Play Therapy in Sacramento, CA
You made the decision to look for a therapist, nice! Whether this is your first time wondering into the world of therapy, it's time for an emotional tune-up, or the pain of what happened has grown to be too much, I am truly happy you are reaching out. I deeply believe that it is within safe relationships that we can attain our greatest insights and have the most healing experiences. So if you, or a loved one, is struggling with anxiety, difficult memories, nightmares, ongoing worries, deep sadness, stuck in patterns that no longer serve your goals, or find yourself acting in ways that sabotage your present, then I can help.
You made the decision to look for a therapist, nice! Whether this is your first time wondering into the world of therapy, it's time for an emotional tune-up, or the pain of what happened has grown to be too much, I am truly happy you are reaching out. I deeply believe that it is within safe relationships that we can attain our greatest insights and have the most healing experiences. So if you, or a loved one, is struggling with anxiety, difficult memories, nightmares, ongoing worries, deep sadness, stuck in patterns that no longer serve your goals, or find yourself acting in ways that sabotage your present, then I can help.
Hello, my name is Nicole Stiving. I am an LCSW. I approach therapy by meeting clients where they are at. I believe clients are seeking mental health services for personal reasons so services should be focused on clients' voices and choices regarding what you hope to get from therapy services. Common theoretical approaches that I use are the person-centered approach, systems approach, and using concepts of cognitive behavioral therapy. Most of my experience has been in working with children and families. Therefore, I am comfortable with working with children, youth, transitional-age youth, and/or their caregivers.
Hello, my name is Nicole Stiving. I am an LCSW. I approach therapy by meeting clients where they are at. I believe clients are seeking mental health services for personal reasons so services should be focused on clients' voices and choices regarding what you hope to get from therapy services. Common theoretical approaches that I use are the person-centered approach, systems approach, and using concepts of cognitive behavioral therapy. Most of my experience has been in working with children and families. Therefore, I am comfortable with working with children, youth, transitional-age youth, and/or their caregivers.
I have many years experience in treating children, families and individuals. I treat attachment issues, behavioral problems, depression, low self-esteem, anger issues, anxiety, trauma, sleep issues, aggression, tantrums, lying, bullying, OCD and much more. I also assist families in adjusting to new situations such as separation/divorce, moving, birth of a child, grief and loss of a loved one etc.
I have many years experience in treating children, families and individuals. I treat attachment issues, behavioral problems, depression, low self-esteem, anger issues, anxiety, trauma, sleep issues, aggression, tantrums, lying, bullying, OCD and much more. I also assist families in adjusting to new situations such as separation/divorce, moving, birth of a child, grief and loss of a loved one etc.
Hi. My name is Darlene Obregon, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I like to work with clients on uncovering roots to their presenting problem and help my clients find new ways of healing, so that they can live a more fulfilling life. I have worked with children, adolescents, young adults and families. I have experience working with several mental health disorders including but not limited to; depression, anxiety, PTSD, adjustment disorders, bipolar and ADHD. I have worked with clients on childhood traumas, sexual abuse, school issues, family issues, divorce, custody issues, work stress and life stage stressors.
Hi. My name is Darlene Obregon, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I like to work with clients on uncovering roots to their presenting problem and help my clients find new ways of healing, so that they can live a more fulfilling life. I have worked with children, adolescents, young adults and families. I have experience working with several mental health disorders including but not limited to; depression, anxiety, PTSD, adjustment disorders, bipolar and ADHD. I have worked with clients on childhood traumas, sexual abuse, school issues, family issues, divorce, custody issues, work stress and life stage stressors.
For children, play and art are a vital part of the therapy process.
The search for a therapist often begins at the point when the pain and struggle outweigh the capacity to cope on your own. Whether the search for a therapist is for yourself or your child, to work on a specific challenge or to work through years of challenges, finding relief from the pain and struggle and a path for growth is often the end goal. My intention is to function as a compassionate guide to find the answers within you, perhaps buried under stress and trauma responses which allowed you to survive to this point in your journey.
For children, play and art are a vital part of the therapy process.
