Photo of Patricia Anita Lee, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patricia Anita Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92057
Through cognitive behavioral therapy, art and play therapy for children and adolescents, Imago therapy for interpersonal relationships, clients can achieve their goals.
During this exceptionally stressful time, anxiety, depression, and/or general life issues impact daily life. A need to lower anxiety, elevate mood, and find ways to cope with the unknown is important for all ages.
Through cognitive behavioral therapy, art and play therapy for children and adolescents, Imago therapy for interpersonal relationships, clients can achieve their goals.
During this exceptionally stressful time, anxiety, depression, and/or general life issues impact daily life. A need to lower anxiety, elevate mood, and find ways to cope with the unknown is important for all ages.
(949) 649-6179 View (949) 649-6179
Photo of Janet K Bastien, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Janet K Bastien
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92049  (Online Only)
Let's play! I offer play therapy with games, sand tray and books.
My passion as a therapist is to help individuals, parents, and children explore their challenges, from either the present or past. When clients are self-motivated to apply methods and skills whether for themselves or their family, positive transformation will happen! If you want to learn positive parenting skills, teach children the value of self-esteem, or identify behaviors and maladapted attachments, all of this is talk-able and worthy of investing your time and energy. I am here to listen and help dissolve trauma from childhood or social-emotional experiences in order to regain a healthy and happy life!
Let's play! I offer play therapy with games, sand tray and books.
My passion as a therapist is to help individuals, parents, and children explore their challenges, from either the present or past. When clients are self-motivated to apply methods and skills whether for themselves or their family, positive transformation will happen! If you want to learn positive parenting skills, teach children the value of self-esteem, or identify behaviors and maladapted attachments, all of this is talk-able and worthy of investing your time and energy. I am here to listen and help dissolve trauma from childhood or social-emotional experiences in order to regain a healthy and happy life!
(858) 537-4488 View (858) 537-4488

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jessica Ripley, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica Ripley
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Carlsbad, CA 92008
My goal is to help my clients break free from pain and embark on a journey towards personal growth. I know how it feels to be stuck in pain, and I know how amazing and life changing it feels to find a way out. I believe that this process is what builds beautiful, strong resilient people. My mission is to guide individuals like you along this path of self-discovery and resilience-building. I believe that this journey involves two key steps. First, we must process and heal from past pain. Then we can embark on an exploration of creativity, nature, spirituality, connection and pursuing your personal values and passions.
My goal is to help my clients break free from pain and embark on a journey towards personal growth. I know how it feels to be stuck in pain, and I know how amazing and life changing it feels to find a way out. I believe that this process is what builds beautiful, strong resilient people. My mission is to guide individuals like you along this path of self-discovery and resilience-building. I believe that this journey involves two key steps. First, we must process and heal from past pain. Then we can embark on an exploration of creativity, nature, spirituality, connection and pursuing your personal values and passions.
(562) 378-4629 View (562) 378-4629

Online Therapists

Photo of Nicole Rabiezadeh, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicole Rabiezadeh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Tarzana, CA 91356  (Online Only)
I use evidence-based modalities that I am trained in, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Play Therapy in order to assist individuals and families to overcome their challenges.
I have always had a curiosity for human development and how our experiences shape us into who we are today. My empathetic drive to understand and help people brought me to psychotherapy at a young age. I received my Master's in Clinical Psychology with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy From Pepperdine Graduate School of Education and Psychology. I currently work predominantly with young adults, families, teens and children wanting to figure out why they feel "stuck” or how to help themselves overcome anxiety, depression, grief, familial issues, and other interpersonal challenges. I offer CBT with a solution-oriented push.
I use evidence-based modalities that I am trained in, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Play Therapy in order to assist individuals and families to overcome their challenges.
I have always had a curiosity for human development and how our experiences shape us into who we are today. My empathetic drive to understand and help people brought me to psychotherapy at a young age. I received my Master's in Clinical Psychology with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy From Pepperdine Graduate School of Education and Psychology. I currently work predominantly with young adults, families, teens and children wanting to figure out why they feel "stuck” or how to help themselves overcome anxiety, depression, grief, familial issues, and other interpersonal challenges. I offer CBT with a solution-oriented push.
(818) 814-9235 View (818) 814-9235
Photo of Heidi Mezzatesta, MA, LMFT, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Heidi Mezzatesta
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PhD
Verified Verified
Studio City, CA 91604  (Online Only)
Play, with neither a plan or purpose, is the best precondition -- Marie-Louise von Franz. Everyone has a story and sometimes we become stuck in our story because we want to move in a direction that may be different than what is expected. Being stuck may manifest with symptoms of anxiety, depression or other disorders. My approach is to encounter these symptoms with curiosity rather than judgment. The role of therapy is to provide understanding and an empathetic ear with a belief that the activity of therapy will provide insight and healing.
