Play Therapy in Decatur, GA

Photo of Mick D Rehrig, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mick D Rehrig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
I provide play therapy and family support and coaching for transgender and non-binary folks.
Welcome! I believe in therapy that affirms, empowers, and supports people to recognize patterns, navigate changes, bolster personal growth and self-worth, and figure things out.Collaboration with the folks I work with is of utmost importance to me, guided by clinical theory and evidence-based therapeutic techniques that work for you.I utilize a strengths based, anti-racist, intersectional feminist approach. I work with clients navigating healthy masculinity, internalized oppression, gender dysphoria, addiction recovery, depression, sexuality, relationship stressors & boundaries, family of origin challenges, life transitions, & more.
I provide play therapy and family support and coaching for transgender and non-binary folks.
Welcome! I believe in therapy that affirms, empowers, and supports people to recognize patterns, navigate changes, bolster personal growth and self-worth, and figure things out.Collaboration with the folks I work with is of utmost importance to me, guided by clinical theory and evidence-based therapeutic techniques that work for you.I utilize a strengths based, anti-racist, intersectional feminist approach. I work with clients navigating healthy masculinity, internalized oppression, gender dysphoria, addiction recovery, depression, sexuality, relationship stressors & boundaries, family of origin challenges, life transitions, & more.
(678) 335-1270 View (678) 335-1270
Photo of Owen Clark, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Owen Clark
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
My approach is dynamic, and in addition to traditional talk therapy, I'm also passionate about incorporating art therapy, play therapy, and recreational therapy into sessions.
Finding a place where you feel genuinely heard, understood, and valued is hard. Maybe you're seeking a safe, understanding place to explore your identity or struggles with someone who "gets it." No matter what brings you here, I'm glad you're here. Together, we will create a space where your whole, authentic self is welcomed, affirmed, and valued. You won't encounter judgment or someone telling you who you "should" be in this space. Instead, I believe that you are the expert on your own life and that your experiences, relationships, and traumas have profoundly shaped you.
My approach is dynamic, and in addition to traditional talk therapy, I'm also passionate about incorporating art therapy, play therapy, and recreational therapy into sessions.
Finding a place where you feel genuinely heard, understood, and valued is hard. Maybe you're seeking a safe, understanding place to explore your identity or struggles with someone who "gets it." No matter what brings you here, I'm glad you're here. Together, we will create a space where your whole, authentic self is welcomed, affirmed, and valued. You won't encounter judgment or someone telling you who you "should" be in this space. Instead, I believe that you are the expert on your own life and that your experiences, relationships, and traumas have profoundly shaped you.
(470) 613-8459 View (470) 613-8459
Photo of Jessica B Whyte, LPC, NFB, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica B Whyte
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NFB
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30033
I am trained in Neurofeedback, Play Therapy, Grounded Kids Yoga, Sandtray Therapy, Yoga for Depression and Anxiety and Psych-K (subconscious belief change therapy).
I am a licensed professional counselor, specializing in therapies (Neurofeedback, Play Therapy, Yoga) which have been demonstrated by neuroscience to be effective tools in addressing symptoms and causes of ADD/ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, TBI, tinnitus, chronic pain and some mood disorders. I believe that our bodies and minds are inextricably connected and have an enormous capacity not only to heal anything that ails us, but to take us beyond healing- to a state in which we are able to thrive. My passion is using Neurofeedback to restore, rebalance, and retrain brainwaves in the direction of health and happiness, while supporting and empowering my clients as they reclaim the thriving lives that they were meant to live.
I am trained in Neurofeedback, Play Therapy, Grounded Kids Yoga, Sandtray Therapy, Yoga for Depression and Anxiety and Psych-K (subconscious belief change therapy).
I am a licensed professional counselor, specializing in therapies (Neurofeedback, Play Therapy, Yoga) which have been demonstrated by neuroscience to be effective tools in addressing symptoms and causes of ADD/ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, TBI, tinnitus, chronic pain and some mood disorders. I believe that our bodies and minds are inextricably connected and have an enormous capacity not only to heal anything that ails us, but to take us beyond healing- to a state in which we are able to thrive. My passion is using Neurofeedback to restore, rebalance, and retrain brainwaves in the direction of health and happiness, while supporting and empowering my clients as they reclaim the thriving lives that they were meant to live.
(678) 967-0848 View (678) 967-0848
Photo of Yvanna Pantner, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yvanna Pantner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
Some modalities I integrate into sessions include expressive arts therapy, play therapy, parent-child interaction therapy, mindfulness-based strategies, narrative therapy, and somatic approaches.
