Play Therapy in Robeson County, NC

Photo of Jasarah Nicole Baldwin, Ma Ed, LCMHC, LCASA, TF-CBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jasarah Nicole Baldwin
Licensed Professional Counselor, Ma Ed, LCMHC, LCASA, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
Lumberton, NC 28358  (Online Only)
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma-focused CBT, Person Centered therapy and Play therapy to assist each client with meeting their specific goal.
Hello and welcome to your healing journey! My name is JaSarah N. Baldwin. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist - Associate. I would first like to thank you for considering me to be a part of our journey and for taking this incredible step in your life. I am an advocate for mental health wellness for myself and others. Sometimes in life we are hit with so many obstacles that we do not know what or where to go. My goal as a counselor is to assist you with what you need to jump of the hurdles that you may experience.
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma-focused CBT, Person Centered therapy and Play therapy to assist each client with meeting their specific goal.
Hello and welcome to your healing journey! My name is JaSarah N. Baldwin. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist - Associate. I would first like to thank you for considering me to be a part of our journey and for taking this incredible step in your life. I am an advocate for mental health wellness for myself and others. Sometimes in life we are hit with so many obstacles that we do not know what or where to go. My goal as a counselor is to assist you with what you need to jump of the hurdles that you may experience.
(910) 725-4762 View (910) 725-4762
Photo of Sherry Matthews - Living at Peace, PLLC, MSW, LCSWA, LCASA, CCSOTS, CCDVC
Living at Peace, PLLC
LCSW Associate , MSW, LCSWA, LCASA, CCSOTS, CCDVC
Verified Verified
Saint Pauls, NC 28384
Our goal is to educate, empower and enlighten the family unit via parenting classes, play therapy and relaxation.
Greetings! Living at Peace, PLLC is waiting to serve you! We offer a variety of therapeutic services such as Parenting Classes, Play Therapy and Psychosocial Therapy. One of our main attraction is Retail Therapy - this is where our clients are able to browse and shop while they are waiting to see the therapist. Living at Peace, PLLC wants you to leave our office feeling empowered, determined and confident to face everyday situations. Our friendly staff and therapists set the stage for superior and excellent service. Business hours, Monday 12:30- 5:00, Wednesday - 12:30-5:00, Friday -10:00 am-5:00, Saturday 9:30-2:00.
Our goal is to educate, empower and enlighten the family unit via parenting classes, play therapy and relaxation.
Greetings! Living at Peace, PLLC is waiting to serve you! We offer a variety of therapeutic services such as Parenting Classes, Play Therapy and Psychosocial Therapy. One of our main attraction is Retail Therapy - this is where our clients are able to browse and shop while they are waiting to see the therapist. Living at Peace, PLLC wants you to leave our office feeling empowered, determined and confident to face everyday situations. Our friendly staff and therapists set the stage for superior and excellent service. Business hours, Monday 12:30- 5:00, Wednesday - 12:30-5:00, Friday -10:00 am-5:00, Saturday 9:30-2:00.
(910) 629-1961 View (910) 629-1961
Photo of Elzetter Norris - Native Solutions Therapeutic Services, PLLC, MA Ed, LCMHC, LCAS, CSI, NCC
Native Solutions Therapeutic Services, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA Ed, LCMHC, LCAS, CSI, NCC
Verified Verified
Pembroke, NC 28372
She is also aspiring to be a Registered Play Therapist and a National Certified Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist.
Native Solutions is owned and operated by Elzetter Norris, a native of Pembroke and alumni of UNCP, graduating summa cum laude in 2021 with a master’s in clinical mental health counseling, as well as certification in play therapy and addiction counseling. Immediately following graduation, she also received training and certification in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. In 2020 Elzetter won the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) Minority Fellowship award for addictions counselors. In 2023 Elzetter opened Native Solutions, serving all ages, and meeting multiple needs throughout North Carolina.
She is also aspiring to be a Registered Play Therapist and a National Certified Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist.
Native Solutions is owned and operated by Elzetter Norris, a native of Pembroke and alumni of UNCP, graduating summa cum laude in 2021 with a master’s in clinical mental health counseling, as well as certification in play therapy and addiction counseling. Immediately following graduation, she also received training and certification in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. In 2020 Elzetter won the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) Minority Fellowship award for addictions counselors. In 2023 Elzetter opened Native Solutions, serving all ages, and meeting multiple needs throughout North Carolina.
