Photo of Edward H. Callaghan, PhD, Psychologist
Edward H. Callaghan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
I also have expertise in play therapy, parenting support, and consultation with Child Study Teams.
Hi! My name is Dr. Ed Callaghan. I have a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and am fully licensed in the state of New Jersey. I am a Founder of the Integrative Therapy Institute of NJ and it’s Director of Child Services. I specialize in working with preschool and school-age children as well as adolescents and adults. I am especially proficient at working with children with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, behavioral problems, and school-related difficulties--especially problems related to academics and poor drive/motivation. I am also VERY SUCCESSFUL at bridging conflictual relationships between children and their parents.
I also have expertise in play therapy, parenting support, and consultation with Child Study Teams.
Hi! My name is Dr. Ed Callaghan. I have a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and am fully licensed in the state of New Jersey. I am a Founder of the Integrative Therapy Institute of NJ and it’s Director of Child Services. I specialize in working with preschool and school-age children as well as adolescents and adults. I am especially proficient at working with children with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, behavioral problems, and school-related difficulties--especially problems related to academics and poor drive/motivation. I am also VERY SUCCESSFUL at bridging conflictual relationships between children and their parents.
(732) 691-4673 View (732) 691-4673
Photo of Lauren Rubino, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Rubino
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
I draw from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), psychodynamic, person-centered, and play therapy techniques.
Teens are experiencing anxiety and depression at an increased rate. The pressures of school, friendships, and social media are overwhelming. You are noticing that your teen is irritable, withdrawn, expressing excessive worry or sadness, and having difficulty managing their emotions. Communication between you and your teen is tense or non-existent. My goal in therapy is to help your teen identify their emotions and develop coping strategies to improve their emotional-well being. I work to quickly build rapport with your teen so that they feel comfortable to speak about their problems and feelings.
I draw from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), psychodynamic, person-centered, and play therapy techniques.
Teens are experiencing anxiety and depression at an increased rate. The pressures of school, friendships, and social media are overwhelming. You are noticing that your teen is irritable, withdrawn, expressing excessive worry or sadness, and having difficulty managing their emotions. Communication between you and your teen is tense or non-existent. My goal in therapy is to help your teen identify their emotions and develop coping strategies to improve their emotional-well being. I work to quickly build rapport with your teen so that they feel comfortable to speak about their problems and feelings.
(973) 791-6394 View (973) 791-6394
Photo of Cyndi Koch - The Koch Center, PsyD, Psychologist
The Koch Center
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
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 View (201) 439-8093
Photo of Jordan Szabo, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jordan Szabo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
Using Person-Centered, CBT, and Play Therapy, I create a supportive, engaging environment that combines fun activities with proven techniques.
My ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or behavioral challenges, especially during school transitions. They need a supportive, collaborative environment with engaging, playful therapy methods. Their goals include managing their emotional and behavioral issues, navigating school changes, and improving focus and organization. They want an engaging therapy process that fosters personal growth, resilience, and confidence, helping them overcome challenges and lead a more balanced life.
Using Person-Centered, CBT, and Play Therapy, I create a supportive, engaging environment that combines fun activities with proven techniques.
My ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or behavioral challenges, especially during school transitions. They need a supportive, collaborative environment with engaging, playful therapy methods. Their goals include managing their emotional and behavioral issues, navigating school changes, and improving focus and organization. They want an engaging therapy process that fosters personal growth, resilience, and confidence, helping them overcome challenges and lead a more balanced life.
(551) 239-8641 View (551) 239-8641
Photo of Laura Applegate - Laura Applegate, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Applegate, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
My diverse training and experience includes a variety of short and long-term treatment modalities such as trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), Functional Family Therapy (FFT), play therapy with children, psychodynamic and humanistic techniques.
My clients are children, adolescents, adults and parents experiencing life stressors, struggling with relationships, striving for personal growth or seeking change. My work commonly addresses symptoms such as anxiety, depression or general difficulty functioning in one or more areas. I use an eclectic and collaborative style to best serve each client. My highly individualized and integrative approach draws from a variety of techniques depending on specific therapeutic goals and needs. When working with children and adolescents, I find it is important and most effective if I collaborate closely with their parents to support the family system and promote optimal outcomes.
