Play Therapy in Littleton, CO

Photo of Jenner Cole Paulson, LPCC, Counselor
Jenner Cole Paulson
Counselor, LPCC
Not Verified Not Verified
2 Endorsed
Littleton, CO 80120
I offer relational care, play based counseling for children (special focus on adoption), and kickboxing based therapy.
My ideal clients include caring individuals in search of a desire to be known, seen, and supported. I aim to work alongside deeply loving and caring clients, focused on healthy growth and connection for them and their families. If you or your child are feeling unseen, missed, alone, or stuck in the midst of difficult life circumstances, I would love to be a source of connection and support for you. Seeing you or your child experience the deep aliveness of being seen and valued brings me joy and a deep sense of purpose.
I offer relational care, play based counseling for children (special focus on adoption), and kickboxing based therapy.
My ideal clients include caring individuals in search of a desire to be known, seen, and supported. I aim to work alongside deeply loving and caring clients, focused on healthy growth and connection for them and their families. If you or your child are feeling unseen, missed, alone, or stuck in the midst of difficult life circumstances, I would love to be a source of connection and support for you. Seeing you or your child experience the deep aliveness of being seen and valued brings me joy and a deep sense of purpose.
(719) 626-9209 View (719) 626-9209
Photo of Ashley Sutherland, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Sutherland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Littleton, CO 80120
The start of a new school year can be a stressful time; play therapy can help! Please call or email me to schedule a free 15 minute phone consultation for me to learn more about your needs and share how I may be able to help.
At one time or another, many parents notice that their child seems to be struggling with their emotions, behavior, or relationships. Just like adults, children face a variety of challenges for which they may need extra support. As a play therapist, I offer a unique opportunity for children to process their experiences, learn to regulate their emotions, and positively shift their perceptions about themselves and their worlds-all done through a gentle, playful, and developmentally appropriate approach. I also offer parents and caregivers new insights into your child's inner world so you can support your child with confidence.
The start of a new school year can be a stressful time; play therapy can help! Please call or email me to schedule a free 15 minute phone consultation for me to learn more about your needs and share how I may be able to help.
At one time or another, many parents notice that their child seems to be struggling with their emotions, behavior, or relationships. Just like adults, children face a variety of challenges for which they may need extra support. As a play therapist, I offer a unique opportunity for children to process their experiences, learn to regulate their emotions, and positively shift their perceptions about themselves and their worlds-all done through a gentle, playful, and developmentally appropriate approach. I also offer parents and caregivers new insights into your child's inner world so you can support your child with confidence.
(720) 792-6116 View (720) 792-6116
Photo of Lorraine Groses Good - Good Insight Child & Family Wellness, LLC, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Good Insight Child & Family Wellness, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Littleton, CO 80120
Trained in art, play and sand tray therapies, I use these modalities, as well as traditional talk therapy, to meet both clients and families where they are, creating an accepting and judgment free environment to explore, heal, and grow.
For as long back as I can remember, I have believed in the power and importance of relationships. Relationships are at the heart of who we are, how we grow, and who we become. In our early years, our closest relationships teach us how to be with others and influence how we see the world. Although we may learn one way to be in relationship when we are a child, our attachment style can also be changed through our current relationships no matter what our age, which can then allow us to choose with intention how we parent, support, and relate to our children.
Trained in art, play and sand tray therapies, I use these modalities, as well as traditional talk therapy, to meet both clients and families where they are, creating an accepting and judgment free environment to explore, heal, and grow.
For as long back as I can remember, I have believed in the power and importance of relationships. Relationships are at the heart of who we are, how we grow, and who we become. In our early years, our closest relationships teach us how to be with others and influence how we see the world. Although we may learn one way to be in relationship when we are a child, our attachment style can also be changed through our current relationships no matter what our age, which can then allow us to choose with intention how we parent, support, and relate to our children.
(720) 712-3875 View (720) 712-3875
Photo of Madeline Hargrove, MA, LPCC, NCC
Madeline Hargrove
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Littleton, CO 80120
Therapeutic modalities include, but are not limited to, EMDR, TF-CBT, Play Therapy, and Emotion-Focused Therapy.
