Play Therapy in Raleigh, NC

Photo of Grace Bailey, LCMHCA, MEd, Counselor
Grace Bailey
Counselor, LCMHCA, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
For children, I utilize their language of play through therapy.
I believe that as human beings we are tasked with navigating the ebbs and flows of life. We experience moments full of joy and laughter while simultaneously coping with the challenges and struggles life throws our way. As a counselor, it is my mission to work with you through the rollercoaster of life. I work with children, teens, adults, and LGBTQ+ populations struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, family dynamics, identity issues, communication and boundary-setting, body-image and self-esteem, and emotion regulation.
For children, I utilize their language of play through therapy.
I believe that as human beings we are tasked with navigating the ebbs and flows of life. We experience moments full of joy and laughter while simultaneously coping with the challenges and struggles life throws our way. As a counselor, it is my mission to work with you through the rollercoaster of life. I work with children, teens, adults, and LGBTQ+ populations struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, family dynamics, identity issues, communication and boundary-setting, body-image and self-esteem, and emotion regulation.
(919) 891-8259 View (919) 891-8259
Photo of Stephanie Manosalvas, MSW, LCSWA
Stephanie Manosalvas
LCSW Associate, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27605
I also utilize child-centered play therapy to better connect and support younger clients.
Hello! I am a Hispanic, bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate (LCSWA). I am currently available to provide therapeutic services for Children (6+), Adults, and Families. My primary focus is on trauma and LGBTQ+, as well as anxiety, depression, anxiety, life transitions, and other life stressors. My previous experience in various diverse settings, including private practice, inpatient facilities, and community agencies, have equipped me with a broad perspective and a deep understanding of the mental health landscape.
I also utilize child-centered play therapy to better connect and support younger clients.
Hello! I am a Hispanic, bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate (LCSWA). I am currently available to provide therapeutic services for Children (6+), Adults, and Families. My primary focus is on trauma and LGBTQ+, as well as anxiety, depression, anxiety, life transitions, and other life stressors. My previous experience in various diverse settings, including private practice, inpatient facilities, and community agencies, have equipped me with a broad perspective and a deep understanding of the mental health landscape.
(984) 231-9461 View (984) 231-9461
Photo of Alexis Schulman, MS, LCMHC, Counselor
Alexis Schulman
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
With children, I utilize expressive arts such as play therapy to explore their feelings while the child feels safe and engaged.
We spend most days just trying to get through the day. I passionately believe that nothing else will matter unless your mental health is in the right place. I find therapy is learning to make your body and mind a safe place even when they seem out of control. I work with individuals to become attuned to their self. I meet my clients with authenticity and a refreshing energy to create a strong therapeutic relationship. I take therapy at the pace and comfort level of the client.
With children, I utilize expressive arts such as play therapy to explore their feelings while the child feels safe and engaged.
We spend most days just trying to get through the day. I passionately believe that nothing else will matter unless your mental health is in the right place. I find therapy is learning to make your body and mind a safe place even when they seem out of control. I work with individuals to become attuned to their self. I meet my clients with authenticity and a refreshing energy to create a strong therapeutic relationship. I take therapy at the pace and comfort level of the client.
(919) 635-4286 x1 View (919) 635-4286 x1
Photo of Stephanie Dawn Phillips - The Mindly Group, PLLC, PLLC
The Mindly Group, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, PLLC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
Our specialized services include play therapy for children, individual and family therapy for tweens, teens, and adults, and even couples and marital counseling.
If you or somebody you know is in need of therapy or counseling please check us out! We're an energetic group of mental health professionals all dedicated to the common goal of providing the highest quality, most effective psychotherapy and counseling services for our Raleigh & Cary community and beyond. Whether it's depression, anxiety, ADHD, Addiction, or relationship difficulties we have friendly licensed professionals who can help.
Our specialized services include play therapy for children, individual and family therapy for tweens, teens, and adults, and even couples and marital counseling.
If you or somebody you know is in need of therapy or counseling please check us out! We're an energetic group of mental health professionals all dedicated to the common goal of providing the highest quality, most effective psychotherapy and counseling services for our Raleigh & Cary community and beyond. Whether it's depression, anxiety, ADHD, Addiction, or relationship difficulties we have friendly licensed professionals who can help.
