Play Therapy in Charlotte, NC

Photo of Rasheedah Hope, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Rasheedah Hope
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
I specialize in children (ages 5 & up), adolescents, and young adults as they explore and navigate through oppositions in life. I work closely with those who are challenged with anxiety, anger, behavioral disorders, depression, grief, loss, parental conflict, traumatic childhood experiences, and PTSD. Children are often misunderstood and just want to be heard. All children have unique qualities and express themselves differently. I help children communicate and convey their thoughts in various ways by engaging and interacting creatively.
I specialize in children (ages 5 & up), adolescents, and young adults as they explore and navigate through oppositions in life. I work closely with those who are challenged with anxiety, anger, behavioral disorders, depression, grief, loss, parental conflict, traumatic childhood experiences, and PTSD. Children are often misunderstood and just want to be heard. All children have unique qualities and express themselves differently. I help children communicate and convey their thoughts in various ways by engaging and interacting creatively.
(980) 304-7694 View (980) 304-7694
Photo of Simone Stephens Reeves, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, LPCS, CCTPII-, CSAM
Simone Stephens Reeves
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, LPCS, CCTPII-, CSAM
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28273
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor serving clients in North Carolina and South Carolina, with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I am committed to helping individuals enhance their emotional well-being and overall mental health. I offer in-person sessions at my Charlotte, NC office, as well as telehealth counseling for clients located throughout North Carolina and South Carolina.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor serving clients in North Carolina and South Carolina, with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I am committed to helping individuals enhance their emotional well-being and overall mental health. I offer in-person sessions at my Charlotte, NC office, as well as telehealth counseling for clients located throughout North Carolina and South Carolina.
(980) 473-2424 View (980) 473-2424
Toni Terjesen
LCSW Associate , LCSWA, LMSW, MS ED
Charlotte, NC 28211
My goal in working with clients is to encourage a safe and supportive environment, that allows for clients to feel empowered and confident.
My goal in working with clients is to encourage a safe and supportive environment, that allows for clients to feel empowered and confident.
(980) 427-8604 View (980) 427-8604
Photo of Kim T Ferguson, Psychologist, PsyD, RPT-S
Kim T Ferguson
Psychologist, PsyD, RPT-S
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
Most types of anxiety, mood and behavioral problems benefit from CBT strategies, and for the young child, play therapy is a powerful counseling method.
Young people present their concerns in a wide variety of ways so I have training in proven strategies to help with success in educational, behavioral, and emotional functioning for happier families. In addition to counseling, I can do diagnostic testing for children through young adults to provide treatment recommendations and documentation for schools and medical providers. My goals for the counseling or testing process are for the results to be presented in clear, helpful, and practical ways.
Most types of anxiety, mood and behavioral problems benefit from CBT strategies, and for the young child, play therapy is a powerful counseling method.
Young people present their concerns in a wide variety of ways so I have training in proven strategies to help with success in educational, behavioral, and emotional functioning for happier families. In addition to counseling, I can do diagnostic testing for children through young adults to provide treatment recommendations and documentation for schools and medical providers. My goals for the counseling or testing process are for the results to be presented in clear, helpful, and practical ways.
(704) 741-9945 View (704) 741-9945
Photo of Willow Nohr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Willow Nohr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Charlotte, NC 28215
Hi! I’m Willow, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with both a Bachelor’s (2020) and Master’s (2021) degree in Social Work from Appalachian State University. Through my work, I’ve had the privilege of supporting individuals and families in a variety of community and outpatient settings. My approach to therapy is strengths-based & person-centered because I believe the relationship between therapist & client is one of the most powerful factors in fostering meaningful growth. I aim to help guide you to that growth by supporting you in identifying your strengths, building resilience, and reaching their personal goals.
Hi! I’m Willow, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with both a Bachelor’s (2020) and Master’s (2021) degree in Social Work from Appalachian State University. Through my work, I’ve had the privilege of supporting individuals and families in a variety of community and outpatient settings. My approach to therapy is strengths-based & person-centered because I believe the relationship between therapist & client is one of the most powerful factors in fostering meaningful growth. I aim to help guide you to that growth by supporting you in identifying your strengths, building resilience, and reaching their personal goals.
