Play Therapy in Elmira, ON

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Photo of Melissa Fellin, Registered Social Worker in Elmira, ON
Melissa Fellin
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2J
Waitlist for new clients
If you are struggling with your child's emotions, behaviours or you are worried about your child's experiences and how they are affecting them play therapy may be able to help your child.
Melissa works with children ages 2 to 11 years old in a number of areas such as mental health and behavioural issues, including ADD/ADHD, depression, anxiety and disruptive behaviours. Melissa also works with children who are facing school problems, bullying, family problems, and health issues. The family and/or primary caregivers of the child are integral to the process of therapy for children.
If you are struggling with your child's emotions, behaviours or you are worried about your child's experiences and how they are affecting them play therapy may be able to help your child.
Melissa works with children ages 2 to 11 years old in a number of areas such as mental health and behavioural issues, including ADD/ADHD, depression, anxiety and disruptive behaviours. Melissa also works with children who are facing school problems, bullying, family problems, and health issues. The family and/or primary caregivers of the child are integral to the process of therapy for children.
(226) 840-3204 View (226) 840-3204
Photo of Bloom Child & Family Therapy, Registered Social Worker in Elmira, ON
Bloom Child & Family Therapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
Waterloo, ON N2J
Our evidence-based treatments are tailored to meet the needs of children, teens and families and include CBPT, EMDR, play therapy, expressive arts therapies (music, art, dance/movement, writing), animal-assisted therapy, sport social work, narrative therapy, attachment-based family therapies among others.
Bloom Child & Family Therapy supports children and their families using creative approaches and evidenced-based practices. At Bloom we strive to provide accessible, quality mental health care for children, adolescents and their families. Bloom therapists are ultra-creative! Play, expressive arts and animal-assisted therapies allow Bloom to make their services accessible to all children and their families. Whether you are coming for family therapy or your child is attending therapy, we believe that family and/or primary caregivers are key to children’s healing and growing. We are looking to build strong and healthy families.
Our evidence-based treatments are tailored to meet the needs of children, teens and families and include CBPT, EMDR, play therapy, expressive arts therapies (music, art, dance/movement, writing), animal-assisted therapy, sport social work, narrative therapy, attachment-based family therapies among others.
Bloom Child & Family Therapy supports children and their families using creative approaches and evidenced-based practices. At Bloom we strive to provide accessible, quality mental health care for children, adolescents and their families. Bloom therapists are ultra-creative! Play, expressive arts and animal-assisted therapies allow Bloom to make their services accessible to all children and their families. Whether you are coming for family therapy or your child is attending therapy, we believe that family and/or primary caregivers are key to children’s healing and growing. We are looking to build strong and healthy families.
(226) 799-4869 View (226) 799-4869
Photo of Naomi M Roberts, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Elmira, ON
Naomi M Roberts
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP (Q), MACP, CH, C-DBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2J
Join me for counselling in a judgement free zone with evidence-based interventions personalized to strengthen your resiliency, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy, Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT and CPT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Hypnotherapy and/or Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT).
You deserve time just for you. Stressed? Anxious? Depressed? Are old triggers coming back? Let's talk about it. Are you sleeping more? Experiencing tension in your shoulders or stomach? Feeling a heaviness in your mind/body/spirit? I incorporate an inclusive treatment approach for children, adolescents and adults tailored to each person's specific counselling needs. Our clinic is online to provide counselling to you in the comfort of your home. All are welcome. Call, email or click the online booking button to schedule a free 15 - 30 minute consultation today.
Join me for counselling in a judgement free zone with evidence-based interventions personalized to strengthen your resiliency, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy, Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT and CPT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Hypnotherapy and/or Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT).
You deserve time just for you. Stressed? Anxious? Depressed? Are old triggers coming back? Let's talk about it. Are you sleeping more? Experiencing tension in your shoulders or stomach? Feeling a heaviness in your mind/body/spirit? I incorporate an inclusive treatment approach for children, adolescents and adults tailored to each person's specific counselling needs. Our clinic is online to provide counselling to you in the comfort of your home. All are welcome. Call, email or click the online booking button to schedule a free 15 - 30 minute consultation today.
