Play Therapy in Tucson, AZ
New Leaf Integrative Wellness Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85705
At New Leaf Integrative Wellness Center, we value you and your unique needs. We support individuals struggling with past trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues.
We offer a number of children's groups. Our groups focus on helping kids better cope with stress and anxiety. We also have groups for improving social skills in children with an emphasis on psychoeducation, mixed with fun and engaging activities.
At New Leaf Integrative Wellness Center, we value you and your unique needs. We support individuals struggling with past trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues.
We offer a number of children's groups. Our groups focus on helping kids better cope with stress and anxiety. We also have groups for improving social skills in children with an emphasis on psychoeducation, mixed with fun and engaging activities.
The work often begins in a moment of transition—burnout, grief, a shift in identity or relationship to self. Many who find this space are helpers, deep feelers, or those who’ve been carrying more than their share for a long time. There’s often a longing to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with what’s been quieted. Sessions hold space for meaning-making, nervous system repair, and relational healing. This isn’t about fixing—it’s about returning. To what’s true, what’s needed, and what’s been waiting.
The work often begins in a moment of transition—burnout, grief, a shift in identity or relationship to self. Many who find this space are helpers, deep feelers, or those who’ve been carrying more than their share for a long time. There’s often a longing to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with what’s been quieted. Sessions hold space for meaning-making, nervous system repair, and relational healing. This isn’t about fixing—it’s about returning. To what’s true, what’s needed, and what’s been waiting.
If you're ready for a kick-butt therapist, let's talk. I teach, support, inspire, give homework-and hold you accountable for making progress. Advanced techniques in EMDR will restore stability FAST. You will have fun again SOON & heal your traumas FOR GOOD. Big T & little t trauma work will pay off. It requires an investment of time & money, and you are worth it. Plan to cry & laugh a lot. My book, MidLife with Style, hit #1 on Amazon. Thanks everyone! I'll show you how to kick butt in Mid Life!
If you're ready for a kick-butt therapist, let's talk. I teach, support, inspire, give homework-and hold you accountable for making progress. Advanced techniques in EMDR will restore stability FAST. You will have fun again SOON & heal your traumas FOR GOOD. Big T & little t trauma work will pay off. It requires an investment of time & money, and you are worth it. Plan to cry & laugh a lot. My book, MidLife with Style, hit #1 on Amazon. Thanks everyone! I'll show you how to kick butt in Mid Life!
ACCEPTING NEW TELE-HEALTH CLIENTS. I specialize in working with people struggling with Depression, Anxiety, Suicidal Thoughts, LGBTQ+ concerns, Trauma, Substance Use, Academic and Life Transitions, Relationship issues, Grief & Loss, Parenting, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Low Self-esteem. If your daily functioning is being impacted and you are struggling, participating in therapy can help you learn healthy ways of coping. As a mindfulness psychotherapist, I am passionate about helping people by creating a warm and non-judgmental environment and supporting them to live more fulfilled lives.
ACCEPTING NEW TELE-HEALTH CLIENTS. I specialize in working with people struggling with Depression, Anxiety, Suicidal Thoughts, LGBTQ+ concerns, Trauma, Substance Use, Academic and Life Transitions, Relationship issues, Grief & Loss, Parenting, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Low Self-esteem. If your daily functioning is being impacted and you are struggling, participating in therapy can help you learn healthy ways of coping. As a mindfulness psychotherapist, I am passionate about helping people by creating a warm and non-judgmental environment and supporting them to live more fulfilled lives.
My treatment modalities are cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, play/sand tray therapy, motivational interviewing, and Christian/biblical counseling.
Welcome! I’m Marissa and I have a genuine passion and dedication for supporting individuals on their unique paths to well-being. I am experienced and find passion working with children, teens, and adults on a wide variety of issues including anxiety disorders, depression and mood disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders, stress/anger management, navigating major life transitions/adjustment disorders, PTSD, childhood behavioral issues, racial and religious trauma, relationship conflict, self-esteem, and grief and loss.
My treatment modalities are cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, play/sand tray therapy, motivational interviewing, and Christian/biblical counseling.
Welcome! I’m Marissa and I have a genuine passion and dedication for supporting individuals on their unique paths to well-being. I am experienced and find passion working with children, teens, and adults on a wide variety of issues including anxiety disorders, depression and mood disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders, stress/anger management, navigating major life transitions/adjustment disorders, PTSD, childhood behavioral issues, racial and religious trauma, relationship conflict, self-esteem, and grief and loss.
