Play Therapy in 55105
Down to Earth Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55105
Our therapists each have different areas of expertise- Some of our areas of expertise are in couple/family counseling, adjusting to parenthood, trauma-informed therapy, EMDR & ART, Play Therapy, Somatic work, and holistic mental health.
We have current openings! Our therapists see children as young as 3 and adults as old as one can be. We are a group of therapists who value authenticity, social justice, and relationships. At Down to Earth Therapy we are committed to not only listening, but to actively partnering with you and helping you make the changes you, your partnership, and/or your family desire. We celebrate clients of all class, sexuality, ethnicity, race, gender identity, and spiritual belief. We work with people ages 3-100.
Our therapists each have different areas of expertise- Some of our areas of expertise are in couple/family counseling, adjusting to parenthood, trauma-informed therapy, EMDR & ART, Play Therapy, Somatic work, and holistic mental health.
We have current openings! Our therapists see children as young as 3 and adults as old as one can be. We are a group of therapists who value authenticity, social justice, and relationships. At Down to Earth Therapy we are committed to not only listening, but to actively partnering with you and helping you make the changes you, your partnership, and/or your family desire. We celebrate clients of all class, sexuality, ethnicity, race, gender identity, and spiritual belief. We work with people ages 3-100.
Grace Kilgore
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55105
I rely on play and other age-appropriate interventions to assist in addressing therapeutic goals.
Being a kid during these modern times is difficult, and asking for help is courageous when life begins to feel a little too much. I have a particular passion providing mental health care for children, adolescents, and young adults, and have a special interest working with neurodivergence and anxiety disorders. In my work with you, I will provide a safe space for you and your child to explore current therapeutic concerns and work to address them using evidence-based modalities and interventions - all while being your biggest cheerleader, every step of the way!
I rely on play and other age-appropriate interventions to assist in addressing therapeutic goals.
Being a kid during these modern times is difficult, and asking for help is courageous when life begins to feel a little too much. I have a particular passion providing mental health care for children, adolescents, and young adults, and have a special interest working with neurodivergence and anxiety disorders. In my work with you, I will provide a safe space for you and your child to explore current therapeutic concerns and work to address them using evidence-based modalities and interventions - all while being your biggest cheerleader, every step of the way!
Charlie Miller
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55105
The integrated therapeutic approach I use pulls from multiple theoretical orientations: including EMDR, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solution-focused, psychodynamic, existential, person-centered, humanistic, and play therapies.
Having challenges with mental health can be overwhelming, lonely, and distressing. My goal is to welcome you and/or your loved ones to a comfortable space where we can explore these difficulties. I come with an accepting trauma-informed mindset to encourage learning, growth, and perseverance. Let me join you in finding your strengths and resilience.
The integrated therapeutic approach I use pulls from multiple theoretical orientations: including EMDR, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solution-focused, psychodynamic, existential, person-centered, humanistic, and play therapies.
Having challenges with mental health can be overwhelming, lonely, and distressing. My goal is to welcome you and/or your loved ones to a comfortable space where we can explore these difficulties. I come with an accepting trauma-informed mindset to encourage learning, growth, and perseverance. Let me join you in finding your strengths and resilience.
Sarah Nides
Counselor, MA, LPCC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55105
Sarah utilizes Experiential Play Therapy and Theraplay activities in her work with children.
Sarah has experience providing group, individual, and family therapy. She has worked with most ages in a variety of settings including schools, daycares, homes, and day treatment centers. Sarah believes in the value of each individual’s unique strengths and aims to guide her clients towards healing through creativity. Sarah’s approach is gentle and informative while offering a safe, warm, and encouraging environment. She hopes that her clients will feel heard, as she seeks to understand their concerns and find ways to guide them towards their therapy goals.
Sarah utilizes Experiential Play Therapy and Theraplay activities in her work with children.
