Play Therapy in Litchfield Park, AZ

Photo of Alexzannah B Castro, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexzannah B Castro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Litchfield Park, AZ 85340  (Online Only)
There may be times when one might feel the weight of life’s twists and turns. With constant changes, we may feel uncomfortable or 'stuck'. Life is a journey in which some of these challenges need a form of support with the utmost compassion to recognize all that we are capable of; A source of motivation. Humans need connection and it is when finding a safe space where we can recognize the resiliency that brought us here and keeps us moving forward with confidence that we often thrive. With a therapeutic alliance, we can navigate and work through any blockage in an open and affirming way to allow for emotional process and balance.
There may be times when one might feel the weight of life’s twists and turns. With constant changes, we may feel uncomfortable or 'stuck'. Life is a journey in which some of these challenges need a form of support with the utmost compassion to recognize all that we are capable of; A source of motivation. Humans need connection and it is when finding a safe space where we can recognize the resiliency that brought us here and keeps us moving forward with confidence that we often thrive. With a therapeutic alliance, we can navigate and work through any blockage in an open and affirming way to allow for emotional process and balance.
(623) 471-8709 View (623) 471-8709
Photo of Regina McManigell Grijalva, MA, LAC, Counselor
Regina McManigell Grijalva
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Litchfield Park, AZ 85340
Hello there! I specialize in therapies that use traditional talking, expressive arts, poetry, and/or mindfulness. When adults, adolescents, or children struggle with developmental and behavioral challenges because of mental health issues or trauma, they and family members can be at a loss for what to do. Let me guide you or family members on a personalized healing journey to develop resilience and healing of the mind, body and spirit. In addition to more traditional "talking" therapies, I am also trained to employ therapeutic mindfulness, drawing, painting, drama, poetry, story-telling, movement, and yoga.
Hello there! I specialize in therapies that use traditional talking, expressive arts, poetry, and/or mindfulness. When adults, adolescents, or children struggle with developmental and behavioral challenges because of mental health issues or trauma, they and family members can be at a loss for what to do. Let me guide you or family members on a personalized healing journey to develop resilience and healing of the mind, body and spirit. In addition to more traditional "talking" therapies, I am also trained to employ therapeutic mindfulness, drawing, painting, drama, poetry, story-telling, movement, and yoga.
(623) 624-2167 View (623) 624-2167
Photo of Jenny Baumgardner, PhD, Psychologist
Jenny Baumgardner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Litchfield Park, AZ 85340  (Online Only)
Feeling anxious, depressed or don't know how to cope? You may feel frustrated, but determined to find relief. Using best practices, including teletherapy, you can have confidence in working with me to be happy again! We will work to clear up your problem and return you quickly to your work and hobbies. I often tell new patients, "You're not telling me anything I don't think we can work through". E-mail and find out how I can help you! I want you to thrive and be happy!
Feeling anxious, depressed or don't know how to cope? You may feel frustrated, but determined to find relief. Using best practices, including teletherapy, you can have confidence in working with me to be happy again! We will work to clear up your problem and return you quickly to your work and hobbies. I often tell new patients, "You're not telling me anything I don't think we can work through". E-mail and find out how I can help you! I want you to thrive and be happy!
(520) 457-7837 View (520) 457-7837
Photo of Michele Wiest - Gathered Connections Counseling PLLC., LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gathered Connections Counseling PLLC.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Litchfield Park, AZ 85340
Welcome to Gathered Connections Counseling, your partner in mental health and well-being. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, or challenges in relationships—be it parent-child dynamics, couples, or families—our experienced team is here to guide you. We provide a safe, compassionate environment where you can explore your emotions, heal from past experiences, and develop the tools needed to achieve a healthier, more balanced life. Our team consists of multiple providers, each with a vast knowledge base and diverse clinical experience.
Welcome to Gathered Connections Counseling, your partner in mental health and well-being. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, or challenges in relationships—be it parent-child dynamics, couples, or families—our experienced team is here to guide you. We provide a safe, compassionate environment where you can explore your emotions, heal from past experiences, and develop the tools needed to achieve a healthier, more balanced life. Our team consists of multiple providers, each with a vast knowledge base and diverse clinical experience.
(623) 201-0719 View (623) 201-0719

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Brianne Bennett, LAC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Brianne Bennett
Pre-Licensed Professional, LAC
Verified Verified
Surprise, AZ 85379
Brianne specialize in working with children, adolescents and adults with: depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, grief, behavioral issues, peer relationships, family conflict, trauma and substance use; modalities including: Equine therapy, EMDR, play therapy, sand tray, trauma-focused CBT, and experiential therapy techniques.
