Play Therapy in Plainfield, ON

There are no results for counsellors in Plainfield

Check out counsellors located nearby or offering teletherapy in Ontario below.

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Caileigh Flannigan, Registered Social Worker in Plainfield, ON
Caileigh Flannigan
Registered Social Worker, MA, RSW, CPT, CTRP-C
Verified Verified
Colborne, ON K0K
Waitlist for new clients
Caileigh is a Registered Social Worker, Certified Play Therapist, & Certified AutPlay Therapist who specializes in the use of play, art, puppetry, storytelling and nature to support children's development, mental health, and well-being.
Caileigh supports children, youth, & their families with a variety of challenging life experiences. She believes that there are no "bad" children, only angry, hurt, & confused children who struggle to understand & express their feelings the only way they know how. She uses an integrative approach to supporting her clients, including: Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Play Therapy, and Parent Coaching. She focuses on teaching and modelling skills that support problem-solving, feeling identification, expression, coping, and confidence.
Caileigh is a Registered Social Worker, Certified Play Therapist, & Certified AutPlay Therapist who specializes in the use of play, art, puppetry, storytelling and nature to support children's development, mental health, and well-being.
Caileigh supports children, youth, & their families with a variety of challenging life experiences. She believes that there are no "bad" children, only angry, hurt, & confused children who struggle to understand & express their feelings the only way they know how. She uses an integrative approach to supporting her clients, including: Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Play Therapy, and Parent Coaching. She focuses on teaching and modelling skills that support problem-solving, feeling identification, expression, coping, and confidence.
(289) 272-5396 View (289) 272-5396
Photo of Sabrina Provencal in Plainfield, ON
Sabrina Provencal
RSSW, CYCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Prince Edward, ON K0K
I am a bilingual (French and English), play-based child and family counsellor. I am passionate about helping children and their families celebrate their strengths and embrace their resiliency. I work from a client-centred, strength-based approach to help children and their families create positive changes for themselves. I offer a collaborative, open, and honest space for children and families to show up authentically and without judgment. I am passionate about teaching kids and families about the power of connection, and understanding how our brains and emotions can be a superpower!
I am a bilingual (French and English), play-based child and family counsellor. I am passionate about helping children and their families celebrate their strengths and embrace their resiliency. I work from a client-centred, strength-based approach to help children and their families create positive changes for themselves. I offer a collaborative, open, and honest space for children and families to show up authentically and without judgment. I am passionate about teaching kids and families about the power of connection, and understanding how our brains and emotions can be a superpower!
(343) 801-3929 View (343) 801-3929
Photo of 4 Bears Counselling, Registered Social Worker in Plainfield, ON
4 Bears Counselling
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Deseronto, ON K0K
We support adults, teenagers, and children who are struggling to find direction and purpose in their lives. This support can happen through individual, couples, or family sessions using a multitude of mediums to ensure safety for all. We support clients to create goals and their definitions of success, treating each individual with respect and dignity while helping them move forward. We support members who are experiencing family crises and breakdowns. We help our clients live their best life, one worth waking up for each day.
We support adults, teenagers, and children who are struggling to find direction and purpose in their lives. This support can happen through individual, couples, or family sessions using a multitude of mediums to ensure safety for all. We support clients to create goals and their definitions of success, treating each individual with respect and dignity while helping them move forward. We support members who are experiencing family crises and breakdowns. We help our clients live their best life, one worth waking up for each day.
(613) 707-7645 View (613) 707-7645
Photo of Diane M Cassidy, Registered Psychotherapist in Plainfield, ON
Diane M Cassidy
Registered Psychotherapist, RN, BA, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Picton, ON K0K  (Online Only)
Namaste! I provide individual, relationship and marriage counselling, in a nonjudgmental, relaxed environment. Over the last 35 years I have worked with individuals and couples guiding, teaching and helping them by using an eclectic approach, and a variety of different types of modalities depending on the particular needs of my clients. I also provide family mediation and relationship counselling for couples who have split. I am a sex therapist, working with all couples and individuals. I specialize in many areas, as I believe all issues are connected, so to treat problems in isolation is unrealistic and can be short lived.
