Play Therapy in Dix Hills, NY

Photo of Denise Ferrazano, LCSW, R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Denise Ferrazano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, R
Verified Verified
Dix Hills, NY 11746
My approach is integrative, blending psychodynamic, holistic, cognitive-behavioral, play therapy and mindfulness techniques tailored to meet the needs of each client.
Are you feeling anxious, sad or overwhelmed? Do you need support in overcoming a significant obstacle in your personal or professional life or in making a major life decision? By providing a safe, caring and understanding therapeutic relationship, I will assist you in this journey. We will openly explore your difficulties, discuss techniques for coping with feelings, reach new resolutions, achieve solutions, establish and reach goals and improve your life and relationships with others. We'll work on developing positive coping skills for unhelpful thoughts and behaviors, so that you can live a joyful, healthy and peaceful life.
My approach is integrative, blending psychodynamic, holistic, cognitive-behavioral, play therapy and mindfulness techniques tailored to meet the needs of each client.
Are you feeling anxious, sad or overwhelmed? Do you need support in overcoming a significant obstacle in your personal or professional life or in making a major life decision? By providing a safe, caring and understanding therapeutic relationship, I will assist you in this journey. We will openly explore your difficulties, discuss techniques for coping with feelings, reach new resolutions, achieve solutions, establish and reach goals and improve your life and relationships with others. We'll work on developing positive coping skills for unhelpful thoughts and behaviors, so that you can live a joyful, healthy and peaceful life.
(516) 362-2624 View (516) 362-2624
Photo of Mary D Gnieser, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary D Gnieser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Dix Hills, NY 11746
It is a courageous act, reaching out to a stranger for help. This courage that brought you to this webpage is real and will take you to the next step of healing. Whether you are looking for answers for yourself or for someone you love, you are making the right decision by reaching out. Through a unique blend of Psychotherapy, Integrative Hypnotherapy, Bazi Analysis, Qi Gong, Mindfulness, I help move my clients to a better understanding of themselves, their relationships and the world in which they live, love and play. Thank you for stopping by today and I hope I hear from you soon!
It is a courageous act, reaching out to a stranger for help. This courage that brought you to this webpage is real and will take you to the next step of healing. Whether you are looking for answers for yourself or for someone you love, you are making the right decision by reaching out. Through a unique blend of Psychotherapy, Integrative Hypnotherapy, Bazi Analysis, Qi Gong, Mindfulness, I help move my clients to a better understanding of themselves, their relationships and the world in which they live, love and play. Thank you for stopping by today and I hope I hear from you soon!
(631) 865-5219 View (631) 865-5219
Photo of Adria Weinstein Gerber, MS, PsyD, Psychologist
Adria Weinstein Gerber
Psychologist, MS, PsyD
Verified Verified
Dix Hills, NY 11746  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My goal is to help people feel and function better in love, work, play and inner peace.
Hello, welcome to my page on psychology today. I'm a seasoned Clinical Psychologist working at Stony Brook University Hospital in their Outpatient Department. My work is eclectic and integrated between a dynamic perspective and integrative CBT. I work with people who want to learn to feel ok with their experiences, regulate their emotions, and create a more satisfying life. It is my clinical intention to help resolve the problems that prevent them from achieving these goals. I believe in empowering people to help themselves through self-understanding. Only when we know what is wrong do we have the potential to change it.
My goal is to help people feel and function better in love, work, play and inner peace.
Hello, welcome to my page on psychology today. I'm a seasoned Clinical Psychologist working at Stony Brook University Hospital in their Outpatient Department. My work is eclectic and integrated between a dynamic perspective and integrative CBT. I work with people who want to learn to feel ok with their experiences, regulate their emotions, and create a more satisfying life. It is my clinical intention to help resolve the problems that prevent them from achieving these goals. I believe in empowering people to help themselves through self-understanding. Only when we know what is wrong do we have the potential to change it.
(631) 619-5893 View (631) 619-5893
Photo of Kathleen R Hushion, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathleen R Hushion
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dix Hills, NY 11746
Children play in therapy.
