Play Therapy in Washington, DC
Laura Luna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20007
I am an experienced therapist who works with children, adults and couples. I provide treatment for a variety of issues, including: depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions, conflict with family of origin and trauma. Through the use of evidence-based interventions including, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy and play therapy techniques I help clients identify their triggers, and learn healthier ways to manage their emotions and deal with life stressors.
I am an experienced therapist who works with children, adults and couples. I provide treatment for a variety of issues, including: depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions, conflict with family of origin and trauma. Through the use of evidence-based interventions including, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy and play therapy techniques I help clients identify their triggers, and learn healthier ways to manage their emotions and deal with life stressors.
Xanthia Bianca Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
My clinical areas of specialization and interest include but are not limited to: Women & Women of Color Issues, Urban Play Therapy, Expressive Arts, Sandtray Therapy, Grief & Loss, LGBTQ+ Folk, TF-CBT, Broad Spectrum Couples & Family Work.
Everyone deserves a chance to become their best selves. During defining transitions, I provide a safe place for you to be who you are. Whether you are 2 years old or 85 years young, you will enjoy a transformative experience. I know DC Metro folk and am experienced in the nuanced issues they face. If you are in a proactive self-seeking stanz, I can help you discover the panacea for which your heart has always desired. Thank you for considering me to be apart of your journey. I look forward to meeting you.
My clinical areas of specialization and interest include but are not limited to: Women & Women of Color Issues, Urban Play Therapy, Expressive Arts, Sandtray Therapy, Grief & Loss, LGBTQ+ Folk, TF-CBT, Broad Spectrum Couples & Family Work.
Everyone deserves a chance to become their best selves. During defining transitions, I provide a safe place for you to be who you are. Whether you are 2 years old or 85 years young, you will enjoy a transformative experience. I know DC Metro folk and am experienced in the nuanced issues they face. If you are in a proactive self-seeking stanz, I can help you discover the panacea for which your heart has always desired. Thank you for considering me to be apart of your journey. I look forward to meeting you.
Sarah Beth Alcabes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
When engaging children in therapy, I utilize books, games, play, and art.
I specialize in supporting kids with emotion identification, self-regulation, and anxiety management. I am a therapist committed to serving queer and trans youth, and all young people, with respect, compassion, and attentiveness.
When engaging children in therapy, I utilize books, games, play, and art.
I specialize in supporting kids with emotion identification, self-regulation, and anxiety management. I am a therapist committed to serving queer and trans youth, and all young people, with respect, compassion, and attentiveness.
Jonathan Christophel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
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.
Tatyana Suares
Counselor, MA, LGPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006 (Online Only)
art, sand, and play).
I have experience and specialized training in the assessment and treatment of individuals struggling with substance use, depression, anxiety, trauma, relational issues, grief and loss. Additionally, I have worked with neurodivergent children, including those diagnosed with autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, in addressing socio-emotional challenges. I have worked in a variety of settings including juvenile detention centers, rehabilitation centers, community agencies and outpatient mental health clinics, providing me with exposure to a broad range of cultural/socio-economic backgrounds and mental health issues.
art, sand, and play).
I have experience and specialized training in the assessment and treatment of individuals struggling with substance use, depression, anxiety, trauma, relational issues, grief and loss. Additionally, I have worked with neurodivergent children, including those diagnosed with autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, in addressing socio-emotional challenges. I have worked in a variety of settings including juvenile detention centers, rehabilitation centers, community agencies and outpatient mental health clinics, providing me with exposure to a broad range of cultural/socio-economic backgrounds and mental health issues.
Lindsay Tiell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
I utilize a client-centered approach, drawing from multiple evidence-based models such as cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), play therapy, and attachment theory.
I believe connection has a transformative power, allowing us to feel heard and understood as we navigate life. Using the power of relationships, it is my privilege to join clients on their personal journeys of looking within, which can lead to growth and healing. I create a safe space for my clients in which they are able to develop the insights and skills needed to enhance feelings of joy, self-compassion, and confidence. As a licensed therapist in the DC metro area, I work with teens, adults, parents, and women in the perinatal and postpartum period - offering a highly individualized approach during every stage.
I utilize a client-centered approach, drawing from multiple evidence-based models such as cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), play therapy, and attachment theory.
I believe connection has a transformative power, allowing us to feel heard and understood as we navigate life. Using the power of relationships, it is my privilege to join clients on their personal journeys of looking within, which can lead to growth and healing. I create a safe space for my clients in which they are able to develop the insights and skills needed to enhance feelings of joy, self-compassion, and confidence. As a licensed therapist in the DC metro area, I work with teens, adults, parents, and women in the perinatal and postpartum period - offering a highly individualized approach during every stage.
