Play Therapy in Minneapolis, MN

Photo of Dr. Margaret Houston, Marriage & Family Therapist, DMFT, LMFT
Dr. Margaret Houston
Marriage & Family Therapist, DMFT, LMFT
Minneapolis, MN 55406
While I am not a RPT (registered play therapist), I have completed many play therapy trainings.
I have years of experience working with people experiencing crisis, suicidal ideation and recovery from trauma. I have had the opportunity to work with adoptive, and foster families navigating through transitions. The families I have been honored to work with have had a variety of ethnic, cultural, and socioeconomic levels.
While I am not a RPT (registered play therapist), I have completed many play therapy trainings.
I have years of experience working with people experiencing crisis, suicidal ideation and recovery from trauma. I have had the opportunity to work with adoptive, and foster families navigating through transitions. The families I have been honored to work with have had a variety of ethnic, cultural, and socioeconomic levels.
(612) 875-0668 View (612) 875-0668
Photo of Joanna L Kelly, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RPT-S™
Joanna L Kelly
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RPT-S™
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55408
I also use Play Therapy to address many childhood and attachment issues in a way that makes kids feel important.
Overwhelmed and feeling unsure? Worried about your child? Struggling with parenting? Stuck in a negative cycle with your significant other and unable to connect again? Coming to terms with divorce and co-parenting? Wanting to improve family communication? Battling the shadows of depression and anxiety? Dealing with the stress of incarceration? Wanting change in your life but not sure what? Seeking therapy is hard and deeply personal. You are the expert in your life! I strive to make each client feel accepted, safe and understood. Together, we can discover your unique path to change and healing within yourself and relationships.
I also use Play Therapy to address many childhood and attachment issues in a way that makes kids feel important.
Overwhelmed and feeling unsure? Worried about your child? Struggling with parenting? Stuck in a negative cycle with your significant other and unable to connect again? Coming to terms with divorce and co-parenting? Wanting to improve family communication? Battling the shadows of depression and anxiety? Dealing with the stress of incarceration? Wanting change in your life but not sure what? Seeking therapy is hard and deeply personal. You are the expert in your life! I strive to make each client feel accepted, safe and understood. Together, we can discover your unique path to change and healing within yourself and relationships.
(612) 276-6301 View (612) 276-6301
Photo of Deanin Willsun, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Deanin Willsun
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
I practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered Approach, Trauma Informed Care and Play Therapy.
I am available for you to seek clarity and purpose in a calm, safe, supportive and non-judgmental preferred environment of your choice through teletherapy. I will work with you to explore and identify your concerns, struggles, and/or barriers that may cause you to feel stuck in your life.
I practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered Approach, Trauma Informed Care and Play Therapy.
I am available for you to seek clarity and purpose in a calm, safe, supportive and non-judgmental preferred environment of your choice through teletherapy. I will work with you to explore and identify your concerns, struggles, and/or barriers that may cause you to feel stuck in your life.
(651) 560-4858 View (651) 560-4858
Photo of Libby Dunnigan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Libby Dunnigan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55403
I have a client-centered, collaborative style that draws techniques from a variety of therapy modalities including (but not limited to): CBT, Psychodynamic, DBT, Solution-focused, Strength-based, and Play Therapy.
While I enjoy working with clients of any age, I do believe that early intervention is important, and have a particular interest in working with children and adolescents. My primary areas of expertise include: anxiety, depression, ADHD, emotional regulation, parent coaching, life transitions, and stress management.
I have a client-centered, collaborative style that draws techniques from a variety of therapy modalities including (but not limited to): CBT, Psychodynamic, DBT, Solution-focused, Strength-based, and Play Therapy.
While I enjoy working with clients of any age, I do believe that early intervention is important, and have a particular interest in working with children and adolescents. My primary areas of expertise include: anxiety, depression, ADHD, emotional regulation, parent coaching, life transitions, and stress management.