In private practice for over 25 years, I have provided services to children, adolescents, adults and couples who are struggling with inner turmoil and the challenges of everyday life. I believe it is only by truly listenning to the bullied child, the nervous young man, the recently divorced woman, or the parents of an anorexic teen that a therapist can understand and provide the support and treatment that truly helps.
Children play in therapy.
In private practice for over 25 years, I have provided services to children, adolescents, adults and couples who are struggling with inner turmoil and the challenges of everyday life. I believe it is only by truly listenning to the bullied child, the nervous young man, the recently divorced woman, or the parents of an anorexic teen that a therapist can understand and provide the support and treatment that truly helps.
(631) 769-2210 View (631) 769-2210
Photo of Leslie Portillo, MA, LCAT, ATR-BC, Art Therapist
Leslie Portillo
Art Therapist, MA, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Dix Hills, NY 11746
Every so often, we just need to be silly, laugh, play, and create no matter how old we are.
Do you feel intimidated to express your personal life and struggles? Does this leave you feeling overwhelmed or stressed? You are not alone and I encourage you to take this next step in your healing journey. Although you may struggle to see your worth today, I'm here to remind you that you deserve a fulfilling future full of peace, self-love, and happiness. I love creating healing spaces where one can connect with their higher self. I use the creative process to explore emotions, reduce anxiety, increase self-esteem, and resolve other psychological conflicts.
Every so often, we just need to be silly, laugh, play, and create no matter how old we are.
Do you feel intimidated to express your personal life and struggles? Does this leave you feeling overwhelmed or stressed? You are not alone and I encourage you to take this next step in your healing journey. Although you may struggle to see your worth today, I'm here to remind you that you deserve a fulfilling future full of peace, self-love, and happiness. I love creating healing spaces where one can connect with their higher self. I use the creative process to explore emotions, reduce anxiety, increase self-esteem, and resolve other psychological conflicts.
(631) 840-6733 View (631) 840-6733
Photo of Dr. Leigh Rust, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Leigh Rust
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dix Hills, NY 11746
Throughout his clinical and school experience, Dr. Rust has gained extensive training in Child/Adolescent Psychology. He specializes in Anxiety, Depression, Behavioral Disorders, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. Dr. Rust often incorporates components of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Play Therapy, and principles of Behavior Analysis in his eclectic approach. He is exceptionally aware of the social, emotional and behavioral needs of a child and utilizes a “whole child” methodology.
Throughout his clinical and school experience, Dr. Rust has gained extensive training in Child/Adolescent Psychology. He specializes in Anxiety, Depression, Behavioral Disorders, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. Dr. Rust often incorporates components of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Play Therapy, and principles of Behavior Analysis in his eclectic approach. He is exceptionally aware of the social, emotional and behavioral needs of a child and utilizes a “whole child” methodology.
(516) 614-5599 View (516) 614-5599
Photo of Molly Lieberz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Molly Lieberz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dix Hills, NY 11746  (Online Only)
I am committed to helping individuals and families navigate life's challenges, find inner strength, and discover their true potential. I believe in a holistic approach to therapy, treating the entire person and recognizing the interconnectedness of their mental, emotional, and physical health. I strive to create a supportive and non-judgmental environment where clients feel safe, validated, and empowered to explore their challenges and strengths.
I am committed to helping individuals and families navigate life's challenges, find inner strength, and discover their true potential. I believe in a holistic approach to therapy, treating the entire person and recognizing the interconnectedness of their mental, emotional, and physical health. I strive to create a supportive and non-judgmental environment where clients feel safe, validated, and empowered to explore their challenges and strengths.
(646) 921-5319 View (646) 921-5319
Photo of Elyssa Jodi Yoos, LCSWR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elyssa Jodi Yoos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWR
Verified Verified
Dix Hills, NY 11746
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in private practice for over 20 years. My office is located in Commack, NY. I consider my practice style eclectic and goal oriented. I have experience with all age groups and populations but am currently accepting ages 18+. I use Cognitive Behavioral and Client Centered Approaches where I help my clients to understand their thought process and behaviors and work on small steps towards making positive changes in their lives.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in private practice for over 20 years. My office is located in Commack, NY. I consider my practice style eclectic and goal oriented. I have experience with all age groups and populations but am currently accepting ages 18+. I use Cognitive Behavioral and Client Centered Approaches where I help my clients to understand their thought process and behaviors and work on small steps towards making positive changes in their lives.
