Photo of Michael Stahly, MA, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael Stahly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
Drawing on my experience as a martial arts instructor and a grounding in play therapy, I take a creative, non-directive approach that works well for many kids and families.
I specialize in helping people grapple with existential concerns, often related to grief, loss, and finding a path in life. I work well with people who are disillusioned with the world today and who struggle to reconcile their values with the tasks of daily living, as well as those who have suffered significant losses need help to find their footing once more and to reengage in their altered lives. I do not structure sessions, teach skills, or assign homework.
Drawing on my experience as a martial arts instructor and a grounding in play therapy, I take a creative, non-directive approach that works well for many kids and families.
I specialize in helping people grapple with existential concerns, often related to grief, loss, and finding a path in life. I work well with people who are disillusioned with the world today and who struggle to reconcile their values with the tasks of daily living, as well as those who have suffered significant losses need help to find their footing once more and to reengage in their altered lives. I do not structure sessions, teach skills, or assign homework.
(301) 918-5435 View (301) 918-5435
Photo of Rebecca Whitmore, LCSW-C, LICSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Whitmore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I use contemporary modalities based in neuroscience including; EMDR, Intensive Short Term Psychotherapy, IMAGO Couples Therapy, IFS, Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy, Play Therapy, Sand Therapy, Mindfulness, and Somatic Intervention.
We overcome difficulties, adjust to changes, and manage difficult emotions best when we do not have to go at it alone. I offer a supportive partnership to help you identify your goals and build capacity to experience joy, compassionate self regard, and healthy rewarding relationships. I have over 35 years of experience helping children, couples, adults, and parents who experience feeling stuck, alone, sad, anxious, or unable to find the forward motion to reach goals for well being. Together we can create a safe space to address difficult emotions, and identify resources and habits that support resiliency and wellness.
I use contemporary modalities based in neuroscience including; EMDR, Intensive Short Term Psychotherapy, IMAGO Couples Therapy, IFS, Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy, Play Therapy, Sand Therapy, Mindfulness, and Somatic Intervention.
We overcome difficulties, adjust to changes, and manage difficult emotions best when we do not have to go at it alone. I offer a supportive partnership to help you identify your goals and build capacity to experience joy, compassionate self regard, and healthy rewarding relationships. I have over 35 years of experience helping children, couples, adults, and parents who experience feeling stuck, alone, sad, anxious, or unable to find the forward motion to reach goals for well being. Together we can create a safe space to address difficult emotions, and identify resources and habits that support resiliency and wellness.
(240) 775-2294 View (240) 775-2294
Photo of Alondra Perez, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Alondra Perez
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
At Bethesda Play Therapy and Healing Center I am a bilingual (English and Spanish) therapist that focuses on providing a safe and culturally sensitive space. I believe in empowering my clients to achieve their goals and full potential through an integrative approach. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered, Child Centered and Prescriptive Play Therapy, and Relational-cultural Therapy. I work with issues related to ADHD, depression, anxiety, relationship/family issues, substance use, trauma, behavior issues, and life transitions.
At Bethesda Play Therapy and Healing Center I am a bilingual (English and Spanish) therapist that focuses on providing a safe and culturally sensitive space. I believe in empowering my clients to achieve their goals and full potential through an integrative approach. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered, Child Centered and Prescriptive Play Therapy, and Relational-cultural Therapy. I work with issues related to ADHD, depression, anxiety, relationship/family issues, substance use, trauma, behavior issues, and life transitions.
(240) 384-3182 View (240) 384-3182
Photo of Samantha Congdon, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Samantha Congdon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
I specialize in Narrative, Art/Play, Trauma Informed Care, etc.
I am Sam Congdon, a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist providing teletherapy in the states of Maryland, Virginia, California and New Hampshire. My speciality is with adolescents, teens, young adults, and college students. I also have experience with adults, couples and families utilizing a collaborative approach to fit each client's individual needs. I grew up in California and went to school at the California State University of Chico, where I received my Bachelors of Art in Psychology, and Master's of Science in Marriage Family Therapy. My goal is to help you, be your best you.
