Play Therapy in Tennessee
Julia Marx
Licensed Professional Counselor, MFA, MA, R-DMT, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
Play therapy is integral to my work with children.
I provide individualized support tailored to my clients' unique stories. I use expressive arts therapy and dance/movement therapy techniques in addition to client-centered talk therapy to engage with clients as we process in both the verbal and non-verbal realms. The body and mind are interconnected and the body can be used as a map guiding explorations of the self, as well as a metaphor to express emotions which can be difficult to convey in words alone. Through a therapeutic relationship, I provide empathic support and playful intervention.
Play therapy is integral to my work with children.
I provide individualized support tailored to my clients' unique stories. I use expressive arts therapy and dance/movement therapy techniques in addition to client-centered talk therapy to engage with clients as we process in both the verbal and non-verbal realms. The body and mind are interconnected and the body can be used as a map guiding explorations of the self, as well as a metaphor to express emotions which can be difficult to convey in words alone. Through a therapeutic relationship, I provide empathic support and playful intervention.
Cecilia C. Oaks Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37067
I implement play, art, and storytelling into therapy.
Accepting new clients and scheduling for weekends! I also offer after hour appointments. EMDR trained. Please feel free to call or text me at 931.242.4204. I love working with children and adolescents! I'm taking on adults as well! In addition to talk-therapy, I implement games, puzzles, stories, music, art, and toys into therapy. Therapy should not be boring! My areas of working with clients include, but are not limited to: depression, anxiety, ADHD, ODD, social skills, anger management, self-harm, suicidal ideation, low self-esteem, abuse, and trauma. My main modalities include TF-CBT, CBT, EMDR and behavior modification.
I implement play, art, and storytelling into therapy.
Accepting new clients and scheduling for weekends! I also offer after hour appointments. EMDR trained. Please feel free to call or text me at 931.242.4204. I love working with children and adolescents! I'm taking on adults as well! In addition to talk-therapy, I implement games, puzzles, stories, music, art, and toys into therapy. Therapy should not be boring! My areas of working with clients include, but are not limited to: depression, anxiety, ADHD, ODD, social skills, anger management, self-harm, suicidal ideation, low self-esteem, abuse, and trauma. My main modalities include TF-CBT, CBT, EMDR and behavior modification.
A Different World Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37067 (Online Only)
I have an eclectic approach to counseling pulling from therapy models such as Solution-Focused Therapy, Choice/Reality Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR (Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Play Therapy.
I am dedicated to working with children, adolescents, and adults as they walk through life. I believe in empowering clients through play and traditional talk therapy to enhance their strengths, so that they feel equipped in the midst of their personal and relational challenges. I’m passionate about my work and consider it an honor to come alongside clients in the process of healing. I strive to support the emotional and developmental needs of all clients. I work with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, communication, problem solving, stress management, anger management, and grief/loss.
I have an eclectic approach to counseling pulling from therapy models such as Solution-Focused Therapy, Choice/Reality Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR (Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Play Therapy.
I am dedicated to working with children, adolescents, and adults as they walk through life. I believe in empowering clients through play and traditional talk therapy to enhance their strengths, so that they feel equipped in the midst of their personal and relational challenges. I’m passionate about my work and consider it an honor to come alongside clients in the process of healing. I strive to support the emotional and developmental needs of all clients. I work with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, communication, problem solving, stress management, anger management, and grief/loss.
Claire Ashcraft
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleveland, TN 37312 (Online Only)
I also incorporate techniques/modalities like CBT, DBT, narrative therapy, play therapy and person-centered therapy.
Hello all! First and foremost, congratulations on the bravery it takes to make this first step toward better mental health. It's not easy! Your courage does not go unrecognized. Do you struggle with symptoms of anxiety or depression? Have you gone through a traumatic situation that you can't get out of your mind or have a kiddo that needs some behavioral help? My passion is rooted in helping those with such issues find a renewed sense of their own passion for life and ultimately, peace.
I also incorporate techniques/modalities like CBT, DBT, narrative therapy, play therapy and person-centered therapy.