(720) 782-2241 View (720) 782-2241
Photo of Katrina Deschene, Counselor, LPCC
Katrina Deschene
Counselor, LPCC
Online Only
Some specific models I am trained in are: EMDR, TF-CBT, play therapy, motivational interviewing, humanistic approaches, attachment bio-behavioral catch up, CBT, DBT, and internal family systems.
Hi, I am Katrina Deschene and have been a licensed professional counselor for the last 4 years in MN and a year in ND. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Some specific models I am trained in are: EMDR, TF-CBT, play therapy, motivational interviewing, humanistic approaches, attachment bio-behavioral catch up, CBT, DBT, and internal family systems.
Hi, I am Katrina Deschene and have been a licensed professional counselor for the last 4 years in MN and a year in ND. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
(763) 296-2778 View (763) 296-2778
Photo of Kurt W Oster, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW-S, LCSW-S, BCD, RPT™
Kurt W Oster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW-S, LCSW-S, BCD, RPT™
Online Only
I am an LCSW in FL, PA, and VA, a LICSW in MN, a Board Certified Diplomate, and a Registered Play Therapist.
I provide counseling and therapeutic play for individuals struggling with mental health challenges, trauma, and life transitions. Additionally, I offer life coaching for those seeking personal growth, goal-setting, and a sense of purpose. My work extends to children, adolescents, young adults, individuals with disabilities, men, and LGBTQ+.
I am an LCSW in FL, PA, and VA, a LICSW in MN, a Board Certified Diplomate, and a Registered Play Therapist.
I provide counseling and therapeutic play for individuals struggling with mental health challenges, trauma, and life transitions. Additionally, I offer life coaching for those seeking personal growth, goal-setting, and a sense of purpose. My work extends to children, adolescents, young adults, individuals with disabilities, men, and LGBTQ+.
(904) 849-2956 View (904) 849-2956
Photo of Jim Winges, PhD, CMPC, MS, BA, BAA
Jim Winges
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55455
He works in these sectors to improve performance both on & off the field of play, welling-being & mental health while reducing stress and anxiety.
Besides Sports Performance training, Dr. Jim offers a variety of programming tailored to the needs of his client. He has taught at eight universities. In the business world Dr. Jim provides programming, consulting, leadership, communication, & motivational training both live & virtual for legal trails and financial institutions. He is available for travel.
He works in these sectors to improve performance both on & off the field of play, welling-being & mental health while reducing stress and anxiety.
Besides Sports Performance training, Dr. Jim offers a variety of programming tailored to the needs of his client. He has taught at eight universities. In the business world Dr. Jim provides programming, consulting, leadership, communication, & motivational training both live & virtual for legal trails and financial institutions. He is available for travel.
(720) 782-8562 View (720) 782-8562
Photo of Kathleen Chara, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, PhD, LPCC, Owner
Kathleen Chara
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, PhD, LPCC, Owner
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
We offer trauma-informed care using individual, family, and play therapy.
Please visit my website to see how I might best serve you and your family. I have a Ph.D. in Family Psychology, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in the state of Minnesota.
We offer trauma-informed care using individual, family, and play therapy.
Please visit my website to see how I might best serve you and your family. I have a Ph.D. in Family Psychology, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in the state of Minnesota.
(612) 800-8301 View (612) 800-8301
Photo of Olivia Bates, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Olivia Bates
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Additionally, I support children and families through play therapy, navigating issues like adoption, trauma, and divorce.
My work as a Marriage and Family Therapy practitioner takes a holistic, Systems approach to relationships. I use a person-centered, trauma-informed lens to explore how connections shape experiences. In play therapy, I use non-directive, experiential approaches to support children and families in navigating challenges and fostering growth together.
Additionally, I support children and families through play therapy, navigating issues like adoption, trauma, and divorce.
My work as a Marriage and Family Therapy practitioner takes a holistic, Systems approach to relationships. I use a person-centered, trauma-informed lens to explore how connections shape experiences. In play therapy, I use non-directive, experiential approaches to support children and families in navigating challenges and fostering growth together.
