Play Therapy in Asheboro, NC
I am provisionally licensed as a professional counselor. I started Morning Star Therapeutic Services to help those individuals and families in need specializing in At Risk/Special Needs youth. Sara is EAGALA certified utilizing horses experientially for mental health treatment and human development and has committed to uphold EAGALA standards of ethics and practice.
I am provisionally licensed as a professional counselor. I started Morning Star Therapeutic Services to help those individuals and families in need specializing in At Risk/Special Needs youth. Sara is EAGALA certified utilizing horses experientially for mental health treatment and human development and has committed to uphold EAGALA standards of ethics and practice.
Litha Carpenter, Asheboro Counseling and Wellness
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHCS
Asheboro, NC 27203
I take a integrated approach to counseling, drawing upon a variety of counseling theories and methodologies, including Attachment Theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy for couples, and Play Therapy for children.
I am a North Carolina Board Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor. Prior to working in Asheboro, I have worked in public school and university settings and have ten years experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of concerns. I offer individual counseling for adults, adolescents, and children, as well as marital/premarital and family counseling. I am equipped and interested in integrating one's spiritual values and beliefs into the counseling process to the extent the client allows them to be.
I take a integrated approach to counseling, drawing upon a variety of counseling theories and methodologies, including Attachment Theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy for couples, and Play Therapy for children.
I am a North Carolina Board Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor. Prior to working in Asheboro, I have worked in public school and university settings and have ten years experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of concerns. I offer individual counseling for adults, adolescents, and children, as well as marital/premarital and family counseling. I am equipped and interested in integrating one's spiritual values and beliefs into the counseling process to the extent the client allows them to be.
With children, I use play therapy to help them express themselves, process emotions, build coping skills, and work through concerns in an age-appropriate way.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults experiencing emotional, behavioral, or relationship concerns that can make everyday life feel more challenging. Clients may seek therapy for anxiety, depression, anger, grief, stress, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, or major life changes. I also work with parents seeking support for their child or teen. My goal is to understand each client’s experiences, strengths, and needs while creating a space where they can feel comfortable being themselves and begin making changes that improve their everyday lives.
With children, I use play therapy to help them express themselves, process emotions, build coping skills, and work through concerns in an age-appropriate way.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults experiencing emotional, behavioral, or relationship concerns that can make everyday life feel more challenging. Clients may seek therapy for anxiety, depression, anger, grief, stress, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, or major life changes. I also work with parents seeking support for their child or teen. My goal is to understand each client’s experiences, strengths, and needs while creating a space where they can feel comfortable being themselves and begin making changes that improve their everyday lives.
Brittany Sundblom, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, CCTP-2
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
I use techniques like solution-focused therapy, bibliotherapy, play therapy, and EMDR.
Asking for help is a brave and strong act. Seeking therapy doesn’t indicate weakness—it shows your readiness to confront challenges and grow. As Christians, we are reminded that God calls us to bear one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2) and seek His guidance in times of need. If you choose, we can offer a faith-centered space to explore your goals, leaning on God’s wisdom and grace. However, spirituality doesn’t have to be part of your therapy. With or without faith as a focus, we’ll provide compassionate support to overcome obstacles, grow, and discover your unique purpose. This journey is about you.
I use techniques like solution-focused therapy, bibliotherapy, play therapy, and EMDR.
Asking for help is a brave and strong act. Seeking therapy doesn’t indicate weakness—it shows your readiness to confront challenges and grow. As Christians, we are reminded that God calls us to bear one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2) and seek His guidance in times of need. If you choose, we can offer a faith-centered space to explore your goals, leaning on God’s wisdom and grace. However, spirituality doesn’t have to be part of your therapy. With or without faith as a focus, we’ll provide compassionate support to overcome obstacles, grow, and discover your unique purpose. This journey is about you.
The Oaks Center for Counseling & Wellness
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, LCMHCS
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
The Oaks provides high-quality licensed professional counseling by combining evidence-based practices with an approach that fosters worth and wellness for each individual. We are here to join with you- no matter where you need to begin- to offer hope, encouragement, and professional counsel. We hope to partner with you and support you on your journey. We offer counseling services for male and female clients ages 10+ through in-person, teletherapy, and walk and talk therapy options. When seen as beneficial by the client, The Oaks incorporates a biblical worldview as we partner with clients on their journey toward health.
