Photo of Eileen Fung, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennington, NJ
Eileen Fung
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Pennington, NJ 08534
My theoretical approaches include Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), and Child-Centered Play therapy.
As a first-generation Asian-American born to immigrant parents, a member of the LGBTQ+ community, and an advocate for the Deaf community, I believe that an individual’s cultures and communities are key factors in their self-actualization.
My theoretical approaches include Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), and Child-Centered Play therapy.
As a first-generation Asian-American born to immigrant parents, a member of the LGBTQ+ community, and an advocate for the Deaf community, I believe that an individual’s cultures and communities are key factors in their self-actualization.
(609) 913-2899 View (609) 913-2899
Photo of Emily Anne Mattek, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennington, NJ
Emily Anne Mattek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534
My therapy modalities include cognitive behavior therapy, multicultural family therapy, narrative therapy, Trauma-focused CBT, play therapy and feminist therapy.
I believe in meeting clients where they are at! Every person is resilient. I intend our collaboration to remind you of your strengths, provide you tools to weather the storms of life, and a safe space to gain insight into your truest self. I come to social work from a social justice background and recognize that trauma and oppression are often intertwined. Acknowledging systemic issues is a vital part of my practice, particularly for youth and families directly impacted by it. Teaching you to advocate successfully on your own behalf, whether it be in your relationships or larger systems, is also essential.
My therapy modalities include cognitive behavior therapy, multicultural family therapy, narrative therapy, Trauma-focused CBT, play therapy and feminist therapy.
I believe in meeting clients where they are at! Every person is resilient. I intend our collaboration to remind you of your strengths, provide you tools to weather the storms of life, and a safe space to gain insight into your truest self. I come to social work from a social justice background and recognize that trauma and oppression are often intertwined. Acknowledging systemic issues is a vital part of my practice, particularly for youth and families directly impacted by it. Teaching you to advocate successfully on your own behalf, whether it be in your relationships or larger systems, is also essential.
(609) 303-5875 View (609) 303-5875
Photo of Sara Takla - Child And Teen Therapist, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennington, NJ
Sara Takla - Child And Teen Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Pennington, NJ 08534
I am a licensed clinical social worker and registered play therapist.
Reaching out to a therapist is not easy. Regardless of the reason, calling a stranger to ask for help for you or your child can feel intimidating. I would like to take a moment to reassure you that this first step is often the hardest, but it does get easier. I'm here to support you on this journey. I offer a warm, empathic, and client-centered approach focused on making you feel heard, seen, and supported. I believe the client-therapist relationship is the most essential part of therapy and will work to build your trust. I focus on making sessions a safe space to share your feelings, learn new skills, and begin to make changes.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and registered play therapist.
Reaching out to a therapist is not easy. Regardless of the reason, calling a stranger to ask for help for you or your child can feel intimidating. I would like to take a moment to reassure you that this first step is often the hardest, but it does get easier. I'm here to support you on this journey. I offer a warm, empathic, and client-centered approach focused on making you feel heard, seen, and supported. I believe the client-therapist relationship is the most essential part of therapy and will work to build your trust. I focus on making sessions a safe space to share your feelings, learn new skills, and begin to make changes.
(609) 245-5211 View (609) 245-5211
Photo of Lindsey Bell - Lily Counseling And Art Therapy Llc, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennington, NJ
Lindsey Bell - Lily Counseling And Art Therapy Llc
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPAT, ATR-BC, ACS
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534
Welcome! I'm Lindsey, a counselor & art therapist. Life can be difficult sometimes and I'm here to help create realistic and healthy goals, while guiding you through the therapeutic process. I work to empower clients in using resources and tools gained in sessions. I encourage honesty & willingness during sessions and understand it takes time for some to get there. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, low self-esteem, poor emotional regulation, communication difficulties, time management difficulties, work/school stress, and more.
Welcome! I'm Lindsey, a counselor & art therapist. Life can be difficult sometimes and I'm here to help create realistic and healthy goals, while guiding you through the therapeutic process. I work to empower clients in using resources and tools gained in sessions. I encourage honesty & willingness during sessions and understand it takes time for some to get there. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, low self-esteem, poor emotional regulation, communication difficulties, time management difficulties, work/school stress, and more.