(365) 305-0366 View (365) 305-0366
Photo of Brian Martin, Registered Psychotherapist in Elmira, ON
Brian Martin
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Kitchener, ON N2H
I work with children and preteens using both a child centered play therapy approach and incorporating CBT, solution focused and other theoretical orientations into my play based work.
Do you want an empathic ear and a voice that instills hope in times of stress, anxiety and depression? I offer a safe and non-judgmental space to work through the things you are facing. In addition to working with individuals dealing with anxiety, grief, depression and life stresses, I work with couples looking to improve their communication. I am skilled at finding each person’s love language, improving conflict resolution and helping couples communicate more effectively.
I work with children and preteens using both a child centered play therapy approach and incorporating CBT, solution focused and other theoretical orientations into my play based work.
Do you want an empathic ear and a voice that instills hope in times of stress, anxiety and depression? I offer a safe and non-judgmental space to work through the things you are facing. In addition to working with individuals dealing with anxiety, grief, depression and life stresses, I work with couples looking to improve their communication. I am skilled at finding each person’s love language, improving conflict resolution and helping couples communicate more effectively.
(226) 499-7614 View (226) 499-7614
Photo of Lynne Steffy, Registered Social Worker in Elmira, ON
Lynne Steffy
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Waterloo, ON N2L
I use my experience and training from the Canadian Association for Child and Play Therapy when I work with children and families.
A safe and accepting environment is key to growth and change. Effective therapy allows people of all ages to rise to challenge by accomplishing goals. I am a registered therapist who provides confidential counselling to children, teens, adults and families in the K-W area. I am privledged to work with people through their most challenging times. My clients voice that they know I am geniune and sincere. I have specialized training and experience in working with people coping with family conflict, parenting, low self esteem, bullying, abuse, grief and loss, anger management, stress management, trauma, anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder.
I use my experience and training from the Canadian Association for Child and Play Therapy when I work with children and families.
A safe and accepting environment is key to growth and change. Effective therapy allows people of all ages to rise to challenge by accomplishing goals. I am a registered therapist who provides confidential counselling to children, teens, adults and families in the K-W area. I am privledged to work with people through their most challenging times. My clients voice that they know I am geniune and sincere. I have specialized training and experience in working with people coping with family conflict, parenting, low self esteem, bullying, abuse, grief and loss, anger management, stress management, trauma, anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder.
(519) 208-7404 View (519) 208-7404
Photo of Jisca Rodriguez, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Elmira, ON
Jisca Rodriguez
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP (Q), MMT, MTA
Verified Verified
Kitchener, ON N2H
I work with children, preteens, and teens, using music and play in a child-centred approach to give them a language to connect and work through presenting issues.
I offer a warm and engaging environment where clients can discover strengths, overcome challenges and work towards goals in a safe creative space. I focus on providing creative mediums like music and play as a compliment or alternative to verbal therapy, aiming to open up many possibilities for communication, expression, and growth. I am a certified music therapist, a qualifying psychotherapist, and have also completed training in child-centred play therapy. Clients do not need to have any previous musical experience or training to engage in music therapy.
I work with children, preteens, and teens, using music and play in a child-centred approach to give them a language to connect and work through presenting issues.
I offer a warm and engaging environment where clients can discover strengths, overcome challenges and work towards goals in a safe creative space. I focus on providing creative mediums like music and play as a compliment or alternative to verbal therapy, aiming to open up many possibilities for communication, expression, and growth. I am a certified music therapist, a qualifying psychotherapist, and have also completed training in child-centred play therapy. Clients do not need to have any previous musical experience or training to engage in music therapy.
(548) 490-5940 View (548) 490-5940
Photo of Jenny Ingram, Occupational Therapist in Elmira, ON
Jenny Ingram
Occupational Therapist, BA, MSc, OT Reg
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2L  (Online Only)
My children and families have mastered homework routines, making time for work and play.
