Play Therapy in Utah County, UT

Photo of Wendy Whitley Francis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wendy Whitley Francis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lehi, UT 84043
I enjoy helping families to become stronger by working with all members of the family through doing play therapy with children, psychotherapy with older children, adolescents, and adults, individual parenting or co-parenting sessions, perinatal sessions, couples, and family therapy. I have worked with families with a variety of family concerns, including substance abuse, behavioral issues, trauma, mental health, preparation for adding a new child to the family, adoption/foster care, and many other relational issues. I have worked in a variety of treatment settings to assist individuals and families improve their functioning.
I enjoy helping families to become stronger by working with all members of the family through doing play therapy with children, psychotherapy with older children, adolescents, and adults, individual parenting or co-parenting sessions, perinatal sessions, couples, and family therapy. I have worked with families with a variety of family concerns, including substance abuse, behavioral issues, trauma, mental health, preparation for adding a new child to the family, adoption/foster care, and many other relational issues. I have worked in a variety of treatment settings to assist individuals and families improve their functioning.
(801) 997-1745 View (801) 997-1745
Photo of Eddie Shin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Eddie Shin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Orem, UT 84097
No matter the struggle, I believe nothing is impossible to overcome! I use systemic and evidence-based techniques, such as ART, play therapy, sandtray, DBT skills training, and narrative, to help clients feel empowered and capable of conquering life!.
Life is hard and no one is meant to go through it alone. Sometimes we need help gaining another perspective to get out of difficult situations, and that is okay. Whether you struggle with anxiety, trauma, anger, family relationships, or if life just throws you down, I'm here to walk through this together with you!
No matter the struggle, I believe nothing is impossible to overcome! I use systemic and evidence-based techniques, such as ART, play therapy, sandtray, DBT skills training, and narrative, to help clients feel empowered and capable of conquering life!.
Life is hard and no one is meant to go through it alone. Sometimes we need help gaining another perspective to get out of difficult situations, and that is okay. Whether you struggle with anxiety, trauma, anger, family relationships, or if life just throws you down, I'm here to walk through this together with you!
(385) 403-8950 View (385) 403-8950
Photo of Tyler Hoyt, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tyler Hoyt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orem, UT 84097
I strive to be relationship focused in all I do as a counselor, even in my individual work. I believe the research and have observed how loneliness hurts: we thrive when connected and struggle when isolated. I utilize EFT and the Gottman Method with couples; I focus on family work with children because individual play therapy is often unhelpful, in the long-term; Filial Play Therapy and PCIT are my favorites models for parents with their children. I utilize ACT and Arbinger principles in most of my work. I foster connections with my clients but especially between clients and their people, including their spiritual Connection.
I strive to be relationship focused in all I do as a counselor, even in my individual work. I believe the research and have observed how loneliness hurts: we thrive when connected and struggle when isolated. I utilize EFT and the Gottman Method with couples; I focus on family work with children because individual play therapy is often unhelpful, in the long-term; Filial Play Therapy and PCIT are my favorites models for parents with their children. I utilize ACT and Arbinger principles in most of my work. I foster connections with my clients but especially between clients and their people, including their spiritual Connection.
(385) 376-4810 View (385) 376-4810
Photo of Mary Ann Carter, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Ann Carter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lindon, UT 84042
I have been trained in Child-Centered Play Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, Expressive Art Therapy, and TF-CBT (Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy).
Hi, I’m Mary Ann, and I am excited to hear your story! You have had unique life experiences that have impacted you in many ways and have brought you to this moment of searching for increased healing and wellness. I am honored to be a witness to your journey of healing and to support you as you further develop your self-awareness and your personal insight. I believe that you already have within you the strength and the wisdom to continue to learn and to progress and to create the peace and the hope that you desire and deserve. And I am here to help you discover your way.
I have been trained in Child-Centered Play Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, Expressive Art Therapy, and TF-CBT (Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy).
Hi, I’m Mary Ann, and I am excited to hear your story! You have had unique life experiences that have impacted you in many ways and have brought you to this moment of searching for increased healing and wellness. I am honored to be a witness to your journey of healing and to support you as you further develop your self-awareness and your personal insight. I believe that you already have within you the strength and the wisdom to continue to learn and to progress and to create the peace and the hope that you desire and deserve. And I am here to help you discover your way.
(385) 380-5037 x84042 View (385) 380-5037 x84042
Photo of Brooke Bradley Bumgardner, CMHC, RPT, NCC, Counselor
Brooke Bradley Bumgardner
Counselor, CMHC, RPT, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lehi, UT 84043
I am EMDR trained and a Registered Play Therapist.