(910) 629-1894 View (910) 629-1894
Photo of DezNique Graham, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
DezNique Graham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Lumberton, NC 28358
I hope to help and empower children through speaking their language of play to live every day to its fullest.
For me, there is no ideal client. I accept my clients for who they are when they walk through my door. I believe counseling does not have to be reserved for when problems arise or for only "big" problems. The client is who decides what goals are important and my job is to allow the space for them to achieve them. I work with a range of ages, specializing in Child-Centered Play Therapy. Child-centered play therapy is not only for children. The principles of the practice can be applied to any age as it encourages building self-esteem, decision making, and utilizing an individual's own problem solving ability.
I hope to help and empower children through speaking their language of play to live every day to its fullest.
For me, there is no ideal client. I accept my clients for who they are when they walk through my door. I believe counseling does not have to be reserved for when problems arise or for only "big" problems. The client is who decides what goals are important and my job is to allow the space for them to achieve them. I work with a range of ages, specializing in Child-Centered Play Therapy. Child-centered play therapy is not only for children. The principles of the practice can be applied to any age as it encourages building self-esteem, decision making, and utilizing an individual's own problem solving ability.
(910) 606-4854 View (910) 606-4854
Photo of Candace Melvin, MS, LCMHC, Counselor
Candace Melvin
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lumberton, NC 28358
I use an eclectic approach which includes brainspotting (focused mindfulness), positive psychology, forward facing trauma therapy, play therapy, and art therapy.
Discovering our truth can be difficult and a challenge. At times, we just need some additional support to help us get through daily challenges. Take a moment and think about what you can do to take more control of your situation. By reading this and thinking about what you can do; you have already taken the first step in discovering your truth and starting your journey of healing. My experience as a therapist includes providing services to a diverse population, from children to adults with a range of diagnoses. I have a background in working with individuals who have challenges with trauma, depression, anxiety, anger, and grief.
I use an eclectic approach which includes brainspotting (focused mindfulness), positive psychology, forward facing trauma therapy, play therapy, and art therapy.
Discovering our truth can be difficult and a challenge. At times, we just need some additional support to help us get through daily challenges. Take a moment and think about what you can do to take more control of your situation. By reading this and thinking about what you can do; you have already taken the first step in discovering your truth and starting your journey of healing. My experience as a therapist includes providing services to a diverse population, from children to adults with a range of diagnoses. I have a background in working with individuals who have challenges with trauma, depression, anxiety, anger, and grief.
(910) 463-9540 View (910) 463-9540
Photo of Arlanda Pridgen, LCMHC-A, Counselor
Arlanda Pridgen
Counselor, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
Lumberton, NC 28358
People come to counseling because they want something to be different in their lives. They want to change their personal or family situation, solve a particular problem, or simply bring a healthier balance to their lives.
People come to counseling because they want something to be different in their lives. They want to change their personal or family situation, solve a particular problem, or simply bring a healthier balance to their lives.
(910) 226-1555 View (910) 226-1555
Photo of Holly Young, LMHC
Holly Young
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Maxton, NC 28364
Hello! My name is Holly Young, a licensed clinical mental health counselor with over six years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, women's issues, grief & loss, and assertiveness training for teens and adults. I use a mix of modalities such as Dialectical (DBT), Eclectic, Trauma Focused, Motivational Interviewing, and Supportive therapy. I believe that kindness and authenticity are a great quality to have.
Hello! My name is Holly Young, a licensed clinical mental health counselor with over six years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, women's issues, grief & loss, and assertiveness training for teens and adults. I use a mix of modalities such as Dialectical (DBT), Eclectic, Trauma Focused, Motivational Interviewing, and Supportive therapy. I believe that kindness and authenticity are a great quality to have.
(828) 547-9398 View (828) 547-9398
Photo of Christopher J Ketchman - Haymount Institute for Psychological Services, PsyD, Psychologist
Haymount Institute for Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lumberton, NC 28358
The power to make positive changes is within us all. The goal of holistic wellness is to "change the lens" and give a healthier perspective for a peaceful and more content life. Our intention is to provide a confidential, professional and supportive environment in which individuals and families can identify problem areas, explore what prevents the problem from being solved, and help you develop and learn skills that can enhance your quality of life.
The power to make positive changes is within us all. The goal of holistic wellness is to "change the lens" and give a healthier perspective for a peaceful and more content life. Our intention is to provide a confidential, professional and supportive environment in which individuals and families can identify problem areas, explore what prevents the problem from being solved, and help you develop and learn skills that can enhance your quality of life.