Namaste! I provide individual, relationship and marriage counselling, in a nonjudgmental, relaxed environment. Over the last 35 years I have worked with individuals and couples guiding, teaching and helping them by using an eclectic approach, and a variety of different types of modalities depending on the particular needs of my clients. I also provide family mediation and relationship counselling for couples who have split. I am a sex therapist, working with all couples and individuals. I specialize in many areas, as I believe all issues are connected, so to treat problems in isolation is unrealistic and can be short lived.
(844) 331-0249 View (844) 331-0249

Online Therapists

Photo of Shauna Crawford Boone, Registered Psychotherapist in Plainfield, ON
Shauna Crawford Boone
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orillia, ON L3V
Whether a child is dealing with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, family separation or divorce, or difficulty regulating emotions, Play Therapy helps children learn new tools and develop resilience they can easily transfer into their day to day lives.
Childhood is often thought of as a magical time. The reality is that many kids face problems that leave them feeling worried, scared, angry, sad or confused. This can be difficult and heart breaking for parents trying their best to connect with and support their child. Very often, despite a caregiver’s best effort to learn more and help solve the problem, a child’s response is “I don’t know”. Play therapy can help provide children with the tools they need to express their thoughts and explore their inner world.
Whether a child is dealing with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, family separation or divorce, or difficulty regulating emotions, Play Therapy helps children learn new tools and develop resilience they can easily transfer into their day to day lives.
Childhood is often thought of as a magical time. The reality is that many kids face problems that leave them feeling worried, scared, angry, sad or confused. This can be difficult and heart breaking for parents trying their best to connect with and support their child. Very often, despite a caregiver’s best effort to learn more and help solve the problem, a child’s response is “I don’t know”. Play therapy can help provide children with the tools they need to express their thoughts and explore their inner world.
(705) 242-5071 View (705) 242-5071
Photo of Jenny Ingram, Occupational Therapist in Plainfield, ON
Jenny Ingram
Occupational Therapist, BA, MSc, OT Reg
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peterborough, ON K9H  (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 Daniela Estrella - Children Teens Adults, Pre-Licensed Professional in Plainfield, ON
Daniela Estrella - Children Teens Adults
Pre-Licensed Professional
Not Verified Not Verified
Whitby, ON L1N
Is your child or teenager struggling socially or struggling in school? As a Counsellor with a focus on play therapy, I create a warm, nonjudgmental space where children can freely express themselves and engage in play that is meaningful to them. Play therapy can be effective in helping children with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, behavioral challenges, social skills development, and more. It allows children to develop coping skills, build resilience, and gain insight into their thoughts and feelings, empowering them to navigate life's challenges with confidence and resilience.
Is your child or teenager struggling socially or struggling in school? As a Counsellor with a focus on play therapy, I create a warm, nonjudgmental space where children can freely express themselves and engage in play that is meaningful to them. Play therapy can be effective in helping children with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, behavioral challenges, social skills development, and more. It allows children to develop coping skills, build resilience, and gain insight into their thoughts and feelings, empowering them to navigate life's challenges with confidence and resilience.
(289) 312-4792 View (289) 312-4792
Photo of Christine Johansen, Registered Psychotherapist in Plainfield, ON
Christine Johansen
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP, OAMHP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bowmanville, ON L1C
I am passionate about treating children, youth, and their families using approaches that are tailored to best meeting client’s unique needs and challenges. I am dedicated to meeting clients where they are at, and working with clients to create opportunity for them to be the person they want to be in life. I practice from a psychodynamic lens while including expressive arts and play therapy. It is a pleasure to be welcomed into a clients life, and be trusted with their experience, relationships and emotions. I take pride in offering a safe space for clients to explore these emotions freely, honestly and without judgment.
