Play Therapy in Morristown, NJ

Photo of Melissa Parrish, LAC, ASDI, Counselor
Melissa Parrish
Counselor, LAC, ASDI
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
With children, I will involve play in the sessions, support sensory needs, and have regular caregiver communication and parent sessions.
Taking the step to reach out to a therapist takes courage, so I appreciate your willingness and desire to start therapy, increase support, and make healthy changes in your life. My primary goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space for you. We will navigate your journey together in that space, starting where you are now and collaborating on future goals. Utilizing a person-centered approach, you’ll begin to unlock skills you have within, develop new ones, and strengthen your overall coping strategies and mental health.
With children, I will involve play in the sessions, support sensory needs, and have regular caregiver communication and parent sessions.
Taking the step to reach out to a therapist takes courage, so I appreciate your willingness and desire to start therapy, increase support, and make healthy changes in your life. My primary goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space for you. We will navigate your journey together in that space, starting where you are now and collaborating on future goals. Utilizing a person-centered approach, you’ll begin to unlock skills you have within, develop new ones, and strengthen your overall coping strategies and mental health.
(973) 604-8197 View (973) 604-8197
Photo of Paige Ellen Oszmanski, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paige Ellen Oszmanski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
A positive relationship with a therapist involves trust and a feeling of being understood. I work with individuals, families and couples. My specialties include adults, children, play therapy, adolescents, divorce, occupational difficulties, anxiety, depression, loss, self-esteem, relationships. I help my clients to better understand themselves, their life situations and their relationships. It is through this understanding and caring where growth and change can occur. The goal for our work together is for clients to develop their unique strengths, make good choices for themselves and move towards living a more fulfilling life.
A positive relationship with a therapist involves trust and a feeling of being understood. I work with individuals, families and couples. My specialties include adults, children, play therapy, adolescents, divorce, occupational difficulties, anxiety, depression, loss, self-esteem, relationships. I help my clients to better understand themselves, their life situations and their relationships. It is through this understanding and caring where growth and change can occur. The goal for our work together is for clients to develop their unique strengths, make good choices for themselves and move towards living a more fulfilling life.
(973) 664-7425 View (973) 664-7425
Photo of Cyndi Koch - The Koch Center, PsyD, Psychologist
The Koch Center
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
Our child and adolescent services: Individual, Family, & Couples Psychotherapy, Social Skills Groups (Preschool thru High School), Medication Evaluation, School Refusal Program, Play Therapy, Parenting Support.
The Koch Center (located in Montclair, Morristown, Waldwick, & Englewood) specializes in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Therapy and Programs for Adults, Adolescents, Children, and Families. Our DBT Programs offer an opportunity to receive extensive support and expert treatment in an outpatient setting. We treat the full range of psychological issues (including Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Impulse Control disorders, Eating Disorders, Trauma, Relationship Problems, Personality Disorders). We have an outpatient Trauma Program for Adults. We also offer individual therapy from varying theoretical orientations.
Our child and adolescent services: Individual, Family, & Couples Psychotherapy, Social Skills Groups (Preschool thru High School), Medication Evaluation, School Refusal Program, Play Therapy, Parenting Support.
The Koch Center (located in Montclair, Morristown, Waldwick, & Englewood) specializes in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Therapy and Programs for Adults, Adolescents, Children, and Families. Our DBT Programs offer an opportunity to receive extensive support and expert treatment in an outpatient setting. We treat the full range of psychological issues (including Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Impulse Control disorders, Eating Disorders, Trauma, Relationship Problems, Personality Disorders). We have an outpatient Trauma Program for Adults. We also offer individual therapy from varying theoretical orientations.
(201) 439-8093 x1 View (201) 439-8093 x1
Photo of Geraldine V. Oades-Sese, PhD, Psychologist
Geraldine V. Oades-Sese
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
Interventions include academic and organization strategies, play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, 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.
Interventions include academic and organization strategies, play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, 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.
(732) 993-7262 View (732) 993-7262
Photo of Allyn Ruth Sitjar, MA, RDT, LCAT
Allyn Ruth Sitjar
MA, RDT, LCAT
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
As a licensed creative arts therapist (drama, art, music, movement, play. creative writing) my skills are especially suitable for clients who have been through levels of trauma (domestic violence, divorce, dating abuse, PTSD, grief and loss, depression, self-harm, anxiety. etc.). In addition, I work with high-functioning kids/teens on the autism spectrum. I have found that the visual and physical work of role-playing, scene-work, improvisation, simple drawings, and video work increases their skills to recognize facial cues and feelings. Through play, these clients build self-esteem, social skills, deepen their emotional range and gain empathy.