Welcome! I work with children, families, and adults across the lifespan. I value meeting my clients where they are, and use a trauma-informed, attachment-based, and person-centered approach. I also incorporate a variety of experiential techniques to support my clients, especially kids, in expressing themselves and processing their emotions. I have practiced in schools and community mental health settings where I primarily worked with adults as well as children and families navigating life transitions, intergenerational trauma, neurodiversity, and identity exploration.
Some modalities I integrate into sessions include expressive arts therapy, play therapy, parent-child interaction therapy, mindfulness-based strategies, narrative therapy, and somatic approaches.
Welcome! I work with children, families, and adults across the lifespan. I value meeting my clients where they are, and use a trauma-informed, attachment-based, and person-centered approach. I also incorporate a variety of experiential techniques to support my clients, especially kids, in expressing themselves and processing their emotions. I have practiced in schools and community mental health settings where I primarily worked with adults as well as children and families navigating life transitions, intergenerational trauma, neurodiversity, and identity exploration.
(404) 390-1324 View (404) 390-1324
Photo of Christina Carrick, LCSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Carrick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
"It's a privilege to be able to bear witness to someone's story when they may not have had the chance to tell it before." - Lindy Alexander. I believe in the celebration of baby steps, because they lead to growth, evolving, and newfound strength. I provide a space absent of judgment, and full of empathy. Are you a parent struggling to understand your child's feelings and behaviors? I can provide space for both parenting strategies and the child's expression of emotions through play. Are you an adult struggling with difficult life stressors and past trauma? I can provide the emotional space necessary for clarity and peace.
"It's a privilege to be able to bear witness to someone's story when they may not have had the chance to tell it before." - Lindy Alexander. I believe in the celebration of baby steps, because they lead to growth, evolving, and newfound strength. I provide a space absent of judgment, and full of empathy. Are you a parent struggling to understand your child's feelings and behaviors? I can provide space for both parenting strategies and the child's expression of emotions through play. Are you an adult struggling with difficult life stressors and past trauma? I can provide the emotional space necessary for clarity and peace.
(678) 345-6031 View (678) 345-6031
Photo of Christy Burkett - Gaia Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gaia Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30032
Our team of therapists is passionate about helping children, adolescents and families thrive. Many children struggle with emotional regulation, school and social anxiety, and behavioral challenges, but play therapy and other expressive therapeutic modalities can help them to express their needs in healthier ways. At Gaia Counseling, we have seen first hand how giving children and teens a safe space to process their inner emotional world, while keeping parents involved every step of the way, can not only transform their way of communicating but can also help families come together in ways that promote growth and healing.
Our team of therapists is passionate about helping children, adolescents and families thrive. Many children struggle with emotional regulation, school and social anxiety, and behavioral challenges, but play therapy and other expressive therapeutic modalities can help them to express their needs in healthier ways. At Gaia Counseling, we have seen first hand how giving children and teens a safe space to process their inner emotional world, while keeping parents involved every step of the way, can not only transform their way of communicating but can also help families come together in ways that promote growth and healing.
(404) 220-8068 View (404) 220-8068
Photo of Jackie Hornbeck-Wall, MEd, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jackie Hornbeck-Wall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
Waitlist for new clients
I bring empathy, knowledge and life experience to helping individuals and families deepen understanding of themselves and others, face challenging life transitions and endeavors, and build meaningful and successful relationships. I believe in a creative, integrative and relationship-based approach to counseling and utilize a variety of theories and practices including Internal Family Systems, Polyvagal Theory, Mindfulness and Play Therapy (DIR/floortime and sandtray). I strive to create a safe, collaborative and compassionate space for those seeking understanding, healing and growth.
I bring empathy, knowledge and life experience to helping individuals and families deepen understanding of themselves and others, face challenging life transitions and endeavors, and build meaningful and successful relationships. I believe in a creative, integrative and relationship-based approach to counseling and utilize a variety of theories and practices including Internal Family Systems, Polyvagal Theory, Mindfulness and Play Therapy (DIR/floortime and sandtray). I strive to create a safe, collaborative and compassionate space for those seeking understanding, healing and growth.
(678) 264-6805 View (678) 264-6805
Photo of Leah Kelley, LCSW, MPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leah Kelley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30032
I take a non-judgemental and collaborative approach, incorporating multiple modalities including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT-Informed), mindfulness, Internal Family Systems, Horticultural Therapy, and Play Therapy.
My goal is to meet each person where they are, to help each person to feel heard, to grow in self-compassion, and learn to validate their emotions. Whatever you're struggling with, whether it's anxiety, depression, body image, trauma recovery, grief, or LGBTQIA+ and gender identity issues, I welcome the opportunity to help you to break out of stuck cycles and get in touch with your true self.