Sarah has experience providing group, individual, and family therapy. She has worked with most ages in a variety of settings including schools, daycares, homes, and day treatment centers. Sarah believes in the value of each individual’s unique strengths and aims to guide her clients towards healing through creativity. Sarah’s approach is gentle and informative while offering a safe, warm, and encouraging environment. She hopes that her clients will feel heard, as she seeks to understand their concerns and find ways to guide them towards their therapy goals.
Corinne Ann Sundell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55105
My training is in marriage and family therapy, with additional instruction in play, Narrative and geek therapy.
Because I believe we grow and learn throughout our life, I delight in working with all people. I see therapy as a supportive environment created for the purpose of encouraging one another in times of need, as well as joy. I have specialized experience working with children and families, empowering each during tough transitions such as toddlerhood and adolescence, while collaborating during unexpected and challenging issues like ADHD, anxiety, depression, abuse, trauma and more. I utilize play, narrative, feminist, and mindfulness therapies to encourage hope and develop authentic connections with each person I see.
My training is in marriage and family therapy, with additional instruction in play, Narrative and geek therapy.
Because I believe we grow and learn throughout our life, I delight in working with all people. I see therapy as a supportive environment created for the purpose of encouraging one another in times of need, as well as joy. I have specialized experience working with children and families, empowering each during tough transitions such as toddlerhood and adolescence, while collaborating during unexpected and challenging issues like ADHD, anxiety, depression, abuse, trauma and more. I utilize play, narrative, feminist, and mindfulness therapies to encourage hope and develop authentic connections with each person I see.
Sarah Berlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LGSW, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55105
Utilizing relational & play-based approaches, I support young children with emotional-behavioral dysregulation, preverbal or recent trauma, & adjustment to life transitions.
Note: Currently accepting clients ages birth - 4 & adults (in-person). I work with adults and young children using a warm, collaborative approach. My adult specialties include perinatal mental health, childhood trauma, anxiety & depression, parenting transitions, and parent-infant bonding challenges. I also value working with single and LGBTQ+ parents. Together we can explore your past experiences, relationships, & patterns within a secure therapeutic relationship to foster growth. I honor clients’ diverse identities and recognize that many internal struggles are reflective of systemic, sociopolitical issues.
Utilizing relational & play-based approaches, I support young children with emotional-behavioral dysregulation, preverbal or recent trauma, & adjustment to life transitions.
Note: Currently accepting clients ages birth - 4 & adults (in-person). I work with adults and young children using a warm, collaborative approach. My adult specialties include perinatal mental health, childhood trauma, anxiety & depression, parenting transitions, and parent-infant bonding challenges. I also value working with single and LGBTQ+ parents. Together we can explore your past experiences, relationships, & patterns within a secure therapeutic relationship to foster growth. I honor clients’ diverse identities and recognize that many internal struggles are reflective of systemic, sociopolitical issues.
FamilyMeans
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LICSW, LPCC
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55105
Many of our clinicians have specialized in additional areas such as: EMDR, TFCBT, DBT, Somatic Therapy, Gottman Couples Therapy, and Play Therapy.
FamilyMeans Counseling & Therapy programs have been providing care to adults, adolescents, children, families, and couples for many years. Our counselors are highly trained and experienced in their areas of expertise and truly enjoy helping people through the struggles they bring to counseling. Counselors provide a safe and open environment to make changes within areas of concern. Counseling experiences are unique to each person as are their situations. There is no “one fits all” in counseling and our skilled clinicians work with you to reach your goals.
Many of our clinicians have specialized in additional areas such as: EMDR, TFCBT, DBT, Somatic Therapy, Gottman Couples Therapy, and Play Therapy.
FamilyMeans Counseling & Therapy programs have been providing care to adults, adolescents, children, families, and couples for many years. Our counselors are highly trained and experienced in their areas of expertise and truly enjoy helping people through the struggles they bring to counseling. Counselors provide a safe and open environment to make changes within areas of concern. Counseling experiences are unique to each person as are their situations. There is no “one fits all” in counseling and our skilled clinicians work with you to reach your goals.