(704) 251-6742 View (704) 251-6742
Photo of Courtney Barnett - Blooming Fields Christian Counseling, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, NCCMHC, NCC
Blooming Fields Christian Counseling
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, NCCMHC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28273
I am child play therapist and fully trained in EMDR Therapy.
No matter what life brings, YOU are worthy, YOU matter, and YOU can find healing as I commit to offer support, unconditional compassion, and a relentless desire to meet you where you are in life. I consider it an honor to work with children, tweens/teens, families, and adults seeking help and comfort during challenging situations. I aim to equip and encourage parents who are seeking tools and resources to regain confidence in parenting, healthy communication, and secure attachment with their children. Divorce, adoption, anxiety, depression, trauma, life adjustments and emotion regulation are a few of the issues that I typically see.
I am child play therapist and fully trained in EMDR Therapy.
No matter what life brings, YOU are worthy, YOU matter, and YOU can find healing as I commit to offer support, unconditional compassion, and a relentless desire to meet you where you are in life. I consider it an honor to work with children, tweens/teens, families, and adults seeking help and comfort during challenging situations. I aim to equip and encourage parents who are seeking tools and resources to regain confidence in parenting, healthy communication, and secure attachment with their children. Divorce, adoption, anxiety, depression, trauma, life adjustments and emotion regulation are a few of the issues that I typically see.
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Photo of Marguerita Sitrin Blaker - Marguerita Blaker & Associates, PLLC, Psychological Associate, MA, LPA
Marguerita Blaker & Associates, PLLC
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28227
I have over 25 years of experience working with children, adults and families, with a focus on younger children and those dealing with trauma. I am accepting new clients with my group practice. We have clinicians specializing in young children, teens, adults, and LGBTQ+ clients of all ages. We are now excited to offer couples therapy as well!
I have over 25 years of experience working with children, adults and families, with a focus on younger children and those dealing with trauma. I am accepting new clients with my group practice. We have clinicians specializing in young children, teens, adults, and LGBTQ+ clients of all ages. We are now excited to offer couples therapy as well!
(828) 548-1096 View (828) 548-1096
Photo of Milla Dosreis, Counselor, MS, LCMHCA, MF
Milla Dosreis
Counselor, MS, LCMHCA, MF
Charlotte, NC 28217
I understand that feeling unseen, unheard and misunderstood be overwhelming. Hi, I’m Milla DosReis, a licensed therapist with a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from North Carolina A&T State University. I specialize in providing support for children, teenagers, and young adults who feel disconnected from themselves, their loved ones, or their cultural roots. Whether you’re navigating trauma, inner child wounds, identity struggles, anxiety, or life transitions, I’m here to provide a compassionate, cultural-sensitive space where you can feel a sense of relief in your healing journey.
I understand that feeling unseen, unheard and misunderstood be overwhelming. Hi, I’m Milla DosReis, a licensed therapist with a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from North Carolina A&T State University. I specialize in providing support for children, teenagers, and young adults who feel disconnected from themselves, their loved ones, or their cultural roots. Whether you’re navigating trauma, inner child wounds, identity struggles, anxiety, or life transitions, I’m here to provide a compassionate, cultural-sensitive space where you can feel a sense of relief in your healing journey.
(336) 221-7152 View (336) 221-7152
Photo of Alyse Bone, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, MS, CRC, LCMHC-S, RYT, RPT
Alyse Bone
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, MS, CRC, LCMHC-S, RYT, RPT
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
I am a Registered Play Therapist, a Registered Yoga Instructor, and a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC).
