Play Therapy in Washington, DC

Photo of Samantha Danielle Kreindler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Samantha Danielle Kreindler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Washington, DC 20007
I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Child-Centered Play Therapy, expressive arts, and sandtray therapy.
At the core of my work is helping people heal and reconnect with themselves. I am especially interested in how we build meaningful lives, develop healthy and intimate relationships, and experience authentic connection with others. If you’re seeking support, I welcome the opportunity to connect.
I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Child-Centered Play Therapy, expressive arts, and sandtray therapy.
At the core of my work is helping people heal and reconnect with themselves. I am especially interested in how we build meaningful lives, develop healthy and intimate relationships, and experience authentic connection with others. If you’re seeking support, I welcome the opportunity to connect.
(202) 791-4231 View (202) 791-4231
Photo of Jocylynn Stephenson, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT
Jocylynn Stephenson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
The philosopher Socrates once said that "the unexamined life is not worth living." As a therapist, I am committed to helping my clients examine their lives to find meaning, happiness, and strength. I work with individuals, couples, and families, striving to build skills to resolve conflicts, increase confidence, and move beyond past hurt and trauma. My clients often say that they appreciate my warmth, empathy, and combination of optimism and realism.
The philosopher Socrates once said that "the unexamined life is not worth living." As a therapist, I am committed to helping my clients examine their lives to find meaning, happiness, and strength. I work with individuals, couples, and families, striving to build skills to resolve conflicts, increase confidence, and move beyond past hurt and trauma. My clients often say that they appreciate my warmth, empathy, and combination of optimism and realism.
(240) 288-3728 View (240) 288-3728
Photo of Dr. Ryan Hinojosa, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Ryan Hinojosa
Psychologist, PhD
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
My therapy practice is ideal for children and adults wanting support and guidance as they navigate general life stressors. I work with neurotypical, neurodivergent, and LGBTQ+ clients alike who are wrestling with clinical concerns as well, including depressive symptoms, anxiety, and executive functioning differences. Clients struggling to build self-confidence, develop their identity, achieve consistency in pursuit of their goals, and manage their emotional wellness are met with compassion, patience, solutions, and integrated strategies backed by research. Contact me for more information about in-person neuropsychological testing.
My therapy practice is ideal for children and adults wanting support and guidance as they navigate general life stressors. I work with neurotypical, neurodivergent, and LGBTQ+ clients alike who are wrestling with clinical concerns as well, including depressive symptoms, anxiety, and executive functioning differences. Clients struggling to build self-confidence, develop their identity, achieve consistency in pursuit of their goals, and manage their emotional wellness are met with compassion, patience, solutions, and integrated strategies backed by research. Contact me for more information about in-person neuropsychological testing.
(202) 759-8878 View (202) 759-8878
Photo of Brittni Dash - SMYAL's LGBTQ+ Clinical Therapy Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
SMYAL's LGBTQ+ Clinical Therapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Washington, DC 20003
SMYAL’s mental health counseling services offer FREE therapy and provides a safe and inclusive space for you to explore your emotions and experiences. We know that finding a therapist who understands you and your community can be frustrating, expensive, and nerve-wracking. At SMYAL, we’re working to remove these barriers. Our team of therapists are well-versed in the challenges that LGBTQ+ youth face, and we are here to help you navigate those challenges with confidence and resilience. Whether you’re you’re struggling with self-acceptance, coming out, or dealing with discrimination, SMYAL is here for you!
SMYAL’s mental health counseling services offer FREE therapy and provides a safe and inclusive space for you to explore your emotions and experiences. We know that finding a therapist who understands you and your community can be frustrating, expensive, and nerve-wracking. At SMYAL, we’re working to remove these barriers. Our team of therapists are well-versed in the challenges that LGBTQ+ youth face, and we are here to help you navigate those challenges with confidence and resilience. Whether you’re you’re struggling with self-acceptance, coming out, or dealing with discrimination, SMYAL is here for you!
(202) 804-0992 View (202) 804-0992
Photo of Carlos Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LICSW, LCSW, LMSW-C
Carlos Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LICSW, LCSW, LMSW-C
Online Only
The ideal client of C&B Well is someone who feels the weight of modern life’s complexities and struggles with mental health concerns. They are seeking a safe, supportive space to break the stigma around mental health, to access tools for emotional and mental wellness, and to find a sense of balance and peace. Through the combination of therapeutic support, wellness practices, and community, they aim to heal and thrive not just for themselves, but to help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health for others as well.
The ideal client of C&B Well is someone who feels the weight of modern life’s complexities and struggles with mental health concerns. They are seeking a safe, supportive space to break the stigma around mental health, to access tools for emotional and mental wellness, and to find a sense of balance and peace. Through the combination of therapeutic support, wellness practices, and community, they aim to heal and thrive not just for themselves, but to help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health for others as well.
