Play Therapy in Woodbury, NY

Photo of Philip D Stein, PhD, Psychologist
Philip D Stein
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Woodbury, NY 11797
I am a psychologist with over thirty years experience treating childhood disorders. My experience has been that early childhood therapy and parent-training are most effective, and emotional healing occurs most readily, when parent and child are seen together. Focus during, and between sessions, involves teaching of play skills and modeling of effective limit setting. For older children, self modulation of behavior is a primary objective. Utilizing these techniques, I have successfully treated anxiety problems (such as selective mutism), depressive symptoms, and developmental disorders (such as Aspergers Syndrome).
I am a psychologist with over thirty years experience treating childhood disorders. My experience has been that early childhood therapy and parent-training are most effective, and emotional healing occurs most readily, when parent and child are seen together. Focus during, and between sessions, involves teaching of play skills and modeling of effective limit setting. For older children, self modulation of behavior is a primary objective. Utilizing these techniques, I have successfully treated anxiety problems (such as selective mutism), depressive symptoms, and developmental disorders (such as Aspergers Syndrome).
(516) 693-8089 View (516) 693-8089
Photo of Megan Romano, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Megan Romano
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Woodbury, NY 11797
I understand how difficult it can be to decide to seek help for life's obstacles. In my practice, my goal is to help my clients become experts on themselves. Every end is a new beginning. If you're challenged with relationship issues, family conflict, parenting, a trauma history, depression, anxiety or have a child or an adolescent who is struggling with behavioral issues, or just looking for support and guidance through a challenging situation and looking to move in a new direction, I encourage you to let me help you with your experiences. I am dedicated to getting to the root of stuck patterns. There are techniques out there!
I understand how difficult it can be to decide to seek help for life's obstacles. In my practice, my goal is to help my clients become experts on themselves. Every end is a new beginning. If you're challenged with relationship issues, family conflict, parenting, a trauma history, depression, anxiety or have a child or an adolescent who is struggling with behavioral issues, or just looking for support and guidance through a challenging situation and looking to move in a new direction, I encourage you to let me help you with your experiences. I am dedicated to getting to the root of stuck patterns. There are techniques out there!
(646) 845-0615 View (646) 845-0615
Photo of Dara Melnick, LMHC, NCC, CASAC-T, Counselor
Dara Melnick
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, CASAC-T
Verified Verified
Woodbury, NY 11797
You have a made a courageous and meaningful step in your life by searching for a therapist. Together we can make your life a beautiful place to live in. It can be a difficult journey but you don't have to do it alone. I work with individuals of all ages and with a wide variety of concerns ranging from Anxiety, Depression to self injurious behaviors and family conflict. I do have an area of expertise: I see adults, young adults and children who are experiences grief and loss.
You have a made a courageous and meaningful step in your life by searching for a therapist. Together we can make your life a beautiful place to live in. It can be a difficult journey but you don't have to do it alone. I work with individuals of all ages and with a wide variety of concerns ranging from Anxiety, Depression to self injurious behaviors and family conflict. I do have an area of expertise: I see adults, young adults and children who are experiences grief and loss.
(631) 212-0542 View (631) 212-0542
Photo of Stacey Law, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stacey Law
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, NY 11797
As a psychotherapist I work from a compassionate and empathetic perspective. My work takes in to account the whole person by exploring my client’s life experiences in order to build increased awareness to promote growth and a deeper sense of healing. I help clients to identify undiscovered potential, create positive change, and work through a multitude of issues. Clients come to me to work through anxiety, depression, trauma, educational issues, low self-esteem, times of transition and relationship issues. I work with all types of clients. I frequently work with those struggling with anxiety and various ways in which it manifests.
As a psychotherapist I work from a compassionate and empathetic perspective. My work takes in to account the whole person by exploring my client’s life experiences in order to build increased awareness to promote growth and a deeper sense of healing. I help clients to identify undiscovered potential, create positive change, and work through a multitude of issues. Clients come to me to work through anxiety, depression, trauma, educational issues, low self-esteem, times of transition and relationship issues. I work with all types of clients. I frequently work with those struggling with anxiety and various ways in which it manifests.
