Play Therapy in Port Perry, ON

Photo of Christine Johansen - Mind Matters Psychotherapy & Creative Education, Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Mind Matters Psychotherapy & Creative Education
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Some of these approaches consist of expressive arts, mindfulness, play based therapies, nutrition counselling, psychoanalysis, EMDR, CBT, and DBT.
We are a Team of Registered Psychotherapists who are dedicate to working with children, youth, families, and adults in unique ways which are tailored to the clients individual strengths and challenges. It is important for us to meet our clients where they are at, not where we might want them to be. This will allow for clients to be a dedicated participant in their journey to wellness. We create a safe space for clients to explore their challenges and work on personal goals. Our team works from a Client-Centered focus, allowing for clients to direct the therapy and contribute to the journey they are on.
Some of these approaches consist of expressive arts, mindfulness, play based therapies, nutrition counselling, psychoanalysis, EMDR, CBT, and DBT.
We are a Team of Registered Psychotherapists who are dedicate to working with children, youth, families, and adults in unique ways which are tailored to the clients individual strengths and challenges. It is important for us to meet our clients where they are at, not where we might want them to be. This will allow for clients to be a dedicated participant in their journey to wellness. We create a safe space for clients to explore their challenges and work on personal goals. Our team works from a Client-Centered focus, allowing for clients to direct the therapy and contribute to the journey they are on.
(365) 300-1758 View (365) 300-1758
Photo of Shannon Mossip - New Beginnings Ont - Shannon Mossip Psychology, Psychologist
New Beginnings Ont - Shannon Mossip Psychology
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Port Perry, ON L9L
At New Beginnings, clients have the opportunity to explore their strengths and limitations in a safe, confidential, and accepting environment. We provide assessment, intervention, and treatment services to children, adolescents, and adults who exhibit symptoms of inattention, concentration difficulty, memory impairment, hyperactivity, poor academic performance, and learning disabilities. We offer group therapy programs for children diagnosed with Autism, Oppositional Defiant Disorder and Anxiety. In addition, we offer therapy and assessments through WSIB.
At New Beginnings, clients have the opportunity to explore their strengths and limitations in a safe, confidential, and accepting environment. We provide assessment, intervention, and treatment services to children, adolescents, and adults who exhibit symptoms of inattention, concentration difficulty, memory impairment, hyperactivity, poor academic performance, and learning disabilities. We offer group therapy programs for children diagnosed with Autism, Oppositional Defiant Disorder and Anxiety. In addition, we offer therapy and assessments through WSIB.
(844) 332-2404 View (844) 332-2404
Photo of Helen Daymond, Psychologist
Helen Daymond
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Port Perry, ON L9L
ACCESS Psychology offers a holistic approach to well-being with a focus on developing healthy minds, healthy bodies and healthy relationships. Helen and her experienced team of professional therapists work together to assist kids, teens & their families cope with life’s many obstacles and meet their full potential! We can help with: speech-language, learning difficulties, psycho-educational & social-emotional assessments, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, behaviour issues, adjustment to separation/divorce, bullying, social skills, body image image/eating disorders, trauma, OCD, ADHD, ASD (autism spectrum disorder) and more
ACCESS Psychology offers a holistic approach to well-being with a focus on developing healthy minds, healthy bodies and healthy relationships. Helen and her experienced team of professional therapists work together to assist kids, teens & their families cope with life’s many obstacles and meet their full potential! We can help with: speech-language, learning difficulties, psycho-educational & social-emotional assessments, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, behaviour issues, adjustment to separation/divorce, bullying, social skills, body image image/eating disorders, trauma, OCD, ADHD, ASD (autism spectrum disorder) and more
(289) 206-5367 View (289) 206-5367
Photo of Nicole Morrison-Lively - Sunrise Counselling Services , BScN, MA, CNP
Sunrise Counselling Services
BScN, MA, CNP
Verified Verified
Port Perry, ON L9L
If you are looking for a welcoming, non judgmental, compassionate space to explore the challenges that you are looking for support with - you are in the right place. As a Certified Nurse Psychotherapist, I provide services that combine experiences and education, as a nurse for 18+ years, a passion (and Masters) in Social Justice & Human Rights as well as the tools and techniques to provide psychotherapy counselling services to support several mental health needs. Mental health is an integral part of health and wellness and I truly enjoy working beside my clients and families to support this aspect of holistic care.
