Play Therapy in Cockeysville, MD

Photo of Dean Robert Kirschner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-C
Dean Robert Kirschner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-C
Cockeysville, MD 21030
In 1987, I started the Life Mastery Center to help people in their journey to find happiness and fulfillment in life. Life is undoubtedly stressful and can bring about feelings of depression and anxiety. These feelings can affect relationships at home, at work, at school. I believe that through the positive therapeutic process, one can get unstuck from negative habits, negative barriers, negative mindsets. The positive therapeutic process helps to identify the problems and build positive life skills that will lead to a happier, healthier, fulfilling life.
In 1987, I started the Life Mastery Center to help people in their journey to find happiness and fulfillment in life. Life is undoubtedly stressful and can bring about feelings of depression and anxiety. These feelings can affect relationships at home, at work, at school. I believe that through the positive therapeutic process, one can get unstuck from negative habits, negative barriers, negative mindsets. The positive therapeutic process helps to identify the problems and build positive life skills that will lead to a happier, healthier, fulfilling life.
(410) 403-0807 View (410) 403-0807
Photo of Chinedu Francis Onyekwelu-Udoka, Counselor, MS, NCC, LGPC
Chinedu Francis Onyekwelu-Udoka
Counselor, MS, NCC, LGPC
Cockeysville, MD 21030
Francis provides a safe, non-judgmental space for individuals to explore anxiety, depression, relationships, and life transitions. Using evidence-based techniques and person-centered care, I help clients develop coping strategies, enhance self-awareness, and achieve personal growth, fulfillment, and a more purposeful life.
Francis provides a safe, non-judgmental space for individuals to explore anxiety, depression, relationships, and life transitions. Using evidence-based techniques and person-centered care, I help clients develop coping strategies, enhance self-awareness, and achieve personal growth, fulfillment, and a more purposeful life.
(410) 220-6794 View (410) 220-6794
Photo of Kelly Vahey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MSW
Kelly Vahey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MSW
1 Endorsed
Cockeysville, MD 21030
Sometimes we just feel stuck: stuck in the past, in a bad relationship, or not able to make a decision. This could have its origins in a childhood trauma or a series of events that chipped away at self esteem over a long period of time. I assist clients in reprocessing past events to perceive them in a less threatening or emotionally painful way. I believe that we already have the solutions to all our problems, but sometimes they are buried deeply. I am willing to be honest as well supportive while helping clients reveal the answers within themselves.
Sometimes we just feel stuck: stuck in the past, in a bad relationship, or not able to make a decision. This could have its origins in a childhood trauma or a series of events that chipped away at self esteem over a long period of time. I assist clients in reprocessing past events to perceive them in a less threatening or emotionally painful way. I believe that we already have the solutions to all our problems, but sometimes they are buried deeply. I am willing to be honest as well supportive while helping clients reveal the answers within themselves.
(410) 782-3949 View (410) 782-3949
Photo of Elisha Montgomery, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Elisha Montgomery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Online Only
Elisha Montgomery is a Behavioral Health Therapist, and Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) with a Certificate of Completion in Military Social Work. I'm a 20-year United States Air Force Retired disabled veteran who can relate to other veterans, current military members, and their families, on a comrade level. I'm versatile in that I can provide services to civilians of all ages, as well as veterans. I am very energetic, a great listener, empathetic, and excited and looking forward to meeting people who are seeking an effective support system. I am ready to work together with each client, as a team, to meet their goals and needs.
Elisha Montgomery is a Behavioral Health Therapist, and Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) with a Certificate of Completion in Military Social Work. I'm a 20-year United States Air Force Retired disabled veteran who can relate to other veterans, current military members, and their families, on a comrade level. I'm versatile in that I can provide services to civilians of all ages, as well as veterans. I am very energetic, a great listener, empathetic, and excited and looking forward to meeting people who are seeking an effective support system. I am ready to work together with each client, as a team, to meet their goals and needs.
(410) 291-1784 View (410) 291-1784
Photo of Veronica Gugel, Counselor, LGPC, MS
Veronica Gugel
Counselor, LGPC, MS
1 Endorsed
Cockeysville, MD 21030
I offer holistic, evidence-based therapy in English and Russian, grounded in honesty, compassion, and respect. When helpful, I offer clear, thoughtful feedback to support you in exploring difficult experiences at a pace that feels safe and manageable. Through our work together, you may gain greater clarity, resilience, confidence, and a deeper sense of inner steadiness. I also work with couples who want to improve communication, rebuild trust, and feel more connected. We’ll begin with a free 15-minute phone or video introduction to get to know each other, talk about your goals, and see whether working together feels like a good fit.