I believe that the inclusion of mental health wellness is vital to one’s overall health. I believe that while each client’s experiences, backgrounds, cultural identities, and general beings are unique, so too should be their counseling experience. Through the use of a strong, collaborative therapeutic relationship and an integrated approach, I aim to help my clients use self-reflection, goal-setting, and problem-solving to achieve their optimal mental health and highest potential. I am a firm believer that every individual possesses the ability to grow and evolve and that with the proper guidance and support, this can be achieved.
Therapeutic modalities include, but are not limited to, EMDR, TF-CBT, Play Therapy, and Emotion-Focused Therapy.
I believe that the inclusion of mental health wellness is vital to one’s overall health. I believe that while each client’s experiences, backgrounds, cultural identities, and general beings are unique, so too should be their counseling experience. Through the use of a strong, collaborative therapeutic relationship and an integrated approach, I aim to help my clients use self-reflection, goal-setting, and problem-solving to achieve their optimal mental health and highest potential. I am a firm believer that every individual possesses the ability to grow and evolve and that with the proper guidance and support, this can be achieved.
(720) 649-6194 View (720) 649-6194
Photo of Gina L Hebb, MA, NCC, LPC, Counselor
Gina L Hebb
Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Littleton, CO 80127
Using play therapy, I help children explore and understand big emotions.
Change can be difficult for children and adolescents. Adjusting to new circumstances, routines, and relationships can bring about intense emotions and challenging behaviors. These stressors often lead to a pattern of negative interactions and power struggles which can leave parents feeling frustrated, powerless, and even embarrassed. This is not the life that any parent envisioned for their child or teen, yet it can feel impossible to make any real change. With help, though, families can break this cycle. Parents and children can repair past rifts and develop new, positive opportunities for connection.
Using play therapy, I help children explore and understand big emotions.
Change can be difficult for children and adolescents. Adjusting to new circumstances, routines, and relationships can bring about intense emotions and challenging behaviors. These stressors often lead to a pattern of negative interactions and power struggles which can leave parents feeling frustrated, powerless, and even embarrassed. This is not the life that any parent envisioned for their child or teen, yet it can feel impossible to make any real change. With help, though, families can break this cycle. Parents and children can repair past rifts and develop new, positive opportunities for connection.
(720) 674-7729 View (720) 674-7729
Photo of Bee Counseling And Consulting: Deborah Babcock, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bee Counseling And Consulting: Deborah Babcock
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Littleton, CO 80120
I am trained in and typically use Play Therapy to help children learn to express and cope with their feelings to address the emotional and behavioral concerns.
I have been working in the mental health field for over 20 years and have experience ranging from early childhood to chronic adult, in a variety of settings including community mental health outpatient clinics, residential treatment homes and day treatment. I enjoy working mostly with children and their families to help them cope with a variety of issues such as behavioral and school related issues, peer relationships, family relationships, grief and loss as well as victims of abuse, neglect, domestic violence or other traumatic events. Although I see children of all ages, I specialize in early childhood.
I am trained in and typically use Play Therapy to help children learn to express and cope with their feelings to address the emotional and behavioral concerns.
I have been working in the mental health field for over 20 years and have experience ranging from early childhood to chronic adult, in a variety of settings including community mental health outpatient clinics, residential treatment homes and day treatment. I enjoy working mostly with children and their families to help them cope with a variety of issues such as behavioral and school related issues, peer relationships, family relationships, grief and loss as well as victims of abuse, neglect, domestic violence or other traumatic events. Although I see children of all ages, I specialize in early childhood.
(720) 606-6914 View (720) 606-6914
Photo of Phil Jason Stone, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Phil Jason Stone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Littleton, CO 80123
Plus, I use creative and innovative experiential approaches to treatment including, guided imagery, music and play.