I take a non-judgemental and collaborative approach, incorporating multiple modalities including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT-Informed), mindfulness, Internal Family Systems, Horticultural Therapy, and Play Therapy.
My goal is to meet each person where they are, to help each person to feel heard, to grow in self-compassion, and learn to validate their emotions. Whatever you're struggling with, whether it's anxiety, depression, body image, trauma recovery, grief, or LGBTQIA+ and gender identity issues, I welcome the opportunity to help you to break out of stuck cycles and get in touch with your true self.
(404) 689-9452 View (404) 689-9452
Photo of Christen Anglin, EdS, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christen Anglin
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30032
Waitlist for new clients
When working with children, I most often use play and expressive art therapies.
Congratulations! You have made the brave decision to seek therapy for your child! It is not always easy to recognize or accept that something in your child's life is not going the way that you would like and needs to change. If your child is struggling with maintaining healthy relationships, managing life’s stressors, or navigating emotions that sometimes feel too big and overwhelming, I can help. I work with children and adolescents to develop healthy coping skills to positively impact their thoughts, behaviors, and actions. I also work with families to improve or enhance the parent child relationship
When working with children, I most often use play and expressive art therapies.
Congratulations! You have made the brave decision to seek therapy for your child! It is not always easy to recognize or accept that something in your child's life is not going the way that you would like and needs to change. If your child is struggling with maintaining healthy relationships, managing life’s stressors, or navigating emotions that sometimes feel too big and overwhelming, I can help. I work with children and adolescents to develop healthy coping skills to positively impact their thoughts, behaviors, and actions. I also work with families to improve or enhance the parent child relationship
(678) 257-3573 View (678) 257-3573
Photo of Fredrica Dennis, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Fredrica Dennis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
I use a mix of client-centered therapy, play therapy, fundamentals of gestalt, mindfulness, CBT and solution-focused therapy to create an environment for growth.
I hold a deep belief in the resilience and potential of each individual, recognizing that life's challenges, transitions, and traumas can sometimes veer us off course from our authentic selves. I have had the privilege of supporting kids, adolescents, adults, and their families across cultures to support healing, self-awareness and empowerment.
I use a mix of client-centered therapy, play therapy, fundamentals of gestalt, mindfulness, CBT and solution-focused therapy to create an environment for growth.
I hold a deep belief in the resilience and potential of each individual, recognizing that life's challenges, transitions, and traumas can sometimes veer us off course from our authentic selves. I have had the privilege of supporting kids, adolescents, adults, and their families across cultures to support healing, self-awareness and empowerment.
(470) 785-8116 View (470) 785-8116
Photo of Cindi L Bockwitz, MA, LPC, RPT-S, clbockwitz, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cindi L Bockwitz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT-S, clbockwitz
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30033  (Online Only)
A degree in Family Systems & Counseling Psychology, & post-graduate training in Play Therapy.
Life can be confusing, overwhelming, & mystifying. Maybe you feel worried, fearful, sad or lonely, & want to improve your emotional well-being. Relationships & circumstances sometimes exceed our abilities to cope effectively and we need someone to guide and support us on our journey toward positive mental health. We are each a part of various systems (couple-hood, family, work, faith, community, school). Navigating those systems in healthy ways can feel confusing & difficult; therapy can help you develop insight, perspective, self-understanding, & coping skills to manage your life better.
A degree in Family Systems & Counseling Psychology, & post-graduate training in Play Therapy.
Life can be confusing, overwhelming, & mystifying. Maybe you feel worried, fearful, sad or lonely, & want to improve your emotional well-being. Relationships & circumstances sometimes exceed our abilities to cope effectively and we need someone to guide and support us on our journey toward positive mental health. We are each a part of various systems (couple-hood, family, work, faith, community, school). Navigating those systems in healthy ways can feel confusing & difficult; therapy can help you develop insight, perspective, self-understanding, & coping skills to manage your life better.
(404) 800-6539 View (404) 800-6539
Photo of Miranda Barzey, LAPC, CRC, Counselor
Miranda Barzey
Counselor, LAPC, CRC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30032
Waitlist for new clients
For children I offer child centered play therapy alongside regular parent consults where I teach skills to help support kids' growth outside the playroom.
I specialize in child centered play therapy with young children ages 2-7 and person centered counseling for adults 20-40. I help clients navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, neurodivergence, gender and sexual identity exploration, suicide, coping with oppression, and adjusting to life changes. My door is wide open to anyone in the LGBTQIA+ community, neurodivergent folks, and polyamorous individuals/families, or anyone looking to do the brave work of understanding themselves more deeply.
