Play Therapy in Brevard, NC

Photo of Tara Tecce, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Brevard, NC
Tara Tecce
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor , MEdS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Brevard, NC 28712
I work with children, adolescents, young adults, and families, and specialize in concerns related to anxiety, self-esteem, family conflict, challenging behaviors, grief, life transitions, communication, trauma, and attachment. I believe learning often happens best through play and connection, positive change is most supported when you are an active participant in the process, and, although failure is inevitable, through failure can come resilience. I believe we are all doing the best we can with what we have, and everyone needs to be nurtured, cared for, and believed in.
I work with children, adolescents, young adults, and families, and specialize in concerns related to anxiety, self-esteem, family conflict, challenging behaviors, grief, life transitions, communication, trauma, and attachment. I believe learning often happens best through play and connection, positive change is most supported when you are an active participant in the process, and, although failure is inevitable, through failure can come resilience. I believe we are all doing the best we can with what we have, and everyone needs to be nurtured, cared for, and believed in.
(828) 209-8034 View (828) 209-8034
Photo of Grace Davis, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Brevard, NC
Grace Davis
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Brevard, NC 28712
Adult play therapy is rooted in narrative, existential theory, while engaging a variety of creative and expressive arts techniques.
My ideal client is willing to rethink what therapy looks and feels like - being open to a variety of techniques; collaborating; and engaging body, mind, and emotions, particularly in the outdoors. I conduct experiential outdoor sessions (when weather permits), helping clients in connecting with themselves by grounding in the supportive power of nature. Walking and talking in an outdoor space allows us to engage in an informal environment, while still providing therapeutic benefits.
Adult play therapy is rooted in narrative, existential theory, while engaging a variety of creative and expressive arts techniques.
My ideal client is willing to rethink what therapy looks and feels like - being open to a variety of techniques; collaborating; and engaging body, mind, and emotions, particularly in the outdoors. I conduct experiential outdoor sessions (when weather permits), helping clients in connecting with themselves by grounding in the supportive power of nature. Walking and talking in an outdoor space allows us to engage in an informal environment, while still providing therapeutic benefits.
(828) 360-8386 View (828) 360-8386
Photo of Christie C Eberhardt, Pastoral Counselor in Brevard, NC
Christie C Eberhardt
Pastoral Counselor, PhD, BCPC
Verified Verified
Brevard, NC 28712
Life can be difficult and confusing. I am here to help you sort through the pain to find hope and healing for the days ahead. The hurt can be deep, going back to earliest memories or coming from present hardships. Counseling you is about establishing a safe place, a loving environment of grace. My tools come from my training and from 33 years of experience, but each person is exquisitely unique, so no therapeutic relationship is the same as any other. It is an honor and privilege to share deeply in your life and the lives of your family. At present, because of a recent move to another state, I am connecting only online or by cell.
Life can be difficult and confusing. I am here to help you sort through the pain to find hope and healing for the days ahead. The hurt can be deep, going back to earliest memories or coming from present hardships. Counseling you is about establishing a safe place, a loving environment of grace. My tools come from my training and from 33 years of experience, but each person is exquisitely unique, so no therapeutic relationship is the same as any other. It is an honor and privilege to share deeply in your life and the lives of your family. At present, because of a recent move to another state, I am connecting only online or by cell.
(828) 675-7227 View (828) 675-7227
Photo of Ashley Witt, Counselor in Brevard, NC
Ashley Witt
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brevard, NC 28712
Waitlist for new clients
Are you tired of feeling stuck, putting yourself last, or navigating challenges without support? Do you want to recover from a difficult childhood, explore how to set boundaries, shift your energy around work, or find more peace in your day-to-day life? Therapy is an experience YOU deserve to have. You can feel validated, find new ways of functioning, and create a life that brings joy and restoration. You have a willingness to grow toward a better life, and I want to walk with you on that journey.