I became a therapist because I love connecting with others. I enjoy working with adults, teens, kids, parents, couples, and families. We all go through times in our life where we need help getting unstuck and moving through the feelings of anxiety and depression that hold us back. Whether it is changes in your life, grief, trauma, anxiety or depression, I want to help you find healing. As a Clinical Mental Health Therapist, I have the tools to help you get insight, new awareness and learn skills to help you make the changes you want and get closer to your goals.
I am EMDR trained and a Registered Play Therapist.
I became a therapist because I love connecting with others. I enjoy working with adults, teens, kids, parents, couples, and families. We all go through times in our life where we need help getting unstuck and moving through the feelings of anxiety and depression that hold us back. Whether it is changes in your life, grief, trauma, anxiety or depression, I want to help you find healing. As a Clinical Mental Health Therapist, I have the tools to help you get insight, new awareness and learn skills to help you make the changes you want and get closer to your goals.
(385) 336-0140 View (385) 336-0140
Photo of Tres P Hatch, CMHC, NCC, Counselor
Tres P Hatch
Counselor, CMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lehi, UT 84043
I am Level 1 trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Lifespan Integration (LI), CBT, ACT, Play Therapy, Sand Tray, and Prime for Life.
As humans, we learn to cope with unpleasant feelings and situations using our innate strengths. Despite doing our best those strategies are sometimes ineffective or unhelpful. The way we try to avoid pain may cause us distress and create problems that become hard-wired into our identity, and reduce our ability to function and connect fully with others. In a warm, supportive environment we can experience change as we embrace what we feel, become aware of our emotional patterns, and create internal harmony. My mission as a therapist is to help you cope think, and feel better using a wide range of empirically-based interventions.
I am Level 1 trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Lifespan Integration (LI), CBT, ACT, Play Therapy, Sand Tray, and Prime for Life.
As humans, we learn to cope with unpleasant feelings and situations using our innate strengths. Despite doing our best those strategies are sometimes ineffective or unhelpful. The way we try to avoid pain may cause us distress and create problems that become hard-wired into our identity, and reduce our ability to function and connect fully with others. In a warm, supportive environment we can experience change as we embrace what we feel, become aware of our emotional patterns, and create internal harmony. My mission as a therapist is to help you cope think, and feel better using a wide range of empirically-based interventions.
(385) 245-2648 View (385) 245-2648
Photo of Casey Moser, BSW, MSW-I, Pre-Licensed Professional
Casey Moser
Pre-Licensed Professional, BSW, MSW-I
Verified Verified
Provo, UT 84604
Looking for a therapist for your kiddo? I have access to a play therapy room as well.
My approach integrates trauma-informed care and mindful practices to help increase your self-awareness and emotional intelligence. We can explore past experiences that may be holding you back, develop healthy coping skills, and navigate challenging relationships. I work with kids, teenagers, and adults. As a student intern, I have many resources available to me to personalize your treatment to research-based modalities for whatever you're going through. I am committed to doing the necessary work and research outside of your sessions to make the most of our time together.
Looking for a therapist for your kiddo? I have access to a play therapy room as well.
My approach integrates trauma-informed care and mindful practices to help increase your self-awareness and emotional intelligence. We can explore past experiences that may be holding you back, develop healthy coping skills, and navigate challenging relationships. I work with kids, teenagers, and adults. As a student intern, I have many resources available to me to personalize your treatment to research-based modalities for whatever you're going through. I am committed to doing the necessary work and research outside of your sessions to make the most of our time together.
(385) 324-3449 View (385) 324-3449
Photo of Georgana Gonzalez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Georgana Gonzalez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springville, UT 84663
I use a variety of treatment approaches including Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Strength-Based Therapy, Play Therapy and Narrative Therapy.
Has it become more difficult to manage your emotions, thoughts and behaviors? Do you find yourself feeling hopeless, overwhelmed, depressed or anxious? Life can be filled with challenging circumstances and unexpected, distressing events. This can make it hard for us to function on a day to day basis. My name is Georgana (Georgi) and I work with children, teens and adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief and loss and the experiences of trauma. I particularly enjoy working with children and teens and helping them learn how to navigate and manage their feelings and emotions.
I use a variety of treatment approaches including Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Strength-Based Therapy, Play Therapy and Narrative Therapy.
Has it become more difficult to manage your emotions, thoughts and behaviors? Do you find yourself feeling hopeless, overwhelmed, depressed or anxious? Life can be filled with challenging circumstances and unexpected, distressing events. This can make it hard for us to function on a day to day basis. My name is Georgana (Georgi) and I work with children, teens and adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief and loss and the experiences of trauma. I particularly enjoy working with children and teens and helping them learn how to navigate and manage their feelings and emotions.
