Play Therapy in West Windsor, NJ

Photo of Susan Glaser, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Glaser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Windsor, NJ 08550  (Online Only)
I find expressive arts therapy to be particularly effective with adolescents, and I use play therapy with younger children.
I am here to support you as an individual, a couple, or a family. If you are experiencing stress, depression, or anxiety due to a change in your circumstances, or to ongoing relationship problems, my goal is to assist you to heal and resolve difficulties. I work with many different family and marital issues, including helping adoptive families. I welcome couples and families, including young children, with whom I work in close consultation with their parents. Cómo terapeuta bilingual, estoy aquí para apoyar a Ud. como individuo, pareja, o familia.
I find expressive arts therapy to be particularly effective with adolescents, and I use play therapy with younger children.
I am here to support you as an individual, a couple, or a family. If you are experiencing stress, depression, or anxiety due to a change in your circumstances, or to ongoing relationship problems, my goal is to assist you to heal and resolve difficulties. I work with many different family and marital issues, including helping adoptive families. I welcome couples and families, including young children, with whom I work in close consultation with their parents. Cómo terapeuta bilingual, estoy aquí para apoyar a Ud. como individuo, pareja, o familia.
(908) 428-6901 View (908) 428-6901
Photo of Cheryl Stashkevetch, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cheryl Stashkevetch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Windsor, NJ 08550
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.
(609) 804-5048 View (609) 804-5048
Photo of Jennifer Lesage, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Lesage
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Windsor, NJ 08550
One of the most difficult aspects of being a parent is seeing your child in pain and feeling like there is nothing that you can do to help. Have you become increasingly concerned about your child's behavior at home or school? Do you worry that your child is struggling with day to day functioning? Are their behaviors difficult to understand and manage? Does the smallest thing seem to trigger your child? Is your teen withdrawing and not engaging in activities that once brought them joy? Is your teen engaging in harmful behaviors?
One of the most difficult aspects of being a parent is seeing your child in pain and feeling like there is nothing that you can do to help. Have you become increasingly concerned about your child's behavior at home or school? Do you worry that your child is struggling with day to day functioning? Are their behaviors difficult to understand and manage? Does the smallest thing seem to trigger your child? Is your teen withdrawing and not engaging in activities that once brought them joy? Is your teen engaging in harmful behaviors?
(609) 454-6505 View (609) 454-6505
Photo of Lisa Steinhilber, EdS, LPC, NCC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Steinhilber
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West Windsor, NJ 08550
In order to find happiness, we must first accept and learn from our struggles in order to achieve personal enlightenment. As a solution-focused therapist, it is my goal to help others identify difficult emotions in order to better understand and resolve challenges. I have successfully helped individuals, couples and families improve communication, regain trust and achieve a deeper connection with self and others.
In order to find happiness, we must first accept and learn from our struggles in order to achieve personal enlightenment. As a solution-focused therapist, it is my goal to help others identify difficult emotions in order to better understand and resolve challenges. I have successfully helped individuals, couples and families improve communication, regain trust and achieve a deeper connection with self and others.
(609) 257-4578 View (609) 257-4578