Are you tired of feeling stuck, putting yourself last, or navigating challenges without support? Do you want to recover from a difficult childhood, explore how to set boundaries, shift your energy around work, or find more peace in your day-to-day life? Therapy is an experience YOU deserve to have. You can feel validated, find new ways of functioning, and create a life that brings joy and restoration. You have a willingness to grow toward a better life, and I want to walk with you on that journey.
(828) 554-2419 View (828) 554-2419
Photo of Michael James Tui- II, Counselor in Brevard, NC
Michael James Tui- II
Counselor, MSCP, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brevard, NC 28712
Waitlist for new clients
Life can be such a challenge especially if we find ourselves walking our path alone. On this journey, my hope is to help guide and provide skill training that will help you increase confidence, self-worth, and self-empowerment. I serve all ages and have specialized training to address disorders and challenges in ages 3 years old - 100+ My love and passion is supporting the health of our families. I passionately that by healing our families we heal the world.
Life can be such a challenge especially if we find ourselves walking our path alone. On this journey, my hope is to help guide and provide skill training that will help you increase confidence, self-worth, and self-empowerment. I serve all ages and have specialized training to address disorders and challenges in ages 3 years old - 100+ My love and passion is supporting the health of our families. I passionately that by healing our families we heal the world.
(828) 523-8936 View (828) 523-8936
Photo of Debbie Dixon Barney, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Brevard, NC
Debbie Dixon Barney
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, LCAS-A, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brevard, NC 28712
Do you ever wake up and wonder, "How did I get here?" or "Why did this have to happen to me?" Maybe you wish your life looked differently but are not sure how to get there. We all have "things" we need to process, but my experience is that we often get “stuck in a rut” with how we approach problems. We need a new perspective or another person to help us process our "stuff” - someone who can ask us questions to help us to see things from a different vantage point or to help us rewrite our stories with hope, purpose, and excitement. My desire is to help people see how the “stuff” in their lives can be used in amazing ways.
Do you ever wake up and wonder, "How did I get here?" or "Why did this have to happen to me?" Maybe you wish your life looked differently but are not sure how to get there. We all have "things" we need to process, but my experience is that we often get “stuck in a rut” with how we approach problems. We need a new perspective or another person to help us process our "stuff” - someone who can ask us questions to help us to see things from a different vantage point or to help us rewrite our stories with hope, purpose, and excitement. My desire is to help people see how the “stuff” in their lives can be used in amazing ways.
(828) 677-2303 View (828) 677-2303

Online Therapists

Photo of Jillian Kelly-Wavering, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brevard, NC
Jillian Kelly-Wavering
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
With over 10 years of post-graduate experience in the field of child psychotherapy, I combine my knowledge of Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness along with the awareness that each child is special and precious.
I'm a therapist for grieving children and their families in Asheville, NC, and previously in the Bronx, NY. My training includes a Master’s degree from Columbia University, service with the National Health Service Corps, certification in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and the Registered Play Therapist Supervisor credential. I've served as the VP of the NY Association for Play Therapy, and authored several publications (from chapters in textbooks for psychology students, to children's books addressing grief). My practice focus is to be a therapeutic companion to children and their families along their grief journey.
With over 10 years of post-graduate experience in the field of child psychotherapy, I combine my knowledge of Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness along with the awareness that each child is special and precious.
I'm a therapist for grieving children and their families in Asheville, NC, and previously in the Bronx, NY. My training includes a Master’s degree from Columbia University, service with the National Health Service Corps, certification in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and the Registered Play Therapist Supervisor credential. I've served as the VP of the NY Association for Play Therapy, and authored several publications (from chapters in textbooks for psychology students, to children's books addressing grief). My practice focus is to be a therapeutic companion to children and their families along their grief journey.
(828) 827-5861 View (828) 827-5861
Photo of Asheville Counseling & Wellness Center, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Brevard, NC
Asheville Counseling & Wellness Center
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LPC, BCN, CCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803
We offer state-of-the-art neurofeedback services in addition to art/play therapy, EMDR, and a wide range of somatic based therapies.
