Play Therapy in Scarborough, ON

Photo of Tara Koblitz - Playful Hearts Therapy (Play/ EMDR Therapy), MSW, RSW, CPT-S, Registered Social Worker
Playful Hearts Therapy (Play/ EMDR Therapy)
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CPT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Scarborough, ON M1E
I am a fully Certified Play Therapist and a Certified Play Therapy Supervisor through the Canadian Association for Play Therapy. I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and work with all ages using this modality. I have over 20 years of experience in working with children, youth and families from various ethno-racial backgrounds and in various mental health settings including child welfare, hospital, school, and the community. I am a service provider for Victim Services, the Internet Child Exploitation - Counselling Program, Metis Nation of Ontario, Indigenous Services Canada, and previously for the 2-Spirited People of the First Nations.
I am a fully Certified Play Therapist and a Certified Play Therapy Supervisor through the Canadian Association for Play Therapy. I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and work with all ages using this modality. I have over 20 years of experience in working with children, youth and families from various ethno-racial backgrounds and in various mental health settings including child welfare, hospital, school, and the community. I am a service provider for Victim Services, the Internet Child Exploitation - Counselling Program, Metis Nation of Ontario, Indigenous Services Canada, and previously for the 2-Spirited People of the First Nations.
(647) 560-3917 View (647) 560-3917
Photo of Winnie P Yeung - Peartree Counselling, PhD, RP, RMFT-S, RPT, CPT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Peartree Counselling
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, RP, RMFT-S, RPT, CPT-S
Verified Verified
Scarborough, ON M1V
I am a Registered Psychotherapist, Registered Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Couple and Family, and an approved supervisor of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy, I am also a Registered Play Therapist and a supervisor and a Certified Child Psychotherapist and Play Therapist. I have a Ph.D. in Counselling and Spirituality from Saint Paul University and the University of Ottawa. I have more than 20 years of clinical experience in psychotherapy and has been providing individual, couple, and family therapy and play therapy to couples, families, adults, children, and teenagers.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist, Registered Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Couple and Family, and an approved supervisor of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy, I am also a Registered Play Therapist and a supervisor and a Certified Child Psychotherapist and Play Therapist. I have a Ph.D. in Counselling and Spirituality from Saint Paul University and the University of Ottawa. I have more than 20 years of clinical experience in psychotherapy and has been providing individual, couple, and family therapy and play therapy to couples, families, adults, children, and teenagers.
(289) 273-7762 View (289) 273-7762
Photo of Jennifer Gould, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Jennifer Gould
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scarborough, ON M1S
I utilize creative interventions to engage children in online therapy sessions, and enjoy incorporating humour & play into sessions when appropriate.
Accepting NEW clients! I offer therapy to children, youth & adults of diverse backgrounds to provide support with a variety of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, OCD, self-esteem issues, emotional dysregulation, executive functioning, chronic illness, identity exploration, end of life care & more. I’m passionate about helping clients overcome life stressors and challenges, strengthen existing coping strategies & learn new practical skills to make sustainable change. I strive to provide an open, non- judgmental space for clients to explore and work through their treatment goals while ensuring safety & comfort.
I utilize creative interventions to engage children in online therapy sessions, and enjoy incorporating humour & play into sessions when appropriate.
Accepting NEW clients! I offer therapy to children, youth & adults of diverse backgrounds to provide support with a variety of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, OCD, self-esteem issues, emotional dysregulation, executive functioning, chronic illness, identity exploration, end of life care & more. I’m passionate about helping clients overcome life stressors and challenges, strengthen existing coping strategies & learn new practical skills to make sustainable change. I strive to provide an open, non- judgmental space for clients to explore and work through their treatment goals while ensuring safety & comfort.
(289) 312-1552 View (289) 312-1552
Photo of Julia Evelyn Falzarano, BHSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Julia Evelyn Falzarano
Registered Social Worker, BHSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scarborough, ON M1N
Trained in Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT) Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Narrative Therapy Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) Directive Play Therapy Trauma Informed Practice (Level 1) Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training(ASIST).
