Play Therapy in Dickson, TN
With children, I include sand tray and play therapy.
You are invited to come talk with me in my relaxed spacious office. Coming to therapy is a difficult decision for many people, but you can trust that your visits are private and confidential. Making the first phone call is often the hardest step. You deserve to feel better and talk therapy is highly effective. We can talk about your concerns and stressors and develop a plan to help you regain your ability to handle life's challenges.
With children, I include sand tray and play therapy.
You are invited to come talk with me in my relaxed spacious office. Coming to therapy is a difficult decision for many people, but you can trust that your visits are private and confidential. Making the first phone call is often the hardest step. You deserve to feel better and talk therapy is highly effective. We can talk about your concerns and stressors and develop a plan to help you regain your ability to handle life's challenges.
Every individual is worthy of healing and peace, and my favorite part about working with clients is working with them as they find the courage to live out this belief. Journeys of healing are sometimes scary, so using a holistic and collaborative approach, I strive to create a space that is nonjudgmental, safe, and peaceful as I aid clients in their work. My approach to therapy includes a combination of evidence-based practices including Restoration therapy and Internal Family Systems therapy, as well as Gottman Method interventions, common factors, and the expressive arts.
Every individual is worthy of healing and peace, and my favorite part about working with clients is working with them as they find the courage to live out this belief. Journeys of healing are sometimes scary, so using a holistic and collaborative approach, I strive to create a space that is nonjudgmental, safe, and peaceful as I aid clients in their work. My approach to therapy includes a combination of evidence-based practices including Restoration therapy and Internal Family Systems therapy, as well as Gottman Method interventions, common factors, and the expressive arts.
Dr. Jermeckia Sandefer (Dr. J)
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Dickson, TN 37055
Hi! I'm Dr. Jermeckia Sandefer, TLPC-MHSP, and I like to think of therapy as the ultimate "reset" button—or maybe even the “ctrl+alt+delete” for your mental clutter. Life throws us curveballs, plot twists, and, let’s be honest, sometimes it’s a full-on circus. One minute you’re juggling responsibilities like a pro, and the next, you’re the tightrope walker without a net, wondering how you got up there in the first place. That’s where I come in—to help you figure out what’s working, what’s not, and how we can smooth out some of those bumps in the road.
Hi! I'm Dr. Jermeckia Sandefer, TLPC-MHSP, and I like to think of therapy as the ultimate "reset" button—or maybe even the “ctrl+alt+delete” for your mental clutter. Life throws us curveballs, plot twists, and, let’s be honest, sometimes it’s a full-on circus. One minute you’re juggling responsibilities like a pro, and the next, you’re the tightrope walker without a net, wondering how you got up there in the first place. That’s where I come in—to help you figure out what’s working, what’s not, and how we can smooth out some of those bumps in the road.
Paige McNeilly Blackwell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dickson, TN 37055
This private practice is unlike most others. I am a licensed therapist at The Briggs Institute, Inc. The therapists at the Institute are graduates of Lipscomb University's Master of Marriage and Family Therapy Program. As the only COAMFTE accredited program in Nashville, the Lipscomb MFT program has earned its fine reputation by meeting the highest academic and clinical experience standards in the country. Because we practice under the supervision of the Lipscomb MFT program core faculty, we remain connected to academia. This means our work is informed by state-of-the-art scientific research.
This private practice is unlike most others. I am a licensed therapist at The Briggs Institute, Inc. The therapists at the Institute are graduates of Lipscomb University's Master of Marriage and Family Therapy Program. As the only COAMFTE accredited program in Nashville, the Lipscomb MFT program has earned its fine reputation by meeting the highest academic and clinical experience standards in the country. Because we practice under the supervision of the Lipscomb MFT program core faculty, we remain connected to academia. This means our work is informed by state-of-the-art scientific research.
Online Therapists
For children, I utilize Child-Centered Play Therapy to create a safe space for expression and healing.