If you are looking for a welcoming, non judgmental, compassionate space to explore the challenges that you are looking for support with - you are in the right place. As a Certified Nurse Psychotherapist, I provide services that combine experiences and education, as a nurse for 18+ years, a passion (and Masters) in Social Justice & Human Rights as well as the tools and techniques to provide psychotherapy counselling services to support several mental health needs. Mental health is an integral part of health and wellness and I truly enjoy working beside my clients and families to support this aspect of holistic care.
(365) 536-1640 View (365) 536-1640
Photo of Meghan Seto, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Meghan Seto
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I work with children ages 4-18 years old, and their families. I offer in person and virtual appointments. I truly believe that every family has different needs and I strive to cater my services to meet the client where they are. No family is alike, and I offer a dynamic and personable experience. Going through challenging life experiences and trauma can seem overwhelming and where to begin can be difficult or seem impossible. I support you to work through those emotions and develop steps to get where you want to be, and most importantly, heal.
I work with children ages 4-18 years old, and their families. I offer in person and virtual appointments. I truly believe that every family has different needs and I strive to cater my services to meet the client where they are. No family is alike, and I offer a dynamic and personable experience. Going through challenging life experiences and trauma can seem overwhelming and where to begin can be difficult or seem impossible. I support you to work through those emotions and develop steps to get where you want to be, and most importantly, heal.
(249) 487-1822 View (249) 487-1822

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Arya Amatya, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q), MACP
Arya Amatya
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q), MACP
Verified Verified
Newmarket, ON L3X
Play therapy helps younger clients express themselves & heal.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of the next steps? Life’s challenges can feel like too much to handle alone. Whether you're battling anxiety, stress, complex trauma, relationship struggles, divorce, or helping a child through tough times, I’m here to support you. With empathy and practical tools, I offer tailored, culturally sensitive care to help you move forward with clarity and confidence. You don’t have to face these challenges on your own, let’s work together to create the balance and healing you deserve.
Play therapy helps younger clients express themselves & heal.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of the next steps? Life’s challenges can feel like too much to handle alone. Whether you're battling anxiety, stress, complex trauma, relationship struggles, divorce, or helping a child through tough times, I’m here to support you. With empathy and practical tools, I offer tailored, culturally sensitive care to help you move forward with clarity and confidence. You don’t have to face these challenges on your own, let’s work together to create the balance and healing you deserve.
(249) 702-4020 View (249) 702-4020
Photo of Fal Desai - Fal Desai Therapy, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Fal Desai Therapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Markham, ON L3P
Since many children have difficulty expressing themselves verbally, I incorporate therapeutic play with evidence-based models ( Play Therapy, CBT, Trauma Focused CBT, Family Therapy) to meet the needs of each child based on age, interests, and treatment needs.
I work with children and adolescents 4-12 years of age who are experiencing difficult life situations such as anxiety, divorce/separation, loss, trauma, anger, school issues, poor self-esteem. I also provide a parent-based treatment called SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions) for children and adolescents with anxiety and OCD. Parent consultations also provided.
Since many children have difficulty expressing themselves verbally, I incorporate therapeutic play with evidence-based models ( Play Therapy, CBT, Trauma Focused CBT, Family Therapy) to meet the needs of each child based on age, interests, and treatment needs.
I work with children and adolescents 4-12 years of age who are experiencing difficult life situations such as anxiety, divorce/separation, loss, trauma, anger, school issues, poor self-esteem. I also provide a parent-based treatment called SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions) for children and adolescents with anxiety and OCD. Parent consultations also provided.
(289) 210-7310 View (289) 210-7310
Photo of Julia Genoveva Johnson - Johnson Family Counseling, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CCC, LPC, RPT-S
Johnson Family Counseling
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CCC, LPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Newmarket, ON L3Y
Julia Johnson holds a Master degree is Clinical Psychology, is a Registered Psychotherapist, & Play-therapy Supervisor, a Certified Canadian Counsellor and a Licensed Professional Counsellor in NJ.
JFC values: Compassion, Professionalism & Support. Ms. Johnson is trained in Structural Family Therapy, Play-Therapy, EFT & Attachment therapies: Theraplay and DDP. Other training: Prolonged Exposure, Trauma Practice, Polyvagal/Compassion Fatigue Therapy, Group Therapy, Parenting skills, Supervision, and she is also a Catholic Christian Healing Minister.
Julia Johnson holds a Master degree is Clinical Psychology, is a Registered Psychotherapist, & Play-therapy Supervisor, a Certified Canadian Counsellor and a Licensed Professional Counsellor in NJ.
