Play Therapy in Columbus, OH

Photo of Mackenzie Baldwin, Licensed Social Worker, LSW
Mackenzie Baldwin
Licensed Social Worker, LSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
If you're living with ADHD or feeling overwhelmed by constant mental noise, strong emotions, or trouble in your relationships, you don't have to keep managing it alone. I work with teens, adults, and couples navigating ADHD and other ways brains work differently, especially when it shows up as worry, mood swings, acting without thinking, feeling alone, or fighting in relationships. I specialize in finding and treating ADHD at any age, including when it happens with anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality struggles, and past injury.
If you're living with ADHD or feeling overwhelmed by constant mental noise, strong emotions, or trouble in your relationships, you don't have to keep managing it alone. I work with teens, adults, and couples navigating ADHD and other ways brains work differently, especially when it shows up as worry, mood swings, acting without thinking, feeling alone, or fighting in relationships. I specialize in finding and treating ADHD at any age, including when it happens with anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality struggles, and past injury.
(380) 221-8696 View (380) 221-8696
Photo of Rachel Keay-McVay, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Rachel Keay-McVay
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Columbus, OH 43220
There is a curious habit that I've noticed, especially when working with teens, that clients will mostly only work on the "issue of the week." This can have numerous benefits and can also delay the client's progress on any underlying concerns or patterns. Ideally, once a client has agreed to their treatment goals, they continue to take attainable steps towards that goal in therapy and in their daily life. When a client feels comfortable with their therapist to share their thoughts, emotions, and vulnerabilities, then deeper work can happen.
There is a curious habit that I've noticed, especially when working with teens, that clients will mostly only work on the "issue of the week." This can have numerous benefits and can also delay the client's progress on any underlying concerns or patterns. Ideally, once a client has agreed to their treatment goals, they continue to take attainable steps towards that goal in therapy and in their daily life. When a client feels comfortable with their therapist to share their thoughts, emotions, and vulnerabilities, then deeper work can happen.
(380) 600-9183 View (380) 600-9183
Photo of Samantha Stephens, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Samantha Stephens
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Columbus, OH 43235
She has experience utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Play Therapy modalities.
Sam holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Counseling from Auburn University and a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The Ohio State University. Sam uses she/her/hers pronouns. As a counselor, Sam has clinical experience in both community-based mental health settings and private practice working with individuals ages 7 and up on a wide range of topics including: depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, ADHD, behavioral concerns, and substance use.
She has experience utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Play Therapy modalities.
Sam holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Counseling from Auburn University and a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The Ohio State University. Sam uses she/her/hers pronouns. As a counselor, Sam has clinical experience in both community-based mental health settings and private practice working with individuals ages 7 and up on a wide range of topics including: depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, ADHD, behavioral concerns, and substance use.
(740) 759-4148 x1 View (740) 759-4148 x1
Photo of Dr. Amy Avery, Counselor, LPCC-S, DMin, MACM, MDiv, EMDR
Dr. Amy Avery
Counselor, LPCC-S, DMin, MACM, MDiv, EMDR
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43240
Brene Brown wrote, "Every time we choose courage, we make everyone around us a little better & the world a little braver." I'm a licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC-S) in Ohio. I obtained my MA in Counseling at Methodist Theological School in Ohio in 2011 & began counseling in June 2012 at the Center for Balanced Living. I started Counseling Solutions in 2017 and I obtained my Doctorate in May 2024. My therapeutic approach stems from work with talk therapy, DBT, CBT and Internal Family Systems and EMDR. My team consists of a plethora of people who are equipped to help YOU find your inner strength, renewing your spirit.
Brene Brown wrote, "Every time we choose courage, we make everyone around us a little better & the world a little braver." I'm a licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC-S) in Ohio. I obtained my MA in Counseling at Methodist Theological School in Ohio in 2011 & began counseling in June 2012 at the Center for Balanced Living. I started Counseling Solutions in 2017 and I obtained my Doctorate in May 2024. My therapeutic approach stems from work with talk therapy, DBT, CBT and Internal Family Systems and EMDR. My team consists of a plethora of people who are equipped to help YOU find your inner strength, renewing your spirit.
(614) 768-6047 View (614) 768-6047
Photo of David Emch - Braveway Therapy, Counselor, LPCC
Braveway Therapy
Counselor, LPCC
Columbus, OH 43214
I am passionate about working with individuals at every stage of their journey. Whether you're navigating a major life transition, processing past experiences, managing anxiety or intrusive thoughts, or simply seeking personal growth, I'm here to support you. Through my 8 years of daily work with children and families, I have developed specialized experience in supporting parents through the complexities of raising children. Whether you're parenting solo, co-parenting after divorce, or working together with a partner, I offer both emotional support and practical strategies to help you and your children thrive.
