Play Therapy in Alpharetta, GA

Photo of Sara Gheesling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alpharetta, GA
Sara Gheesling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30009
Throughout my career, I have dedicated my practice to serving adults, adolescents, and families who identify as queer and/or transgender/non-binary. In addition, I also provide play therapy services to children (5-10 years-old) and their families who are experiencing emotional and behavioral regulation concerns. It is my philosophy that we are never too young or too old to begin our journey through growth, healing, and self-discovery. Using therapeutic practices that are centered around mind-body connections and trauma informed care, I would love to be a part of you or your child's journey towards wellness.
Throughout my career, I have dedicated my practice to serving adults, adolescents, and families who identify as queer and/or transgender/non-binary. In addition, I also provide play therapy services to children (5-10 years-old) and their families who are experiencing emotional and behavioral regulation concerns. It is my philosophy that we are never too young or too old to begin our journey through growth, healing, and self-discovery. Using therapeutic practices that are centered around mind-body connections and trauma informed care, I would love to be a part of you or your child's journey towards wellness.
(770) 728-6953 View (770) 728-6953
Photo of Leah Rydel, Pre-Licensed Professional in Alpharetta, GA
Leah Rydel
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30022
With children, I practice Child Centered Play Therapy and integrative Filial (Family) Therapy.
I am a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and specialize in working with individuals throughout the entire lifespan. My modalities include CBT, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Play Therapy, Strength Based Counseling and Mindfulness Approach to work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and trauma. I am passionate about connecting with clients on an emotional and empathic level to building strong, lasting relationships with them. I hold a Master’s of Art in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Bradley University. She received a Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology from University of Georgia.
With children, I practice Child Centered Play Therapy and integrative Filial (Family) Therapy.
I am a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and specialize in working with individuals throughout the entire lifespan. My modalities include CBT, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Play Therapy, Strength Based Counseling and Mindfulness Approach to work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and trauma. I am passionate about connecting with clients on an emotional and empathic level to building strong, lasting relationships with them. I hold a Master’s of Art in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Bradley University. She received a Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology from University of Georgia.
(678) 928-6567 View (678) 928-6567
Photo of Suzanne Bartholomew Mahaney, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alpharetta, GA
Suzanne Bartholomew Mahaney
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30022
My approach is family systems oriented, including the use of integrative techniques such as play Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and experiential to guide children and families in achieving their goals.
Is your child struggling with behavior problems, depression, anxiety, attention issues, anger management or just plain getting along with others? Are you feeling like your parenting is no longer working? You are about to take that important and scary first step in reaching out for help, and I would be honored to guide you on this journey.
My approach is family systems oriented, including the use of integrative techniques such as play Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and experiential to guide children and families in achieving their goals.
Is your child struggling with behavior problems, depression, anxiety, attention issues, anger management or just plain getting along with others? Are you feeling like your parenting is no longer working? You are about to take that important and scary first step in reaching out for help, and I would be honored to guide you on this journey.
(678) 883-7687 View (678) 883-7687
Photo of Kirsten L Moore, Psychologist in Alpharetta, GA
Kirsten L Moore
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30022
I can help with CBT (Cognitive Behavior Therapy) or DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), in which I am Intensively-trained, and I use play therapy with my younger clients.
Are you a parent, adult, or teen who has faced anxiety, panic, depression, mood swings, obsessions, attention problems, or impulsivity? You or your loved one may have had urges to harm themselves or had difficulty making or keeping healthy relationships. I help clients live a Life they experience as Worth Living, learning coping skills to deal with life’s stressors and solve problems one moment at a time. Find peace of mind and live your best life!
I can help with CBT (Cognitive Behavior Therapy) or DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), in which I am Intensively-trained, and I use play therapy with my younger clients.
Are you a parent, adult, or teen who has faced anxiety, panic, depression, mood swings, obsessions, attention problems, or impulsivity? You or your loved one may have had urges to harm themselves or had difficulty making or keeping healthy relationships. I help clients live a Life they experience as Worth Living, learning coping skills to deal with life’s stressors and solve problems one moment at a time. Find peace of mind and live your best life!
(678) 264-3991 View (678) 264-3991
Photo of Cristiane Uchida, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alpharetta, GA
Cristiane Uchida
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30022
Cristiane is particularly skilled at helping women overcome anxiety/panic attacks and using play therapy as a tool to help children.
Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed and struggling to find people who truly understand what you are going through? I’m a therapist who specializes in anxiety and trauma. I help my clients overcome worries, sleep issues, panic attacks, overthinking, and symptoms related to trauma in order for them reach their goals and grow into the best version of themselves.
Cristiane is particularly skilled at helping women overcome anxiety/panic attacks and using play therapy as a tool to help children.
Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed and struggling to find people who truly understand what you are going through? I’m a therapist who specializes in anxiety and trauma. I help my clients overcome worries, sleep issues, panic attacks, overthinking, and symptoms related to trauma in order for them reach their goals and grow into the best version of themselves.
(404) 994-5298 View (404) 994-5298
Photo of Lauren Wallace, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alpharetta, GA
Lauren Wallace
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CPCS, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30005  (Online Only)
I am a nationally certified Registered Play Therapist Supervisor and Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor in the state of Georgia.
Hi everyone! My name is Lauren Wallace and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist Supervisor. I specialize in working with children who struggle with anxiety and divorce recovery. Graduating from North Georgia College & State University (now University of North Georgia) with my undergraduate degree in Sociology, I loved the school and Dahlonega so much that I attained my Master's degree in Community Counseling shortly thereafter. I have been a lifelong resident of Georgia, an active therapist in the state for over 10 years, and an active supervisor since 2017.
I am a nationally certified Registered Play Therapist Supervisor and Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor in the state of Georgia.
Hi everyone! My name is Lauren Wallace and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist Supervisor. I specialize in working with children who struggle with anxiety and divorce recovery. Graduating from North Georgia College & State University (now University of North Georgia) with my undergraduate degree in Sociology, I loved the school and Dahlonega so much that I attained my Master's degree in Community Counseling shortly thereafter. I have been a lifelong resident of Georgia, an active therapist in the state for over 10 years, and an active supervisor since 2017.
(706) 510-3346 View (706) 510-3346
Photo of Sunshine Child & Family Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alpharetta, GA
Sunshine Child & Family Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CPCS, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30005
Play therapy and creative expressive approaches are the modalities we utilize the most.
Children, teens and families are our passion and describe our ideal clientele. Your parenting instincts tell you something has changed with your child. You wonder is it something with school, friends, or a stressor that you have no idea about. Perhaps, your family unit has gone through major change or loss. Your desire is to have your child be back to their best self. You've tried everything you can think of in your parenting arsenal; long talks, together time, consequences and for some reason the issue is still there. As parents we don't always have all the answers and it is ok to reach out for help!
Play therapy and creative expressive approaches are the modalities we utilize the most.
Children, teens and families are our passion and describe our ideal clientele. Your parenting instincts tell you something has changed with your child. You wonder is it something with school, friends, or a stressor that you have no idea about. Perhaps, your family unit has gone through major change or loss. Your desire is to have your child be back to their best self. You've tried everything you can think of in your parenting arsenal; long talks, together time, consequences and for some reason the issue is still there. As parents we don't always have all the answers and it is ok to reach out for help!
(678) 929-5335 View (678) 929-5335
Photo of Kim Valdes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alpharetta, GA
Kim Valdes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT-S, CPCS
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30022
I offer play therapy, sand tray play, and expressive arts in a warm and peaceful environment for children.
Is your child experiencing anxiety or depression? Are they having symptoms of worry and ruminating thoughts, irritable, sad, crying, heart racing, tight chest, fidgeting, challenges with friends, sweaty palms, low self-esteem, and having trouble falling asleep or not sleeping through the night? Do they have symptoms of Depression such as: behavioral problems, not eating, sadness, crying most days, isolation? Therapy can help! By providing a safe space, someone who truly listens, meeting them where they are, skills to identify feelings, growth mindset strategies to change thoughts, and mindfulness exercises.
I offer play therapy, sand tray play, and expressive arts in a warm and peaceful environment for children.
Is your child experiencing anxiety or depression? Are they having symptoms of worry and ruminating thoughts, irritable, sad, crying, heart racing, tight chest, fidgeting, challenges with friends, sweaty palms, low self-esteem, and having trouble falling asleep or not sleeping through the night? Do they have symptoms of Depression such as: behavioral problems, not eating, sadness, crying most days, isolation? Therapy can help! By providing a safe space, someone who truly listens, meeting them where they are, skills to identify feelings, growth mindset strategies to change thoughts, and mindfulness exercises.
(404) 975-1145 View (404) 975-1145
Photo of Monique Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alpharetta, GA
Monique Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT-S, CCBT
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30005
I specialize in play therapy, couple's therapy, individual therapy, and group therapy.
