Play Therapy in Holly Springs, NC

Photo of Andrea Bueno-Acosta, MA, LCMHCA, Counselor
Andrea Bueno-Acosta
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Holly Springs, NC 27540
This is exactly the work I love to do! Through the language of play, I work with children struggling to cope with worries, anger, life changes, and adverse experiences.
Your child has been having a hard time with “big feelings” and “big behaviors”. You have spent hours searching to find ways to help your young child have less intense meltdowns and tantrums, or to help your grade schooler better handle transitions or unexpected change, or to help your tween worry less about “adult things” and things they can’t control. It has been extremely difficult seeing your child struggle and you really wish you could just make it all stop, but you’re out of ideas. I know that the process of finding a counselor for your child can be exhausting and intimidating, but you don’t have to walk this journey alone .
This is exactly the work I love to do! Through the language of play, I work with children struggling to cope with worries, anger, life changes, and adverse experiences.
Your child has been having a hard time with “big feelings” and “big behaviors”. You have spent hours searching to find ways to help your young child have less intense meltdowns and tantrums, or to help your grade schooler better handle transitions or unexpected change, or to help your tween worry less about “adult things” and things they can’t control. It has been extremely difficult seeing your child struggle and you really wish you could just make it all stop, but you’re out of ideas. I know that the process of finding a counselor for your child can be exhausting and intimidating, but you don’t have to walk this journey alone .
(919) 689-4603 View (919) 689-4603
Photo of Dr. Rachel Ellenberger, LCMHCA, Counselor
Dr. Rachel Ellenberger
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Holly Springs, NC 27540
Using a combination of Reality Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, CBT, DBT, and play therapy techniques, I tailor my approach to meet your unique needs.
When life gets overwhelming, it can create a disruption in wellness and mental health. My goal is to help support a balanced lifestyle by taking a strength-based approach to whatever life may throw. I specialize in working with adolescents, young adults, and adults navigating complex relationship dynamics, life transitions, and personal barriers stemming from trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, and disorganization. My goal is to help you overcome these obstacles and foster a greater sense of self-worth, self-awareness, and improve your ability to follow through on tasks and goals.
Using a combination of Reality Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, CBT, DBT, and play therapy techniques, I tailor my approach to meet your unique needs.
When life gets overwhelming, it can create a disruption in wellness and mental health. My goal is to help support a balanced lifestyle by taking a strength-based approach to whatever life may throw. I specialize in working with adolescents, young adults, and adults navigating complex relationship dynamics, life transitions, and personal barriers stemming from trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, and disorganization. My goal is to help you overcome these obstacles and foster a greater sense of self-worth, self-awareness, and improve your ability to follow through on tasks and goals.
(984) 333-5401 View (984) 333-5401
Photo of Lindsay Rho, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Lindsay Rho
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Holly Springs, NC 27540
I have training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy, Play Therapy, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) theory.
Hello, I'm Lindsay and I am so glad you are here! I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) located in North Carolina. I believe every person is worthy of compassion, understanding, and love. My approach to therapy is person-centered, meaning I believe healing comes within a safe and therapeutic relationship with my clients. I want to get to know you and come alongside you in understanding what you need. I work with children (ages 5-12) in-person, as well as teens and adults (13+) in-person or via telehealth.
I have training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy, Play Therapy, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) theory.
Hello, I'm Lindsay and I am so glad you are here! I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) located in North Carolina. I believe every person is worthy of compassion, understanding, and love. My approach to therapy is person-centered, meaning I believe healing comes within a safe and therapeutic relationship with my clients. I want to get to know you and come alongside you in understanding what you need. I work with children (ages 5-12) in-person, as well as teens and adults (13+) in-person or via telehealth.
(984) 306-5123 View (984) 306-5123
Photo of Julia Krebs-Martin, LCMHC, LMHC, CTRP-C, CASAC, Counselor
Julia Krebs-Martin
Counselor, LCMHC, LMHC, CTRP-C, CASAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Holly Springs, NC 27540
Julia has also been trained in psychodynamic therapy, CBT, Synergetic Play Therapy, and trauma informed care.
Julia Krebs is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) who received a Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling from the Gordon F. Derner School of Psychology at Adelphi University. Julia is licensed to practice in NC and NY. Julia has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults, as well as structural family systems. Her clinical training and experience working on inpatient psychiatric units has provided her with the skillset to treat a variety of mental health diagnoses with compassion, support, and empathy. She has also been clinically trained in the curriculum development and practice of group therapy.
Julia has also been trained in psychodynamic therapy, CBT, Synergetic Play Therapy, and trauma informed care.