Brianne believes that each of her clients are an expert and the ultimate healer of what troubles them. Often the inability to identify or communicate their troubles is the real issues that prevents them from feeling better. That is where her specialties can bridge the gap.
Brianne specialize in working with children, adolescents and adults with: depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, grief, behavioral issues, peer relationships, family conflict, trauma and substance use; modalities including: Equine therapy, EMDR, play therapy, sand tray, trauma-focused CBT, and experiential therapy techniques.
Brianne believes that each of her clients are an expert and the ultimate healer of what troubles them. Often the inability to identify or communicate their troubles is the real issues that prevents them from feeling better. That is where her specialties can bridge the gap.
(928) 569-6779 View (928) 569-6779
Photo of Aislinn Stewart, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Aislinn Stewart
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Surprise, AZ 85379
I offer a safe, inclusive place to learn, grow, & be challenged; to play & talk about the hard stuff; & to feel all the feels.
Nurturing Wonder: Empowering families to Live, Rise, & Thrive Together. I serve children (birth to 12) and their families. A Million Little Wonders LLC was founded on the belief that profound change is created from the accumulation of “a million little wonders,” small but significant moments of connection, progress, & healing. If your child is struggling to regulate their emotions, or if your family is going through a challenging period of change, upheaval, or loss, & you're feeling overwhelmed, defeated, or uncertain about how it's affecting your relationship with your child & their future, I'm here to offer support & guidance.
I offer a safe, inclusive place to learn, grow, & be challenged; to play & talk about the hard stuff; & to feel all the feels.
Nurturing Wonder: Empowering families to Live, Rise, & Thrive Together. I serve children (birth to 12) and their families. A Million Little Wonders LLC was founded on the belief that profound change is created from the accumulation of “a million little wonders,” small but significant moments of connection, progress, & healing. If your child is struggling to regulate their emotions, or if your family is going through a challenging period of change, upheaval, or loss, & you're feeling overwhelmed, defeated, or uncertain about how it's affecting your relationship with your child & their future, I'm here to offer support & guidance.
(623) 303-9477 View (623) 303-9477
Photo of Ruth Setlak, MBA, MSW, LCSW, ACS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ruth Setlak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA, MSW, LCSW, ACS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85033
I work with kids through play, EMDR, and other nervous system-based modalities.
You’ve been trying your hardest in relationships but still feel the pain of aloneness or not finding lasting connection/s. Or, you find yourself stuck, not able to approach life with forward-moving energy or clear direction. I get it. Trauma, a difficult childhood, and/or life's inevitable disappointments, often create barriers to feeling solid within yourself & to attaining what you hope for in life. I use mind-body approaches that go beyond talk therapy to create lasting change. Together, we can identify & mend what is getting in the way of you having safe, authentic relationships or crafting a life that is more of what you want.
I work with kids through play, EMDR, and other nervous system-based modalities.
You’ve been trying your hardest in relationships but still feel the pain of aloneness or not finding lasting connection/s. Or, you find yourself stuck, not able to approach life with forward-moving energy or clear direction. I get it. Trauma, a difficult childhood, and/or life's inevitable disappointments, often create barriers to feeling solid within yourself & to attaining what you hope for in life. I use mind-body approaches that go beyond talk therapy to create lasting change. Together, we can identify & mend what is getting in the way of you having safe, authentic relationships or crafting a life that is more of what you want.
(303) 816-3168 View (303) 816-3168
Photo of Sharon Carl - Mending Hearts Family Services, MA, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mending Hearts Family Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, AZ 85345
I have a play therapy room as well as a group room.
I hold an MA degree in Counseling from Ottawa University and an MA in education from Arizona State University. In addition, I hold an advanced Graduate Specialization in Marriage and Family therapy. I am an LPC, and a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor. I am trauma informed and practice from an attachment-base model. I use strength-based assessments to develop an individualized treatment plan for each client that is based upon the identified needs.
I have a play therapy room as well as a group room.
I hold an MA degree in Counseling from Ottawa University and an MA in education from Arizona State University. In addition, I hold an advanced Graduate Specialization in Marriage and Family therapy. I am an LPC, and a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor. I am trauma informed and practice from an attachment-base model. I use strength-based assessments to develop an individualized treatment plan for each client that is based upon the identified needs.
(602) 456-5248 View (602) 456-5248
Photo of Heidi Kaminski, LCSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heidi Kaminski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Peoria, AZ 85345
I am trained in: EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Sand Tray, Expressive Arts, Play Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and CBT.