The Oaks provides high-quality licensed professional counseling by combining evidence-based practices with an approach that fosters worth and wellness for each individual. We are here to join with you- no matter where you need to begin- to offer hope, encouragement, and professional counsel. We hope to partner with you and support you on your journey. We offer counseling services for male and female clients ages 10+ through in-person, teletherapy, and walk and talk therapy options. When seen as beneficial by the client, The Oaks incorporates a biblical worldview as we partner with clients on their journey toward health.
I primarily provide counseling for couples, and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, codependency and PTSD. Recently I’ve specialized in helping adults navigate the emotional and logistical process of caring for an elderly parent. I also have extensive experience counseling people who are going through life transitions, and relationship issues. After 25 years in practice I provide a supportive environment where I assist clients in gaining insight into their problems. Once I’ve aquired a better understanding of the clients situation I offer options and coping skills to help them solve their problems.
I primarily provide counseling for couples, and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, codependency and PTSD. Recently I’ve specialized in helping adults navigate the emotional and logistical process of caring for an elderly parent. I also have extensive experience counseling people who are going through life transitions, and relationship issues. After 25 years in practice I provide a supportive environment where I assist clients in gaining insight into their problems. Once I’ve aquired a better understanding of the clients situation I offer options and coping skills to help them solve their problems.
I’m so glad you’re here. Reaching out for support can feel like a big step, and you don’t have to do it alone. I work with teens and young adults navigating life’s many transitions, including stress, identity exploration, and the impact of trauma. I have a special passion for supporting trans and gender-diverse individuals in affirming, compassionate ways.
I’m EMDR-trained and incorporate trauma-informed approaches to help you process difficult experiences and move toward healing and growth. I offer virtual sessions for clients in NY and NC and accept insurance to make care more accessible.
I’m so glad you’re here. Reaching out for support can feel like a big step, and you don’t have to do it alone. I work with teens and young adults navigating life’s many transitions, including stress, identity exploration, and the impact of trauma. I have a special passion for supporting trans and gender-diverse individuals in affirming, compassionate ways.
I’m EMDR-trained and incorporate trauma-informed approaches to help you process difficult experiences and move toward healing and growth. I offer virtual sessions for clients in NY and NC and accept insurance to make care more accessible.
I use DBT, play, mindfulness, art, fun roleplays, & relaxation to help reduce stress.
My clients have said:
"I really love seeing Ms Julie. She makes me feel heard and seen. I feel like a valuable person, and no longer want to hurt myself."
"Ms Julie helps me feel less anxious. She's easy to talk to and relate. We spend sessions laughing, sometimes crying, and she never gets upset when I cuss."
"The roleplays we do in therapy are fun and help me think of different ways of handling life. I am better able to handle bullies at school now. I am better able to accept myself."
"She never makes me feel stupid, or less than. She's always encouraging and asking questions that help me better understand myself."
I use DBT, play, mindfulness, art, fun roleplays, & relaxation to help reduce stress.
My clients have said:
"I really love seeing Ms Julie. She makes me feel heard and seen. I feel like a valuable person, and no longer want to hurt myself."
"Ms Julie helps me feel less anxious. She's easy to talk to and relate. We spend sessions laughing, sometimes crying, and she never gets upset when I cuss."
"The roleplays we do in therapy are fun and help me think of different ways of handling life. I am better able to handle bullies at school now. I am better able to accept myself."
"She never makes me feel stupid, or less than. She's always encouraging and asking questions that help me better understand myself."
More Therapists Nearby
Kerry Graves
Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate, CCTP, MSW, LCSWA
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27408
My ideal client will be dealing with trauma that may have occurred as a child as well as an adult. Other ideal clients would be military veterans (active or veterans) that have encountered trauma, adults with Borderline Personality Disorder and adults with depression. Their needs will center on alleviating the trauma as well as increasing their daily functioning free from potential depression, anxiety, anger and suicidal thoughts. I also see adolescents/teenagers that have encountered depression and anxiety, which has affected them in a variety of ways and athletes who are struggling with the daily chalIenges of being an athlete.
My ideal client will be dealing with trauma that may have occurred as a child as well as an adult. Other ideal clients would be military veterans (active or veterans) that have encountered trauma, adults with Borderline Personality Disorder and adults with depression. Their needs will center on alleviating the trauma as well as increasing their daily functioning free from potential depression, anxiety, anger and suicidal thoughts. I also see adolescents/teenagers that have encountered depression and anxiety, which has affected them in a variety of ways and athletes who are struggling with the daily chalIenges of being an athlete.