Mrs. Johnson-Hill is committed to supporting individuals and families through a comprehensive approach. She strongly believes that, with the appropriate resources, everyone can achieve their fullest potential and is dedicated to ensuring they receive the utmost quality of service to make that possible. Her focus is on promoting the well-being of individuals, families, and the broader community by providing education, intervention, effective treatment, and prevention.
I specialize in play therapy, couple's therapy, individual therapy, and group therapy.
Mrs. Johnson-Hill is committed to supporting individuals and families through a comprehensive approach. She strongly believes that, with the appropriate resources, everyone can achieve their fullest potential and is dedicated to ensuring they receive the utmost quality of service to make that possible. Her focus is on promoting the well-being of individuals, families, and the broader community by providing education, intervention, effective treatment, and prevention.
(470) 600-2964 View (470) 600-2964
Photo of Keren Drits, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alpharetta, GA
Keren Drits
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30009
Approaches include: Play Therapy, CBT, Exposure Response Prevention Therapy (ERP), Solution Focused Therapy.
Welcome! My practice is open during early EVENING hours to accommodate after school schedules. I have been fortunate to have 19 years of counseling experience in both the school setting and the private sector, working with children ranging in ages 5-18, adults, and with families. While working with children and adolescents, I believe that the family dynamic is an extremely important part of the therapeutic process, and will often involve parents and siblings in therapy when it is helpful. I also work with parents who need support with parenting help in many different scenarios (toddlers to teens).
Approaches include: Play Therapy, CBT, Exposure Response Prevention Therapy (ERP), Solution Focused Therapy.
Welcome! My practice is open during early EVENING hours to accommodate after school schedules. I have been fortunate to have 19 years of counseling experience in both the school setting and the private sector, working with children ranging in ages 5-18, adults, and with families. While working with children and adolescents, I believe that the family dynamic is an extremely important part of the therapeutic process, and will often involve parents and siblings in therapy when it is helpful. I also work with parents who need support with parenting help in many different scenarios (toddlers to teens).
(770) 629-8015 View (770) 629-8015
Photo of Melanie Elizabeth Kissell, Counselor in Alpharetta, GA
Melanie Elizabeth Kissell
Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30022
As a relationship-oriented therapist with training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, & Child-Parent Psychotherapy, I work with infants, children, adolescents, families, & adults.
"Love and Trust, in the space between what's said and what's heard in our life, can make all the difference in the world." Fred Rogers. Sometimes life presents us with challenges, adjustments, and opportunities for growth, all we need is someone to hear what we are saying in a new way. I am here to help you navigate these moments, in the way you desire. Together we will work to ensure that you are truly listened to, in a way that elicits effective change, growth, and healing.
As a relationship-oriented therapist with training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, & Child-Parent Psychotherapy, I work with infants, children, adolescents, families, & adults.
"Love and Trust, in the space between what's said and what's heard in our life, can make all the difference in the world." Fred Rogers. Sometimes life presents us with challenges, adjustments, and opportunities for growth, all we need is someone to hear what we are saying in a new way. I am here to help you navigate these moments, in the way you desire. Together we will work to ensure that you are truly listened to, in a way that elicits effective change, growth, and healing.
(706) 609-3342 View (706) 609-3342
Photo of Luciana Sacramento Aguiar, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alpharetta, GA
Luciana Sacramento Aguiar
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, CRC, NCC
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30022
Waitlist for new clients
I am client-centered and committed to offering an age-appropriate approach; I have training in Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT).
I'm a multilingual Mental Health Counselor who works with English, Portuguese, and Spanish populations. As a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor and National Certified Counselor, I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with mental health concerns impacted by disabilities and chronic health conditions. My mission is to support my clients and their families to improve their quality of life by practicing an integrative approach and viewing individuals from a holistic perspective.
I am client-centered and committed to offering an age-appropriate approach; I have training in Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT).
I'm a multilingual Mental Health Counselor who works with English, Portuguese, and Spanish populations. As a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor and National Certified Counselor, I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with mental health concerns impacted by disabilities and chronic health conditions. My mission is to support my clients and their families to improve their quality of life by practicing an integrative approach and viewing individuals from a holistic perspective.
(678) 940-6828 View (678) 940-6828
Photo of Diane Wood, Counselor in Alpharetta, GA
Diane Wood
Counselor, EdS, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30009
I have additional training in Play Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, and Mindfulness.