(202) 935-9289 View (202) 935-9289
Photo of Julia Davies, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Julia Davies
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Washington, DC 20007
These experiences have shaped my approach to therapy, blending talk therapy, play therapy, CBT, family systems, and group work.
Hi, I’m Julia Davies, a licensed professional counselor with a passion for helping children, adolescents, and young women navigate life’s challenges. Whether it's coping with self-esteem struggles, adjusting to parents’ divorce, or working toward recovery and sobriety, I offer a compassionate, supportive space where healing and growth can happen.
These experiences have shaped my approach to therapy, blending talk therapy, play therapy, CBT, family systems, and group work.
Hi, I’m Julia Davies, a licensed professional counselor with a passion for helping children, adolescents, and young women navigate life’s challenges. Whether it's coping with self-esteem struggles, adjusting to parents’ divorce, or working toward recovery and sobriety, I offer a compassionate, supportive space where healing and growth can happen.
(202) 952-5924 View (202) 952-5924
Photo of Aliya Subhit, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MA, LMFT
Aliya Subhit
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MA, LMFT
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Congratulations on getting curious & taking a step towards wellness & fulfillment! Starting this process can be scary, whether this is your first time in therapy or your return. You may be searching for support in individual struggles, parenting, or relational conflict. I work with children, teens, families, & adults to address obstacles like anxiety, depression, life changes, racial trauma, behavioral concerns, family dynamics, and work/school related stress. Change does not happen in isolation; I hope to work with you (& your community) to learn/unlearn, heal, grow, & create the story that reflects your most authentic truths.
Congratulations on getting curious & taking a step towards wellness & fulfillment! Starting this process can be scary, whether this is your first time in therapy or your return. You may be searching for support in individual struggles, parenting, or relational conflict. I work with children, teens, families, & adults to address obstacles like anxiety, depression, life changes, racial trauma, behavioral concerns, family dynamics, and work/school related stress. Change does not happen in isolation; I hope to work with you (& your community) to learn/unlearn, heal, grow, & create the story that reflects your most authentic truths.
(202) 972-8011 View (202) 972-8011
Photo of Ta'wane (Ty) Watkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, LCSW-C
Ta'wane (Ty) Watkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, LCSW-C
4 Endorsed
Online Only
In life, seeking help should be celebrated and not become another obstacle to cross. During your interactions with Jaxcyn Therapy Group, you will discover we customize the therapeutic experience to fit your unique needs and interests. We take a practical approach to use your strengths paired with out of the box solutions to create dynamic change.
In life, seeking help should be celebrated and not become another obstacle to cross. During your interactions with Jaxcyn Therapy Group, you will discover we customize the therapeutic experience to fit your unique needs and interests. We take a practical approach to use your strengths paired with out of the box solutions to create dynamic change.
(202) 933-9771 View (202) 933-9771
Photo of Ellie Georgetown - Ellie Georgetown
Ellie Georgetown
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20007
Each clinician provides an integrative approach along with treatment types such Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, and Trauma Informed Therapy!
Ellie Georgetown isn’t your average therapy clinic. We’ve created a comfy, judgment-free zone where you can be authentic, get real about where you’re at in your mental health, and receive the compassionate care you deserve. We strive to break down treatment barriers and provide you with customized counseling services that meet your therapy needs. We provide support for a wide range of mental disorders and common mental health issues at our Ellie Mental Health Clinic in Washington, D.C. - Georgetown. No matter your concerns, your compassionate Ellie therapist will provide you with the non-judgmental care you deserve.
Each clinician provides an integrative approach along with treatment types such Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, and Trauma Informed Therapy!
Ellie Georgetown isn’t your average therapy clinic. We’ve created a comfy, judgment-free zone where you can be authentic, get real about where you’re at in your mental health, and receive the compassionate care you deserve. We strive to break down treatment barriers and provide you with customized counseling services that meet your therapy needs. We provide support for a wide range of mental disorders and common mental health issues at our Ellie Mental Health Clinic in Washington, D.C. - Georgetown. No matter your concerns, your compassionate Ellie therapist will provide you with the non-judgmental care you deserve.
(202) 858-0807 View (202) 858-0807
Photo of Joy Kassett, Psychologist, MSW, MPH, PhD
Joy Kassett
Psychologist, MSW, MPH, PhD
Washington, DC 20015
I have been in practice for over 20 years, working with adults, children and adolescents in psychodynamic therapy and psychoanalysis. The frequency and duration of each treatment depends on the unique needs of every person; for example, a college student may be seeking short-term therapy to deal with the transition from home to school or an adult may be seeking longer term treatment to understand a pattern of failed relationships. Children are often referred by family members or school counselors, who provide valuable background information to help determine the best treatment. Ongoing collaboration with parents and professionals is essential.
