Play Therapy in Manitoba
I believe in meeting the client where they're at, as they heal, grow, and play.
Hello! I'm a certified therapist who specializes in working with children, adolescents, and young adults. I use a client-centered, collaborative approach to therapy in which I will work with you to develop goals for you or your child. I see clients for a number of reasons including relationships, depression, anxiety, trauma, and life changes, as well as problems common in childhood such as school difficulties, self esteem, bullying, and changes in the family. I strive to create a safe and nurturing atmosphere in which you or your child will feel comfortable and supported.
I believe in meeting the client where they're at, as they heal, grow, and play.
Hello! I'm a certified therapist who specializes in working with children, adolescents, and young adults. I use a client-centered, collaborative approach to therapy in which I will work with you to develop goals for you or your child. I see clients for a number of reasons including relationships, depression, anxiety, trauma, and life changes, as well as problems common in childhood such as school difficulties, self esteem, bullying, and changes in the family. I strive to create a safe and nurturing atmosphere in which you or your child will feel comfortable and supported.
Julie Pannell
Psychiatric Nurse, BScPN, RPN
Verified Verified
East St Paul, MB R2E
Waitlist for new clients
I am also a Certified Play Therapist and Yoga Teacher.
I have 20+ years of experience as a Child and Adolescent Therapist with a wide array of expertise in mental health issues. My commitment is to provide a therapeutic and non-judgmental space where healing can begin. I recognize that we do not live in isolation and connection to trusted supports is essential, therefore I aim to work collaboratively with the individual and their extended supports. Is your child/adolescent struggling to navigate the uncertainties of life? Is this impacting their mental health? Do you see your child/adolescent struggling with anxiety/depression? Are you a young adult struggling with navigating adulthood?
I am also a Certified Play Therapist and Yoga Teacher.
I have 20+ years of experience as a Child and Adolescent Therapist with a wide array of expertise in mental health issues. My commitment is to provide a therapeutic and non-judgmental space where healing can begin. I recognize that we do not live in isolation and connection to trusted supports is essential, therefore I aim to work collaboratively with the individual and their extended supports. Is your child/adolescent struggling to navigate the uncertainties of life? Is this impacting their mental health? Do you see your child/adolescent struggling with anxiety/depression? Are you a young adult struggling with navigating adulthood?
I make use of a wide range of techniques – including EMDR, CBT, DBT, MIG, art and play therapy, attachment-based, and mindfulness-based practices – to collaboratively build a treatment plan that is personal and authentic to each client and their struggles.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges? Depression, anxiety, grief, stress, family conflict, and other hardships can make peace and happiness feel out of reach. But it doesn’t have to be – together we can find a path forward. With over 14 years of experience helping people feel better, my practice is dedicated to supporting individuals and families (including kinship/foster settings) who are facing challenges like anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, grief, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts.
I make use of a wide range of techniques – including EMDR, CBT, DBT, MIG, art and play therapy, attachment-based, and mindfulness-based practices – to collaboratively build a treatment plan that is personal and authentic to each client and their struggles.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges? Depression, anxiety, grief, stress, family conflict, and other hardships can make peace and happiness feel out of reach. But it doesn’t have to be – together we can find a path forward. With over 14 years of experience helping people feel better, my practice is dedicated to supporting individuals and families (including kinship/foster settings) who are facing challenges like anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, grief, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts.
Karyn M Walters
Counsellor, MMFT, PT, CCC, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winnipeg, MB R3L (Online Only)
I have extensive training including play therapy, marriage and family therapy, sand tray, anxiety treatment, depression treatment, autism, treatment of trauma, mindfulness, childhood sexual abuse, disordered eating, glbttqa issues, divorce, infidelity, treatment of PTSD and mental health issues.
I love working with children, teens, adults, couples and families! I am not your typical therapist. Clients have told me I am easy to talk to and they don't feel judged. I have experience working with all issues and would love the chance to work with what ever issues are in the way of living the life you want!
I have extensive training including play therapy, marriage and family therapy, sand tray, anxiety treatment, depression treatment, autism, treatment of trauma, mindfulness, childhood sexual abuse, disordered eating, glbttqa issues, divorce, infidelity, treatment of PTSD and mental health issues.