As a licensed creative arts therapist (drama, art, music, movement, play. creative writing) my skills are especially suitable for clients who have been through levels of trauma (domestic violence, divorce, dating abuse, PTSD, grief and loss, depression, self-harm, anxiety. etc.). In addition, I work with high-functioning kids/teens on the autism spectrum. I have found that the visual and physical work of role-playing, scene-work, improvisation, simple drawings, and video work increases their skills to recognize facial cues and feelings. Through play, these clients build self-esteem, social skills, deepen their emotional range and gain empathy.
(201) 415-5329 View (201) 415-5329
Photo of Ashley E Janosko - Compassionate and Caring Counseling Center, PhD, LPC, MA, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Compassionate and Caring Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morristown, NJ 07960
I have received training in play therapy, bullying, DSM-diagnosis and mental health, and college and career planning.
I view counseling as a holistic and individual developmental process. Each individual that enters my office brings character and strengths as well as stressors and challenges. To me, it is important that together we build a trusting relationship that allows you to feel heard and validated. Having worked in both clinical and non-clinical settings, I have worked with a multitude of clients and have fostered a unique and special relationship with each, be-it child, adolescent or adult. Through our journey together, we will build upon the fundamentals of counseling: trust, communication, transparency and empowerment.
I have received training in play therapy, bullying, DSM-diagnosis and mental health, and college and career planning.
I view counseling as a holistic and individual developmental process. Each individual that enters my office brings character and strengths as well as stressors and challenges. To me, it is important that together we build a trusting relationship that allows you to feel heard and validated. Having worked in both clinical and non-clinical settings, I have worked with a multitude of clients and have fostered a unique and special relationship with each, be-it child, adolescent or adult. Through our journey together, we will build upon the fundamentals of counseling: trust, communication, transparency and empowerment.
(201) 992-5524 View (201) 992-5524
Photo of Racquel Rivero, LPC, RPT, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Racquel Rivero
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT, ACS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Morristown, NJ 07960
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Registered Play Therapist, and an Approved Clinical Supervisor.
I specialize in working with children (ages 3+), adolescents, teens, and adults. My focus is on helping individuals build upon their strengths and gain insight into the areas of their lives that they desire to change. I believe that the therapeutic relationship and providing a safe environment are the building blocks that help me guide others in their personal growth and goal attainment. I strive to provide a caring, motivating, and supportive environment where clients can feel safe to explore any issues they bring to counseling.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Registered Play Therapist, and an Approved Clinical Supervisor.
I specialize in working with children (ages 3+), adolescents, teens, and adults. My focus is on helping individuals build upon their strengths and gain insight into the areas of their lives that they desire to change. I believe that the therapeutic relationship and providing a safe environment are the building blocks that help me guide others in their personal growth and goal attainment. I strive to provide a caring, motivating, and supportive environment where clients can feel safe to explore any issues they bring to counseling.
(973) 833-3422 View (973) 833-3422
Photo of Dr. Carly Fisher, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Carly Fisher
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Morristown, NJ 07960  (Online Only)
Reaching out for therapy is the first step in making a change in your life. As a PhD Graduate as well as a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed School Counselor, and National Certified Counselor, I am so grateful to be able to play such an important role in helping you reach your highest potential throughout life's challenges. Clients typically come to me with struggles surrounding their own self confidence as well as the impact it can play on relationships around them. Through individual, couple, and/or family work, I have helped clients gain back their own sense of worth to feel their best and live life to the fullest.
Reaching out for therapy is the first step in making a change in your life. As a PhD Graduate as well as a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed School Counselor, and National Certified Counselor, I am so grateful to be able to play such an important role in helping you reach your highest potential throughout life's challenges. Clients typically come to me with struggles surrounding their own self confidence as well as the impact it can play on relationships around them. Through individual, couple, and/or family work, I have helped clients gain back their own sense of worth to feel their best and live life to the fullest.
(551) 239-8940 View (551) 239-8940
Photo of Karelyn M. Gonzalez-Cruz, PhD, Psychologist
Karelyn M. Gonzalez-Cruz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07962
I am a licensed psychologist in the state on New Jersey and New York. I provide individual, couples and family therapy with Spanish population. I have extensive clinical experience working with Hispanic population. I have expertise in trauma focused therapy and evidence-based interventions for children, adolescents and adults. I specialize in disruptive disorders (i.e. ADHD, ODD), mutism, physical and sexual abuse, trauma, play therapy, personality and mood/anxiety disorders, and family disruption. Furthermore, I enjoy helping couples and families.
I am a licensed psychologist in the state on New Jersey and New York. I provide individual, couples and family therapy with Spanish population. I have extensive clinical experience working with Hispanic population. I have expertise in trauma focused therapy and evidence-based interventions for children, adolescents and adults. I specialize in disruptive disorders (i.e. ADHD, ODD), mutism, physical and sexual abuse, trauma, play therapy, personality and mood/anxiety disorders, and family disruption. Furthermore, I enjoy helping couples and families.