I offer holistic, evidence-based therapy in English and Russian, grounded in honesty, compassion, and respect. When helpful, I offer clear, thoughtful feedback to support you in exploring difficult experiences at a pace that feels safe and manageable. Through our work together, you may gain greater clarity, resilience, confidence, and a deeper sense of inner steadiness. I also work with couples who want to improve communication, rebuild trust, and feel more connected. We’ll begin with a free 15-minute phone or video introduction to get to know each other, talk about your goals, and see whether working together feels like a good fit.
(443) 332-9791 View (443) 332-9791
Photo of Bobbie Jo Cole, Counselor, LGPC
Bobbie Jo Cole
Counselor, LGPC
1 Endorsed
Cockeysville, MD 21031
I am now accepting new clients. I enjoy walking along side clients of all ages including children, adolescents, and young adults—especially those on the autism spectrum, as well as neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ individuals. Together we will work to navigate challenges related to Anxiety, Depression, identity development, emotional regulation, and life transitions.
I am now accepting new clients. I enjoy walking along side clients of all ages including children, adolescents, and young adults—especially those on the autism spectrum, as well as neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ individuals. Together we will work to navigate challenges related to Anxiety, Depression, identity development, emotional regulation, and life transitions.
(410) 584-3220 View (410) 584-3220
Photo of Alexis Horst, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Alexis Horst
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
With the use of a variety of evidence-based techniques, I am skilled in helping clients reconnect to existing strengths and cultivating resources that support their progress. I strive to be compassionate and responsive to each clients’ unique needs, and I value the opportunity to help clients increase self-awareness, enhance their insight, and develop coping skills. In addition, I prioritize fostering a safe and warm space for clients to share their thought processes, and I often utilize co-exploration and self-regulation techniques to guide clients soundly through thought processes that may be overwhelming and confusing.
With the use of a variety of evidence-based techniques, I am skilled in helping clients reconnect to existing strengths and cultivating resources that support their progress. I strive to be compassionate and responsive to each clients’ unique needs, and I value the opportunity to help clients increase self-awareness, enhance their insight, and develop coping skills. In addition, I prioritize fostering a safe and warm space for clients to share their thought processes, and I often utilize co-exploration and self-regulation techniques to guide clients soundly through thought processes that may be overwhelming and confusing.
(443) 339-8299 View (443) 339-8299
Photo of Allison Simon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Allison Simon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Serves Area
Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and uncertain about how to manage their relationships, careers and their lives. With my 25 years of experience working with tweens, teens and adults in diverse settings, we can work together to empower you and free you from things that may be holding you back. Not taking time for yourself can lead to long term issues for your mind and body. I hope I can be a collaborative partner, advisor and guide along the journey. I use a strengths-based approach. I have training in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, trauma-based approaches and other approaches.
Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and uncertain about how to manage their relationships, careers and their lives. With my 25 years of experience working with tweens, teens and adults in diverse settings, we can work together to empower you and free you from things that may be holding you back. Not taking time for yourself can lead to long term issues for your mind and body. I hope I can be a collaborative partner, advisor and guide along the journey. I use a strengths-based approach. I have training in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, trauma-based approaches and other approaches.
(410) 753-2314 View (410) 753-2314
Photo of Zohaa Awan, Counselor, LGPC, MA
Zohaa Awan
Counselor, LGPC, MA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Ready to rewrite your story? I help individuals, couples, and parents navigate identity shifts, build deeper connections, and shed the patterns holding them back. Having experienced the transformative power of culturally sensitive therapy firsthand, I provide a safe, nuanced space specializing in the South Asian community and beyond. Whether you are finding your voice or seeking relational healing, you deserve a life of authentic alignment. Do you ever feel caught between who you are expected to be and who you truly want to be? Let's bridge that gap. Reach out today.
Ready to rewrite your story? I help individuals, couples, and parents navigate identity shifts, build deeper connections, and shed the patterns holding them back. Having experienced the transformative power of culturally sensitive therapy firsthand, I provide a safe, nuanced space specializing in the South Asian community and beyond. Whether you are finding your voice or seeking relational healing, you deserve a life of authentic alignment. Do you ever feel caught between who you are expected to be and who you truly want to be? Let's bridge that gap. Reach out today.
(443) 781-9122 View (443) 781-9122
Photo of Sharon E Huffman, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Sharon E Huffman
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Serves Area
I utilize play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, family therapy and a coaching/consultative model to work in partnership with parents and teachers.
Sometimes growing up presents challenges that parents, teachers and caregivers are not sure how to manage. Children can present with developmental delays, social emotional delays, exposure to trauma, or environmental and family situations that overwhelm them and turn childhood into a challenge. Through individual or family therapy, onsite consultation in the school or child care setting, and home visits as needed, a comprehensive plan and approach can support the child, and those caring for the child so growth and success are achieved. Early intervention can result in changes that last a lifetime !
