Toddler Therapists in Forney, TX

Photo of Dana Reneé Hartless, LPC, NCC, MS, BSW, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dana Reneé Hartless
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MS, BSW
Verified Verified
Forney, TX 75126
I have 20 years experience as a School Counselor. I started a private counseling practice in February 2015 as an LPC-Intern under the supervision of Dr. Donna Rial-Baker, D. Min., LPC-S. Even though I have gathered expertise working with children and youth for many years, I have spent the last 3 1/2 years building a practice working with clients of all ages including adults. I have thoroughly enjoyed working with adults who are interested in making life changes related to relationships, careers, and/or personal goals.
I have 20 years experience as a School Counselor. I started a private counseling practice in February 2015 as an LPC-Intern under the supervision of Dr. Donna Rial-Baker, D. Min., LPC-S. Even though I have gathered expertise working with children and youth for many years, I have spent the last 3 1/2 years building a practice working with clients of all ages including adults. I have thoroughly enjoyed working with adults who are interested in making life changes related to relationships, careers, and/or personal goals.
(972) 375-9287 View (972) 375-9287
Photo of Megan R. Young, MSW, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan R. Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Forney, TX 75126
For some people, it is easy to ask for help & for others, it is extremely difficult. You might be struggling with managing difficult behaviors with your child & unsure of how to help them. You might question whether you should even come to counseling because you are not sure if what you are going through is "really bad enough" compared to others. Maybe you have done counseling before and did not feel it helped. Counseling is about learning how to manage difficult feelings as they arise. Mental health is not linear, & ups and downs will happen in the course of life, so it helps to have someone to listen when they are struggling.
For some people, it is easy to ask for help & for others, it is extremely difficult. You might be struggling with managing difficult behaviors with your child & unsure of how to help them. You might question whether you should even come to counseling because you are not sure if what you are going through is "really bad enough" compared to others. Maybe you have done counseling before and did not feel it helped. Counseling is about learning how to manage difficult feelings as they arise. Mental health is not linear, & ups and downs will happen in the course of life, so it helps to have someone to listen when they are struggling.
(214) 225-3881 View (214) 225-3881
Photo of Lisa Sipes, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Sipes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Forney, TX 75126
I have over 20 years of experience working with and counseling children. In recent years, I have worked as a clinician in a state funded out-patient facility. I have also worked as a school counselor for 10 years and a school teacher for 7 years. With this extensive experience comes a natural ability to communicate with young people. I specialize in Play Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, while working with children with anxiety, impulse, grief, peer relation, self-esteem, divorce, anger management, social skill, and other issues.
I have over 20 years of experience working with and counseling children. In recent years, I have worked as a clinician in a state funded out-patient facility. I have also worked as a school counselor for 10 years and a school teacher for 7 years. With this extensive experience comes a natural ability to communicate with young people. I specialize in Play Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, while working with children with anxiety, impulse, grief, peer relation, self-esteem, divorce, anger management, social skill, and other issues.
(469) 517-3592 View (469) 517-3592
Photo of Barbara Orticelli, EdD, MA, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Barbara Orticelli
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Forney, TX 75126  (Online Only)
Looking for assistance in navigating life? Well, you're in the right place. As your therapist, my goal is to provide you with the tools you need to live the life you truly desire. I use a person-centered therapy approach along with CBT in my interventions. My services help veterans, veteran families, as well as children, adolescents and adults. The goal is to implement hope and skills to help you manage depression, stress, and/or anxiety. Furthermore, I am able to implement faith-based practices as well as other evidenced-based practices as necessary to be client-centered and advocate for your specific needs and care.
Looking for assistance in navigating life? Well, you're in the right place. As your therapist, my goal is to provide you with the tools you need to live the life you truly desire. I use a person-centered therapy approach along with CBT in my interventions. My services help veterans, veteran families, as well as children, adolescents and adults. The goal is to implement hope and skills to help you manage depression, stress, and/or anxiety. Furthermore, I am able to implement faith-based practices as well as other evidenced-based practices as necessary to be client-centered and advocate for your specific needs and care.
(984) 266-2882 View (984) 266-2882
Photo of Deanne Rose, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Deanne Rose
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Forney, TX 75126
My name is Deanne Rose and I have been a licensed counselor for many years. I am blessed to have 6 horses who assist me in supporting others in their healing process. I work with children using a combination of play therapy techniques and help from my animal team of horses, dogs, and bunny. I work with adults who are struggling with a variety of issues from personal challenges to relationship issues. The option for adults to include horses in their process can have magical results.
My name is Deanne Rose and I have been a licensed counselor for many years. I am blessed to have 6 horses who assist me in supporting others in their healing process. I work with children using a combination of play therapy techniques and help from my animal team of horses, dogs, and bunny. I work with adults who are struggling with a variety of issues from personal challenges to relationship issues. The option for adults to include horses in their process can have magical results.