For children I offer child centered play therapy alongside regular parent consults where I teach skills to help support kids' growth outside the playroom.
I specialize in child centered play therapy with young children ages 2-7 and person centered counseling for adults 20-40. I help clients navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, neurodivergence, gender and sexual identity exploration, suicide, coping with oppression, and adjusting to life changes. My door is wide open to anyone in the LGBTQIA+ community, neurodivergent folks, and polyamorous individuals/families, or anyone looking to do the brave work of understanding themselves more deeply.
(404) 738-6484 View (404) 738-6484
Photo of Lissy Isaacson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lissy Isaacson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
I use a mixed-modality approach including play therapy, CBT, mindfulness and psychodynamic therapy.
My therapy practice focuses on helping young people overcome difficuties with self-esteem, trauma, life transitions, anxiety, attention issues or school-related concerns. While working with children and teens, I closely collaborate with caregivers - building communication and trust. I know there is nothing more important in a child’s development than their parent relationship. If you are struggling with how best to parent your child in this moment, I am here to process those feelings and problem-solve together.
I use a mixed-modality approach including play therapy, CBT, mindfulness and psychodynamic therapy.
My therapy practice focuses on helping young people overcome difficuties with self-esteem, trauma, life transitions, anxiety, attention issues or school-related concerns. While working with children and teens, I closely collaborate with caregivers - building communication and trust. I know there is nothing more important in a child’s development than their parent relationship. If you are struggling with how best to parent your child in this moment, I am here to process those feelings and problem-solve together.
(408) 617-5750 View (408) 617-5750
Photo of Taylor Jaczko, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Taylor Jaczko
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30032
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults who are facing life's challenges by providing both play therapy and talk therapy. I have experience helping young people cope with depression, anxiety, school stress, developing social skills, emotional regulation, a change in the family system, gender and sexuality exploration, personal identity development, adjusting to major life events, and substance abuse. Together, my clients and I work towards developing achievable counseling goals that helps them become the person they want to be!
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults who are facing life's challenges by providing both play therapy and talk therapy. I have experience helping young people cope with depression, anxiety, school stress, developing social skills, emotional regulation, a change in the family system, gender and sexuality exploration, personal identity development, adjusting to major life events, and substance abuse. Together, my clients and I work towards developing achievable counseling goals that helps them become the person they want to be!
(470) 686-7942 View (470) 686-7942
Photo of Nichole Wall, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nichole Wall
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30034
Some of which include Play Therapy, CBT, Solution Focused and client centered.
Are you currently feeling overwhelmed with life’s challenges and twisted emotions? Whether you’re a teen navigating the maze of adolescence; a student striving for excellence despite life’s distractions; a young adult maneuvering through your own independence and self-discovery; or perhaps an adult confronting societal pressures head-on, know that I understand! I have over fifteen years experience counseling others in a variety of settings and use an integrative approach to therapy.
Some of which include Play Therapy, CBT, Solution Focused and client centered.
Are you currently feeling overwhelmed with life’s challenges and twisted emotions? Whether you’re a teen navigating the maze of adolescence; a student striving for excellence despite life’s distractions; a young adult maneuvering through your own independence and self-discovery; or perhaps an adult confronting societal pressures head-on, know that I understand! I have over fifteen years experience counseling others in a variety of settings and use an integrative approach to therapy.
(470) 684-2336 View (470) 684-2336
Photo of Carrie Fox, LPC Intern
Carrie Fox
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30032
For children 3-10, I use child-centered play therapy to help them express and work through their emotions and experiences—because play is the most natural and fluent language available to them.
I was led to this work because I believe that by helping children, parents, and families improve connection, communication, and a sense of belonging and safety, I can make a significant impact on our community’s mental health and overall well-being. I’ve worked with kids and parents through various parts of my journey—from working as a nanny, working in the educational publishing field, leading parenting workshops, acting as president of a Moms Club, being a substitute teacher, and more.
For children 3-10, I use child-centered play therapy to help them express and work through their emotions and experiences—because play is the most natural and fluent language available to them.
I was led to this work because I believe that by helping children, parents, and families improve connection, communication, and a sense of belonging and safety, I can make a significant impact on our community’s mental health and overall well-being. I’ve worked with kids and parents through various parts of my journey—from working as a nanny, working in the educational publishing field, leading parenting workshops, acting as president of a Moms Club, being a substitute teacher, and more.
(470) 594-6124 View (470) 594-6124
Photo of Laronta Upson Rush, PhD, Psychologist
Laronta Upson Rush
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
In addition to assessment, Healthy Minds Psychology offers play therapy for issues related to grief, trauma, anger expression, stress/anxiety, relational conflicts, and parenting practices.
