Play Therapy in Saint Paul, MN
Grounded in my lived experience as a biracial woman with Latina roots, I bring empathy, curiosity, and cultural awareness into my work. I’m passionate about understanding how culture shapes identity, relationships, and healing, and I strive to create an inclusive space where your story is met with care and understanding.
Being a single mother is a core part of who I am and deeply informs my approach as a clinician. Parenthood has strengthened my commitment to supporting individuals and families through peripartum and postpartum experiences, as well as the challenges of caring for yourself while caring for others.
Grounded in my lived experience as a biracial woman with Latina roots, I bring empathy, curiosity, and cultural awareness into my work. I’m passionate about understanding how culture shapes identity, relationships, and healing, and I strive to create an inclusive space where your story is met with care and understanding.
Being a single mother is a core part of who I am and deeply informs my approach as a clinician. Parenthood has strengthened my commitment to supporting individuals and families through peripartum and postpartum experiences, as well as the challenges of caring for yourself while caring for others.
Need a therapist who gets it? I know what it’s like to feel lost or stuck in cycles you can’t break. I believe healing begins when you're reminded of your God-given worth. I work with people dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, sexual concerns, learning struggles or heavy thoughts like self-harm or suicidal ideation. Together, let's listen to your gut. Listen to your body. Let's trust your intuition.
Need a therapist who gets it? I know what it’s like to feel lost or stuck in cycles you can’t break. I believe healing begins when you're reminded of your God-given worth. I work with people dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, sexual concerns, learning struggles or heavy thoughts like self-harm or suicidal ideation. Together, let's listen to your gut. Listen to your body. Let's trust your intuition.
Clients often describe me as empathic, direct and intentional. I offer a compassionate, grounded presence for young adults, adolescents, children and their families navigating life’s challenges. I am especially passionate about providing support to young adults and adolescents who are embarking on life transitions and coping with the stress of change. I also enjoy supporting children and their parents who are negotiating autonomy and independence, addressing behavioral difficulties, or working through school related concerns. I have several years of providing therapeutic services to families with a variety of presenting concerns.
Clients often describe me as empathic, direct and intentional. I offer a compassionate, grounded presence for young adults, adolescents, children and their families navigating life’s challenges. I am especially passionate about providing support to young adults and adolescents who are embarking on life transitions and coping with the stress of change. I also enjoy supporting children and their parents who are negotiating autonomy and independence, addressing behavioral difficulties, or working through school related concerns. I have several years of providing therapeutic services to families with a variety of presenting concerns.
Carol L Hornbeck
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55114
Waitlist for new clients
My specialized training includes play therapy, couples therapy, and experience in infant and pregnancy loss, complicated or unplanned pregnancies, and infant/toddler mental health.
I believe that all of us have within us the resources we need to heal from past hurts and to build and maintain healthy relationships. I work with my clients to identify strengths and goals, and develop new skills to manage life's challenges.
My specialized training includes play therapy, couples therapy, and experience in infant and pregnancy loss, complicated or unplanned pregnancies, and infant/toddler mental health.
I believe that all of us have within us the resources we need to heal from past hurts and to build and maintain healthy relationships. I work with my clients to identify strengths and goals, and develop new skills to manage life's challenges.
With a background in theatre, I believe in the healing power of play and laughter.
My practice is rooted in compassion, curiosity, and respect, working from a client-centered and strengths-based perspective, pulling from approaches as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Psychodynamic and Relational Therapy. My play therapy style is flexible and responsive, utilizing a non-directive approach and parent support.
With a background in theatre, I believe in the healing power of play and laughter.
My practice is rooted in compassion, curiosity, and respect, working from a client-centered and strengths-based perspective, pulling from approaches as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Psychodynamic and Relational Therapy. My play therapy style is flexible and responsive, utilizing a non-directive approach and parent support.
Taking the first step can feel uncertain, but you don't have to do it alone. In our work together, I will create a supportive and collaborative space where you can explore your experiences openly and without judgement. My role is to partner with you in discovering clarity, identifying your inner strengths and resources, and helping you build a deeper sense of meaning and purpose that feels authentic and meaningful to you. You may not have the answers right away on your first day in therapy and that's ok- you will uncover them at a pace that feels comfortable and empowering.
