Play Therapy in Doylestown, PA

Photo of Alison Embow, Licensed Professional Counselor in Doylestown, PA
Alison Embow
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Doylestown, PA 18902
I use an evidence-based method, Child Centered Play Therapy, to address root causes of behavioral expressions.
Tired of sticker charts and reward systems? Uncomfortable with time-outs? Want to enhance the relationship you have with your child? At Wise Heart Therapy LLC, we believe in the transformative power of play. My goal is to provide a safe and nurturing environment where clients can explore their emotions, build resilience, and develop the skills they need to thrive. I work closely with parents to build their understanding of their child and respond in a manner that meets behavioral goals while strengthening relationships. I am committed to helping each child reach their full potential and live a happy, healthy life.
I use an evidence-based method, Child Centered Play Therapy, to address root causes of behavioral expressions.
Tired of sticker charts and reward systems? Uncomfortable with time-outs? Want to enhance the relationship you have with your child? At Wise Heart Therapy LLC, we believe in the transformative power of play. My goal is to provide a safe and nurturing environment where clients can explore their emotions, build resilience, and develop the skills they need to thrive. I work closely with parents to build their understanding of their child and respond in a manner that meets behavioral goals while strengthening relationships. I am committed to helping each child reach their full potential and live a happy, healthy life.
(267) 450-2653 View (267) 450-2653
Photo of Diane G Roberts, Marriage & Family Therapist in Doylestown, PA
Diane G Roberts
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Doylestown, PA 18901
Through the use of play, I will be able to help your family deal with behavioral issues, trauma and family development.
I have been working with young students and their families for over 30 years. Throughout this time I have gained a great deal of insight into the significance the family plays in the development of each child. Today's families are often experiencing a great deal of stress. In many cases parents are caught between raising their children while caring for their parents. Communication is the essential glue that holds our families together. In my office I offer a warm and caring environment to foster family growth and healthy family dynamics.
Through the use of play, I will be able to help your family deal with behavioral issues, trauma and family development.
I have been working with young students and their families for over 30 years. Throughout this time I have gained a great deal of insight into the significance the family plays in the development of each child. Today's families are often experiencing a great deal of stress. In many cases parents are caught between raising their children while caring for their parents. Communication is the essential glue that holds our families together. In my office I offer a warm and caring environment to foster family growth and healthy family dynamics.
(215) 631-3241 View (215) 631-3241
Photo of Valerie D'Alonzo in Doylestown, PA
Valerie D'Alonzo
MA
Verified Verified
Doylestown, PA 18901
She takes a holistic approach to working with each individual, using a combination of cognitive, behavioral, solution focused, and play based therapy techniques.
Valerie has a Master’s Degree in Counseling from The College of New Jersey. She has also completed post Master’s coursework in Marriage and Family Therapy and Learning, Cognition and Development at both The College of New Jersey and Rutgers University. Valerie has worked as a school counselor with experience in middle and high school settings. Most recently, Valerie has been working as a clinical counselor with children, adolescents, and young adults ages 8-25.
She takes a holistic approach to working with each individual, using a combination of cognitive, behavioral, solution focused, and play based therapy techniques.
Valerie has a Master’s Degree in Counseling from The College of New Jersey. She has also completed post Master’s coursework in Marriage and Family Therapy and Learning, Cognition and Development at both The College of New Jersey and Rutgers University. Valerie has worked as a school counselor with experience in middle and high school settings. Most recently, Valerie has been working as a clinical counselor with children, adolescents, and young adults ages 8-25.
(215) 710-0682 View (215) 710-0682
Photo of Nashely Rodriguez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Doylestown, PA
Nashely Rodriguez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Doylestown, PA 18901
Does your child or adolescent struggle to express or manage their emotions? Are you concerned about your child's self-esteem or social skills? Has your child or teen experienced grief, loss, or trauma? Are you concerned your child or teen is depressed or anxious? Through the power of play, I strive to create a safe environment where children can freely express themselves, learn coping skills, and process emotions, as traditional “talk therapy” generally doesn’t work well with children because kiddos process their experiences differently than adults.