(919) 289-4121 x1 View (919) 289-4121 x1
Photo of Beth Mumford Holloway, MA, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Beth Mumford Holloway
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
Beth M Holloway, MA, LPC has been working in the mental health field since 2005. Her counseling approach comes from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, Solution-Focused Therapy, Play-Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. Mrs. Holloway has extensive clinical experience, in working with adults, children, adolescents, women's issues, parenting and blended family issues as well as couple's therapy. Her areas of therapeutic expertise are treating Anxiety, Depression, Interpersonal Relationships, Divorce Recovery, Grief & Loss, Obsessive Thoughts, Academic Achievement, Oppositional Behaviors and Crises of Faith.
Beth M Holloway, MA, LPC has been working in the mental health field since 2005. Her counseling approach comes from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, Solution-Focused Therapy, Play-Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. Mrs. Holloway has extensive clinical experience, in working with adults, children, adolescents, women's issues, parenting and blended family issues as well as couple's therapy. Her areas of therapeutic expertise are treating Anxiety, Depression, Interpersonal Relationships, Divorce Recovery, Grief & Loss, Obsessive Thoughts, Academic Achievement, Oppositional Behaviors and Crises of Faith.
(919) 813-6480 View (919) 813-6480
Photo of Jewel Chickering - Flourish Counseling and Consulting, LCSW, LCSWA, LCMHC, LCMHCA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Flourish Counseling and Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSWA, LCMHC, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
We offer Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Brainspotting, Play Therapy and more.
We know that initiating counseling services for your child or yourself can be very challenging. Please know you are making a positive step towards a healthy change in your life and we are here to help you every step of the way.
We offer Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Brainspotting, Play Therapy and more.
We know that initiating counseling services for your child or yourself can be very challenging. Please know you are making a positive step towards a healthy change in your life and we are here to help you every step of the way.
(704) 850-9783 View (704) 850-9783
Photo of Sara Pascucci, MS, NCC, LCMHC, Counselor
Sara Pascucci
Counselor, MS, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609  (Online Only)
I have 7 years of experience as a therapist and utilize many different evidence-based therapies including person-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, solution focused therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and child-centered play therapy.
I love working with people from all different types of backgrounds and dealing with many different types of issues. I love building on people's strengths and resiliencies to help them reach their goals, improve their relationships, and overall life satisfaction. I work with children, adolescents, and adults; and people of all ethnicities, religious preferences, and sexual orientations. I have experience with a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma and post-traumatic stress, grief and loss, parenting, child development, relational issues, and LGBTQ issues.
I have 7 years of experience as a therapist and utilize many different evidence-based therapies including person-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, solution focused therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and child-centered play therapy.
I love working with people from all different types of backgrounds and dealing with many different types of issues. I love building on people's strengths and resiliencies to help them reach their goals, improve their relationships, and overall life satisfaction. I work with children, adolescents, and adults; and people of all ethnicities, religious preferences, and sexual orientations. I have experience with a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma and post-traumatic stress, grief and loss, parenting, child development, relational issues, and LGBTQ issues.
(984) 334-2411 View (984) 334-2411
Photo of Cheryl Lynn Childers, LCSW, ATR-BC, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cheryl Lynn Childers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ATR-BC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
You may use art, music, written word, play—or you may prefer curling up on the couch under a soft blanket and talking.
As someone who has experienced past sexual / physical abuse, or chronic illness, do you often wonder how you can move past the overwhelming shame and pain? Have you tried “everything” but nothing seems to alleviate the flashbacks or unwanted memories. Do you want to stop dissociating? Do you long be free of anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts; longing for connection, worthiness, and to tell your story with a safe, non-judgmental person. Are you willing to examine thoughts, emotions, behaviors and learn how to utilize your whole self, develop shame resilience—transforming the way you live & love in your current relationships?
You may use art, music, written word, play—or you may prefer curling up on the couch under a soft blanket and talking.
As someone who has experienced past sexual / physical abuse, or chronic illness, do you often wonder how you can move past the overwhelming shame and pain? Have you tried “everything” but nothing seems to alleviate the flashbacks or unwanted memories. Do you want to stop dissociating? Do you long be free of anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts; longing for connection, worthiness, and to tell your story with a safe, non-judgmental person. Are you willing to examine thoughts, emotions, behaviors and learn how to utilize your whole self, develop shame resilience—transforming the way you live & love in your current relationships?
(984) 204-7280 View (984) 204-7280
Photo of Leila Beikmohamadi, MA, LPA, Psychological Associate
Leila Beikmohamadi
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
I pull from various therapeutic techniques including play-based, strengths-based, Acceptance and Commitment, and Cognitive Behavioral therapies.