Are you ready to embark on a transformative journey towards happiness and resilience? As an intern at The Healing Journey and a dedicated graduate student pursuing my MS in Clinical Counseling at Austin Peay State University, I am here to support you every step of the way. I specialize in working with individuals, children, families, and couples. I am passionate about helping clients navigate and heal from their past traumas. I believe in the power of resilience and the ability of every individual to create their own happiness. My goal is to empower you to overcome obstacles and build a fulfilling life.
For children, I utilize Child-Centered Play Therapy to create a safe space for expression and healing.
Are you ready to embark on a transformative journey towards happiness and resilience? As an intern at The Healing Journey and a dedicated graduate student pursuing my MS in Clinical Counseling at Austin Peay State University, I am here to support you every step of the way. I specialize in working with individuals, children, families, and couples. I am passionate about helping clients navigate and heal from their past traumas. I believe in the power of resilience and the ability of every individual to create their own happiness. My goal is to empower you to overcome obstacles and build a fulfilling life.
My preferred modalities include but are not limited to cognitive behavioral therapy, emotion-focused therapy, solution-focused therapy, and play therapy.
I bet you’re wondering what kind of therapist I am. Well, I am just like you, a regular person working to become the best version of myself every day. I provide a non-judgmental space for you to work through and understand your situation. I want to assist you on your journey and challenge you as I see the potential in all of my clients. I will advocate for you, encourage you, and be your safe space. I value individuality and embrace multiculturism, so come as your authentic self. Building a therapeutic relationship is my primary goal, and I strive to lead with empathy and understanding. I look forward to working with you.
My preferred modalities include but are not limited to cognitive behavioral therapy, emotion-focused therapy, solution-focused therapy, and play therapy.
I bet you’re wondering what kind of therapist I am. Well, I am just like you, a regular person working to become the best version of myself every day. I provide a non-judgmental space for you to work through and understand your situation. I want to assist you on your journey and challenge you as I see the potential in all of my clients. I will advocate for you, encourage you, and be your safe space. I value individuality and embrace multiculturism, so come as your authentic self. Building a therapeutic relationship is my primary goal, and I strive to lead with empathy and understanding. I look forward to working with you.
Lynne Cohen
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC/, MHSP , (temp), MA
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37204
Sand play Therapy, used with talk, can allow the adult, child, or teen to work with challenges by tapping into a natural capacity to heal.
It would be nice if life moved smoothly along a path that we choose, but life is more complex. We have experiences, often not of our choosing, that can harm, confuse, or trouble us. These experiences can form obstacles and even de-rail us. When we can be heard, deeply heard, we can experience an opportunity to heal and move beyond many obstacles. My practice provides a safe place in which clients can find ways to tap into their inner strengths. My approach is client-centered and seeks to use forms of therapy that work best for you.
Sand play Therapy, used with talk, can allow the adult, child, or teen to work with challenges by tapping into a natural capacity to heal.
It would be nice if life moved smoothly along a path that we choose, but life is more complex. We have experiences, often not of our choosing, that can harm, confuse, or trouble us. These experiences can form obstacles and even de-rail us. When we can be heard, deeply heard, we can experience an opportunity to heal and move beyond many obstacles. My practice provides a safe place in which clients can find ways to tap into their inner strengths. My approach is client-centered and seeks to use forms of therapy that work best for you.
Sometimes words aren't needed to make sense of one's experiences and that's why play can allow children to process at a deeper level.
As your therapist, I will provide a tender and nurturing environment to process persistent worry, depression and general life stress. Fear, anxiety and depression can disrupt the quality of your daily life and seeking professional guidance and support can allow you to move through these stressors and develop both effective coping skills and healthy emotional habits. Life stress doesn't have to be debilitating and long term change is absolutely achievable. I work with individuals, children and families.
Sometimes words aren't needed to make sense of one's experiences and that's why play can allow children to process at a deeper level.
As your therapist, I will provide a tender and nurturing environment to process persistent worry, depression and general life stress. Fear, anxiety and depression can disrupt the quality of your daily life and seeking professional guidance and support can allow you to move through these stressors and develop both effective coping skills and healthy emotional habits. Life stress doesn't have to be debilitating and long term change is absolutely achievable. I work with individuals, children and families.
