Play Therapy in Union County, OH

Photo of Laura Schmidt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Laura Schmidt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Marysville, OH 43040
Licenses-OH & MI. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship to heal, to restore and to assist us in becoming or regaining our best selves. Life can be messy, heartbreaking, unpredictable, and confusing. Having a connection with a trusted, dedicated counselor can help navigate a path to coping and overcoming. I am passionate about working with people of all ages, genders, ethnicities, backgrounds. I enjoy working with families to navigate dynamics and conflicts. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents and teens. I enjoy helping them navigate life and connecting with their own individual strengths.
Licenses-OH & MI. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship to heal, to restore and to assist us in becoming or regaining our best selves. Life can be messy, heartbreaking, unpredictable, and confusing. Having a connection with a trusted, dedicated counselor can help navigate a path to coping and overcoming. I am passionate about working with people of all ages, genders, ethnicities, backgrounds. I enjoy working with families to navigate dynamics and conflicts. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents and teens. I enjoy helping them navigate life and connecting with their own individual strengths.
(614) 347-0767 View (614) 347-0767
Photo of Dr. Julie Henzel, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Julie Henzel
Psychologist, PsyD
Serves Area
My approach is strengths-based, compassionate, and flexible—drawing from modalities like CBT, ACT, play therapy, and EMDR.
Are you seeking clarity about attention, learning, or social differences? Are you a high-masking or high-achieving adult who has internalized your challenges over the years, but always wondered about your neurotype? Navigating the world as a neurodivergent person—or as the parent of a neurodivergent child—can bring unique questions and challenges. As an experienced psychologist specialized in Autism, ADHD, and learning differences, I offer a safe, and affirming space for individuals and families to explore concerns, receive comprehensive and insight-oriented diagnostic evaluations, and access strengths-based services.
My approach is strengths-based, compassionate, and flexible—drawing from modalities like CBT, ACT, play therapy, and EMDR.
Are you seeking clarity about attention, learning, or social differences? Are you a high-masking or high-achieving adult who has internalized your challenges over the years, but always wondered about your neurotype? Navigating the world as a neurodivergent person—or as the parent of a neurodivergent child—can bring unique questions and challenges. As an experienced psychologist specialized in Autism, ADHD, and learning differences, I offer a safe, and affirming space for individuals and families to explore concerns, receive comprehensive and insight-oriented diagnostic evaluations, and access strengths-based services.
(740) 519-8397 View (740) 519-8397
Photo of Cheryl B Levine, Psychologist, PsyD
Cheryl B Levine
Psychologist, PsyD
Serves Area
My primary passion is helping people heal from trauma as an EMDR therapist. I am so moved by the courage of my clients. I am amazed at our capacity for healing and am profoundly honored to assist in a process that is both so deeply painful and so joyful in recovery. I also work with clients on other issues like depression, anxiety, women's issues, life transitions, boundaries, communication and relationships. I have completed my Level III Board Certification in Telehealth because I want to be able to help people all across Ohio, not just those who can come to my office in person.
My primary passion is helping people heal from trauma as an EMDR therapist. I am so moved by the courage of my clients. I am amazed at our capacity for healing and am profoundly honored to assist in a process that is both so deeply painful and so joyful in recovery. I also work with clients on other issues like depression, anxiety, women's issues, life transitions, boundaries, communication and relationships. I have completed my Level III Board Certification in Telehealth because I want to be able to help people all across Ohio, not just those who can come to my office in person.
(937) 900-9214 View (937) 900-9214

Online Therapists

Photo of Barbara Hicks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Barbara Hicks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Cincinnati, OH 45242
You don't have to be defined by what you've been through. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a proven, effective therapy for overcoming the distress of past trauma. Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR helps your brain's natural healing process to "unstick" and reprocess traumatic memories.
You don't have to be defined by what you've been through. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a proven, effective therapy for overcoming the distress of past trauma. Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR helps your brain's natural healing process to "unstick" and reprocess traumatic memories.
