Photo of Jill Vetstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 01760, MA
Jill Vetstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CEIS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Natick, MA 01760
I also work with toddlers to age 11 and I combine play therapy with mind/body approaches.
I work with children, adults and parents. When working with adults, I take an integrative approach where I combine several traditional mental health therapies with energy psychology, somatic healing, oracle cards and Reiki. I work with adults around sadness, stress, trauma and healing old wounds. I help adults discover where their patterns and blocks come from and help them shift and heal so they can live a happier, more authentic life. The integration of the energy psychology, mind body approaches and Reiki moves the needle so much more than talk therapy alone. I consider myself spiritually friendly and welcome all.
I also work with toddlers to age 11 and I combine play therapy with mind/body approaches.
I work with children, adults and parents. When working with adults, I take an integrative approach where I combine several traditional mental health therapies with energy psychology, somatic healing, oracle cards and Reiki. I work with adults around sadness, stress, trauma and healing old wounds. I help adults discover where their patterns and blocks come from and help them shift and heal so they can live a happier, more authentic life. The integration of the energy psychology, mind body approaches and Reiki moves the needle so much more than talk therapy alone. I consider myself spiritually friendly and welcome all.
(508) 544-0212 View (508) 544-0212
Photo of Sophie Rosen, Pre-Licensed Professional in 01760, MA
Sophie Rosen
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Natick, MA 01760
With children or teens, we may play or use art to help process painful subjects or history in a personal, expressive way.
Generation Z is growing up in a world full of stress and uncertainty, from peer relationships to social media to academics. I work with kids, teens and young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, learning problems, neurodivergence, identity issues and more. They may have experienced trauma, family conflict or any other number of difficulties. I see it as my job to help my clients enjoy therapy, so our sessions are tailored to the client's needs and preferences. Our work helps the client take gains built in therapy back into their family, their school or their relationships.
With children or teens, we may play or use art to help process painful subjects or history in a personal, expressive way.
Generation Z is growing up in a world full of stress and uncertainty, from peer relationships to social media to academics. I work with kids, teens and young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, learning problems, neurodivergence, identity issues and more. They may have experienced trauma, family conflict or any other number of difficulties. I see it as my job to help my clients enjoy therapy, so our sessions are tailored to the client's needs and preferences. Our work helps the client take gains built in therapy back into their family, their school or their relationships.
(508) 978-2284 x900 View (508) 978-2284 x900
Photo of Rita Vatcher, Counselor in 01760, MA
Rita Vatcher
Counselor, LMHC, MCCS, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Natick, MA 01760
Waitlist for new clients
My goal as a play therapist is to help kids and their families build resilience.
I love to work with kids and adolescents and their families. I believe people don't have "problems" but rather "challenges" they learn to move through or re-frame. Together we learn new ways of doing things; new ways of looking at things; find a new path of our own choosing that feels better than the one we were on; relate to ourselves and others in a healthier way; learn to smile and laugh more; find the things we are good at doing; make a contribution; stress less; be who we are meant to be, and love who we are as a person!
My goal as a play therapist is to help kids and their families build resilience.
I love to work with kids and adolescents and their families. I believe people don't have "problems" but rather "challenges" they learn to move through or re-frame. Together we learn new ways of doing things; new ways of looking at things; find a new path of our own choosing that feels better than the one we were on; relate to ourselves and others in a healthier way; learn to smile and laugh more; find the things we are good at doing; make a contribution; stress less; be who we are meant to be, and love who we are as a person!
(508) 471-3442 View (508) 471-3442
Photo of Ann Fernandes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 01760, MA
Ann Fernandes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CEIS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Natick, MA 01760
Finding the right play therapist can make all the difference. I invite you to read on and decide whether you are ready to take that next step and call. I feel passionately about helping parents and young children (0-8 years old) to build strong relationships by learning and growing together. The relationships formed in the early years of life are very important and create the the foundation for social-emotional growth. Play Therapy is a way of being with and helping a child that honors and supports their developmental level through speaking their language, play.
Finding the right play therapist can make all the difference. I invite you to read on and decide whether you are ready to take that next step and call. I feel passionately about helping parents and young children (0-8 years old) to build strong relationships by learning and growing together. The relationships formed in the early years of life are very important and create the the foundation for social-emotional growth. Play Therapy is a way of being with and helping a child that honors and supports their developmental level through speaking their language, play.
(508) 507-2219 x1 View (508) 507-2219 x1
Photo of Molly Weinberg, Counselor in 01760, MA
Molly Weinberg
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, RDT
Verified Verified
Natick, MA 01760
Life is inherently uncertain, and with that can come challenges. You're not alone in navigating those challenges and I am here to help support you along the way. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, National Certified Counselor, and Registered Drama Therapist. Drama Therapy is an embodied modality that uses your story, the roles you play in your life, and metaphor to help process topics beyond just talking about them. I work with clients looking to receive support surrounding anxiety, depression, OCD, relationship/dating challenges, life transitions, work or school issues, illness, family issues, and other life stressors.
