Play Therapy in Scottdale, GA

Photo of Rebecca Pendrick - Emerald Counseling and Wellness, EdS, LPC, RPT, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emerald Counseling and Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, RPT, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottdale, GA 30079
Emerald Counseling and Wellness helps children ages 3-12 manage ADHD and/or trauma symptoms, and behavior concerns, either at home or in school, by providing both directive and non-directive play therapy interventions. As a registered play therapist, I provide a safe space to explore attachments, limiting beliefs, emotions, and behaviors in a way is aligned with your most authentic self, and through a child's natural language, play!
Emerald Counseling and Wellness helps children ages 3-12 manage ADHD and/or trauma symptoms, and behavior concerns, either at home or in school, by providing both directive and non-directive play therapy interventions. As a registered play therapist, I provide a safe space to explore attachments, limiting beliefs, emotions, and behaviors in a way is aligned with your most authentic self, and through a child's natural language, play!
(404) 609-0559 View (404) 609-0559
Photo of Rene Chandler, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rene Chandler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Scottdale, GA 30079
Hello! I am located in Atlanta, Georgia, and provide telehealth in MD, VA, FL, WV, & NC. I specialize in working with children, teens, families, and adult individuals who have difficulty with anxiety, depression, ADHD, emotional regulation, behavioral concerns, or have experienced trauma. I have extensive experience supporting the adoption triad, and LGBTQ+ kids, families, and individuals. Rather than have a “one size fits all” perspective, I use a blend of treatment approaches to meet each client’s individual needs including play therapy, mindfulness and body-based work, CBT, ERP, EMDR, attachment and trauma-informed approaches.
Hello! I am located in Atlanta, Georgia, and provide telehealth in MD, VA, FL, WV, & NC. I specialize in working with children, teens, families, and adult individuals who have difficulty with anxiety, depression, ADHD, emotional regulation, behavioral concerns, or have experienced trauma. I have extensive experience supporting the adoption triad, and LGBTQ+ kids, families, and individuals. Rather than have a “one size fits all” perspective, I use a blend of treatment approaches to meet each client’s individual needs including play therapy, mindfulness and body-based work, CBT, ERP, EMDR, attachment and trauma-informed approaches.
(678) 737-4665 View (678) 737-4665
Photo of Wendy Fritz, LPC, NCC, ASDCS, CAIP, ADHDCCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Wendy Fritz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, ASDCS, CAIP, ADHDCCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scottdale, GA 30079
As a play therapist, I create a warm, safe space where children can grow and thrive.
As a child therapist specializing in play therapy, I create a safe, nurturing space where children ages 2-11 can explore, grow, and thrive. I understand that every child's journey is unique, especially when navigating challenges like ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, behavioral difficulties, OCD, or grief. Through playful, engaging sessions, I help children build their confidence, develop crucial skills, and find their own special ways to shine. Parents, you're not alone in this journey! Whether through parent coaching or joint sessions with your child, we'll develop strategies that bring more harmony to your family.
As a play therapist, I create a warm, safe space where children can grow and thrive.
As a child therapist specializing in play therapy, I create a safe, nurturing space where children ages 2-11 can explore, grow, and thrive. I understand that every child's journey is unique, especially when navigating challenges like ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, behavioral difficulties, OCD, or grief. Through playful, engaging sessions, I help children build their confidence, develop crucial skills, and find their own special ways to shine. Parents, you're not alone in this journey! Whether through parent coaching or joint sessions with your child, we'll develop strategies that bring more harmony to your family.
(404) 390-2765 View (404) 390-2765
Photo of Anne A Rice - Firefly Wellness Counseling, MA, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Firefly Wellness Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Scottdale, GA 30079
Our play therapist specializes in working with Autism, ADHD, anxiety, and depression in children.
At Firefly Wellness Counseling, we help each member of the family navigate life's challenges and build stronger connections. You might be a parent concerned about your child's anxiety or ADHD symptoms, a couple looking for premarital counseling and wanting to build a strong foundation, or teens and adults seeking understanding and help navigating anxiety and depression. Our therapists are here to provide you with a safe, accepting space to explore your challenges and grow. Whether through play therapy for young children, parent coaching, premarital, or individual therapy we're here to help you take the next step to family harmony.
Our play therapist specializes in working with Autism, ADHD, anxiety, and depression in children.
At Firefly Wellness Counseling, we help each member of the family navigate life's challenges and build stronger connections. You might be a parent concerned about your child's anxiety or ADHD symptoms, a couple looking for premarital counseling and wanting to build a strong foundation, or teens and adults seeking understanding and help navigating anxiety and depression. Our therapists are here to provide you with a safe, accepting space to explore your challenges and grow. Whether through play therapy for young children, parent coaching, premarital, or individual therapy we're here to help you take the next step to family harmony.
