Sandplay Therapists in Paradise Valley, AZ

Photo of Mackenzie Francis, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mackenzie Francis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
I work exclusively with children ages 4-10 using play therapy, sandplay, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Between the phone calls home from school and the changes in their mood and behavior, when your child is struggling, it is stressful. You want to help them, but you don't know how to respond when they're in the midst of it. You've considered reaching out for help, but taking that next step is difficult because it's hard to imagine that anyone could understand what your child and family are going through.
I work exclusively with children ages 4-10 using play therapy, sandplay, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Between the phone calls home from school and the changes in their mood and behavior, when your child is struggling, it is stressful. You want to help them, but you don't know how to respond when they're in the midst of it. You've considered reaching out for help, but taking that next step is difficult because it's hard to imagine that anyone could understand what your child and family are going through.
(480) 660-3430 View (480) 660-3430
Photo of Susan E. Schwartz, PhD, Psychologist
Susan E. Schwartz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
Finding yourself is a complex and ultimately rewarding journey affecting mind, body and soul. It requires listening to the sadness and confusion when life has become meaningless, depressing, anxiety ridden and overwhelming. Our potential lies in the unconscious with its knowledge. This can be revealed through the Jungian analytical approach aimed at the present distress as it opens to future development. There we discover unknown personality aspects, the limiting attitudes, complexes and patterns working no longer. Their transformation moves us into our more authentic self. From this comes joy, creativity and hope.
Finding yourself is a complex and ultimately rewarding journey affecting mind, body and soul. It requires listening to the sadness and confusion when life has become meaningless, depressing, anxiety ridden and overwhelming. Our potential lies in the unconscious with its knowledge. This can be revealed through the Jungian analytical approach aimed at the present distress as it opens to future development. There we discover unknown personality aspects, the limiting attitudes, complexes and patterns working no longer. Their transformation moves us into our more authentic self. From this comes joy, creativity and hope.
(602) 508-8761 View (602) 508-8761
Photo of Kimberly Anne Popkey, MA, LPC, CEDS, SEP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kimberly Anne Popkey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CEDS, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
I have been in private practice in the Scottsdale area for 23 years. I attended Arizona State University as an undergrad and completed my graduate work at the University of San Francisco. I work with individuals, couples, families and children. Divorce, grief, addiction, sexually alternative lifestyles, eating disorders, trauma, anxiety/depression & ADD/ADHD are just a few of my specialties. I have flexible morning and evening hours a couple days a week. I am a Board-Certified Telemental Health Provider & have flexibility for Telehealth counseling sessions. I am on numerous insurance plans as well as working on a sliding scale.
I have been in private practice in the Scottsdale area for 23 years. I attended Arizona State University as an undergrad and completed my graduate work at the University of San Francisco. I work with individuals, couples, families and children. Divorce, grief, addiction, sexually alternative lifestyles, eating disorders, trauma, anxiety/depression & ADD/ADHD are just a few of my specialties. I have flexible morning and evening hours a couple days a week. I am a Board-Certified Telemental Health Provider & have flexibility for Telehealth counseling sessions. I am on numerous insurance plans as well as working on a sliding scale.
(480) 646-3952 View (480) 646-3952
Photo of Suzana Adams - Suzana Adams Psy.D. LLC, PsyD, LLC, Psychologist
Suzana Adams Psy.D. LLC
Psychologist, PsyD, LLC
Verified Verified
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
Most of my work involves working with depression, anxiety, trauma, losses, and life adaptations with early and late adolescents, adults, and couples. I have a strong experience working cross-culturally and including the family in the therapy if necessary. My approach is Existential-Humanistic with a strong Psychodynamic base. I may use cognitive therapy, and techniques such as EMDR, Play, Art, or IFS when necessary.
Most of my work involves working with depression, anxiety, trauma, losses, and life adaptations with early and late adolescents, adults, and couples. I have a strong experience working cross-culturally and including the family in the therapy if necessary. My approach is Existential-Humanistic with a strong Psychodynamic base. I may use cognitive therapy, and techniques such as EMDR, Play, Art, or IFS when necessary.
(602) 714-9326 View (602) 714-9326
Photo of Linda C Gray - Heartful Solutions for Families, MA, LPC, Counselor
Heartful Solutions for Families
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
Waitlist for new clients
Weekend and afternoon/evening appointments. I offer family and individual therapy for children ages 2 to 12 using child-friendly tools: Play therapy, Sand Tray, Expressive Arts, EMDR, Somatic Therapy. Rhythmic Movement and Mindfulness training. Whether you are seeking help for common childhood concerns, learning, and attention problems, or more traumatic life events, my playful approach will help your child connect emotionally, learn new behaviors, communicate and navigate through times of change.