Julia’s journey into social work began with over five years as a research assistant in pediatric health, nutrition, and development. After completing her MSW practicum at a school board, she became a crisis intervention counselor for victims of crime. Passionate about advocacy, she has served on the Graduate Student Association at the University of Toronto and is now on an advisory committee for the Ontario Association of Social Workers. Julia specializes in supporting individuals facing anxiety, emotional challenges, and neurodevelopmental disorders. With her warm, strengths-based approach, she creates a welcoming space for clients
Trained in Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT) Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Narrative Therapy Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) Directive Play Therapy Trauma Informed Practice (Level 1) Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training(ASIST).
Julia’s journey into social work began with over five years as a research assistant in pediatric health, nutrition, and development. After completing her MSW practicum at a school board, she became a crisis intervention counselor for victims of crime. Passionate about advocacy, she has served on the Graduate Student Association at the University of Toronto and is now on an advisory committee for the Ontario Association of Social Workers. Julia specializes in supporting individuals facing anxiety, emotional challenges, and neurodevelopmental disorders. With her warm, strengths-based approach, she creates a welcoming space for clients
(647) 951-8035 View (647) 951-8035
Photo of Debora Bosco, Registered Psychotherapist
Debora Bosco
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Scarborough, ON M1N
I have a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology and I was trained in Play Therapy by the Canadian Association For Play Therapy (CAPT).
Hello, I am a psychotherapist and a play therapist, offering Child, Youth, and Family psychotherapy services in Scarborough, ON. I also offer individual adult and youth, online psychotherapy services to anyone in Ontario. Psychotherapy is provided to individuals and families experiencing trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, mood and behaviour regulation issues, self-esteem issues, life transitions, ADHD, Autism, bullying and other social concerns. CHILD: Children naturally communicate, understand, learn, and heal through play. Older children may benefit through a combination of Play Therapy and Talk Therapy.
I have a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology and I was trained in Play Therapy by the Canadian Association For Play Therapy (CAPT).
Hello, I am a psychotherapist and a play therapist, offering Child, Youth, and Family psychotherapy services in Scarborough, ON. I also offer individual adult and youth, online psychotherapy services to anyone in Ontario. Psychotherapy is provided to individuals and families experiencing trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, mood and behaviour regulation issues, self-esteem issues, life transitions, ADHD, Autism, bullying and other social concerns. CHILD: Children naturally communicate, understand, learn, and heal through play. Older children may benefit through a combination of Play Therapy and Talk Therapy.
(647) 696-5373 View (647) 696-5373
Photo of Cecelia Arscott - CBM Psychological & Counseling Services, drs, Psychologist
CBM Psychological & Counseling Services
Psychologist, drs
Verified Verified
Scarborough, ON M1B
At CBM, we provide psychological and counselling services for children, adolescents, adults, couples and families struggling with any number of challenging situations. Our multicultural and integrated team is made up of highly trained and qualified mental health and educational professionals, with many years of experience working with clients from diverse backgrounds. Our range of services include psycho-educational and psychological assessments (for children, adolescents & adults), individual counselling/psychotherapy, play therapy, art therapy, couples counselling and family therapy.
At CBM, we provide psychological and counselling services for children, adolescents, adults, couples and families struggling with any number of challenging situations. Our multicultural and integrated team is made up of highly trained and qualified mental health and educational professionals, with many years of experience working with clients from diverse backgrounds. Our range of services include psycho-educational and psychological assessments (for children, adolescents & adults), individual counselling/psychotherapy, play therapy, art therapy, couples counselling and family therapy.
(289) 302-5224 View (289) 302-5224
Photo of Chantal Regis, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Chantal Regis
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Scarborough, ON M1E  (Online Only)
If your child or adolescent is dealing with anxiety, self-esteem issues, adjustment to post secondary education, grief/loss, or has witnessed something traumatic, I offer a variety of cognitive and play based interventions tailored to each individual.
