Play Therapy in Chester, NJ

Photo of Geraldine V. Oades-Sese, Psychologist in Chester, NJ
Geraldine V. Oades-Sese
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chester, NJ 07930
Interventions include academic and organization strategies, play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, behavior management, and stress reduction/mindfulness.
Life is filled with many opportunities as well as challenges. My goal is to help children and adolescents recognize and seize those opportunities and overcome any challenges and obstacles that get in their way. By helping them create a positive mindset, build effective coping strategies, and expand their repertoire of problem-solving skills, they can live a healthy, satisfying, and successful social and academic life. The earlier these skills are cultivated within the child or adolescent, the greater the opportunities to practice and utilize them to their benefit.
Interventions include academic and organization strategies, play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, behavior management, and stress reduction/mindfulness.
Life is filled with many opportunities as well as challenges. My goal is to help children and adolescents recognize and seize those opportunities and overcome any challenges and obstacles that get in their way. By helping them create a positive mindset, build effective coping strategies, and expand their repertoire of problem-solving skills, they can live a healthy, satisfying, and successful social and academic life. The earlier these skills are cultivated within the child or adolescent, the greater the opportunities to practice and utilize them to their benefit.
(732) 993-7262 View (732) 993-7262
Photo of Yvonne Hansen, Psychologist in Chester, NJ
Yvonne Hansen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chester, NJ 07930
I am co-founder and partner at West Morris Psychological Associates and a NJ licensed psychologist. I treat all ages for a variety of mental health concerns, including: Adjustment Difficulties, Anxiety Disorders, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Child/Teen Behavioral Problems, Life Transitions, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Parent-child conflict, Panic Disorder, Parenting Strategies, Pervasive Development Disorders including Asperger's Disorder, divorce, bereavement, and relationships, School Phobia, Separation Anxiety, Social Skills, and Trauma. I use individual, family, and group therapies.
I am co-founder and partner at West Morris Psychological Associates and a NJ licensed psychologist. I treat all ages for a variety of mental health concerns, including: Adjustment Difficulties, Anxiety Disorders, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Child/Teen Behavioral Problems, Life Transitions, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Parent-child conflict, Panic Disorder, Parenting Strategies, Pervasive Development Disorders including Asperger's Disorder, divorce, bereavement, and relationships, School Phobia, Separation Anxiety, Social Skills, and Trauma. I use individual, family, and group therapies.
(908) 280-0439 View (908) 280-0439
Photo of Jeri Rothe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chester, NJ
Jeri Rothe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chester, NJ 07930
Reaching out for help is a STRENGTH, not a weakness. Life can be wonderful....but it is not easy. YOU ARE NOT ALONE. Therapy is the most useful way to learn Life Skills that are imperative in helping you achieve optimum mental health so you can successfully tackle life's challenges. And if you are motivated to learn these skills; learn how to think and react differently, then I am the therapist for you. I will do the work with you and be there every step of the way...AND YOU WILL BE SUCCESSFUL!
Reaching out for help is a STRENGTH, not a weakness. Life can be wonderful....but it is not easy. YOU ARE NOT ALONE. Therapy is the most useful way to learn Life Skills that are imperative in helping you achieve optimum mental health so you can successfully tackle life's challenges. And if you are motivated to learn these skills; learn how to think and react differently, then I am the therapist for you. I will do the work with you and be there every step of the way...AND YOU WILL BE SUCCESSFUL!
(908) 760-4713 View (908) 760-4713
Photo of Caitlin Northern, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chester, NJ
Caitlin Northern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chester, NJ 07930
Caitlin is a seasoned therapist with over a decade of experience who is dedicated to help guide you on your journey to healing and personal growth. She specializes in helping children, adults, and families to not only address issues like anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, behavioral problems (child/teen), and autism, but to find their overall path towards happiness and well-being. Her expertise further extends to complex trauma and loss with a deep understanding of attachment-related issues. Her understanding of Child and Family Studies makes her exceptionally well-prepared to address issues at the individual and environmental levels.