The staff and clinicians at Asheville Counseling & Wellness Center are dedicated to improving the quality of life of our Clients. We offer a multitude of treatment modalities in order to provide the best care possible. Our clients can expect to receive effective and efficient treatments, while we provide the best possible client/clinician experience. Our focus is helping the public achieve health, healing and well-being. We look forward to working with you and your family.
We offer state-of-the-art neurofeedback services in addition to art/play therapy, EMDR, and a wide range of somatic based therapies.
The staff and clinicians at Asheville Counseling & Wellness Center are dedicated to improving the quality of life of our Clients. We offer a multitude of treatment modalities in order to provide the best care possible. Our clients can expect to receive effective and efficient treatments, while we provide the best possible client/clinician experience. Our focus is helping the public achieve health, healing and well-being. We look forward to working with you and your family.
(828) 482-0346 View (828) 482-0346
Photo of Maggie Jenkins, Counselor in Brevard, NC
Maggie Jenkins
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Spindale, NC 28160
Waitlist for new clients
The journey to meeting the best version of yourself starts here. My goal as a therapist is to provide you with tools and skills that will assist you in achieving your therapeutic goals while providing you with a safe and non judgmental space. I work with clients of a variety of ages (3+) and cultural backgrounds in individual and group sessions. I often use person centered, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and play therapy techniques and approaches. Areas of concerns I address include anxiety,depression, grief, and emotion regulation. I offer office and school based, and telehealth. I am accepting new clients.
The journey to meeting the best version of yourself starts here. My goal as a therapist is to provide you with tools and skills that will assist you in achieving your therapeutic goals while providing you with a safe and non judgmental space. I work with clients of a variety of ages (3+) and cultural backgrounds in individual and group sessions. I often use person centered, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and play therapy techniques and approaches. Areas of concerns I address include anxiety,depression, grief, and emotion regulation. I offer office and school based, and telehealth. I am accepting new clients.
(828) 662-3441 View (828) 662-3441
Photo of Adrian B. Thornburg, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in Brevard, NC
Adrian B. Thornburg
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, MA, NCC, RPTS, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28054
Waitlist for new clients
As a LCMHC and Registered Play Therapist, I have 20+ years of experience working with clients from the existential philosophy and utilizing Person Centered & Mindful and Cognitive Behavioral theories.
Life changing events bring emotional struggles such as grief, loss and other challenges. Adults may find themselves questioning and asking "Who am I now?" and "Where do I go from here?". Children, preteens and teens may find themselves navigating through new emotions and experiences as they grow and change. The need to explore and understand these new landscapes is critical to making positive and sometimes difficult decisions regarding self expression and life choices. Overall goals often included finding relief of inner conflict, developing confidence and experiencing growth.
As a LCMHC and Registered Play Therapist, I have 20+ years of experience working with clients from the existential philosophy and utilizing Person Centered & Mindful and Cognitive Behavioral theories.
Life changing events bring emotional struggles such as grief, loss and other challenges. Adults may find themselves questioning and asking "Who am I now?" and "Where do I go from here?". Children, preteens and teens may find themselves navigating through new emotions and experiences as they grow and change. The need to explore and understand these new landscapes is critical to making positive and sometimes difficult decisions regarding self expression and life choices. Overall goals often included finding relief of inner conflict, developing confidence and experiencing growth.
(704) 741-9240 View (704) 741-9240
Photo of Susan Rainsford MA LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Brevard, NC
Susan Rainsford MA LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
I utilize a variety of evidenced based approaches based on individual needs and preferences including but not limited to: Mindfulness and Body Centered Approaches, DBT, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Expressive Therapies, Energy Therapy, Play Therapy, and Compassionate Communication Skills.
