Play Therapy in Pompano Beach, FL
![Photo of Maddy Main, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39076c3b-e4c1-4441-8fba-f478afb9c106/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello there! As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor based in Boca Raton, Florida, I specialize in supporting children, teens, and families like yours. With over six years of experience, I'm here to offer effective therapy for both individuals and families. Using a variety of techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Play Therapy techniques, I strive to create a safe, welcoming space for your child to grow and thrive.
Hello there! As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor based in Boca Raton, Florida, I specialize in supporting children, teens, and families like yours. With over six years of experience, I'm here to offer effective therapy for both individuals and families. Using a variety of techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Play Therapy techniques, I strive to create a safe, welcoming space for your child to grow and thrive.
![Photo of Kelly Griffin, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50c95fcf-bc65-48b8-a938-a5a334daa847/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kelly uses a humanistic approach that integrates evidence-based practices such as cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, play therapy, and medical models.
Kelly has worked with clients of all ages (3+) to help navigate depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, health conditions, caregiving, and family systems. She is passionate about helping you structure your goals to find the most effective methods of achieving them.
Kelly uses a humanistic approach that integrates evidence-based practices such as cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, play therapy, and medical models.
Kelly has worked with clients of all ages (3+) to help navigate depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, health conditions, caregiving, and family systems. She is passionate about helping you structure your goals to find the most effective methods of achieving them.
![Photo of Laurie Norman - Laurie L Norman, LMHC, PA, LMHC, RPT-S](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/712df37c-6c85-423c-9a59-f868d037f904/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laurie L Norman, LMHC, PA
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Pompano Beach, FL 33062 (Online Only)
Are you living your best life? How would it feel to have purpose and wake up feeling excited about your day? If you are going through life changes, struggling with relationships, feeling stuck or tired, and wanting to make positive change in your life counseling is the path for you. I am living my best life when I am helping others achieve their goals and feeling inspired to live a fulfilled and meaningful life. For more than 20 years I have been helping children, adults, couples, and families make positive life changes.
Are you living your best life? How would it feel to have purpose and wake up feeling excited about your day? If you are going through life changes, struggling with relationships, feeling stuck or tired, and wanting to make positive change in your life counseling is the path for you. I am living my best life when I am helping others achieve their goals and feeling inspired to live a fulfilled and meaningful life. For more than 20 years I have been helping children, adults, couples, and families make positive life changes.
![Photo of Marie Therese Rogers, PhD, RYT, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59b809c2-5867-41d4-b73b-8f467ffa099e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! There is no limit to how good, how healthy and how energized you can feel! I am the host of the LIFE in FOCUS podcast, which has an accompanying blog by the same name, and am all about connecting the fields of psychoneuroimmunology (the mind -body connection), executive functioning and mindfulness. I invite you to check out my podcast and blog.
Welcome! There is no limit to how good, how healthy and how energized you can feel! I am the host of the LIFE in FOCUS podcast, which has an accompanying blog by the same name, and am all about connecting the fields of psychoneuroimmunology (the mind -body connection), executive functioning and mindfulness. I invite you to check out my podcast and blog.
![Photo of Widline Nordelus - Shifted Psychotherapeutic Services, LLC , LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b0e56a28-ec57-4f82-9409-78d010682150/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shifted Psychotherapeutic Services, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pompano Beach, FL 33064 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! My name is Pastor Widline Nordelus. I am seeking to partner with people who are open to entering into their season of transformation. Shifting towards greater awareness. The intent is for you to be able to leave my therapeutic practice in a better state than when initially entered. Through the art of mental health training and the grace from God I will meet you where you are and take you to where you desire to be. As a mental health practitioner, I am used to seeing transformation in the lives of patients, but transformation occurred in me first! God has removed depression, anxiety, trauma, fear, mental limitations, etc.
Welcome! My name is Pastor Widline Nordelus. I am seeking to partner with people who are open to entering into their season of transformation. Shifting towards greater awareness. The intent is for you to be able to leave my therapeutic practice in a better state than when initially entered. Through the art of mental health training and the grace from God I will meet you where you are and take you to where you desire to be. As a mental health practitioner, I am used to seeing transformation in the lives of patients, but transformation occurred in me first! God has removed depression, anxiety, trauma, fear, mental limitations, etc.
