Play Therapy in Lakeland, FL
I am a Registered Clinical Social Work Intern with over two years of clinical experience. I am dedicated to helping individuals, families, and children navigate the impacts of trauma and life’s challenges. My mission is to walk alongside you with compassion, utilizing evidence-based techniques to support your journey toward healing and growth.
I specialize in working with children five (5) and up and teens up to 19 years old. I have a calling to work with youth and assist them with life’s challenges.
I am a Registered Clinical Social Work Intern with over two years of clinical experience. I am dedicated to helping individuals, families, and children navigate the impacts of trauma and life’s challenges. My mission is to walk alongside you with compassion, utilizing evidence-based techniques to support your journey toward healing and growth.
I specialize in working with children five (5) and up and teens up to 19 years old. I have a calling to work with youth and assist them with life’s challenges.
Some seasons of life leave us carrying more than we were meant to hold. Anxiety, trauma, and self-doubt can quietly shape how we think, feel, and connect with others. You may be trying to stay strong for everyone else while feeling unsure how to help yourself. My goal is to help you unpack what feels heavy, understand your emotions with compassion, and build the confidence to move forward. Whether you are seeking peace, clarity, or healing from the past, there is space here for you to slow down, process, and begin again.
Some seasons of life leave us carrying more than we were meant to hold. Anxiety, trauma, and self-doubt can quietly shape how we think, feel, and connect with others. You may be trying to stay strong for everyone else while feeling unsure how to help yourself. My goal is to help you unpack what feels heavy, understand your emotions with compassion, and build the confidence to move forward. Whether you are seeking peace, clarity, or healing from the past, there is space here for you to slow down, process, and begin again.
As a therapist, my passion is helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with compassion, clarity, and confidence. I believe therapy should be a safe space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to make meaningful changes. My specialty is working with teens, young adults, and parents to build stronger communication, emotional resilience, and self-confidence.
As a therapist, my passion is helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with compassion, clarity, and confidence. I believe therapy should be a safe space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to make meaningful changes. My specialty is working with teens, young adults, and parents to build stronger communication, emotional resilience, and self-confidence.
Life can become overwhelming when emotions feel out of control or relationships start to suffer. You may find yourself stuck in patterns of worry, frustration, or sadness that you cannot seem to shake. My goal is to help you understand what is driving those emotions so you can regain a sense of balance and direction. Together we will identify what is keeping you from feeling steady, build emotional awareness, and develop tools that help you experience genuine growth and peace in your everyday life.
Life can become overwhelming when emotions feel out of control or relationships start to suffer. You may find yourself stuck in patterns of worry, frustration, or sadness that you cannot seem to shake. My goal is to help you understand what is driving those emotions so you can regain a sense of balance and direction. Together we will identify what is keeping you from feeling steady, build emotional awareness, and develop tools that help you experience genuine growth and peace in your everyday life.
I did part of my internship with a Play Therapy supervisor and I discovered my passion for working with kids using Play Therapy.
I love working with kids, teens and parents. It can be hard for kids & teens to understand their emotions and how to navigate the world that we live in. Whether it is problems at home, school, ADHD, anxiety, or something else, we can work to help your child improve their ability to not just survive but thrive in this ever changing world.
I also love to work with parents. Parenting is hard. Along with working with your child , I hope to partner with you to help you, help your child. While having a counselor to talk to is great, you as their parent are the most important relationship in your child's life.
I did part of my internship with a Play Therapy supervisor and I discovered my passion for working with kids using Play Therapy.
I love working with kids, teens and parents. It can be hard for kids & teens to understand their emotions and how to navigate the world that we live in. Whether it is problems at home, school, ADHD, anxiety, or something else, we can work to help your child improve their ability to not just survive but thrive in this ever changing world.
I also love to work with parents. Parenting is hard. Along with working with your child , I hope to partner with you to help you, help your child. While having a counselor to talk to is great, you as their parent are the most important relationship in your child's life.