Additional work with the family expands the child's healing and allows the child a safe place to grow outside the play therapy room.
I work with a wide range of populations from individuals, families, parents, premarital, ADHD, autism/Asperger's, giftedness, twice-exceptional (2e) & beyond. As a licensed marriage & family therapist, I believe in therapy for the whole person to include mind, body, spirit. We are all made for connection - to ourselves & to others. When we open ourselves to another person, we trust that person with our most vulnerable self. My goal is to provide that safe place. As you find safety in nurturing the essence of who you are, you will discover that growth begins. With that growth, comes healing within yourself & your relationships
Additional work with the family expands the child's healing and allows the child a safe place to grow outside the play therapy room.
I work with a wide range of populations from individuals, families, parents, premarital, ADHD, autism/Asperger's, giftedness, twice-exceptional (2e) & beyond. As a licensed marriage & family therapist, I believe in therapy for the whole person to include mind, body, spirit. We are all made for connection - to ourselves & to others. When we open ourselves to another person, we trust that person with our most vulnerable self. My goal is to provide that safe place. As you find safety in nurturing the essence of who you are, you will discover that growth begins. With that growth, comes healing within yourself & your relationships
Diane Gammon -Living With Hope Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP, CMHIMP, ASDCS, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
I Implement Art, Sand Tray and Play Therapy.
Welcome, 911 Help is here! I specialize in Crisis, Depression, Trauma, Autism Testing & Therapy, Couples/Marriage, Pre-marital Counseling, Family Reunification, Abandonment, Anxiety/Panic, PTSD, Neurodiverse/Neurotypical Relationships, Holistic Self-Care, Self-Harm, Suicide Ideation, Grief/Loss, RAD, Miscarriage/Infant Loss, ADHD, Personality Disorders, Drug/Alcohol/Other Addictions, Low Self-Esteem/Self-Worth, Eating Disorders, Body Image, Communication Skills/ Relationships, Sexual Assault, Rape/Domestic Violence, Behavior Issues, Corrections, Foster Care, Adoption Transition, Postpartum, Illness & more.
I Implement Art, Sand Tray and Play Therapy.
Welcome, 911 Help is here! I specialize in Crisis, Depression, Trauma, Autism Testing & Therapy, Couples/Marriage, Pre-marital Counseling, Family Reunification, Abandonment, Anxiety/Panic, PTSD, Neurodiverse/Neurotypical Relationships, Holistic Self-Care, Self-Harm, Suicide Ideation, Grief/Loss, RAD, Miscarriage/Infant Loss, ADHD, Personality Disorders, Drug/Alcohol/Other Addictions, Low Self-Esteem/Self-Worth, Eating Disorders, Body Image, Communication Skills/ Relationships, Sexual Assault, Rape/Domestic Violence, Behavior Issues, Corrections, Foster Care, Adoption Transition, Postpartum, Illness & more.
Is your child struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, or meltdowns caused by overwhelming emotions? I help kids and teens to navigate tricky issues like ADHD, trauma, depression, or major life changes. With specialized training in Client-Centered Play Therapy and Expressive Arts, I offer a safe space where clients from age 5 to 17 can feel at ease. My approach to working with children and young people is creative and flexible, based on their specific needs. I love getting to know them and using their passions, strengths, and talents in the therapeutic process.
Is your child struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, or meltdowns caused by overwhelming emotions? I help kids and teens to navigate tricky issues like ADHD, trauma, depression, or major life changes. With specialized training in Client-Centered Play Therapy and Expressive Arts, I offer a safe space where clients from age 5 to 17 can feel at ease. My approach to working with children and young people is creative and flexible, based on their specific needs. I love getting to know them and using their passions, strengths, and talents in the therapeutic process.
Brenda Romero-Herrera
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-, MHSP, RPT
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
With play therapy, I can really understand their language and meet them where they are at.
Do you feel like life has lately become a roller coaster? You find asking yourself, "when will this stop?" Life is like a journey and sometimes the path gets a little bumpy, but it does not mean that we cannot reach our destination. We might have to slow down at times and reassess our route and possibly take a side road, however, other times we just have to slow down and be there. Trusting can be difficult and at times scary, but it can also be rewarding. As a therapist, I have learned that relationships can be very powerful and can truly help a person heal.
