Play Therapy in Fletcher, NC

Photo of Erin Larramendi, LCAT, ATR, Art Therapist
Erin Larramendi
Art Therapist, LCAT, ATR
Verified Verified
Fletcher, NC 28732
Erin (she/her/hers) is a Licensed Creative Arts Therapist who has extensive experience working with children, adolescents and adults who have experienced major life-altering (traumatic) events that have contributed to mental health concerns (e.g. anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, addictions and more). With over 10 years working in the mental health field, Erin is well-versed in meeting each client where they are at, facilitating a safe, open and honest therapy experience.
Erin (she/her/hers) is a Licensed Creative Arts Therapist who has extensive experience working with children, adolescents and adults who have experienced major life-altering (traumatic) events that have contributed to mental health concerns (e.g. anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, addictions and more). With over 10 years working in the mental health field, Erin is well-versed in meeting each client where they are at, facilitating a safe, open and honest therapy experience.
(828) 672-3013 View (828) 672-3013
Photo of Jennifer Gill, LCMHCA, NBCC, MA, Counselor
Jennifer Gill
Counselor, LCMHCA, NBCC, MA
Verified Verified
Fletcher, NC 28732
Hi! Thanks for stopping by my profile. I’m Jennifer, a Montreat College graduate who’s worked in public health with all ages to address their mental health needs since 2020. I focus on working with autistic adults, and also practice with individuals, couples as well as family therapies. Currently I am an associate working under Katherine Therell LPC, PLLC, who has served the greater WNC area for over 38 years.
Hi! Thanks for stopping by my profile. I’m Jennifer, a Montreat College graduate who’s worked in public health with all ages to address their mental health needs since 2020. I focus on working with autistic adults, and also practice with individuals, couples as well as family therapies. Currently I am an associate working under Katherine Therell LPC, PLLC, who has served the greater WNC area for over 38 years.
(828) 989-6090 View (828) 989-6090
Photo of Starr Renee Roberts, M ED,  LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Starr Renee Roberts
Licensed Professional Counselor, M ED, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Fletcher, NC 28732
Do you need someone to bear witness to your daily struggles, and pain? Do you need someone to listen to your story about the difficulties you are having in life that leave you feeling stuck and unable to move forward? Do you feel shut down, worried, anxious, tired, sad, or angry? Are you struggling with school, work, or financial issues? Are you struggling to make it through the day because you are having problems adjusting to changes in your life? Do you feel unappreciated or misunderstood by friends, family or your partner? Are you feeling unsteady or afraid because you've been abused.
Do you need someone to bear witness to your daily struggles, and pain? Do you need someone to listen to your story about the difficulties you are having in life that leave you feeling stuck and unable to move forward? Do you feel shut down, worried, anxious, tired, sad, or angry? Are you struggling with school, work, or financial issues? Are you struggling to make it through the day because you are having problems adjusting to changes in your life? Do you feel unappreciated or misunderstood by friends, family or your partner? Are you feeling unsteady or afraid because you've been abused.
(828) 458-7371 View (828) 458-7371
Photo of Tiffany Justice - Tiffany Justice, Five Stones Christian Counseling, LCMHC, NCC, CCATP, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tiffany Justice, Five Stones Christian Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, CCATP, CCTP
Verified Verified
Fletcher, NC 28732
I believe that anyone can benefit from counseling. Regardless of your reason for seeking counseling, I would like the opportunity to work with you. I offer a counseling approach that uses proven techniques combined with a Christian perspective that looks to God's word for wisdom and understanding. If you are seeking a mental health professional that is also a practicing follower of Christ, I invite you to reach out.
I believe that anyone can benefit from counseling. Regardless of your reason for seeking counseling, I would like the opportunity to work with you. I offer a counseling approach that uses proven techniques combined with a Christian perspective that looks to God's word for wisdom and understanding. If you are seeking a mental health professional that is also a practicing follower of Christ, I invite you to reach out.
(828) 392-1694 View (828) 392-1694

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jillian Kelly-Wavering, LCSW, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jillian Kelly-Wavering
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Fairview, NC 28730
With over 12 years of post-graduate experience in the field of child psychotherapy, I combine my knowledge of Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness along with the awareness that each child is special and precious.
I'm a therapist for grieving children and their families in Asheville, NC, and previously in the Bronx, NY. My training includes a Master’s degree from Columbia University, fellowship with the National Health Service Corps, certification in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and the Registered Play Therapist Supervisor credential. I've served as the VP of the NY Association for Play Therapy, taught as an adjunct lecturer, and authored several publications (including children's books addressing grief). My hope is to be a therapeutic companion to children and families experiencing grief and loss.
