Play Therapy in Point Pleasant, NJ
Free To Be Me, Creative Counseling Center LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ACS, RPT, EdS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Point Pleasant, NJ 08742
What is Creative/ Play Therapy? Play is a child's first language.
I'm a strengths based play therapist who believes that EVERYONE has GREATNESS inside of them! My goal when working with children and families is to focus on their strengths to build positive self esteem and to help restore peace and balance to the family unit. I specifically work with children who are trying to process change, divorce/separation, bullying, social rejection, grief, and school anxiety, just to name a few. I help children to recognize their own greatness, develop coping and problem solving skills, process trauma, and provide parents with the tools to help manage behaviors and emotionally support their kids at home.
What is Creative/ Play Therapy? Play is a child's first language.
I'm a strengths based play therapist who believes that EVERYONE has GREATNESS inside of them! My goal when working with children and families is to focus on their strengths to build positive self esteem and to help restore peace and balance to the family unit. I specifically work with children who are trying to process change, divorce/separation, bullying, social rejection, grief, and school anxiety, just to name a few. I help children to recognize their own greatness, develop coping and problem solving skills, process trauma, and provide parents with the tools to help manage behaviors and emotionally support their kids at home.
I am trained in EMDR and Sand Play.
Being positive does not mean you have to be happy all the time and ignore reality, it means trusting that even on the hard days, you know that better ones are coming. Having hope is such an important part of getting through the hard times. I offer a safe space for you to come and take some time to take care of yourself. I think we can all benefit from a neutral support and perspective, so we can continue to grow into who we desire to be, no matter how old we are.
I am trained in EMDR and Sand Play.
Being positive does not mean you have to be happy all the time and ignore reality, it means trusting that even on the hard days, you know that better ones are coming. Having hope is such an important part of getting through the hard times. I offer a safe space for you to come and take some time to take care of yourself. I think we can all benefit from a neutral support and perspective, so we can continue to grow into who we desire to be, no matter how old we are.
Dr. Phyllis Alongi
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Point Pleasant, NJ 08742
Phyllis Alongi, PhD, LPC, ACS. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, with numerous years of counseling experience with children, adolescents, and adults and over ten years of teaching experience. I believe therapy is about change; facilitated by focusing on an individual's strengths. I take a non-judgmental, empathetic approach to the therapeutic relationship and believe in the mind-body-spirit connection with mental health and wellness. I utilize a myriad of counseling modalities including Sand play Therapy. A Clinical Supervisor since 2014. I offer quality, meaningful clinical supervision. I am a Reiki practitioner.
Phyllis Alongi, PhD, LPC, ACS. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, with numerous years of counseling experience with children, adolescents, and adults and over ten years of teaching experience. I believe therapy is about change; facilitated by focusing on an individual's strengths. I take a non-judgmental, empathetic approach to the therapeutic relationship and believe in the mind-body-spirit connection with mental health and wellness. I utilize a myriad of counseling modalities including Sand play Therapy. A Clinical Supervisor since 2014. I offer quality, meaningful clinical supervision. I am a Reiki practitioner.
Elizabeth L Barton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Point Pleasant, NJ 08742 (Online Only)
Hello, and weicome! I'm Elizabeth and I'm here to offer you a warm and compassionate space in which to discuss what may be getting in the way of being happy in your life. Because life can be difficult and challenging, perhaps you are struggling with anxiety, depression,overwhelm,or feeling stuck.You may also be self critical and put yourself down and need assistance in developing a solid sense of self esteem and self worth. Relationships can also be sources of dissatisfaction and confusion and you may benefit from learning some skills to navigate them. Job stress, finances, and raising a family can contibute to frustration as well.
Hello, and weicome! I'm Elizabeth and I'm here to offer you a warm and compassionate space in which to discuss what may be getting in the way of being happy in your life. Because life can be difficult and challenging, perhaps you are struggling with anxiety, depression,overwhelm,or feeling stuck.You may also be self critical and put yourself down and need assistance in developing a solid sense of self esteem and self worth. Relationships can also be sources of dissatisfaction and confusion and you may benefit from learning some skills to navigate them. Job stress, finances, and raising a family can contibute to frustration as well.
Erin Siciliano
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LSC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Point Pleasant, NJ 08742
A therapist is someone who joins you in the darkness with a light to help you find your own way out. Reaching out for help is not a sign of weakness, but is a brave act of self love. Congratulations on taking the first steps toward self improvement and healing. I believe you are the expert on your own life and counseling can be utilized as a tool to gain clarity, heal childhood wounds and offer new perspectives. My therapeutic approach is trauma informed and person-centered while utilizing, unconditional positive regard.