(609) 604-5920 View (609) 604-5920
Photo of Lauren Kretzmer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennington, NJ
Lauren Kretzmer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534
Like our fingerprints, there are no two people who will have the exact experiences, pain, struggles or stories. Everyone's pain will show up differently and everyone's story will have a tale that needs to be told. What is the same for most people is the need and want to find release from their pain, healing from their stories and a future to look forward to. When we work together, this is always our goal although our path to get there may look different from your friend, co-worker or family member. This is treatment designed for you and your unique story and needs.
Like our fingerprints, there are no two people who will have the exact experiences, pain, struggles or stories. Everyone's pain will show up differently and everyone's story will have a tale that needs to be told. What is the same for most people is the need and want to find release from their pain, healing from their stories and a future to look forward to. When we work together, this is always our goal although our path to get there may look different from your friend, co-worker or family member. This is treatment designed for you and your unique story and needs.
(609) 312-5739 View (609) 312-5739
Photo of Jennifer Lesage, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennington, NJ
Jennifer Lesage
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534
One of the most difficult aspects of being a parent is seeing your child in pain and feeling like there is nothing that you can do to help. Have you become increasingly concerned about your child's behavior at home or school? Do you worry that your child is struggling with day to day functioning? Are their behaviors difficult to understand and manage? Does the smallest thing seem to trigger your child? Is your teen withdrawing and not engaging in activities that once brought them joy? Is your teen engaging in harmful behaviors?
One of the most difficult aspects of being a parent is seeing your child in pain and feeling like there is nothing that you can do to help. Have you become increasingly concerned about your child's behavior at home or school? Do you worry that your child is struggling with day to day functioning? Are their behaviors difficult to understand and manage? Does the smallest thing seem to trigger your child? Is your teen withdrawing and not engaging in activities that once brought them joy? Is your teen engaging in harmful behaviors?
(609) 454-6505 View (609) 454-6505
Photo of Dr. Alyssa B. Catuogno, Pre-Licensed Professional in Pennington, NJ
Dr. Alyssa B. Catuogno
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD, NCSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534
My treatment approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness-Based Therapy for individuals suffering from various disorders and psychological distress including but not limited to eating disorders, depression, anxiety, LGBTQ, suicidal ideation, and family issues. In addition to psychotherapy, I conduct psychological evaluations/testing, psychoeducational testing, and biopsychosocial evaluations. I conduct testing for ADHD, gifted/talented, and special education services. I provide a compassionate, holistic, and caring atmosphere in order to provide my clients a trusting and supportive therapeutic experience.
My treatment approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness-Based Therapy for individuals suffering from various disorders and psychological distress including but not limited to eating disorders, depression, anxiety, LGBTQ, suicidal ideation, and family issues. In addition to psychotherapy, I conduct psychological evaluations/testing, psychoeducational testing, and biopsychosocial evaluations. I conduct testing for ADHD, gifted/talented, and special education services. I provide a compassionate, holistic, and caring atmosphere in order to provide my clients a trusting and supportive therapeutic experience.
(267) 704-8646 View (267) 704-8646
Photo of Arielle Skoryk, Psychologist in Pennington, NJ
Arielle Skoryk
Psychologist, PsyD, NCSP
Verified Verified
Pennington, NJ 08534
Not accepting new clients
As the parent, you know your child best. Do you believe that your child's behavioral and/or emotional needs are impacting his/her ability to function at home or at school? If so, getting support from a professional can make a huge difference. Each child has strengths & needs, and I use a compassionate strengths-based approach to reach & support all children.
As the parent, you know your child best. Do you believe that your child's behavioral and/or emotional needs are impacting his/her ability to function at home or at school? If so, getting support from a professional can make a huge difference. Each child has strengths & needs, and I use a compassionate strengths-based approach to reach & support all children.
