Photo of Bianca Ramos, MA, QMHP, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Bianca Ramos
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, QMHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97239
When working with children, I also rely on play therapy techniques.
I work with children and their families, adolescents, individual adults, and couples. I aim to help my clients understand their experiences and to find healing and change. I also have a passion working with BIPOC individuals/families/children who are seeking support with identity, racial trauma, and acculturation. I believe that a trusting relationship with your therapist is key, and I strive to create a safe, non judgmental space for all clients. I do this by being present, active, collaborative, curious, and humorous!
When working with children, I also rely on play therapy techniques.
I work with children and their families, adolescents, individual adults, and couples. I aim to help my clients understand their experiences and to find healing and change. I also have a passion working with BIPOC individuals/families/children who are seeking support with identity, racial trauma, and acculturation. I believe that a trusting relationship with your therapist is key, and I strive to create a safe, non judgmental space for all clients. I do this by being present, active, collaborative, curious, and humorous!
(971) 459-1853 View (971) 459-1853
Photo of Nancy L Link, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nancy L Link
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Monmouth, OR 97361  (Online Only)
Over 30 years experience as a licensed counselor. Are you looking for a positive change in your life? I can help you. I believe that growth is an essential ingredient for a fulfilling life. I specialize in treating children, adolescents, adults and families. My training and experience is extensive. It includes being certified as a DEH@ practitioner, individual, couple, family therapy, Play/Sand/Art Therapy, hypnosis, and Spiritual Direction/life path exploration. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Oregon, trained in Spiritual direction, and certified in delivery of Tele Mental Health services.
Over 30 years experience as a licensed counselor. Are you looking for a positive change in your life? I can help you. I believe that growth is an essential ingredient for a fulfilling life. I specialize in treating children, adolescents, adults and families. My training and experience is extensive. It includes being certified as a DEH@ practitioner, individual, couple, family therapy, Play/Sand/Art Therapy, hypnosis, and Spiritual Direction/life path exploration. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Oregon, trained in Spiritual direction, and certified in delivery of Tele Mental Health services.
(503) 980-3226 View (503) 980-3226
Photo of Kelle DeBruin - Kelle DeBruin Counseling, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelle DeBruin Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223
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.
(971) 803-5900 View (971) 803-5900
Photo of Fae Tippie, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Fae Tippie
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
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.
(503) 847-9720 View (503) 847-9720
Photo of Nic Sutherland, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Nic Sutherland
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
Therapy can look like curiosity, laughter, use of metaphor, play and art therapy techniques, naming and feeling emotion, and more.
I support my clients in finding authenticity, agency, and connection in the face of the inevitable changes life has to offer. If you find yourself processing pain from past relationships, feeling disconnected, or fighting in the kitchen, I would love to meet you there. My goal is to build a safe relationship with you, in which we can explore the complexity of your life; the mundane, the magic, the painful.
Therapy can look like curiosity, laughter, use of metaphor, play and art therapy techniques, naming and feeling emotion, and more.
I support my clients in finding authenticity, agency, and connection in the face of the inevitable changes life has to offer. If you find yourself processing pain from past relationships, feeling disconnected, or fighting in the kitchen, I would love to meet you there. My goal is to build a safe relationship with you, in which we can explore the complexity of your life; the mundane, the magic, the painful.
(971) 274-5960 View (971) 274-5960
Photo of Carrie Love, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carrie Love
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97227
Waitlist for new clients
I offer play therapy, PCIT therapy, and I provide information about infant bonding and development.
If you have wondered why your infant or child: does not bond or connect with you, has behavior problems, does not respect you, seems angry or withdrawn, has temper tantrums often, has excessive or no energy, is vindictive, is not connected with the family, or you ask yourself am I a good parent? Then please seek my support. As a young adult, do you feel: anxious, often worried, rejected, withdrawn, sad, depressed, or discriminated against? If so, please seek my support. Please come Talk With Love!
I offer play therapy, PCIT therapy, and I provide information about infant bonding and development.