JFC values: Compassion, Professionalism & Support. Ms. Johnson is trained in Structural Family Therapy, Play-Therapy, EFT & Attachment therapies: Theraplay and DDP. Other training: Prolonged Exposure, Trauma Practice, Polyvagal/Compassion Fatigue Therapy, Group Therapy, Parenting skills, Supervision, and she is also a Catholic Christian Healing Minister.
(647) 496-0415 View (647) 496-0415
Photo of Karen Sin, Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, MAFT
Karen Sin
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, MAFT
Verified Verified
Markham, ON L3T
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.
(365) 649-5700 x101 View (365) 649-5700 x101
Photo of Gretchen Savery, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Gretchen Savery
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Whitby, ON L1N
We may draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Family Systems Therapy, Play Therapy, Parent-Child Interaction, Systems Theory, and other approaches.
Mastering family dynamics, igniting personal growth, and restoring communication bridges, Gretchen empowers individuals and families to navigate life's intricate challenges. Backed by a Master of Arts in Family Therapy and Systemic Intervention and a Bachelor of Arts in General Psychology, she is a trusted counsellor and member in good standing with the Ontario Association of Mental Health Professionals (OAMHP). Family Counselling, Parent training, Cognitive Behavioural Strategies, Behavioural Strategies, Individual Counselling, Psychoeducation, untangling conflict, fostering healthy communication, and rebuilding trust within family
We may draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Family Systems Therapy, Play Therapy, Parent-Child Interaction, Systems Theory, and other approaches.
Mastering family dynamics, igniting personal growth, and restoring communication bridges, Gretchen empowers individuals and families to navigate life's intricate challenges. Backed by a Master of Arts in Family Therapy and Systemic Intervention and a Bachelor of Arts in General Psychology, she is a trusted counsellor and member in good standing with the Ontario Association of Mental Health Professionals (OAMHP). Family Counselling, Parent training, Cognitive Behavioural Strategies, Behavioural Strategies, Individual Counselling, Psychoeducation, untangling conflict, fostering healthy communication, and rebuilding trust within family
(249) 444-2451 View (249) 444-2451
Photo of Ruth-Ellen Baker, Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Ruth-Ellen Baker
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lindsay, ON K9V
Ruth-Ellen Baker, Registered Psychotherapist, has graduate and post-graduate training in Family Therapy and Play Therapy and, about ten years ago, shifted from a general practice to a focus on children, youth and their families.
She assists people who have experienced trauma, abuse (physical, sexual, verbal/emotional), anxiety, depression, grief and loss, low self esteem, attention deficits, parenting/family-related concerns and the strong emotions which accompany these and other issues in life. Upon request, faith-based (Christianity) work can be provided.
Ruth-Ellen Baker, Registered Psychotherapist, has graduate and post-graduate training in Family Therapy and Play Therapy and, about ten years ago, shifted from a general practice to a focus on children, youth and their families.
She assists people who have experienced trauma, abuse (physical, sexual, verbal/emotional), anxiety, depression, grief and loss, low self esteem, attention deficits, parenting/family-related concerns and the strong emotions which accompany these and other issues in life. Upon request, faith-based (Christianity) work can be provided.
(249) 492-9887 View (249) 492-9887
Photo of Samantha Cohen, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Samantha Cohen
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
When working with young children, I will incorporate play techniques to help them feel more comfortable and open during the counselling.
I will tailor my approach to meet you where you are at. I have experience helping both children and adults with a variety of issues, including but not limited to, anxiety, trauma, stress, depression, self-esteem, emotion regulation, parenting, couples counselling, relationships, and more. I also provide clinical consultation/supervision for other therapists.
When working with young children, I will incorporate play techniques to help them feel more comfortable and open during the counselling.
I will tailor my approach to meet you where you are at. I have experience helping both children and adults with a variety of issues, including but not limited to, anxiety, trauma, stress, depression, self-esteem, emotion regulation, parenting, couples counselling, relationships, and more. I also provide clinical consultation/supervision for other therapists.
(888) 340-4325 View (888) 340-4325
Photo of Ethan Stender, Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP
Ethan Stender
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Courtice, ON L1E
This strength-based and person-centered approach draws from various therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Family Systems Therapy (FST), Solution Focused Therapy (SFT), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Play Therapy, and aspects of Internal Family Systems (IFS).
As a psychotherapist, Ethan has helped clients of all ages with grief and loss, depression, anxiety, PTSD, Adjustment Disorder, trauma, and other concerns. Ethan particularly enjoys helping children and adolescents use their imagination and creativity in the therapy room to process their emotions when verbal communication is difficult.
