Play Therapy in Grand Junction, CO
Drawing from my experience in private practice and a CACREP-accredited program, I blend client-centered play, art, nature-based, group, and humanistic therapies.
As a compassionate and client-centered counselor, I specialize in supporting adults and adolescents facing neurodiversity, LGBTQIA+ challenges, anxiety, trauma, and depression.
Drawing from my experience in private practice and a CACREP-accredited program, I blend client-centered play, art, nature-based, group, and humanistic therapies.
As a compassionate and client-centered counselor, I specialize in supporting adults and adolescents facing neurodiversity, LGBTQIA+ challenges, anxiety, trauma, and depression.
My ideal client is someone who’s been carrying a lot on their own—sensitive, thoughtful, often overwhelmed, and longing for a steadier way forward. They want clarity, boundaries, and a space where they don’t have to perform or rush. They’re seeking support that feels calm, collaborative, and respectful of their pace, and they’re ready to feel more grounded and understood.
My ideal client is someone who’s been carrying a lot on their own—sensitive, thoughtful, often overwhelmed, and longing for a steadier way forward. They want clarity, boundaries, and a space where they don’t have to perform or rush. They’re seeking support that feels calm, collaborative, and respectful of their pace, and they’re ready to feel more grounded and understood.
I specialize in working with children, using play-based approaches to help them express emotions, process experiences, and build resilience.
I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT) to help you or your child build practical skills, increase emotional awareness, and create lasting change. Whether working through anxiety, trauma, or relationship challenges, I offer care, patience, and support.
I specialize in working with children, using play-based approaches to help them express emotions, process experiences, and build resilience.
I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT) to help you or your child build practical skills, increase emotional awareness, and create lasting change. Whether working through anxiety, trauma, or relationship challenges, I offer care, patience, and support.
I also incorporate family systems work, motivational interviewing, play therapy, sandplay, and targeted interventions to support healing and growth in children, adolescents, young adults and their families.
My ideal client's are boys (4-10), adolescent boys (11-17) and young adult males (18-26) struggling with emotional or behavioral challenges at home, school, or in the community, such as ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, trauma, or school related issues. They need support in building coping skills, emotional regulation, and improving relationships. Their goals are to feel more confident, manage stress, and heal from past trauma, leading to healthier, more fulfilling lives.
I also incorporate family systems work, motivational interviewing, play therapy, sandplay, and targeted interventions to support healing and growth in children, adolescents, young adults and their families.
My ideal client's are boys (4-10), adolescent boys (11-17) and young adult males (18-26) struggling with emotional or behavioral challenges at home, school, or in the community, such as ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, trauma, or school related issues. They need support in building coping skills, emotional regulation, and improving relationships. Their goals are to feel more confident, manage stress, and heal from past trauma, leading to healthier, more fulfilling lives.
The Chocolate Peach Bonding Company
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Grand Junction, CO 81501
Progress is determined by the ability to step, not the actual step. The ability to step is often impeded by our view of self, based on our past experiences and our perceptions of the future. The organization of thoughts from both our past and about our future allow us to be present to have the ability to step into our intended destiny. Those moments of darkness in our lives that lend to our self-image and handicap our opportunity to be hopeful about tomorrow can be reorganized so that they may become fuel for our present self.
Progress is determined by the ability to step, not the actual step. The ability to step is often impeded by our view of self, based on our past experiences and our perceptions of the future. The organization of thoughts from both our past and about our future allow us to be present to have the ability to step into our intended destiny. Those moments of darkness in our lives that lend to our self-image and handicap our opportunity to be hopeful about tomorrow can be reorganized so that they may become fuel for our present self.
My name is Christina, and I am a licensed therapist dedicated to guiding individuals through the twists and turns of life. I believe that every person's journey is unique and that healing blossoms from genuine connection, self-compassion, and understanding. My approach is warm, collaborative, and rooted in evidence-based practices.
My name is Christina, and I am a licensed therapist dedicated to guiding individuals through the twists and turns of life. I believe that every person's journey is unique and that healing blossoms from genuine connection, self-compassion, and understanding. My approach is warm, collaborative, and rooted in evidence-based practices.
Catherine Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Grand Junction, CO 81506
Waitlist for new clients
Specializing in healing from abuse and neglect trauma through play therapy, art therapy, and family systems therapy to help individuals and families transition to the next life stage.