(404) 476-7923 View (404) 476-7923
Photo of Dr. Lydia J Canty, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Lydia J Canty
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Scottdale, GA 30079  (Online Only)
I am committed to working with individuals to help them achieve their goals and therefore individualize treatment to meet each client's unique needs. I attempt to build upon strengths to instill hope and bring about change. I assist individuals to find meaning in the midst of life's challenges. I believe that with hard work and persistence, change is possible. My ideal client would include individuals seeking assistance for addictions, depression, anxiety disorders, stress management, trauma, self-esteem, anger management, couples counseling, family counseling, and integrating spiritual issues in counseling.
I am committed to working with individuals to help them achieve their goals and therefore individualize treatment to meet each client's unique needs. I attempt to build upon strengths to instill hope and bring about change. I assist individuals to find meaning in the midst of life's challenges. I believe that with hard work and persistence, change is possible. My ideal client would include individuals seeking assistance for addictions, depression, anxiety disorders, stress management, trauma, self-esteem, anger management, couples counseling, family counseling, and integrating spiritual issues in counseling.
(404) 975-2503 View (404) 975-2503
Photo of Lauren Street, LMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lauren Street
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
Scottdale, GA 30079  (Online Only)
I work with adolescents and young adults to address a wide range of emotional and interpersonal problems. My counseling approach is based on your needs, strengths and goals. I have knowledge and experience utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. Being able to use my knowledge and experience to assist individuals in healing from negative experiences and overcoming obstacles is something that I not only am passionate about, but also have experience with.
I work with adolescents and young adults to address a wide range of emotional and interpersonal problems. My counseling approach is based on your needs, strengths and goals. I have knowledge and experience utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. Being able to use my knowledge and experience to assist individuals in healing from negative experiences and overcoming obstacles is something that I not only am passionate about, but also have experience with.
(678) 944-7982 View (678) 944-7982

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Chandler Phillips, MSW
Chandler Phillips
MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
Healing looks different for each person which requires a therapeutic approach that is distinct and specific to your child. I have a multi-disciplined background, including art, play, somatic and ecotherapy, that makes me uniquely equipped to creatively address the complex issues of the children I work with. I am guided by years of experience working with children and adolescents ages 4 to 17 who are navigating anxiety, stress, bullying, transitioning family dynamics, self esteem, and conflict management. My approach centers on creating a space filled with trust in which children feel seen, supported and encouraged to grow.
Healing looks different for each person which requires a therapeutic approach that is distinct and specific to your child. I have a multi-disciplined background, including art, play, somatic and ecotherapy, that makes me uniquely equipped to creatively address the complex issues of the children I work with. I am guided by years of experience working with children and adolescents ages 4 to 17 who are navigating anxiety, stress, bullying, transitioning family dynamics, self esteem, and conflict management. My approach centers on creating a space filled with trust in which children feel seen, supported and encouraged to grow.
(470) 712-5451 View (470) 712-5451
Photo of Kerri Golding Oransky, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kerri Golding Oransky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
I use a variety of approaches including play modalities, creative arts, cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused treatment, talk therapy, and brainspotting.
Are Sunday evenings a struggle because your child dreads going to school on Monday? Are you concerned about how your child is adjusting to a separation or loss? Is your child hard on themselves? Are you plagued with self-doubt yourseld? I can help. I specialize with ADHD, anxiety, self esteem,and infertility. I've been told that I'm warm, easy to talk to and "real". Still, I'm not afraid to call out my clients if I notice that they are engaging in unhealthy behaviors (in a gentle way of course). My clients tell me they appreciate this about me, as they don't just want someone who simply listens and nods.
I use a variety of approaches including play modalities, creative arts, cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused treatment, talk therapy, and brainspotting.
Are Sunday evenings a struggle because your child dreads going to school on Monday? Are you concerned about how your child is adjusting to a separation or loss? Is your child hard on themselves? Are you plagued with self-doubt yourseld? I can help. I specialize with ADHD, anxiety, self esteem,and infertility. I've been told that I'm warm, easy to talk to and "real". Still, I'm not afraid to call out my clients if I notice that they are engaging in unhealthy behaviors (in a gentle way of course). My clients tell me they appreciate this about me, as they don't just want someone who simply listens and nods.
(404) 996-1751 View (404) 996-1751
Photo of Jackie Hornbeck-Wall, MEd, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jackie Hornbeck-Wall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
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 Elia Lintz, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elia Lintz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
I have a passion for supporting those who have experienced grief and trauma find expression and healing through creativity and play.
Hello and welcome! I provide a creative and exploratory environment for children, preteens, teens, and their families to navigate through the anxiety and struggles of life's challenges. With a foundation in expressive therapy and play therapy, based on client presentation and needs, I integrate both directive and non-directive play therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, and mind/body connection. I find that therapy is not a one size fits all experience and I strive to engage clients in creatively finding what will support them within the therapeutic experience.
I have a passion for supporting those who have experienced grief and trauma find expression and healing through creativity and play.
Hello and welcome! I provide a creative and exploratory environment for children, preteens, teens, and their families to navigate through the anxiety and struggles of life's challenges. With a foundation in expressive therapy and play therapy, based on client presentation and needs, I integrate both directive and non-directive play therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, and mind/body connection. I find that therapy is not a one size fits all experience and I strive to engage clients in creatively finding what will support them within the therapeutic experience.