![Photo of Allen Justin Thornton, MS, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c427880f-45ed-44a7-813b-a9a52943dda8/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am Allen Justin Thornton, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. For a timeframe spanning 23 years, my clients consistently herald the compassionate and caring approach that I apply when offering treatment and responding to their needs. It is the case that prospective clients have personally requested my services predicated upon the recommendation of my previous and current clients. As a practicing clinician, I am relentless in my efforts to ensure that my clients receive quality services and achieve established goals.
I am Allen Justin Thornton, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. For a timeframe spanning 23 years, my clients consistently herald the compassionate and caring approach that I apply when offering treatment and responding to their needs. It is the case that prospective clients have personally requested my services predicated upon the recommendation of my previous and current clients. As a practicing clinician, I am relentless in my efforts to ensure that my clients receive quality services and achieve established goals.
![Photo of Level Up Treatment Center - We Level Up Addiction & Mental Health Treatment, MCAP, LMFT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bcbdecd2-5cd7-4573-b9ce-f5b83d31bda2/2/320x400.jpeg)
We Level Up Addiction & Mental Health Treatment
MCAP, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pompano Beach, FL 33064
Nationally Recognized Therapy at We Level Up Treatment Center. Free 24/7 hotline & assessments. Get help, take your first step to get better! Your call is FREE. We're top addiction & behavioral experts backed by the Joint Commission's Accreditation held by the top 10% of treatment centers. Specializing in the treatment of alcohol & substance abuse along with dual diagnosis mental health cases like depression, mood and thought disorders. Treatment via cutting-edge therapy programs using advanced evidence-base modalities for improved recovery results. Offering on-site medical detox programs via world-class specialists to counseling..
Nationally Recognized Therapy at We Level Up Treatment Center. Free 24/7 hotline & assessments. Get help, take your first step to get better! Your call is FREE. We're top addiction & behavioral experts backed by the Joint Commission's Accreditation held by the top 10% of treatment centers. Specializing in the treatment of alcohol & substance abuse along with dual diagnosis mental health cases like depression, mood and thought disorders. Treatment via cutting-edge therapy programs using advanced evidence-base modalities for improved recovery results. Offering on-site medical detox programs via world-class specialists to counseling..
![Photo of Jill A. Selbach, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b95ff13-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/7/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Selbach completed her training at the University of Miami Medical School/Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami, Florida.She works from a strength-based perspective to evaluate and treat emotional and behavioral issues. These include mood disorders, anxiety disorders, substance abuse and developmental disorders.She aids people in learning skills and making life changes that lead to more fulfilling lives. She has a strong belief that people can make changes if they are commited to do so.
Dr. Selbach completed her training at the University of Miami Medical School/Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami, Florida.She works from a strength-based perspective to evaluate and treat emotional and behavioral issues. These include mood disorders, anxiety disorders, substance abuse and developmental disorders.She aids people in learning skills and making life changes that lead to more fulfilling lives. She has a strong belief that people can make changes if they are commited to do so.
![Photo of Johanna Logarzo - Doctor Johanna Logarzo PsyD LMHC, PsyD, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f83e92cf-ac04-43c2-af58-3b230d1b4a05/2/320x400.jpeg)
Doctor Johanna Logarzo PsyD LMHC
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pompano Beach, FL 33068 (Online Only)
My name is Johanna Logarzo, Doctor in Psychology and licensed mental health counselor. I will love to assist in this time in your life and upcoming journey. Therapy is an effective treatment for mental and emotional problems. When you need extra support, an outside perspective and expert guidance is of great assistance. I have worked in the field for over 10 years, with chronic mental illnesses, substance abuse, domestic violence, parenting, behavioral therapy, acute care, family, couples and individual therapy. I also worked with various age groups ranging from children to geriatrics.My goal is to help improve your quality of life.
My name is Johanna Logarzo, Doctor in Psychology and licensed mental health counselor. I will love to assist in this time in your life and upcoming journey. Therapy is an effective treatment for mental and emotional problems. When you need extra support, an outside perspective and expert guidance is of great assistance. I have worked in the field for over 10 years, with chronic mental illnesses, substance abuse, domestic violence, parenting, behavioral therapy, acute care, family, couples and individual therapy. I also worked with various age groups ranging from children to geriatrics.My goal is to help improve your quality of life.
