Play Therapy in Lowndes County, GA
I work with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, relationship concerns, or a sense of feeling stuck or disconnected from themselves or others. My approach is warm, person-centered, and strengths-based, meaning I meet clients where they are and build on what’s already working. Together, we focus on developing deeper self-understanding, identifying patterns that may be getting in the way, and creating meaningful, sustainable change aligned with clients’ values and goals.
I work with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, relationship concerns, or a sense of feeling stuck or disconnected from themselves or others. My approach is warm, person-centered, and strengths-based, meaning I meet clients where they are and build on what’s already working. Together, we focus on developing deeper self-understanding, identifying patterns that may be getting in the way, and creating meaningful, sustainable change aligned with clients’ values and goals.
Dr. Clarissa 'clare' Alderman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT, ICAADC, NCC, DCC
1 Endorsed
Valdosta, GA 31601
My ideal client is someone who is self-aware enough to recognize they are struggling but may not yet have the tools or confidence to make meaningful changes. They might present with issues like anxiety, unresolved trauma, low self-worth, or difficulty maintaining healthy relationships. Often, they are high-functioning on the outside but feel emotionally stuck, disconnected, or overwhelmed internally.
My ideal client is someone who is self-aware enough to recognize they are struggling but may not yet have the tools or confidence to make meaningful changes. They might present with issues like anxiety, unresolved trauma, low self-worth, or difficulty maintaining healthy relationships. Often, they are high-functioning on the outside but feel emotionally stuck, disconnected, or overwhelmed internally.
I’ve spent over 30 years helping people of all ages work through life’s challenges—whether it’s anxiety, grief, family struggles, or past trauma. Lately, I’ve become especially passionate about supporting those in high stress, helping professionals who carry a lot of emotional weight from their work. My goal is to offer a safe, down-to-earth space where clients feel understood, supported, and ready to move forward. My approach to therapy is grounded, flexible, and deeply client-centered.
I’ve spent over 30 years helping people of all ages work through life’s challenges—whether it’s anxiety, grief, family struggles, or past trauma. Lately, I’ve become especially passionate about supporting those in high stress, helping professionals who carry a lot of emotional weight from their work. My goal is to offer a safe, down-to-earth space where clients feel understood, supported, and ready to move forward. My approach to therapy is grounded, flexible, and deeply client-centered.
Stephany A. Norris
Licensed Professional Counselor, (LPC), NCC, CFMHE, CPCS, EMDR-T
1 Endorsed
Valdosta, GA 31602
Waitlist for new clients
My goal is to create an empathic, comfortable, and professional environment for my clients. I work with individuals who struggle with long term mental health issues such as Major Depression, Generalized Anxiety, PTSD, or are just having difficulty adjusting to a life change or relationship issues. I love my work and enjoy helping others work through life's many challenges. I care about taking a non-judgmental approach in evaluating and treating my clients, and focus on helping you identify your own personal strengths so that you are better prepared and enabled to find solutions.
My goal is to create an empathic, comfortable, and professional environment for my clients. I work with individuals who struggle with long term mental health issues such as Major Depression, Generalized Anxiety, PTSD, or are just having difficulty adjusting to a life change or relationship issues. I love my work and enjoy helping others work through life's many challenges. I care about taking a non-judgmental approach in evaluating and treating my clients, and focus on helping you identify your own personal strengths so that you are better prepared and enabled to find solutions.
The Better Mood Clinic of South Georgia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMFT
Valdosta, GA 31602
Are you juggling the world while carrying a heavy heart? When you're busy showing up for everyone else, your own healing often gets pushed to the side. If you feel emotionally drained and longing for a release, please hear this: Your struggle is valid, and you’ve carried this long enough. Let us help you set the weight down and rediscover your peace.
Are you juggling the world while carrying a heavy heart? When you're busy showing up for everyone else, your own healing often gets pushed to the side. If you feel emotionally drained and longing for a release, please hear this: Your struggle is valid, and you’ve carried this long enough. Let us help you set the weight down and rediscover your peace.
Cassie Avellaneda is a Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC. Cassie’s professional career began in the public education system. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Warner University. She taught in the public-school system for several years. Cassie then received her Master of Arts Degree in Counseling from Webster University. Cassie has been a fully licensed clinician for almost 10 years in the state of Florida. In relocating to Georgia, she is now dually licensed in both Florida and Georgia.
Cassie Avellaneda is a Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC. Cassie’s professional career began in the public education system. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Warner University. She taught in the public-school system for several years. Cassie then received her Master of Arts Degree in Counseling from Webster University. Cassie has been a fully licensed clinician for almost 10 years in the state of Florida. In relocating to Georgia, she is now dually licensed in both Florida and Georgia.
With younger clients, I use play-based approaches to help them process emotions safely and developmentally.
Hi, I’m Chastidy Boutin, LCSW. I earned my MSW degree in 2021. Since then, I’ve worked with both adults and children across the lifespan, supporting people through their needs.
