Play Therapy in Eldersburg, MD

Play is the natural language for children to explore, express, and experience.
Accepting clients in person or virtual! I believe everyone has within them the strength, ability, and desire to fulfill his or her own potential. My job as a therapist is to help you to recognize, find, and unlock your inner strengths through the therapeutic and self-discovery process. If you or a loved one are struggling with feelings of sadness, anxiety, impacted by a recent or prolonged trauma, or are just having difficulty navigating through the daily stresses of life, I can help. I provide a warm, non-judgmental, and safe haven environment for your journey of self-discovery and growth. Telehealth Available
Play is the natural language for children to explore, express, and experience.
Accepting clients in person or virtual! I believe everyone has within them the strength, ability, and desire to fulfill his or her own potential. My job as a therapist is to help you to recognize, find, and unlock your inner strengths through the therapeutic and self-discovery process. If you or a loved one are struggling with feelings of sadness, anxiety, impacted by a recent or prolonged trauma, or are just having difficulty navigating through the daily stresses of life, I can help. I provide a warm, non-judgmental, and safe haven environment for your journey of self-discovery and growth. Telehealth Available

I have training in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), the Seven Challenges, Motivational Interviewing and Mediation and specialize in working with people struggling with depression, anxiety, substance use, trauma, relationship conflicts, parenting issues, school issues, marital issues and life cycle transitions.
I have training in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), the Seven Challenges, Motivational Interviewing and Mediation and specialize in working with people struggling with depression, anxiety, substance use, trauma, relationship conflicts, parenting issues, school issues, marital issues and life cycle transitions.

Carroll Counseling Ctrs - Mt. Airy And Eldersburg
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Eldersburg, MD 21784
Life today is difficult with all the demands placed on us by our family, work and our own need to achieve. Add to this the emotional stress of family conflict, divorce, defiant children, an illness or death in the family, and you begin to understand why more and more people are seeking the help of mental health professionals.
Life today is difficult with all the demands placed on us by our family, work and our own need to achieve. Add to this the emotional stress of family conflict, divorce, defiant children, an illness or death in the family, and you begin to understand why more and more people are seeking the help of mental health professionals.

Seeking out therapeutic services is healthy for our mind/body/soul connection. Just as we go to the gym to keep our bodies healthy, or puzzles to keep our mind sharp, we go to therapy to keep our connection between our mind/body/soul. Further, relationships are the center of connection: how we relate to others (family, friends, coworkers,) and the relationship we have with ourselves. It is my privilege to sit with you (or your family members) while we navigate the roadblocks and successes that make your life experience uniquely yours. It is my hope that in through this exploration and work, we can improve your relationships.
Seeking out therapeutic services is healthy for our mind/body/soul connection. Just as we go to the gym to keep our bodies healthy, or puzzles to keep our mind sharp, we go to therapy to keep our connection between our mind/body/soul. Further, relationships are the center of connection: how we relate to others (family, friends, coworkers,) and the relationship we have with ourselves. It is my privilege to sit with you (or your family members) while we navigate the roadblocks and successes that make your life experience uniquely yours. It is my hope that in through this exploration and work, we can improve your relationships.

Welcome, my name is Tony McCusker - a compassionate and knowledgeable licensed counselor. I received a master's degree from McDaniel College in Community Mental Health. I participate in a salutogenic model of therapy, focusing on solutions and equipping people with the tools they need to succeed and grow. We all know that pain in life is unavoidable, but I'd love to help you carry that burden while we work towards solutions by creating a safe space. You are the expert on your life, and I will bring my expertise in therapy to partner with you to find the relief and the balance that you seek.
Welcome, my name is Tony McCusker - a compassionate and knowledgeable licensed counselor. I received a master's degree from McDaniel College in Community Mental Health. I participate in a salutogenic model of therapy, focusing on solutions and equipping people with the tools they need to succeed and grow. We all know that pain in life is unavoidable, but I'd love to help you carry that burden while we work towards solutions by creating a safe space. You are the expert on your life, and I will bring my expertise in therapy to partner with you to find the relief and the balance that you seek.

