Play Therapy in Collingswood, NJ
Amy Salmon Kasten
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Collingswood, NJ 08108
I am a licensed therapist specializing in clinical work with children, adolescents, adults, families, and groups. I view my role as assisting my clients to more fully realize and become their authentic selves. Often, life events occur that prevent us from feeling strong, brave, satisfied, or even present in the world. We may become disconnected from others as well as ourselves. My passion is supporting clients as they grow, heal, play, discover, and connect within their therapy sessions and in their lives. I provide a safe, secure space where clients can explore their innermost thoughts, feelings, wishes, and fears.
I am a licensed therapist specializing in clinical work with children, adolescents, adults, families, and groups. I view my role as assisting my clients to more fully realize and become their authentic selves. Often, life events occur that prevent us from feeling strong, brave, satisfied, or even present in the world. We may become disconnected from others as well as ourselves. My passion is supporting clients as they grow, heal, play, discover, and connect within their therapy sessions and in their lives. I provide a safe, secure space where clients can explore their innermost thoughts, feelings, wishes, and fears.
Joseph Degenhart
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Collingswood, NJ 08108
I'm moved by the longing of couples to be to be listened to with undivided attention, to be understood and accepted, to be seen in their virtues and appreciated, to be held with affection and delight, to be allowed to be themselves and shift from it's all about me to you need all the same things. Your criticism and force can step back when I help you care about your own wounds - that your partner can respect, but cannot heal for you. I walk with confounded parents to calm their reactions to their children's resistance. They feel ignored, failing to raise a caring and responsible son or daughter. Heart is heavy, values seem irrelevant. Unburden the heart so your children can hear your values, not your reactions. Couple and family difficulties have roots in old hurts where we managed with knee jerk reactions and attitudes of how things should be. I can help you hold perspective, where you value yourself when others discredit you, where you're open to feedback about what is not helpful without feeling criticized or angry. Therapy is not getting partners or children or peers to respond, it's being able to bring my values with conviction without being attached to the outcome
I'm moved by the longing of couples to be to be listened to with undivided attention, to be understood and accepted, to be seen in their virtues and appreciated, to be held with affection and delight, to be allowed to be themselves and shift from it's all about me to you need all the same things. Your criticism and force can step back when I help you care about your own wounds - that your partner can respect, but cannot heal for you. I walk with confounded parents to calm their reactions to their children's resistance. They feel ignored, failing to raise a caring and responsible son or daughter. Heart is heavy, values seem irrelevant. Unburden the heart so your children can hear your values, not your reactions. Couple and family difficulties have roots in old hurts where we managed with knee jerk reactions and attitudes of how things should be. I can help you hold perspective, where you value yourself when others discredit you, where you're open to feedback about what is not helpful without feeling criticized or angry. Therapy is not getting partners or children or peers to respond, it's being able to bring my values with conviction without being attached to the outcome
Miriam Rosario
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Collingswood, NJ 08108
Happiness, confidence and peace of mind require a commitment to self-reflection. Powerful feelings and personal struggles present obstacles. Being sensitive to life's complexities, I provide a safe environment to express feelings at your pace. During our time together we focus on the issues that are of importance to you and help strengthen your ability to manage the demands of life.
Happiness, confidence and peace of mind require a commitment to self-reflection. Powerful feelings and personal struggles present obstacles. Being sensitive to life's complexities, I provide a safe environment to express feelings at your pace. During our time together we focus on the issues that are of importance to you and help strengthen your ability to manage the demands of life.
Elizabeth Tedeschi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Collingswood, NJ 08108 (Online Only)
Far too often we are weighed down by heavy emotions; intrusive thoughts and conditioned patterns. Through my varied experience I have been able to witness firsthand--that even in the most dire circumstances positive change is possible. My philosophy is to provide you with patience; positivity and pragmatism while varying the therapeutic approach to fit your current needs. To foster motivation and facilitate insight, I utilize a combination of strength-based techniques. I also believe in the significance of incorporating your interests and creativity (e.g. art, music, theatre and humor) into sessions.
Far too often we are weighed down by heavy emotions; intrusive thoughts and conditioned patterns. Through my varied experience I have been able to witness firsthand--that even in the most dire circumstances positive change is possible. My philosophy is to provide you with patience; positivity and pragmatism while varying the therapeutic approach to fit your current needs. To foster motivation and facilitate insight, I utilize a combination of strength-based techniques. I also believe in the significance of incorporating your interests and creativity (e.g. art, music, theatre and humor) into sessions.