Caitlin is a seasoned therapist with over a decade of experience who is dedicated to help guide you on your journey to healing and personal growth. She specializes in helping children, adults, and families to not only address issues like anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, behavioral problems (child/teen), and autism, but to find their overall path towards happiness and well-being. Her expertise further extends to complex trauma and loss with a deep understanding of attachment-related issues. Her understanding of Child and Family Studies makes her exceptionally well-prepared to address issues at the individual and environmental levels.
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Photo of Katherine Riveros, Counselor in Chester, NJ
Katherine Riveros
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chester, NJ 07930
My dedication extends to providing a safe space for individuals to explore their thoughts, emotions, and unique life experiences. I believe in the transformative power of self-reflection and collaborative therapeutic relationships. Together, we can work towards building resilience, fostering personal growth, and navigating life's transitions.
My dedication extends to providing a safe space for individuals to explore their thoughts, emotions, and unique life experiences. I believe in the transformative power of self-reflection and collaborative therapeutic relationships. Together, we can work towards building resilience, fostering personal growth, and navigating life's transitions.
(908) 540-7366 View (908) 540-7366
Photo of Heather Watson-Perez, Psychologist in Chester, NJ
Heather Watson-Perez
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chester, NJ 07930
I am co-founder and partner at West Morris Psychological Associates and a NJ licensed clinical psychologist. I treat individuals of all ages for a variety of mental health concerns, including: Adjustment Difficulties, Anxiety Disorders, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Child/Teen Behavioral Problems, Depression, Life Transitions, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Parent-child conflict, Panic Disorder, Parenting Strategies, Pervasive Development Disorders, Problems associated with divorce, bereavement, and relationships, Separation Anxiety, Social Skills, and Trauma.
I am co-founder and partner at West Morris Psychological Associates and a NJ licensed clinical psychologist. I treat individuals of all ages for a variety of mental health concerns, including: Adjustment Difficulties, Anxiety Disorders, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Child/Teen Behavioral Problems, Depression, Life Transitions, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Parent-child conflict, Panic Disorder, Parenting Strategies, Pervasive Development Disorders, Problems associated with divorce, bereavement, and relationships, Separation Anxiety, Social Skills, and Trauma.
(908) 897-0622 View (908) 897-0622
Photo of Corrinne Kalafut, Psychologist in Chester, NJ
Corrinne Kalafut
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chester, NJ 07930  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients! Are you or your child experiencing feelings of anxiety, sadness, or a sense that you are unable to regain control over your life? Do you or your child ever feel overburdened by the daily tasks and responsibilities of work or school? Sometimes these feelings can be all consuming, making it difficult to focus. It is important to know that you are not alone. We can work together to help you regain your control and develop the skills needed for improved emotional functioning and achievement of personal goals.
Accepting new patients! Are you or your child experiencing feelings of anxiety, sadness, or a sense that you are unable to regain control over your life? Do you or your child ever feel overburdened by the daily tasks and responsibilities of work or school? Sometimes these feelings can be all consuming, making it difficult to focus. It is important to know that you are not alone. We can work together to help you regain your control and develop the skills needed for improved emotional functioning and achievement of personal goals.
(862) 278-9290 View (862) 278-9290
Photo of Michele Cannata, Psychologist in Chester, NJ
Michele Cannata
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chester, NJ 07930
I am a licensed psychologist. My training and experience is in both the school and clinical areas of psychology. As a school psychologist, working in the public schools, I have expertise in the special education process, providing meaning to evaluation results and helping children cope and thrive in the classroom. I have found that this experience has been very helpful to the families and children that I treat in my private practice. In private practice, I work with children, adolescents and adults coping with conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, mood disorders and adjustment issues.
I am a licensed psychologist. My training and experience is in both the school and clinical areas of psychology. As a school psychologist, working in the public schools, I have expertise in the special education process, providing meaning to evaluation results and helping children cope and thrive in the classroom. I have found that this experience has been very helpful to the families and children that I treat in my private practice. In private practice, I work with children, adolescents and adults coping with conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, mood disorders and adjustment issues.