I am passionate about helping people find their inner warrior! I am here to help you, or your child move through normal developmental difficulties or manage more traumatic life circumstances. If you are stressed out I can help! I offer a safe, predictable, empathetic environment to grow and heal from the inside out. I am dedicated to helping you feel more at peace within yourself. I am a trauma expert in treating sexual, physical and emotional abuse. I treat relational and developmental trauma. I also specialize in treatment of anxiety, depression, phobias, and any stress related issues. Let me hold space for you to be heard.
I am trained in: EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Sand Tray, Expressive Arts, Play Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and CBT.
I am passionate about helping people find their inner warrior! I am here to help you, or your child move through normal developmental difficulties or manage more traumatic life circumstances. If you are stressed out I can help! I offer a safe, predictable, empathetic environment to grow and heal from the inside out. I am dedicated to helping you feel more at peace within yourself. I am a trauma expert in treating sexual, physical and emotional abuse. I treat relational and developmental trauma. I also specialize in treatment of anxiety, depression, phobias, and any stress related issues. Let me hold space for you to be heard.
(602) 833-2527 View (602) 833-2527
Photo of Rachel Beth Wininger, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Beth Wininger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85033
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience and training in working with Faith Expansions, (Christian and LDS/Mormon church) ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Betrayal Trauma, Child-Centered Play, Relationship Issues and more.
Hi! I offer a casual, open approach to therapy that includes humor, swearing, art, mental exercises, tears, and hope for the future. My approach is based on working to learn more about why we are the way we are to then show understanding and compassion. As we explore with curiosity we discover the reasons behind what makes us the way we are and gives us a sense of compassion, empathy, and validation towards the parts of ourselves we like the least. I believe that nothing is TMI (too much information) and work to develop a strong supportive relationship to learn about and celebrate my clients.
I have experience and training in working with Faith Expansions, (Christian and LDS/Mormon church) ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Betrayal Trauma, Child-Centered Play, Relationship Issues and more.
Hi! I offer a casual, open approach to therapy that includes humor, swearing, art, mental exercises, tears, and hope for the future. My approach is based on working to learn more about why we are the way we are to then show understanding and compassion. As we explore with curiosity we discover the reasons behind what makes us the way we are and gives us a sense of compassion, empathy, and validation towards the parts of ourselves we like the least. I believe that nothing is TMI (too much information) and work to develop a strong supportive relationship to learn about and celebrate my clients.
(480) 864-4188 View (480) 864-4188
Photo of Ericka J Valdez, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ericka J Valdez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Avondale, AZ 85323
I utilize an array therapy modalities like EMDR, DBT, IFS, and play therapy.
Finding a therapist is like dating, not everyone who takes you out to dinner will be “the one”. The number one factor that assist people in reaching their full potential in therapy, is the relationship between the Client and therapist. Ericka has a reputation of quickly establishing trust and rapport with Clients, and individuals from all walks of life. Expect a caring and energetic creative therapist, who utilizes science and humor to help you, help yourself! My ideal Clients are children, adolescents and adults ages 4-50 who may be full of energy, creativity, loudness, craziness, sadness, and even madness.
I utilize an array therapy modalities like EMDR, DBT, IFS, and play therapy.
Finding a therapist is like dating, not everyone who takes you out to dinner will be “the one”. The number one factor that assist people in reaching their full potential in therapy, is the relationship between the Client and therapist. Ericka has a reputation of quickly establishing trust and rapport with Clients, and individuals from all walks of life. Expect a caring and energetic creative therapist, who utilizes science and humor to help you, help yourself! My ideal Clients are children, adolescents and adults ages 4-50 who may be full of energy, creativity, loudness, craziness, sadness, and even madness.
(602) 780-0331 View (602) 780-0331
Photo of Cami Ereth - Women and Children First Counseling LLC, MS , LAC, Counselor
Women and Children First Counseling LLC
Counselor, MS , LAC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Surprise, AZ 85388
I work with young children ages 6yrs and older, utilizing Play and Art therapies.
Hi! My name is Cami Ereth. I adhere to the belief that each person inherently knows themselves best; I am here to walk alongside you to offer insight and skills. I view each person I meet with unconditional positive regard. I also consider myself an EMDR Therapist who offers healing through trauma insight. Believe it or not, there is joy (or at the least, less stress/pain) in the midst of all that! I love helping women (and their kids) work to find their worth, and their positive mental health; walking with them as they grow and get strong.
I work with young children ages 6yrs and older, utilizing Play and Art therapies.