I love working with children, teens, adults, couples and families! I am not your typical therapist. Clients have told me I am easy to talk to and they don't feel judged. I have experience working with all issues and would love the chance to work with what ever issues are in the way of living the life you want!
Wai Mei Kwok
Marriage & Family Therapist, BSc, MMFT
Verified Verified
Winnipeg, MB R3T (Online Only)
As a registered Circle of Security Parenting program facilitator, I integrate play and art therapy in helping parents to restore emotional security with their kids.
"Why me? Why do I need to feel the pain?" Most of my clients asked some similar questions at the beginning of their therapy. They may be disconnected from others and being isolated. Therapy can offer them opportunities to make sense of their experiences, understand more about how things had happened, and rebuild relationships among themselves and others. During the therapeutic journey, my clients may take different perspectives to make sense of their experiences and learn new life skills to cope with their distress. They may feel more comfortable feeling uncomfortable and able to make new choices.
As a registered Circle of Security Parenting program facilitator, I integrate play and art therapy in helping parents to restore emotional security with their kids.
"Why me? Why do I need to feel the pain?" Most of my clients asked some similar questions at the beginning of their therapy. They may be disconnected from others and being isolated. Therapy can offer them opportunities to make sense of their experiences, understand more about how things had happened, and rebuild relationships among themselves and others. During the therapeutic journey, my clients may take different perspectives to make sense of their experiences and learn new life skills to cope with their distress. They may feel more comfortable feeling uncomfortable and able to make new choices.
Sheila Kirsten Ruth Jensen
Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT, CCC
Verified Verified
Winnipeg, MB R2P
Predominantly using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, she also enjoys Mindfulness Narrative Therapy Play Therapy Solution Focused Therapy PARTs work Emotional Focused Therapy Sheila will be adding Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) to her list of modalities in later 2024.
Sheila provides a safe space for all her clients and enjoys catering each session to her client’s needs. In an empathetic and non-judgmental setting, Sheila allows space for her clients to feel comfortable to express themselves. She caters her modalities based on her client’s needs and uses a modality that suits them and their goals.
Predominantly using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, she also enjoys Mindfulness Narrative Therapy Play Therapy Solution Focused Therapy PARTs work Emotional Focused Therapy Sheila will be adding Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) to her list of modalities in later 2024.
Sheila provides a safe space for all her clients and enjoys catering each session to her client’s needs. In an empathetic and non-judgmental setting, Sheila allows space for her clients to feel comfortable to express themselves. She caters her modalities based on her client’s needs and uses a modality that suits them and their goals.
The goals of play therapy are the same as traditional mediums of psychotherapy - to help clients resolve and heal from past stressful or traumatic experiences, express emotions related to challenging experiences, and support the learning of new ways of thinking and behaving. The medium is the only difference - clients use toys, games, dramatic and expressive arts to meet these goals, with play as the language of expression.
The goals of play therapy are the same as traditional mediums of psychotherapy - to help clients resolve and heal from past stressful or traumatic experiences, express emotions related to challenging experiences, and support the learning of new ways of thinking and behaving. The medium is the only difference - clients use toys, games, dramatic and expressive arts to meet these goals, with play as the language of expression.
Lori Boyko, Art Therapy and Counselling
Registered Social Worker, MC:AT, RCAT, CCC, RSW
Verified Verified
Gimli, MB R0C
I offer a client-centered, therapeutic environment where safety is paramount and creative and body-centered approaches are encouraged. I believe in the resilience of humankind and my approach supports people in using (perhaps discovering) their strengths on their healing journey. My approaches include art and expressive arts therapy, supportive counselling, Sand Play Therapy, EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Inner Relationship Focusing, Mindfulness based Art Therapy and Supervision. I am a registered Art Therapist with a Master's of Counseling/Art Therapy Specialization, a registered member of the Canadian Art Therapy Association, a Certified Canadian Counsellor and a Registered Social Worker.
I offer a client-centered, therapeutic environment where safety is paramount and creative and body-centered approaches are encouraged. I believe in the resilience of humankind and my approach supports people in using (perhaps discovering) their strengths on their healing journey. My approaches include art and expressive arts therapy, supportive counselling, Sand Play Therapy, EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Inner Relationship Focusing, Mindfulness based Art Therapy and Supervision. I am a registered Art Therapist with a Master's of Counseling/Art Therapy Specialization, a registered member of the Canadian Art Therapy Association, a Certified Canadian Counsellor and a Registered Social Worker.