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ahmika Johnson, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ahmika Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Trenton, NJ 08619
I will meet you where you are on your healing journey. As your therapist, it is my goal to cultivate a welcoming and judgment free zone that will allow you to explore your emotions, thoughts and feelings in a safe environment. Each person is the expert in their own lives, and through utilizing an empowering and holistic approach, we will identify and work towards your goals. During our time together we may talk, play and/or practice mindfulness-it is all guided by your unique needs. I am grateful to take this journey with you!
I will meet you where you are on your healing journey. As your therapist, it is my goal to cultivate a welcoming and judgment free zone that will allow you to explore your emotions, thoughts and feelings in a safe environment. Each person is the expert in their own lives, and through utilizing an empowering and holistic approach, we will identify and work towards your goals. During our time together we may talk, play and/or practice mindfulness-it is all guided by your unique needs. I am grateful to take this journey with you!
(609) 554-5314 View (609) 554-5314
Photo of Eren Moore, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eren Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lawrence, NJ 08648
I am trained in faith-based counseling, Creative Arts Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Narrative therapy, Grief/loss, Play therapy, and working with survivors of racial trauma, sexual trauma/abuse, human trafficking, and other social justice issues.
I have experience working with men and women of all ages who are dealing with stress, anxiety/depression, and unresolved trauma and loss. I am passionate about hearing your story and journeying with you to explore your therapeutic needs/concerns. I will also help you identify core issues such as life transitions, stressors or negative core beliefs, or cognitive distortions and provide the support and tools that you need to achieve your therapeutic goals.
I am trained in faith-based counseling, Creative Arts Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Narrative therapy, Grief/loss, Play therapy, and working with survivors of racial trauma, sexual trauma/abuse, human trafficking, and other social justice issues.
I have experience working with men and women of all ages who are dealing with stress, anxiety/depression, and unresolved trauma and loss. I am passionate about hearing your story and journeying with you to explore your therapeutic needs/concerns. I will also help you identify core issues such as life transitions, stressors or negative core beliefs, or cognitive distortions and provide the support and tools that you need to achieve your therapeutic goals.
(609) 631-3162 View (609) 631-3162
Photo of PJ Wenger - Insights Counseling & Training Services, LPC, MFT, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Insights Counseling & Training Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MFT, NCC
Verified Verified
Hamilton Square, NJ 08690
PJ works with children and adolescents, utilizing sandtray therapy, play therapy, and the expressive arts.
People come to therapy with issues. We believe they also bring the solutions to those issues. Our role is to assist in the process of discovering and implementing those solutions. We have learned by doing our own individual and group work how important it is to "walk the talk". We are prepared to take that walk with you and grow and learn together. You are the expert in your life and our expertise can help you with the next stage of your journey.
PJ works with children and adolescents, utilizing sandtray therapy, play therapy, and the expressive arts.
People come to therapy with issues. We believe they also bring the solutions to those issues. Our role is to assist in the process of discovering and implementing those solutions. We have learned by doing our own individual and group work how important it is to "walk the talk". We are prepared to take that walk with you and grow and learn together. You are the expert in your life and our expertise can help you with the next stage of your journey.
(908) 304-9142 View (908) 304-9142
Photo of Carolyn Flynn, MA, LPC, CD, IMH-E, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carolyn Flynn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CD, IMH-E
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08540
I utilize psychodynamic and current trauma practices for adults, and offer play therapy and parent coaching for young children.
I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, difficulty with life transitions, relationship issues, and traumatic stress as well as young children with behavioral difficulties, anxiety/depression or who have experienced a traumatic event. My clients come to me for help moving through difficult times with the goal of emerging more fully aligned with their true self.
I utilize psychodynamic and current trauma practices for adults, and offer play therapy and parent coaching for young children.
I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, difficulty with life transitions, relationship issues, and traumatic stress as well as young children with behavioral difficulties, anxiety/depression or who have experienced a traumatic event. My clients come to me for help moving through difficult times with the goal of emerging more fully aligned with their true self.
(908) 836-7545 View (908) 836-7545
Marie Kifun Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCN, QEEGD
Verified Verified
East Windsor, NJ 08520
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 Cara Natale Ruddy, MSS, LCSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cara Natale Ruddy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
Post masters, I have received advanced training in child development, attachment theory, Play Therapy, Mindfulness Based Play-Family Therapy, Sandplay Therapy, EMDR, and DDP (Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy).
There are times in life when we find ourselves feeling unbalanced, unsatisfied, lonely, or hurt. Healing and change begin when we feel deeply heard. I am a Registered Play Therapist and am skilled at helping children express their feelings, experiences and deep emotions. I meet each client with warmth and genuine curiosity as I am taught about their life experiences. Together we identify and challenge roadblocks to healthy coping, growing and thriving. I approach my therapeutic work with the ability to listen, to play and to be solutions-oriented.
Post masters, I have received advanced training in child development, attachment theory, Play Therapy, Mindfulness Based Play-Family Therapy, Sandplay Therapy, EMDR, and DDP (Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy).