Are you wondering how to help your smart but scattered child build organizational skills? Curious about navigating a sensory-rich world for your highly sensitive child? My occupational therapy practice provides a safe space for children and families to develop confidence and practice skills to participate more fully in school and family life. Virtual occupational therapy sessions are high-impact and playful, equipping you and your child with evidence-based strategies to support executive functioning skills, including brains that may have ADHD, gifted, and differently wired brains.
My children and families have mastered homework routines, making time for work and play.
Are you wondering how to help your smart but scattered child build organizational skills? Curious about navigating a sensory-rich world for your highly sensitive child? My occupational therapy practice provides a safe space for children and families to develop confidence and practice skills to participate more fully in school and family life. Virtual occupational therapy sessions are high-impact and playful, equipping you and your child with evidence-based strategies to support executive functioning skills, including brains that may have ADHD, gifted, and differently wired brains.
(249) 490-5341 View (249) 490-5341
Photo of Farrah Hemani, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Elmira, ON
Farrah Hemani
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, ECE
Verified Verified
Waterloo, ON N2J
As a child psychotherapist, my approach involves keen observation of a child's play, drawings, words, and behavior. Through this process, I help children verbalize the thoughts and emotions underlying their challenging behaviors. I tailor my methods to each individual child or family, ensuring an age-appropriate approach. Maintaining a neutral and non-directive stance, I create an atmosphere where children and adolescents feel free to express themselves without fear of punishment or rejection. This fosters trust and understanding, allowing them to communicate their hopes and fears ultimately shaping their perception of the world.
As a child psychotherapist, my approach involves keen observation of a child's play, drawings, words, and behavior. Through this process, I help children verbalize the thoughts and emotions underlying their challenging behaviors. I tailor my methods to each individual child or family, ensuring an age-appropriate approach. Maintaining a neutral and non-directive stance, I create an atmosphere where children and adolescents feel free to express themselves without fear of punishment or rejection. This fosters trust and understanding, allowing them to communicate their hopes and fears ultimately shaping their perception of the world.
(289) 207-6687 View (289) 207-6687
Photo of Lunar Psychotherapy & Wellness, Tina Lackner, Registered Psychotherapist in Elmira, ON
Lunar Psychotherapy & Wellness, Tina Lackner
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, CPT
Verified Verified
Waterloo, ON N2J
LPW’s team includes Registered Psychotherapists, Certified Play Therapists and Mindfulness Specialists.
Do you want a deeper sense of fulfillment in your life? Do you struggle with anxiety, fears, depression, stress, managing your emotions or relationships, chronic health issues or adjusting to new life situations? We at LPW can support you through this season of life. At LPW, we are dedicated to helping children, teens, adults, families and couples to gain coping strategies to support their mental and emotional well-being. Embrace the support you, your child/teen or your relationship deserves; LPW will carefully pair you with a therapist with the necessary understanding and training to provide optimal support.
LPW’s team includes Registered Psychotherapists, Certified Play Therapists and Mindfulness Specialists.
Do you want a deeper sense of fulfillment in your life? Do you struggle with anxiety, fears, depression, stress, managing your emotions or relationships, chronic health issues or adjusting to new life situations? We at LPW can support you through this season of life. At LPW, we are dedicated to helping children, teens, adults, families and couples to gain coping strategies to support their mental and emotional well-being. Embrace the support you, your child/teen or your relationship deserves; LPW will carefully pair you with a therapist with the necessary understanding and training to provide optimal support.
(548) 488-3278 View (548) 488-3278
Photo of Aimee VanKoughnett, Registered Social Worker in Elmira, ON
Aimee VanKoughnett
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CPT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2V
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Master’s level Registered Social Worker (MSW, RSW), and a Certified Play Therapist (CPT).
