Play Therapy in East York, ON
I use a variety of play based activities, games, books, videos, puppets and role plays to help children learn new concepts, develop insight and learn new coping skills.
I am a Child and Family Therapist with over two decades of experience helping children, adolescents and adults (ages 4 and up) to develop or enhance their coping skills, tools and strategies to successfully manage life's challenges. I have a warm and engaging style that enables me to quickly connect with children, build a trusting relationship, and help them to develop the skills and abilities they need to succeed. I've worked at various Children's Mental Health Centres in Toronto prior to starting a private practice. I would be happy to be a part of your child/family's journey and a catalyst to their change/success.
I use a variety of play based activities, games, books, videos, puppets and role plays to help children learn new concepts, develop insight and learn new coping skills.
I am a Child and Family Therapist with over two decades of experience helping children, adolescents and adults (ages 4 and up) to develop or enhance their coping skills, tools and strategies to successfully manage life's challenges. I have a warm and engaging style that enables me to quickly connect with children, build a trusting relationship, and help them to develop the skills and abilities they need to succeed. I've worked at various Children's Mental Health Centres in Toronto prior to starting a private practice. I would be happy to be a part of your child/family's journey and a catalyst to their change/success.
Playful Hearts Therapy (Play/ EMDR Therapy)
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CPT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a fully Certified Play Therapist and a Certified Play Therapy Supervisor through the Canadian Association for Play Therapy.
I'm also a Certified Trauma Assessor providing general and sexual trauma assessment and treatment for all ages. I use a variety of modalities depending on the age of your child/ adolescent, including EMDR, Brainspotting, CBT, DBT, Narrative Therapy, and Expressive Arts Therapy.
I am a fully Certified Play Therapist and a Certified Play Therapy Supervisor through the Canadian Association for Play Therapy.
I'm also a Certified Trauma Assessor providing general and sexual trauma assessment and treatment for all ages. I use a variety of modalities depending on the age of your child/ adolescent, including EMDR, Brainspotting, CBT, DBT, Narrative Therapy, and Expressive Arts Therapy.
Wiseman Counseling Services
Registered Psychotherapist, BEd, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
East York, ON M4B
*Currently accepting clients for waitlist* It takes a strong person to reach out for help and I applaud your first step in searching for a therapist. My focus is to help you, or your child/adolescent, to best understand your issue(s)/fears and to make them more tangible. If you are dealing with a trauma or loss I will help you move forward and see yourself as a survivor and regain control of your life. Our sessions can help you become more self-aware & understand the reasons behind behaviours, emotions and reactions.
*Currently accepting clients for waitlist* It takes a strong person to reach out for help and I applaud your first step in searching for a therapist. My focus is to help you, or your child/adolescent, to best understand your issue(s)/fears and to make them more tangible. If you are dealing with a trauma or loss I will help you move forward and see yourself as a survivor and regain control of your life. Our sessions can help you become more self-aware & understand the reasons behind behaviours, emotions and reactions.
Welcome to Therapedia Centre, where you can be matched with a psychotherapist who would best fit your therapeutic goals and needs. We are a team of psychotherapists from different cultural backgrounds, who welcome individuals from all lines of life, with all sorts of experiences, and choices of lifestyle. Whether you are struggling in your personal or romantic relationships or face conflicts in your professional fields or experience new challenges in your new roles (as a parent, partner, etc), our psychotherapists can provide new perspectives to help you manage your situation better. If you have been feeling stuck, we may help.
Welcome to Therapedia Centre, where you can be matched with a psychotherapist who would best fit your therapeutic goals and needs. We are a team of psychotherapists from different cultural backgrounds, who welcome individuals from all lines of life, with all sorts of experiences, and choices of lifestyle. Whether you are struggling in your personal or romantic relationships or face conflicts in your professional fields or experience new challenges in your new roles (as a parent, partner, etc), our psychotherapists can provide new perspectives to help you manage your situation better. If you have been feeling stuck, we may help.
For the young friends at wellbe, Kamal creates a safe, supported and enjoyable environment as they navigate the twists and turns of growing up and daily life. Building strong therapeutic relationships with her young clients is her utmost priority, as she believes that together, they can overcome any challenge that arises.