Hello! I enjoy supporting neurodivergent children, adolescents, and adults. I focus on challenges with emotional regulation, self-esteem, anxiety, social interactions, depression, school success, and life transitions. I also enjoy working with identity challenges and development. I strive to help my clients gain a better understanding of their past and present selves and explore what values they want to guide them moving forward. I love incorporating hands-on and experiential exercises into my work.
I pull from various therapeutic techniques including play-based, strengths-based, Acceptance and Commitment, and Cognitive Behavioral therapies.
Hello! I enjoy supporting neurodivergent children, adolescents, and adults. I focus on challenges with emotional regulation, self-esteem, anxiety, social interactions, depression, school success, and life transitions. I also enjoy working with identity challenges and development. I strive to help my clients gain a better understanding of their past and present selves and explore what values they want to guide them moving forward. I love incorporating hands-on and experiential exercises into my work.
(984) 464-6394 View (984) 464-6394
Photo of Jason Robert Cole, MA, LCMHC, CAMS-II, Counselor
Jason Robert Cole
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
At Reframe Counselings Services, PLLC we have knowledgeable and caring therapists who specialize in individual counseling, couples therapy, family counseling, parenting skills/strategies, play therapy.
Jason Cole is a mental health counselor with experience working with children, adolescents and adults using a variety of theoretical perspectives in individual, group, couples and family therapy sessions. His area of expertise is in working with children, adolescents, young adults, and adults with a diverse range of needs and difficulties in traditional talk therapy. Jason enjoys working with clients to create and meet life goals through times of difficulty or uncertainty, and has worked extensively in the areas of life changes, anger management, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, behavioral issues, and depression.
At Reframe Counselings Services, PLLC we have knowledgeable and caring therapists who specialize in individual counseling, couples therapy, family counseling, parenting skills/strategies, play therapy.
Jason Cole is a mental health counselor with experience working with children, adolescents and adults using a variety of theoretical perspectives in individual, group, couples and family therapy sessions. His area of expertise is in working with children, adolescents, young adults, and adults with a diverse range of needs and difficulties in traditional talk therapy. Jason enjoys working with clients to create and meet life goals through times of difficulty or uncertainty, and has worked extensively in the areas of life changes, anger management, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, behavioral issues, and depression.
(919) 289-8053 View (919) 289-8053
Photo of Lauren Askew, LCMHCA, Counselor
Lauren Askew
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
I utilize play therapy for early elementary age children (ages 4-9) and talk therapy for older children and teens.
As a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, I provide counseling for children and families. My counseling focus is on improving the well-being of children experiencing anxiety, anger, depression, attention concerns, and difficulty adjusting to new life changes.
I utilize play therapy for early elementary age children (ages 4-9) and talk therapy for older children and teens.
As a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, I provide counseling for children and families. My counseling focus is on improving the well-being of children experiencing anxiety, anger, depression, attention concerns, and difficulty adjusting to new life changes.
(919) 899-1153 View (919) 899-1153
Photo of Kaitlyn Lightfoot, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kaitlyn Lightfoot
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
Welcome! My name is Kaitlyn Lightfoot and I am a therapist passionate about working with children, teens, and young adults. Mental health matters at all ages, and today’s children and young adults are navigating a seemingly endless amount of change, pressure, feelings, and stressors. I aim to be a warm, nonjudgmental safe space for kids and teens to show up as they are and play, talk, feel, laugh, and be creative. My hope is that my clients learn to embrace their full authentic selves and better understand their needs, feelings, strengths, and their place in this world.
Welcome! My name is Kaitlyn Lightfoot and I am a therapist passionate about working with children, teens, and young adults. Mental health matters at all ages, and today’s children and young adults are navigating a seemingly endless amount of change, pressure, feelings, and stressors. I aim to be a warm, nonjudgmental safe space for kids and teens to show up as they are and play, talk, feel, laugh, and be creative. My hope is that my clients learn to embrace their full authentic selves and better understand their needs, feelings, strengths, and their place in this world.
(984) 384-5921 View (984) 384-5921
Photo of Molly-Mae Pinson, MS, LCMHCA, NCC , Counselor
Molly-Mae Pinson
Counselor, MS, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
Whether it's through talk therapy, play therapy for younger clients, or family sessions, we'll focus on developing insights and strategies that can help you move forward in life.