(516) 246-2822 View (516) 246-2822
Photo of Sally Ann Graham - Reflective Psychology Associates, PLLC, PhD, Psychologist
Reflective Psychology Associates, PLLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, NY 11797  (Online Only)
Relationships are at the core of our being. They enrich our daily lives, fuel new experiences, and are one of the most important ways we come to know ourselves. All of us feel the need to belong and connect with others; we strive to be accepted in ways that feel genuine, meaningful and satisfying. Unhealthy relationships can take their toll, but good relationships improve all aspects of life, strengthening health, mind, and connections with others. However, all relationships can fall off track and go through periods of conflict, or be impacted by trauma, which may lead us to feel frustrated, stuck, dissatisfied, and/or frightened.
Relationships are at the core of our being. They enrich our daily lives, fuel new experiences, and are one of the most important ways we come to know ourselves. All of us feel the need to belong and connect with others; we strive to be accepted in ways that feel genuine, meaningful and satisfying. Unhealthy relationships can take their toll, but good relationships improve all aspects of life, strengthening health, mind, and connections with others. However, all relationships can fall off track and go through periods of conflict, or be impacted by trauma, which may lead us to feel frustrated, stuck, dissatisfied, and/or frightened.
(516) 543-3867 View (516) 543-3867
Photo of Long Island Psychotherapy Counseling - Long Island Psychotherapy & Counseling P.C., LCSW-R, LMHC, CASAC, CMC, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Long Island Psychotherapy & Counseling P.C.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, LMHC, CASAC, CMC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, NY 11797  (Online Only)
Now accepting Blue Cross, Aetna, Northwell, United, Oxford & Oscar. We understand how debilitating anxiety, panic attacks, and depression can be. We prioritize creating a welcoming and safe environment where individuals can share their struggles and receive treatment and support from highly trained therapists. At Long Island Psychotherapy & Counseling, we utilize evidence-based techniques to treat symptoms such as racing thoughts, obsessive behavior, and feelings of hopelessness. Our team's expertise have helped thousands of clients gain control over their lives again. Join us today to begin your journey towards healing.
Now accepting Blue Cross, Aetna, Northwell, United, Oxford & Oscar. We understand how debilitating anxiety, panic attacks, and depression can be. We prioritize creating a welcoming and safe environment where individuals can share their struggles and receive treatment and support from highly trained therapists. At Long Island Psychotherapy & Counseling, we utilize evidence-based techniques to treat symptoms such as racing thoughts, obsessive behavior, and feelings of hopelessness. Our team's expertise have helped thousands of clients gain control over their lives again. Join us today to begin your journey towards healing.
(347) 772-8373 View (347) 772-8373
Photo of Dianette Colon (Oliva), LMHC, Counselor
Dianette Colon (Oliva)
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Woodbury, NY 11797  (Online Only)
Hello! I am Dianette Oliva, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I have worked with adults, teens and children with various concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, addiction, trauma, and emotional abuse. My therapeutic approaches are Person-centered, CBT, Christian counseling, and couples counseling. I am a laid-back and dedicated therapist who wants to see you be successful. I look forward to partnering with you to achieve all your goals.
Hello! I am Dianette Oliva, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I have worked with adults, teens and children with various concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, addiction, trauma, and emotional abuse. My therapeutic approaches are Person-centered, CBT, Christian counseling, and couples counseling. I am a laid-back and dedicated therapist who wants to see you be successful. I look forward to partnering with you to achieve all your goals.
(646) 466-6732 View (646) 466-6732
Photo of Karen Jason, PhD, Psychologist
Karen Jason
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Woodbury, NY 11797
Taking the first step and reaching out for help can seem initially intimidating, but once you have begun you will be moving toward positive change in your life. During my 17 years of practice as a psychologist, I have developed a warm and empathic approach to collaborative problem solving, which will help you develop the skills and insight in order to make productive changes in your life.
Taking the first step and reaching out for help can seem initially intimidating, but once you have begun you will be moving toward positive change in your life. During my 17 years of practice as a psychologist, I have developed a warm and empathic approach to collaborative problem solving, which will help you develop the skills and insight in order to make productive changes in your life.
