Play Therapy in Louisville, KY
I use evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Person-Centered Play Therapy to support clients in their journey toward healing and change.
Hi, I’m Carmen, a Certified Social Worker (CSW) with 27+ years of combined experience in case management, adoptions/permanency, and clinical work. I provide individual and group therapy using a warm, nonjudgmental, supportive approach. I work with teens and adults facing anxiety, trauma, and depression, and I support clients from diverse backgrounds, including LGBTQ+ individuals, and those managing serious illness or behavioral challenges. I meet you where you are with no judgement.
I use evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Person-Centered Play Therapy to support clients in their journey toward healing and change.
Hi, I’m Carmen, a Certified Social Worker (CSW) with 27+ years of combined experience in case management, adoptions/permanency, and clinical work. I provide individual and group therapy using a warm, nonjudgmental, supportive approach. I work with teens and adults facing anxiety, trauma, and depression, and I support clients from diverse backgrounds, including LGBTQ+ individuals, and those managing serious illness or behavioral challenges. I meet you where you are with no judgement.
I am a registered play therapist, and, with this formal training, I have advanced knowledge and skill in assisting very young children work through their emotions in a way that matches their stage of development.
As a parent, I'm sure you already know that little kids can come with some big challenges. From temper tantrums to power struggles; between dealing with hitting, kicking, screaming, crying - all of these things can leave you overwhelmed and at your wit's end. Or, maybe things are fairly peaceful between you and your child, but you want to make the most of those precious, early years and lay the foundation for healthy development. Or, maybe all of the above! When it comes to tackling the mental health problems of early childhood, I can help you and your little one get back to what really matters: playing, growing and learning.
I am a registered play therapist, and, with this formal training, I have advanced knowledge and skill in assisting very young children work through their emotions in a way that matches their stage of development.
As a parent, I'm sure you already know that little kids can come with some big challenges. From temper tantrums to power struggles; between dealing with hitting, kicking, screaming, crying - all of these things can leave you overwhelmed and at your wit's end. Or, maybe things are fairly peaceful between you and your child, but you want to make the most of those precious, early years and lay the foundation for healthy development. Or, maybe all of the above! When it comes to tackling the mental health problems of early childhood, I can help you and your little one get back to what really matters: playing, growing and learning.
I believe in the healing power of creativity, openness, and play.
Hello there! I help children, teens, and parents overcome mental health struggles and provide parents with tools to better connect with their children. Raising children can be very difficult. You may feel like you have done everything you can and still feel stuck. Together, we can embark on a journey of healing and connection to help meet the needs, goals, and freedom your family is craving.
I believe in the healing power of creativity, openness, and play.
Hello there! I help children, teens, and parents overcome mental health struggles and provide parents with tools to better connect with their children. Raising children can be very difficult. You may feel like you have done everything you can and still feel stuck. Together, we can embark on a journey of healing and connection to help meet the needs, goals, and freedom your family is craving.
Rev. Maria Cristal Encarnación
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MAMFT, MDiv
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40207
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches to support my clients, including Experiential Therapy for enhancing adult relationships, Family Systems Therapy to improve family dynamics, Play Therapy for engaging children, Trauma-Focused Therapy for healing past traumas, and Christian Counseling for those seeking faith-based guidance.
I love working with individuals who need a safe, supportive space to lay down their burdens and explore the roots of their emotions. Navigating the pressures of society, culture, or family can make feelings like anxiety and depression feel overwhelming and isolating. You deserve a compassionate, nonjudgmental environment where you can process your emotions, gain clarity, and rediscover your sense of balance and strength. I am dedicated to providing a safe space for all, with a special focus on spiritual counseling.
I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches to support my clients, including Experiential Therapy for enhancing adult relationships, Family Systems Therapy to improve family dynamics, Play Therapy for engaging children, Trauma-Focused Therapy for healing past traumas, and Christian Counseling for those seeking faith-based guidance.
I love working with individuals who need a safe, supportive space to lay down their burdens and explore the roots of their emotions. Navigating the pressures of society, culture, or family can make feelings like anxiety and depression feel overwhelming and isolating. You deserve a compassionate, nonjudgmental environment where you can process your emotions, gain clarity, and rediscover your sense of balance and strength. I am dedicated to providing a safe space for all, with a special focus on spiritual counseling.
