Play Therapy in Phoenix, AZ

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Photo of Dalisa Jimenez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Dalisa Jimenez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified
5 Endorsed
Verified
5 Endorsed
I provide services including Play Therapy , Sand Tray, and EMDR.
Parenting can be difficult. This is especially true when your child is experiencing behavioral problems. Whether it’s problems within the parent-child relationship, academics, peer relationships, or difficulty managing emotions, let me help. Young children are unique in their experience of the world and the challenges they face. My experience in the Birth to Five field as well as working with individuals of all ages has provided me the opportunity to help families from many different backgrounds with a variety of problems.
(480) 470-3644
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Phoenix, AZ 85044
& Online
Photo of Alexandra Trusty, Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Alexandra Trusty
Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified
Verified
I utilize therapeutic techniques such as EMDR, child-parent psychotherapy, sand-tray, play therapy , TFCBT, expressive arts, and mindfulness.
I believe that we all have the capacity for healing within ourselves. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, young adults, and caregivers. My goal is to instill hope and healing for clients presenting with concerns related to post-traumatic stress, attachment, anxiety, grief/loss, depression, disruptive behaviors, social skills, parenting, and/or relational distress.
(480) 637-3413
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Phoenix, AZ 85041
& Online
Photo of Ethelyn Lara, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Ethelyn Lara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
I have been trained in various treatment modalities including, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), EMDR, Sand Tray Play , Theraplay, StoryPlay, and Play Based Therapy Interventions.
I am accepting new clients! Whether you are considering therapy for the first time or have attended therapy in the past, I welcome you! My approach is supportive and collaborative using trauma informed and strength based perspective to create a healing and safe environment to address difficulties with life challenges, transitions, self esteem issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, and emotional and behavioral dysregulation.
(480) 568-3569
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Phoenix, AZ 85016
& Online
Waitlist for new clients
Photo of Erica Simmons, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Erica Simmons
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT
Verified
2 Endorsed
Verified
2 Endorsed
I specialize in working with clients of all ages and their families who experience symptoms of trauma/PTSD/CPTSD, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, behavioral issues and relationship issues while using modalities such as Play Therapy and Sand Tray. I have 10 years of experience working with children and families to heal trauma. I provide individual and family therapy in person and telehealth. I am trained in and use an integrative approach of Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Sand Tray, Theraplay, TraumaPlay, and other expressive/somatic approaches. I do not accept insurance.
(928) 223-4713
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Phoenix, AZ 85013
Waitlist for new clients
Photo of Victoria Delgadillo, Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Victoria Delgadillo
Counselor, MC, LAC, NCC
Verified
Verified
Our daily lives can make us feel overwhelmed, stressed, frustrated, or that we are simply ‘going through the motions’. Life can be messy and sometimes we need a little extra support to keep going. I try to offer a space through counseling that is warm, comforting, safe, collaborative, and free of judgement. In person or online, together, we can work through goals, feelings, and struggles. I primarily work with children and teens ages 3 and up — as well as adults. I specialize in providing therapy through play , art, and viewing the world through your perspective. I am located in-person in the Central Phoenix area.
(623) 281-3601
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Phoenix, AZ 85003
& Online
Photo of Sherri Sierens, Marriage & Family Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Sherri Sierens
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified
3 Endorsed
Verified
3 Endorsed
I have training in various models: Internal Family Systems (IFS) Level I & II, Gottman Method, EFT, Sand Tray, Play therapy , DBT &CBT.
Immediate openings in Phoenix & Tucson. Accept BCBS, United, Optum, & Sliding Scale. We are met with many unique challenges which may cause stress, anxiety, depression, relational conflict, or issues with communication. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I have experience working with couples, individual adults, parenting/family, relationship strains, depression, anxiety, grief, along with other issues. I am able to provide a warm, compassionate and supportive environment to safely explore your needs for positive change.
(520) 346-0898
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Phoenix, AZ 85028
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Photo of Mar M Navarro, Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Mar M Navarro
Counselor, LPC-S, TAD
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
I’m also trained in Internal Family systems model, Theraplay, sand tray play therapy , and Brainspotting among others.