(516) 543-3271 View (516) 543-3271
Photo of Lynn A Dakss, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lynn A Dakss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, NY 11797
I am a caring and compassionate therapist who is committed to helping people make needed changes in their lives. Sometimes change is not possible and we need the tools to adapt to those situations that are beyond our control. I have supported many clients in the therapeutic relationship to learn about themselves and to focus and build on the strengths that each person has. I have extensive experience with adolescents and children and i have always worked very closely with parents so that we can all work towards the same goals.
I am a caring and compassionate therapist who is committed to helping people make needed changes in their lives. Sometimes change is not possible and we need the tools to adapt to those situations that are beyond our control. I have supported many clients in the therapeutic relationship to learn about themselves and to focus and build on the strengths that each person has. I have extensive experience with adolescents and children and i have always worked very closely with parents so that we can all work towards the same goals.
(516) 715-4671 View (516) 715-4671
Photo of Sherry Henig, PhD, Psychologist
Sherry Henig
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Woodbury, NY 11797
Put simply, I'd like to help you and/or your family member(s), feel less worried, less sad, and, in general, less distressed. With over 40 years of experience, I feel that I've been able to provide that to many hundreds of people with whom I've worked. Whether it's your child or teen who is suffering (I work with all manner of child and adolescent issues, including ADHD, academic underachievement, oppositional defiance, anxiety, depression and limitations in social skills) or whether it's you, your relationship or your family that is troubled, I have the experience to help resolve issues.
Put simply, I'd like to help you and/or your family member(s), feel less worried, less sad, and, in general, less distressed. With over 40 years of experience, I feel that I've been able to provide that to many hundreds of people with whom I've worked. Whether it's your child or teen who is suffering (I work with all manner of child and adolescent issues, including ADHD, academic underachievement, oppositional defiance, anxiety, depression and limitations in social skills) or whether it's you, your relationship or your family that is troubled, I have the experience to help resolve issues.
(516) 586-0640 View (516) 586-0640
Photo of Baine Dawson And Associates, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Baine Dawson And Associates
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, NY 11797
My goal is to create a safe and supportive environment for couples to explore their problems, change unhealthy patterns, and find effective solutions. Healthy relationships where we feel close, connected, and understood by each other are important for overall happiness. Through therapy, I help clients effectively communicate, gain understanding of each other, and move past hurtful experiences. I work with couples struggling with trust issues, infidelity, communication struggles, and family conflict. Over the past twelve years, I have gained extensive experience working with couples and families.
My goal is to create a safe and supportive environment for couples to explore their problems, change unhealthy patterns, and find effective solutions. Healthy relationships where we feel close, connected, and understood by each other are important for overall happiness. Through therapy, I help clients effectively communicate, gain understanding of each other, and move past hurtful experiences. I work with couples struggling with trust issues, infidelity, communication struggles, and family conflict. Over the past twelve years, I have gained extensive experience working with couples and families.
(516) 342-7741 View (516) 342-7741
Photo of Jeremy C Melnick, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeremy C Melnick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Woodbury, NY 11797
Waitlist for new clients
Life is stressful enough, finding a supportive therapist shouldn’t be!  I specialize in working with children, adolescents and young adults who are struggling with Anxiety, Depression, behavioral and learning difficulties, self-esteem, body image, coping skills, social skills as well as issues with day to day transitions. I have worked in a range of settings including preschool, middle school, high school, summer camps, inpatient psychiatric settings, and outpatient clinics. I currently work as a school social worker during the day as well as a camp administrator over the summer.
Life is stressful enough, finding a supportive therapist shouldn’t be!  I specialize in working with children, adolescents and young adults who are struggling with Anxiety, Depression, behavioral and learning difficulties, self-esteem, body image, coping skills, social skills as well as issues with day to day transitions. I have worked in a range of settings including preschool, middle school, high school, summer camps, inpatient psychiatric settings, and outpatient clinics. I currently work as a school social worker during the day as well as a camp administrator over the summer.