(440) 624-6328 View (440) 624-6328
Photo of Arthur Smith - Serene Care Solution Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LCSW, LISW-S, LISW, LICSW
Serene Care Solution Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LCSW, LISW-S, LISW, LICSW
Online Only
Serene Care Solution Services provides tele-health in Michigan, Washington D.C., Hawaii, Pennsylvania, California, Nevada, Ohio, Idaho, Illinois, Alabama, Texas, Florida, New Jersey, Arkansas, & Indiana. Therapy starts from within. We apply various treatment modalities to best meet the needs & goals of our clients. We give our clients the tools to apply healthy interventions. We love what we do, and it shows in our unbiased approach. We welcome the opportunity to work with new clients and assist them on their journey of healing. We provide a warm environment where everyone can feel at ease, accepted, understood, & heard.
Serene Care Solution Services provides tele-health in Michigan, Washington D.C., Hawaii, Pennsylvania, California, Nevada, Ohio, Idaho, Illinois, Alabama, Texas, Florida, New Jersey, Arkansas, & Indiana. Therapy starts from within. We apply various treatment modalities to best meet the needs & goals of our clients. We give our clients the tools to apply healthy interventions. We love what we do, and it shows in our unbiased approach. We welcome the opportunity to work with new clients and assist them on their journey of healing. We provide a warm environment where everyone can feel at ease, accepted, understood, & heard.
(248) 831-0338 View (248) 831-0338
Photo of Alexis Vosnos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Alexis Vosnos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Online Only
For kids, therapy can include play and creativity, even online.
I help clients navigate anxiety, life transitions, family changes, and the effects of trauma by creating a safe, supportive space to explore what’s on their minds and in their hearts. I am also experienced in play-based therapy for children and adolescents. My approach is collaborative and relationship-based, so therapy is tailored to you.
For kids, therapy can include play and creativity, even online.
I help clients navigate anxiety, life transitions, family changes, and the effects of trauma by creating a safe, supportive space to explore what’s on their minds and in their hearts. I am also experienced in play-based therapy for children and adolescents. My approach is collaborative and relationship-based, so therapy is tailored to you.
(314) 237-7994 View (314) 237-7994
Photo of Betsy Singer-Lefton, Counselor, MA, LPCC
Betsy Singer-Lefton
Counselor, MA, LPCC
3 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45242
Welcome! I am Betsy Singer-Lefton, a licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC). I am a therapist because I believe deeply in people’s capacity to grow, and heal, and aspire to help people live their best lives. I am currently accepting new clients ages 8 to adult, with available weekdays until 7:00pm for in-person or telehealth counseling sessions.
Welcome! I am Betsy Singer-Lefton, a licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC). I am a therapist because I believe deeply in people’s capacity to grow, and heal, and aspire to help people live their best lives. I am currently accepting new clients ages 8 to adult, with available weekdays until 7:00pm for in-person or telehealth counseling sessions.
(513) 982-5433 View (513) 982-5433
Photo of Brittany Stone, Counselor, LPCC
Brittany Stone
Counselor, LPCC
Online Only
I have spent over a decade helping parents, guardians, adolescents, children and their families navigate some of life’s most difficult moments. From relationship conflict, emotional outbursts, educational barriers, to grief, depression, and anxiety, I deeply value helping you navigate it all. I have helped families advocate for their children’s needs. I value working with young adults navigating anxiety, depression, identity shifts, relationship stress, and people committed to breaking generational cycles. Together we will identify and build on your strengths to support the change you want to see.
I have spent over a decade helping parents, guardians, adolescents, children and their families navigate some of life’s most difficult moments. From relationship conflict, emotional outbursts, educational barriers, to grief, depression, and anxiety, I deeply value helping you navigate it all. I have helped families advocate for their children’s needs. I value working with young adults navigating anxiety, depression, identity shifts, relationship stress, and people committed to breaking generational cycles. Together we will identify and build on your strengths to support the change you want to see.
(502) 218-4597 View (502) 218-4597
Photo of Anessa Gilbride, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Anessa Gilbride
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
1 Endorsed
Tipp City, OH 45371
I've had extensive training in various modalities, including traditional talk therapy, trauma-informed and trauma-focused therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, play and sand therapy, and am EMDR trained as well.
No waitlist! Friday sessions availability! When you’re struggling, it’s hard to know where to begin to just feel better. Taking the leap to start therapy can sometimes feel overwhelming, so I understand talking to someone you don’t know about things you may not have shared before isn’t easy. Having a safe place to feel valued and heard is important to me and your well being. I invest my time in you so you can feel like you again. My collaborative style allows you to be a partner in reaching your goals on your journey to change.
