Yi-Ju Cheng

Yi-Ju Cheng is an Associate Professor at Rider University in the Department of Graduate Education, Leadership, and Counseling, specializing in play therapy and multicultural counseling. With multiple certifications in child-centered play therapy and a focus on diversity in counseling, Cheng works at the intersection of cultural competence and therapeutic interventions for children and families.

• Licensed Professional Counselor (New Jersey)
• Certified Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT)-Trainer/Supervisor
• Registered Play Therapist™ (RPT)

Research Interests include multicultural issues in play therapy, child-centered approaches, and counselor education. Cheng explores how play therapy can address externalizing behaviors in children and improve outcomes for African American adolescents and families with substance use disorders. Their work emphasizes cultural humility and adapting therapeutic practices for Asian populations, with a focus on diversity training in counseling programs.

Selected Trends show a dedication to multicultural play therapy, evidenced by publications like Multicultural Play Therapy (2022) and research on racism in therapeutic settings (2022). Articles span child-parent relationship therapy (2022), standardized LGBT family assessments (2020), and group play therapy dynamics (2018).

Scientific Awards include the NARACES 2018 Research Grant, Rider University Faculty Appreciation (2019), and a 2022 Faculty Spotlight in Rider Alumni Magazine.

• Editorial Board Member, Journal of Child and Adolescent Counseling (2018-Present)
• Editorial Board Member, Journal of Counselor Leadership and Advocacy (2022-Present)
• President-Elect, New Jersey Association for Play Therapy (2022-Present)