(908) 332-5518 View (908) 332-5518
Photo of Pamela Sukoneck, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pamela Sukoneck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morristown, NJ 07960
In utilizing various modes of therapy, which may include Solution Base Therapy, CBT, Mindfulness and Play Therapy we can achieve success together.
My focus is working with children, adolescents and adults during a difficult time in their life by utilizing an empathic approach. Whether you are struggling with issues related to the recent pandemic, psychosocial stressors, medical illness, depression, anxiety, or school related concerns I am here to help. Trust is an important component of a successful therapeutic relationship. By providing a safe and calm environment I am able to assist clients and their families to gain insight and appropriate coping skills and strategies for a successful life.
In utilizing various modes of therapy, which may include Solution Base Therapy, CBT, Mindfulness and Play Therapy we can achieve success together.
My focus is working with children, adolescents and adults during a difficult time in their life by utilizing an empathic approach. Whether you are struggling with issues related to the recent pandemic, psychosocial stressors, medical illness, depression, anxiety, or school related concerns I am here to help. Trust is an important component of a successful therapeutic relationship. By providing a safe and calm environment I am able to assist clients and their families to gain insight and appropriate coping skills and strategies for a successful life.
(973) 453-0187 View (973) 453-0187
Photo of Kayla Naiman, MA, LAC, NCC, Counselor
Kayla Naiman
Counselor, MA, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
The hardest step to take in your mental health journey is asking for help, and I will be that person, waiting to help you. As your counselor, my main goal is to create a warm, safe, and nonjudgmental space. We will become a team through trust and collaboration. As a team, we will explore the changes you would like to make in order to achieve your goals.
The hardest step to take in your mental health journey is asking for help, and I will be that person, waiting to help you. As your counselor, my main goal is to create a warm, safe, and nonjudgmental space. We will become a team through trust and collaboration. As a team, we will explore the changes you would like to make in order to achieve your goals.
(862) 346-6641 View (862) 346-6641
Photo of Natalia Loureiro, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natalia Loureiro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
My ideal client is someone who is ready to embark on a journey towards understanding themselves and commit to working with me to progressively achieve their goals and desires.
My ideal client is someone who is ready to embark on a journey towards understanding themselves and commit to working with me to progressively achieve their goals and desires.
(862) 626-2733 View (862) 626-2733
Photo of Lauren Green, MA, LPC, LMHC, Counselor
Lauren Green
Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morristown, NJ 07960  (Online Only)
When facing difficulties and challenges, seeking help is one of the strongest and most empowering steps one can take. Therapy is a great opportunity not only to learn how to function at our optimal level, but to finally put to rest what has blocked us from living a full and satisfying life. It is a safe space from which to build confidence, conquer fears and develop the tools necessary to manage and overcome obstacles we face within ourselves and our environments.
When facing difficulties and challenges, seeking help is one of the strongest and most empowering steps one can take. Therapy is a great opportunity not only to learn how to function at our optimal level, but to finally put to rest what has blocked us from living a full and satisfying life. It is a safe space from which to build confidence, conquer fears and develop the tools necessary to manage and overcome obstacles we face within ourselves and our environments.
(973) 988-4423 View (973) 988-4423
Photo of Marisa Lutz, LAMFT, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marisa Lutz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LAMFT, LSW
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
My ideal client is grappling with a multitude of challenges and seeking support in their therapeutic journey. This client's primary concerns revolve around the quest to discover their authentic self and cultivate a more positive outlook on life. A devoted parent they are navigating the complexities of raising a child diagnosed with autism, adding an extra layer of responsibility and emotional weight to their daily life. Central to the client's therapeutic goals is the desire to unearth the positive aspects of their life. They're eager to shift their focus from challenges to blessings, fostering resilience and a sense of gratitude.
My ideal client is grappling with a multitude of challenges and seeking support in their therapeutic journey. This client's primary concerns revolve around the quest to discover their authentic self and cultivate a more positive outlook on life. A devoted parent they are navigating the complexities of raising a child diagnosed with autism, adding an extra layer of responsibility and emotional weight to their daily life. Central to the client's therapeutic goals is the desire to unearth the positive aspects of their life. They're eager to shift their focus from challenges to blessings, fostering resilience and a sense of gratitude.
(973) 791-6280 View (973) 791-6280
Photo of Michelle Barber, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Barber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
I believe strongly that clients come in all different shapes and sizes and from different walks of life. Therefore, I do not have an ideal client, as my wish is to help anyone who needs it regardless of their experiences, needs, and goals. I welcome the experiences I will gain from having diverse clients.