(201) 643-7644 View (201) 643-7644
Photo of Bridges Counseling Ctr for Child & Family Wellness, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chester, NJ
Bridges Counseling Ctr for Child & Family Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Chester, NJ 07930
When addressing life's most vulnerable impasses, we believe that strong relationship building and the development of an effective treatment plan involving insight and behavior change are the keys to success. Our therapists work with adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families stuck in familiar but ineffective patterns of coping. We guide our clients through the process of change where keys to solution are courageously uncovered.
When addressing life's most vulnerable impasses, we believe that strong relationship building and the development of an effective treatment plan involving insight and behavior change are the keys to success. Our therapists work with adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families stuck in familiar but ineffective patterns of coping. We guide our clients through the process of change where keys to solution are courageously uncovered.
(973) 797-9113 View (973) 797-9113
Photo of Megan Hogarth Nervi, Psychologist in Chester, NJ
Megan Hogarth Nervi
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chester, NJ 07930
You've taken an important and often difficult step by reaching out for help. It's hard to ask for support but honestly, we all need it from time to time. That is why I'm grateful that you found my practice. My goal is to help you develop curiosity and compassion for yourself while also offering immediate, straightforward ideas for how you can improve your life and feel better. Feeling seen, heard, and valued by someone you trust can provide you with the scaffolding necessary to do this important work on yourself.
You've taken an important and often difficult step by reaching out for help. It's hard to ask for support but honestly, we all need it from time to time. That is why I'm grateful that you found my practice. My goal is to help you develop curiosity and compassion for yourself while also offering immediate, straightforward ideas for how you can improve your life and feel better. Feeling seen, heard, and valued by someone you trust can provide you with the scaffolding necessary to do this important work on yourself.
(862) 329-7124 View (862) 329-7124
Photo of Jessica L Larsen, Psychologist in Chester, NJ
Jessica L Larsen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chester, NJ 07930
If you are struggling with anxiety, sadness, grief, excessive worry, obsessional thinking? Do you feel your challenges are overwhelming? Do you wish you could just enjoy your life again? I work with clients with a range of troubles and challenges to overcome their difficulties and reclaim their lives. I am specialized to work with both adults and children using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). CBT is a science based approach, which means it is proven to help you feel better and get on with living your life. I am a warm, personable, humorous, compassionate psychologist here to support you through your most difficult of times.
If you are struggling with anxiety, sadness, grief, excessive worry, obsessional thinking? Do you feel your challenges are overwhelming? Do you wish you could just enjoy your life again? I work with clients with a range of troubles and challenges to overcome their difficulties and reclaim their lives. I am specialized to work with both adults and children using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). CBT is a science based approach, which means it is proven to help you feel better and get on with living your life. I am a warm, personable, humorous, compassionate psychologist here to support you through your most difficult of times.
(551) 258-8928 View (551) 258-8928
Photo of Alchemy Integrative Wellness, Counselor in Chester, NJ
Alchemy Integrative Wellness
Counselor, LMHC, ATR-BC, RYT
Verified Verified
Chester, NJ 07930
Experience tranquility and contentment after our sessions. I am dedicated to enhancing your happiness and fulfillment in life by drawing upon a diverse blend of personal, educational, and professional expertise. As your holistically centered therapist, I leverage a variety of theories and clinical approaches to tailor a customized treatment plan that swiftly addresses a multitude of issues, ensuring your rapid healing and growth.
Experience tranquility and contentment after our sessions. I am dedicated to enhancing your happiness and fulfillment in life by drawing upon a diverse blend of personal, educational, and professional expertise. As your holistically centered therapist, I leverage a variety of theories and clinical approaches to tailor a customized treatment plan that swiftly addresses a multitude of issues, ensuring your rapid healing and growth.
(908) 224-5551 View (908) 224-5551
Photo of Michelle Jacobson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chester, NJ
Michelle Jacobson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chester, NJ 07930
Not accepting new clients
Whether you are new to therapy or have had previous experiences, I am excited to welcome you to a confidential and non-judgmental place to discuss the challenges you are currently experiencing. I am dedicated to listening and understanding who my clients are, empowering my clients to achieve self-growth and self-fulfillment, and providing professional and effective services. My practice accepts clients of all ages and offers in-person and telehealth appointments.