I utilize play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, family therapy and a coaching/consultative model to work in partnership with parents and teachers.
Sometimes growing up presents challenges that parents, teachers and caregivers are not sure how to manage. Children can present with developmental delays, social emotional delays, exposure to trauma, or environmental and family situations that overwhelm them and turn childhood into a challenge. Through individual or family therapy, onsite consultation in the school or child care setting, and home visits as needed, a comprehensive plan and approach can support the child, and those caring for the child so growth and success are achieved. Early intervention can result in changes that last a lifetime !
(410) 216-5675 View (410) 216-5675
Photo of Amie C Myrick, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Amie C Myrick
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you or your child struggling with overwhelming feelings, thoughts, or behaviors? Are you looking for someone to support you and assist you in making changes? I believe therapy is most effective when a trusting relationship exists between a counselor and client. This is my approach as I work with children, adolescents, and adults. Together, we can collaborate to make some of those overwhelming experiences feel more manageable.
Are you or your child struggling with overwhelming feelings, thoughts, or behaviors? Are you looking for someone to support you and assist you in making changes? I believe therapy is most effective when a trusting relationship exists between a counselor and client. This is my approach as I work with children, adolescents, and adults. Together, we can collaborate to make some of those overwhelming experiences feel more manageable.
(443) 879-9905 View (443) 879-9905
Photo of Katherine O'Doherty, Art Therapist, MA, LCPAT, ATR-BC
Katherine O'Doherty
Art Therapist, MA, LCPAT, ATR-BC
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I offer individual and family therapy services in a private office setting in Towson, MD. I use a blended approach based on clients’ needs by integrating evidence-based models such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I am trained in providing traditional talk therapy and can also help clients understand how artmaking can promote insight and connections to help achieve therapeutic goals. I offer clinical supervision for therapists seeking licensure (LCPAT). I am an experienced supervisor, training new therapist colleagues at work as well as interns from universities such as GWU and NDMU.
I offer individual and family therapy services in a private office setting in Towson, MD. I use a blended approach based on clients’ needs by integrating evidence-based models such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I am trained in providing traditional talk therapy and can also help clients understand how artmaking can promote insight and connections to help achieve therapeutic goals. I offer clinical supervision for therapists seeking licensure (LCPAT). I am an experienced supervisor, training new therapist colleagues at work as well as interns from universities such as GWU and NDMU.
(410) 401-8183 View (410) 401-8183

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jamaal Clark, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Jamaal Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have worked with individuals and families in a variety of treatment settings. My experience as a teacher, mentor, athletic coach, and Dean of Students has allowed me to distinguish the different developmental stages of children, particularly adolescent males. I have a dedicated interest in helping the youth to make constructive changes that allow them to reach goals that their confidence blocks them from obtaining. As a Practitioner working with families, I help clients make substantial changes that center around practical strategies and evidence-based practices that allow them to build strong, nourishing relationships.
I have worked with individuals and families in a variety of treatment settings. My experience as a teacher, mentor, athletic coach, and Dean of Students has allowed me to distinguish the different developmental stages of children, particularly adolescent males. I have a dedicated interest in helping the youth to make constructive changes that allow them to reach goals that their confidence blocks them from obtaining. As a Practitioner working with families, I help clients make substantial changes that center around practical strategies and evidence-based practices that allow them to build strong, nourishing relationships.
(443) 241-8131 View (443) 241-8131
Photo of Emily Weschler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, CCTP, CSTIP
Emily Weschler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, CCTP, CSTIP
7 Endorsed
Mount Airy, MD 21771
I believe that the healthiest place to be is in the process. The relationship between therapist & the people on their journey in therapy is a pivotal & paramount role in the therapeutic process. The right match is critical for continuing therapy & having a rewarding & fulfilling experience. I use a strengths based, supportive approach with an integrative & humanistic perspective while looking at the whole person as each area of life influences our mental health & daily functioning. It is an honor to bear witness & walk with the people I serve while on their journey. All of us are significant & what happens to you matters.
I believe that the healthiest place to be is in the process. The relationship between therapist & the people on their journey in therapy is a pivotal & paramount role in the therapeutic process. The right match is critical for continuing therapy & having a rewarding & fulfilling experience. I use a strengths based, supportive approach with an integrative & humanistic perspective while looking at the whole person as each area of life influences our mental health & daily functioning. It is an honor to bear witness & walk with the people I serve while on their journey. All of us are significant & what happens to you matters.
