Play Therapy in Northwest, Portland, OR
Child, Youth & Family Therapy @ Connections First
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Northwest, Portland, OR 97210
We use evidence-based approaches like EMDR, Brainspotting, IFS, CBT, Story Informed Trauma Therapy, Parent-Child Interactive Therapy, Art& Play & Sand Tray Therapy, and Child-Parent Psychotherapy.
At Connections First, our Children, Youth, and Families (CYF) team is committed to supporting young clients and their families with compassion, expertise, and evidence-based care. We understand the unique challenges that children and families face today, and we provide a safe, non-judgmental environment where growth, healing, and connection can flourish. Our space is inclusive and welcoming to people from all backgrounds and identities, including BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and neurodivergent individuals. Our clinicians are skilled in addressing mental health challenges, relational difficulties, and emotional and developmental needs.
We use evidence-based approaches like EMDR, Brainspotting, IFS, CBT, Story Informed Trauma Therapy, Parent-Child Interactive Therapy, Art& Play & Sand Tray Therapy, and Child-Parent Psychotherapy.
At Connections First, our Children, Youth, and Families (CYF) team is committed to supporting young clients and their families with compassion, expertise, and evidence-based care. We understand the unique challenges that children and families face today, and we provide a safe, non-judgmental environment where growth, healing, and connection can flourish. Our space is inclusive and welcoming to people from all backgrounds and identities, including BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and neurodivergent individuals. Our clinicians are skilled in addressing mental health challenges, relational difficulties, and emotional and developmental needs.
I have an integrative approach to my personal practice that includes yoga, meditation/mindfulness, child centered play therapy, expressive arts, Synergetic Play therapy, CBT, and various trauma modalities across the lifespan.
NOT CURRENTLY ACCEPTING SUPERVISION CLIENTS------------All therapists and social workers have moments in this field where we need someone to debrief an experience with. Sometimes we just need someone to hold space for our experiences and bare witness to the challenges and heartbreak this profession often brings. No matter what stage you are at in your career, just starting out or 15 years in, a good supervisor can feel like a lifeline. I specialize in offering supervision to CSWAs, LPC-I and licensed professionals seeking supervision in the state of Oregon.
I have an integrative approach to my personal practice that includes yoga, meditation/mindfulness, child centered play therapy, expressive arts, Synergetic Play therapy, CBT, and various trauma modalities across the lifespan.
NOT CURRENTLY ACCEPTING SUPERVISION CLIENTS------------All therapists and social workers have moments in this field where we need someone to debrief an experience with. Sometimes we just need someone to hold space for our experiences and bare witness to the challenges and heartbreak this profession often brings. No matter what stage you are at in your career, just starting out or 15 years in, a good supervisor can feel like a lifeline. I specialize in offering supervision to CSWAs, LPC-I and licensed professionals seeking supervision in the state of Oregon.
I was a children’s theatre teacher for 13 years and know the way to work through tough stuff is play - the language kids speak best.
Welcome! I specialize in working with little people with big feelings. I work from my heart, with a person-centered creative approach. I am dedicated to crafting a collaborative alliance that contributes to the growth of each child. I often use the creative arts of drama, art, storytelling, and movement to enhance the psychotherapeutic process. I believe your child has the ability to thrive and I want to support them in their journey of self-discovery and growth. I strive to meet each child where they are, using play, embodiment, and storytelling to connect in ways that go beyond talking - an important way to help honor their lives.
I was a children’s theatre teacher for 13 years and know the way to work through tough stuff is play - the language kids speak best.
Welcome! I specialize in working with little people with big feelings. I work from my heart, with a person-centered creative approach. I am dedicated to crafting a collaborative alliance that contributes to the growth of each child. I often use the creative arts of drama, art, storytelling, and movement to enhance the psychotherapeutic process. I believe your child has the ability to thrive and I want to support them in their journey of self-discovery and growth. I strive to meet each child where they are, using play, embodiment, and storytelling to connect in ways that go beyond talking - an important way to help honor their lives.
