Play Therapy in San Jose, CA

Photo of Cindy Melendez, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Cindy Melendez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Online Only
I bring a wealth of experience to my practice, having worked in a variety of clinical settings. My career includes significant time spent in residential programs for at-risk youths. I have also enjoyed working with adults. In my career, I have taught numerous parenting courses across several schools, sharing valuable insights and strategies with parents to help them support their children's development effectively. My approach to therapy is rooted in individualized care.
I bring a wealth of experience to my practice, having worked in a variety of clinical settings. My career includes significant time spent in residential programs for at-risk youths. I have also enjoyed working with adults. In my career, I have taught numerous parenting courses across several schools, sharing valuable insights and strategies with parents to help them support their children's development effectively. My approach to therapy is rooted in individualized care.
View
Photo of Aditi Shah, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Aditi Shah
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
San Jose, CA 95126
Maybe the world has lost its color or you have lost your path. Perhaps the past still permeates your present in ways that feel impossible to shake. If you are tired of the constant friction of trying to prove your worth to yourself or please everyone around you, I am here to offer a different way forward.
Maybe the world has lost its color or you have lost your path. Perhaps the past still permeates your present in ways that feel impossible to shake. If you are tired of the constant friction of trying to prove your worth to yourself or please everyone around you, I am here to offer a different way forward.
(408) 539-0082 View (408) 539-0082
Photo of Tina Engel - Christian Counseling Collective, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christian Counseling Collective
Marriage & Family Therapist
San Jose, CA 95124
Christian Counseling Collective has provided mental health services, support, and educational training to the Bay Area community for more than 30+ Years. Our team of 50+ therapists are passionate about caring for your emotional, mental, and relational needs through our broad range of clinical expertise. We are here to help!
Christian Counseling Collective has provided mental health services, support, and educational training to the Bay Area community for more than 30+ Years. Our team of 50+ therapists are passionate about caring for your emotional, mental, and relational needs through our broad range of clinical expertise. We are here to help!
(408) 413-4529 View (408) 413-4529
Photo of Tania Goldszmidt, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Tania Goldszmidt
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
San Jose, CA 95128
I am an experienced child play therapist and trained in PCIT.
As a bi-lingual (Spanish-English) therapist in Santa Clara County, I work with children, adolescents, families, individual adults and couples. My therapeutic practice is based on a person-centered psychodynamic approach where I employ strengths based, trauma informed, motivational interviewing and family systems evidence-based frameworks. My primary focus is to provide clients with a safe non-judgemental and culturally attuned space to explore and process. My aim is to help you achieve personal goals that will make life more fulfilled and find ways to adjust to demands and stressors.
I am an experienced child play therapist and trained in PCIT.
As a bi-lingual (Spanish-English) therapist in Santa Clara County, I work with children, adolescents, families, individual adults and couples. My therapeutic practice is based on a person-centered psychodynamic approach where I employ strengths based, trauma informed, motivational interviewing and family systems evidence-based frameworks. My primary focus is to provide clients with a safe non-judgemental and culturally attuned space to explore and process. My aim is to help you achieve personal goals that will make life more fulfilled and find ways to adjust to demands and stressors.
(669) 239-2235 View (669) 239-2235
Photo of Misty Batch, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PPS
Misty Batch
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PPS
San Jose, CA 95126
Hi- thank you for selecting my profile. I draw from the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) model and see individuals, couples, and children dealing with a broad range of challenges, such as: Stress/Anxiety/Depression, managing Work/Life/Balance, marital/relationship/communication discord, behavioral challenges in children/adolescents, trauma/PTSD, grief, infertility/postpartum worries, social anxiety, diversity/belonging struggles, and workplace stressors.
Hi- thank you for selecting my profile. I draw from the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) model and see individuals, couples, and children dealing with a broad range of challenges, such as: Stress/Anxiety/Depression, managing Work/Life/Balance, marital/relationship/communication discord, behavioral challenges in children/adolescents, trauma/PTSD, grief, infertility/postpartum worries, social anxiety, diversity/belonging struggles, and workplace stressors.
(408) 659-8174 View (408) 659-8174
Photo of Leah M Elvitsky - Therapy By Choice, Inc., Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Therapy By Choice, Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95128
Why go through a divorce? Learn how to please your partner by learning communication skills, reconnection and the power of you in a we. In couples therapy, I can help you to focus on your goals, teach you how to self-soothe, manage stress and anxiety, keep depression in check, heal past hurts, build trust and fun with your partner. Please email, text or call today for a free 15 minute consultation.
