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Online Therapists

Photo of Stacia Marie Harlan, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Stacia Marie Harlan
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Goldsboro, NC 27530
When working with children, I believe that healing can take place through the use of art and play therapy so I will utilize both.
My heart has always been drawn to helping and encouraging others. My desire and passion is working with children, adolescents, and women who are going through life challenges or have experienced events in their past that need to be brought to the surface so that true, lasting healing can occur. I believe that the most important aspect of counseling is my relationship with the client and that is my main focus with my clients. I am currently accepting BCBS, Med Cost, and self pay If you are interested in my services, please call me so that we can discuss fees.
When working with children, I believe that healing can take place through the use of art and play therapy so I will utilize both.
My heart has always been drawn to helping and encouraging others. My desire and passion is working with children, adolescents, and women who are going through life challenges or have experienced events in their past that need to be brought to the surface so that true, lasting healing can occur. I believe that the most important aspect of counseling is my relationship with the client and that is my main focus with my clients. I am currently accepting BCBS, Med Cost, and self pay If you are interested in my services, please call me so that we can discuss fees.
(984) 205-9340 View (984) 205-9340
Photo of Anne Watts, MSW, LCSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anne Watts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948
Play Therapy helps children to find healthy solutions to the challenges they face.
Is your child struggling with complicated challenges? OR Is your child getting by, but you want to see them thriving at a higher level? Give me a call. Play Therapy is a powerful way to help young people to grow & heal. Families can overcome incredible challenges & live healthy, well balanced lives. I help children with challenging behaviors, anxiety, depression, ADHD, highly gifted & talented, special needs, those with difficult experiences such as adoption, divorce, loss of a loved one, or trauma.
Play Therapy helps children to find healthy solutions to the challenges they face.
Is your child struggling with complicated challenges? OR Is your child getting by, but you want to see them thriving at a higher level? Give me a call. Play Therapy is a powerful way to help young people to grow & heal. Families can overcome incredible challenges & live healthy, well balanced lives. I help children with challenging behaviors, anxiety, depression, ADHD, highly gifted & talented, special needs, those with difficult experiences such as adoption, divorce, loss of a loved one, or trauma.
(252) 650-6119 View (252) 650-6119
Photo of Kelly Orr Belk, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Orr Belk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
I have learned many techniques such as CBT, sandtray, play therapy, relaxation and so on, but the best lesson has been that each person has a purpose and strength uniquely their own.
I enjoy working with people who have an interest in their own personal growth, taking a journey, trying something new. If you are looking into trying out therapy, you ARE that person! You are looking to take a chance on yourself, and that's a wonderful, and sometimes overwhelming feeling. New things can be hard, and I think therapy should be supportive of this while guiding them through the necessary process of growing pains. Therapy can be hard work, but the benefits can last a lifetime.
I have learned many techniques such as CBT, sandtray, play therapy, relaxation and so on, but the best lesson has been that each person has a purpose and strength uniquely their own.
I enjoy working with people who have an interest in their own personal growth, taking a journey, trying something new. If you are looking into trying out therapy, you ARE that person! You are looking to take a chance on yourself, and that's a wonderful, and sometimes overwhelming feeling. New things can be hard, and I think therapy should be supportive of this while guiding them through the necessary process of growing pains. Therapy can be hard work, but the benefits can last a lifetime.
(984) 223-5162 View (984) 223-5162
Photo of Nicole Leigh Bettis, EdS, LMFT, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicole Leigh Bettis
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdS, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
New Bern, NC 28562
I am a marriage & family therapist and a registered play therapist. I have a wide range of experience in working with children, adolescents, couples, individuals, and families. My areas of specialization working with issues related to divorce, child custody, parenting, co-parenting, infidelity, family loss/grief, military family issues, school or work related problems, adoption, infertility, emotion regulation, trust and abandonment issues. My goal is to provide a private, safe place for you to better understand your situation and to help you make the changes necessary to live the life you desire.
I am a marriage & family therapist and a registered play therapist. I have a wide range of experience in working with children, adolescents, couples, individuals, and families. My areas of specialization working with issues related to divorce, child custody, parenting, co-parenting, infidelity, family loss/grief, military family issues, school or work related problems, adoption, infertility, emotion regulation, trust and abandonment issues. My goal is to provide a private, safe place for you to better understand your situation and to help you make the changes necessary to live the life you desire.
(252) 675-5550 View (252) 675-5550
Photo of Kimberly E. Williams, LCSW, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly E. Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
As a Registered Play Therapist- Supervisor, I have expertise in providing children an opportunity to benefit from play therapy interventions.