Hello all! First and foremost, congratulations on the bravery it takes to make this first step toward better mental health. It's not easy! Your courage does not go unrecognized. Do you struggle with symptoms of anxiety or depression? Have you gone through a traumatic situation that you can't get out of your mind or have a kiddo that needs some behavioral help? My passion is rooted in helping those with such issues find a renewed sense of their own passion for life and ultimately, peace.
I am trained in cognitive behavioral strategies, play therapy, Aut Play, EMDR and BrainSpotting.
You hold a unique story. That story holds value and deserves to be told. I specialize in expressive art and play therapy techniques and I am honored to work with children, teens, adults and families. Most of my work focuses on serving the neurodivergent population and creating a wrap around service with other providers, but I also enjoy working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression and life transitions. I also work directly with parents to provide educational advocacy and parenting strategies. I offer supervision for other counselors on their journey to LPC.
I am trained in cognitive behavioral strategies, play therapy, Aut Play, EMDR and BrainSpotting.
You hold a unique story. That story holds value and deserves to be told. I specialize in expressive art and play therapy techniques and I am honored to work with children, teens, adults and families. Most of my work focuses on serving the neurodivergent population and creating a wrap around service with other providers, but I also enjoy working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression and life transitions. I also work directly with parents to provide educational advocacy and parenting strategies. I offer supervision for other counselors on their journey to LPC.
Victoria J Davidson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Signal Mountain, TN 37377
Why Play Therapy? This is a frequently asked question. I believe that through play, children express themselves in their own developmentally appropriate way. Through play and other expressive therapies, children can resolve problems, cope with difficult emotions,improve cognitive development and help resolve inner conflicts.
Although I work mainly with children, my education and training also allow me the opportunity to work with adults on certain issues.
Why Play Therapy? This is a frequently asked question. I believe that through play, children express themselves in their own developmentally appropriate way. Through play and other expressive therapies, children can resolve problems, cope with difficult emotions,improve cognitive development and help resolve inner conflicts.
Although I work mainly with children, my education and training also allow me the opportunity to work with adults on certain issues.
Stacy Gruhn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC-MHSP) in the State of Tennessee, and am a National Board-Certified Counselor (NCC). I have worked with clients of all ages in a variety of settings and currently see clients ages 8 and up. My approach to counseling is client-centered and is tailored to the needs of each individual client, drawing on my knowledge and training in different modalities, including play therapy, art therapy, CBT, ACT and EMDR. When I am not working, I enjoy a rare quiet night at home with my family, but I spend most of my time these days driving one of my kids to their many events.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC-MHSP) in the State of Tennessee, and am a National Board-Certified Counselor (NCC). I have worked with clients of all ages in a variety of settings and currently see clients ages 8 and up. My approach to counseling is client-centered and is tailored to the needs of each individual client, drawing on my knowledge and training in different modalities, including play therapy, art therapy, CBT, ACT and EMDR. When I am not working, I enjoy a rare quiet night at home with my family, but I spend most of my time these days driving one of my kids to their many events.
When working with children we use play therapy because through play a child can communicate & express themselves in a fundamental way which fosters growth.
The world has never been easy for kids and teens. Growing up while trying to figure out who they are and what they value in the midst of seeking approval from friends and family. This has been compounded in the past years by a global pandemic, halting or slowing social-emotional growth. Anxiety, depression, eating disorders, substance use, and other mental health concerns are emerging from people of all ages. Counseling can help. Knowing there is someone to come alongside as your child or teen wrestles with the normal changes of life and any extra challenges that appear can bring hope to everyone.
When working with children we use play therapy because through play a child can communicate & express themselves in a fundamental way which fosters growth.
The world has never been easy for kids and teens. Growing up while trying to figure out who they are and what they value in the midst of seeking approval from friends and family. This has been compounded in the past years by a global pandemic, halting or slowing social-emotional growth. Anxiety, depression, eating disorders, substance use, and other mental health concerns are emerging from people of all ages. Counseling can help. Knowing there is someone to come alongside as your child or teen wrestles with the normal changes of life and any extra challenges that appear can bring hope to everyone.