(385) 526-7150 View (385) 526-7150
Photo of Ashley L Rose, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ashley L Rose
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cedar Hills, UT 84062
With training in EMDR, play, expressive art, and trauma I can help you.
I am here for you if you have been struggling with feeling down, overwhelmed, confused, or alone. Often the storms around and within you build leaving you feeling exhausted, lonely, and lost so I work to create a haven of serenity for your respite and care. You want to feel peace, happy, alive, and able to connect with those around you. I believe that this is possible. I work with you to understand why things have been so hard, validate your experiences, process the past, and learn new skills so that you can find peace, strength, and happiness. You can feel loved and connected with others. There is hope!
With training in EMDR, play, expressive art, and trauma I can help you.
I am here for you if you have been struggling with feeling down, overwhelmed, confused, or alone. Often the storms around and within you build leaving you feeling exhausted, lonely, and lost so I work to create a haven of serenity for your respite and care. You want to feel peace, happy, alive, and able to connect with those around you. I believe that this is possible. I work with you to understand why things have been so hard, validate your experiences, process the past, and learn new skills so that you can find peace, strength, and happiness. You can feel loved and connected with others. There is hope!
(385) 458-4369 View (385) 458-4369
Photo of Melanie J Smith, MA, LMFT, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melanie J Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
Mapleton, UT 84664
Art City Family Counseling is specially designed to promote health and healing for the entire family system. It has an individual/couple session room, a sand tray room, and a dedicated play therapy room to facilitate health and healing for even the youngest clients. Additionally, groups are offered with various focuses such as depression and anxiety support, parent-child relational training,and foster/adoption support.
Art City Family Counseling is specially designed to promote health and healing for the entire family system. It has an individual/couple session room, a sand tray room, and a dedicated play therapy room to facilitate health and healing for even the youngest clients. Additionally, groups are offered with various focuses such as depression and anxiety support, parent-child relational training,and foster/adoption support.
(801) 471-0080 View (801) 471-0080
Photo of Kasi Good, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kasi Good
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
I am trained in a variety of modalities including sand/play/expressive arts, trauma therapies such as EMDR and IFS and talk therapies such as client-centered and mindfulness-based therapies.
At some point, you may have felt like you've lost sight of who you are and what you want. Whether that's due to mental illness, trauma, low self-worth, relationship challenges, or unexpected life changes, sometimes you just need someone to help guide you, and be present with you, through the struggle. I specialize in working with shame, perfectionism, trauma, mood disorders, ADHD, anxiety, faith transitions, and LGBTQ+ issues. I believe that each individual has within them the ability to heal, grow, thrive, and become their true selves. It is my goal to help my clients harness that ability.
I am trained in a variety of modalities including sand/play/expressive arts, trauma therapies such as EMDR and IFS and talk therapies such as client-centered and mindfulness-based therapies.
At some point, you may have felt like you've lost sight of who you are and what you want. Whether that's due to mental illness, trauma, low self-worth, relationship challenges, or unexpected life changes, sometimes you just need someone to help guide you, and be present with you, through the struggle. I specialize in working with shame, perfectionism, trauma, mood disorders, ADHD, anxiety, faith transitions, and LGBTQ+ issues. I believe that each individual has within them the ability to heal, grow, thrive, and become their true selves. It is my goal to help my clients harness that ability.
(801) 876-7895 View (801) 876-7895
Photo of Hailey Boggess, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hailey Boggess
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lindon, UT 84042
I believe your treatment needs to be as unique as you are! To guide our work, I use your intuitive sense about what you need from therapy, and an individualized combination of tools that work best for you. The main modalities I use are EMDR, IFS (or 'Parts Work'), art therapy, mindfulness, and somatic tools. I also love using mind-body science in treatment (sleep, food, nature, exercise). When working with children, I generally use art, play therapy, and sandtray therapy. My trained therapy dog Pippin (hypoallergenic) attends sessions as well! In my spare time you can find me mountain biking, snowboarding, reading, or crafting!
I believe your treatment needs to be as unique as you are! To guide our work, I use your intuitive sense about what you need from therapy, and an individualized combination of tools that work best for you. The main modalities I use are EMDR, IFS (or 'Parts Work'), art therapy, mindfulness, and somatic tools. I also love using mind-body science in treatment (sleep, food, nature, exercise). When working with children, I generally use art, play therapy, and sandtray therapy. My trained therapy dog Pippin (hypoallergenic) attends sessions as well! In my spare time you can find me mountain biking, snowboarding, reading, or crafting!
