Play Therapy in Frederick, MD
![Photo of Katelyn Smith, LGPC, MS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/847a8626-b7ce-4c39-94e6-3d19d214da51/1/320x400.jpeg)
I also incorporate lots of games, play, art, mindfulness, and mind-body activities, and bring a focus on strengths and empowerment.
I love helping people feel heard, understood, and seen through a compassionate and empathic approach to therapy. I work with a broad range of people, from elementary schoolers to adults. I love working with kids, teens, young adults, and women. I have experience working in a crisis center, schools, and private practice, and approach my work through a trauma-informed lens. I have supported people who have experienced trauma, domestic violence, sexual assault, unexpected crisis, chronic health problems, grief, anxiety, depression, life transitions, parenting issues, problems at school, and problems with emotion regulation.
I also incorporate lots of games, play, art, mindfulness, and mind-body activities, and bring a focus on strengths and empowerment.
I love helping people feel heard, understood, and seen through a compassionate and empathic approach to therapy. I work with a broad range of people, from elementary schoolers to adults. I love working with kids, teens, young adults, and women. I have experience working in a crisis center, schools, and private practice, and approach my work through a trauma-informed lens. I have supported people who have experienced trauma, domestic violence, sexual assault, unexpected crisis, chronic health problems, grief, anxiety, depression, life transitions, parenting issues, problems at school, and problems with emotion regulation.
![Photo of Sonne Goode, LCPC, NBCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3e9dd3e-7429-4b10-8145-3eae0592821a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sonne Goode
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21704
Play therapy, mindfulness, and a strength-based approach are found within her counseling.
Sonne Goode is the founder of Goode Thoughts Therapy! She is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in addition to a Professional School Counselor and a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC). Sonne is devoted to supporting clients in achieving their goals and making positive change through an eclectic approach including cognitive behavioral and solution focused perspectives.
Play therapy, mindfulness, and a strength-based approach are found within her counseling.
Sonne Goode is the founder of Goode Thoughts Therapy! She is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in addition to a Professional School Counselor and a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC). Sonne is devoted to supporting clients in achieving their goals and making positive change through an eclectic approach including cognitive behavioral and solution focused perspectives.
![Photo of Victoria Wachter Seward, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c6f18b1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Victoria Wachter Seward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21701
Waitlist for new clients
In my large playroom I do Play Therapy tailored to each child.
For the past 16 yrs I've worked primarily with children & adolescents* on the autism spectrum. Of course working with children means working with parents; partnering with parents is essential so that the progress we make in sessions carries over to everyday family life. There is nothing better than finding the "secret" to reaching a child and seeing them blossom before your eyes. It might not happen overnight, but believe me, it happens. To make the most progress, children should begin therapy as early as possible. * I can see adult clients and couples, wkdays between 11 am - 2 pm.
In my large playroom I do Play Therapy tailored to each child.
For the past 16 yrs I've worked primarily with children & adolescents* on the autism spectrum. Of course working with children means working with parents; partnering with parents is essential so that the progress we make in sessions carries over to everyday family life. There is nothing better than finding the "secret" to reaching a child and seeing them blossom before your eyes. It might not happen overnight, but believe me, it happens. To make the most progress, children should begin therapy as early as possible. * I can see adult clients and couples, wkdays between 11 am - 2 pm.
![Photo of Stephanie Kelley, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f2d536c-6627-4d4e-b891-dc95a94fd9bc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Kelley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21702 (Online Only)
I have training in Motivational Interviewing, DBT, trauma interventions, somatic interventions, narrative, and play therapy.
I deeply respect your autonomy and worth; and utilize a relational, client-centered, neuroaffirming approach to care.
I have training in Motivational Interviewing, DBT, trauma interventions, somatic interventions, narrative, and play therapy.
I deeply respect your autonomy and worth; and utilize a relational, client-centered, neuroaffirming approach to care.
![Photo of Veronica Bannon - Veronica Bannon - Creative Therapeutic Connections, LCPC, NCC, MA, BC-DMT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51c6c5df-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Veronica Bannon - Creative Therapeutic Connections
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC, MA, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21704
Intake assessments determine which therapeutic modality would best service each individual client (expressive therapies, CBT, mindful meditations, play therapy, and/or traditional counseling), based on their personal goals and preferences.
