Play Therapy in Gleason, TN

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Online Therapists

Photo of Nancy Speas, MA, MDiv, Pre-Licensed Professional
Nancy Speas
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MDiv
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37209
I work from a family systems and psychodynamic perspective, but I employ experiential techniques such as internal family systems, sand tray, play, and expressive arts with clients of all ages, enabling us to move beyond cognitive-verbal level healing and engage in the deep work that changes lives.
"I'm TIRED." I hear this all the time from my clients and/or their parents. Life has gotten so busy that we are flying from one thing to another without a chance to catch our breath. Maybe you are tired of fighting with your child to get them to behave. Maybe you are tired of losing track of things and time. Maybe you are tired of wondering if you made the right choice or if you'll ever be good enough. Maybe you are tired of being haunted by trauma. Maybe you are tired of taking care of everyone else without a break for yourself. Or maybe you're just plain tired. I get it! And there's good news: therapy can help.
I work from a family systems and psychodynamic perspective, but I employ experiential techniques such as internal family systems, sand tray, play, and expressive arts with clients of all ages, enabling us to move beyond cognitive-verbal level healing and engage in the deep work that changes lives.
"I'm TIRED." I hear this all the time from my clients and/or their parents. Life has gotten so busy that we are flying from one thing to another without a chance to catch our breath. Maybe you are tired of fighting with your child to get them to behave. Maybe you are tired of losing track of things and time. Maybe you are tired of wondering if you made the right choice or if you'll ever be good enough. Maybe you are tired of being haunted by trauma. Maybe you are tired of taking care of everyone else without a break for yourself. Or maybe you're just plain tired. I get it! And there's good news: therapy can help.
(615) 398-6718 View (615) 398-6718
Photo of Elizabeth G. Scoville - Scoville Counseling, LLC, LPC, MHSP, RPT, NCC, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Scoville Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, RPT, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37205
I am relational and utilize evidence-based treatment modalities including play therapy and expressive arts, cognitive behavioral therapy, and EMDR.
I am a licensed professional counselor in Nashville, TN. I am passionate about helping others and I work with children, adolescents, and adults with a wide variety of presenting issues. Life is messy, full of hurts, disappointments, stressors, and grief – past and present. I want to help you get “unstuck” so you can live your best life, whatever that is for you. I have been where you are which makes me uniquely qualified to sit with you and to walk alongside you on your journey of healing. I cannot give you the answers, but I promise you will not have to find them alone.
I am relational and utilize evidence-based treatment modalities including play therapy and expressive arts, cognitive behavioral therapy, and EMDR.
I am a licensed professional counselor in Nashville, TN. I am passionate about helping others and I work with children, adolescents, and adults with a wide variety of presenting issues. Life is messy, full of hurts, disappointments, stressors, and grief – past and present. I want to help you get “unstuck” so you can live your best life, whatever that is for you. I have been where you are which makes me uniquely qualified to sit with you and to walk alongside you on your journey of healing. I cannot give you the answers, but I promise you will not have to find them alone.
(615) 235-5988 View (615) 235-5988
Photo of Emma Shoaf, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emma Shoaf
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jackson, TN 38305
I am trained in Play Therapy, EMDR, Ecotherapy and Natural Lifemanship (Equine Assisted Psychotherapy).
You were not built to struggle alone, but instead, you were created for authentic connection. I approach clients through an attachment and trauma-focused lens and am honored to walk beside you through whatever storms may have come your way. I desire to work with individuals who may be facing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, chronic illness and/or pain, self-esteem issues, as well as those who have experienced trauma.
I am trained in Play Therapy, EMDR, Ecotherapy and Natural Lifemanship (Equine Assisted Psychotherapy).
You were not built to struggle alone, but instead, you were created for authentic connection. I approach clients through an attachment and trauma-focused lens and am honored to walk beside you through whatever storms may have come your way. I desire to work with individuals who may be facing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, chronic illness and/or pain, self-esteem issues, as well as those who have experienced trauma.
(731) 277-5900 View (731) 277-5900
Photo of Brianna Miller, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Brianna Miller
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clarksville, TN 37043
I have experience working with children ages 3+, using techniques from child-centered play therapy to promote esteem-building, emotional regulation, self-control, and returning responsibility.
