Photo of Karine Echighian, Marriage & Family Therapist in Woodland Hills, CA
Karine Echighian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MBA, LMFT, CCATP
Verified Verified
Woodland Hills, CA 91367  (Online Only)
Working with couples to improve their relationship or preparing for marriage; families strengthening their dynamic; adults working on a variety of life's challenges; children learning to express themselves through play; and teens and pre-teens; a number of which participate in weekly Teen Group (14-17 year olds) or Youth Group (5th-8th graders).
Deciding to seek counseling services is, often times, a personal and difficult decision. Finding the right therapist is a daunting task. Once you take the first step and found the proper support, you are on the path of self-discovery and healing. It is the first step towards "figuring it out" or "making a change". When you find yourself feeling stuck or struggling, reaching out is positive and empowering. Looking forward to helping you thrive all the while providing guidance and support on your journey towards achieving your goals.
Working with couples to improve their relationship or preparing for marriage; families strengthening their dynamic; adults working on a variety of life's challenges; children learning to express themselves through play; and teens and pre-teens; a number of which participate in weekly Teen Group (14-17 year olds) or Youth Group (5th-8th graders).
Deciding to seek counseling services is, often times, a personal and difficult decision. Finding the right therapist is a daunting task. Once you take the first step and found the proper support, you are on the path of self-discovery and healing. It is the first step towards "figuring it out" or "making a change". When you find yourself feeling stuck or struggling, reaching out is positive and empowering. Looking forward to helping you thrive all the while providing guidance and support on your journey towards achieving your goals.
(818) 306-5483 View (818) 306-5483
Photo of Parshaw Barati-Marnani, Marriage & Family Therapist in Woodland Hills, CA
Parshaw Barati-Marnani
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Woodland Hills, CA 91364
Waitlist for new clients
My areas of focus are trauma and play therapy, and I also work with issues of grief/loss, cultural issues, self-esteem, anxiety, and depression.
Life can be complicated and challenging, and there is no "how to" guide. You work so hard, juggling all the different parts of life, but don't feel fulfilled or satisfied. Everything feels like a struggle. You work so hard and it feels like you're barely holding on. What do we do when things happen that throw us off course.? What do we do when we get stuck in a cycle that we don't know how to change? I want you to know that it can get better. The fact that you're reading this right now means that you're ready to feel good. By building tools and exploring the barriers, you can create the life you want, the life you deserve!
My areas of focus are trauma and play therapy, and I also work with issues of grief/loss, cultural issues, self-esteem, anxiety, and depression.
Life can be complicated and challenging, and there is no "how to" guide. You work so hard, juggling all the different parts of life, but don't feel fulfilled or satisfied. Everything feels like a struggle. You work so hard and it feels like you're barely holding on. What do we do when things happen that throw us off course.? What do we do when we get stuck in a cycle that we don't know how to change? I want you to know that it can get better. The fact that you're reading this right now means that you're ready to feel good. By building tools and exploring the barriers, you can create the life you want, the life you deserve!
(818) 650-4316 View (818) 650-4316
Photo of Adria Scovel, Marriage & Family Therapist in Woodland Hills, CA
Adria Scovel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Woodland Hills, CA 91364
The current unprecedented state of our world has presented many challenges and taken a toll on mental health and wellness, triggering the body's stress response, de-activating the immune system, and putting our mind/body in survival mode. This has the propensity to escalate anxiety, depression, addiction, and disease and reactivates outdated coping skills and keeps our body in fight or flight. Let's work together to create a strong support system to manage and navigate the stress and uncertainty and minimize the toll on our mental health, physical health, and relationships, and empower ourselves for the future.
The current unprecedented state of our world has presented many challenges and taken a toll on mental health and wellness, triggering the body's stress response, de-activating the immune system, and putting our mind/body in survival mode. This has the propensity to escalate anxiety, depression, addiction, and disease and reactivates outdated coping skills and keeps our body in fight or flight. Let's work together to create a strong support system to manage and navigate the stress and uncertainty and minimize the toll on our mental health, physical health, and relationships, and empower ourselves for the future.