With over 12 years of post-graduate experience in the field of child psychotherapy, I combine my knowledge of Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness along with the awareness that each child is special and precious.
I'm a therapist for grieving children and their families in Asheville, NC, and previously in the Bronx, NY. My training includes a Master’s degree from Columbia University, fellowship with the National Health Service Corps, certification in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and the Registered Play Therapist Supervisor credential. I've served as the VP of the NY Association for Play Therapy, taught as an adjunct lecturer, and authored several publications (including children's books addressing grief). My hope is to be a therapeutic companion to children and families experiencing grief and loss.
(828) 827-5861 View (828) 827-5861
Photo of Grace Davis, LCMHC
Grace Davis
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Hendersonville, NC 28792
Waitlist for new clients
Adult play therapy is rooted in narrative, existential theory, while engaging a variety of creative and expressive arts techniques.
My ideal client is willing to rethink what therapy looks and feels like - being open to a variety of techniques; collaborating; and engaging body, mind, and emotions, particularly in the outdoors. I conduct experiential outdoor sessions (when weather permits), helping clients in connecting with themselves by grounding in the supportive power of nature. Walking and talking in an outdoor space allows us to engage in an informal environment, while still providing therapeutic benefits.
Adult play therapy is rooted in narrative, existential theory, while engaging a variety of creative and expressive arts techniques.
My ideal client is willing to rethink what therapy looks and feels like - being open to a variety of techniques; collaborating; and engaging body, mind, and emotions, particularly in the outdoors. I conduct experiential outdoor sessions (when weather permits), helping clients in connecting with themselves by grounding in the supportive power of nature. Walking and talking in an outdoor space allows us to engage in an informal environment, while still providing therapeutic benefits.
(828) 360-8386 View (828) 360-8386
Photo of Susan Rainsford - Susan Rainsford MA LPC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susan Rainsford MA LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803  (Online Only)
I utilize a variety of evidenced based approaches based on individual needs and preferences including but not limited to: Mindfulness and Body Centered Approaches, DBT, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Expressive Therapies, Energy Therapy, Play Therapy, and Compassionate Communication Skills.
I know it can take courage to seek therapy and I am here to help. I would be honored to guide and assist you towards positive change. I have been enjoying providing Psychotherapy in Asheville since 2000. I provide caring and professional therapy for Individuals (Adults, Adolescents & Children), Couples and Families. I am happy to serve our diverse community including the LGBTQ+ community. I have extensive experience working with anxiety disorders, depression, parenting skills, couples conflicts, life transitions, divorce/separation, post traumatic stress, ADHD, bi-polar, and many other issues.
I utilize a variety of evidenced based approaches based on individual needs and preferences including but not limited to: Mindfulness and Body Centered Approaches, DBT, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Expressive Therapies, Energy Therapy, Play Therapy, and Compassionate Communication Skills.
I know it can take courage to seek therapy and I am here to help. I would be honored to guide and assist you towards positive change. I have been enjoying providing Psychotherapy in Asheville since 2000. I provide caring and professional therapy for Individuals (Adults, Adolescents & Children), Couples and Families. I am happy to serve our diverse community including the LGBTQ+ community. I have extensive experience working with anxiety disorders, depression, parenting skills, couples conflicts, life transitions, divorce/separation, post traumatic stress, ADHD, bi-polar, and many other issues.
(828) 215-4605 x828215 View (828) 215-4605 x828215
Photo of Katie Clay-Wakefield, MA, LCMHC
Katie Clay-Wakefield
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
My client-centered, developmentally-informed approach incorporates play, art, books, movement, role play and conversation to help young kids learn new skills and process important events.
All behavior is a form of communication and sometimes we need help interpreting what others are really asking for, especially when it comes to children. Young children can speak to us in unfamiliar ways. Your preschool or daycare may call to say your child has expressed their emotions inappropriately or acted out. You may find yourself tired and worried about your child, about childcare, or about your parenting. This is where I come in. I’ve worked with young children (0-6 years old) in schools, homes and community settings for 14 years, helping them find alternative ways to express themselves and process their emotions.
My client-centered, developmentally-informed approach incorporates play, art, books, movement, role play and conversation to help young kids learn new skills and process important events.
All behavior is a form of communication and sometimes we need help interpreting what others are really asking for, especially when it comes to children. Young children can speak to us in unfamiliar ways. Your preschool or daycare may call to say your child has expressed their emotions inappropriately or acted out. You may find yourself tired and worried about your child, about childcare, or about your parenting. This is where I come in. I’ve worked with young children (0-6 years old) in schools, homes and community settings for 14 years, helping them find alternative ways to express themselves and process their emotions.
