Play Therapy in Cedar Park, TX
![Photo of Supritha Sampath, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9bb217eb-f153-460d-89d2-79c48c82264b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Supritha Sampath
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cedar Park, TX 78613
Waitlist for new clients
While working with children I emphasize the importance of involving parents in understanding the child’s needs and use a variety of play therapy tools and audiovisual aids.
Welcome and thank you for taking the first steps in seeking help. Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or want to see a change in your life but don’t know where to begin? That is something I can help you with. I provide my clients practical tools that are rooted in evidence-based treatment modalities such as mindfulness, the Gottman method (specific for couples), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
While working with children I emphasize the importance of involving parents in understanding the child’s needs and use a variety of play therapy tools and audiovisual aids.
Welcome and thank you for taking the first steps in seeking help. Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or want to see a change in your life but don’t know where to begin? That is something I can help you with. I provide my clients practical tools that are rooted in evidence-based treatment modalities such as mindfulness, the Gottman method (specific for couples), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
![Photo of Eve Merrill, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bfb3a5c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
With young clients, I use play therapy in order to help children manage and process difficult emotions, work through trauma, and have a restorative experience.
Is your child having school problems due to ADHD, low motivation, or disorganization; social problems such as difficulties with peers or family members; or emotional problems? If so, I can help. Nobody has ever said raising children is easy. Luckily, you don't have to do it alone. With a doctorate degree in clinical child and school psychology I can help. My varied professional experience in New York City, Detroit, and Austin has included work in inpatient state hospitals, residential treatment centers, as well as outpatient settings. I have worked with many different families with a range of issues.
With young clients, I use play therapy in order to help children manage and process difficult emotions, work through trauma, and have a restorative experience.
Is your child having school problems due to ADHD, low motivation, or disorganization; social problems such as difficulties with peers or family members; or emotional problems? If so, I can help. Nobody has ever said raising children is easy. Luckily, you don't have to do it alone. With a doctorate degree in clinical child and school psychology I can help. My varied professional experience in New York City, Detroit, and Austin has included work in inpatient state hospitals, residential treatment centers, as well as outpatient settings. I have worked with many different families with a range of issues.
![Photo of Jennifer Reyes, MEd, LPC-S, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50e9dc59-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Reyes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Cedar Park, TX 78613
For this reason, I am highly trained in play therapy, sand tray therapy, and traditional talk therapy.
Is your child having difficulties in daycare, school, or at home? Maybe your family is going through a big transition, and your child could benefit from working with someone who can understand and help. Are you a stressed parent who is looking for ways to help your child, or just want to be the best parent you can be? I am an experienced therapist who specializes in working with children, teens, and parents.
For this reason, I am highly trained in play therapy, sand tray therapy, and traditional talk therapy.
Is your child having difficulties in daycare, school, or at home? Maybe your family is going through a big transition, and your child could benefit from working with someone who can understand and help. Are you a stressed parent who is looking for ways to help your child, or just want to be the best parent you can be? I am an experienced therapist who specializes in working with children, teens, and parents.
![Photo of Earley Barnes-Ullrich, LCSW-S, RPT-S, ADS, EMDRCIT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67a8fd4f-c9cd-4b2f-9d13-416386dee196/2/320x400.jpeg)
Earley Barnes-Ullrich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, RPT-S, ADS, EMDRCIT
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613
At the same time, I find that incorporating holistic, creative, playful, sensory activities such as movement, sound, 5 needle ear acupuncture, breathworks, art, sandtray, play, parts work, etc.
As a holistic therapist, I am deeply committed to supporting my clients' overall mental wellness by integrating approaches tailored to their unique needs. My practice is grounded in the belief that true healing encompasses the mind, body, and spirit. Healing takes place in the context of relationships, so I hope to build a safe, trusting relationship with you and/or your family. I have tremendous compassion and empathy for others because I believe people are doing the best they can with the life circumstances and coping skills they have.
At the same time, I find that incorporating holistic, creative, playful, sensory activities such as movement, sound, 5 needle ear acupuncture, breathworks, art, sandtray, play, parts work, etc.