(240) 541-5358 View (240) 541-5358
Photo of Amy Meldau, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Amy Meldau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Online Only
Are you feeling stuck, frustrated, or overwhelmed? Trying to make sense of past trauma or current life stressors? Or looking for healthier ways to cope with powerful emotions? I am here to help. I have extensive training & experience in Mindfulness Based-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy for C-PTSD & Prolongued Exposure Therapy. My therapeutic approach is holistic and tailored to each individual as I draw from Internal Family Systems, polyvagal theory, creative/arts-based expression & mind-body healing.
Are you feeling stuck, frustrated, or overwhelmed? Trying to make sense of past trauma or current life stressors? Or looking for healthier ways to cope with powerful emotions? I am here to help. I have extensive training & experience in Mindfulness Based-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy for C-PTSD & Prolongued Exposure Therapy. My therapeutic approach is holistic and tailored to each individual as I draw from Internal Family Systems, polyvagal theory, creative/arts-based expression & mind-body healing.
(443) 399-2725 View (443) 399-2725
Photo of Quinita Garrett, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Quinita Garrett
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Catonsville, MD 21228
My name is Quinita Garrett, and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Maryland. My approach to therapy depends on the client’s needs and goals. My approach is a good fit for adolescents, young adults and the aging population who are working through emotions and changes that come with life events and/or trauma. I believe in the importance of a therapeutic relationship to help process feelings associated with these events
My name is Quinita Garrett, and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Maryland. My approach to therapy depends on the client’s needs and goals. My approach is a good fit for adolescents, young adults and the aging population who are working through emotions and changes that come with life events and/or trauma. I believe in the importance of a therapeutic relationship to help process feelings associated with these events
(667) 222-3552 View (667) 222-3552
Photo of Melissa Powell - Transforming Lives Counseling Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Transforming Lives Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Baltimore, MD 21239
Melissa Powell is a License Certified Social Worker-Clinical in the state of Maryland. She has worked over 20+years in the child welfare and mental health field. She is a native of Baltimore, MD, and a graduate of Annapolis High School.
Melissa Powell is a License Certified Social Worker-Clinical in the state of Maryland. She has worked over 20+years in the child welfare and mental health field. She is a native of Baltimore, MD, and a graduate of Annapolis High School.
(410) 849-6040 View (410) 849-6040
Photo of Christa Marvenko-Athas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Christa Marvenko-Athas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Every marriage and partnership goes through ups and downs. However, some situations call for extra support from a trained couples counselor. Couples counseling can: improve communication and reduce conflict; bring back the spark when couples feel like "roommates"; blend families after remarriage; and, create amicable co-parenting during a divorce in order to minimize the impact on children. Pre-marital counseling helps new couples prepare for the future. With nearly 30 years of experience, I offer grounded, effective therapy rooted in extensive training and a deep commitment to helping people grow and heal.
Every marriage and partnership goes through ups and downs. However, some situations call for extra support from a trained couples counselor. Couples counseling can: improve communication and reduce conflict; bring back the spark when couples feel like "roommates"; blend families after remarriage; and, create amicable co-parenting during a divorce in order to minimize the impact on children. Pre-marital counseling helps new couples prepare for the future. With nearly 30 years of experience, I offer grounded, effective therapy rooted in extensive training and a deep commitment to helping people grow and heal.
(410) 497-7948 View (410) 497-7948
Luciene Teixera Callon
Pre-Licensed Professional, Intern
Online Only
Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, stressed, stuck, going through a divorce, or having any other problem in your life and you feel like you need help, you can reach out to me. I can help with depression, anxiety, PTSD, self-esteem, co-dependency, stress and many other Mental Health Issues.
Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, stressed, stuck, going through a divorce, or having any other problem in your life and you feel like you need help, you can reach out to me. I can help with depression, anxiety, PTSD, self-esteem, co-dependency, stress and many other Mental Health Issues.
(410) 826-5645 View (410) 826-5645
Photo of Diana Isabel Castellon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Diana Isabel Castellon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Reisterstown, MD 21136
As a culturally competent therapist, I believe in engaging with the clients in their own positive and or negative cultural experiences. I have been working with children and families for over 20 years. My background includes community based social work/therapist-working with families in crisis, assisting youth at risk, improving self esteem and helping couples with marital problems and assisting elder adults/hospice.
As a culturally competent therapist, I believe in engaging with the clients in their own positive and or negative cultural experiences. I have been working with children and families for over 20 years. My background includes community based social work/therapist-working with families in crisis, assisting youth at risk, improving self esteem and helping couples with marital problems and assisting elder adults/hospice.
(301) 507-3539 View (301) 507-3539

See more therapy options for Cockeysville

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.