Play Therapy in Alpharetta, GA

Photo of Lauren Wallace, MS, LPC, CPCS, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Wallace
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CPCS, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30005  (Online Only)
Teletherapy allows me to utilize play therapy is an innovative approach designed to support children, adolescents, and their parents, particularly those facing anxiety and emotion regulation challenges.
Hi everyone! My name is Lauren Wallace and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist Supervisor. I specialize in working with children who struggle with anxiety and divorce recovery. Graduating from North Georgia College & State University (now University of North Georgia) with my undergraduate degree in Sociology, I loved the school and Dahlonega so much that I attained my Master's degree in Community Counseling shortly thereafter. I have been a lifelong resident of Georgia, an active therapist in the state for over 15 years, and an active supervisor since 2017.
Teletherapy allows me to utilize play therapy is an innovative approach designed to support children, adolescents, and their parents, particularly those facing anxiety and emotion regulation challenges.
Hi everyone! My name is Lauren Wallace and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist Supervisor. I specialize in working with children who struggle with anxiety and divorce recovery. Graduating from North Georgia College & State University (now University of North Georgia) with my undergraduate degree in Sociology, I loved the school and Dahlonega so much that I attained my Master's degree in Community Counseling shortly thereafter. I have been a lifelong resident of Georgia, an active therapist in the state for over 15 years, and an active supervisor since 2017.
(706) 510-3346 View (706) 510-3346
Photo of Sara Gheesling, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sara Gheesling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30009
Almost always centered from a Gestalt therapeutical orientation, I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches including but not limited to: brainspotting, sand tray processing, play therapy, meditative practices, and traditional talk-therapy.
Throughout my career, I have dedicated my practice to serving adults, adolescents, and families who identify as queer and/or transgender/non-binary. In addition, I also provide play therapy services to children (5-10 years-old) and their families who are experiencing emotional and behavioral regulation concerns. It is my philosophy that we are never too young or too old to begin our journey through growth, healing, and self-discovery. Using therapeutic practices that are centered around mind-body connections and trauma informed care, I would love to be a part of you or your child's journey towards wellness.
Almost always centered from a Gestalt therapeutical orientation, I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches including but not limited to: brainspotting, sand tray processing, play therapy, meditative practices, and traditional talk-therapy.
Throughout my career, I have dedicated my practice to serving adults, adolescents, and families who identify as queer and/or transgender/non-binary. In addition, I also provide play therapy services to children (5-10 years-old) and their families who are experiencing emotional and behavioral regulation concerns. It is my philosophy that we are never too young or too old to begin our journey through growth, healing, and self-discovery. Using therapeutic practices that are centered around mind-body connections and trauma informed care, I would love to be a part of you or your child's journey towards wellness.
(770) 728-6953 View (770) 728-6953
Photo of Kirsten L Moore, PsyD, Psychologist
Kirsten L Moore
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30022
I can help with CBT (Cognitive Behavior Therapy) or DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), in which I am Intensively-trained, and I use play therapy with my younger clients.
Are you a parent, adult, or teen who has faced anxiety, panic, depression, mood swings, obsessions, attention problems, or impulsivity? You or your loved one may have had urges to harm themselves or had difficulty making or keeping healthy relationships. I help clients live a Life they experience as Worth Living, learning coping skills to deal with life’s stressors and solve problems one moment at a time. Find peace of mind and live your best life!
I can help with CBT (Cognitive Behavior Therapy) or DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), in which I am Intensively-trained, and I use play therapy with my younger clients.
Are you a parent, adult, or teen who has faced anxiety, panic, depression, mood swings, obsessions, attention problems, or impulsivity? You or your loved one may have had urges to harm themselves or had difficulty making or keeping healthy relationships. I help clients live a Life they experience as Worth Living, learning coping skills to deal with life’s stressors and solve problems one moment at a time. Find peace of mind and live your best life!
(678) 264-3991 View (678) 264-3991
Photo of Lillie K Bamberg, MA, LPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lillie K Bamberg
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30022
I have experience providing individual counseling to teens and adults, family counseling, and play therapy with children.
I use several counseling approaches to help clients cope with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, struggling relationships, faulty communication, behavioral issues, eating disorders, and navigating difficult life transitions (divorce, moving, death of a parent). I work with clients to help them gain power back over their circumstances and make positive changes in perspective. I strive to provide all clients with an empathetic listening ear, compassionate understanding, and genuine caring attitude with the client’s best interest in mind.