As a holistic therapist, I am deeply committed to supporting my clients' overall mental wellness by integrating approaches tailored to their unique needs. My practice is grounded in the belief that true healing encompasses the mind, body, and spirit. Healing takes place in the context of relationships, so I hope to build a safe, trusting relationship with you and/or your family. I have tremendous compassion and empathy for others because I believe people are doing the best they can with the life circumstances and coping skills they have.
![Photo of Martha H. Pasiminio - Bilingual, MA, LPC-S, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40bbd291-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Martha H. Pasiminio - Bilingual
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, RPT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cedar Park, TX 78613 (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with individuals and families, as well as with neglected and abused children through the use of play therapy, and in crisis counseling.
Fully Bilingual/ Bicultural - We all need a helping hand to overcome life's challenges and achieve our dreams. My role is to provide a safe space and proper guidance for you and/or your children to be able to heal past wounds and overcome current issues while regaining your power, so that you can develop your full potential and have a fulfilling and rewarding life. (www.pasiminiowellness.com)
I have extensive experience working with individuals and families, as well as with neglected and abused children through the use of play therapy, and in crisis counseling.
Fully Bilingual/ Bicultural - We all need a helping hand to overcome life's challenges and achieve our dreams. My role is to provide a safe space and proper guidance for you and/or your children to be able to heal past wounds and overcome current issues while regaining your power, so that you can develop your full potential and have a fulfilling and rewarding life. (www.pasiminiowellness.com)
![Photo of Lindsay Racino, MA, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b2532226-7e70-4ef7-852e-77ef11e1964d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lindsay Racino
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cedar Park, TX 78613
I am passionate about being a Registered Play Therapist and working with children in their natural language of play.
Accepting New Clients as of March 2024! I have a heart for supporting children, adolescents, and young adults during challenging seasons of growth. I know that relationships are fundamental to the success of the therapeutic process, therefore building a safe and trusting relationship with my clients is essential. I view the therapy process as uniquely as I view the individuals and families I work with. I aim to customize my approach to meet the needs of each of my clients.
I am passionate about being a Registered Play Therapist and working with children in their natural language of play.
Accepting New Clients as of March 2024! I have a heart for supporting children, adolescents, and young adults during challenging seasons of growth. I know that relationships are fundamental to the success of the therapeutic process, therefore building a safe and trusting relationship with my clients is essential. I view the therapy process as uniquely as I view the individuals and families I work with. I aim to customize my approach to meet the needs of each of my clients.
![Photo of Richard Honey, MA, LMFT-S, LPC-S, RPT-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d83fbf8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Richard Honey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMFT-S, LPC-S, RPT-S, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cedar Park, TX 78613
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Supervisor, a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor, a National Certified Counselor and an EMDR-IA Approved Consultant . I work with families, couples and individuals needing support with stressors, relationships, adolescent transitions and other issues that may be affecting the quality of life. My work focuses on understanding the issues and creating constructive changes in a safe and supportive environment. The process is a collaboration, and it is both challenging and highly rewarding.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Supervisor, a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor, a National Certified Counselor and an EMDR-IA Approved Consultant . I work with families, couples and individuals needing support with stressors, relationships, adolescent transitions and other issues that may be affecting the quality of life. My work focuses on understanding the issues and creating constructive changes in a safe and supportive environment. The process is a collaboration, and it is both challenging and highly rewarding.
![Photo of Mandi Melendez, MA, LMFT-S, LPC-S, RPT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e277913-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mandi Melendez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT-S, LPC-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Cedar Park, TX 78613
As a parent myself I understand that raising children can be challenging, and I am passionate about supporting families in realizing their full potential for love, growth and peaceful relationships. I use evidence based practices to facilitate empowerment, self-control and healing through play, artistic expression, and sandtray therapy. I specialize in work with children, adolescents, and their caregivers, and have served as President of the Texas Association for Play Therapy and Clinical Editor for Play Therapy Magazine.
As a parent myself I understand that raising children can be challenging, and I am passionate about supporting families in realizing their full potential for love, growth and peaceful relationships. I use evidence based practices to facilitate empowerment, self-control and healing through play, artistic expression, and sandtray therapy. I specialize in work with children, adolescents, and their caregivers, and have served as President of the Texas Association for Play Therapy and Clinical Editor for Play Therapy Magazine.