I specialize in Narrative, Art/Play, Trauma Informed Care, etc.
I am Sam Congdon, a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist providing teletherapy in the states of Maryland, Virginia, California and New Hampshire. My speciality is with adolescents, teens, young adults, and college students. I also have experience with adults, couples and families utilizing a collaborative approach to fit each client's individual needs. I grew up in California and went to school at the California State University of Chico, where I received my Bachelors of Art in Psychology, and Master's of Science in Marriage Family Therapy. My goal is to help you, be your best you.
(240) 713-5748 x105 View (240) 713-5748 x105
Photo of Joshua O'Connor, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joshua O'Connor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
My modalities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) Skills Training, Systems Theory, Narrative Therapy, Art Therapy, Play Therapy, and Psychoeducation.
Couples, LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC Affirming Care; ENM, Polyamory and Kink-Aware Therapy, Sex & Intimacy; Eating Disorders; Teen Identity Formation; Communication Issues; Family of Origin Issues; Anxiety; Depression; Life Transitions & Adjustment; Substance Use Disorder
My modalities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) Skills Training, Systems Theory, Narrative Therapy, Art Therapy, Play Therapy, and Psychoeducation.
Couples, LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC Affirming Care; ENM, Polyamory and Kink-Aware Therapy, Sex & Intimacy; Eating Disorders; Teen Identity Formation; Communication Issues; Family of Origin Issues; Anxiety; Depression; Life Transitions & Adjustment; Substance Use Disorder
(301) 709-7005 View (301) 709-7005
Photo of Melissa Melendez, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Melendez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I specialize in using interventions including play therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and much more!.
Hi! I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depressive disorders, grieving, self-esteem, social skills, and relationship issues. I provide individual and family therapy to children, adolescents, and young adults. I am passionate about working with clients from diverse backgrounds and strive to incorporate cultural competence in my therapeutic practice. I believe it’s crucial to provide psychotherapy and preventative services to clients from diverse backgrounds who may be unaware of potential warning signs and risk factors associated with mental health disorders.
I specialize in using interventions including play therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and much more!.
Hi! I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depressive disorders, grieving, self-esteem, social skills, and relationship issues. I provide individual and family therapy to children, adolescents, and young adults. I am passionate about working with clients from diverse backgrounds and strive to incorporate cultural competence in my therapeutic practice. I believe it’s crucial to provide psychotherapy and preventative services to clients from diverse backgrounds who may be unaware of potential warning signs and risk factors associated with mental health disorders.
(301) 769-7528 View (301) 769-7528
Photo of Stacy Steiner, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stacy Steiner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
I strive to use an approach that best meets the needs of the client including, Art and Play Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, Client Centered, and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy.
I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, and their families. My areas of specialty are ADHD, OCD, self-esteem building, social skills, depression, and anxiety. Establishing a healthy therapeutic relationship is vital to effective treatment, which I work to strengthen from the very first session by developing trust and a safe environment for honest discussion.
I strive to use an approach that best meets the needs of the client including, Art and Play Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, Client Centered, and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy.
I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, and their families. My areas of specialty are ADHD, OCD, self-esteem building, social skills, depression, and anxiety. Establishing a healthy therapeutic relationship is vital to effective treatment, which I work to strengthen from the very first session by developing trust and a safe environment for honest discussion.
(301) 479-8949 View (301) 479-8949
Photo of Carly Garrett Schreiner, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carly Garrett Schreiner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
I utilize CBT, DBT, mindfulness practice, art, play therapy, and psychodynamic approaches in my therapy practice, as I believe therapy should be a holistic treatment approach that is strength-based and flexible for the client.
My core belief in therapeutic practice is that everyone has inherent value and strength, that with the right support, can be harnessed to create positive changes and meaningful growth. Offering a safe place where self-exploration, processing, and healing can be done, I will help you to build insight, resilience through healthy coping skills, and empowerment in reaching your therapeutic goals. Whether it is improving communication, changing behaviors, healing from trauma, or having a consistent and dependable ally in your mental health, I will support you each step of the way.
