Play Therapy in Emporia, VA
Hello, my name is Dr. Laniesha S. Dunn, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a Doctorate in Social Work (DSW). I specialize in providing therapy to individuals across various age groups, including children, adolescents, and adults. Employing evidence-based practices, my therapy sessions are dedicated to fostering a hopeful outlook, cultivating constructive coping strategies, and nurturing qualities such as self-esteem and self-confidence. The core of the helping process is the relationship between a therapist and client.
Hello, my name is Dr. Laniesha S. Dunn, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a Doctorate in Social Work (DSW). I specialize in providing therapy to individuals across various age groups, including children, adolescents, and adults. Employing evidence-based practices, my therapy sessions are dedicated to fostering a hopeful outlook, cultivating constructive coping strategies, and nurturing qualities such as self-esteem and self-confidence. The core of the helping process is the relationship between a therapist and client.
Currently licensed in Virginia and North Carolina. I am equipped with extensive training and experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families. My goals are to create an environment and counselor- client relationship, that provides the safety needed for self-exploration and personal growth for all persons involved. One of my theoretical approaches to counseling includes the Impact Theory. This creative, multisensory approach to counseling shows respect for individuals and the manner of which each may behave, think, learn and change.
Currently licensed in Virginia and North Carolina. I am equipped with extensive training and experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families. My goals are to create an environment and counselor- client relationship, that provides the safety needed for self-exploration and personal growth for all persons involved. One of my theoretical approaches to counseling includes the Impact Theory. This creative, multisensory approach to counseling shows respect for individuals and the manner of which each may behave, think, learn and change.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, in the states of North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia. I have more than 20 years of experience in the mental health field, 11 of them have been in clinical practice. My formal education has prepared me to counsel individual adolescents, children, adults, groups, and the multicultural population. My approach to counseling is best described as one that is person-centered, strengths based, and family systems oriented. I believe individuals and their family have the ability to recover from adversity and go on to live their best life.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, in the states of North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia. I have more than 20 years of experience in the mental health field, 11 of them have been in clinical practice. My formal education has prepared me to counsel individual adolescents, children, adults, groups, and the multicultural population. My approach to counseling is best described as one that is person-centered, strengths based, and family systems oriented. I believe individuals and their family have the ability to recover from adversity and go on to live their best life.
Holton A Daniel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSOTP, CCTP
Verified Verified
Emporia, VA 23847
My ideal client is someone who is 6 and up and is motivated to live a more fulfilling life. Someone who understands that change takes time but is motivated to work in sessions to challenge thoughts, explore experiences, and engage in open dialogue to identify patterns that may not be suiting them. Someone who embodies resilience is open to introspection and is committed to their healing journey.
My ideal client is someone who is 6 and up and is motivated to live a more fulfilling life. Someone who understands that change takes time but is motivated to work in sessions to challenge thoughts, explore experiences, and engage in open dialogue to identify patterns that may not be suiting them. Someone who embodies resilience is open to introspection and is committed to their healing journey.
Online Therapists
Maegan Beck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashland, VA 23005
Waitlist for new clients
I also enjoy utilizing Play Therapy, Bibliotherapy, and Art Therapy techniques to engage clients in the therapeutic process.
Hello! I have experience working with children, adolescents, and families struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, ADHD, anger management, grief, low self-esteem, trauma, and communication difficulties. I work alongside children and their caregivers to assist them in reaching their individual goals to improve their emotional and behavioral health.
I also enjoy utilizing Play Therapy, Bibliotherapy, and Art Therapy techniques to engage clients in the therapeutic process.
Hello! I have experience working with children, adolescents, and families struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, ADHD, anger management, grief, low self-esteem, trauma, and communication difficulties. I work alongside children and their caregivers to assist them in reaching their individual goals to improve their emotional and behavioral health.
I enjoy incorporating play and art therapy techniques with my young clients! Additionally, I can provide counseling based on faith-based principles and customize it to align with your spiritual beliefs, if that is important to you.
I am passionate about serving the community through providing care and healing. I have had the privilege of supporting clients from all walks of life, and my deepest aim is to create a nurturing environment filled with empathy and compassion. I truly believe that genuine healing and peace come from within, and the therapeutic relationship is a guiding light in this journey.
I enjoy incorporating play and art therapy techniques with my young clients! Additionally, I can provide counseling based on faith-based principles and customize it to align with your spiritual beliefs, if that is important to you.
I am passionate about serving the community through providing care and healing. I have had the privilege of supporting clients from all walks of life, and my deepest aim is to create a nurturing environment filled with empathy and compassion. I truly believe that genuine healing and peace come from within, and the therapeutic relationship is a guiding light in this journey.