I have experience providing individual counseling to teens and adults, family counseling, and play therapy with children.
I use several counseling approaches to help clients cope with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, struggling relationships, faulty communication, behavioral issues, eating disorders, and navigating difficult life transitions (divorce, moving, death of a parent). I work with clients to help them gain power back over their circumstances and make positive changes in perspective. I strive to provide all clients with an empathetic listening ear, compassionate understanding, and genuine caring attitude with the client’s best interest in mind.
(470) 924-8883 View (470) 924-8883
Photo of Zack McMaster
Zack McMaster
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30022
By integrating play therapy, cognitive-behavioral techniques, and family collaboration, I help children and teens gain insight and practical tools to thrive.
Watching your child struggle with emotions, behavior, or social interactions can be challenging. I specialize in working with children and teenagers to provide a safe and supportive space where they can express themselves, build resilience, and develop skills to manage life's challenges. I use evidence-based approaches tailored to your child’s unique needs, focusing on fostering trust and open communication. My goal is to partner with you, as parents, to understand and support your child’s mental health journey.
By integrating play therapy, cognitive-behavioral techniques, and family collaboration, I help children and teens gain insight and practical tools to thrive.
Watching your child struggle with emotions, behavior, or social interactions can be challenging. I specialize in working with children and teenagers to provide a safe and supportive space where they can express themselves, build resilience, and develop skills to manage life's challenges. I use evidence-based approaches tailored to your child’s unique needs, focusing on fostering trust and open communication. My goal is to partner with you, as parents, to understand and support your child’s mental health journey.
(470) 613-8387 View (470) 613-8387
Photo of Dawn M Foster, EdS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dawn M Foster
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30009
I have 20+ years of experience, as well as having worked as a Registered Play Therapist/Supervisor for 17 years.
I help persons of all ages whose anxiety is spoiling their ability to participate fully in life. Chronic untreated anxiety is a deep form of suffering not visible to others. Treatment starts when you feel really heard and understood. I always begin by listening deeply. The journey of healing and change can be made a bit lighter when shared with a caring therapist. I provide safe, supportive and interactive help to enable you, or your loved one, to manage and overcome anxieties and fears. Together we can make your life and relationships better.
I have 20+ years of experience, as well as having worked as a Registered Play Therapist/Supervisor for 17 years.
I help persons of all ages whose anxiety is spoiling their ability to participate fully in life. Chronic untreated anxiety is a deep form of suffering not visible to others. Treatment starts when you feel really heard and understood. I always begin by listening deeply. The journey of healing and change can be made a bit lighter when shared with a caring therapist. I provide safe, supportive and interactive help to enable you, or your loved one, to manage and overcome anxieties and fears. Together we can make your life and relationships better.
(770) 299-4482 View (770) 299-4482
Photo of Jan Goldsmith Doctoral Intern, MFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jan Goldsmith Doctoral Intern
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30022
I integrate approaches such as Gottman Couples Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Play Therapy to create a tailored experience that meets the unique needs of each client, including children and adolescents.
As a Gottman-trained therapist (Levels 1 & 2 Certification), I specialize in supporting couples, individuals, and families through life's most challenging moments. Whether you’re facing communication breakdowns, trust issues, infidelity, parenting struggles, or personal trauma, I am here to provide compassionate, evidence-based guidance tailored to your unique needs. Together, we can work to overcome obstacles, rebuild trust, and create lasting change in your relationships and personal well-being. If you're at a crossroads, let’s take the first step toward a stronger, healthier future.
I integrate approaches such as Gottman Couples Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Play Therapy to create a tailored experience that meets the unique needs of each client, including children and adolescents.
As a Gottman-trained therapist (Levels 1 & 2 Certification), I specialize in supporting couples, individuals, and families through life's most challenging moments. Whether you’re facing communication breakdowns, trust issues, infidelity, parenting struggles, or personal trauma, I am here to provide compassionate, evidence-based guidance tailored to your unique needs. Together, we can work to overcome obstacles, rebuild trust, and create lasting change in your relationships and personal well-being. If you're at a crossroads, let’s take the first step toward a stronger, healthier future.
(470) 237-7310 View (470) 237-7310
Photo of Luciana Sacramento Aguiar, MS, CRC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Luciana Sacramento Aguiar
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, CRC, NCC
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30005
Waitlist for new clients
I am client-centered and committed to offering an age-appropriate approach; I have training in Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT).