Hi, I'm Molly-Mae! I'm passionate about helping children, teens, and families navigate life's challenges. In my practice, I often work with young people struggling to express big emotions, teenagers grappling with anxiety or depression, and families seeking to improve communication. My approach resonates with individuals ready to explore creative ways to develop coping skills, improve relationships, and work towards personal goals. If you're seeking change and growth, know that your desire is the first step on a transformative journey.
Whether it's through talk therapy, play therapy for younger clients, or family sessions, we'll focus on developing insights and strategies that can help you move forward in life.
Hi, I'm Molly-Mae! I'm passionate about helping children, teens, and families navigate life's challenges. In my practice, I often work with young people struggling to express big emotions, teenagers grappling with anxiety or depression, and families seeking to improve communication. My approach resonates with individuals ready to explore creative ways to develop coping skills, improve relationships, and work towards personal goals. If you're seeking change and growth, know that your desire is the first step on a transformative journey.
(984) 230-8412 View (984) 230-8412
Photo of Kelly Orr Belk, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Orr Belk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
I have learned many techniques such as CBT, sandtray, play therapy, relaxation and so on, but the best lesson has been that each person has a purpose and strength uniquely their own.
I enjoy working with people who have an interest in their own personal growth, taking a journey, trying something new. If you are looking into trying out therapy, you ARE that person! You are looking to take a chance on yourself, and that's a wonderful, and sometimes overwhelming feeling. New things can be hard, and I think therapy should be supportive of this while guiding them through the necessary process of growing pains. Therapy can be hard work, but the benefits can last a lifetime.
I have learned many techniques such as CBT, sandtray, play therapy, relaxation and so on, but the best lesson has been that each person has a purpose and strength uniquely their own.
I enjoy working with people who have an interest in their own personal growth, taking a journey, trying something new. If you are looking into trying out therapy, you ARE that person! You are looking to take a chance on yourself, and that's a wonderful, and sometimes overwhelming feeling. New things can be hard, and I think therapy should be supportive of this while guiding them through the necessary process of growing pains. Therapy can be hard work, but the benefits can last a lifetime.
(984) 223-5162 View (984) 223-5162
Photo of Hannah Edwardson, LCMHC, NCC, RPT
Hannah Edwardson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, RPT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
Waitlist for new clients
I'm Hannah and I help children and teens (ages 5-18) and their parents/caregivers feel more connected through the therapeutic powers of play therapy. Regardless of the different events that bring clients into therapy, each family I work with has a major overarching goal of feeling more attuned to each other's needs and being able to feel more confident in communicating their needs/emotions among their family household. I help my clients by providing children, teens, and adults with the strategies that allow them to gain more clarity and confidence over their emotions through their healing process.
I'm Hannah and I help children and teens (ages 5-18) and their parents/caregivers feel more connected through the therapeutic powers of play therapy. Regardless of the different events that bring clients into therapy, each family I work with has a major overarching goal of feeling more attuned to each other's needs and being able to feel more confident in communicating their needs/emotions among their family household. I help my clients by providing children, teens, and adults with the strategies that allow them to gain more clarity and confidence over their emotions through their healing process.
(919) 646-3027 View (919) 646-3027
Photo of Carol Lynn Battle-Ferguson - Carol Battle-Ferguson, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carol Battle-Ferguson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27658  (Online Only)
Calling All Women, especially Single Women. You know, sometimes life will throw you a curve, making it difficult to get back on track. I have been counseling for over (20) years. My primary focus has been with concerns on anxiety, depression, grief and self-esteem. Clients' counseling issues include personal, emotional, professional, and relationship problems. When appropriate, I will use Christian Counseling. I will use play therapy, and expressive art therapy techniques with clients. I want you to be healed, mind, body and soul.
Calling All Women, especially Single Women. You know, sometimes life will throw you a curve, making it difficult to get back on track. I have been counseling for over (20) years. My primary focus has been with concerns on anxiety, depression, grief and self-esteem. Clients' counseling issues include personal, emotional, professional, and relationship problems. When appropriate, I will use Christian Counseling. I will use play therapy, and expressive art therapy techniques with clients. I want you to be healed, mind, body and soul.
(919) 214-5435 View (919) 214-5435
Photo of Vidya Venkataganesan, MA, LCMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Vidya Venkataganesan
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
Using methods like DBT, CBT, play therapy, art therapy, and narrative therapy, we will explore your self-identity, identify strengths, and set achievable goals.