I am passionate about working with individuals at every stage of their journey. Whether you're navigating a major life transition, processing past experiences, managing anxiety or intrusive thoughts, or simply seeking personal growth, I'm here to support you. Through my 8 years of daily work with children and families, I have developed specialized experience in supporting parents through the complexities of raising children. Whether you're parenting solo, co-parenting after divorce, or working together with a partner, I offer both emotional support and practical strategies to help you and your children thrive.
(614) 963-2986 View (614) 963-2986
Photo of Kel Hall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S, LCSW
Kel Hall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I am a proud queer and transgender therapist who has dedicated my practice to providing inclusive and culturally humble services to all. My passion is in providing care to LGBTQIA+ individuals, couples & families. Additionally, I run therapy & support groups for LGBTQIA+ youth and plan to create more group spaces for people to connect to their community and peers. I have also had the privilege of providing training and education to professionals, clients and families on providing a safe and affirming space for LGBTQIA+ youth.
I am a proud queer and transgender therapist who has dedicated my practice to providing inclusive and culturally humble services to all. My passion is in providing care to LGBTQIA+ individuals, couples & families. Additionally, I run therapy & support groups for LGBTQIA+ youth and plan to create more group spaces for people to connect to their community and peers. I have also had the privilege of providing training and education to professionals, clients and families on providing a safe and affirming space for LGBTQIA+ youth.
(740) 693-2998 View (740) 693-2998
Photo of Jade Flowers, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, IMFT, ATR
Jade Flowers
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, IMFT, ATR
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am an independently licensed therapist with over 15 years of experience working across inpatient settings, community mental health, and private practice. I received my graduate degree in Marriage & Family Therapy and Art Therapy in Los Angeles, CA and my undergraduate degree at Columbus College of Art & Design. I focus on relationship dynamics, interpersonal challenges, and trauma-informed care. I currently offer virtual therapy sessions exclusively, allowing me to work with adolescents, adults, parents, couples, and families in a flexible and accessible way.
I am an independently licensed therapist with over 15 years of experience working across inpatient settings, community mental health, and private practice. I received my graduate degree in Marriage & Family Therapy and Art Therapy in Los Angeles, CA and my undergraduate degree at Columbus College of Art & Design. I focus on relationship dynamics, interpersonal challenges, and trauma-informed care. I currently offer virtual therapy sessions exclusively, allowing me to work with adolescents, adults, parents, couples, and families in a flexible and accessible way.
(380) 204-9049 View (380) 204-9049
Photo of Gregory May - Talk. Listen. Grow. , Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Talk. Listen. Grow.
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with active licenses in Ohio, Hawai‘i, and Texas. I am a trauma informed clinician with over ten years of experience in Zen and Integral Psychotherapy, with training in Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy and Internal Family Systems. I am Safe Zone trained and affirming of all gender identities and expressions, with experience supporting LGBTQ+ clients and diverse relational structures. I also specialize in healing religious trauma and supporting renewed or redefined spiritual connection.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with active licenses in Ohio, Hawai‘i, and Texas. I am a trauma informed clinician with over ten years of experience in Zen and Integral Psychotherapy, with training in Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy and Internal Family Systems. I am Safe Zone trained and affirming of all gender identities and expressions, with experience supporting LGBTQ+ clients and diverse relational structures. I also specialize in healing religious trauma and supporting renewed or redefined spiritual connection.
(380) 204-9444 View (380) 204-9444
Photo of Erica M Wood, Counselor, LPCC-S, MT-BC
Erica M Wood
Counselor, LPCC-S, MT-BC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My therapeutic philosophy is rooted in the belief that each person possesses unique strengths and resilience. Through a collaborative and compassionate therapeutic alliance, I strive to create a safe and nonjudgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
My therapeutic philosophy is rooted in the belief that each person possesses unique strengths and resilience. Through a collaborative and compassionate therapeutic alliance, I strive to create a safe and nonjudgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
(740) 762-4591 View (740) 762-4591
Photo of Dustin P Weeks, Counselor, M Ed, LPCC-S, MFT
Dustin P Weeks
Counselor, M Ed, LPCC-S, MFT
Columbus, OH 43215
I'm Dustin, Founder of "BH Advanced Behavioral Health Services." Since 2001, I have been independently licensed and specialize in trauma, anxiety, and marriage and family therapy. I moved a lot as an Air Force officer, so I am licensed in Ohio, Colorado and Wisconsin. My lived experience feeds my absolute confidence that healing is possible. We'll balance adherence to an evidenced-based treatment plan and excellent collaboration through this dynamic therapeutic journey. My absolute confidence comes from my faith primarily, as well as offering 4 advanced treatment modalities tailored to you - one size does not fit all!