I'm a multilingual Mental Health Counselor who works with English, Portuguese, and Spanish populations. As a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor and National Certified Counselor, I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with mental health concerns impacted by disabilities and chronic health conditions. My mission is to support my clients and their families to improve their quality of life by practicing an integrative approach and viewing individuals from a holistic perspective.
I am client-centered and committed to offering an age-appropriate approach; I have training in Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT).
I'm a multilingual Mental Health Counselor who works with English, Portuguese, and Spanish populations. As a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor and National Certified Counselor, I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with mental health concerns impacted by disabilities and chronic health conditions. My mission is to support my clients and their families to improve their quality of life by practicing an integrative approach and viewing individuals from a holistic perspective.
(678) 940-6828 View (678) 940-6828
Photo of Fred Thomas Moeller - Moeller and Associates, Inc., LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Moeller and Associates, Inc.
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30009
Play Therapy offers young children a therapeutic experience through the use of toys and artistic expression.
Moeller and Associates was founded in 1995. All clinicians have a Masters Degree or PhD in Psychology, Social Work, or Counseling along with designated State Licensure and/or Certifications. This team offers expertise in mood disorders, anxiety disorders substance abuse, relationship/marital issues, grief counseling, and workplace issues. Populations served are for children, adolescents, and adults of various multi-national backgrounds. All clinicians within the team participate in ongoing education and training allowing them cutting edge knowledge of behavioral healthcare and interventions to improve one's mental health. We welcome the opportunity to serve our community.
Play Therapy offers young children a therapeutic experience through the use of toys and artistic expression.
Moeller and Associates was founded in 1995. All clinicians have a Masters Degree or PhD in Psychology, Social Work, or Counseling along with designated State Licensure and/or Certifications. This team offers expertise in mood disorders, anxiety disorders substance abuse, relationship/marital issues, grief counseling, and workplace issues. Populations served are for children, adolescents, and adults of various multi-national backgrounds. All clinicians within the team participate in ongoing education and training allowing them cutting edge knowledge of behavioral healthcare and interventions to improve one's mental health. We welcome the opportunity to serve our community.
(770) 691-2307 x201 View (770) 691-2307 x201
Photo of Jairus Robinson - Passion for Peace, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Passion for Peace, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30005
Jairus strategically leverages Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Integrative Faith and Play Therapy to create breakthrough connectivity with his clients.
Jairus Robinson is an energetic, personable, concerned therapist serving Atlanta and surrounding communities. After completing 5 years of inpatient hospital social work at Emory University Hospital, Jairus gained valuable experience counseling individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, death, and loss of identity. He later became a mental health therapist which allows him to serve and connect with individuals on a more personal level, helping them to achieve a more desirable quality of life.
Jairus strategically leverages Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Integrative Faith and Play Therapy to create breakthrough connectivity with his clients.
Jairus Robinson is an energetic, personable, concerned therapist serving Atlanta and surrounding communities. After completing 5 years of inpatient hospital social work at Emory University Hospital, Jairus gained valuable experience counseling individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, death, and loss of identity. He later became a mental health therapist which allows him to serve and connect with individuals on a more personal level, helping them to achieve a more desirable quality of life.
(678) 647-7192 View (678) 647-7192
Photo of Bria Harris, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bria Harris
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30005
Here, I have experience using several treatment approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), attachment, regulation, & competency (ARC), play therapy, & dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).
Hello, my name is Bria Harris (she/her/hers). I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC). I have five years of experience working with elementary and middle school students and their families addressing concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and neurodivergence (ASD and ADHD).
Here, I have experience using several treatment approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), attachment, regulation, & competency (ARC), play therapy, & dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).
Hello, my name is Bria Harris (she/her/hers). I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC). I have five years of experience working with elementary and middle school students and their families addressing concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and neurodivergence (ASD and ADHD).
(470) 777-6628 View (470) 777-6628
Photo of Cristiane Uchida, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cristiane Uchida
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30022
Cristiane is particularly skilled at helping women overcome anxiety/panic attacks and using play therapy as a tool to help children.
I’m a therapist who specializes in anxiety and trauma. You would be surprised to learn how many client's emotional struggles are due to a past trauma. I help my clients overcome worries, panic attacks, overthinking, and symptoms related to trauma in order for them reach their goals and grow into the best version of themselves.
Cristiane is particularly skilled at helping women overcome anxiety/panic attacks and using play therapy as a tool to help children.