(910) 719-3087 View (910) 719-3087
Photo of Denise Bostick-Fairley - Symmetry Health Services, PLLC, LCSW, LISW-CP, LCAS, RPT, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Symmetry Health Services, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-CP, LCAS, RPT, CCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lumberton, NC 28358
Hello! Welcome to Symmetry Health Services, PLLC (SHS). During the therapeutic process at SHS, our goal is to provide our clients with guidance, insight, and tools that will result in self-empowerment and wellness. We are equipped and ready to make a special effort to advance each person to uncover the best solution for his or her problem. Our approach to therapy is to help individuals, families, and couples make sense of what has happened in their life, recognize how it continues to affect them, and make changes that allow them to move forward to accomplish their goals.
Hello! Welcome to Symmetry Health Services, PLLC (SHS). During the therapeutic process at SHS, our goal is to provide our clients with guidance, insight, and tools that will result in self-empowerment and wellness. We are equipped and ready to make a special effort to advance each person to uncover the best solution for his or her problem. Our approach to therapy is to help individuals, families, and couples make sense of what has happened in their life, recognize how it continues to affect them, and make changes that allow them to move forward to accomplish their goals.
(910) 501-2436 View (910) 501-2436
Photo of Bobette (Bobbie) Smith - All-American Counseling, Wellness and Consulting, LCSW, MSW, BSW, C-SWHC, C-ASWCM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
All-American Counseling, Wellness and Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, BSW, C-SWHC, C-ASWCM
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lumberton, NC 28358
Clinicians have ties and connections to the military, veterans, LEOs, first responders and surrounding areas for: Cumberland, Moore, Harnett, Robinson, New Hanover, Forsyth and Lee, NC counties. Our contracted clinicians provide a wide range of services and specialties. We appreciate the opportunity to be of help and look forward to all of us working together. Bobette Smith, LCSW, owner, is military connected and a Fayettevillian. Experience with: Service Members and families, first responders, children, adolescents, adults, geriatrics, families, small groups, intensive outpatient groups and clinical inpatient hospital care.
Clinicians have ties and connections to the military, veterans, LEOs, first responders and surrounding areas for: Cumberland, Moore, Harnett, Robinson, New Hanover, Forsyth and Lee, NC counties. Our contracted clinicians provide a wide range of services and specialties. We appreciate the opportunity to be of help and look forward to all of us working together. Bobette Smith, LCSW, owner, is military connected and a Fayettevillian. Experience with: Service Members and families, first responders, children, adolescents, adults, geriatrics, families, small groups, intensive outpatient groups and clinical inpatient hospital care.
(833) 846-3463 View (833) 846-3463
Photo of Holly Young, LMHC
Holly Young
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Rowland, NC 28383  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Holly Young, a licensed clinical mental health counselor with over six years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, women's issues, grief & loss, and assertiveness training for teens and adults. I use a mix of modalities such as Dialectical (DBT), Eclectic, Trauma Focused, Motivational Interviewing, and Supportive therapy. I believe that kindness and authenticity are a great quality to have.
Hello! My name is Holly Young, a licensed clinical mental health counselor with over six years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, women's issues, grief & loss, and assertiveness training for teens and adults. I use a mix of modalities such as Dialectical (DBT), Eclectic, Trauma Focused, Motivational Interviewing, and Supportive therapy. I believe that kindness and authenticity are a great quality to have.
(919) 328-3873 View (919) 328-3873
Photo of Laura Carson, MSW,  LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Carson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lumberton, NC 28359  (Online Only)
Book a free consultation, and let’s see if we’re the right fit to meet your goals! Finding a therapist that's the right fit for YOU can be tricky. I've been told that what people tend to appreciate about our time together is that I really listen and ask questions to get to know THEM. They feel heard and seen. I'll sit in the mud and hold space if that is needed. I will cheer them on as they try new things. I will help them find ways to deal with stress or mend a relationship. That I offer a non judgmental space to show up fully as their human selves.
Book a free consultation, and let’s see if we’re the right fit to meet your goals! Finding a therapist that's the right fit for YOU can be tricky. I've been told that what people tend to appreciate about our time together is that I really listen and ask questions to get to know THEM. They feel heard and seen. I'll sit in the mud and hold space if that is needed. I will cheer them on as they try new things. I will help them find ways to deal with stress or mend a relationship. That I offer a non judgmental space to show up fully as their human selves.