Have you lost your sense of purpose and feel like it is impossible to find it again? Do you find it impossible to trust others even though you yearn for a deeper connection with your loved ones? Have you noticed a big change in your child’s behavior and emotions and are unsure how to help? Are you just tired of being tired? There is hope, and you don’t have to go through this alone. I have experience working with a wide variety of populations, and I would love to help you start your healing journey.
I have experience working with children ages 3+, using techniques from child-centered play therapy to promote esteem-building, emotional regulation, self-control, and returning responsibility.
Have you lost your sense of purpose and feel like it is impossible to find it again? Do you find it impossible to trust others even though you yearn for a deeper connection with your loved ones? Have you noticed a big change in your child’s behavior and emotions and are unsure how to help? Are you just tired of being tired? There is hope, and you don’t have to go through this alone. I have experience working with a wide variety of populations, and I would love to help you start your healing journey.
(931) 299-4518 View (931) 299-4518
Photo of Heather Mann, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather Mann
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Summertown, TN 38483  (Online Only)
My expertise includes Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE), Mental Health First Aid, PCIT and Play Therapy.
I support individuals of all ages in managing mental health challenges, including anxiety/depression, trauma, grief, and mood disorders. For children's therapy, I emphasize collaborating with parents & caregivers to promote healthy development. My approach is tailored to each client's age, maturity, learning style, and interests, ensuring developmentally appropriate interventions. Teaching clients that overcoming cognitive, emotional, & behavioral challenges requires effort and perseverance. This perspective fosters resilience & personal growth, empowering clients to develop new skills for managing life's difficulties.
My expertise includes Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE), Mental Health First Aid, PCIT and Play Therapy.
I support individuals of all ages in managing mental health challenges, including anxiety/depression, trauma, grief, and mood disorders. For children's therapy, I emphasize collaborating with parents & caregivers to promote healthy development. My approach is tailored to each client's age, maturity, learning style, and interests, ensuring developmentally appropriate interventions. Teaching clients that overcoming cognitive, emotional, & behavioral challenges requires effort and perseverance. This perspective fosters resilience & personal growth, empowering clients to develop new skills for managing life's difficulties.
(843) 970-0285 View (843) 970-0285
Photo of Cynthia D Weston, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cynthia D Weston
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Columbia, TN 38401
Sometimes beginning the process of therapy can be a little scary. The gifts that can be discovered through the challenge may inspire, transform, generate, and insight a new outlook on one's future. I have great compassion for those that want to make changes in their life. Family, child ( play therapy), teens and individul, along with groups are all a part of my practice. Helping to discover your ultimate truth and having healthy, intimate, communicative, and nurturing relationships can bring freedom to your world and that is the goal.
Sometimes beginning the process of therapy can be a little scary. The gifts that can be discovered through the challenge may inspire, transform, generate, and insight a new outlook on one's future. I have great compassion for those that want to make changes in their life. Family, child ( play therapy), teens and individul, along with groups are all a part of my practice. Helping to discover your ultimate truth and having healthy, intimate, communicative, and nurturing relationships can bring freedom to your world and that is the goal.
(818) 347-2600 View (818) 347-2600
Photo of Rachel Mayfield, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Rachel Mayfield
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clarksville, TN 37040
I work with individuals who are battling depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, school struggles, and other life stressors through a mixture of Child-Centered Play Therapy, Non Directive Play, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Are you noticing any changes in your once thriving and happy child? Are they now struggling in school, controlling their emotions, or having a difficult time making friends? Maybe they no longer have interest in the thing they would get so excited to do. I have worked with kids in a variety of capacities, and I have a passion for helping them get through these difficult times.
I work with individuals who are battling depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, school struggles, and other life stressors through a mixture of Child-Centered Play Therapy, Non Directive Play, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Are you noticing any changes in your once thriving and happy child? Are they now struggling in school, controlling their emotions, or having a difficult time making friends? Maybe they no longer have interest in the thing they would get so excited to do. I have worked with kids in a variety of capacities, and I have a passion for helping them get through these difficult times.
(931) 391-3721 View (931) 391-3721
Photo of Catherine Stutzner, MS, LPC, MHSP, NCC, Counselor
Catherine Stutzner
Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37205
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.