Play, with neither a plan or purpose, is the best precondition -- Marie-Louise von Franz. Everyone has a story and sometimes we become stuck in our story because we want to move in a direction that may be different than what is expected. Being stuck may manifest with symptoms of anxiety, depression or other disorders. My approach is to encounter these symptoms with curiosity rather than judgment. The role of therapy is to provide understanding and an empathetic ear with a belief that the activity of therapy will provide insight and healing.
(818) 508-0703 View (818) 508-0703
Photo of Deana R. Straus, MS, MFT, CAMF, Marriage & Family Therapist
Deana R. Straus
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT, CAMF
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
I took great care to ensure my office provides tools necessary for therapy with children, teens and families to be utilized in play, art, sand play and bibliotherapy.
Taking the First Step is the Hardest...it is also the Most COURAGEOUS. I provide Counseling, Anger Management & Parenting. I work with adults, children, individuals, couples & families. I help those having difficulties in life to improve relationships & communication and to deal with STRESS, ANGER, DEPRESSION, ANXIETY, TRAUMA, GRIEF and LOSS in healthy ways. I can help change negative thinking and unhealthy behavior, improve self-esteem AND move past TRAUMA.
I took great care to ensure my office provides tools necessary for therapy with children, teens and families to be utilized in play, art, sand play and bibliotherapy.
Taking the First Step is the Hardest...it is also the Most COURAGEOUS. I provide Counseling, Anger Management & Parenting. I work with adults, children, individuals, couples & families. I help those having difficulties in life to improve relationships & communication and to deal with STRESS, ANGER, DEPRESSION, ANXIETY, TRAUMA, GRIEF and LOSS in healthy ways. I can help change negative thinking and unhealthy behavior, improve self-esteem AND move past TRAUMA.
(424) 215-6285 View (424) 215-6285
Photo of Jane Parrott, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jane Parrott
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90032
My approach is steeped in the wisdom of Depth psychology, which is based on the idea that unconscious drives play a big part of how we experience our lives.
Welcome. You have started an important search. Finding the right therapist isn’t always easy, and I encourage you to listen to what feels right for you. My work starts with you and what you are looking to address. We will explore the contributing factors to what you want to work on and develop a deeper understanding of your psychological reality. First and foremost, I offer a safe and non-judgmental container for exploration. Nothing is too small or big for this work. My goal is to help you gain insights into your relational and habitual patterns in service of having more agency in your life and being able to feel free to be you.
My approach is steeped in the wisdom of Depth psychology, which is based on the idea that unconscious drives play a big part of how we experience our lives.
Welcome. You have started an important search. Finding the right therapist isn’t always easy, and I encourage you to listen to what feels right for you. My work starts with you and what you are looking to address. We will explore the contributing factors to what you want to work on and develop a deeper understanding of your psychological reality. First and foremost, I offer a safe and non-judgmental container for exploration. Nothing is too small or big for this work. My goal is to help you gain insights into your relational and habitual patterns in service of having more agency in your life and being able to feel free to be you.
(323) 591-2943 View (323) 591-2943
Photo of Tanya Belloso, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tanya Belloso
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Laguna Hills, CA 92654  (Online Only)
I help people to manage anxiety, process grief, decrease depression and improve relationships though use of psychoeducation, CBT, psychodynamic therapy, hand-outs, relaxation exercises, visualization and role- play.
Looking for a caring therapist to help with solutions for anxiety or grief and loss? Are you dealing with the loss of a loved one, the end of a relationship or divorce? Do you want a therapist who provides feedback as well as listening? I can help you through counseling and psychotherapy to move through your current struggle to a place of healing and peace. I am currently working with adults, couples, and adolescents and their parents, and I look forward to developing a therapeutic relationship with you!
I help people to manage anxiety, process grief, decrease depression and improve relationships though use of psychoeducation, CBT, psychodynamic therapy, hand-outs, relaxation exercises, visualization and role- play.
Looking for a caring therapist to help with solutions for anxiety or grief and loss? Are you dealing with the loss of a loved one, the end of a relationship or divorce? Do you want a therapist who provides feedback as well as listening? I can help you through counseling and psychotherapy to move through your current struggle to a place of healing and peace. I am currently working with adults, couples, and adolescents and their parents, and I look forward to developing a therapeutic relationship with you!