Life rarely turns out how we think it will, so when a deeply distressing or disturbing experience occurs, we often struggle to find our next steps. Hope and purpose can become a distant reality. Sometimes, the traumatic event occurs to just one person, but often times, these experiences happen within the context of the family and everyone is impacted. Despite our best efforts to continue on our own, we may need the assistance of another person. At Mountain Valley Counseling, I use an integrated blend of evidence-based techniques as well as a warm, authentic approach to provide hope-filled healing and professional guidance.
Specializing in healing from abuse and neglect trauma through play therapy, art therapy, and family systems therapy to help individuals and families transition to the next life stage.
Life rarely turns out how we think it will, so when a deeply distressing or disturbing experience occurs, we often struggle to find our next steps. Hope and purpose can become a distant reality. Sometimes, the traumatic event occurs to just one person, but often times, these experiences happen within the context of the family and everyone is impacted. Despite our best efforts to continue on our own, we may need the assistance of another person. At Mountain Valley Counseling, I use an integrated blend of evidence-based techniques as well as a warm, authentic approach to provide hope-filled healing and professional guidance.
Are you ready for a change? Do you feel stuck in the same pattern of life that doesn't seem to be working for you? Family troubles, work problems, relationship stress? I can help. I help clients get out of the rut. Often times its the same problems happening over and over again in our lives because we have not addressed them. I would like to help you address the deeper root of the problems to initiate change in your life and help you reach the life you deserve!
Are you ready for a change? Do you feel stuck in the same pattern of life that doesn't seem to be working for you? Family troubles, work problems, relationship stress? I can help. I help clients get out of the rut. Often times its the same problems happening over and over again in our lives because we have not addressed them. I would like to help you address the deeper root of the problems to initiate change in your life and help you reach the life you deserve!
Jeffrey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, C-CCPT
1 Endorsed
Grand Junction, CO 81501
Waitlist for new clients
As a Certified Child-Centered Play Therapist, I use trauma-informed and developmentally appropriate approaches to help children express emotions, build resilience, and grow in confidence.
Life can feel heavy when we carry the weight of past experiences or the stress of the present moment. Whether you’re an adult navigating emotional distress, or a parent concerned about your child’s emotional wellbeing, I provide a safe, supportive space for healing and growth. My approach combines compassion, insight, and practical tools that help you create real, lasting change. I work with children, teens, and adults using an integrated, person-centered approach, tailoring each session to your unique needs so you can grow through life's challenges with confidence.
As a Certified Child-Centered Play Therapist, I use trauma-informed and developmentally appropriate approaches to help children express emotions, build resilience, and grow in confidence.
Life can feel heavy when we carry the weight of past experiences or the stress of the present moment. Whether you’re an adult navigating emotional distress, or a parent concerned about your child’s emotional wellbeing, I provide a safe, supportive space for healing and growth. My approach combines compassion, insight, and practical tools that help you create real, lasting change. I work with children, teens, and adults using an integrated, person-centered approach, tailoring each session to your unique needs so you can grow through life's challenges with confidence.
Elizabeth Dianne Aubert
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
1 Endorsed
Grand Junction, CO 81505
My extensive training includes trauma recovery, play therapy, parent coaching, suicide prevention, and addiction recovery.
Deep breath!
So, you're ready for change, but not sure how that's going to look. Big steps or little steps. Running, walking or tiptoeing... I'm ready to take the journey with you. My approah is genuine and goal is to always honor the integrity of your experience. Come, I warmly invite you to share your story and know that you will be greeted with open acceptance, kindness, and unwavering compassion. Assuredly, you will find these to be my central qualities and values.
So, welcome to the journey.
My extensive training includes trauma recovery, play therapy, parent coaching, suicide prevention, and addiction recovery.
Deep breath!
So, you're ready for change, but not sure how that's going to look. Big steps or little steps. Running, walking or tiptoeing... I'm ready to take the journey with you. My approah is genuine and goal is to always honor the integrity of your experience. Come, I warmly invite you to share your story and know that you will be greeted with open acceptance, kindness, and unwavering compassion. Assuredly, you will find these to be my central qualities and values.
So, welcome to the journey.
