Play Therapy in New Hampshire

Photo of Issanna Loughman, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Issanna Loughman
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Wolfeboro, NH 03894
The stressors of life can have profound impacts on youth. I provide children and adolescents (ages 3-19) with compassionate integrative care to meet their unique needs; this can include CBT, Play Therapy, Exposure Therapy, Sandtray Therapy, and Expressive Art Therapy. To me, working with youth also means providing support and guidance to their families via separate family and parenting sessions, as needed.
The stressors of life can have profound impacts on youth. I provide children and adolescents (ages 3-19) with compassionate integrative care to meet their unique needs; this can include CBT, Play Therapy, Exposure Therapy, Sandtray Therapy, and Expressive Art Therapy. To me, working with youth also means providing support and guidance to their families via separate family and parenting sessions, as needed.
(855) 430-8632 View (855) 430-8632
Photo of Brittany Sipe (She Her), LCMHC, Counselor
Brittany Sipe (She Her)
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Lebanon, NH 03766
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, who specializes in providing neuro-affirming care to clients with differently wired brains. I work most often with children aged 5 and up, adolescents, LGBTQIA2S+ individuals and families to explore what is already working and how to keep moving along that path in a healthy way. I love to utilize humor, neuroscience, play therapy, and movement in sessions to support clients in meeting goals. We often use books, toys, and games in session to help realize coping skills that are already there. I believe clients have many skills to support themselves and we will work together to find them!
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, who specializes in providing neuro-affirming care to clients with differently wired brains. I work most often with children aged 5 and up, adolescents, LGBTQIA2S+ individuals and families to explore what is already working and how to keep moving along that path in a healthy way. I love to utilize humor, neuroscience, play therapy, and movement in sessions to support clients in meeting goals. We often use books, toys, and games in session to help realize coping skills that are already there. I believe clients have many skills to support themselves and we will work together to find them!
(603) 716-9252 View (603) 716-9252
Photo of Kim Cote, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kim Cote
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801  (Online Only)
I offer a variety of interventions including; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Person Centered approaches, Play Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
Accepting new In-person and Telehealth Clients at Mending Minds Counseling PLLC in Portsmouth, NH. I am a pre-licensed Clinical Mental Health therapist with several years of experience facilitating growth in adults, children and families seeking support for a variety of mental health issues. My experience is as follows but is not limited too; stress management, Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Eating Disorders, OCD and Behavioral Disorders. I can assist individuals in identifying their problem(s) and working towards solutions to help live a more fulfilling and manageable life.
I offer a variety of interventions including; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Person Centered approaches, Play Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
Accepting new In-person and Telehealth Clients at Mending Minds Counseling PLLC in Portsmouth, NH. I am a pre-licensed Clinical Mental Health therapist with several years of experience facilitating growth in adults, children and families seeking support for a variety of mental health issues. My experience is as follows but is not limited too; stress management, Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Eating Disorders, OCD and Behavioral Disorders. I can assist individuals in identifying their problem(s) and working towards solutions to help live a more fulfilling and manageable life.
(833) 358-0469 View (833) 358-0469
Photo of Sarah Jane Chaplin, LCMHC, Counselor
Sarah Jane Chaplin
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Deerfield, NH 03037
Be aware of wonder. Live a balanced life- Learn some and think some and draw and paint and sing and dance and play and work every day some. ~Robert Fulgham
Be aware of wonder. Live a balanced life- Learn some and think some and draw and paint and sing and dance and play and work every day some. ~Robert Fulgham
(603) 601-4274 View (603) 601-4274
Photo of Rachel B Boles - Child Therapist (Play Therapy), MSSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel B Boles - Child Therapist (Play Therapy)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Derry, NH 03038
I am a child therapist mostly focusing in play therapy.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) with over 20 years experience providing therapy to children and families. My training background is diverse with an approach that is thoughtful, caring, and pragmatic. I received a Master's Degree in Social Work (MSW) from Columbia University and a Bachelors Degree in Social Welfare (BSW) from the State University of New York Albany. I am a psychotherapist working with children, adolescents, and families. I provide individual counseling using play therapy approach.