For the young friends at wellbe, Kamal creates a safe, supported and enjoyable environment as they navigate the twists and turns of growing up and daily life. Building strong therapeutic relationships with her young clients is her utmost priority, as she believes that together, they can overcome any challenge that arises.
Oksana Denysenko
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
If you want to become more confident, independent from what others might think of you, build healthy relationships or overcome your past - welcome! The focus If my work is developemental trauma, that mold our relationships with our inner Self ans others. My aim in the theraoy is to help my clients to define their real needs, to strengthen their Self and to help them give themselves a permission to live their life as they always wanted. Changes happen when we focus on what is going on in our life right now, becoming more attentive to our inner Self and our needs.
If you want to become more confident, independent from what others might think of you, build healthy relationships or overcome your past - welcome! The focus If my work is developemental trauma, that mold our relationships with our inner Self ans others. My aim in the theraoy is to help my clients to define their real needs, to strengthen their Self and to help them give themselves a permission to live their life as they always wanted. Changes happen when we focus on what is going on in our life right now, becoming more attentive to our inner Self and our needs.
More Therapists Nearby
Recognizing that traditional talk therapy can be challenging for people of all ages, I am training to become a certified play therapist.
Is your child finding it hard to express their feelings and connect with others? Are they feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or having difficulty managing their emotions? Do they need help navigating life changes that make them feel nervous or unprepared? I provide therapy services for individuals ages 5 and up, families, and parents, focusing on areas such as behavioural concerns, neurodivergent identities, peer relationships, anxiety, self-esteem, anger, and life transitions. My primary goal is to create a warm and welcoming space where clients can feel comfortable sharing their unique experiences.
Recognizing that traditional talk therapy can be challenging for people of all ages, I am training to become a certified play therapist.
Is your child finding it hard to express their feelings and connect with others? Are they feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or having difficulty managing their emotions? Do they need help navigating life changes that make them feel nervous or unprepared? I provide therapy services for individuals ages 5 and up, families, and parents, focusing on areas such as behavioural concerns, neurodivergent identities, peer relationships, anxiety, self-esteem, anger, and life transitions. My primary goal is to create a warm and welcoming space where clients can feel comfortable sharing their unique experiences.
I offer talk-based therapy as well as skill training, play therapy, and EMDR.
Do you want to see changes in your life, but don't know what to do next? Do the same issues or patterns come up for you again and again? As we go through life, we face challenges that can impact us and our personal growth going forward. Sometimes the things we have been doing in the past to cope and get by don't seem to work anymore, or don't have the same effect as they did before. We need to find new ways of thinking and behaving to readjust, cope, and heal from the past so we can manage the challenges ahead of us. Let’s team up together to take control of your story and make the changes you would like to see in your life.
I offer talk-based therapy as well as skill training, play therapy, and EMDR.
Do you want to see changes in your life, but don't know what to do next? Do the same issues or patterns come up for you again and again? As we go through life, we face challenges that can impact us and our personal growth going forward. Sometimes the things we have been doing in the past to cope and get by don't seem to work anymore, or don't have the same effect as they did before. We need to find new ways of thinking and behaving to readjust, cope, and heal from the past so we can manage the challenges ahead of us. Let’s team up together to take control of your story and make the changes you would like to see in your life.
Jola (Yola) Mecani - A to Z Psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pickering, ON L1V
When working with children and youth, I draw from DBT,CBT,& play-based methods to support emotional regulation, reduce anxiety, boost self-esteem,& enhance interpersonal skills.
I support children, youth, adults and couples. My approach is designed to help you:
1. Deepen your understanding of your emotions and the nervous system patterns that shape your experiences.
2. Experience a safe, attuned, and compassionate space where your body and story are both welcomed without judgment.
3. Gently engage with the parts of you that carry pain, fear, or self-criticism, while supporting nervous system regulation and healing attachment wounds.
My approach with couples focuses on identifying and shifting negative cycles, improving communication, and strengthening emotional bonds to build greater safety and trust.