(828) 818-8376 View (828) 818-8376
Photo of Emily Cox, LCMHC, LCAS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Cox
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803
I use a client-focused approach that adds creative and expressive arts techniques, including Sand Tray, play-based, EMDR, and narrative practices when useful.
I specialize in helping tweens and teens regulate and thrive. Things can feel off and you're not sure why. Maybe noticing your teen pulling away, shut behind a closed door. Your child changing, giving one word answers when they are usually a chatterbox. You may feel that everything is getting on your nerves, having ADHD overwhelm, or like things are in a funk. You know that something is wrong, but are stuck on how to fix it. The disconnect can get to a point where we need some support. Feeling stuck can lead us to seek help for re-connection to our inner strengths. You can find your strengths again and use them to feel better.
I use a client-focused approach that adds creative and expressive arts techniques, including Sand Tray, play-based, EMDR, and narrative practices when useful.
I specialize in helping tweens and teens regulate and thrive. Things can feel off and you're not sure why. Maybe noticing your teen pulling away, shut behind a closed door. Your child changing, giving one word answers when they are usually a chatterbox. You may feel that everything is getting on your nerves, having ADHD overwhelm, or like things are in a funk. You know that something is wrong, but are stuck on how to fix it. The disconnect can get to a point where we need some support. Feeling stuck can lead us to seek help for re-connection to our inner strengths. You can find your strengths again and use them to feel better.
(828) 374-0958 View (828) 374-0958
Photo of Kelly Jo Hart, LCMHC-S
Kelly Jo Hart
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803  (Online Only)
I desire to assist individuals who have had their hearts broken, pick up the pieces and successfully mend them back stronger than ever! I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal, strengths-based model with advanced clinical training in the areas of EMDR, sand tray, mindfulness, and play therapy.
Are you in the place in your life where you just feel done? You feel alone. Every relationship ends in disaster and heartbreak. Whether it is a romantic relationship or a friendship you just seem to pick the wrong people. You often feel disposable and rejected because all the people you want end up leaving you. You hear about people that have found their people and you wonder when will it be your day. When will you find the right relationships that bring you the quality relationships you dream of having. You feel too weak and paralyzed to try again only to find more heartbreak.
I desire to assist individuals who have had their hearts broken, pick up the pieces and successfully mend them back stronger than ever! I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal, strengths-based model with advanced clinical training in the areas of EMDR, sand tray, mindfulness, and play therapy.
Are you in the place in your life where you just feel done? You feel alone. Every relationship ends in disaster and heartbreak. Whether it is a romantic relationship or a friendship you just seem to pick the wrong people. You often feel disposable and rejected because all the people you want end up leaving you. You hear about people that have found their people and you wonder when will it be your day. When will you find the right relationships that bring you the quality relationships you dream of having. You feel too weak and paralyzed to try again only to find more heartbreak.
(910) 335-2652 View (910) 335-2652
Photo of Hans Rosario-Singer, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hans Rosario-Singer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803
I specialize in using creative, expressive interventions including but not limited to play, sandtray, and movement.
I believe every child and adolescent has the potential within themselves to become healthier and happier, and it is my job to help them unlock that potential. Traditional cognitive and behavioral approaches often fail to create meaningful change, which can lead to feelings of failure or discouragement rather than empowerment. Whether your child or adolescent is struggling with self-esteem, social challenges, or regulation skills, I can help them recognize and unlock the skills and strengths that they already have to over come those challenges.
I specialize in using creative, expressive interventions including but not limited to play, sandtray, and movement.
I believe every child and adolescent has the potential within themselves to become healthier and happier, and it is my job to help them unlock that potential. Traditional cognitive and behavioral approaches often fail to create meaningful change, which can lead to feelings of failure or discouragement rather than empowerment. Whether your child or adolescent is struggling with self-esteem, social challenges, or regulation skills, I can help them recognize and unlock the skills and strengths that they already have to over come those challenges.
(828) 761-7605 View (828) 761-7605
Photo of Liz Lucarelli, BCC, RPT-S, LCMHC
Liz Lucarelli
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, BCC, RPT-S, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803
I specialize in working with children, preteens, and adolescents ages 8 - 16+. I also offer therapy/coaching for parents raising a challenging child/teen and family therapy to help mend the parent-child relationship. I work best with clients who may be anxious, depressed, working through grief/loss or trauma, and have low self-esteem, and need social, life, coping, or relationship skills. My approach is playful, authentic, and honest! I blend play and expressive arts - sand tray, drawing, role-playing, and other experiential activities. I want to help my clients become more calm, curious, connected, resilient, and empowered!
