Play Therapy in San Diego, CA

Photo of Lisa Wasnock, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Wasnock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92117
I have particular skills in: cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, trauma therapy, behavior modification, play therapy, compliance issues, social skills/coaching, and parenting skills and parent education.
Hi, and welcome! I'm Lisa and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I specialize in working with Neurodivergent individuals and families dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD/ADD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, trauma/abuse, divorce, and emotional/behavioral concerns. I have experience providing therapy to children, teens, young adults, families, and adults. I support through a client centered and collaborative approach and create a safe therapeutic environment for clients to make progress on their goals. My practice is neurodivergent and LGBTQ affirming.
I have particular skills in: cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, trauma therapy, behavior modification, play therapy, compliance issues, social skills/coaching, and parenting skills and parent education.
Hi, and welcome! I'm Lisa and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I specialize in working with Neurodivergent individuals and families dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD/ADD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, trauma/abuse, divorce, and emotional/behavioral concerns. I have experience providing therapy to children, teens, young adults, families, and adults. I support through a client centered and collaborative approach and create a safe therapeutic environment for clients to make progress on their goals. My practice is neurodivergent and LGBTQ affirming.
(442) 275-8799 View (442) 275-8799
Photo of Thrive Within Mind San Diego -Lindsay MacMaster, PsyD, Psychologist
Thrive Within Mind San Diego -Lindsay MacMaster
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92119
With a specialty in play therapy for children, individual therapy, family therapy, and connective parenting approaches, I make sure your counseling session is grounded in scientific research but is still tailored to your needs and goals.
I’m Lindsay MacMaster PsyD, a licensed Clinical Psychologist in the San Diego area. When you work with me, I create a setting that is warm and compassionate, a space that allows you to best connect with what is bothering you. Counseling helps you learn how to become your best self. Your therapist can support you as you lean into life’s most difficult challenges rather than shy away from them.
With a specialty in play therapy for children, individual therapy, family therapy, and connective parenting approaches, I make sure your counseling session is grounded in scientific research but is still tailored to your needs and goals.
I’m Lindsay MacMaster PsyD, a licensed Clinical Psychologist in the San Diego area. When you work with me, I create a setting that is warm and compassionate, a space that allows you to best connect with what is bothering you. Counseling helps you learn how to become your best self. Your therapist can support you as you lean into life’s most difficult challenges rather than shy away from them.
(619) 402-0086 View (619) 402-0086
Photo of Cindy Tang, MS, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Cindy Tang
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92130
My holistic and client-centered approach combines Narrative Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Play Therapy, EMDR and art activities with kids to meet your unique needs.
People come to see me when they feel like they’re constantly walking a tightrope — torn between the expectations of family and their own desires, when their attempt to fit in has resulted in losing connection to self and others, when the weight of balancing traditional Eastern values with Western ideals are no longer tolerable, when moments of joy can feel tainted with guilt as if enjoying life means neglecting their responsibilities. If these thoughts resonate, you’re not alone. Some days our emotions can feel overwhelming, especially when navigating intergenerational trauma, identity struggles, and the pressure to succeed.
My holistic and client-centered approach combines Narrative Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Play Therapy, EMDR and art activities with kids to meet your unique needs.
People come to see me when they feel like they’re constantly walking a tightrope — torn between the expectations of family and their own desires, when their attempt to fit in has resulted in losing connection to self and others, when the weight of balancing traditional Eastern values with Western ideals are no longer tolerable, when moments of joy can feel tainted with guilt as if enjoying life means neglecting their responsibilities. If these thoughts resonate, you’re not alone. Some days our emotions can feel overwhelming, especially when navigating intergenerational trauma, identity struggles, and the pressure to succeed.
(858) 544-0381 View (858) 544-0381
Photo of Cara Weinstock, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Cara Weinstock
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
I specialize in using attachment theory, cognitive-behavioral theory, solution-focused theory, play therapy, and Gottman theory.
My name is Cara Weinstock and I am a Marriage and Family Therapist who has experience working with children, teens, adults and couples. My ideal client is anyone who is looking for a safe, welcoming environment to explore new ways of thinking. I feel passionate about being a support for those going through difficult transitions, looking for new perspectives and hoping to make positive changes in their lives. I like to work collaboratively with my clients, where we set achievable goals, often check in and acknowledge our progress. I will always be your cheerleader and move whatever pace feels most comfortable for you.
I specialize in using attachment theory, cognitive-behavioral theory, solution-focused theory, play therapy, and Gottman theory.
