Therapists in Woodland Park, CO
![Photo of Scheila Farnsworth Watson - A Willow Bends, LLC, MA, LPC, LAC, MAC, EMDR](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ca1999a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Have you suffered through years of abuse or trauma? Lost a loved one through divorce or death? Maybe, you feel you can't face life anymore. Maybe you struggle with the use of alcohol or drugs. Do you use them to "feel good about yourself?" Maybe, just "to forget for a moment". Maybe because they make you feel "normal". This is the time to seek help. It takes courage to call and yet we are here to walk with you during your trying times and help you find the inner peace, joy, and success you deserve!
Have you suffered through years of abuse or trauma? Lost a loved one through divorce or death? Maybe, you feel you can't face life anymore. Maybe you struggle with the use of alcohol or drugs. Do you use them to "feel good about yourself?" Maybe, just "to forget for a moment". Maybe because they make you feel "normal". This is the time to seek help. It takes courage to call and yet we are here to walk with you during your trying times and help you find the inner peace, joy, and success you deserve!
![Photo of Monique Ekker - Outside Rein, LLC, LPC, LAC, CEIP-MH, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0ac250b-0228-4391-8001-d32dfbb0cf2d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Outside Rein, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LAC, CEIP-MH
Verified Verified
Woodland Park, CO 80863
We are all human, imperfect, and want/need grace. Mental health is a part of our overall health, not separate from it. We cannot disconnect the head from the body. All session are conducted with empathy and compassion, with or without equines. We are currently accepting new clients, as our caseload allows. We accept Medicaid, TriWest, TRICARE, and Aetna insurances, in addition to private pay with a deeply sliding scale. We can also do a single case agreement or supply a superbill for out of network insurance.
We are all human, imperfect, and want/need grace. Mental health is a part of our overall health, not separate from it. We cannot disconnect the head from the body. All session are conducted with empathy and compassion, with or without equines. We are currently accepting new clients, as our caseload allows. We accept Medicaid, TriWest, TRICARE, and Aetna insurances, in addition to private pay with a deeply sliding scale. We can also do a single case agreement or supply a superbill for out of network insurance.
![Photo of Shari Lightfield, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b2ded640-0c9e-47dc-a193-8ab24507f8d1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shari Lightfield
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Woodland Park, CO 80863 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Life is a roller coaster; full of highs and lows, sometimes we need some help navigating life’s twists and turns. Creating a relationship with a therapist can be daunting and scary; the first step is often one of the hardest. As with life, therapy has ups and downs. My role as a therapist is to provide tools and offer insight. I offer a free 20-minute consultation to provide the opportunity to see if we are a good fit. As I counselor I want each session to feel unique to you. I am trained and certified in may therapeutic modalities in order to provide the most tailored experience.
Life is a roller coaster; full of highs and lows, sometimes we need some help navigating life’s twists and turns. Creating a relationship with a therapist can be daunting and scary; the first step is often one of the hardest. As with life, therapy has ups and downs. My role as a therapist is to provide tools and offer insight. I offer a free 20-minute consultation to provide the opportunity to see if we are a good fit. As I counselor I want each session to feel unique to you. I am trained and certified in may therapeutic modalities in order to provide the most tailored experience.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Jennifer Luttman - Jennifer Luttman, LPC, ACS, Clinical Supervisor , LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/64fd4b97-1e22-4778-b2fb-68b9d56d4b31/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Luttman, LPC, ACS, Clinical Supervisor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80921
At Overcomers, we know that many of us are often faced with struggles and hardships and finding help can be difficult. However, we aim to provide you with the care, compassion and professional tools to make you an overcomer, in any area of your life. We are passionate about people and we believe that ANYONE can be an overcomer if they are willing to pursue after it. And the first step in your journey is to book an appointment with one of our caring and professional therapists. Don't let another day go by without getting the help you desire.
At Overcomers, we know that many of us are often faced with struggles and hardships and finding help can be difficult. However, we aim to provide you with the care, compassion and professional tools to make you an overcomer, in any area of your life. We are passionate about people and we believe that ANYONE can be an overcomer if they are willing to pursue after it. And the first step in your journey is to book an appointment with one of our caring and professional therapists. Don't let another day go by without getting the help you desire.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Lisa Stone, MA, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/453fa034-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I also offer family constellations, EMDR, art & play therapy.