Julia Krebs is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) who received a Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling from the Gordon F. Derner School of Psychology at Adelphi University. Julia is licensed to practice in NC and NY. Julia has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults, as well as structural family systems. Her clinical training and experience working on inpatient psychiatric units has provided her with the skillset to treat a variety of mental health diagnoses with compassion, support, and empathy. She has also been clinically trained in the curriculum development and practice of group therapy.
(919) 635-9372 View (919) 635-9372
Photo of Deborah Howell, MS, LCMHC, Counselor
Deborah Howell
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Holly Springs, NC 27540
As a registered play therapist, Deborah incorporates directed and non-directed play - the language that children best use to communicate.
CHILD-TEEN - Are you concerned about your child? Are they anxious? angry? irritable? Or maybe you would just like to give your child some additional skills as they progress through their current developmental stage. Allow us to come alongside you. Give your child the gift of learning coping skills that will not only help them now but that they can take into their adult life. Children and teens are part of a larger family system so you are an integral part of treatment. Our goal is to strengthen the relationship between you and your child.
As a registered play therapist, Deborah incorporates directed and non-directed play - the language that children best use to communicate.
CHILD-TEEN - Are you concerned about your child? Are they anxious? angry? irritable? Or maybe you would just like to give your child some additional skills as they progress through their current developmental stage. Allow us to come alongside you. Give your child the gift of learning coping skills that will not only help them now but that they can take into their adult life. Children and teens are part of a larger family system so you are an integral part of treatment. Our goal is to strengthen the relationship between you and your child.
(919) 899-4743 View (919) 899-4743
Photo of Sarah Riley - Willow Creek Counseling Assoc, PLLC, MSW, LCSWA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Willow Creek Counseling Assoc, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Holly Springs, NC 27540
Our child and family counseling practice is here for you, offering play therapy, marriage counseling, and counseling for individuals of all ages.
We offer compassionate care across all ages, from preschool through adulthood. Our clients find a warm, supportive environment here, ideal for undertaking the challenging emotional work they face. Utilizing evidence-based treatments including Play Therapy, CBT, DBT, and marriage counseling, we also prioritize trauma-informed care to ensure sensitive and effective therapy. Our counselors specialize in various areas such as perinatal mood disorders, trauma recovery, chronic pain/illness management, and grief counseling, providing tailored support to meet diverse needs with empathy and expertise.
Our child and family counseling practice is here for you, offering play therapy, marriage counseling, and counseling for individuals of all ages.
We offer compassionate care across all ages, from preschool through adulthood. Our clients find a warm, supportive environment here, ideal for undertaking the challenging emotional work they face. Utilizing evidence-based treatments including Play Therapy, CBT, DBT, and marriage counseling, we also prioritize trauma-informed care to ensure sensitive and effective therapy. Our counselors specialize in various areas such as perinatal mood disorders, trauma recovery, chronic pain/illness management, and grief counseling, providing tailored support to meet diverse needs with empathy and expertise.
(919) 351-8043 View (919) 351-8043
Photo of Laura Ashford - Laura T Ashord LCSW, PLLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura T Ashord LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holly Springs, NC 27540
I have a practical, eclectic approach to therapy drawing from a rich resource of experience, employing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), communication therapies, relaxation therapy, Emotional Freedom Therapy (EFT), Play Therapy, Mindfulness therapy, Family Therapy and Parent Training.
I am a native North Carolinian, having lived and worked here most all my life. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have practiced Social Work since 1988. I provide psychotherapy services to individuals, couples, adolescents, children and families. I received my Bachelor's degree in Social Work (BSW) from NC State University in 1986. Through an advanced standing program at University of South Carolina in Columbia, I earned my Master's Degree in Social Work (MSW) with an emphasis in Children and Families in 1988. I became licensed (LCSW) by the NC Certification and Licensure Board in 1993.
I have a practical, eclectic approach to therapy drawing from a rich resource of experience, employing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), communication therapies, relaxation therapy, Emotional Freedom Therapy (EFT), Play Therapy, Mindfulness therapy, Family Therapy and Parent Training.
I am a native North Carolinian, having lived and worked here most all my life. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have practiced Social Work since 1988. I provide psychotherapy services to individuals, couples, adolescents, children and families. I received my Bachelor's degree in Social Work (BSW) from NC State University in 1986. Through an advanced standing program at University of South Carolina in Columbia, I earned my Master's Degree in Social Work (MSW) with an emphasis in Children and Families in 1988. I became licensed (LCSW) by the NC Certification and Licensure Board in 1993.
