Play Therapy in Washington, DC

Photo of Karyne Messina, Psychologist, EdD
Karyne Messina
Psychologist, EdD
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
When I see a new patient for the first time, I try to assess what he or she wants from life or from what each person is struggling. I do this with individuals or parents so together so we can determine what is best for him or her or their child at the current time. Sometimes people want to work on one problem and then develop a curiosity about how their minds work. Often in those situations, I work more intensely and more frequency to search for what is meaning to people and how they wants to navigate in the world in a freer way.
When I see a new patient for the first time, I try to assess what he or she wants from life or from what each person is struggling. I do this with individuals or parents so together so we can determine what is best for him or her or their child at the current time. Sometimes people want to work on one problem and then develop a curiosity about how their minds work. Often in those situations, I work more intensely and more frequency to search for what is meaning to people and how they wants to navigate in the world in a freer way.
(301) 533-7606 View (301) 533-7606
Photo of Julia Sylvain, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, ASDCS
Julia Sylvain
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, ASDCS
Serves Area
From middle school to early adulthood, life is full of exciting new chapters—but also challenging plot twists. School pressures, trouble with friends, new transitions, family dynamics, or even day-to-day stress can leave us feeling anxious, unmotivated, or overwhelmed. For neurodivergent individuals, these experiences can feel even more intense, as navigating a world not designed with you in mind adds unique challenges. It's not easy to navigate these moments alone. When you feel seen and understood, you move forward with confidence and resilience. Let's create your next great chapter together.
From middle school to early adulthood, life is full of exciting new chapters—but also challenging plot twists. School pressures, trouble with friends, new transitions, family dynamics, or even day-to-day stress can leave us feeling anxious, unmotivated, or overwhelmed. For neurodivergent individuals, these experiences can feel even more intense, as navigating a world not designed with you in mind adds unique challenges. It's not easy to navigate these moments alone. When you feel seen and understood, you move forward with confidence and resilience. Let's create your next great chapter together.
(240) 221-7983 View (240) 221-7983
Photo of Erin Austin - Daybreak Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S
Daybreak Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I use an integrative approach in my practice, drawing from attachment-based therapies, play therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Motivational Interviewing.
With over 18 years of experience in clinical social work across our team, we provide compassionate, client-centered therapy to children, adults, and families throughout CO, DC, MD, NY, and VA. Our mission is to help individuals and families navigate life’s challenges by creating a safe, supportive, and collaborative therapeutic environment where clients feel truly seen and understood. We believe every person and family is unique, which is why our clinicians tailor treatment using strength-based practices and integrative therapeutic approaches to meet each client’s goals, needs, and lived experience.
I use an integrative approach in my practice, drawing from attachment-based therapies, play therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Motivational Interviewing.
With over 18 years of experience in clinical social work across our team, we provide compassionate, client-centered therapy to children, adults, and families throughout CO, DC, MD, NY, and VA. Our mission is to help individuals and families navigate life’s challenges by creating a safe, supportive, and collaborative therapeutic environment where clients feel truly seen and understood. We believe every person and family is unique, which is why our clinicians tailor treatment using strength-based practices and integrative therapeutic approaches to meet each client’s goals, needs, and lived experience.
(804) 913-2068 View (804) 913-2068
Photo of Shally Vaid, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH, CCH, CPCS
Shally Vaid
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH, CCH, CPCS
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Sometimes people come to therapy because something big happened. More often, it is quieter than that. You may feel stuck, unsure, or more reactive than you want to be. Maybe your confidence is not where it used to be. Maybe you are constantly second-guessing yourself. Maybe you are holding everything together, or maybe you feel like you are barely keeping up.
Sometimes people come to therapy because something big happened. More often, it is quieter than that. You may feel stuck, unsure, or more reactive than you want to be. Maybe your confidence is not where it used to be. Maybe you are constantly second-guessing yourself. Maybe you are holding everything together, or maybe you feel like you are barely keeping up.