Katrina Wallace
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
I utilize a variety of evidence-based treatment modalities to include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Play Based Therapy, Trauma Informed Therapy, Strengths Based Approach, Solution Focused, Mindfulness, and Person Centered.
Are you experiencing marriage problems, communication problems, anxiety, unexplainable sadness, depression, or stress? Do you struggle with low self-esteem, low self-worth, ADHD related issues or are you finding it difficult to navigate life transitions. Finding a therapist could feel like a daunting task but seeking help is the first step to overcoming life’s challenges. I have over 19 years of combined experience providing culturally sensitive and trauma informed counseling to individuals, couples, and families. I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families in a collaborative way to meet the needs of the client.
I utilize a variety of evidence-based treatment modalities to include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Play Based Therapy, Trauma Informed Therapy, Strengths Based Approach, Solution Focused, Mindfulness, and Person Centered.
Are you experiencing marriage problems, communication problems, anxiety, unexplainable sadness, depression, or stress? Do you struggle with low self-esteem, low self-worth, ADHD related issues or are you finding it difficult to navigate life transitions. Finding a therapist could feel like a daunting task but seeking help is the first step to overcoming life’s challenges. I have over 19 years of combined experience providing culturally sensitive and trauma informed counseling to individuals, couples, and families. I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families in a collaborative way to meet the needs of the client.
Elissa Gross
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20005 (Online Only)
I am trained in expressive arts therapy, sandtray, and play therapy modalities that I can utilize in our sessions.
Life can be overwhelming and you are not alone in your struggles. Though reaching out for help can feel scary, making this choice is often transformative. You deserve support and to have hope in your life. Therapy with me is a process where this happens and I find it an honor to walk beside and gently guide you through whatever you may be experiencing. I believe in basing our therapeutic relationship on acceptance, genuineness, and empathy. I work with all types of people--children, adolescents, and adults--who are struggling with the external, internal, or both in a non-judgmental, strengths-based, trauma-informed manner.
I am trained in expressive arts therapy, sandtray, and play therapy modalities that I can utilize in our sessions.
Life can be overwhelming and you are not alone in your struggles. Though reaching out for help can feel scary, making this choice is often transformative. You deserve support and to have hope in your life. Therapy with me is a process where this happens and I find it an honor to walk beside and gently guide you through whatever you may be experiencing. I believe in basing our therapeutic relationship on acceptance, genuineness, and empathy. I work with all types of people--children, adolescents, and adults--who are struggling with the external, internal, or both in a non-judgmental, strengths-based, trauma-informed manner.
Dr. Brooke Stroud
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD, MSc
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007
I offer an integrative approach to therapy, incorporating Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), psychodynamic psychotherapy and mindfulness to achieve the change you seek. I am also trained in Play Therapy, SPACE for parents of anxious children, adolescents and young adults, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
I offer an integrative approach to therapy, incorporating Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), psychodynamic psychotherapy and mindfulness to achieve the change you seek. I am also trained in Play Therapy, SPACE for parents of anxious children, adolescents and young adults, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
Ruthie T Arbit
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20015
I use CBT, mindfulness, and family-focused play therapy to treat behavioral difficulties, anxiety, depression, parenting challenges, and mood disorders related to pregnancy and the postpartum period.
My approach to therapy is to partner with you and your family to create an individualized and goal-directed treatment plan. I can help you uncover your strengths and use the skills you already have to make lasting changes. You will experience a warm, genuine, playful, and humorous treatment approach.
I use CBT, mindfulness, and family-focused play therapy to treat behavioral difficulties, anxiety, depression, parenting challenges, and mood disorders related to pregnancy and the postpartum period.
My approach to therapy is to partner with you and your family to create an individualized and goal-directed treatment plan. I can help you uncover your strengths and use the skills you already have to make lasting changes. You will experience a warm, genuine, playful, and humorous treatment approach.
Karin Luk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006 (Online Only)
I work with adolescents and adults using a range of therapy skills from play based therapy to cognitive restructuring because everyone needs something different! Additionally, I am nationally certified to provide Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT) to children 12-18.
Welcome to therapy! Whether you’re here for the first time or you’re looking for a check-up you have made the decision to care for yourself. Therapy is about you and the change you want to see for yourself. My goal is to help you feel confident in finding your own solutions to problems no matter the source. This is a partnership, so whether you're struggling with past trauma, relationships, or life changes we will work together to identify and explore barriers holding you back and grow your strengths so you can be fully...You. I have a special interest in exploring how culture and identity impact and sometimes complicate our lives.
I work with adolescents and adults using a range of therapy skills from play based therapy to cognitive restructuring because everyone needs something different! Additionally, I am nationally certified to provide Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT) to children 12-18.