(747) 203-0951 View (747) 203-0951
Photo of Christopher Minassian, Marriage & Family Therapist in Woodland Hills, CA
Christopher Minassian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodland Hills, CA 91364
Are you looking for guidance?Are you feeling stuck?Well congratulations on taking this important first step of your empowering journey in happiness, clarity, and peace. You possess a unique ability to develop your inner strengths to help lead you to the peace of mind that you seek. I provide a safe and comfortable environment where you can successfully navigate your daily stressors, turn bad habits into good ones, and conquer your anxiety and fears to take control of your own happiness. My specialties include working with adults with trauma, adolescents, troubled children as well as teenagers, adults, couples, elderly, and families.
Are you looking for guidance?Are you feeling stuck?Well congratulations on taking this important first step of your empowering journey in happiness, clarity, and peace. You possess a unique ability to develop your inner strengths to help lead you to the peace of mind that you seek. I provide a safe and comfortable environment where you can successfully navigate your daily stressors, turn bad habits into good ones, and conquer your anxiety and fears to take control of your own happiness. My specialties include working with adults with trauma, adolescents, troubled children as well as teenagers, adults, couples, elderly, and families.
(747) 269-1318 View (747) 269-1318
Photo of Jessica Samora, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Woodland Hills, CA
Jessica Samora
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Woodland Hills, CA 91367  (Online Only)
Do relationships and intimacy with your partner seem too difficult, you've began to wonder, if therapy can help? I am a Latina therapist who specializes on helping clients individually work through issues related to intimacy and sex. I create a therapy space for cultural background, individual uniqueness, and sexual trauma. I know after sexual trauma it can be difficult to navigate your relationship with yourself and with others, including your intimate partners. If you experienced a trauma, struggle with anxiety or question your self-worth. Know that you are not alone and there is hope to make positive changes in your life.
Do relationships and intimacy with your partner seem too difficult, you've began to wonder, if therapy can help? I am a Latina therapist who specializes on helping clients individually work through issues related to intimacy and sex. I create a therapy space for cultural background, individual uniqueness, and sexual trauma. I know after sexual trauma it can be difficult to navigate your relationship with yourself and with others, including your intimate partners. If you experienced a trauma, struggle with anxiety or question your self-worth. Know that you are not alone and there is hope to make positive changes in your life.
(818) 651-8682 View (818) 651-8682
Photo of Parisa Zivari, Marriage & Family Therapist in Woodland Hills, CA
Parisa Zivari
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Woodland Hills, CA 91364
I offer both In Person and Telehealth options. Pretty much everyone you have met in your life have experienced trauma or something scary/ traumatic. Trauma impacts our brain, body, and relationship. It impacts our daily routine. Do you ever feel sadness and wanting to isolate? Do you ever feel overwhelmed or anxious? Do you find yourself feeling agitated or easily annoyed with others? If you answer yes to any of these questions, I can help.
I offer both In Person and Telehealth options. Pretty much everyone you have met in your life have experienced trauma or something scary/ traumatic. Trauma impacts our brain, body, and relationship. It impacts our daily routine. Do you ever feel sadness and wanting to isolate? Do you ever feel overwhelmed or anxious? Do you find yourself feeling agitated or easily annoyed with others? If you answer yes to any of these questions, I can help.
(818) 497-7725 View (818) 497-7725
Photo of Lara B Eisenberg, Counselor in Woodland Hills, CA
Lara B Eisenberg
Counselor, MA, EdM, LPCC, SEP
Verified Verified
Woodland Hills, CA 91364
I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Somatic Experiencing Practitioner providing psychotherapy and coaching to individuals, couples and families. I employ techniques such as mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, feminine psychology, expressive arts therapy, transpersonal techniques, mindfulness and body based practices. I assist clients who are looking to restore the body, mind and spirit connection and feel more fulfilled and vibrantly alive. I see counseling as a partnership in which we embark on a journey together to assist you in living life with more confidence, ease, joy and connection.