(214) 239-1830 View (214) 239-1830
Photo of Donna Rial-Baker, DMin, MEd, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Donna Rial-Baker
Licensed Professional Counselor, DMin, MEd, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Forney, TX 75126
Dr. Rial-Baker is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Doctor of Ministry. She is a practical, interactive therapist who uses an array of therapeutic techniques. Her treatment approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients resolve current problems and long-standing patterns. She incorporates a blend of conventional, spiritual, and alternative approaches, drawing upon a variety of styles and techniques to incorporate what will be most helpful for each client. With sensitivity and compassion, she works with clients to help them to build upon their strengths to bring life and blessings into all that they experience.
Dr. Rial-Baker is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Doctor of Ministry. She is a practical, interactive therapist who uses an array of therapeutic techniques. Her treatment approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients resolve current problems and long-standing patterns. She incorporates a blend of conventional, spiritual, and alternative approaches, drawing upon a variety of styles and techniques to incorporate what will be most helpful for each client. With sensitivity and compassion, she works with clients to help them to build upon their strengths to bring life and blessings into all that they experience.
(469) 464-9940 View (469) 464-9940
Photo of David B Bell, PhD, Psychologist
David B Bell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forney, TX 75126
I am a Psychologist in private practice, with 44 years experience. I see all ages and a part of my practice involves custody disputes, custody evaluations, parent facilitation, and general counseling of adults, adolescents, and children. I conduct evaluations in civil and criminal court cases. I believe my many years of experience and my variety of interests help me to do a good job. I conduct many law enforcement evaluations.
I am a Psychologist in private practice, with 44 years experience. I see all ages and a part of my practice involves custody disputes, custody evaluations, parent facilitation, and general counseling of adults, adolescents, and children. I conduct evaluations in civil and criminal court cases. I believe my many years of experience and my variety of interests help me to do a good job. I conduct many law enforcement evaluations.
(469) 414-9579 View (469) 414-9579
Photo of Dawn Waldron Nelson, LCSW-S, ACSW, SAP, CART, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dawn Waldron Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, ACSW, SAP, CART
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Forney, TX 75126
I have 25 years of psychotherapy experience successfully helping people improve their lives. Talking about problems can be difficult, however, sharing concerns with an objective, professional therapist enables you to understand and overcome challenges. I treat you with respect, understanding, and confidentiality, and provide exceptional services in a comfortable and non-judgmental environment. I have a wide variety of professional experience with children, teens, and adults, in both short and long-term therapy, dealing with a broad spectrum of problems. In addition, I provide diagnostic assessments and consultations.
I have 25 years of psychotherapy experience successfully helping people improve their lives. Talking about problems can be difficult, however, sharing concerns with an objective, professional therapist enables you to understand and overcome challenges. I treat you with respect, understanding, and confidentiality, and provide exceptional services in a comfortable and non-judgmental environment. I have a wide variety of professional experience with children, teens, and adults, in both short and long-term therapy, dealing with a broad spectrum of problems. In addition, I provide diagnostic assessments and consultations.
(972) 684-5962 View (972) 684-5962
Photo of Ijeoma Ndukwu Onyejiaka - ACE T. Counseling & Wellness Center, PLLC, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
ACE T. Counseling & Wellness Center, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Forney, TX 75126
My mission is to help all my clients make quality improvements in their lives. I have years of experience in individual, family, couple, and group counseling. I integrate several forms of psychotherapy approaches such as Internal Family System, BrainSpotting, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma-Informed Cognitive Behavioral therapy (TB-CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and more, to tailor treatment to my clients' individual needs. My intervention styles and commitment to my clients' total wellness help them achieve the successful resolution of their underlying issues and traumatic reactions.
My mission is to help all my clients make quality improvements in their lives. I have years of experience in individual, family, couple, and group counseling. I integrate several forms of psychotherapy approaches such as Internal Family System, BrainSpotting, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma-Informed Cognitive Behavioral therapy (TB-CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and more, to tailor treatment to my clients' individual needs. My intervention styles and commitment to my clients' total wellness help them achieve the successful resolution of their underlying issues and traumatic reactions.
(972) 441-7349 View (972) 441-7349
Photo of Joann T Radeke, PhD, Psychologist
Joann T Radeke
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Forney, TX 75126
I am a board licensed psychologist. My bachelors is from SMU and my Ph. D. in clinical psychology is from the University of North Texas. I also hold a postdoctoral Masters degree in psychopharmacology from Alliant University. My training taught me to meet you where you are in your life. The goal is to help you improve how you feel, how you function and your interpersonal relationships. Clinical psychology encompasses all degrees of difficulty one might experience in life.