(651) 478-2474 View (651) 478-2474
Photo of Lauren Vanchina, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Lauren Vanchina
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Serves Area
I am in the process of certification as a Registered Play Therapist.
You or your child may be feeling overwhelmed—by anxiety, stress, big emotions, or life changes that seem hard to navigate. Maybe your child is struggling with emotional regulation, relationships, or attention challenges, and you want to support them in a way that truly helps. Perhaps as a teen or adult, you're working through trauma, ADHD, depression, panic, or attachment wounds, and you’re looking for a space where you can process these experiences while also building confidence in yourself and your relationships. If you want to feel more grounded, connected, and equipped to handle life’s ups and downs, let's work together!
I am in the process of certification as a Registered Play Therapist.
You or your child may be feeling overwhelmed—by anxiety, stress, big emotions, or life changes that seem hard to navigate. Maybe your child is struggling with emotional regulation, relationships, or attention challenges, and you want to support them in a way that truly helps. Perhaps as a teen or adult, you're working through trauma, ADHD, depression, panic, or attachment wounds, and you’re looking for a space where you can process these experiences while also building confidence in yourself and your relationships. If you want to feel more grounded, connected, and equipped to handle life’s ups and downs, let's work together!
(952) 592-9396 View (952) 592-9396
Photo of Rebecca Lund, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC, RPT-S
Rebecca Lund
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC, RPT-S
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
This can include use of EMDR for trauma processing and challenging negative cognitions, CBT with a psychodynamic and humanistic approach, and play therapy with children.
Individuals and families experience moments of distress that impacts everyone in the home. Repairing relationships requires developing communication skills and openness to change. This includes anxiety, depression, behavioral concerns, attachment ruptures, school transitions, and complex issues (trauma, grief/loss, parental separation/divorce).
This can include use of EMDR for trauma processing and challenging negative cognitions, CBT with a psychodynamic and humanistic approach, and play therapy with children.
Individuals and families experience moments of distress that impacts everyone in the home. Repairing relationships requires developing communication skills and openness to change. This includes anxiety, depression, behavioral concerns, attachment ruptures, school transitions, and complex issues (trauma, grief/loss, parental separation/divorce).
(612) 294-7808 View (612) 294-7808
Photo of Connie Dummer, Psychologist, MA, LP, LMFT
Connie Dummer
Psychologist, MA, LP, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
In addition, I am a registered play therapist.
Do you feel weighed down by trauma, grief, or loss? Do you experience sadness, or intrusive memories of previous experiences? If so, my specialty is working with people like you. I have extensive experience with all types of trauma survivors, including survivors of sexual and physical abuse. I am grounded in a solid Christian faith and am comfortable exploring aspects of spirituality. I have strengths in the areas of empathy, positivity, winning others over, and strategy.
In addition, I am a registered play therapist.
Do you feel weighed down by trauma, grief, or loss? Do you experience sadness, or intrusive memories of previous experiences? If so, my specialty is working with people like you. I have extensive experience with all types of trauma survivors, including survivors of sexual and physical abuse. I am grounded in a solid Christian faith and am comfortable exploring aspects of spirituality. I have strengths in the areas of empathy, positivity, winning others over, and strategy.
(952) 657-7695 View (952) 657-7695
Photo of Deqo Ahmed, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Deqo Ahmed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Serves Area
I utilize a range of evidence-based modalities to tailor care to each client’s unique needs, including CBT, DBT, Trauma- Informed Care, Mindfulness, Play therapy, and EMDR.
Hello, thank you for visiting my profile. I am a psychotherapist, and I speak three languages Somali, Swahili and English. I am deeply passionate about helping the community thrive by fostering emotional well-being, stability, and resilience. I am dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment for every client, ensuring their unique needs are met with professionalism and care
I utilize a range of evidence-based modalities to tailor care to each client’s unique needs, including CBT, DBT, Trauma- Informed Care, Mindfulness, Play therapy, and EMDR.