There are times in life when we find ourselves feeling unbalanced, unsatisfied, lonely, or hurt. Healing and change begin when we feel deeply heard. I am a Registered Play Therapist and am skilled at helping children express their feelings, experiences and deep emotions. I meet each client with warmth and genuine curiosity as I am taught about their life experiences. Together we identify and challenge roadblocks to healthy coping, growing and thriving. I approach my therapeutic work with the ability to listen, to play and to be solutions-oriented.
(781) 916-9573 View (781) 916-9573
Photo of Kim Finnie, MSW, CSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kim Finnie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, NJ 08619
The primary therapeutic approaches Kim uses are: Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Sand Play, EMDR.
Some of human suffering is about the way we experience the events of our lives rather than the things themselves. Therapy offers an opportunity to bring awareness to our experiences and change our relationship to them rather than try to change the events themselves. Through this approach, we gain a sense of control in our lives and positively experience and influence its direction. If we believe that we have power within us to achieve health and happiness, then the events in our lives that cause us pain and suffering can be seen as an opportunity to learn about ourselves and experience personal growth.
The primary therapeutic approaches Kim uses are: Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Sand Play, EMDR.
Some of human suffering is about the way we experience the events of our lives rather than the things themselves. Therapy offers an opportunity to bring awareness to our experiences and change our relationship to them rather than try to change the events themselves. Through this approach, we gain a sense of control in our lives and positively experience and influence its direction. If we believe that we have power within us to achieve health and happiness, then the events in our lives that cause us pain and suffering can be seen as an opportunity to learn about ourselves and experience personal growth.
(856) 942-4717 View (856) 942-4717
Photo of Maggie Masterton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maggie Masterton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
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.
(856) 347-3475 View (856) 347-3475
Photo of Mahuya Ghosh, PhD, Psychologist
Mahuya Ghosh
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Skillman, NJ 08558
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.
(609) 688-8300 View (609) 688-8300
Photo of Geraldine V Oades-Sese, PhD, Psychologist
Geraldine V Oades-Sese
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
Interventions include academic and organization strategies, play therapy, CBT, behavior management, and stress reduction/mindfulness.
Life is filled with many opportunities as well as challenges. My goal is to help children and adolescents recognize and seize those opportunities and overcome any challenges and obstacles that get in their way. By helping them create a positive mindset, build effective coping strategies, and expand their repertoire of problem-solving skills, they can live a healthy, satisfying, and successful social and academic life. The earlier these skills are cultivated within the child or adolescent, the greater the opportunities to practice and utilize them to their benefit. Please visit my website: www.childresilience.com
Interventions include academic and organization strategies, play therapy, CBT, behavior management, and stress reduction/mindfulness.
Life is filled with many opportunities as well as challenges. My goal is to help children and adolescents recognize and seize those opportunities and overcome any challenges and obstacles that get in their way. By helping them create a positive mindset, build effective coping strategies, and expand their repertoire of problem-solving skills, they can live a healthy, satisfying, and successful social and academic life. The earlier these skills are cultivated within the child or adolescent, the greater the opportunities to practice and utilize them to their benefit. Please visit my website: www.childresilience.com
(732) 387-4209 View (732) 387-4209
Photo of Angela Konin, MA, MSW, LSW
Angela Konin
Licensed Social Worker, MA, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
Waitlist for new clients
Offering down-to-earth, trauma-informed, affirming therapy services for children through adults in person and via telehealth, I help clients feel seen and appreciated for their authentic selves. As we work together to understand current issues, uncover root causes, and explore possible solutions, client dignity and autonomy are centered. With connection, sensitivity, and curiosity, I utilize a combination of approaches including Internal Family Systems, somatic psychotherapy, mindfulness and self compassion, art, play, and more, to help clients gain insight and make positive changes.
Offering down-to-earth, trauma-informed, affirming therapy services for children through adults in person and via telehealth, I help clients feel seen and appreciated for their authentic selves. As we work together to understand current issues, uncover root causes, and explore possible solutions, client dignity and autonomy are centered. With connection, sensitivity, and curiosity, I utilize a combination of approaches including Internal Family Systems, somatic psychotherapy, mindfulness and self compassion, art, play, and more, to help clients gain insight and make positive changes.
(609) 745-1458 View (609) 745-1458
Photo of Sara Takla - Child And Teen Therapist, LCSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Takla - Child And Teen Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
I am a licensed clinical social worker and registered play therapist.
Reaching out to a therapist is not easy. Regardless of the reason, calling a stranger to ask for help for you or your child can feel intimidating. I would like to take a moment to reassure you that this first step is often the hardest, but it does get easier. I'm here to support you on this journey. I offer a warm, empathic, and client-centered approach focused on making you feel heard, seen, and supported. I believe the client-therapist relationship is the most essential part of therapy and will work to build your trust. I focus on making sessions a safe space to share your feelings, learn new skills, and begin to make changes.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and registered play therapist.
Reaching out to a therapist is not easy. Regardless of the reason, calling a stranger to ask for help for you or your child can feel intimidating. I would like to take a moment to reassure you that this first step is often the hardest, but it does get easier. I'm here to support you on this journey. I offer a warm, empathic, and client-centered approach focused on making you feel heard, seen, and supported. I believe the client-therapist relationship is the most essential part of therapy and will work to build your trust. I focus on making sessions a safe space to share your feelings, learn new skills, and begin to make changes.