It is with great pleasure that I have practiced with individuals of all ages for the last 25 years. I enjoy building trust in the therapeutic relationship-even with those who are resistant or not sure if therapy is for them. Accompanying individuals on their journey to self-discovery and witnessing their transformation is an enormous privilege of my job. People come to therapy looking to "fix" things. We forget that often we contain the solution to our problems, but that the solutions are buried under the residue of stressful life events, trauma and loss.
It is with great pleasure that I have practiced with individuals of all ages for the last 25 years. I enjoy building trust in the therapeutic relationship-even with those who are resistant or not sure if therapy is for them. Accompanying individuals on their journey to self-discovery and witnessing their transformation is an enormous privilege of my job. People come to therapy looking to "fix" things. We forget that often we contain the solution to our problems, but that the solutions are buried under the residue of stressful life events, trauma and loss.
Michael ' Scot ' Ailes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Collingswood, NJ 08108
I have worked for over 20 years as a therapist and clinical supervisor helping adults, couples, teenagers, and children. I believe there is a reason for whatever you are struggling with in your life, with a child, or in your relationships. I have a respectful and focused approach that helps you make sense of your thoughts and feelings, and if needed to heal from experiences from the past that may be holding you back. I listen carefully to what is not working and help you or your child to develop strategies and approaches that better meet everyone's needs.
I have worked for over 20 years as a therapist and clinical supervisor helping adults, couples, teenagers, and children. I believe there is a reason for whatever you are struggling with in your life, with a child, or in your relationships. I have a respectful and focused approach that helps you make sense of your thoughts and feelings, and if needed to heal from experiences from the past that may be holding you back. I listen carefully to what is not working and help you or your child to develop strategies and approaches that better meet everyone's needs.
Phoenix Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Collingswood, NJ 08108
Our therapists are experts in helping clients manage and control their stress, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, post-traumatic stress, and other mental health challenges. We are a team of licensed and trained therapists, helping individuals heal from trauma and revive their energy, hope, and enthusiasm. With a deeper understanding of how the brain reacts to traumas, we help our clients manage their emotions and behavior by gaining greater control over their thoughts.
Our therapists are experts in helping clients manage and control their stress, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, post-traumatic stress, and other mental health challenges. We are a team of licensed and trained therapists, helping individuals heal from trauma and revive their energy, hope, and enthusiasm. With a deeper understanding of how the brain reacts to traumas, we help our clients manage their emotions and behavior by gaining greater control over their thoughts.
Sarah Kershner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Collingswood, NJ 08108
"A journey begins with a single step." And, you can only start where you are. I believe awareness, exploration, and communication of feelings is key to being connected with others as well as with ourselves. I work with children, adolescents, and adults in individual and group settings. I use a strengths-based approach and am trained in Internal Family Systems. I have experience with crisis work, long-term, and short-term therapy. We will start where you feel comfortable taking your "single step" and the journey will go at the pace we set together. You have all the answers- let me help you find them!
"A journey begins with a single step." And, you can only start where you are. I believe awareness, exploration, and communication of feelings is key to being connected with others as well as with ourselves. I work with children, adolescents, and adults in individual and group settings. I use a strengths-based approach and am trained in Internal Family Systems. I have experience with crisis work, long-term, and short-term therapy. We will start where you feel comfortable taking your "single step" and the journey will go at the pace we set together. You have all the answers- let me help you find them!
Margaret O Wilson - Pearson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Collingswood, NJ 08107
Not accepting new clients
Life comes with many unexpected challenges. Seeking support in a safe therapeutic environment can offer you the care and support you need. In working together we will carefully explore and plan the next steps in your journey. It's important to me to listen and help you develop coping skills and strategies that will help you personally grow and overcome the challenges your faced with. Your time is valuable and important to me and I will offer you my commitment in working together to help you build upon your toolbox of strategies that you can use daily.
Life comes with many unexpected challenges. Seeking support in a safe therapeutic environment can offer you the care and support you need. In working together we will carefully explore and plan the next steps in your journey. It's important to me to listen and help you develop coping skills and strategies that will help you personally grow and overcome the challenges your faced with. Your time is valuable and important to me and I will offer you my commitment in working together to help you build upon your toolbox of strategies that you can use daily.
