Play Therapy in Darnestown, MD
As a culturally affirming and responsive therapist, I value each child's unique story, background, and identity. I specialize in supporting children, adolescents, and families navigating anxiety, depression, behavioral challenges, trauma, and social difficulties, as well as infant and early childhood development.
As a culturally affirming and responsive therapist, I value each child's unique story, background, and identity. I specialize in supporting children, adolescents, and families navigating anxiety, depression, behavioral challenges, trauma, and social difficulties, as well as infant and early childhood development.
I believe that you have the power within you to heal yourself. I serve you as your guide to healing and discovering your well-being potential. I approach treatment from a strengths-based approach, meaning there are many great things about you that have sustained you and brought you into this moment with me.
I believe that you have the power within you to heal yourself. I serve you as your guide to healing and discovering your well-being potential. I approach treatment from a strengths-based approach, meaning there are many great things about you that have sustained you and brought you into this moment with me.
My therapeutic approach is a holistic one, while I also utilize Client-Centered Therapy CBT, Mindfulness, art, and play therapy techniques.
Trying to make sense of all of the things happening in your life? Looking for life's meaning and purpose? Struggling with day-to-day activities? Just need someone to listen and help give you purpose and direction? Together, we can work to help you overcome your struggles and enhance control, and reach individual success. Anxiety, depression, ADHD, familial conflict, stress, anger management, life transitions, or teen/ adolescent struggles. Starting therapy can be intimidating; however, with the right person, we can journey together to obtain skills to assist with living life to your full potential.
My therapeutic approach is a holistic one, while I also utilize Client-Centered Therapy CBT, Mindfulness, art, and play therapy techniques.
Trying to make sense of all of the things happening in your life? Looking for life's meaning and purpose? Struggling with day-to-day activities? Just need someone to listen and help give you purpose and direction? Together, we can work to help you overcome your struggles and enhance control, and reach individual success. Anxiety, depression, ADHD, familial conflict, stress, anger management, life transitions, or teen/ adolescent struggles. Starting therapy can be intimidating; however, with the right person, we can journey together to obtain skills to assist with living life to your full potential.
Heidi has been in the counseling field for 12 years supporting individuals and families. With eclectic therapy approach, Heidi has a talent for picking targeted counseling interventions that work with a clients strength. The therapeutic rapport is first and foremost the most important aspect for a successful therapy experience, and Heidi works hard to ensure there is a good therapeutic fit which means creating an environment that is judgment free to allow honesty and growth.
Heidi has been in the counseling field for 12 years supporting individuals and families. With eclectic therapy approach, Heidi has a talent for picking targeted counseling interventions that work with a clients strength. The therapeutic rapport is first and foremost the most important aspect for a successful therapy experience, and Heidi works hard to ensure there is a good therapeutic fit which means creating an environment that is judgment free to allow honesty and growth.
Kelly Priest has extensive experience working with adults, adolescents, and children using a holistic, trauma-informed approach. She integrates talk-based therapies with mindfulness and creative expression to treat trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, behavioral issues, life transitions, and relationships. She has worked with LGBTQI+ and neurodivergent clients and welcomes all.
Kelly Priest has extensive experience working with adults, adolescents, and children using a holistic, trauma-informed approach. She integrates talk-based therapies with mindfulness and creative expression to treat trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, behavioral issues, life transitions, and relationships. She has worked with LGBTQI+ and neurodivergent clients and welcomes all.
I have years of experience working with adults, children and families in community health settings. This has prepared me and strengthened my practice using CBT, Trauma Focused CBT, DBT, parts work, and person centered approaches.
I have experience and a passion for working with adult women who have experienced trauma and interpersonal struggles including domestic and intimate partner violence. I also treat adult women experiencing anxiety, depression, and low self worth tendencies.
I have years of experience working with adults, children and families in community health settings. This has prepared me and strengthened my practice using CBT, Trauma Focused CBT, DBT, parts work, and person centered approaches.
I have experience and a passion for working with adult women who have experienced trauma and interpersonal struggles including domestic and intimate partner violence. I also treat adult women experiencing anxiety, depression, and low self worth tendencies.
The therapeutic approaches I utilize include, but are not limited to, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Solutions-Focused Therapy (SFT).
The Serenity Prayer stays near my heart as it has helped me remain resilient during my personal times of hardship: accepting what I cannot change, finding courage to change what I can, and seeking wisdom to know the difference.
The therapeutic approaches I utilize include, but are not limited to, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Solutions-Focused Therapy (SFT).
The Serenity Prayer stays near my heart as it has helped me remain resilient during my personal times of hardship: accepting what I cannot change, finding courage to change what I can, and seeking wisdom to know the difference.
More Therapists Nearby
I take an individualized approach to therapy that’s tailored to your personal needs and goals. Within a warm and supportive environment, we examine the challenges you’re facing and the way forward. Using concrete skills and strategies, we'll work collaboratively to equip you with versatile tools to apply in your daily life.
I take an individualized approach to therapy that’s tailored to your personal needs and goals. Within a warm and supportive environment, we examine the challenges you’re facing and the way forward. Using concrete skills and strategies, we'll work collaboratively to equip you with versatile tools to apply in your daily life.
