Photo of Nancy Stone, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nancy Stone
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allentown, PA 18103
When treating children, I utilize play to engage the child and make therapy a positive experience.
Your mental health is important, and gathering the courage to get help is not an easy task. The notion of verbalizing your inner thoughts and feelings might seem intimidating, and make you feel vulnerable. Taking this into consideration, I strive to create a safe and calming space where you can feel understood and not judged. Through the process of therapy, you can better understand the patterns in your life, overcome barriers, and experience new ways of coping. You will gain a better understanding of your behaviors and communication styles that hinder you from achieving your goals.
When treating children, I utilize play to engage the child and make therapy a positive experience.
Your mental health is important, and gathering the courage to get help is not an easy task. The notion of verbalizing your inner thoughts and feelings might seem intimidating, and make you feel vulnerable. Taking this into consideration, I strive to create a safe and calming space where you can feel understood and not judged. Through the process of therapy, you can better understand the patterns in your life, overcome barriers, and experience new ways of coping. You will gain a better understanding of your behaviors and communication styles that hinder you from achieving your goals.
(484) 290-1772 View (484) 290-1772
Photo of Emily Calcagni, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Calcagni
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Allentown, PA 18103
I also have some training in play therapy and mindfulness.
I work with individuals with symptoms related to anxiety, depression, and trauma. I specialize in working with individuals with gender dysphoria and am able to provide referral letters for gender affirming care. I work with any age, with a special interest in working with adolescents and young adults. I am a LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist.
I also have some training in play therapy and mindfulness.
I work with individuals with symptoms related to anxiety, depression, and trauma. I specialize in working with individuals with gender dysphoria and am able to provide referral letters for gender affirming care. I work with any age, with a special interest in working with adolescents and young adults. I am a LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist.
(610) 467-5422 View (610) 467-5422
Photo of Marisa Lawrence, ATR-BC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marisa Lawrence
Licensed Professional Counselor, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18103
My clinical background, training and experiences support a variety of therapeutic techniques, such as art, play and traditional therapy, depending on one's personal goals for treatment.
My practice combines compassion and creativity to connect with individuals and families. It is through this connection that I will guide one through life's challenges and assist individuals and families in discovering and focusing on one's strengths and potential for growth. My own experiences, as a parent of a special needs child, have enriched my work as a therapist and helped me gain a richer understanding of the importance of a strong support system. Therefore, I strongly believe in working hard to help individuals and families feel supported during the various joys and adversities of life.
My clinical background, training and experiences support a variety of therapeutic techniques, such as art, play and traditional therapy, depending on one's personal goals for treatment.
My practice combines compassion and creativity to connect with individuals and families. It is through this connection that I will guide one through life's challenges and assist individuals and families in discovering and focusing on one's strengths and potential for growth. My own experiences, as a parent of a special needs child, have enriched my work as a therapist and helped me gain a richer understanding of the importance of a strong support system. Therefore, I strongly believe in working hard to help individuals and families feel supported during the various joys and adversities of life.
(484) 447-3005 View (484) 447-3005
Photo of Stacy L Gilligan, MA, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stacy L Gilligan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18103
If you have a child who is struggling with behavioral issues and you just can't understand what is going on, come see me. I see children as young as 3 years old. Using play as their voice I will help your child with those issues by teaching coping skills and gently guiding them to think before acting. At times I will provide you with tools to use at home so your child has consistent support. I have experience working with children on the spectrum, ADHD, ADD, ODD, Conduct Disorder, and DMDD. I also have experience working with both children and adults with anxiety, panic attacks, depression, and trauma.
If you have a child who is struggling with behavioral issues and you just can't understand what is going on, come see me. I see children as young as 3 years old. Using play as their voice I will help your child with those issues by teaching coping skills and gently guiding them to think before acting. At times I will provide you with tools to use at home so your child has consistent support. I have experience working with children on the spectrum, ADHD, ADD, ODD, Conduct Disorder, and DMDD. I also have experience working with both children and adults with anxiety, panic attacks, depression, and trauma.
(610) 546-2614 View (610) 546-2614
Photo of Peggy Bressette - Peggy Bressette Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Peggy Bressette Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18103
I help them to untangle those thoughts and feelings through play or talk while working in their developmental age.