I integrate several modalities based on client's needs and preference; I primarily use play therapy techniques, EMDR and Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy.
My goal is to connect people to healing through using an attachment lens and play therapy techniques. Through play we are able to process our experience and heal from traumas. Play therapy can be used with people of all ages! I believe relationships are the foundation to wellness. I believe healing happens in relationship; having a safe, secure and kind place to land is important for all people, especially when you struggling.
I integrate several modalities based on client's needs and preference; I primarily use play therapy techniques, EMDR and Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy.
My goal is to connect people to healing through using an attachment lens and play therapy techniques. Through play we are able to process our experience and heal from traumas. Play therapy can be used with people of all ages! I believe relationships are the foundation to wellness. I believe healing happens in relationship; having a safe, secure and kind place to land is important for all people, especially when you struggling.
Accepting new clients! Appointments available evenings. I work with children and adolescents . I am here to provide a safe space, non-judgmental and calm approach to support children and teens in their journeys towards healing. Through a trauma informed and attachment based lens, I help individuals explore their life difficulties and and find solutions. Utilizing a strength-based approach, I incorporate play, art, laughter, games, and talk therapy to support children and teens discover new ways to cope, understand and feel more empowered in their lives.
Accepting new clients! Appointments available evenings. I work with children and adolescents . I am here to provide a safe space, non-judgmental and calm approach to support children and teens in their journeys towards healing. Through a trauma informed and attachment based lens, I help individuals explore their life difficulties and and find solutions. Utilizing a strength-based approach, I incorporate play, art, laughter, games, and talk therapy to support children and teens discover new ways to cope, understand and feel more empowered in their lives.
We have a dynamic group of therapists to offer therapeutic services in a number of modalities including play therapy and narrative therapy.
I am an established counsellor who enjoys working with children and families. Our focus is on facilitating empowerment, healing and promotion of positive growth/change. We offer a safe, comfortable and professional environment. Myself and my therapists provide counselling services in family and relationship counselling, divorce and separation, family violence, anger management, sexual abuse, grief, crisis intervention, conflict resolution and family of origin issues. We know that each individual and family is different and have different needs. We are committed to providing each person and or family with the guidance and support needed to help with any issue and difficulty that they may be facing.
We have a dynamic group of therapists to offer therapeutic services in a number of modalities including play therapy and narrative therapy.
I am an established counsellor who enjoys working with children and families. Our focus is on facilitating empowerment, healing and promotion of positive growth/change. We offer a safe, comfortable and professional environment. Myself and my therapists provide counselling services in family and relationship counselling, divorce and separation, family violence, anger management, sexual abuse, grief, crisis intervention, conflict resolution and family of origin issues. We know that each individual and family is different and have different needs. We are committed to providing each person and or family with the guidance and support needed to help with any issue and difficulty that they may be facing.
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I use an empathetic,collaborative approach & best practice, evidence-based modalities,including but not limited to; Brain-Spotting, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, DBT: Distress tolerance & Interpersonal Effectiveness Skills, Solution-Focus Brief Therapy, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, Therapeutic Play & Child behaviour consultation.
I believe in the power of being genuine and sincere, not just as your therapist but as a person you can relate with. I am a passionate advocate for family health, LGBTIQ2S, racial equity,& bringing high quality harm reduction and trauma-informed services and solutions for some of the most pressing issues facing children, adolescent, adults, families & the community.
I use an empathetic,collaborative approach & best practice, evidence-based modalities,including but not limited to; Brain-Spotting, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, DBT: Distress tolerance & Interpersonal Effectiveness Skills, Solution-Focus Brief Therapy, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, Therapeutic Play & Child behaviour consultation.
I believe in the power of being genuine and sincere, not just as your therapist but as a person you can relate with. I am a passionate advocate for family health, LGBTIQ2S, racial equity,& bringing high quality harm reduction and trauma-informed services and solutions for some of the most pressing issues facing children, adolescent, adults, families & the community.