My diverse training and experience includes a variety of short and long-term treatment modalities such as trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), Functional Family Therapy (FFT), play therapy with children, psychodynamic and humanistic techniques.
My clients are children, adolescents, adults and parents experiencing life stressors, struggling with relationships, striving for personal growth or seeking change. My work commonly addresses symptoms such as anxiety, depression or general difficulty functioning in one or more areas. I use an eclectic and collaborative style to best serve each client. My highly individualized and integrative approach draws from a variety of techniques depending on specific therapeutic goals and needs. When working with children and adolescents, I find it is important and most effective if I collaborate closely with their parents to support the family system and promote optimal outcomes.
(929) 226-6627 View (929) 226-6627
Photo of Amy Callahan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Callahan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
I have special training in The Treatment of Addictions, depression and anxiety, grief-loss and divorce, couples and family work, play therapy, school issues, and eastern philosophy( for those interested only).
Life is challenging and therapy is a wonderful gift. It takes bravery to admit there are things we need assistance in coping with. Finding the right fit in a therapist can make all the difference in changing our lives. I work with children ( Toddlers- adolescents) Adults, couples and families. I bring a wealth of knowledge and different therapeutic techniques to match your level of comfort. My practice, is warm, welcoming and confidential.I also provide clinical supervision.
I have special training in The Treatment of Addictions, depression and anxiety, grief-loss and divorce, couples and family work, play therapy, school issues, and eastern philosophy( for those interested only).
Life is challenging and therapy is a wonderful gift. It takes bravery to admit there are things we need assistance in coping with. Finding the right fit in a therapist can make all the difference in changing our lives. I work with children ( Toddlers- adolescents) Adults, couples and families. I bring a wealth of knowledge and different therapeutic techniques to match your level of comfort. My practice, is warm, welcoming and confidential.I also provide clinical supervision.
(201) 774-7027 View (201) 774-7027
Photo of Edward H Callaghan, PhD, Psychologist
Edward H Callaghan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
I also have expertise in play therapy, parenting support, and consultation regarding Child Study Teams.
Hi! My name is Dr. Ed Callaghan. I have a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and am fully licensed in the state of New Jersey. I am the co-founder of the Integrative Therapy Institute of NJ and it’s Director of Child Services. I specialize in working with preschool and school-age children as well as adolescents and adults. I am especially proficient at working with children with ADHD, behavioral problems, and school-related difficulties--especially problems related to poor school performance, distractibility, and motivation/drive. I am also VERY SUCCESSFUL at bridging conflictual relationships between teens and their parents.
I also have expertise in play therapy, parenting support, and consultation regarding Child Study Teams.
Hi! My name is Dr. Ed Callaghan. I have a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and am fully licensed in the state of New Jersey. I am the co-founder of the Integrative Therapy Institute of NJ and it’s Director of Child Services. I specialize in working with preschool and school-age children as well as adolescents and adults. I am especially proficient at working with children with ADHD, behavioral problems, and school-related difficulties--especially problems related to poor school performance, distractibility, and motivation/drive. I am also VERY SUCCESSFUL at bridging conflictual relationships between teens and their parents.
(908) 388-9286 View (908) 388-9286
Photo of Edward H Callaghan, PhD, Psychologist
Edward H Callaghan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
I also have expertise in play therapy, parenting support, and consultation regarding Child Study Teams.
Hi! My name is Dr. Ed Callaghan. I have a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and am fully licensed in the state of New Jersey. I am the co-founder of the Integrative Therapy Institute of NJ and it’s Director of Child Services. I specialize in working with preschool and school-age children as well as adolescents and adults. I am especially proficient at working with children with ADHD, behavioral problems, and school-related difficulties--especially problems related to poor school performance, distractibility, and motivation/drive. I am also VERY SUCCESSFUL at bridging conflictual relationships between teens and their parents.
I also have expertise in play therapy, parenting support, and consultation regarding Child Study Teams.