A therapist is someone who joins you in the darkness with a light to help you find your own way out. Reaching out for help is not a sign of weakness, but is a brave act of self love. Congratulations on taking the first steps toward self improvement and healing. I believe you are the expert on your own life and counseling can be utilized as a tool to gain clarity, heal childhood wounds and offer new perspectives. My therapeutic approach is trauma informed and person-centered while utilizing, unconditional positive regard.
Lori Lepore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Point Pleasant, NJ 08742
I believe all people deserve a place to come as they are, with the full weight of their struggles, conflicts and grief. As a seasoned therapist, I use a collaborative approach focusing on relational, strength-based, solution-focused, cognitive, emotional, and holistic therapies catering to each individual's needs. My goal is to provide a down to earth environment blending empathy and humor to create a safe and comfortable space.
I believe all people deserve a place to come as they are, with the full weight of their struggles, conflicts and grief. As a seasoned therapist, I use a collaborative approach focusing on relational, strength-based, solution-focused, cognitive, emotional, and holistic therapies catering to each individual's needs. My goal is to provide a down to earth environment blending empathy and humor to create a safe and comfortable space.
Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, addiction, depression, divorce, anxiety, or major life changes? There comes a time when we need help from a professional to learn how to cope with many of life’s challenges. I would love to help you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery.
Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, addiction, depression, divorce, anxiety, or major life changes? There comes a time when we need help from a professional to learn how to cope with many of life’s challenges. I would love to help you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery.
Chiara Barone
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Point Pleasant, NJ 08742 (Online Only)
I work with families and individuals on various matters including substance use, impulse control, trauma, anxiety, depression, anger management, communication and relationship difficulties.
I work with families and individuals on various matters including substance use, impulse control, trauma, anxiety, depression, anger management, communication and relationship difficulties.
Mackenzie McDermott (Keep Climbing Counseling)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Point Pleasant, NJ 08742
Not accepting new clients
I work with a person centered approach, and am certified in Sand Play Therapy and am EMDR trained.
I handle a variety of issues and life stressors including: relationship issues, self esteem, LGBTQ+ population, anxiety, depression, personal growth, PTSD, and domestic violence. Believing in the mind-body-spirit connection to achieve overall wellness, I carry my passionate beliefs about natural healing into my therapy style.
I work with a person centered approach, and am certified in Sand Play Therapy and am EMDR trained.
I handle a variety of issues and life stressors including: relationship issues, self esteem, LGBTQ+ population, anxiety, depression, personal growth, PTSD, and domestic violence. Believing in the mind-body-spirit connection to achieve overall wellness, I carry my passionate beliefs about natural healing into my therapy style.
More Therapists Nearby
Elisabeth Kvalo-Savino
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brick, NJ 08724
I am trained in play therapy, motivational interviewing, client centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and Trauma Focused CBT.
I am a licensed professional counselor with over 30 years of experience working with children, adolescents, individuals and families . I am very passionate about helping others. I provide a warm, empathetic, non-judgmental environment where a trusting relationship is built so we can begin to do the work to help bring about positive change in your life. I use a multi-modal approach, taking each client's individual needs into consideration.
I am trained in play therapy, motivational interviewing, client centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and Trauma Focused CBT.
I am a licensed professional counselor with over 30 years of experience working with children, adolescents, individuals and families . I am very passionate about helping others. I provide a warm, empathetic, non-judgmental environment where a trusting relationship is built so we can begin to do the work to help bring about positive change in your life. I use a multi-modal approach, taking each client's individual needs into consideration.
Julia Ann Gollas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brick, NJ 08724
A combination of behavioral, cognitive, and psychosocial theories are incorporated into my approach as well as a combination of play, strength-based, cognitive-behavioral, and solution-focused therapy.
Once stated by Erik Erickson, "Children love and want to be loved and they very much prefer the joy of accomplishment". My passion comes from working with children, adolescents, and families as they learn and grow together while celebrating the joys of their own accomplishments. Providing support while managing a variety of life stressors including but not limited to school difficulties, ADHD, anxiety, and defiance are my specialty. I have gained this specialty through my work while providing therapy in Partial Hospitalization, Intensive Outpatient, and School Based Programs. Having the privilege to provide you with empathy, warmth, and empowerment on this journey is my hope.
A combination of behavioral, cognitive, and psychosocial theories are incorporated into my approach as well as a combination of play, strength-based, cognitive-behavioral, and solution-focused therapy.