My name is Cara Weinstock and I am a Marriage and Family Therapist who has experience working with children, teens, adults and couples. My ideal client is anyone who is looking for a safe, welcoming environment to explore new ways of thinking. I feel passionate about being a support for those going through difficult transitions, looking for new perspectives and hoping to make positive changes in their lives. I like to work collaboratively with my clients, where we set achievable goals, often check in and acknowledge our progress. I will always be your cheerleader and move whatever pace feels most comfortable for you.
(858) 519-8002 View (858) 519-8002
Photo of Kathryn Anderson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kathryn Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92128
Waitlist for new clients
I view each client as having unique needs, utilizing play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, in-direct service dog, and strength-based approaches to identify and create space for choices and change to occur.
Do you remember that children's song about going on a bear hunt? Can't go over it! Can't go under it! We've got to go through it! Life is full of situations that can leave us feeling much like this song. In working with individuals and families, including children (ages 4+) and adolescents, adults, and their caregivers, my hope is for you to find new solutions to the challenges you are facing every day. I may not be able to get you over it or under it, but I am here to help you through it.
I view each client as having unique needs, utilizing play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, in-direct service dog, and strength-based approaches to identify and create space for choices and change to occur.
Do you remember that children's song about going on a bear hunt? Can't go over it! Can't go under it! We've got to go through it! Life is full of situations that can leave us feeling much like this song. In working with individuals and families, including children (ages 4+) and adolescents, adults, and their caregivers, my hope is for you to find new solutions to the challenges you are facing every day. I may not be able to get you over it or under it, but I am here to help you through it.
(858) 736-9990 View (858) 736-9990
Photo of Emmi Fowler, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Emmi Fowler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
I primarily utilize CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) and play therapy as forms of treatment with children.
I'm so glad you are here! It takes strength and bravery to seek out help, so I commend you for taking the first step in your/your child's healing. My passion is supporting emotional growth and healing through pregnancy, postpartum, parenting, childhood and adolescence. I enjoy working with youth who face difficult life transitions, anxiety, depression, bullying, autism, ADHD, social and behavioral issues. I enjoy working with adults on strengthening their parenting skills, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and women's related issues such as pregnancy/postpartum struggles.
I primarily utilize CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) and play therapy as forms of treatment with children.
I'm so glad you are here! It takes strength and bravery to seek out help, so I commend you for taking the first step in your/your child's healing. My passion is supporting emotional growth and healing through pregnancy, postpartum, parenting, childhood and adolescence. I enjoy working with youth who face difficult life transitions, anxiety, depression, bullying, autism, ADHD, social and behavioral issues. I enjoy working with adults on strengthening their parenting skills, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and women's related issues such as pregnancy/postpartum struggles.
(619) 598-0043 View (619) 598-0043
Photo of Tracey L Chester, MS, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tracey L Chester
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MA
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92121
Waitlist for new clients
We use modalities such as ocean therapy, EMDR, Play Therapy and Cognitive Processing Therapy.
I am a licensed MFT, and he founder and clinical director of San Diego Pain and Trauma Institute. I primarily work with patients who suffer from chronic pain or chronic illness. Simply put, patients need extra attention their loved ones may be unable to provide.The mission of this clinic is to provide an integrated approach, with primary care doctors, and doctors from different specialties, trauma-informed care, from physical therapy techniques to the most up to date evidence based practices. I am amongst a small group of professionals studying the relationship between trauma, grief and chronic pain.
We use modalities such as ocean therapy, EMDR, Play Therapy and Cognitive Processing Therapy.
I am a licensed MFT, and he founder and clinical director of San Diego Pain and Trauma Institute. I primarily work with patients who suffer from chronic pain or chronic illness. Simply put, patients need extra attention their loved ones may be unable to provide.The mission of this clinic is to provide an integrated approach, with primary care doctors, and doctors from different specialties, trauma-informed care, from physical therapy techniques to the most up to date evidence based practices. I am amongst a small group of professionals studying the relationship between trauma, grief and chronic pain.
(442) 237-5123 View (442) 237-5123
Photo of Debra L Jedeikin, PsyD, MA , LMFT, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Debra L Jedeikin
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, MA , LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130
Play Therapy regulates emotions, reduces anxiety/depression,promotes problem solving skills and improves self esteem.