This strength-based and person-centered approach draws from various therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Family Systems Therapy (FST), Solution Focused Therapy (SFT), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Play Therapy, and aspects of Internal Family Systems (IFS).
As a psychotherapist, Ethan has helped clients of all ages with grief and loss, depression, anxiety, PTSD, Adjustment Disorder, trauma, and other concerns. Ethan particularly enjoys helping children and adolescents use their imagination and creativity in the therapy room to process their emotions when verbal communication is difficult.
(289) 216-4708 x5 View (289) 216-4708 x5
Photo of Kimberley D Mullin, Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv
Kimberley D Mullin
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Newmarket, ON L3Y
In particular, I embrace a holistic approach to depression, anxiety, loss, grief and anger management, in a therapeutic environment where the arts and play are welcome.
Are you looking for someone to help you find hope in the chaos you are experiencing individually, or as a family? Have you found that the emotional supports you relied on are no longer life-giving? Has this season been unbearably difficult and you are in a sea of despair? Maybe you are at crossroads with your career or in a life transition and would like a new story for yourself but feel stuck. Whichever season of life you are in, I welcome the opportunity to connect with you soon. Let’s explore together some hopeful options for yourself and your family.
In particular, I embrace a holistic approach to depression, anxiety, loss, grief and anger management, in a therapeutic environment where the arts and play are welcome.
Are you looking for someone to help you find hope in the chaos you are experiencing individually, or as a family? Have you found that the emotional supports you relied on are no longer life-giving? Has this season been unbearably difficult and you are in a sea of despair? Maybe you are at crossroads with your career or in a life transition and would like a new story for yourself but feel stuck. Whichever season of life you are in, I welcome the opportunity to connect with you soon. Let’s explore together some hopeful options for yourself and your family.
(647) 559-3798 View (647) 559-3798
Photo of Kristin Greco - Newmarket Psychotherapy Team, Inc., Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Newmarket Psychotherapy Team, Inc.
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Newmarket, ON L3Y
Our approach to therapy is evidence based and eclectic, drawing on therapies such as (but not limited to) Cognitive Behavioural, Narrative, Solution Focused, Play Therapy, Expressive Arts, Emotion Focused, EMDR, Psychodynamic, DBT.
Are you in a place in your life where you require emotional support? We have all struggled, or are struggling, and it is important to remember that as human beings, it is common to experience a variety of hardships at different times in life. Newmarket Psychotherapy Team is a collaborative of therapists with a nurturing space for you to visit, where we can provide you with the kind of support that you require and deserve. Our collective welcomes everyone, of any sexual orientation, gender, ethnicity, relationship agreements/arrangements, and disability status. It's never too late to reach out for support.
Our approach to therapy is evidence based and eclectic, drawing on therapies such as (but not limited to) Cognitive Behavioural, Narrative, Solution Focused, Play Therapy, Expressive Arts, Emotion Focused, EMDR, Psychodynamic, DBT.
Are you in a place in your life where you require emotional support? We have all struggled, or are struggling, and it is important to remember that as human beings, it is common to experience a variety of hardships at different times in life. Newmarket Psychotherapy Team is a collaborative of therapists with a nurturing space for you to visit, where we can provide you with the kind of support that you require and deserve. Our collective welcomes everyone, of any sexual orientation, gender, ethnicity, relationship agreements/arrangements, and disability status. It's never too late to reach out for support.
(289) 768-8386 View (289) 768-8386
Photo of Arya Amatya, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q), MACP
Arya Amatya
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q), MACP
Verified Verified
Newmarket, ON L3Y
Play therapy helps younger clients express themselves & heal.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of the next steps? Life’s challenges can feel like too much to handle alone. Whether you're battling anxiety, stress, complex trauma, relationship struggles, divorce, or helping a child through tough times, I’m here to support you. With empathy and practical tools, I offer tailored, culturally sensitive care to help you move forward with clarity and confidence. You don’t have to face these challenges on your own, let’s work together to create the balance and healing you deserve.
Play therapy helps younger clients express themselves & heal.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of the next steps? Life’s challenges can feel like too much to handle alone. Whether you're battling anxiety, stress, complex trauma, relationship struggles, divorce, or helping a child through tough times, I’m here to support you. With empathy and practical tools, I offer tailored, culturally sensitive care to help you move forward with clarity and confidence. You don’t have to face these challenges on your own, let’s work together to create the balance and healing you deserve.
