. We are a trauma-informed, community-oriented practice that only uses evidence and research-based treatment modalities for depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, and other life challenges and transitions. We believe in mind/body connection, so body-oriented skills are taught and incorporated into our therapy sessions. We will teach you/work with you on integrating mindfulness, meditation, grounding, and other effective coping skills to address emotional distress, change behavioral patterns and enhance relationships. All are welcome.
At our practice, you will be supported by a dedicated team of compassionate and caring therapists. We are a trauma-informed, community-oriented practice that only uses evidence and research-based treatment modalities for depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, and other life challenges and transitions. We believe in mind/body connection, so body-oriented skills are taught and incorporated into our therapy sessions. We will teach you/work with you on integrating mindfulness, meditation, grounding, and other effective coping skills to address emotional distress, change behavioral patterns and enhance relationships. All are welcome.
![Photo of Christa M Wolski, LCSW, CSSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4056aaa0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christa M Wolski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Skillman, NJ 08558
Christa M. Wolski, LCSW, CSSW, CYKT is the owner of Blossom Wellness, LLC. Goals are designed to build on existing strengths in children and their families. During the course of treatment, clients develop awareness of the powerful mind-body connection and will learn the skills necessary to more successfully navigate through life. Psychotherapy may include mindfulness and yoga strategies to support treatment. In addition to being a Psychotherapist and Certified School Social Worker, Christa is also a Certified YogaKids Teacher.
Christa M. Wolski, LCSW, CSSW, CYKT is the owner of Blossom Wellness, LLC. Goals are designed to build on existing strengths in children and their families. During the course of treatment, clients develop awareness of the powerful mind-body connection and will learn the skills necessary to more successfully navigate through life. Psychotherapy may include mindfulness and yoga strategies to support treatment. In addition to being a Psychotherapist and Certified School Social Worker, Christa is also a Certified YogaKids Teacher.
![Photo of Jacqueline L. Franciscus, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/63cf3792-805f-4ab6-ac68-d187ee49cc56/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jacqueline L. Franciscus
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Skillman, NJ 08558
Hello there! I'm Jackie, and I'm on a mission to create a safe and supportive space for individuals navigating the exciting yet challenging journey of young adulthood, college life, and the unique experiences of women, children, and teens. I'm not just a therapist; I'm your partner in personal growth and well-being. With a warm smile and an open heart, I bring a blend of professional expertise and genuine care to my practice. My passion lies in helping young adults find their footing, supporting college students in their academic and personal challenges, and empowering women, children, and teens to navigate the complexities of life.
Hello there! I'm Jackie, and I'm on a mission to create a safe and supportive space for individuals navigating the exciting yet challenging journey of young adulthood, college life, and the unique experiences of women, children, and teens. I'm not just a therapist; I'm your partner in personal growth and well-being. With a warm smile and an open heart, I bring a blend of professional expertise and genuine care to my practice. My passion lies in helping young adults find their footing, supporting college students in their academic and personal challenges, and empowering women, children, and teens to navigate the complexities of life.
More Therapists Nearby
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing both psychotherapy and play therapy.
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 am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing both psychotherapy and play therapy.
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.
![Photo of Gwen Blake Birch Tree Therapeutic Arts, EdS, LPC, MFT, ICST, SAC, SAC,CZT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/afaf028f-7c07-412f-93d9-6379f74cd838/2/320x400.jpeg)
Gwen Blake Birch Tree Therapeutic Arts
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, MFT, ICST, SAC, SAC,CZT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Branchburg, NJ 08853
Specializing in anxiety, OCD and trauma, my approaches are ERP, experiential methods like Sandtray Therapy and art, as well as skill based therapies such as EFT, Aroma Freedom, and Synergetic Play Therapy.
Moving toward soothing unfamiliar and familiar stress is a critical part of therapeutic healing. Life struggles and incongruence often cause avoidance, overthinking, big emotions, or unhelpful habits and attitudes, which tend to cycle and leave you to feel unresolved. Creating clarity and identifying what needs change in your life opens new ways to cope, creating space for amazing change in your life today. gaining clarity and moving toward to a more, meaningful, congruent and focused life. Individuals (child-adults), couples, and families are welcome. I offer appointments (8am - 8pm) in my new office space (and online).