I know it can take courage to seek therapy and I am here to help. I would be honored to guide and assist you towards positive change. I have been enjoying providing Psychotherapy in Asheville since 2000. I provide caring and professional therapy for Individuals (Adults, Adolescents & Children), Couples and Families. I am happy to serve our diverse community including the LGBTQ+ community. I have extensive experience working with anxiety disorders, depression, parenting skills, couples conflicts, life transitions, divorce/separation, post traumatic stress, ADHD, bi-polar, and many other issues.
I utilize a variety of evidenced based approaches based on individual needs and preferences including but not limited to: Mindfulness and Body Centered Approaches, DBT, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Expressive Therapies, Energy Therapy, Play Therapy, and Compassionate Communication Skills.
I know it can take courage to seek therapy and I am here to help. I would be honored to guide and assist you towards positive change. I have been enjoying providing Psychotherapy in Asheville since 2000. I provide caring and professional therapy for Individuals (Adults, Adolescents & Children), Couples and Families. I am happy to serve our diverse community including the LGBTQ+ community. I have extensive experience working with anxiety disorders, depression, parenting skills, couples conflicts, life transitions, divorce/separation, post traumatic stress, ADHD, bi-polar, and many other issues.
(828) 215-4605 x828215 View (828) 215-4605 x828215
Photo of Katey Smith, Counselor in Brevard, NC
Katey Smith
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clyde, NC 28721
I conduct therapy by using traditional talk therapy, play therapy, and art therapy.
Watching your daughter struggle with low self-esteem, anxiety, and perfectionism can be heartbreaking. You want nothing more than to see her thrive and to feel good about herself, but sometimes it can feel like you’re not sure how to help. That’s where I come in. Hi there! I'm Katey, a licensed therapist specializing in helping preteen and teen girls overcome all aspects of perfectionism. Before my clients came to see me, they felt inadequate and less than. They were certain they would never be good enough, no matter how hard they tried.
I conduct therapy by using traditional talk therapy, play therapy, and art therapy.
Watching your daughter struggle with low self-esteem, anxiety, and perfectionism can be heartbreaking. You want nothing more than to see her thrive and to feel good about herself, but sometimes it can feel like you’re not sure how to help. That’s where I come in. Hi there! I'm Katey, a licensed therapist specializing in helping preteen and teen girls overcome all aspects of perfectionism. Before my clients came to see me, they felt inadequate and less than. They were certain they would never be good enough, no matter how hard they tried.
(828) 520-0929 View (828) 520-0929
Photo of Zoë Reddig, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Brevard, NC
Zoë Reddig
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, R-DMT
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Waitlist for new clients
With a background in clinical counseling and creative arts-based practices, I am passionate about creating nurturing therapeutic connections where play and healing meet.
Welcome! My name is Zoë and I look forward to learning more about you and your family’s story. I support the therapeutic growth of children and adolescents (ages 4-13), and families, addressing concerns related to anxiety, emotional and behavioral dysregulation, self-esteem, interpersonal conflict, and life transitions. I believe in the importance of integrating the family unit by providing individualized therapeutic support for caregivers, addressing concerns related to parenting and family dynamics.
With a background in clinical counseling and creative arts-based practices, I am passionate about creating nurturing therapeutic connections where play and healing meet.
Welcome! My name is Zoë and I look forward to learning more about you and your family’s story. I support the therapeutic growth of children and adolescents (ages 4-13), and families, addressing concerns related to anxiety, emotional and behavioral dysregulation, self-esteem, interpersonal conflict, and life transitions. I believe in the importance of integrating the family unit by providing individualized therapeutic support for caregivers, addressing concerns related to parenting and family dynamics.