You are unique, and have something valuable to express, offer, and live. We suffer when we feel cut off from this, when the circumstances and experiences of life do not reflect our deepest knowing of self. Depression, anxiety; feeling stuck, lost, dissatisfied with life.. addiction, unhealthy relationships, illness, loss.... These are all opportunities to learn to love oneself more fully; invitations to transform and heal. I help people restore clarity, connection, love, and get to the root of what blocks their full aliveness.
I also offer family constellations, EMDR, art & play therapy.
You are unique, and have something valuable to express, offer, and live. We suffer when we feel cut off from this, when the circumstances and experiences of life do not reflect our deepest knowing of self. Depression, anxiety; feeling stuck, lost, dissatisfied with life.. addiction, unhealthy relationships, illness, loss.... These are all opportunities to learn to love oneself more fully; invitations to transform and heal. I help people restore clarity, connection, love, and get to the root of what blocks their full aliveness.
![Photo of Danielle Barcelo - Family First Counseling, LLC, MA-MFT, LMFT, PhD (C), Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ad63bcc1-0eaa-4394-b016-aaae19b7bc92/3/320x400.jpeg)
Family First Counseling, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA-MFT, LMFT, PhD (C)
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80210
We have specific training, education, and experience in treating children and adolescents with play, art, experiential therapy that includes the parents and the client's ecology like their school and community in applying behavioral strategies to improve behavior and emotions; and increase problem solving, coping skills, and communication skills.
Our typical clients are children and adolescents who are struggling with a specific change, transition, trauma incident, loss, or other stressor that is causing behavioral and emotional concerns, like defiance, anxiety, depression, self-harm, which interferes with school, home-life, and other relationships. Clients have goals to decrease behavioral concerns at home and school, improve emotions, coping skills, communication skills, and school performance. A lot of parents want their children to listen, respect, and connect and communicate with them. We also work with individual adults, families and couples.
We have specific training, education, and experience in treating children and adolescents with play, art, experiential therapy that includes the parents and the client's ecology like their school and community in applying behavioral strategies to improve behavior and emotions; and increase problem solving, coping skills, and communication skills.
Our typical clients are children and adolescents who are struggling with a specific change, transition, trauma incident, loss, or other stressor that is causing behavioral and emotional concerns, like defiance, anxiety, depression, self-harm, which interferes with school, home-life, and other relationships. Clients have goals to decrease behavioral concerns at home and school, improve emotions, coping skills, communication skills, and school performance. A lot of parents want their children to listen, respect, and connect and communicate with them. We also work with individual adults, families and couples.
![Photo of Ruth Setlak, MBA, MSW, LCSW, ACS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6943105b-180e-48a8-b5df-5e44831d17a7/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ruth Setlak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA, MSW, LCSW, ACS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80215
I work with kids through play, EMDR, and other nervous system-based modalities.
You’ve been trying your hardest in relationships but still feel the pain of aloneness or not finding lasting connection/s. Or, you find yourself stuck, not able to approach life with forward-moving energy or clear direction. I get it. Trauma, a difficult childhood, and/or life's inevitable disappointments, often create barriers to feeling solid within yourself & to attaining what you hope for in life. I use mind-body approaches that go beyond talk therapy to create lasting change. Together, we can identify & mend what is getting in the way of you having safe, authentic relationships or crafting a life that is more of what you want.
I work with kids through play, EMDR, and other nervous system-based modalities.
You’ve been trying your hardest in relationships but still feel the pain of aloneness or not finding lasting connection/s. Or, you find yourself stuck, not able to approach life with forward-moving energy or clear direction. I get it. Trauma, a difficult childhood, and/or life's inevitable disappointments, often create barriers to feeling solid within yourself & to attaining what you hope for in life. I use mind-body approaches that go beyond talk therapy to create lasting change. Together, we can identify & mend what is getting in the way of you having safe, authentic relationships or crafting a life that is more of what you want.
![Photo of Delaney Cash, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bf7eb85-655d-4aff-979a-52bd8fc836f0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Additionally, Delaney has completed post-graduate training in play therapy and sand tray therapy.
Delaney is committed to nurturing a therapeutic relationship that is founded on acceptance, safety, and trust. Delaney will meet you exactly where you are, walking alongside you one step at a time. She wants you to know you are worthy of finding and experiencing freedom from within. Delaney will speak kind truths and push you with gentle challenges, providing you with resources to create sustainable change. Delaney Cash is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of Colorado and Missouri.
Additionally, Delaney has completed post-graduate training in play therapy and sand tray therapy.