Once stated by Erik Erickson, "Children love and want to be loved and they very much prefer the joy of accomplishment". My passion comes from working with children, adolescents, and families as they learn and grow together while celebrating the joys of their own accomplishments. Providing support while managing a variety of life stressors including but not limited to school difficulties, ADHD, anxiety, and defiance are my specialty. I have gained this specialty through my work while providing therapy in Partial Hospitalization, Intensive Outpatient, and School Based Programs. Having the privilege to provide you with empathy, warmth, and empowerment on this journey is my hope.
Ocean Counseling and Wellness, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brick, NJ 08724
I will help you find emotional balance through the use of psychotherapy, sand play therapy and mindfulness principles that will be tailored to your specific needs, challenges and concerns.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience working with individuals, teens, couples and families. Recognizing your need for help with life's challenges and choosing to begin therapy takes hope and a great deal of courage. My practice offers a safe, warm and calming environment where you can share your life story and begin the journey of healing, growth and change. I can help you with life's transitions, relationship and communication issues and personal growth, specializing in women's empowerment and strengthening families.
I will help you find emotional balance through the use of psychotherapy, sand play therapy and mindfulness principles that will be tailored to your specific needs, challenges and concerns.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience working with individuals, teens, couples and families. Recognizing your need for help with life's challenges and choosing to begin therapy takes hope and a great deal of courage. My practice offers a safe, warm and calming environment where you can share your life story and begin the journey of healing, growth and change. I can help you with life's transitions, relationship and communication issues and personal growth, specializing in women's empowerment and strengthening families.
Erica Hansen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Point Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742
Emotions play a role in every relationship we have and every decision we make.
Anxiety and worry play a role in all of our lives. It can cause us feel stuck or make even the smallest decision seem impossible. You are not alone, many feel the same way everyday. Having children, parenting, illness, the loss of a loved one, divorce/relationship ending and changing jobs can all be sources of increased stress and worry. These stressors can impact our emotions causing our anxiety to become overwhelming. Learning to handle strong emotions and developing emotional intelligence is key to managing our life stressors.
Emotions play a role in every relationship we have and every decision we make.
Anxiety and worry play a role in all of our lives. It can cause us feel stuck or make even the smallest decision seem impossible. You are not alone, many feel the same way everyday. Having children, parenting, illness, the loss of a loved one, divorce/relationship ending and changing jobs can all be sources of increased stress and worry. These stressors can impact our emotions causing our anxiety to become overwhelming. Learning to handle strong emotions and developing emotional intelligence is key to managing our life stressors.
Lisa DiBernardo - Clients Aged 6-14
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MEd
Verified Verified
Point Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742
Through play therapy, cognitive-behavioral techniques, & expressive arts, I empower clients to explore their emotions, develop coping skills, & build resilience.
With 17+ years experience providing mental health support to children and adolescents, my primary goal is to foster a safe and trusting environment where your child can thrive and develop their emotional well-being. I understand that entrusting your child's mental health to someone else can be a challenging decision. However, I want to assure you that my approach to counseling is rooted in empathy, compassion, and a genuine commitment to your child's growth. By creating a non-judgmental and supportive space, I strive to establish a therapeutic relationship that encourages open communication, active listening, and collaboration.
Through play therapy, cognitive-behavioral techniques, & expressive arts, I empower clients to explore their emotions, develop coping skills, & build resilience.
With 17+ years experience providing mental health support to children and adolescents, my primary goal is to foster a safe and trusting environment where your child can thrive and develop their emotional well-being. I understand that entrusting your child's mental health to someone else can be a challenging decision. However, I want to assure you that my approach to counseling is rooted in empathy, compassion, and a genuine commitment to your child's growth. By creating a non-judgmental and supportive space, I strive to establish a therapeutic relationship that encourages open communication, active listening, and collaboration.
I offer sand play therapy, mandalas and art, music, reiki, yoga and meditation for all ages, in addition to traditional talk therapy.
Congratulations on taking the first step towards self improvement for yourself or your child! I often tell my clients, family and friends that therapy is the ultimate gift you can give yourself or your child. Imagine devoting a set time each week in a comfortable and calm environment to focus on yourself. This time is devoted to you and only you. I will ensure that the space is held and that you, or your child, feel safe and supported during this time of healing. With over a decade's worth of experience, I help individuals with challenges stemming from issues such of anxiety, depression, trauma, inattention, and family conflict.
I offer sand play therapy, mandalas and art, music, reiki, yoga and meditation for all ages, in addition to traditional talk therapy.
Congratulations on taking the first step towards self improvement for yourself or your child! I often tell my clients, family and friends that therapy is the ultimate gift you can give yourself or your child. Imagine devoting a set time each week in a comfortable and calm environment to focus on yourself. This time is devoted to you and only you. I will ensure that the space is held and that you, or your child, feel safe and supported during this time of healing. With over a decade's worth of experience, I help individuals with challenges stemming from issues such of anxiety, depression, trauma, inattention, and family conflict.