Hope Tree Counseling Services Inc.
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55105
Hope Tree has 4 offices, 2 play therapy rooms for working with children 2-12 and seasonal outdoor spaces.
I have special interest in working with issues of terminal illness, grief loss and transition with children individuals and families. I work with children with attachment, ADHD, trauma, and behavioral issues. I work with women issues surrounding self- esteem and personal growth. I have an extensive background in theater and the arts. I incorporate nature, animals, drama, art and play into my therapies with clients. My work also focuses on treating PTSD and anxiety. I incorporate trauma informed care into my work. I believe healing is possible and I am here to walk the path with my clients to a place of growth and positive change.
Hope Tree has 4 offices, 2 play therapy rooms for working with children 2-12 and seasonal outdoor spaces.
I have special interest in working with issues of terminal illness, grief loss and transition with children individuals and families. I work with children with attachment, ADHD, trauma, and behavioral issues. I work with women issues surrounding self- esteem and personal growth. I have an extensive background in theater and the arts. I incorporate nature, animals, drama, art and play into my therapies with clients. My work also focuses on treating PTSD and anxiety. I incorporate trauma informed care into my work. I believe healing is possible and I am here to walk the path with my clients to a place of growth and positive change.
Nancy A McLean
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55105
I enjoy working with individuals and couples and also find utilizing play therapy with children, and working with adolescents and families to be very rewarding.
I believe that every person has an emotional, mental, physical and spiritual life that needs to be supported and nurtured. In a setting that is caring, supportive and ethical, I work to empower individuals, couples and families to manage their own well-being.
I enjoy working with individuals and couples and also find utilizing play therapy with children, and working with adolescents and families to be very rewarding.
I believe that every person has an emotional, mental, physical and spiritual life that needs to be supported and nurtured. In a setting that is caring, supportive and ethical, I work to empower individuals, couples and families to manage their own well-being.
Steve J. Ruff
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55105
I have been trained in Experiential Play Therapy.
Are you concerned about your child or adolescent? Are they struggling with peer relationships, divorce, school difficulties, worry, sadness, or behavioral issues? Are you struggling with how to respond to and manage your child's behaviors and emotions? My gentle yet direct approach helps children identify feelings and challenges, to problem solve and find new, productive ways to cope. I collaborate with parents and families in a way that has a child feeling supported, understood and cared about. I truly enjoy being invited into a child's world, and helping them feel empowered and equipped to get through life's challenges.
I have been trained in Experiential Play Therapy.
Are you concerned about your child or adolescent? Are they struggling with peer relationships, divorce, school difficulties, worry, sadness, or behavioral issues? Are you struggling with how to respond to and manage your child's behaviors and emotions? My gentle yet direct approach helps children identify feelings and challenges, to problem solve and find new, productive ways to cope. I collaborate with parents and families in a way that has a child feeling supported, understood and cared about. I truly enjoy being invited into a child's world, and helping them feel empowered and equipped to get through life's challenges.
Emma Virden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55105
With children, I use non-directive play therapy to build self-esteem and confidence by providing a space to process and integrate their experiences.
I specialize in working with young children, adults, and parents struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, healthy eating, life transitions, emotional regulation, and parenting concerns. My focus is to first build trust and relationship, establishing a safe space where clients can feel comfortable being vulnerable and voicing experiences. Sessions with me feel like a conversation where you are seen and heard, tailoring the approach to best fit your needs. Client’s can expect lots of humor, transparency, honesty, and compassion.
With children, I use non-directive play therapy to build self-esteem and confidence by providing a space to process and integrate their experiences.