Hi! My name is Dr. Ed Callaghan. I have a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and am fully licensed in the state of New Jersey. I am the co-founder of the Integrative Therapy Institute of NJ and it’s Director of Child Services. I specialize in working with preschool and school-age children as well as adolescents and adults. I am especially proficient at working with children with ADHD, behavioral problems, and school-related difficulties--especially problems related to poor school performance, distractibility, and motivation/drive. I am also VERY SUCCESSFUL at bridging conflictual relationships between teens and their parents.
(201) 831-7666 View (201) 831-7666
Photo of Catherine Codella, MA, ATR-BC, LPC, ATCS, ACS, Counselor
Catherine Codella
Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, LPC, ATCS, ACS
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
My therapy sessions facilitate art (and play) activities that address a clients needs.
I believe the creative process, inherent in everyone, can be used as a meaningful tool to help individuals develop personal insight and self- awareness. My clients are guided and supported to use art materials and the creative process to develop symbols and metaphors in their resulting art work which produces the vehicle for expression and communication. Cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness are also used in treatment.
My therapy sessions facilitate art (and play) activities that address a clients needs.
I believe the creative process, inherent in everyone, can be used as a meaningful tool to help individuals develop personal insight and self- awareness. My clients are guided and supported to use art materials and the creative process to develop symbols and metaphors in their resulting art work which produces the vehicle for expression and communication. Cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness are also used in treatment.
(201) 355-4433 View (201) 355-4433
Photo of Joel M Levine, LCSW, LPC, LCADC, LMFT, ACS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joel M Levine
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCSW, LPC, LCADC, LMFT, ACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
Some special tools I utilize are the Gottman Method, Family Systems Therapy, Collaborative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Metaphorical Play Therapy.
Have you ever wondered how to stay sane in an insane world? I will help you be more satisfied in your relationships and give you ways to improve your communication by modeling teaching scientific research based methods. I have four licenses and over twenty fiveyears experience in Marriage and Family Therapy and Addiction. I have been specifically trained in Marriage and Family Therapy by the experts, including being trained by John and Julie Gottman and others, which will help you gain the skills needed to improve your relationships and lead you in having a happier and more satisfied life. Call me or email me today to find out more.
Some special tools I utilize are the Gottman Method, Family Systems Therapy, Collaborative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Metaphorical Play Therapy.
Have you ever wondered how to stay sane in an insane world? I will help you be more satisfied in your relationships and give you ways to improve your communication by modeling teaching scientific research based methods. I have four licenses and over twenty fiveyears experience in Marriage and Family Therapy and Addiction. I have been specifically trained in Marriage and Family Therapy by the experts, including being trained by John and Julie Gottman and others, which will help you gain the skills needed to improve your relationships and lead you in having a happier and more satisfied life. Call me or email me today to find out more.
(201) 875-3022 View (201) 875-3022
Photo of Vicki Beckerman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vicki Beckerman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
Seeking therapy for your child can be overwhelming and is important to work with a therapist who is collaborative and consistently available to parents. I specialize in play therapy with young children and psychotherapy for teens and I work with youngsters coping with chronic medical illness. My approach is creative, warm and accessible to all family members and I utilize a variety of treatment modalities, including cognitive behavioral strategies, art therapy, sand play therapy and group counseling. I assist parents in becoming "on the same page" regarding their children and I help caregivers to review their own parenting styles.
Seeking therapy for your child can be overwhelming and is important to work with a therapist who is collaborative and consistently available to parents. I specialize in play therapy with young children and psychotherapy for teens and I work with youngsters coping with chronic medical illness. My approach is creative, warm and accessible to all family members and I utilize a variety of treatment modalities, including cognitive behavioral strategies, art therapy, sand play therapy and group counseling. I assist parents in becoming "on the same page" regarding their children and I help caregivers to review their own parenting styles.
(973) 287-4221 View (973) 287-4221
Photo of Donya P. Johnson, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Donya P. Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
I have also been trained in Child Centered Play Therapy.