It is a privilege and an honor for me to be able to be part of your healing process and growth. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Doctor of Behavioral Health working with children, families, and adults. I'm an attachment and trauma-based counselor and bilingual in English and Spanish. My focus is to work with patients and identify and alleviate root causes associated with social, emotional, behavioral, and psychological challenges in various stages of development. I utilize a solution focused, strength-based approach to make progress towards the goals that we create together.
(928) 683-4004
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Phoenix, AZ 85012
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Photo of Cynthia Berry, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Cynthia Berry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
My expertise entails working with children and their families, utilizing play therapy , sand trays, and attachment-based family therapy.
Now Accepting New Clients! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Arizona and am receiving additional training in Emotional Focused Therapy (EFT) to further enhance the therapeutic process. I am also pursuing a Master’s in Healthcare Innovation from Arizona State University to assist clients working in the healthcare field as well as clients experiencing health related issues. I provide a hybrid model of services, which include in office and telehealth.
(480) 613-5204
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Phoenix, AZ 85014
& Online
Photo of The Empowerment Group,LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
The Empowerment Group,LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, RN, BSN
Verified
9 Endorsed
Verified
9 Endorsed
I specialize in EMDR, play therapy , grief and loss, and sandtray.
STARTING NEW GROUP ON SHAME RESILIENCY CALL 602-525-5783 TO JOIN. What would you do if you knew you couldn't fail? Let's get started! I work with individuals and families from birth to 100+! I have literally worked with families from birth to the end of life, focusing on working through those matters or events in life that hold each of us back from our full potential. Isn't it time for your optimal life? Life can be heavy and I will work with you and your family or friends to help you locate and access your inner strength to guide your life's journey.
(602) 663-9111
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Phoenix, AZ 85044
Photo of Courtney Denevi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Courtney Denevi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BCBA, LBA, LMSW
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
Empowering your mental health journey with an evidenced based approach. Are you seeking services for yourself, child, your relationship, or maybe a family member? Want to focus on increasing motivation, creativity, self esteem, confidence, or organizational skills? Then I’m your gal. With a diverse range of expertise, I specialize in Play therapy , behavioral therapy, art expression, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution focused therapy, Positive Psychology, and mindfulness techniques.
(602) 860-6647
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Phoenix, AZ 85003
& Online
Photo of Deborah L Pettitt, Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Deborah L Pettitt
Counselor
Verified
Verified
The "language of children is play ." I use expressive therapies like play ,drama,sand,and art to help children process their problems and find answers. When a child plays out a solution to a problem he/she has the unique ability to actually experience success in the moment. I have taken extensive training to learn how to help children play out their problems. I am one of a very few Registered Play Therapist Supervisors in the state of Arizona.
(602) 492-3148
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Phoenix, AZ 85014
& Online
Photo of Heather Sestili, Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Heather Sestili
Counselor, MSCP, LPC, RPT-S, IMH, ASDCP
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
I'm a child development specialist with extensive training in play therapy .
There is a special place in my heart for a traumatized child. Traumatic events in childhood have a devastating impact on the child and family. Children need empathic, understanding, knowledgeable adults to come along side to guide and comfort the child through the journey of recovery. I provide caregivers education to support the child while providing practical techniques rewarding for both child and family. I provide play therapy , sand tray, Theraplay (R), and PCIT. I use these with EMDR and CBT to help children process their loss, trauma, reduce behaviors and impulsivity, enhance attachment, build communication and self esteem.
(623) 432-0738
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Phoenix, AZ 85080
& Online
Photo of Gretchen Snyder, Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Gretchen Snyder
Counselor, MSPC, LAC, NCC
Verified
Verified
I am a licensed associate counselor (LAC) and licensed American sign language (ASL) interpreter. I moved to Phoenix, AZ ten years ago from New York, NY. I have experience working with individuals, children, and families as well as group and couples’ therapy. I have dedicated myself to excellence in care through trauma-informed, integration of treatments including EMDR, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, expressive art therapy, play therapy , among other therapeutic modes.
(480) 780-3429
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Phoenix, AZ 85016
& Online
Photo of Morgan Winder, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Morgan Winder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
3 Endorsed
Verified
3 Endorsed
My therapeutic approach and training is in Eye Movement Desensitization and reprocessing(EMDR),CBT, DBT, Parent-Child Relationship Therapy, and Play -Based Therapy.