I’m a therapist who specializes in anxiety and trauma. You would be surprised to learn how many client's emotional struggles are due to a past trauma. I help my clients overcome worries, panic attacks, overthinking, and symptoms related to trauma in order for them reach their goals and grow into the best version of themselves.
(404) 994-5298 View (404) 994-5298
Photo of Brittany Byrd Hagy, MA, LPC, RPT, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brittany Byrd Hagy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30005
I specialize in play therapy and cognitive-behavioral approaches to help my clients achieve self-awareness and emotional healing.
Hello and welcome! I'm passionate about helping children and their families restore and rebuild the peace they’ve lost in their lives. I believe humans are designed to be intimately connected with others in loving and secure relationships. Therefore, when that connection and safety becomes absent or broken due to the difficulties of “life,” emotional pain and behavioral issues often arise that are difficult to navigate alone. My focus is on providing individuals (ages 3-25) with the tools they need to overcome their inner struggles, navigate the challenges of life, and develop resiliency for their future.
I specialize in play therapy and cognitive-behavioral approaches to help my clients achieve self-awareness and emotional healing.
Hello and welcome! I'm passionate about helping children and their families restore and rebuild the peace they’ve lost in their lives. I believe humans are designed to be intimately connected with others in loving and secure relationships. Therefore, when that connection and safety becomes absent or broken due to the difficulties of “life,” emotional pain and behavioral issues often arise that are difficult to navigate alone. My focus is on providing individuals (ages 3-25) with the tools they need to overcome their inner struggles, navigate the challenges of life, and develop resiliency for their future.
(678) 515-5628 View (678) 515-5628
Photo of Melanie Elizabeth Kissell, MS, NCC, LPC, Counselor
Melanie Elizabeth Kissell
Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30022
As a relationship-oriented therapist with training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, & Child-Parent Psychotherapy, I work with infants, children, adolescents, families, & adults.
"Love and Trust, in the space between what's said and what's heard in our life, can make all the difference in the world." Fred Rogers. Sometimes life presents us with challenges, adjustments, and opportunities for growth, all we need is someone to hear what we are saying in a new way. I am here to help you navigate these moments, in the way you desire. Together we will work to ensure that you are truly listened to, in a way that elicits effective change, growth, and healing.
As a relationship-oriented therapist with training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, & Child-Parent Psychotherapy, I work with infants, children, adolescents, families, & adults.
"Love and Trust, in the space between what's said and what's heard in our life, can make all the difference in the world." Fred Rogers. Sometimes life presents us with challenges, adjustments, and opportunities for growth, all we need is someone to hear what we are saying in a new way. I am here to help you navigate these moments, in the way you desire. Together we will work to ensure that you are truly listened to, in a way that elicits effective change, growth, and healing.
(706) 609-3342 View (706) 609-3342
Photo of Monique Johnson, LPC, RPT-S, CCBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Monique Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT-S, CCBT
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30005
I specialize in play therapy, couple's therapy, individual therapy, and group therapy.
Mrs. Johnson-Hill is committed to supporting individuals and families through a comprehensive approach. She strongly believes that, with the appropriate resources, everyone can achieve their fullest potential and is dedicated to ensuring they receive the utmost quality of service to make that possible. Her focus is on promoting the well-being of individuals, families, and the broader community by providing education, intervention, effective treatment, and prevention.
I specialize in play therapy, couple's therapy, individual therapy, and group therapy.
Mrs. Johnson-Hill is committed to supporting individuals and families through a comprehensive approach. She strongly believes that, with the appropriate resources, everyone can achieve their fullest potential and is dedicated to ensuring they receive the utmost quality of service to make that possible. Her focus is on promoting the well-being of individuals, families, and the broader community by providing education, intervention, effective treatment, and prevention.
(470) 600-2964 View (470) 600-2964
Photo of Diane Wood, EdS, LPC, CPCS, Counselor
Diane Wood
Counselor, EdS, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30009
I have additional training in Play Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, and Mindfulness.
With 23 years experience working with children and families, previously as a school counselor, I now work as a Licensed Professional Counselor in a busy private practice in downtown Alpharetta. My therapeutic philosophy is based on the belief that a counselor's role is to empower clients with the tools to unlock their fullest potential. I love working with clients of all ages as they strive to overcome their challenges with insight, growth and solutions.
I have additional training in Play Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, and Mindfulness.