When working with children and youth, I draw from DBT,CBT,& play-based methods to support emotional regulation, reduce anxiety, boost self-esteem,& enhance interpersonal skills.
I support children, youth, adults and couples. My approach is designed to help you:
1. Deepen your understanding of your emotions and the nervous system patterns that shape your experiences.
2. Experience a safe, attuned, and compassionate space where your body and story are both welcomed without judgment.
3. Gently engage with the parts of you that carry pain, fear, or self-criticism, while supporting nervous system regulation and healing attachment wounds.
My approach with couples focuses on identifying and shifting negative cycles, improving communication, and strengthening emotional bonds to build greater safety and trust.
Judith Wong Clinical Therapist
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L4Z
Judith has training in play therapy, and Level 1 Theraplay and Marschak Interaction Method.
Judith works with cognitive delay individuals, parents of children with intellectual and physical disabilities. Judith engages couples, families, and parents in the therapeutic process. With over 20 years experience, Judith is committed to helping her clients resolve complex and stressful situations that affect their daily functioning and well being.
Judith has training in play therapy, and Level 1 Theraplay and Marschak Interaction Method.
Judith works with cognitive delay individuals, parents of children with intellectual and physical disabilities. Judith engages couples, families, and parents in the therapeutic process. With over 20 years experience, Judith is committed to helping her clients resolve complex and stressful situations that affect their daily functioning and well being.
I combine art therapy with mindfulness, play therapy, CBT, Trauma-informed and attachment theories to help my clients.
Are you trying to take control of your emotions, unhealthy habits,or negative thoughts? Are you trying to improve your interpersonal skills, romantic or professional relationships,or seeking personal growth? Are you simply in need to talking about your life, decisions, and future plan? If yes, and if you feel stuck in any aspect of your life, therapy can be helpful. Me and my colleagues at Therapedia Centre offer psychotherapy services in Toronto in Farsi, Mandarine, and Portuguese in addition to English. We are specialized in children's mental health, adult's personal and interpersonal issues, and parenting issues as they rise.
I combine art therapy with mindfulness, play therapy, CBT, Trauma-informed and attachment theories to help my clients.
Are you trying to take control of your emotions, unhealthy habits,or negative thoughts? Are you trying to improve your interpersonal skills, romantic or professional relationships,or seeking personal growth? Are you simply in need to talking about your life, decisions, and future plan? If yes, and if you feel stuck in any aspect of your life, therapy can be helpful. Me and my colleagues at Therapedia Centre offer psychotherapy services in Toronto in Farsi, Mandarine, and Portuguese in addition to English. We are specialized in children's mental health, adult's personal and interpersonal issues, and parenting issues as they rise.
With her training in Play Therapy, Bora takes a creative counselling approach in her work with children.
With Couples and Families, Bora helps them learn how to communicate more effectively, navigate changes in life and work on conflict resolution. She also works sensitively to help couples with their sexual health, and fertility issues.
Bora is fluent in both Korean and English, and can help Korean immigrant families bridge cultural barriers.
With her training in Play Therapy, Bora takes a creative counselling approach in her work with children.
With Couples and Families, Bora helps them learn how to communicate more effectively, navigate changes in life and work on conflict resolution. She also works sensitively to help couples with their sexual health, and fertility issues.
Bora is fluent in both Korean and English, and can help Korean immigrant families bridge cultural barriers.
Behaviour Matters takes a Solution Focused and Skills-Based approach, specializing in CBT, SFT, MI, Narrative, Play, Art and Family Therapy.
Tania DaSilva holds an Honours Bachelors of Arts and Science Degree majoring in Psychology and Sociology, certifications in Cognitive Behavioural, Solution-Focused and Narrative Therapy, from OISE, University of Toronto, an Honours Advanced Child and Youth Care Diploma from Humber College, specializing in counselling, interventions, treatment and therapeutic activities. She is the Clinical Director of Behaviour Matters, author of Push for Happy, creator of Mindful Masters SEL Program and an on-air mental health media expert, seen in CTV, Global, Forbes, Toronto Star etc.
Behaviour Matters takes a Solution Focused and Skills-Based approach, specializing in CBT, SFT, MI, Narrative, Play, Art and Family Therapy.