Does your child or adolescent struggle to express or manage their emotions? Are you concerned about your child's self-esteem or social skills? Has your child or teen experienced grief, loss, or trauma? Are you concerned your child or teen is depressed or anxious? Through the power of play, I strive to create a safe environment where children can freely express themselves, learn coping skills, and process emotions, as traditional “talk therapy” generally doesn’t work well with children because kiddos process their experiences differently than adults.
(484) 663-5438 View (484) 663-5438
Photo of Dr. Joanne M. Kling in Doylestown, PA
Dr. Joanne M. Kling
EdD , LBS
Verified Verified
Doylestown, PA 18901
Hi! I'm Dr. Joanne and I work with children and adults in a warm and caring environment. I help individuals who who are experiencing the effects of stress and anxiety as well as life transitions. In my work with children, I incorporate play therapy techniques and behavior interventions. In my work with adults, I provide a warm and caring environment for individuals to express their feelings while giving them the tools they need to live their best life.
Hi! I'm Dr. Joanne and I work with children and adults in a warm and caring environment. I help individuals who who are experiencing the effects of stress and anxiety as well as life transitions. In my work with children, I incorporate play therapy techniques and behavior interventions. In my work with adults, I provide a warm and caring environment for individuals to express their feelings while giving them the tools they need to live their best life.
(267) 369-6751 View (267) 369-6751
Photo of Courtney Nolan, Pre-Licensed Professional in Doylestown, PA
Courtney Nolan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Doylestown, PA 18901
Courtney has a Dual Masters Degree in Counseling from Gwynedd Mercy University. She also completed post Master's coursework in Executive Functioning, Cognition and Development. Courtney has worked as a school counselor since 2011 with experience in elementary, middle and high school settings. Most recently, Courtney has been working as a clinical counselor with children, adolescents and young adults ages 5-25. Courtney is skilled at working with clients to develop solution focused goals. She takes a holistic approach using a combination of cognitive, behavioral, dialectical, attachment theory and play based therapy techniques.
Courtney has a Dual Masters Degree in Counseling from Gwynedd Mercy University. She also completed post Master's coursework in Executive Functioning, Cognition and Development. Courtney has worked as a school counselor since 2011 with experience in elementary, middle and high school settings. Most recently, Courtney has been working as a clinical counselor with children, adolescents and young adults ages 5-25. Courtney is skilled at working with clients to develop solution focused goals. She takes a holistic approach using a combination of cognitive, behavioral, dialectical, attachment theory and play based therapy techniques.
(267) 789-8157 View (267) 789-8157
Photo of Kim Bonvino, Licensed Professional Counselor in Doylestown, PA
Kim Bonvino
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Doylestown, PA 18901
I am passionate about working with children ages 2-12 and their parents. I work with kids using play therapy. In the play therapy room, children use toys to communicate what they have trouble saying in words; toys are the child’s words, and play is their language. Given the opportunity, environment, and relationship with a trained play therapist, children can overcome their struggles at home, school, etc. I work with children who are struggling with anxiety, depression, adhd, autism spectrum disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, academic challenges, anger management, mood instabilities, and obsessive compulsive disorder.
I am passionate about working with children ages 2-12 and their parents. I work with kids using play therapy. In the play therapy room, children use toys to communicate what they have trouble saying in words; toys are the child’s words, and play is their language. Given the opportunity, environment, and relationship with a trained play therapist, children can overcome their struggles at home, school, etc. I work with children who are struggling with anxiety, depression, adhd, autism spectrum disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, academic challenges, anger management, mood instabilities, and obsessive compulsive disorder.
(267) 633-8043 View (267) 633-8043
Photo of Donna M. Kane, Licensed Professional Counselor in Doylestown, PA
Donna M. Kane
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Doylestown, PA 18902
I have a true passion for working with adults and adolescents who are suffering from an inability to form healthy relationships with their loved ones. My office offers a warm setting for people of all ages to feel safe and explore their "child within". I use play and art therapy as well as evidenced based techniques to empower parents and help them to connect with their child and unlock their full potential. I love helping families grow with healthy coping skills. I also truly enjoy working with adults to explore their own past and how it affects their relationships today.