Weekend and afternoon/evening appointments. I offer family and individual therapy for children ages 2 to 12 using child-friendly tools: Play therapy, Sand Tray, Expressive Arts, EMDR, Somatic Therapy. Rhythmic Movement and Mindfulness training. Whether you are seeking help for common childhood concerns, learning, and attention problems, or more traumatic life events, my playful approach will help your child connect emotionally, learn new behaviors, communicate and navigate through times of change.
(602) 529-3972 View (602) 529-3972
Photo of Tamar Shindel, LPC, NCC, SEP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tamar Shindel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
Whole Hearts Counseling provides compassionate and strength-based therapy to support you in living life wholeheartedly. Many of my clients have been very diligent in their healing process and have explored a wide array of services from yoga to acupuncture and everything between! Though they have experienced some sense of “better”, they do not feel entirely whole or fully settled in their bodies. With compassion and humor (Yes, humor! We are allowed to have fun on this journey of healing), we begin to explore with curiosity what may be blocking the ability for you to shift into greater connection with self and others.
Whole Hearts Counseling provides compassionate and strength-based therapy to support you in living life wholeheartedly. Many of my clients have been very diligent in their healing process and have explored a wide array of services from yoga to acupuncture and everything between! Though they have experienced some sense of “better”, they do not feel entirely whole or fully settled in their bodies. With compassion and humor (Yes, humor! We are allowed to have fun on this journey of healing), we begin to explore with curiosity what may be blocking the ability for you to shift into greater connection with self and others.
(480) 405-1492 View (480) 405-1492
Photo of Joshua G Kellison, PhD, Psychologist
Joshua G Kellison
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who seeks to support client's goals, while also helping them achieve a life worth living. Prior to private practice I have worked at the VA and the National Center for PTSD in Honolulu, HI, Seattle Children's Hospital, PCH, and community mental health clinics. As a result of working within a variety of settings, I have the experience and skills to work with children, adolescents, and adults who present with behavioral, mood, and life challenges. I also have specialized training for grief, impulse control and anger management, PTSD, and coping/emotion regulation skills acquisition.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who seeks to support client's goals, while also helping them achieve a life worth living. Prior to private practice I have worked at the VA and the National Center for PTSD in Honolulu, HI, Seattle Children's Hospital, PCH, and community mental health clinics. As a result of working within a variety of settings, I have the experience and skills to work with children, adolescents, and adults who present with behavioral, mood, and life challenges. I also have specialized training for grief, impulse control and anger management, PTSD, and coping/emotion regulation skills acquisition.
(480) 418-0765 View (480) 418-0765
Photo of Dr. Jodi Tudisco, DSW, LPC, MS, EMDR, TRE, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Jodi Tudisco
Licensed Professional Counselor, DSW, LPC, MS, EMDR, TRE
Verified Verified
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253  (Online Only)
"What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us." Ralph Waldo Emerson. Using a holistic approach in therapy we will explore the mind, body and spirit connection. We will learn balance and build resilience through the power of self-discovery, thus improving your quality of life. Negative thought patterns and beliefs will be identified and challenged through DBT, mindfulness, and EMDR. When needed we may create healthy eating habits and a healthy relationship with exercise. Cultivating your spirituality to relieve fear and nurture an attitude of gratitude and abundance is encouraged.
"What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us." Ralph Waldo Emerson. Using a holistic approach in therapy we will explore the mind, body and spirit connection. We will learn balance and build resilience through the power of self-discovery, thus improving your quality of life. Negative thought patterns and beliefs will be identified and challenged through DBT, mindfulness, and EMDR. When needed we may create healthy eating habits and a healthy relationship with exercise. Cultivating your spirituality to relieve fear and nurture an attitude of gratitude and abundance is encouraged.
(520) 441-8865 View (520) 441-8865
Photo of Jodie Howe, MS, LPC, Counselor
Jodie Howe
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
Waitlist for new clients
Have you or your child experienced significant trauma? After early trauma, children can struggle to attach to caregivers which can impact their ability to form healthy future relationships. Adults sometimes struggle when approaching difficult topics surrounding early childhood trauma, which can contribute to added barriers within the parent child relationship. While many adults are willing and motivated to help their children overcome adverse experiences, they may have their own unresolved trauma that continues to interfere.
Have you or your child experienced significant trauma? After early trauma, children can struggle to attach to caregivers which can impact their ability to form healthy future relationships. Adults sometimes struggle when approaching difficult topics surrounding early childhood trauma, which can contribute to added barriers within the parent child relationship. While many adults are willing and motivated to help their children overcome adverse experiences, they may have their own unresolved trauma that continues to interfere.
(623) 242-1409 View (623) 242-1409
Photo of Christy Martin, MA, LAC, Counselor
Christy Martin
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253  (Online Only)