Maybe your teen is pulling away, your family is going through a difficult transition, or you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck. Life can feel heavy sometimes – but you don’t have to navigate it alone. I work with teens, adults, and families who are navigating life challenges whether it's trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, or major life transitions. I truly believe there that every person has the potential to heal, grow and thrive when given the right support and care. My approach is warm, collaborative, and person-centered, always tailored to your unique needs.
Maybe your teen is pulling away, your family is going through a difficult transition, or you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck. Life can feel heavy sometimes – but you don’t have to navigate it alone. I work with teens, adults, and families who are navigating life challenges whether it's trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, or major life transitions. I truly believe there that every person has the potential to heal, grow and thrive when given the right support and care. My approach is warm, collaborative, and person-centered, always tailored to your unique needs.
Overwhelmed. It's a word I hear so often from clients- because life is hard sometimes. Finding a therapist who offers compassion and understanding should not be. My goal is to provide a welcoming and supportive space where you feel truly heard and accepted. With over 25 years of experience, I provide care for children, teens, adults and families in a supportive and inclusive space. I'm deeply passionate about the work I do and count it a privilege to walk alongside folks as they navigate the challenges of life. I provide care for depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, and other issues related to life transitions.
Overwhelmed. It's a word I hear so often from clients- because life is hard sometimes. Finding a therapist who offers compassion and understanding should not be. My goal is to provide a welcoming and supportive space where you feel truly heard and accepted. With over 25 years of experience, I provide care for children, teens, adults and families in a supportive and inclusive space. I'm deeply passionate about the work I do and count it a privilege to walk alongside folks as they navigate the challenges of life. I provide care for depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, and other issues related to life transitions.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with 2 years of experience in the field. I specialize in helping adolescents and adults with a range of topics such as anxiety, depression, grief, adjusting to change, PTSD, domestic violence, and LGBTQ matters. I have worked with college students, families, and veterans to set attainable goals and overcome obstacles by looking at challenges from different angles and empowering clients to use their inherent strengths.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with 2 years of experience in the field. I specialize in helping adolescents and adults with a range of topics such as anxiety, depression, grief, adjusting to change, PTSD, domestic violence, and LGBTQ matters. I have worked with college students, families, and veterans to set attainable goals and overcome obstacles by looking at challenges from different angles and empowering clients to use their inherent strengths.
Welcome! While starting therapy may seem intimidating, you are not in this alone! If you are seeking a comfortable and safe environment, embedded with authenticity, you will find that here. I work with teens, young adults, and adults of all ages to promote a healthy and adaptive lifestyle based on your unique goals. Together, we will focus on addressing life’s stressors through a sustainable approach. Many of my clients use therapy to help them navigate trauma, relational issues, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and other life challenges.
Welcome! While starting therapy may seem intimidating, you are not in this alone! If you are seeking a comfortable and safe environment, embedded with authenticity, you will find that here. I work with teens, young adults, and adults of all ages to promote a healthy and adaptive lifestyle based on your unique goals. Together, we will focus on addressing life’s stressors through a sustainable approach. Many of my clients use therapy to help them navigate trauma, relational issues, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and other life challenges.
Your thoughts are what guide your decisions. Perhaps the strength you used to have has weaken, causing you to doubt or question your ability and/or who you are. Start today, seek a new life for yourself. Imagine what your future can look like. See that together we can create change and healing, allowing you to move beyond pain, sadness, anxiety, and confusion. Accurate assessment and therapeutic approaches, including understanding and professional guidance will help you experience daily peace, love, laughter and happiness. I am fully convinced from a high success rate among those who have sought and received therapeutic counseling and moved forward, experiencing a healthy productive life that you will also.
Your thoughts are what guide your decisions. Perhaps the strength you used to have has weaken, causing you to doubt or question your ability and/or who you are. Start today, seek a new life for yourself. Imagine what your future can look like. See that together we can create change and healing, allowing you to move beyond pain, sadness, anxiety, and confusion. Accurate assessment and therapeutic approaches, including understanding and professional guidance will help you experience daily peace, love, laughter and happiness. I am fully convinced from a high success rate among those who have sought and received therapeutic counseling and moved forward, experiencing a healthy productive life that you will also.
Alisha Parks
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA
2 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27408
Pain is a language that we all can and most likely have spoken. From rejection, abandonment, grief, and loss to life’s many uncontrollable circumstances, pain often feels inevitable. Leaning into healing from my own painful experiences has been the driving force behind my desire to help bring healing and wholeness to others. I am passionate about working with individuals who have experienced various forms of pain, including trauma, religious trauma, mood disorders, substance use and addiction, low self-esteem, and multicultural/systemic challenges.