Tennessee Art Therapy and Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37405 (Online Only)
I utilize talk, art, play, & any combination of those techniques to meet the needs of my clients.
Sometimes extra help and support are needed to successfully navigate through the challenging and difficult situations that arise in life. By seeking therapy, you will receive our support while we work as a team to better understand your challenging life situations. If you make a commitment to change and work on improving yourself and your situation, therapy can give you the tools you need to face future life challenges. In a comfortable and supportive environment, we offer a highly personalized approach made to meet the needs of each individual client and/or family to help them achieve personal growth.
I utilize talk, art, play, & any combination of those techniques to meet the needs of my clients.
Sometimes extra help and support are needed to successfully navigate through the challenging and difficult situations that arise in life. By seeking therapy, you will receive our support while we work as a team to better understand your challenging life situations. If you make a commitment to change and work on improving yourself and your situation, therapy can give you the tools you need to face future life challenges. In a comfortable and supportive environment, we offer a highly personalized approach made to meet the needs of each individual client and/or family to help them achieve personal growth.
I am trained in CBT, DBT, EMDR, play therapy, and TF-CBT.
Are you an adolescent feeling anxious, depressed, or lonely? Are you a young adult feeling overwhelmed, or disconnected? Are you a parent who just received an ADHD/ASD diagnosis for your child and find yourself feeling lost or exhausted trying to manage difficult behaviors? Are you trying to navigate having a terminally or mentally ill, or an emotionally abusive parent or partner? Life's journey is often challenging and along the way we may develop relationship difficulties, anxiety, disconnection, and self-defeating behaviors. I aim to help you move beyond feeling stuck. My approach fosters healing, learning, growth, and freedom.
I am trained in CBT, DBT, EMDR, play therapy, and TF-CBT.
Are you an adolescent feeling anxious, depressed, or lonely? Are you a young adult feeling overwhelmed, or disconnected? Are you a parent who just received an ADHD/ASD diagnosis for your child and find yourself feeling lost or exhausted trying to manage difficult behaviors? Are you trying to navigate having a terminally or mentally ill, or an emotionally abusive parent or partner? Life's journey is often challenging and along the way we may develop relationship difficulties, anxiety, disconnection, and self-defeating behaviors. I aim to help you move beyond feeling stuck. My approach fosters healing, learning, growth, and freedom.
Griffin Hatcliff
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37409
I am trained in multiple forms of couples counseling, play therapy, and work from multiple modalities including IFS, CBT, and EFT.
Depression, Anxiety, family conflict and general reactivity are each common experiences in one's life. I work to provide an individualized treatment plan for each person walking through these common experiences. I believe that by fostering curiosity and compassion about ourselves and our own experiences, we learn to react to others in this same way. I work with a wide range of clients varying in age, demographics, beliefs, backgrounds and goals. I work to facilitate this curious and compassionate environment in which my clients can work toward decreasing reactivity through increasing self understanding.
I am trained in multiple forms of couples counseling, play therapy, and work from multiple modalities including IFS, CBT, and EFT.
Depression, Anxiety, family conflict and general reactivity are each common experiences in one's life. I work to provide an individualized treatment plan for each person walking through these common experiences. I believe that by fostering curiosity and compassion about ourselves and our own experiences, we learn to react to others in this same way. I work with a wide range of clients varying in age, demographics, beliefs, backgrounds and goals. I work to facilitate this curious and compassionate environment in which my clients can work toward decreasing reactivity through increasing self understanding.
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Julia Hoge
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, NCC, LPCtemp
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37216
Waitlist for new clients
By incorporating play and art therapy techniques, cognitive strategies, brain spotting, and whole-hearted healing techniques, my goal is to unearth each client's story and to help them find their own path to healing.
I believe in the counseling process; the space it opens internally and the shifting it can provide for clients and families on their life's journey. With over a decade of counseling children and adolescents in Metro Nashville Public Schools, I have a unique and expansive experience working with children, adolescents, and their families as they find togetherness, and themselves.
By incorporating play and art therapy techniques, cognitive strategies, brain spotting, and whole-hearted healing techniques, my goal is to unearth each client's story and to help them find their own path to healing.