I have been working with children, adolescents and adults for many years in a variety of settings including child welfare, school settings and private practice. I specialize in working with children of all ages from toddlers to young adulthood. I have experience and I am trained in anxiety, depression, loss, trauma, Autism, ADHD and anger.
I help them to untangle those thoughts and feelings through play or talk while working in their developmental age.
I have been working with children, adolescents and adults for many years in a variety of settings including child welfare, school settings and private practice. I specialize in working with children of all ages from toddlers to young adulthood. I have experience and I am trained in anxiety, depression, loss, trauma, Autism, ADHD and anger.
(484) 209-1534 View (484) 209-1534
Photo of Gina Crowell, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gina Crowell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18103  (Online Only)
Gina is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 9+ years of providing holistic and integrated care to children, families, and adults. She earned her master’s degree in Community and Trauma counseling from Philadelphia University, and believes true healing and change is achieved through establishing strong therapeutic relationships, adapting treatment to meet her client's individual needs, and building on their strengths.
Gina is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 9+ years of providing holistic and integrated care to children, families, and adults. She earned her master’s degree in Community and Trauma counseling from Philadelphia University, and believes true healing and change is achieved through establishing strong therapeutic relationships, adapting treatment to meet her client's individual needs, and building on their strengths.
(484) 917-2129 View (484) 917-2129
Photo of Jasmine Hemans, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jasmine Hemans
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allentown, PA 18103
Hi There! - Welcome to my profile. My approach to therapy is founded on using client’s strengths and inner resilience to work through struggles that are holding them back from their full potential. I will help you to learn more about yourself and allow that to help you to grow into the person you would like to become. I believe that using a collaborative approach to therapy is key to having a successful therapeutic relationship. Together, we will work to define achievable goals and expectations to outline a therapeutic experience that works for you.
Hi There! - Welcome to my profile. My approach to therapy is founded on using client’s strengths and inner resilience to work through struggles that are holding them back from their full potential. I will help you to learn more about yourself and allow that to help you to grow into the person you would like to become. I believe that using a collaborative approach to therapy is key to having a successful therapeutic relationship. Together, we will work to define achievable goals and expectations to outline a therapeutic experience that works for you.
(484) 261-8803 View (484) 261-8803
Photo of Nicholas Mediate, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicholas Mediate
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18103  (Online Only)
Remember when life was simpler? You were so full of hope and optimism. So sure, that you could tackle anything the universe threw your way. You felt like you had life by the reigns, until you didn't. Perhaps you changed jobs and hate your new position. Maybe you got divorced and are struggling to adapt to life newly single. Feeling that pit of anxiety in your stomach makes you sick, but you're not sure what to do.
Remember when life was simpler? You were so full of hope and optimism. So sure, that you could tackle anything the universe threw your way. You felt like you had life by the reigns, until you didn't. Perhaps you changed jobs and hate your new position. Maybe you got divorced and are struggling to adapt to life newly single. Feeling that pit of anxiety in your stomach makes you sick, but you're not sure what to do.
(610) 600-9742 View (610) 600-9742
Photo of Christopher Patchet, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christopher Patchet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18103  (Online Only)
Welcome to my room. I am a licensed Social Worker with a Master’s Degree in Social Work. I have been working in the field of Social Work since 2013. I have been helping people overcome Depression, Anxiety/Stress, Relationships, Grief, ADHD, OCD, Addiction, Self-Esteem, and Transitioning. Along with my practice for the public, I also work at the Veteran's Affairs specializing in trauma (PTSD) and Sexual Trauma. Together, I can help you achieve your goals of the happier, calmer, and more fulfilling life you always dreamed of having.
Welcome to my room. I am a licensed Social Worker with a Master’s Degree in Social Work. I have been working in the field of Social Work since 2013. I have been helping people overcome Depression, Anxiety/Stress, Relationships, Grief, ADHD, OCD, Addiction, Self-Esteem, and Transitioning. Along with my practice for the public, I also work at the Veteran's Affairs specializing in trauma (PTSD) and Sexual Trauma. Together, I can help you achieve your goals of the happier, calmer, and more fulfilling life you always dreamed of having.