Phoenix Fowler, LCSW, graduated from the University of Louisville where she received her Master’s of Science in Social Work. Before completing her Masters, Phoenix attended Bellarmine University where she double majored in Art and Psychology. Phoenix has experience working with children in various settings including hospitals, refugee and immigrant resettlement agencies, and in the public school system. Phoenix’s approach to therapy can be described as creative, playful, and supportive. Phoenix completed her 200 hour yoga teacher training in 2022 and now utilizes yoga, breathwork and mindfulness in her sessions.
Phoenix Fowler, LCSW, graduated from the University of Louisville where she received her Master’s of Science in Social Work. Before completing her Masters, Phoenix attended Bellarmine University where she double majored in Art and Psychology. Phoenix has experience working with children in various settings including hospitals, refugee and immigrant resettlement agencies, and in the public school system. Phoenix’s approach to therapy can be described as creative, playful, and supportive. Phoenix completed her 200 hour yoga teacher training in 2022 and now utilizes yoga, breathwork and mindfulness in her sessions.
1st Priority Healthcare provides services to children, teens, adults, and families. We offer an array of services that put the total well-being of our clients at the forefront. We also provide a day treatment program tailored to children with mental illnesses, and a host of other services for persons of all ages, and levels of need.
1st Priority Healthcare provides services to children, teens, adults, and families. We offer an array of services that put the total well-being of our clients at the forefront. We also provide a day treatment program tailored to children with mental illnesses, and a host of other services for persons of all ages, and levels of need.
Hi there! I’m Shaniece Austin(she/they), a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor based in Louisville, Kentucky. I was born in Los Angeles, California, but spent much of my formative years in the Appalachian mountains of Tennessee, Virginia, and Kentucky. My journey has taught me the value of adaptability, the importance of relationships, and the strength found in community.
Hi there! I’m Shaniece Austin(she/they), a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor based in Louisville, Kentucky. I was born in Los Angeles, California, but spent much of my formative years in the Appalachian mountains of Tennessee, Virginia, and Kentucky. My journey has taught me the value of adaptability, the importance of relationships, and the strength found in community.
I work with adolescent, young adult, and middle age clients facing every day struggles with stress, anxiety or unexpected life events. I help you to understand yourself better, learn from what challenges you, and align the emotional & rational self, so that you can be the best you. This often means confronting the uncomfortable, discovering the unknown, and gently giving yourself the grace to heal and do personal work. Sessions focus on exploring old stories, breaking old habits, creating healthy narratives, and overcoming roadblocks to allow for new actions that move you forward with growth, strength, and peace in your days.
I work with adolescent, young adult, and middle age clients facing every day struggles with stress, anxiety or unexpected life events. I help you to understand yourself better, learn from what challenges you, and align the emotional & rational self, so that you can be the best you. This often means confronting the uncomfortable, discovering the unknown, and gently giving yourself the grace to heal and do personal work. Sessions focus on exploring old stories, breaking old habits, creating healthy narratives, and overcoming roadblocks to allow for new actions that move you forward with growth, strength, and peace in your days.
I am a Christian therapist, though I have no difficulties working with clients of all beliefs. I am comfortable meeting with individuals and families, and I'm comfortable meeting with children and/or adults. I believe in the power of healing and restoration. I believe in hope and change. I believe life has meaning and we can find it. I believe in strong individuals, couples, and families who can learn to live life in honesty and contentment. I also know that working through life's issues/obstacles takes time and I want to help you on your journey towards wholeness and fulfillment.
I am a Christian therapist, though I have no difficulties working with clients of all beliefs. I am comfortable meeting with individuals and families, and I'm comfortable meeting with children and/or adults. I believe in the power of healing and restoration. I believe in hope and change. I believe life has meaning and we can find it. I believe in strong individuals, couples, and families who can learn to live life in honesty and contentment. I also know that working through life's issues/obstacles takes time and I want to help you on your journey towards wholeness and fulfillment.
As a Licensed Psychological Associate, I offer Trauma-Focused CBT, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Solution-Focused, Play therapy techniques, Motivational Interviewing and Trauma-Focused Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
I am a trauma-informed therapist who has a heart for working with clients experiencing big emotions and life transitions. I support my clients in working through challenges such as anxiety, depression, identity development, relationship issues and trauma. In therapy sessions, I use an eclectic approach to tailor therapy to my client’s goals. I am passionate about providing a safe space for my clients to be their authentic selves. I prioritize empathy and building a strong therapeutic relationship, so my clients feel seen and heard.