Debra Jedeikin is a psychotherapist with 24 years of experience across two continents.HELPING FAMILIES HEAL: My goal is to heal families through respectful and compassionate communication. My "Changing Family" program helps children adjust in cases of divorce,blended families and bereavement. I specialize in treating children of all ages. INDIVIDUAL PSYCHOTHERAPY: I work collaboratively with you to remove emotional obstacles, make peace with yourself and enrich your Life in every way! Your time is now ! COUPLES: I work with couples to develop conflict resolution skills, respectful communication, physical / emotional intimacy. My goal for you is connection, love and laughter.
Play Therapy regulates emotions, reduces anxiety/depression,promotes problem solving skills and improves self esteem.
Debra Jedeikin is a psychotherapist with 24 years of experience across two continents.HELPING FAMILIES HEAL: My goal is to heal families through respectful and compassionate communication. My "Changing Family" program helps children adjust in cases of divorce,blended families and bereavement. I specialize in treating children of all ages. INDIVIDUAL PSYCHOTHERAPY: I work collaboratively with you to remove emotional obstacles, make peace with yourself and enrich your Life in every way! Your time is now ! COUPLES: I work with couples to develop conflict resolution skills, respectful communication, physical / emotional intimacy. My goal for you is connection, love and laughter.
(858) 367-0900 View (858) 367-0900
Photo of Natalie Hennig, PhD, Psychological Associate
Natalie Hennig
Psychological Associate, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92121
To aid in a flexible approach, I use techniques from behavioral therapies, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Play Therapy, and Parent-Child Interaction Therapy.
Life is tough and we all need a place to rest. I give youth, adults and families rest by creating a warm and inviting place to share their struggles. I listen to what has or has not worked in order to identify your strengths. We collaborate on goals and create a plan to overcome any struggles so you can be successful and confident now and in the future. Each child and family brings their own story to therapy and requires me to be flexible and creative. With young children, I work to enhance the parent-child relationship through positive, warm interactions and help the parent establish appropriate and firm boundaries.
To aid in a flexible approach, I use techniques from behavioral therapies, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Play Therapy, and Parent-Child Interaction Therapy.
Life is tough and we all need a place to rest. I give youth, adults and families rest by creating a warm and inviting place to share their struggles. I listen to what has or has not worked in order to identify your strengths. We collaborate on goals and create a plan to overcome any struggles so you can be successful and confident now and in the future. Each child and family brings their own story to therapy and requires me to be flexible and creative. With young children, I work to enhance the parent-child relationship through positive, warm interactions and help the parent establish appropriate and firm boundaries.
(760) 239-5537 View (760) 239-5537
Photo of Reina Remy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Reina Remy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123
I have training in Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Sand Tray, and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction.
I work collaboratively and creatively to help you/your child or teen identify the root causes underlying the current struggles and increase awareness of solutions in your lives. I use play/art techniques to explore thoughts and feelings, emphasize therapeutic experiments, and process traumas to help you/your child feel better and improve the quality of your lives. I have more than 20 years experience helping children, teens, adults, and parents with trauma, grief, anxiety, family conflicts, bipolar, ADHD, and depression, among other issues. I also love working with LGBTQ community, military families, twins, and parenting struggles.
I have training in Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Sand Tray, and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction.
I work collaboratively and creatively to help you/your child or teen identify the root causes underlying the current struggles and increase awareness of solutions in your lives. I use play/art techniques to explore thoughts and feelings, emphasize therapeutic experiments, and process traumas to help you/your child feel better and improve the quality of your lives. I have more than 20 years experience helping children, teens, adults, and parents with trauma, grief, anxiety, family conflicts, bipolar, ADHD, and depression, among other issues. I also love working with LGBTQ community, military families, twins, and parenting struggles.
(858) 215-1978 View (858) 215-1978
Photo of Natasha Lynne Muskavitch, Pre-Licensed Professional
Natasha Lynne Muskavitch
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92128
I provide Attachment-Based Play Therapy for children, offering them a safe, nurturing space to express their emotions.
Is your child navigating tough transitions, facing school difficulties, or struggling with peer and family relationships? Are you overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or trauma? Perhaps you're encountering challenges in your intimate relationships, feeling distant, facing conflict, infidelity, or yearning for a deeper connection. Co-parenting struggles or family conflicts may feel incredibly challenging if you're newly separated. My heartfelt commitment is to support you in navigating these difficulties, fostering healing, and strengthening your connections.
I provide Attachment-Based Play Therapy for children, offering them a safe, nurturing space to express their emotions.