Delaney is committed to nurturing a therapeutic relationship that is founded on acceptance, safety, and trust. Delaney will meet you exactly where you are, walking alongside you one step at a time. She wants you to know you are worthy of finding and experiencing freedom from within. Delaney will speak kind truths and push you with gentle challenges, providing you with resources to create sustainable change. Delaney Cash is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of Colorado and Missouri.
![Photo of Heather Roa - Southeast Counseling Center](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4eaf3753-1753-4bff-8fad-7d38789e358e/1/320x400.png)
Our therapists possess a wide range of expertise and provide individual therapy for various concerns, addiction counseling, couples counseling, child play therapy, psychological evaluations, support groups, and more.
We exist to invest in you, so that you are empowered to cultivate wholeness and hope. At Southeast Counseling Center, our team of seasoned professional counselors believe in the ever-continuing growth and development of all people toward the best versions of themselves--in a safe, confidential, and caring environment. Sometimes when we are most vulnerable and in the greatest need, we can feel the most lonely and misunderstood. You know your pain better than anyone, and we look forward to joining you in the midst of it.
Our therapists possess a wide range of expertise and provide individual therapy for various concerns, addiction counseling, couples counseling, child play therapy, psychological evaluations, support groups, and more.
We exist to invest in you, so that you are empowered to cultivate wholeness and hope. At Southeast Counseling Center, our team of seasoned professional counselors believe in the ever-continuing growth and development of all people toward the best versions of themselves--in a safe, confidential, and caring environment. Sometimes when we are most vulnerable and in the greatest need, we can feel the most lonely and misunderstood. You know your pain better than anyone, and we look forward to joining you in the midst of it.
![Photo of Kimberly M Muhlenbruch - SOBT Therapy, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d106563-e163-483e-bc87-89b807fbc435/1/320x400.png)
We have formal training/experience in evidence-based interventions (different providers have different additional training and experience) such as Master Resilience Trainer (MRT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), Play Therapy, Attachment-Based Family Therapy (ABFT), Gottman, & many more.
Access to care is key, crucial, and paramount! We, at SOBT Therapy, LLC, have a diverse team of empathetic and compassionate providers who have immediate openings, are trained, are experienced, are ready, and are eager to work with you. We work directly with certain health insurance companies and can also provide a discount as low as $65.00 per therapy session. You can reach us by calling our main line - (720) 968-6924, we are ready and happy to assist you - or by emailing our main office. We hope that you make that first step. We are here for you!
We have formal training/experience in evidence-based interventions (different providers have different additional training and experience) such as Master Resilience Trainer (MRT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), Play Therapy, Attachment-Based Family Therapy (ABFT), Gottman, & many more.
Access to care is key, crucial, and paramount! We, at SOBT Therapy, LLC, have a diverse team of empathetic and compassionate providers who have immediate openings, are trained, are experienced, are ready, and are eager to work with you. We work directly with certain health insurance companies and can also provide a discount as low as $65.00 per therapy session. You can reach us by calling our main line - (720) 968-6924, we are ready and happy to assist you - or by emailing our main office. We hope that you make that first step. We are here for you!
![Photo of Jess Chambers | North Boulder Counseling, MS, LPCC, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bcd08b0-a295-46f0-a363-1fb6a3c0dda1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jess Chambers | North Boulder Counseling
Registered Psychotherapist, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80301
As a therapist at North Boulder Counseling, I utilize child-centered play therapy, CBT, art techniques, and sand tray work to support children, teens, and families. I bring a unique level of understanding, empathy, and compassion to those who are grappling with behaviors and symptoms driven by powerful emotions. My goal is to help children and teens facing a wide range of feelings, challenges, and behaviors to feel more regulated and connected to themselves. I believe in tailoring my approach to each individual's needs, using evidence-based techniques to facilitate growth and healing.
As a therapist at North Boulder Counseling, I utilize child-centered play therapy, CBT, art techniques, and sand tray work to support children, teens, and families. I bring a unique level of understanding, empathy, and compassion to those who are grappling with behaviors and symptoms driven by powerful emotions. My goal is to help children and teens facing a wide range of feelings, challenges, and behaviors to feel more regulated and connected to themselves. I believe in tailoring my approach to each individual's needs, using evidence-based techniques to facilitate growth and healing.
![Photo of Lindsey Dawson, MA, MFTC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4773e803-68f0-400f-9034-7ae4d47919cb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lindsey Dawson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, MFTC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westminster, CO 80031
I am trained in evidence-based trauma therapy, Brainspotting, Sandtray and Play Therapies, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and I include mindfulness-based approaches and somatic techniques in addition to standard talk therapy.