More Therapists Nearby
Julie Wells
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Haddon Heights, NJ 08035 (Online Only)
Utilizing a combination of play therapy and creative-based interventions, I create a safe and supportive environment where they can freely express themselves.
My approach to therapy is collaborative and tailored to your unique needs. Using evidence-based techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and person-centered therapy, I aim to empower you with the tools and insights needed to achieve personal growth and resilience. Together, we will work on setting realistic goals, building coping strategies, and fostering a deeper understanding of yourself.
Utilizing a combination of play therapy and creative-based interventions, I create a safe and supportive environment where they can freely express themselves.
My approach to therapy is collaborative and tailored to your unique needs. Using evidence-based techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and person-centered therapy, I aim to empower you with the tools and insights needed to achieve personal growth and resilience. Together, we will work on setting realistic goals, building coping strategies, and fostering a deeper understanding of yourself.
EMDR Therapy Now Available! My mission is to provide a space for adults and children to be seen, feel heard, and develop the tools to live a meaningful life. I provide evidence-based therapeutic approaches that are holistic and culturally sensitive. Depending on your needs, therapy sessions incorporate mindfulness and mind-body awareness . I am trained in approaches including, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Parent-Child Interaction Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Play Therapy Techniques. I am also certified in postpartum support for perinatal mood disorders.
EMDR Therapy Now Available! My mission is to provide a space for adults and children to be seen, feel heard, and develop the tools to live a meaningful life. I provide evidence-based therapeutic approaches that are holistic and culturally sensitive. Depending on your needs, therapy sessions incorporate mindfulness and mind-body awareness . I am trained in approaches including, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Parent-Child Interaction Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Play Therapy Techniques. I am also certified in postpartum support for perinatal mood disorders.
Jessica Hernandez Cruz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Haddonfield, NJ 08033
At Children's Counseling Services, healing occurs through imaginative play, games, stories, interactions with the therapy dog, and discussion.
For 30 years, I've been helping children and their families learn to manage their feelings, improve communication, develop coping skills, and overcome whatever challenges life throws their way. Kids don't think like adults; their brains process through play. With child-oriented therapy we accomplish goals with a customized plan designed for each client. DAY, EVENING AND WEEKEND HOURS are available. The office is conveniently located on Route 70 in Cherry Hill. NJ.
At Children's Counseling Services, healing occurs through imaginative play, games, stories, interactions with the therapy dog, and discussion.
For 30 years, I've been helping children and their families learn to manage their feelings, improve communication, develop coping skills, and overcome whatever challenges life throws their way. Kids don't think like adults; their brains process through play. With child-oriented therapy we accomplish goals with a customized plan designed for each client. DAY, EVENING AND WEEKEND HOURS are available. The office is conveniently located on Route 70 in Cherry Hill. NJ.
Cara Natale Ruddy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
Post masters, I have received advanced training in child development, attachment theory, Play Therapy, Mindfulness Based Play-Family Therapy, Sand play 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, Sand play 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.
You First Integrative Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
I use a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, motivation interviewing, and play therapy.
Hi there! My name is James Castorina, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) centrally located in Cherry Hill, NJ. I am proud to be in a position to give back to the South Jersey community after all it has been able to offer me over the last three decades. I aim to use individual's strengths to help them achieve what they did think possible and bring out the best in them.
I use a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, motivation interviewing, and play therapy.
Hi there! My name is James Castorina, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) centrally located in Cherry Hill, NJ. I am proud to be in a position to give back to the South Jersey community after all it has been able to offer me over the last three decades. I aim to use individual's strengths to help them achieve what they did think possible and bring out the best in them.
Jessica A Ocasio
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
" I use creative approaches such as art therapy, journaling, walk & talk sessions, bibliotherapy, therapeutic games and play therapy.
I believe the needs and abilities of each individual are different and work with you to determine what approaches and techniques are most in line with your needs and strengths. I believe a productive therapeutic relationship is positively established through the use of genuineness, warmth, empathy, and unconditional positive regard. I have a diverse range of experience including the areas of Autism; Domestic Violence; Sexual Abuse/Assault; Childhood Abuse and Neglect; Childhood PTSD/Trauma; and Loss, Attachment and Separation issues in relation to foster and adoption. I primarily work with women, children and adolescents.
" I use creative approaches such as art therapy, journaling, walk & talk sessions, bibliotherapy, therapeutic games and play therapy.