I specialize in working with children, preteens, and adolescents ages 8 - 16+. I also offer therapy/coaching for parents raising a challenging child/teen and family therapy to help mend the parent-child relationship. I work best with clients who may be anxious, depressed, working through grief/loss or trauma, and have low self-esteem, and need social, life, coping, or relationship skills. My approach is playful, authentic, and honest! I blend play and expressive arts - sand tray, drawing, role-playing, and other experiential activities. I want to help my clients become more calm, curious, connected, resilient, and empowered!
(828) 523-9624 View (828) 523-9624
Photo of Lisa Lavelle Bowen, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Lavelle Bowen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803  (Online Only)
My specialties are trauma, anxiety, depression. 21 yrs experience counseling adolescents, adults, couples and families. I do supportive listening, accepting, understanding and compassionate counseling to help problem solve together and cope to focus on healing. Kinds of therapy I do: CBT, DBT, REBT, Art therapy, Play therapy and Christian counseling. Experience: worked with World Trade Center 9/11 survivors, survivors of torture, in a psychiatric hospital, an outpatient clinic, as a clinical supervisor, as a school based therapist, counseled military, their spouses & children at bases in USA, Europe and Japan and private practice.
My specialties are trauma, anxiety, depression. 21 yrs experience counseling adolescents, adults, couples and families. I do supportive listening, accepting, understanding and compassionate counseling to help problem solve together and cope to focus on healing. Kinds of therapy I do: CBT, DBT, REBT, Art therapy, Play therapy and Christian counseling. Experience: worked with World Trade Center 9/11 survivors, survivors of torture, in a psychiatric hospital, an outpatient clinic, as a clinical supervisor, as a school based therapist, counseled military, their spouses & children at bases in USA, Europe and Japan and private practice.
(828) 360-8820 View (828) 360-8820
Photo of Chris Dellicarpini - Asheville Counseling & Wellness Center, MS, LPC, BCN, CCMHC
Asheville Counseling & Wellness Center
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LPC, BCN, CCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803
We offer state-of-the-art neurofeedback services in addition to art/play therapy, EMDR, and a wide range of somatic based therapies.
The staff and clinicians at Asheville Counseling & Wellness Center are dedicated to improving the quality of life of our Clients. We offer a multitude of treatment modalities in order to provide the best care possible. Our clients can expect to receive effective and efficient treatments, while we provide the best possible client/clinician experience. Our focus is helping the public achieve health, healing and well-being. We look forward to working with you and your family.
We offer state-of-the-art neurofeedback services in addition to art/play therapy, EMDR, and a wide range of somatic based therapies.
The staff and clinicians at Asheville Counseling & Wellness Center are dedicated to improving the quality of life of our Clients. We offer a multitude of treatment modalities in order to provide the best care possible. Our clients can expect to receive effective and efficient treatments, while we provide the best possible client/clinician experience. Our focus is helping the public achieve health, healing and well-being. We look forward to working with you and your family.
(828) 482-0346 View (828) 482-0346
Photo of Matthew Snyder - Full Circle Community Wellness, MS, MA, PsyD, LCMHCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Full Circle Community Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, PsyD, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hendersonville, NC 28792
Full Circle Counseling and Wellness provides access to high quality, experienced counselors and integrative wellness practitioners who operate in a holistic, community oriented environment. Our counselors have experience with a wide range of emotional and psychological health challenges and seek to make effective treatment strategies affordable and sustainable. We employ the power of relationship for therapeutic benefit and to help foster belonging and connection by surrounding you with resources and support. Whether making art together, weeding gardens, or playing a board game, we hope to provide community oriented opportunities for everyone.
Full Circle Counseling and Wellness provides access to high quality, experienced counselors and integrative wellness practitioners who operate in a holistic, community oriented environment. Our counselors have experience with a wide range of emotional and psychological health challenges and seek to make effective treatment strategies affordable and sustainable. We employ the power of relationship for therapeutic benefit and to help foster belonging and connection by surrounding you with resources and support. Whether making art together, weeding gardens, or playing a board game, we hope to provide community oriented opportunities for everyone.
(828) 483-4232 View (828) 483-4232
Photo of Marjorie Warren - Marjorie Warren, LLC, MMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marjorie Warren, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hendersonville, NC 28739
Many days, pressure from others’ expectations can be mentally, physically & emotionally draining. It seems you are never good enough, always pushing toward perfection. Working hard, putting time in day and night, struggling to perform at work, school, home, with sports, family and peers. This can lead to overwhelming amounts of stress, fear, sadness, conflict, and irritability, impacting choices made. You want to feel valued and accepted, and are told to be mentally tough and stay strong. On the inside you are nervous, and fear failure. Outside pressure can be overwhelming, bringing feelings of self doubt, and fear.
