Play Therapy in Martinez, CA
I utilize play, art, movement, and mindfulness in my work with kids, teens, and adults.
I believe that therapy can be a powerful tool to build upon or develop skills to manage life's many twists and trials. Therapeutic work can also be extremely effective in improving and changing our relationships. I strive to create a comfortable and supportive environment where individuals feel seen, heard, and respected. I love the work that I do and I believe it is really important to maintain a level of hope that positive change can occur in your life. This hope is especially important for those who've been impacted by trauma and abuse and for new parents struggling to find their way, both populations I have a passion to serve.
I utilize play, art, movement, and mindfulness in my work with kids, teens, and adults.
I believe that therapy can be a powerful tool to build upon or develop skills to manage life's many twists and trials. Therapeutic work can also be extremely effective in improving and changing our relationships. I strive to create a comfortable and supportive environment where individuals feel seen, heard, and respected. I love the work that I do and I believe it is really important to maintain a level of hope that positive change can occur in your life. This hope is especially important for those who've been impacted by trauma and abuse and for new parents struggling to find their way, both populations I have a passion to serve.
Donna Christianson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CCATP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Martinez, CA 94553 (Online Only)
Are you in transition? Struggling with anxiety, depression, self-criticism or low self-esteem? Wanting to feel more empowered in your life, relationships and work? Tired of simply surviving? Are you seeking a warm and caring therapist who will listen and help support you to create a life that truly reflects and supports your aspirations and dreams? Who is devoted to your well-being and can offer both the practical help and emotional support to help you to thrive? If so, I'd like to help; I offer affordable day and evening appointments.
Are you in transition? Struggling with anxiety, depression, self-criticism or low self-esteem? Wanting to feel more empowered in your life, relationships and work? Tired of simply surviving? Are you seeking a warm and caring therapist who will listen and help support you to create a life that truly reflects and supports your aspirations and dreams? Who is devoted to your well-being and can offer both the practical help and emotional support to help you to thrive? If so, I'd like to help; I offer affordable day and evening appointments.
Valerie Sonnikson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Martinez, CA 94553
All members of a family have an important job. I believe in a family-centered approach that prioritizes connection which promotes resilience in children and their families. As a parent/caregiver, you deserve a space to process your experiences and feelings that arise when caring for a child. Children encounter challenges at every stage of development. Whether these difficulties are typical for their age or arise from unexpected stressors affecting the child or family, seeking counseling might be beneficial. I have decades of experience working with children and find ease and joy in building rapport with kids.
All members of a family have an important job. I believe in a family-centered approach that prioritizes connection which promotes resilience in children and their families. As a parent/caregiver, you deserve a space to process your experiences and feelings that arise when caring for a child. Children encounter challenges at every stage of development. Whether these difficulties are typical for their age or arise from unexpected stressors affecting the child or family, seeking counseling might be beneficial. I have decades of experience working with children and find ease and joy in building rapport with kids.
Hello, my name is Sara Vazquez-Cutler, and I am a first-generation Latina. My pronouns are she/her/they and I am a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I received my Master's of Science in Marriage, Family, and Child Counseling through CSU Fresno. I have been working in the psychotherapy field for the past 5 years as an MFT trainee, registered associate MFT, and now as a Licensed MFT. I view therapy as a collaborative approach between you and me working toward the same goals.
Hello, my name is Sara Vazquez-Cutler, and I am a first-generation Latina. My pronouns are she/her/they and I am a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I received my Master's of Science in Marriage, Family, and Child Counseling through CSU Fresno. I have been working in the psychotherapy field for the past 5 years as an MFT trainee, registered associate MFT, and now as a Licensed MFT. I view therapy as a collaborative approach between you and me working toward the same goals.
Redemption Songs Family Therapy: Jessica Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Martinez, CA 94553
I believe everyone is unique, has strengths, and change is possible. At Redemption Songs I offer a tailor-made approach for individual and family clients. I start with understanding where you are at now, and how you got here. I help you by working collaboratively in developing goals, and I celebrate and help maintain accountability along the way. I offer an inclusive, authentic, safe space with in person/virtual appointments so you can begin your journey in being the person you know you are. Understanding your lived experiences is our passion. I guide you to understand we and everyone are constantly evolving, self-esteem.