If you have wondered why your infant or child: does not bond or connect with you, has behavior problems, does not respect you, seems angry or withdrawn, has temper tantrums often, has excessive or no energy, is vindictive, is not connected with the family, or you ask yourself am I a good parent? Then please seek my support. As a young adult, do you feel: anxious, often worried, rejected, withdrawn, sad, depressed, or discriminated against? If so, please seek my support. Please come Talk With Love!
View
Photo of Jennifer Henderson, DBH, LPC, NCC, QMHP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Henderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, DBH, LPC, NCC, QMHP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Medford, OR 97501
Waitlist for new clients
For this reason I facilitate Sandplay, Animal-assisted, Art and Play modalities that are applied through a neurodevelopmental lens.
My therapy practice has focused on interventions for complex family systems including co-parenting after divorce, raising special needs children or supporting patients with navigating agency involvement (child welfare, corrections, education). I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Doctor of Behavioral Health (DBH) whose career was founded in Pediatrics. I have a strong commitment to helping families develop secure relationships and additionally offer attachment couples counseling using PACT, EFT and IFS models.
For this reason I facilitate Sandplay, Animal-assisted, Art and Play modalities that are applied through a neurodevelopmental lens.
My therapy practice has focused on interventions for complex family systems including co-parenting after divorce, raising special needs children or supporting patients with navigating agency involvement (child welfare, corrections, education). I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Doctor of Behavioral Health (DBH) whose career was founded in Pediatrics. I have a strong commitment to helping families develop secure relationships and additionally offer attachment couples counseling using PACT, EFT and IFS models.
(541) 397-0961 View (541) 397-0961
Photo of Jennifer Jones, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gresham, OR 97030
I use a strengths-based approach, incorporating play therapy and collaboration with families to empower children to express themselves and tap into their natural resilience.
Are you worried about your child's emotional or behavioral struggles? Do they seem overwhelmed, act out, or have trouble expressing themselves? Are you looking for a therapist who can help your child build emotional resilience, gain self-awareness, and develop healthy coping skills? You want your child to thrive and navigate life’s challenges with confidence, and you’re seeking support to guide them through this process.
I use a strengths-based approach, incorporating play therapy and collaboration with families to empower children to express themselves and tap into their natural resilience.
Are you worried about your child's emotional or behavioral struggles? Do they seem overwhelmed, act out, or have trouble expressing themselves? Are you looking for a therapist who can help your child build emotional resilience, gain self-awareness, and develop healthy coping skills? You want your child to thrive and navigate life’s challenges with confidence, and you’re seeking support to guide them through this process.
(971) 626-1832 View (971) 626-1832
Photo of Carmen B Ryan, MS, MBA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Carmen B Ryan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, MBA
Verified Verified
Wilsonville, OR 97070
I have earned many certificates and highlights include Play, Nature and Art Therapy; Trauma-Informed Practices; Crisis Prevention and Care; YogaCalm; and Collaborative Problem Solving.
I create a safe, non-judgmental space for children/adolescents/young adults and their families through deep listening and observation, forming an authentic, trusting, compassionate relationship where understanding and healing can begin by processing difficult experiences, thoughts, or behaviors. I take a whole-brain, whole-body approach to customize a treatment plan for each client, building upon their strengths and unique gifts. Utilizing Play, Art, Nature and Book Therapy, as well as YogaCalm and Collaborative Problem Solving, my goal is to have a calm, grounded client that finds joy and can set goals to pursue their dreams.
I have earned many certificates and highlights include Play, Nature and Art Therapy; Trauma-Informed Practices; Crisis Prevention and Care; YogaCalm; and Collaborative Problem Solving.
I create a safe, non-judgmental space for children/adolescents/young adults and their families through deep listening and observation, forming an authentic, trusting, compassionate relationship where understanding and healing can begin by processing difficult experiences, thoughts, or behaviors. I take a whole-brain, whole-body approach to customize a treatment plan for each client, building upon their strengths and unique gifts. Utilizing Play, Art, Nature and Book Therapy, as well as YogaCalm and Collaborative Problem Solving, my goal is to have a calm, grounded client that finds joy and can set goals to pursue their dreams.
(971) 233-6263 View (971) 233-6263
Photo of Audrey McReynolds, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Audrey McReynolds
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223
I use the research proven methods of Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples, Child-Centered Play Therapy for children, and CPRT with parents.