I've had extensive training in various modalities, including traditional talk therapy, trauma-informed and trauma-focused therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, play and sand therapy, and am EMDR trained as well.
No waitlist! Friday sessions availability! When you’re struggling, it’s hard to know where to begin to just feel better. Taking the leap to start therapy can sometimes feel overwhelming, so I understand talking to someone you don’t know about things you may not have shared before isn’t easy. Having a safe place to feel valued and heard is important to me and your well being. I invest my time in you so you can feel like you again. My collaborative style allows you to be a partner in reaching your goals on your journey to change.
(937) 870-1078 View (937) 870-1078
Photo of Katy Jackson, Licensed Professional Counselor, BA, MA, LPC
Katy Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, BA, MA, LPC
6 Endorsed
Dublin, OH 43017
Waitlist for new clients
Struggling with your mental health can feel lonely, confusing, and often times overwhelming. I offer a space where people can bring their most authentic self and find healing. If you are suffering and ready to seek support and growth, I would be honored to walk with you through your current circumstances with the goal of seeking relief. I provide confidential counseling to adults, adolescents, and children ages 10+. My focus includes anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, behavioral concerns, relationship distress, and other personal issues.
Struggling with your mental health can feel lonely, confusing, and often times overwhelming. I offer a space where people can bring their most authentic self and find healing. If you are suffering and ready to seek support and growth, I would be honored to walk with you through your current circumstances with the goal of seeking relief. I provide confidential counseling to adults, adolescents, and children ages 10+. My focus includes anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, behavioral concerns, relationship distress, and other personal issues.
(380) 333-6713 x503 View (380) 333-6713 x503
Photo of Dr. Belinda M Preston-Cash - TEARS for Tay Recovery LLC., Drug & Alcohol Counselor, Chaplin, MS/QMHS, LICDC, DOT/SAP, Psy D
TEARS for Tay Recovery LLC.
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, Chaplin, MS/QMHS, LICDC, DOT/SAP, Psy D
Englewood, OH 45322
As a therapist my first goal is setting the stage by introducing myself as a therapist, who is here to supply support and resources for clients seeking therapy and life coaching changes. My voice tone and smile, along with twenty-seven plus years of experience, is everything and an immensely powerful tool when engaging with my clients. I must assure the client is aware, I am present, implementing my counseling skills of validating and confirming clients' purpose for counseling, with a non-judgmental clinical counseling approach. Please empower yourself to the desired steps toward positive, healthy, mind, body, and soul counseling.
As a therapist my first goal is setting the stage by introducing myself as a therapist, who is here to supply support and resources for clients seeking therapy and life coaching changes. My voice tone and smile, along with twenty-seven plus years of experience, is everything and an immensely powerful tool when engaging with my clients. I must assure the client is aware, I am present, implementing my counseling skills of validating and confirming clients' purpose for counseling, with a non-judgmental clinical counseling approach. Please empower yourself to the desired steps toward positive, healthy, mind, body, and soul counseling.
(937) 863-9744 View (937) 863-9744
Photo of Shannel Hawkins - The Intentional Wellness Space, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S
The Intentional Wellness Space
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S
Columbus, OH 43219
We will help you build emotional balance and resilience through evidence-based approaches like DBT, CBT, Play Therapy, and EMDR Intensives.
Immediate Openings! Are you someone ready for change but unsure where to start? Are you feeling overwhelmed by emotions, stuck in unhealthy patterns, or disconnected from yourself and others? Are you seeking a safe, nonjudgmental space to process life’s challenges—whether related to anxiety, trauma, relationships, or self-esteem—and wanting tools that bring real relief? Do you desire to find emotional balance, healthier coping skills, and a deeper sense of confidence and peace? We are intentionally here for you. Privilege counseling licenses in Ohio, Arizona, Louisiana and Minnesota!
We will help you build emotional balance and resilience through evidence-based approaches like DBT, CBT, Play Therapy, and EMDR Intensives.
Immediate Openings! Are you someone ready for change but unsure where to start? Are you feeling overwhelmed by emotions, stuck in unhealthy patterns, or disconnected from yourself and others? Are you seeking a safe, nonjudgmental space to process life’s challenges—whether related to anxiety, trauma, relationships, or self-esteem—and wanting tools that bring real relief? Do you desire to find emotional balance, healthier coping skills, and a deeper sense of confidence and peace? We are intentionally here for you. Privilege counseling licenses in Ohio, Arizona, Louisiana and Minnesota!