I am a child therapist mostly focusing in play therapy.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) with over 20 years experience providing therapy to children and families. My training background is diverse with an approach that is thoughtful, caring, and pragmatic. I received a Master's Degree in Social Work (MSW) from Columbia University and a Bachelors Degree in Social Welfare (BSW) from the State University of New York Albany. I am a psychotherapist working with children, adolescents, and families. I provide individual counseling using play therapy approach.
(603) 601-4679 View (603) 601-4679
Photo of Scott D. Singleton, LCMHC, LMHC, MEd, Counselor
Scott D. Singleton
Counselor, LCMHC, LMHC, MEd
Verified Verified
Exeter, NH 03833
I strive to use pop culture and play to reach your child while focusing on their specific needs.
They Say "It takes a Village" Do you ever worry that you're just not getting through to your child? Does it seem like no matter what you try, nothing seems to work? Some families don't have a "village" to help them with all the different struggles kids face today. I have worked in many different settings; hospitals, group homes, schools, residential treatment centers, and clinical outpatient offices. I have helped lots of children of all age ranges and their families with similar situations that you're probably facing.
I strive to use pop culture and play to reach your child while focusing on their specific needs.
They Say "It takes a Village" Do you ever worry that you're just not getting through to your child? Does it seem like no matter what you try, nothing seems to work? Some families don't have a "village" to help them with all the different struggles kids face today. I have worked in many different settings; hospitals, group homes, schools, residential treatment centers, and clinical outpatient offices. I have helped lots of children of all age ranges and their families with similar situations that you're probably facing.
(603) 605-1218 View (603) 605-1218
Photo of Gary Newton, LCMHC, Counselor
Gary Newton
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Hudson, NH 03051  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize DBT (Mindfulness, Interpersonal Effectiveness skills, Distress Tolerance skills and Emotion Regulation skills), solution focused, play, etc.
I work with adults and teens that are dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, anger, ADHD, Autism, and many others. I believe everyone has the ability to make changes in their life whether it be anxiety due to being shut in due to a pandemic, or the trauma from living in a war zone or depression because they have lost their spark. We need the tools that allow you to be understood and heard.
I utilize DBT (Mindfulness, Interpersonal Effectiveness skills, Distress Tolerance skills and Emotion Regulation skills), solution focused, play, etc.
I work with adults and teens that are dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, anger, ADHD, Autism, and many others. I believe everyone has the ability to make changes in their life whether it be anxiety due to being shut in due to a pandemic, or the trauma from living in a war zone or depression because they have lost their spark. We need the tools that allow you to be understood and heard.
(833) 359-9441 View (833) 359-9441
Photo of Karen Haines, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Karen Haines
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Dover, NH 03820
I use play therapy techniques with younger children.
I have been working with children and adolescents (ages 8-18) for almost 30 years. My areas of expertise include working with youth who are experiencing anxiety, low self-esteem, poor coping skills and trauma. My root philosophy is cognitive-behaviorally based (our thoughts & behaviors are connected and affect each other) but am not a classically trained CBT therapist. I use an eclectic approach using tools from a wide range of theories. I'm committed to treating the whole person and not just a diagnosis or label.
I use play therapy techniques with younger children.
I have been working with children and adolescents (ages 8-18) for almost 30 years. My areas of expertise include working with youth who are experiencing anxiety, low self-esteem, poor coping skills and trauma. My root philosophy is cognitive-behaviorally based (our thoughts & behaviors are connected and affect each other) but am not a classically trained CBT therapist. I use an eclectic approach using tools from a wide range of theories. I'm committed to treating the whole person and not just a diagnosis or label.