I believe everyone is unique, has strengths, and change is possible. At Redemption Songs I offer a tailor-made approach for individual and family clients. I start with understanding where you are at now, and how you got here. I help you by working collaboratively in developing goals, and I celebrate and help maintain accountability along the way. I offer an inclusive, authentic, safe space with in person/virtual appointments so you can begin your journey in being the person you know you are. Understanding your lived experiences is our passion. I guide you to understand we and everyone are constantly evolving, self-esteem.
Hello, my name is Stacey. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Bakersfield, California. I am passionate about my work and providing an opportunity to help individuals and families cope with life's challenges and work towards healing and creating a life worth living. I work well with children, adolescents, and young adults; however, I have the ability to engage with and work with any age group. I also have the ability to engage with individuals from a variety of backgrounds and ethnicities.
Hello, my name is Stacey. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Bakersfield, California. I am passionate about my work and providing an opportunity to help individuals and families cope with life's challenges and work towards healing and creating a life worth living. I work well with children, adolescents, and young adults; however, I have the ability to engage with and work with any age group. I also have the ability to engage with individuals from a variety of backgrounds and ethnicities.
We're excited to bring The Connective to the heart of downtown Benicia! We are an integrative mental health practice whose mission is to create a safe and supportive space for families, individuals, and professionals in our community. We specialize in holistic, compassionate therapy services designed to help you strengthen connections, foster growth, and promote overall wellness. Whether you're seeking support for yourself, your child, or your relationship, we're here to walk alongside you on your journey. We can’t wait to connect with you!
We're excited to bring The Connective to the heart of downtown Benicia! We are an integrative mental health practice whose mission is to create a safe and supportive space for families, individuals, and professionals in our community. We specialize in holistic, compassionate therapy services designed to help you strengthen connections, foster growth, and promote overall wellness. Whether you're seeking support for yourself, your child, or your relationship, we're here to walk alongside you on your journey. We can’t wait to connect with you!
Melinda Perales
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT, CMAT, RACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Martinez, CA 94553
Chances are, at this time, when you are seeking therapy, you might be feeling alone, worried, and scared. The truth is that you are never alone; help and support are always available. Shining your light in times of darkness is possible and can be met with new hope and exciting beginnings! My focus with clients is on healing rather than treatment. I am committed to providing quality, affordable psychotherapy for everyone and am proudly associated with Axis Mundi Center for Mental Health to help accomplish my mission. (axismundicenter.org)
Chances are, at this time, when you are seeking therapy, you might be feeling alone, worried, and scared. The truth is that you are never alone; help and support are always available. Shining your light in times of darkness is possible and can be met with new hope and exciting beginnings! My focus with clients is on healing rather than treatment. I am committed to providing quality, affordable psychotherapy for everyone and am proudly associated with Axis Mundi Center for Mental Health to help accomplish my mission. (axismundicenter.org)
Liz Eichmann @ The Connective
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Martinez, CA 94553
I have experience working with both children and adults and specialize in anxiety disorders, LGBTQI2A, gender diversity, sexual minorities. sexual trauma, and all stages of a person's birth journey (family planning, early pregnancy loss, abortion, labor, and postpartum).
I have experience working with both children and adults and specialize in anxiety disorders, LGBTQI2A, gender diversity, sexual minorities. sexual trauma, and all stages of a person's birth journey (family planning, early pregnancy loss, abortion, labor, and postpartum).
Hello & bienvenidos! I’m Dr. Lacey Xepoleas, a compassionate, affirming psychologist in Walnut Creek, CA. I know that starting therapy can feel daunting—choosing to care for yourself is a bold act of courage. As someone who understands the weight of "just making it through," I recognize the exhaustion that can come from striving to keep up. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, trauma, body image challenges, or identity exploration, my approach is to create a safe, supportive space for you to feel heard and empowered as you navigate the life you currently live and the steps needed to live the life you WANT to live.