Maria Isabel Toro-Vidal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Winnipeg, MB R3T
I work with children of all ages, their families as well as individual adults. My therapeutic practice incorporates a diverse set of theories including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Child Play Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Attachment Based Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Solution Focused Approach.
I work with children of all ages, their families as well as individual adults. My therapeutic practice incorporates a diverse set of theories including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Child Play Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Attachment Based Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Solution Focused Approach.
Rebecca Howgate (Occupational Therapist)
Occupational Therapist, OT Reg, (MB)
Verified Verified
Winnipeg, MB R2M
I have a bilingual Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from the University of Ottawa, and an undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of Winnipeg. I enjoy learning and using a variety of approaches such as sensory, play-based, motor development, and traditional mental health counselling. As an occupational therapist, I work with people to identify meaningful goals and explore approaches to help them reach those goals with a unique, client-centred perspective. I also have recent training in approaches such as Circle of Security, Thera play (Level 1), and the Safe and Sound Protocol.
I have a bilingual Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from the University of Ottawa, and an undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of Winnipeg. I enjoy learning and using a variety of approaches such as sensory, play-based, motor development, and traditional mental health counselling. As an occupational therapist, I work with people to identify meaningful goals and explore approaches to help them reach those goals with a unique, client-centred perspective. I also have recent training in approaches such as Circle of Security, Thera play (Level 1), and the Safe and Sound Protocol.
Our therapists are specialized in child and youth therapy and adult therapy using a wide variety of modalities including psychotherapy, art therapy, couple's therapy, CBT, DBT, animal-assisted therapy, play therapy, land-based therapy, EMDR, and more! We are trauma-informed, client centered, and strength-based in our approach in working with our clientele.
Our therapists work with youth and adults who are experiencing mental health difficulties. They offer a wide range of services with specializations in; anxiety and stress, depression, trauma, grief and loss, ADHD, OCD, and more! We have a variety of therapists and counsellors that can meet you or your child's therapeutic goals; including credentials in Master's of Social Work and Master's of Counselling and Psychotherapy. Each therapist has specialties and qualifications that can assist in helping you or your child achieve a better sense of self, increase coping skills, and address mental health concerns to feel better.
Our therapists are specialized in child and youth therapy and adult therapy using a wide variety of modalities including psychotherapy, art therapy, couple's therapy, CBT, DBT, animal-assisted therapy, play therapy, land-based therapy, EMDR, and more! We are trauma-informed, client centered, and strength-based in our approach in working with our clientele.
Our therapists work with youth and adults who are experiencing mental health difficulties. They offer a wide range of services with specializations in; anxiety and stress, depression, trauma, grief and loss, ADHD, OCD, and more! We have a variety of therapists and counsellors that can meet you or your child's therapeutic goals; including credentials in Master's of Social Work and Master's of Counselling and Psychotherapy. Each therapist has specialties and qualifications that can assist in helping you or your child achieve a better sense of self, increase coping skills, and address mental health concerns to feel better.
This background gives Bree unique insight into development, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, loss, and relationship problems, loss of play and meaning.
Bree acknowledges the courage that it takes to seek counselling and the vulnerability involved in letting someone else in on their struggles. Bree aims to create a culturally sensitive counselling space where the client feels that they are accepted and worthy as the person that they are. Everyone has struggles and perfection is not a goal any of us will achieve. Bree is currently in training for parent consulting and Narcissistic abuse recovery. Bree has a wealth of knowledge regarding relationships and development and facilitates courses. Please inquire regarding insurance coverage. I cannot offer free 15-minute consultations.
This background gives Bree unique insight into development, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, loss, and relationship problems, loss of play and meaning.
Bree acknowledges the courage that it takes to seek counselling and the vulnerability involved in letting someone else in on their struggles. Bree aims to create a culturally sensitive counselling space where the client feels that they are accepted and worthy as the person that they are. Everyone has struggles and perfection is not a goal any of us will achieve. Bree is currently in training for parent consulting and Narcissistic abuse recovery. Bree has a wealth of knowledge regarding relationships and development and facilitates courses. Please inquire regarding insurance coverage. I cannot offer free 15-minute consultations.