Do you find yourself stuck doing or thinking things that don't serve you? Whether that's at work, at home with your partner or children, or on your own, despite your best efforts, it isn't getting better. The world is flooded with ideas on self-help and coping with stress, which often shines a bright light how things aren't working. If you've felt overwhelmed by the circumstances of your life, the counselors at Live Well are here to help you find lasting resolution to the issues that keep you stuck. We move beyond coping with hard things, to the root, so you can experience deep healing, & live the rich life you are worthy of.
Do you find yourself stuck doing or thinking things that don't serve you? Whether that's at work, at home with your partner or children, or on your own, despite your best efforts, it isn't getting better. The world is flooded with ideas on self-help and coping with stress, which often shines a bright light how things aren't working. If you've felt overwhelmed by the circumstances of your life, the counselors at Live Well are here to help you find lasting resolution to the issues that keep you stuck. We move beyond coping with hard things, to the root, so you can experience deep healing, & live the rich life you are worthy of.
We offer individual, couple, family, and play therapy for ages 3+ with a variety of payment options.
Our ideal client feels stuck in cycles of pain from trauma, anxiety, or life transitions. They've tried quick fixes but know deep healing takes time. They want a therapist who won't give up on them—someone who'll walk alongside them for months or years, not just sessions. They need consistency, safety, and genuine care without worrying about session limits or costs. They're ready to do the real work of healing in a space that feels like home, not a clinical office.
We offer individual, couple, family, and play therapy for ages 3+ with a variety of payment options.
Our ideal client feels stuck in cycles of pain from trauma, anxiety, or life transitions. They've tried quick fixes but know deep healing takes time. They want a therapist who won't give up on them—someone who'll walk alongside them for months or years, not just sessions. They need consistency, safety, and genuine care without worrying about session limits or costs. They're ready to do the real work of healing in a space that feels like home, not a clinical office.
I work with kids 3+, teens, and adults who have experienced trauma, attachment issues, depression, anxiety, and those navigating life transitions. I am an EMDR certified clinician and Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP). I am also trained in Theraplay and integrate elements of parts work (IFS), sandplay and other attachment, trauma-informed, and brain and body connecting approaches. I enjoy working with clients of all identities and value each person’s lived experience.
I work with kids 3+, teens, and adults who have experienced trauma, attachment issues, depression, anxiety, and those navigating life transitions. I am an EMDR certified clinician and Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP). I am also trained in Theraplay and integrate elements of parts work (IFS), sandplay and other attachment, trauma-informed, and brain and body connecting approaches. I enjoy working with clients of all identities and value each person’s lived experience.
Creative Directions Counseling & Consulting, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPT-S
1 Endorsed
Grand Junction, CO 81501
We encourage you to embrace your play, reconnect with your inner-self, and revitalize your passion for life.
We offer specialties like play therapy, EMDR, DBT, CBT, and nature therapy. Our group therapy options include Child-Centered Play Therapy, Animal-Assisted Therapy, Hiking & Nature Therapy, Agile Minds, Pokémon, D&D, DBT, and Dinosaur Discovery. We value client expression and communication in whatever form fits you: play, art, processing, or group activities.
We encourage you to embrace your play, reconnect with your inner-self, and revitalize your passion for life.
We offer specialties like play therapy, EMDR, DBT, CBT, and nature therapy. Our group therapy options include Child-Centered Play Therapy, Animal-Assisted Therapy, Hiking & Nature Therapy, Agile Minds, Pokémon, D&D, DBT, and Dinosaur Discovery. We value client expression and communication in whatever form fits you: play, art, processing, or group activities.
I am trained and/or certified in: EMDR, NMT, CBT, TFCBT, Motivational Interviewing, IFS, DBT, play therapy, group therapy, and others.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Colorado, and a current DSW candidate through the University of Kentucky, who is here to help you with whatever it is that has led you to this moment of seeking out support. I enjoy aiding/guiding clients through whatever challenges or experiences they are facing with more ease and security. I have worked with a variety of ages, including geriatric and toddler clients. Foci: trauma (PTSD), depression, anxiety, substance use, family issues or persistent mental health. My current research interests relate to neurodiversity and neuro-affirming care.