Welcome to the next phase of your life! My name is Phil and I am honored to be your guide in healing and transformation. I will help you heal from past traumas, overcome obstacles, manage mental health & substance abuse issues and grow to become the person you have always wanted to be. I have had the privilege of serving as a Therapist in a variety of settings for the past 20 years. I enjoy working with adolescents (12+), adults and couples. I offer individual therapy, group therapy, life coaching and video therapy.
Plus, I use creative and innovative experiential approaches to treatment including, guided imagery, music and play.
Welcome to the next phase of your life! My name is Phil and I am honored to be your guide in healing and transformation. I will help you heal from past traumas, overcome obstacles, manage mental health & substance abuse issues and grow to become the person you have always wanted to be. I have had the privilege of serving as a Therapist in a variety of settings for the past 20 years. I enjoy working with adolescents (12+), adults and couples. I offer individual therapy, group therapy, life coaching and video therapy.
(855) 712-8543 View (855) 712-8543
Photo of Lindsay Stenzel - Lindsay Stenzel with Play Therapy Connection, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsay Stenzel with Play Therapy Connection
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Littleton, CO 80120
Play is the language of children, and play therapy allows adults to better understand what children are trying to communicate to address root concerns.
I often hear from caregivers that their children go from "zero to 100" or they have tried a million different strategies and nothing has worked; caregivers who want to support their children the best they can but feel at a loss. I support families and children in creating a more peaceful and regulated home through play therapy and parent coaching - together, we can finally find the strategies that work. I am a Certified Synergetic Play Therapist, a modality that is incredibly helpful in allowing children to better understand and express their feelings and to learn and practice coping strategies they can use across their lifespan.
Play is the language of children, and play therapy allows adults to better understand what children are trying to communicate to address root concerns.
I often hear from caregivers that their children go from "zero to 100" or they have tried a million different strategies and nothing has worked; caregivers who want to support their children the best they can but feel at a loss. I support families and children in creating a more peaceful and regulated home through play therapy and parent coaching - together, we can finally find the strategies that work. I am a Certified Synergetic Play Therapist, a modality that is incredibly helpful in allowing children to better understand and express their feelings and to learn and practice coping strategies they can use across their lifespan.
(720) 386-8499 View (720) 386-8499
Photo of Kathryn Marie Mathis, MA, LPC, RPT, SPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathryn Marie Mathis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT, SPT
Verified Verified
Littleton, CO 80127
The safe space created in my play therapy room allows space for both parent and child to process as I walk alongside you, offering cutting edge techniques to heal and grow.
If you are struggling and feel helpless in knowing how to best support your child, there is hope. Whatever your situation--whether your child has anxiety, recurring outbursts, or he/she is exhibiting physical symptoms like an upset stomach or bed wetting--I can help by creating a welcoming space for your child to communicate via play therapy. Play is the language of children and by using research informed methods & building authentic relationships, I can help your child (and you) learn to regulate through challenging emotions, process painful experiences, and learn new ways of relating and becoming his/her authentic self.
The safe space created in my play therapy room allows space for both parent and child to process as I walk alongside you, offering cutting edge techniques to heal and grow.
If you are struggling and feel helpless in knowing how to best support your child, there is hope. Whatever your situation--whether your child has anxiety, recurring outbursts, or he/she is exhibiting physical symptoms like an upset stomach or bed wetting--I can help by creating a welcoming space for your child to communicate via play therapy. Play is the language of children and by using research informed methods & building authentic relationships, I can help your child (and you) learn to regulate through challenging emotions, process painful experiences, and learn new ways of relating and becoming his/her authentic self.
(844) 824-1748 View (844) 824-1748
Photo of Camille L. Reich, PhD, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Camille L. Reich
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Littleton, CO 80120
COUPLES, FAMILY, CHILD and INDIVIDUAL THERAPY. True Happiness and Stability Stems from the Quality of our Significant Relationships! I work from a strength-based, solution-focused, and systemic or relational orientation, all are evidence-based approaches. I focus on people's strengths and possibilities while addressing their real life difficulties. I also practice child-centered play therapy and provide personality, relationship (couple) and career assessments. I believe in a holistic approach to the therapeutic process that incorporates biological, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions empowering a person or family towards mastering life to its fullest. I look forward to consulting with you!