I work with children, adolescents, and young adults who are looking for help managing intense feelings, navigating social relationships, improving self-esteem, and decrease anxiety. During the therapeutic process, clients learn how to identify, express, and cope with their emotions improving their overall sense of happiness. When working with children, I provide parent support and is an integral part of the therapeutic process. I have providing individual and family therapy in Raleigh since 2001.
As a Registered Play Therapist- Supervisor, I have expertise in providing children an opportunity to benefit from play therapy interventions.
I work with children, adolescents, and young adults who are looking for help managing intense feelings, navigating social relationships, improving self-esteem, and decrease anxiety. During the therapeutic process, clients learn how to identify, express, and cope with their emotions improving their overall sense of happiness. When working with children, I provide parent support and is an integral part of the therapeutic process. I have providing individual and family therapy in Raleigh since 2001.
(919) 702-7906 View (919) 702-7906
Photo of Cheryl Lynn Childers, LCSW, ATR-BC, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cheryl Lynn Childers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ATR-BC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
You may use art, music, written word, play—or you may prefer curling up on the couch under a soft blanket and talking.
As someone who has experienced past sexual / physical abuse, or chronic illness, do you often wonder how you can move past the overwhelming shame and pain? Have you tried “everything” but nothing seems to alleviate the flashbacks or unwanted memories. Do you want to stop dissociating? Do you long be free of anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts; longing for connection, worthiness, and to tell your story with a safe, non-judgmental person. Are you willing to examine thoughts, emotions, behaviors and learn how to utilize your whole self, develop shame resilience—transforming the way you live & love in your current relationships?
You may use art, music, written word, play—or you may prefer curling up on the couch under a soft blanket and talking.
As someone who has experienced past sexual / physical abuse, or chronic illness, do you often wonder how you can move past the overwhelming shame and pain? Have you tried “everything” but nothing seems to alleviate the flashbacks or unwanted memories. Do you want to stop dissociating? Do you long be free of anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts; longing for connection, worthiness, and to tell your story with a safe, non-judgmental person. Are you willing to examine thoughts, emotions, behaviors and learn how to utilize your whole self, develop shame resilience—transforming the way you live & love in your current relationships?
(984) 204-7280 View (984) 204-7280
Photo of Jennifer E Thakur, MEd, LCMHC
Jennifer E Thakur
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
I enjoy helping teens, young adults, couples and families achieve their counseling goals using research based strategies and techniques. I am trained in trauma informed techniques such as TF-CBT and EMDR. I also enjoy incorporating mindfulness, yoga, art and play into the therapeutic experience.
I enjoy helping teens, young adults, couples and families achieve their counseling goals using research based strategies and techniques. I am trained in trauma informed techniques such as TF-CBT and EMDR. I also enjoy incorporating mindfulness, yoga, art and play into the therapeutic experience.
(919) 276-8864 View (919) 276-8864
Photo of Nonde Carter, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nonde Carter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Greenville, NC 27834
Together we can reduce or manage your symptoms using Attachment-based, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical Behavior (DBT,) Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Play Therapy and Trauma Focused.
Therapy is typically viewed as something that is challenging and scary. However, I want to help clients see that therapy doesn't have to be challenging and scary yet, it's something that everyone can benefit from. In life we all can face obstacles, some small while others can be life changing. Life changing enough that it can effect how we perceive, people, places, things, and even how we perceive the world. When we get to this point many of us don't know how to cope with the struggles life brings. It is important for us to find peace within ourselves by learning who we are, how things affect us and understanding what we need.
Together we can reduce or manage your symptoms using Attachment-based, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical Behavior (DBT,) Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Play Therapy and Trauma Focused.
Therapy is typically viewed as something that is challenging and scary. However, I want to help clients see that therapy doesn't have to be challenging and scary yet, it's something that everyone can benefit from. In life we all can face obstacles, some small while others can be life changing. Life changing enough that it can effect how we perceive, people, places, things, and even how we perceive the world. When we get to this point many of us don't know how to cope with the struggles life brings. It is important for us to find peace within ourselves by learning who we are, how things affect us and understanding what we need.
(252) 475-7830 View (252) 475-7830
Photo of Therapy For Anxious Kids And Teens - Hannah Edwardson, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Therapy For Anxious Kids And Teens - Hannah Edwardson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
I'm Hannah and I help children and teens (ages 5-18) and their parents/caregivers feel more connected through the therapeutic powers of play. Regardless of the different events that bring clients into therapy, each family I work with has a major overarching goal of feeling more attuned to each other's needs and being able to feel more confident in communicating their needs/emotions among their family household. I help my clients by providing children, teens, and adults with the strategies that allow them to gain more clarity and confidence over their emotions through their healing process.