![Photo of Sarah Suarez, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0349127c-e84a-489d-adf2-a23f7ecca5f5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Suarez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Pompano Beach, FL 33069 (Online Only)
Sarah Suarez is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) who has over 3 years of clinical experience providing therapeutic counseling services to children, adults, couples, and families seeking help with anxiety/depression, stress, self-esteem, and coping skills. Sarah is a strong ally and sensitive to the needs of other cultures. Sarah completed her Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology at Florida International University and her Master of Arts (MA) in Marriage and Family Counseling at the University of Central Florida.
Sarah Suarez is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) who has over 3 years of clinical experience providing therapeutic counseling services to children, adults, couples, and families seeking help with anxiety/depression, stress, self-esteem, and coping skills. Sarah is a strong ally and sensitive to the needs of other cultures. Sarah completed her Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology at Florida International University and her Master of Arts (MA) in Marriage and Family Counseling at the University of Central Florida.
![Photo of Courtnie Vargas-Rodriguez, LMFT, QS, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50198e7c-7032-41ed-b71a-66b7491aac70/1/320x400.jpeg)
Courtnie Vargas-Rodriguez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, QS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pompano Beach, FL 33060
I firmly believe in the power of therapeutic intervention to guide individuals, couples, and families towards healthier, more fulfilling lives. I understand the pain involved in dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, and couples’ relationships. My goal is to create a safe, judgement-free, and collaborative environment that gives you the freedom to express yourself and establish goals. My ultimate goal is to be a catalyst for transformation and healing, fostering stronger, more harmonious relationships and for individuals to find the support and understanding they need to lead happier and healthier lives.
I firmly believe in the power of therapeutic intervention to guide individuals, couples, and families towards healthier, more fulfilling lives. I understand the pain involved in dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, and couples’ relationships. My goal is to create a safe, judgement-free, and collaborative environment that gives you the freedom to express yourself and establish goals. My ultimate goal is to be a catalyst for transformation and healing, fostering stronger, more harmonious relationships and for individuals to find the support and understanding they need to lead happier and healthier lives.
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More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Mark S Smith, LCSW, ACSW, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ef6e102-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mark S Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Wilton Manors, FL 33306
I utilize a variety of useful approaches including: narrative, DBT, acceptance and commitment therapy, attachment-focused practice, internal family systems, mindfulness, play therapy/sand tray, and group therapy.
For over 30 years I have been helping people overcome life obstacles and interpersonal struggles. Clients report significant benefit when they seek help dealing with transforming ideas of self that result from trauma, relationship changes, chronic illness, grief & loss, gender dysphoria, and coming out as LGBTQ. I utilize a variety of approaches including narrative, DBT, ACT, attachment-focused therapy, internal family systems and trauma informed practices. I now am seeing clients in person as well as virtually.
I utilize a variety of useful approaches including: narrative, DBT, acceptance and commitment therapy, attachment-focused practice, internal family systems, mindfulness, play therapy/sand tray, and group therapy.
For over 30 years I have been helping people overcome life obstacles and interpersonal struggles. Clients report significant benefit when they seek help dealing with transforming ideas of self that result from trauma, relationship changes, chronic illness, grief & loss, gender dysphoria, and coming out as LGBTQ. I utilize a variety of approaches including narrative, DBT, ACT, attachment-focused therapy, internal family systems and trauma informed practices. I now am seeing clients in person as well as virtually.
![Photo of Brenda Okyn, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3da70be5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I incorporate an eclectic approach to counseling, utilizing such techniques as art, play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, tools to alleviate anxiety and stress, and guided meditation.
How do you handle stress? Do you suffer from anxiety? Depression? Bereavement? Poor self-esteem? Parenting issues? Divorce issues? Bi-Polar? As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I can assist you in finding solutions by alleviating emotional pain, and empowering you with the capacity to resolve problems in a caring, safe, and trusted environment where your innermost thoughts can be expressed without fear of judgment.
I incorporate an eclectic approach to counseling, utilizing such techniques as art, play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, tools to alleviate anxiety and stress, and guided meditation.
How do you handle stress? Do you suffer from anxiety? Depression? Bereavement? Poor self-esteem? Parenting issues? Divorce issues? Bi-Polar? As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I can assist you in finding solutions by alleviating emotional pain, and empowering you with the capacity to resolve problems in a caring, safe, and trusted environment where your innermost thoughts can be expressed without fear of judgment.
![Photo of Marla Berger, LMHC, ATR, RPT-S, Eagala, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48b7fee8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Marla Berger
Counselor, LMHC, ATR, RPT-S, Eagala
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Coral Springs, FL 33067
When talking gets difficult we need to create, move, play or work alongside horses to help growth happen.