(267) 710-7825 View (267) 710-7825
Photo of Sally A. McAfee, MEd, LPC, BCC, Counselor
Sally A. McAfee
Counselor, MEd, LPC, BCC
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18103  (Online Only)
Are you overwhelmed, trying to orchestrate family, job and more? You are the center of many people's world. Who is supporting you? Do you or someone in your family suffer from disorganization, a frantic pace, no time to sit down and breathe? You have come to the right place. As the center of the hub, you know who needs what. Child with special needs? Let's talk, and I'll help you sort it out. Together we can lift some of that weight from your shoulders.
Are you overwhelmed, trying to orchestrate family, job and more? You are the center of many people's world. Who is supporting you? Do you or someone in your family suffer from disorganization, a frantic pace, no time to sit down and breathe? You have come to the right place. As the center of the hub, you know who needs what. Child with special needs? Let's talk, and I'll help you sort it out. Together we can lift some of that weight from your shoulders.
(610) 871-5634 View (610) 871-5634
Photo of Jennifer Tieman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Tieman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18103  (Online Only)
I am a trauma informed clinician who specializes in developmental trauma. I use NARM (neuro-affective relational model) to guide in the rediscovery of lost pieces of the self. My approach is non blaming, strength based and compassionate.
I am a trauma informed clinician who specializes in developmental trauma. I use NARM (neuro-affective relational model) to guide in the rediscovery of lost pieces of the self. My approach is non blaming, strength based and compassionate.
(412) 564-0600 View (412) 564-0600
Photo of Carri Coyne, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carri Coyne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18103  (Online Only)
Life has taught me the vital importance of safety and security. In my practice, I leverage this profound understanding to create a safe environment where individuals can freely express themselves without fear of judgment. My therapeutic approach prioritizes a secure and encouraging atmosphere, ensuring every client feels respected and valued throughout their journey. Seeking therapy can be daunting, but my goal is to make this journey as pleasant and reassuring as possible. I am committed to helping you achieve emotional wellness by building a safe and trustworthy relationship.
Life has taught me the vital importance of safety and security. In my practice, I leverage this profound understanding to create a safe environment where individuals can freely express themselves without fear of judgment. My therapeutic approach prioritizes a secure and encouraging atmosphere, ensuring every client feels respected and valued throughout their journey. Seeking therapy can be daunting, but my goal is to make this journey as pleasant and reassuring as possible. I am committed to helping you achieve emotional wellness by building a safe and trustworthy relationship.
(484) 799-1586 View (484) 799-1586
Photo of Ashley Devon Rakay, MA, , BC-DMT, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Devon Rakay
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, BC-DMT, LPC
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18103  (Online Only)
Come join me on a movement therapy adventure, filled with self exploration, emotional regulation, and healing. Therapy can be a nerve-wracking experience, however there is no better time than now to slow down and work on addressing and healing the different parts that make you YOU. Let's work collaboratively to highlight strengths, identify challenges, and develop skills for personal growth and change in a therapeutic, unbiased, and supportive environment.
Come join me on a movement therapy adventure, filled with self exploration, emotional regulation, and healing. Therapy can be a nerve-wracking experience, however there is no better time than now to slow down and work on addressing and healing the different parts that make you YOU. Let's work collaboratively to highlight strengths, identify challenges, and develop skills for personal growth and change in a therapeutic, unbiased, and supportive environment.
(267) 214-8619 View (267) 214-8619
Photo of Maribeth (Liz) Younger - Liz Younger, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liz Younger, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18103  (Online Only)
My therapeutic philosophy is that Individuals need to be a part of their own solutions. I strive to empower clients to feel that their successes come from themselves and are the result of their own hard work. My experience in social work is deliberately broad to address a wide range of concerns. My background includes child development/behavioral issues, couples counseling, adolescent, geriatric, vocational/employment counseling, chronic disease case management and Life coaching.
My therapeutic philosophy is that Individuals need to be a part of their own solutions. I strive to empower clients to feel that their successes come from themselves and are the result of their own hard work. My experience in social work is deliberately broad to address a wide range of concerns. My background includes child development/behavioral issues, couples counseling, adolescent, geriatric, vocational/employment counseling, chronic disease case management and Life coaching.