(571) 568-8866 View (571) 568-8866
Photo of Sarah Charmchi - Serenity Psychotherapy Group, LLC , Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LCSW, LICSW
Serenity Psychotherapy Group, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LCSW, LICSW
Online Only
Welcome. Life can feel heavy at times—especially when anxiety, past experiences, or big changes leave you feeling stuck or unsure of yourself. You may be trying to hold it all together while quietly struggling inside. Our practice offers a caring, compassionate, and confidential space for individuals, couples, and families to talk openly, feel understood, and begin healing. You don’t have to have it all figured out. We’re here to help, at your pace.
Welcome. Life can feel heavy at times—especially when anxiety, past experiences, or big changes leave you feeling stuck or unsure of yourself. You may be trying to hold it all together while quietly struggling inside. Our practice offers a caring, compassionate, and confidential space for individuals, couples, and families to talk openly, feel understood, and begin healing. You don’t have to have it all figured out. We’re here to help, at your pace.
(301) 396-7462 View (301) 396-7462
Photo of Holly Van Winter, Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Holly Van Winter
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I use a combination of Trauma-Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), play therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing and trauma-informed practices to help clients express themselves, build resilience, and find meaning through their experiences.
Hello, I’m Holly and I’m so glad you’re here! I know that finding a therapist can feel overwhelming—and if you’ve made it to this page, you’ve already taken a meaningful first step. That’s something to be proud of. As a therapist, I strive to create a space where you feel seen, heard, and supported. I specialize in grief and trauma, with a particular passion for working with kids, teens and young adults.
I use a combination of Trauma-Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), play therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing and trauma-informed practices to help clients express themselves, build resilience, and find meaning through their experiences.
Hello, I’m Holly and I’m so glad you’re here! I know that finding a therapist can feel overwhelming—and if you’ve made it to this page, you’ve already taken a meaningful first step. That’s something to be proud of. As a therapist, I strive to create a space where you feel seen, heard, and supported. I specialize in grief and trauma, with a particular passion for working with kids, teens and young adults.
(240) 617-4144 View (240) 617-4144
Choices International
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CAC-AD, LPC, NCC, MAC
Online Only
Our mission at C.H.O.I.C.E.S International is to create healthy options that inspire change & empowerment for self by balancing wellness and recovery. Choices International is CARF accredited and provide outpatient treatment.
Our mission at C.H.O.I.C.E.S International is to create healthy options that inspire change & empowerment for self by balancing wellness and recovery. Choices International is CARF accredited and provide outpatient treatment.
(240) 455-3716 View (240) 455-3716
Photo of Karen L Hahn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Karen L Hahn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have completed specialized training in Trauma Focused Therapy, Attachment-based Therapy, Child Centered Play Therapy, and Sand Tray Therapy.
Stressed out? Sad? Trouble sleeping? In a high-pressure job? Trying to parent AND have a career? You need some extra support! I’m here to help! My work with adults includes those with a trauma history, depression, anxiety, grief, relational issues, somatic symptoms with no medical explanation, feeling stuck or sensing that something is just “not right”, perinatal anxiety and depression, as well as healthcare providers & other first responders who have experienced increased stress during the COVID crisis. .
I have completed specialized training in Trauma Focused Therapy, Attachment-based Therapy, Child Centered Play Therapy, and Sand Tray Therapy.
Stressed out? Sad? Trouble sleeping? In a high-pressure job? Trying to parent AND have a career? You need some extra support! I’m here to help! My work with adults includes those with a trauma history, depression, anxiety, grief, relational issues, somatic symptoms with no medical explanation, feeling stuck or sensing that something is just “not right”, perinatal anxiety and depression, as well as healthcare providers & other first responders who have experienced increased stress during the COVID crisis. .