I am passionate about treating children, youth, and their families using approaches that are tailored to best meeting client’s unique needs and challenges. I am dedicated to meeting clients where they are at, and working with clients to create opportunity for them to be the person they want to be in life. I practice from a psychodynamic lens while including expressive arts and play therapy. It is a pleasure to be welcomed into a clients life, and be trusted with their experience, relationships and emotions. I take pride in offering a safe space for clients to explore these emotions freely, honestly and without judgment.
(289) 210-0581 View (289) 210-0581
Photo of Varenya Kuhathaas, Registered Social Worker in Plainfield, ON
Varenya Kuhathaas
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Whitchurch-Stouffville, ON L4A
As a Registered Social Worker with the OCSWSSW and Registered Play Therapist with the Canadian Association of Play Therapy, I specialize in working with children and youth that are dealing with a myriad of challenges.
The early stages of a child's life are the most vital for socioemotional development and a child's inner world is often complex and full of intricacies. Social anxiety, depression, the after effects of separation and divorce, and phobias are just some of the challenges that children may face in their lives. As every child is unique, these challenges can show up in a multitude of ways. Acknowledging these obstacles is the first step towards overcoming them and allowing children to become better adjusted. Any child can live up to their full potential given they have the right support in their life.
As a Registered Social Worker with the OCSWSSW and Registered Play Therapist with the Canadian Association of Play Therapy, I specialize in working with children and youth that are dealing with a myriad of challenges.
The early stages of a child's life are the most vital for socioemotional development and a child's inner world is often complex and full of intricacies. Social anxiety, depression, the after effects of separation and divorce, and phobias are just some of the challenges that children may face in their lives. As every child is unique, these challenges can show up in a multitude of ways. Acknowledging these obstacles is the first step towards overcoming them and allowing children to become better adjusted. Any child can live up to their full potential given they have the right support in their life.
(365) 598-5920 View (365) 598-5920
Photo of Taylor Nelson, Registered Social Worker in Plainfield, ON
Taylor Nelson
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Trenton, ON K8V
I specialize in play-based therapeutic interventions that support healthy child development and relationships.
Welcome! Are you a caregiver of a child who is struggling right now? Maybe you're worried about how your child or teen is managing at home or school? Perhaps your child has a history of hurt or hardship? I am a Registered Social Worker and Certified Play Therapist and I offer playful therapeutic support for children & youth.
I specialize in play-based therapeutic interventions that support healthy child development and relationships.
Welcome! Are you a caregiver of a child who is struggling right now? Maybe you're worried about how your child or teen is managing at home or school? Perhaps your child has a history of hurt or hardship? I am a Registered Social Worker and Certified Play Therapist and I offer playful therapeutic support for children & youth.
(343) 453-1786 View (343) 453-1786
Photo of Chris Wellwood, Registered Psychotherapist in Plainfield, ON
Chris Wellwood
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Whitby, ON L1N
Children often benefit from play therapy.
Do you or your child need help to cope with anxiety, phobias, social isolation, or loneliness? Are you finding it difficult to navigate the complexities of your blended family? Have you struggled with depression, anger, or impulse control? In therapy, you can build coping skills that provide significant relief and support sustained lifelong healing. Reach out to me today. Support for children, teens, adults, and families. Anxiety, loneliness, impulse control, anger, phobias, and family conflict are all difficult to handle by yourself. We will work towards building the tools that you need to thrive. I look forward to helping!
Children often benefit from play therapy.
Do you or your child need help to cope with anxiety, phobias, social isolation, or loneliness? Are you finding it difficult to navigate the complexities of your blended family? Have you struggled with depression, anger, or impulse control? In therapy, you can build coping skills that provide significant relief and support sustained lifelong healing. Reach out to me today. Support for children, teens, adults, and families. Anxiety, loneliness, impulse control, anger, phobias, and family conflict are all difficult to handle by yourself. We will work towards building the tools that you need to thrive. I look forward to helping!
(289) 216-5880 View (289) 216-5880
Photo of Ethan Stender, Registered Psychotherapist in Plainfield, ON
Ethan Stender
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Courtice, ON L1E
Ethan is deeply committed to his clients’ growth and transformation. His goal is to meet clients where they are and create a tailored experience that meets their individual needs. He considers himself a collaborative therapist, walking alongside clients to identify their strengths, passions, and goals. 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).