Is this your first profile, your second your 15th? Are you tired of scrolling, looking at the same bios? If you’re interested in more about me, just check out my website for more boring details. The goal here is not just a reel you in to sell you on a therapy approach, but to see you, give you your power back; whether it was taken away as a kid, or it’s because you’re neurodivergent, or you were abused, or you felt like you never had power in the first place, I want to give you the power to take control of your life and your mental health. I want you to know that you are seen and understood by me and yourself.
I am a Registered Play Therapist, a Registered Yoga Instructor, and a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC).
Is this your first profile, your second your 15th? Are you tired of scrolling, looking at the same bios? If you’re interested in more about me, just check out my website for more boring details. The goal here is not just a reel you in to sell you on a therapy approach, but to see you, give you your power back; whether it was taken away as a kid, or it’s because you’re neurodivergent, or you were abused, or you felt like you never had power in the first place, I want to give you the power to take control of your life and your mental health. I want you to know that you are seen and understood by me and yourself.
(919) 251-5617 View (919) 251-5617
Photo of India Muñoz, LCMHC Associate, MS, LCMHCA
India Muñoz
LCMHC Associate, MS, LCMHCA
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Life can feel overwhelming, and if you're feeling stuck, uncertain, or simply in need of someone to walk alongside you, I’m here to help. My approach is grounded in empathy and a genuine commitment to creating a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can explore your experiences at your own pace. Whether you're navigating stress, relationship challenges, or simply seeking a supportive space to process your thoughts, my goal is to help you cultivate the clarity and confidence you need to move forward. Together, we’ll focus on practical tools, gentle reflection, and creating a path that aligns with your needs and values.
Life can feel overwhelming, and if you're feeling stuck, uncertain, or simply in need of someone to walk alongside you, I’m here to help. My approach is grounded in empathy and a genuine commitment to creating a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can explore your experiences at your own pace. Whether you're navigating stress, relationship challenges, or simply seeking a supportive space to process your thoughts, my goal is to help you cultivate the clarity and confidence you need to move forward. Together, we’ll focus on practical tools, gentle reflection, and creating a path that aligns with your needs and values.
(980) 374-4210 View (980) 374-4210
Photo of Margaret Kirk, Counselor, LCMHC, RPT
Margaret Kirk
Counselor, LCMHC, RPT
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
In play therapy, we use toys, art, and movement to help your child process big feelings and build self-esteem.
Please note, I am out of the office until 2/9/26, I will respond to consult requests when I return to the office! As a parent, it’s heartbreaking to see your child struggle with the hardest parts of life. They may seem withdrawn, act out, or become easily upset by things that didn’t bother them before. You might feel helpless, not knowing how to best support them through this challenging time. The good news is that healing is possible. Your child can work through what happened and go back to how things used to be. We will work together to sort through it all and support your child and family in regaining balance.
In play therapy, we use toys, art, and movement to help your child process big feelings and build self-esteem.
Please note, I am out of the office until 2/9/26, I will respond to consult requests when I return to the office! As a parent, it’s heartbreaking to see your child struggle with the hardest parts of life. They may seem withdrawn, act out, or become easily upset by things that didn’t bother them before. You might feel helpless, not knowing how to best support them through this challenging time. The good news is that healing is possible. Your child can work through what happened and go back to how things used to be. We will work together to sort through it all and support your child and family in regaining balance.
(980) 351-2571 View (980) 351-2571
Photo of Maggie Kelley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Maggie Kelley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I’m Maggie Kelley, LCSW, and I specialize in helping individuals navigate life's challenges with a compassionate and practical approach. I believe that everyone has the ability to make meaningful changes in their lives, and my goal is to provide the support and tools necessary to help you do just that. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, or major life transitions, I offer a safe, nonjudgmental space for you to explore your feelings and develop effective strategies for growth.
Hello! I’m Maggie Kelley, LCSW, and I specialize in helping individuals navigate life's challenges with a compassionate and practical approach. I believe that everyone has the ability to make meaningful changes in their lives, and my goal is to provide the support and tools necessary to help you do just that. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, or major life transitions, I offer a safe, nonjudgmental space for you to explore your feelings and develop effective strategies for growth.