With over 15 years of dedicated experience in supporting children and families, I have honed my expertise in utilizing play therapy to enhance emotional regulation and bolster self-esteem among young individuals. My approach empowers parents by deepening their understanding of their children's needs and uncovering their potential. Moreover, as a certified Trauma Recovery Model Practitioner with specialized training in EMDR Therapy and Somatic Experiencing, I am adept at facilitating the healing process for both children and adults grappling with traumatic experiences.
With over 15 years of dedicated experience in supporting children and families, I have honed my expertise in utilizing play therapy to enhance emotional regulation and bolster self-esteem among young individuals. My approach empowers parents by deepening their understanding of their children's needs and uncovering their potential. Moreover, as a certified Trauma Recovery Model Practitioner with specialized training in EMDR Therapy and Somatic Experiencing, I am adept at facilitating the healing process for both children and adults grappling with traumatic experiences.
I am an experienced Therapist offering trauma-informed, attachment focused, evidence-based approaches including EMDR and Play Therapy.
I am accepting new clients. Are you feeling overwhelmed by your emotions, struggling to cope with stressors in your life? Are you feeling stuck, unhappy with your relationships? Worried about being a good parent? We all experience difficulties and unexpected challenges in life's journey. You do not have to face it alone. Sometimes we need support to regain our strength. I can help. In therapy, I will walk alongside you, as we work together on your unique challenges to empower you to rediscover your resilience, strength and hope.
I am an experienced Therapist offering trauma-informed, attachment focused, evidence-based approaches including EMDR and Play Therapy.
I am accepting new clients. Are you feeling overwhelmed by your emotions, struggling to cope with stressors in your life? Are you feeling stuck, unhappy with your relationships? Worried about being a good parent? We all experience difficulties and unexpected challenges in life's journey. You do not have to face it alone. Sometimes we need support to regain our strength. I can help. In therapy, I will walk alongside you, as we work together on your unique challenges to empower you to rediscover your resilience, strength and hope.
Sessions may include: non-directive and/or directive invitations into art making and/or play, and/or talk therapy, grounding, mindfulness, visualization, movement and/or body sensation exploration.
My therapeutic offerings are rooted in the belief that every individual intuitively initiates a process of self-exploration and self-expression from birth. Sometimes this wisdom gets thwarted or stuck due to familial, social, situational and/or societal conditions and experiences. I believe that given the opportunity, and rooted in a foundation of empowering connection, individuals can come to align with their unique self and expressions again.
Sessions may include: non-directive and/or directive invitations into art making and/or play, and/or talk therapy, grounding, mindfulness, visualization, movement and/or body sensation exploration.
My therapeutic offerings are rooted in the belief that every individual intuitively initiates a process of self-exploration and self-expression from birth. Sometimes this wisdom gets thwarted or stuck due to familial, social, situational and/or societal conditions and experiences. I believe that given the opportunity, and rooted in a foundation of empowering connection, individuals can come to align with their unique self and expressions again.
Melissa Ann Steele
Pre-Licensed Professional, MMFT, RMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winnipeg, MB R3M
I have specific training in trauma-informed and narrative approaches, EFT and Gottman couple therapy, family therapy including play and art therapy and attachment-focussed family therapy.
Therapy can help us to connect with ourselves and others, find meaning, joy, love, acceptance, playfulness and peace of mind. If you are recovering from trauma, if you are stuck or struggling, therapy can create a safe space to work through painful and difficult emotions and experiences in order to live better and feel better. I value creativity, compassion and collaboration. My approach is drawn from attachment theory, narrative therapy, trauma-informed somatic therapies, mindful self-compassion and relational therapy.
I have specific training in trauma-informed and narrative approaches, EFT and Gottman couple therapy, family therapy including play and art therapy and attachment-focussed family therapy.
Therapy can help us to connect with ourselves and others, find meaning, joy, love, acceptance, playfulness and peace of mind. If you are recovering from trauma, if you are stuck or struggling, therapy can create a safe space to work through painful and difficult emotions and experiences in order to live better and feel better. I value creativity, compassion and collaboration. My approach is drawn from attachment theory, narrative therapy, trauma-informed somatic therapies, mindful self-compassion and relational therapy.
See more therapy options for Manitoba
Play Therapy Counsellors
Who is play therapy for?
Play therapy is generally targeted to children between the ages of 3 and 11 who have social, emotional, or behavioural 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 behaviour 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 behaviour.