Is your child navigating tough transitions, facing school difficulties, or struggling with peer and family relationships? Are you overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or trauma? Perhaps you're encountering challenges in your intimate relationships, feeling distant, facing conflict, infidelity, or yearning for a deeper connection. Co-parenting struggles or family conflicts may feel incredibly challenging if you're newly separated. My heartfelt commitment is to support you in navigating these difficulties, fostering healing, and strengthening your connections.
(858) 758-2527 View (858) 758-2527
Photo of Bryanna Cazares: Hope Therapy Group, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Bryanna Cazares: Hope Therapy Group
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92117  (Online Only)
My approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Narrative therapy, and play therapy.
Supervised by Jennifer Whetstone, LMFT 53763. Hi, my name is Bryanna (she/her), I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist. I understand that life can throw us in many different directions to a point where we feel lost. My role is to support and help you navigate through stages of life and experiences. I am here to create a safe space and build a trusting therapeutic relationship. By using a systemic lens, we can better identify the areas of your life that need attention and healing. We can work together to strengthen your sense of self and overall quality of life.
My approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Narrative therapy, and play therapy.
Supervised by Jennifer Whetstone, LMFT 53763. Hi, my name is Bryanna (she/her), I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist. I understand that life can throw us in many different directions to a point where we feel lost. My role is to support and help you navigate through stages of life and experiences. I am here to create a safe space and build a trusting therapeutic relationship. By using a systemic lens, we can better identify the areas of your life that need attention and healing. We can work together to strengthen your sense of self and overall quality of life.
(858) 879-6793 View (858) 879-6793
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 Molly Moell - Compass Family Therapy Solutions, Inc., LMFT, BCBA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Compass Family Therapy Solutions, Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, BCBA
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92126
Utilizing a positive and solution-focused approach, anchored in Applied Behavior Analysis, CBT, and family systems theory, I provide behavior consultation, individual & family therapy, parent training, play therapy, social skills training, and Functional Behavior Assessments.
As a dually licensed MFT and BCBA with 20 years of experience, I am passionate about working with children, teens, adults and families who are affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, anxiety and other developmental, behavioral, and learning differences. Primarily utilizing a positive and solution-focused approach, I aim to enlighten and empower the strengths already within my clients and their families, so that they can thrive and meet their goals. I have a unique understanding of behavioral, emotional, and developmental disabilities, but also the impact both the symptoms and the treatment itself can have on the family system.
Utilizing a positive and solution-focused approach, anchored in Applied Behavior Analysis, CBT, and family systems theory, I provide behavior consultation, individual & family therapy, parent training, play therapy, social skills training, and Functional Behavior Assessments.
As a dually licensed MFT and BCBA with 20 years of experience, I am passionate about working with children, teens, adults and families who are affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, anxiety and other developmental, behavioral, and learning differences. Primarily utilizing a positive and solution-focused approach, I aim to enlighten and empower the strengths already within my clients and their families, so that they can thrive and meet their goals. I have a unique understanding of behavioral, emotional, and developmental disabilities, but also the impact both the symptoms and the treatment itself can have on the family system.
(619) 651-9553 View (619) 651-9553
Photo of Merav Segall, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Merav Segall
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103  (Online Only)
I offer developmentally appropriate play therapy, filial therapy, talk therapy and parent coaching.
Do you and your child struggle to get through the day? Are you frustrated with your child's behavior and just do not know how to get him to listen? Are you and your teenager on different pages and just cannot connect? Has your child experienced a trauma, death or divorce? My approach to helping you and your child is warm and collaborative. I focus on developing a relationship; seeing your child, understanding him and providing space for her to explore and express. My goal in working with families is to bring joy into parenting.
I offer developmentally appropriate play therapy, filial therapy, talk therapy and parent coaching.
Do you and your child struggle to get through the day? Are you frustrated with your child's behavior and just do not know how to get him to listen? Are you and your teenager on different pages and just cannot connect? Has your child experienced a trauma, death or divorce? My approach to helping you and your child is warm and collaborative. I focus on developing a relationship; seeing your child, understanding him and providing space for her to explore and express. My goal in working with families is to bring joy into parenting.
(619) 340-1019 View (619) 340-1019
Photo of Kathleen Huff, LMFT, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kathleen Huff
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
I completed my play therapy certificate through the UCSD Extension program and became a Registered Play Therapist in 2019.