You're a mom navigating the highs and lows of motherhood, from conception to pregnancy, postpartum and beyond. You may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or isolated, wondering if you’re doing enough or if your feelings are "normal." You’re seeking understanding, validation, and tools to feel more in control. We're here to walk alongside you, helping you process, heal, and embrace your role as both a mother and an individual - to find strength and joy in both motherhood and in being you!
You're a mom navigating the highs and lows of motherhood, from conception to pregnancy, postpartum and beyond. You may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or isolated, wondering if you’re doing enough or if your feelings are "normal." You’re seeking understanding, validation, and tools to feel more in control. We're here to walk alongside you, helping you process, heal, and embrace your role as both a mother and an individual - to find strength and joy in both motherhood and in being you!
I create a welcoming and safe space for clients to share and learn about themselves through the use of play, art, mindfulness, and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I work with children, adolescents, young adults, and families who are struggling with behavioral challenges, anxiety, OCD, depression, self-esteem, executive functioning, trauma, ADHD, social skills, and life transitions. I believe that forming a strong judgement-free partnership is the basis for positive change and that therapy, although challenging at times, should be engaging and fun. I also recognize that treatment is not a “cookie-cutter” solution and prioritize working together to determine what is best for each individual client.
I create a welcoming and safe space for clients to share and learn about themselves through the use of play, art, mindfulness, and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I work with children, adolescents, young adults, and families who are struggling with behavioral challenges, anxiety, OCD, depression, self-esteem, executive functioning, trauma, ADHD, social skills, and life transitions. I believe that forming a strong judgement-free partnership is the basis for positive change and that therapy, although challenging at times, should be engaging and fun. I also recognize that treatment is not a “cookie-cutter” solution and prioritize working together to determine what is best for each individual client.
Gift of Life (Psychotherapy)
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, TF-CBT
Silver Spring, MD 20906
I welcome children and adolescents, adults, and couples who seeking support during challenging times. Many of my clients come to therapy because they're experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, grief, relationship difficulties, life transitions, perfectionism, anger management concerns, or cultural adjustment challenges. Together we work to better understand these concerns, build on your strengths, and develop practical skills that promote healing, resilience, and lasting personal growth.
I welcome children and adolescents, adults, and couples who seeking support during challenging times. Many of my clients come to therapy because they're experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, grief, relationship difficulties, life transitions, perfectionism, anger management concerns, or cultural adjustment challenges. Together we work to better understand these concerns, build on your strengths, and develop practical skills that promote healing, resilience, and lasting personal growth.
Esther Saggurthi
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
1 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20855
Waitlist for new clients
The mere thought of therapy can be daunting, while in actuality most of us ask for advice from those around us everyday. What makes therapy different from asking a coworker, friend or relative for their advice, is my approach to therapy. I believe therapy is allowing you the space to work out issues, the space to feel free and learn about yourself in new ways. Therapy is looking at your thoughts and behavioral patterns for maximum effectiveness to your desired goals. My approach is best summed up in a quote by Benjamin Franklin, “There are three things extremely hard: steel, a diamond, and to know one’s self.”
The mere thought of therapy can be daunting, while in actuality most of us ask for advice from those around us everyday. What makes therapy different from asking a coworker, friend or relative for their advice, is my approach to therapy. I believe therapy is allowing you the space to work out issues, the space to feel free and learn about yourself in new ways. Therapy is looking at your thoughts and behavioral patterns for maximum effectiveness to your desired goals. My approach is best summed up in a quote by Benjamin Franklin, “There are three things extremely hard: steel, a diamond, and to know one’s self.”
Struggling to manage emotional regulation, anxiety or challenging family dynamics? Navigating concerns like ADHD, impulses, or depression can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face any of it alone! Therapy can help you feel supported, regain a sense of control, and build a life you genuinely look forward to living each day. Together, we’ll create personalized goals that reflect your needs and values. My approach is collaborative, holistic, and judgment-free, offering a safe and welcoming space to share openly, gain practical tools, build confidence, manage difficult moments, and strengthen your life in meaningful ways!
Struggling to manage emotional regulation, anxiety or challenging family dynamics? Navigating concerns like ADHD, impulses, or depression can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face any of it alone! Therapy can help you feel supported, regain a sense of control, and build a life you genuinely look forward to living each day. Together, we’ll create personalized goals that reflect your needs and values. My approach is collaborative, holistic, and judgment-free, offering a safe and welcoming space to share openly, gain practical tools, build confidence, manage difficult moments, and strengthen your life in meaningful ways!
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!
I enjoy using Narrative Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Mindfulness, CBT, Play, Sand Tray, and Art Therapies; Theraplay, TF-CBT, and Attachment-Based Parenting in my work.
Effective 8/5/26 I have immediate openings and I am in-network with several insurance companies. My clients are smart, successful people who want to create change in their lives. Does your life look good on paper, but you don't feel happy or fulfilled? Experiencing mild to moderate anxiety or depression? Maybe, like many, you suffered trauma, now interfering with your quality of life. You want insight and action, process and results, to feel and perform better. Maybe you are the concerned parent of a child, seeking help for emotional or behavior problems.