I work Somatically doing body-based experiential work, with role play and drama therapy, expressive arts, EMDR, and I offer Ecotherapy sessions outdoors in alliance with Nature as my co-therapist.
I became a therapist in part because I struggled with the reality of who is here to catch and support the fixers, the doers, the helpers, the leaders, the creatives, the neurodivergent? The kids who don't fit in? If you’ve landed here, and you’re my people, you likely care and feel and think deeply. You are tending to so many needs, and you hold so much for everything and everyone else. If you're struggling with trauma, burnout, dysregulation, stress, anxiety, depression, and difficulty with relationships and healthy boundaries, I can help. I know that can shift for you and transform into wellbeing.
I work Somatically doing body-based experiential work, with role play and drama therapy, expressive arts, EMDR, and I offer Ecotherapy sessions outdoors in alliance with Nature as my co-therapist.
I became a therapist in part because I struggled with the reality of who is here to catch and support the fixers, the doers, the helpers, the leaders, the creatives, the neurodivergent? The kids who don't fit in? If you’ve landed here, and you’re my people, you likely care and feel and think deeply. You are tending to so many needs, and you hold so much for everything and everyone else. If you're struggling with trauma, burnout, dysregulation, stress, anxiety, depression, and difficulty with relationships and healthy boundaries, I can help. I know that can shift for you and transform into wellbeing.
Andrew Conner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northwest, Portland, OR 97209
When working with children, I utilize play therapy to help kids express themselves via their natural language of play.
My clients often feel overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or relationship issues. They seek a path to clarity and balance. They need a compassionate space to explore their emotions and uncover the root causes of their distress. Their goal is to gain self-awareness, develop healthier coping strategies, and achieve personal growth. They want to transform their lives and find lasting fulfillment. Together, we can work towards understanding their inner world and making meaningful, positive changes.
When working with children, I utilize play therapy to help kids express themselves via their natural language of play.
My clients often feel overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or relationship issues. They seek a path to clarity and balance. They need a compassionate space to explore their emotions and uncover the root causes of their distress. Their goal is to gain self-awareness, develop healthier coping strategies, and achieve personal growth. They want to transform their lives and find lasting fulfillment. Together, we can work towards understanding their inner world and making meaningful, positive changes.
Kelle DeBruin Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northwest, Portland, OR 97210
Life transitions bring new opportunities for personal growth, communication development, and emotional connectedness. With couples & families, our approach is to deepen the bond by focusing more effective communication while understanding the needs of the relationship, Individual therapy centers from life experiences of resilience & strength, redefinition of self, challenges around family history, or a recognition of new life boundaries. As we work with younger clients, we utilize interventions in our play therapy room to provide an environment open and welcoming to the needs of everyone.
Life transitions bring new opportunities for personal growth, communication development, and emotional connectedness. With couples & families, our approach is to deepen the bond by focusing more effective communication while understanding the needs of the relationship, Individual therapy centers from life experiences of resilience & strength, redefinition of self, challenges around family history, or a recognition of new life boundaries. As we work with younger clients, we utilize interventions in our play therapy room to provide an environment open and welcoming to the needs of everyone.
Rinat Ahdoot
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northwest, Portland, OR 97209
I am a somatic, relational therapist. I believe that people have a desire to feel seen and heard, and in that capacity, have the ability to heal and grow. My clients report that I shift their perspective with gentle candor, humor, and humanness. I encourage them to see their inner power, enabling them to overcome blockages, be kind and gentle with themselves, and have the relationships and life they desire. I work with all types of people and relationships struggling with the wide array of challenges human emotion has given us.
I am a somatic, relational therapist. I believe that people have a desire to feel seen and heard, and in that capacity, have the ability to heal and grow. My clients report that I shift their perspective with gentle candor, humor, and humanness. I encourage them to see their inner power, enabling them to overcome blockages, be kind and gentle with themselves, and have the relationships and life they desire. I work with all types of people and relationships struggling with the wide array of challenges human emotion has given us.
I integrate current research and traditional approaches to help clients reduce distress, improve daily functioning, and find fulfillment. Many clients I work with benefit from learning specific skills for stress management and interpersonal effectiveness. Others explore broader issues related to clarifying values and personal growth.