(949) 304-6204 View (949) 304-6204
Photo of Melinda Haynes - Family & Children's Counseling Services, Inc., MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Family & Children's Counseling Services, Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laguna Beach, CA 92651  (Online Only)
Parenting a child who has been through a trauma or unwanted transition takes courage, stamina, wisdom and support! We are Family & Children's Counseling Services and we help families heal play and love.
When our children's hearts have been broken, our hearts break, too. Parents often struggle with knowing how to care for a hurting child. The child's behaviors can be challenging. A parent's own unhealed wounds get triggered. Then, there's the parenting guilt! It can be overwhelming. We understand and we are here to help.
Parenting a child who has been through a trauma or unwanted transition takes courage, stamina, wisdom and support! We are Family & Children's Counseling Services and we help families heal play and love.
When our children's hearts have been broken, our hearts break, too. Parents often struggle with knowing how to care for a hurting child. The child's behaviors can be challenging. A parent's own unhealed wounds get triggered. Then, there's the parenting guilt! It can be overwhelming. We understand and we are here to help.
(530) 451-4151 View (530) 451-4151
Photo of Ami Koide, Ami, Koide, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ami Koide
Marriage & Family Therapist, Ami, Koide, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fullerton, CA 92835
I find it important to keep in mind intersectionalities and how society and culture play an important role.
I wonder what kind of therapists people scroll through psychology profiles to therapist shop for. When people ask me what my ideal client I actually wonder whats people's ideal therapists? I think this is important when thinking about an ideal client and therapists because I see it as a collaborative work. I'm not here to force you what I think is best for you, therapy is something both the client and therapist figure out together to meet the clients' needs and goals.
I find it important to keep in mind intersectionalities and how society and culture play an important role.
I wonder what kind of therapists people scroll through psychology profiles to therapist shop for. When people ask me what my ideal client I actually wonder whats people's ideal therapists? I think this is important when thinking about an ideal client and therapists because I see it as a collaborative work. I'm not here to force you what I think is best for you, therapy is something both the client and therapist figure out together to meet the clients' needs and goals.
(714) 681-1082 View (714) 681-1082
Photo of Kellye Laughery - Center for Family Unity, MBA, MA, LMFT, RPT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Center for Family Unity
Marriage & Family Therapist, MBA, MA, LMFT, RPT-S
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92123
We are Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists, Play Therapists, professional credentials, life experience and personal faith equip all seasoned therapists at The Center for Family Unity to strengthen your family.
Televideo ANYWHERE in California and New Mexico ( NM cash clients only ) PARTNER on your back or far away emotionally? Are you a CHRISTIAN battling fear, anger or sadness? Are you MILITARY who is struggling? Has your family been challenged by trauma, infidelity, or finances? See Veronica for Military, Couples and Family Is your CHILD struggling with grief, impulsivity, anxiety, or aggression? Our team of seasoned therapists can help you! Has your BLENDED FAMILY left you feeling hopeless? Kellye specialist for Blended Family
We are Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists, Play Therapists, professional credentials, life experience and personal faith equip all seasoned therapists at The Center for Family Unity to strengthen your family.
Televideo ANYWHERE in California and New Mexico ( NM cash clients only ) PARTNER on your back or far away emotionally? Are you a CHRISTIAN battling fear, anger or sadness? Are you MILITARY who is struggling? Has your family been challenged by trauma, infidelity, or finances? See Veronica for Military, Couples and Family Is your CHILD struggling with grief, impulsivity, anxiety, or aggression? Our team of seasoned therapists can help you! Has your BLENDED FAMILY left you feeling hopeless? Kellye specialist for Blended Family
(619) 738-6960 View (619) 738-6960
Photo of Eris Huemer - Therapize Me, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Therapize Me
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burbank, CA 91505
We draw from an eclectic blend of therapeutic approaches and techniques including CBT, Solution Focused, Mindfullness-Based, Psychodynamic, Depth, Play, and more.
Are you feeling depressed, alone, or anxious? Are you struggling with an addiction? Are you tired of fighting with your partner? Do you want to heal after a break-up or divorce? Do you want to stop attracting the same partners in your life and start dating consciously? If you answered YES to any of these questions, chances are you feel frustrated, confused, and alone. The good news is that solutions do exist for you. We have helped many individuals, couples and families reach higher ground with an action-oriented approach to healing.
We draw from an eclectic blend of therapeutic approaches and techniques including CBT, Solution Focused, Mindfullness-Based, Psychodynamic, Depth, Play, and more.