Are you and your partner struggling to communicate? Does it feel like your talks go nowhere and you are talking in circles? Have you lost that spark in your relationship? Are you a parent who has lost connection with your teenager or child? Do you feel lost and overwhelmed? I decided to be a couple and family therapist because I know how hard relationships can be and that sometimes we need a little help. There is no shame in asking for help. We are not born with a roadmap on how to navigate troubled relationships and family. I believe all people are capable of meaningful and transformational change. Let me help.
I am trained in evidence-based trauma therapy, Brainspotting, Sandtray and Play Therapies, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and I include mindfulness-based approaches and somatic techniques in addition to standard talk therapy.
Are you and your partner struggling to communicate? Does it feel like your talks go nowhere and you are talking in circles? Have you lost that spark in your relationship? Are you a parent who has lost connection with your teenager or child? Do you feel lost and overwhelmed? I decided to be a couple and family therapist because I know how hard relationships can be and that sometimes we need a little help. There is no shame in asking for help. We are not born with a roadmap on how to navigate troubled relationships and family. I believe all people are capable of meaningful and transformational change. Let me help.
![Photo of Kim DaHarb, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fed6cc8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I use a variety of techniques that explore the internal conflicts that play over and over in our heads.
Looking for better Communication and Connection in your relationships? You want to get along better with your spouse, partner, kids, parents and coworkers. I can give you the skills necessary to start you on the path to better communication and connection with everyone in your life. Lowering your anxiety and feeling better starts with you. Come in on your own or with those close to you.
I use a variety of techniques that explore the internal conflicts that play over and over in our heads.
Looking for better Communication and Connection in your relationships? You want to get along better with your spouse, partner, kids, parents and coworkers. I can give you the skills necessary to start you on the path to better communication and connection with everyone in your life. Lowering your anxiety and feeling better starts with you. Come in on your own or with those close to you.
![Photo of Chloé Miller - Lovers Counseling, MA, MFTC, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27510095-e8bc-42dd-a94c-d00a5eca2272/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chloé Miller - Lovers Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, MFTC, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80301
I also have certifications in Reiki Healing Energy and Play Therapy - Improv Comedy.
I specialize in attachment-based trauma-informed counseling and healing relationship issues. Couples come to me for help with communication, emotional and physical intimacy, conflict resolution, and emotional regulation. Individuals come to me for a deeper understanding of their relationship patterns. I support clients through life transitions: dating, premarital, couples/marriage counseling, family planning, and divorce. Romantic relationships start with yourself. My clients cultivate self-trust, self-love, and self-compassion. Love is everything it's cracked up to be and authentic connection is the most beautiful human experience.
I also have certifications in Reiki Healing Energy and Play Therapy - Improv Comedy.
I specialize in attachment-based trauma-informed counseling and healing relationship issues. Couples come to me for help with communication, emotional and physical intimacy, conflict resolution, and emotional regulation. Individuals come to me for a deeper understanding of their relationship patterns. I support clients through life transitions: dating, premarital, couples/marriage counseling, family planning, and divorce. Romantic relationships start with yourself. My clients cultivate self-trust, self-love, and self-compassion. Love is everything it's cracked up to be and authentic connection is the most beautiful human experience.
![Photo of Carly Elizabeth Keaten, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d96f97e1-7307-464c-92a3-499696490f37/3/320x400.jpeg)
Play therapy is the most effective form of counseling children, as play is their form of emotional expression.
I love to work with children (12 and under), and teens (13-19), to provide a therapeutic process that draws forth each client's inner-strength and resilience. In a safe play therapy environment I create space for each client to work through any internal distress hindering them from being freely themselves. I am comfortable working with children who struggle with outburst, withdraw, trauma, social and family issues. Believing each client is unique, the treatment process and pace is tailored to their own needs. I also use non-directive techniques that greatly empower young clients.
Play therapy is the most effective form of counseling children, as play is their form of emotional expression.
I love to work with children (12 and under), and teens (13-19), to provide a therapeutic process that draws forth each client's inner-strength and resilience. In a safe play therapy environment I create space for each client to work through any internal distress hindering them from being freely themselves. I am comfortable working with children who struggle with outburst, withdraw, trauma, social and family issues. Believing each client is unique, the treatment process and pace is tailored to their own needs. I also use non-directive techniques that greatly empower young clients.