Hello, thank you for visiting my profile. I am a psychotherapist, and I speak three languages Somali, Swahili and English. I am deeply passionate about helping the community thrive by fostering emotional well-being, stability, and resilience. I am dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment for every client, ensuring their unique needs are met with professionalism and care
(952) 260-0887 View (952) 260-0887
Photo of Michelle Suarez - Kaleidoscope Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MSEd
Kaleidoscope Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MSEd
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, Pia Mellody's PIT model, the DIR/Floortime model and am certified in Play Therapy.
I am a passionate therapist who believes in the power of change. As a mother of two, a wife, a child development specialist and a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist, I, personally and professionally understand the highs and lows in parenting and relationships. Together, we will put the joy back into parenting, your partnership and in life! With over a decade of experience working with families, individuals and couples, I am able to help empower you, engage your children and build your relationships.
I have training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, Pia Mellody's PIT model, the DIR/Floortime model and am certified in Play Therapy.
I am a passionate therapist who believes in the power of change. As a mother of two, a wife, a child development specialist and a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist, I, personally and professionally understand the highs and lows in parenting and relationships. Together, we will put the joy back into parenting, your partnership and in life! With over a decade of experience working with families, individuals and couples, I am able to help empower you, engage your children and build your relationships.
(612) 213-2473 View (612) 213-2473
Photo of Tyler Ahrens, Pre-Licensed Professional, MSc
Tyler Ahrens
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSc
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I also have experience in other modalities, such as Adlerian therapy, play therapy, and mindfulness.
Hello there, I'm Tyler! As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, specializing in religious trauma recovery, inclusivity and acceptance are central to my entire practice. Exploring religious trauma requires a delicate balance of empathy and understanding. And as someone with over 30 years of lived experience in a high-control environment, I am committed to helping others heal from traumatic religious experiences, knowing that these can leave lasting scars on their mental and emotional well-being. Together, we'll explore the unique challenges you face and work towards a path of healing and self-discovery.
I also have experience in other modalities, such as Adlerian therapy, play therapy, and mindfulness.
Hello there, I'm Tyler! As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, specializing in religious trauma recovery, inclusivity and acceptance are central to my entire practice. Exploring religious trauma requires a delicate balance of empathy and understanding. And as someone with over 30 years of lived experience in a high-control environment, I am committed to helping others heal from traumatic religious experiences, knowing that these can leave lasting scars on their mental and emotional well-being. Together, we'll explore the unique challenges you face and work towards a path of healing and self-discovery.
(952) 900-3415 View (952) 900-3415
Photo of Katrina Deschene, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Katrina Deschene
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Online Only
Some specific models I am trained in are: EMDR, TF-CBT, play therapy, motivational interviewing, humanistic approaches, attachment bio-behavioral catch up, CBT, DBT, and internal family systems.
Hi, I am Katrina Deschene and have been a licensed professional counselor for the last 4 years in MN and a year in ND. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Some specific models I am trained in are: EMDR, TF-CBT, play therapy, motivational interviewing, humanistic approaches, attachment bio-behavioral catch up, CBT, DBT, and internal family systems.
Hi, I am Katrina Deschene and have been a licensed professional counselor for the last 4 years in MN and a year in ND. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
(952) 234-6496 View (952) 234-6496
Photo of Nancy A McLean, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Nancy A McLean
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Serves Area
I enjoy working with individuals and couples and also find utilizing play therapy with children, and working with adolescents and families to be very rewarding.
I believe that every person has an emotional, mental, physical and spiritual life that needs to be supported and nurtured. In a setting that is caring, supportive and ethical, I work to empower individuals, couples and families to manage their own well-being.
I enjoy working with individuals and couples and also find utilizing play therapy with children, and working with adolescents and families to be very rewarding.