When you enter your motherhood experience there are often feelings of uncertainty, guilt, frustration, confusion, anxiety, and sadness. The rollercoaster of emotions is common, but does not have to be your "forever" as a parent. Many of the moms I meet with are searching for a place where they can feel validated, but also want actionable steps they can use to improve their thinking patterns (negative self talk, self doubt, inner critic, intrusive thoughts), and their also manage their feelings about becoming a mom. You deserve to feel better and feel confident as a mom!
When you enter your motherhood experience there are often feelings of uncertainty, guilt, frustration, confusion, anxiety, and sadness. The rollercoaster of emotions is common, but does not have to be your "forever" as a parent. Many of the moms I meet with are searching for a place where they can feel validated, but also want actionable steps they can use to improve their thinking patterns (negative self talk, self doubt, inner critic, intrusive thoughts), and their also manage their feelings about becoming a mom. You deserve to feel better and feel confident as a mom!

My ideal client would put as much effort as they are ready to in that moment, day, or week to continue prioritizing their mental health needs. Over time, I hope to support each person in identifying what is helpful vs. harmful to their overall well-being. I look forward to supporting individuals navigating life transitions, women's issues, those in need of validation and perspective-taking, struggling with anxiety, searching for answers and healing from traumatic experiences, feeling "stuck," and individuals hoping for support with executive functioning challenges, sensory challenges, or complex social interactions.
My ideal client would put as much effort as they are ready to in that moment, day, or week to continue prioritizing their mental health needs. Over time, I hope to support each person in identifying what is helpful vs. harmful to their overall well-being. I look forward to supporting individuals navigating life transitions, women's issues, those in need of validation and perspective-taking, struggling with anxiety, searching for answers and healing from traumatic experiences, feeling "stuck," and individuals hoping for support with executive functioning challenges, sensory challenges, or complex social interactions.

Carroll Counseling Centers (Severna Park & Towson)
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Serves Area
Life today is difficult with all the demands placed on us by our family, work and our own need to achieve. Add to this the emotional stress of family conflict, divorce, defiant children, an illness or death in the family, and you begin to understand why more and more people are seeking the help of mental health professionals.
Life today is difficult with all the demands placed on us by our family, work and our own need to achieve. Add to this the emotional stress of family conflict, divorce, defiant children, an illness or death in the family, and you begin to understand why more and more people are seeking the help of mental health professionals.
I am a holistic therapist and clinical supervisor who focuses upon body, mind, and spirit. My ideal client is ready to face their difficulties in an open and honest manner through individual growth and healing. I am a generalist. The populations I serve include individuals, children, adolescents, couples, and my specialty is families wanting guidance in making changes to experience their healthiest physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual well-being.
I am a holistic therapist and clinical supervisor who focuses upon body, mind, and spirit. My ideal client is ready to face their difficulties in an open and honest manner through individual growth and healing. I am a generalist. The populations I serve include individuals, children, adolescents, couples, and my specialty is families wanting guidance in making changes to experience their healthiest physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual well-being.

An ideal client is someone who is a good fit for my services, who I enjoy working with, and who is likely to benefit from therapy. They generally share my values, beliefs, and goals and feel comfortable working with me.
An ideal client is someone who is a good fit for my services, who I enjoy working with, and who is likely to benefit from therapy. They generally share my values, beliefs, and goals and feel comfortable working with me.