(571) 487-7202 View (571) 487-7202
Photo of Nancy Sharpe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Nancy Sharpe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
E-mail is the best way to contact me! Seeking support is a courageous act of self-love. I would love to explore the possibility of working together. Clients often come in with symptoms of depression and anxiety and feel disconnected from themselves and others. My hope is to build a trusting relationship where you can explore the emotional obstacles that are preventing you from reaching your goals, and to help you identify the underlying emotions motivating behaviors such as hurt, sadness, fear, loss, and loneliness. My clients report feeling listened to, understood, and empowered.
E-mail is the best way to contact me! Seeking support is a courageous act of self-love. I would love to explore the possibility of working together. Clients often come in with symptoms of depression and anxiety and feel disconnected from themselves and others. My hope is to build a trusting relationship where you can explore the emotional obstacles that are preventing you from reaching your goals, and to help you identify the underlying emotions motivating behaviors such as hurt, sadness, fear, loss, and loneliness. My clients report feeling listened to, understood, and empowered.
(240) 245-2761 View (240) 245-2761
Photo of M. Christine Schultz, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT
M. Christine Schultz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Included are emotion regulation practices; the use of symbols; art & play techniques; therapeutic hypnosis.
Are you weary of feeling lonely, tired, sad? Perhaps you're scared or confused and don't know what to do about your marriage--the two of you are almost like strangers, or you fight all the time, or you're facing infidelity? Maybe you know your child is troubled, and you're not quite sure how to be of help. A special strength of mine is healing connections--connections between people as well as personal connections to the inner self--whether I see you in a couple, a family, or as an individual.
Included are emotion regulation practices; the use of symbols; art & play techniques; therapeutic hypnosis.
Are you weary of feeling lonely, tired, sad? Perhaps you're scared or confused and don't know what to do about your marriage--the two of you are almost like strangers, or you fight all the time, or you're facing infidelity? Maybe you know your child is troubled, and you're not quite sure how to be of help. A special strength of mine is healing connections--connections between people as well as personal connections to the inner self--whether I see you in a couple, a family, or as an individual.
(301) 882-1059 View (301) 882-1059
Photo of Sarah Thompson, Counselor, MA, LCPC
Sarah Thompson
Counselor, MA, LCPC
14 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I use affirming, trauma-informed, strengths-based, and collaborative approaches like play, parts work (IFS), and expressive tools.
If you're feeling exhausted from being misunderstood, burned out from masking how you truly feel, or overwhelmed by day-to-day life, you are not alone. Many people who reach out to me say things like, “I’m doing okay on the outside, but falling apart on the inside,” or “I’m so tired of trying to hold it all together.” I work with neurodivergent (Autistic folks, ADHDers) and LGBTQIA+ kids (6+), teens, and young adults navigating anxiety, perfectionism, identity, trauma, life changes and emotional overwhelm. You deserve a space where all of your experiences and parts of you are welcome.
I use affirming, trauma-informed, strengths-based, and collaborative approaches like play, parts work (IFS), and expressive tools.
If you're feeling exhausted from being misunderstood, burned out from masking how you truly feel, or overwhelmed by day-to-day life, you are not alone. Many people who reach out to me say things like, “I’m doing okay on the outside, but falling apart on the inside,” or “I’m so tired of trying to hold it all together.” I work with neurodivergent (Autistic folks, ADHDers) and LGBTQIA+ kids (6+), teens, and young adults navigating anxiety, perfectionism, identity, trauma, life changes and emotional overwhelm. You deserve a space where all of your experiences and parts of you are welcome.
(240) 219-7657 View (240) 219-7657
Photo of Yajaira Lissette Coreas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Yajaira Lissette Coreas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to supporting individuals, families and adolescents (15yrs +) in navigating life’s challenges and fostering personal growth. I bring 5 years of experience in mental health care and a passion for creating a safe and compassionate space where clients feel empowered to explore their emotions, discover their strengths, and achieve their goals. Tambien hablo español, haz una cita para recibir apoyo en tu idioma nativo.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to supporting individuals, families and adolescents (15yrs +) in navigating life’s challenges and fostering personal growth. I bring 5 years of experience in mental health care and a passion for creating a safe and compassionate space where clients feel empowered to explore their emotions, discover their strengths, and achieve their goals. Tambien hablo español, haz una cita para recibir apoyo en tu idioma nativo.