I enjoy using Narrative Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Mindfulness, CBT, Play, Sand Tray, and Art Therapies; Theraplay, TF-CBT, and Attachment-Based Parenting in my work.
Effective 8/5/26 I have immediate openings and I am in-network with several insurance companies. My clients are smart, successful people who want to create change in their lives. Does your life look good on paper, but you don't feel happy or fulfilled? Experiencing mild to moderate anxiety or depression? Maybe, like many, you suffered trauma, now interfering with your quality of life. You want insight and action, process and results, to feel and perform better. Maybe you are the concerned parent of a child, seeking help for emotional or behavior problems.
My ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of how to move forward. They may be experiencing anxiety, depression, mood changes, relationship stress, or challenges with self-esteem. Sometimes they’re navigating a big life transition; other times they just know something doesn’t feel quite right. They’re looking for a safe, supportive space where they can be themselves without judgment. They want practical tools, deeper self-awareness, and the confidence to handle life’s challenges in a healthier way.
My ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of how to move forward. They may be experiencing anxiety, depression, mood changes, relationship stress, or challenges with self-esteem. Sometimes they’re navigating a big life transition; other times they just know something doesn’t feel quite right. They’re looking for a safe, supportive space where they can be themselves without judgment. They want practical tools, deeper self-awareness, and the confidence to handle life’s challenges in a healthier way.
I enjoy working with adolescents, adults, couples, children and families who are facing a challenge and are looking for support. My experience in clinical practice allows me to assist with goal directed activities and work to achieve significant changes. A large part of my work is helping clients manage their anxiety or depression and to take concrete steps towards a more positive future. We work together to accomplish goals that the client has chosen to gain a greater understanding of themselves and their behaviors.We focus on changing relationship dynamics and learning new coping skills.
I enjoy working with adolescents, adults, couples, children and families who are facing a challenge and are looking for support. My experience in clinical practice allows me to assist with goal directed activities and work to achieve significant changes. A large part of my work is helping clients manage their anxiety or depression and to take concrete steps towards a more positive future. We work together to accomplish goals that the client has chosen to gain a greater understanding of themselves and their behaviors.We focus on changing relationship dynamics and learning new coping skills.
Currently taking new clients! Welcome to ReNEW You counseling. Do you often feel I holds a unique and diverse lived reality that has allowed her to see value in both painful and joyful life events. I use my various identities and experiences from multiple settings I have worked within to help advocate and serve my clients. I take a holistic approach in therapy, focusing on the whole person. Utilizing this therapeutic modality, I integrate spiritual, physical, mental, and emotional forms of well-being, to help clients develop a deeper understanding of themselves on all these levels.
Currently taking new clients! Welcome to ReNEW You counseling. Do you often feel I holds a unique and diverse lived reality that has allowed her to see value in both painful and joyful life events. I use my various identities and experiences from multiple settings I have worked within to help advocate and serve my clients. I take a holistic approach in therapy, focusing on the whole person. Utilizing this therapeutic modality, I integrate spiritual, physical, mental, and emotional forms of well-being, to help clients develop a deeper understanding of themselves on all these levels.
We all need a neutral person in our lives that can be our sounding board who doesn’t have their own personal agenda in play, this allows for honest feedback, learning and change to happen.
***I am currently only doing Telehealth****Something brought you to my page today. Are you looking for help? Are you fed up with a problem? Are your tired of trying to figure things out on your own? Are you not sure where to turn? It’s Okay, I’m here to help.
We all need a neutral person in our lives that can be our sounding board who doesn’t have their own personal agenda in play, this allows for honest feedback, learning and change to happen.
***I am currently only doing Telehealth****Something brought you to my page today. Are you looking for help? Are you fed up with a problem? Are your tired of trying to figure things out on your own? Are you not sure where to turn? It’s Okay, I’m here to help.
Seeking therapy can often feel like a daunting task, particularly if you have been carrying emotional pain for an extended period. You might experience feelings of anxiety, emotional exhaustion, being trapped in negative cycles, or uncertainty about how to progress. My purpose is to create a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where you can feel listened to, understood, and empowered to initiate meaningful change.
I collaborate with children, teenagers, and adults who are dealing with anxiety, depression, challenges in emotional regulation, self-esteem issues, and significant life changes.
Seeking therapy can often feel like a daunting task, particularly if you have been carrying emotional pain for an extended period. You might experience feelings of anxiety, emotional exhaustion, being trapped in negative cycles, or uncertainty about how to progress. My purpose is to create a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where you can feel listened to, understood, and empowered to initiate meaningful change.
I collaborate with children, teenagers, and adults who are dealing with anxiety, depression, challenges in emotional regulation, self-esteem issues, and significant life changes.
See more therapy options for Darnestown
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Darnestown
- Bethesda
- Clarksburg
- Gaithersburg
- Germantown
- Ijamsville
- Kensington
- Montgomery Village
- North Bethesda
- North Potomac
- Olney
- Potomac
- Rockville
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.