Hello & bienvenidos! I’m Dr. Lacey Xepoleas, a compassionate, affirming psychologist in Walnut Creek, CA. I know that starting therapy can feel daunting—choosing to care for yourself is a bold act of courage. As someone who understands the weight of "just making it through," I recognize the exhaustion that can come from striving to keep up. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, trauma, body image challenges, or identity exploration, my approach is to create a safe, supportive space for you to feel heard and empowered as you navigate the life you currently live and the steps needed to live the life you WANT to live.
I am deeply committed to supporting children and adolescents through their developmental stages, providing them with tools to navigate challenges and achieve emotional well-being. I also work closely with families to strengthen relationships, improve communication, and navigate transitions. I understand the complexities of family dynamics and offer support to address conflicts, build resilience, and promote positive interactions. My goal is to empower families to create nurturing environments where every member can thrive.
I am deeply committed to supporting children and adolescents through their developmental stages, providing them with tools to navigate challenges and achieve emotional well-being. I also work closely with families to strengthen relationships, improve communication, and navigate transitions. I understand the complexities of family dynamics and offer support to address conflicts, build resilience, and promote positive interactions. My goal is to empower families to create nurturing environments where every member can thrive.
Hello, I am Gisoo Mohandesi, a licensed marriage and family therapist (License 10875), with over (10 years) of professional experience. As a professional, who is passionate about helping individuals, children, adolescents, and families, I believe that the way to help my clients cultivate well-being is to understand them as human beings and not just their struggles.I believe we are not defined by our hardships, but rather can learn how to use them towards building self-awareness and enhancing our strengths.
Hello, I am Gisoo Mohandesi, a licensed marriage and family therapist (License 10875), with over (10 years) of professional experience. As a professional, who is passionate about helping individuals, children, adolescents, and families, I believe that the way to help my clients cultivate well-being is to understand them as human beings and not just their struggles.I believe we are not defined by our hardships, but rather can learn how to use them towards building self-awareness and enhancing our strengths.
Marika Yakumithis @ The Connective
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Martinez, CA 94553
I find fulfillment in working with individuals and families of varied backgrounds and cultural identities. It brings me great joy to learn from the people I work with about their unique experiences, while also collaborating with them as a team to understand their specific needs and individual journeys. I have experience working with a variety of ages and mental health conditions as well as working with Bay Area youth, teens, and adults. Witnessing my clients in their journey is an honor and being able to guide them through some of the most challenging moments is one of the most rewarding experiences to me.
I find fulfillment in working with individuals and families of varied backgrounds and cultural identities. It brings me great joy to learn from the people I work with about their unique experiences, while also collaborating with them as a team to understand their specific needs and individual journeys. I have experience working with a variety of ages and mental health conditions as well as working with Bay Area youth, teens, and adults. Witnessing my clients in their journey is an honor and being able to guide them through some of the most challenging moments is one of the most rewarding experiences to me.
More Therapists Nearby
Angela Hernandez LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
A child’s language is through play and it is for this reason that I utilize play and art therapy to access the child’s internal world.
I specialize in children, adolescents, and adults, using evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Mindfulness, as well as other treatment modalities to address needs and facilitate growth. Setting goals and planning treatment is a collaborative process with the client (and parents) and I aim to cultivate an open and non-judgmental relationship during the therapy process. My years of experience include supporting clients through a myriad of concerns, including trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and/or loss, relational issues, self-esteem and adjustments to changes.
A child’s language is through play and it is for this reason that I utilize play and art therapy to access the child’s internal world.
I specialize in children, adolescents, and adults, using evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Mindfulness, as well as other treatment modalities to address needs and facilitate growth. Setting goals and planning treatment is a collaborative process with the client (and parents) and I aim to cultivate an open and non-judgmental relationship during the therapy process. My years of experience include supporting clients through a myriad of concerns, including trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and/or loss, relational issues, self-esteem and adjustments to changes.
I provide a safe, compassionate and collaborative healing space combining different styles of psychotherapy such as somatic (body-based), mindfulness, experiential, play therapy, and solution-oriented approaches.