The search for a therapist often begins at the point when the pain and struggle outweigh the capacity to cope on your own. Whether the search for a therapist is for yourself or your child, to work on a specific challenge or to work through years of challenges, finding relief from the pain and struggle and a path for growth is often the end goal. My intention is to function as a compassionate guide to find the answers within you, perhaps buried under stress and trauma responses which allowed you to survive to this point in your journey.
You may be feeling stuck. You want things to feel better, but you’re not sure where to begin. Whether it’s supporting your child through big emotions or behavioral challenges, navigating changes in your family, or trying to reconnect with yourself and feel more confident, therapy can be a meaningful first step toward lasting change. My goal is to meet clients where they are and help them move toward where they want to be. I work best with clients who are motivated to grow, even if they feel unsure about what needs to change.
You may be feeling stuck. You want things to feel better, but you’re not sure where to begin. Whether it’s supporting your child through big emotions or behavioral challenges, navigating changes in your family, or trying to reconnect with yourself and feel more confident, therapy can be a meaningful first step toward lasting change. My goal is to meet clients where they are and help them move toward where they want to be. I work best with clients who are motivated to grow, even if they feel unsure about what needs to change.
As your Therapist, my goal is to help you reconnect with your inner strength and wisdom. With gentle inquiry, we will explore your challenges, develop tools that support your growth, and celebrate your successes. It is my practice to couple practical strategies with soulful reflection to create lasting change in your life. My approach is compassionate, client-centered, and strengths-based. You are the expert of your life; my role is to help you hone that expertise to experience the life you desire.
As your Therapist, my goal is to help you reconnect with your inner strength and wisdom. With gentle inquiry, we will explore your challenges, develop tools that support your growth, and celebrate your successes. It is my practice to couple practical strategies with soulful reflection to create lasting change in your life. My approach is compassionate, client-centered, and strengths-based. You are the expert of your life; my role is to help you hone that expertise to experience the life you desire.
We work with children and teens using a variety of modalities, including play, sand tray and expressive arts.
During these stressful times, many of us are experiencing higher levels of anxiety and/or sadness. Are you worried about your child or teen, concerned about your marriage or struggling with family relationships? Do you need new tools to help you feel more confident in parenting your adopted or special needs child/teen? Are you a member of the LGBTQ+ community who is looking for a supportive therapist who understands your unique strengths and challenges. I created American River Family Counseling because I believe that we all deserve happy, healthy and connected relationships.
We work with children and teens using a variety of modalities, including play, sand tray and expressive arts.
During these stressful times, many of us are experiencing higher levels of anxiety and/or sadness. Are you worried about your child or teen, concerned about your marriage or struggling with family relationships? Do you need new tools to help you feel more confident in parenting your adopted or special needs child/teen? Are you a member of the LGBTQ+ community who is looking for a supportive therapist who understands your unique strengths and challenges. I created American River Family Counseling because I believe that we all deserve happy, healthy and connected relationships.
Kathryn Gooden Gonzales
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Sacramento, CA 95827
Waitlist for new clients
My years training and work has helped patients gain self-awareness, increase in their positive perceptions of themselves, gain and building upon new strategies in breaking unhealthy cycles, and addressing the "elephant in the room". It is understood that stressors & life changes happen; so knowing these challenges we can get stuck on where to go next. So, let me assist in gaining the joy and happiness in a healthy functional manner that you so deserve.
My years training and work has helped patients gain self-awareness, increase in their positive perceptions of themselves, gain and building upon new strategies in breaking unhealthy cycles, and addressing the "elephant in the room". It is understood that stressors & life changes happen; so knowing these challenges we can get stuck on where to go next. So, let me assist in gaining the joy and happiness in a healthy functional manner that you so deserve.
Welcome to a Space for Healing and Growth.
Life brings many challenges—but you don’t have to face them alone. Counseling offers a supportive, nonjudgmental space to explore your experiences, build resilience, and move toward a more authentic and fulfilling life.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, is your child struggling, or is your family facing recent changes or hardship?
Whether you're seeking support for yourself, your child, or your entire family, I am here to walk alongside you. Together, we can work through the challenges and discover paths to healing, clarity, and connection.
Welcome to a Space for Healing and Growth.
Life brings many challenges—but you don’t have to face them alone. Counseling offers a supportive, nonjudgmental space to explore your experiences, build resilience, and move toward a more authentic and fulfilling life.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, is your child struggling, or is your family facing recent changes or hardship?