With play therapy, I can really understand their language and meet them where they are at.
Do you feel like life has lately become a roller coaster? You find asking yourself, "when will this stop?" Life is like a journey and sometimes the path gets a little bumpy, but it does not mean that we cannot reach our destination. We might have to slow down at times and reassess our route and possibly take a side road, however, other times we just have to slow down and be there. Trusting can be difficult and at times scary, but it can also be rewarding. As a therapist, I have learned that relationships can be very powerful and can truly help a person heal.
Katie Meier Baker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPCMHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37067
I incorporate aspects of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) & mindfulness, as well as play therapy techniques, into counseling sessions.
My greatest hope is to create a safe space where you feel seen, valued, and affirmed – we all need and deserve that support in our lives! During our time together, my goal is for you to gain a greater understanding of yourself, adaptive ways of thinking, and tangible coping tools to help you ride the waves of life. I work with young adults, teens, and children (ages 3 and up). I have a passion for supporting clients with anxiety, anger, emotional literacy and regulation, grief and loss, self-compassion, and self-esteem through individual counseling.
I incorporate aspects of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) & mindfulness, as well as play therapy techniques, into counseling sessions.
My greatest hope is to create a safe space where you feel seen, valued, and affirmed – we all need and deserve that support in our lives! During our time together, my goal is for you to gain a greater understanding of yourself, adaptive ways of thinking, and tangible coping tools to help you ride the waves of life. I work with young adults, teens, and children (ages 3 and up). I have a passion for supporting clients with anxiety, anger, emotional literacy and regulation, grief and loss, self-compassion, and self-esteem through individual counseling.
Examples of these modalities include; narrative therapy, play therapy, art therapy, emotional focus therapy and experiential therapy.
Hi, my name is Allyson Doering, but you can call me Ally. I am a pre-licensed Marriage and Family Therapist welcome to my page! I am able to see clients in-office in Brentwood, TN and virtually in the state of Washington. I work with families (who want to learn how to reconnect as a whole family unit), women's issues, sexual abuse, daily life stress, LGBTQ+ population, generalized anxiety, OCD tendencies, grief, loss, and navigating narcissistic abuse.
Examples of these modalities include; narrative therapy, play therapy, art therapy, emotional focus therapy and experiential therapy.
Hi, my name is Allyson Doering, but you can call me Ally. I am a pre-licensed Marriage and Family Therapist welcome to my page! I am able to see clients in-office in Brentwood, TN and virtually in the state of Washington. I work with families (who want to learn how to reconnect as a whole family unit), women's issues, sexual abuse, daily life stress, LGBTQ+ population, generalized anxiety, OCD tendencies, grief, loss, and navigating narcissistic abuse.
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.
As a Registered Play Therapist and a Licensed Professional Counselor, I use play therapy tools to develop the heart, mind and soul of children. After working with children and families in private practice and in school settings for many years, my passion is to empower my clients through play. Through their natural language, play, children can express their emotions and start to heal. I specialize in working with children ages 4 years to 12 years but can work with all ages and adults. Common issues I treat are: trauma, fear, anxiety, anger, loss and grief, ADHD, change in their families, and social anxiety, various school issues.
As a Registered Play Therapist and a Licensed Professional Counselor, I use play therapy tools to develop the heart, mind and soul of children. After working with children and families in private practice and in school settings for many years, my passion is to empower my clients through play. Through their natural language, play, children can express their emotions and start to heal. I specialize in working with children ages 4 years to 12 years but can work with all ages and adults. Common issues I treat are: trauma, fear, anxiety, anger, loss and grief, ADHD, change in their families, and social anxiety, various school issues.
Sacred Lotus Journey, LLC
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, Temp, LPC-MHS
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37219
My areas of expertise include: Person Centered, Reality Therapy, Choice Theory, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), anger management, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, herbalism, aromatherapy, play therapy, and creative arts.