(848) 225-9906 View (848) 225-9906

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Mindful Minds, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennington, NJ
Mindful Minds
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08540  (Online Only)
Different modalities used Parts Work, Internal Family Systems, Mindfulness, Play Therapy, Dialectal Behavioral Therapy, and Restorative Justice.
The primitive brain can take over, when it does we can be harsh on ourselves and carry feelings like an anchor. When one area of our life is off, it impacts others areas like a leaky faucet too slow to notice and life begins to flood. We know to swim to survive but don't think float to save our energy. This struggle leads to exhaustion and a series of emotions that create new issues. Hurt people; hurt people. Becoming present & reflecting, leads to peace. If we could take a step back to see what needs solving? Things are not black and white, there is a lot of gray in between; things can co-exist. www.mindfulmindscounseling.com
Different modalities used Parts Work, Internal Family Systems, Mindfulness, Play Therapy, Dialectal Behavioral Therapy, and Restorative Justice.
The primitive brain can take over, when it does we can be harsh on ourselves and carry feelings like an anchor. When one area of our life is off, it impacts others areas like a leaky faucet too slow to notice and life begins to flood. We know to swim to survive but don't think float to save our energy. This struggle leads to exhaustion and a series of emotions that create new issues. Hurt people; hurt people. Becoming present & reflecting, leads to peace. If we could take a step back to see what needs solving? Things are not black and white, there is a lot of gray in between; things can co-exist. www.mindfulmindscounseling.com
(609) 454-6357 View (609) 454-6357
Photo of Geraldine V Oades-Sese, Psychologist in Pennington, NJ
Geraldine V Oades-Sese
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
Interventions include academic and organization strategies, play therapy, CBT, 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. Please visit my website: www.childresilience.com
Interventions include academic and organization strategies, play therapy, CBT, 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. Please visit my website: www.childresilience.com
(732) 387-4209 View (732) 387-4209
Photo of Cara Natale Ruddy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennington, NJ
Cara Natale Ruddy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
Post masters, I have received advanced training in child development, attachment theory, Play Therapy, Mindfulness Based Play-Family Therapy, Sandplay 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, Sandplay 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.
(781) 916-9573 View (781) 916-9573
Photo of Eren Moore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennington, NJ
Eren Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lawrence, NJ 08648
I am trained in faith-based counseling, Creative Arts Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Narrative therapy, Grief/loss, Play therapy, and working with survivors of racial trauma, sexual trauma/abuse, human trafficking, and other social justice issues.
I have experience working with men and women of all ages who are dealing with stress, anxiety/depression, and unresolved trauma and loss. I am passionate about hearing your story and journeying with you to explore your therapeutic needs/concerns. I will also help you identify core issues such as life transitions, stressors or negative core beliefs, or cognitive distortions and provide the support and tools that you need to achieve your therapeutic goals.
I am trained in faith-based counseling, Creative Arts Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Narrative therapy, Grief/loss, Play therapy, and working with survivors of racial trauma, sexual trauma/abuse, human trafficking, and other social justice issues.
I have experience working with men and women of all ages who are dealing with stress, anxiety/depression, and unresolved trauma and loss. I am passionate about hearing your story and journeying with you to explore your therapeutic needs/concerns. I will also help you identify core issues such as life transitions, stressors or negative core beliefs, or cognitive distortions and provide the support and tools that you need to achieve your therapeutic goals.
(609) 631-3162 View (609) 631-3162
Photo of Ahmika Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennington, NJ
Ahmika Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Trenton, NJ 08619
I will meet you where you are on your healing journey. As your therapist, it is my goal to cultivate a welcoming and judgment free zone that will allow you to explore your emotions, thoughts and feelings in a safe environment. Each person is the expert in their own lives, and through utilizing an empowering and holistic approach, we will identify and work towards your goals. During our time together we may talk, play and/or practice mindfulness-it is all guided by your unique needs. I am grateful to take this journey with you!