(603) 509-9606 View (603) 509-9606
Photo of Jen Lacasse, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Jen Lacasse
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Concord, NH 03301
Please note: I am not accepting new clients at time. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor who has worked in the field for years. My work has focused on treating children, adolescents and families. I have been very fortunate to have been able to work with many different people from different walks of life. I value and appreciate what each client brings to our work together and enjoy being collaborative. I use different modalities of therapy including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Solutions-Focused Therapy as well as Family-Systems Therapy.
Please note: I am not accepting new clients at time. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor who has worked in the field for years. My work has focused on treating children, adolescents and families. I have been very fortunate to have been able to work with many different people from different walks of life. I value and appreciate what each client brings to our work together and enjoy being collaborative. I use different modalities of therapy including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Solutions-Focused Therapy as well as Family-Systems Therapy.
(802) 949-0066 View (802) 949-0066
Photo of Kayleen Bowden, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Kayleen Bowden
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Londonderry, NH 03053
I’m a passionate and dedicated therapist specializing in play therapy, geek therapy, and strengths/interests-based approaches across the lifespan. My goal is to give you the tools you need to find your voice. I’m here to make your therapy experience safe, calm, and less intimidating. Therapy can be like a cup of tea (or ice cream sundae)-it’s all how you make it. You deserve to have the best therapeutic experience you can, which includes finding the best fit. I believe that play has significant value in the therapeutic experience. Play enriches lives and we all play in various ways through the lifespan.
I’m a passionate and dedicated therapist specializing in play therapy, geek therapy, and strengths/interests-based approaches across the lifespan. My goal is to give you the tools you need to find your voice. I’m here to make your therapy experience safe, calm, and less intimidating. Therapy can be like a cup of tea (or ice cream sundae)-it’s all how you make it. You deserve to have the best therapeutic experience you can, which includes finding the best fit. I believe that play has significant value in the therapeutic experience. Play enriches lives and we all play in various ways through the lifespan.
(603) 625-0010 View (603) 625-0010
Photo of Joyce Johnson Stratton, LCMHC, RPT-S, Counselor
Joyce Johnson Stratton
Counselor, LCMHC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Concord, NH 03301
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Registered Play Therapist Supervisor. I specialize in working with children and adolescents with complicated profiles. I am trained in integrating play therapy with evidence based approaches such as Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and more. I also offer supervision for Licensure and Association for Play Therapy credentialing.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Registered Play Therapist Supervisor. I specialize in working with children and adolescents with complicated profiles. I am trained in integrating play therapy with evidence based approaches such as Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and more. I also offer supervision for Licensure and Association for Play Therapy credentialing.
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Photo of Christina Tremblay, Pre-Licensed Professional
Christina Tremblay
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manchester, NH 03101
Waitlist for new clients
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, post-traumatic stress disorder, a challenging relationship, or loss of sense of self that affects your day-to-day life? Are you interested in the following forms of counseling; EMDR, art therapy, or play therapy?
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, post-traumatic stress disorder, a challenging relationship, or loss of sense of self that affects your day-to-day life? Are you interested in the following forms of counseling; EMDR, art therapy, or play therapy?
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Photo of Emily Ellis, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Emily Ellis
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, NH 03079
Waitlist for new clients
I incorporate play, curiosity, and creative and expressive arts as a focus in my work with individuals open to exploring the power of healing arts.
I am a firm believer in collaboration, transparency, and authenticity in my work as a therapist. I have experience working with children 4+, adolescents, adults, family and group work. My priority is to create a safe, supportive, compassionate, and collaborative space where we can work together to explore issues that are troubling you.
I incorporate play, curiosity, and creative and expressive arts as a focus in my work with individuals open to exploring the power of healing arts.
I am a firm believer in collaboration, transparency, and authenticity in my work as a therapist. I have experience working with children 4+, adolescents, adults, family and group work. My priority is to create a safe, supportive, compassionate, and collaborative space where we can work together to explore issues that are troubling you.
(833) 909-1947 View (833) 909-1947
Photo of Kimberly Rule, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kimberly Rule
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03101
Accepting New Clients! Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, post-partum depression, or have faced traumatic experiences. I am a highly dedicated and skilled therapist in providing comprehensive mental health support individuals. My practice focuses on children, teens, and adults. My services include individual therapy, family therapy, parenting support and education, play therapy, and perinatal and postnatal mental health.