(609) 245-5211 View (609) 245-5211
Photo of Manju James Tharayil, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Manju James Tharayil
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08542
I use multiple therapeutic techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Therapy and Play Therapy.
I recognize that mental health is an integral part of for our overall well-being. My mission is to provide professional help, in a safe, comfortable and non-judgmental environment, to those facing mental health or behavioral challenges. My services are highly personalized and tailored to my client's needs to ensure growth and satisfaction during the therapeutic process. I am here for you, with help, hope and healing, every step of the way.
I use multiple therapeutic techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Therapy and Play Therapy.
I recognize that mental health is an integral part of for our overall well-being. My mission is to provide professional help, in a safe, comfortable and non-judgmental environment, to those facing mental health or behavioral challenges. My services are highly personalized and tailored to my client's needs to ensure growth and satisfaction during the therapeutic process. I am here for you, with help, hope and healing, every step of the way.
(908) 325-3564 View (908) 325-3564
Photo of Robyn A Schindler - Paint the Stars Art Therapy, LLC, LPC, LCAT, NCC, ATR-BC, LPAT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Paint the Stars Art Therapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCAT, NCC, ATR-BC, LPAT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08540
We specialize in Clinical Art Therapy, utilizing additional creative outlets such as play therapy techniques including sand-tray, and traditional psychotherapy techniques.
As dedicated therapists, our top priority is to help you not only achieve greatness but to believe in that greatness as well. Have you tried other counseling options but none have helped? Paint The Stars Art Therapy offers a wide variety of creative outlets to be used alongside traditional psychotherapy in order to help children, teen and adults cope with various issues. We specialize in working with children/teens/college students ages 3-22 and adults 23+ in need of alternatives to talk therapy or those who want something more. We are happy to lend an ear and a paintbrush.
We specialize in Clinical Art Therapy, utilizing additional creative outlets such as play therapy techniques including sand-tray, and traditional psychotherapy techniques.
As dedicated therapists, our top priority is to help you not only achieve greatness but to believe in that greatness as well. Have you tried other counseling options but none have helped? Paint The Stars Art Therapy offers a wide variety of creative outlets to be used alongside traditional psychotherapy in order to help children, teen and adults cope with various issues. We specialize in working with children/teens/college students ages 3-22 and adults 23+ in need of alternatives to talk therapy or those who want something more. We are happy to lend an ear and a paintbrush.
(732) 820-3292 View (732) 820-3292
Photo of Patricia Gunerman - Licensed Professional Counseling Services, LPC, EdS-MFT, MA, MS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Licensed Professional Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EdS-MFT, MA, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Ewing, NJ 08618
I provide Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Family Systems, Strategic/Structural, psychodynamic, play and creative therapies in order to resolve psychological symptoms for people ages 4-84 years old.
Reaching out to a professional takes courage. When struggles and unexpected challenges arise, it can lead to symptoms of anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, OCD, and many other psychological and emotional symptoms. Sometimes stress leads to compulsive behaviors, including; over indulging in alcohol and substance misuse. We encourage self-exploration into the patterns that keep individuals stuck, and prevent them from moving forward. We help client's capitalize on their strengths to focus on reaching their highest potential.
I provide Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Family Systems, Strategic/Structural, psychodynamic, play and creative therapies in order to resolve psychological symptoms for people ages 4-84 years old.
Reaching out to a professional takes courage. When struggles and unexpected challenges arise, it can lead to symptoms of anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, OCD, and many other psychological and emotional symptoms. Sometimes stress leads to compulsive behaviors, including; over indulging in alcohol and substance misuse. We encourage self-exploration into the patterns that keep individuals stuck, and prevent them from moving forward. We help client's capitalize on their strengths to focus on reaching their highest potential.
(267) 833-2425 View (267) 833-2425
Photo of Karen M Sheridan, PhD, Psychologist
Karen M Sheridan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Hamilton, NJ 08619
I am a Licensed Psychologist with a Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology. I specialize in therapy for children, pre-school through adolescence, and their families. I also work with a broad spectrum of adults and couples. I combine therapeutic play, mind-body and brain-based therapies, mindfulness, and cognitive-behavioral techniques to help children better understand their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. Through therapy, children can then learn to make better choices, have healthier relationships, and feel positive about themselves. My work with children includes trauma, grief, adjustment to parent separation/divorce, difficulties with mood, problem behaviors, social challenges, ADD/ADHD; Asperger's Disorder, and Autism.
I am a Licensed Psychologist with a Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology. I specialize in therapy for children, pre-school through adolescence, and their families. I also work with a broad spectrum of adults and couples. I combine therapeutic play, mind-body and brain-based therapies, mindfulness, and cognitive-behavioral techniques to help children better understand their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. Through therapy, children can then learn to make better choices, have healthier relationships, and feel positive about themselves. My work with children includes trauma, grief, adjustment to parent separation/divorce, difficulties with mood, problem behaviors, social challenges, ADD/ADHD; Asperger's Disorder, and Autism.
(267) 281-6006 View (267) 281-6006