(404) 882-5122 View (404) 882-5122
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 Gabrielle Parker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gabrielle Parker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30033
I have also received training in play therapy, sand tray therapy, Attachment Regulation and Competency(ARC), Motivational Interviewing, TF-CBT, and AutPlay.
​I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience working with children, families, teenagers, and adults who have a history of depression, anxiety, behavioral concerns, trauma, and family issues. I have a passion for supporting individuals in their healing journey and my goal is to empower clients to build resilience, foster healthy relationships, and achieve lasting change. I wholeheartedly believe individuals deserve a safe, empathetic and genuine space to deal with life’s challenges.
I have also received training in play therapy, sand tray therapy, Attachment Regulation and Competency(ARC), Motivational Interviewing, TF-CBT, and AutPlay.
​I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience working with children, families, teenagers, and adults who have a history of depression, anxiety, behavioral concerns, trauma, and family issues. I have a passion for supporting individuals in their healing journey and my goal is to empower clients to build resilience, foster healthy relationships, and achieve lasting change. I wholeheartedly believe individuals deserve a safe, empathetic and genuine space to deal with life’s challenges.
(678) 833-3942 View (678) 833-3942
Photo of Christy Burkett - Gaia Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gaia Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
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 Zoe Shaw, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Zoe Shaw
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
Whether you’re stuck in the woods of helping your children understand and manage difficult emotions, navigating issues in their interpersonal relationships, or processing through complex trauma, it is possible to get out of the dark places and back into the sun. I know it feels daunting now, but that is why you are here. I have experience working in various settings, providing individual, family, and group therapy to diverse populations, and I want to use my knowledge of family systems and child mental health, with expressive arts and play-based interventions, to help your meet the goals we set in therapy.
Whether you’re stuck in the woods of helping your children understand and manage difficult emotions, navigating issues in their interpersonal relationships, or processing through complex trauma, it is possible to get out of the dark places and back into the sun. I know it feels daunting now, but that is why you are here. I have experience working in various settings, providing individual, family, and group therapy to diverse populations, and I want to use my knowledge of family systems and child mental health, with expressive arts and play-based interventions, to help your meet the goals we set in therapy.
(678) 535-2832 View (678) 535-2832
Photo of Mary Grace Davenport, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Grace Davenport
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30033
Using both directive and non-directive play therapy approaches, I am passionate about creating space for children to share, heal, and grow.
Available on Sundays! I specialize in supporting children and parents experiencing anxiety, grief/loss, trauma, chronic illness, neurodiversity, and life changes. Is your child going through a difficult time? Maybe you’ve noticed a change in their mood, challenges with communicating what they're feeling, or worries about their self-esteem? Or maybe you are seeking support with parenting through a hard time or transition in the family? Providing your child (or yourself!) a comforting space for creative expression, naming and exploring feelings, and open communication with therapy can make a difference!
Using both directive and non-directive play therapy approaches, I am passionate about creating space for children to share, heal, and grow.
Available on Sundays! I specialize in supporting children and parents experiencing anxiety, grief/loss, trauma, chronic illness, neurodiversity, and life changes. Is your child going through a difficult time? Maybe you’ve noticed a change in their mood, challenges with communicating what they're feeling, or worries about their self-esteem? Or maybe you are seeking support with parenting through a hard time or transition in the family? Providing your child (or yourself!) a comforting space for creative expression, naming and exploring feelings, and open communication with therapy can make a difference!
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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 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 mindfulness, CBT, play and art therapy, from an attachment-based and trauma-informed lens.
My therapy practice focuses on helping children, adolescents and young adults overcome difficuties with self-esteem, depression, 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 mindfulness, CBT, play and art therapy, from an attachment-based and trauma-informed lens.
My therapy practice focuses on helping children, adolescents and young adults overcome difficuties with self-esteem, depression, 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 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
Photo of Keynia Hardley - ATK Marriage & Family Coaching, LLC, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
ATK Marriage & Family Coaching, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
We use play therapy for children, individual/group therapy for teens and adults.
We specialize in marriage counseling to help couples improve communication, intimacy, family issues, and how they relate to each other. Couples often get caught up in destructive cycles that create great frustration for them. They find themselves unable to talk, be intimate and relate to each other as desired. This can have severe implications not only for the couple, but the whole family. Let us help you STOP the madness! Our work is the perfect integration of education, years of marriage, parenting, years of teaching special education experience, and a lifetime of experience!
We use play therapy for children, individual/group therapy for teens and adults.
We specialize in marriage counseling to help couples improve communication, intimacy, family issues, and how they relate to each other. Couples often get caught up in destructive cycles that create great frustration for them. They find themselves unable to talk, be intimate and relate to each other as desired. This can have severe implications not only for the couple, but the whole family. Let us help you STOP the madness! Our work is the perfect integration of education, years of marriage, parenting, years of teaching special education experience, and a lifetime of experience!
(678) 582-2387 View (678) 582-2387
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

See more therapy options for Scottdale

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.