Are you feeling depressed, alone, or anxious? Are you struggling with an addiction? Are you tired of fighting with your partner? Do you want to heal after a break-up or divorce? Do you want to stop attracting the same partners in your life and start dating consciously? If you answered YES to any of these questions, chances are you feel frustrated, confused, and alone. The good news is that solutions do exist for you. We have helped many individuals, couples and families reach higher ground with an action-oriented approach to healing.
(323) 745-1366 View (323) 745-1366
Photo of Micah Flores, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Micah Flores
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123  (Online Only)
I have worked with adolescents and creative modalities such as play, art, music, and sand tray therapies.
Whether it’s shame, helplessness, unhealthy behavioral patterns you’re trying to break, or simply feeling like you’re never enough, you’ve come to the right place. It takes courage to admit you’re struggling, and even more so to ask for help. The environment, culture, and family we grow up in affect how we navigate the world. As a second-generation queer-identifying Filipina American, I know how difficult it is growing up in two different cultures and upbringings. My goal as a therapist is to make you feel seen and heard in a safe, supportive environment. I aim to co-create a space tailored to your emotions, needs, and experiences.
I have worked with adolescents and creative modalities such as play, art, music, and sand tray therapies.
Whether it’s shame, helplessness, unhealthy behavioral patterns you’re trying to break, or simply feeling like you’re never enough, you’ve come to the right place. It takes courage to admit you’re struggling, and even more so to ask for help. The environment, culture, and family we grow up in affect how we navigate the world. As a second-generation queer-identifying Filipina American, I know how difficult it is growing up in two different cultures and upbringings. My goal as a therapist is to make you feel seen and heard in a safe, supportive environment. I aim to co-create a space tailored to your emotions, needs, and experiences.
(858) 758-1559 View (858) 758-1559
Photo of Anna Selena Cho, LMFT, ATR, PsyD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anna Selena Cho
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Dr. Anna Selena Cho, was born in Los Angeles and has personal experience living bi-culturally. Dr. Cho was traditionally trained in visual arts in her early developmental years and eventually obtained her Bachelor of Fine Arts at the University of Southern California, M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy and Art Therapy at Phillips Graduate University, and her Doctorate in Applied Clinical Psychology at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Dr. Cho has developed programs with organizations wanting to further expand their learning standards towards socio-emotional integration.
Dr. Anna Selena Cho, was born in Los Angeles and has personal experience living bi-culturally. Dr. Cho was traditionally trained in visual arts in her early developmental years and eventually obtained her Bachelor of Fine Arts at the University of Southern California, M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy and Art Therapy at Phillips Graduate University, and her Doctorate in Applied Clinical Psychology at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Dr. Cho has developed programs with organizations wanting to further expand their learning standards towards socio-emotional integration.
(310) 340-2835 View (310) 340-2835
Photo of Paul Michael Remmele, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paul Michael Remmele
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90036  (Online Only)
I'm deeply empathetic with an ability to be with clients through their most difficult emotions. I believe processing feelings can facilitate rapid growth. However, my approach is eclectic because change can be initiated in different ways. For example, emotional processing can shift feelings as well as thoughts and behaviors. Alternatively, reevaluating dysfunctional thoughts can improve our outlook and actions. Exploring different behaviors can permanently change one's attitude or release repressed feelings. So, I'm a client centered, empathetic therapist, comfortable working on deep feelings as well as assisting clients in finding concrete solutions and effective new behaviors.
I'm deeply empathetic with an ability to be with clients through their most difficult emotions. I believe processing feelings can facilitate rapid growth. However, my approach is eclectic because change can be initiated in different ways. For example, emotional processing can shift feelings as well as thoughts and behaviors. Alternatively, reevaluating dysfunctional thoughts can improve our outlook and actions. Exploring different behaviors can permanently change one's attitude or release repressed feelings. So, I'm a client centered, empathetic therapist, comfortable working on deep feelings as well as assisting clients in finding concrete solutions and effective new behaviors.
(213) 370-4645 View (213) 370-4645
Photo of David James Gutman, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
David James Gutman
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Everyone has a story they want to tell. Some people just find themselves missing the tools to tell it effectively. Others simply want to revise their story to help them reach new heights. My aim is to help people better understand the themes and parts of their story that have been leading to problems in their lives, while highlighting and focusing on the themes that have led to positivity and success. I do therapy through a Humanistic, narrative lens, helping those under my care with video game addiction, anxiety, depression, and trauma as well as interpersonal issues.
Everyone has a story they want to tell. Some people just find themselves missing the tools to tell it effectively. Others simply want to revise their story to help them reach new heights. My aim is to help people better understand the themes and parts of their story that have been leading to problems in their lives, while highlighting and focusing on the themes that have led to positivity and success. I do therapy through a Humanistic, narrative lens, helping those under my care with video game addiction, anxiety, depression, and trauma as well as interpersonal issues.