I have been in practice for over 20 years, working with adults, children and adolescents in psychodynamic therapy and psychoanalysis. The frequency and duration of each treatment depends on the unique needs of every person; for example, a college student may be seeking short-term therapy to deal with the transition from home to school or an adult may be seeking longer term treatment to understand a pattern of failed relationships. Children are often referred by family members or school counselors, who provide valuable background information to help determine the best treatment. Ongoing collaboration with parents and professionals is essential.
(202) 417-3278 View (202) 417-3278
Photo of Nicole Moore, Psychologist, PsyD
Nicole Moore
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who believes that everyone possesses the strengths and resources to overcome life’s challenges- even if sometimes we need a little assistance. I view seeking help as a sign of great strength. My role as a therapist is to help you better know and understand yourself. We will use this insight to build upon your innate abilities and strengths to understand obstacles, overcome challenges, and pave a way forward. I work with a Service Dog, Finn, who provides a gentle, loving presence that can be very comforting, anxiety reducing, and uplifting in sessions.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who believes that everyone possesses the strengths and resources to overcome life’s challenges- even if sometimes we need a little assistance. I view seeking help as a sign of great strength. My role as a therapist is to help you better know and understand yourself. We will use this insight to build upon your innate abilities and strengths to understand obstacles, overcome challenges, and pave a way forward. I work with a Service Dog, Finn, who provides a gentle, loving presence that can be very comforting, anxiety reducing, and uplifting in sessions.
(202) 915-5676 View (202) 915-5676
Photo of Dawn Taylor-Lovejoy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Dawn Taylor-Lovejoy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008
Whatever brought you here - navigating a life transition, struggling with your identity, parenting a teenager or simply carrying something you've never had the words for, I want to help you explore it. I have been in practice for over 20 years working with individuals, teens and couples in the DMV. I specialize in LGBTQ+ affirming care, adolescents, maternal mental health and couples therapy. My approach is relational, grounded in self-psychology and attachment theory - warm and exploratory, but honest. I offer a free 15 minute consultation. I see clients in-person in Dupont Circle and Bethesda and virtually throughout the DMV.
Whatever brought you here - navigating a life transition, struggling with your identity, parenting a teenager or simply carrying something you've never had the words for, I want to help you explore it. I have been in practice for over 20 years working with individuals, teens and couples in the DMV. I specialize in LGBTQ+ affirming care, adolescents, maternal mental health and couples therapy. My approach is relational, grounded in self-psychology and attachment theory - warm and exploratory, but honest. I offer a free 15 minute consultation. I see clients in-person in Dupont Circle and Bethesda and virtually throughout the DMV.
(202) 935-9319 View (202) 935-9319
Photo of Alicia Derenoncourt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Alicia Derenoncourt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My most used treatment modalities are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Strengths-Based, Play Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy.
Welcome! Congratulations on taking the first step to seeking help. Let the journey begin. My passion for helping others lead me to pursue a degree in social work. I have worked in several areas of social work over the years however, I found my niche working with children and adolescents.
My most used treatment modalities are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Strengths-Based, Play Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy.
Welcome! Congratulations on taking the first step to seeking help. Let the journey begin. My passion for helping others lead me to pursue a degree in social work. I have worked in several areas of social work over the years however, I found my niche working with children and adolescents.
(202) 858-3266 View (202) 858-3266
Photo of Strother Gaines, Pre-Licensed Professional, LGSW
Strother Gaines
Pre-Licensed Professional, LGSW
Washington, DC 20002
I'm dedicated to helping clients unlock their full potential in a world where play is not just for fun but an essential component of well-being and relational health.
My ideal client is seeking more than traditional therapy. They want creative, playful ways to reconnect with joy and their authentic self. They may be navigating complex identities and need a supportive space to explore these. Often, they feel stuck or disconnected due to trauma, societal/familial expectations, or a desire for deeper self-awareness. Their goals may be about rediscovering their creativity, unlocking/understanding parts of their identity, and building deeper, more authentic connections in their relationships. They come to me ready for a dynamic, interactive approach that fosters growth and healing.
I'm dedicated to helping clients unlock their full potential in a world where play is not just for fun but an essential component of well-being and relational health.
My ideal client is seeking more than traditional therapy. They want creative, playful ways to reconnect with joy and their authentic self. They may be navigating complex identities and need a supportive space to explore these. Often, they feel stuck or disconnected due to trauma, societal/familial expectations, or a desire for deeper self-awareness. Their goals may be about rediscovering their creativity, unlocking/understanding parts of their identity, and building deeper, more authentic connections in their relationships. They come to me ready for a dynamic, interactive approach that fosters growth and healing.
(202) 410-8921 View (202) 410-8921
Photo of Kate Kelly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LICSW
Kate Kelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LICSW
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008
I’m trained in multiple approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, mindful awareness, and body-based therapies; play, art, and sand therapy; and brain-based therapies, including Brainspotting.