I am a Registered Psychologist with a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Guelph. I provide evidence-based practices, (e.g. CBT) , to support children and adolescents ages 4 to 20 years old. I support youth struggling with anxiety, self esteem, gender/LGBTQ+ identity, relationship problems and social development. I believe in the importance of working together with families, and I regularly involve caregivers in treatment and assessment when possible. I value the opportunity to provide culturally sensitive care to youth of colour.
If your child or adolescent is dealing with anxiety, self-esteem issues, adjustment to post secondary education, grief/loss, or has witnessed something traumatic, I offer a variety of cognitive and play based interventions tailored to each individual.
I am a Registered Psychologist with a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Guelph. I provide evidence-based practices, (e.g. CBT) , to support children and adolescents ages 4 to 20 years old. I support youth struggling with anxiety, self esteem, gender/LGBTQ+ identity, relationship problems and social development. I believe in the importance of working together with families, and I regularly involve caregivers in treatment and assessment when possible. I value the opportunity to provide culturally sensitive care to youth of colour.
(365) 300-3089 View (365) 300-3089
Photo of Rachel Jessome, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Rachel Jessome
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scarborough, ON M1N
Rachel believes that when working with children, counseling using creative play is more than just a fun way to connect with her little patients, it’s also an effective window into children’s feelings, thoughts, and experiences which provides an opportunity to support children - meeting them where they are at.
“My therapist just gets me”… is exactly what wellbe social worker and therapist, Rachel strives to hear from her patients after every session. Rachel believes having a genuine connection to her clients is the most important part to any therapeutic relationship. Equipped with a Master’s degree in Social Work and specializing in children, teens, and their families, Rachel has supported patients from diverse walks of life and in various settings including schools, shelters, and children’s mental health agencies.
Rachel believes that when working with children, counseling using creative play is more than just a fun way to connect with her little patients, it’s also an effective window into children’s feelings, thoughts, and experiences which provides an opportunity to support children - meeting them where they are at.
“My therapist just gets me”… is exactly what wellbe social worker and therapist, Rachel strives to hear from her patients after every session. Rachel believes having a genuine connection to her clients is the most important part to any therapeutic relationship. Equipped with a Master’s degree in Social Work and specializing in children, teens, and their families, Rachel has supported patients from diverse walks of life and in various settings including schools, shelters, and children’s mental health agencies.
(437) 371-8910 View (437) 371-8910
Photo of Chris Wellwood, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Chris Wellwood
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scarborough, ON M1B
Children often benefit from play therapy.
Do you or your child need help to cope with anxiety, phobias, social isolation, or loneliness? Are you finding it difficult to navigate the complexities of your blended family? Have you struggled with depression, anger, or impulse control? In therapy, you can build coping skills that provide significant relief and support sustained lifelong healing. Reach out to me today. Support for children, teens, adults, and families. Anxiety, loneliness, impulse control, anger, phobias, and family conflict are all difficult to handle by yourself. We will work towards building the tools that you need to thrive. I look forward to helping!
Children often benefit from play therapy.
Do you or your child need help to cope with anxiety, phobias, social isolation, or loneliness? Are you finding it difficult to navigate the complexities of your blended family? Have you struggled with depression, anger, or impulse control? In therapy, you can build coping skills that provide significant relief and support sustained lifelong healing. Reach out to me today. Support for children, teens, adults, and families. Anxiety, loneliness, impulse control, anger, phobias, and family conflict are all difficult to handle by yourself. We will work towards building the tools that you need to thrive. I look forward to helping!
(289) 216-5880 View (289) 216-5880
Photo of Simryn Parmar, MEd, Registered Psychotherapist
Simryn Parmar
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scarborough, ON M1N
If your path leads you to me, I hope to foster a space where you feel safe to explore and connect with yourself; where there is room for vulnerability, humour, creativity, and even play.