I am trained and/or certified in: EMDR, NMT, CBT, TFCBT, Motivational Interviewing, IFS, DBT, play therapy, group therapy, and others.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Colorado, and a current DSW candidate through the University of Kentucky, who is here to help you with whatever it is that has led you to this moment of seeking out support. I enjoy aiding/guiding clients through whatever challenges or experiences they are facing with more ease and security. I have worked with a variety of ages, including geriatric and toddler clients. Foci: trauma (PTSD), depression, anxiety, substance use, family issues or persistent mental health. My current research interests relate to neurodiversity and neuro-affirming care.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with ten years of experience in the mental health field. I specialize in working with women that have experienced trauma in their life. I am passionate about helping others find their own path and find healing and growth within themselves. I strongly believe that there is a mind, body connection and through exploring and healing that connection that true change can occur.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with ten years of experience in the mental health field. I specialize in working with women that have experienced trauma in their life. I am passionate about helping others find their own path and find healing and growth within themselves. I strongly believe that there is a mind, body connection and through exploring and healing that connection that true change can occur.
Life can feel challenging and unpredictable, and for individuals who are neurodivergent, these challenges can feel even more overwhelming. Questions around identity, self-understanding, and finding where you “fit” in the world can bring up feelings of confusion or disconnection. At times, this sense of feeling lost can contribute to increased anxiety and depression. For adolescents and young adults especially, navigating these experiences can feel incredibly heavy and isolating.
Life can feel challenging and unpredictable, and for individuals who are neurodivergent, these challenges can feel even more overwhelming. Questions around identity, self-understanding, and finding where you “fit” in the world can bring up feelings of confusion or disconnection. At times, this sense of feeling lost can contribute to increased anxiety and depression. For adolescents and young adults especially, navigating these experiences can feel incredibly heavy and isolating.
We offer diverse, effective treatments including art and play therapy, EMDR, CBT, DBT, and engaging talk therapy, to name a few.
At KidStuff Child & Family Counseling we specialize in guiding children, families, and adults through all of life's "stuff" - from everyday hurdles to complex issues. Our mission is to enhance overall wellness through creative, compassionate, and multiculturally competent mental health services. Our amazing team of therapists create a collaborative, tailored experience to address your unique needs, and offer a warm, supportive environment for your healing journey. We accept Medicaid, commercial insurance, and offer affordable cash-pay options. In-person and virtual sessions are available.
We offer diverse, effective treatments including art and play therapy, EMDR, CBT, DBT, and engaging talk therapy, to name a few.
At KidStuff Child & Family Counseling we specialize in guiding children, families, and adults through all of life's "stuff" - from everyday hurdles to complex issues. Our mission is to enhance overall wellness through creative, compassionate, and multiculturally competent mental health services. Our amazing team of therapists create a collaborative, tailored experience to address your unique needs, and offer a warm, supportive environment for your healing journey. We accept Medicaid, commercial insurance, and offer affordable cash-pay options. In-person and virtual sessions are available.
As a clinical psychologist, I have over two decades of experience coaching and counseling, individuals, couples, & families. My specialty is helping individuals step fully into their next-level selves. My work is about clarity, transformation, and uncovering the gifts you may not yet see in yourself. Together, we will craft a life that feels not only successful but deeply satisfying — one where you not only level up but also enjoy the ride!
As a clinical psychologist, I have over two decades of experience coaching and counseling, individuals, couples, & families. My specialty is helping individuals step fully into their next-level selves. My work is about clarity, transformation, and uncovering the gifts you may not yet see in yourself. Together, we will craft a life that feels not only successful but deeply satisfying — one where you not only level up but also enjoy the ride!
Engaging in therapy with me offers a refreshing approach that breaks away from typical clichés. If you find yourself struggling to express your true self these days, I invite you to kick off your shoes, settle into a comfortable space, and open up to an authentic conversation. Many people often envision therapy as a monotonous routine, where a therapist sits jotting down notes while mechanically asking, "How does that make you feel?"
Are you struggling with parent/child dynamics? My certification in Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) is focused on helping families build connections and empower positive behaviors.
Engaging in therapy with me offers a refreshing approach that breaks away from typical clichés. If you find yourself struggling to express your true self these days, I invite you to kick off your shoes, settle into a comfortable space, and open up to an authentic conversation. Many people often envision therapy as a monotonous routine, where a therapist sits jotting down notes while mechanically asking, "How does that make you feel?"
Are you struggling with parent/child dynamics? My certification in Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) is focused on helping families build connections and empower positive behaviors.
See more therapy options for Grand Junction
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.