I’m the founder and director of The Center for Family Well-Being, where we aim -- through our groups, individual therapy, and classes -- to help kids, teens, adults, couples, and families fully realize their potential with confidence, understanding, and an open heart. We're a group of highly-trained holistic therapists who integrate Western psychotherapy with the wisdom of Eastern mindful awareness practice, as well as other mind-body healing methods, for greater awareness, connection, and well-being for our clients -- within themselves and with others in their lives.
I’m trained in multiple approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, mindful awareness, and body-based therapies; play, art, and sand therapy; and brain-based therapies, including Brainspotting.
I’m the founder and director of The Center for Family Well-Being, where we aim -- through our groups, individual therapy, and classes -- to help kids, teens, adults, couples, and families fully realize their potential with confidence, understanding, and an open heart. We're a group of highly-trained holistic therapists who integrate Western psychotherapy with the wisdom of Eastern mindful awareness practice, as well as other mind-body healing methods, for greater awareness, connection, and well-being for our clients -- within themselves and with others in their lives.
(202) 804-8054 View (202) 804-8054
Photo of Angelica Phillips, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Angelica Phillips
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! My name is Angelica and I am a therapist with Arelis Perez Psychotherapy Services. You may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure about how to move forward in your life or relationships. Perhaps you’ve been carrying stress, self-doubt, or difficult emotions and are looking for a space where you can finally talk about what’s really going on. My goal is to support you in developing the tools, insight, and confidence needed to create a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Hello! My name is Angelica and I am a therapist with Arelis Perez Psychotherapy Services. You may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure about how to move forward in your life or relationships. Perhaps you’ve been carrying stress, self-doubt, or difficult emotions and are looking for a space where you can finally talk about what’s really going on. My goal is to support you in developing the tools, insight, and confidence needed to create a more balanced and fulfilling life.
(202) 953-6840 View (202) 953-6840
Photo of Natalia Aleksenko, Psychologist, PsyD
Natalia Aleksenko
Psychologist, PsyD
Washington, DC 20036
In my practice, I offer a compassionate, confidential, and professional environment where we can collaboratively explore your current life circumstances and develop a personalized plan for positive change.
In my practice, I offer a compassionate, confidential, and professional environment where we can collaboratively explore your current life circumstances and develop a personalized plan for positive change.
(571) 295-5433 View (571) 295-5433
Photo of Jonathan Christophel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Jonathan Christophel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Washington, DC 20036
I use Trauma focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, CBT, and Eco-therapy based concepts in my work.
I look forward to working with you, or your children, in overcoming current obstacles and life challenges. In my experience in working with adults, children, and families, they have all the strengths and resources they need within themselves, and can reach their full potential within a safe, empathic therapeutic relationship.
I use Trauma focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, CBT, and Eco-therapy based concepts in my work.
I look forward to working with you, or your children, in overcoming current obstacles and life challenges. In my experience in working with adults, children, and families, they have all the strengths and resources they need within themselves, and can reach their full potential within a safe, empathic therapeutic relationship.
(202) 902-8779 View (202) 902-8779
Photo of Shamara Howze, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, RPT-S
Shamara Howze
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, RPT-S
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
Waitlist for new clients
I use play therapy modalities that are most appropriate for therapy with children.
I hope to support you as a caregiver and your child on your journey. No matter how you got here, whether through adjustments, trauma, grief, attachment, divorce, anxiety or other mental health related challenges. I work with both caregiver and child/teen to establish realistic goals that don't lead to a perfect road but one that feels safe enough to travel. This means caregiver presence is important throughout the process as you both explore new ways of being.
I use play therapy modalities that are most appropriate for therapy with children.
I hope to support you as a caregiver and your child on your journey. No matter how you got here, whether through adjustments, trauma, grief, attachment, divorce, anxiety or other mental health related challenges. I work with both caregiver and child/teen to establish realistic goals that don't lead to a perfect road but one that feels safe enough to travel. This means caregiver presence is important throughout the process as you both explore new ways of being.
(202) 952-5678 View (202) 952-5678
Photo of Karen Garman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Karen Garman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Washington, DC 20015
I work with adults, adolescents and children to create a safe space in which to explore and understand struggles, develop healthy coping skills, and cultivate fulfilling relationships. I bring my understanding of development across the life span, listening skills, and a commitment to help each individual feel understood, supported, and challenged to move toward healing, growth, and the change they desire.
I work with adults, adolescents and children to create a safe space in which to explore and understand struggles, develop healthy coping skills, and cultivate fulfilling relationships. I bring my understanding of development across the life span, listening skills, and a commitment to help each individual feel understood, supported, and challenged to move toward healing, growth, and the change they desire.
(202) 729-9092 View (202) 729-9092

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