(804) 596-4896 View (804) 596-4896
Photo of Antoinette Lancaster - Diversified Lifestyle Services, LPC, LCPC, NCC, MAC, SAP
Diversified Lifestyle Services
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Diversified Lifestyle Services (DLS) is a Mental Health Counseling and Consulting Firm dedicated to helping clients reach their full potential. We are a female, minority-owned counseling and consulting firm in the Washington metropolitan area. We provide evaluations and recommend solutions to a range of issues for individuals, couples, families, and groups. We specialize in treating a variety of mental health disorders, as well as serving those satisfying court-ordered treatment, DOT SAP evaluations, and individuals managing life stressors.
Diversified Lifestyle Services (DLS) is a Mental Health Counseling and Consulting Firm dedicated to helping clients reach their full potential. We are a female, minority-owned counseling and consulting firm in the Washington metropolitan area. We provide evaluations and recommend solutions to a range of issues for individuals, couples, families, and groups. We specialize in treating a variety of mental health disorders, as well as serving those satisfying court-ordered treatment, DOT SAP evaluations, and individuals managing life stressors.
(240) 255-4468 View (240) 255-4468
Photo of Brian R McDonald, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Brian R McDonald
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Serves Area
I operate out of a deep sense of respect for each client. The answer to a person's problems ultimately lies within that person and I am here to help clients explore deeply those thoughts and feelings that may be contributing to a less that fulfilling life.
I operate out of a deep sense of respect for each client. The answer to a person's problems ultimately lies within that person and I am here to help clients explore deeply those thoughts and feelings that may be contributing to a less that fulfilling life.
(703) 468-8796 View (703) 468-8796
Photo of Kristi Kathleen Phillips - Wayzata Bay Wellness, Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Wayzata Bay Wellness
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Serves Area
I focus on the unique challenges of those in high-pressure careers. The intensity of these jobs often leads to relationship problems, anxiety about performance, stress, exhaustion, and burnout, resulting in a shrinking support network and frustrated partners. That’s why I also focus on the families of such individuals.
I focus on the unique challenges of those in high-pressure careers. The intensity of these jobs often leads to relationship problems, anxiety about performance, stress, exhaustion, and burnout, resulting in a shrinking support network and frustrated partners. That’s why I also focus on the families of such individuals.
(320) 582-3762 View (320) 582-3762
Photo of Jessica Valner, Psychologist, PhD
Jessica Valner
Psychologist, PhD
Serves Area
We are convinced we have a problem. We're focused on it, worried about it, and it often feels like it defines us. These problems tend to show up or worsen during life and relationship transitions. Attending to what isn't working, as well as being intentional about addressing these problems, is necessary for change. Easily overlooked though, are the jewels - the opportunities hiding behind those problems. Psychotherapy provides a safe space for growth opportunities - offering compassion to those parts of ourselves we don't like or shame us, while allowing for the fluidity, flexibility and movement required for transformations.
We are convinced we have a problem. We're focused on it, worried about it, and it often feels like it defines us. These problems tend to show up or worsen during life and relationship transitions. Attending to what isn't working, as well as being intentional about addressing these problems, is necessary for change. Easily overlooked though, are the jewels - the opportunities hiding behind those problems. Psychotherapy provides a safe space for growth opportunities - offering compassion to those parts of ourselves we don't like or shame us, while allowing for the fluidity, flexibility and movement required for transformations.
(703) 997-7523 View (703) 997-7523
Photo of Stacey Rowe - A Free Mind Integrated Services, LLC, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, RYT-200, C-DBT, LCPC-S
A Free Mind Integrated Services, LLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, RYT-200, C-DBT, LCPC-S
Serves Area
Welcome! Congratulations on taking your first step/s in seeking quality, professional mental health support. We want to see you create meaning and find solutions in your life. My name is Stacey Rowe. I am known loving as “ Thee Hope Dealer” by those I serve. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor & Financial Literacy Instr., as well as CEO and President of Free Mind Integrated Services LLC . I believe that my years in the trenches and overcoming some of life’s toughest battles gives me the fortitude to stand alongside you in your mission of finding your happiness. My team is passionate about the work that we do with our clients.