My approach and space is a judgement free zone to assist with you healing and feeling your best self. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a concentration of direct practice with children, youth and families. I also have obtained a Bachelors degree in Psychology. I work with children (3+), teens and families. I specialize in family counseling and parent-child relationship therapy to assist parents with learning how to strengthen the parent-child relationship, as well as provide developmental guidance in order to assist parents in best supporting the emotional needs of their child/teen.
(480) 605-1801
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Phoenix, AZ 85016
Photo of Amanda Walker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Amanda Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
I specialize in working with children, ages 3-12 (and also have experience with teens) using Synergetic Play Therapy , EMDR, art based activities, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) and more.
Maybe you're feeling less than confident in knowing how to best support your child with school issues, anxiety, anger issues, adoption, family conflict, working through trauma or other concerns. Lets work together! As a therapist, I value providing a non-judgmental, empathetic and collaborative relationship with my clients, as well as supporting you as the parent in finding your own strength and confidence in your parenting. You don’t have to go it alone! My goal is to help you see that you already have the tools needed to help create calm, peace and happiness for yourself and your family.
(623) 624-9159
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Phoenix, AZ 85016
& Online
Photo of Mike Greenwell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Mike Greenwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DBH, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
I work with clients throughout the course of the life span. I have skills for working with both youth and adults. I personalized the treatment to each client and each need. I offer both long term and short term treatment options. EMDR, ACT, DBT, TF-CBT, CBT, Hypnotherapy, Play Therapy , SandTray Therapy, and Solution Focused Interviewing.
(602) 560-7402
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Phoenix, AZ 85014
& Online
Photo of Linda Wiskerchen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Linda Wiskerchen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified
Verified
My name is Linda Wiskerchen. I am a licensed clinical social worker and registered play therapist supervisor with 20+ years experience and passion working in the mental health field. I specialize in the treatment of families and young children who are struggling at home, in school, and in the community, with individual and family counseling.
(480) 467-3380
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Phoenix, AZ 85044
& Online
Not accepting new clients
Photo of Candy Trejo Garcia, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Candy Trejo Garcia
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
Provide services including Play Therapy , Sand Tray Therapy, CBT, DBT, and EMDR.
Everyone’s journey in life is different. I want to create a safe place for you to express your needs and heal. My background includes working with children birth to five, adolescents, young adults, and families. We can work together to find new ways to manage stress, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and enhance parent-child relationships.
(520) 317-2195
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Phoenix, AZ 85044
Not accepting new clients
Not accepting new clients
Photo of Beth Onufrak, Psychologist in Phoenix, AZ
Beth Onufrak
Psychologist, PhD
Verified
Verified
For kids (ages 3-7), Cognitive-Behavioral Play Therapy builds coping skills.
Do your young child's challenges seem beyond typical? Do emotional & behavioral problems dominate the day? Has time-out frayed your family? If you need tools for yourself and coping skills for your child, you'll find this blend in my care. My ChildSightTools® model reduces behavior problems, grows child coping skills, repairs family bonds and restores parenting joy. I delight in finding developmentally-friendly ways to help young children (ages 3-7) have "better days" at home, school or daycare. To solve the unique puzzle of each child, parents & I collaborate to uncover the child beneath the behavior problems.
(602) 910-2307
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Phoenix, AZ 85020
Not accepting new clients
Photo of Dawn Marie Byrd, Psychologist in Phoenix, AZ
Dawn Marie Byrd
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
These include psychoeducational assessments, neurodevelopment assessments, CBT, EMDR, Play Therapy , ACT, Brainspotting, empirical interventions, cognitive restructuring.
My ideal client could be in need of any one of a broad array of professional services encompassing areas of therapy and testing. Clients range from individuals to entire families. I serve a diverse clientele ranging from emotional or behavioral distress, adjustment or trauma distress to identity issues. Whether it is treatment of behavioral/emotional or developmental disabilities, trauma therapy, treatment of mental disorders or psycho-educational assessments, I have programs and techniques such as EMDR or Brainspotting that can help you and your loved ones address life challenges. Call or email me immediately to start your program!
(602) 497-2153
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Phoenix, AZ 85015
& Online

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.