Some of the challenges you will find most of my patients struggle with are anxiety, ADHD/Neurodiversity, addictive behaviors, complex trauma, inner family abuse/ dysfunctional dynamics, and those with separated and/or blended families.
With younger clients, I use play-based approaches to help them process emotions safely and developmentally.
Hi, I’m Chastidy Boutin, LCSW. I earned my MSW degree in 2021. Since then, I’ve worked with both adults and children across the lifespan, supporting people through their needs.
Some of the challenges you will find most of my patients struggle with are anxiety, ADHD/Neurodiversity, addictive behaviors, complex trauma, inner family abuse/ dysfunctional dynamics, and those with separated and/or blended families.
EnSpire Counseling & Wellness, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCSW, RPT, CFRC
1 Endorsed
Valdosta, GA 31602
In addition, we offer group, play, and family therapy, EMDR/trauma therapy, and medication assessment & management.
EnSpire Counseling & Wellness is a comprehensive Mental Health & Wellness Center comprised of a multidisciplinary team of dedicated healthcare and wellness professionals providing hope, healing, and restoration. Our purpose is to help create a healthy and supportive environment for clients' success through services that address and enhance overall emotional, physical, and spiritual wellness. EnSpire’s mission and philosophy is holistic and designed to empower, encourage, and enlighten individuals, families, and couples in our local and surrounding communities.
In addition, we offer group, play, and family therapy, EMDR/trauma therapy, and medication assessment & management.
EnSpire Counseling & Wellness is a comprehensive Mental Health & Wellness Center comprised of a multidisciplinary team of dedicated healthcare and wellness professionals providing hope, healing, and restoration. Our purpose is to help create a healthy and supportive environment for clients' success through services that address and enhance overall emotional, physical, and spiritual wellness. EnSpire’s mission and philosophy is holistic and designed to empower, encourage, and enlighten individuals, families, and couples in our local and surrounding communities.
I have extensive clinical experience, 20 years+, working in the trauma-related, mental health, and counseling fields. I have been clinically licensed as a LMFT since 2006 and am an active member (clinical fellow) of AAMFT/GAMFT. My clinical path has allowed me to gain significant knowledge and experience in the field of mental health & counseling, clinical consultation, and speaking. I provide ongoing counseling in the areas of individual (children, adolescents, and adults), family, marital/couple/pre-marital, and group therapy. In addition, I am EMDR Trained and obtained my certification as a Certified First Responder Counselor.
I have extensive clinical experience, 20 years+, working in the trauma-related, mental health, and counseling fields. I have been clinically licensed as a LMFT since 2006 and am an active member (clinical fellow) of AAMFT/GAMFT. My clinical path has allowed me to gain significant knowledge and experience in the field of mental health & counseling, clinical consultation, and speaking. I provide ongoing counseling in the areas of individual (children, adolescents, and adults), family, marital/couple/pre-marital, and group therapy. In addition, I am EMDR Trained and obtained my certification as a Certified First Responder Counselor.
With over 38 years of experience in the field of mental health, I have dedicated my career to helping individuals of all ages and backgrounds navigate life’s challenges and achieve emotional well-being. My passion lies in providing compassionate, evidence-based support to those struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, relationship difficulties, and other mental health concerns. Through a person-centered approach, I empower individuals by helping them build resilience, strengthen coping skills, and foster personal growth. My goal is that clients leave each session feeing heard, validated, and empowered.
With over 38 years of experience in the field of mental health, I have dedicated my career to helping individuals of all ages and backgrounds navigate life’s challenges and achieve emotional well-being. My passion lies in providing compassionate, evidence-based support to those struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, relationship difficulties, and other mental health concerns. Through a person-centered approach, I empower individuals by helping them build resilience, strengthen coping skills, and foster personal growth. My goal is that clients leave each session feeing heard, validated, and empowered.
I seek to establish a mutual understanding of the issue through metaphor and collaboration with my clients. Providing an unbiased view of the problem formation and explore its solution via the client’s own understanding. I wish to establish a warm and caring relationship with you in order to assist in building on your strengths and better cooperate with you towards meeting your goals and living the meaningful life you value and desire.
I seek to establish a mutual understanding of the issue through metaphor and collaboration with my clients. Providing an unbiased view of the problem formation and explore its solution via the client’s own understanding. I wish to establish a warm and caring relationship with you in order to assist in building on your strengths and better cooperate with you towards meeting your goals and living the meaningful life you value and desire.
Are your fingers tired from scrolling while trying to find the right match when it comes to a therapist? Stop here and take a pause break. Breathe in and out 3 times. Ready to continue? Let’s go.
Are your fingers tired from scrolling while trying to find the right match when it comes to a therapist? Stop here and take a pause break. Breathe in and out 3 times. Ready to continue? Let’s go.
Each client comes with a different and unique goal in therapy. I believe that my clients have the resources they need to change their path in a way that honors their preferred way of living. I help my clients create change within the dysfunctional pattern they themselves in to start living the life they deserve.
As we embark on this journey together, your aspirations become my shared mission.