Life is inherently uncertain, and with that can come challenges. You're not alone in navigating those challenges and I am here to help support you along the way. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, National Certified Counselor, and Registered Drama Therapist. Drama Therapy is an embodied modality that uses your story, the roles you play in your life, and metaphor to help process topics beyond just talking about them. I work with clients looking to receive support surrounding anxiety, depression, OCD, relationship/dating challenges, life transitions, work or school issues, illness, family issues, and other life stressors.
(774) 214-2346 View (774) 214-2346
Pam Cantor
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Natick, MA 01760
I have devoted my professional life to making the lives of my patients and their parents healthier and happier. I wrote a syndicated column on parenting for The Los Angeles Times, appeared on hundreds of television and radio shows to impart mental health information and lectured extensively. However, what makes me so successful in changing lives and keeping kids safe, is not simply education and experience, it is genuine connection, involvement and care. Above all, my heart lies in helping young people and their parents, one person at a time.
I have devoted my professional life to making the lives of my patients and their parents healthier and happier. I wrote a syndicated column on parenting for The Los Angeles Times, appeared on hundreds of television and radio shows to impart mental health information and lectured extensively. However, what makes me so successful in changing lives and keeping kids safe, is not simply education and experience, it is genuine connection, involvement and care. Above all, my heart lies in helping young people and their parents, one person at a time.
(508) 785-4931 View (508) 785-4931
Photo of Jelena Kostadinovic, Pre-Licensed Professional in 01760, MA
Jelena Kostadinovic
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Natick, MA 01760  (Online Only)
I am here to serve as a guide to help you develop the internal resources to confidently build a life of your design. This doesn’t mean getting rid of your unhealed parts but showing them compassion as we move through difficult emotions and memories together. I want to explore what healing looks and feels like to you in this phase of life. Are there changes you want to make or would you just like to confront difficult aspects of your experience in a safe environment?
I am here to serve as a guide to help you develop the internal resources to confidently build a life of your design. This doesn’t mean getting rid of your unhealed parts but showing them compassion as we move through difficult emotions and memories together. I want to explore what healing looks and feels like to you in this phase of life. Are there changes you want to make or would you just like to confront difficult aspects of your experience in a safe environment?
(508) 501-6294 View (508) 501-6294
Photo of Coralanne Hocking, Pre-Licensed Professional in 01760, MA
Coralanne Hocking
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Natick, MA 01760
I believe that everyone's story, identities, and feelings are worthy and important, and my therapeutic work reflects this belief. My clients may be struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, trauma or life transitions. I work with clients of many ages including kids, teens, young adults and families. I value people of all genders and sexualities, and invite LGBTQ+ clients to explore their narratives and identities with curiosity.
I believe that everyone's story, identities, and feelings are worthy and important, and my therapeutic work reflects this belief. My clients may be struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, trauma or life transitions. I work with clients of many ages including kids, teens, young adults and families. I value people of all genders and sexualities, and invite LGBTQ+ clients to explore their narratives and identities with curiosity.
(508) 348-7405 x900 View (508) 348-7405 x900
Photo of Stephen Christopher Nadel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 01760, MA
Stephen Christopher Nadel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, EdD, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Natick, MA 01760  (Online Only)
My practice focuses on people with special needs with a particular specialty in serving people on the Autism Spectrum. I am unique for being someone who has studied the subject at Boston University (Doctorate in Education and Master's in Social Work), having experience working with such clients for 12 years, and having raised a son with autism (many years as a single parent).
My practice focuses on people with special needs with a particular specialty in serving people on the Autism Spectrum. I am unique for being someone who has studied the subject at Boston University (Doctorate in Education and Master's in Social Work), having experience working with such clients for 12 years, and having raised a son with autism (many years as a single parent).
(508) 433-3781 View (508) 433-3781
Photo of Fernanda Alves, Counselor in 01760, MA
Fernanda Alves
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Natick, MA 01760
Welcome! I'm Fernanda Alves a bilingual Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a mission rooted in compassion and a commitment to your well-being. With licenses in both Florida and Massachusetts, I bring over ten yearsof experience in various settings, including outpatient, school, and private practice. My passion lies in helping individuals of all ages - children, adolescents, and adults - overcome mental health challenges. Having navigated my own journey with anxiety and ADHD, I understand the complexities of suffering and the limitations of talk therapy alone.
