Play Therapy
Our licensed therapists provide play therapy and sand tray therapy in New Jersey to help children, teens, and even adults process challenges, build coping skills, and discover healthier ways of relating to themselves and others.
Helping children express, heal, and grow through the power of play.
- Express thoughts and feelings safely
- Explore and process difficult experiences
- Develop problem-solving and coping skills
- Improve communication and relationship skills
- Build confidence and self-esteem
Through guided play, children can “play out” their feelings in the same way adults may “talk out” their difficulties in therapy. By creating this safe distance from their problems, they’re able to gain insight, practice new behaviors, and build resilience.
What Is Play Therapy?
Research-backed benefits of play therapy include:
- Learning to manage emotions in healthy ways
- Developing empathy and respect for others
- Strengthening responsibility for their own choices
- Practicing social and relational skills
- Building self-efficacy and confidence
Play Therapy at Olive Branch Therapy
One of the unique forms of play therapy we offer is sand tray therapy. Often used with children but effective across all ages, sand tray therapy provides a powerful, creative way to explore emotions, relationships, and experiences.
At Olive Branch Therapy Group, our licensed play therapists:
- Create a safe, judgment-free environment where children feel accepted
- Use developmentally appropriate methods tailored to each child’s age and needs
- Collaborate with parents and families to reinforce progress outside of therapy
- Integrate research-backed modalities like CBT, DBT, and trauma-informed care as needed
- Empower children to develop lifelong skills in communication, coping, and problem-solving
- Our ultimate goal is to help children feel understood, reduce emotional distress, and equip families with tools for long-term growth.
Our full sand tray room at Olive Branch Therapy Group is designed to be a calming, supportive space where healing can unfold.
What to Expect in a Play Therapy Session
Every child is unique—our therapists adjust their methods to ensure your child feels comfortable, safe, and empowered.
Meet with the therapist to discuss your child’s background, concerns, and goals.
Initial Consultation
Your child will engage in play therapy or sand tray activities, guided by a trained therapist.
Play or Sand Tray Session
The therapist may share insights with parents, highlighting how play reveals emotions and areas for growth.
observation and reflection
Over time, your child will build skills in emotional regulation, communication, and problem-solving.
on-going support
- Have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect
- Struggle with anxiety, depression, or mood regulation
- Have difficulty expressing themselves verbally
- Are coping with grief, divorce, relocation, or hospitalization
- Face challenges related to ADHD, behavioral issues, or impulse control
- Are navigating family conflict or relational stress
- Have survived natural disasters or other life stressors
Who Benefits from Play and Sand Tray Therapy?
- Provides a safe, nonverbal outlet for expression
- Allows children and adults to process trauma and stress indirectly
- Encourages creative problem-solving and emotional regulation
- Builds bridges between the “play world” and real-life challenges
How Play and Sand Tray Therapy Work
Start Play Therapy in New Jersey
If you are searching for play therapy in New Jersey or are curious about how sand tray therapy can support your child, Olive Branch Therapy Group is here to help. Our compassionate, experienced therapists are passionate about helping children and families heal, connect, and thrive.
