Photo of Ashley Elaine Boerger, MA, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Elaine Boerger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
Through mindfulness, thought and behavior modification, art, play, and more, I work with my clients to help them create growth.
The world we live in is full of opportunities to disconnect, avoid emotions, and escape reality. I believe that healing is often found through connection to people around us, connection to nature, and the ability to sit with both comfortable and uncomfortable emotions. In therapy, I work to create an authentic, non- judgmental, welcoming, and trustworthy environment through which healing and growth may occur. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is crucial to the success of counseling, and place great importance on it.
Through mindfulness, thought and behavior modification, art, play, and more, I work with my clients to help them create growth.
The world we live in is full of opportunities to disconnect, avoid emotions, and escape reality. I believe that healing is often found through connection to people around us, connection to nature, and the ability to sit with both comfortable and uncomfortable emotions. In therapy, I work to create an authentic, non- judgmental, welcoming, and trustworthy environment through which healing and growth may occur. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is crucial to the success of counseling, and place great importance on it.
(615) 471-7165 View (615) 471-7165
Photo of Leah Lennox - Center for Connection and Wellness, PhD, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Center for Connection and Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
We have therapists who cover depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, play therapy, brainspotting, EMDR, eating disorders, burnout recovery, addiction support, grief, and so much more.
We work with clients of all ages! We have therapists who work with children, teens, young adults, and adults. Clients who want to work with the difficulties of life benefit the most with us.
We have therapists who cover depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, play therapy, brainspotting, EMDR, eating disorders, burnout recovery, addiction support, grief, and so much more.
We work with clients of all ages! We have therapists who work with children, teens, young adults, and adults. Clients who want to work with the difficulties of life benefit the most with us.
(615) 212-5227 View (615) 212-5227
Photo of Caroline Cubillo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caroline Cubillo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37205
I use an integrated approach that blends evidence-based modalities including EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Theraplay, Play therapy, TF-CBT, Circle of Security and specialized trauma informed yoga training in order to individualize therapy to each client based on their wants and needs.
As a therapist, I believe deeply in the power of relationship. My goal is to create a safe therapeutic relationship from which my clients can find healing and growth. I am a licensed clinical social worker in Nashville, TN working from a relational, client-centered lens, with a background in trauma and attachment. I provide services for children, adolescents, young adults and families with a wide variety of presenting issues including trauma, loss, family conflict, adoption, depression, anxiety and difficulties with emotional regulation.
I use an integrated approach that blends evidence-based modalities including EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Theraplay, Play therapy, TF-CBT, Circle of Security and specialized trauma informed yoga training in order to individualize therapy to each client based on their wants and needs.
As a therapist, I believe deeply in the power of relationship. My goal is to create a safe therapeutic relationship from which my clients can find healing and growth. I am a licensed clinical social worker in Nashville, TN working from a relational, client-centered lens, with a background in trauma and attachment. I provide services for children, adolescents, young adults and families with a wide variety of presenting issues including trauma, loss, family conflict, adoption, depression, anxiety and difficulties with emotional regulation.
(615) 908-5144 View (615) 908-5144
Photo of Chelsi Dawn Williamson, LMSW, CYT-200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chelsi Dawn Williamson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CYT-200
Verified Verified
9 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 Catherine Hebert, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catherine Hebert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37215
As a therapist, I empower children and families to navigate life’s challenges through play therapy. Specializing in children aged 4 to 12, I offer individual therapy sessions, parent consultations and parent-child therapy. With over seven years of experience, I assist clients in enhancing emotional regulation, overcoming anxiety and depression, boosting self-confidence and developing social skills. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment, allowing each client to grow in confidence and achieve their therapeutic goals. I would be honored to work with your child and family!
As a therapist, I empower children and families to navigate life’s challenges through play therapy. Specializing in children aged 4 to 12, I offer individual therapy sessions, parent consultations and parent-child therapy. With over seven years of experience, I assist clients in enhancing emotional regulation, overcoming anxiety and depression, boosting self-confidence and developing social skills. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment, allowing each client to grow in confidence and achieve their therapeutic goals. I would be honored to work with your child and family!
(629) 288-2031 View (629) 288-2031
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 Julia Marx, MFA, MA, R-DMT, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
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.
(615) 933-2821 View (615) 933-2821
Photo of Toni Kelly - Toni Kelly Counseling & Consulting, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Toni Kelly Counseling & Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37211
We specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, EMDR, and Play Therapy.
Welcome to our group practice—a sanctuary for women, female-identifying individuals, and BIPOC clients facing anxiety, depression, stress, imposter syndrome, self-esteem issues, and trauma. We provide a culturally sensitive, trauma-informed space where your unique experiences are valued and respected. Our therapists are dedicated to empowering you to heal, find peace, and build an authentic life. Together, we’ll walk with you on your journey to emotional wellness, fostering genuine partnership and support at every step.
We specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, EMDR, and Play Therapy.
Welcome to our group practice—a sanctuary for women, female-identifying individuals, and BIPOC clients facing anxiety, depression, stress, imposter syndrome, self-esteem issues, and trauma. We provide a culturally sensitive, trauma-informed space where your unique experiences are valued and respected. Our therapists are dedicated to empowering you to heal, find peace, and build an authentic life. Together, we’ll walk with you on your journey to emotional wellness, fostering genuine partnership and support at every step.
(615) 908-6110 View (615) 908-6110
Photo of Rachel Mae Gladys - Rachel Gladys Therapeutic Services, LPCMHSP, RPT, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Gladys Therapeutic Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP, RPT, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
I utilize relationally focused and evidence-based treatment modalities grounded in interpersonal neurobiology, child-centered and filial play therapy, expressive arts, and sand tray therapy to create an individualized, integrative, collaborative, and playful treatment experience.
Being a kid is supposed to be a magical time filled with fun, learning, exploring, and giggles. As a parent, is there anything worse than realizing something has gotten in the way of your child's magic? When you can't figure out how you and your child got here, parenting becomes unbearably hard. Worse than that is feeling like you don't know how to help your child. You and your child need support, guidance, and someone who believes the magic isn't lost forever. When life gets challenging, I work with kids, teens, families, and parents. I believe that the magic isn't lost, and healing is possible for your child and family.
I utilize relationally focused and evidence-based treatment modalities grounded in interpersonal neurobiology, child-centered and filial play therapy, expressive arts, and sand tray therapy to create an individualized, integrative, collaborative, and playful treatment experience.
Being a kid is supposed to be a magical time filled with fun, learning, exploring, and giggles. As a parent, is there anything worse than realizing something has gotten in the way of your child's magic? When you can't figure out how you and your child got here, parenting becomes unbearably hard. Worse than that is feeling like you don't know how to help your child. You and your child need support, guidance, and someone who believes the magic isn't lost forever. When life gets challenging, I work with kids, teens, families, and parents. I believe that the magic isn't lost, and healing is possible for your child and family.
(615) 569-3193 View (615) 569-3193
Photo of Jessie Risman, MS, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessie Risman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
I am passionate about the heart and deeply committed to seeing you live more fully by engaging yours. Because your needs are as unique and valuable as your story, my therapy is grounded in Person-Centered Theory. I trust you to be the expert on your own life, and thus the expert in the room. My approach to therapy is integrative and trauma-informed. While drawing from Somatic and Attachment Focused EMDR and Play and Expressive Arts Therapy, my focus remains on the most powerful tool, the relationship. From my own healing journey, I have come to believe we're wounded in the context of relationship, and we heal in relationship, too.
I am passionate about the heart and deeply committed to seeing you live more fully by engaging yours. Because your needs are as unique and valuable as your story, my therapy is grounded in Person-Centered Theory. I trust you to be the expert on your own life, and thus the expert in the room. My approach to therapy is integrative and trauma-informed. While drawing from Somatic and Attachment Focused EMDR and Play and Expressive Arts Therapy, my focus remains on the most powerful tool, the relationship. From my own healing journey, I have come to believe we're wounded in the context of relationship, and we heal in relationship, too.
(615) 205-8130 View (615) 205-8130
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 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
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 Julia Hoge, EdS, NCC, LPCtemp, Licensed Professional Counselor
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.
(615) 985-6821 View (615) 985-6821
Photo of Denissa Rogers- Giles - Sacred Lotus Journey, LLC, MS, Temp, LPC-MHS, Pre-Licensed Professional
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.
(615) 257-9289 View (615) 257-9289
Photo of Elizabeth Arnold, TLMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Elizabeth Arnold
Pre-Licensed Professional, TLMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37215
I believe in a non-pathologizing and collaborative approach grounded in the values and techniques of Internal Family Systems (IFS), Narrative Therapy, Experiential and Play Therapy.
Hi, I'm Elizabeth! I'm pleased to serve the Nashville community by working with individuals, couples, and family groups of every age and stage who are looking for compassionate care addressing grief, trauma, and sudden life changes. Sometimes major life shifts and painful losses can cause mind/body disconnect, challenges in aligning thoughts and emotions, conflict with loved ones, confusion, volatility, and loneliness. Integrating new realizations or new circumstances with how you've seen the world can be incredibly difficult but you are not alone. There is hope, healing, and a future worth shaping.
I believe in a non-pathologizing and collaborative approach grounded in the values and techniques of Internal Family Systems (IFS), Narrative Therapy, Experiential and Play Therapy.