(828) 383-9462 View (828) 383-9462
Photo of K. Toby Stoetzer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brevard, NC
K. Toby Stoetzer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28607
I work with families, couples, and individuals, including adults, adolescents and children. Treatment modalities include: ( TFCBT), Solution Focused therapy, Family Systems therapy, play therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, CPT, creative and expressive therapies. I approach clients with a strength based focus, believing that clients move at their own pace and have a right to self determination. Therapy starts "where the client is" and goals reflect their needs and input.. I do not discriminate or refuse professional services to anyone on the basis of race, gender, religion, national origin, or sexual orientation.
I work with families, couples, and individuals, including adults, adolescents and children. Treatment modalities include: ( TFCBT), Solution Focused therapy, Family Systems therapy, play therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, CPT, creative and expressive therapies. I approach clients with a strength based focus, believing that clients move at their own pace and have a right to self determination. Therapy starts "where the client is" and goals reflect their needs and input.. I do not discriminate or refuse professional services to anyone on the basis of race, gender, religion, national origin, or sexual orientation.
(305) 916-4084 View (305) 916-4084
Photo of Elizabeth Davis Clements, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Brevard, NC
Elizabeth Davis Clements
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Gastonia, NC 28054
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Person-Centered therapy, and play therapy all while building on the foundation of Biblical truth to help clients discover the source of their pain, unhealthy relationships, and negative behaviors in order to help lead towards health, healing, and truth.
I am happy to be able to provide family and individual therapy for all ages. I have a passion for working with people who acknowledge the imperfections that make us human and are open to discovering truth and working towards positive change. I have worked with clients on issues such as anxiety, depression/mood disorders, ADHD, various forms of abuse, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, anger management, social skills, grief, marital relationships and parenting skills. I look forward to working with clients to help them find the health, healing, and truth that awaits.
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Person-Centered therapy, and play therapy all while building on the foundation of Biblical truth to help clients discover the source of their pain, unhealthy relationships, and negative behaviors in order to help lead towards health, healing, and truth.
I am happy to be able to provide family and individual therapy for all ages. I have a passion for working with people who acknowledge the imperfections that make us human and are open to discovering truth and working towards positive change. I have worked with clients on issues such as anxiety, depression/mood disorders, ADHD, various forms of abuse, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, anger management, social skills, grief, marital relationships and parenting skills. I look forward to working with clients to help them find the health, healing, and truth that awaits.
(704) 879-3121 View (704) 879-3121
Photo of Carolinas Institute, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Brevard, NC
Carolinas Institute
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate
Verified Verified
Gastonia, NC 28054
Carolinas Institute for Behavioral Health is a behavioral health clinic for children and adults. We also provide working memory therapy as a certified Cogmed Practice. We use the Gold Standard assessments and batteries for each evaluation in order to obtain an accurate, objective, measurable, and comprehensive evaluation presenting needs and chief concerns. Services include treatment and therapy for ASD, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, OCD, and trauma. We utilize play, expressive, emotional, and behavioral therapies individually tailored to a patient's needs.
Carolinas Institute for Behavioral Health is a behavioral health clinic for children and adults. We also provide working memory therapy as a certified Cogmed Practice. We use the Gold Standard assessments and batteries for each evaluation in order to obtain an accurate, objective, measurable, and comprehensive evaluation presenting needs and chief concerns. Services include treatment and therapy for ASD, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, OCD, and trauma. We utilize play, expressive, emotional, and behavioral therapies individually tailored to a patient's needs.
(980) 485-5920 View (980) 485-5920
Photo of Laurie J. Walter-Hadley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brevard, NC
Laurie J. Walter-Hadley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Of special interest to me is assisting parents with infants through teenage children; using play therapy in my work with children.
I've been practicing therapy for over 30 years. Perhaps more importantly, I have a family of my own. I have been married for 30 years. I have 3 daughters, a dog and two cats. I think kids are wonderful and my favorite people in the world! I work with individuals of all ages, and couples including marital, engaged and long-term relationships. I especially like doing family therapy, addressing parenting issues and individual work with children; in-depth work with individual adults, focusing on healing and recovery from such debilitating experiences as abuse, chronic depression, anxiety, and identity/self-esteem issues.