COUPLES, FAMILY, CHILD and INDIVIDUAL THERAPY. True Happiness and Stability Stems from the Quality of our Significant Relationships! I work from a strength-based, solution-focused, and systemic or relational orientation, all are evidence-based approaches. I focus on people's strengths and possibilities while addressing their real life difficulties. I also practice child-centered play therapy and provide personality, relationship (couple) and career assessments. I believe in a holistic approach to the therapeutic process that incorporates biological, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions empowering a person or family towards mastering life to its fullest. I look forward to consulting with you!
(303) 625-7879 View (303) 625-7879
Photo of Susan Smith, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susan Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Littleton, CO 80122
For children, IFS, Play, Sand play, and EMDR Therapies provide avenues for them to integrate their thoughts, feelings and behaviors, and to support healthy identity formation.
I provide psychotherapy to individuals and families who are struggling with issues related to anxiety, depression, adoption, attachment, trauma, grief and loss, chronic illness and family relationships. My expertise and passion includes working with individual adults, young children (0-6 years old) and parents. I work primarily from Internal Family Systems (IFS), but I am trained in Infant Mental Health, Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP), EMDR Therapy, Jungian Sand play Therapy, and Energy Medicine, as well. I am able to support a client's spiritual growth (when desired by the client).
For children, IFS, Play, Sand play, and EMDR Therapies provide avenues for them to integrate their thoughts, feelings and behaviors, and to support healthy identity formation.
I provide psychotherapy to individuals and families who are struggling with issues related to anxiety, depression, adoption, attachment, trauma, grief and loss, chronic illness and family relationships. My expertise and passion includes working with individual adults, young children (0-6 years old) and parents. I work primarily from Internal Family Systems (IFS), but I am trained in Infant Mental Health, Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP), EMDR Therapy, Jungian Sand play Therapy, and Energy Medicine, as well. I am able to support a client's spiritual growth (when desired by the client).
(720) 466-7218 View (720) 466-7218
Photo of Jennifer Wilson, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Littleton, CO 80120
I have experience working with children, teens, and adults, using play based therapy, attachment therapy (TBRI), and incorporate elements of CBT, DBT, IFS, neurofeedback, and ACT.
I love working with children, teenagers, and adults struggling with behavioral concerns and mental health related issues. I find this work incredibly rewarding, to identify needs behind behaviors, feelings, and thoughts, and creating empathy and compassion beyond power struggles or difficult dynamics in order to improve family health and individual functioning. I believe firmly that trauma occurs in relationships and is healed through relationships. I greatly value the impact of healthy and safe relationships in therapy and beyond to create meaningful connections with others and to improve one's overall mental health and wellbeing
I have experience working with children, teens, and adults, using play based therapy, attachment therapy (TBRI), and incorporate elements of CBT, DBT, IFS, neurofeedback, and ACT.
I love working with children, teenagers, and adults struggling with behavioral concerns and mental health related issues. I find this work incredibly rewarding, to identify needs behind behaviors, feelings, and thoughts, and creating empathy and compassion beyond power struggles or difficult dynamics in order to improve family health and individual functioning. I believe firmly that trauma occurs in relationships and is healed through relationships. I greatly value the impact of healthy and safe relationships in therapy and beyond to create meaningful connections with others and to improve one's overall mental health and wellbeing
(720) 513-2795 View (720) 513-2795
Photo of Nina Danhorn, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nina Danhorn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Littleton, CO 80122
Using mediums of art, sand, collage, mindfulness, storytelling and journaling, combined with applied existential therapy, Gestalt, parts work, Sand play, Synergetic Play Therapy, EMDR and DBT, I can help connect you to your true self, honor your goals and dreams, find effective ways for effective self-care, self-acceptance and peace.
As an intuitive trauma and grief counselor, I am deeply committed to helping my clients find true healing from complex PTSD, grief and loss, anxiety and depression. I am passionate about providing solution focused and lasting results on your journey to a happy life you truly deserve. I am an EMDR certified, DBT, IFS, Sand play and Expressive Arts, Somatic Experiencing trained clinician with 15 years of experience in depth counseling. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices. I continuously seek opportunities for professional development and stay up-to-date with latest research and therapeutic techniques.