I am a board licensed psychologist. My bachelors is from SMU and my Ph. D. in clinical psychology is from the University of North Texas. I also hold a postdoctoral Masters degree in psychopharmacology from Alliant University. My training taught me to meet you where you are in your life. The goal is to help you improve how you feel, how you function and your interpersonal relationships. Clinical psychology encompasses all degrees of difficulty one might experience in life.
(972) 932-3941 View (972) 932-3941
Photo of Michelle Denise Williams, MMFT, HSCCRT, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle Denise Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MMFT, HSCCRT, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forney, TX 75126
Have you looked in the mirror and asked yourself, "How did I get here?" “Who can I trust?” “How did my life change so quickly that I can't even recognize myself anymore?" "Am I Crazy?" "I Want to be Happy?" Problems are just the tip of the iceberg. Real problems start and end with the mirror image we see daily. Often the mirror image is silent but dying to speak and live life again. Issues in life start with the inability to be heard, believed in, and understood. I believe the best way to find you again, is to find your voice.
Have you looked in the mirror and asked yourself, "How did I get here?" “Who can I trust?” “How did my life change so quickly that I can't even recognize myself anymore?" "Am I Crazy?" "I Want to be Happy?" Problems are just the tip of the iceberg. Real problems start and end with the mirror image we see daily. Often the mirror image is silent but dying to speak and live life again. Issues in life start with the inability to be heard, believed in, and understood. I believe the best way to find you again, is to find your voice.
(972) 895-6640 View (972) 895-6640
Photo of Dr. Jill M. Bennett, PhD, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Jill M. Bennett
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forney, TX 75126
I seek to assist individuals, couples, families, and organizations to resolve a wide range of difficulties and achieve their goals. I offer traditional talk therapy for adolescents and adults, online counseling, play therapy, parent coaching, consulting services, testing and assessments, trauma resolution therapy, equine assisted therapy and organizational effectiveness programs and services.
I seek to assist individuals, couples, families, and organizations to resolve a wide range of difficulties and achieve their goals. I offer traditional talk therapy for adolescents and adults, online counseling, play therapy, parent coaching, consulting services, testing and assessments, trauma resolution therapy, equine assisted therapy and organizational effectiveness programs and services.
(903) 742-4067 View (903) 742-4067
Photo of Natalie Shepherd, MS, LPC-S, LMFT-S, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Natalie Shepherd
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, LMFT-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Forney, TX 75126
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Is your child or family struggling with significant life changes? I have 24 yrs of experience working with children, adolescents, families, and adults. As an experienced and compassionate therapist, I am ready to work with you to find practical solutions for whatever challenges you are facing. My approach to counseling is collaborative, strength-based, and non-judgmental. I understand that making the decision to find help can be hard enough. Finding the right therapist shouldn't be hard too. Call me today and let's talk about how I can work with you to help you reach your goals.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Is your child or family struggling with significant life changes? I have 24 yrs of experience working with children, adolescents, families, and adults. As an experienced and compassionate therapist, I am ready to work with you to find practical solutions for whatever challenges you are facing. My approach to counseling is collaborative, strength-based, and non-judgmental. I understand that making the decision to find help can be hard enough. Finding the right therapist shouldn't be hard too. Call me today and let's talk about how I can work with you to help you reach your goals.
(214) 242-6823 View (214) 242-6823
Photo of Kimberley B Montgomery, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kimberley B Montgomery
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Forney, TX 75126
Waitlist for new clients
I am committed to helping people. I have a passion for supervision. I believe that supervision helped me to become a confident clinician and I feel empowered to help others find their clinical voice as well. I also have a passion for people dealing with chronic illness. People who deal with health issues on a daily basis need someone to talk to as they navigate the struggles of getting well. As a parent of four children I understand that parenting can be difficult and at times frustrating. I want to help parents find the joys in raising children and help them feel successful as caregivers. I am kind, compassionate, and honest.
I am committed to helping people. I have a passion for supervision. I believe that supervision helped me to become a confident clinician and I feel empowered to help others find their clinical voice as well. I also have a passion for people dealing with chronic illness. People who deal with health issues on a daily basis need someone to talk to as they navigate the struggles of getting well. As a parent of four children I understand that parenting can be difficult and at times frustrating. I want to help parents find the joys in raising children and help them feel successful as caregivers. I am kind, compassionate, and honest.
(214) 972-3478 View (214) 972-3478
Photo of Ronda T Alaniz, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ronda T Alaniz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Forney, TX 75126  (Online Only)
Greetings! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a certified school counselor with 10+ years of experience working in school and clinical settings. I utilize a cognitive-behavioral framework with solution-focused techniques to guide and empower clients. I am passionate about all aspects of counseling and believe in treating everyone with respect and compassion.
Greetings! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a certified school counselor with 10+ years of experience working in school and clinical settings. I utilize a cognitive-behavioral framework with solution-focused techniques to guide and empower clients. I am passionate about all aspects of counseling and believe in treating everyone with respect and compassion.