My approach is person centered, open and trauma informed, and I use a variety of techniques including EMDR, IFS/parts work, attachment work and play therapy.
Hope is an important starting place for therapy. Hope that life can feel different, that relationships can improve and that joy, contentment and peace are possible. I invite you to collaborate with me on getting to know more about your patterns, thoughts and feelings. People often reach out for therapy due to feeling stuck or overwhelmed. We can work together to identify goals and create a plan to help find relief. I work with a wide range of ages, including children and adults.
My approach is person centered, open and trauma informed, and I use a variety of techniques including EMDR, IFS/parts work, attachment work and play therapy.
Hope is an important starting place for therapy. Hope that life can feel different, that relationships can improve and that joy, contentment and peace are possible. I invite you to collaborate with me on getting to know more about your patterns, thoughts and feelings. People often reach out for therapy due to feeling stuck or overwhelmed. We can work together to identify goals and create a plan to help find relief. I work with a wide range of ages, including children and adults.
Jessica emphasizes self-compassion in supporting each age range, and is passionate about providing a safe and welcoming environment by applying a strengths-based and trauma-informed approach. Jessica incorporates aspects of experiential therapy, to foster connection to our intrinsic needs and also external connections to the
communities and various systems that we are a part of. Jessica’s support applies Motivational Interviewing (MI), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Narrative Therapy, for sustainable change.
Jessica emphasizes self-compassion in supporting each age range, and is passionate about providing a safe and welcoming environment by applying a strengths-based and trauma-informed approach. Jessica incorporates aspects of experiential therapy, to foster connection to our intrinsic needs and also external connections to the
communities and various systems that we are a part of. Jessica’s support applies Motivational Interviewing (MI), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Narrative Therapy, for sustainable change.
As a Marine Veteran, I understand the strength it takes to keep going. But I also know that "sidelining" our pain to get the mission done can eventually leave us feeling tired, stuck, or divided.
I use Parts Work to create a safe, welcoming space where every side of you—the protector, the survivor, even the parts that feel "broken"—is heard and respected. My goal is to help you move beyond just "getting by" so you can lead your life with a sense of wholeness and heart.
You don’t have to fight yourself anymore. Let’s start the journey of coming home to who you truly are.
As a Marine Veteran, I understand the strength it takes to keep going. But I also know that "sidelining" our pain to get the mission done can eventually leave us feeling tired, stuck, or divided.
I use Parts Work to create a safe, welcoming space where every side of you—the protector, the survivor, even the parts that feel "broken"—is heard and respected. My goal is to help you move beyond just "getting by" so you can lead your life with a sense of wholeness and heart.
You don’t have to fight yourself anymore. Let’s start the journey of coming home to who you truly are.
Engaging in therapy can feel like a big step. It doesn't have to be stressful though. It's important to remember that we all need support sometimes. I strive to meet all needs for clients, dedicating time and attention to ensure a sense of safety and belonging. I'll meet you/your child where you're at and identify goals for successful treatment. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, teens and young adults between the ages of 7-26, struggling with symptoms of anxiety, depression, anger management, ADHD, social skills, self-esteem and more. Plus, I do a ton of parent coaching! We're in this together.
Engaging in therapy can feel like a big step. It doesn't have to be stressful though. It's important to remember that we all need support sometimes. I strive to meet all needs for clients, dedicating time and attention to ensure a sense of safety and belonging. I'll meet you/your child where you're at and identify goals for successful treatment. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, teens and young adults between the ages of 7-26, struggling with symptoms of anxiety, depression, anger management, ADHD, social skills, self-esteem and more. Plus, I do a ton of parent coaching! We're in this together.
I practice from a positive client-centered focus. I treat relationship and communication issues. Issues with depression and anxiety. Women's issues along with any trauma issues. I work with adults, couples and families. I also accept a sliding fee scale for those with no insurance or for those who do not want to use their insurance.
I have taken multiple trainings in the Gottman program and also workshops with Sue Johnson Attachment and Emotionally Focused therapy and Mindfulness workshops.
I practice from a positive client-centered focus. I treat relationship and communication issues. Issues with depression and anxiety. Women's issues along with any trauma issues. I work with adults, couples and families. I also accept a sliding fee scale for those with no insurance or for those who do not want to use their insurance.