Many days, pressure from others’ expectations can be mentally, physically & emotionally draining. It seems you are never good enough, always pushing toward perfection. Working hard, putting time in day and night, struggling to perform at work, school, home, with sports, family and peers. This can lead to overwhelming amounts of stress, fear, sadness, conflict, and irritability, impacting choices made. You want to feel valued and accepted, and are told to be mentally tough and stay strong. On the inside you are nervous, and fear failure. Outside pressure can be overwhelming, bringing feelings of self doubt, and fear.
(864) 548-9923 View (864) 548-9923
Photo of David Von Kohorn, LMFT, CSAT-S, C-EFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
David Von Kohorn
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT-S, C-EFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hendersonville, NC 28792
My primary focus in therapy – with individuals, couples or families – is to support and facilitate my clients in their journey to a deeper understanding and awareness of themselves. This goal is best achieved, I believe, by encouraging self-acceptance and insight, and by forming with each client a safe and nonjudgmental relationship. It is within this alliance that, together, we can explore, understand, and begin to gently dismantle the obstacles and unproductive patterns of coping that, although once useful in dealing with painful life events or childhood relationships, may now be keeping them from enjoying a more fulfilling life.
My primary focus in therapy – with individuals, couples or families – is to support and facilitate my clients in their journey to a deeper understanding and awareness of themselves. This goal is best achieved, I believe, by encouraging self-acceptance and insight, and by forming with each client a safe and nonjudgmental relationship. It is within this alliance that, together, we can explore, understand, and begin to gently dismantle the obstacles and unproductive patterns of coping that, although once useful in dealing with painful life events or childhood relationships, may now be keeping them from enjoying a more fulfilling life.
(828) 708-7590 View (828) 708-7590
Photo of Addison Brown - Your Next Chapter Counseling, LCMHCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Your Next Chapter Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hendersonville, NC 28792
At Your Next Chapter Counseling, we believe that every person is deserving of love, acceptance, and authenticity. We believe that humans are hardwired for healing, and we strive to provide a therapeutic, supportive environment for all of our clients on their healing journey.
At Your Next Chapter Counseling, we believe that every person is deserving of love, acceptance, and authenticity. We believe that humans are hardwired for healing, and we strive to provide a therapeutic, supportive environment for all of our clients on their healing journey.
(828) 554-2752 View (828) 554-2752
Photo of Yolanda Robinson - Abide Inclusive, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abide Inclusive
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Hendersonville, NC 28739
Have you been struggling to feel like you belong or feel overwhelmed? Are you feeling like your family is not communicating with everyone's nose stuck in a screen? At Abide Inclusive we have a talented group of therapists who work with a variety of struggles including life transitions, anxiety, imposter syndrome, depression, and trauma. We are an inclusive agency with strong roots in supporting the LGBTQ2IA+ community. For more information on each clinician please visit our website www.abideinclusive.org
Have you been struggling to feel like you belong or feel overwhelmed? Are you feeling like your family is not communicating with everyone's nose stuck in a screen? At Abide Inclusive we have a talented group of therapists who work with a variety of struggles including life transitions, anxiety, imposter syndrome, depression, and trauma. We are an inclusive agency with strong roots in supporting the LGBTQ2IA+ community. For more information on each clinician please visit our website www.abideinclusive.org
(828) 547-4697 View (828) 547-4697
Photo of Alec Rothschild, LCMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Alec Rothschild
Counselor, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hendersonville, NC 28791
Welcome! Thank you for stopping by. My name is Alec Rothschild, and I am an Asheville based counselor working with adolescents and young adults. I specialize in working with neurodiverse individuals, LGBTQIA+ individuals, those struggling with relationships, processing trauma, or struggling with their mood, anxiety, or depression. My approach incorporates mindfulness, somatic techniques, and in-the-moment experiments. I'm committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone, regardless of their background. Members of the LGBTQIA+ community, BIPOC individuals, and people of all religions are warmly welcomed.
Welcome! Thank you for stopping by. My name is Alec Rothschild, and I am an Asheville based counselor working with adolescents and young adults. I specialize in working with neurodiverse individuals, LGBTQIA+ individuals, those struggling with relationships, processing trauma, or struggling with their mood, anxiety, or depression. My approach incorporates mindfulness, somatic techniques, and in-the-moment experiments. I'm committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone, regardless of their background. Members of the LGBTQIA+ community, BIPOC individuals, and people of all religions are warmly welcomed.
(828) 355-4599 View (828) 355-4599

See more therapy options for Fletcher

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.