Whether you are new to therapy or have had previous experiences, I am excited to welcome you to a confidential and non-judgmental place to discuss the challenges you are currently experiencing. I am dedicated to listening and understanding who my clients are, empowering my clients to achieve self-growth and self-fulfillment, and providing professional and effective services. My practice accepts clients of all ages and offers in-person and telehealth appointments.
(732) 646-6386 View (732) 646-6386

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Michele Kaczmarek, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chester, NJ
Michele Kaczmarek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
Randolph, NJ 07869
If you are concerned about your child who may be struggling with behavioral, social, or emotional issues, I can assist though a combination of play-therapy, talk-therapy, and behavioral interventions.
I have 25 years of successful experience providing mental health services in a variety of settings, treating different age groups with diverse needs. My approach is strength-based and solution-focused. I am skilled at utilizing many counseling techniques and I individualize treatment approaches according to the unique needs of the client, ensuring better outcomes. I understand that finding a therapist that you feel comfortable with is vital to the therapeutic relationship. This enables you to make lasting changes and resolve issues that may have been causing dysfunctional patterns in your life. I believe it's important to treat clients compassionately, respectfully, and without judgement.
If you are concerned about your child who may be struggling with behavioral, social, or emotional issues, I can assist though a combination of play-therapy, talk-therapy, and behavioral interventions.
I have 25 years of successful experience providing mental health services in a variety of settings, treating different age groups with diverse needs. My approach is strength-based and solution-focused. I am skilled at utilizing many counseling techniques and I individualize treatment approaches according to the unique needs of the client, ensuring better outcomes. I understand that finding a therapist that you feel comfortable with is vital to the therapeutic relationship. This enables you to make lasting changes and resolve issues that may have been causing dysfunctional patterns in your life. I believe it's important to treat clients compassionately, respectfully, and without judgement.
(201) 204-9943 View (201) 204-9943
Photo of Marissa Hay, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chester, NJ
Marissa Hay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hackettstown, NJ 07840
Does your child struggle with big emotions? Do they seem to get really overwhelmed or dysregulated and struggle to cope with frustration, disappointment, or being told no? Are they hyperactive and have difficulty calming their body? Are they worried to go to school or to leave your side? If any of these apply then play therapy services could be helpful to support them.
Does your child struggle with big emotions? Do they seem to get really overwhelmed or dysregulated and struggle to cope with frustration, disappointment, or being told no? Are they hyperactive and have difficulty calming their body? Are they worried to go to school or to leave your side? If any of these apply then play therapy services could be helpful to support them.
(908) 829-6240 View (908) 829-6240
Photo of Megan Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chester, NJ
Megan Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Hackettstown, NJ 07840
Depending upon the individual and their needs, I employ a variety of therapeutic techniques such as sand tray therapy, strength-based approaches, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectic behavioral therapy, and play therapy.
Everyone faces challenges in their life, and sometimes those challenges feel overwhelming and impossible to take on. I believe we all have the strength to overcome those challenges, but sometimes we might need help finding that strength during difficult times. In a safe and supportive environment, we will work together to find your hidden strengths, overcome challenges, and foster positive and meaningful change. As a Licensed Social Worker, I work with children, adolescents and adults struggling with diverse challenges such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, stress management, life transitions, and anger management.
Depending upon the individual and their needs, I employ a variety of therapeutic techniques such as sand tray therapy, strength-based approaches, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectic behavioral therapy, and play therapy.
Everyone faces challenges in their life, and sometimes those challenges feel overwhelming and impossible to take on. I believe we all have the strength to overcome those challenges, but sometimes we might need help finding that strength during difficult times. In a safe and supportive environment, we will work together to find your hidden strengths, overcome challenges, and foster positive and meaningful change. As a Licensed Social Worker, I work with children, adolescents and adults struggling with diverse challenges such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, stress management, life transitions, and anger management.