(919) 348-2445 View (919) 348-2445
Brett Maher
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holly Springs, NC 27540
I also work with children ages 4 & up, utilizing Play therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Are you feeling like your life needs a change but you are not sure where to start? It seems, as life becomes more complex, more and more people are suffering from the devastating effects of stress, depression and anxiety and can benefit from the support and insight that therapy provides. I am a NC Licensed Psychologist working clinically with a wide range of ages and issues. I've worked in the field for 20 years, in schools, day treatment, and the private practice setting with adults, families, couples and children; focusing on adjustment difficulties, relationship problems, childhood abuse and maladaptive coping.
I also work with children ages 4 & up, utilizing Play therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Are you feeling like your life needs a change but you are not sure where to start? It seems, as life becomes more complex, more and more people are suffering from the devastating effects of stress, depression and anxiety and can benefit from the support and insight that therapy provides. I am a NC Licensed Psychologist working clinically with a wide range of ages and issues. I've worked in the field for 20 years, in schools, day treatment, and the private practice setting with adults, families, couples and children; focusing on adjustment difficulties, relationship problems, childhood abuse and maladaptive coping.
(919) 429-8751 View (919) 429-8751
Photo of Marcia Brown, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marcia Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Holly Springs, NC 27540
It is an evidence-based, play-based, strengths-focused model for caregivers and their children ages 2-9 years old.
If you are exhausted and overwhelmed in your role as a parent, drained from the struggles of challenging child behavior, feeling anxious and second guessing your parenting approach, or simply want to get a handle on some current challenges before they turn into bigger issues, parent-child therapy can help. It is not uncommon to get to a point where you have tried so many different approaches, techniques, and books, that you aren't even sure what is working and what isn't anymore. Together we can focus on fundamental pieces that lead to real, lasting positive change for your child and your family.
It is an evidence-based, play-based, strengths-focused model for caregivers and their children ages 2-9 years old.
If you are exhausted and overwhelmed in your role as a parent, drained from the struggles of challenging child behavior, feeling anxious and second guessing your parenting approach, or simply want to get a handle on some current challenges before they turn into bigger issues, parent-child therapy can help. It is not uncommon to get to a point where you have tried so many different approaches, techniques, and books, that you aren't even sure what is working and what isn't anymore. Together we can focus on fundamental pieces that lead to real, lasting positive change for your child and your family.
(919) 737-2271 View (919) 737-2271
Photo of Lloyd 'loyda' Osterhout, LCMHC-A
Lloyd 'loyda' Osterhout
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
Holly Springs, NC 27540
Life's complexities can be overwhelming, and beginning therapy is a commendable step in tackling your challenges. Congratulations on taking this crucial first step toward self-improvement. I'm here to support you in your healing journey, helping you re-frame your perspective and overcome obstacles. I provide a safe, secure, and non-judgmental environment to work towards healthy solutions. My areas of focus include individual and couples counseling , stress, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationships, and self-care.
Life's complexities can be overwhelming, and beginning therapy is a commendable step in tackling your challenges. Congratulations on taking this crucial first step toward self-improvement. I'm here to support you in your healing journey, helping you re-frame your perspective and overcome obstacles. I provide a safe, secure, and non-judgmental environment to work towards healthy solutions. My areas of focus include individual and couples counseling , stress, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationships, and self-care.
(540) 565-5342 x739 View (540) 565-5342 x739
Photo of Rebecca Howard, MSW, LCSWA, LCASA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Howard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA, LCASA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holly Springs, NC 27540
I’m so glad you are here! The initial feelings about therapy can be overwhelming and scary but you are not alone. I’m excited to help you on your journey of self discovery and feeling better. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, young adults, and adults. I have a wide range of experience working with individuals of all ages who have faced significant challenges related to mental health as well as substance use.
I’m so glad you are here! The initial feelings about therapy can be overwhelming and scary but you are not alone. I’m excited to help you on your journey of self discovery and feeling better. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, young adults, and adults. I have a wide range of experience working with individuals of all ages who have faced significant challenges related to mental health as well as substance use.
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Photo of Sookia Staggers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sookia Staggers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Holly Springs, NC 27540
Are you looking for a supportive environment where you can explore your feelings, thoughts, and behavior patterns without fear of judgment? As a therapist, I recognize that the decision to enter therapy is often not an easy choice. My goal is to create a supportive, confidential, and safe environment where goals and solutions can be explored. My approach is warm and professional. I believe in building on your existing strengths and helping you to develop new strengths as well.