Welcome to Path to Peace Wellness!
We are here to support you on your mental health journey. We believe that healing starts with connection, and we are committed to creating a safe, supportive space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered. Our approach is rooted in genuine compassion, where your unique experiences and goals guide the therapeutic process. We aim to foster a trusting relationship that encourages open dialogue, self-discovery, and growth. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, or major life transitions, we are here to provide support and guidance every step of the way.
Welcome to Path to Peace Wellness!
We are here to support you on your mental health journey. We believe that healing starts with connection, and we are committed to creating a safe, supportive space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered. Our approach is rooted in genuine compassion, where your unique experiences and goals guide the therapeutic process. We aim to foster a trusting relationship that encourages open dialogue, self-discovery, and growth. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, or major life transitions, we are here to provide support and guidance every step of the way.

Have you had a hard journey in life? Do you keep finding yourself in the same place, confused about your changing moods, and having difficulty finding stability and understanding in relationships? Are you yearning for a moment of peace (and the ability to allow yourself to be present there)? Maybe you have spent a lot of time meeting the needs of others, and haven't really figured out who you are. I can help you gain perspective on these themes that may be present in your life and to learn how to trust yourself more. I believe you hold the answers within you, and together, we will hold a safe space for you to discover them.
Have you had a hard journey in life? Do you keep finding yourself in the same place, confused about your changing moods, and having difficulty finding stability and understanding in relationships? Are you yearning for a moment of peace (and the ability to allow yourself to be present there)? Maybe you have spent a lot of time meeting the needs of others, and haven't really figured out who you are. I can help you gain perspective on these themes that may be present in your life and to learn how to trust yourself more. I believe you hold the answers within you, and together, we will hold a safe space for you to discover them.

Lauren Powers
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, RPT-S
Eldersburg, MD 21784
Not accepting new clients
I am a Registered Play Therapist and have specialized training in understanding their unique needs.
In play therapy, kids feel empowered to explore their feelings, behaviors, and challenges in ways that are naturally engaging + developmentally appropriate. For older kids/tweens, I offer creative ways to do therapy through sandtray therapy and expressive arts activities. I have training in many evidence based treatments to help kids heal and grow!
I am a Registered Play Therapist and have specialized training in understanding their unique needs.
In play therapy, kids feel empowered to explore their feelings, behaviors, and challenges in ways that are naturally engaging + developmentally appropriate. For older kids/tweens, I offer creative ways to do therapy through sandtray therapy and expressive arts activities. I have training in many evidence based treatments to help kids heal and grow!
More Therapists Nearby

I utilize a multi-modal approach, my style includes components of CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), Play Therapy, strength based and trauma focused.
My approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and creating a safe space for open conversations. I believe in empowering young minds to overcome obstacles and build resilience through tailored therapeutic techniques. Together, we'll embark on a journey of healing and growth, working hand in hand to unlock their full potential.
I utilize a multi-modal approach, my style includes components of CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), Play Therapy, strength based and trauma focused.
My approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and creating a safe space for open conversations. I believe in empowering young minds to overcome obstacles and build resilience through tailored therapeutic techniques. Together, we'll embark on a journey of healing and growth, working hand in hand to unlock their full potential.

Carroll Creative Therapy is a psychotherapy practice serving clients of all ages, and provides evidence-based play therapy for children.
Simply put, CCT is a place where young people struggling with life's challenges can confront problems, find their footing, create solutions, and grow stronger and more confident; and adults who have tried traditional talk therapy in the past often find new levels of insight, empowerment and hope at CCT.
Carroll Creative Therapy is a psychotherapy practice serving clients of all ages, and provides evidence-based play therapy for children.
Simply put, CCT is a place where young people struggling with life's challenges can confront problems, find their footing, create solutions, and grow stronger and more confident; and adults who have tried traditional talk therapy in the past often find new levels of insight, empowerment and hope at CCT.