Do you struggle to put yourself first? Have you muted your own voice? I want to help you find the confidence needed to be your authentic self. Show up in any room as exactly who you are. The world desires to meet the genuine you. I treat clients of all ages and backgrounds who struggle with a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, grief, relationship concerns, school and career difficulties, as well as transitional phases. More generally, I work with clients who suffer from an inability to live life to its fullest and who want a more enriching life.
I have also been trained in Child Centered Play Therapy.
Do you struggle to put yourself first? Have you muted your own voice? I want to help you find the confidence needed to be your authentic self. Show up in any room as exactly who you are. The world desires to meet the genuine you. I treat clients of all ages and backgrounds who struggle with a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, grief, relationship concerns, school and career difficulties, as well as transitional phases. More generally, I work with clients who suffer from an inability to live life to its fullest and who want a more enriching life.
(973) 221-8652 View (973) 221-8652
Photo of Elana Feuerman, LMSW
Elana Feuerman
Licensed Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
And yet I’m amazed how children are more articulate than we realize if we pay close attention to how they play.
Your child is not acting herself. She was once so vibrant, bursting with personality and excitement for life. But now she complains of stomach aches and doesn’t want to go to school. She is nervous about so many things. You have tried to understand your child. You listen, validate, and explain to her why there is no need to worry. But you feel that the problem is growing instead of dying away. You feel stuck. Where is the way out? How can you bring the child you know, back?
And yet I’m amazed how children are more articulate than we realize if we pay close attention to how they play.
Your child is not acting herself. She was once so vibrant, bursting with personality and excitement for life. But now she complains of stomach aches and doesn’t want to go to school. She is nervous about so many things. You have tried to understand your child. You listen, validate, and explain to her why there is no need to worry. But you feel that the problem is growing instead of dying away. You feel stuck. Where is the way out? How can you bring the child you know, back?
(862) 599-3544 View (862) 599-3544
Photo of Brittany Harden Oleka, PhD, EdS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brittany Harden Oleka
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
In short, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of New Jersey with a PhD in Psychology. I have been working with motivational therapeutic techniques for 10 years and working with clients for 7 years. I am an Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS) who utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure Therapy, Play Therapy and Psycho-education to assist children, parents, adolescents, families, and couples in becoming the best mental, social, and emotional versions of themselves. It is my belief and experience that you get more out of life if you are willing to change and recognize your areas of growth.
In short, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of New Jersey with a PhD in Psychology. I have been working with motivational therapeutic techniques for 10 years and working with clients for 7 years. I am an Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS) who utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure Therapy, Play Therapy and Psycho-education to assist children, parents, adolescents, families, and couples in becoming the best mental, social, and emotional versions of themselves. It is my belief and experience that you get more out of life if you are willing to change and recognize your areas of growth.
(908) 913-7921 View (908) 913-7921
Photo of Elizabeth J Greenlee, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth J Greenlee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
Waitlist for new clients
Faith can play a significant role in healing.
I help people access their potential. By empowering and supporting you, you will find freedom from the pain of old wounds, recovery from trauma and gain new ways of coping and relating. Central to this work will be the relationship between therapist and client, which evolves within a safe and compassionate space, within which you will find the courage to explore your concerns without feeling pushed or pathologized.
Faith can play a significant role in healing.
I help people access their potential. By empowering and supporting you, you will find freedom from the pain of old wounds, recovery from trauma and gain new ways of coping and relating. Central to this work will be the relationship between therapist and client, which evolves within a safe and compassionate space, within which you will find the courage to explore your concerns without feeling pushed or pathologized.
(973) 529-8058 View (973) 529-8058
Photo of Bijal Patel, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bijal Patel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042  (Online Only)
Are you looking to make a shift? I am licensed Marriage and Family Therapist working with individuals, couples, families, and groups. I believe therapy can be seen as a process of unpacking. Things often go unsaid, which can manifest into various effects on the body, such as anxiety. Although staying with your emotions can be difficult, it can often be the pathway to healing. My clinical experience has allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of the impact of our environment and relationships, as well as the positive shifts that can take place when offered supportive and validating resources.