Why go through a divorce? Learn how to please your partner by learning communication skills, reconnection and the power of you in a we. In couples therapy, I can help you to focus on your goals, teach you how to self-soothe, manage stress and anxiety, keep depression in check, heal past hurts, build trust and fun with your partner. Please email, text or call today for a free 15 minute consultation.
(408) 900-2690 View (408) 900-2690
Photo of Felicia Santiago, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Felicia Santiago
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
San Jose, CA 95128
First off, I want to commend anyone who is taking the initiative to search and scour the Internet for extra support. I know how daunting the process can be, but you are here and this is the first step. Life can be stressful and scary at times. We all come from different walks of life, and sometimes we can not take on the world alone. My name is Felicia Santiago, and I hope to be a support to you by creating a safe space for you to express yourself. I am versatile in my approach and use a variety of therapeutic approaches based on individual clients and their presenting concerns. - email preferred and full monday availability!
First off, I want to commend anyone who is taking the initiative to search and scour the Internet for extra support. I know how daunting the process can be, but you are here and this is the first step. Life can be stressful and scary at times. We all come from different walks of life, and sometimes we can not take on the world alone. My name is Felicia Santiago, and I hope to be a support to you by creating a safe space for you to express yourself. I am versatile in my approach and use a variety of therapeutic approaches based on individual clients and their presenting concerns. - email preferred and full monday availability!
(855) 967-1238 View (855) 967-1238
Photo of Nicole Clelland, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PMH-C
Nicole Clelland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PMH-C
Online Only
I work from a client-centered approach, tailoring every session and treatment plan to meet the unique needs of each individual client or family unit. I believe that you are the expert in your own life, and I am here to provide a supportive role as we work together. While I thoroughly enjoy being a therapist, I especially love being a mom. I have two small children and love to spend all my free time with them and my husband.
I work from a client-centered approach, tailoring every session and treatment plan to meet the unique needs of each individual client or family unit. I believe that you are the expert in your own life, and I am here to provide a supportive role as we work together. While I thoroughly enjoy being a therapist, I especially love being a mom. I have two small children and love to spend all my free time with them and my husband.
(650) 297-7673 View (650) 297-7673
Photo of Cynthia Barrios, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Cynthia Barrios
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Cynthia has nineteen years of experience as a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. In addition, she is Certified in DBT and EMDR. Her areas of expertise are in: Trauma, Depression, Anxiety and Life Transitions.
Cynthia has nineteen years of experience as a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. In addition, she is Certified in DBT and EMDR. Her areas of expertise are in: Trauma, Depression, Anxiety and Life Transitions.
(408) 837-7381 View (408) 837-7381
Photo of Samantha Kountz-Edwards, Psychologist, PhD
Samantha Kountz-Edwards
Psychologist, PhD
3 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95125
Many people experience anxiety or sadness at some point in their life. Sometimes these feelings are related to a big change, a new stressor, or a longstanding challenge that has left you feeling overwhelmed and stuck. Regardless of what's going on in your life, my goal is to help you better confront, cope with, and recover from difficulties, so that you can live a more fulfilling life. I understand that the idea of therapy can seem intimidating. I see your decision to engage in treatment as a true testament to your strength.
Many people experience anxiety or sadness at some point in their life. Sometimes these feelings are related to a big change, a new stressor, or a longstanding challenge that has left you feeling overwhelmed and stuck. Regardless of what's going on in your life, my goal is to help you better confront, cope with, and recover from difficulties, so that you can live a more fulfilling life. I understand that the idea of therapy can seem intimidating. I see your decision to engage in treatment as a true testament to your strength.
(415) 949-2466 View (415) 949-2466
Photo of Samantha Medeiros, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Samantha Medeiros
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
San Jose, CA 95126
I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) and I support individuals, couples, families and groups from a variety of backgrounds and communities. I offer individual and relationship sessions for people of all sexual backgrounds and alternative-style relationships. As a trauma-informed and kink-aware mental health professional, I use an integrative approach to treatment modalities to tailor your therapeutic experience and growth process.