Hi, I'm Elizabeth! I'm pleased to serve the Nashville community by working with individuals, couples, and family groups of every age and stage who are looking for compassionate care addressing grief, trauma, and sudden life changes. Sometimes major life shifts and painful losses can cause mind/body disconnect, challenges in aligning thoughts and emotions, conflict with loved ones, confusion, volatility, and loneliness. Integrating new realizations or new circumstances with how you've seen the world can be incredibly difficult but you are not alone. There is hope, healing, and a future worth shaping.
(615) 471-6836 View (615) 471-6836
Photo of Deborah E Doineau, EdD, Psychologist
Deborah E Doineau
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37212
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
Photo of Amanda Marshall, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Marshall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37209
I use a variety of approaches including mindfulness, CBT, play therapy, ARC, TBRI, narrative, and expressive and art interventions.
I specialize in trauma, attachment losses such as foster care and adoption, and working with children and preteens. I enjoy working with people of all ages to address anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, anger, self-image, caregiver stress, and family changes.
I use a variety of approaches including mindfulness, CBT, play therapy, ARC, TBRI, narrative, and expressive and art interventions.
I specialize in trauma, attachment losses such as foster care and adoption, and working with children and preteens. I enjoy working with people of all ages to address anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, anger, self-image, caregiver stress, and family changes.
(629) 276-6100 View (629) 276-6100
Photo of Megan Barbee, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Barbee
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37207
Healing is multidimensional, so I use many experiential/somatic interventions including EMDR, play/expressive arts therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and mindfulness.
I work with kids, adolescents, and adults who feel stuck; they are experiencing symptoms such as anxiety, depression, relationship problems, and disordered eating. Many have carried the weight of traumatic experiences for as long as they can remember. Many feel that they spend excess time worrying about food and their bodies and find it hard to engage fully in their lives. They continue to feel out of control of their relationships, their bodies, and their emotions. They feel numb and isolated on the surface, and deep down feel hurt and helpless.
Healing is multidimensional, so I use many experiential/somatic interventions including EMDR, play/expressive arts therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and mindfulness.
I work with kids, adolescents, and adults who feel stuck; they are experiencing symptoms such as anxiety, depression, relationship problems, and disordered eating. Many have carried the weight of traumatic experiences for as long as they can remember. Many feel that they spend excess time worrying about food and their bodies and find it hard to engage fully in their lives. They continue to feel out of control of their relationships, their bodies, and their emotions. They feel numb and isolated on the surface, and deep down feel hurt and helpless.
(615) 326-6352 View (615) 326-6352
Photo of Shellsea Morales, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Shellsea Morales
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37212
Therapy modalities that I integrate and utilize are EMDR, Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), & Play Therapy.
I view the therapeutic bond between the client and the therapist to be a gift. As the therapist, the gift I receive is getting to know and see the beauty within each client, while walking with them throughout their way to healing. My ultimate goal is to create a safe space for my clients where they can be their most genuine and authentic self, free of any judgment. Growing up in Nashville and watching it diversify over the years, while being a daughter of immigrants myself, I understand first-hand the importance of diversity, loving, and embracing who you truly are.
Therapy modalities that I integrate and utilize are EMDR, Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), & Play Therapy.
I view the therapeutic bond between the client and the therapist to be a gift. As the therapist, the gift I receive is getting to know and see the beauty within each client, while walking with them throughout their way to healing. My ultimate goal is to create a safe space for my clients where they can be their most genuine and authentic self, free of any judgment. Growing up in Nashville and watching it diversify over the years, while being a daughter of immigrants myself, I understand first-hand the importance of diversity, loving, and embracing who you truly are.
(629) 306-8620 View (629) 306-8620
Photo of Claire Fajardo Belcher - Claire Belcher Therapy PLLC, MA, LPC, ASDCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Claire Belcher Therapy PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37211
My counseling approach is Person-Centered and I use Motivational Interviewing, (Trauma Focused) Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, and Music Therapy.
I work with adults and teenagers experiencing mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, grief, PTSD, complex PTSD, Schizophrenia, Bi-polar, Emotional Disturbance, Reactive Attachment Disorder and addiction. Additionally, I have an extensive background history working with teenagers and adults diagnosed with Asperger's and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
My counseling approach is Person-Centered and I use Motivational Interviewing, (Trauma Focused) Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, and Music Therapy.
I work with adults and teenagers experiencing mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, grief, PTSD, complex PTSD, Schizophrenia, Bi-polar, Emotional Disturbance, Reactive Attachment Disorder and addiction. Additionally, I have an extensive background history working with teenagers and adults diagnosed with Asperger's and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
(615) 802-4973 View (615) 802-4973
1
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Play Therapy