I am a licensed psychologist with 10 years of experience in evaluating children, adolescents and adults related to a number of concerns including ADHD, adult ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, learning disabilities, nonverbal learning disorders, psychiatric disorders, developmental disabilities, college entrance and accommodations, and academic testing. I also have extensive experience working with children in schools and a broad base of knowledge of special education procedures and other school-based intervention services. I conduct psychotherapy with children, adolescents, and their families to help strengthen the family connection, reduce conflict at home/school, and enhance effective communication and problem-solving.
In addition to assessment, Healthy Minds Psychology offers play therapy for issues related to grief, trauma, anger expression, stress/anxiety, relational conflicts, and parenting practices.
I am a licensed psychologist with 10 years of experience in evaluating children, adolescents and adults related to a number of concerns including ADHD, adult ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, learning disabilities, nonverbal learning disorders, psychiatric disorders, developmental disabilities, college entrance and accommodations, and academic testing. I also have extensive experience working with children in schools and a broad base of knowledge of special education procedures and other school-based intervention services. I conduct psychotherapy with children, adolescents, and their families to help strengthen the family connection, reduce conflict at home/school, and enhance effective communication and problem-solving.
(678) 929-2155 View (678) 929-2155
Photo of Trudy Post Sprunk, LMFT, LPC SEP, RPTS, EMDR, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Trudy Post Sprunk
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMFT, LPC SEP, RPTS, EMDR, CPCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
During the last 45 plus years, I have provided experiential psychotherapy to children, teens, and adults in individual, couple, family, and group settings. I have given over 800 lectures on the subjects of divorce, parenting, transgender, family play therapy, supervision, learning disabilities, grief, ADHD, play therapy, adolescence, etc. I am a registered play therapist, certified in EMDR, and provide supervision and consultation to other psychotherapists.
During the last 45 plus years, I have provided experiential psychotherapy to children, teens, and adults in individual, couple, family, and group settings. I have given over 800 lectures on the subjects of divorce, parenting, transgender, family play therapy, supervision, learning disabilities, grief, ADHD, play therapy, adolescence, etc. I am a registered play therapist, certified in EMDR, and provide supervision and consultation to other psychotherapists.
(678) 740-3813 View (678) 740-3813
Photo of Allison Bienenfeld, LPC, CCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Allison Bienenfeld
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30032  (Online Only)
Has traditional talk therapy not felt like "enough"? Do you find it difficult to put words together to describe your experiences? Have you found yourself stuck in patterns, situations, or relationships that don't quite make sense but continue to play out in your life? Or you may be concerned about the functioning of an important young person in your life. If you are curious about accessing your individual wisdom and unique strengths to overcome obstacles and work towards personal, family, academic, or professional goals, I encourage you to read on.
Has traditional talk therapy not felt like "enough"? Do you find it difficult to put words together to describe your experiences? Have you found yourself stuck in patterns, situations, or relationships that don't quite make sense but continue to play out in your life? Or you may be concerned about the functioning of an important young person in your life. If you are curious about accessing your individual wisdom and unique strengths to overcome obstacles and work towards personal, family, academic, or professional goals, I encourage you to read on.
(770) 336-6798 View (770) 336-6798
Photo of Susan Byers - Dr. Susan Byers, PhD, LPC, CRC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Susan Byers
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CRC, ACS
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
My studies have included training in minorities and domestic violence, DBT, EMDR, TF- CBT, Play Therapy and conflict resolution.
Life transitions and struggles offer the opportunity to find greater clarity of purpose, more meaningful relationships, increased confidence, and personal satisfaction. To be human is to feel emotion, both the highs and the lows. We are all connected through not only these experiences, but through the relationships with those around us. Therapy is a unique and personal journey built on mutual trust and respect. My perspective is strengths-based, LGBTQIA-affirmative, and integrative. I work with individuals of all backgrounds, bodies, and beliefs. My approach is individualized and collaborative.
My studies have included training in minorities and domestic violence, DBT, EMDR, TF- CBT, Play Therapy and conflict resolution.
Life transitions and struggles offer the opportunity to find greater clarity of purpose, more meaningful relationships, increased confidence, and personal satisfaction. To be human is to feel emotion, both the highs and the lows. We are all connected through not only these experiences, but through the relationships with those around us. Therapy is a unique and personal journey built on mutual trust and respect. My perspective is strengths-based, LGBTQIA-affirmative, and integrative. I work with individuals of all backgrounds, bodies, and beliefs. My approach is individualized and collaborative.
(678) 616-2280 View (678) 616-2280
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.