I use a holistic and eclectic approach to therapy, incorporating techniques such as play therapy, art therapy, CBT, cognitive therapy, person-centered therapy, and REBT, depending on the client's needs.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Maryland. I have provided individual, family, and group therapy in a variety of settings. I am bilingual and can provide services in Spanish. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and young adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief, trauma, relationship issues, adjustment disorders, life transitions, self-esteem, family issues, and stress management. I received my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Stevenson University and my Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from Loyola University.
I use a holistic and eclectic approach to therapy, incorporating techniques such as play therapy, art therapy, CBT, cognitive therapy, person-centered therapy, and REBT, depending on the client's needs.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Maryland. I have provided individual, family, and group therapy in a variety of settings. I am bilingual and can provide services in Spanish. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and young adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief, trauma, relationship issues, adjustment disorders, life transitions, self-esteem, family issues, and stress management. I received my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Stevenson University and my Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from Loyola University.

I have advanced training in play therapy, ABA therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and trauma.
I have extensive experience working with Autism and providing ABA treatment. I work well with children, teens and adults of all ages. I also specialize in treating trauma.
I have advanced training in play therapy, ABA therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and trauma.
I have extensive experience working with Autism and providing ABA treatment. I work well with children, teens and adults of all ages. I also specialize in treating trauma.

I am a LCPC in Maryland and a Registered Play Therapist.
My ideal client is helping a child who struggles with regulating their thoughts and emotions and has a hard time understanding how that can affect their nervous system and interpersonal behaviors. My ideal clients are also parents who want to be actively engaged in treatment, open to change, and work collaboratively with me to improve the mental health of their kids and rebuild the trust between parent and child.
I am a LCPC in Maryland and a Registered Play Therapist.
My ideal client is helping a child who struggles with regulating their thoughts and emotions and has a hard time understanding how that can affect their nervous system and interpersonal behaviors. My ideal clients are also parents who want to be actively engaged in treatment, open to change, and work collaboratively with me to improve the mental health of their kids and rebuild the trust between parent and child.

I prefer to take a child-centered approach and utilize developmentally appropriate techniques including play therapy, expressive arts, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
My philosophy when working with children and teens is that they need to feel heard, valued, and supported. I believe that they need to understand that their thoughts and feelings matter. I have spent 15+ years working with children, teens, and their caregivers in schools, the community, and in their homes. I am a certified school social worker and have significant experience working with behaviors, navigating the IEP process, and providing parenting support. I have a special interest in working with children and teens who are neurodivergent or have a developmental disability.
I prefer to take a child-centered approach and utilize developmentally appropriate techniques including play therapy, expressive arts, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
My philosophy when working with children and teens is that they need to feel heard, valued, and supported. I believe that they need to understand that their thoughts and feelings matter. I have spent 15+ years working with children, teens, and their caregivers in schools, the community, and in their homes. I am a certified school social worker and have significant experience working with behaviors, navigating the IEP process, and providing parenting support. I have a special interest in working with children and teens who are neurodivergent or have a developmental disability.

We utilize a variety of modalities, including components of CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), Play Therapy, Humanistic, ACT (Acceptance and Commitment), Narrative and SFBT (Solution Focused Brief) and many more.
Is your child struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or behavioral issues? Are you navigating relationship challenges with your family or significant other? At Backpack Healthcare, our specialized team provides therapy and psychiatry services for children, teens, and families. From anxiety and trauma to grief and eating disorders, we are here to support you through life's transitions, helping you achieve health, happiness, and healing in every aspect of your life.
We utilize a variety of modalities, including components of CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), Play Therapy, Humanistic, ACT (Acceptance and Commitment), Narrative and SFBT (Solution Focused Brief) and many more.
Is your child struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or behavioral issues? Are you navigating relationship challenges with your family or significant other? At Backpack Healthcare, our specialized team provides therapy and psychiatry services for children, teens, and families. From anxiety and trauma to grief and eating disorders, we are here to support you through life's transitions, helping you achieve health, happiness, and healing in every aspect of your life.
See more therapy options for Eldersburg
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Eldersburg
- Catonsville
- Clarksville
- Ellicott City
- Garrison
- Glenelg
- Mount Airy
- Owings Mills
- Pikesville
- Reisterstown
- Stevenson
- Sykesville
- Westminster
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.