Ethan is deeply committed to his clients’ growth and transformation. His goal is to meet clients where they are and create a tailored experience that meets their individual needs. He considers himself a collaborative therapist, walking alongside clients to identify their strengths, passions, and goals. 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).
(289) 216-4708 x5 View (289) 216-4708 x5
Photo of Johnson Family Counseling, Registered Psychotherapist in Plainfield, ON
Johnson Family Counseling
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CCC, LPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7M
Ms. 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. Ms. Johnson has worked in US for 17 years & Canada for 14 years in different settings, hospital, residential and schools. In 2016 she funded Johnson, Family counselling to provide services to people of different walk of life. We support couples, families, & parents. JFC provides psychotherapy to people who wants to move on and overcome fears and limitations, becoming the best they can be and creating meaning-full relationships.
Ms. 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. Ms. Johnson has worked in US for 17 years & Canada for 14 years in different settings, hospital, residential and schools. In 2016 she funded Johnson, Family counselling to provide services to people of different walk of life. We support couples, families, & parents. JFC provides psychotherapy to people who wants to move on and overcome fears and limitations, becoming the best they can be and creating meaning-full relationships.
(647) 496-0415 View (647) 496-0415
Photo of Playful Hearts Therapy (Play/ EMDR Therapy), Registered Social Worker in Plainfield, ON
Playful Hearts Therapy (Play/ EMDR Therapy)
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CPT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Scarborough, ON M1E
I am a fully Certified Play Therapist and a Certified Play Therapy Supervisor through the Canadian Association for Play Therapy. I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and work with all ages using this modality. I have over 20 years of experience in working with children, youth and families from various ethno-racial backgrounds and in various mental health settings including child welfare, hospital, school, and the community. I am a service provider for Victim Services, the Internet Child Exploitation program at BOOST, Metis Nation of Ontario, Indigenous Services Canada, and previously for the 2-Spirited People of the First Nations.
I am a fully Certified Play Therapist and a Certified Play Therapy Supervisor through the Canadian Association for Play Therapy. I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and work with all ages using this modality. I have over 20 years of experience in working with children, youth and families from various ethno-racial backgrounds and in various mental health settings including child welfare, hospital, school, and the community. I am a service provider for Victim Services, the Internet Child Exploitation program at BOOST, Metis Nation of Ontario, Indigenous Services Canada, and previously for the 2-Spirited People of the First Nations.
(647) 560-3917 View (647) 560-3917
Photo of Zoe Fysikoudi, Registered Psychotherapist in Plainfield, ON
Zoe Fysikoudi
Registered Psychotherapist, PDip, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orillia, ON L3V
Using trauma- informed and relational play, creative arts, and mindfulness-based therapies, we’ll address and repair the roots of the behaviour that concerns you, instead of only adjusting on the surface.
You’ve noticed your child’s behaviour has changed recently and it concerns you. You want to support them in this fast-paced and competitive world, but you’re not sure how. You want to understand them, but it feels you’re hitting a wall whenever you try to reach them. And you’re getting tired of trying. For children and youth, growing up involves changes that impact their well-being and their self-esteem. With attentive and empathetic support, their ability to cope with these changes can bring them confidence. But without the right support, they can internalize ideas about themselves and their relationships that cause them pain.
Using trauma- informed and relational play, creative arts, and mindfulness-based therapies, we’ll address and repair the roots of the behaviour that concerns you, instead of only adjusting on the surface.
You’ve noticed your child’s behaviour has changed recently and it concerns you. You want to support them in this fast-paced and competitive world, but you’re not sure how. You want to understand them, but it feels you’re hitting a wall whenever you try to reach them. And you’re getting tired of trying. For children and youth, growing up involves changes that impact their well-being and their self-esteem. With attentive and empathetic support, their ability to cope with these changes can bring them confidence. But without the right support, they can internalize ideas about themselves and their relationships that cause them pain.