Who is play therapy for?

Play therapy is generally targeted to children between the ages of 3 and 11 who have social, emotional, or behavioral difficulties. Play therapy has also been found helpful for children who have experienced physical or emotional abuse or witnessed atrocities. Play therapy is also often recommended for children who are undergoing major medical procedures or who are suffering from chronic illness; many children’s hospitals are equipped to offer play therapy on-site. Play therapy is also sometimes used for adults; creative writing, music, and art are expressive forms that can all be adapted for therapeutic purposes.

Why do people need play therapy?

Children often do not have the language skills or words to know or to express what is troubling them. Yet they often spontaneously draw or use playthings to depict scenarios that reflect problems in their everyday life. Play therapy provides children with an array of objects and play situations to act out their feelings or experiences so that therapists can get a clear picture of what children might be struggling with and help them find solutions. In addition, play therapists are skilled at helping children understand their inner experience and find words for them, necessary steps toward helping children learn to control their own behavior and come up with solutions to problems they encounter.

What happens in play therapy?

A child enters a comfortable playroom where they are free to choose the objects they want to play with. The play therapist will typically observe how they play with the toys—whether a sandbox, puppets, dolls and action figures, trucks, costumes, drawing and painting materials, or more—because such play provides clues to a child’s family and social relationships, difficulties they are encountering in the world, and what going on inside themselves. Sometimes the therapist may ask the child to use the play objects to tell a story about their family. Using the same instruments of play, therapists can help children discover more advantageous ways of thinking and behaving.

What kinds of problems do play therapists treat?

Play therapy can help children who display destructive or self-destructive impulses; children who seem angry, sad, or fearful; children who experience frequent social, emotional, family, or school difficulty. Play therapy is often of value to children who have experienced a loss or distressing family experience, who are regularly exposed to family conflict, or who have been physically or emotionally abused. Play therapy can help children who are perpetrators of bullying as well as those who are targets of bullying. It helps children learn to identify their feelings, to express them in constructive ways, and to regulate them so they can get on with the business of development.

How long does play therapy last?

Play therapy sessions may last for 30 to 45 minutes, and they usually occur weekly for about 20 sessions. Each session is tailored to the individual child and the kinds of problems they are struggling with. Play that is highly repetitive often indicates a problem requiring further exploration. Therapists typically measure progress through session-to-session changes in play behavior.