Tania DaSilva holds an Honours Bachelors of Arts and Science Degree majoring in Psychology and Sociology, certifications in Cognitive Behavioural, Solution-Focused and Narrative Therapy, from OISE, University of Toronto, an Honours Advanced Child and Youth Care Diploma from Humber College, specializing in counselling, interventions, treatment and therapeutic activities. She is the Clinical Director of Behaviour Matters, author of Push for Happy, creator of Mindful Masters SEL Program and an on-air mental health media expert, seen in CTV, Global, Forbes, Toronto Star etc.
Krista Mennell @Mindful Psychology
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L5G
I have extensive training and experience in Mindfulness modalities and Play and Drama Therapy.
I provide Mindfulness-Based Play, Sand, and Drama Therapy to address anxiety and social-emotional/behavioural issues with children/preteens, with a focus on enhancing their social communication skills. I provide Parental Coaching to help parents better communicate with their child and manage problematic behaviours while focusing on their child's strengths.
I have extensive training and experience in Mindfulness modalities and Play and Drama Therapy.
I provide Mindfulness-Based Play, Sand, and Drama Therapy to address anxiety and social-emotional/behavioural issues with children/preteens, with a focus on enhancing their social communication skills. I provide Parental Coaching to help parents better communicate with their child and manage problematic behaviours while focusing on their child's strengths.
Nikki Goldman-Stroh Clinical Supervisor
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, DTATI, RP
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6G
I'm trained in CBT, ACT, EFT as well as art/ play therapy, and incorporate mindfulness and meditation in my practice.
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression? Can't stop thinking about the past or catastrophizing the future? I can help you overcome your anxiety or depression. I also work with clients who are experiencing relationship difficulties, trauma, insomnia or specific phobias. My goal is never to change who YOU are but help YOU change how you respond to your environment and to practice self-compassion/acceptance. I won't ask you to do anything that I haven't tried myself or isn't backed by scientific research. Finding the right therapist is the first step, book a free meet and greet to see if we're the right fit for one another!
I'm trained in CBT, ACT, EFT as well as art/ play therapy, and incorporate mindfulness and meditation in my practice.
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression? Can't stop thinking about the past or catastrophizing the future? I can help you overcome your anxiety or depression. I also work with clients who are experiencing relationship difficulties, trauma, insomnia or specific phobias. My goal is never to change who YOU are but help YOU change how you respond to your environment and to practice self-compassion/acceptance. I won't ask you to do anything that I haven't tried myself or isn't backed by scientific research. Finding the right therapist is the first step, book a free meet and greet to see if we're the right fit for one another!
I have specialized training in family therapy, play therapy and expressive art intervention.
I am a registered social worker with a Master of Social Work and Master of Family-Centred Practice and Family Therapy. With various more than 8 years of clinical experience specialize in individual, children and family, I have worked in children and family services, providing assessment and treatment for clients with various needs, such as those who have depression, anxiety, relationships distress, trauma, LGBTQ, gender issue, family conflicts, parenting, transgenerational issue, single families challenges, and disabilities/special needs children and their families.
I have specialized training in family therapy, play therapy and expressive art intervention.
I am a registered social worker with a Master of Social Work and Master of Family-Centred Practice and Family Therapy. With various more than 8 years of clinical experience specialize in individual, children and family, I have worked in children and family services, providing assessment and treatment for clients with various needs, such as those who have depression, anxiety, relationships distress, trauma, LGBTQ, gender issue, family conflicts, parenting, transgenerational issue, single families challenges, and disabilities/special needs children and their families.
My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to your child’s unique needs, using CBT, DBT, and Play Therapy to help them grow authentically.
Life can be challenging—especially for children and teens learning to manage emotions, build relationships, and cope with everyday stress. Whether your child is facing anxiety, low self-esteem, emotional outbursts, or difficulty adjusting to changes at home or school, you're not alone. I'm here to help.
My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to your child’s unique needs, using CBT, DBT, and Play Therapy to help them grow authentically.