Taking the first step can feel uncertain, but you don't have to do it alone. In our work together, I will create a supportive and collaborative space where you can explore your experiences openly and without judgement. My role is to partner with you in discovering clarity, identifying your inner strengths and resources, and helping you build a deeper sense of meaning and purpose that feels authentic and meaningful to you. You may not have the answers right away on your first day in therapy and that's ok- you will uncover them at a pace that feels comfortable and empowering.
Play therapy, sand tray building, and art modalities offer people an alternative way of communicating and healing.
Has your family or child experienced increased stress? Each child is unique and may respond to stress with difficulty to changes in routine, irritability, fidgeting, changes in sleep, tearfulness, withdrawing from loved ones, or even feelings of guilt.
I’m here to help build a sense of trust and safety with you and your child, lean into your family’s strengths, and help you envision and reach goals to increase ability to manage feelings of anxiety or depression, address trauma, increase sense of self-esteem, and strengthen relationships.
Play therapy, sand tray building, and art modalities offer people an alternative way of communicating and healing.
Has your family or child experienced increased stress? Each child is unique and may respond to stress with difficulty to changes in routine, irritability, fidgeting, changes in sleep, tearfulness, withdrawing from loved ones, or even feelings of guilt.
I’m here to help build a sense of trust and safety with you and your child, lean into your family’s strengths, and help you envision and reach goals to increase ability to manage feelings of anxiety or depression, address trauma, increase sense of self-esteem, and strengthen relationships.
In my sessions, I love incorporating movement, art, crafts, play, or other activities to suit any needs in our time together.
I know starting therapy can feel like a big step, and I want you to know you don’t have to do it alone. I’m Anna, an LICSW who works with kids (6+), teens, and adults dealing with anxiety, ADHD, trauma, OCD, grief, stress, perinatal/postpartum, and life changes. I aim to bring warmth, creativity, and flexibility into sessions—letting you guide the process while I offer support and direction when needed. In our work together, we’ll take time to understand your story, set goals that matter to you, and move at a pace that feels right. My hope is that therapy becomes a safe, steady place for you to breathe and grow!
In my sessions, I love incorporating movement, art, crafts, play, or other activities to suit any needs in our time together.
I know starting therapy can feel like a big step, and I want you to know you don’t have to do it alone. I’m Anna, an LICSW who works with kids (6+), teens, and adults dealing with anxiety, ADHD, trauma, OCD, grief, stress, perinatal/postpartum, and life changes. I aim to bring warmth, creativity, and flexibility into sessions—letting you guide the process while I offer support and direction when needed. In our work together, we’ll take time to understand your story, set goals that matter to you, and move at a pace that feels right. My hope is that therapy becomes a safe, steady place for you to breathe and grow!
I have a play room for children and a talk therapy room for older clients.
Have you had a recent change in your life and want a safe person to talk with to better understand yourself? Perhaps your feelings have felt more intense: anxiety, depression, confusion, or desire to find purpose to your life. You look around - seeking answers, understanding, & deeper healing. Maybe a life situation unfolded and you were suddenly on a path you never imagined (job loss, divorce, etc) or one you wanted to be on but it’s more stressful or different than what you thought (attending college or a new job). If this is you, I can support you. I approach all my clients with the understanding that we are capable of change.
I have a play room for children and a talk therapy room for older clients.
Have you had a recent change in your life and want a safe person to talk with to better understand yourself? Perhaps your feelings have felt more intense: anxiety, depression, confusion, or desire to find purpose to your life. You look around - seeking answers, understanding, & deeper healing. Maybe a life situation unfolded and you were suddenly on a path you never imagined (job loss, divorce, etc) or one you wanted to be on but it’s more stressful or different than what you thought (attending college or a new job). If this is you, I can support you. I approach all my clients with the understanding that we are capable of change.
At Summit Guidance Center we specialize in working with people who suffer with depression, stress, anxiety, and trauma. Empathetic understanding and action-oriented skills training underscores our treatment philosophy. We utilize a client centered approach with cognitive, behavioral, and mindfulness based strategies to strengthen clients' adaptive response to difficult emotions and events.