I believe the needs and abilities of each individual are different and work with you to determine what approaches and techniques are most in line with your needs and strengths. I believe a productive therapeutic relationship is positively established through the use of genuineness, warmth, empathy, and unconditional positive regard. I have a diverse range of experience including the areas of Autism; Domestic Violence; Sexual Abuse/Assault; Childhood Abuse and Neglect; Childhood PTSD/Trauma; and Loss, Attachment and Separation issues in relation to foster and adoption. I primarily work with women, children and adolescents.
As a licensed professional counselor, Mervat utilizes multiple therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy, (DBT), solution-focused therapy, exposure therapy, mindfulness, meditation, play therapy, and positive reinforcement.
Mervat is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 10 years of experience helping children, adolescents, and adults identify their challenges, triggers, and goals. She supports individuals with mental health issues, such as ADHD, ODD, PTSD, trauma, anxiety, depression, and adjustment disorder to help them overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
As a licensed professional counselor, Mervat utilizes multiple therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy, (DBT), solution-focused therapy, exposure therapy, mindfulness, meditation, play therapy, and positive reinforcement.
Mervat is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 10 years of experience helping children, adolescents, and adults identify their challenges, triggers, and goals. She supports individuals with mental health issues, such as ADHD, ODD, PTSD, trauma, anxiety, depression, and adjustment disorder to help them overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
The Artemis Center for Guidance, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
Haddonfield, NJ 08033
We specialize in Maternal Mental Health and also offer a full range of counseling services, including: individual and couples therapy, play therapy for children, counseling for teenagers and young adults, veteran and military family readjustment guidance and treatment for recovery from sexual, physical or emotional trauma.
At The Artemis Center for Guidance, we work toward reducing emotional suffering. This is accomplished through direct counseling services and psycho-education provided by highly skilled and compassionate clinicians and, through the development and instruction of training programs that will provide other professionals the skills to offer exceptional services to those in emotional pain. We believe all individuals are inherently able to cope with life's hardships, and with skilled guidance during times of transition, each person possesses the freedom to strive toward and reach his or her highest potential and lead a productive and happy life.
We specialize in Maternal Mental Health and also offer a full range of counseling services, including: individual and couples therapy, play therapy for children, counseling for teenagers and young adults, veteran and military family readjustment guidance and treatment for recovery from sexual, physical or emotional trauma.
At The Artemis Center for Guidance, we work toward reducing emotional suffering. This is accomplished through direct counseling services and psycho-education provided by highly skilled and compassionate clinicians and, through the development and instruction of training programs that will provide other professionals the skills to offer exceptional services to those in emotional pain. We believe all individuals are inherently able to cope with life's hardships, and with skilled guidance during times of transition, each person possesses the freedom to strive toward and reach his or her highest potential and lead a productive and happy life.
I use CBT, play therapy, trauma informed care, DBT, and ACT primarily.
Asking for help is a big step that shows bravery courage and the dedication you have to yourself and the want to feel better. My goal is to make sure I can provide you with the tools and support that empowers you to reach your personal goals, and find peace, happiness, and healing. Coming from a social work background, I acknowledge that there are outside obstacles that we may not be able to control inside of the therapy room, but I can assure you that I will be your biggest advocate and provide support and action when applicable, and empower and lift your voice so that you can become your number 1 advocate as well.
I use CBT, play therapy, trauma informed care, DBT, and ACT primarily.
Asking for help is a big step that shows bravery courage and the dedication you have to yourself and the want to feel better. My goal is to make sure I can provide you with the tools and support that empowers you to reach your personal goals, and find peace, happiness, and healing. Coming from a social work background, I acknowledge that there are outside obstacles that we may not be able to control inside of the therapy room, but I can assure you that I will be your biggest advocate and provide support and action when applicable, and empower and lift your voice so that you can become your number 1 advocate as well.
Simone Lavine
Counselor, MSEd, MPhilEd, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Audubon, NJ 08106
Waitlist for new clients
The interventions I use draw from parts work (IFS), Emotion-Focused Couple and Family Therapy, EMDR, Play Therapy, and CBT.
Finding a therapist can be a daunting challenge, and it's courageous to even begin the process. Many of my clients have seen one or more therapists in the past, and struggled to feel understood and get the help they actually need. If that sounds like you, you’re in the right place. I am trained and practiced in addressing the root causes of suffering in individuals and relational systems, which allows me to provide the highest quality of care to children, teens, adults, couples, and families; even those who have previously struggled to find therapy helpful.