(631) 543-8877 View (631) 543-8877
Gail I Mandra Stallone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Dix Hills, NY 11746
*****Long Island Press voted "Best on Long Island for Psychotherapist". ***** My practice offers a broad spectrum of services which includes providing in-office/home, long/short term: individual (children, adolescents, adults), marital, and family psychotherapy. I Collaborate with psychiatrists (medication), attorneys (divorce/estate plannng) and neurologists (ADHD), to ensure the client receives proper care . A treatment plan is formulated for symptom management and stress reduction. Additionally, a detailed Psychosocial history and Mental Health Assessment is completed, together resulting in a working diagnosis. The client may then remain in treatment with me or will be referred to the appropriate setting to fit their individual needs.
*****Long Island Press voted "Best on Long Island for Psychotherapist". ***** My practice offers a broad spectrum of services which includes providing in-office/home, long/short term: individual (children, adolescents, adults), marital, and family psychotherapy. I Collaborate with psychiatrists (medication), attorneys (divorce/estate plannng) and neurologists (ADHD), to ensure the client receives proper care . A treatment plan is formulated for symptom management and stress reduction. Additionally, a detailed Psychosocial history and Mental Health Assessment is completed, together resulting in a working diagnosis. The client may then remain in treatment with me or will be referred to the appropriate setting to fit their individual needs.
(631) 706-4494 View (631) 706-4494
Photo of Laura A Ness - Balancing Minds WellNess , PsyD, Psychologist
Balancing Minds WellNess
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Dix Hills, NY 11746
"Just when the caterpillar thought the world was over, it became a butterfly." I am a compassionate and experienced Clinical Psychologist attending to the emotional and psychological needs of individuals, children, families and couples in a safe and confidential environment. I treat trauma, dissociation, anxiety, depression, anger and relationship issues. I have significant clinical experience treating trauma based disorders as well as dissociative disorders.
"Just when the caterpillar thought the world was over, it became a butterfly." I am a compassionate and experienced Clinical Psychologist attending to the emotional and psychological needs of individuals, children, families and couples in a safe and confidential environment. I treat trauma, dissociation, anxiety, depression, anger and relationship issues. I have significant clinical experience treating trauma based disorders as well as dissociative disorders.
(631) 892-6108 View (631) 892-6108
Photo of Ashley Kronen Marotta, PhD, Psychologist
Ashley Kronen Marotta
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Dix Hills, NY 11746
As a therapist, I strive to be genuine and to create a nonjudgmental environment in which clients can be open and feel accepted. Therapy is a collaborative effort in which I work together with my clients to understand their challenges, identify their obstacles, and set realistic goals to bring about meaningful change in their lives. Therapy is not "one size fits all" and I utilize a style that integrates cognitive-behavioral, interpersonal, and dynamic interventions, tailoring treatment to the individual needs of each client. Life is challenging and sometimes we can all use a little extra support.
As a therapist, I strive to be genuine and to create a nonjudgmental environment in which clients can be open and feel accepted. Therapy is a collaborative effort in which I work together with my clients to understand their challenges, identify their obstacles, and set realistic goals to bring about meaningful change in their lives. Therapy is not "one size fits all" and I utilize a style that integrates cognitive-behavioral, interpersonal, and dynamic interventions, tailoring treatment to the individual needs of each client. Life is challenging and sometimes we can all use a little extra support.
(631) 496-1617 View (631) 496-1617
Photo of Jenna Marie Vogler - Spotless Mind Mental Health Counseling PLLC, LMHC, CASAC-T, Counselor
Spotless Mind Mental Health Counseling PLLC
Counselor, LMHC, CASAC-T
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Dix Hills, NY 11746
We take the greatest pride in ensuring that no individual is left without access to care by always responding to new patient inquiries immediately and accommodating the financial needs of our clients.  The well-being of our clients and the individuals of the communities we serve are our top priority.  No person should have to be without a supportive professional when they find themselves in a situation where reaching out for help is of the utmost importance.