Welcome! I'm Fernanda Alves a bilingual Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a mission rooted in compassion and a commitment to your well-being. With licenses in both Florida and Massachusetts, I bring over ten yearsof experience in various settings, including outpatient, school, and private practice. My passion lies in helping individuals of all ages - children, adolescents, and adults - overcome mental health challenges. Having navigated my own journey with anxiety and ADHD, I understand the complexities of suffering and the limitations of talk therapy alone.
(508) 719-7536 View (508) 719-7536
Photo of Sara Ginsberg, Counselor in 01760, MA
Sara Ginsberg
Counselor, MS ED, LMHC
Verified Verified
Natick, MA 01760  (Online Only)
Welcome! I build therapeutic relationships with my clients which provide a warm, inviting basis for our work together. Using a blend of behavioral health techniques including person-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, positive psychology and mindfulness and meditation, I incorporate a variety of techniques into my approach. Our sessions together are goal oriented and individually tailored. In addition to working with individuals, I have a practice working with parents to create a comprehensive, collaborative, team based plan that aligns with the needs of your family.
Welcome! I build therapeutic relationships with my clients which provide a warm, inviting basis for our work together. Using a blend of behavioral health techniques including person-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, positive psychology and mindfulness and meditation, I incorporate a variety of techniques into my approach. Our sessions together are goal oriented and individually tailored. In addition to working with individuals, I have a practice working with parents to create a comprehensive, collaborative, team based plan that aligns with the needs of your family.
(508) 960-7608 View (508) 960-7608
Photo of Jennifer McLean, Psychologist in 01760, MA
Jennifer McLean
Psychologist, EdM, PsyD
Verified Verified
Natick, MA 01760
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed clinical psychologist dedicated to providing compassionate, effective services for children, teens, parents, families, and adults. Every client is unique, bringing distinct strengths and vulnerabilities, a singular set of life experiences, and individual perspectives and goals. Using a flexible, creative approach to therapy and assessment, I offer tailored support designed to be responsive to each client's needs. I bring clinical experience from a wide range of settings (outpatient clinics, therapeutic/residential schools, inpatient/hospital facilities) and an extensive background as an educator/administrator in elementary and middle schools to my practice.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist dedicated to providing compassionate, effective services for children, teens, parents, families, and adults. Every client is unique, bringing distinct strengths and vulnerabilities, a singular set of life experiences, and individual perspectives and goals. Using a flexible, creative approach to therapy and assessment, I offer tailored support designed to be responsive to each client's needs. I bring clinical experience from a wide range of settings (outpatient clinics, therapeutic/residential schools, inpatient/hospital facilities) and an extensive background as an educator/administrator in elementary and middle schools to my practice.
(617) 607-4441 View (617) 607-4441
Photo of Karen F Stunkel, Counselor in 01760, MA
Karen F Stunkel
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Natick, MA 01760  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor serving individuals and families. I have worked in a variety of settings with adults, adolescents and children for over 30 years, but currently see clients exclusively via Telehealth. I am a strength based, solution-focused therapist who works to guide and empower clients to effectively navigate through the challenges that life presents. I encourage clients to build on their existing strengthens and develop healthy patterns to achieve their goals.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor serving individuals and families. I have worked in a variety of settings with adults, adolescents and children for over 30 years, but currently see clients exclusively via Telehealth. I am a strength based, solution-focused therapist who works to guide and empower clients to effectively navigate through the challenges that life presents. I encourage clients to build on their existing strengthens and develop healthy patterns to achieve their goals.
(508) 590-9198 View (508) 590-9198
Photo of Academy MetroWest, Counselor in 01760, MA
Academy MetroWest
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Natick, MA 01760
Academy MetroWest provides weekly group therapy sessions that meet in a gymnasium setting. Groups use cooperative, non-competitive physical activity as a means of helping children enhance social skills and self-image. Owing to the social skills focus of the program, our most commonly encountered presenting problems are ADHD, Asperger's Disorder, NvLD, and other issues in which social skills delays figure prominently. We work with children aged 6 - 15.
Academy MetroWest provides weekly group therapy sessions that meet in a gymnasium setting. Groups use cooperative, non-competitive physical activity as a means of helping children enhance social skills and self-image. Owing to the social skills focus of the program, our most commonly encountered presenting problems are ADHD, Asperger's Disorder, NvLD, and other issues in which social skills delays figure prominently. We work with children aged 6 - 15.
(508) 784-1506 View (508) 784-1506
Photo of Hui Ju Chang, Counselor in 01760, MA
Hui Ju Chang
Counselor, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
Natick, MA 01760
You can’t stop the waves, but you can learn to surf.” – Jon Kabat-Zinn Feeling anxious and burnt out? Having a hard time getting out of bed or managing daily responsibilities? Do you find yourself having the same fights over and over in relationships? Are you struggling to find hope and joy in your life? Are you wondering if you can truly heal from traumas? You don't have to continue feeling this way. My clients have been able to regain a sense of joy, peace, life balance, and hope through their work with me.