I will help define your objectives, how you understand the problem that brings you to therapy, but also celebrate the shifting landscapes behind your needs to continue evolving in therapy. Together we co-explore possibilities for change.
Each client comes with a different and unique goal in therapy. I believe that my clients have the resources they need to change their path in a way that honors their preferred way of living. I help my clients create change within the dysfunctional pattern they themselves in to start living the life they deserve.
As we embark on this journey together, your aspirations become my shared mission.
I will help define your objectives, how you understand the problem that brings you to therapy, but also celebrate the shifting landscapes behind your needs to continue evolving in therapy. Together we co-explore possibilities for change.
Kristi B Godwin
Marriage & Family Therapist, DPA, LMFT, CCTP, EMDR-T
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I am trained in trauma-informed care, play therapy, EMDR, IFS, Solution Focused Therapy, and DBT, and do use these modalities primarily.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, trained in systems theory, and work to incorporate as many aspects of my client's system into therapy as possible.
I am trained in trauma-informed care, play therapy, EMDR, IFS, Solution Focused Therapy, and DBT, and do use these modalities primarily.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, trained in systems theory, and work to incorporate as many aspects of my client's system into therapy as possible.
Online Therapists
I am a thoughtful and creative therapist with a passion for seeing family’s restored. I am committed to helping families/individuals heal and flourish. I will help you tap into the skills and tools you need to live your best life. Together you will realize your strength and call upon your courage to be filled up and live a life poured out.
I am a thoughtful and creative therapist with a passion for seeing family’s restored. I am committed to helping families/individuals heal and flourish. I will help you tap into the skills and tools you need to live your best life. Together you will realize your strength and call upon your courage to be filled up and live a life poured out.
ATK Marriage & Family Coaching, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
4 Endorsed
Albany, GA 31701
We use play therapy for children, individual/group therapy for teens and adults.
We specialize in marriage counseling to help couples improve communication, intimacy, family issues, and how they relate to each other. Couples often get caught up in destructive cycles that create great frustration for them. They find themselves unable to talk, be intimate and relate to each other as desired. This can have severe implications not only for the couple, but the whole family. Let us help you STOP the madness! Our work is the perfect integration of education, years of marriage, parenting, years of teaching special education experience, and a lifetime of experience!
We use play therapy for children, individual/group therapy for teens and adults.
We specialize in marriage counseling to help couples improve communication, intimacy, family issues, and how they relate to each other. Couples often get caught up in destructive cycles that create great frustration for them. They find themselves unable to talk, be intimate and relate to each other as desired. This can have severe implications not only for the couple, but the whole family. Let us help you STOP the madness! Our work is the perfect integration of education, years of marriage, parenting, years of teaching special education experience, and a lifetime of experience!
Healing Hearts Counseling Services was founded upon the principle to love all others without judgment, regardless of age, race, religion, and/or sexual orientation. Counseling services are offered in a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere for couples, adolescents, children, and adults, with respect and value for individual differences.
Healing Hearts Counseling Services was founded upon the principle to love all others without judgment, regardless of age, race, religion, and/or sexual orientation. Counseling services are offered in a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere for couples, adolescents, children, and adults, with respect and value for individual differences.
Life can carry some of the most trying and rewarding moments. As a therapist with over ten years of clinical experience, I want to support you in navigating these challenges, encourage personal growth, and celebrate your strengths.
Life can carry some of the most trying and rewarding moments. As a therapist with over ten years of clinical experience, I want to support you in navigating these challenges, encourage personal growth, and celebrate your strengths.
I am nationally certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and trained in Trauma Play and in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
When life challenges us, we can all benefit from working it through with someone who cares. If you or your child have experienced a traumatic or scary event, had recent changes in your life, or are struggling with big feelings and behaviors, the next steps can be overwhelming. I empower you to heal through learning and collaboration; processing those events and feelings that once felt too big.
I am nationally certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and trained in Trauma Play and in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
When life challenges us, we can all benefit from working it through with someone who cares. If you or your child have experienced a traumatic or scary event, had recent changes in your life, or are struggling with big feelings and behaviors, the next steps can be overwhelming. I empower you to heal through learning and collaboration; processing those events and feelings that once felt too big.
To this day, one of the greatest honors of my life is when people trust me enough to share the hard parts of their story - Author unknown. Everyone's story is unique and their own. I believe that my clients have the ability to change the narrative of their story. Life often takes difficult, unexpected turns. It can be helpful to have support as you navigate these new experiences. I work with my clients to co-create change in areas that are important for them. I often work with Clients who have experienced trauma, unexpected life changes, mood disorders such as anxiety or depression, and more.
To this day, one of the greatest honors of my life is when people trust me enough to share the hard parts of their story - Author unknown. Everyone's story is unique and their own. I believe that my clients have the ability to change the narrative of their story. Life often takes difficult, unexpected turns. It can be helpful to have support as you navigate these new experiences. I work with my clients to co-create change in areas that are important for them. I often work with Clients who have experienced trauma, unexpected life changes, mood disorders such as anxiety or depression, and more.
See more therapy options for Lowndes County
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.