(615) 392-3580 View (615) 392-3580
Photo of Misty B. Smith, MA, LPC, MHSP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Misty B. Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, TN 38002
I have extensive training and experience in: the integration of Psychology and Christian Theology for counseling; trauma recovery and post-traumatic stress; domestic abuse; play therapy for children; Anxiety Disorders; ADHD and other neurodevelopmental disorders.
Dear client: I am so glad you are taking the very difficult step to seek counseling! You are welcomed, accepted, valued, and respected in my office. It is a safe space where you can receive compassionate care. My technique involves companioning with clients to help them identify strengths, discover solutions, and emotionally heal.
I have extensive training and experience in: the integration of Psychology and Christian Theology for counseling; trauma recovery and post-traumatic stress; domestic abuse; play therapy for children; Anxiety Disorders; ADHD and other neurodevelopmental disorders.
Dear client: I am so glad you are taking the very difficult step to seek counseling! You are welcomed, accepted, valued, and respected in my office. It is a safe space where you can receive compassionate care. My technique involves companioning with clients to help them identify strengths, discover solutions, and emotionally heal.
(901) 350-4137 View (901) 350-4137
Photo of Gabrielle Paige Schmittou, Pre-Licensed Professional
Gabrielle Paige Schmittou
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Clarksville, TN 37043
Advanced Training: Trauma Informed Care and Play Therapy Professional Memberships: (ACA) American Counseling Association Specialties: Trauma/ Play Therapy/Personality Disorders.
Hello! I am Gabrielle “Gabe” Schmittou, and I am a Master’s level counselor in Tennessee. I have worked with a wide range of clients- varying in ages, identities, and presenting issues. Through my work as a counseling professional, I strive to be a support for others through their journey towards bettering their mental health. People from all walks of life are accepted and appreciated.
Advanced Training: Trauma Informed Care and Play Therapy Professional Memberships: (ACA) American Counseling Association Specialties: Trauma/ Play Therapy/Personality Disorders.
Hello! I am Gabrielle “Gabe” Schmittou, and I am a Master’s level counselor in Tennessee. I have worked with a wide range of clients- varying in ages, identities, and presenting issues. Through my work as a counseling professional, I strive to be a support for others through their journey towards bettering their mental health. People from all walks of life are accepted and appreciated.
(931) 671-1504 View (931) 671-1504
Photo of Stephannie Williams, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephannie Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jackson, TN 38305
I have worked with children & families for over 25 years. Some of the areas I have worked are: in-home services, therapeutics foster care, crisis nursery, adoption, hospital setting (in-patient & ER) & outpatient psychotherapy in the local mental health facility. I really enjoy helping my clients. I like to see them progress through the issues & symptoms they start off feeling. I see adults too for life issues, anxiety & loss and I specialize with children. I use play therapy to help clients find fun while they are working on hard issues & building skills. I love to think outside the box. I love helping clients move forward.
I have worked with children & families for over 25 years. Some of the areas I have worked are: in-home services, therapeutics foster care, crisis nursery, adoption, hospital setting (in-patient & ER) & outpatient psychotherapy in the local mental health facility. I really enjoy helping my clients. I like to see them progress through the issues & symptoms they start off feeling. I see adults too for life issues, anxiety & loss and I specialize with children. I use play therapy to help clients find fun while they are working on hard issues & building skills. I love to think outside the box. I love helping clients move forward.
(731) 207-7749 View (731) 207-7749
Photo of Sheila Levine, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sheila Levine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dickson, TN 37055
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.
(615) 412-0925 View (615) 412-0925
Photo of Kerisha Tidwell, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kerisha Tidwell
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37205
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.
(615) 437-8817 View (615) 437-8817
Photo of Tamera J Scorpio, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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.
(931) 202-9890 View (931) 202-9890
Photo of Gabriela Aguirre-Iriarte, MS, MA, LPC-MHS, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gabriela Aguirre-Iriarte
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC-MHS, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
I am a Registered Play Therapist and believe in the power of play and expressive arts.
Healing and growing is a complicated affair. Changes can be unpredictable and frightening, but facing our fears is the only path to complete healing. A counselor is a companion and an ally through the journey. A mirror that helps us see ourselves better, that can help us change the way we see the world and that gives us the opportunity to modify what bother us.
I am a Registered Play Therapist and believe in the power of play and expressive arts.