Throughout my career I have experienced treating depression, anxiety, attachment trauma, dissociation, and more. I am trained in EMDR, Structural Dissociation, and other modalities, that have assisted in my success in helping to navigate and overcome past trauma. Through that process, clients learn to embrace adversity; resulting in increased resilience. I value our unique experiences and believe embracing our authentic self is a process, not a state of being; it is a direction, not a destination. Take a deep breath, and remember, you no longer have to live in a state of survival; be empowered and recognize the healing you deserve.
Throughout my career I have experienced treating depression, anxiety, attachment trauma, dissociation, and more. I am trained in EMDR, Structural Dissociation, and other modalities, that have assisted in my success in helping to navigate and overcome past trauma. Through that process, clients learn to embrace adversity; resulting in increased resilience. I value our unique experiences and believe embracing our authentic self is a process, not a state of being; it is a direction, not a destination. Take a deep breath, and remember, you no longer have to live in a state of survival; be empowered and recognize the healing you deserve.
(520) 462-3251 View (520) 462-3251
Photo of Shawn Foltz Emmons, PhD, Psychologist
Shawn Foltz Emmons
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
I enjoy doing all types of therapy for all different issues to include depression, anxiety, addiction/substance use and abuse, health and wellness, grief, trauma, parental alienation, developmental challenges, autism spectrum disorders, personality disorders, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, codependency, work stress and relationship conflict. I work with people to identify treatment goals and create a treatment regimen that fits their needs which includes psychodynamic, CBT, DBT, behavior modification, interpersonal therapy, sport psychology and coaching.
I enjoy doing all types of therapy for all different issues to include depression, anxiety, addiction/substance use and abuse, health and wellness, grief, trauma, parental alienation, developmental challenges, autism spectrum disorders, personality disorders, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, codependency, work stress and relationship conflict. I work with people to identify treatment goals and create a treatment regimen that fits their needs which includes psychodynamic, CBT, DBT, behavior modification, interpersonal therapy, sport psychology and coaching.
(480) 207-3432 View (480) 207-3432
Photo of Lanie Smith, MPS, ATR, Art Therapist
Lanie Smith
Art Therapist, MPS, ATR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
Accepting Clients. Do you wake up each morning or go to bed craving more vitality in your work as a therapist or other helping professional and/or desire more creative connection in your personal/professional life? Are you longing to connect to life in a deeper and more meaningful way again despite all your achievements thus far? Do you desire to feel more confidence and a sense of sacred direction? What if you could live, work and connect with life in a way that feels like full-time play? Ready to move beyond the boredom, exhaustion and/or even low-grade depression and anxiety? It's possible. I'd love to show you the way.
Accepting Clients. Do you wake up each morning or go to bed craving more vitality in your work as a therapist or other helping professional and/or desire more creative connection in your personal/professional life? Are you longing to connect to life in a deeper and more meaningful way again despite all your achievements thus far? Do you desire to feel more confidence and a sense of sacred direction? What if you could live, work and connect with life in a way that feels like full-time play? Ready to move beyond the boredom, exhaustion and/or even low-grade depression and anxiety? It's possible. I'd love to show you the way.
(541) 348-7997 View (541) 348-7997
Photo of Tres Adames, MDiv, BCPC, CPT, Pastoral Counselor
Tres Adames
Pastoral Counselor, MDiv, BCPC, CPT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
Are you struggling with feelings of shame? Does it feel like who you are is at odds with your family, upbringing, values, and/or those around you? I specialize in helping adults and teens struggling with various emotional, relational, spiritual, and sexual issues. I am comfortable discussing difficult topics and complex situations including grief, depression, stress, anxiety, trauma, and relationships. I also specialize in working with those who are LGBTQ. In addition to this, I work with those who are deconstructing their faith, those dealing with shame around sex, and those who have experienced church hurt or religious trauma.
Are you struggling with feelings of shame? Does it feel like who you are is at odds with your family, upbringing, values, and/or those around you? I specialize in helping adults and teens struggling with various emotional, relational, spiritual, and sexual issues. I am comfortable discussing difficult topics and complex situations including grief, depression, stress, anxiety, trauma, and relationships. I also specialize in working with those who are LGBTQ. In addition to this, I work with those who are deconstructing their faith, those dealing with shame around sex, and those who have experienced church hurt or religious trauma.
(480) 525-7284 x1 View (480) 525-7284 x1
Photo of Meryl L Warda Child Therapist, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meryl L Warda Child Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
I have worked with children and families my entire career in a variety of settings including schools and mental health clinics. I have experience working with children zero to 17 and their families. These children have experienced trauma, behavioral and mental health challenges. I love working with parents as well who are experiencing conflict, communication and parenting issues and utilize evidence-based intervention to help improve family health. It's okay to ask for help!