I'm Dustin, Founder of "BH Advanced Behavioral Health Services." Since 2001, I have been independently licensed and specialize in trauma, anxiety, and marriage and family therapy. I moved a lot as an Air Force officer, so I am licensed in Ohio, Colorado and Wisconsin. My lived experience feeds my absolute confidence that healing is possible. We'll balance adherence to an evidenced-based treatment plan and excellent collaboration through this dynamic therapeutic journey. My absolute confidence comes from my faith primarily, as well as offering 4 advanced treatment modalities tailored to you - one size does not fit all!
(513) 712-8795 View (513) 712-8795
Photo of Jesse Thornton, Psychologist, PsyD
Jesse Thornton
Psychologist, PsyD
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43235
At Foundations Family Counseling it is our mission is to promote health and happiness for individuals and families in Central Ohio. We offer high-quality mental health and relationship counseling services that meet families' needs whether emotional, relational, or behavioral. We believe every individual and family has core values and beliefs that serve as the foundation upon which they build their lives. We help strengthen these values and beliefs because we understand that individuals and families with strong foundations are better equipped to handle stresses and hardship and are more likely to discover joy and personal satisfaction in life.
At Foundations Family Counseling it is our mission is to promote health and happiness for individuals and families in Central Ohio. We offer high-quality mental health and relationship counseling services that meet families' needs whether emotional, relational, or behavioral. We believe every individual and family has core values and beliefs that serve as the foundation upon which they build their lives. We help strengthen these values and beliefs because we understand that individuals and families with strong foundations are better equipped to handle stresses and hardship and are more likely to discover joy and personal satisfaction in life.
(614) 468-5690 View (614) 468-5690
Photo of Mariah Mayse, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Mariah Mayse
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Columbus, OH 43206
Have you ever asked yourself, “How do I hold the tension of my belief in goodness while experiencing suffering and pain?" Do you feel like God has called you to a life of service, but in return experience exhaustion, struggles with boundaries, people-pleasing, and a lack of self-care? As a Trauma-Informed Christian therapist, I integrate mental and spiritual health to foster holistic care. Clients often come to me when they are struggling with a crisis of faith or a dark night on the soul. Teens and young adults come to my office experiencing anxiety, stress, and burnout from the high standards they hold themselves to.
Have you ever asked yourself, “How do I hold the tension of my belief in goodness while experiencing suffering and pain?" Do you feel like God has called you to a life of service, but in return experience exhaustion, struggles with boundaries, people-pleasing, and a lack of self-care? As a Trauma-Informed Christian therapist, I integrate mental and spiritual health to foster holistic care. Clients often come to me when they are struggling with a crisis of faith or a dark night on the soul. Teens and young adults come to my office experiencing anxiety, stress, and burnout from the high standards they hold themselves to.
(614) 665-8021 View (614) 665-8021
Photo of Matt Dunatchik, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MSEd, LPCC-S
Matt Dunatchik
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MSEd, LPCC-S
Columbus, OH 43230
Please email me for faster response time. I am a licensed professional clinical counselor with a master's degree in clinical mental health counseling from the University of Dayton. I have worked in college counseling as well as with adolescents in an Intensive Outpatient Program. I'm a graduate of the Gestalt Institute of Central Ohio. I work with couples and adults as well as parents and families. I believe we all have the capacity to change and to experience the fullness of life and will meet you wherever you are on your journey with compassion, empathy, and an understanding that healthy change is possible.
Please email me for faster response time. I am a licensed professional clinical counselor with a master's degree in clinical mental health counseling from the University of Dayton. I have worked in college counseling as well as with adolescents in an Intensive Outpatient Program. I'm a graduate of the Gestalt Institute of Central Ohio. I work with couples and adults as well as parents and families. I believe we all have the capacity to change and to experience the fullness of life and will meet you wherever you are on your journey with compassion, empathy, and an understanding that healthy change is possible.
(614) 412-3346 View (614) 412-3346
Photo of Kenoctaya Lindsey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kenoctaya Lindsey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Online Only
Hello! I'm Tay, and it takes a lot of courage to reach out and ask for help or advice, and I am grateful that you have taken the next step in making a change in your life. I am a licensed independent social worker in the state of Ohio with over 7 years of experience. I have experience working with individuals who have anxiety, depression, and major life changes. I have had the opportunity to work with children in foster care and their families, as well as adults and children dealing with chronic illness, anxiety, or depression.
Hello! I'm Tay, and it takes a lot of courage to reach out and ask for help or advice, and I am grateful that you have taken the next step in making a change in your life. I am a licensed independent social worker in the state of Ohio with over 7 years of experience. I have experience working with individuals who have anxiety, depression, and major life changes. I have had the opportunity to work with children in foster care and their families, as well as adults and children dealing with chronic illness, anxiety, or depression.