I utilize CBT, DBT, mindfulness practice, art, play therapy, and psychodynamic approaches in my therapy practice, as I believe therapy should be a holistic treatment approach that is strength-based and flexible for the client.
My core belief in therapeutic practice is that everyone has inherent value and strength, that with the right support, can be harnessed to create positive changes and meaningful growth. Offering a safe place where self-exploration, processing, and healing can be done, I will help you to build insight, resilience through healthy coping skills, and empowerment in reaching your therapeutic goals. Whether it is improving communication, changing behaviors, healing from trauma, or having a consistent and dependable ally in your mental health, I will support you each step of the way.
(240) 202-3939 View (240) 202-3939
Photo of Kristen Taylor, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
If you're looking for sessions that incorporate play therapy techniques, DBT, CBT, and expressive interventions, reach out.
Your child is witty, funny, quirky, maybe even a bit weird. Not everyone gets them, but you love their creative, fast brain. Still, you feel a distance growing between you, and you crave a better understanding of what their behaviors mean and how to support a neurodivergent child. You want to find a therapist who also delights in your family, offering gentle understanding and guidance toward finding your strengths, expressing feelings, and overcoming challenges. I help bright, creative families thrive as they navigate the complex emotional landscape of raising a child with unique needs.
If you're looking for sessions that incorporate play therapy techniques, DBT, CBT, and expressive interventions, reach out.
Your child is witty, funny, quirky, maybe even a bit weird. Not everyone gets them, but you love their creative, fast brain. Still, you feel a distance growing between you, and you crave a better understanding of what their behaviors mean and how to support a neurodivergent child. You want to find a therapist who also delights in your family, offering gentle understanding and guidance toward finding your strengths, expressing feelings, and overcoming challenges. I help bright, creative families thrive as they navigate the complex emotional landscape of raising a child with unique needs.
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Photo of undefined - Bethesda Play Therapy and Healing, LLC Center, Counselor
Bethesda Play Therapy and Healing, LLC Center
Counselor
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
We offer more than play therapy, we are a healing center.
Here at Bethesda Play Therapy and Healing Center, our clinicians provide integrative psychotherapy services to children, teens, adults, caregivers, and families in English and in Spanish. We strive to hold safe space and form authentic connections during your growth and healing journey.
We offer more than play therapy, we are a healing center.
Here at Bethesda Play Therapy and Healing Center, our clinicians provide integrative psychotherapy services to children, teens, adults, caregivers, and families in English and in Spanish. We strive to hold safe space and form authentic connections during your growth and healing journey.
(240) 698-3371 View (240) 698-3371
Photo of Jade Vega, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jade Vega
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
In my work with children, I am passionate about Child Centered Play Therapy and other play therapy modalities, as well as expressive arts techniques.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who graduated from University of Southern California in 2015. I currently primarily provide therapeutic support to children with a variety of emotional and social needs. I have experience working with children and families within the child welfare system as well as working with clients with a variety of needs and diagnoses in their schools, homes, communities, and inpatient settings. I have more than eight years of experience supporting children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental disabilities, as well as their families.
In my work with children, I am passionate about Child Centered Play Therapy and other play therapy modalities, as well as expressive arts techniques.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who graduated from University of Southern California in 2015. I currently primarily provide therapeutic support to children with a variety of emotional and social needs. I have experience working with children and families within the child welfare system as well as working with clients with a variety of needs and diagnoses in their schools, homes, communities, and inpatient settings. I have more than eight years of experience supporting children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental disabilities, as well as their families.