As a Licensed Psychological Associate, I offer Trauma-Focused CBT, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Solution-Focused, Play therapy techniques, Motivational Interviewing and Trauma-Focused Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
I am a trauma-informed therapist who has a heart for working with clients experiencing big emotions and life transitions. I support my clients in working through challenges such as anxiety, depression, identity development, relationship issues and trauma. In therapy sessions, I use an eclectic approach to tailor therapy to my client’s goals. I am passionate about providing a safe space for my clients to be their authentic selves. I prioritize empathy and building a strong therapeutic relationship, so my clients feel seen and heard.
Kristi Collier Thompson
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPCC
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40223
I am a trauma-informed, licensed counselor specializing in children, teenagers, adults and families who are experiencing anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, relational trauma (adoption, foster care, chronic illness, abuse or neglect), chronic illness and chronic pain. With over 20 years of experience, I am certified in EMDR, and trained in Theraplay, internal family systems (IFS), DBT, Trust-Based Relational Intervention, solution-focused brief counseling, trauma-focused cognitive-behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), Prepare-Enrich and mindfulness.
I am a trauma-informed, licensed counselor specializing in children, teenagers, adults and families who are experiencing anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, relational trauma (adoption, foster care, chronic illness, abuse or neglect), chronic illness and chronic pain. With over 20 years of experience, I am certified in EMDR, and trained in Theraplay, internal family systems (IFS), DBT, Trust-Based Relational Intervention, solution-focused brief counseling, trauma-focused cognitive-behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), Prepare-Enrich and mindfulness.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in Louisville, KY specializing in children, adolescents and families. In 2006, I founded Pediatric Psychological Associates, a private practice dedicated to helping children from their earliest years through their challenging teens. Prior to private practice, I served as a pediatric psychologist and assistant professor of pediatrics at Cincinnati Children's Hospital. I work with children and teens with a variety of emotional, behavioral, developmental and social problems. I have specific expertise in the area of pediatric anxiety and pediatric health psychology.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in Louisville, KY specializing in children, adolescents and families. In 2006, I founded Pediatric Psychological Associates, a private practice dedicated to helping children from their earliest years through their challenging teens. Prior to private practice, I served as a pediatric psychologist and assistant professor of pediatrics at Cincinnati Children's Hospital. I work with children and teens with a variety of emotional, behavioral, developmental and social problems. I have specific expertise in the area of pediatric anxiety and pediatric health psychology.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, adolescents, children and families. My experience has taught me that people seek counseling for a wide variety of reasons. Finding a therapist that you feel comfortable with and you can trust is oftentimes a process. I hope this site is helpful to you in that search.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, adolescents, children and families. My experience has taught me that people seek counseling for a wide variety of reasons. Finding a therapist that you feel comfortable with and you can trust is oftentimes a process. I hope this site is helpful to you in that search.
Creating Connection
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPAT, LPCC, LPCA, RPT
Louisville, KY 40206
On our staff, we have Art Therapists, Professional Counselors, Clinical Social Worker, and Play Therapists
Creating Connection is a small group practice aimed at providing playful and expressive therapeutic services to children, teens, and adults. We believe in treatment that is trauma informed, nurturing, and sensitive to the needs of each individual. Attachment, connection, and relationships are key to being our best selves and progress; including a positive and empowering relationship with your therapist. Each of our therapists specialize is working with different populations (all of which is listed below). We strive to maintain evidenced based practices to ensure high quality care that is accessible and consistent to all clients.
On our staff, we have Art Therapists, Professional Counselors, Clinical Social Worker, and Play Therapists
Creating Connection is a small group practice aimed at providing playful and expressive therapeutic services to children, teens, and adults. We believe in treatment that is trauma informed, nurturing, and sensitive to the needs of each individual. Attachment, connection, and relationships are key to being our best selves and progress; including a positive and empowering relationship with your therapist. Each of our therapists specialize is working with different populations (all of which is listed below). We strive to maintain evidenced based practices to ensure high quality care that is accessible and consistent to all clients.
Rick Hudson
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, PhD, LPCC-S, NCC, ADHD-CP
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40205
My work with clients has included addressing depression, anxiety, self-esteem and identity concerns as well as the social/emotional challenges that accompany ADHD, Autism and other disabilities. As a self avowed ‘nerd therapist’ with ADHD myself, I am passionate about working with fellow nerds, outcasts, artists or creatives who may feel out of sync with a mainstream approach. I am particularly adept at assisting clients in identifying their strengths and talents and applying them toward career, educational and other life goals. I am sex positive and endeavor to be an ally to LGBTQ+, poly and kink communities.