I believe that every person has an emotional, mental, physical and spiritual life that needs to be supported and nurtured. In a setting that is caring, supportive and ethical, I work to empower individuals, couples and families to manage their own well-being.
(651) 968-3896 View (651) 968-3896
Photo of Benjamin Leander Guindon, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, LADC
Benjamin Leander Guindon
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, LADC
Online Only
I also utilize play and Dungeons and Dragons therapy to self-explore in a safe and familiar way!
Dungeons and Dragons group starting in the Spring! Please email or call to get scheduled! I am a licensed professional clinical counseling and licensed alcohol and drug counseling in the state of Minnesota and a board approved supervisor for LPCC/LPC/LADC licensures virtually. I find myself to be helpful and excited working with clients who look inward and reflect. I enjoy storytelling, exploring meaning and making meaning, and sharing things that haven't been spoken in other spaces. If you're someone who feels misunderstood and wants to reflect on how they fit into the puzzle of the rest of world, I'm here for you!
I also utilize play and Dungeons and Dragons therapy to self-explore in a safe and familiar way!
Dungeons and Dragons group starting in the Spring! Please email or call to get scheduled! I am a licensed professional clinical counseling and licensed alcohol and drug counseling in the state of Minnesota and a board approved supervisor for LPCC/LPC/LADC licensures virtually. I find myself to be helpful and excited working with clients who look inward and reflect. I enjoy storytelling, exploring meaning and making meaning, and sharing things that haven't been spoken in other spaces. If you're someone who feels misunderstood and wants to reflect on how they fit into the puzzle of the rest of world, I'm here for you!
(952) 592-1120 View (952) 592-1120
Photo of Gerald Crimmins - Minnesota Ctr for Psychology-Childrens Svcs, Psychologist, PsyD
Minnesota Ctr for Psychology-Childrens Svcs
Psychologist, PsyD
Serves Area
Also, we have several providers who are certified to provide Prolonged Exposure Therapy for PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), as well as providers specializing in play therapy, and trauma focused CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy).
At Minnesota Center for Psychology, we offer comprehensive mental health services for children and adolescents age 3-17, as well as their families. We are committed to providing the best quality care in an environment that fosters integrity, respect, hope, health, and learning. If your child is experiencing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, family conflict, school or relationship issues, grief, sadness, body image issues, sleep problems, suicidal thoughts, trauma, low motivation, restlessness, communication issues, LGBT or gender identity issues, life transitions mood swings, shame, anger, or behavioral issues, our highly trained and experienced clinicians can help!
Also, we have several providers who are certified to provide Prolonged Exposure Therapy for PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), as well as providers specializing in play therapy, and trauma focused CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy).
At Minnesota Center for Psychology, we offer comprehensive mental health services for children and adolescents age 3-17, as well as their families. We are committed to providing the best quality care in an environment that fosters integrity, respect, hope, health, and learning. If your child is experiencing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, family conflict, school or relationship issues, grief, sadness, body image issues, sleep problems, suicidal thoughts, trauma, low motivation, restlessness, communication issues, LGBT or gender identity issues, life transitions mood swings, shame, anger, or behavioral issues, our highly trained and experienced clinicians can help!
(651) 419-3768 View (651) 419-3768
Photo of Eric Norton, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LAMFT
Eric Norton
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LAMFT
Serves Area
I use play therapy to reduce anxiety and regulate big emotions.
When working with kids with big emotions I use a child-centered play therapy approach. Some emotions are so BIG we cannot even talk about them. I inspire healing through the therapeutic powers of play. I employ art, sandtray, and storytelling techniques to help gain emotional regulation, process major events, gain confidence, and foster growth.
I use play therapy to reduce anxiety and regulate big emotions.
When working with kids with big emotions I use a child-centered play therapy approach. Some emotions are so BIG we cannot even talk about them. I inspire healing through the therapeutic powers of play. I employ art, sandtray, and storytelling techniques to help gain emotional regulation, process major events, gain confidence, and foster growth.
(952) 260-8743 View (952) 260-8743

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