Whether you're seeking support for yourself, your child, or your entire family, I am here to walk alongside you. Together, we can work through the challenges and discover paths to healing, clarity, and connection.
Dr. Victoria Blacksmith is a Clinical Psychologist and psychotherapist specializing in culturally inclusive, holistic care. As a first-generation Mexican-American, she integrates traditional healing practices with evidence-based methods to support clients navigating anxiety, life transitions, and cultural identity challenges. Dr. Blacksmith creates a safe, collaborative space where clients feel seen, respected, and empowered.
Dr. Victoria Blacksmith is a Clinical Psychologist and psychotherapist specializing in culturally inclusive, holistic care. As a first-generation Mexican-American, she integrates traditional healing practices with evidence-based methods to support clients navigating anxiety, life transitions, and cultural identity challenges. Dr. Blacksmith creates a safe, collaborative space where clients feel seen, respected, and empowered.
At Stonebridge Counseling, we help you find the tools you need to overcome life’s challenges because we know that the tools you need to succeed in your life are already within you, our goal is to support you with looking inward to find a sense of confidence and purpose while taking steps to live the life you have always dreamed of living. Hi! I’m Dania Martinez Heng, founder of Stonebridge Counseling. I have helped individuals and families navigate life’s stressors, challenges, and transitions for over 10 years, so that they can feel more empowered, in control and live up to their fullest potential.
At Stonebridge Counseling, we help you find the tools you need to overcome life’s challenges because we know that the tools you need to succeed in your life are already within you, our goal is to support you with looking inward to find a sense of confidence and purpose while taking steps to live the life you have always dreamed of living. Hi! I’m Dania Martinez Heng, founder of Stonebridge Counseling. I have helped individuals and families navigate life’s stressors, challenges, and transitions for over 10 years, so that they can feel more empowered, in control and live up to their fullest potential.
Central Valley Family Therapy is a group practice whose sole focus is providing individuals, couples and families support through all walks of life. Our clinicians recognize the importance of quality treatment for each and every client that walks through our doors. We welcome clients with culturally diverse identities, backgrounds, socio-economic statuses, and experiences. We believe that every person who seeks support should have access to quality mental health services. Our focus is not only on your unique therapeutic goals, but in providing our clients with a warm, friendly and nurturing environment.
Central Valley Family Therapy is a group practice whose sole focus is providing individuals, couples and families support through all walks of life. Our clinicians recognize the importance of quality treatment for each and every client that walks through our doors. We welcome clients with culturally diverse identities, backgrounds, socio-economic statuses, and experiences. We believe that every person who seeks support should have access to quality mental health services. Our focus is not only on your unique therapeutic goals, but in providing our clients with a warm, friendly and nurturing environment.
I am a licensed therapist with over 20 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families. My expertise includes anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship challenges. I hold a master's degree in clinical psychology and have advanced training in cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based approaches, also tailored to the unique experiences of ethnic minority communities.
I am a licensed therapist with over 20 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families. My expertise includes anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship challenges. I hold a master's degree in clinical psychology and have advanced training in cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based approaches, also tailored to the unique experiences of ethnic minority communities.
I started my journey as a therapist in 2012 and I have served children, youth, and adults from diverse backgrounds and experiencces. Currently, I am focusing on supporting people along their pre-natal and postpartum path. My practice is grounded in a reflective process that supports individuals in navigating trauma, grief, and challenging life transitions. I integrate culture and ancestry into the therapeutic process and attend to the ways intersectional oppression impacts well-being. My approach draws on training in trauma-informed care, grief processing, gender-affirming care, expressive arts therapy, and somatic practices.
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I started my journey as a therapist in 2012 and I have served children, youth, and adults from diverse backgrounds and experiencces. Currently, I am focusing on supporting people along their pre-natal and postpartum path. My practice is grounded in a reflective process that supports individuals in navigating trauma, grief, and challenging life transitions. I integrate culture and ancestry into the therapeutic process and attend to the ways intersectional oppression impacts well-being. My approach draws on training in trauma-informed care, grief processing, gender-affirming care, expressive arts therapy, and somatic practices.
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I believe in an approach that people are the experts in their own lives, and I am here to help guide them from a professional standpoint.