We take the greatest pride in ensuring that no individual is left without access to care by always responding to new patient inquiries immediately and accommodating the financial needs of our clients.  The well-being of our clients and the individuals of the communities we serve are our top priority.  No person should have to be without a supportive professional when they find themselves in a situation where reaching out for help is of the utmost importance.
(631) 438-8310 View (631) 438-8310
Photo of Donna Fodera, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Donna Fodera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dix Hills, NY 11746
As a clinical social worker and psychotherapist with a wide range of expertise, I can help guide you toward self-awareness in a supportive environment . I have had tremendous success dealing with individuals suffering from anxiety and depression along with families, couples and individuals looking for change in their lives. As a cancer survivor I have learned from my own recovery how to support and nurture others and help you find the answers you seek.
As a clinical social worker and psychotherapist with a wide range of expertise, I can help guide you toward self-awareness in a supportive environment . I have had tremendous success dealing with individuals suffering from anxiety and depression along with families, couples and individuals looking for change in their lives. As a cancer survivor I have learned from my own recovery how to support and nurture others and help you find the answers you seek.
(631) 876-1152 View (631) 876-1152
Photo of Livia Dubinsky, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Livia Dubinsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Dix Hills, NY 11746
Smiling is hard when there’s only pain inside. High anxiety, racing thoughts and loneliness overshadow every hint of joy in your life. As your energy plummets, small tasks become huge. Just talking seems like a chore. Irritability and exhaustion are a constant battle. Loved ones complain that you are removed and shutdown. You want to let them in, but it’s hard to trust anyone. It’s become impossible to turn off that negative voice in your head that keeps saying you aren’t good enough. No one understands. Everything triggers you. The past is tied up with the present, your thoughts are dark, and you’re afraid of losing everything
Smiling is hard when there’s only pain inside. High anxiety, racing thoughts and loneliness overshadow every hint of joy in your life. As your energy plummets, small tasks become huge. Just talking seems like a chore. Irritability and exhaustion are a constant battle. Loved ones complain that you are removed and shutdown. You want to let them in, but it’s hard to trust anyone. It’s become impossible to turn off that negative voice in your head that keeps saying you aren’t good enough. No one understands. Everything triggers you. The past is tied up with the present, your thoughts are dark, and you’re afraid of losing everything
(516) 271-3290 View (516) 271-3290
Photo of Hosna Hamidi, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Hosna Hamidi
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dix Hills, NY 11746
I strive to cultivate a therapeutic space where clients feel safe to fully express their thoughts and feelings in an empathetic and nonjudgmental environment. I am devoted to a collaborative process of assisting individuals with identifying and achieving their goals. I believe that the therapeutic process is beneficial in helping clients gain a deeper understanding of their own emotions, attain self-efficacy on how to cope in times of adversity, and ultimately become self-aware to foster significant changes in their lives that are parallel to their genuine beliefs.
I strive to cultivate a therapeutic space where clients feel safe to fully express their thoughts and feelings in an empathetic and nonjudgmental environment. I am devoted to a collaborative process of assisting individuals with identifying and achieving their goals. I believe that the therapeutic process is beneficial in helping clients gain a deeper understanding of their own emotions, attain self-efficacy on how to cope in times of adversity, and ultimately become self-aware to foster significant changes in their lives that are parallel to their genuine beliefs.
(631) 888-6851 View (631) 888-6851
Photo of Stacy Pellettieri - Long Island Counseling, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Long Island Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Dix Hills, NY 11746
Sometimes all that stands in the way of your happiness and peace of mind is the way you think about things. It's remarkable how our own thoughts can work against us creating anxiety, depression and an overall feeling of being trapped or stuck. The happiness that you truly want and deserve is actually within your control! Whether it's getting rid of your fears, understanding why you feel sad, finally having that healthy relationship you have been yearning for, reducing stress, finding balance, or finally being able to answer the question "what will make me happy?".
Sometimes all that stands in the way of your happiness and peace of mind is the way you think about things. It's remarkable how our own thoughts can work against us creating anxiety, depression and an overall feeling of being trapped or stuck. The happiness that you truly want and deserve is actually within your control! Whether it's getting rid of your fears, understanding why you feel sad, finally having that healthy relationship you have been yearning for, reducing stress, finding balance, or finally being able to answer the question "what will make me happy?".