(614) 541-3516 View (614) 541-3516
Photo of Layla Moreno, Licensed Social Worker, LSW, CHW
Layla Moreno
Licensed Social Worker, LSW, CHW
Oregon, OH 43616
I practice with a trauma-informed approach and a cognitive behavioral focus; however, I also utilize other specific methods such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Play Therapy.
Hello! My name is Layla Moreno, and I am a licensed social worker. I have been working in the mental health field in some capacity since 2021 and been a licensed social worker since 2023.
I practice with a trauma-informed approach and a cognitive behavioral focus; however, I also utilize other specific methods such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Play Therapy.
Hello! My name is Layla Moreno, and I am a licensed social worker. I have been working in the mental health field in some capacity since 2021 and been a licensed social worker since 2023.
(567) 432-3198 View (567) 432-3198
Photo of Frances M Duncan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LISW
Frances M Duncan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LISW
1 Endorsed
Dayton, OH 45406
I am trained in play therapy, and treat children as young as age 3.
I feel it is important to offer expert quality care that is compassionate, and tailored to each person's uniqueness as an individual. I have 38 years of clinical experience working with children, teens, families, and adults facing various life challenges. Time passes quickly. We often spend our days unhappy, and stressed. Sometimes it can be difficult to see beyond the hardships, and realize what matters most to us. If you can't change a situation, change your perspective.
I am trained in play therapy, and treat children as young as age 3.
I feel it is important to offer expert quality care that is compassionate, and tailored to each person's uniqueness as an individual. I have 38 years of clinical experience working with children, teens, families, and adults facing various life challenges. Time passes quickly. We often spend our days unhappy, and stressed. Sometimes it can be difficult to see beyond the hardships, and realize what matters most to us. If you can't change a situation, change your perspective.
(937) 210-4625 View (937) 210-4625
Photo of Rebecca A Zeiser, Counselor, LPCC, CTP, ASDCS
Rebecca A Zeiser
Counselor, LPCC, CTP, ASDCS
Online Only
I tailor therapy to meet you or your child’s unique developmental needs, integrating creativity, play, and movement to help youth express what words alone can’t capture.
I work with youth and adults beginning at age 4, and I also provide guidance and support for caregivers of children and teens. Whether you or your child need help to address concerns, I am here to help. I treat issues related to trauma, autism, anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral challenges, or being emotionally overwhelmed. I offer a safe, compassionate space to begin the healing process. Together, we focus on understanding emotions, developing effective coping skills, strengthening relationships, and building confidence. My goal is to empower each person—and their family—to successfully navigate life’s challenges.
I tailor therapy to meet you or your child’s unique developmental needs, integrating creativity, play, and movement to help youth express what words alone can’t capture.
I work with youth and adults beginning at age 4, and I also provide guidance and support for caregivers of children and teens. Whether you or your child need help to address concerns, I am here to help. I treat issues related to trauma, autism, anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral challenges, or being emotionally overwhelmed. I offer a safe, compassionate space to begin the healing process. Together, we focus on understanding emotions, developing effective coping skills, strengthening relationships, and building confidence. My goal is to empower each person—and their family—to successfully navigate life’s challenges.
(513) 270-2984 View (513) 270-2984
Photo of Despina George Costandinidis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Despina George Costandinidis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Dayton, OH 45420
Accepting New Patients!!! Madeline Albright said, "It took a long time for me to develop a voice and now that I have it, I am not going to be silent." If you are looking to develop your voice and sense of self while overcoming the pain of trauma, I am here to help. Many times, we as women don't use our voice for fear of not being believed, heard, or understood. We keep our pain inside, and it's not healthy.
Accepting New Patients!!! Madeline Albright said, "It took a long time for me to develop a voice and now that I have it, I am not going to be silent." If you are looking to develop your voice and sense of self while overcoming the pain of trauma, I am here to help. Many times, we as women don't use our voice for fear of not being believed, heard, or understood. We keep our pain inside, and it's not healthy.