I have a true passion for working with adults and adolescents who are suffering from an inability to form healthy relationships with their loved ones. My office offers a warm setting for people of all ages to feel safe and explore their "child within". I use play and art therapy as well as evidenced based techniques to empower parents and help them to connect with their child and unlock their full potential. I love helping families grow with healthy coping skills. I also truly enjoy working with adults to explore their own past and how it affects their relationships today.
(215) 874-5600 View (215) 874-5600
Photo of Kimberly A. Gilles, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Doylestown, PA
Kimberly A. Gilles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Doylestown, PA 18902
You will believe in the " Power of Play" when you see the healing that occurs.
Welcome to my practice! I currently have a wait list of 3 months.I work with children from 5 years old to the dear elderly population. I have a specialty in Play Therapy and I am only one of a few Registered Play Therapists in Bucks County. I hold an MSW degree, and have a graduate certificate from Temple University in Play Therapy.Play Therapy can help with behavioral issues, abuse, social skills, school issues, phobias, abandonment, grief, trauma, divorce, crisis, self injurious behaviors, low self-esteem, anxiety, trauma, depression and grief just to mention a few areas.
You will believe in the " Power of Play" when you see the healing that occurs.
Welcome to my practice! I currently have a wait list of 3 months.I work with children from 5 years old to the dear elderly population. I have a specialty in Play Therapy and I am only one of a few Registered Play Therapists in Bucks County. I hold an MSW degree, and have a graduate certificate from Temple University in Play Therapy.Play Therapy can help with behavioral issues, abuse, social skills, school issues, phobias, abandonment, grief, trauma, divorce, crisis, self injurious behaviors, low self-esteem, anxiety, trauma, depression and grief just to mention a few areas.
(215) 337-2063 View (215) 337-2063
Photo of Faye Lovrinic, Psychologist in Doylestown, PA
Faye Lovrinic
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Doylestown, PA 18901
My training includes dialectical behavior therapy, cognitive behavioral, interpersonal, and child play modalities.
I view each child, teen, young adult, and family as unique. That uniqueness is why I draw from different therapy modalities to support emotional well-being. Anxiety and depression often stem from complicated interpersonal relationships, lack of self-confidence, and feeling unable to control events in our lives. Our joint effort can help you attain the freedom to make positive choices in your life. I bring clinical experience offered in a genuine, nonjudgmental, confidential atmosphere. Drawing from cognitive behavior approaches, insight therapy, and mindfulness practice, my goal is to provide tools to help you in improving your state of mind.
My training includes dialectical behavior therapy, cognitive behavioral, interpersonal, and child play modalities.
I view each child, teen, young adult, and family as unique. That uniqueness is why I draw from different therapy modalities to support emotional well-being. Anxiety and depression often stem from complicated interpersonal relationships, lack of self-confidence, and feeling unable to control events in our lives. Our joint effort can help you attain the freedom to make positive choices in your life. I bring clinical experience offered in a genuine, nonjudgmental, confidential atmosphere. Drawing from cognitive behavior approaches, insight therapy, and mindfulness practice, my goal is to provide tools to help you in improving your state of mind.
(215) 437-0431 View (215) 437-0431
Photo of Krista McDemus, Counselor in Doylestown, PA
Krista McDemus
Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Doylestown, PA 18901
Update 4/2024: Specializing in female clients. Are you experiencing high amounts of stress coupled with low amounts of support? Do you catch yourself engaging in negative self-talk or feeling discouraged and overwhelmed? I can help you develop tools to manage anxiety, depression and improve your relationships. As a trauma-informed therapist, I utilize my experience to help my clients understand and process trauma to build resilience.
Update 4/2024: Specializing in female clients. Are you experiencing high amounts of stress coupled with low amounts of support? Do you catch yourself engaging in negative self-talk or feeling discouraged and overwhelmed? I can help you develop tools to manage anxiety, depression and improve your relationships. As a trauma-informed therapist, I utilize my experience to help my clients understand and process trauma to build resilience.
(267) 263-7146 View (267) 263-7146
Photo of Emily M. Easterling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Doylestown, PA
Emily M. Easterling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Doylestown, PA 18901  (Online Only)
Establishing a trusting relationship and environment that is warm and supportive where clients feel safe and motivated to engage in their therapeutic journey is my essential goal. My approach to therapy is formulated by the uniqueness of the person along with the uniqueness of the environmental and familial systems within which they have developed. Over the past 23 years I have worked with individuals, groups, families, and couples and have treated several mental and emotional health issues. Some of these issues include: Depression, Anxiety, Grief, ADHD, Self-Esteem, Life Transitions, Relationship/Family, and Attachment.