Healing and growing is a complicated affair. Changes can be unpredictable and frightening, but facing our fears is the only path to complete healing. A counselor is a companion and an ally through the journey. A mirror that helps us see ourselves better, that can help us change the way we see the world and that gives us the opportunity to modify what bother us.
(629) 260-5433 View (629) 260-5433
Photo of Miranda Dudley, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Miranda Dudley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Dyersburg, TN 38024
I am trained in CBT, solution-focused therapy, EMDR, play & sand tray therapy.
Seeking therapy can be difficult; however, I strive to provide a safe, comfortable and nonjudgmental environment for every individual that I have the privilege of working with. I believe most every individual could benefit from therapy at some point in their life—whether it is to work through a mental health diagnosis, grief, trauma, self-doubt, or daily life issues. We are all unique individuals that have experienced things that shape us into who we are today. I feel privileged to be able to provide a compassionate ear, guide individuals through life’s challenges, and teach skills that empower them to become healthier & happier.
I am trained in CBT, solution-focused therapy, EMDR, play & sand tray therapy.
Seeking therapy can be difficult; however, I strive to provide a safe, comfortable and nonjudgmental environment for every individual that I have the privilege of working with. I believe most every individual could benefit from therapy at some point in their life—whether it is to work through a mental health diagnosis, grief, trauma, self-doubt, or daily life issues. We are all unique individuals that have experienced things that shape us into who we are today. I feel privileged to be able to provide a compassionate ear, guide individuals through life’s challenges, and teach skills that empower them to become healthier & happier.
(731) 666-8245 View (731) 666-8245
Photo of Chelsi Dawn Williamson, LMSW, CYT-200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chelsi Dawn Williamson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CYT-200
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37209
I understand that societal (macro) symptoms of systems play a significant role in our ongoing mental health, and take this into account when working with clients.
My name is Chelsi Williamson and I specialize in children and families. I am trained in EMDR for trauma resolution. I love working with family systems: be it mothers, fathers, couples, children, teens, etc. I see things through a physiologically based trauma lens with a deep understanding of how trauma gets stored in the physical body. It is a passion of mine to help all impacted individuals release the burden of carried trauma, particularly inter-generational trauma. I love working with women trying to show up for family and change pervasive patterns.
I understand that societal (macro) symptoms of systems play a significant role in our ongoing mental health, and take this into account when working with clients.
My name is Chelsi Williamson and I specialize in children and families. I am trained in EMDR for trauma resolution. I love working with family systems: be it mothers, fathers, couples, children, teens, etc. I see things through a physiologically based trauma lens with a deep understanding of how trauma gets stored in the physical body. It is a passion of mine to help all impacted individuals release the burden of carried trauma, particularly inter-generational trauma. I love working with women trying to show up for family and change pervasive patterns.
(629) 249-1836 View (629) 249-1836
Photo of Darden Wilson, MMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Darden Wilson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37205
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.
(615) 282-5304 View (615) 282-5304
Photo of Christina Brian, LCSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Brian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37069
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.
(615) 229-7035 View (615) 229-7035
Photo of Deborah E Doineau, EdD, Psychologist
Deborah E Doineau
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Columbia, TN 38401
With younger children, I use play and art therapy and behavior modification for behavior disorders.
My clientele consists of children, adolescents, and adults. I use a variety of approaches in working with my clients in an attempt to find the most efficacious approach to meet the particular client's needs. As a psychologist, I also perform psychological evaluations for diagnostic purposes. For example, I evaluate cognitive ability, learning disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, and many other issues. Finding oneself can be a daunting task in our complex society. I aspire to help my clients achieve self understanding, a sense of efficacy, and develop tools to assist them in navigating life's challenges on their own.
With younger children, I use play and art therapy and behavior modification for behavior disorders.
My clientele consists of children, adolescents, and adults. I use a variety of approaches in working with my clients in an attempt to find the most efficacious approach to meet the particular client's needs. As a psychologist, I also perform psychological evaluations for diagnostic purposes. For example, I evaluate cognitive ability, learning disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, and many other issues. Finding oneself can be a daunting task in our complex society. I aspire to help my clients achieve self understanding, a sense of efficacy, and develop tools to assist them in navigating life's challenges on their own.
(615) 745-1058 View (615) 745-1058
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.