(365) 305-5043 View (365) 305-5043
Photo of Chantal Regis, Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Chantal Regis
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Online Only
If your child or adolescent is dealing with anxiety, self-esteem issues, adjustment to post secondary education, grief/loss, or has witnessed something traumatic, I offer a variety of cognitive and play based interventions tailored to each individual.
I am a Registered Psychologist with a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Guelph. I provide evidence-based practices, (e.g. CBT) , to support children and adolescents ages 4 to 20 years old. I support youth struggling with anxiety, self esteem, gender/LGBTQ+ identity, relationship problems and social development. I believe in the importance of working together with families, and I regularly involve caregivers in treatment and assessment when possible. I value the opportunity to provide culturally sensitive care to youth of colour.
If your child or adolescent is dealing with anxiety, self-esteem issues, adjustment to post secondary education, grief/loss, or has witnessed something traumatic, I offer a variety of cognitive and play based interventions tailored to each individual.
I am a Registered Psychologist with a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Guelph. I provide evidence-based practices, (e.g. CBT) , to support children and adolescents ages 4 to 20 years old. I support youth struggling with anxiety, self esteem, gender/LGBTQ+ identity, relationship problems and social development. I believe in the importance of working together with families, and I regularly involve caregivers in treatment and assessment when possible. I value the opportunity to provide culturally sensitive care to youth of colour.
(365) 300-3089 View (365) 300-3089
Photo of Christine Johansen - Christine Johansen, Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP, OAMHP
Christine Johansen
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP, OAMHP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bowmanville, ON L1C
I practice from a psychodynamic lens while including expressive arts and play therapy.
I specialize in working with children, youth, and families. My work with this demographic is attachment-based to support clients with building healthy relationships with themselves as well as the people in their world. I am passionate in working with survivors of trauma, and restoring their sense of safety and ability to connect to themselves and others.
I practice from a psychodynamic lens while including expressive arts and play therapy.
I specialize in working with children, youth, and families. My work with this demographic is attachment-based to support clients with building healthy relationships with themselves as well as the people in their world. I am passionate in working with survivors of trauma, and restoring their sense of safety and ability to connect to themselves and others.
(289) 210-0581 View (289) 210-0581
Dannette Graham
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newmarket, ON L3Y
As a child psychotherapist, I use my training in close observation to help make sense of a child's difficulties as I communicate with them through play, drawing, words and behaviour, allowing the child to begin to put into words the thoughts and feelings that lie behind their troubling behaviour.
Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy: Anxiety, Depression, Self Harm, Trauma, Divorce/Custody Issues, Eating Disorders, Oppositional Defiant Disorders, Grief/Loss, Parent Consultation, . Adults: Relational Difficulties, Divorce, Work/Life Transitions, Self Destructive Behaviours are some of the reasons people choose to work with me. I am a Registered Psychotherapist, my background is Psychodynamic Psychotherapy- a therapeutic approach that embraces the work of all psychoanalytic therapies, including attachment theory, . I tailor my approach to the individual child, adolescent or adult.
As a child psychotherapist, I use my training in close observation to help make sense of a child's difficulties as I communicate with them through play, drawing, words and behaviour, allowing the child to begin to put into words the thoughts and feelings that lie behind their troubling behaviour.
Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy: Anxiety, Depression, Self Harm, Trauma, Divorce/Custody Issues, Eating Disorders, Oppositional Defiant Disorders, Grief/Loss, Parent Consultation, . Adults: Relational Difficulties, Divorce, Work/Life Transitions, Self Destructive Behaviours are some of the reasons people choose to work with me. I am a Registered Psychotherapist, my background is Psychodynamic Psychotherapy- a therapeutic approach that embraces the work of all psychoanalytic therapies, including attachment theory, . I tailor my approach to the individual child, adolescent or adult.
(289) 302-8239 View (289) 302-8239
Photo of Sarah Graham, Registered Psychotherapist, BEd, MACP, RP
Sarah Graham
Registered Psychotherapist, BEd, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Courtice, ON L1E
I am a Registered Psychotherapist and Therapeutic Play Practitioner.
Does your child struggle with anxiety, low self-esteem, or big emotions that affect their ability to regulate, connect or function day to day? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed or frustrated by daily challenges with your child, or fear what might happen without help? If so, I am here to help!
I am a Registered Psychotherapist and Therapeutic Play Practitioner.
Does your child struggle with anxiety, low self-esteem, or big emotions that affect their ability to regulate, connect or function day to day? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed or frustrated by daily challenges with your child, or fear what might happen without help? If so, I am here to help!
(289) 301-8313 View (289) 301-8313

See more therapy options for Port Perry

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.