I integrate current research and traditional approaches to help clients reduce distress, improve daily functioning, and find fulfillment. Many clients I work with benefit from learning specific skills for stress management and interpersonal effectiveness. Others explore broader issues related to clarifying values and personal growth.
Connections First - Psychotherapy Group Practice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPC, LMFT, CSWA, PC-A
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Northwest, Portland, OR 97210
We are Connections First, a team of licensed and pre-licensed psychotherapists offering trauma-informed, person-centered therapy. Rooted in trust, integrity, and a deeply relational approach, we create a safe space where healing and connection flourish. We work with individuals, couples, children, youth, and families and welcome clients from all backgrounds and identities, including BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent individuals, and survivors of trauma & oppression. Recognizing that our struggles often stem from interpersonal trauma, we focus on emotionally honest relationships, empowering clients to reconnect with themselves & others
We are Connections First, a team of licensed and pre-licensed psychotherapists offering trauma-informed, person-centered therapy. Rooted in trust, integrity, and a deeply relational approach, we create a safe space where healing and connection flourish. We work with individuals, couples, children, youth, and families and welcome clients from all backgrounds and identities, including BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent individuals, and survivors of trauma & oppression. Recognizing that our struggles often stem from interpersonal trauma, we focus on emotionally honest relationships, empowering clients to reconnect with themselves & others
Behjat Sedighi
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northwest, Portland, OR 97210
Waitlist for new clients
“The wound is the place where the light enters you” – Rumi. Life stressors can contribute to feelings of anxiety, depression, loneliness, and even hopelessness. If you are feeling any of these, know that you are not alone. I trust in the power of therapy to re-examine stressful situations in a therapeutic environment. I am passionate about working with adults, children, and families to help identify barriers and dysfunctions; and to help facilitate positive changes to reinstate normal functions.
“The wound is the place where the light enters you” – Rumi. Life stressors can contribute to feelings of anxiety, depression, loneliness, and even hopelessness. If you are feeling any of these, know that you are not alone. I trust in the power of therapy to re-examine stressful situations in a therapeutic environment. I am passionate about working with adults, children, and families to help identify barriers and dysfunctions; and to help facilitate positive changes to reinstate normal functions.
Gary Neil Reiss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, , LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northwest, Portland, OR 97209
I work with a wide range of people. My clients like deep work, As a Process Oriented therapist and teacher I use dreamwork, symptoms work, bodywork, movement, relationship work, conflict work, inner work and meditation, art and creativity, and many other methods based on the individuals client's process. I work with individuals, couples, and families. I have helped develop Process Oriented family therapy; Process Oriented sex and intimacy work; Process Oriented personal and historical trauma work; Process oriented coma and brain injury work, I have written 11 books on these topics. My work integrates mind body and spirit.
I work with a wide range of people. My clients like deep work, As a Process Oriented therapist and teacher I use dreamwork, symptoms work, bodywork, movement, relationship work, conflict work, inner work and meditation, art and creativity, and many other methods based on the individuals client's process. I work with individuals, couples, and families. I have helped develop Process Oriented family therapy; Process Oriented sex and intimacy work; Process Oriented personal and historical trauma work; Process oriented coma and brain injury work, I have written 11 books on these topics. My work integrates mind body and spirit.
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Robin Lieberman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Northwest, Portland, OR 97205
I have been practicing psychotherapy in Portland, Oregon for over thirty years. Initially trained as a child and family therapist in the psychodynamic tradition at the University of Michigan, I have since continued to broaden and deepen my experience and skills through further training in and study of Gestalt therapy theory, contemporary psychoanalysis, Collaborative Couple Therapy, anthroposophy, and hatha yoga. Please feel free to check my website for more information on everything I offer.
I have been practicing psychotherapy in Portland, Oregon for over thirty years. Initially trained as a child and family therapist in the psychodynamic tradition at the University of Michigan, I have since continued to broaden and deepen my experience and skills through further training in and study of Gestalt therapy theory, contemporary psychoanalysis, Collaborative Couple Therapy, anthroposophy, and hatha yoga. Please feel free to check my website for more information on everything I offer.