![Photo of Alexis Tanaka, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e9c0eba-bb90-447f-a7d1-78b0ef872e92/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alexis Tanaka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Cedar Park, TX 78613
Integrating brain and nervous system research with techniques such as play and sand therapy, EMDR, and mindfulness, I provide comprehensive support that goes beyond conversation.
I specialize in supporting individuals of all ages dealing with trauma, anxiety, and depression. Recognizing that humans are inherently social beings, I prioritize building a trusting relationship with each client to facilitate meaningful therapeutic work. I craft my approach to meet clients where they are, helping them navigate challenges, discover new coping strategies, and achieve their fullest potential at a pace that suits them best.
Integrating brain and nervous system research with techniques such as play and sand therapy, EMDR, and mindfulness, I provide comprehensive support that goes beyond conversation.
I specialize in supporting individuals of all ages dealing with trauma, anxiety, and depression. Recognizing that humans are inherently social beings, I prioritize building a trusting relationship with each client to facilitate meaningful therapeutic work. I craft my approach to meet clients where they are, helping them navigate challenges, discover new coping strategies, and achieve their fullest potential at a pace that suits them best.
![Photo of Erin T. White - The Whole Child Center, LPC-S, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f8a0bad-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
The Whole Child Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613
Through counseling with your child (play therapy or other appropriate intervention) and consultation with you as their parent, we will help bring peace back into both of your lives.
Emails from this site are not coming through - please call instead! You knew that parenting would be difficult at times, but you didn't expect just how challenging your child's struggles could be. Seeking therapy has been a difficult decision. You have tried your best, doing all you can think of to help them get back on the right track. You feel worn out, frustrated, worried, embarrassed, confused, even guilty. Your child's problem has become more than you can handle alone. You need help. It's hard to imagine that it could be better, but it will.
Through counseling with your child (play therapy or other appropriate intervention) and consultation with you as their parent, we will help bring peace back into both of your lives.
Emails from this site are not coming through - please call instead! You knew that parenting would be difficult at times, but you didn't expect just how challenging your child's struggles could be. Seeking therapy has been a difficult decision. You have tried your best, doing all you can think of to help them get back on the right track. You feel worn out, frustrated, worried, embarrassed, confused, even guilty. Your child's problem has become more than you can handle alone. You need help. It's hard to imagine that it could be better, but it will.
![Photo of Kim Box, LPC, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/04bc0c98-00bd-47cc-b9ca-a7297b913fad/4/320x400.jpeg)
For children and adolescents, my approach is a mixture of art, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, DBT, and play.
For those experiencing a difficult season or life transition, talking with someone about the challenges you face is one of the healthiest decisions you can make for yourself and your loved ones. At times, life is messy! Talking it through and getting an outside perspective other than friends and family can help. In addition to counseling individuals, I have over 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, and their families. I provide guidance to those that struggle in many areas of school; emotional regulation, self-esteem, peer relationships, ADHD, behavioral issues, and anxiety to name a few.
For children and adolescents, my approach is a mixture of art, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, DBT, and play.
For those experiencing a difficult season or life transition, talking with someone about the challenges you face is one of the healthiest decisions you can make for yourself and your loved ones. At times, life is messy! Talking it through and getting an outside perspective other than friends and family can help. In addition to counseling individuals, I have over 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, and their families. I provide guidance to those that struggle in many areas of school; emotional regulation, self-esteem, peer relationships, ADHD, behavioral issues, and anxiety to name a few.
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![Photo of Michelle Summers, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dbb7ca9f-138c-42f3-8b63-92f0b9414588/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. I work with eating disorders, depression, anxiety, OCD, and life transitions. I utilize play therapy with children, solution focused techniques, CBT techniques, supportive therapy, family systems, and other techniques that match the client I am working with. If you have a high deductible or copay, I can accept private pay to make your cost lower. Using insurance? Go to LifeStancehealth.com to find me. All insurance plans accepted and in network.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. I work with eating disorders, depression, anxiety, OCD, and life transitions. I utilize play therapy with children, solution focused techniques, CBT techniques, supportive therapy, family systems, and other techniques that match the client I am working with. If you have a high deductible or copay, I can accept private pay to make your cost lower. Using insurance? Go to LifeStancehealth.com to find me. All insurance plans accepted and in network.