(908) 336-9657 View (908) 336-9657
Photo of Karen C Kaspern, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chester, NJ
Karen C Kaspern
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
Randolph, NJ 07869
Welcome to Prasada Center for Wellbeing! I’m Karen. I understand both the joy and stress that comes with being a parent or caregiver of a little one, the beautiful milestones and the unexpected challenges. If you find yourself struggling to adjust to life with your infant or manage your toddler’s big emotions, there is help. I am here to partner with you and your child to navigate through the tough stuff. You will play an integral role in helping your child.
Welcome to Prasada Center for Wellbeing! I’m Karen. I understand both the joy and stress that comes with being a parent or caregiver of a little one, the beautiful milestones and the unexpected challenges. If you find yourself struggling to adjust to life with your infant or manage your toddler’s big emotions, there is help. I am here to partner with you and your child to navigate through the tough stuff. You will play an integral role in helping your child.
(862) 356-6354 x808 View (862) 356-6354 x808
Photo of Dr. Carly Fisher, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chester, NJ
Dr. Carly Fisher
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Morristown, NJ 07960  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Reaching out for therapy is the first step in making a change in your life. As a PhD Graduate as well as a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed School Counselor, and National Certified Counselor, I am so grateful to be able to play such an important role in helping you reach your highest potential throughout life's challenges. Clients typically come to me with struggles surrounding their own self confidence as well as the impact it can play on relationships around them. Through individual, couple, and/or family work, I have helped clients gain back their own sense of worth to feel their best and live life to the fullest.
Reaching out for therapy is the first step in making a change in your life. As a PhD Graduate as well as a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed School Counselor, and National Certified Counselor, I am so grateful to be able to play such an important role in helping you reach your highest potential throughout life's challenges. Clients typically come to me with struggles surrounding their own self confidence as well as the impact it can play on relationships around them. Through individual, couple, and/or family work, I have helped clients gain back their own sense of worth to feel their best and live life to the fullest.
(551) 239-8940 View (551) 239-8940
Photo of Racquel Rivero, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chester, NJ
Racquel Rivero
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT, ACS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Morristown, NJ 07960
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Registered Play Therapist.
I specialize in working with children (ages 3+), adolescents, teens, and adults. My focus is on helping individuals build upon their strengths and gain insight into the areas of their lives that they desire to change. I believe that the therapeutic relationship and providing a safe environment are the building blocks that help me guide others in their personal growth and goal attainment. I strive to provide a caring, motivating, and supportive environment where clients can feel safe to explore any issues they bring to counseling.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Registered Play Therapist.
I specialize in working with children (ages 3+), adolescents, teens, and adults. My focus is on helping individuals build upon their strengths and gain insight into the areas of their lives that they desire to change. I believe that the therapeutic relationship and providing a safe environment are the building blocks that help me guide others in their personal growth and goal attainment. I strive to provide a caring, motivating, and supportive environment where clients can feel safe to explore any issues they bring to counseling.
(973) 833-3422 View (973) 833-3422
Photo of Amanda Mayberry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chester, NJ
Amanda Mayberry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hackettstown, NJ 07840
Providing in-person therapy for children 3-13! When kids have big feelings they need a safe place to process and explore them. I welcome all kids ages 3-13 to come and work on feelings, coping skills, self esteem, communication, and more in our play therapy room. Play is the language of children and is how they communicate. It opens doors for them to understand themselves and the world around them. I can help facilitate this process utilizing a child centered play therapy approach while also incorporating cognitive behavioral therapy techniques.
Providing in-person therapy for children 3-13! When kids have big feelings they need a safe place to process and explore them. I welcome all kids ages 3-13 to come and work on feelings, coping skills, self esteem, communication, and more in our play therapy room. Play is the language of children and is how they communicate. It opens doors for them to understand themselves and the world around them. I can help facilitate this process utilizing a child centered play therapy approach while also incorporating cognitive behavioral therapy techniques.
(862) 212-3398 View (862) 212-3398
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.