(740) 267-4463 View (740) 267-4463
Photo of Shannon Leigh Sundry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Shannon Leigh Sundry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43235
I provide individual counseling services to children and adolescents dealing with a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, self-esteem, peer relationships, behavioral problems, and trauma. I am passionate about helping my clients reach their ideal level of functioning and providing them with meaningful feedback and interventions.
I provide individual counseling services to children and adolescents dealing with a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, self-esteem, peer relationships, behavioral problems, and trauma. I am passionate about helping my clients reach their ideal level of functioning and providing them with meaningful feedback and interventions.
(740) 629-9376 View (740) 629-9376
Photo of Pristell Dogins III, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Pristell Dogins III
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43235
My ideal client is someone who may be struggling with believing in themselves, holding onto hope, or feeling weighed down by expectations from family, society, or others. They often wrestle with questions of identity and meaning, and may feel pressure to conform instead of embracing who they truly are. Their needs center around having a safe, affirming space to explore themselves, process their struggles, and discover their own voice. Their goals are to move toward self-acceptance, to embrace and enjoy their uniqueness, and to cultivate the courage to face the world authentically. Basically, to Live & Learn.
My ideal client is someone who may be struggling with believing in themselves, holding onto hope, or feeling weighed down by expectations from family, society, or others. They often wrestle with questions of identity and meaning, and may feel pressure to conform instead of embracing who they truly are. Their needs center around having a safe, affirming space to explore themselves, process their struggles, and discover their own voice. Their goals are to move toward self-acceptance, to embrace and enjoy their uniqueness, and to cultivate the courage to face the world authentically. Basically, to Live & Learn.
(614) 881-5842 View (614) 881-5842
Photo of Jessica Ketner, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, IMFT
Jessica Ketner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, IMFT
Columbus, OH 43235
I provide psychotherapy for couples, families, individual adults, adolescents and children. I collaborate with my clients, from an integrative client-centered approach, to treat a variety of mental, emotional and relational issues. I value the strengths that my clients bring with them to the therapy room and guide them to build on those attributes to create change in their lives. I work with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, OCD, body image, infidelity, marital distress, grief and loss, challenging life transitions and other issues.
I provide psychotherapy for couples, families, individual adults, adolescents and children. I collaborate with my clients, from an integrative client-centered approach, to treat a variety of mental, emotional and relational issues. I value the strengths that my clients bring with them to the therapy room and guide them to build on those attributes to create change in their lives. I work with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, OCD, body image, infidelity, marital distress, grief and loss, challenging life transitions and other issues.
(614) 524-5588 View (614) 524-5588
Photo of Andrea Beavers, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Andrea Beavers
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My clientele includes, but is not limited to, people who struggle with mood, anxiety, and personality disorders, trauma-related experiences, PTSD, and ADHD. I work with all ages, cultural backgrounds, mental health concerns, and basic living needs.
My clientele includes, but is not limited to, people who struggle with mood, anxiety, and personality disorders, trauma-related experiences, PTSD, and ADHD. I work with all ages, cultural backgrounds, mental health concerns, and basic living needs.
(614) 412-4213 View (614) 412-4213
Photo of Jeff Rocker - Rocker Health LLC, Counselor, PH.D, NCC, LPC, LCPC, LMHC
Rocker Health LLC
Counselor, PH.D, NCC, LPC, LCPC, LMHC
Columbus, OH 43235
At Rocker Health, we believe that mental wellness is a journey that deserves compassion, understanding, and personalized support. Our commitment to breaking the stigma surrounding mental health is at the forefront of everything we do. We understand that each individual's experience with mental health is unique, and we strive to create a welcoming environment where individuals feel safe and empowered to share their stories. Our mission is to provide a rock-solid foundation for our clients, guiding them toward a more fulfilling and balanced life.
At Rocker Health, we believe that mental wellness is a journey that deserves compassion, understanding, and personalized support. Our commitment to breaking the stigma surrounding mental health is at the forefront of everything we do. We understand that each individual's experience with mental health is unique, and we strive to create a welcoming environment where individuals feel safe and empowered to share their stories. Our mission is to provide a rock-solid foundation for our clients, guiding them toward a more fulfilling and balanced life.
(380) 233-5310 View (380) 233-5310
Photo of David Emch, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, CCPT
David Emch
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, CCPT
Columbus, OH 43214
I am a play therapist that uses a child-centered play approach.
Child-centered play therapy is a non-directive, child-first approach to working with children. Using the therapeutic power of play and trusting in the child's ability to self-direct, I view myself as a partner in the healing process.
I am a play therapist that uses a child-centered play approach.
Child-centered play therapy is a non-directive, child-first approach to working with children. Using the therapeutic power of play and trusting in the child's ability to self-direct, I view myself as a partner in the healing process.
(614) 532-4775 View (614) 532-4775

See more therapy options for Columbus

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.