(253) 993-4342 View (253) 993-4342
Photo of Amy Jane Williams - Amy Williams Wellness, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LPC, RYT-200, EAT
Amy Williams Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LPC, RYT-200, EAT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
25 years of experience > I offer supportive space & can help you find relief, hope, inner strength, better communication, clarity, & coping skills. You can heal family of origin issues, release emotional triggers, improve challenging relationships, move through feeling stuck. Sessions begin with a short breath practice (optional) and includes solution-focused steps and self-care practices unique to you - where I listen & ask thoughtful questions so you feel heard. Mindfulness, expressive art therapy, & time in nature can be included as homework! Reiki attuned, Emotional Freedom Technique trained and yoga teacher certification.
25 years of experience > I offer supportive space & can help you find relief, hope, inner strength, better communication, clarity, & coping skills. You can heal family of origin issues, release emotional triggers, improve challenging relationships, move through feeling stuck. Sessions begin with a short breath practice (optional) and includes solution-focused steps and self-care practices unique to you - where I listen & ask thoughtful questions so you feel heard. Mindfulness, expressive art therapy, & time in nature can be included as homework! Reiki attuned, Emotional Freedom Technique trained and yoga teacher certification.
(704) 350-2929 View (704) 350-2929
Photo of Kenya Wilkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Kenya Wilkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome! I offer telehealth therapy for young adults, children, teens, and caregivers experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, parenting challenges, relationship conflict, and the effects of stress and trauma. I provide a safe, collaborative space to explore challenges, build coping skills, and work toward balance in mind, body, and daily life.
Welcome! I offer telehealth therapy for young adults, children, teens, and caregivers experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, parenting challenges, relationship conflict, and the effects of stress and trauma. I provide a safe, collaborative space to explore challenges, build coping skills, and work toward balance in mind, body, and daily life.
(704) 800-3918 View (704) 800-3918
Photo of Natalie Forouzad, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, BSW
Natalie Forouzad
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, BSW
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28217
Sometimes unexpected things or events happen to us that can make our happiness feel out of our grasp. Things like life & family transitions, chronic physical or mental illness, autoimmune disorders, romantic and familial relationships, trauma, abuse, cyber/social media related anxiety, disabilities or depression can lead you to feeling extremely overwhelmed and as if your life is out of control. This may cause you to feel trapped, alone, unsafe, or stuck in a dark chapter of your life that sometimes feels unbearable or unending. I am here to help you turn the page and progress to a new chapter of your story without judgment.
Sometimes unexpected things or events happen to us that can make our happiness feel out of our grasp. Things like life & family transitions, chronic physical or mental illness, autoimmune disorders, romantic and familial relationships, trauma, abuse, cyber/social media related anxiety, disabilities or depression can lead you to feeling extremely overwhelmed and as if your life is out of control. This may cause you to feel trapped, alone, unsafe, or stuck in a dark chapter of your life that sometimes feels unbearable or unending. I am here to help you turn the page and progress to a new chapter of your story without judgment.
(704) 237-6781 View (704) 237-6781
Photo of Melvin Battle - Surviving The Battle, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, TFCBT
Surviving The Battle, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, TFCBT
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28212
I often say: “I am a mentor by nature and a therapist by profession.” Through my personal journey, education, and professional experience, I realized how powerful it is to bridge the gap between mentoring and counseling. That realization inspired me to create this clinical platform to better serve our community.
I often say: “I am a mentor by nature and a therapist by profession.” Through my personal journey, education, and professional experience, I realized how powerful it is to bridge the gap between mentoring and counseling. That realization inspired me to create this clinical platform to better serve our community.
(980) 201-4829 View (980) 201-4829
Photo of Calissa Welch - Calissa's Counseling Services, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Calissa's Counseling Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Charlotte, NC 28215
Like many journeys, therapy begins with where you are now, factors in where you have been, and builds a plan for where you want to go. It is a collaborative process. You are the expert on your life and with the right supports in place, you can discover your strengths and begin the healing process. I have found a diverse therapeutic approach to be most effective in assisting my clients coping with life challenges such as depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, grief, parenting and anger management. This approach utilizes my training in psychodynamic, cognitive, behavioral, solution focused and mindfulness techniques.