(385) 557-6634 View (385) 557-6634
Photo of Andrew Lindsay, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrew Lindsay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Orem, UT 84097
I draw from traditional talk therapy modalities, expressive arts and play therapy for children.
I am a dedicated therapist specialized in working with clients from children to adults. I am committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for individuals I work with. With a compassionate and client-centered approach, I strive to create a therapeutic alliance built on trust and empathy, fostering growth and resilience in my clients.
I draw from traditional talk therapy modalities, expressive arts and play therapy for children.
I am a dedicated therapist specialized in working with clients from children to adults. I am committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for individuals I work with. With a compassionate and client-centered approach, I strive to create a therapeutic alliance built on trust and empathy, fostering growth and resilience in my clients.
(385) 284-7849 View (385) 284-7849
Photo of Aislinn Watson, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aislinn Watson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alpine, UT 84004  (Online Only)
I draw from a variety of evidence-based approaches, including positive psychology, mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and experiential activities like art and play therapy.
My therapy practice is fueled by my core belief that each of us as human beings have innate worth as well as boundless potential for growth and joy. Sometimes we all experience challenges that make it difficult for us to feel that joy and live our lives the way we want to, and I believe that is where therapy can be helpful. My number one priority as a therapist is to create a space for clients to feel safe and heard while we embark on the journey towards change and healing together. I strive to offer real connection and a listening ear, as well as tools and skills to help clients reach their goals.
I draw from a variety of evidence-based approaches, including positive psychology, mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and experiential activities like art and play therapy.
My therapy practice is fueled by my core belief that each of us as human beings have innate worth as well as boundless potential for growth and joy. Sometimes we all experience challenges that make it difficult for us to feel that joy and live our lives the way we want to, and I believe that is where therapy can be helpful. My number one priority as a therapist is to create a space for clients to feel safe and heard while we embark on the journey towards change and healing together. I strive to offer real connection and a listening ear, as well as tools and skills to help clients reach their goals.
(385) 284-0212 View (385) 284-0212
Photo of Bobbie Pugh, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bobbie Pugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springville, UT 84663
I have received training in and utilize Play Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavior Therapy, (DBT) and I am a certified Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist.
Your child means the world to you. You’ve worked and invested so much throughout the years for their benefit and well being. Despite all the planning and parenting preparation you did, there are somethings that you weren’t prepared for: Constant arguments at home and meltdowns. Emails/calls from the school of your child struggling with focus and sitting still. A child that worries and is scared so much of the time. When your teenager says to their friends “I just want to die.” How to help your child through big life changes such as divorce, a move, or the death of a loved one. Or, if someone has purposely hurt him/her.
I have received training in and utilize Play Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavior Therapy, (DBT) and I am a certified Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist.
Your child means the world to you. You’ve worked and invested so much throughout the years for their benefit and well being. Despite all the planning and parenting preparation you did, there are somethings that you weren’t prepared for: Constant arguments at home and meltdowns. Emails/calls from the school of your child struggling with focus and sitting still. A child that worries and is scared so much of the time. When your teenager says to their friends “I just want to die.” How to help your child through big life changes such as divorce, a move, or the death of a loved one. Or, if someone has purposely hurt him/her.
(801) 821-4061 View (801) 821-4061
Photo of Amy R Gibson, MEd , ACMHC, Counselor
Amy R Gibson
Counselor, MEd , ACMHC
Verified Verified
Lehi, UT 84043
I use research-based methods such as CBT, body sensations, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, and Play Therapy.
In therapy we will explore your unique strengths and challenges to develop a personalized approach that empowers you to live a fulfilling life on your terms. I have worked with children, teens, adults and couples who have trauma, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and self-harm. I equip you with a toolbox of practical coping skills to manage stress, improve relationships, and navigate life's challenges with confidence.
I use research-based methods such as CBT, body sensations, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, and Play Therapy.
In therapy we will explore your unique strengths and challenges to develop a personalized approach that empowers you to live a fulfilling life on your terms. I have worked with children, teens, adults and couples who have trauma, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and self-harm. I equip you with a toolbox of practical coping skills to manage stress, improve relationships, and navigate life's challenges with confidence.
(385) 786-6160 View (385) 786-6160
Photo of Melissa Blumell, MA, CMHC, RPT, Counselor
Melissa Blumell
Counselor, MA, CMHC, RPT
Verified Verified
Orem, UT 84057
As a Registered Play Therapist, I specialize in working with children ages 3 and up.