Welcome to therapy! Whether you’re here for the first time or you’re looking for a check-up you have made the decision to care for yourself. Therapy is about you and the change you want to see for yourself. My goal is to help you feel confident in finding your own solutions to problems no matter the source. This is a partnership, so whether you're struggling with past trauma, relationships, or life changes we will work together to identify and explore barriers holding you back and grow your strengths so you can be fully...You. I have a special interest in exploring how culture and identity impact and sometimes complicate our lives.
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Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009 (Online Only)
Being experts in telehealth, we utilize virtual art, movement, meditation, narrative, play, CBT, DBT and psychodynamic techniques to meet you where you are at and connect.
Are you a parent of a child, teen or young adult struggling with big emotions that take over your child's body? Does your child have trouble leaving the house, nervous about new situations, have excess energy, feel low or experience mood swings? Are you a young adult entering a new phase or overwhelmed with today's pressures of work, family, friends and relationships? Are you looking for a clinician that can connect with you and understands the pressures of today? With a background in therapeutic and specials education school settings, we use creative tools to connect with you and your child to support you.
Being experts in telehealth, we utilize virtual art, movement, meditation, narrative, play, CBT, DBT and psychodynamic techniques to meet you where you are at and connect.
Are you a parent of a child, teen or young adult struggling with big emotions that take over your child's body? Does your child have trouble leaving the house, nervous about new situations, have excess energy, feel low or experience mood swings? Are you a young adult entering a new phase or overwhelmed with today's pressures of work, family, friends and relationships? Are you looking for a clinician that can connect with you and understands the pressures of today? With a background in therapeutic and specials education school settings, we use creative tools to connect with you and your child to support you.
Sammi Rosenfeld
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, DC LPC, MD LCPC, MSEd, CCTP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
Waitlist for new clients
I am a mental health and school counselor passionate about supporting the growth of children and young adults. I am experienced with both school-age children, young adults, and adults. I have also spent a lifetime in the world of professional dance and the creative arts. My experience in dance and the body highly influences my therapeutic lens. I view integration of body and mind through multi-sensory modalities as integral to client growth. I take an integrative approach to my work; in one session we may talk, play, draw, explore the sand tray, or move. Some moments may be more directive and some may be client-led.
I am a mental health and school counselor passionate about supporting the growth of children and young adults. I am experienced with both school-age children, young adults, and adults. I have also spent a lifetime in the world of professional dance and the creative arts. My experience in dance and the body highly influences my therapeutic lens. I view integration of body and mind through multi-sensory modalities as integral to client growth. I take an integrative approach to my work; in one session we may talk, play, draw, explore the sand tray, or move. Some moments may be more directive and some may be client-led.
Maggie Carroll
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
Your child will play, make art, talk, and learn to understand their own unique response to stress, all while practicing coping skills.
I'm a therapist committed to serving queer and trans youth, and all young people, with respect, compassion, and attentiveness. I specialize in helping kids with self-regulation, anxiety management, and processing grief and trauma. I work to build collaborative relationships with kids and their parents to create a safe(r) space where kids can get the support they need. In therapy, they will learn new skills and work on changing patterns that no longer work for them.
Your child will play, make art, talk, and learn to understand their own unique response to stress, all while practicing coping skills.
I'm a therapist committed to serving queer and trans youth, and all young people, with respect, compassion, and attentiveness. I specialize in helping kids with self-regulation, anxiety management, and processing grief and trauma. I work to build collaborative relationships with kids and their parents to create a safe(r) space where kids can get the support they need. In therapy, they will learn new skills and work on changing patterns that no longer work for them.
Tiffani Boykin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCMHC, LCPC, RYT200, IARP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
If you are slow to warm up to, I offer a number of options including expressive art and play therapy approaches.
I believe in the infinite potential within each individual. My approach is grounded in humanism, evidenced based interventions, and the wholistic wellness model.. As a therapist I consider physical, environmental, social, and spiritual factors in addition to emotional and mental issues contributing to presenting concerns.
If you are slow to warm up to, I offer a number of options including expressive art and play therapy approaches.
I believe in the infinite potential within each individual. My approach is grounded in humanism, evidenced based interventions, and the wholistic wellness model.. As a therapist I consider physical, environmental, social, and spiritual factors in addition to emotional and mental issues contributing to presenting concerns.
Makira Holder
Counselor, MA, LGPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006 (Online Only)
As a person-centered therapist with 7 years of experience, I have been utilizing techniques from play therapy, CBT, DBT, and solution-focus therapy to assist my patients with developing coping skills to deal with life’s variety of experiences and challenges.
Hello! My Name is Makira. I am a therapist with Arelis Perez Psychotherapy Services. We are a multicultural and multi-lingual practice offering therapeutic services to children, teenager, and adults. Our clinicians are trained to utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities to support and empower a diverse population. At Arelis Perez Psychotherapy Services, our mission is to deliver exceptional, patient-centered care to individuals of all ages who are facing mental health challenges or experiencing stress. We approach our work with understanding, respect, and genuine care, aiming to provide the best possible support.