I believe that families are the experts of their own experience, and that children and teens have innate wisdom about their own thoughts and feelings. My goal is to create a supportive space for this wisdom to come forward, fostering healing and resilience that extends beyond the therapy space. My individual work with children and teens is complimented by evidence-based parent consultation; equipping caregivers with tools to better understand their child's behaviour, strengthen family bonds, and co-create solutions to problems.
I am a Master’s level Registered Social Worker (MSW, RSW), and a Certified Play Therapist (CPT).
I believe that families are the experts of their own experience, and that children and teens have innate wisdom about their own thoughts and feelings. My goal is to create a supportive space for this wisdom to come forward, fostering healing and resilience that extends beyond the therapy space. My individual work with children and teens is complimented by evidence-based parent consultation; equipping caregivers with tools to better understand their child's behaviour, strengthen family bonds, and co-create solutions to problems.
(548) 800-1322 View (548) 800-1322
Photo of Alexandra Phillips, Registered Social Worker in Elmira, ON
Alexandra Phillips
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, HBSc
Verified Verified
Waterloo, ON N2J
I practice from a strengths-based, trauma-informed approach while drawing from techniques in ACT, CBT, Theraplay, Art and Play Therapy and Emotion Focused Family Therapy (Emotion Coaching).
Hello! I'm so happy you are here. I have the joy and privilege of walking alongside children, youth and families. As a Child and Family Therapist, my areas of expertise include anxiety, emotion regulation and processing of difficult experiences. I have a passion for issues regarding foster care, adoption and attachment. I believe in working collaboratively with parents and caregivers to empower them to be the primary agent of change in their child’s life. I work closely with parents throughout the therapeutic journey to create a safe, non-judgmental space while providing evidence-based strategies.
I practice from a strengths-based, trauma-informed approach while drawing from techniques in ACT, CBT, Theraplay, Art and Play Therapy and Emotion Focused Family Therapy (Emotion Coaching).
Hello! I'm so happy you are here. I have the joy and privilege of walking alongside children, youth and families. As a Child and Family Therapist, my areas of expertise include anxiety, emotion regulation and processing of difficult experiences. I have a passion for issues regarding foster care, adoption and attachment. I believe in working collaboratively with parents and caregivers to empower them to be the primary agent of change in their child’s life. I work closely with parents throughout the therapeutic journey to create a safe, non-judgmental space while providing evidence-based strategies.
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Photo of Stacey Thurman, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Elmira, ON
Stacey Thurman
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2L  (Online Only)
I offer EMDR, a highly effective therapeutic tool, as well as play, art, SF, CBT, DBT, and the Gottman Method.
Finding a therapist you trust is hard. I've been there. It can be even more difficult when it is your child. I am a Registered Psychotherapist (qualifying), with over 20 years of experience in the mental health and developmental services field (the past five years were spent in Yellowknife, NT). I mostly support children, youth, and families, and also offer support to adults and couples, in the areas of trauma, intergenerational trauma, grief and loss, self-harm, suicidal ideation, crisis, relationship difficulties, attachment, mood/personality disorders, behaviour concerns, neurodiversity, gender and sexuality.
I offer EMDR, a highly effective therapeutic tool, as well as play, art, SF, CBT, DBT, and the Gottman Method.
Finding a therapist you trust is hard. I've been there. It can be even more difficult when it is your child. I am a Registered Psychotherapist (qualifying), with over 20 years of experience in the mental health and developmental services field (the past five years were spent in Yellowknife, NT). I mostly support children, youth, and families, and also offer support to adults and couples, in the areas of trauma, intergenerational trauma, grief and loss, self-harm, suicidal ideation, crisis, relationship difficulties, attachment, mood/personality disorders, behaviour concerns, neurodiversity, gender and sexuality.
(548) 490-8478 View (548) 490-8478
Photo of Jessie Quinn, Registered Social Worker in Elmira, ON
Jessie Quinn
Registered Social Worker, CDA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Waterloo, ON N2L
Through the activity of play I help children to make sense of difficult life experiences (e.g. divorce, death of a loved one) and navigate the big feelings (e.g. anxiety, anger, sadness) that are often at the root of challenging behaviour. I support children and their caregivers become more able to cope with how they are feeling, develop insight, emotional intelligence and confidence.