You grew up dreaming about your future family, but now those dreams feel like nightmares. You wake up every day wondering what happened to you family? Why are things so hard? You feel like everyone else has the answers but you. You worry about your children's futures, wondering if they will be successful, happy and healthy. You fast-foreword your child's life and it worries you. What if they never learn the skills to be a good employee, good partner, good person? You imagine what they would be like to have as a co-worker and don't like what you see. You worry that they will never be able to stay on-task and finish assignments.
When talking gets difficult we need to create, move, play or work alongside horses to help growth happen.
You grew up dreaming about your future family, but now those dreams feel like nightmares. You wake up every day wondering what happened to you family? Why are things so hard? You feel like everyone else has the answers but you. You worry about your children's futures, wondering if they will be successful, happy and healthy. You fast-foreword your child's life and it worries you. What if they never learn the skills to be a good employee, good partner, good person? You imagine what they would be like to have as a co-worker and don't like what you see. You worry that they will never be able to stay on-task and finish assignments.
![Photo of Tiara Leavitt-Celestina, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bbf8d347-185e-4ea5-8d88-19094ce0fe82/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tiara is knowledgeable is a variety of evidenced based practices not limited to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution focused therapy (SFT), Seeking Safety, Trained in Play therapy techniques, Certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT), and trained in Traumatic Incident Reduction (TIR).
Tiara Leavitt-Celestina, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), received her Master’s degree in Social Work from Barry University in 2011. Mrs. Leavitt-Celestina has over a decade of experience working with outpatient for profit and non-profit community-based agencies. She has direct care experience working with individuals, families, and groups. Mrs. Leavitt-Celestina specializes in children, adults, trauma, substance abuse, mental health, and co-occurring disorders.
Tiara is knowledgeable is a variety of evidenced based practices not limited to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution focused therapy (SFT), Seeking Safety, Trained in Play therapy techniques, Certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT), and trained in Traumatic Incident Reduction (TIR).
Tiara Leavitt-Celestina, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), received her Master’s degree in Social Work from Barry University in 2011. Mrs. Leavitt-Celestina has over a decade of experience working with outpatient for profit and non-profit community-based agencies. She has direct care experience working with individuals, families, and groups. Mrs. Leavitt-Celestina specializes in children, adults, trauma, substance abuse, mental health, and co-occurring disorders.
![Photo of Dr. Carlos A. Insignares, RMHCI, PhD, MDiv, CFC, EMDR](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f6b4b4e-3af5-4bc9-a336-9bba5c20111b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Carlos A. Insignares
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, RMHCI, PhD, MDiv, CFC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
Using play therapy is a safe space for self-integration across all age groups.
When we or a beloved face challenges counseling helps us explore our beliefs and feelings enabling healing and making change possible. With over 25 years of experience working with diverse communities, adults, and children, with anxiety, depression, and traumatic experiences, I have witnessed healing. One method that helps is Sandplay Therapy. Using miniatures and a sand tray, offers a deeply personal way to explore our inner world, akin to 'waking dreams.' It facilitates profound self-discovery and healing for all ages. A Child’s language is play, and both adolescents and adults gain significant insights and transformation.
Using play therapy is a safe space for self-integration across all age groups.
When we or a beloved face challenges counseling helps us explore our beliefs and feelings enabling healing and making change possible. With over 25 years of experience working with diverse communities, adults, and children, with anxiety, depression, and traumatic experiences, I have witnessed healing. One method that helps is Sandplay Therapy. Using miniatures and a sand tray, offers a deeply personal way to explore our inner world, akin to 'waking dreams.' It facilitates profound self-discovery and healing for all ages. A Child’s language is play, and both adolescents and adults gain significant insights and transformation.
![Photo of Limary Lorenzo, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c09e92b5-f6c4-4f84-8528-3d466862a28f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lorenzo also has experience working with kids implementing play therapy techniques and child parent therapeutic tools.
Dr. Limary Lorenzo is trained in organizational and clinical psychology. Specializing in women’s mental health, Dr. Lorenzo started her clinical career in 2008 leading support groups for pregnant women and mothers. She has also specialized in supporting women during their pregnancy and motherhood roles. Dr. Lorenzo has vast experience offering support and consultation to high achiever women that need support with: management of stress and time, balancing roles with their careers or business, career changes or transitions, and supporting them in adopting healthier habits that can improve their overall wellbeing.