With over 30 years of clinical experience, I utilize CBT, imagery/relaxation, mindfulness/meditation, role play, play therapy and expressive therapies to address the challenges that children, adolescents and adults face. Therapeutic goals of clients may include increasing self-esteem, improving self-expression, decreasing anxiety, improving self/other awareness, increasing attention span, improving self-control, increasing frustration tolerance, improving anger management, decreasing teasing/bullying, and improving interpersonal relating skills. Clients develop coping mechanisms for high stress, low mood and/or poor communication.
Intake assessments determine which therapeutic modality would best service each individual client (expressive therapies, CBT, mindful meditations, play therapy, and/or traditional counseling), based on their personal goals and preferences.
With over 30 years of clinical experience, I utilize CBT, imagery/relaxation, mindfulness/meditation, role play, play therapy and expressive therapies to address the challenges that children, adolescents and adults face. Therapeutic goals of clients may include increasing self-esteem, improving self-expression, decreasing anxiety, improving self/other awareness, increasing attention span, improving self-control, increasing frustration tolerance, improving anger management, decreasing teasing/bullying, and improving interpersonal relating skills. Clients develop coping mechanisms for high stress, low mood and/or poor communication.
![Photo of Kathleen 'katie' Plant, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fdb716bf-287b-4a4a-9d67-8f3fbae82113/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kathleen 'katie' Plant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21704
I use play therapy as a way for youth to express and process their emotions and social emotional learning to help teaching proper coping strategies.
Is your family going through a transition? Is your child going through a tough time? Are emotions hard for them to address and process? I'm here to guide your child and your family and help bring a calming ease into your home. I'm here to work with your child and with you to work through obstacles, conflict, and emotional dysregulations.
I use play therapy as a way for youth to express and process their emotions and social emotional learning to help teaching proper coping strategies.
Is your family going through a transition? Is your child going through a tough time? Are emotions hard for them to address and process? I'm here to guide your child and your family and help bring a calming ease into your home. I'm here to work with your child and with you to work through obstacles, conflict, and emotional dysregulations.
![Photo of Kelcee Molen](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1af9184f-4687-4d39-9e50-302d73ea8a80/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kelcee Molen
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21702 (Online Only)
I look forward to working with you and tackling mental health challenges together. I specialize in a range of modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, expressive therapies, motivational interviewing, narrative therapy, grounding techniques, etc. I have been in the field for 10 years and worked at various locations with clients ranging from 4 years old to 80 years old. My degree specialization is in children and adolescent treatment. However, for the past 6 years, I have been working exclusively with adults.
I look forward to working with you and tackling mental health challenges together. I specialize in a range of modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, expressive therapies, motivational interviewing, narrative therapy, grounding techniques, etc. I have been in the field for 10 years and worked at various locations with clients ranging from 4 years old to 80 years old. My degree specialization is in children and adolescent treatment. However, for the past 6 years, I have been working exclusively with adults.
![Photo of Stephanie Kurtyka, LCPAT, LCPC, ATR-BC, Art Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f78d746-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Kurtyka
Art Therapist, LCPAT, LCPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21702
"Art can permeate the very deepest part of us, where no words exist" -Eileen Miller. I believe in the creative process as a powerful tool for facilitating self-expression, self-discovery, and self-fulfillment by integrating one's physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional health. I incorporate a variety of modalities, such as Art Therapy (no prior art training necessary), Play Therapy, and Sand Tray Therapy, into sessions while honoring each client's individual strengths and needs. My experience working with those emotionally distressed and my training in trauma theory supports my belief in every person's innate capacity for healing
"Art can permeate the very deepest part of us, where no words exist" -Eileen Miller. I believe in the creative process as a powerful tool for facilitating self-expression, self-discovery, and self-fulfillment by integrating one's physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional health. I incorporate a variety of modalities, such as Art Therapy (no prior art training necessary), Play Therapy, and Sand Tray Therapy, into sessions while honoring each client's individual strengths and needs. My experience working with those emotionally distressed and my training in trauma theory supports my belief in every person's innate capacity for healing
![Photo of Allison Griffin - Allison Griffin, LCSW-C, LLC, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3caf90f2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/6/320x400.jpeg)
Allison Griffin, LCSW-C, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
Life can bring us many ups and downs, which often leaves us feeling confused, overwhelmed and out of control. I believe you have an ability to identify solutions to your problems, but may have become stuck. I will assist you to identify your strengths and work on your personal goals, to feel empowered and move forward in your life. Through a collaborative approach I use a strengths-based approach using cognitive behavior techniques,mindfulness,and play therapy with children. I provide a safe and confidential setting where you feel understood and validated.