Whether the focus is self esteem, depression, anxiety, relationships, trauma, addiction, or other sorts of pain, you will feel understood within a safe, caring and growth enhancing private therapy. A deeper understanding and comfort with yourself will empower you to live a richer, more productive and satisfying life.
Discover important mind-body connections, better identify your desires and goals, be more organized, hopeful and able to enjoy relationships. Design and direct your life in creative, powerful and satisfying ways. Embrace this opportunity for insight, greater happiness and positive change. I can help you to
become your most hoped for self.
Whether the focus is self esteem, depression, anxiety, relationships, trauma, addiction, or other sorts of pain, you will feel understood within a safe, caring and growth enhancing private therapy. A deeper understanding and comfort with yourself will empower you to live a richer, more productive and satisfying life.
Discover important mind-body connections, better identify your desires and goals, be more organized, hopeful and able to enjoy relationships. Design and direct your life in creative, powerful and satisfying ways. Embrace this opportunity for insight, greater happiness and positive change. I can help you to
become your most hoped for self.
Joann Lundberg
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPC , ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Northwest, Portland, OR 97210
Is your child experiencing behavioral problems that interfere with school, family, or friendships? Is your teen distant, defiant or have mood swings? While facing challenges in childhood is a normal part of growing up, sometimes kids need additional help learning the skills needed to navigate big feelings, worries, upsetting and confusing events and the stressors of modern life. I offer kids an opportunity to learn and practice new skills, a safe space to explore big feelings and can help them learn to communicate their thoughts, feelings, and emotions in a helpful way using creative, and fun approaches and evidence based practices
Is your child experiencing behavioral problems that interfere with school, family, or friendships? Is your teen distant, defiant or have mood swings? While facing challenges in childhood is a normal part of growing up, sometimes kids need additional help learning the skills needed to navigate big feelings, worries, upsetting and confusing events and the stressors of modern life. I offer kids an opportunity to learn and practice new skills, a safe space to explore big feelings and can help them learn to communicate their thoughts, feelings, and emotions in a helpful way using creative, and fun approaches and evidence based practices
Dr. Serseción is a genderqueer, Latinx, a licensed psychologist with 15+ years of experience as a therapist. Dr. Serseción is a native Spanish speaker from Puerto Rico, providing treatment in English and Spanish. In addition, Dr. Sersecion provides workshops on various topics such as cultural humility, and working with diverse populations. They work with the following communities: LGBTQ+ population, polyamory community, Latinx community, DID/ plural community, geek community, video game community, and various others.
Dr. Serseción is a genderqueer, Latinx, a licensed psychologist with 15+ years of experience as a therapist. Dr. Serseción is a native Spanish speaker from Puerto Rico, providing treatment in English and Spanish. In addition, Dr. Sersecion provides workshops on various topics such as cultural humility, and working with diverse populations. They work with the following communities: LGBTQ+ population, polyamory community, Latinx community, DID/ plural community, geek community, video game community, and various others.
McKayla Dulski
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPCA
Verified Verified
Northwest, Portland, OR 97209 (Online Only)
In therapy, I firmly believe in tailoring my approach to meet the unique needs and goals of each individual client, couple, or family. I take into consideration your personal beliefs about therapy, as well as the specific issues you are facing. Some of the theories I have worked with include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Art Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, Family Systems Approach, and Solution Focused Therapy.
In therapy, I firmly believe in tailoring my approach to meet the unique needs and goals of each individual client, couple, or family. I take into consideration your personal beliefs about therapy, as well as the specific issues you are facing. Some of the theories I have worked with include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Art Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, Family Systems Approach, and Solution Focused Therapy.