![Photo of Sheryl Stiffler, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ca90327-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sheryl Stiffler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613 (Online Only)
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, my goals are to create a safe and supportive environment in which all individuals can thrive, contributing to a healthier and happier family life. I love working with children and adolescents, and use play therapy, art, and music to help them express feelings and concerns when words don’t come so easily. I also value working with couples and individuals to explore the impact their family of origin or current relationships are having on their emotions and coping. Finding healthy ways to cope with the stresses of today's world can be challenging, and I'd welcome supporting you in your journey.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, my goals are to create a safe and supportive environment in which all individuals can thrive, contributing to a healthier and happier family life. I love working with children and adolescents, and use play therapy, art, and music to help them express feelings and concerns when words don’t come so easily. I also value working with couples and individuals to explore the impact their family of origin or current relationships are having on their emotions and coping. Finding healthy ways to cope with the stresses of today's world can be challenging, and I'd welcome supporting you in your journey.
![Photo of Danielle Marie Sauber, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/460e082f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Marie Sauber
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613
I have the most experience working with young children using Child Centered Play Therapy yet also very much enjoy working with adolescents.
Hello! I'm Dani Sauber, LPC and I earned my Bachelor's degree in Behavioral Sciences from Concordia University Texas in Austin. I then graduated with my Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Texas State. I received my LPC-Intern license in 2017 and became fully licensed at the very beginning of 2020. I love to work with young children using Child Centered Play Therapy and adolescents, at times engaging in play therapy, but also using Client/Person Centered Therapy. I also have years of experience providing Child Parent Relationship Therapy to the parents of my clients in group as well as individual settings.
I have the most experience working with young children using Child Centered Play Therapy yet also very much enjoy working with adolescents.
Hello! I'm Dani Sauber, LPC and I earned my Bachelor's degree in Behavioral Sciences from Concordia University Texas in Austin. I then graduated with my Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Texas State. I received my LPC-Intern license in 2017 and became fully licensed at the very beginning of 2020. I love to work with young children using Child Centered Play Therapy and adolescents, at times engaging in play therapy, but also using Client/Person Centered Therapy. I also have years of experience providing Child Parent Relationship Therapy to the parents of my clients in group as well as individual settings.
![Photo of Lisa DeMoss, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52d2f4eb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I use a variety of approaches including Cognitive Behavioral, Psychodynamic, Solution-Focused and Play Therapy.
Is your life stressed? Are you or a family member experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, or relationship issues? Do you need a change, or for things to settle down in your life? Life can bring turmoil, conflict, frustrations, and a feeling of hopelessness. Together, we can find the root of your problems and develop a healthier way to navigate life. You deserve to have peace and joy in your life. Make yourself a priority today!
I use a variety of approaches including Cognitive Behavioral, Psychodynamic, Solution-Focused and Play Therapy.
Is your life stressed? Are you or a family member experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, or relationship issues? Do you need a change, or for things to settle down in your life? Life can bring turmoil, conflict, frustrations, and a feeling of hopelessness. Together, we can find the root of your problems and develop a healthier way to navigate life. You deserve to have peace and joy in your life. Make yourself a priority today!
![Photo of Kathryn Nin Emery, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/978eef1d-9cde-4182-924e-4e264adb1c67/1/320x400.jpeg)
Young children do not possess the vocabulary/self-knowledge to discuss their troubles in talk therapy, they instead naturally play them out.
After 7 years as a teacher and school counselor, Kathryn (Nin) Emery now serves as a Licensed Professional Counselor. Her background was founded on a passion for working with teens, guiding them as they navigate the tumultuous period of adolescence. She will offer a safe, non-judgmental place to support personal growth. Older adolescents will be offered more privileges in privacy, however, parents will remain frequently updated and well-informed. Play therapy is also her passion; a research-based modality of working with younger children.
Young children do not possess the vocabulary/self-knowledge to discuss their troubles in talk therapy, they instead naturally play them out.