Of special interest to me is assisting parents with infants through teenage children; using play therapy in my work with children.
I've been practicing therapy for over 30 years. Perhaps more importantly, I have a family of my own. I have been married for 30 years. I have 3 daughters, a dog and two cats. I think kids are wonderful and my favorite people in the world! I work with individuals of all ages, and couples including marital, engaged and long-term relationships. I especially like doing family therapy, addressing parenting issues and individual work with children; in-depth work with individual adults, focusing on healing and recovery from such debilitating experiences as abuse, chronic depression, anxiety, and identity/self-esteem issues.
(828) 373-1741 View (828) 373-1741
Photo of Clarissa 'reese' Caskey in Brevard, NC
Clarissa 'reese' Caskey
MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, NC 28037
And because each client is unique, I use an integrative approach in counseling incorporating traditional talk therapy with art, play, and sand tray therapy!.
Whether you have reoccurring symptoms or are facing a difficult time in your life right now, I am here to help! I specialize in working with children(ages 3+), teens & women experiencing various symptoms related to Anxiety, Depression, Life Transitions, Low Self-esteem, Relationship Issues, Stress, and Trauma.
And because each client is unique, I use an integrative approach in counseling incorporating traditional talk therapy with art, play, and sand tray therapy!.
Whether you have reoccurring symptoms or are facing a difficult time in your life right now, I am here to help! I specialize in working with children(ages 3+), teens & women experiencing various symptoms related to Anxiety, Depression, Life Transitions, Low Self-esteem, Relationship Issues, Stress, and Trauma.
(980) 222-4788 View (980) 222-4788
Photo of Debra Delois Carabantes, Counselor in Brevard, NC
Debra Delois Carabantes
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Candler, NC 28715
Supporting children in connecting back to themselves through play therapy is my role as a play therapist and mental health counselor working alongside children and families. Hello and Welcome! My name is Debra and my professional background is in education, community programs, and counseling. I hold a Clinical Mental Health Counselor License at an Associate level in North Carolina. I worked in public education for 12 years including serving as a school counselor. Currently, I primarily work with children and families utilizing play therapy and creative expressive arts to support children on their journey of growth and healing.
Supporting children in connecting back to themselves through play therapy is my role as a play therapist and mental health counselor working alongside children and families. Hello and Welcome! My name is Debra and my professional background is in education, community programs, and counseling. I hold a Clinical Mental Health Counselor License at an Associate level in North Carolina. I worked in public education for 12 years including serving as a school counselor. Currently, I primarily work with children and families utilizing play therapy and creative expressive arts to support children on their journey of growth and healing.
(828) 360-9974 View (828) 360-9974
Photo of Liz Lucarelli, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Brevard, NC
Liz Lucarelli
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, BCC, RPT-S, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803
I specialize in working with children, preteens, and adolescents ages 8 - 16+. I also offer therapy/coaching for parents raising a challenging child/teen and family therapy to help mend the parent-child relationship. I work best with clients who may be anxious, depressed, working through grief/loss or trauma, and have low self-esteem, and need social, life, coping, or relationship skills. My approach is playful, authentic, and honest! I blend play and expressive arts - sand tray, drawing, role-playing, and other experiential activities. I want to help my clients become more calm, curious, connected, resilient, and empowered!
I specialize in working with children, preteens, and adolescents ages 8 - 16+. I also offer therapy/coaching for parents raising a challenging child/teen and family therapy to help mend the parent-child relationship. I work best with clients who may be anxious, depressed, working through grief/loss or trauma, and have low self-esteem, and need social, life, coping, or relationship skills. My approach is playful, authentic, and honest! I blend play and expressive arts - sand tray, drawing, role-playing, and other experiential activities. I want to help my clients become more calm, curious, connected, resilient, and empowered!
(828) 523-9624 View (828) 523-9624

See more therapy options for Brevard

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.