I'm Hannah and I help children and teens (ages 5-18) and their parents/caregivers feel more connected through the therapeutic powers of play. Regardless of the different events that bring clients into therapy, each family I work with has a major overarching goal of feeling more attuned to each other's needs and being able to feel more confident in communicating their needs/emotions among their family household. I help my clients by providing children, teens, and adults with the strategies that allow them to gain more clarity and confidence over their emotions through their healing process.
(919) 646-3027 View (919) 646-3027
Photo of Leila Beikmohamadi, MA, LPA, Psychological Associate
Leila Beikmohamadi
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
I pull from various therapeutic techniques including play-based, strengths-based, Acceptance and Commitment, and Cognitive Behavioral therapies.
Hello! I enjoy supporting neurodivergent children, adolescents, and adults. I focus on challenges with emotional regulation, self-esteem, anxiety, social interactions, depression, school success, and life transitions. I also enjoy working with identity challenges and development. I strive to help my clients gain a better understanding of their past and present selves and explore what values they want to guide them moving forward. I love incorporating hands-on and experiential exercises into my work.
I pull from various therapeutic techniques including play-based, strengths-based, Acceptance and Commitment, and Cognitive Behavioral therapies.
Hello! I enjoy supporting neurodivergent children, adolescents, and adults. I focus on challenges with emotional regulation, self-esteem, anxiety, social interactions, depression, school success, and life transitions. I also enjoy working with identity challenges and development. I strive to help my clients gain a better understanding of their past and present selves and explore what values they want to guide them moving forward. I love incorporating hands-on and experiential exercises into my work.
(984) 464-6394 View (984) 464-6394
Photo of Mary Kaitlyn Boone, MA, LCMHC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Kaitlyn Boone
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, RPT
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27613
"The creation of something new is not accomplished by the intellect but by the play instinct" (Carl Jung). I find great joy in working with children of all ages in a therapy setting. It's an honor to me when a child chooses to trust me with their wishes, their fears, and their wonders about life. I have experience working with children individually, in hospitals, and through non-profit work in the community. Through the use of play and arts based therapies, I help to facilitate an environment where children are able to truly be themselves, express their emotions, and have the ability to create the answers they need for themselves.
"The creation of something new is not accomplished by the intellect but by the play instinct" (Carl Jung). I find great joy in working with children of all ages in a therapy setting. It's an honor to me when a child chooses to trust me with their wishes, their fears, and their wonders about life. I have experience working with children individually, in hospitals, and through non-profit work in the community. Through the use of play and arts based therapies, I help to facilitate an environment where children are able to truly be themselves, express their emotions, and have the ability to create the answers they need for themselves.
(919) 301-9184 View (919) 301-9184
Photo of undefined - Lifestyle Consultant Services, MS, LPC, LCAS-A
Lifestyle Consultant Services
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LPC, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
* Substance Abuse Treatment * Medication Management * Psychiatric Evaluation * Individual Psychotherapy * Group Psychotherapy * Family Therapy * Marital Therapy * Grief Counseling * Anger Management * Trauma-Focused Therapy * PSuboxone treatment* Play Therapy* EMDR.
The mission of Lifestyle Consultant Services is to improve the quality of mental health and substance abuse services by reducing stigma and by protecting the rights of the individual who suffers from mental illness and/or substance abuse. By identifying the pain and suffering experienced by citizens in our community and addressing them with care, we aim to strengthen and promote health and well being. Suboxone is the combination of buprenorphine (partial opioid agonist) and naloxone (opioid antagonist - Narcan). The combination is either 2 mg/0.5 mg or 8 mg/2 mg. Suboxone is a sublingual film (it dissolves under the tongue).
* Substance Abuse Treatment * Medication Management * Psychiatric Evaluation * Individual Psychotherapy * Group Psychotherapy * Family Therapy * Marital Therapy * Grief Counseling * Anger Management * Trauma-Focused Therapy * PSuboxone treatment* Play Therapy* EMDR.
The mission of Lifestyle Consultant Services is to improve the quality of mental health and substance abuse services by reducing stigma and by protecting the rights of the individual who suffers from mental illness and/or substance abuse. By identifying the pain and suffering experienced by citizens in our community and addressing them with care, we aim to strengthen and promote health and well being. Suboxone is the combination of buprenorphine (partial opioid agonist) and naloxone (opioid antagonist - Narcan). The combination is either 2 mg/0.5 mg or 8 mg/2 mg. Suboxone is a sublingual film (it dissolves under the tongue).