Welcome! If you are on this page, chances are that you or someone you love are going through a tough time. You are looking for someone who will listen and can offer some insight and guidance. Despite misconceptions, my job is not to solve your problems; instead, I assist you to focus on what you can and can’t change. Once we decide to work together, we’ll act as partners in your therapeutic journey. It’s important to me that we communicate openly, I will listen carefully, challenge and support you throughout your journey.
Welcome! If you are on this page, chances are that you or someone you love are going through a tough time. You are looking for someone who will listen and can offer some insight and guidance. Despite misconceptions, my job is not to solve your problems; instead, I assist you to focus on what you can and can’t change. Once we decide to work together, we’ll act as partners in your therapeutic journey. It’s important to me that we communicate openly, I will listen carefully, challenge and support you throughout your journey.
**Weekend and Evening appointments are now available!! Offering Services in Spanish, Creole and in English!! ** As a supervising clinical psychologist, Dr. Kyles has over 10 years of experience. At the center, children, adolescents, adults and the elderly from a variety of backgrounds gain the insight and strength to overcome a wide range of challenges. The persons that have sought assistance at the center have gained relief from depression, anxiety, conduct disorders, relationship conflict, career uncertainty, adjustments to change, major life events as well as other mental health concerns.
**Weekend and Evening appointments are now available!! Offering Services in Spanish, Creole and in English!! ** As a supervising clinical psychologist, Dr. Kyles has over 10 years of experience. At the center, children, adolescents, adults and the elderly from a variety of backgrounds gain the insight and strength to overcome a wide range of challenges. The persons that have sought assistance at the center have gained relief from depression, anxiety, conduct disorders, relationship conflict, career uncertainty, adjustments to change, major life events as well as other mental health concerns.
Another fight? Another ugly stare? Another slammed door? I get it. Right now, the negative interactions probably seem to outweigh the positive ones. Or maybe, there is daily tension, anger, or resentment that continues to build causing long silences, avoidance, or loud and heated exchanges. It is possible to create the relationship you truly desire by making small, daily changes based on a realistic understanding of where you are and where you want to be. Stop running in circles and getting the same results. With time, practice, and a little patience, you will take control AND enjoy life.
Another fight? Another ugly stare? Another slammed door? I get it. Right now, the negative interactions probably seem to outweigh the positive ones. Or maybe, there is daily tension, anger, or resentment that continues to build causing long silences, avoidance, or loud and heated exchanges. It is possible to create the relationship you truly desire by making small, daily changes based on a realistic understanding of where you are and where you want to be. Stop running in circles and getting the same results. With time, practice, and a little patience, you will take control AND enjoy life.
Life can feel heavy when stress builds, relationships strain, or anxiety takes hold. You may feel overwhelmed trying to hold everything together, unsure how to find peace again. I help adults, parents, and families slow down, uncover what is happening beneath the surface, and rebuild stability and connection. Whether working with adults, children, or teens, I walk alongside each client with faith, wisdom, and genuine care to guide them toward resilience and restoration. At Renewed Integrative Counseling, I serve as an on-site clinician offering services at our Lakeland office or through telehealth.
Life can feel heavy when stress builds, relationships strain, or anxiety takes hold. You may feel overwhelmed trying to hold everything together, unsure how to find peace again. I help adults, parents, and families slow down, uncover what is happening beneath the surface, and rebuild stability and connection. Whether working with adults, children, or teens, I walk alongside each client with faith, wisdom, and genuine care to guide them toward resilience and restoration. At Renewed Integrative Counseling, I serve as an on-site clinician offering services at our Lakeland office or through telehealth.
Time with me will often involve approaches such as CBT, Talk therapy, Christian perspective or Play therapy based on individual need and responsiveness.
In my time counseling I have gained great experience working with individuals through Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Grief, Behavioral issues, Identity, Major Life Changes, and Trauma as a certified Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral therapist. I enjoy approaching life's many struggles empathetically and with hope for the future. Whether one is dealing with many inner demons, or simply trying to better understand themselves and their relationships; I am here to help you help yourself get unstuck and be able to better enjoy life.