I will meet you where you are on your healing journey. As your therapist, it is my goal to cultivate a welcoming and judgment free zone that will allow you to explore your emotions, thoughts and feelings in a safe environment. Each person is the expert in their own lives, and through utilizing an empowering and holistic approach, we will identify and work towards your goals. During our time together we may talk, play and/or practice mindfulness-it is all guided by your unique needs. I am grateful to take this journey with you!
(609) 554-5314 View (609) 554-5314
Photo of Carolyn Flynn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennington, NJ
Carolyn Flynn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CD, IMH-E
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08540
I utilize psychodynamic and current trauma practices for adults, and offer play therapy and parent coaching for young children.
I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, difficulty with life transitions, relationship issues, and traumatic stress as well as young children with behavioral difficulties, anxiety/depression or who have experienced a traumatic event. My clients come to me for help moving through difficult times with the goal of emerging more fully aligned with their true self.
I utilize psychodynamic and current trauma practices for adults, and offer play therapy and parent coaching for young children.
I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, difficulty with life transitions, relationship issues, and traumatic stress as well as young children with behavioral difficulties, anxiety/depression or who have experienced a traumatic event. My clients come to me for help moving through difficult times with the goal of emerging more fully aligned with their true self.
(908) 836-7545 View (908) 836-7545
Photo of Maggie Masterton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennington, NJ
Maggie Masterton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
Post masters, I have received advanced training in attachment theory, trauma informed approaches, Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Sandplay Therapy, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing).
I am a licensed clinical social worker specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents, and families. I have numerous years experience working with children across a variety of clinical and educational settings, incorporating the use of play therapy and informed by current research in child development. I meet my clients with warmth, respect, and a desire to work to facilitate a relationship of deep understanding. Utilizing an integrative perspective, I engage my clients in creative and individualized therapeutic approaches, help them deepen their understanding of themselves, and support their work towards greater emotional health and well-being.
Post masters, I have received advanced training in attachment theory, trauma informed approaches, Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Sandplay Therapy, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing).
I am a licensed clinical social worker specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents, and families. I have numerous years experience working with children across a variety of clinical and educational settings, incorporating the use of play therapy and informed by current research in child development. I meet my clients with warmth, respect, and a desire to work to facilitate a relationship of deep understanding. Utilizing an integrative perspective, I engage my clients in creative and individualized therapeutic approaches, help them deepen their understanding of themselves, and support their work towards greater emotional health and well-being.
(856) 347-3475 View (856) 347-3475
Photo of Kim Finnie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennington, NJ
Kim Finnie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hamilton, NJ 08619
The primary therapeutic approaches Kim uses are: Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Sand Play, EMDR.
Some of human suffering is about the way we experience the events of our lives rather than the things themselves. Therapy offers an opportunity to bring awareness to our experiences and change our relationship to them rather than try to change the events themselves. Through this approach, we gain a sense of control in our lives and positively experience and influence its direction. If we believe that we have power within us to achieve health and happiness, then the events in our lives that cause us pain and suffering can be seen as an opportunity to learn about ourselves and experience personal growth.
The primary therapeutic approaches Kim uses are: Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Sand Play, EMDR.
Some of human suffering is about the way we experience the events of our lives rather than the things themselves. Therapy offers an opportunity to bring awareness to our experiences and change our relationship to them rather than try to change the events themselves. Through this approach, we gain a sense of control in our lives and positively experience and influence its direction. If we believe that we have power within us to achieve health and happiness, then the events in our lives that cause us pain and suffering can be seen as an opportunity to learn about ourselves and experience personal growth.
(856) 942-4717 View (856) 942-4717
Photo of Angela Konin, Licensed Social Worker in Pennington, NJ
Angela Konin
Licensed Social Worker, MA, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
Waitlist for new clients
Offering down-to-earth, trauma-informed, affirming therapy services for children through adults in person and via telehealth, I help clients feel seen and appreciated for their authentic selves. As we work together to understand current issues, uncover root causes, and explore possible solutions, client dignity and autonomy are centered. With connection, sensitivity, and curiosity, I utilize a combination of approaches including Internal Family Systems, somatic psychotherapy, mindfulness and self compassion, art, play, and more, to help clients gain insight and make positive changes.