Specializing in anxiety, OCD and trauma, my approaches are ERP, experiential methods like Sandtray Therapy and art, as well as skill based therapies such as EFT, Aroma Freedom, and Synergetic Play Therapy.
Moving toward soothing unfamiliar and familiar stress is a critical part of therapeutic healing. Life struggles and incongruence often cause avoidance, overthinking, big emotions, or unhelpful habits and attitudes, which tend to cycle and leave you to feel unresolved. Creating clarity and identifying what needs change in your life opens new ways to cope, creating space for amazing change in your life today. gaining clarity and moving toward to a more, meaningful, congruent and focused life. Individuals (child-adults), couples, and families are welcome. I offer appointments (8am - 8pm) in my new office space (and online).
![Photo of Cheryl Stashkevetch, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/82f2afab-e254-4803-b01f-b54089c05bea/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Laura DeMarzo, EdD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f545580-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
For over 30 years CPS works hard at getting you and your family the results you need. Specialties include EMDR, bipolar disorder, OCD, panic disorders, anxieties, depression, and trauma and addiction. We work with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. Iwe offer a solution oriented motivvating approach with an emphasis on skill building through Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (CBT, DBT). We help develop effective strategies to cope with stress, build self_esteem and improve relationships. We offer Group therapy, Mindfulness, EMDR, Play and Sand Therapy, Hypnotherapy and mediation/divorce coaching.
For over 30 years CPS works hard at getting you and your family the results you need. Specialties include EMDR, bipolar disorder, OCD, panic disorders, anxieties, depression, and trauma and addiction. We work with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. Iwe offer a solution oriented motivvating approach with an emphasis on skill building through Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (CBT, DBT). We help develop effective strategies to cope with stress, build self_esteem and improve relationships. We offer Group therapy, Mindfulness, EMDR, Play and Sand Therapy, Hypnotherapy and mediation/divorce coaching.
![Photo of Carolyn Flynn, MA, LPC, CD, IMH-E, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d7308056-3998-4b5c-90e6-a2d7369b4a24/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
The most difficult times of our lives present the greatest opportunities to become our full, authentic selves. I work with both children and adults offering a warm, accepting, and safe space to grow and change. My philosophy is that every person is doing the best they can with what they have in the moment. My clients come to be to be fully seen, accepted, and understood. This allows them to see themselves in a new way and come into alignment with their best selves.
I utilize psychodynamic and current trauma practices for adults and offer play therapy and parent coaching for young children.
The most difficult times of our lives present the greatest opportunities to become our full, authentic selves. I work with both children and adults offering a warm, accepting, and safe space to grow and change. My philosophy is that every person is doing the best they can with what they have in the moment. My clients come to be to be fully seen, accepted, and understood. This allows them to see themselves in a new way and come into alignment with their best selves.
![Photo of Iris Aybar, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7d5de7e-244f-44fd-8ba4-5bb53df671cf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Iris Aybar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844 (Online Only)
In my approach I incorporate interventions from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) & Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) along with the use of creative approaches stemming from expressive play & art therapies.
As we face life’s challenges, we may also be facing the opportunity to find growth & meaning through our most difficult experiences. I am here to provide you with warmth, respect, & kindness as you face these difficult moments. I will aim to work alongside you, supporting you through the process of recognizing your strengths, uncovering & learning new skills, & problem solving ways to effectively cope with whatever difficulties you may be facing.
In my approach I incorporate interventions from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) & Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) along with the use of creative approaches stemming from expressive play & art therapies.
As we face life’s challenges, we may also be facing the opportunity to find growth & meaning through our most difficult experiences. I am here to provide you with warmth, respect, & kindness as you face these difficult moments. I will aim to work alongside you, supporting you through the process of recognizing your strengths, uncovering & learning new skills, & problem solving ways to effectively cope with whatever difficulties you may be facing.