Accepting New Clients! Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, post-partum depression, or have faced traumatic experiences. I am a highly dedicated and skilled therapist in providing comprehensive mental health support individuals. My practice focuses on children, teens, and adults. My services include individual therapy, family therapy, parenting support and education, play therapy, and perinatal and postnatal mental health.
(603) 952-4313 View (603) 952-4313
Photo of Deborah Addario, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah Addario
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Exeter, NH 03833
Modalities of treatment include Cognitive/Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused Cognitive/Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), EMDR, Trust Based Relational Intervention (TBRI), SPACE, Solution Focused & Strength Based Therapy, Attachment Therapy, Mindfulness Therapy, Family Therapy, Play Therapy, Emotional Freedom Technique.
I work with adopted children and children who are in the foster care system. Treatment focuses on Attachment Theory and addresses trauma, abuse, loss, abandonment, and grief. This is a family centered approach and actively involves the child’s attachment figure(s) in treatment. I work with adolescents who are struggling with peers relationships, conflict with parents, transition issues, anxiety, stress, depression, self worth and self-esteem challenges. I also work with adults who are struggling with mood disorders, relationship difficulties, employment stress, and parenting issues.
Modalities of treatment include Cognitive/Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused Cognitive/Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), EMDR, Trust Based Relational Intervention (TBRI), SPACE, Solution Focused & Strength Based Therapy, Attachment Therapy, Mindfulness Therapy, Family Therapy, Play Therapy, Emotional Freedom Technique.
I work with adopted children and children who are in the foster care system. Treatment focuses on Attachment Theory and addresses trauma, abuse, loss, abandonment, and grief. This is a family centered approach and actively involves the child’s attachment figure(s) in treatment. I work with adolescents who are struggling with peers relationships, conflict with parents, transition issues, anxiety, stress, depression, self worth and self-esteem challenges. I also work with adults who are struggling with mood disorders, relationship difficulties, employment stress, and parenting issues.
(603) 932-5696 View (603) 932-5696
Kristin Honsberger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Ossipee, NH 03864
I incorporate a collaborative, therapeutic approach that is person centered, strength based and utilizes CBT, play and sand tray therapy and behavioral therapy.
My name is Kris Honsberger.I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master's degree from Boston College and a concentration in Children and Families.I have been in the field of mental health for over 30 years and in private practice for 15. I currently hold a National Certification in Anxiety Treatment.
I incorporate a collaborative, therapeutic approach that is person centered, strength based and utilizes CBT, play and sand tray therapy and behavioral therapy.
My name is Kris Honsberger.I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master's degree from Boston College and a concentration in Children and Families.I have been in the field of mental health for over 30 years and in private practice for 15. I currently hold a National Certification in Anxiety Treatment.
(603) 810-8753 View (603) 810-8753
Photo of Mary L Welsh, MS , NCC , LCMHC, RPT-S, Counselor
Mary L Welsh
Counselor, MS , NCC , LCMHC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Plymouth, NH 03264  (Online Only)
I am licensed in and can see clients who live in Virginia, New Hampshire, Washington and Hawaii. I am currently only seeing clients using Telehealth. I am a Registered Play Therapist and can see children from 10+ online. I am also available as a consultant for parents of younger children and can coach parents in addressing behavioral concerns as well as providing training in Child Parent Relationship Therapy. I can help with most issues including anxiety, depression, grief/loss, divorce, relationship challenges and behavioral concerns.
I am licensed in and can see clients who live in Virginia, New Hampshire, Washington and Hawaii. I am currently only seeing clients using Telehealth. I am a Registered Play Therapist and can see children from 10+ online. I am also available as a consultant for parents of younger children and can coach parents in addressing behavioral concerns as well as providing training in Child Parent Relationship Therapy. I can help with most issues including anxiety, depression, grief/loss, divorce, relationship challenges and behavioral concerns.