Lorenzo also has experience working with kids implementing play therapy techniques and child parent therapeutic tools.
Dr. Limary Lorenzo is trained in organizational and clinical psychology. Specializing in women’s mental health, Dr. Lorenzo started her clinical career in 2008 leading support groups for pregnant women and mothers. She has also specialized in supporting women during their pregnancy and motherhood roles. Dr. Lorenzo has vast experience offering support and consultation to high achiever women that need support with: management of stress and time, balancing roles with their careers or business, career changes or transitions, and supporting them in adopting healthier habits that can improve their overall wellbeing.
![Photo of Christ-Centered Counseling- Dr. Daniela Castiblanco, EdD, LMHC, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d187044d-9547-4f68-80f4-bcca463ae1e9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christ-Centered Counseling- Dr. Daniela Castiblanco
Counselor, EdD, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 (Online Only)
We are a whole world. Therapy is about mapping out, traveling to, and learning from all of the places we have inside of us. We can choose the places we call home, the places we visit sometimes, and the places we bring closure to as time goes on. My job as a therapist is to help you explore how your life experiences, influential relationships, and core beliefs continue to play a part in your everyday life. I’ve found that if we can work together to visit uncomfortable places long enough to find calm and to start to look around, we’ll see that every life event has important insight to keep present as we live out new experiences.
We are a whole world. Therapy is about mapping out, traveling to, and learning from all of the places we have inside of us. We can choose the places we call home, the places we visit sometimes, and the places we bring closure to as time goes on. My job as a therapist is to help you explore how your life experiences, influential relationships, and core beliefs continue to play a part in your everyday life. I’ve found that if we can work together to visit uncomfortable places long enough to find calm and to start to look around, we’ll see that every life event has important insight to keep present as we live out new experiences.
![Photo of Jeymarie Guerra, LMHC, RPT, ASDCS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e7823db-1a98-4d75-9d46-6c25720a1ac2/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a Registered Play Therapist and specialist in ADHD and Autism, I offer play therapy, AutPlay Therapy, TF-CBT, and Filial therapy.
Are you or your child navigating ADHD or Autism and seeking a neuroaffirming approach? You may face challenges with self-regulation, social interactions, or processing trauma. Your goal is to embrace your unique strengths, build confidence, and foster positive family connections.
As a Registered Play Therapist and specialist in ADHD and Autism, I offer play therapy, AutPlay Therapy, TF-CBT, and Filial therapy.
Are you or your child navigating ADHD or Autism and seeking a neuroaffirming approach? You may face challenges with self-regulation, social interactions, or processing trauma. Your goal is to embrace your unique strengths, build confidence, and foster positive family connections.
Some of these include; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Narrative Therapy, Informed Trauma Work, Family Systems, Play Therapy Techniques, Art Therapy Techniques, Expressive Therapies, (EMDR) and Social Skills Training.
Genesis Counseling is a group private practice serving South Florida, with locations in Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Coral Springs and virtually throughout the state. We have a team of therapists with a wide range of different specialties. Our team works with children, adolescents and adults on issues related to; anxiety, depression, school concerns, family and marriage struggles, communication, grief and loss, trauma, life transitions, behavioral disorders, LGBTQIA+, EMDR, eating disorders and other mental health issues. Genesis Counseling therapists are committed to create a safe, healing environment for you and your family.
Some of these include; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Narrative Therapy, Informed Trauma Work, Family Systems, Play Therapy Techniques, Art Therapy Techniques, Expressive Therapies, (EMDR) and Social Skills Training.
Genesis Counseling is a group private practice serving South Florida, with locations in Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Coral Springs and virtually throughout the state. We have a team of therapists with a wide range of different specialties. Our team works with children, adolescents and adults on issues related to; anxiety, depression, school concerns, family and marriage struggles, communication, grief and loss, trauma, life transitions, behavioral disorders, LGBTQIA+, EMDR, eating disorders and other mental health issues. Genesis Counseling therapists are committed to create a safe, healing environment for you and your family.
See more therapy options for Pompano Beach
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Pompano Beach
- Boca Raton
- Coconut Creek
- Coral Springs
- Deerfield Beach
- Fort Lauderdale
- Margate
- North Lauderdale
- Parkland
- Plantation
- Sunrise
- Tamarac
- Wilton Manors
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.