Establishing a trusting relationship and environment that is warm and supportive where clients feel safe and motivated to engage in their therapeutic journey is my essential goal. My approach to therapy is formulated by the uniqueness of the person along with the uniqueness of the environmental and familial systems within which they have developed. Over the past 23 years I have worked with individuals, groups, families, and couples and have treated several mental and emotional health issues. Some of these issues include: Depression, Anxiety, Grief, ADHD, Self-Esteem, Life Transitions, Relationship/Family, and Attachment.
(267) 800-2918 View (267) 800-2918
Photo of Jacob Warner, Marriage & Family Therapist in Doylestown, PA
Jacob Warner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Doylestown, PA 18902
Reaching out to find help can be a difficult & stressful process. It is my goal to try & make that process as easy & comfortable as possible. I work with children, adolescents & adults in three types of sessions (Individual, Couple & Family). I specialize in helping children/teens during transitional periods of development & the impact on the family. This most often presents as anxiety, depression & relationship conflict. When working with couples, I utilizes different techniques to help work through conflicts & create more clear communication. Family sessions address a variety of issues within the family.
Reaching out to find help can be a difficult & stressful process. It is my goal to try & make that process as easy & comfortable as possible. I work with children, adolescents & adults in three types of sessions (Individual, Couple & Family). I specialize in helping children/teens during transitional periods of development & the impact on the family. This most often presents as anxiety, depression & relationship conflict. When working with couples, I utilizes different techniques to help work through conflicts & create more clear communication. Family sessions address a variety of issues within the family.
(267) 214-2502 View (267) 214-2502
Photo of Dina Ricciardi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Doylestown, PA
Dina Ricciardi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Doylestown, PA 18901
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling overwhelmed by day-to-day challenges? Is your child struggling? All too often, we feel that things about our life are unmanageable. Welcome to my practice, where I offer a safe and supportive environment for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and relationships. Whether you are facing anxiety, depression, difficulties with your relationship with food, or other concerns, there is always hope. I can help you understand what lies beneath your struggles, who you truly are, and how to be the best version of yourself.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by day-to-day challenges? Is your child struggling? All too often, we feel that things about our life are unmanageable. Welcome to my practice, where I offer a safe and supportive environment for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and relationships. Whether you are facing anxiety, depression, difficulties with your relationship with food, or other concerns, there is always hope. I can help you understand what lies beneath your struggles, who you truly are, and how to be the best version of yourself.
(215) 478-6835 View (215) 478-6835
Photo of Rachel Elizabeth Zawisza, Licensed Professional Counselor in Doylestown, PA
Rachel Elizabeth Zawisza
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Doylestown, PA 18901
Waitlist for new clients
Anxiety, depression, grief, & stress are just some of the issues that people are facing today. As a school counselor for nearly a decade, I have experiences with new trends and treatments to help overcome these obstacles so you do not become consumed by them.
Anxiety, depression, grief, & stress are just some of the issues that people are facing today. As a school counselor for nearly a decade, I have experiences with new trends and treatments to help overcome these obstacles so you do not become consumed by them.
(215) 607-2151 View (215) 607-2151
Photo of Corinne DiSalvo, Marriage & Family Therapist in Doylestown, PA
Corinne DiSalvo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Doylestown, PA 18902
I am an individual and marriage and family therapist that is licensed to work with couples, adults, children, and adolescents. I have experience working with adults and children individually as well as in couples or family sessions. Therapy is the setting to help build upon your strengths in order to have long-term stress management and sustainable change. I am also able to provide supervision to individuals working towards a degree in Marriage and Family therapy or working towards their license.
I am an individual and marriage and family therapist that is licensed to work with couples, adults, children, and adolescents. I have experience working with adults and children individually as well as in couples or family sessions. Therapy is the setting to help build upon your strengths in order to have long-term stress management and sustainable change. I am also able to provide supervision to individuals working towards a degree in Marriage and Family therapy or working towards their license.