We all come from vastly unique life experiences and identities, and there is no “one size fits all” way to heal and grow. I take an eclectic approach to therapy that is guided by my clients' individual needs. My practice is influenced by relational, narrative, experiential, and existential modalities, which I have a keen interest in integrating with creative and somatic techniques. I strive to create a therapeutic environment that values warmth, curiosity, and collaboration. I work through the lens of an intersectional feminist, anti-oppressive, and trauma-informed framework that centers you as the expert of your own experiences.
If your path leads you to me, I hope to foster a space where you feel safe to explore and connect with yourself; where there is room for vulnerability, humour, creativity, and even play.
We all come from vastly unique life experiences and identities, and there is no “one size fits all” way to heal and grow. I take an eclectic approach to therapy that is guided by my clients' individual needs. My practice is influenced by relational, narrative, experiential, and existential modalities, which I have a keen interest in integrating with creative and somatic techniques. I strive to create a therapeutic environment that values warmth, curiosity, and collaboration. I work through the lens of an intersectional feminist, anti-oppressive, and trauma-informed framework that centers you as the expert of your own experiences.
(647) 697-3126 View (647) 697-3126
Photo of Elaine Lam, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Elaine Lam
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scarborough, ON M1V
When you are looking at this profile, you are probably concerned about yourself to the point that you want to seek help. You may be experiencing intense emotions/strong feelings, like fear, anger, sadness, loneliness or helplessness, and it has been impacting on your life, such as your relationship, work, sleep... You are likely to have questions on how psychotherapy can help and which therapist will fit. Let’s slow down and take a deep breath... I would first like to applaud your decision to seek help because it takes courage. This is a significant sign of your readiness to acknowledge your issues and to make changes.
When you are looking at this profile, you are probably concerned about yourself to the point that you want to seek help. You may be experiencing intense emotions/strong feelings, like fear, anger, sadness, loneliness or helplessness, and it has been impacting on your life, such as your relationship, work, sleep... You are likely to have questions on how psychotherapy can help and which therapist will fit. Let’s slow down and take a deep breath... I would first like to applaud your decision to seek help because it takes courage. This is a significant sign of your readiness to acknowledge your issues and to make changes.
(647) 490-6520 View (647) 490-6520
Photo of Elif Otag, MA, RP(Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Elif Otag
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Scarborough, ON M1K
Elif sees clients at The Physical Care Place. She holds a master’s degree in counselling psychology and is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the CRPO. Her therapeutic approach is rooted in a trauma-informed, self-reflective and person-centered philosophy, where she prioritizes creating a safe and non-judgmental environment for her clients to collaboratively explore their mental health concerns. She is proficient in evidence-based treatment modalities such as TF-CBT, CBT, DBT, ACT, NT and mindfulness-based modalities which enhance the therapeutic process and cater to each individual’s unique needs.
Elif sees clients at The Physical Care Place. She holds a master’s degree in counselling psychology and is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the CRPO. Her therapeutic approach is rooted in a trauma-informed, self-reflective and person-centered philosophy, where she prioritizes creating a safe and non-judgmental environment for her clients to collaboratively explore their mental health concerns. She is proficient in evidence-based treatment modalities such as TF-CBT, CBT, DBT, ACT, NT and mindfulness-based modalities which enhance the therapeutic process and cater to each individual’s unique needs.
(289) 302-7191 View (289) 302-7191
Photo of Nishat Fatima, PhD, Registered Psychotherapist
Nishat Fatima
Registered Psychotherapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Scarborough, ON M1H
Currently accepting new clients online and in-person. Do you feel anxious, depressed, or overwhelmed? Chances are you are feeling stressed and you don't know where to turn for help. As an internationally trained therapist with over 20 years experience, I can help you develop the skills to not just cope, but thrive. I specialize in working with teens and adults with anxiety, low mood, addiction, OCD and trauma. I enjoy working with second- and first-generation immigrants, refugees, and people from multi-cultural backgrounds. I am up-to-date on the most current treatments and use a culturally sensitive approach.