(910) 356-8288 View (910) 356-8288

Online Therapists

Photo of Grace Bailey, LCMHCA, MEd, Counselor
Grace Bailey
Counselor, LCMHCA, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
For children, I utilize their language of play through therapy.
I believe that as human beings we are tasked with navigating the ebbs and flows of life. We experience moments full of joy and laughter while simultaneously coping with the challenges and struggles life throws our way. As a counselor, it is my mission to work with you through the rollercoaster of life. I work with children, teens, adults, and LGBTQ+ populations struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, family dynamics, identity issues, communication and boundary-setting, body-image and self-esteem, and emotion regulation.
For children, I utilize their language of play through therapy.
I believe that as human beings we are tasked with navigating the ebbs and flows of life. We experience moments full of joy and laughter while simultaneously coping with the challenges and struggles life throws our way. As a counselor, it is my mission to work with you through the rollercoaster of life. I work with children, teens, adults, and LGBTQ+ populations struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, family dynamics, identity issues, communication and boundary-setting, body-image and self-esteem, and emotion regulation.
(919) 891-8259 View (919) 891-8259
Photo of Lauren Elizabeth Reaves, LCMHCA, Counselor
Lauren Elizabeth Reaves
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27513
I am currently working towards becoming a registered Play Therapist and an Infant/Early Childhood Mental Health Specialist.
I enjoy working with adults, parents, infants, toddlers, children, and families. As a counselor, I aim to help my clients be their best selves. I aim to provide a safe and supportive space where I can collaborate and work with my clients to reach their goals. I work with individuals from a variety of backgrounds on issues including becoming new parents, depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, relationship challenges, grief and loss, transitions, and other mental health and life concerns.
I am currently working towards becoming a registered Play Therapist and an Infant/Early Childhood Mental Health Specialist.
I enjoy working with adults, parents, infants, toddlers, children, and families. As a counselor, I aim to help my clients be their best selves. I aim to provide a safe and supportive space where I can collaborate and work with my clients to reach their goals. I work with individuals from a variety of backgrounds on issues including becoming new parents, depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, relationship challenges, grief and loss, transitions, and other mental health and life concerns.
(984) 646-0430 View (984) 646-0430
Photo of Nicole Wagoner, MA, LCMHC, ASDCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicole Wagoner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, ASDCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burgaw, NC 28425
The types of counseling theories that I use include Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy and Play-Therapy.
Hi! My name is Nicole. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor working at Ocean's Crest Counseling Center, PLLC in Burgaw, NC. I am accepting new clients with BCBS, United Healthcare, Tricare, United Healthcare Community Plan, and Healthy Blue, Amerihealth, and Wellcare. I am certified as an Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist. I have experience with a variety of mental health diagnoses. I have experience working with children, young adults, and military with a variety of mental health diagnoses. Some of these diagnoses have included PTSD, anxiety, depression, ODD, ADHD, and Conduct Disorder.
The types of counseling theories that I use include Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy and Play-Therapy.
Hi! My name is Nicole. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor working at Ocean's Crest Counseling Center, PLLC in Burgaw, NC. I am accepting new clients with BCBS, United Healthcare, Tricare, United Healthcare Community Plan, and Healthy Blue, Amerihealth, and Wellcare. I am certified as an Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist. I have experience with a variety of mental health diagnoses. I have experience working with children, young adults, and military with a variety of mental health diagnoses. Some of these diagnoses have included PTSD, anxiety, depression, ODD, ADHD, and Conduct Disorder.
(252) 765-4397 View (252) 765-4397
Photo of Rebecca Blanchard, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Rebecca Blanchard
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
When working with children I use play therapy, a developmentally appropriate approach.
Starting therapy can be hard and you are brave to be here taking this first step. I’m passionate about helping clients and families accept themselves and each other. My goal is to create a safe space that allows you to meet yourself exactly where you are and shift the way that you or your child interacts with the world. I have experience supporting clients with anxiety, adoption/attachment needs, depression, grief/loss, mood disorders, parenting support, relationship issues, and trauma. As an EMDR trained therapist together we can process feelings, memories, and trauma that may be too difficult to manage alone.
When working with children I use play therapy, a developmentally appropriate approach.
Starting therapy can be hard and you are brave to be here taking this first step. I’m passionate about helping clients and families accept themselves and each other. My goal is to create a safe space that allows you to meet yourself exactly where you are and shift the way that you or your child interacts with the world. I have experience supporting clients with anxiety, adoption/attachment needs, depression, grief/loss, mood disorders, parenting support, relationship issues, and trauma. As an EMDR trained therapist together we can process feelings, memories, and trauma that may be too difficult to manage alone.