(430) 259-3387 View (430) 259-3387
Photo of Elizabeth Davis - Embrace New Life / Counseling & Wellness, DSW, PsyD , PhD, LPC, AACC LC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Embrace New Life / Counseling & Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, DSW, PsyD , PhD, LPC, AACC LC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Forney, TX 75126
Our hope is that 𝐄𝐦𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐋𝐢𝐟𝐞 (𝐞𝐍𝐋) is a place where each and every person who enters our doors, no matter how big or small their problems - feel cared for, safe, and important. 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫! Our goal is to come alongside you as you work toward personal healing and emotional connection. 𝐞𝐍𝐋 is a leading provider of high-quality, private counseling for teens, adults & couples. #𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫 #𝐖𝐞𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐞 #𝐋𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐬 We are 𝙛𝙖𝙞𝙩𝙝-𝙗𝙖𝙨𝙚𝙙 ✞, 𝙥𝙨𝙮𝙘𝙝𝙤𝙡𝙤𝙜𝙮-𝙞𝙣𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙢𝙚𝙙 Ψ & 𝙛𝙖𝙢𝙞𝙡𝙮-𝙩𝙧𝙪𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙙 ♥ ! ☎ Today!
Our hope is that 𝐄𝐦𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐋𝐢𝐟𝐞 (𝐞𝐍𝐋) is a place where each and every person who enters our doors, no matter how big or small their problems - feel cared for, safe, and important. 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫! Our goal is to come alongside you as you work toward personal healing and emotional connection. 𝐞𝐍𝐋 is a leading provider of high-quality, private counseling for teens, adults & couples. #𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫 #𝐖𝐞𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐞 #𝐋𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐬 We are 𝙛𝙖𝙞𝙩𝙝-𝙗𝙖𝙨𝙚𝙙 ✞, 𝙥𝙨𝙮𝙘𝙝𝙤𝙡𝙤𝙜𝙮-𝙞𝙣𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙢𝙚𝙙 Ψ & 𝙛𝙖𝙢𝙞𝙡𝙮-𝙩𝙧𝙪𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙙 ♥ ! ☎ Today!
(972) 449-1687 View (972) 449-1687
Photo of Saundra Rush Monroe, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Saundra Rush Monroe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
Forney, TX 75126
Saundra is a Licensed Professional Counselor- Supervisor who works at Lifeologie in the Richardson office. Saundra works with clients throughout the lifespan but primarily sees children and adolescents ages 3-17. Saundra works in individual sessions, groups, and family settings. Saundra earned most of her clinical experience in children’s advocacy centers. She has worked with children and families who were survivors of abuse experiencing trauma symptoms. Saundra has also worked in private practice dealing primarily with adolescents who were with dealing with depression, anxiety, LGBTQ+ issues, and families.
Saundra is a Licensed Professional Counselor- Supervisor who works at Lifeologie in the Richardson office. Saundra works with clients throughout the lifespan but primarily sees children and adolescents ages 3-17. Saundra works in individual sessions, groups, and family settings. Saundra earned most of her clinical experience in children’s advocacy centers. She has worked with children and families who were survivors of abuse experiencing trauma symptoms. Saundra has also worked in private practice dealing primarily with adolescents who were with dealing with depression, anxiety, LGBTQ+ issues, and families.
(214) 761-6271 View (214) 761-6271
Photo of Michelle Denise Williams - God Healer Of Hearts Counseling Center, PC, LPC, LCDC, MMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
God Healer Of Hearts Counseling Center, PC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC, MMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forney, TX 75126
God Healer of Hearts Counseling Center, P. C. strongly believes that people are imperfect. They are beautiful and spectacular but can also become stuck, unhappy, and unable to live a fulfilling life. That’s where we come in. As a corporation that was built due to Michelle's need to offer affordable counseling to those in the community, our open doors became your home away from home. During the pandemic, our company was available 20 hours a day to offer assistance to those who were so in need. We offer in the office and online sessions. We never closed our doors. The pandemic caused a lot of anxiety and depression around the world.
God Healer of Hearts Counseling Center, P. C. strongly believes that people are imperfect. They are beautiful and spectacular but can also become stuck, unhappy, and unable to live a fulfilling life. That’s where we come in. As a corporation that was built due to Michelle's need to offer affordable counseling to those in the community, our open doors became your home away from home. During the pandemic, our company was available 20 hours a day to offer assistance to those who were so in need. We offer in the office and online sessions. We never closed our doors. The pandemic caused a lot of anxiety and depression around the world.
(972) 362-1733 View (972) 362-1733
Photo of Brandi Bailey, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brandi Bailey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Forney, TX 75126
I believe "Knowing oneself comes from attending with compassionate curiosity to what is happening within." - Gabor Mate. That curiosity regarding our struggles and connecting with others facilitates the change we want to see. I am a LPC and earned my degree from DBU. I am a Certified Synergetic Play Therapist & have substantial training & experience working with kiddos and parents. I also enjoy working with adult individuals, especially women, & our unique challenges. I use a variety of modalities including Relational Neuroscience, Humanistic, Attachment, Mindfulness, Strengths-Based, Person-Centered, and Cognitive approaches.
I believe "Knowing oneself comes from attending with compassionate curiosity to what is happening within." - Gabor Mate. That curiosity regarding our struggles and connecting with others facilitates the change we want to see. I am a LPC and earned my degree from DBU. I am a Certified Synergetic Play Therapist & have substantial training & experience working with kiddos and parents. I also enjoy working with adult individuals, especially women, & our unique challenges. I use a variety of modalities including Relational Neuroscience, Humanistic, Attachment, Mindfulness, Strengths-Based, Person-Centered, and Cognitive approaches.
(469) 723-9903 View (469) 723-9903