Currently accepting new clients online and in-person. Do you feel anxious, depressed, or overwhelmed? Chances are you are feeling stressed and you don't know where to turn for help. As an internationally trained therapist with over 20 years experience, I can help you develop the skills to not just cope, but thrive. I specialize in working with teens and adults with anxiety, low mood, addiction, OCD and trauma. I enjoy working with second- and first-generation immigrants, refugees, and people from multi-cultural backgrounds. I am up-to-date on the most current treatments and use a culturally sensitive approach.
(647) 598-8854 View (647) 598-8854
Photo of Dunia Al-Attar, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Dunia Al-Attar
Registered Social Worker, MSW
Verified Verified
Scarborough, ON M1C  (Online Only)
I am passionate about the process of holistic healing. After completing a BA in Psychology, I spent 12 years in the field learning about people from various populations including disabilities, mental health, dual-diagnosis, acculturation, concurrent disorders, foster care, and justice involvement. I developed a preference to support and walk alongside people through their journey, completing a Master's in Social Work in 2021. My work experiences have included the school board, Canadian Mental Health Association, and Toronto Public Health.
I am passionate about the process of holistic healing. After completing a BA in Psychology, I spent 12 years in the field learning about people from various populations including disabilities, mental health, dual-diagnosis, acculturation, concurrent disorders, foster care, and justice involvement. I developed a preference to support and walk alongside people through their journey, completing a Master's in Social Work in 2021. My work experiences have included the school board, Canadian Mental Health Association, and Toronto Public Health.
(289) 272-8709 View (289) 272-8709
Photo of Brigette Sirineo, MDiv, RP(Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Brigette Sirineo
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MDiv, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scarborough, ON M1B  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck? Do you feel like there's no hope for change? Do you feel like the past keeps coming back? Are you struggling to balance it all? There can be a way out of just barely getting by, and move into true living to thrive. You are a whole person made up of your emotions, your thoughts, your past, your culture, your family patterns, your upbringing, your hopes and dreams for the future, and where you put your faith in. I want to help you integrate all those parts of you to figure out what you really want out of this life, so that who you are can better serve the goals you set out. You and your loved ones deserve it.
Are you feeling stuck? Do you feel like there's no hope for change? Do you feel like the past keeps coming back? Are you struggling to balance it all? There can be a way out of just barely getting by, and move into true living to thrive. You are a whole person made up of your emotions, your thoughts, your past, your culture, your family patterns, your upbringing, your hopes and dreams for the future, and where you put your faith in. I want to help you integrate all those parts of you to figure out what you really want out of this life, so that who you are can better serve the goals you set out. You and your loved ones deserve it.
(289) 301-7867 View (289) 301-7867
Photo of Julia Evelyn Falzarano, HBSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Julia Evelyn Falzarano
Registered Social Worker, HBSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Scarborough, ON M1N
Are you a child, teen, young adult, or family who needs support through anxiety, grief and loss, life transitions, school challenges, or social and emotional struggles? I’ve worked with this population for 12 years in various volunteer and work settings prior to becoming a registered social worker. Using evidence-based therapeutic techniques, I work to empower you to develop healthier relationships with your emotions and others. I create a safe and supportive space in which to work on your individual goals, develop new skills, decrease distress, and improve your overall quality of life.
Are you a child, teen, young adult, or family who needs support through anxiety, grief and loss, life transitions, school challenges, or social and emotional struggles? I’ve worked with this population for 12 years in various volunteer and work settings prior to becoming a registered social worker. Using evidence-based therapeutic techniques, I work to empower you to develop healthier relationships with your emotions and others. I create a safe and supportive space in which to work on your individual goals, develop new skills, decrease distress, and improve your overall quality of life.
(289) 724-1634 View (289) 724-1634
Photo of Kamal Chahal, MA, RP (Q), Pre-Licensed Professional
Kamal Chahal
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, RP (Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scarborough, ON M1N
For the young friends at wellbe, Kamal creates a safe, supported and enjoyable environment as they navigate the twists and turns of growing up and daily life. Building strong therapeutic relationships with her young clients is her utmost priority, as she believes that together, they can overcome any challenge that arises.