Using mediums of art, sand, collage, mindfulness, storytelling and journaling, combined with applied existential therapy, Gestalt, parts work, Sand play, Synergetic Play Therapy, EMDR and DBT, I can help connect you to your true self, honor your goals and dreams, find effective ways for effective self-care, self-acceptance and peace.
As an intuitive trauma and grief counselor, I am deeply committed to helping my clients find true healing from complex PTSD, grief and loss, anxiety and depression. I am passionate about providing solution focused and lasting results on your journey to a happy life you truly deserve. I am an EMDR certified, DBT, IFS, Sand play and Expressive Arts, Somatic Experiencing trained clinician with 15 years of experience in depth counseling. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices. I continuously seek opportunities for professional development and stay up-to-date with latest research and therapeutic techniques.
(720) 868-9783 View (720) 868-9783
Photo of Donald A. Vergo, MFT-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Donald A. Vergo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Littleton, CO 80120
I draw from the principles of attachment theory, mindful interventions, experiential therapy, animal-assisted therapy, sand tray, and play therapy.
Are you feeling overwhelmed with life? I believe people tend to focus on negative thoughts and what they can't control. Sometimes our paths are rocky and seem unmanageable. I am here to help recognize and harness the power you have over yourself. Remember you are on YOUR path and sometimes those paths can change.
I draw from the principles of attachment theory, mindful interventions, experiential therapy, animal-assisted therapy, sand tray, and play therapy.
Are you feeling overwhelmed with life? I believe people tend to focus on negative thoughts and what they can't control. Sometimes our paths are rocky and seem unmanageable. I am here to help recognize and harness the power you have over yourself. Remember you are on YOUR path and sometimes those paths can change.
(720) 637-4596 View (720) 637-4596
Photo of Sybil Cummin, MA, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sybil Cummin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Littleton, CO 80120
I also offer play therapy for ages 4-11 yrs.
Do you feel like your family is living in chaos? Is your child or teen struggling with school? Peers? With anxiety? I offer a strength-based and collaborative approach while working with children, teens, adults, and families. I would be honored to help you and your family learn the tools to make and maintain the changes needed to live the life you want to live. Although many therapists, including myself have a reduced fee, services are still not financially accessible for many families. I supervise Master's level interns with a sliding scale between $65-$25 per session. Everyone should be able to access mental health care.
I also offer play therapy for ages 4-11 yrs.
Do you feel like your family is living in chaos? Is your child or teen struggling with school? Peers? With anxiety? I offer a strength-based and collaborative approach while working with children, teens, adults, and families. I would be honored to help you and your family learn the tools to make and maintain the changes needed to live the life you want to live. Although many therapists, including myself have a reduced fee, services are still not financially accessible for many families. I supervise Master's level interns with a sliding scale between $65-$25 per session. Everyone should be able to access mental health care.
(303) 647-9362 View (303) 647-9362
Photo of Elizabeth Estelle Dowdell - Ellie Mental Health , LPC, LCSW, MS, MSW, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ellie Mental Health
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCSW, MS, MSW
Verified Verified
Littleton, CO 80123
Individual Therapy, Family Therapy, Couples Therapy, Online Therapy, Play Therapy, and Trauma Informed Therapy.
Ellie Mental Health in Highlands Ranch, Colorado isn’t your average therapy clinic. We’ve created a comfy, judgment-free zone where you can be authentic, get real about where you’re at in your mental health, and receive the compassionate care you deserve. We strive to break down treatment barriers and provide you with customized counseling services that meet your therapy needs.
Individual Therapy, Family Therapy, Couples Therapy, Online Therapy, Play Therapy, and Trauma Informed Therapy.
Ellie Mental Health in Highlands Ranch, Colorado isn’t your average therapy clinic. We’ve created a comfy, judgment-free zone where you can be authentic, get real about where you’re at in your mental health, and receive the compassionate care you deserve. We strive to break down treatment barriers and provide you with customized counseling services that meet your therapy needs.