Welcome! Congratulations on taking your first step/s in seeking quality, professional mental health support. We want to see you create meaning and find solutions in your life. My name is Stacey Rowe. I am known loving as “ Thee Hope Dealer” by those I serve. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor & Financial Literacy Instr., as well as CEO and President of Free Mind Integrated Services LLC . I believe that my years in the trenches and overcoming some of life’s toughest battles gives me the fortitude to stand alongside you in your mission of finding your happiness. My team is passionate about the work that we do with our clients.
(301) 610-3435 View (301) 610-3435
Photo of LaTia Lorick - Embrace Therapy, LLC, Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Embrace Therapy, LLC
Counselor, LPC, LCPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I utilize a variety of modalities which incorporate best practice from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Person Centered, Solution Focused, and Play Therapy.
I have practiced in a variety of treatment settings for over 10 years. I love what I do and I’m passionate about working with you to reach your goals. The objective of our work together is to set goals, learn new skills, solve problems and teach you how to solve problems in a more effective way. Let's work together to help you become your best self!
I utilize a variety of modalities which incorporate best practice from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Person Centered, Solution Focused, and Play Therapy.
I have practiced in a variety of treatment settings for over 10 years. I love what I do and I’m passionate about working with you to reach your goals. The objective of our work together is to set goals, learn new skills, solve problems and teach you how to solve problems in a more effective way. Let's work together to help you become your best self!
(301) 686-5343 View (301) 686-5343
Photo of Deena Kotlewski, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NBCC
Deena Kotlewski
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NBCC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
My primary focus is working with children and adolescents who are struggling with family discord, parent separation and/or divorce. Since 1996 I have been working within the school system, consulting for an adolescent residential/outpatient therapeutic treatment facility and in private practice. I work with children, adolescents, and their families to improve their skills navigating through life's challenges, transitions, and daily stressors. I also assist people who are feeling depressed, sad, anxious, or dealing with general relationship concerns. Together we develop skills to increase self esteem and coping abilities to promote resilient individuals and more communicative families.
My primary focus is working with children and adolescents who are struggling with family discord, parent separation and/or divorce. Since 1996 I have been working within the school system, consulting for an adolescent residential/outpatient therapeutic treatment facility and in private practice. I work with children, adolescents, and their families to improve their skills navigating through life's challenges, transitions, and daily stressors. I also assist people who are feeling depressed, sad, anxious, or dealing with general relationship concerns. Together we develop skills to increase self esteem and coping abilities to promote resilient individuals and more communicative families.
(202) 656-0929 View (202) 656-0929
Photo of Ki'Asha Sanders - Celestial Hope Rising Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LPC, LICSW, LCSW
Celestial Hope Rising Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LPC, LICSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
At Celestial Hope Rising Services, we believe in innovative ways to inspire open space for independent learning, growth, and development while upholding our core values of integrity, compassion, empowerment, person-centered care, and innovative approaches. Our agency aims to ensure our clients receive the best care and support for their well-being and quality of life. Our experienced team of professionals provides individualized care and treatment in a safe and non-judgmental environment, supporting clients on their journey to better mental health and resiliency. Join us on a journey towards better health and a brighter future.
At Celestial Hope Rising Services, we believe in innovative ways to inspire open space for independent learning, growth, and development while upholding our core values of integrity, compassion, empowerment, person-centered care, and innovative approaches. Our agency aims to ensure our clients receive the best care and support for their well-being and quality of life. Our experienced team of professionals provides individualized care and treatment in a safe and non-judgmental environment, supporting clients on their journey to better mental health and resiliency. Join us on a journey towards better health and a brighter future.
(301) 719-2462 View (301) 719-2462

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