I believe in the counseling process; the space it opens internally and the shifting it can provide for clients and families on their life's journey. With over a decade of counseling children and adolescents in Metro Nashville Public Schools, I have a unique and expansive experience working with children, adolescents, and their families as they find togetherness, and themselves.
Madeline Martino
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Germantown, TN 38138
Waitlist for new clients
When working with younger children, I implement play therapy techniques.
Our thoughts and feelings affect every part of our lives. They can often be guided by our trauma, anxiety, depression, or life stressors. My goal as a therapist is to work with clients to process and learn ways to live more fully. I lean heavily on focusing on the client’s internal strengths to learn effective strategies. I am guided by cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and solution focused techniques. My experience has given me the opportunity to work with all ages struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, and phase of life issues. It is my goal to provide the client with a safe space free of judgement.
When working with younger children, I implement play therapy techniques.
Our thoughts and feelings affect every part of our lives. They can often be guided by our trauma, anxiety, depression, or life stressors. My goal as a therapist is to work with clients to process and learn ways to live more fully. I lean heavily on focusing on the client’s internal strengths to learn effective strategies. I am guided by cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and solution focused techniques. My experience has given me the opportunity to work with all ages struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, and phase of life issues. It is my goal to provide the client with a safe space free of judgement.
I am passionate about working with women, parents and children. I walk alongside women as they struggle with relationships or difficult life transitions. I assist parents in exploring new techniques for raising their children. And, I also work directly with the children using play to work through trauma or explore behavioral concerns.
I am passionate about working with women, parents and children. I walk alongside women as they struggle with relationships or difficult life transitions. I assist parents in exploring new techniques for raising their children. And, I also work directly with the children using play to work through trauma or explore behavioral concerns.
- CBT, Family Systems, Prepare-Enrich and Gottman marital therapy techniques; Play therapy; Emotionally-focused therapy; and Attachment theory).
A successful counseling experience begins with a strong client/therapist rapport. As you consider your many highly-qualified options, look for professionals who specialize in your area of need and share your passion for growth. With an emphasis on high-conflict marital therapy, my expertise lies in helping clients develop crucial life-enhancement skills (e.g.-communication/conflict resolution/anger management) and a healthy sense of self. Using a variety of approaches, we will work together to build on strengths to maximize growth by learning and adapting more productive inter-relational methods, resulting in greater relationship satisfaction.
- CBT, Family Systems, Prepare-Enrich and Gottman marital therapy techniques; Play therapy; Emotionally-focused therapy; and Attachment theory).
A successful counseling experience begins with a strong client/therapist rapport. As you consider your many highly-qualified options, look for professionals who specialize in your area of need and share your passion for growth. With an emphasis on high-conflict marital therapy, my expertise lies in helping clients develop crucial life-enhancement skills (e.g.-communication/conflict resolution/anger management) and a healthy sense of self. Using a variety of approaches, we will work together to build on strengths to maximize growth by learning and adapting more productive inter-relational methods, resulting in greater relationship satisfaction.
Jen Nicole Gray
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC/MHS, CFMHE
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
Is your child needing guidance in expressing feelings and emotions appropriately? Does your child prefer an alternative approach utilizing Art and Play therapy? Do you or someone you know need help in making challenging decisions while being in alignment with your faith? Would you like to talk to someone who is calming and non-judgemental? Have you or someone you know been dealing with being overwhelmed with life in general?
Is your child needing guidance in expressing feelings and emotions appropriately? Does your child prefer an alternative approach utilizing Art and Play therapy? Do you or someone you know need help in making challenging decisions while being in alignment with your faith? Would you like to talk to someone who is calming and non-judgemental? Have you or someone you know been dealing with being overwhelmed with life in general?
Caitlin Merritt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37404 (Online Only)
To do this, Caitlin utilizes evidence-based approaches (including but not limited to cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), narrative therapy (NT), Humanistic therapy (HT), and play therapy techniques (PT) to provide integrative care for her clients.