(240) 589-7318 View (240) 589-7318
Photo of Marissa Post, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marissa Post
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I create a welcoming and safe space for clients to share and learn about themselves through the use of play, art, mindfulness, and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I work with young children, adolescents, and families who are struggling with behavioral challenges, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, executive functioning, trauma, ADHD, social skills, and family transitions. I believe that forming a strong judgement-free partnership is the basis for positive change and that therapy, although challenging at times, should be engaging and fun. I also recognize that treatment is not a “cookie-cutter” solution and prioritize working together to determine what is best for each individual client.
I create a welcoming and safe space for clients to share and learn about themselves through the use of play, art, mindfulness, and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I work with young children, adolescents, and families who are struggling with behavioral challenges, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, executive functioning, trauma, ADHD, social skills, and family transitions. I believe that forming a strong judgement-free partnership is the basis for positive change and that therapy, although challenging at times, should be engaging and fun. I also recognize that treatment is not a “cookie-cutter” solution and prioritize working together to determine what is best for each individual client.
(301) 450-8981 View (301) 450-8981
Photo of Dara Goldberg, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dara Goldberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
In my practice I use combination of talk, play and relaxation training to meet your specific needs.
Reaching out to a therapist can be a difficult decision and a brave choice. In my practice, I work with my clients to build upon strengths that already exist to help you gain the skills to reach their fullest potential. I would like to help you have the opportunity to create meaningful change in your daily lives. I provide psychotherapy to children, adolescents, individuals and their families who are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, ADHD, and learning challenges. I have experience advocating for clients in the form of working with teachers, participating in IEP meetings, and educating the community.
In my practice I use combination of talk, play and relaxation training to meet your specific needs.
Reaching out to a therapist can be a difficult decision and a brave choice. In my practice, I work with my clients to build upon strengths that already exist to help you gain the skills to reach their fullest potential. I would like to help you have the opportunity to create meaningful change in your daily lives. I provide psychotherapy to children, adolescents, individuals and their families who are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, ADHD, and learning challenges. I have experience advocating for clients in the form of working with teachers, participating in IEP meetings, and educating the community.
(301) 861-0746 View (301) 861-0746
Photo of Christopher Ray, PhD, Psychologist
Christopher Ray
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
With children, I use play and talk therapy to assist them in identifying strengths and reducing negative symptoms of distress.
Although you may not believe it, you are stronger than you think. Through our work in therapy, I will help you to find your strengths and learn to leverage them in times of need. I work collaboratively with children, adolescents, and adults in individual and family therapy. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, personality disorders, relationship concerns, in addition to behavioral concerns in children.
With children, I use play and talk therapy to assist them in identifying strengths and reducing negative symptoms of distress.
Although you may not believe it, you are stronger than you think. Through our work in therapy, I will help you to find your strengths and learn to leverage them in times of need. I work collaboratively with children, adolescents, and adults in individual and family therapy. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, personality disorders, relationship concerns, in addition to behavioral concerns in children.
(240) 589-7737 View (240) 589-7737
Photo of Brittany LaFleur, MS, LCPC-S, RPT, Counselor
Brittany LaFleur
Counselor, MS, LCPC-S, RPT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
Brittany is a certified Child & Adolescent Trauma Therapist, Registered Play Therapist & Supervisor.
Brittany LaFleur is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Supervisor (LCPC-S) with a deep passion for aiding individuals in their journey towards becoming their best selves, hence why she started Your Best Self therapeutic services in 2018. Brittany creates a safe & confidential space to guide clients’ exploration of their inner worlds. She has a dynamic, compassionate & direct style of connecting with clients and leads a team of several other talented therapists.
Brittany is a certified Child & Adolescent Trauma Therapist, Registered Play Therapist & Supervisor.
Brittany LaFleur is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Supervisor (LCPC-S) with a deep passion for aiding individuals in their journey towards becoming their best selves, hence why she started Your Best Self therapeutic services in 2018. Brittany creates a safe & confidential space to guide clients’ exploration of their inner worlds. She has a dynamic, compassionate & direct style of connecting with clients and leads a team of several other talented therapists.
(301) 205-5422 View (301) 205-5422
Photo of Stephanie Prigal, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Prigal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I utilize Non-Directive Play Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy and Theraplay as well as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy.