After 7 years as a teacher and school counselor, Kathryn (Nin) Emery now serves as a Licensed Professional Counselor. Her background was founded on a passion for working with teens, guiding them as they navigate the tumultuous period of adolescence. She will offer a safe, non-judgmental place to support personal growth. Older adolescents will be offered more privileges in privacy, however, parents will remain frequently updated and well-informed. Play therapy is also her passion; a research-based modality of working with younger children.
![Photo of Yesenia Sandoval Gonzalez, LMSW, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4053cf9-569f-4d8e-9f50-337875ac48d0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Yesenia Sandoval Gonzalez
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cedar Park, TX 78613
My passion and heart goes to working with adults and children who may identify as first-generation, BIPOC, Neurodivergent and of any cultural background. I primarily use Prescriptive Play Therapy, AutPlay Informed Play Therapy, Sandtray therapy, and client centered approaches to help cope with depression, anxiety, ADHD trauma, school challenges, life challenges, and assimilation . I have experience working with families of all cultural backgrounds by implementing positive parenting practices, developing collaborative problem-solving skills, and strengthening attachment at all ages.
My passion and heart goes to working with adults and children who may identify as first-generation, BIPOC, Neurodivergent and of any cultural background. I primarily use Prescriptive Play Therapy, AutPlay Informed Play Therapy, Sandtray therapy, and client centered approaches to help cope with depression, anxiety, ADHD trauma, school challenges, life challenges, and assimilation . I have experience working with families of all cultural backgrounds by implementing positive parenting practices, developing collaborative problem-solving skills, and strengthening attachment at all ages.
![Photo of Ashley Loeffel, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b3616b1-0c08-4e5e-b55c-ba2f2844f136/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Loeffel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cedar Park, TX 78613
Are you looking for someone to support you on your journey towards improving your mental health? Life can be very difficult and overwhelming at times. I have provided counseling in many different settings, including an eating disorder clinic, a residential treatment center for adolescents in the foster care system, a treatment center for adults with substance use disorder and a center for survivors of torture, working with refugees and asylum seekers. Currently, I am working towards obtaining my play therapist credentialing and work with kiddos as young as 7!
Are you looking for someone to support you on your journey towards improving your mental health? Life can be very difficult and overwhelming at times. I have provided counseling in many different settings, including an eating disorder clinic, a residential treatment center for adolescents in the foster care system, a treatment center for adults with substance use disorder and a center for survivors of torture, working with refugees and asylum seekers. Currently, I am working towards obtaining my play therapist credentialing and work with kiddos as young as 7!
![Photo of Mandi Melendez - Nurture Family Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f448a7b-df4d-4bff-89f0-f82f1366fb90/1/320x400.jpeg)
Our child and adolescent therapists pursue the highest level of specialty for working with young clients, the Registered Play Therapist credential, while Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists support couples and family groups.
We specialize in work with children, adolescents, families and couples. Family and other supportive relationships are vital to a sense of safety and well-being, and we will work closely with you to create an environment that will nurture optimal growth and development, both individually and in the context of important relationships. We work to make sense of your experiences and set attainable goals for a more satisfying and fulfilling future.
Our child and adolescent therapists pursue the highest level of specialty for working with young clients, the Registered Play Therapist credential, while Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists support couples and family groups.
We specialize in work with children, adolescents, families and couples. Family and other supportive relationships are vital to a sense of safety and well-being, and we will work closely with you to create an environment that will nurture optimal growth and development, both individually and in the context of important relationships. We work to make sense of your experiences and set attainable goals for a more satisfying and fulfilling future.
![Photo of Sydney Dickerson, LCSW-S, EMDR AC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46b69c05-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sydney Dickerson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, EMDR AC
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613
I also offer parent skills training and utilize sand, play, and art therapies to help clients express themselves and process emotions.
Accepting new clients - I provide a safe environment to develop trust and share in the healing process. I have been working with teens, children, and adults for over 10 years and am experienced in helping individuals and families thrive after trauma, loss, and difficult transitions.
I also offer parent skills training and utilize sand, play, and art therapies to help clients express themselves and process emotions.
Accepting new clients - I provide a safe environment to develop trust and share in the healing process. I have been working with teens, children, and adults for over 10 years and am experienced in helping individuals and families thrive after trauma, loss, and difficult transitions.
See more therapy options for Cedar Park
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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.