Pain is a language that we all can and most likely have spoken. From rejection, abandonment, grief, and loss to life’s many uncontrollable circumstances, pain often feels inevitable. Leaning into healing from my own painful experiences has been the driving force behind my desire to help bring healing and wholeness to others. I am passionate about working with individuals who have experienced various forms of pain, including trauma, religious trauma, mood disorders, substance use and addiction, low self-esteem, and multicultural/systemic challenges.
He utilizes a person centered approach encompassing techniques from cognitive behavioral and play-based therapy including dialectical behavioral therapy when appropriate.
Kenan focuses on the struggles seen with ADHD, ODD & Anxiety. He supports his clients by helping them learn coping skills to aid in emotion regulation, anger management and behavioral issues. He also works to develop executive functioning skills and increased ability to stay on task.
He utilizes a person centered approach encompassing techniques from cognitive behavioral and play-based therapy including dialectical behavioral therapy when appropriate.
Kenan focuses on the struggles seen with ADHD, ODD & Anxiety. He supports his clients by helping them learn coping skills to aid in emotion regulation, anger management and behavioral issues. He also works to develop executive functioning skills and increased ability to stay on task.
I use play therapy and expressive art techniques when traditional talk therapy isn’t effective.
Hello! I’m Rayana Swanson, LCMHC-A, NCC. I earned my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a Certificate in Marriage and Family Counseling from North Carolina A&T State University. My experience includes roles as a College Advisor and a Direct Support Professional for individuals on the Autism Spectrum. I gained most of my clinical experience at a children’s center, collaborating with a multidisciplinary team to provide top-notch care. I’m passionate about working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families facing anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, and relational challenges.
I use play therapy and expressive art techniques when traditional talk therapy isn’t effective.
Hello! I’m Rayana Swanson, LCMHC-A, NCC. I earned my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a Certificate in Marriage and Family Counseling from North Carolina A&T State University. My experience includes roles as a College Advisor and a Direct Support Professional for individuals on the Autism Spectrum. I gained most of my clinical experience at a children’s center, collaborating with a multidisciplinary team to provide top-notch care. I’m passionate about working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families facing anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, and relational challenges.
Now offering Neurofeedback for kids and adults! Contact me for details.
Parenting a child with trauma history will bring up things in you, too.
Maybe it's the constant vigilance, the guilt when you lose patience, or the grief for the family life you imagined. Maybe it's the exhaustion of being tested by a child who pushes away the very love they need most.
Developmental trauma — from inconsistent early caregiving, a difficult birth, early medical trauma, abuse, or neglect — reshapes how a child experiences safety and connection. These are often the kids who need love most but ask for it in the most unlovable ways.
Now offering Neurofeedback for kids and adults! Contact me for details.
Parenting a child with trauma history will bring up things in you, too.
Maybe it's the constant vigilance, the guilt when you lose patience, or the grief for the family life you imagined. Maybe it's the exhaustion of being tested by a child who pushes away the very love they need most.
Developmental trauma — from inconsistent early caregiving, a difficult birth, early medical trauma, abuse, or neglect — reshapes how a child experiences safety and connection. These are often the kids who need love most but ask for it in the most unlovable ways.
Ednalyn King Hurley
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, NCC, LCMHC, LCMHCS
1 Endorsed
Online Only
The individuals I work with are psychologically healthy and can learn to think and decide for themselves. Due to stress, grief, anger ,anxiety,fear etc. they may need the aid of someone to guide them toward making positive change in their lives or setting goals for a new direction in life .I enjoy serving a diverse group of people , however specialties include working with women issues such as single parents, domestic violence, and animal assisted therapy.
The individuals I work with are psychologically healthy and can learn to think and decide for themselves. Due to stress, grief, anger ,anxiety,fear etc. they may need the aid of someone to guide them toward making positive change in their lives or setting goals for a new direction in life .I enjoy serving a diverse group of people , however specialties include working with women issues such as single parents, domestic violence, and animal assisted therapy.
As a dedicated therapist, I provide a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to explore their challenges and work towards a healthier, happier life. With extensive experience in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Reality Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy, I tailor my approach to meet each client's unique needs.
As a dedicated therapist, I provide a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to explore their challenges and work towards a healthier, happier life. With extensive experience in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Reality Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy, I tailor my approach to meet each client's unique needs.
See more therapy options for Asheboro
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Asheboro
- Archdale
- Burlington
- Elon
- Graham
- Greensboro
- High Point
- Jamestown
- Kernersville
- Lexington
- Thomasville
- Whispering Pines
- Winston Salem
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.