I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) and I support individuals, couples, families and groups from a variety of backgrounds and communities. I offer individual and relationship sessions for people of all sexual backgrounds and alternative-style relationships. As a trauma-informed and kink-aware mental health professional, I use an integrative approach to treatment modalities to tailor your therapeutic experience and growth process.
(408) 837-0529 View (408) 837-0529
Photo of Milly R Thomas - Mindful Matters, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Mindful Matters
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95129
I want to commend you that in seeking help, you are taking the first step towards a healthier, happier life. If you are feeling isolated in your thoughts, and conflicted about sharing what you are going through with a stranger, I totally understand what you are feeling and want you to know that you are not alone. I am here to support and guide you in discovering how to move forward in your life and overcome the challenges you are currently facing. I provide a safe, supportive, and caring environment that will help facilitate the healing and restoration process. I accept Lyra and Cigna insurance.
I want to commend you that in seeking help, you are taking the first step towards a healthier, happier life. If you are feeling isolated in your thoughts, and conflicted about sharing what you are going through with a stranger, I totally understand what you are feeling and want you to know that you are not alone. I am here to support and guide you in discovering how to move forward in your life and overcome the challenges you are currently facing. I provide a safe, supportive, and caring environment that will help facilitate the healing and restoration process. I accept Lyra and Cigna insurance.
(510) 254-3473 View (510) 254-3473
Photo of Michele Brister, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, PPSC
Michele Brister
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, PPSC
3 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95128
I'm Michele, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor dedicated to supporting school-aged children and adolescents through individual and group counseling. My passion is helping young people develop coping skills, positive attitudes, and meaningful experiences that empower them to thrive in social, educational, and home environments. With a focus on fostering self-esteem, managing anxiety, addressing ADHD, and enhancing social skills, I bring a personalized and holistic approach to my practice, guiding each child toward a happy, healthy, and productive life.
I'm Michele, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor dedicated to supporting school-aged children and adolescents through individual and group counseling. My passion is helping young people develop coping skills, positive attitudes, and meaningful experiences that empower them to thrive in social, educational, and home environments. With a focus on fostering self-esteem, managing anxiety, addressing ADHD, and enhancing social skills, I bring a personalized and holistic approach to my practice, guiding each child toward a happy, healthy, and productive life.
(669) 219-8097 View (669) 219-8097
Photo of Kent Campbell, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, LPCC
Kent Campbell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, LPCC
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95128
Dear Reader: kudos to you for taking time to see if a new experience in therapy might make a difference in your life and/or the lives of your loved ones. The metaphoric journey you are embarking upon has the potential for facing dark corners in hopes of lasting positive change. I deeply appreciate the opportunity to walk with my clients on their journeys; I've seen great healing and growth amidst the challenges human life brings. I invite you to carry onwards to find a clinician who might help you on your way.
Dear Reader: kudos to you for taking time to see if a new experience in therapy might make a difference in your life and/or the lives of your loved ones. The metaphoric journey you are embarking upon has the potential for facing dark corners in hopes of lasting positive change. I deeply appreciate the opportunity to walk with my clients on their journeys; I've seen great healing and growth amidst the challenges human life brings. I invite you to carry onwards to find a clinician who might help you on your way.
(669) 273-2840 View (669) 273-2840
Photo of Heather Malin, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, PhD
Heather Malin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, PhD
San Jose, CA 95120
I create a therapeutic relationship where you feel truly seen, supported, and understood. Together, we’ll explore what keeps you stuck or in pain and draw on your inner resources to create the life you want to live. I work with teens and adults who are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, or difficult life transitions. In our time together, we’ll compassionately explore and reshape unhelpful patterns, clearing your way to a more connected and purposeful life. I also support parents and families in understanding the dynamics that lead to conflict and building more supportive, fulfilling relationships.
I create a therapeutic relationship where you feel truly seen, supported, and understood. Together, we’ll explore what keeps you stuck or in pain and draw on your inner resources to create the life you want to live. I work with teens and adults who are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, or difficult life transitions. In our time together, we’ll compassionately explore and reshape unhelpful patterns, clearing your way to a more connected and purposeful life. I also support parents and families in understanding the dynamics that lead to conflict and building more supportive, fulfilling relationships.