I have taken multiple trainings in the Gottman program and also workshops with Sue Johnson Attachment and Emotionally Focused therapy and Mindfulness workshops.
I use a client-centered and trauma-informed approach, drawing from play therapy, CBT, mindfulness, and expressive arts to support emotional growth and self-understanding.
I specialize in helping children and adults build coping skills, improve emotional regulation, and strengthen self-awareness. Through creative and evidence-based techniques, I guide clients in developing resilience and confidence to navigate life’s challenges.
I use a client-centered and trauma-informed approach, drawing from play therapy, CBT, mindfulness, and expressive arts to support emotional growth and self-understanding.
I specialize in helping children and adults build coping skills, improve emotional regulation, and strengthen self-awareness. Through creative and evidence-based techniques, I guide clients in developing resilience and confidence to navigate life’s challenges.
Most of the people who find their way to me are standing at some kind of crossroads. Maybe they’re sorting through the noise of who they should be versus who they actually are. Maybe they’re carrying old stories that don’t fit anymore. Or maybe life hit a little too fast — school, work, relationships, identity shifts — and they’re trying to make sense of the pieces.
I work with emerging adults ages 18-40 because I’ve seen how powerful this season of life can be. It’s messy, meaningful, overwhelming, and full of possibilities all at once. In our sessions, we slow things down. We look at the patterns that keep showing up.
Most of the people who find their way to me are standing at some kind of crossroads. Maybe they’re sorting through the noise of who they should be versus who they actually are. Maybe they’re carrying old stories that don’t fit anymore. Or maybe life hit a little too fast — school, work, relationships, identity shifts — and they’re trying to make sense of the pieces.
I work with emerging adults ages 18-40 because I’ve seen how powerful this season of life can be. It’s messy, meaningful, overwhelming, and full of possibilities all at once. In our sessions, we slow things down. We look at the patterns that keep showing up.
With younger children, I use directive and non-directive Play Therapy techniques and Sand Tray Therapy.
I work with children, adolescents, and young adults.
I am a licensed therapist who specializes in the assessment and treatment of children, adolescents, and young adults experiencing anxiety, depression, emotion regulation issues, social or peer-related difficulties, gender or identity issues, and challenges with school and/or family relationships. I also enjoy supporting clients through the significant life transitions associated with adolescence and young adulthood. I strive to create a safe space for my clients that includes collaboration, reflective curiosity, and opportunities for growth, and creativity,
With younger children, I use directive and non-directive Play Therapy techniques and Sand Tray Therapy.
I work with children, adolescents, and young adults.
I am a licensed therapist who specializes in the assessment and treatment of children, adolescents, and young adults experiencing anxiety, depression, emotion regulation issues, social or peer-related difficulties, gender or identity issues, and challenges with school and/or family relationships. I also enjoy supporting clients through the significant life transitions associated with adolescence and young adulthood. I strive to create a safe space for my clients that includes collaboration, reflective curiosity, and opportunities for growth, and creativity,
We heal through more than just talking; therefore, I enjoy incorporating play and creativity into sessions.
I specialize in working with children, families, and couples who have experienced challenges related to attachment, relationships, and trauma. During our initial session, I’ll be curious to learn about your story as we begin exploring achievable and solution-focused goals.
We heal through more than just talking; therefore, I enjoy incorporating play and creativity into sessions.
I specialize in working with children, families, and couples who have experienced challenges related to attachment, relationships, and trauma. During our initial session, I’ll be curious to learn about your story as we begin exploring achievable and solution-focused goals.
Many adults struggle with communication and relationship issues that lead to explosive emotions, including anxiety and anger. Lack of trust leads us to keep those we love at a distance. All of these issues and more are usually symptomatic of a larger problem that keep us moving from one crisis to the next. The wounds of childhood trauma are far-reaching. We create masks and walls within us, and we acquire unhealthy and maladaptive coping mechanisms, keeping us chained to our past. Our childhood experiences, whether we remember them or not, are interwoven into the fabric of our being and how we live our lives and do relationships.
Many adults struggle with communication and relationship issues that lead to explosive emotions, including anxiety and anger. Lack of trust leads us to keep those we love at a distance. All of these issues and more are usually symptomatic of a larger problem that keep us moving from one crisis to the next. The wounds of childhood trauma are far-reaching. We create masks and walls within us, and we acquire unhealthy and maladaptive coping mechanisms, keeping us chained to our past. Our childhood experiences, whether we remember them or not, are interwoven into the fabric of our being and how we live our lives and do relationships.