I have worked with children and families my entire career in a variety of settings including schools and mental health clinics. I have experience working with children zero to 17 and their families. These children have experienced trauma, behavioral and mental health challenges. I love working with parents as well who are experiencing conflict, communication and parenting issues and utilize evidence-based intervention to help improve family health. It's okay to ask for help!
(602) 878-6946 View (602) 878-6946
Photo of Ean Goldberg, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ean Goldberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
At Empower Pathways, I support children and young adults to gain clarity about their strengths, values, and goals. I believe in collaborating with my clients and families to take ownership of their personal development, make meaningful changes, and lead more fulfilling lives. With years of experience and a diverse client base, I bring with me the expertise to support clients with a variety of needs. Whatever challenges you might be facing, rest assured I have the ability to meet you where you are to support you in achieving your life goals. Together, we can explore life's challenges, and pave the way for healing, joy and success.
At Empower Pathways, I support children and young adults to gain clarity about their strengths, values, and goals. I believe in collaborating with my clients and families to take ownership of their personal development, make meaningful changes, and lead more fulfilling lives. With years of experience and a diverse client base, I bring with me the expertise to support clients with a variety of needs. Whatever challenges you might be facing, rest assured I have the ability to meet you where you are to support you in achieving your life goals. Together, we can explore life's challenges, and pave the way for healing, joy and success.
(928) 427-7960 View (928) 427-7960
Photo of Julie Kent-Partridge, LMSW
Julie Kent-Partridge
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
Julie is your partner in healing. She is a licensed social worker and here to walk alongside you on your journey to wellness. Julie is passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life's challenges. Whether you're a parent seeking support for your child, a young adult facing life transitions, a Veteran dealing with past experiences, or a couple striving to strengthen your relationship, Julie is ready to listen and support you.
Julie is your partner in healing. She is a licensed social worker and here to walk alongside you on your journey to wellness. Julie is passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life's challenges. Whether you're a parent seeking support for your child, a young adult facing life transitions, a Veteran dealing with past experiences, or a couple striving to strengthen your relationship, Julie is ready to listen and support you.
(520) 336-0305 View (520) 336-0305
Photo of Kristin Fickes, MS, LAC, Counselor
Kristin Fickes
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
Have you lost hope? I can help. Hi, I’m Kristin. I want you to know how much I respect your courage to seek counseling. If you are struggling and hurting, and unsure of how to heal, I would be honored to help show you the way.
Have you lost hope? I can help. Hi, I’m Kristin. I want you to know how much I respect your courage to seek counseling. If you are struggling and hurting, and unsure of how to heal, I would be honored to help show you the way.
(480) 741-3131 View (480) 741-3131
Photo of Allyson Dennen, MC, LAC, AFC, Counselor
Allyson Dennen
Counselor, MC, LAC, AFC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253  (Online Only)
Feeling like a mere shadow of who you used to be, just going through the motions? The constant pretending and performing is draining. You've faced some tough challenges—it's overwhelming. You want to feel good again, without those past struggles constantly resurfacing. So, you put on a brave face, trying to be the person everyone expects you to be. But your relationships are shaky, and it’s frustrating when you lose your temper with someone you care about or can’t accomplish what you want to. You're worried others will grow tired of dealing with all your trauma. You're out of ideas on how to turn things around.
Feeling like a mere shadow of who you used to be, just going through the motions? The constant pretending and performing is draining. You've faced some tough challenges—it's overwhelming. You want to feel good again, without those past struggles constantly resurfacing. So, you put on a brave face, trying to be the person everyone expects you to be. But your relationships are shaky, and it’s frustrating when you lose your temper with someone you care about or can’t accomplish what you want to. You're worried others will grow tired of dealing with all your trauma. You're out of ideas on how to turn things around.
(623) 400-6410 View (623) 400-6410
Photo of Stephanie Becker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Becker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
One of my passions and biggest joys in life is supporting others and witnessing individuals heal and grow. I believe in the "magic" of therapy and feel honored to be apart of others' healing journey. I see how the mind and body are highly connected and provide a mindful, holistic approach to make lasting change. I am intentional on providing a space for each person to find and be their authentic selves.
One of my passions and biggest joys in life is supporting others and witnessing individuals heal and grow. I believe in the "magic" of therapy and feel honored to be apart of others' healing journey. I see how the mind and body are highly connected and provide a mindful, holistic approach to make lasting change. I am intentional on providing a space for each person to find and be their authentic selves.
(623) 278-7524 View (623) 278-7524