Life is stressful often in ways we do not expect. Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or disconnected is common and can negatively impact our well-being and relationships. Sometimes we get stuck in unhealthy cycles of interaction or ways of coping. Other times, life transitions or changes seem daunting. Or maybe you are just longing to feel connected and be known. Whatever you are going through, know you're not alone and there is hope! People may get hurt through relationships, but they also can heal through them. We are meant for connection, change, and growth.
I use the research proven methods of Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples, Child-Centered Play Therapy for children, and CPRT with parents.
Life is stressful often in ways we do not expect. Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or disconnected is common and can negatively impact our well-being and relationships. Sometimes we get stuck in unhealthy cycles of interaction or ways of coping. Other times, life transitions or changes seem daunting. Or maybe you are just longing to feel connected and be known. Whatever you are going through, know you're not alone and there is hope! People may get hurt through relationships, but they also can heal through them. We are meant for connection, change, and growth.
(503) 386-0672 View (503) 386-0672
Photo of Breanna Munsell, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Breanna Munsell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forest Grove, OR 97116
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Play Therapist certified in CBT, TBRI, DBT, Theraplay, and have post-graduate certificates in Therapy with Adoptive and Foster Families and Infant-Toddler Mental Health, as well as training in TF-EMDR I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and Certified Grief Informed Professional.
Welcome to a safe space where your journey towards mental and emotional well-being begins. As a dedicated mental health therapist, my primary focus is on fostering empathy and establishing a profound connection with each individual who walks through my door. Your unique experiences and struggles matter, and together, we will navigate the path to healing, growth, and resilience. Together, we'll navigate life's challenges, foster resilience, and unlock your full potential. Let's embark on this transformative path to healing and growth.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Play Therapist certified in CBT, TBRI, DBT, Theraplay, and have post-graduate certificates in Therapy with Adoptive and Foster Families and Infant-Toddler Mental Health, as well as training in TF-EMDR I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and Certified Grief Informed Professional.
Welcome to a safe space where your journey towards mental and emotional well-being begins. As a dedicated mental health therapist, my primary focus is on fostering empathy and establishing a profound connection with each individual who walks through my door. Your unique experiences and struggles matter, and together, we will navigate the path to healing, growth, and resilience. Together, we'll navigate life's challenges, foster resilience, and unlock your full potential. Let's embark on this transformative path to healing and growth.
(458) 209-2652 View (458) 209-2652
Photo of Brandalyn Sprinkle, LCSW, MSW, RPT™, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brandalyn Sprinkle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, RPT™
Verified Verified
Hillsboro, OR 97124
I am a Registered Play Therapist through the Association for Play Therapy.
I work with clients across the lifespan and provide parent consultations when working with children/adolescents. I provide support for anxiety, behavioral challenges, depression, family conflict, grief and loss, life transitions, peer relationships, school issues, and trauma. I believe the therapeutic relationship is the foundation for any work we will do together. When you feel safe within the therapeutic relationship, that is when real healing or progress can occur. I work with individuals and family systems from a relational-cultural perspective and with a trauma-informed lens.
I am a Registered Play Therapist through the Association for Play Therapy.
I work with clients across the lifespan and provide parent consultations when working with children/adolescents. I provide support for anxiety, behavioral challenges, depression, family conflict, grief and loss, life transitions, peer relationships, school issues, and trauma. I believe the therapeutic relationship is the foundation for any work we will do together. When you feel safe within the therapeutic relationship, that is when real healing or progress can occur. I work with individuals and family systems from a relational-cultural perspective and with a trauma-informed lens.
(503) 272-6213 View (503) 272-6213
Photo of Amber Nascimento, NCC, QMHP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Amber Nascimento
Pre-Licensed Professional, NCC, QMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eugene, OR 97405
I know firsthand that life can feel unbearable and that some obstacles appear too much to overcome. I’ve witnessed these obstacles become climbing blocks as one walks towards healing. I find value in and employ a variety of healing tools to guide you along the way of your healing journey. Yet, some of my favorites remain Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Visualization Expansion, Art Therapy, Somatic Therapy and Psychodynamic Therapy. I am also trained in Play Therapy and Sand Tray Therapy, employing a variety of tools as needed along the healing path.