My therapeutic approach emphasizes the importance of meeting the client and family where they are at and building a connection through trust and understanding. I have experience working with children as young as 5 years old, adolescents, adults and families. I specialize in supporting clients with depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem challenges, socialization and attention deficit disorder. When working with adolescents or adults, I utilize a variety of modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Mindfulness.
I utilize Non-Directive Play Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy and Theraplay as well as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy.
My therapeutic approach emphasizes the importance of meeting the client and family where they are at and building a connection through trust and understanding. I have experience working with children as young as 5 years old, adolescents, adults and families. I specialize in supporting clients with depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem challenges, socialization and attention deficit disorder. When working with adolescents or adults, I utilize a variety of modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Mindfulness.
(240) 201-9566 View (240) 201-9566
Photo of Anna White, LCMFT, CFTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anna White
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT, CFTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
Through individual, family, and play therapy, you and your family can feel healthy, empowered, and connected.
Among families, kids, adults, and couples alike, feeling healthy, happy, connected, and confident can be hard. For so many people and families today, the pressures of the world, fast changes in life, and challenging or traumatic experiences interrupt the connections we wish to have. Maybe for you or your family, this means more and more conflicts, feeling alone and unsupported, being unsure how to make things better, or not knowing what you want or need. Whether you feel lost and disconnected, frustrated, overwhelmed, angry, scared, or lonely, there are ways to restore your feelings of connection, purpose, confidence, and direction.
Through individual, family, and play therapy, you and your family can feel healthy, empowered, and connected.
Among families, kids, adults, and couples alike, feeling healthy, happy, connected, and confident can be hard. For so many people and families today, the pressures of the world, fast changes in life, and challenging or traumatic experiences interrupt the connections we wish to have. Maybe for you or your family, this means more and more conflicts, feeling alone and unsupported, being unsure how to make things better, or not knowing what you want or need. Whether you feel lost and disconnected, frustrated, overwhelmed, angry, scared, or lonely, there are ways to restore your feelings of connection, purpose, confidence, and direction.
(240) 541-5570 View (240) 541-5570
Photo of Maggie Meyer, LCPC, RPT, Counselor
Maggie Meyer
Counselor, LCPC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
In addition to being a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist, I am a proud mom of 3 adult children! Please feel free to learn more about me on my website.
Reaching out for support can be extremely difficult...trust me, I have been there myself! It really is the first step towards unlocking all of life's possibilities and potential to heal and grow. Therapy is a gift and allowing me the ability to experience this transformative journey with you is a gift to me. My goal is to provide a collaborative, safe, and comfortable space where you feel seen, supported, and connected. I believe therapy is nourishment for social, emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being. I use my dietetic background for a holistic approach. Together, we will find a path that works best for you!
In addition to being a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist, I am a proud mom of 3 adult children! Please feel free to learn more about me on my website.
Reaching out for support can be extremely difficult...trust me, I have been there myself! It really is the first step towards unlocking all of life's possibilities and potential to heal and grow. Therapy is a gift and allowing me the ability to experience this transformative journey with you is a gift to me. My goal is to provide a collaborative, safe, and comfortable space where you feel seen, supported, and connected. I believe therapy is nourishment for social, emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being. I use my dietetic background for a holistic approach. Together, we will find a path that works best for you!
(301) 900-8361 View (301) 900-8361
Photo of Jaclyn Halpern, PsyD, Psychologist
Jaclyn Halpern
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
In therapy, I incorporate ACT, psychodynamic, play, Self-Compassion, expressive arts, and Mindfulness techniques.
I am a neurodiversity and LGBTQ+ affirming therapist, tester, and supervisor. Support is inclusive and welcoming to all. I see all ages for individuals, families, groups, couples, and parenting. We will focus foremost on building a nurturing, supportive, honest, and empathic interpersonal therapeutic relationship. I will meet you where you are, and help you identify, embrace, and support your strengths, vulnerabilities, and needs. Support is guided by your goals, & based in attachment and the relational neurosciences. I have over a decade's worth of experience as a therapist, tester, supervisor, presenter, and clinical director.