You can’t stop the waves, but you can learn to surf.” – Jon Kabat-Zinn Feeling anxious and burnt out? Having a hard time getting out of bed or managing daily responsibilities? Do you find yourself having the same fights over and over in relationships? Are you struggling to find hope and joy in your life? Are you wondering if you can truly heal from traumas? You don't have to continue feeling this way. My clients have been able to regain a sense of joy, peace, life balance, and hope through their work with me.
(508) 392-5346 View (508) 392-5346
Photo of Sivan Rose Elefson, Mental Health Counselor in 01760, MA
Sivan Rose Elefson
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, R-DMT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Natick, MA 01760
Waitlist for new clients
I currently am not taking new clients. I am an experienced psychotherapist who specializes in a holistic & creative approach to the therapeutic process. I work with couples, families & individuals with an awareness of the whole person-- body, mind, spirit and soul. My style integrates traditional methods of therapy with expressive arts and dance/movement therapy to engage the imagination and use the body/mind connection in support of wellness and vitality. I focus on empowering the individual as well as the family together as a unit. My goal is to guide you towards your ideal self and family with a warm & friendly approach.
I currently am not taking new clients. I am an experienced psychotherapist who specializes in a holistic & creative approach to the therapeutic process. I work with couples, families & individuals with an awareness of the whole person-- body, mind, spirit and soul. My style integrates traditional methods of therapy with expressive arts and dance/movement therapy to engage the imagination and use the body/mind connection in support of wellness and vitality. I focus on empowering the individual as well as the family together as a unit. My goal is to guide you towards your ideal self and family with a warm & friendly approach.
(508) 456-0326 View (508) 456-0326
Photo of Christopher Pagano, Psychologist in 01760, MA
Christopher Pagano
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Natick, MA 01760
For over 25 years I have helped adults, couples, teens and children find ways to manage anxiety, depression and trauma in order to achieve an increased capacity for enjoyment in relationships and life. I strive to create a safe environment, where taking risks to connect with emotions leads to increased insight and motivation to change. I take an active approach to help clients achieve their goals and resolve their problems. When treating children, I work closely with parents, providing careful guidance about how to help their child develop and thrive.
For over 25 years I have helped adults, couples, teens and children find ways to manage anxiety, depression and trauma in order to achieve an increased capacity for enjoyment in relationships and life. I strive to create a safe environment, where taking risks to connect with emotions leads to increased insight and motivation to change. I take an active approach to help clients achieve their goals and resolve their problems. When treating children, I work closely with parents, providing careful guidance about how to help their child develop and thrive.
(617) 944-1025 View (617) 944-1025
Photo of Courtney Council, Counselor in 01760, MA
Courtney Council
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Natick, MA 01760
Courtney believes in providing a safe space, to express and explore emotions as they related to daily experiences. Through the use of self-exploration activities and interventions Courtney facilitates an environment where you are free to discover or create your ideal self. Courtney is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a Master's in Clinical Mental Health and a second Master’s in the Art of Teaching. Courtney has been committed to providing significant services for individuals ages 3-60+ for the last 15 years. Courtney is practically passionate about supporting others to reach their full potential.
Courtney believes in providing a safe space, to express and explore emotions as they related to daily experiences. Through the use of self-exploration activities and interventions Courtney facilitates an environment where you are free to discover or create your ideal self. Courtney is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a Master's in Clinical Mental Health and a second Master’s in the Art of Teaching. Courtney has been committed to providing significant services for individuals ages 3-60+ for the last 15 years. Courtney is practically passionate about supporting others to reach their full potential.
(508) 501-6542 View (508) 501-6542
Photo of Alex Harris, Pre-Licensed Professional in 01760, MA
Alex Harris
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Natick, MA 01760
I am passionate about creating a supportive, non-judgmental, and safe environment where my clients feel empowered to explore their thoughts, emotions, and struggles. I firmly believe in the collaborative nature of therapy. Building trust and fostering a positive therapeutic relationship are vital components of a successful therapeutic experience. I work with children, teens, young adults, and families, and I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, relational issues, trauma, life transitions, and grief.
I am passionate about creating a supportive, non-judgmental, and safe environment where my clients feel empowered to explore their thoughts, emotions, and struggles. I firmly believe in the collaborative nature of therapy. Building trust and fostering a positive therapeutic relationship are vital components of a successful therapeutic experience. I work with children, teens, young adults, and families, and I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, relational issues, trauma, life transitions, and grief.
(774) 772-5192 View (774) 772-5192
Photo of Erin Drakes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 01760, MA
Erin Drakes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Natick, MA 01760
(508) 571-6368 View (508) 571-6368
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.