At Summit Guidance Center we specialize in working with people who suffer with depression, stress, anxiety, and trauma. Empathetic understanding and action-oriented skills training underscores our treatment philosophy. We utilize a client centered approach with cognitive, behavioral, and mindfulness based strategies to strengthen clients' adaptive response to difficult emotions and events.
I have 20 years of experience working with clients of all ages. I offer a warm and supportive setting where clients can safely explore problems in their lives. I enjoy working with children and adolescents, as well as families that are struggling with conflicts or behavior problems. I also have a lot of experience working with individual women and men.I help through empathic listening, education, support and understanding. I am a member of 2 professional organizations, and I spent 2 years after graduate school in a program taught advanced psychotherapy.
I have 20 years of experience working with clients of all ages. I offer a warm and supportive setting where clients can safely explore problems in their lives. I enjoy working with children and adolescents, as well as families that are struggling with conflicts or behavior problems. I also have a lot of experience working with individual women and men.I help through empathic listening, education, support and understanding. I am a member of 2 professional organizations, and I spent 2 years after graduate school in a program taught advanced psychotherapy.
We have Current Openings ! We are a diverse group of therapists who see individuals, couples and whole families of all ages. We value authenticity, social justice, and relationships. At Down to Earth Therapy we are committed to not only listening, but to actively partnering with you and helping you make the changes you, your partnership, and/or your family desire. We celebrate clients of all class, sexuality, ethnicity, race, gender identity, ability, size and spiritual belief. Go to our website to view our therapists unique specialties.
We have Current Openings ! We are a diverse group of therapists who see individuals, couples and whole families of all ages. We value authenticity, social justice, and relationships. At Down to Earth Therapy we are committed to not only listening, but to actively partnering with you and helping you make the changes you, your partnership, and/or your family desire. We celebrate clients of all class, sexuality, ethnicity, race, gender identity, ability, size and spiritual belief. Go to our website to view our therapists unique specialties.
The Family Development Center
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA , LMFT
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55117
I am bilingual Latina who is passionate about encountering people where they are in their journey. I strive to work with our community with compassion, respect, and openness, always acknowledging and welcoming each individual's dignity and value. I strive to provide a safe and empowering environment where individuals 8 and older, and families can share their stories and narrative, as well as embrace the value within them.
I am bilingual Latina who is passionate about encountering people where they are in their journey. I strive to work with our community with compassion, respect, and openness, always acknowledging and welcoming each individual's dignity and value. I strive to provide a safe and empowering environment where individuals 8 and older, and families can share their stories and narrative, as well as embrace the value within them.
It's our reality that human beings struggle at times along the road of life. I have had the opportunity to work with individuals, couples and families get over and through these life obstacles. I have been honored and amazed to witness people conquer fears, addictions and harmful experiences that have left them tired and gasping on that road, and once again pick themselves up and journey onwards.
It's our reality that human beings struggle at times along the road of life. I have had the opportunity to work with individuals, couples and families get over and through these life obstacles. I have been honored and amazed to witness people conquer fears, addictions and harmful experiences that have left them tired and gasping on that road, and once again pick themselves up and journey onwards.
I specialize in a person-centered, play-based approach, blending cognitive-behavioral techniques, mindfulness, and yoga-inspired interventions to create a tailored treatment plan.
My ideal client is a child, adolescent, adult, or family navigating OCD, anxiety, stress, or neurodivergence. They may feel overwhelmed by intrusive thoughts, emotional dysregulation, or the daily challenges of life. They seek understanding, tools for resilience, and a compassionate space to heal and grow.
I specialize in a person-centered, play-based approach, blending cognitive-behavioral techniques, mindfulness, and yoga-inspired interventions to create a tailored treatment plan.
My ideal client is a child, adolescent, adult, or family navigating OCD, anxiety, stress, or neurodivergence. They may feel overwhelmed by intrusive thoughts, emotional dysregulation, or the daily challenges of life. They seek understanding, tools for resilience, and a compassionate space to heal and grow.
We incorporate depth-oriented, attachment, and existential therapies, and utilizes play, experiential interventions, EMDR, mindfulness, creativity, as well as insight and awareness to help foster healing.