With 23 years experience working with children and families, previously as a school counselor, I now work as a Licensed Professional Counselor in a busy private practice in downtown Alpharetta. My therapeutic philosophy is based on the belief that a counselor's role is to empower clients with the tools to unlock their fullest potential. I love working with clients of all ages as they strive to overcome their challenges with insight, growth and solutions.
(770) 545-6995 View (770) 545-6995
Photo of Kim Valdes, MA, LPC, RPT, KAP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kim Valdes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT, KAP
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30022
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Registered Play Therapist, Ketamine Assisted Therapist, & Holistic Coach. I provide services to children, adolescent, and adults experiencing abrupt life changes and transitions, school bullying, family conflicts, childhood trauma, and grief. Certain diagnosis that I service with children, adolescent, and adults are Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, and ADHD. I work with children in a play therapy space with sand, miniatures, games, puzzles and many other activities to support their work in therapy. With adults I provide ketamine assisted therapy for depression, anxiety, and trauma.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Registered Play Therapist, Ketamine Assisted Therapist, & Holistic Coach. I provide services to children, adolescent, and adults experiencing abrupt life changes and transitions, school bullying, family conflicts, childhood trauma, and grief. Certain diagnosis that I service with children, adolescent, and adults are Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, and ADHD. I work with children in a play therapy space with sand, miniatures, games, puzzles and many other activities to support their work in therapy. With adults I provide ketamine assisted therapy for depression, anxiety, and trauma.
(404) 975-1145 View (404) 975-1145
Photo of Sarah Morris, APC, NCC, MS, Counselor
Sarah Morris
Counselor, APC, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30022
I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, and adults to help them navigate life transitions and challenges, create and maintain strong interpersonal relationships, and achieve their personal goals. I provide a warm and safe environment (incorporating humor when appropriate) where I use approaches and techniques such as play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and mindfulness-based stress reduction to equip clients with tools to create positive change and find meaning in their lives.
I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, and adults to help them navigate life transitions and challenges, create and maintain strong interpersonal relationships, and achieve their personal goals. I provide a warm and safe environment (incorporating humor when appropriate) where I use approaches and techniques such as play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and mindfulness-based stress reduction to equip clients with tools to create positive change and find meaning in their lives.
(470) 684-4048 View (470) 684-4048
Photo of Breanna Curtin, MS, NCC, APC, Counselor
Breanna Curtin
Counselor, MS, NCC, APC
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30005
With a Bachelors of Science in Alternative Medicine and a Masters of Science in Counselor Education from East Carolina University, I bring a holistic perspective to the therapeutic process. I have experience in the treatment of depression, anxiety, OCD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD, and executive functioning impairments. I provide individual and group therapy to children, adolescents, and adults utilizing tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, "Executive Functioning" skills building, Play Therapy, and Exposure and Response Prevention.
With a Bachelors of Science in Alternative Medicine and a Masters of Science in Counselor Education from East Carolina University, I bring a holistic perspective to the therapeutic process. I have experience in the treatment of depression, anxiety, OCD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD, and executive functioning impairments. I provide individual and group therapy to children, adolescents, and adults utilizing tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, "Executive Functioning" skills building, Play Therapy, and Exposure and Response Prevention.
(470) 613-8320 View (470) 613-8320
Photo of Keren Drits, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Keren Drits
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30009
Approaches include: Play Therapy, CBT, Exposure Response Prevention Therapy (ERP), Solution Focused Therapy.
Welcome! My practice is open during early EVENING hours to accommodate after school schedules. I have been fortunate to have 20 years of counseling experience in both the school setting and the private sector, working with children ranging in ages 4-21, adults, and with families. While working with children and adolescents, I believe that the family dynamic is an extremely important part of the therapeutic process, and will often involve parents and siblings in therapy when it is helpful. I also work with parents who need support with parenting help in many different scenarios (toddlers to teens).
Approaches include: Play Therapy, CBT, Exposure Response Prevention Therapy (ERP), Solution Focused Therapy.
Welcome! My practice is open during early EVENING hours to accommodate after school schedules. I have been fortunate to have 20 years of counseling experience in both the school setting and the private sector, working with children ranging in ages 4-21, adults, and with families. While working with children and adolescents, I believe that the family dynamic is an extremely important part of the therapeutic process, and will often involve parents and siblings in therapy when it is helpful. I also work with parents who need support with parenting help in many different scenarios (toddlers to teens).
(770) 629-8015 View (770) 629-8015
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.