Through the activity of play I help children to make sense of difficult life experiences (e.g. divorce, death of a loved one) and navigate the big feelings (e.g. anxiety, anger, sadness) that are often at the root of challenging behaviour. I support children and their caregivers become more able to cope with how they are feeling, develop insight, emotional intelligence and confidence.
(226) 286-4893 View (226) 286-4893
Photo of Rory Bos, Registered Social Worker in Elmira, ON
Rory Bos
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2J
I specifically draw from client-centred approaches including Non-Directive Play Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.
Hi, I'm Rory! I'm so happy you landed here! I have the privilege to walk alongside children, teenagers, & families through both the struggles and celebrations that define us! My play-based approach & focus on emotional awareness allows children, teenagers & families to explore their thoughts & feelings in a safe & supportive setting. I support children and teenagers experiencing challenges with neurodivergency (ASD & ADHD), anger, emotional regulation, OCD, self-harm & suicidial ideation. anxiety, anger, emotional regulation, school-based concerns, OCD.
I specifically draw from client-centred approaches including Non-Directive Play Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.
Hi, I'm Rory! I'm so happy you landed here! I have the privilege to walk alongside children, teenagers, & families through both the struggles and celebrations that define us! My play-based approach & focus on emotional awareness allows children, teenagers & families to explore their thoughts & feelings in a safe & supportive setting. I support children and teenagers experiencing challenges with neurodivergency (ASD & ADHD), anger, emotional regulation, OCD, self-harm & suicidial ideation. anxiety, anger, emotional regulation, school-based concerns, OCD.
(289) 804-1500 View (289) 804-1500
Photo of Monica Trela in Elmira, ON
Monica Trela
BSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2L
Whether it be behavioural issues, shyness, grief, or anger, we will use art, talk, and/or play-based therapy to best suit the client's interests and needs.
Children and adolescents want to feel understood, supported, and empowered to overcome their challenges. They desire acceptance, validation, and the tools necessary to navigate their world successfully. Ultimately, they seek happiness, fulfillment, and the opportunity to grow into confident, capable individuals. They want to be heard because their experiences, emotions, and perspectives are valid and important. By addressing their needs and goals, we can help them build a foundation for a brighter future.
Whether it be behavioural issues, shyness, grief, or anger, we will use art, talk, and/or play-based therapy to best suit the client's interests and needs.
Children and adolescents want to feel understood, supported, and empowered to overcome their challenges. They desire acceptance, validation, and the tools necessary to navigate their world successfully. Ultimately, they seek happiness, fulfillment, and the opportunity to grow into confident, capable individuals. They want to be heard because their experiences, emotions, and perspectives are valid and important. By addressing their needs and goals, we can help them build a foundation for a brighter future.
(226) 457-2372 View (226) 457-2372
Photo of Lori Hill, Occupational Therapist in Elmira, ON
Lori Hill
Occupational Therapist, BA, BSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2J
I am passionate about my work as an Occupational Therapist and have over 25 years of experience. I work with clients 18 years of age and younger who are diverse, with a variety of strengths and challenges. Treatment is tailored to the individual and family. Specific areas that I have focused on over the years include: feeding/eating, dressing, toileting, hygiene, as well as fine motor skills, play, attention to tasks, transitions, and self-regulation. I use a sensory processing framework to empower children and teens to increase independence in desired tasks.
I am passionate about my work as an Occupational Therapist and have over 25 years of experience. I work with clients 18 years of age and younger who are diverse, with a variety of strengths and challenges. Treatment is tailored to the individual and family. Specific areas that I have focused on over the years include: feeding/eating, dressing, toileting, hygiene, as well as fine motor skills, play, attention to tasks, transitions, and self-regulation. I use a sensory processing framework to empower children and teens to increase independence in desired tasks.