(631) 250-2805 View (631) 250-2805
Photo of Jean Marie Melconian, LCAT, ATRBC, Art Therapist
Jean Marie Melconian
Art Therapist, LCAT, ATRBC
Verified Verified
Dix Hills, NY 11746
Art allows people to express themselves and their ideas without having to put them into words. This is one of the reasons that art therapy is so effective especially with children and adolescents, Some of the issues that most benefit form art therapy include; trauma, physical and developmental disabilities, PTSD, ADD/ADHD and mental health or behavioral health issues.
Art allows people to express themselves and their ideas without having to put them into words. This is one of the reasons that art therapy is so effective especially with children and adolescents, Some of the issues that most benefit form art therapy include; trauma, physical and developmental disabilities, PTSD, ADD/ADHD and mental health or behavioral health issues.
(631) 502-3544 View (631) 502-3544
Photo of Gregory J Mahoney, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gregory J Mahoney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Dix Hills, NY 11746
Having problems with excessive worries, self-doubt, lingering sadness, feelings of frustration, hopelessness or troubles getting past traumatic experiences? Parents, are you worried about your child, teen or young adult & want to try to reach them or provide them with more support? Work problems, relationship issues, school struggles or just generally feeling lost? Therapy can be a great avenue to take back & reclaim your life! Facing hard issues can be difficult, scary even -however- it can be much easier & worthwhile with someone who has both extensive clinical & real-life experience to guide and support you through life's maze.
Having problems with excessive worries, self-doubt, lingering sadness, feelings of frustration, hopelessness or troubles getting past traumatic experiences? Parents, are you worried about your child, teen or young adult & want to try to reach them or provide them with more support? Work problems, relationship issues, school struggles or just generally feeling lost? Therapy can be a great avenue to take back & reclaim your life! Facing hard issues can be difficult, scary even -however- it can be much easier & worthwhile with someone who has both extensive clinical & real-life experience to guide and support you through life's maze.
(631) 529-2178 View (631) 529-2178
Photo of Jaimie Zelinger, MFT
Jaimie Zelinger
MFT
Verified Verified
Dix Hills, NY 11746
Do you feel stuck sometimes or feel lost with no one to turn to? Are you facing a significant life transition? Have you been trying to get yourself out of the same old patterns and it’s just not working? I am a Marriage and Family Therapist who works with individuals, couples, and families on improving anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship issues, communication struggles, self-care, and life changes. I will work with you to create coping skills and empower you to work towards increased happiness.
Do you feel stuck sometimes or feel lost with no one to turn to? Are you facing a significant life transition? Have you been trying to get yourself out of the same old patterns and it’s just not working? I am a Marriage and Family Therapist who works with individuals, couples, and families on improving anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship issues, communication struggles, self-care, and life changes. I will work with you to create coping skills and empower you to work towards increased happiness.
(516) 774-1434 View (516) 774-1434
Photo of Dr. Eric Michael Urevich, DSW, LMSW, MS, CASAC
Dr. Eric Michael Urevich
Licensed Master Social Worker, DSW, LMSW, MS, CASAC
Verified Verified
Dix Hills, NY 11746
Children, Adolescents and Adults today are facing challenges that are often extremely complicated, confusing and overwhelming. From the harmful aspects of social media impacting children to the economic and physical stress on parents working to keep their family healthy and thriving, things just seem more difficult. Families Together Resource Center is here to provide the support and resources needed to help make life for you, your child and/or your family more manageable, peaceful and fulfilling.
Children, Adolescents and Adults today are facing challenges that are often extremely complicated, confusing and overwhelming. From the harmful aspects of social media impacting children to the economic and physical stress on parents working to keep their family healthy and thriving, things just seem more difficult. Families Together Resource Center is here to provide the support and resources needed to help make life for you, your child and/or your family more manageable, peaceful and fulfilling.
(516) 386-4307 View (516) 386-4307

See more therapy options for Dix Hills

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.