I know you are an expert on you! I collaborate with you and help you create a happier, healthier life. I am here to learn and understand your own unique lived experiences. My passion is for play, art and mindfulness, and I bring these into the therapeutic space. I also work to reflect on the larger social systems that impact us. I enjoy working with children, teens, young adults, the family system and those struggling with anxiety, low mood, and perfectionism. I also love assisting parents navigate their child's needs to help everyone in the family live a more peaceful and happy life.
I completed my play therapy certificate through the UCSD Extension program and became a Registered Play Therapist in 2019.
I know you are an expert on you! I collaborate with you and help you create a happier, healthier life. I am here to learn and understand your own unique lived experiences. My passion is for play, art and mindfulness, and I bring these into the therapeutic space. I also work to reflect on the larger social systems that impact us. I enjoy working with children, teens, young adults, the family system and those struggling with anxiety, low mood, and perfectionism. I also love assisting parents navigate their child's needs to help everyone in the family live a more peaceful and happy life.
(619) 344-8447 View (619) 344-8447
Photo of Guadalupe Gallegos, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Guadalupe Gallegos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
I have training and experience in evidenced based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Functional Family Therapy, Trauma informed therapy practices such as Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, and other evidenced based practices and work to provide client specific services that best fit the individuals needs.
My name is Guadalupe Gallegos and I am a bilingual Spanish-speaking therapist who has experience in working with children, teens, families, and adults for individual and family therapy. It is my goal to provide a safe, judgment free environment for my clients to help support and nurture growth, healing, and change.
I have training and experience in evidenced based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Functional Family Therapy, Trauma informed therapy practices such as Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, and other evidenced based practices and work to provide client specific services that best fit the individuals needs.
My name is Guadalupe Gallegos and I am a bilingual Spanish-speaking therapist who has experience in working with children, teens, families, and adults for individual and family therapy. It is my goal to provide a safe, judgment free environment for my clients to help support and nurture growth, healing, and change.
(858) 519-8002 View (858) 519-8002
Photo of Belinda Lee, LMFT, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Belinda Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92130
Waitlist for new clients
Play is the natural language of children, and, as Mr.
I am passionate about empowering children of all ages to make more thoughtful, informed choices in their life. I work with clients navigating grief/loss, anxiety, depression, anger, family changes, cultural and ethnic identity, medical traumas, and other challenges. Through therapy, children are provided with a nonjudgmental, safe space to process their experiences and develop skills and the opportunity to strengthen their psychological fortitude, self identity, and resilience through therapeutic interventions. All of this helps them to more effectively communicate their needs to supportive adults around them.
Play is the natural language of children, and, as Mr.
I am passionate about empowering children of all ages to make more thoughtful, informed choices in their life. I work with clients navigating grief/loss, anxiety, depression, anger, family changes, cultural and ethnic identity, medical traumas, and other challenges. Through therapy, children are provided with a nonjudgmental, safe space to process their experiences and develop skills and the opportunity to strengthen their psychological fortitude, self identity, and resilience through therapeutic interventions. All of this helps them to more effectively communicate their needs to supportive adults around them.
(858) 956-7933 View (858) 956-7933
Photo of Katharine Hicks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katharine Hicks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108  (Online Only)
My therapy approach utilizes the following modalities, trauma-informed care, cognitive-behavioral therapy, play therapy, family systems theory and attachment theories.
I care about creating a safe online space for young adults to explore and understand their experiences, focusing on young adults experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD and autism.
My therapy approach utilizes the following modalities, trauma-informed care, cognitive-behavioral therapy, play therapy, family systems theory and attachment theories.
I care about creating a safe online space for young adults to explore and understand their experiences, focusing on young adults experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD and autism.
(619) 396-2704 View (619) 396-2704
Photo of Rita Beltran, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rita Beltran
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108  (Online Only)
I have practiced evidence based therapy that includes CBT, DBT, Person Centered, play therapy, mindfulness, and trauma.
My ideal clients are individuals, children, adolescents, and families whom need more stability, emotional support, and guidance. I have worked with individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, life changes, stress, other life challenges, and more. I will help my clients find balance in providing attention to their mental health and their work/school balance to psych educate clients about the importance in taking care of our health.
I have practiced evidence based therapy that includes CBT, DBT, Person Centered, play therapy, mindfulness, and trauma.
My ideal clients are individuals, children, adolescents, and families whom need more stability, emotional support, and guidance. I have worked with individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, life changes, stress, other life challenges, and more. I will help my clients find balance in providing attention to their mental health and their work/school balance to psych educate clients about the importance in taking care of our health.
(858) 519-8002 View (858) 519-8002
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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.