As a therapist, I love to walk alongside you during your self discovery journey of becoming your true authentic self. And on this journey of well being, one will learn the importance of self love, self care, boundary setting, effective communication, problem solving, emotional regulation, and displaying your true authentic self. And first things first, you MUST start with your mind, body, and spirit and I will like to assist you in every goal you set for yourself in a holistic way.
My areas of expertise include: Person Centered, Reality Therapy, Choice Theory, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), anger management, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, herbalism, aromatherapy, play therapy, and creative arts.
As a therapist, I love to walk alongside you during your self discovery journey of becoming your true authentic self. And on this journey of well being, one will learn the importance of self love, self care, boundary setting, effective communication, problem solving, emotional regulation, and displaying your true authentic self. And first things first, you MUST start with your mind, body, and spirit and I will like to assist you in every goal you set for yourself in a holistic way.
Catherine has additional training and certifications in Play Therapy, Mindfulness Meditation, Positive Discipline, and Be Body Positive which add to her traditional counseling toolbox.
Catherine is a unique therapist with a breadth of lifetime experience that makes her an ideal therapist for adolescents and teens through adulting and on into parenting phases of life. Her background as a coach, entrepreneur, non-profit leader, and mom are life experiences she can draw from to guide you through your journey towards healing. Using a person-centered approach to counseling, Catherine uses multiple evidence-based techniques tailored to each stage of life and the problems that arise. Life doesn't happen in a straight line. Sometimes we get stuck and need a little help getting back onto our path.
Catherine has additional training and certifications in Play Therapy, Mindfulness Meditation, Positive Discipline, and Be Body Positive which add to her traditional counseling toolbox.
Catherine is a unique therapist with a breadth of lifetime experience that makes her an ideal therapist for adolescents and teens through adulting and on into parenting phases of life. Her background as a coach, entrepreneur, non-profit leader, and mom are life experiences she can draw from to guide you through your journey towards healing. Using a person-centered approach to counseling, Catherine uses multiple evidence-based techniques tailored to each stage of life and the problems that arise. Life doesn't happen in a straight line. Sometimes we get stuck and need a little help getting back onto our path.
I use art and play therapy as well as traditional talk therapy.
I offer the experience of over 28 years working with individuals, children and families. As a parent, I understand how challenging all the the things the world throws at our kids can be and how hard it is to navigate through it. I work with divorce adjustment, adhd, anxiety, social anxiety, depression and trauma.I have had 17 years of experience working with domestic violence victims. I have found that using animals and art are especially helpful for many of my clients. I also offer equine assisted counseling. I am a Christian Counselor, but I welcome everyone.
I use art and play therapy as well as traditional talk therapy.
I offer the experience of over 28 years working with individuals, children and families. As a parent, I understand how challenging all the the things the world throws at our kids can be and how hard it is to navigate through it. I work with divorce adjustment, adhd, anxiety, social anxiety, depression and trauma.I have had 17 years of experience working with domestic violence victims. I have found that using animals and art are especially helpful for many of my clients. I also offer equine assisted counseling. I am a Christian Counselor, but I welcome everyone.
Tamera J Scorpio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clarksville, TN 37043
I use Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Play Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
I have a passion for working with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault and enjoy working with people of all ages and backgrounds. I love to learn about a person's unique experiences, whether it be trauma, depression, anxiety, or something else. I want to help you navigate those difficult thoughts and emotions and gain freedom from the everyday struggles that are holding you back. I want to help you achieve your goals and find the confidence to know that you can.
I use Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Play Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
I have a passion for working with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault and enjoy working with people of all ages and backgrounds. I love to learn about a person's unique experiences, whether it be trauma, depression, anxiety, or something else. I want to help you navigate those difficult thoughts and emotions and gain freedom from the everyday struggles that are holding you back. I want to help you achieve your goals and find the confidence to know that you can.
See more therapy options for Dickson
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Dickson
- Adams
- Antioch
- Bellevue
- Brentwood
- Clarksville
- Columbia
- Franklin
- Madison
- Nashville
- Pleasant View
- Spring Hill
- Thompsons Station
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.