Offering down-to-earth, trauma-informed, affirming therapy services for children through adults in person and via telehealth, I help clients feel seen and appreciated for their authentic selves. As we work together to understand current issues, uncover root causes, and explore possible solutions, client dignity and autonomy are centered. With connection, sensitivity, and curiosity, I utilize a combination of approaches including Internal Family Systems, somatic psychotherapy, mindfulness and self compassion, art, play, and more, to help clients gain insight and make positive changes.
(609) 745-1458 View (609) 745-1458
Photo of Susan Glaser, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennington, NJ
Susan Glaser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540  (Online Only)
I find expressive arts therapy to be particularly effective with adolescents, and I use play therapy with younger children.
I am here to support you as an individual, a couple, or a family. If you are experiencing stress, depression, or anxiety due to a change in your circumstances, or to ongoing relationship problems, my goal is to assist you to heal and resolve difficulties. I work with many different family and marital issues, including helping adoptive families. I welcome couples and families, including young children, with whom I work in close consultation with their parents. Cómo terapeuta bilingual, estoy aquí para apoyar a Ud. como individuo, pareja, o familia.
I find expressive arts therapy to be particularly effective with adolescents, and I use play therapy with younger children.
I am here to support you as an individual, a couple, or a family. If you are experiencing stress, depression, or anxiety due to a change in your circumstances, or to ongoing relationship problems, my goal is to assist you to heal and resolve difficulties. I work with many different family and marital issues, including helping adoptive families. I welcome couples and families, including young children, with whom I work in close consultation with their parents. Cómo terapeuta bilingual, estoy aquí para apoyar a Ud. como individuo, pareja, o familia.
(908) 428-6901 View (908) 428-6901
Photo of Ciera J Cuevas, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennington, NJ
Ciera J Cuevas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Blawenburg, NJ 08504  (Online Only)
Welcome Traveler. Jasmine Dragon Counseling LLC (JDC) offers telehealth sessions for adolescents and adults in search of guidance and a creative approach to battling mental health challenges and relational stressors. Through play therapy and expressive arts interventions, JDC supports clients to process emotional pain and learn effective coping techniques to manage depression, anxiety, stress, ADD/ADHD, grief, and PTSD symptoms. A JDC approach to counseling is one that establishes a safe space for active collaboration to target problems and facilitate healing through the creative arts process and exploration of cultural artifacts.
Welcome Traveler. Jasmine Dragon Counseling LLC (JDC) offers telehealth sessions for adolescents and adults in search of guidance and a creative approach to battling mental health challenges and relational stressors. Through play therapy and expressive arts interventions, JDC supports clients to process emotional pain and learn effective coping techniques to manage depression, anxiety, stress, ADD/ADHD, grief, and PTSD symptoms. A JDC approach to counseling is one that establishes a safe space for active collaboration to target problems and facilitate healing through the creative arts process and exploration of cultural artifacts.
(609) 604-5483 View (609) 604-5483
Photo of Curren M. Whitfield, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennington, NJ
Curren M. Whitfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08540
I understand that a child who struggles at home or school with strong emotions or behavioral challenges, requires a lot of time and attention, seems angry, withdrawn, sensitive, or just doesn’t seem themselves, may leave a parent feeling frustrated, worried and exhausted. You want your child to do well and be happy, but you're unsure what will help. It can be difficult to find the right resources to address: low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, behavioral outbursts, and difficulty maintaining positive relationships. I specialize in working with children ages 3+ to improve functioning and establish healthy family connection.
I understand that a child who struggles at home or school with strong emotions or behavioral challenges, requires a lot of time and attention, seems angry, withdrawn, sensitive, or just doesn’t seem themselves, may leave a parent feeling frustrated, worried and exhausted. You want your child to do well and be happy, but you're unsure what will help. It can be difficult to find the right resources to address: low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, behavioral outbursts, and difficulty maintaining positive relationships. I specialize in working with children ages 3+ to improve functioning and establish healthy family connection.
(201) 590-1069 View (201) 590-1069
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.