Life can bring us many ups and downs, which often leaves us feeling confused, overwhelmed and out of control. I believe you have an ability to identify solutions to your problems, but may have become stuck. I will assist you to identify your strengths and work on your personal goals, to feel empowered and move forward in your life. Through a collaborative approach I use a strengths-based approach using cognitive behavior techniques,mindfulness,and play therapy with children. I provide a safe and confidential setting where you feel understood and validated.
![Photo of Shouh-Rong Vivian Tsai, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/440cae12-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a clinical psychologist with more than 15 years of experience working with children, families, and adults from a wide variety of racial, economic and cultural backgrounds. Although I am trained as a generalist, I have a specific interest and significant experience treating children and their families. I practice individual therapy, family therapy, play therapy, utilizes phone consultations, as well as assessment and testing using a wide range of empirically validated instruments to support the individuals towards improvements in their daily functioning.
I am a clinical psychologist with more than 15 years of experience working with children, families, and adults from a wide variety of racial, economic and cultural backgrounds. Although I am trained as a generalist, I have a specific interest and significant experience treating children and their families. I practice individual therapy, family therapy, play therapy, utilizes phone consultations, as well as assessment and testing using a wide range of empirically validated instruments to support the individuals towards improvements in their daily functioning.
![Photo of Meghan Harrington-Patton, LC4973, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2ab7dd9-13df-43d6-95fd-391565ad9d5c/1/320x400.png)
I utilize a range of therapeutic approaches to meet the unique needs of each client, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Bibliotherapy, Breathwork, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Play Therapy, Solutions Focused Therapy, Strength-Based Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT).
Hello, my name is Meghan! I have over 10 years of experience as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, having earned my Master's in Pastoral Counseling in 2009. I provide individual and family therapy to children, adolescents, and adults. My extensive clinical experience includes working with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, grief and loss, trauma, attention deficit disorder, PANDAS/PANS, self-esteem issues, and spiritual concerns. My goal is to create a safe, welcoming environment where we can collaborate to foster self-awareness, self-care, and gain insight into your current issues.
I utilize a range of therapeutic approaches to meet the unique needs of each client, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Bibliotherapy, Breathwork, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Play Therapy, Solutions Focused Therapy, Strength-Based Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT).
Hello, my name is Meghan! I have over 10 years of experience as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, having earned my Master's in Pastoral Counseling in 2009. I provide individual and family therapy to children, adolescents, and adults. My extensive clinical experience includes working with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, grief and loss, trauma, attention deficit disorder, PANDAS/PANS, self-esteem issues, and spiritual concerns. My goal is to create a safe, welcoming environment where we can collaborate to foster self-awareness, self-care, and gain insight into your current issues.
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Inspire & Flo LLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21704 (Online Only)
Utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI) treatment modalities, Play therapy Informed, Military training, along with techniques in Alderian and Eclectic Counseling.
Accepting Carefirst BCBS! I possess a genuine approach and have the capacity for quickly establishing rapport with clients of all ages, ethnicities, sexual orientations, and socioeconomic status. My work in mental health and substance addiction has proven to be my capacity; I believe in allowing you to reach your full potential. I respect autonomy and the need for confidentiality. I focus on helping my clients build Strength, Assertiveness, and most importantly gain Empowerment in their lives. Located and Licensed in Maryland. I take an empathetic and passionate approach, taking care to personally connect with each client I meet.
Utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI) treatment modalities, Play therapy Informed, Military training, along with techniques in Alderian and Eclectic Counseling.
Accepting Carefirst BCBS! I possess a genuine approach and have the capacity for quickly establishing rapport with clients of all ages, ethnicities, sexual orientations, and socioeconomic status. My work in mental health and substance addiction has proven to be my capacity; I believe in allowing you to reach your full potential. I respect autonomy and the need for confidentiality. I focus on helping my clients build Strength, Assertiveness, and most importantly gain Empowerment in their lives. Located and Licensed in Maryland. I take an empathetic and passionate approach, taking care to personally connect with each client I meet.