(610) 708-2376 View (610) 708-2376
Photo of Andrew H. Johanson Jr, DMin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Andrew H. Johanson Jr
Marriage & Family Therapist, DMin, LMFT
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18103  (Online Only)
I believe one of the most important parts of the counseling process is to develop a trusting caring relationship. With this relationship, much can be gained from the counseling sessions. I have worked well with individuals and families who have emotional pain. For many clients, helping them understand what creates such emotional pain, gaining insights puts them on a path for a more fulfilling life. In my practice I work with individuals who have sadness, depression, loss, relationship difficulties, family difficulties, sexual challenges and sexual abuse. My mission in therapy is to respect each client, and walk with them at their healing pace, I believe if we walk together on this healing journey life will be better.
I believe one of the most important parts of the counseling process is to develop a trusting caring relationship. With this relationship, much can be gained from the counseling sessions. I have worked well with individuals and families who have emotional pain. For many clients, helping them understand what creates such emotional pain, gaining insights puts them on a path for a more fulfilling life. In my practice I work with individuals who have sadness, depression, loss, relationship difficulties, family difficulties, sexual challenges and sexual abuse. My mission in therapy is to respect each client, and walk with them at their healing pace, I believe if we walk together on this healing journey life will be better.
(215) 995-5066 View (215) 995-5066
Photo of Carol A Corso, MA
Carol A Corso
MA
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18103
My work with children, adolescents and adults is client-centered and strength-based. I believe that as we move through life stages, there are times when we experience difficulty, loss or pain. My goal as a therapist is to help my clients feel acceptance, empathy and positive regard. My approach with clients is non-judgmental; my goal is to help clients work through difficult times and tough issues.
My work with children, adolescents and adults is client-centered and strength-based. I believe that as we move through life stages, there are times when we experience difficulty, loss or pain. My goal as a therapist is to help my clients feel acceptance, empathy and positive regard. My approach with clients is non-judgmental; my goal is to help clients work through difficult times and tough issues.
(484) 334-2131 View (484) 334-2131
Photo of Ashley L. Baldwin, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley L. Baldwin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18103
As warm and compassionate therapists, we are committed to understanding your needs, life experiences, and strengths that have shaped you into the unique person you are today. We have expertise working with individuals of all ages in a variety of clinical settings. Collaboratively, we will develop healthy coping strategies that will allow you to effectively manage your life stressors and process your past that have left you feeling stuck, so you can move forward with intention & purpose.
As warm and compassionate therapists, we are committed to understanding your needs, life experiences, and strengths that have shaped you into the unique person you are today. We have expertise working with individuals of all ages in a variety of clinical settings. Collaboratively, we will develop healthy coping strategies that will allow you to effectively manage your life stressors and process your past that have left you feeling stuck, so you can move forward with intention & purpose.
(610) 756-0437 View (610) 756-0437
Photo of Inner Resources Counseling, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Inner Resources Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Allentown, PA 18103
Inner Resource Counseling is a group practice serving Bethlehem & the Lehigh Valley area. Our focus is on acting as therapeutic supports in assisting people in improving their lives by gaining personal insights about themselves and making healthier choices in problematic times, allowing for positive change to occur in life. If you are feeling stuck, frustrated or overwhelmed as a result of current life stressors or have been living with long-standing issues, clinicians can work with you to develop skills and raise your level of functioning and satisfaction with the use of multiple techniques, based on your individual needs.
Inner Resource Counseling is a group practice serving Bethlehem & the Lehigh Valley area. Our focus is on acting as therapeutic supports in assisting people in improving their lives by gaining personal insights about themselves and making healthier choices in problematic times, allowing for positive change to occur in life. If you are feeling stuck, frustrated or overwhelmed as a result of current life stressors or have been living with long-standing issues, clinicians can work with you to develop skills and raise your level of functioning and satisfaction with the use of multiple techniques, based on your individual needs.
(570) 221-6852 View (570) 221-6852
Photo of Stephanie Kapustic, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephanie Kapustic
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allentown, PA 18103
Hello! Expressing our thoughts and feelings can be scary and intimidating. Avoiding our emotions can lead to aggression, anxiety, depression, and health issues and put a strain on many areas of our lives. I have many years of experience working with adults, young adults, teens, and kids.
Hello! Expressing our thoughts and feelings can be scary and intimidating. Avoiding our emotions can lead to aggression, anxiety, depression, and health issues and put a strain on many areas of our lives. I have many years of experience working with adults, young adults, teens, and kids.
(610) 819-5598 View (610) 819-5598
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.