Hi! My name is Cami Ereth. I adhere to the belief that each person inherently knows themselves best; I am here to walk alongside you to offer insight and skills. I view each person I meet with unconditional positive regard. I also consider myself an EMDR Therapist who offers healing through trauma insight. Believe it or not, there is joy (or at the least, less stress/pain) in the midst of all that! I love helping women (and their kids) work to find their worth, and their positive mental health; walking with them as they grow and get strong.
(602) 206-8599 View (602) 206-8599
Photo of Briah Tarapacki, MA, LPC, Counselor
Briah Tarapacki
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glendale, AZ 85303
Intertwined in her therapeutic approach she always advocates the importance of self-care, as she is passionate about the power that physical health can play in one’s mental health.
My Practice is Accepting New Patients- Telehealth and In Person! Briah Tarapacki is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Arizona board registered Clinical Supervisor, and Clinical Director of The Healing Peace Counseling (www.healingpeacecounseling.com). She has 6+ years experience in crisis and general mental health services. Briah specializes in working with teens and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, interpersonal relationship concerns, domestic violence, eating disorders, self-esteem, and body image concerns.
Intertwined in her therapeutic approach she always advocates the importance of self-care, as she is passionate about the power that physical health can play in one’s mental health.
My Practice is Accepting New Patients- Telehealth and In Person! Briah Tarapacki is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Arizona board registered Clinical Supervisor, and Clinical Director of The Healing Peace Counseling (www.healingpeacecounseling.com). She has 6+ years experience in crisis and general mental health services. Briah specializes in working with teens and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, interpersonal relationship concerns, domestic violence, eating disorders, self-esteem, and body image concerns.
(602) 755-2378 View (602) 755-2378
Photo of Diana Iris Sanchez - Resiliency Counseling and Consultation Services , Diana , Sanchez, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Resiliency Counseling and Consultation Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, Diana , Sanchez, LPC
Verified Verified
Goodyear, AZ 85338
Our main modality is Cognitive behavioral, play and art therapy for children trauma focused treatment, individual and family counseling.
Embracing imperfection accepting the flaws and loving yourself is the essence of our growth as human beings as we strive to live the life we are meant to live. Mindfulness is the human ability to be fully present, aware of where we are and what we’re doing, and not overly reactive or overwhelmed by what’s going on around us. Mindfulness is a quality that every human possesses and is able to access. However with life sometimes accessing mindfulness is a challenge and the skill is embracing imperfection in order to access those moments of where we are present.
Our main modality is Cognitive behavioral, play and art therapy for children trauma focused treatment, individual and family counseling.
Embracing imperfection accepting the flaws and loving yourself is the essence of our growth as human beings as we strive to live the life we are meant to live. Mindfulness is the human ability to be fully present, aware of where we are and what we’re doing, and not overly reactive or overwhelmed by what’s going on around us. Mindfulness is a quality that every human possesses and is able to access. However with life sometimes accessing mindfulness is a challenge and the skill is embracing imperfection in order to access those moments of where we are present.
(623) 471-6606 View (623) 471-6606
Photo of Dana Howard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dana Howard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Goodyear, AZ 85395  (Online Only)
Experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a demonstrated history of working in the individual and family services industry. Strong community and social services professionally skilled as a Registered Play Therapist in populations of Adolescent/Child, family, marriage, adult individual. Current modalities used are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), TFCBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Eagala Equine therapy.
Experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a demonstrated history of working in the individual and family services industry. Strong community and social services professionally skilled as a Registered Play Therapist in populations of Adolescent/Child, family, marriage, adult individual. Current modalities used are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), TFCBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Eagala Equine therapy.
(520) 523-5420 View (520) 523-5420
Photo of Christina Van Arsdale - Wolfpack Counseling, LLC, CCFC, NCC, LAC
Wolfpack Counseling, LLC
CCFC, NCC, LAC
Verified Verified
Surprise, AZ 85379
Accepting new clients. All clients deserve a safe, supportive space that encourages acceptance, understanding, and emotional growth. My approach to your therapy is one where we work as a collaborative unit to identify and enact solutions to work through the issues brought to treatment. I have training to assist with your goals and with work you can accomplish your path. This united spirit allows you to make meaningful breakthroughs to improve your life and relationships. Was there trauma in your past that maybe affecting you currently? I use EMDR to assist with your experience. I also use play therapy with children and adolescents.
Accepting new clients. All clients deserve a safe, supportive space that encourages acceptance, understanding, and emotional growth. My approach to your therapy is one where we work as a collaborative unit to identify and enact solutions to work through the issues brought to treatment. I have training to assist with your goals and with work you can accomplish your path. This united spirit allows you to make meaningful breakthroughs to improve your life and relationships. Was there trauma in your past that maybe affecting you currently? I use EMDR to assist with your experience. I also use play therapy with children and adolescents.