![Photo of Jessica Eloyna Bordas - Mindful Minds, MEd, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba11a052-f331-4ab6-92fc-5f46bb924937/1/320x400.jpeg)
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
![Photo of Lisa Morra, LCSW-S, RPT, CCATP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c2677e5b-b009-4dd1-a888-b295519343a3/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa Morra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, RPT, CCATP
Verified Verified
Branchburg, NJ 08853
During these uncertain times, feelings of worry, sadness, anger and loneliness are more common, but you are not alone and do not need to face these feelings in isolation. My goal is to support you as we work together in a safe, non-judgmental environment where you will find compassion, understanding and resolution. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Registered Play Therapist I have 20+ years of experience counseling children, adolescents, and adults specializing in anxiety, trauma, depression, stress, parent/child attachment, grief/loss, family issues, child play therapy and parent training for adoption/foster care.
During these uncertain times, feelings of worry, sadness, anger and loneliness are more common, but you are not alone and do not need to face these feelings in isolation. My goal is to support you as we work together in a safe, non-judgmental environment where you will find compassion, understanding and resolution. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Registered Play Therapist I have 20+ years of experience counseling children, adolescents, and adults specializing in anxiety, trauma, depression, stress, parent/child attachment, grief/loss, family issues, child play therapy and parent training for adoption/foster care.
![Photo of Kadesha Adelakun, LCSW, RPT-S, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/de8962d8-8c66-4008-b808-63523053a9c6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kadesha Adelakun
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S, PMH-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Franklin Park, NJ 08823
In addition to talk therapy with adults and adolescents, I also use play therapy with children who have a hard time appropriately expressing their feelings and experiences.
Are you struggling with sadness, motherhood stress, anger, relationships, or family? Are you feeling emotionally drained? Or maybe your child is having behavioral challenges, racial identity issues, or a hard time adjusting to a relocation, divorce or separation, or other change(s) in their life? I help rebuild and reunify individuals and families by teaching coping skills and better communication skills to children ages 3-18, adults, and families. I use different therapeutic interventions to meet the needs of my clients and achieve results. I help children and adults learn how to understand, control, and share their emotions appropriately, and make better choices.
In addition to talk therapy with adults and adolescents, I also use play therapy with children who have a hard time appropriately expressing their feelings and experiences.
Are you struggling with sadness, motherhood stress, anger, relationships, or family? Are you feeling emotionally drained? Or maybe your child is having behavioral challenges, racial identity issues, or a hard time adjusting to a relocation, divorce or separation, or other change(s) in their life? I help rebuild and reunify individuals and families by teaching coping skills and better communication skills to children ages 3-18, adults, and families. I use different therapeutic interventions to meet the needs of my clients and achieve results. I help children and adults learn how to understand, control, and share their emotions appropriately, and make better choices.
![Photo of Ciera J Cuevas, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e1ff29a9-1a72-4e11-8981-ff02758d03b8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ciera J Cuevas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Blawenburg, NJ 08504 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome Traveler. Jasmine Dragon Counseling LLC (JDC) offers telehealth sessions for adolescents and adults in search of guidance and a creative approach to battling mental health challenges and relational stressors. Through play therapy and expressive arts interventions, JDC supports clients to process emotional pain and learn effective coping techniques to manage depression, anxiety, stress, ADD/ADHD, grief, and PTSD symptoms. A JDC approach to counseling is one that establishes a safe space for active collaboration to target problems and facilitate healing through the creative arts process and exploration of cultural artifacts.
Welcome Traveler. Jasmine Dragon Counseling LLC (JDC) offers telehealth sessions for adolescents and adults in search of guidance and a creative approach to battling mental health challenges and relational stressors. Through play therapy and expressive arts interventions, JDC supports clients to process emotional pain and learn effective coping techniques to manage depression, anxiety, stress, ADD/ADHD, grief, and PTSD symptoms. A JDC approach to counseling is one that establishes a safe space for active collaboration to target problems and facilitate healing through the creative arts process and exploration of cultural artifacts.