(949) 506-4160 View (949) 506-4160
Photo of Sean O'Hara, PsyD, NCAC, I, SAP, Psychologist
Sean O'Hara
Psychologist, PsyD, NCAC, I, SAP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92127
Sean O'Hara Psy.D, NCAC I, SAP is a State of California and State of Hawai'i Board Licensed Psychologist in San Diego, California and Kahului, Hawai'i, with 36 years experience with psychiatric, mental health, dual-diagnosis and crises intervention health problems. Dr. O'Hara works in Rancho Bernardo and does tele heath sessions. Dr. O'Hara travels the United States to work with clients, corporations and athletes residing in other states. Dr. O'Hara works with all populations and does diversified work with corporations, collegiate and professional sports teams, the entertainment industries and concert tours.
Sean O'Hara Psy.D, NCAC I, SAP is a State of California and State of Hawai'i Board Licensed Psychologist in San Diego, California and Kahului, Hawai'i, with 36 years experience with psychiatric, mental health, dual-diagnosis and crises intervention health problems. Dr. O'Hara works in Rancho Bernardo and does tele heath sessions. Dr. O'Hara travels the United States to work with clients, corporations and athletes residing in other states. Dr. O'Hara works with all populations and does diversified work with corporations, collegiate and professional sports teams, the entertainment industries and concert tours.
(619) 567-5255 View (619) 567-5255
Photo of Shohreh White, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shohreh White
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Shohreh but I go by Sho for short. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Associate Professional Clinical Counselor who has a passion to help others achieve their best life. Sometimes life can leave one feeling lost or powerless, you may be wondering what your next steps should be. I would be honored to help you navigate and walk with you in your journey to finding and reclaiming your true self.
Hello! My name is Shohreh but I go by Sho for short. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Associate Professional Clinical Counselor who has a passion to help others achieve their best life. Sometimes life can leave one feeling lost or powerless, you may be wondering what your next steps should be. I would be honored to help you navigate and walk with you in your journey to finding and reclaiming your true self.
(916) 619-5341 View (916) 619-5341
Photo of David Ibrahim, LMFT, LAADC , E500RYT, EMDR, ISTDP, Marriage & Family Therapist
David Ibrahim
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LAADC , E500RYT, EMDR, ISTDP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Are past traumatic experiences, being an adult child of a dysfunctional home, incest survival experiences, addiction issues, phobia, panic, anxiety, C-PTSD or depression affecting your success? Are distractions impacting your optimal performance abilities at work, in your intimate relationships, or in relationships with family members or with yourself? Are you surviving instead of thriving? I provide accelerated psychotherapy for individuals and couples who are challenged by performance loss and emotional unhappiness. Also offer Diagnosis evaluation for addiction, mood, personality, and adult Autism spectrum. HSP and Kink friendly.
Are past traumatic experiences, being an adult child of a dysfunctional home, incest survival experiences, addiction issues, phobia, panic, anxiety, C-PTSD or depression affecting your success? Are distractions impacting your optimal performance abilities at work, in your intimate relationships, or in relationships with family members or with yourself? Are you surviving instead of thriving? I provide accelerated psychotherapy for individuals and couples who are challenged by performance loss and emotional unhappiness. Also offer Diagnosis evaluation for addiction, mood, personality, and adult Autism spectrum. HSP and Kink friendly.
(323) 366-3016 View (323) 366-3016
Photo of Kimberly Cervantes, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kimberly Cervantes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Clemente, CA 92673
Hello. My name is Kimberly Cervantes, LMFT. I use a Strength-Based Model approach to counseling and life while giving ideas for managing and changing problems/issues that come up in life. Guide people through the path of healing life's wounds and bring their relationship more joy and satisfaction. I am comfortable working with a wide, unlimited scope of client issues. I combine several Theories of counseling in my practice including "Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy", "Imago Relationship Therapy", "Solution Focused Therapy" and Family Systems Therapy".
Hello. My name is Kimberly Cervantes, LMFT. I use a Strength-Based Model approach to counseling and life while giving ideas for managing and changing problems/issues that come up in life. Guide people through the path of healing life's wounds and bring their relationship more joy and satisfaction. I am comfortable working with a wide, unlimited scope of client issues. I combine several Theories of counseling in my practice including "Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy", "Imago Relationship Therapy", "Solution Focused Therapy" and Family Systems Therapy".
(949) 558-2081 View (949) 558-2081
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.