Life can be challenging—especially for children and teens learning to manage emotions, build relationships, and cope with everyday stress. Whether your child is facing anxiety, low self-esteem, emotional outbursts, or difficulty adjusting to changes at home or school, you're not alone. I'm here to help.
I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Strengths Based, EMDR, Narrative Therapy and Play Therapy and groups.
I am a Registered Social Worker with a Masters in Social Work with a Clinical specialization. I’m originally from a small town in New Brunswick and completed my studies in several Provinces across Canada. I also resided abroad for over a year and gained further experience in the field. I bring knowledge from multiple settings in the field with significant experience from children and families who have experienced child abuse or navigated through the Child and Family Services system, adoption and post adoption supports.
I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Strengths Based, EMDR, Narrative Therapy and Play Therapy and groups.
I am a Registered Social Worker with a Masters in Social Work with a Clinical specialization. I’m originally from a small town in New Brunswick and completed my studies in several Provinces across Canada. I also resided abroad for over a year and gained further experience in the field. I bring knowledge from multiple settings in the field with significant experience from children and families who have experienced child abuse or navigated through the Child and Family Services system, adoption and post adoption supports.
For children, I incorporate play therapy.
I’m Julia, an MSW, RSW, offering evidence-based therapy for anxiety, depression, grief, emotional regulation, ADHD, Autism, and more. Inspired by my mother Laurie, whose strength and grace shaped my approach, I create a safe, nurturing space for healing. The willow tree, a symbol of her resilience and peace, guides my work. Using CBT, ACT, EFT, and trauma-informed care, I help individuals of all ages navigate challenges, build resilience, and achieve meaningful, lasting change. My goal is to empower clients to develop healthy emotional coping strategies, foster personal growth, and improve their overall well-being.
For children, I incorporate play therapy.
I’m Julia, an MSW, RSW, offering evidence-based therapy for anxiety, depression, grief, emotional regulation, ADHD, Autism, and more. Inspired by my mother Laurie, whose strength and grace shaped my approach, I create a safe, nurturing space for healing. The willow tree, a symbol of her resilience and peace, guides my work. Using CBT, ACT, EFT, and trauma-informed care, I help individuals of all ages navigate challenges, build resilience, and achieve meaningful, lasting change. My goal is to empower clients to develop healthy emotional coping strategies, foster personal growth, and improve their overall well-being.
Devon Church RN, Psychotherapy & Sex Therapy 🌈
RN, Psychotherapist, BScN
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I tend to only work with children in person, as its difficult to maintain a therapeutic relationship without being able to play and interact.
Welcome! I'm a firm believer that therapy doesn't have to feel like a trip to the dentist. I specialize in awkward topics, so it's important to me that our conversations feel like you're talking to a trusted friend. I help individuals, relationships (mono & ENM) as well as polycules & whole family units. I offer a compassion focused therapy model, often coupled with CBT strategies & dad jokes to help us work through the tough stuff. As an RN Psychotherapist, I not only know traditional psychotherapy techniques but I have knowledge in anatomy/physiology, medication management and I've taken specific education focused in sex therapy.
I tend to only work with children in person, as its difficult to maintain a therapeutic relationship without being able to play and interact.
Welcome! I'm a firm believer that therapy doesn't have to feel like a trip to the dentist. I specialize in awkward topics, so it's important to me that our conversations feel like you're talking to a trusted friend. I help individuals, relationships (mono & ENM) as well as polycules & whole family units. I offer a compassion focused therapy model, often coupled with CBT strategies & dad jokes to help us work through the tough stuff. As an RN Psychotherapist, I not only know traditional psychotherapy techniques but I have knowledge in anatomy/physiology, medication management and I've taken specific education focused in sex therapy.
Nearby Play Therapy Counsellors Searches for East York
- Etobicoke
- Maple
- Markham
- Mississauga
- North York
- Pickering
- Richmond Hill
- Scarborough
- Thornhill
- Toronto
- Vaughan
- Woodbridge
Play Therapy Counsellors
Who is play therapy for?
Play therapy is generally targeted to children between the ages of 3 and 11 who have social, emotional, or behavioural 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 behaviour 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 behaviour.