In therapy, I incorporate ACT, psychodynamic, play, Self-Compassion, expressive arts, and Mindfulness techniques.
I am a neurodiversity and LGBTQ+ affirming therapist, tester, and supervisor. Support is inclusive and welcoming to all. I see all ages for individuals, families, groups, couples, and parenting. We will focus foremost on building a nurturing, supportive, honest, and empathic interpersonal therapeutic relationship. I will meet you where you are, and help you identify, embrace, and support your strengths, vulnerabilities, and needs. Support is guided by your goals, & based in attachment and the relational neurosciences. I have over a decade's worth of experience as a therapist, tester, supervisor, presenter, and clinical director.
(301) 684-5493 View (301) 684-5493
Photo of Philip B Callahan, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Philip B Callahan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I am trained in a psychodynamic and relational approach that includes the use of play therapy, art, music, cognitive behavioral therapy, and mindfulness. I have spent the last 20 years working clinically with children and adolescents in school settings in Baltimore City, Montgomery County and Prince Georges County. I currently combine my work as a school counselor in a special education facility with private practice.
I am trained in a psychodynamic and relational approach that includes the use of play therapy, art, music, cognitive behavioral therapy, and mindfulness. I have spent the last 20 years working clinically with children and adolescents in school settings in Baltimore City, Montgomery County and Prince Georges County. I currently combine my work as a school counselor in a special education facility with private practice.
(240) 560-5252 View (240) 560-5252
Play Therapy

Who is play therapy for?

Play therapy is generally targeted to children between the ages of 3 and 11 who have social, emotional, or behavioral difficulties. Play therapy has also been found helpful for children who have experienced physical or emotional abuse or witnessed atrocities. Play therapy is also often recommended for children who are undergoing major medical procedures or who are suffering from chronic illness; many children’s hospitals are equipped to offer play therapy on-site. Play therapy is also sometimes used for adults; creative writing, music, and art are expressive forms that can all be adapted for therapeutic purposes.

Why do people need play therapy?

Children often do not have the language skills or words to know or to express what is troubling them. Yet they often spontaneously draw or use playthings to depict scenarios that reflect problems in their everyday life. Play therapy provides children with an array of objects and play situations to act out their feelings or experiences so that therapists can get a clear picture of what children might be struggling with and help them find solutions. In addition, play therapists are skilled at helping children understand their inner experience and find words for them, necessary steps toward helping children learn to control their own behavior and come up with solutions to problems they encounter.

What happens in play therapy?

A child enters a comfortable playroom where they are free to choose the objects they want to play with. The play therapist will typically observe how they play with the toys—whether a sandbox, puppets, dolls and action figures, trucks, costumes, drawing and painting materials, or more—because such play provides clues to a child’s family and social relationships, difficulties they are encountering in the world, and what going on inside themselves. Sometimes the therapist may ask the child to use the play objects to tell a story about their family. Using the same instruments of play, therapists can help children discover more advantageous ways of thinking and behaving.

What kinds of problems do play therapists treat?

Play therapy can help children who display destructive or self-destructive impulses; children who seem angry, sad, or fearful; children who experience frequent social, emotional, family, or school difficulty. Play therapy is often of value to children who have experienced a loss or distressing family experience, who are regularly exposed to family conflict, or who have been physically or emotionally abused. Play therapy can help children who are perpetrators of bullying as well as those who are targets of bullying. It helps children learn to identify their feelings, to express them in constructive ways, and to regulate them so they can get on with the business of development.

How long does play therapy last?

Play therapy sessions may last for 30 to 45 minutes, and they usually occur weekly for about 20 sessions. Each session is tailored to the individual child and the kinds of problems they are struggling with. Play that is highly repetitive often indicates a problem requiring further exploration. Therapists typically measure progress through session-to-session changes in play behavior.