For the young friends at wellbe, Kamal creates a safe, supported and enjoyable environment as they navigate the twists and turns of growing up and daily life. Building strong therapeutic relationships with her young clients is her utmost priority, as she believes that together, they can overcome any challenge that arises.
(647) 692-3165 View (647) 692-3165
Photo of Emaan Singh, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Emaan Singh
Registered Social Worker, RSW
Verified Verified
Scarborough, ON M1S
I want to thank you for taking the first step in seeking support. I acknowledge that getting here may have been tough, but you made it this far, and I commend you for that. Together, let us move forward. My experience supporting children and youth (6+) entails helping them to establish healthy relationships, social skills, executive functioning skills, emotional regulation abilities and behaviour modification techniques, all while encouraging leadership and independent thinking. My work with teens and young adults involves helping them navigate through their experiences with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, and grief.
I want to thank you for taking the first step in seeking support. I acknowledge that getting here may have been tough, but you made it this far, and I commend you for that. Together, let us move forward. My experience supporting children and youth (6+) entails helping them to establish healthy relationships, social skills, executive functioning skills, emotional regulation abilities and behaviour modification techniques, all while encouraging leadership and independent thinking. My work with teens and young adults involves helping them navigate through their experiences with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, and grief.
(289) 274-9403 View (289) 274-9403
Photo of Laura Devlin - Laura Devlin, Beaches Therapy Group, MA, CPsych, Psychologist
Laura Devlin, Beaches Therapy Group
Psychologist, MA, CPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scarborough, ON M1H
Hello! I'm an active and engaging therapist who will work collaboratively with you to uncover and move beyond the obstacles that keep you stuck. Our journey will enhance your relationship with yourself, and help you engage more authentically with those around you. I am a down to earth person and genuinely regard my clients with admiration as they embark on a personal evolution process. I love working with individuals, couples, and teens. I look forward to being a part of your journey! I am a Registered Member of the College of Psychologists of Ontario and covered by most insurance plans. I co own Beaches Therapy Group in Toronto.
Hello! I'm an active and engaging therapist who will work collaboratively with you to uncover and move beyond the obstacles that keep you stuck. Our journey will enhance your relationship with yourself, and help you engage more authentically with those around you. I am a down to earth person and genuinely regard my clients with admiration as they embark on a personal evolution process. I love working with individuals, couples, and teens. I look forward to being a part of your journey! I am a Registered Member of the College of Psychologists of Ontario and covered by most insurance plans. I co own Beaches Therapy Group in Toronto.
(844) 332-3416 View (844) 332-3416
Photo of Amira Khan Lodhi, MSW, LCSW, RSW, OCSWSSW, Registered Social Worker
Amira Khan Lodhi
Registered Social Worker, MSW, LCSW, RSW, OCSWSSW
Verified Verified
Scarborough, ON M1C
Looking for the right therapist can be challenging and stressful. When I sit across from a client, I value and respect that I am being invited into important, personal situations, thoughts, and vulnerabilities. My philosophy to clinical work comes from my belief that you are trying to do the best you can and want support to do better. I will both accept you for where you are at, while helping you pushing toward the change you are looking for. I collaborate with my clients to then tailor the therapy I provide to the individual-pulling on my experience, trainings, and the understanding that we all are human.
Looking for the right therapist can be challenging and stressful. When I sit across from a client, I value and respect that I am being invited into important, personal situations, thoughts, and vulnerabilities. My philosophy to clinical work comes from my belief that you are trying to do the best you can and want support to do better. I will both accept you for where you are at, while helping you pushing toward the change you are looking for. I collaborate with my clients to then tailor the therapy I provide to the individual-pulling on my experience, trainings, and the understanding that we all are human.
(855) 999-7321 View (855) 999-7321
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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.