Are you or your child feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or not quite “yourself?” Whether dealing with emotional regulation, anxiety, or self-criticism, I am here to help. My practice supports individuals and families in creating meaningful change, providing a warm, supportive environment for growth and healing. Persistent sadness, anxiety, or low self-esteem can be isolating. I specialize in helping individuals navigate these emotions and relationship stresses, with a deep commitment to supporting the BIPOC community and understanding the unique challenges faced by those in these communities.
Using methods like DBT, CBT, play therapy, art therapy, and narrative therapy, we will explore your self-identity, identify strengths, and set achievable goals.
Are you or your child feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or not quite “yourself?” Whether dealing with emotional regulation, anxiety, or self-criticism, I am here to help. My practice supports individuals and families in creating meaningful change, providing a warm, supportive environment for growth and healing. Persistent sadness, anxiety, or low self-esteem can be isolating. I specialize in helping individuals navigate these emotions and relationship stresses, with a deep commitment to supporting the BIPOC community and understanding the unique challenges faced by those in these communities.
(984) 300-4788 View (984) 300-4788
Photo of Yanet Cerda - Lifestyle Consultant Services, MS, LPC, LCAS-A
Lifestyle Consultant Services
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LPC, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
* Substance Abuse Treatment * Medication Management * Psychiatric Evaluation * Individual Psychotherapy * Group Psychotherapy * Family Therapy * Marital Therapy * Grief Counseling * Anger Management * Trauma-Focused Therapy * PSuboxone treatment* Play Therapy* EMDR.
The mission of Lifestyle Consultant Services is to improve the quality of mental health and substance abuse services by reducing stigma and by protecting the rights of the individual who suffers from mental illness and/or substance abuse. By identifying the pain and suffering experienced by citizens in our community and addressing them with care, we aim to strengthen and promote health and well being. Suboxone is the combination of buprenorphine (partial opioid agonist) and naloxone (opioid antagonist - Narcan). The combination is either 2 mg/0.5 mg or 8 mg/2 mg. Suboxone is a sublingual film (it dissolves under the tongue).
* Substance Abuse Treatment * Medication Management * Psychiatric Evaluation * Individual Psychotherapy * Group Psychotherapy * Family Therapy * Marital Therapy * Grief Counseling * Anger Management * Trauma-Focused Therapy * PSuboxone treatment* Play Therapy* EMDR.
The mission of Lifestyle Consultant Services is to improve the quality of mental health and substance abuse services by reducing stigma and by protecting the rights of the individual who suffers from mental illness and/or substance abuse. By identifying the pain and suffering experienced by citizens in our community and addressing them with care, we aim to strengthen and promote health and well being. Suboxone is the combination of buprenorphine (partial opioid agonist) and naloxone (opioid antagonist - Narcan). The combination is either 2 mg/0.5 mg or 8 mg/2 mg. Suboxone is a sublingual film (it dissolves under the tongue).
(919) 800-0881 View (919) 800-0881
Photo of Paiga Brown, LCSW-A, Pre-Licensed Professional
Paiga Brown
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27612  (Online Only)
Everything begins with your mindset. First, I would like to congratulate you on making the right decision to take action over your life. My name is Paiga Brown, and I am here to support you as you take this journey! I have experience supporting individuals who face the challenges of dealing with anxiety and mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, depression, and relationship issues. I specialize in working with both adults and adolescents through Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Emotionally Focused Expressive Arts Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Music Therapy Play Therapy and Art Therapy.
Everything begins with your mindset. First, I would like to congratulate you on making the right decision to take action over your life. My name is Paiga Brown, and I am here to support you as you take this journey! I have experience supporting individuals who face the challenges of dealing with anxiety and mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, depression, and relationship issues. I specialize in working with both adults and adolescents through Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Emotionally Focused Expressive Arts Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Music Therapy Play Therapy and Art Therapy.
(336) 933-6531 View (336) 933-6531
Photo of Jennifer E Thakur, MEd, LCMHC
Jennifer E Thakur
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
I enjoy helping teens, young adults, couples and families in both North Carolina and Florida achieve their counseling goals using research based strategies and techniques. I am trained in trauma informed techniques such as TF-CBT and EMDR. I also enjoy incorporating mindfulness, yoga, art and play into the therapeutic experience.
I enjoy helping teens, young adults, couples and families in both North Carolina and Florida achieve their counseling goals using research based strategies and techniques. I am trained in trauma informed techniques such as TF-CBT and EMDR. I also enjoy incorporating mindfulness, yoga, art and play into the therapeutic experience.
(919) 276-8864 View (919) 276-8864
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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.