(267) 443-1434 View (267) 443-1434
Photo of Alyssa Mawson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Doylestown, PA
Alyssa Mawson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Doylestown, PA 18901
The family is the foundation upon which we develop our understanding of how to interact and form relationships with people. The family is where we develop our first understanding of how to deal with various emotions such as anger, love, happiness, and sadness. It is also where we learn to manage conflict. I believe in taking the strengths and values that already exist within a family and using them to enhance family relationships and Inspire its members to live a healthier and happier life.
The family is the foundation upon which we develop our understanding of how to interact and form relationships with people. The family is where we develop our first understanding of how to deal with various emotions such as anger, love, happiness, and sadness. It is also where we learn to manage conflict. I believe in taking the strengths and values that already exist within a family and using them to enhance family relationships and Inspire its members to live a healthier and happier life.
(267) 433-5086 View (267) 433-5086
Photo of Melissa N Speranger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Doylestown, PA
Melissa N Speranger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Doylestown, PA 18901
I am a child therapist who works to empower children and families to make changes to reach their goals. I am uniquely qualified to work with children as young as 2 years old and utilize a variety of techniques to understand family dynamics and embrace each child's unique personality. My office is a safe and relaxing place to help you and your child feel comfortable. I want to help you help your child with clear guidance, reassurance, and practical steps. I address behavioral issues, anxiety, difficult transitions, enhance self-esteem, develop social skills, and utilize coping techniques and mindfulness to allow for growth.
I am a child therapist who works to empower children and families to make changes to reach their goals. I am uniquely qualified to work with children as young as 2 years old and utilize a variety of techniques to understand family dynamics and embrace each child's unique personality. My office is a safe and relaxing place to help you and your child feel comfortable. I want to help you help your child with clear guidance, reassurance, and practical steps. I address behavioral issues, anxiety, difficult transitions, enhance self-esteem, develop social skills, and utilize coping techniques and mindfulness to allow for growth.
(267) 245-6481 View (267) 245-6481
Photo of Fawn Moyer, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Doylestown, PA
Fawn Moyer, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, C-DBT, MS, NCC, CCPT
Verified Verified
Doylestown, PA 18901
Shame dies when stories are told in safe places. Your story matters. Experiencing trauma can make us feel alone, ashamed, & burdened with self-doubt. When you take the brave step toward therapy and healing, you no longer have to do that alone. I work to hold a safe space so that each person who comes to me is able to openly share their story while learning how to access the tools to heal all wounds that they carry. I use Internal Family Systems as an approach to work on the root of pain and to help clients heal. I am certified in DBT therapy to help individuals regulate their emotions and build skills to navigate relationships.
Shame dies when stories are told in safe places. Your story matters. Experiencing trauma can make us feel alone, ashamed, & burdened with self-doubt. When you take the brave step toward therapy and healing, you no longer have to do that alone. I work to hold a safe space so that each person who comes to me is able to openly share their story while learning how to access the tools to heal all wounds that they carry. I use Internal Family Systems as an approach to work on the root of pain and to help clients heal. I am certified in DBT therapy to help individuals regulate their emotions and build skills to navigate relationships.
(484) 663-5469 View (484) 663-5469
Photo of Shannon Minnick, Licensed Professional Counselor in Doylestown, PA
Shannon Minnick
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Doylestown, PA 18901
Over the past 19 years, I have worked with hundreds of adolescents in area community mental health agencies and as a visiting school counselor, and am now offering services privately, specializing in young adults, adolescents, parenting, & women's issues. I help with issues like stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, parent-child relationships, peer issues, and self-esteem. I treat all of my clients with positive regard, warmth, and kindness. My approach is strengths based and holistic, incorporating evidenced based interventions. I want you to feel free and safe to talk about whatever you would like to in my office.
Over the past 19 years, I have worked with hundreds of adolescents in area community mental health agencies and as a visiting school counselor, and am now offering services privately, specializing in young adults, adolescents, parenting, & women's issues. I help with issues like stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, parent-child relationships, peer issues, and self-esteem. I treat all of my clients with positive regard, warmth, and kindness. My approach is strengths based and holistic, incorporating evidenced based interventions. I want you to feel free and safe to talk about whatever you would like to in my office.
(215) 608-6227 View (215) 608-6227
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.