Like many journeys, therapy begins with where you are now, factors in where you have been, and builds a plan for where you want to go. It is a collaborative process. You are the expert on your life and with the right supports in place, you can discover your strengths and begin the healing process. I have found a diverse therapeutic approach to be most effective in assisting my clients coping with life challenges such as depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, grief, parenting and anger management. This approach utilizes my training in psychodynamic, cognitive, behavioral, solution focused and mindfulness techniques.
(704) 389-2274 View (704) 389-2274
Photo of Liz Holloway, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA
Liz Holloway
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28215
At Sanctuary Counseling Group, we believe in creating therapeutic relationships with our clients that promote the healing of heart, mind, and soul. Empathy and compassion are at the forefront of my practice to provide a comforting and honest environment for you to find empowerment and growth. My goal is to provide individuals of all backgrounds a space that offers insight, acceptance, and interventions curated to your needs.
At Sanctuary Counseling Group, we believe in creating therapeutic relationships with our clients that promote the healing of heart, mind, and soul. Empathy and compassion are at the forefront of my practice to provide a comforting and honest environment for you to find empowerment and growth. My goal is to provide individuals of all backgrounds a space that offers insight, acceptance, and interventions curated to your needs.
(980) 473-0417 View (980) 473-0417
Photo of Jessie Ogienko - Caladrius Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caladrius Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
We provide excellent evidence-based care using EMDR, DBT, Brainspotting, Child-Centered Play Therapy, Sandtray, ERP, IFS, and the Gottman Method.
You may feel stuck, anxious, or unsure where to begin. Maybe something painful or confusing has happened, and even though you’ve tried to move on, it still shows up in your emotions, relationships, or body. You might be tired of feeling on edge, numb, or disconnected from yourself or others. You want to feel calm, confident, and more in control of your life. At Caladrius Therapy, we help you make sense of what happened, understand your nervous system, and build tools to manage emotions so you can move forward with balance, clarity, and hope.
We provide excellent evidence-based care using EMDR, DBT, Brainspotting, Child-Centered Play Therapy, Sandtray, ERP, IFS, and the Gottman Method.
You may feel stuck, anxious, or unsure where to begin. Maybe something painful or confusing has happened, and even though you’ve tried to move on, it still shows up in your emotions, relationships, or body. You might be tired of feeling on edge, numb, or disconnected from yourself or others. You want to feel calm, confident, and more in control of your life. At Caladrius Therapy, we help you make sense of what happened, understand your nervous system, and build tools to manage emotions so you can move forward with balance, clarity, and hope.
(980) 449-6676 View (980) 449-6676
Photo of Nysha Speed, Pre-Licensed Professional
Nysha Speed
Pre-Licensed Professional
Online Only
I have experience in crisis intervention and use approaches including play therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy.
I am an Associate Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 2 years of experience assisting children, adolescents, and the geriatric population with concerns including anxiety, anger, depression, mental stress, life transitions, grief, and relationships. I offer a fresh perspective on therapy and believe it is my mission to serve others by meeting them where they are. I have shadowed and collaborated with therapists, social workers, and counselors to continue learning and developing as a clinician. My ideal client is ready to be transformed from the inside out.
I have experience in crisis intervention and use approaches including play therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy.
I am an Associate Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 2 years of experience assisting children, adolescents, and the geriatric population with concerns including anxiety, anger, depression, mental stress, life transitions, grief, and relationships. I offer a fresh perspective on therapy and believe it is my mission to serve others by meeting them where they are. I have shadowed and collaborated with therapists, social workers, and counselors to continue learning and developing as a clinician. My ideal client is ready to be transformed from the inside out.
(855) 303-0215 View (855) 303-0215

See more therapy options for Charlotte

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.