Caitlin Merritt is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 6 years of experience working with clients of all ages. Caitlin is also passionate about working with children and adolescents, though her scope of practice has included working with individuals across all life stages. She specializes in treating a variety of mood disorders, trauma, stress-related disorders, ADHD, behavioral concerns, and adjustment disorders as well as family conflict.
To do this, Caitlin utilizes evidence-based approaches (including but not limited to cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), narrative therapy (NT), Humanistic therapy (HT), and play therapy techniques (PT) to provide integrative care for her clients.
Caitlin Merritt is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 6 years of experience working with clients of all ages. Caitlin is also passionate about working with children and adolescents, though her scope of practice has included working with individuals across all life stages. She specializes in treating a variety of mood disorders, trauma, stress-related disorders, ADHD, behavioral concerns, and adjustment disorders as well as family conflict.
Shaina Morton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPTs
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37067
I earned my undergraduate and masters degrees in social work from the University of Tennessee and I am a registered play therapist supervisor.
Parenting is hard and full of unexpected challenges. If you are planning for a new addition to your family, experiencing strained relationships, dealing with behavioral problems, or are journeying with your child through trauma: I am here to help. I focused my career on working with parents, children, and adolescents who have experienced attachment challenges, trauma, sexual abuse, physical abuse, neglect, and who have been the victims of violent crime. I also have a six-session {pre}parenting counseling designed to address your story of attachment as a way to prepare you to become the parent you want to be.
I earned my undergraduate and masters degrees in social work from the University of Tennessee and I am a registered play therapist supervisor.
Parenting is hard and full of unexpected challenges. If you are planning for a new addition to your family, experiencing strained relationships, dealing with behavioral problems, or are journeying with your child through trauma: I am here to help. I focused my career on working with parents, children, and adolescents who have experienced attachment challenges, trauma, sexual abuse, physical abuse, neglect, and who have been the victims of violent crime. I also have a six-session {pre}parenting counseling designed to address your story of attachment as a way to prepare you to become the parent you want to be.
I specialize in Depression, Anxiety, and Relationship Issues using research-based CBT, EFT, solution-focused therapy, and play therapy focusing on sand tray treatments for individuals and couples.
I love helping clients with boundary work, adult ADHD, intimacy issues, attachment wounds, unlearning fatphobia, and practicing health at every size. I strive to empower clients and give context while assisting them to reach their long and short-term goals. I support any gender, sexual orientation, or kink; however you choose to identify, everyone deserves therapy and a safe place to heal.
I specialize in Depression, Anxiety, and Relationship Issues using research-based CBT, EFT, solution-focused therapy, and play therapy focusing on sand tray treatments for individuals and couples.
I love helping clients with boundary work, adult ADHD, intimacy issues, attachment wounds, unlearning fatphobia, and practicing health at every size. I strive to empower clients and give context while assisting them to reach their long and short-term goals. I support any gender, sexual orientation, or kink; however you choose to identify, everyone deserves therapy and a safe place to heal.
Brooke Morrell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
In children, I tend to prioritize Child-Centered Play Therapy to help them process what has happened to them in a safe, supportive environment.
YOU are the expert of your own experience. I believe that all clients deserve to feel heard and supported, no matter what they are struggling with. While I specialize in trauma treatment, I find that the principles of trauma-informed care apply to most clients. I affirm clients of all religions, races, and sexual identities. Effective therapy is all about offering a safe space for clients to share, and then helping them push themselves to achieve the life they want. My clients are encouraged to consider their own goals and how to achieve them, emphasizing the client's strengths and self-determination.
In children, I tend to prioritize Child-Centered Play Therapy to help them process what has happened to them in a safe, supportive environment.
YOU are the expert of your own experience. I believe that all clients deserve to feel heard and supported, no matter what they are struggling with. While I specialize in trauma treatment, I find that the principles of trauma-informed care apply to most clients. I affirm clients of all religions, races, and sexual identities. Effective therapy is all about offering a safe space for clients to share, and then helping them push themselves to achieve the life they want. My clients are encouraged to consider their own goals and how to achieve them, emphasizing the client's strengths and self-determination.
See more therapy options for Tennessee
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.