![Photo of Caiwei Tang, LGPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f3d8ef6-9a90-441b-9550-f82e2e0a0f0e/2/320x400.jpeg)
You are unique, and so is your path to healing, which is why I use a variety of therapeutic techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Play Therapy.
Hello, I’m Caiwei "Iris" Tang, a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor in Maryland. I received my Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Johns Hopkins University and have focused my practice on helping individuals who are dealing with mood disorders, women’s issues, and trauma. I believe therapy is a collaborative journey, and my goal is to walk alongside you with compassion and understanding.
You are unique, and so is your path to healing, which is why I use a variety of therapeutic techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Play Therapy.
Hello, I’m Caiwei "Iris" Tang, a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor in Maryland. I received my Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Johns Hopkins University and have focused my practice on helping individuals who are dealing with mood disorders, women’s issues, and trauma. I believe therapy is a collaborative journey, and my goal is to walk alongside you with compassion and understanding.
![Photo of Terri Dawn Gumm, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f3ff119-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Treatment Options include: Individual Child and Adult Trauma Therapy, Marital and Family Therapy, Dissociative Integration, Corrective Attachment Therapy, Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy, Child Centered Play Therapy, Filial Therapy, Adult and Child EMDR, Therapeutic Parenting, Emotional Freedom Technique.
With nearly 20 years' experience in the mental health field, I have a wealth of experience treating adults and children through a wide host of challenges. Whether your distress has been long lasting or caused by a recent event, we will work together to identify, understand, and overcome what is holding you back from your desired life experience. The most important factor in a successful therapy outcome is the client/therapist relationship. I believe you will find me to be a welcoming, knowledgeable, light hearted, and down to earth.
Treatment Options include: Individual Child and Adult Trauma Therapy, Marital and Family Therapy, Dissociative Integration, Corrective Attachment Therapy, Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy, Child Centered Play Therapy, Filial Therapy, Adult and Child EMDR, Therapeutic Parenting, Emotional Freedom Technique.
With nearly 20 years' experience in the mental health field, I have a wealth of experience treating adults and children through a wide host of challenges. Whether your distress has been long lasting or caused by a recent event, we will work together to identify, understand, and overcome what is holding you back from your desired life experience. The most important factor in a successful therapy outcome is the client/therapist relationship. I believe you will find me to be a welcoming, knowledgeable, light hearted, and down to earth.
![Photo of Laura Levine, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e9312b74-7f65-4777-8a93-5e54cba83dbe/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in trauma treatment and have certifications in various Trauma treatments as well as Anxiety and Play therapy treatments.
I understand how debilitating life can be when you have experienced trauma and/or phobias, and I don't want to see you suffer for any longer than you already have. This is why I often utilize Accelerated Resolution Therapy during counseling. ART doesn't require you to share details of your experience, and many concerns can be addressed in 3-5 sessions! Imagine being able to go to the dentist without fear, or perhaps you'd like to just experience life without anxiety constantly getting in the way. If you've been considering counseling and now feel ready to make the leap to improve your life satisfaction, I can help!
I specialize in trauma treatment and have certifications in various Trauma treatments as well as Anxiety and Play therapy treatments.
I understand how debilitating life can be when you have experienced trauma and/or phobias, and I don't want to see you suffer for any longer than you already have. This is why I often utilize Accelerated Resolution Therapy during counseling. ART doesn't require you to share details of your experience, and many concerns can be addressed in 3-5 sessions! Imagine being able to go to the dentist without fear, or perhaps you'd like to just experience life without anxiety constantly getting in the way. If you've been considering counseling and now feel ready to make the leap to improve your life satisfaction, I can help!
![Photo of Vernon Byrd Coulon, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ed9bd4d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Vernon Byrd Coulon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21702 (Online Only)
My holistic approaches include Inner Child healing techniques, EFT-Emotional Freedom Techniques, TBT-Transformational Breathing Techniques and Play Therapy for Adults.
We all deserve to be happy. Sometimes events and circumstances may get in our way. Using holistic approaches to compliment traditional talk therapy, I hope you will let me help you on your journey of self-discovery and healing. Whether you are dealing with traumatic issues or life challenges, these methods work! As one client shared with me, "after years in talk therapy, this is the first time that I am beginning to feel integrated and whole." If you are ready, please accept my offer to share this journey with you.