I believe in an approach that people are the experts in their own lives, and I am here to help guide them from a professional standpoint.
Hi there, I'm Vanessa! Welcome! I’m here to offer a space where you feel heard, understood, and supported. My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to help you navigate life’s stressors. It’s not always easy to reach out for support, but you’re not alone in this journey. I believe therapy should be a collaborative, empowering experience where you feel seen, heard, and supported. My approach is compassionate, nonjudgmental, and tailored to your unique needs and goals.
Hi there, I'm Vanessa! Welcome! I’m here to offer a space where you feel heard, understood, and supported. My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to help you navigate life’s stressors. It’s not always easy to reach out for support, but you’re not alone in this journey. I believe therapy should be a collaborative, empowering experience where you feel seen, heard, and supported. My approach is compassionate, nonjudgmental, and tailored to your unique needs and goals.
The therapeutic approaches I utilize include but are not limited to, Client-Centered Therapy, Complicated Grief Therapy (CGT), Dance/Movement Therapy, Dialectical (DBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Group Therapy, Heart-Centered, Holistic, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Music Therapy, Narrative, Play Therapy, Sex Therapy, Somatic, and Strength-Based.
You are the expert in your experience. I am an expert at methods, tools, mechanisms, tips, and tricks, to empower you. I am a person just like you, and I believe everything you need is accessible, and we can find those answers, together. I am all things queer positive including consensual non-monogamy, BDSM, pansexuality, blended families, and "non-traditional," relationship dynamics and family formations.
The therapeutic approaches I utilize include but are not limited to, Client-Centered Therapy, Complicated Grief Therapy (CGT), Dance/Movement Therapy, Dialectical (DBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Group Therapy, Heart-Centered, Holistic, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Music Therapy, Narrative, Play Therapy, Sex Therapy, Somatic, and Strength-Based.
You are the expert in your experience. I am an expert at methods, tools, mechanisms, tips, and tricks, to empower you. I am a person just like you, and I believe everything you need is accessible, and we can find those answers, together. I am all things queer positive including consensual non-monogamy, BDSM, pansexuality, blended families, and "non-traditional," relationship dynamics and family formations.
” If you’re interested in integrating art, play, movement, music, sand tray, or spiritual practices into our work - let’s do it!
I am EMDR-trained & use an approach tailored to your needs & who you are as a person. While I have experience working with all ages, my true passion is working with teens & young adults in the following areas: self-esteem, food and body image issues, boundaries, and life transitions. I am a Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor, anti-diet, and fat-accepting.
” If you’re interested in integrating art, play, movement, music, sand tray, or spiritual practices into our work - let’s do it!
I am EMDR-trained & use an approach tailored to your needs & who you are as a person. While I have experience working with all ages, my true passion is working with teens & young adults in the following areas: self-esteem, food and body image issues, boundaries, and life transitions. I am a Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor, anti-diet, and fat-accepting.
Using CBT, DBT, Gottman Method, and play therapy, I help clients understand what's driving their struggles and build skills to address them.
My ideal clients are people who know something needs to change but aren't sure where to start. They're often carrying a lot — for their families, their relationships, their communities — while quietly struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or conflict they don't have the tools to navigate. Many have never tried therapy or weren't sure it was for them. I work with individuals, couples, families, and children, meeting each client where they are. As a South Asian therapist, I welcome clients from communities where stigma has made asking for help feel impossible. Together we build real skills and move toward change that sticks.
Using CBT, DBT, Gottman Method, and play therapy, I help clients understand what's driving their struggles and build skills to address them.
My ideal clients are people who know something needs to change but aren't sure where to start. They're often carrying a lot — for their families, their relationships, their communities — while quietly struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or conflict they don't have the tools to navigate. Many have never tried therapy or weren't sure it was for them. I work with individuals, couples, families, and children, meeting each client where they are. As a South Asian therapist, I welcome clients from communities where stigma has made asking for help feel impossible. Together we build real skills and move toward change that sticks.
See more therapy options for Sacramento
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Sacramento
- Carmichael
- Citrus Heights
- Davis
- Elk Grove
- Fair Oaks
- Folsom
- Gold River
- Orangevale
- Rancho Cordova
- Roseville
- West Sacramento
- Woodland
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.