Are you looking to make a shift? I am licensed Marriage and Family Therapist working with individuals, couples, families, and groups. I believe therapy can be seen as a process of unpacking. Things often go unsaid, which can manifest into various effects on the body, such as anxiety. Although staying with your emotions can be difficult, it can often be the pathway to healing. My clinical experience has allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of the impact of our environment and relationships, as well as the positive shifts that can take place when offered supportive and validating resources.
(856) 776-7265 View (856) 776-7265
Photo of Safiya Bashir, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Safiya Bashir
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
I will provide quality mental health services to clients ages 5-65+. I will work with clients to improve their quality of life for themselves and their families. My goal is to assist clients with developing the skills necessary to navigate the challenges of life, increase positive communication and develop into the highest version of themselves while living their best life.
I will provide quality mental health services to clients ages 5-65+. I will work with clients to improve their quality of life for themselves and their families. My goal is to assist clients with developing the skills necessary to navigate the challenges of life, increase positive communication and develop into the highest version of themselves while living their best life.
(973) 755-2122 View (973) 755-2122
Photo of Pooja Bakri - Pooja Bakri Creative Arts Therapy LLC, LPAT, LCAT, ATR-BC, Art Therapist
Pooja Bakri Creative Arts Therapy LLC
Art Therapist, LPAT, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
I specialize in providing creative art therapy services to individuals of all ages and am dedicated to helping my clients discover their own unique path to happiness and wellbeing. Words alone often cannot express the emotions experienced for many people who are struggling to overcome trauma or challenges in life. By combining traditional psychotherapy with the creative process, art therapy can provide opportunities to explore behaviors, emotions, and experiences. Each session can provide a wonderful outlet to relieve anxiety and stress. No previous experience in art making is needed to benefit from this therapeutic method.
I specialize in providing creative art therapy services to individuals of all ages and am dedicated to helping my clients discover their own unique path to happiness and wellbeing. Words alone often cannot express the emotions experienced for many people who are struggling to overcome trauma or challenges in life. By combining traditional psychotherapy with the creative process, art therapy can provide opportunities to explore behaviors, emotions, and experiences. Each session can provide a wonderful outlet to relieve anxiety and stress. No previous experience in art making is needed to benefit from this therapeutic method.
(201) 429-0789 View (201) 429-0789
Photo of Ieva Gates, LCSW, CST, CHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ieva Gates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST, CHT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck and disconnected from life? Are daily tasks starting to become daunting and overwhelming? It can be difficult to manage the stress and emotions on your own and it is not a burden you should have to bear. Reaching out for help is the first step and can often be the scariest one. It is my goal to provide you with a warm, non-judgmental, safe environment to process your emotions and become reconnected to the life you are living.
Are you feeling stuck and disconnected from life? Are daily tasks starting to become daunting and overwhelming? It can be difficult to manage the stress and emotions on your own and it is not a burden you should have to bear. Reaching out for help is the first step and can often be the scariest one. It is my goal to provide you with a warm, non-judgmental, safe environment to process your emotions and become reconnected to the life you are living.
(201) 645-5531 View (201) 645-5531
Photo of Dr. Nicole Garcia, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Nicole Garcia
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
Are you ready? I am here to help you try something different and make a change. I am a Clinical Psychologist and owner of Evolve Psychological Services, a group practice working with children, adolescents and adults coping with depression, anxiety, trauma, behavioral difficulties, relationship troubles and other difficulties. At Evolve, we also conduct comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations to assess for learning challenges and assist with differential diagnosis as well as immigration hardship evaluations for families working toward maintaining family cohesion.
Are you ready? I am here to help you try something different and make a change. I am a Clinical Psychologist and owner of Evolve Psychological Services, a group practice working with children, adolescents and adults coping with depression, anxiety, trauma, behavioral difficulties, relationship troubles and other difficulties. At Evolve, we also conduct comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations to assess for learning challenges and assist with differential diagnosis as well as immigration hardship evaluations for families working toward maintaining family cohesion.
(917) 746-7813 View (917) 746-7813
1
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.