The more we are able to expand our knowledge and understanding the better prepared we are to advocate for those we love and get the support we need as helpers and caregivers in this world." I believe in meeting my clients where they are, building knowledge, skills and utilizing their strengths to foster change, achieve goals and build relationships. Having worked with a diverse population, I have specialized in helping individuals and families dealing with depression, ADHD, and trauma. My therapeutic approach is client-centered with elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy and Reality Based therapeutic approaches.
The more we are able to expand our knowledge and understanding the better prepared we are to advocate for those we love and get the support we need as helpers and caregivers in this world." I believe in meeting my clients where they are, building knowledge, skills and utilizing their strengths to foster change, achieve goals and build relationships. Having worked with a diverse population, I have specialized in helping individuals and families dealing with depression, ADHD, and trauma. My therapeutic approach is client-centered with elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy and Reality Based therapeutic approaches.
Robin DeHaven-Roberts
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LSATP
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23225
I specialize in mood disorders, substance abuse, trauma, play therapy, MRT and overall mental health and wellness.
Are you or someone in your family constantly dealing with depression and anxiety and nothing seems to be working? Does it feel like no matter how hard you try, your relationship is still falling apart? Have you tried to solve the problems in your life on your own and realized you need help from someone else? If so I can help. I love being a part of others journeys to become happy and whole.
I specialize in mood disorders, substance abuse, trauma, play therapy, MRT and overall mental health and wellness.
Are you or someone in your family constantly dealing with depression and anxiety and nothing seems to be working? Does it feel like no matter how hard you try, your relationship is still falling apart? Have you tried to solve the problems in your life on your own and realized you need help from someone else? If so I can help. I love being a part of others journeys to become happy and whole.
Kelly Andrews
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23455
Waitlist for new clients
In 2013 I completed my Play Therapy Certification at ODU.
Thank you for taking your time to read the information I have provided. One of the most important steps in counseling is finding a therapist you can connect with and trust. I offer free consultations so you can assess if I am the right fit for your healing process. For over 16 years I have been honored to work with children, adolescents and adults on their therapeutic journey’s. I am passionate about addressing and treating the client as a whole which includes the physical, emotional and spiritual self. I collaborate with each client and tailor sessions to meet their current needs.
In 2013 I completed my Play Therapy Certification at ODU.
Thank you for taking your time to read the information I have provided. One of the most important steps in counseling is finding a therapist you can connect with and trust. I offer free consultations so you can assess if I am the right fit for your healing process. For over 16 years I have been honored to work with children, adolescents and adults on their therapeutic journey’s. I am passionate about addressing and treating the client as a whole which includes the physical, emotional and spiritual self. I collaborate with each client and tailor sessions to meet their current needs.
My training in play therapy helps me actively engage clients in creative ways while they process what's going on inside.
Hello and welcome! If you're looking for a therapist for yourself or your child, I can help. Although many people are able to express exactly what is causing them stress (or why), it's also common to struggle with putting it into words. You might feel anxious or depressed more days than not. Clients who seek me out often experience overwhelming emotions but might also feel low and unmotivated, or even detached. If you're a parent, you might be concerned about your child but feel unsure how to help them. I'd like to partner with you on how to make things better for you!
My training in play therapy helps me actively engage clients in creative ways while they process what's going on inside.
Hello and welcome! If you're looking for a therapist for yourself or your child, I can help. Although many people are able to express exactly what is causing them stress (or why), it's also common to struggle with putting it into words. You might feel anxious or depressed more days than not. Clients who seek me out often experience overwhelming emotions but might also feel low and unmotivated, or even detached. If you're a parent, you might be concerned about your child but feel unsure how to help them. I'd like to partner with you on how to make things better for you!
Ashley Waddell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colonial Heights, VA 23834 (Online Only)
Through a culturally responsive approach, I blend modalities like EMDR therapy with play, yoga, and mindfulness-infused techniques to help you reconnect with yourself and feel empowered along your healing journey.
Feeling stuck and want to try something different? I love working with the go-getters, highly ambitious young professional Black women and women of color who are ready to reclaim control over their lives through integrative therapy and EMDR. You may struggle with trauma, anxiety, or stress, making daily life feel unmanageable. Perhaps you internalize negative messages from your family and friends, causing self-doubt, inadequacy, or a loss of your voice. You might find yourself up at night not being able to sleep because your mind is racing. If you’re ready to live slowly, softly, and boldly with purpose, I am here to help!