I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Somatic Experiencing Practitioner providing psychotherapy and coaching to individuals, couples and families. I employ techniques such as mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, feminine psychology, expressive arts therapy, transpersonal techniques, mindfulness and body based practices. I assist clients who are looking to restore the body, mind and spirit connection and feel more fulfilled and vibrantly alive. I see counseling as a partnership in which we embark on a journey together to assist you in living life with more confidence, ease, joy and connection.
(818) 918-5032 View (818) 918-5032
Photo of Kathryn Ann Vaclavik, Marriage & Family Therapist in Woodland Hills, CA
Kathryn Ann Vaclavik
Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Woodland Hills, CA 91367
I specialize in depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, neurodiversity, and trauma (e.g., physical/sexual/emotional abuse, abandonment, rape, assault, and accidents), including trauma-related disorders like PTSD, eating disorders, and self-harm. I also specialize in separation/divorce, including divorce mediation, negotiating parenting plans, co-parenting therapy, child therapy, and conjoint therapy in resist/refuse cases. My 20+ years experience as a former attorney informs my work in separation/divorce cases and with clients otherwise involved in the legal system. I also do expert witness work in cases within my specialty areas.
I specialize in depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, neurodiversity, and trauma (e.g., physical/sexual/emotional abuse, abandonment, rape, assault, and accidents), including trauma-related disorders like PTSD, eating disorders, and self-harm. I also specialize in separation/divorce, including divorce mediation, negotiating parenting plans, co-parenting therapy, child therapy, and conjoint therapy in resist/refuse cases. My 20+ years experience as a former attorney informs my work in separation/divorce cases and with clients otherwise involved in the legal system. I also do expert witness work in cases within my specialty areas.
(213) 263-5324 View (213) 263-5324
Photo of Gina Balit, Marriage & Family Therapist in Woodland Hills, CA
Gina Balit
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
19 Endorsed
Woodland Hills, CA 91364
Worried about your child or a special young kiddo you love? Have they always been active, funny, smart, and talkative but you’re starting to see things change at home or school? Thinking about how they may process new or upcoming changes in the family? Just want to make sure they're okay & maintain their wellbeing? Run out of options & need some new tools? My goal is to inspire & instill hope. My mission is helping children look up & into their future with less worry & fear & more confidence & happiness.
Worried about your child or a special young kiddo you love? Have they always been active, funny, smart, and talkative but you’re starting to see things change at home or school? Thinking about how they may process new or upcoming changes in the family? Just want to make sure they're okay & maintain their wellbeing? Run out of options & need some new tools? My goal is to inspire & instill hope. My mission is helping children look up & into their future with less worry & fear & more confidence & happiness.
(747) 529-9015 View (747) 529-9015
Photo of Nazli Saliminejad, Marriage & Family Therapist in Woodland Hills, CA
Nazli Saliminejad
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woodland Hills, CA 91364
Buddha's quote "The mind is everything. What you think you become", has always been at the center of my beliefs, both personally and professionally. Therefore, I view therapy as a tool that enables us to transcend beyond our previously adopted and perhaps less effective ways of coping with life's challenges, and begin to relearn new ways of dealing with challenges as they arise. This will in turn open up many new windows to self-awareness, ultimately bringing about personal growth and satisfaction both internally and within the context of our relationships, allowing us to live happier more fulfilled lives.
Buddha's quote "The mind is everything. What you think you become", has always been at the center of my beliefs, both personally and professionally. Therefore, I view therapy as a tool that enables us to transcend beyond our previously adopted and perhaps less effective ways of coping with life's challenges, and begin to relearn new ways of dealing with challenges as they arise. This will in turn open up many new windows to self-awareness, ultimately bringing about personal growth and satisfaction both internally and within the context of our relationships, allowing us to live happier more fulfilled lives.