Are you feeling distracted or overwhelmed? Perhaps you are lacking motivation and seeking clarity to connect with your passions and purpose in life, or desire more fulfilling, harmonious relationships. Maybe you’re tired of people saying you’re “too much” or “not enough” leaving you feeling not good enough or unworthy. You are not alone. Releasing old fears, anxiety, shame, guilt, and negative thoughts doesn’t have to be a painful, difficult process (deep breath!). It can be incredibly freeing, creating space and connection to a part of yourself you never knew was there.
I provide a safe, compassionate and collaborative healing space combining different styles of psychotherapy such as somatic (body-based), mindfulness, experiential, play therapy, and solution-oriented approaches.
Are you feeling distracted or overwhelmed? Perhaps you are lacking motivation and seeking clarity to connect with your passions and purpose in life, or desire more fulfilling, harmonious relationships. Maybe you’re tired of people saying you’re “too much” or “not enough” leaving you feeling not good enough or unworthy. You are not alone. Releasing old fears, anxiety, shame, guilt, and negative thoughts doesn’t have to be a painful, difficult process (deep breath!). It can be incredibly freeing, creating space and connection to a part of yourself you never knew was there.
Barb Peppin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523 (Online Only)
I am a licensed therapist and a Christian. I have a passion for helping people who are broken and hurting, but have a desire to heal , and through the process of therapy seeing them grow and change. I enjoy watching God move in their lives towards a healthier more productive and satisfying life.
I am a licensed therapist and a Christian. I have a passion for helping people who are broken and hurting, but have a desire to heal , and through the process of therapy seeing them grow and change. I enjoy watching God move in their lives towards a healthier more productive and satisfying life.
I have been in private practice for over 30 years. My work is client-focused, compassionate, and impactful. I work with individuals, couples, adolescents, and children. I offer both in-person and telehealth sessions. My sessions are fee-for-service only. I accept cash, personal checks, and credit card billing at the time of service. I will provide a financial statement, or complete an insurance claim form so that my clients can seek reimbursement from health care spending accounts, or their insurance policy directly.
I have been in private practice for over 30 years. My work is client-focused, compassionate, and impactful. I work with individuals, couples, adolescents, and children. I offer both in-person and telehealth sessions. My sessions are fee-for-service only. I accept cash, personal checks, and credit card billing at the time of service. I will provide a financial statement, or complete an insurance claim form so that my clients can seek reimbursement from health care spending accounts, or their insurance policy directly.
Anna Shigeta
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523 (Online Only)
Do you feel overwhelmed and frustrated with your highly sensitive, smart, very intense teenager? Feeling worn out with your teenager's ongoing worries, difficulty managing emotions? Does your teen suffer from perfectionism, self-doubt, and social issues? Do you also suffer from challenges? You don't have to manage this alone. I specialize in helping teens and adults to understand themselves, to discover their path, and how to thrive. My goal is to help them improve their relationships, manage and channel their feelings, and realize their true potential.
Do you feel overwhelmed and frustrated with your highly sensitive, smart, very intense teenager? Feeling worn out with your teenager's ongoing worries, difficulty managing emotions? Does your teen suffer from perfectionism, self-doubt, and social issues? Do you also suffer from challenges? You don't have to manage this alone. I specialize in helping teens and adults to understand themselves, to discover their path, and how to thrive. My goal is to help them improve their relationships, manage and channel their feelings, and realize their true potential.
We are constantly growing and changing. Throughout stages in our lives, transitions in our states, or shifts in our relationships we can be overtaken with different emotions. Sometimes these emotions can be hard to make sense of, hard to sift through, or hard to sit with. My intention is to be your support as your work through problematic areas in your life to live a more meaningful and abundant life. Through my humanistic perspective, I offer a relaxed and warm approach to therapy; thusly, I commit to remain present with my clients and customize the therapy that meets your unique needs.
We are constantly growing and changing. Throughout stages in our lives, transitions in our states, or shifts in our relationships we can be overtaken with different emotions. Sometimes these emotions can be hard to make sense of, hard to sift through, or hard to sit with. My intention is to be your support as your work through problematic areas in your life to live a more meaningful and abundant life. Through my humanistic perspective, I offer a relaxed and warm approach to therapy; thusly, I commit to remain present with my clients and customize the therapy that meets your unique needs.
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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.