I have been extensively trained in play as well as sand play therapies and work together closely with parents while treating their children.
Are you or your child overwhelmed with life's stressors? Perhaps you may be experiencing feelings of anxiety or depression and would like to learn to them manage differently. In my practice I offer compassionate mental health counseling services to people of all ages including children as young as 3 years old.
I have been extensively trained in play as well as sand play therapies and work together closely with parents while treating their children.
Are you or your child overwhelmed with life's stressors? Perhaps you may be experiencing feelings of anxiety or depression and would like to learn to them manage differently. In my practice I offer compassionate mental health counseling services to people of all ages including children as young as 3 years old.
Dr. Tara Chalakani
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD , LPC, ACS, NCC, RN
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Brielle, NJ 08730
Waitlist for new clients
), Trauma (sexual, physical, emotional), Grief/Loss, Infertility, Self-Defeating Thoughts/Behaviors (low self-esteem), Improving Relationships, Communication, Personal Growth/Self-Improvement, Co-dependency, Sand Play Therapy, Holistic therapy (Reiki/Acupressure/Nutrition), Clinical Supervision.
Dr. Tara is a Licensed Professional Counselor who is passionate about her work. To help people grow, heal, and overcome obstacles brings her great joy. Her expansive knowledge makes her a well-known expert in her field. She believes that her clients possess the capacity to heal, but sometimes they need the right environment to foster their true potential. She is holistic and views each person as an individual. Dr. Tara has extensive experience and is well versed in several counseling modalities and understands that each person's needs are unique.
), Trauma (sexual, physical, emotional), Grief/Loss, Infertility, Self-Defeating Thoughts/Behaviors (low self-esteem), Improving Relationships, Communication, Personal Growth/Self-Improvement, Co-dependency, Sand Play Therapy, Holistic therapy (Reiki/Acupressure/Nutrition), Clinical Supervision.
Dr. Tara is a Licensed Professional Counselor who is passionate about her work. To help people grow, heal, and overcome obstacles brings her great joy. Her expansive knowledge makes her a well-known expert in her field. She believes that her clients possess the capacity to heal, but sometimes they need the right environment to foster their true potential. She is holistic and views each person as an individual. Dr. Tara has extensive experience and is well versed in several counseling modalities and understands that each person's needs are unique.
My specialized training includes EMDR, Sand Play Therapy, and Trauma-Informed Yoga.
Now Accepting New Clients! I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental approach grounded in the biopsychosocial model, addressing the emotional, physical, and psychological aspects contributing to discomfort or life challenges. My clinical expertise spans working with trauma survivors of all ages, individuals managing chronic pain or complex medical conditions, those on the Autism Spectrum, and people seeking to overcome insecure attachment patterns affecting their relationships. If you're interested in exploring whether we're a good fit, feel free to reach out.
My specialized training includes EMDR, Sand Play Therapy, and Trauma-Informed Yoga.
Now Accepting New Clients! I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental approach grounded in the biopsychosocial model, addressing the emotional, physical, and psychological aspects contributing to discomfort or life challenges. My clinical expertise spans working with trauma survivors of all ages, individuals managing chronic pain or complex medical conditions, those on the Autism Spectrum, and people seeking to overcome insecure attachment patterns affecting their relationships. If you're interested in exploring whether we're a good fit, feel free to reach out.
Therapy can be a wonderful process to examine self, reflect, and grow toward the direction of hope and healing. I offer a safe, supportive and private environment where you may explore and work through life challenges. If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, grief and loss,`the aftermath of trauma, or panic attacks therapy can be an viable source of comfort and healing. At times life gives us more than we can handle and the challenges seem to go beyond our ability to cope. It is at these times when therapy can be most beneficial.
Therapy can be a wonderful process to examine self, reflect, and grow toward the direction of hope and healing. I offer a safe, supportive and private environment where you may explore and work through life challenges. If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, grief and loss,`the aftermath of trauma, or panic attacks therapy can be an viable source of comfort and healing. At times life gives us more than we can handle and the challenges seem to go beyond our ability to cope. It is at these times when therapy can be most beneficial.
Licensed in Texas, NJ, PA -My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, narrative therapy, existential, and psycho-dynamic. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you to thrive now!
Licensed in Texas, NJ, PA -My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, narrative therapy, existential, and psycho-dynamic. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you to thrive now!
See more therapy options for Point Pleasant
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Point Pleasant
- Belmar
- Brick
- Brielle
- Howell
- Lakewood
- Manasquan
- Neptune
- Neptune City
- Point Pleasant Beach
- Sea Girt
- Wall
- Wall Township
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.