My work with clients has included addressing depression, anxiety, self-esteem and identity concerns as well as the social/emotional challenges that accompany ADHD, Autism and other disabilities. As a self avowed ‘nerd therapist’ with ADHD myself, I am passionate about working with fellow nerds, outcasts, artists or creatives who may feel out of sync with a mainstream approach. I am particularly adept at assisting clients in identifying their strengths and talents and applying them toward career, educational and other life goals. I am sex positive and endeavor to be an ally to LGBTQ+, poly and kink communities.
Hey there! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Work in the state of Kentucky and Indiana. I have a strong passion for working with individuals presenting with depression, anxiety, and history of trauma. Life gets hard, I know. If you are here looking for a therapist, life may be getting a little hard and you need extra help right now. If that's you; let's connect I am eager to walk with you through this healing journey. You don't have to do it alone!
Hey there! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Work in the state of Kentucky and Indiana. I have a strong passion for working with individuals presenting with depression, anxiety, and history of trauma. Life gets hard, I know. If you are here looking for a therapist, life may be getting a little hard and you need extra help right now. If that's you; let's connect I am eager to walk with you through this healing journey. You don't have to do it alone!
I believe we are created for connection yet shame often convinces us that we are unworthy, unlovable, or incapable. Our past shapes how we think, feel, and respond in the present and our thought patterns can make life feel heavy and overwhelming. I work primarily with children, adolescents and young adults navigating depression, anxiety, trauma, and neurodevelopmental challenges. As eldest daughter of immigrant parents, I also understand how cultural expectations and family dynamics shape identity, relationships, and emotional well-being.
I believe we are created for connection yet shame often convinces us that we are unworthy, unlovable, or incapable. Our past shapes how we think, feel, and respond in the present and our thought patterns can make life feel heavy and overwhelming. I work primarily with children, adolescents and young adults navigating depression, anxiety, trauma, and neurodevelopmental challenges. As eldest daughter of immigrant parents, I also understand how cultural expectations and family dynamics shape identity, relationships, and emotional well-being.
I provide both in-person and telehealth sessions. I specialize in working with youth, adolescents, and young adults in areas of anxiety, depression, school issues, trauma, conflict/decision making, and life transitions. I have extensive experience with at-risk youth and families and psychoeducational programs across multiple topics, including mental health, relationship issues, substance use, LGBTQ needs, trauma, and others.
I provide both in-person and telehealth sessions. I specialize in working with youth, adolescents, and young adults in areas of anxiety, depression, school issues, trauma, conflict/decision making, and life transitions. I have extensive experience with at-risk youth and families and psychoeducational programs across multiple topics, including mental health, relationship issues, substance use, LGBTQ needs, trauma, and others.
Karen Chapman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40222
Waitlist for new clients
Not currently accepting new clients. Have you experienced a life-changing event? Is it a struggle to integrate it in your life? I have a passion for and am trained to help process significant life events and loss/grief surrounding your experience. Such events often change you and the way you see/interact with the world and a strength of mine it to help folks explore those changes and their impact. I am committed to honesty and positive intention. I enjoy working with people diverse in identity. I am currently finding success with many Gen Z (18+), millennial and Gen Xers with a lot of experience in across the LGBTQIA+ spectrum.
Not currently accepting new clients. Have you experienced a life-changing event? Is it a struggle to integrate it in your life? I have a passion for and am trained to help process significant life events and loss/grief surrounding your experience. Such events often change you and the way you see/interact with the world and a strength of mine it to help folks explore those changes and their impact. I am committed to honesty and positive intention. I enjoy working with people diverse in identity. I am currently finding success with many Gen Z (18+), millennial and Gen Xers with a lot of experience in across the LGBTQIA+ spectrum.
My work is grounded in trauma-informed and culturally sensitive care, recognizing the significant role that identity, lived experience, and systemic factors play in healing and wellbeing.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Doctorate in Social Work and over 15 years of experience as a mental health therapist. I support individuals through life transitions, emotional challenges, and personal growth with compassion and clinical expertise.
My work is grounded in trauma-informed and culturally sensitive care, recognizing the significant role that identity, lived experience, and systemic factors play in healing and wellbeing.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Doctorate in Social Work and over 15 years of experience as a mental health therapist. I support individuals through life transitions, emotional challenges, and personal growth with compassion and clinical expertise.
See more therapy options for Louisville
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Louisville
- Bardstown
- Crestwood
- Elizabethtown
- La Grange
- Lyndon
- Prospect
- Radcliff
- Saint Matthews
- Shelbyville
- Shepherdsville
- Taylorsville
- Valley Station
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.