I know firsthand that life can feel unbearable and that some obstacles appear too much to overcome. I’ve witnessed these obstacles become climbing blocks as one walks towards healing. I find value in and employ a variety of healing tools to guide you along the way of your healing journey. Yet, some of my favorites remain Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Visualization Expansion, Art Therapy, Somatic Therapy and Psychodynamic Therapy. I am also trained in Play Therapy and Sand Tray Therapy, employing a variety of tools as needed along the healing path.
(541) 972-3231 View (541) 972-3231
Photo of Dr. Marcia Zumbahlen, PhD, IMHS, Psychologist
Dr. Marcia Zumbahlen
Psychologist, PhD, IMHS
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
I use a relationship-based play therapy model (e.
I specialize in neuro-development, with a particular focus on autism and associated conditions (e.g., sensory processing difficulties, ADHD, Nonverbal Learning Disorder, Social Pragmatic Communication Disorder). My training in Developmental Psychology, Infant Mental Health, and Clinical Neuropsychology, and my 30+ years experience, have taught me to put parents first, intervene early, and collaborate with medical doctors, developmental therapists, and schools for the strongest outcomes in these conditions.
I use a relationship-based play therapy model (e.
I specialize in neuro-development, with a particular focus on autism and associated conditions (e.g., sensory processing difficulties, ADHD, Nonverbal Learning Disorder, Social Pragmatic Communication Disorder). My training in Developmental Psychology, Infant Mental Health, and Clinical Neuropsychology, and my 30+ years experience, have taught me to put parents first, intervene early, and collaborate with medical doctors, developmental therapists, and schools for the strongest outcomes in these conditions.
(503) 483-8658 View (503) 483-8658
Photo of Margaret Jelinski, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Margaret Jelinski
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
Through a trauma-informed lens, my hope is to bring compassion, warmth, and play to therapy that will inspire joy and healing in your life’s journey.
If you have experienced difficult situations through church or religion that led to confusion, hurt, or disillusionment, I would be honored to work with you through these challenges. I believe therapy is a powerful space to explore challenges, inspire hope, play, and foster healing. I value the use of your stories, strengths, and mindfulness to support you in feeling more connected to all the parts of yourself.
Through a trauma-informed lens, my hope is to bring compassion, warmth, and play to therapy that will inspire joy and healing in your life’s journey.
If you have experienced difficult situations through church or religion that led to confusion, hurt, or disillusionment, I would be honored to work with you through these challenges. I believe therapy is a powerful space to explore challenges, inspire hope, play, and foster healing. I value the use of your stories, strengths, and mindfulness to support you in feeling more connected to all the parts of yourself.
View
Photo of Carrie Ouverson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carrie Ouverson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97005
I use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Play Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and attachment-based approaches to help families create meaningful change.
An ideal client for me is a young person, ranging from age 5 through young adulthood, who is experiencing challenges such as ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), anxiety, depression, or PTSD. I work best with families who are committed to the therapeutic process and open to making changes together, recognizing that growth is most effective when it involves the whole family. Whether we are focusing on individual therapy, parent coaching, or family therapy to address relational concerns or conflicts, I believe in a collaborative approach where all voices are heard, and everyone plays a role in creating lasting change.
I use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Play Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and attachment-based approaches to help families create meaningful change.
An ideal client for me is a young person, ranging from age 5 through young adulthood, who is experiencing challenges such as ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), anxiety, depression, or PTSD. I work best with families who are committed to the therapeutic process and open to making changes together, recognizing that growth is most effective when it involves the whole family. Whether we are focusing on individual therapy, parent coaching, or family therapy to address relational concerns or conflicts, I believe in a collaborative approach where all voices are heard, and everyone plays a role in creating lasting change.
(971) 443-1033 View (971) 443-1033
Photo of Dani Drake, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Dani Drake
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Gresham, OR 97030
I specialize in LGBTQI2S and Trans/Nonbinary children and parents; However, I work with people of all genders and sexualities using a mix of talk therapy and play therapy with family systems interventions.