I specialize in working with young children, adults, and parents struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, healthy eating, life transitions, emotional regulation, and parenting concerns. My focus is to first build trust and relationship, establishing a safe space where clients can feel comfortable being vulnerable and voicing experiences. Sessions with me feel like a conversation where you are seen and heard, tailoring the approach to best fit your needs. Client’s can expect lots of humor, transparency, honesty, and compassion.
Laura Battaglia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55105
You're feeling stuck in a pattern that isn't working anymore, struggling at work or in your relationships, having difficulty reaching a meaningful goal, or are working to find direction or purpose in your life. After a series of challenges, you may notice that your old coping strategies are not working in the ways you expect, and you are interested in a new perspective and tools. My clients seek and discover new understanding of themselves, their emotional reactions, and their values through the process of therapy.
You're feeling stuck in a pattern that isn't working anymore, struggling at work or in your relationships, having difficulty reaching a meaningful goal, or are working to find direction or purpose in your life. After a series of challenges, you may notice that your old coping strategies are not working in the ways you expect, and you are interested in a new perspective and tools. My clients seek and discover new understanding of themselves, their emotional reactions, and their values through the process of therapy.
Kelly Heagle
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55105
I am honored to offer space to process and reflect and help clients connect to themselves and others in a deeper way. I believe we each have our own inner widsom and therapy is a place to discover that wisdom. Clients describe me as down to earth, creative, compassionate, funny, direct, warm and intuitive. I specialize in grief and loss, education, healthcare and mental health professionals, secondary and primary trauma and clients who have connection with adoption or foster care. I work from strength based and trauma informed models and draw from IFS, Attachment, Narrative and Somatic/Experiential/Sandtray modalities.
I am honored to offer space to process and reflect and help clients connect to themselves and others in a deeper way. I believe we each have our own inner widsom and therapy is a place to discover that wisdom. Clients describe me as down to earth, creative, compassionate, funny, direct, warm and intuitive. I specialize in grief and loss, education, healthcare and mental health professionals, secondary and primary trauma and clients who have connection with adoption or foster care. I work from strength based and trauma informed models and draw from IFS, Attachment, Narrative and Somatic/Experiential/Sandtray modalities.
Jay Hunter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55105
It's our reality that human beings struggle at times along the road of life. I have had the opportunity to work with individuals, couples and families get over and through these life obstacles. I have been honored and amazed to witness people conquer fears, addictions and harmful experiences that have left them tired and gasping on that road, and once again pick themselves up and journey onwards.
It's our reality that human beings struggle at times along the road of life. I have had the opportunity to work with individuals, couples and families get over and through these life obstacles. I have been honored and amazed to witness people conquer fears, addictions and harmful experiences that have left them tired and gasping on that road, and once again pick themselves up and journey onwards.
LynLake Centers for Wellbeing
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55105
At LynLake Centers for WellBeing, we believe all people deserve to lead empowered, creative, authentic lives. We’re here for you, no matter where you’re at. We’re a large, diverse group of experienced psychotherapists, counselors, dietitians, psychiatric nurse practitioners, acupuncturists, neuro/psychological testing psychologists, yoga therapists, wellness coaches, trauma specialists, and more. We are united by our passion for helping to create a healthy, resilient, and fulfilled community. We offer both online and in-person services at over a dozen locations throughout the Twin Cities. We are accepting new clients of all ages!
At LynLake Centers for WellBeing, we believe all people deserve to lead empowered, creative, authentic lives. We’re here for you, no matter where you’re at. We’re a large, diverse group of experienced psychotherapists, counselors, dietitians, psychiatric nurse practitioners, acupuncturists, neuro/psychological testing psychologists, yoga therapists, wellness coaches, trauma specialists, and more. We are united by our passion for helping to create a healthy, resilient, and fulfilled community. We offer both online and in-person services at over a dozen locations throughout the Twin Cities. We are accepting new clients of all ages!