Are you looking for a supportive environment where you can explore your feelings, thoughts, and behavior patterns without fear of judgment? As a therapist, I recognize that the decision to enter therapy is often not an easy choice. My goal is to create a supportive, confidential, and safe environment where goals and solutions can be explored. My approach is warm and professional. I believe in building on your existing strengths and helping you to develop new strengths as well.
(919) 439-1394 View (919) 439-1394
Photo of Sarah DeNome - DeNome Alliances Counseling Center, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
DeNome Alliances Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Not Verified Not Verified
Holly Springs, NC 27540
Choosing a therapist can be an intimidating and overwhelming process. Finding a comfortable fit for you and/or your loved one is an important factor in the therapeutic process. Thus, we offer a free consultation to help relieve any anxieties, answer any questions, and allow you to find out if the therapist on our team would be the right fit for your needs and preferences. We view our role as a guide to assist, empower, and equip you with the skills (tools) utilizing your own strengths, finding strengths that may be hidden, and teaching ways to develop new skills to assist in overcoming life's challenges.
Choosing a therapist can be an intimidating and overwhelming process. Finding a comfortable fit for you and/or your loved one is an important factor in the therapeutic process. Thus, we offer a free consultation to help relieve any anxieties, answer any questions, and allow you to find out if the therapist on our team would be the right fit for your needs and preferences. We view our role as a guide to assist, empower, and equip you with the skills (tools) utilizing your own strengths, finding strengths that may be hidden, and teaching ways to develop new skills to assist in overcoming life's challenges.
(984) 230-9024 View (984) 230-9024
Photo of Allie Hartman, LCMHC
Allie Hartman
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Holly Springs, NC 27540
Do you feel that you are often wondering what to do to feel better? Are you finding yourself in the middle of a transition and not sure where turn? Or are you are feeling anxious or down? Does it seem that you have tried everything, and it is just not working right now. You may have tried to navigate this alone, but you are not sure what else to do. It may be scary to ask for help. You may have a limited amount of time or resources. Take the first step, complete the New Client Request in the following link: intakeq.com/new/8tzfkq. We will get back to you within 24 hours.
Do you feel that you are often wondering what to do to feel better? Are you finding yourself in the middle of a transition and not sure where turn? Or are you are feeling anxious or down? Does it seem that you have tried everything, and it is just not working right now. You may have tried to navigate this alone, but you are not sure what else to do. It may be scary to ask for help. You may have a limited amount of time or resources. Take the first step, complete the New Client Request in the following link: intakeq.com/new/8tzfkq. We will get back to you within 24 hours.
(984) 205-2193 View (984) 205-2193
Photo of Lifecare Counseling And Coaching - LifeCare Counseling and Coaching, PC, LCMHCs, LMFTs, LCSWs, MD, PA, NPs
LifeCare Counseling and Coaching, PC
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, LCMHCs, LMFTs, LCSWs, MD, PA, NPs
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Holly Springs, NC 27540
At LifeCare Counseling & Coaching, we are passionate about serving others by integrating the best psychiatric and mental health practices as well as spiritual care for the soul. Our team of licensed practitioners provide therapeutic services to individuals, couples, and families of all kinds. We are a multi-site practice located at the Raleigh/Cary border, Wake Forest, Brier Creek, Holly Springs, Chapel Hill and the Triad area. In addition, many of our providers offer online therapy and we have interns who offer counseling on a sliding scale.
At LifeCare Counseling & Coaching, we are passionate about serving others by integrating the best psychiatric and mental health practices as well as spiritual care for the soul. Our team of licensed practitioners provide therapeutic services to individuals, couples, and families of all kinds. We are a multi-site practice located at the Raleigh/Cary border, Wake Forest, Brier Creek, Holly Springs, Chapel Hill and the Triad area. In addition, many of our providers offer online therapy and we have interns who offer counseling on a sliding scale.
(984) 205-8702 View (984) 205-8702
Photo of Kim Nelson Bovee, MA, LCMHC-S, NCC, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kim Nelson Bovee
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC-S, NCC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holly Springs, NC 27540
I am an experienced, caring Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, National Certified Counselor with a Certification in Perinatal Mental Health. I have been practicing in the Triangle since 1998. I have a passion for working with children (aged 10 and older), adolescents, and adults with concerns that include: depression, anxiety, oppositional/acting out behaviors, self-harm, stress and anger management, coping with life transitions, trauma; parenting concerns, women's issues including pregnancy and infant loss; grief; and marital & relationship issues.