Currently scheduling new clients. Some openings for this week. Sometimes children experience anxiety, grief, trauma, or issues related to autism that result in difficult behavior. Such challenges can strain family relationships and exhaust parents. The good news is that people, especially young people, can change and I'm here to help.
As a Registered Play Therapist, I specialize in working with children ages 3 and up.
Currently scheduling new clients. Some openings for this week. Sometimes children experience anxiety, grief, trauma, or issues related to autism that result in difficult behavior. Such challenges can strain family relationships and exhaust parents. The good news is that people, especially young people, can change and I'm here to help.
(801) 797-3001 View (801) 797-3001
Photo of Lynette Beard, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lynette Beard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spanish Fork, UT 84660
I use a variety of evidenced-based therapy models to assist you in your healing journey including: EMDR, IFS, TF-CBT, DBT strategies, cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, sand tray therapy, expressive arts and strengths-based therapy.
I believe each person is unique and has great worth. Whether you are at the beginning of your healing journey, somewhere in the middle or towards the end, finding a therapist can be overwhelming. I am here to support, encourage, validate, explore and discover with you. Life can be stressful and can also feed us lies, doubts and bring a concoction of unpleasant emotions. I am here to walk alongside you as you rediscover yourself and work through past trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, self worth or whatever struggles you are currently dealing with. I also specialize in working with children to help them through these struggles.
I use a variety of evidenced-based therapy models to assist you in your healing journey including: EMDR, IFS, TF-CBT, DBT strategies, cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, sand tray therapy, expressive arts and strengths-based therapy.
I believe each person is unique and has great worth. Whether you are at the beginning of your healing journey, somewhere in the middle or towards the end, finding a therapist can be overwhelming. I am here to support, encourage, validate, explore and discover with you. Life can be stressful and can also feed us lies, doubts and bring a concoction of unpleasant emotions. I am here to walk alongside you as you rediscover yourself and work through past trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, self worth or whatever struggles you are currently dealing with. I also specialize in working with children to help them through these struggles.
(801) 516-3928 View (801) 516-3928
Photo of Adrianne Moody, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adrianne Moody
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Provo, UT 84604
Adrianne has been trained in EMDR, TF-CBT, CBT, Child Centered Play Therapy, sand tray therapy and is Certified by EAGALA in Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP).
Adrianne has been working as a therapist since 2015. Adrianne understands the challenges of today and has experience working with people with diverse backgrounds and of all ages. Adrianne has a deep understanding of the struggles that children of all ages experience with the stress of divorce and custody issues as well as trauma and school stress. Adrianne has experienced many of her own unexpected life struggles and it has helped her to have a deeper level of empathy and understanding for each individual person. She would be glad to spend time with you getting to know you and your personal situation.
Adrianne has been trained in EMDR, TF-CBT, CBT, Child Centered Play Therapy, sand tray therapy and is Certified by EAGALA in Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP).
Adrianne has been working as a therapist since 2015. Adrianne understands the challenges of today and has experience working with people with diverse backgrounds and of all ages. Adrianne has a deep understanding of the struggles that children of all ages experience with the stress of divorce and custody issues as well as trauma and school stress. Adrianne has experienced many of her own unexpected life struggles and it has helped her to have a deeper level of empathy and understanding for each individual person. She would be glad to spend time with you getting to know you and your personal situation.
(385) 219-4955 View (385) 219-4955
Photo of Dr. Vjollca Martinson, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Vjollca Martinson
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spanish Fork, UT 84660
I utilize different therapeutic approaches such as: Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally-Focused Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, art and play therapy techniques.
As a marriage and family therapist, I have been successful in helping individuals re-create and maintain enjoyable relationships throughout their lives. My goal as a clinician is to help you and your loved one(s) learn to build loving, trusting, understanding and safe environments and relationships that enable recovery, moving forward and healing. I love to see you and your loved one(s) smile again! My main clinical specialty is treating children, teens and adults who have experienced traumatic events. I have successfully treated depression, anxiety, addiction, affairs, divorce, grief and loss, stress, etc.
I utilize different therapeutic approaches such as: Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally-Focused Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, art and play therapy techniques.
As a marriage and family therapist, I have been successful in helping individuals re-create and maintain enjoyable relationships throughout their lives. My goal as a clinician is to help you and your loved one(s) learn to build loving, trusting, understanding and safe environments and relationships that enable recovery, moving forward and healing. I love to see you and your loved one(s) smile again! My main clinical specialty is treating children, teens and adults who have experienced traumatic events. I have successfully treated depression, anxiety, addiction, affairs, divorce, grief and loss, stress, etc.
(385) 448-4155 View (385) 448-4155

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.