(919) 800-0881 View (919) 800-0881
Photo of undefined - The Counseling Collective, PLLC, MA, LCMHCS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
The Counseling Collective, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHCS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wake Forest, NC 27587
Currently accepting clients both in office and telehealth sessions. Please go to our webiste: www.counselingcollectivepllc.com and click "Request An Appointment" to get started. We are a group of practioners who provide individual, family, and group therapy and enjoy working with children, teens, and adults. Our therapists have experience working with various mental health diagnoses including, but not limited to: Depression, Anxiety, Autism, PTSD, Bipolar Disorders, and Personality Disorders. We are trained in evidenced-based approaches for trauma, Solution Focused Therapy, CBT, DBT, and Child-Centered Play Therapy and many more.
Currently accepting clients both in office and telehealth sessions. Please go to our webiste: www.counselingcollectivepllc.com and click "Request An Appointment" to get started. We are a group of practioners who provide individual, family, and group therapy and enjoy working with children, teens, and adults. Our therapists have experience working with various mental health diagnoses including, but not limited to: Depression, Anxiety, Autism, PTSD, Bipolar Disorders, and Personality Disorders. We are trained in evidenced-based approaches for trauma, Solution Focused Therapy, CBT, DBT, and Child-Centered Play Therapy and many more.
(984) 206-3328 View (984) 206-3328
Photo of undefined - Integrated Journey, LPC, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Integrated Journey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elizabeth City, NC 27909  (Online Only)
Specializing in trauma treatment, hypnotherapy, play therapy and behavioral consulting for children, adults and families.
No matter what life brings you, treatment can bring you "home." All walks of life and all experiences are unique, so your treatment will be tailored to fit for you. Direction, support, guidance and healing available now.
Specializing in trauma treatment, hypnotherapy, play therapy and behavioral consulting for children, adults and families.
No matter what life brings you, treatment can bring you "home." All walks of life and all experiences are unique, so your treatment will be tailored to fit for you. Direction, support, guidance and healing available now.
(252) 429-0145 View (252) 429-0145
Photo of Venita Wiley Wright, MS, LMFT, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Venita Wiley Wright
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kinston, NC 28501
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) and a registered play therapist (RPT).
First, congratulations on taking the first step toward healing. Recognizing a problem is the first step toward finding solutions. Depression, anxiety, insecurity, fear, doubt and other feelings can weigh you down. These feelings can stem from trauma such as any form of abuse, neglect, domestic violence, infertility, divorce, loss of loved ones, medical problems, and other forms of trauma. You want change and need someone to help. You need a partner that understands and will walk with you on the journey of growth and healing. You have made the first step and you are ready to take the next. How do you get your life back?
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) and a registered play therapist (RPT).
First, congratulations on taking the first step toward healing. Recognizing a problem is the first step toward finding solutions. Depression, anxiety, insecurity, fear, doubt and other feelings can weigh you down. These feelings can stem from trauma such as any form of abuse, neglect, domestic violence, infertility, divorce, loss of loved ones, medical problems, and other forms of trauma. You want change and need someone to help. You need a partner that understands and will walk with you on the journey of growth and healing. You have made the first step and you are ready to take the next. How do you get your life back?
(252) 775-8378 View (252) 775-8378
Photo of Cathy C Hedgepeth, MA, HSP, LPA, Psychological Associate
Cathy C Hedgepeth
Psychological Associate, MA, HSP, LPA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
Waitlist for new clients
In my part time private practice I offer counseling/therapy to adults, children, adolescents, and parents. My areas of special interest include anxiety, depression, and parent education. I enjoy working with adults who are dealing with life challenges, loss, and seeking personal growth. When seeing children or adolescents, I typically use a child centered approach with the opportunity for play therapy. I also have experience with CBT, EFT, and mindfulness. These techniques are helpful in treating individuals who are experiencing anxiety, regulation of attention and impulse control, and trauma.
In my part time private practice I offer counseling/therapy to adults, children, adolescents, and parents. My areas of special interest include anxiety, depression, and parent education. I enjoy working with adults who are dealing with life challenges, loss, and seeking personal growth. When seeing children or adolescents, I typically use a child centered approach with the opportunity for play therapy. I also have experience with CBT, EFT, and mindfulness. These techniques are helpful in treating individuals who are experiencing anxiety, regulation of attention and impulse control, and trauma.