(303) 951-5675 View (303) 951-5675
Photo of Camille L. Reich, PhD, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Camille L. Reich
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Littleton, CO 80123
COUPLES, FAMILY, CHILD and INDIVIDUAL THERAPY. True Happiness and Stability Stems from the Quality of our Significant Relationships! I work from a strength-based, solution-focused, and systemic or relational orientation, all are evidence-based approaches. I focus on people's strengths and possibilities while addressing their real life difficulties. I also practice child-centered play therapy and provide personality, relationship (couple) and career assessments. I believe in a holistic approach to the therapeutic process that incorporates biological, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions empowering a person or family towards mastering life to its fullest. I look forward to consulting with you!
COUPLES, FAMILY, CHILD and INDIVIDUAL THERAPY. True Happiness and Stability Stems from the Quality of our Significant Relationships! I work from a strength-based, solution-focused, and systemic or relational orientation, all are evidence-based approaches. I focus on people's strengths and possibilities while addressing their real life difficulties. I also practice child-centered play therapy and provide personality, relationship (couple) and career assessments. I believe in a holistic approach to the therapeutic process that incorporates biological, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions empowering a person or family towards mastering life to its fullest. I look forward to consulting with you!
(303) 800-3080 View (303) 800-3080
Photo of Annie Bennett, MA, LPCC
Annie Bennett
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Littleton, CO 80130
With school age children I use play therapy.
Everyone has a story to tell. Sometimes we need someone to listen to our story and bear witness to it. Other times we need someone to help us understand the events in our story, or assist us as we write the next chapter in our story. No matter our age, we each have the ability to learn from our stories and create a path towards our desired future.
With school age children I use play therapy.
Everyone has a story to tell. Sometimes we need someone to listen to our story and bear witness to it. Other times we need someone to help us understand the events in our story, or assist us as we write the next chapter in our story. No matter our age, we each have the ability to learn from our stories and create a path towards our desired future.
(720) 802-0793 View (720) 802-0793
Photo of Maggie Rosen, LPCC
Maggie Rosen
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Littleton, CO 80120
Lisa Dion says, "Children are not things to be molded but are people to be unfolded." My focus lies in providing individualized therapeutic interventions for children facing a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, and trauma. I believe in creating a safe and nurturing space where children can express themselves freely, fostering a therapeutic alliance that supports their unique journey towards healing. Drawing from play therapy, attachment theory and family systems approaches, I collaborate with both the child and their family to create a holistic and effective treatment plan.
Lisa Dion says, "Children are not things to be molded but are people to be unfolded." My focus lies in providing individualized therapeutic interventions for children facing a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, and trauma. I believe in creating a safe and nurturing space where children can express themselves freely, fostering a therapeutic alliance that supports their unique journey towards healing. Drawing from play therapy, attachment theory and family systems approaches, I collaborate with both the child and their family to create a holistic and effective treatment plan.
(720) 893-3735 View (720) 893-3735
Photo of Lauren Schroeder, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Schroeder
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Littleton, CO 80120
At times, life is filled with authenticity, laughter, and fun. Other times it can be demanding, draining, and leave us feeling unsure. The highs and lows of life are normal and we all feel it, but at times we need extra support and space, and that is okay! As your therapist, my main goal is to provide an open, safe and accepting place for all to navigate life. Through deconstructing unhelpful beliefs, utilizing art and play to aid in emotional expression and increasing self-compassion, my hope is to find unique ways to support your or you child's journey to better mental health.
At times, life is filled with authenticity, laughter, and fun. Other times it can be demanding, draining, and leave us feeling unsure. The highs and lows of life are normal and we all feel it, but at times we need extra support and space, and that is okay! As your therapist, my main goal is to provide an open, safe and accepting place for all to navigate life. Through deconstructing unhelpful beliefs, utilizing art and play to aid in emotional expression and increasing self-compassion, my hope is to find unique ways to support your or you child's journey to better mental health.
(720) 707-2605 View (720) 707-2605
1
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.