(703) 215-3394 View (703) 215-3394
Photo of Devon M Donohue, MA, LCMHC, ATR, Counselor
Devon M Donohue
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
Rye, NH 03870
Beyond traditional cognitive behavioral therapy, I offer play therapy, art therapy, and (when requested) faith-based approaches.
Welcome...breathe.... Maybe you feel like you've been "just getting by" for a long time? Or fatigue, anxiety, or depression weigh you down. Maybe there's "old stuff" you don't know what to do with. Perhaps it's the ache of loss. Is your child struggling? Do relationships leave you confused? Whatever it is, you are looking for something more. At New Hope Counseling, I meet clients right where they are. No judgement. I will listen and help you learn better ways to live, leading you to feel better...whether you are 6-years-old or 60-years-young! I will encourage you, support you and provide helpful resources along the way.
Beyond traditional cognitive behavioral therapy, I offer play therapy, art therapy, and (when requested) faith-based approaches.
Welcome...breathe.... Maybe you feel like you've been "just getting by" for a long time? Or fatigue, anxiety, or depression weigh you down. Maybe there's "old stuff" you don't know what to do with. Perhaps it's the ache of loss. Is your child struggling? Do relationships leave you confused? Whatever it is, you are looking for something more. At New Hope Counseling, I meet clients right where they are. No judgement. I will listen and help you learn better ways to live, leading you to feel better...whether you are 6-years-old or 60-years-young! I will encourage you, support you and provide helpful resources along the way.
(585) 902-9012 View (585) 902-9012
Photo of Rebecca Kisakye, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Rebecca Kisakye
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, NH 03079
Waitlist for new clients
I incorporate components of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), play therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and trauma informed care to provide a balanced, integrative therapeutic approach.
Now accepting new patients at Ellie Mental Health! I offer individual and family counseling services to individuals ages 3-30. I aim to utilize a warm, holistic, and collaborative clinical style that places you in the driver’s seat of your healing. I strive to build strong therapeutic relationships to promote goal achievement and increased self-esteem. You are an individual and therefore need personalized care! I believe in the value of learning emotional regulation skills, processing through play (whatever that may look like for you), and having a sense of humor throughout the healing journey!
I incorporate components of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), play therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and trauma informed care to provide a balanced, integrative therapeutic approach.
Now accepting new patients at Ellie Mental Health! I offer individual and family counseling services to individuals ages 3-30. I aim to utilize a warm, holistic, and collaborative clinical style that places you in the driver’s seat of your healing. I strive to build strong therapeutic relationships to promote goal achievement and increased self-esteem. You are an individual and therefore need personalized care! I believe in the value of learning emotional regulation skills, processing through play (whatever that may look like for you), and having a sense of humor throughout the healing journey!
(833) 430-1186 View (833) 430-1186
Photo of Anna Coleman, MA, RDT
Anna Coleman
MA, RDT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Manchester, NH 03103
I am a registered drama therapist (which may include offerings such as role play, writing, mask work, and other forms of creative expression).
Do you ever feel like you are stuck in your own head? Logically you know one thing to be true, but emotionally you cannot embrace that truth? My professional interests include working with all ages and stages in areas of trauma recovery, recovery from abusive and/or narcissist-driven relationships, anxiety, and grief. Together, we can create your sacred therapeutic space and discover ways to play with previously unplayable matter.
I am a registered drama therapist (which may include offerings such as role play, writing, mask work, and other forms of creative expression).
Do you ever feel like you are stuck in your own head? Logically you know one thing to be true, but emotionally you cannot embrace that truth? My professional interests include working with all ages and stages in areas of trauma recovery, recovery from abusive and/or narcissist-driven relationships, anxiety, and grief. Together, we can create your sacred therapeutic space and discover ways to play with previously unplayable matter.
(603) 625-0010 View (603) 625-0010

See more therapy options for New Hampshire

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.