(919) 289-0392 View (919) 289-0392
Photo of Katie Mendat List, LCMHCS, RPT-S, CATP, Counselor
Katie Mendat List
Counselor, LCMHCS, RPT-S, CATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27605
I utilize a variety of approaches and treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Strength-Based Therapy, Grief Therapy, Trauma Focused Therapy, Play Therapy, Sandtray and Mindfulness Therapy.
My passion is working with children, adolescents and young adults. Sessions focus on self-awareness, choice, problem solving, goal setting and challenging in a caring and empathetic manner. My goal as your therapist is assisting you in identifying skills and resources you already have and supporting you in strengthening skills and promoting growth. Some change occurs quickly and easily, but most often change requires slow, deliberate, and repeated efforts and I look forwarding to supporting you through this journey of self exploration and growth.
I utilize a variety of approaches and treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Strength-Based Therapy, Grief Therapy, Trauma Focused Therapy, Play Therapy, Sandtray and Mindfulness Therapy.
My passion is working with children, adolescents and young adults. Sessions focus on self-awareness, choice, problem solving, goal setting and challenging in a caring and empathetic manner. My goal as your therapist is assisting you in identifying skills and resources you already have and supporting you in strengthening skills and promoting growth. Some change occurs quickly and easily, but most often change requires slow, deliberate, and repeated efforts and I look forwarding to supporting you through this journey of self exploration and growth.
(984) 223-9340 View (984) 223-9340
Photo of Molly F Chaffee, MA, LCMHCS, NCC, RPTS
Molly F Chaffee
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervis, MA, LCMHCS, NCC, RPTS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27613
I'm also a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor (LCMHCS) and Registered Play Therapist Supervisor (RPTS), and able to provide supervision for mental health professionals seeking licensure as an LCMHC or Registered Play Therapist (RPT).
My passion is helping clients navigate difficult experiences, emotions, and transitions. My style is warm, nonjudgmental, and approachable. Together we will move towards a hopeful, more positive future. I enjoy working with pre-adolescents, adolescents, and adults. I also specialize in working with college-aged students and young adults, and women in their 20s, 30s, and 40s. Many of my adult clients reflect on personal values, family-of-origin issues, and insights on self-esteem and self-identity. My specialty areas include anxiety, depression, grief/loss, serious illness, and life transitions.
I'm also a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor (LCMHCS) and Registered Play Therapist Supervisor (RPTS), and able to provide supervision for mental health professionals seeking licensure as an LCMHC or Registered Play Therapist (RPT).
My passion is helping clients navigate difficult experiences, emotions, and transitions. My style is warm, nonjudgmental, and approachable. Together we will move towards a hopeful, more positive future. I enjoy working with pre-adolescents, adolescents, and adults. I also specialize in working with college-aged students and young adults, and women in their 20s, 30s, and 40s. Many of my adult clients reflect on personal values, family-of-origin issues, and insights on self-esteem and self-identity. My specialty areas include anxiety, depression, grief/loss, serious illness, and life transitions.
(919) 348-2394 View (919) 348-2394
Jenny Busby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
Dedicated to making a difference, as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I offer therapy to both kids and adults. With a trauma-focused approach, I provide support for anxiety, depression, ADHD, and PTSD. Services include cognitive behavioral therapy, parent-child interaction therapy, play therapy, and other therapeutic approaches. I'm a dog lover with 3 adorable pups that reads in my free time. Let's work together to overcome challenges and foster personal growth!
Dedicated to making a difference, as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I offer therapy to both kids and adults. With a trauma-focused approach, I provide support for anxiety, depression, ADHD, and PTSD. Services include cognitive behavioral therapy, parent-child interaction therapy, play therapy, and other therapeutic approaches. I'm a dog lover with 3 adorable pups that reads in my free time. Let's work together to overcome challenges and foster personal growth!
(984) 279-7972 View (984) 279-7972
Photo of Blakely Patterson, MA, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Blakely Patterson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wake Forest, NC 27587
Waitlist for new clients
I also use play therapy and art therapy with children.
As a sibling of a childhood cancer survivor, I have a heart to help individuals, couples, and families when suffering interrupts life’s normal flow. My scope of practice includes, but is not limited to the following areas: trauma, anxiety, grief, OCD, relationship issues, abuse, life transitions, marital/premarital counseling, and family dynamics.
I also use play therapy and art therapy with children.
As a sibling of a childhood cancer survivor, I have a heart to help individuals, couples, and families when suffering interrupts life’s normal flow. My scope of practice includes, but is not limited to the following areas: trauma, anxiety, grief, OCD, relationship issues, abuse, life transitions, marital/premarital counseling, and family dynamics.
(919) 891-1375 View (919) 891-1375
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.