Time with me will often involve approaches such as CBT, Talk therapy, Christian perspective or Play therapy based on individual need and responsiveness.
In my time counseling I have gained great experience working with individuals through Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Grief, Behavioral issues, Identity, Major Life Changes, and Trauma as a certified Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral therapist. I enjoy approaching life's many struggles empathetically and with hope for the future. Whether one is dealing with many inner demons, or simply trying to better understand themselves and their relationships; I am here to help you help yourself get unstuck and be able to better enjoy life.
Struggling with addiction, anxiety, depression or anger control problems (especially boys and men)? Transitioning back into society? Need help with childhood trauma, ADHD, PTSD or a different mental health concern? If so, you are not alone. Professional assistance is available for you and/or your loved ones at an affordable cost. I specialize in addiction, reentry, anger management, depression and adjustment disorders. I provide in-person and telehealth services at my offices in Polk County, Florida (individual or family) & telehealth services ONLY to remaining counties. We are LGBTQ friendly.
Struggling with addiction, anxiety, depression or anger control problems (especially boys and men)? Transitioning back into society? Need help with childhood trauma, ADHD, PTSD or a different mental health concern? If so, you are not alone. Professional assistance is available for you and/or your loved ones at an affordable cost. I specialize in addiction, reentry, anger management, depression and adjustment disorders. I provide in-person and telehealth services at my offices in Polk County, Florida (individual or family) & telehealth services ONLY to remaining counties. We are LGBTQ friendly.
I believe therapy is a partnership, and my approach blends existential curiosity with practical strategies, offering both empathy and honest feedback to help you stay aligned with your goals. Together, we can transform life’s challenges into opportunities for growth, cultivate resilience through the resistance to change, and work toward a sense of purpose, direction, and meaning. My experience and educational background are ideal for those trying to find order in their chaos, and care in the midst of their struggles.
I believe therapy is a partnership, and my approach blends existential curiosity with practical strategies, offering both empathy and honest feedback to help you stay aligned with your goals. Together, we can transform life’s challenges into opportunities for growth, cultivate resilience through the resistance to change, and work toward a sense of purpose, direction, and meaning. My experience and educational background are ideal for those trying to find order in their chaos, and care in the midst of their struggles.
I utilize a multitude of therapeutic techniques such as CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), Solution Focused Counseling, the Family Systems approach, Play Therapy, and Christian counseling (if my clients appreciate this approach).
Life in today’s world is a challenge for all of us at times. Knowing that we are not alone when we face these challenging circumstances can certainly help us access the courage it takes to navigate them more effectively. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Qualified Supervisor, my passion is to provide clients a safe place to focus on their journey toward growth and healing.
I utilize a multitude of therapeutic techniques such as CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), Solution Focused Counseling, the Family Systems approach, Play Therapy, and Christian counseling (if my clients appreciate this approach).
Life in today’s world is a challenge for all of us at times. Knowing that we are not alone when we face these challenging circumstances can certainly help us access the courage it takes to navigate them more effectively. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Qualified Supervisor, my passion is to provide clients a safe place to focus on their journey toward growth and healing.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or major life transitions? You may feel overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, or unsure how to move forward. I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can process your experiences, build insight, and develop healthier coping strategies. Using a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approach, I help individuals identify unhelpful thought and behavior patterns while learning practical tools for lasting change, emotional balance, and personal growth.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or major life transitions? You may feel overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, or unsure how to move forward. I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can process your experiences, build insight, and develop healthier coping strategies. Using a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approach, I help individuals identify unhelpful thought and behavior patterns while learning practical tools for lasting change, emotional balance, and personal growth.
I draw from attachment-based, person-centered, family systems, emotion-focused, play, and solution-focused approaches tailored to each client’s unique needs.
I believe healing happens when we feel safe enough to be seen, known, and supported in the midst of our struggles. Whether you are navigating anxiety, relationship difficulties, emotional overwhelm, life transitions, parenting challenges, or feeling stuck in patterns you cannot seem to break, you do not have to walk through it alone. My desire is to come alongside you with compassion and curiosity as we explore the experiences, wounds, and beliefs that may be shaping your current struggles while also building practical tools for healing and growth.