(623) 526-8510 View (623) 526-8510
Photo of Samantha White, LPC, RPT, Counselor
Samantha White
Counselor, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Goodyear, AZ 85395
Credentials: Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Registered Play Therapist (RPT).
As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified EMDR Therapist, I am deeply committed to helping adolescents and adults heal and rediscover the joy that can be overshadowed by childhood adversities, trauma, abuse, and daily life stressors including anxiety and depression. My integrated approach combines techniques from EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Sand Tray Therapy. My goal is to empower individuals and families to unlock their potential, fostering positive change and building resilience for a brighter future.
Credentials: Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Registered Play Therapist (RPT).
As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified EMDR Therapist, I am deeply committed to helping adolescents and adults heal and rediscover the joy that can be overshadowed by childhood adversities, trauma, abuse, and daily life stressors including anxiety and depression. My integrated approach combines techniques from EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Sand Tray Therapy. My goal is to empower individuals and families to unlock their potential, fostering positive change and building resilience for a brighter future.
(623) 288-2662 View (623) 288-2662
Photo of Maxwell Stoltenberg, MPC, LAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maxwell Stoltenberg
Licensed Professional Counselor, MPC, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Goodyear, AZ 85338
I am well versed in several therapeutic techniques including use of play therapy, expressive arts, EMDR, CBT, trauma focused care, person centered care, Safe and Sound Protocol and Internal Family Systems.
I am passionate about helping people. I would be honored to help you, or your child navigate life’s challenges whether this is due to the struggles of day-to-day life or more significant traumas. If you are feeling lost, I am here to help! I specialize in working with children, adolescents and young adults struggling with anxiety, depression and stress. I offer a safe and inviting space for individuals and families to grow and build resiliency within themselves. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression and stress related issues. I would love to work with you to create a space where you can feel heard and understood.
I am well versed in several therapeutic techniques including use of play therapy, expressive arts, EMDR, CBT, trauma focused care, person centered care, Safe and Sound Protocol and Internal Family Systems.
I am passionate about helping people. I would be honored to help you, or your child navigate life’s challenges whether this is due to the struggles of day-to-day life or more significant traumas. If you are feeling lost, I am here to help! I specialize in working with children, adolescents and young adults struggling with anxiety, depression and stress. I offer a safe and inviting space for individuals and families to grow and build resiliency within themselves. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression and stress related issues. I would love to work with you to create a space where you can feel heard and understood.
(928) 792-1851 View (928) 792-1851
Photo of Crystal Krueger - Dawn Institute, LAC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dawn Institute
Marriage & Family Therapist, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Goodyear, AZ 85395
Specialties include EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Forward Facing Trauma Therapy, Brainspotting, sand tray play therapy, and theraplay.
At Dawn Childhood Foundation, it is our mission to support the prevention and healing of trauma through innovative mental health services that treat the whole person, equip parents, and nurture resilient families. We strive to be Arizona’s leader in treating children and families who have experienced trauma and adversity - through innovative care, and a collaborative approach with a multi-specialty team.
Specialties include EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Forward Facing Trauma Therapy, Brainspotting, sand tray play therapy, and theraplay.
At Dawn Childhood Foundation, it is our mission to support the prevention and healing of trauma through innovative mental health services that treat the whole person, equip parents, and nurture resilient families. We strive to be Arizona’s leader in treating children and families who have experienced trauma and adversity - through innovative care, and a collaborative approach with a multi-specialty team.
(623) 439-7177 View (623) 439-7177
Photo of Dr. Kimberly G. Bailey, DBH, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Kimberly G. Bailey
Marriage & Family Therapist, DBH, LMFT
Verified Verified
Surprise, AZ 85379
We specialize in Marriage and Family Therapy including parenting, family cooperation and marital discord/couples counseling. We work with blended and divorced families, emphasizing healthy communication and co-parenting. We work with families struggling with issues associated with ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Defiance and Attachment Difficulties. We have a focus on identifying strengths and able to work with just the individual person or with as many members in the persons' system that are receptive to participate. As special part of our practice I work with sports performance and college athlete/student readiness.
We specialize in Marriage and Family Therapy including parenting, family cooperation and marital discord/couples counseling. We work with blended and divorced families, emphasizing healthy communication and co-parenting. We work with families struggling with issues associated with ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Defiance and Attachment Difficulties. We have a focus on identifying strengths and able to work with just the individual person or with as many members in the persons' system that are receptive to participate. As special part of our practice I work with sports performance and college athlete/student readiness.
(520) 704-8108 View (520) 704-8108

See more therapy options for Litchfield Park

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.