Through a culturally responsive approach, I blend modalities like EMDR therapy with play, yoga, and mindfulness-infused techniques to help you reconnect with yourself and feel empowered along your healing journey.
Feeling stuck and want to try something different? I love working with the go-getters, highly ambitious young professional Black women and women of color who are ready to reclaim control over their lives through integrative therapy and EMDR. You may struggle with trauma, anxiety, or stress, making daily life feel unmanageable. Perhaps you internalize negative messages from your family and friends, causing self-doubt, inadequacy, or a loss of your voice. You might find yourself up at night not being able to sleep because your mind is racing. If you’re ready to live slowly, softly, and boldly with purpose, I am here to help!
I am a Registered Play Therapist- Supervisor.
Currently Accepting Limited Weekday/ Mid Day appointments for Individual Therapy/ EMDR/ Child Centered Play Therapy Only. NOT Accepting Couples or Children Involved in High Conflict Divorce or Custody Cases. Please contact your insurance provider and confirm your benefits, copayments and deductible before scheduling.
I am a Registered Play Therapist- Supervisor.
Currently Accepting Limited Weekday/ Mid Day appointments for Individual Therapy/ EMDR/ Child Centered Play Therapy Only. NOT Accepting Couples or Children Involved in High Conflict Divorce or Custody Cases. Please contact your insurance provider and confirm your benefits, copayments and deductible before scheduling.
I specialize in treating individuals who have experienced trauma by utilizing an integrative approach that includes Expressive Arts, Sand Tray, and Play Therapy.
I am committed to helping individuals find the strength within themselves and to share that with those most important to them. Whether you are struggling with anxiety or depression, relationship difficulties, or life transitions, I always seek to assist you in finding the most effective way to help you achieve your goals and live a happier life. My orientation is interpersonal, psychodynamic and emotionally focused. I am very active in the therapy.
I specialize in treating individuals who have experienced trauma by utilizing an integrative approach that includes Expressive Arts, Sand Tray, and Play Therapy.
I am committed to helping individuals find the strength within themselves and to share that with those most important to them. Whether you are struggling with anxiety or depression, relationship difficulties, or life transitions, I always seek to assist you in finding the most effective way to help you achieve your goals and live a happier life. My orientation is interpersonal, psychodynamic and emotionally focused. I am very active in the therapy.
In our work together, we will use treatment modalities that include, but are not limited to, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Mindfulness-Based Therapy, Expressive Art, Play Therapy Techniques, and Dialectal Behavioral Therapy.
As a therapist, it is my priority to provide a supportive and caring environment where you can have a non-judgmental space, learn new ways of coping, and ultimately create the changes you want to see in your life. I enjoy working with all ages, but have a passion for working with teenagers and young adults. Some of my specialties include anxiety, depression, adoption, trauma, and self-esteem.
In our work together, we will use treatment modalities that include, but are not limited to, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Mindfulness-Based Therapy, Expressive Art, Play Therapy Techniques, and Dialectal Behavioral Therapy.
As a therapist, it is my priority to provide a supportive and caring environment where you can have a non-judgmental space, learn new ways of coping, and ultimately create the changes you want to see in your life. I enjoy working with all ages, but have a passion for working with teenagers and young adults. Some of my specialties include anxiety, depression, adoption, trauma, and self-esteem.
My passion is working to help children and their families who are struggling with conflict, emotional/ behavioral problems, and trauma. It is my pleasure to help my clients learn about themselves and discover their own personal and family strengths through engaging and interactive therapy. I use a variety of tools in session, including play/ drama, music, art, and sand tray to help individuals express themselves. Being a child, teenager, or caregiver is hard! I can provide the knowledge and tools to help my clients learn how to overcome life's challenges by channeling their own personal strengths.
My passion is working to help children and their families who are struggling with conflict, emotional/ behavioral problems, and trauma. It is my pleasure to help my clients learn about themselves and discover their own personal and family strengths through engaging and interactive therapy. I use a variety of tools in session, including play/ drama, music, art, and sand tray to help individuals express themselves. Being a child, teenager, or caregiver is hard! I can provide the knowledge and tools to help my clients learn how to overcome life's challenges by channeling their own personal strengths.
Brett C Welch
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Henrico, VA 23229
Waitlist for new clients
Using a mix of modalities I help manifest change not with charts but with nervous system regulation, play, repair and connection.