(704) 459-5195 View (704) 459-5195
Photo of Megan Motley-MacCall, Intern, Pre-Licensed Professional
Megan Motley-MacCall
Pre-Licensed Professional, Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27511
I am intrigued by techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavior Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Play Therapy, and various forms of Art Therapy.
Hello! I am currently a graduate student at Liberty University in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program.In the past I worked as a dance teacher in Wake County School's and while there learned about mental health needs for people of all ages and the everyday impacts of trauma. I found myself sitting with children and parents creating a safe space that allowed for dark stories to be shared whether verbally or through dance. Since leaving teaching I have been privileged to have been able to sit with people in their stories related to sexual domestic violence, childhood abuse, spiritual abuse, and Deaf cultural discrimination.
I am intrigued by techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavior Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Play Therapy, and various forms of Art Therapy.
Hello! I am currently a graduate student at Liberty University in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program.In the past I worked as a dance teacher in Wake County School's and while there learned about mental health needs for people of all ages and the everyday impacts of trauma. I found myself sitting with children and parents creating a safe space that allowed for dark stories to be shared whether verbally or through dance. Since leaving teaching I have been privileged to have been able to sit with people in their stories related to sexual domestic violence, childhood abuse, spiritual abuse, and Deaf cultural discrimination.
(984) 314-8116 View (984) 314-8116
Photo of Christopher Daniel McDowell, PsyD, Psychologist
Christopher Daniel McDowell
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
I provide Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
I believe therapy is about helping people realize the greatest amount of happiness in their lives. This may be learning how to manage one's depression and anxiety, a child or adolescent managing their opposition and defiance, or even some skills to make a speech or fall asleep. I also feel therapy is key in processing daily conflicts that affect our thoughts and feelings, but also learning how to make the best decisions that we value.
I provide Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
I believe therapy is about helping people realize the greatest amount of happiness in their lives. This may be learning how to manage one's depression and anxiety, a child or adolescent managing their opposition and defiance, or even some skills to make a speech or fall asleep. I also feel therapy is key in processing daily conflicts that affect our thoughts and feelings, but also learning how to make the best decisions that we value.
(919) 646-5787 View (919) 646-5787
Photo of Liliana Flores, LCSW-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liliana Flores
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fuquay Varina, NC 27526
I also incorporate other treatment modalities to fit the needs of my clients, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, and EMDR Therapy.
I am a bilingual clinician and accepting new patients in our new Fuquay Varina office! II have always been passionate about helping people understand themselves more, identify issues that aren't working, and find self-empowerment to create a life they love. I recognize the importance of one's background, history, and present struggles; therefore, the work between myself and my clients will always be a collaborative effort tailored to your needs as you grow.
I also incorporate other treatment modalities to fit the needs of my clients, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, and EMDR Therapy.
I am a bilingual clinician and accepting new patients in our new Fuquay Varina office! II have always been passionate about helping people understand themselves more, identify issues that aren't working, and find self-empowerment to create a life they love. I recognize the importance of one's background, history, and present struggles; therefore, the work between myself and my clients will always be a collaborative effort tailored to your needs as you grow.
(919) 251-5516 View (919) 251-5516
Photo of Jeffrey Smith, LCMHC, NCC, CPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jeffrey Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, CPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28304
Waitlist for new clients
While I am a Certified Play Therapist working with children and adolescents, I also have experience and knowledge working with adults.
As your therapist, I cannot change how a person acts or reacts to situations, I will not try to fix you, or know what exactly you are going through or feeling. As your therapist, I will try to help you find your own strength, to give you a safe place to discuss what is going on in your life, and support you in finding your correct path forward. As your therapist, I will not assume what is best for you or judge why you are seeking therapy. During this process, I will always remember that you are your own expert but will collaborate with you on how to make the hard aspects of your life a bit easier.
While I am a Certified Play Therapist working with children and adolescents, I also have experience and knowledge working with adults.
As your therapist, I cannot change how a person acts or reacts to situations, I will not try to fix you, or know what exactly you are going through or feeling. As your therapist, I will try to help you find your own strength, to give you a safe place to discuss what is going on in your life, and support you in finding your correct path forward. As your therapist, I will not assume what is best for you or judge why you are seeking therapy. During this process, I will always remember that you are your own expert but will collaborate with you on how to make the hard aspects of your life a bit easier.
(910) 460-3904 View (910) 460-3904

See more therapy options for Robeson County

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.