At Kendra Snyder Therapy & Associates, our therapists specialize in supporting those who have been touched by adoption, grief, loss, trauma, and hurt from religion, as well as people who desire increased connection, to explore personal identity, and to find an authentic belief system or spirituality. We create an open and inviting space for others to engage in deep introspective reflection that helps foster creativity, authenticity, and expansion.
We incorporate depth-oriented, attachment, and existential therapies, and utilizes play, experiential interventions, EMDR, mindfulness, creativity, as well as insight and awareness to help foster healing.
At Kendra Snyder Therapy & Associates, our therapists specialize in supporting those who have been touched by adoption, grief, loss, trauma, and hurt from religion, as well as people who desire increased connection, to explore personal identity, and to find an authentic belief system or spirituality. We create an open and inviting space for others to engage in deep introspective reflection that helps foster creativity, authenticity, and expansion.
My work draws from somatic-based practices and integrates polyvagal theory, nervous system regulation, play therapy techniques, and mindfulness.
Whether we're gently tuning into the body's signals or working through limiting patterns, I aim to offer grounded support and tools to support lasting change. I believe therapy is a space where people deserve to feel seen and supported as they reconnect with their inner wisdom.
My work draws from somatic-based practices and integrates polyvagal theory, nervous system regulation, play therapy techniques, and mindfulness.
Whether we're gently tuning into the body's signals or working through limiting patterns, I aim to offer grounded support and tools to support lasting change. I believe therapy is a space where people deserve to feel seen and supported as they reconnect with their inner wisdom.
MidWest Center for Personal & Family Development
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Saint Paul, MN 55114
You can get help in one simple phone call. We offer Caring, Convenient & Effective Behavioral Health Services. Call us at 651-647-1900 to schedule at one of our convenient counseling offices in: St. Paul, Burnsville or virtually from anywhere in Minnesota.
You can get help in one simple phone call. We offer Caring, Convenient & Effective Behavioral Health Services. Call us at 651-647-1900 to schedule at one of our convenient counseling offices in: St. Paul, Burnsville or virtually from anywhere in Minnesota.
Wennicha Yang
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55105
Waitlist for new clients
I provide individual, couples, and family therapy, as well as working with folks who are experiencing grief and loss, trauma, partner/family conflicts, domestic violence, gender-based violence, anxiety, depression, recurring anger, racial tensions, and identity crisis. I also work with folks who are wanting to explore inner-child healing, legacy wisdoms, non-violent communication, boundary work, deepening intuition, strengthening connection to self/relationships/community, self-care, and existentialism.
I provide individual, couples, and family therapy, as well as working with folks who are experiencing grief and loss, trauma, partner/family conflicts, domestic violence, gender-based violence, anxiety, depression, recurring anger, racial tensions, and identity crisis. I also work with folks who are wanting to explore inner-child healing, legacy wisdoms, non-violent communication, boundary work, deepening intuition, strengthening connection to self/relationships/community, self-care, and existentialism.
I tend to use a lot of play and art based expression while maintaining curiosity and playfulness.
I am a therapist, clinical supervisor, and trainer with almost 15 years of experience in providing services to children, teens, families, and parents. I have specialties in early childhood mental health and permanency/adoption concerns. I am trained in Trauma-Informed Child Parent Psychotherapy (TI- CPP) and completed the Permanency and Adoption Competency program through UMN in 2015. Every person and child is different and I work to use many techniques based on development, age, and presenting concerns. I am also passionate about including parents in a child's treatment and love working with parents individually as well.
I tend to use a lot of play and art based expression while maintaining curiosity and playfulness.
I am a therapist, clinical supervisor, and trainer with almost 15 years of experience in providing services to children, teens, families, and parents. I have specialties in early childhood mental health and permanency/adoption concerns. I am trained in Trauma-Informed Child Parent Psychotherapy (TI- CPP) and completed the Permanency and Adoption Competency program through UMN in 2015. Every person and child is different and I work to use many techniques based on development, age, and presenting concerns. I am also passionate about including parents in a child's treatment and love working with parents individually as well.
See more therapy options for Saint Paul
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Saint Paul
- Arden Hills
- Eagan
- Inver Grove Heights
- Lake Elmo
- Mahtomedi
- Maplewood
- New Brighton
- Oakdale
- Roseville
- Shoreview
- White Bear Lake
- Woodbury
Play Therapy Therapists
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.