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ashley Wright, LCSW 20, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW 20
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85253  (Online Only)
Hi, I am Ashley! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) offering telehealth only services with L & C Therapy. I have over 12 years of experience working with the birth to five population, and children, teens and young adults. I enjoy working with young children and their families so I can offer a hand in helping parents grow happy, healthy children while also offering assistance in helping grow happy, confident parents. Not only can I meet with children individually but I can also offer parenting support and coaching.
Hi, I am Ashley! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) offering telehealth only services with L & C Therapy. I have over 12 years of experience working with the birth to five population, and children, teens and young adults. I enjoy working with young children and their families so I can offer a hand in helping parents grow happy, healthy children while also offering assistance in helping grow happy, confident parents. Not only can I meet with children individually but I can also offer parenting support and coaching.
(520) 655-6418 View (520) 655-6418

See more therapy options for Paradise Valley

Sandplay Therapists

What problems are best treated with sandplay therapy?

Research has examined this therapy’s utility in young people and found positive results. It has been shown to be useful for those who suffer from autism, attention deficit disorder, anxiety, and or aggressive behavior. Children who have suffered abuse, neglect, or trauma have also seen improvement through this therapy. Abused children are often fearful and anxious about their safety, making verbal communication more difficult.

Is sandplay therapy suitable for children and teenagers?

Children and adolescents are good candidates for sandplay therapy. Many kids and teens are often unable to form and communicate their thoughts, let alone the emotions they are experiencing. Through this play therapy, they will hopefully make connections between what they feel inside and how the world works outside.

Is sandplay suitable for adults?

This type of therapy can be useful for adults who have difficulties expressing themselves. People who have suffered neurological changes after a brain injury or because of a traumatic event might be good candidates for this therapy. In fact, anything that has had an effect on the brain, such as substance abuse, can make non-verbal sandplay a valuable option.

Does sandplay therapy work?

There have been studies on the effectiveness of sandplay therapy, and it appears to improve difficult behaviors in children. It may also enhance self-esteem and lessen feelings of physical anxiety as well as hypersensitivity. This type of therapy is based on non-verbal communication and may feel less threatening to the individual.