I am honored to work with adolescents and their families. The years from 11-18 are a time of big changes and big questions. Everyone struggles during this developmental phase, but some of us need extra care during this time in order to arrive at adulthood ready to thrive. Parental participation in treatment with me is essential, and I tend to be the best fit for parents wanting to be closer to their child, parents who want to work with their child to heal, or parents who feel they just don't know how to help.
I specialize in LGBTQI2S and Trans/Nonbinary children and parents; However, I work with people of all genders and sexualities using a mix of talk therapy and play therapy with family systems interventions.
I am honored to work with adolescents and their families. The years from 11-18 are a time of big changes and big questions. Everyone struggles during this developmental phase, but some of us need extra care during this time in order to arrive at adulthood ready to thrive. Parental participation in treatment with me is essential, and I tend to be the best fit for parents wanting to be closer to their child, parents who want to work with their child to heal, or parents who feel they just don't know how to help.
(503) 850-0231 View (503) 850-0231
Photo of Jessica Lynn Mendies, MA, LPC
Jessica Lynn Mendies
MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hillsboro, OR 97124
Play therapy allows children to process their world through self-directed play in a safe, emotionally validating environment.
Life circumstances can easily become overwhelming and scary for children as well as adults in the world we live in. Children may not have the relational experience or emotional skills needed to heal and begin to thrive. We adults find ourselves there at times as well, in need of support, new skills and character development in order to be the best versions of ourselves during challenging times. I'm passionate about helping you achieve more balance and growth.
Play therapy allows children to process their world through self-directed play in a safe, emotionally validating environment.
Life circumstances can easily become overwhelming and scary for children as well as adults in the world we live in. Children may not have the relational experience or emotional skills needed to heal and begin to thrive. We adults find ourselves there at times as well, in need of support, new skills and character development in order to be the best versions of ourselves during challenging times. I'm passionate about helping you achieve more balance and growth.
(971) 287-7395 View (971) 287-7395
Photo of Cherie Skillings - Hummingbird Heart Counseling, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hummingbird Heart Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97701
Cherie Skillings Counseling Services is DBA Hummingbird Heart Counseling INC. I have 10+ years experience working with adults and children who’ve experienced early childhood trauma. I use an attachment focus understanding that trauma in the early years has a life-long impact on health and well-being. Experience and training include play therapy, parent-child interaction therapy, family therapy, and one on one counseling. I use a cognitive behavioral approach, EMDR, motivational interviewing and therapeutic techniques to promote healing and progress towards client driven goals. I have Associate Counselors in my practice with openings
Cherie Skillings Counseling Services is DBA Hummingbird Heart Counseling INC. I have 10+ years experience working with adults and children who’ve experienced early childhood trauma. I use an attachment focus understanding that trauma in the early years has a life-long impact on health and well-being. Experience and training include play therapy, parent-child interaction therapy, family therapy, and one on one counseling. I use a cognitive behavioral approach, EMDR, motivational interviewing and therapeutic techniques to promote healing and progress towards client driven goals. I have Associate Counselors in my practice with openings
(541) 236-9146 View (541) 236-9146
Photo of Michelle Ficalora, MSW, CSWA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Michelle Ficalora
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, CSWA
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97008
Hi there! I’m Michelle Ficalora, and I’m a mental health clinician intern here at Positive Inner Self, working towards becoming a LCSW. I’m currently a Clinical Social Work Associate. My pronouns are she/they, and I am trauma-informed and LGBTQIA+ allied. I specialize in working with clients of all ages, helping to address both the symptoms and root causes of your stressors in individual or group sessions. I’ll help guide you on the way to reaching your goals, using humor, play, and light physical engagement to keep things moving.
Hi there! I’m Michelle Ficalora, and I’m a mental health clinician intern here at Positive Inner Self, working towards becoming a LCSW. I’m currently a Clinical Social Work Associate. My pronouns are she/they, and I am trauma-informed and LGBTQIA+ allied. I specialize in working with clients of all ages, helping to address both the symptoms and root causes of your stressors in individual or group sessions. I’ll help guide you on the way to reaching your goals, using humor, play, and light physical engagement to keep things moving.
(971) 251-2355 View (971) 251-2355
1
...
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.