See more therapy options for West Windsor

Play Therapy

Who is play therapy for?

Play therapy is generally targeted to children between the ages of 3 and 11 who have social, emotional, or behavioral difficulties. Play therapy has also been found helpful for children who have experienced physical or emotional abuse or witnessed atrocities. Play therapy is also often recommended for children who are undergoing major medical procedures or who are suffering from chronic illness; many children’s hospitals are equipped to offer play therapy on-site. Play therapy is also sometimes used for adults; creative writing, music, and art are expressive forms that can all be adapted for therapeutic purposes.

Why do people need play therapy?

Children often do not have the language skills or words to know or to express what is troubling them. Yet they often spontaneously draw or use playthings to depict scenarios that reflect problems in their everyday life. Play therapy provides children with an array of objects and play situations to act out their feelings or experiences so that therapists can get a clear picture of what children might be struggling with and help them find solutions. In addition, play therapists are skilled at helping children understand their inner experience and find words for them, necessary steps toward helping children learn to control their own behavior and come up with solutions to problems they encounter.

What happens in play therapy?

A child enters a comfortable playroom where they are free to choose the objects they want to play with. The play therapist will typically observe how they play with the toys—whether a sandbox, puppets, dolls and action figures, trucks, costumes, drawing and painting materials, or more—because such play provides clues to a child’s family and social relationships, difficulties they are encountering in the world, and what going on inside themselves. Sometimes the therapist may ask the child to use the play objects to tell a story about their family. Using the same instruments of play, therapists can help children discover more advantageous ways of thinking and behaving.

What kinds of problems do play therapists treat?

Play therapy can help children who display destructive or self-destructive impulses; children who seem angry, sad, or fearful; children who experience frequent social, emotional, family, or school difficulty. Play therapy is often of value to children who have experienced a loss or distressing family experience, who are regularly exposed to family conflict, or who have been physically or emotionally abused. Play therapy can help children who are perpetrators of bullying as well as those who are targets of bullying. It helps children learn to identify their feelings, to express them in constructive ways, and to regulate them so they can get on with the business of development.

How long does play therapy last?

Play therapy sessions may last for 30 to 45 minutes, and they usually occur weekly for about 20 sessions. Each session is tailored to the individual child and the kinds of problems they are struggling with. Play that is highly repetitive often indicates a problem requiring further exploration. Therapists typically measure progress through session-to-session changes in play behavior.