The interventions I use draw from parts work (IFS), Emotion-Focused Couple and Family Therapy, EMDR, Play Therapy, and CBT.
Finding a therapist can be a daunting challenge, and it's courageous to even begin the process. Many of my clients have seen one or more therapists in the past, and struggled to feel understood and get the help they actually need. If that sounds like you, you’re in the right place. I am trained and practiced in addressing the root causes of suffering in individuals and relational systems, which allows me to provide the highest quality of care to children, teens, adults, couples, and families; even those who have previously struggled to find therapy helpful.
Judith Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Haddonfield, NJ 08033
Waitlist for new clients
I have a post-master's certificate in play and expressive therapies from Monmouth University and I am certified in TF-CBT.
Currently on personal leave through 12/1/24. Hello, my name is Judy Smith. I am a licensed clinical social worker and and registered play therapist. I am passionate about helping children and adolescents from ages 2-18 alongside their families with the complicated process of growing up. I work with individuals and families to work through the yuck to find the joy. The majority of my practice is with individuals and families who are working to overcome and manage challenges including adjustment, trauma, anxiety, ADHD, temper tantrums, depression, and self-esteem struggles. Strong emphasis is placed on strengths and resiliency.
I have a post-master's certificate in play and expressive therapies from Monmouth University and I am certified in TF-CBT.
Currently on personal leave through 12/1/24. Hello, my name is Judy Smith. I am a licensed clinical social worker and and registered play therapist. I am passionate about helping children and adolescents from ages 2-18 alongside their families with the complicated process of growing up. I work with individuals and families to work through the yuck to find the joy. The majority of my practice is with individuals and families who are working to overcome and manage challenges including adjustment, trauma, anxiety, ADHD, temper tantrums, depression, and self-esteem struggles. Strong emphasis is placed on strengths and resiliency.
See more therapy options for Collingswood
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Collingswood
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Play Therapy
Who is play therapy for?
Play therapy is generally targeted to children between the ages of 3 and 11 who have social, emotional, or behavioral difficulties. Play therapy has also been found helpful for children who have experienced physical or emotional abuse or witnessed atrocities. Play therapy is also often recommended for children who are undergoing major medical procedures or who are suffering from chronic illness; many children’s hospitals are equipped to offer play therapy on-site. Play therapy is also sometimes used for adults; creative writing, music, and art are expressive forms that can all be adapted for therapeutic purposes.
Why do people need play therapy?
Children often do not have the language skills or words to know or to express what is troubling them. Yet they often spontaneously draw or use playthings to depict scenarios that reflect problems in their everyday life. Play therapy provides children with an array of objects and play situations to act out their feelings or experiences so that therapists can get a clear picture of what children might be struggling with and help them find solutions. In addition, play therapists are skilled at helping children understand their inner experience and find words for them, necessary steps toward helping children learn to control their own behavior and come up with solutions to problems they encounter.
What happens in play therapy?
A child enters a comfortable playroom where they are free to choose the objects they want to play with. The play therapist will typically observe how they play with the toys—whether a sandbox, puppets, dolls and action figures, trucks, costumes, drawing and painting materials, or more—because such play provides clues to a child’s family and social relationships, difficulties they are encountering in the world, and what going on inside themselves. Sometimes the therapist may ask the child to use the play objects to tell a story about their family. Using the same instruments of play, therapists can help children discover more advantageous ways of thinking and behaving.
What kinds of problems do play therapists treat?
Play therapy can help children who display destructive or self-destructive impulses; children who seem angry, sad, or fearful; children who experience frequent social, emotional, family, or school difficulty. Play therapy is often of value to children who have experienced a loss or distressing family experience, who are regularly exposed to family conflict, or who have been physically or emotionally abused. Play therapy can help children who are perpetrators of bullying as well as those who are targets of bullying. It helps children learn to identify their feelings, to express them in constructive ways, and to regulate them so they can get on with the business of development.
How long does play therapy last?
Play therapy sessions may last for 30 to 45 minutes, and they usually occur weekly for about 20 sessions. Each session is tailored to the individual child and the kinds of problems they are struggling with. Play that is highly repetitive often indicates a problem requiring further exploration. Therapists typically measure progress through session-to-session changes in play behavior.