I believe strongly that clients come in all different shapes and sizes and from different walks of life. Therefore, I do not have an ideal client, as my wish is to help anyone who needs it regardless of their experiences, needs, and goals. I welcome the experiences I will gain from having diverse clients.
(973) 874-2913 View (973) 874-2913
Photo of Laura Perez - Emperor Human Services, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emperor Human Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
At Emperor Human Services, we draw inspiration from the penguin, a symbol of inner strength and resilience. Just as the penguin faces challenges with unwavering determination, we are dedicated to providing nurturing, person-centered services. Our mission is to support and empower individuals with the same steadfastness and care, ensuring that every person receives the respect and support they deserve.
At Emperor Human Services, we draw inspiration from the penguin, a symbol of inner strength and resilience. Just as the penguin faces challenges with unwavering determination, we are dedicated to providing nurturing, person-centered services. Our mission is to support and empower individuals with the same steadfastness and care, ensuring that every person receives the respect and support they deserve.
(973) 862-4226 View (973) 862-4226
Photo of Tamar S Stern, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tamar S Stern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morristown, NJ 07960
We are all challenged, at times, by our thoughts, feelings, actions, or life situations. I believe we each have the capacity to be resilient. I use active listening and responding to give you a sense of safety and support, so you can become aware of your needs, goals, and values. In therapy, you are able to cultivate healthy and effective ways of dealing with anxiety, anger, stress , depressed mood and difficult interpersonal experiences.
We are all challenged, at times, by our thoughts, feelings, actions, or life situations. I believe we each have the capacity to be resilient. I use active listening and responding to give you a sense of safety and support, so you can become aware of your needs, goals, and values. In therapy, you are able to cultivate healthy and effective ways of dealing with anxiety, anger, stress , depressed mood and difficult interpersonal experiences.
(973) 240-5823 View (973) 240-5823
Photo of Elizabeth Harten Goldberg, PhD, Psychologist
Elizabeth Harten Goldberg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960  (Online Only)
As a clinical psychologist, I work to help individuals and families overcome their obstacles to achieving emotional and physical well- being.. Your anxiety and depression or other psychological problems are treated in the context of an empathic and personal therapeutic relationship.These disorders present differently at different life stages and need age/stage related attention. As a female clinician, I have developed an expertise working with women's issues throughout the life cycle. As a former teacher and school psychologist, I am also experienced in working with children and adolescents with the variety of concerns they may present.
As a clinical psychologist, I work to help individuals and families overcome their obstacles to achieving emotional and physical well- being.. Your anxiety and depression or other psychological problems are treated in the context of an empathic and personal therapeutic relationship.These disorders present differently at different life stages and need age/stage related attention. As a female clinician, I have developed an expertise working with women's issues throughout the life cycle. As a former teacher and school psychologist, I am also experienced in working with children and adolescents with the variety of concerns they may present.
(908) 264-2920 View (908) 264-2920
Photo of Elizabeth Smith, PsyD, Psychologist
Elizabeth Smith
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
I have experience treating a variety of clients from young children, teens, parents, and grandparents. I have assisted them through traditional treatment as well as custody evaluations, bonding evaluations, reunification therapy, and learning assessments. In treatment, I have used EMDR skills to treat high levels of anxiety. My experience with depression and other mood disorders has spanned almost 20 years of practice in psychology. I work collaboratively with my clients. There is no question or experience too big or small for us to examine and unlock together.
I have experience treating a variety of clients from young children, teens, parents, and grandparents. I have assisted them through traditional treatment as well as custody evaluations, bonding evaluations, reunification therapy, and learning assessments. In treatment, I have used EMDR skills to treat high levels of anxiety. My experience with depression and other mood disorders has spanned almost 20 years of practice in psychology. I work collaboratively with my clients. There is no question or experience too big or small for us to examine and unlock together.
(732) 561-4175 View (732) 561-4175
Photo of Caitlin Northern, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caitlin Northern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
Caitlin is a seasoned therapist with over a decade of experience who is dedicated to help guide you on your journey to healing and personal growth. She specializes in helping children, adults, and families to not only address issues like anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, behavioral problems (child/teen), and autism, but to find their overall path towards happiness and well-being. Her expertise further extends to complex trauma and loss with a deep understanding of attachment-related issues. Her understanding of Child and Family Studies makes her exceptionally well-prepared to address issues at the individual and environmental levels.
Caitlin is a seasoned therapist with over a decade of experience who is dedicated to help guide you on your journey to healing and personal growth. She specializes in helping children, adults, and families to not only address issues like anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, behavioral problems (child/teen), and autism, but to find their overall path towards happiness and well-being. Her expertise further extends to complex trauma and loss with a deep understanding of attachment-related issues. Her understanding of Child and Family Studies makes her exceptionally well-prepared to address issues at the individual and environmental levels.
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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.