So much can happen while trying to successfully raise little humans that leaves us feeling frustrated, ashamed and overwhelmed, turning our households into emotional battlefields. Is your child struggling with BIG feelings and tantrums at home? Having school issues: discipline, refusal, or separation anxiety and nothing you do is working? Are you navigating the intense overwhelm of parenting a PDA or neurodivergent child where behavioral interventions don't help? Are you managing a blended family or co-parenting and worry about how things are affecting your kids but aren't sure what to do? This is what I do, and I’m here to help.
Using a mix of modalities I help manifest change not with charts but with nervous system regulation, play, repair and connection.
So much can happen while trying to successfully raise little humans that leaves us feeling frustrated, ashamed and overwhelmed, turning our households into emotional battlefields. Is your child struggling with BIG feelings and tantrums at home? Having school issues: discipline, refusal, or separation anxiety and nothing you do is working? Are you navigating the intense overwhelm of parenting a PDA or neurodivergent child where behavioral interventions don't help? Are you managing a blended family or co-parenting and worry about how things are affecting your kids but aren't sure what to do? This is what I do, and I’m here to help.
Lawson Craighill
Resident in Counseling, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Chesterfield, VA 23236
I especially enjoy working with teens and young adults, but have extensive Play Therapy training that allows me to provide specialized care to children that embraces the natural expression and creativity of childhood.
Sometimes life feels overwhelming and it can be easy to lose your balance. My goal is to create a brave, judgment-free space where we can dive into whatever's on your mind. My approach to counseling is deeply rooted in the belief that each individual possesses a unique life story, deserving of personalized care and attention. I work with clients of all ages navigating anxiety and depression, trauma, difficult relationships, or stressful life transitions.
I especially enjoy working with teens and young adults, but have extensive Play Therapy training that allows me to provide specialized care to children that embraces the natural expression and creativity of childhood.
Sometimes life feels overwhelming and it can be easy to lose your balance. My goal is to create a brave, judgment-free space where we can dive into whatever's on your mind. My approach to counseling is deeply rooted in the belief that each individual possesses a unique life story, deserving of personalized care and attention. I work with clients of all ages navigating anxiety and depression, trauma, difficult relationships, or stressful life transitions.
Stephanie Schuler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23510 (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical social worker and find it a privilege to be walking with you in relationship. In my experience, there has been profound growth that has transcended every setting, when in presence with compassion. The treatment areas I specialize include child-centered play therapy and trauma-informed care.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and find it a privilege to be walking with you in relationship. In my experience, there has been profound growth that has transcended every setting, when in presence with compassion. The treatment areas I specialize include child-centered play therapy and trauma-informed care.
I utilize play in treatment when appropriate in order to build trust and strengthen the interpersonal bond.
Are you having difficulty managing the needs of your child(ren) and don't know who to turn to? Has your child started displaying behaviors or mood changes that are disruptive to family and/or school? If behavioral or emotional concerns are at the top of your list, they are also at the top of mine, and I'd love to help!
I utilize play in treatment when appropriate in order to build trust and strengthen the interpersonal bond.
Are you having difficulty managing the needs of your child(ren) and don't know who to turn to? Has your child started displaying behaviors or mood changes that are disruptive to family and/or school? If behavioral or emotional concerns are at the top of your list, they are also at the top of mine, and I'd love to help!
Clinical experience in the following modalities: Trauma treatment, Somatic Experiencing, Cognitive-behavioral therapy, Art/ Play therapy, Dialectical Behavioral therapy (DBT), Attachment, Couples/Marriage therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), and Intensive evidence-based treatments for a myriad of challenging mental health disorders.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with a passion for helping others on their journeys to healing, self-discovery, and growth. I have experience working with youth, adolescents, and adults providing individual, family, and couples therapy. Psychological assessments are also provided. I have obtained advanced training in trauma treatment, which includes various modalities such as art/ play therapy, Somatic Experiencing, and EMDR. I have over 14 years of experience working in community mental health, alternative school settings, residential treatment, outpatient settings, and correctional facilities.
Clinical experience in the following modalities: Trauma treatment, Somatic Experiencing, Cognitive-behavioral therapy, Art/ Play therapy, Dialectical Behavioral therapy (DBT), Attachment, Couples/Marriage therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), and Intensive evidence-based treatments for a myriad of challenging mental health disorders.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with a passion for helping others on their journeys to healing, self-discovery, and growth. I have experience working with youth, adolescents, and adults providing individual, family, and couples therapy. Psychological assessments are also provided. I have obtained advanced training in trauma treatment, which includes various modalities such as art/ play therapy, Somatic Experiencing, and EMDR. I have over 14 years of experience working in community mental health, alternative school settings, residential treatment, outpatient settings, and correctional facilities.
See more therapy options for Emporia
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.