As a person-centered therapist with 7 years of experience, I have been utilizing techniques from play therapy, CBT, DBT, and solution-focus therapy to assist my patients with developing coping skills to deal with life’s variety of experiences and challenges.
Hello! My Name is Makira. I am a therapist with Arelis Perez Psychotherapy Services. We are a multicultural and multi-lingual practice offering therapeutic services to children, teenager, and adults. Our clinicians are trained to utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities to support and empower a diverse population. At Arelis Perez Psychotherapy Services, our mission is to deliver exceptional, patient-centered care to individuals of all ages who are facing mental health challenges or experiencing stress. We approach our work with understanding, respect, and genuine care, aiming to provide the best possible support.
Monique J Douglas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSW, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20002 (Online Only)
Through play, I have been able to allow children to express themselves to work through concerns regarding school, stress, and or family dynamics.
I have over 10 years of experience working with children and families to assist with the social and emotional well-being of children 0-5 years of age. My focus of treatment has been to allow children to express themselves in a way in which to be free and in a nonthreatening way.
Through play, I have been able to allow children to express themselves to work through concerns regarding school, stress, and or family dynamics.
I have over 10 years of experience working with children and families to assist with the social and emotional well-being of children 0-5 years of age. My focus of treatment has been to allow children to express themselves in a way in which to be free and in a nonthreatening way.
Amelia Bigesby—Kids & Adults. Build coping skills.
Counselor, MS, LGPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20005 (Online Only)
We will tailor therapy to your needs, drawing on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Play Therapy, and other approaches.
Do you or your child struggle with anxiety, depression, or ADHD? Do you have difficulty building healthy relationships or experience intrusive thoughts? In therapy, you can build coping skills and get practical help for anxiety, self-esteem, depression, relationships, and more. Difficult experiences in your past or mental health struggles in the present don't have to dictate your future. We will work to equip you with the internal resources that you need to thrive. Reach out to me today to learn more about therapy. You can develop new thinking patterns and behaviors that promote positive coping. I am looking forward to helping!
We will tailor therapy to your needs, drawing on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Play Therapy, and other approaches.
Do you or your child struggle with anxiety, depression, or ADHD? Do you have difficulty building healthy relationships or experience intrusive thoughts? In therapy, you can build coping skills and get practical help for anxiety, self-esteem, depression, relationships, and more. Difficult experiences in your past or mental health struggles in the present don't have to dictate your future. We will work to equip you with the internal resources that you need to thrive. Reach out to me today to learn more about therapy. You can develop new thinking patterns and behaviors that promote positive coping. I am looking forward to helping!
Keri Sartin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008 (Online Only)
I am an Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist as well as a Certified Child Centered Play Therapist and Sand Tray Therapist.
My name is Keri Sartin and I am the owner of Limitless Psychotherapy Services. I am really passionate about serving and helping people. I started my private practice in 2022 after practicing as a school social worker for 9 years and providing services to adults for over 15 years. I believe adults and children, do best when they feel heard and have supportive people in their lives. I enjoy working to address concerns of anxiety, depression, and general life changes. I also have a passion for helping parents better understand and connect with their children to transform and enhance the parent-child relationship.
I am an Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist as well as a Certified Child Centered Play Therapist and Sand Tray Therapist.
My name is Keri Sartin and I am the owner of Limitless Psychotherapy Services. I am really passionate about serving and helping people. I started my private practice in 2022 after practicing as a school social worker for 9 years and providing services to adults for over 15 years. I believe adults and children, do best when they feel heard and have supportive people in their lives. I enjoy working to address concerns of anxiety, depression, and general life changes. I also have a passion for helping parents better understand and connect with their children to transform and enhance the parent-child relationship.
Hannah Guidry
LICSW, CNA, HFRM
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007
My training includes Play therapy, Cognitive behavioral therapy, Behavior Therapy, motivational interviewing, Trauma Focused Therapy and mindfulness practices.
Life can be really hard at times; however, therapy can help. I listen non-judgmentally and empathetically. Together, we can think through possibilities and options for change in your life. I use cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and mindfulness approaches to help you strengthen and develop your own life skills.
My training includes Play therapy, Cognitive behavioral therapy, Behavior Therapy, motivational interviewing, Trauma Focused Therapy and mindfulness practices.
Life can be really hard at times; however, therapy can help. I listen non-judgmentally and empathetically. Together, we can think through possibilities and options for change in your life. I use cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and mindfulness approaches to help you strengthen and develop your own life skills.
See more therapy options for Washington
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.