(516) 271-1153 View (516) 271-1153
Photo of Salina Felice-Ballensweig, MS, LCSW, BS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Salina Felice-Ballensweig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW, BS
Verified Verified
Woodbury, NY 11797
As a therapist I partner with clients to address obstacles interfering in their quality of life. My therapeutic style is a cognitive behavioral approach also applying psychodynamic and holistic strategies. I offer a compassionate, safe and non-judgmental environment to build trust and confidence to move forward. My approach is straightforward and interactive— together we set and re-evaluate goals as we journey to a place where clients are content with how they are living their lives and feel satisfied with their progress.
As a therapist I partner with clients to address obstacles interfering in their quality of life. My therapeutic style is a cognitive behavioral approach also applying psychodynamic and holistic strategies. I offer a compassionate, safe and non-judgmental environment to build trust and confidence to move forward. My approach is straightforward and interactive— together we set and re-evaluate goals as we journey to a place where clients are content with how they are living their lives and feel satisfied with their progress.
(516) 407-7795 View (516) 407-7795
Photo of Chelsea Protter, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chelsea Protter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Woodbury, NY 11797
I have been practicing since 2013 upon obtaining my masters from Stonybrook University. I utilize therapeutic techniques and approaches that are evidence based, such as CBT, among others, that have proven to be effective for many years. I have an eclectic approach, meeting the client where they are at. It is important to meet a client's specific needs and to have my clients be an active participant in their treatment planning. A client driven practice and approach to therapy allows the client to start with where they feel comfortable.
I have been practicing since 2013 upon obtaining my masters from Stonybrook University. I utilize therapeutic techniques and approaches that are evidence based, such as CBT, among others, that have proven to be effective for many years. I have an eclectic approach, meeting the client where they are at. It is important to meet a client's specific needs and to have my clients be an active participant in their treatment planning. A client driven practice and approach to therapy allows the client to start with where they feel comfortable.
(516) 252-0570 View (516) 252-0570
Photo of Amie Sanborn, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amie Sanborn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Woodbury, NY 11797
Amie works with individuals, couples and families. Prior to joining Right Path Counseling Amie worked in a school setting with both elementary aged children and adolescents. The combination of private practice and school based work has given Amie an opportunity to work with individuals of all ages and across a broad spectrum of issues. Amie’s approach to therapy is collaborative, warm, and strength-based. She provides a safe and non-judgmental space that allows clients to explore and uncover new insights, and create solution-focused, goal-directed actions - all while providing reflection and guidance along the way.
Amie works with individuals, couples and families. Prior to joining Right Path Counseling Amie worked in a school setting with both elementary aged children and adolescents. The combination of private practice and school based work has given Amie an opportunity to work with individuals of all ages and across a broad spectrum of issues. Amie’s approach to therapy is collaborative, warm, and strength-based. She provides a safe and non-judgmental space that allows clients to explore and uncover new insights, and create solution-focused, goal-directed actions - all while providing reflection and guidance along the way.
(516) 447-2621 View (516) 447-2621
Photo of Jenny Moss, LMFT
Jenny Moss
LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, NY 11797
As your therapist, I want nothing more than for you to feel safe & comfortable & will work with you to explore your past, present, and future self. Finding a therapist who can meet your needs, bring calm & purpose to your life, can be challenging, and many times feel overwhelming. As such, I want to applaud you for taking these vital first steps in bringing therapy into your life. Being part of someone's journey to self-realization & healing is both an honor and a privilege that I do not take lightly. I will teach you how to separate yourself from the problem(s) you are experiencing in order to work through them.
As your therapist, I want nothing more than for you to feel safe & comfortable & will work with you to explore your past, present, and future self. Finding a therapist who can meet your needs, bring calm & purpose to your life, can be challenging, and many times feel overwhelming. As such, I want to applaud you for taking these vital first steps in bringing therapy into your life. Being part of someone's journey to self-realization & healing is both an honor and a privilege that I do not take lightly. I will teach you how to separate yourself from the problem(s) you are experiencing in order to work through them.