(408) 317-4666 View (408) 317-4666
Photo of Kitte Anderson, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Kitte Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95129
I am a caring and down-to-earth therapist dedicated to helping clients experience life in more fulfilling ways. I believe each person is the expert in their own life and that a strong therapeutic alliance can assist in bringing out innate resilience and resourcefulness. My approach is strengths-based and collaborative. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Solution Focused techniques to support clients in achieving their goals.
I am a caring and down-to-earth therapist dedicated to helping clients experience life in more fulfilling ways. I believe each person is the expert in their own life and that a strong therapeutic alliance can assist in bringing out innate resilience and resourcefulness. My approach is strengths-based and collaborative. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Solution Focused techniques to support clients in achieving their goals.
(669) 758-2449 View (669) 758-2449
Photo of Beatriz Gutierrez, Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT
Beatriz Gutierrez
Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT
San Jose, CA 95126
I’m a proud Latina, a mom, a wife, and the eldest daughter in my family; so, I understand what it’s like to carry a lot. I also know how hard it can be to stay rooted in your culture while trying to find your place in a world that often asks you to blend in. I’ve worked in mental health for over 23 years, supporting people through anxiety, stress, identity struggles, family dynamics, and more. My approach is centered on you, your story, your strengths, and your pace. Healing looks different for everyone, and there’s no one right way to do it. I’m not here to judge or tell you who to be.
I’m a proud Latina, a mom, a wife, and the eldest daughter in my family; so, I understand what it’s like to carry a lot. I also know how hard it can be to stay rooted in your culture while trying to find your place in a world that often asks you to blend in. I’ve worked in mental health for over 23 years, supporting people through anxiety, stress, identity struggles, family dynamics, and more. My approach is centered on you, your story, your strengths, and your pace. Healing looks different for everyone, and there’s no one right way to do it. I’m not here to judge or tell you who to be.
(408) 443-2493 View (408) 443-2493
Photo of Angelita M. Pabros, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Angelita M. Pabros
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95126
My modalities are Cognitive Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Psychoanalytic Therapy, which involves using the following techniques: art therapy, play therapy, sand tray, role play, and client centered.
Life is a challenge and may be overwhelming at times for you as you are suffering from depression. Even the brave step in finding emotional support through therapy may be difficult to initiate for some people. My goal is to assist clients in helping them understand that there is a process of recovery of depression and to raise their awareness that they are not alone.
My modalities are Cognitive Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Psychoanalytic Therapy, which involves using the following techniques: art therapy, play therapy, sand tray, role play, and client centered.
Life is a challenge and may be overwhelming at times for you as you are suffering from depression. Even the brave step in finding emotional support through therapy may be difficult to initiate for some people. My goal is to assist clients in helping them understand that there is a process of recovery of depression and to raise their awareness that they are not alone.
(650) 667-7872 x425 View (650) 667-7872 x425
Photo of Rebecca Valdivia, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, ATR-P
Rebecca Valdivia
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, ATR-P
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95112
Are you a BIPOC going through a life transition or processing trauma? Are you a neurodivergent individual, overwhelmed by navigating in spaces that are non-affirming? Are you looking for a new creative way to deal with difficulties in life and get in touch with your best self? Are you a parent who feels like you’ve tried everything with your child experiencing symptoms of trauma, but they struggle to benefit from traditional talk therapy?
Are you a BIPOC going through a life transition or processing trauma? Are you a neurodivergent individual, overwhelmed by navigating in spaces that are non-affirming? Are you looking for a new creative way to deal with difficulties in life and get in touch with your best self? Are you a parent who feels like you’ve tried everything with your child experiencing symptoms of trauma, but they struggle to benefit from traditional talk therapy?
(408) 583-5523 View (408) 583-5523
Photo of Jonathan Singleton, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jonathan Singleton
Pre-Licensed Professional
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95126
Welcome! My name is Jonathan Singleton and I am a therapist working toward finishing my LMFT/LPCC licensure hours. I offer in-person and tele-health therapy for children, teens, adults, and couples. My holistic approach blends expressive arts, eco-therapy, trauma work, and addiction support.
Welcome! My name is Jonathan Singleton and I am a therapist working toward finishing my LMFT/LPCC licensure hours. I offer in-person and tele-health therapy for children, teens, adults, and couples. My holistic approach blends expressive arts, eco-therapy, trauma work, and addiction support.
(408) 443-3145 x491 View (408) 443-3145 x491

See more therapy options for San Jose

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.