![Photo of Cara Tilghman, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac69d1f0-9500-41de-a0d2-11a3f7647674/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cara Tilghman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
I have been working with adults, teenagers, young children, and families as a whole for many years, using a positive strengths-based approach. I specialize in a number of evidence-based therapies including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for adults and teenagers, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Sandplay Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, and general behavioral modification for younger children and adolescents. I am committed to helping people of all ages with a range of challenges such as sells-harm, suicidal ideation, divorce, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, school refusal, trauma, attachment/adjustment difficulties, oppositional behaviors, and general family conflict.
I have been working with adults, teenagers, young children, and families as a whole for many years, using a positive strengths-based approach. I specialize in a number of evidence-based therapies including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for adults and teenagers, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Sandplay Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, and general behavioral modification for younger children and adolescents. I am committed to helping people of all ages with a range of challenges such as sells-harm, suicidal ideation, divorce, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, school refusal, trauma, attachment/adjustment difficulties, oppositional behaviors, and general family conflict.
![Photo of Maggie Masterton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/482f5318-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Eileen Fung, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d06a269-f087-4689-9fb3-c07d1b6691d6/1/320x400.jpeg)
My theoretical approaches include Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), and Child-Centered Play therapy.
As a first-generation Asian-American born to immigrant parents, a member of the LGBTQ+ community, and an advocate for the Deaf community, I believe that an individual’s cultures and communities are key factors in their self-actualization.
My theoretical approaches include Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), and Child-Centered Play therapy.
As a first-generation Asian-American born to immigrant parents, a member of the LGBTQ+ community, and an advocate for the Deaf community, I believe that an individual’s cultures and communities are key factors in their self-actualization.
![Photo of Emily Anne Mattek, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f7ced72-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Anne Mattek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534
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.
![Photo of Julia Ann Gollas, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/481058cb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
See more therapy options for Skillman
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Skillman
- Branchburg
- Hillsborough
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- Lawrence Township
- Monmouth Junction
- Montgomery
- Pennington
- Plainsboro
- Princeton
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Play Therapy
Who is play therapy for?
Play therapy is generally targeted to children between the ages of 3 and 11 who have social, emotional, or behavioral difficulties. Play therapy has also been found helpful for children who have experienced physical or emotional abuse or witnessed atrocities. Play therapy is also often recommended for children who are undergoing major medical procedures or who are suffering from chronic illness; many children’s hospitals are equipped to offer play therapy on-site. Play therapy is also sometimes used for adults; creative writing, music, and art are expressive forms that can all be adapted for therapeutic purposes.
Why do people need play therapy?
Children often do not have the language skills or words to know or to express what is troubling them. Yet they often spontaneously draw or use playthings to depict scenarios that reflect problems in their everyday life. Play therapy provides children with an array of objects and play situations to act out their feelings or experiences so that therapists can get a clear picture of what children might be struggling with and help them find solutions. In addition, play therapists are skilled at helping children understand their inner experience and find words for them, necessary steps toward helping children learn to control their own behavior and come up with solutions to problems they encounter.
What happens in play therapy?
A child enters a comfortable playroom where they are free to choose the objects they want to play with. The play therapist will typically observe how they play with the toys—whether a sandbox, puppets, dolls and action figures, trucks, costumes, drawing and painting materials, or more—because such play provides clues to a child’s family and social relationships, difficulties they are encountering in the world, and what going on inside themselves. Sometimes the therapist may ask the child to use the play objects to tell a story about their family. Using the same instruments of play, therapists can help children discover more advantageous ways of thinking and behaving.
What kinds of problems do play therapists treat?
Play therapy can help children who display destructive or self-destructive impulses; children who seem angry, sad, or fearful; children who experience frequent social, emotional, family, or school difficulty. Play therapy is often of value to children who have experienced a loss or distressing family experience, who are regularly exposed to family conflict, or who have been physically or emotionally abused. Play therapy can help children who are perpetrators of bullying as well as those who are targets of bullying. It helps children learn to identify their feelings, to express them in constructive ways, and to regulate them so they can get on with the business of development.
How long does play therapy last?
Play therapy sessions may last for 30 to 45 minutes, and they usually occur weekly for about 20 sessions. Each session is tailored to the individual child and the kinds of problems they are struggling with. Play that is highly repetitive often indicates a problem requiring further exploration. Therapists typically measure progress through session-to-session changes in play behavior.