View
Photo of Fal Desai Therapy, Registered Social Worker in Plainfield, ON
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 Lori Anne Beckstead, Registered Psychotherapist in Plainfield, ON
Lori Anne Beckstead
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, BEd, RP, VP
Verified Verified
Balderson, ON K0G
I specialize in family and play therapy, attachment therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, and mindfulness, often with a psychoeducational approach.
My work in Education as a Teacher and School Vice-Principal, and in Mental Health, as a 30-year veteran in helping struggling children, youth and families, positions me uniquely to help clients. I work with children, adolescents, and families who are experiencing life’s major roadblocks: behaviour problems, mental health concerns or academic concerns, social issues or relationship struggles. My approach is strength-based, short-term, and client-centred. As a VP and RP, I help families take better control of their lives, increase social and coping skills, and feel confident to problem solve issues as they arise.
I specialize in family and play therapy, attachment therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, and mindfulness, often with a psychoeducational approach.
My work in Education as a Teacher and School Vice-Principal, and in Mental Health, as a 30-year veteran in helping struggling children, youth and families, positions me uniquely to help clients. I work with children, adolescents, and families who are experiencing life’s major roadblocks: behaviour problems, mental health concerns or academic concerns, social issues or relationship struggles. My approach is strength-based, short-term, and client-centred. As a VP and RP, I help families take better control of their lives, increase social and coping skills, and feel confident to problem solve issues as they arise.
(613) 703-6710 View (613) 703-6710
Photo of Mind Matters Psychotherapy & Creative Education, Registered Psychotherapist in Plainfield, ON
Mind Matters Psychotherapy & Creative Education
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oshawa, ON L1H
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 Mindy Sirois, Pre-Licensed Professional in Plainfield, ON
Mindy Sirois
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, RDT
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2S
As a Registered Drama Therapist (RDT) with an extensive background working with children and youths in Canada and the United States, I help my clients identify, explore and process their emotions through verbal and non-verbal means. Drama therapy is a specialized form of psychotherapy that incorporates creative expression into the therapeutic process. Clients of all ages can benefit from this creative arts therapy modality. No acting experience needed! In addition, I use other treatment approaches such as trauma-centered psychotherapy, creative arts therapies, play therapy and sandtray therapy.
As a Registered Drama Therapist (RDT) with an extensive background working with children and youths in Canada and the United States, I help my clients identify, explore and process their emotions through verbal and non-verbal means. Drama therapy is a specialized form of psychotherapy that incorporates creative expression into the therapeutic process. Clients of all ages can benefit from this creative arts therapy modality. No acting experience needed! In addition, I use other treatment approaches such as trauma-centered psychotherapy, creative arts therapies, play therapy and sandtray therapy.
(613) 831-4547 View (613) 831-4547
Photo of Christy Doran, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Plainfield, ON
Christy Doran
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP-Q, D-TATI , BS
Verified Verified
Lakefield, ON K0L
Christy has worked extensively with children and adults of all ages. She has worked in both the public and private education sectors with a variety of student needs ranging from pre-school to university. She specializes in life transitions and the impact of non-death loss and grief. She has been a teacher, an Early Childhood Educator, a recreation therapist and currently holds A Degree in Psychology and training in play and art Therapy. She has experience with a variety of emotional and mental health concerns including stress, anxiety, depression, bullying, learning disabilities, adjustment, identity, grief and loss and addiction.
Christy has worked extensively with children and adults of all ages. She has worked in both the public and private education sectors with a variety of student needs ranging from pre-school to university. She specializes in life transitions and the impact of non-death loss and grief. She has been a teacher, an Early Childhood Educator, a recreation therapist and currently holds A Degree in Psychology and training in play and art Therapy. She has experience with a variety of emotional and mental health concerns including stress, anxiety, depression, bullying, learning disabilities, adjustment, identity, grief and loss and addiction.
(705) 410-6727 View (705) 410-6727

See more therapy options for Plainfield

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.