(226) 798-4092 View (226) 798-4092
Photo of Rupinder (Rupi) Kaur Jhutti, Registered Psychotherapist in Elmira, ON
Rupinder (Rupi) Kaur Jhutti
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2K
Are you a person of colour struggling with stuff coming up from the past that gets in the way of your current relationships at work or at home? If you're feeling misunderstood or lost for words in your relationship, anxious to get things done, or just looking to get to know yourself, let's work together to get to know you, or come up with solutions to unstuck you and develop skills to move forward. I work with individuals to discover and explore new possibilities in their relationships, as well as, developing skills to hone their intuition.
Are you a person of colour struggling with stuff coming up from the past that gets in the way of your current relationships at work or at home? If you're feeling misunderstood or lost for words in your relationship, anxious to get things done, or just looking to get to know yourself, let's work together to get to know you, or come up with solutions to unstuck you and develop skills to move forward. I work with individuals to discover and explore new possibilities in their relationships, as well as, developing skills to hone their intuition.
(647) 360-9853 View (647) 360-9853
Photo of Carley Ross, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Elmira, ON
Carley Ross
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RN, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2T  (Online Only)
Are you feeling alone in what you are going through right now? If you are like most women I support, you are looking for someone who understands and offers compassion and zero judgement. You might be a parent, or someone facing struggles associated with chronic stress, past trauma, or challenges with mood. You might be looking for support with new coping strategies, or just someone to talk to who can understand the challenges you are facing. Life can be hard, and I can offer a soft place to explore yourself, your challenges, and your pursuit to wellbeing.
Are you feeling alone in what you are going through right now? If you are like most women I support, you are looking for someone who understands and offers compassion and zero judgement. You might be a parent, or someone facing struggles associated with chronic stress, past trauma, or challenges with mood. You might be looking for support with new coping strategies, or just someone to talk to who can understand the challenges you are facing. Life can be hard, and I can offer a soft place to explore yourself, your challenges, and your pursuit to wellbeing.
(289) 723-1935 View (289) 723-1935
Photo of Cortney Van Allen, Registered Psychotherapist in Elmira, ON
Cortney Van Allen
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2K
Hi there, I'm Cortney, a licensed psychotherapist with experience helping individuals ages 13+ overcome mental health challenges. I specialize in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which has been shown to be effective for a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, and trauma. I also use mindfulness-based techniques to help clients cultivate greater self-awareness and self-compassion.
Hi there, I'm Cortney, a licensed psychotherapist with experience helping individuals ages 13+ overcome mental health challenges. I specialize in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which has been shown to be effective for a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, and trauma. I also use mindfulness-based techniques to help clients cultivate greater self-awareness and self-compassion.
(226) 640-3706 View (226) 640-3706
Photo of Ally Dunphy | Art Therapist, Registered Psychotherapist in Elmira, ON
Ally Dunphy | Art Therapist
Registered Psychotherapist, DTATI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2L
If you're a parent or caregiver in search of art therapy sessions for your child, you've arrived at a welcoming and supportive space! Life is tough, and noticing that your kiddo may be in need of some additional support is completely normal! Know that you’re doing the right thing by exploring therapeutic options for them. Art therapy can be a powerful resource to help your child learn emotional regulation skills, cope with daily anxiety, or navigate parental separation/divorce. This process offers a hands-on approach for healthy self-expression, and can foster beneficial change in your kid's life.
If you're a parent or caregiver in search of art therapy sessions for your child, you've arrived at a welcoming and supportive space! Life is tough, and noticing that your kiddo may be in need of some additional support is completely normal! Know that you’re doing the right thing by exploring therapeutic options for them. Art therapy can be a powerful resource to help your child learn emotional regulation skills, cope with daily anxiety, or navigate parental separation/divorce. This process offers a hands-on approach for healthy self-expression, and can foster beneficial change in your kid's life.
(226) 807-5079 View (226) 807-5079

See more therapy options for Elmira

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.