When working with children, teens, and adults, I offer a supportive space where we can explore life’s challenges together—whether you’re navigating school stress, life transitions, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or working on building self-acceptance and resilience.
At the heart of my work is a deep belief in your capacity to heal and grow. My goal is to help you build self-advocacy, find inner peace, and develop stronger, more meaningful relationships—with others and with yourself. Together, we’ll celebrate your strengths, increase resilience, and support your journey.
When working with children, teens, and adults, I offer a supportive space where we can explore life’s challenges together—whether you’re navigating school stress, life transitions, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or working on building self-acceptance and resilience.
At the heart of my work is a deep belief in your capacity to heal and grow. My goal is to help you build self-advocacy, find inner peace, and develop stronger, more meaningful relationships—with others and with yourself. Together, we’ll celebrate your strengths, increase resilience, and support your journey.
Innervision Counseling for people who wish to make changes. Experienced in motivating clients in achieving their goals for over 40 years. Compassionate acceptance of all populations and ages to enhance self acceptance, break negative patterns and identify what's important to you. Non-judgmental support around grief and losses, disabilities, pain management, chronic illnesses, trauma, addictions and healing from abuse. Experienced in dealing with Covid survivors and military families. Home visits offered to disabled seniors.
Innervision Counseling for people who wish to make changes. Experienced in motivating clients in achieving their goals for over 40 years. Compassionate acceptance of all populations and ages to enhance self acceptance, break negative patterns and identify what's important to you. Non-judgmental support around grief and losses, disabilities, pain management, chronic illnesses, trauma, addictions and healing from abuse. Experienced in dealing with Covid survivors and military families. Home visits offered to disabled seniors.
As a counselor-in-training and clinical intern at Olive Branch Counseling, I am passionate about serving the Tucson community with compassion, authenticity, and care. As a Tucson native, I value connection and believe in meeting individuals exactly where they are, honoring their lived experiences while fostering hope, resilience, and emotional well-being.
As a counselor-in-training and clinical intern at Olive Branch Counseling, I am passionate about serving the Tucson community with compassion, authenticity, and care. As a Tucson native, I value connection and believe in meeting individuals exactly where they are, honoring their lived experiences while fostering hope, resilience, and emotional well-being.
I'm also interested in being silly and finding natural ways to communicate with my clients that go beyond words- like play!
I have always been drawn to kids and young adults who feel like they don’t quite fit — often sensitive, quirky, bright or hard on themselves. Some are underachieving in school despite clear potential; others struggle with perfectionism or anxiety about not being “enough” or being "too much." I help build self-acceptance, connection and a sense of belonging. Your child deserves to feel proud of who they are, not in spite of their differences but because of them.
While I certainly enjoy working with young people excited for therapy, I also work very well with children who are having hesitations.
I'm also interested in being silly and finding natural ways to communicate with my clients that go beyond words- like play!
I have always been drawn to kids and young adults who feel like they don’t quite fit — often sensitive, quirky, bright or hard on themselves. Some are underachieving in school despite clear potential; others struggle with perfectionism or anxiety about not being “enough” or being "too much." I help build self-acceptance, connection and a sense of belonging. Your child deserves to feel proud of who they are, not in spite of their differences but because of them.
While I certainly enjoy working with young people excited for therapy, I also work very well with children who are having hesitations.
I specialize in trauma recovery, attachment theory, narrative therapy, play-based therapy, bibliotherapy, art-based therapy, DBT, CBT, and family systems, using a client-centered approach that honors each person’s unique story.
I’m a trauma-informed therapist dedicated to providing affordable, consistent, and accessible care to individuals and families navigating life’s challenges. With experience across all age ranges—from infants and young children to adolescents and adults—I offer compassionate support tailored to each stage of development.
I specialize in trauma recovery, attachment theory, narrative therapy, play-based therapy, bibliotherapy, art-based therapy, DBT, CBT, and family systems, using a client-centered approach that honors each person’s unique story.
I’m a trauma-informed therapist dedicated to providing affordable, consistent, and accessible care to individuals and families navigating life’s challenges. With experience across all age ranges—from infants and young children to adolescents and adults—I offer compassionate support tailored to each stage of development.
See more therapy options for Tucson
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Tucson
See More Play TherapyNearby Searches for Tucson
See More Therapists Play Therapy Therapists
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.