I am an experienced, caring Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, National Certified Counselor with a Certification in Perinatal Mental Health. I have been practicing in the Triangle since 1998. I have a passion for working with children (aged 10 and older), adolescents, and adults with concerns that include: depression, anxiety, oppositional/acting out behaviors, self-harm, stress and anger management, coping with life transitions, trauma; parenting concerns, women's issues including pregnancy and infant loss; grief; and marital & relationship issues.
(919) 432-4245 View (919) 432-4245
Photo of Larry T. Waxman, MA, LCMHC, QS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Larry T. Waxman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, QS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holly Springs, NC 27540
I work with clients to help unlock their potential and achieve their goals. Change is one of the hardest things to do, and I am here to help facilitate that. I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, families as well as run groups using a variety of therapeutic approaches that include: cognitive-behavioral therapy, client-centered therapy, solution-focused therapy, family-systems therapy, meditation and mindfulness therapy. I specialize in helping those with issues pertaining to ADHD, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, male issues, anger management, vulnerability, relationship issues, and work/life balance.
I work with clients to help unlock their potential and achieve their goals. Change is one of the hardest things to do, and I am here to help facilitate that. I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, families as well as run groups using a variety of therapeutic approaches that include: cognitive-behavioral therapy, client-centered therapy, solution-focused therapy, family-systems therapy, meditation and mindfulness therapy. I specialize in helping those with issues pertaining to ADHD, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, male issues, anger management, vulnerability, relationship issues, and work/life balance.
(919) 694-4726 View (919) 694-4726
Photo of Shanna N Reyes - Integrity Counseling & Wellness, PLLC, LCMHCS
Integrity Counseling & Wellness, PLLC
LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Holly Springs, NC 27540
Accepting New Patients Immediately! Our counselors utilize an integrative approach to therapy and strive to create a trusting and open counseling environment. We are experienced in treating depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and many other concerns. Your comfort with self-expression is a top priority, so you will find our counselors are inviting and non-judgmental with those whom they serve. We enjoy providing new insight and guidance and prove to be individualized in meeting each client's needs.
Accepting New Patients Immediately! Our counselors utilize an integrative approach to therapy and strive to create a trusting and open counseling environment. We are experienced in treating depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and many other concerns. Your comfort with self-expression is a top priority, so you will find our counselors are inviting and non-judgmental with those whom they serve. We enjoy providing new insight and guidance and prove to be individualized in meeting each client's needs.
(919) 372-0850 View (919) 372-0850
Photo of Stonebridge Counseling - Stonebridge Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stonebridge Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, PLLC
Verified Verified
Holly Springs, NC 27540
Asking for help is the first step towards feeling better and leading a happier, healthier life. Mental health is an important part of overall well-being. Most of us, at one time or another, are impacted by mental health concerns. We have therapists that treat adults, children, and teens. If you don't even know where to start call or e-mail the office and we will help guide you in choosing the right therapist and check your insurance benefits. To learn more about each of our therapists and their individual specialties, please visit our website www.sbcounseling.com/therapists
Asking for help is the first step towards feeling better and leading a happier, healthier life. Mental health is an important part of overall well-being. Most of us, at one time or another, are impacted by mental health concerns. We have therapists that treat adults, children, and teens. If you don't even know where to start call or e-mail the office and we will help guide you in choosing the right therapist and check your insurance benefits. To learn more about each of our therapists and their individual specialties, please visit our website www.sbcounseling.com/therapists
(919) 434-6398 View (919) 434-6398
Photo of Amanda Morris - Willow Creek Counseling Associates, LCSW, RPT, Counselor
Willow Creek Counseling Associates
Counselor, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Holly Springs, NC 27540
We provide compassionate support for children, teens, and adults facing anxiety, depression, and other life challenges. Our warm, welcoming environment ensures everyone feels understood and valued. Through personalized therapy, we help clients build confidence, develop healthy coping strategies, and discover their inner strengths. Whether you're seeking individual support yourself, for your child/teen or marital counseling, our goal is to guide you in navigating life with resilience and a positive mindset. Let us help you uncover the tools to thrive.
We provide compassionate support for children, teens, and adults facing anxiety, depression, and other life challenges. Our warm, welcoming environment ensures everyone feels understood and valued. Through personalized therapy, we help clients build confidence, develop healthy coping strategies, and discover their inner strengths. Whether you're seeking individual support yourself, for your child/teen or marital counseling, our goal is to guide you in navigating life with resilience and a positive mindset. Let us help you uncover the tools to thrive.
(919) 694-4229 View (919) 694-4229
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See more therapy options for Holly Springs

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.