I draw from attachment-based, person-centered, family systems, emotion-focused, play, and solution-focused approaches tailored to each client’s unique needs.
I believe healing happens when we feel safe enough to be seen, known, and supported in the midst of our struggles. Whether you are navigating anxiety, relationship difficulties, emotional overwhelm, life transitions, parenting challenges, or feeling stuck in patterns you cannot seem to break, you do not have to walk through it alone. My desire is to come alongside you with compassion and curiosity as we explore the experiences, wounds, and beliefs that may be shaping your current struggles while also building practical tools for healing and growth.
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in couples therapy for partners who are ready to do the work of healing, reconnecting, and building a stronger relationship. Whether you’re facing frequent conflict, emotional disconnection, or the aftermath of betrayal, I offer a supportive space where both partners feel heard, respected, and empowered.
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in couples therapy for partners who are ready to do the work of healing, reconnecting, and building a stronger relationship. Whether you’re facing frequent conflict, emotional disconnection, or the aftermath of betrayal, I offer a supportive space where both partners feel heard, respected, and empowered.
Navigating anxiety, depression, and life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I specialize in working with teens and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, and life stressors. Using a whole-person approach, I help my clients build practical tools to manage their emotions, gain clarity, and create meaningful change.
Navigating anxiety, depression, and life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I specialize in working with teens and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, and life stressors. Using a whole-person approach, I help my clients build practical tools to manage their emotions, gain clarity, and create meaningful change.
Life is stressful, relationships are tricky, emotions can be tough - and sometimes you need someone to help navigate it all. I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor dedicated to helping individuals, children, adolescents, couples, and families get on steadier ground.
I am EMDR trained and can offer EMDR therapy to children, teens, and adults to work through really painful memories.
Life is stressful, relationships are tricky, emotions can be tough - and sometimes you need someone to help navigate it all. I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor dedicated to helping individuals, children, adolescents, couples, and families get on steadier ground.
I am EMDR trained and can offer EMDR therapy to children, teens, and adults to work through really painful memories.
This practitioner provides in-depth treatment including individual, parent-child, play therapy, sandplay, and EMDR to children of all ages and to adults.
Dr. Dainery Fuentes is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in psychotherapy with children, adolescents, and their parents. In addition, she also treats individual adults. She assists in the process of exploring and building the inner strength to allow for the growth that is necessary to transition successfully through the stages of life. Dr. Fuentes completed her Ph.D. at Yeshiva University, NYC. During her 35 years of practice, she has additionally trained in a number of areas including psychoanalytic therapy at the Cincinnati Institute. She has directed numerous psychiatric facilities and doctoral training programs.
This practitioner provides in-depth treatment including individual, parent-child, play therapy, sandplay, and EMDR to children of all ages and to adults.
Dr. Dainery Fuentes is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in psychotherapy with children, adolescents, and their parents. In addition, she also treats individual adults. She assists in the process of exploring and building the inner strength to allow for the growth that is necessary to transition successfully through the stages of life. Dr. Fuentes completed her Ph.D. at Yeshiva University, NYC. During her 35 years of practice, she has additionally trained in a number of areas including psychoanalytic therapy at the Cincinnati Institute. She has directed numerous psychiatric facilities and doctoral training programs.
Elizabeth Wills
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, CRC
1 Endorsed
Lakeland, FL 33803
Waitlist for new clients
When working with children, I employ a play-based approach to identify and explore their emotions, build lifelong skills, and improve emotional health and resilience.
I am dedicated to working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. My practice is rooted in building an authentic connection with each client. I strive to create a warm, compassionate space where clients of all ages can work towards their desired change without judgement.
When working with children, I employ a play-based approach to identify and explore their emotions, build lifelong skills, and improve emotional health and resilience.
I am dedicated to working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. My practice is rooted in building an authentic connection with each client. I strive to create a warm, compassionate space where clients of all ages can work towards their desired change without judgement.
See more therapy options for Lakeland
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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.