(937) 669-7482 x1 View (937) 669-7482 x1
Photo of Keith Rufo, Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Keith Rufo
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
2 Endorsed
Perrysburg, OH 43551
My goal as a clinician is to work with a variety of individuals to improve their wellbeing. I aim to both discover and support areas of growth and strengths so that individuals may effectively address any concerns. I have training and experience in psychological testing. I provide ADHD and Autism testing for children and adults. I aid in clarification or in differentiating a diagnosis and provide documentation for schools for IEP or 504 Plan management. Testing provides individuals with a tool to better understand their symptoms, provides a diagnosis for clarity, and provides recommendations for growth and realization of potential.
My goal as a clinician is to work with a variety of individuals to improve their wellbeing. I aim to both discover and support areas of growth and strengths so that individuals may effectively address any concerns. I have training and experience in psychological testing. I provide ADHD and Autism testing for children and adults. I aid in clarification or in differentiating a diagnosis and provide documentation for schools for IEP or 504 Plan management. Testing provides individuals with a tool to better understand their symptoms, provides a diagnosis for clarity, and provides recommendations for growth and realization of potential.
(419) 518-5248 View (419) 518-5248
Photo of Kenya Foster, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Kenya Foster
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
I have been in the field of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Counseling for over 20 years and worked with a variety of populations in all different settings. The goal while treating you is to build a solid therapeutic relationship by being empathetic, having a genuine concern for your emotional well-being and most importantly listening to you without judgment. I am an eclectic therapist which means I use a variety of therapeutic approaches based on your need; however the foundation of our therapeutic relationship is treating you with dignity, respect and being aware of your values and beliefs.
I have been in the field of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Counseling for over 20 years and worked with a variety of populations in all different settings. The goal while treating you is to build a solid therapeutic relationship by being empathetic, having a genuine concern for your emotional well-being and most importantly listening to you without judgment. I am an eclectic therapist which means I use a variety of therapeutic approaches based on your need; however the foundation of our therapeutic relationship is treating you with dignity, respect and being aware of your values and beliefs.
(346) 572-4600 View (346) 572-4600
Photo of Wendy Buckingham, Marriage & Family Therapist
Wendy Buckingham
Marriage & Family Therapist
Online Only
Life can be too much sometimes. Demands and obligations from those close to us at home, work, school etc.. can become overwhelming and have a negative impact on ones health. Over the years I have worked with clients with many different issues. I have many tools in my box to assist clients with building their skills to better manage the difficulties in their life. Providing individual, couples and family counseling. I am certified in Cognitive behavioral therapy.
Life can be too much sometimes. Demands and obligations from those close to us at home, work, school etc.. can become overwhelming and have a negative impact on ones health. Over the years I have worked with clients with many different issues. I have many tools in my box to assist clients with building their skills to better manage the difficulties in their life. Providing individual, couples and family counseling. I am certified in Cognitive behavioral therapy.
(513) 960-6141 View (513) 960-6141
Photo of Zoey Shelton, Counselor, SWT
Zoey Shelton
Counselor, SWT
2 Endorsed
Springboro, OH 45066
I use CBT, DBT, mindfulness, Solution-Focused, Person-Centered, and play therapy techniques to help clients build resilience, strengthen coping skills, gain insight, and create meaningful change.
I enjoy working with individuals of all ages who are looking for support, healing, and personal growth. I have a special passion for helping women navigate pregnancy, postpartum adjustment, motherhood, and life's many transitions, as well as supporting military service members, veterans, and their families. Many clients come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, stressed, anxious, or stuck. My goal is to provide a warm, supportive space where you can feel heard, build confidence, develop healthy coping skills, and work toward meaningful change at your own pace.
I use CBT, DBT, mindfulness, Solution-Focused, Person-Centered, and play therapy techniques to help clients build resilience, strengthen coping skills, gain insight, and create meaningful change.
I enjoy working with individuals of all ages who are looking for support, healing, and personal growth. I have a special passion for helping women navigate pregnancy, postpartum adjustment, motherhood, and life's many transitions, as well as supporting military service members, veterans, and their families. Many clients come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, stressed, anxious, or stuck. My goal is to provide a warm, supportive space where you can feel heard, build confidence, develop healthy coping skills, and work toward meaningful change at your own pace.
(937) 863-9124 View (937) 863-9124

See more therapy options for Union County

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.