(818) 962-4324 View (818) 962-4324
Photo of Chelsea Autumn, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Woodland Hills, CA
Chelsea Autumn
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFT
Verified Verified
Woodland Hills, CA 91367
I provide counseling in an idyllic and healing environment.  My speciality is nature therapy, however, I also have an office if you prefer that setting. It is entirely up to you and your needs. We will collaborate together as I believe you intuitively know what is best for you. I am here to be your co-pilot and assist you while you process your thoughts and feelings in order to align with your higher self.  I have over fifteen years of experience working with children, individuals and couples. I look forward to hearing from you and assisting you on your journey of healing and self-discovery.
I provide counseling in an idyllic and healing environment.  My speciality is nature therapy, however, I also have an office if you prefer that setting. It is entirely up to you and your needs. We will collaborate together as I believe you intuitively know what is best for you. I am here to be your co-pilot and assist you while you process your thoughts and feelings in order to align with your higher self.  I have over fifteen years of experience working with children, individuals and couples. I look forward to hearing from you and assisting you on your journey of healing and self-discovery.
(747) 281-3947 View (747) 281-3947
Photo of Sharon Alonso, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Woodland Hills, CA
Sharon Alonso
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Woodland Hills, CA 91367
Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming. You're likely looking for a therapist who feels like a good fit, which is very important, as the relationship between therapist & client is an essential element for a successful journey in therapy. I am a licensed psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience working with people of all ages (children, adults, couples, & families). I provide psychotherapy to help people grow in their understanding of themselves and others, in how they experience and work with their feelings, and in developing and maintaining healthy, satisfying interpersonal relationships.
Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming. You're likely looking for a therapist who feels like a good fit, which is very important, as the relationship between therapist & client is an essential element for a successful journey in therapy. I am a licensed psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience working with people of all ages (children, adults, couples, & families). I provide psychotherapy to help people grow in their understanding of themselves and others, in how they experience and work with their feelings, and in developing and maintaining healthy, satisfying interpersonal relationships.
(323) 215-1863 View (323) 215-1863
Photo of West Valley Counseling Center, Marriage & Family Therapist in Woodland Hills, CA
West Valley Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Woodland Hills, CA 91367
West Valley Counseling Center (WVCC) offers a wide range of therapeutic interventions and services to bring affordable mental health services to the San Fernando Valley. WVCC is a non-profit community mental health center that has been serving the Greater Los Angeles region for well over a decade. Our qualified therapists work with individuals, relationships, traditional families, and non-traditional families to help ease life's burdens and to provide specialty services.
West Valley Counseling Center (WVCC) offers a wide range of therapeutic interventions and services to bring affordable mental health services to the San Fernando Valley. WVCC is a non-profit community mental health center that has been serving the Greater Los Angeles region for well over a decade. Our qualified therapists work with individuals, relationships, traditional families, and non-traditional families to help ease life's burdens and to provide specialty services.
(213) 260-0756 View (213) 260-0756
Photo of Melissa Cline in Woodland Hills, CA
Melissa Cline
MSLCE, NLP
Verified Verified
Woodland Hills, CA 91302
Parents, you've likely seen a shift in your child. It appears something has changed, but you're unsure what it is. I get it. As a parent, you want your child to feel confident, secure, and safe - from society, anxiety, social media, bullying, and unfortunate circumstances. The truth is... events, people, and things have affected them, but getting your child to open up and divulge all that is happening inside is VERY difficult. I understand! Sometimes the most confident child still can't find the words to say. Certain feelings and emotions live deep within your child. You're not alone, and I can help uncover the ROOT.