(516) 412-7442 View (516) 412-7442
Photo of Allison Steinberg, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Steinberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Woodbury, NY 11797
I like to approach therapy with compassion, a sense of humor, and without judgment. I take an interactive approach in helping you with your current stressors. I utilize strength-focused and evidence based techniques to allow each client to regain control and peace in their life. My goal is to help you restore balance and feel like your best self again. Therapy is an opportunity to make a change in your thoughts and behaviors, improve relationships, manage life stressors, get support, and overcome obstacles by exploring these parts of your life, we will be able to develop a plan that will best suit your therapeutic needs.
I like to approach therapy with compassion, a sense of humor, and without judgment. I take an interactive approach in helping you with your current stressors. I utilize strength-focused and evidence based techniques to allow each client to regain control and peace in their life. My goal is to help you restore balance and feel like your best self again. Therapy is an opportunity to make a change in your thoughts and behaviors, improve relationships, manage life stressors, get support, and overcome obstacles by exploring these parts of your life, we will be able to develop a plan that will best suit your therapeutic needs.
(516) 226-7579 View (516) 226-7579
Photo of Jenna Knoll, LMHC, MS, Counselor
Jenna Knoll
Counselor, LMHC, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woodbury, NY 11797
Helping people rediscover their confidence and best selves comes naturally to me. My warmth, compassion, humor, transparency, and enthusiasm allow me to easily establish and maintain a strong rapport with my clients. I work with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, life adjustments, and fertility journeys. I am passionate about helping children, teenagers, young adults, adults, and couples reach their highest potential.
Helping people rediscover their confidence and best selves comes naturally to me. My warmth, compassion, humor, transparency, and enthusiasm allow me to easily establish and maintain a strong rapport with my clients. I work with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, life adjustments, and fertility journeys. I am passionate about helping children, teenagers, young adults, adults, and couples reach their highest potential.
(516) 636-2422 View (516) 636-2422
Photo of Christina DiBernardo, LMHC, BCB, MSEd, ACS, Counselor
Christina DiBernardo
Counselor, LMHC, BCB, MSEd, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, NY 11797
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, stress, or relationship challenges? Perhaps you're grappling with the demands of parenting, trauma, or OCD. Whatever your circumstances, you deserve to feel understood, empowered, and guided towards greater well-being. At Expressive Connections, our team of compassionate therapists provides a nurturing environment where you can explore your emotions, gain insights, and develop effective coping strategies.
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, stress, or relationship challenges? Perhaps you're grappling with the demands of parenting, trauma, or OCD. Whatever your circumstances, you deserve to feel understood, empowered, and guided towards greater well-being. At Expressive Connections, our team of compassionate therapists provides a nurturing environment where you can explore your emotions, gain insights, and develop effective coping strategies.
(516) 916-6181 View (516) 916-6181

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Randi Zimmerman - Randi Zimmerman @ Randi Z. Therapy Consulting , LCSW-R, CEDS-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Randi Zimmerman @ Randi Z. Therapy Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CEDS-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plainview, NY 11803
Children - play therapy, art therapy, parent guidance, family work, positive emotional, cognitive and behavioral treatment.
At The Time is Always Now Therapy Group, Randi Zimmerman, LCSW-R, CEDS-S and her team are ready for you! "What lies before you and what lies behind you are tiny matters compared to what lies within you." - Ralph Waldo Emerson. For those who wish to be the best they can be, to heal and strive and connect, therapy can help you achieve the highest quality of your life. Your unique strengths will be uncovered and cultivated to help you meet the challenges before you. You will be guided and nurtured to achieve and exceed your goals, to take the risks necessary to fulfill your dreams. The time to start is now!
Children - play therapy, art therapy, parent guidance, family work, positive emotional, cognitive and behavioral treatment.
At The Time is Always Now Therapy Group, Randi Zimmerman, LCSW-R, CEDS-S and her team are ready for you! "What lies before you and what lies behind you are tiny matters compared to what lies within you." - Ralph Waldo Emerson. For those who wish to be the best they can be, to heal and strive and connect, therapy can help you achieve the highest quality of your life. Your unique strengths will be uncovered and cultivated to help you meet the challenges before you. You will be guided and nurtured to achieve and exceed your goals, to take the risks necessary to fulfill your dreams. The time to start is now!
(516) 986-4345 View (516) 986-4345
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.