Dani Terry | True Colors Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Northwest, Portland, OR 97209 (Online Only)
Are you a queer person who's ready to heal from trauma? Look... I know it's tempting to think you don’t have the time to heal when you have a job to do, a home to keep cozy, friends to see, bills to pay, and post-election stress to manage; there's truly so much going on. Let's face it though, trauma's trapped you in a lackluster life for long enough. You just can’t wait any longer. You deserve a life that lets your true colors shine! I have good news: you don’t have to choose between living a full life today and healing trauma. For over 10 years, I’ve been helping queer people heal, live their lives, and find queer joy all at once!
Are you a queer person who's ready to heal from trauma? Look... I know it's tempting to think you don’t have the time to heal when you have a job to do, a home to keep cozy, friends to see, bills to pay, and post-election stress to manage; there's truly so much going on. Let's face it though, trauma's trapped you in a lackluster life for long enough. You just can’t wait any longer. You deserve a life that lets your true colors shine! I have good news: you don’t have to choose between living a full life today and healing trauma. For over 10 years, I’ve been helping queer people heal, live their lives, and find queer joy all at once!
Thanks for taking a moment to consider my practice. If you're seeking therapy, I applaud you! Seeking support to navigate chaotic moments in life is not easy and is also a wonderful gift to give your self. Therapy has been an instrumental support throughout my life since I was a teenager. Through my journey I've found healing and medicine in talk therapy, yoga, herbalism, intuitive readings, nature immersion and countless writings by Black feminist authors (Alexis Pauline Gumbs, Audre Lorde, Prentice Hemphill). I'd like to offer you a space to bring both your wins and your struggles, knowing you'll receive compassionate care.
Thanks for taking a moment to consider my practice. If you're seeking therapy, I applaud you! Seeking support to navigate chaotic moments in life is not easy and is also a wonderful gift to give your self. Therapy has been an instrumental support throughout my life since I was a teenager. Through my journey I've found healing and medicine in talk therapy, yoga, herbalism, intuitive readings, nature immersion and countless writings by Black feminist authors (Alexis Pauline Gumbs, Audre Lorde, Prentice Hemphill). I'd like to offer you a space to bring both your wins and your struggles, knowing you'll receive compassionate care.
Catherine Vu
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Northwest, Portland, OR 97205 (Online Only)
I am an Asian-American therapist seeking to create a healing and culturally affirming environment for Children, Teens, and Young Adults. Life as a POC can be confusing to navigate as we can have traditions, values, and obligations that oppose our American cultural upbringing. This therapeutic space will be a safe container for those looking to explore their identity, purpose, and authenticity.
I am an Asian-American therapist seeking to create a healing and culturally affirming environment for Children, Teens, and Young Adults. Life as a POC can be confusing to navigate as we can have traditions, values, and obligations that oppose our American cultural upbringing. This therapeutic space will be a safe container for those looking to explore their identity, purpose, and authenticity.
Jaxon Shaffer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Northwest, Portland, OR 97209
As a queer teen or adult, you feel caught in a cycle of self-doubt or chronic anxiety, struggling to understand your own needs. You've been hurt many times by those who didn't understand or value you, and now you find yourself questioning: Am I worthy? Am I too sensitive? Perhaps you are neurodivergent, such as autistic or having ADHD, and feel overwhelmed by self-criticism or disconnection. You may have past trauma that hasn't been processed, leaving you with lingering avoidance or harmful attempts to self-soothe. If this resonates for you, I'd love to support you on your journey.
As a queer teen or adult, you feel caught in a cycle of self-doubt or chronic anxiety, struggling to understand your own needs. You've been hurt many times by those who didn't understand or value you, and now you find yourself questioning: Am I worthy? Am I too sensitive? Perhaps you are neurodivergent, such as autistic or having ADHD, and feel overwhelmed by self-criticism or disconnection. You may have past trauma that hasn't been processed, leaving you with lingering avoidance or harmful attempts to self-soothe. If this resonates for you, I'd love to support you on your journey.
See more therapy options for Northwest, Portland
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Northwest, Portland
- Alberta Arts District
- Alphabet District
- Chinatown
- Forest Park
- Goose Hollow
- Lloyd District
- North Portland
- Old Town
- Old Town-Chinatown
- Pearl District
- Portsmith
- Portsmouth
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.