Parents, you've likely seen a shift in your child. It appears something has changed, but you're unsure what it is. I get it. As a parent, you want your child to feel confident, secure, and safe - from society, anxiety, social media, bullying, and unfortunate circumstances. The truth is... events, people, and things have affected them, but getting your child to open up and divulge all that is happening inside is VERY difficult. I understand! Sometimes the most confident child still can't find the words to say. Certain feelings and emotions live deep within your child. You're not alone, and I can help uncover the ROOT.
(818) 273-5862 View (818) 273-5862
Photo of Mindi Levins-Pfeifer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Woodland Hills, CA
Mindi Levins-Pfeifer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Woodland Hills, CA 91367
My specialty is building relationships and making clients feel safe in a space to share. I focus on 1:1 ,couples, families and groups. I am always looking to balance solution focused sessions with underlying clinical issues. Helping clients feel like they can get some relief early on in therapy is a priority. Anxiety, depression, addiction, family relation issues, life transitions and Covid are just some areas of work are that are my specialty. Whether you are comfortable free flow talking or need a more interview style, I am comfortable doing both. I also specialize in young adult and dual diagnosis.
My specialty is building relationships and making clients feel safe in a space to share. I focus on 1:1 ,couples, families and groups. I am always looking to balance solution focused sessions with underlying clinical issues. Helping clients feel like they can get some relief early on in therapy is a priority. Anxiety, depression, addiction, family relation issues, life transitions and Covid are just some areas of work are that are my specialty. Whether you are comfortable free flow talking or need a more interview style, I am comfortable doing both. I also specialize in young adult and dual diagnosis.
(323) 765-1139 View (323) 765-1139
Photo of Candice Sosa (Christensen), Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Woodland Hills, CA
Candice Sosa (Christensen)
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woodland Hills, CA 91364
“Imperfections are not inadequacies; they are reminders that we’re all in this together. Owning our story can be hard but not nearly as difficult as spending our lives running from it. Embracing our vulnerabilities is risky but not nearly as dangerous as giving up on love and belonging and joy...Only when we are brave enough to explore the darkness will we discover the infinite power of our light.”– Brené Brown. Whether you want to improve boundaries, increase self-esteem, address anxiety/depression, become a more effective parent or have more positive and meaningful relationships I am here to help you to achieve your goals.
“Imperfections are not inadequacies; they are reminders that we’re all in this together. Owning our story can be hard but not nearly as difficult as spending our lives running from it. Embracing our vulnerabilities is risky but not nearly as dangerous as giving up on love and belonging and joy...Only when we are brave enough to explore the darkness will we discover the infinite power of our light.”– Brené Brown. Whether you want to improve boundaries, increase self-esteem, address anxiety/depression, become a more effective parent or have more positive and meaningful relationships I am here to help you to achieve your goals.
(805) 243-2652 View (805) 243-2652

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Melanie Moir, Marriage & Family Therapist in Woodland Hills, CA
Melanie Moir
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Agoura Hills, CA 91301
I specialize in LGBTQ+ and gender identity counseling, Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, Voice Dialogue and child play therapy.
Greetings! I use a depth psychotherapy, DBT, Humanistic, empathetic, Self-Psychology style of counseling to empower you to reach your desired emotional, psychological and spiritual growth/development. I treat individuals, families, youth, couples, adults and LGBTQ+. I often work with people of diverse backgrounds, offering sensitivity and understanding for the complexity of the human experience. Grief and loss, identity, anxiety, depression, personality and mood disorders, gender diversity and relational issues are just some of the areas in which I am skilled at holding space for you to grow at a pace that is most comfortable.
I specialize in LGBTQ+ and gender identity counseling, Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, Voice Dialogue and child play therapy.
Greetings! I use a depth psychotherapy, DBT, Humanistic, empathetic, Self-Psychology style of counseling to empower you to reach your desired emotional, psychological and spiritual growth/development. I treat individuals, families, youth, couples, adults and LGBTQ+. I often work with people of diverse backgrounds, offering sensitivity and understanding for the complexity of the human experience. Grief and loss, identity, anxiety, depression, personality and mood disorders, gender diversity and relational issues are just some of the areas in which I am skilled at holding space for you to grow at a pace that is most comfortable.