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Alecia Peters, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alecia Peters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesquite, TX 75149
Are you an exhausted parent? Does your child have frequent “melt downs”? Have you tried numerous methods, but nothing seems to help your child calm down? It is important for you to have someone in your life who can empathize with you and support you and your child. You are not alone. I am here to partner with you and assist you with teaching your child ways to control his or her emotions and to learn healthy coping skills. By using Play Therapy, your child will feel more empowered, increased self-esteem, and become more self-sufficient. I believe you are the expert, yet I will help you to identify strengths and gifts.
Are you an exhausted parent? Does your child have frequent “melt downs”? Have you tried numerous methods, but nothing seems to help your child calm down? It is important for you to have someone in your life who can empathize with you and support you and your child. You are not alone. I am here to partner with you and assist you with teaching your child ways to control his or her emotions and to learn healthy coping skills. By using Play Therapy, your child will feel more empowered, increased self-esteem, and become more self-sufficient. I believe you are the expert, yet I will help you to identify strengths and gifts.
(469) 632-1782 View (469) 632-1782
Toddler Therapists

What are the behavioral signs indicating a toddler might need counseling?

Common behavioral signs that a child may need counseling include high levels of emotional distress or anxiety, learning challenges, interpersonal conflict, anger, or social withdrawal. Any drastic changes in toddler behavior or self-esteem can be indicative that a child may benefit from therapy. Seeing a therapist at the early stages of any behavioral changes can be most impactful on behavior, as well as helpful to caregivers who may receive guidance on what symptoms to look for in their child in the future, even if therapy is not warranted at that time.

Can a two-year-old see a psychologist?

Children and adults of all ages can see psychologists and other forms of mental health professionals, such as counselors, psychiatrists, and social workers. Families seeking therapy for their toddler should just be aware that any guidance they seek should come from a professional who has specific experience working with young children, as well as the specific modalities that are appropriate for young children, such as play therapy.

What is the most effective type of therapy for toddlers and preschoolers?

In general, play therapy is the most effective and common form of therapy for young children. Play therapy helps facilitate behavior change by offering an age-appropriate way for children to express their emotions and develop more effective coping strategies. Toddlers with specific concerns may benefit from more specialized forms of therapy, such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy for children with autism or Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) for toddlers in families in which there is significant parent-child relational conflict.

What happens during therapy sessions for toddlers?

What occurs in therapy sessions for toddlers depends on the therapeutic approach being used by the therapist. Most toddler therapists will use some form of play therapy in sessions to encourage toddler engagement. In play therapy sessions, children are encouraged to use toys within the therapy setting to express their emotions; subsequent responses by the therapist and/or family members can help guide toddler behavior and behavior change. Toddler therapy sessions can also involve family therapy or Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), which can help improve parenting behaviors and reduce strain on families.