![Photo of Alex Zobel, MA, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16cd48c2-3f1d-47a1-b572-ee147e666fcb/1/320x400.png)
I offer a dynamic approach to psychotherapy. I specialize in working with anxiety, depression and life transitions. I incorporate practices that work with balancing the nervous system through a psychodynamic approach incorporating Gestalt therapy, EMDR, Synergetic Play Therapy, art, somatic practices and neuroscience among other modalities. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in the state of Colorado (LPCC).
I offer a dynamic approach to psychotherapy. I specialize in working with anxiety, depression and life transitions. I incorporate practices that work with balancing the nervous system through a psychodynamic approach incorporating Gestalt therapy, EMDR, Synergetic Play Therapy, art, somatic practices and neuroscience among other modalities. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in the state of Colorado (LPCC).
![Photo of Camille L. Reich, PhD, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c1f5521-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
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!
![Photo of Elizabeth A Behm, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d1b9f92-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth A Behm
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Pueblo, CO 81004 (Online Only)
I use play therapy with kids as well as CBT and solution focused therapy to meet the needs of my clients and work with many concerns such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, issues with self esteem/self worth, self harm and many others.
My background is in school counseling and my passion is working with teens/kids. I worked for 3 years as a school counselor before switching to my LPC and doing private practice. There I also focused my practice on meeting the needs of teens/kids and working with families as well. I most recently worked in the community with a foster care agency, again working with kids/teens before going back to private practice. I do enjoy working with teens/families but also see individuals of all ages as well as couples.
I use play therapy with kids as well as CBT and solution focused therapy to meet the needs of my clients and work with many concerns such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, issues with self esteem/self worth, self harm and many others.
My background is in school counseling and my passion is working with teens/kids. I worked for 3 years as a school counselor before switching to my LPC and doing private practice. There I also focused my practice on meeting the needs of teens/kids and working with families as well. I most recently worked in the community with a foster care agency, again working with kids/teens before going back to private practice. I do enjoy working with teens/families but also see individuals of all ages as well as couples.
![Photo of Sarah Rothluebber, LPC, MA, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/19927016-3762-4b87-942e-6a5df4709fbb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Rothluebber
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Golden, CO 80401 (Online Only)
I believe children process the world differently than adults and using play therapy can be a way for children to express themselves in their language.
I am Licensed Professional Counselor and hold a certificate in EMDR. My clinical background is primarily with children who have experienced trauma and adversity. Much of my work has focused on childhood bereavement and supporting grieving children. I use a trauma-informed care lens to support clients and meet them where they are. I have experience working with children four years old through young adulthood. I utilize individual therapy, play therapy, family therapy, and group therapy. I strive to be culturally competent, supporting discovery of self.
I believe children process the world differently than adults and using play therapy can be a way for children to express themselves in their language.
I am Licensed Professional Counselor and hold a certificate in EMDR. My clinical background is primarily with children who have experienced trauma and adversity. Much of my work has focused on childhood bereavement and supporting grieving children. I use a trauma-informed care lens to support clients and meet them where they are. I have experience working with children four years old through young adulthood. I utilize individual therapy, play therapy, family therapy, and group therapy. I strive to be culturally competent, supporting discovery of self.
![Photo of Renee Yoelin-Allen, LCSW, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39ba2a8a-12fa-444b-a0cf-e78141314caa/2/320x400.jpeg)
Renee Yoelin-Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80918
Children and families benefit from safe, play therapy intervention that match their developmental needs including Theraplay, Safe and Sound and EMDR.
It takes courage to start your healing and growing journey. I see my role as a partner with my client's. Together we will find strategies to enhance your life and build your resiliency; developing skills to have more meaningful relationships and finding a path to your goals. Simultaneously we will explore any emotional barriers, past or present, that may have interfered with your journey. This philosophy fits for my work with adults, children and families. Together we will find new ways to navigate life with new skills and bravery.
Children and families benefit from safe, play therapy intervention that match their developmental needs including Theraplay, Safe and Sound and EMDR.
It takes courage to start your healing and growing journey. I see my role as a partner with my client's. Together we will find strategies to enhance your life and build your resiliency; developing skills to have more meaningful relationships and finding a path to your goals. Simultaneously we will explore any emotional barriers, past or present, that may have interfered with your journey. This philosophy fits for my work with adults, children and families. Together we will find new ways to navigate life with new skills and bravery.
See more therapy options for Woodland Park
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.