(805) 301-5080 View (805) 301-5080
Photo of Michelle Sargent, Marriage & Family Therapist in Woodland Hills, CA
Michelle Sargent
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RYT-200
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91436
I use depth and somatic therapy, art, play, dreamwork, and mindfulness to support clients of all ages reach their therapeutic goals and cultivate healing and wholeness in their lives.
There are many reasons to seek therapy, and each person’s path to it is unique. I view therapy as a collaborative journey to support wellbeing on all levels: mind, body, and soul. It is a sacred space where together we can untangle the issues that are creating distress in your life, uncover and heal old wounds as well as discover lost and hidden treasures, and help you find your path back to wholeness. Therapy can help your child safely work through feelings such as sadness, anger, anxiety, or grief; develop a strong sense of self-esteem, and learn new skills to effectively make their way through an increasingly complex world.
I use depth and somatic therapy, art, play, dreamwork, and mindfulness to support clients of all ages reach their therapeutic goals and cultivate healing and wholeness in their lives.
There are many reasons to seek therapy, and each person’s path to it is unique. I view therapy as a collaborative journey to support wellbeing on all levels: mind, body, and soul. It is a sacred space where together we can untangle the issues that are creating distress in your life, uncover and heal old wounds as well as discover lost and hidden treasures, and help you find your path back to wholeness. Therapy can help your child safely work through feelings such as sadness, anger, anxiety, or grief; develop a strong sense of self-esteem, and learn new skills to effectively make their way through an increasingly complex world.
(818) 308-3238 View (818) 308-3238
Photo of Debbie Ciulla, Marriage & Family Therapist in Woodland Hills, CA
Debbie Ciulla
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Simi Valley, CA 93063
I am dedicated to facilitating healing and restoration for my clients, utilizing Somatic Therapy, Experiential Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma Resiliency Model (TRM), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and play therapy.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and effective therapy to individuals and families who are navigating the complexities of trauma within the framework of their Christian faith. I believe in the power of integrating psychological principles with spiritual guidance to promote healing, growth, and restoration. Having witnessed firsthand the profound impact that trauma can have on individuals and their relationships, I am committed to creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, process their emotions and find hope in the midst of pain.
I am dedicated to facilitating healing and restoration for my clients, utilizing Somatic Therapy, Experiential Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma Resiliency Model (TRM), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and play therapy.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and effective therapy to individuals and families who are navigating the complexities of trauma within the framework of their Christian faith. I believe in the power of integrating psychological principles with spiritual guidance to promote healing, growth, and restoration. Having witnessed firsthand the profound impact that trauma can have on individuals and their relationships, I am committed to creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, process their emotions and find hope in the midst of pain.
(805) 422-7797 View (805) 422-7797
Photo of Daphna Cardinale, Marriage & Family Therapist in Woodland Hills, CA
Daphna Cardinale
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Calabasas, CA 91302  (Online Only)
Therapy works. Emotional relief is possible. Changing your life is possible. It takes hard work, dedication, and support from someone who really cares. That's what I offer. I believe that in looking at how we relate to others and ourselves both now and throughout our lives up until this point, we can come to a greater understanding of ourselves and therefore can change. I cater my approach to the individual, couple, family, or group as I get to know you and your needs. When appropriate, I also use dream analysis, meditation, play therapy, and art therapy.
Therapy works. Emotional relief is possible. Changing your life is possible. It takes hard work, dedication, and support from someone who really cares. That's what I offer. I believe that in looking at how we relate to others and ourselves both now and throughout our lives up until this point, we can come to a greater understanding of ourselves and therefore can change. I cater my approach to the individual, couple, family, or group as I get to know you and your needs. When appropriate, I also use dream analysis, meditation, play therapy, and art therapy.
(310) 331-8504 View (310) 331-8504

See more therapy options for Woodland Hills

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.