My holistic approaches include Inner Child healing techniques, EFT-Emotional Freedom Techniques, TBT-Transformational Breathing Techniques and Play Therapy for Adults.
We all deserve to be happy. Sometimes events and circumstances may get in our way. Using holistic approaches to compliment traditional talk therapy, I hope you will let me help you on your journey of self-discovery and healing. Whether you are dealing with traumatic issues or life challenges, these methods work! As one client shared with me, "after years in talk therapy, this is the first time that I am beginning to feel integrated and whole." If you are ready, please accept my offer to share this journey with you.
![Photo of Kristen Reese, LGPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89936a20-266f-419d-91d5-fcb144b3cc2b/1/320x400.png)
I integrate mindfulness, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), as well as art, play, and movement techniques.
Thanks for visiting my page! I'm Kristen, a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor specializing in individual psychotherapy for adults, children, and adolescents alike. As a therapist I understand that engaging in therapy for the first time can be an overwhelming experience and I aim to create a safe space for my clients to express themselves and feel empowered to overcome life’s obstacles.
I integrate mindfulness, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), as well as art, play, and movement techniques.
Thanks for visiting my page! I'm Kristen, a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor specializing in individual psychotherapy for adults, children, and adolescents alike. As a therapist I understand that engaging in therapy for the first time can be an overwhelming experience and I aim to create a safe space for my clients to express themselves and feel empowered to overcome life’s obstacles.
![Photo of Maryland Child Therapy Specialists Janeen Rao, LCSW-C, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a8c51b6-3031-453c-b773-3002c0be7777/2/320x400.jpeg)
Maryland Child Therapy Specialists Janeen Rao
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, RPT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical (LCSW-C), and a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor (RPT-S).
Is your child struggling with expressing themselves, throwing excessive temper tantrums, having trouble getting along with others or have they experienced a traumatic event? Are you struggling with how to best help your child? With 14 years of experience specializing in childhood mental health disorders like Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Disruptive behavior disorder and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, I am here to help. I strive to provide a warm, accepting and safe place for my clients and their families during their journey of growth and healing.
I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical (LCSW-C), and a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor (RPT-S).
Is your child struggling with expressing themselves, throwing excessive temper tantrums, having trouble getting along with others or have they experienced a traumatic event? Are you struggling with how to best help your child? With 14 years of experience specializing in childhood mental health disorders like Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Disruptive behavior disorder and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, I am here to help. I strive to provide a warm, accepting and safe place for my clients and their families during their journey of growth and healing.
![Photo of Emilee Stoner, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6076512b-581d-4248-8c0f-355af60128cb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emilee Stoner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21704 (Online Only)
Therapy can be more than sitting and talking, it can include games, crafts, and sand play.
I am passionate about allowing each person to enter therapy with their full personality and desire to foster and engage with their natural strengths. While normalizing that even as adults, we should play. I work with children with big feelings, teenagers who are navigating their place in this world, and adults who are looking for a unique, enjoyable approach to therapy.
Therapy can be more than sitting and talking, it can include games, crafts, and sand play.
I am passionate about allowing each person to enter therapy with their full personality and desire to foster and engage with their natural strengths. While normalizing that even as adults, we should play. I work with children with big feelings, teenagers who are navigating their place in this world, and adults who are looking for a unique, enjoyable approach to therapy.
![Photo of Meghan Murphy, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd7f56fa-977a-4317-8529-92f77ef0eeac/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you feel like you are struggling to understand your child? Perhaps your child is struggling at home, school, or other social environments? I specialize in helping children find their voice to effectively communicate and help bridge the parent child relationship. Parenting doesn't come with an instruction manual and can often become overwhelming. Through our work together I can help build the confidence needed to navigate the difficult situations often faced by both children and parents today. I connect with children by using play therapy, expressive arts, and other developmentally appropriate interventions.
Do you feel like you are struggling to understand your child? Perhaps your child is struggling at home, school, or other social environments? I specialize in helping children find their voice to effectively communicate and help bridge the parent child relationship. Parenting doesn't come with an instruction manual and can often become overwhelming. Through our work together I can help build the confidence needed to navigate the difficult situations often faced by both children and parents today. I connect with children by using play therapy, expressive arts, and other developmentally appropriate interventions.
See more therapy options for Frederick
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Frederick
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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.