Amy Lokensgard
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55105
Finding a therapist with whom you feel safe and comfortable is essential for a successful outcome. Clients have told me that I am easy to connect with and tend to put people at ease quickly. Creating a warm, respectful and non-judgmental atmosphere is my first priority. I also feel that laughter/humor can be very therapeutic when appropriate!
Finding a therapist with whom you feel safe and comfortable is essential for a successful outcome. Clients have told me that I am easy to connect with and tend to put people at ease quickly. Creating a warm, respectful and non-judgmental atmosphere is my first priority. I also feel that laughter/humor can be very therapeutic when appropriate!
Nicki Vasquez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55105
Waitlist for new clients
My clinical work focuses on building strong, meaningful, reparative connections with people, in which I truly honor your vulnerability and wisdom. In our work together, I will meet you exactly where you are in your journey, and bring high energy and passion as we work to help you navigate your current challenges. I work primarily with adolescents, young adults, parents, and helping/service industry professionals, and have 10+ years experience in the mental health field.
My clinical work focuses on building strong, meaningful, reparative connections with people, in which I truly honor your vulnerability and wisdom. In our work together, I will meet you exactly where you are in your journey, and bring high energy and passion as we work to help you navigate your current challenges. I work primarily with adolescents, young adults, parents, and helping/service industry professionals, and have 10+ years experience in the mental health field.
Tyler Ahrens
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55105 (Online Only)
Hello there, I'm Tyler! I am a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community, specializing in helping individuals with religious trauma recovery, with inclusivity and acceptance central to my entire practice. Navigating the complexities of religious trauma requires a delicate balance of empathy and expertise. As someone with over 30 years of lived experience in a cult environment, I am committed to helping others heal from the impact of religious experiences that may have left lasting scars on their mental and emotional well-being. Together, we'll explore the unique challenges you face and work towards a path of healing and self-discovery.
Hello there, I'm Tyler! I am a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community, specializing in helping individuals with religious trauma recovery, with inclusivity and acceptance central to my entire practice. Navigating the complexities of religious trauma requires a delicate balance of empathy and expertise. As someone with over 30 years of lived experience in a cult environment, I am committed to helping others heal from the impact of religious experiences that may have left lasting scars on their mental and emotional well-being. Together, we'll explore the unique challenges you face and work towards a path of healing and self-discovery.
Mikaela Dunn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55105
Do others tell you that you are too hard on yourself? Or perhaps you notice that you get stuck in a loop of worries? I am a therapist who works with adults experiencing: anxiety, panic attacks, perfectionism, social anxieties, life transitions, overwhelm, self-doubt, high sensitivity, neurodivergence (such as ADHD and OCD) , and the impact of trauma.
Do others tell you that you are too hard on yourself? Or perhaps you notice that you get stuck in a loop of worries? I am a therapist who works with adults experiencing: anxiety, panic attacks, perfectionism, social anxieties, life transitions, overwhelm, self-doubt, high sensitivity, neurodivergence (such as ADHD and OCD) , and the impact of trauma.
Shauna K Zotalis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55105
You are considering divorce and fear how it will affect your children. Or you're divorced and met someone and want to blend your families, but are worried about the difficulties that blending brings. These family transitions are full of significant challenges such as grief over the breakup of the family, confusion over stepparent roles and responsibilities, hostile co-parenting relationships, jealousy of ex-spouses or stepchildren, and more. You want happy and healthy relationships with partners, exes, children, and stepchildren. You hope for a sense of "we-ness" as a new family unit and crave peace and balance in the future.
You are considering divorce and fear how it will affect your children. Or you're divorced and met someone and want to blend your families, but are worried about the difficulties that blending brings. These family transitions are full of significant challenges such as grief over the breakup of the family, confusion over stepparent roles and responsibilities, hostile co-parenting relationships, jealousy of ex-spouses or stepchildren, and more. You want happy and healthy relationships with partners, exes, children, and stepchildren. You hope for a sense of "we-ness" as a new family unit and crave peace and balance in the future.
See more therapy options for 55105
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.