With 23 years experience working with children and families, previously as a school counselor, I now work as a Licensed Professional Counselor in a busy private practice in downtown Alpharetta. My therapeutic philosophy is based on the belief that a counselor's role is to empower clients with the tools to unlock their fullest potential. I love working with clients of all ages as they strive to overcome their challenges with insight, growth and solutions.
I have additional training in Play Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, and Mindfulness.
With 23 years experience working with children and families, previously as a school counselor, I now work as a Licensed Professional Counselor in a busy private practice in downtown Alpharetta. My therapeutic philosophy is based on the belief that a counselor's role is to empower clients with the tools to unlock their fullest potential. I love working with clients of all ages as they strive to overcome their challenges with insight, growth and solutions.
(770) 545-6995 View (770) 545-6995
Photo of Brittany Byrd Hagy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alpharetta, GA
Brittany Byrd Hagy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30005
I specialize in play therapy and cognitive-behavioral approaches to help my clients achieve self-awareness and emotional healing.
Hello and welcome! I'm passionate about helping children and their families restore and rebuild the peace they’ve lost in their lives. I believe humans are designed to be intimately connected with others in loving and secure relationships. Therefore, when that connection and safety becomes absent or broken due to the difficulties of “life,” emotional pain and behavioral issues often arise that are difficult to navigate alone. My focus is on providing individuals (ages 3-25) with the tools they need to overcome their inner struggles, navigate the challenges of life, and develop resiliency for their future.
I specialize in play therapy and cognitive-behavioral approaches to help my clients achieve self-awareness and emotional healing.
Hello and welcome! I'm passionate about helping children and their families restore and rebuild the peace they’ve lost in their lives. I believe humans are designed to be intimately connected with others in loving and secure relationships. Therefore, when that connection and safety becomes absent or broken due to the difficulties of “life,” emotional pain and behavioral issues often arise that are difficult to navigate alone. My focus is on providing individuals (ages 3-25) with the tools they need to overcome their inner struggles, navigate the challenges of life, and develop resiliency for their future.
(678) 515-5628 View (678) 515-5628
Photo of Moeller and Associates, Inc., Licensed Professional Counselor in Alpharetta, GA
Moeller and Associates, Inc.
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30009
Play Therapy offers young children a therapeutic experience through the use of toys and artistic expression.
Moeller and Associates was founded in 1995. All clinicians have a Masters Degree or PhD in Psychology, Social Work, or Counseling along with designated State Licensure and/or Certifications. This team offers expertise in mood disorders, anxiety disorders substance abuse, relationship/marital issues, grief counseling, and workplace issues. Populations served are for children, adolescents, and adults of various multi-national backgrounds. All clinicians within the team participate in ongoing education and training allowing them cutting edge knowledge of behavioral healthcare and interventions to improve one's mental health. We welcome the opportunity to serve our community.
Play Therapy offers young children a therapeutic experience through the use of toys and artistic expression.
Moeller and Associates was founded in 1995. All clinicians have a Masters Degree or PhD in Psychology, Social Work, or Counseling along with designated State Licensure and/or Certifications. This team offers expertise in mood disorders, anxiety disorders substance abuse, relationship/marital issues, grief counseling, and workplace issues. Populations served are for children, adolescents, and adults of various multi-national backgrounds. All clinicians within the team participate in ongoing education and training allowing them cutting edge knowledge of behavioral healthcare and interventions to improve one's mental health. We welcome the opportunity to serve our community.
(770) 691-2307 x201 View (770) 691-2307 x201
Photo of Dawn M Foster, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alpharetta, GA
Dawn M Foster
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30009
I have 20+ years of experience, as well as having worked as a Registered Play Therapist/Supervisor for 17 years.
I am now offering the choice between in person or online video counseling to help persons of all ages who feel anxious, overwhelmed, stressed or depressed. It's so important that you have a voice and your needs are met. What you want and need, first of all, is to be really heard and feel understood. I always begin by listening deeply. The journey of healing and change can be made a bit lighter when shared with a caring therapist. I provide supportive and interactive help to enable you, or your loved one, to overcome anxieties and fears. Together we can make your life and relationships better.
I have 20+ years of experience, as well as having worked as a Registered Play Therapist/Supervisor for 17 years.
I am now offering the choice between in person or online video counseling to help persons of all ages who feel anxious, overwhelmed, stressed or depressed. It's so important that you have a voice and your needs are met. What you want and need, first of all, is to be really heard and feel understood. I always begin by listening deeply. The journey of healing and change can be made a bit lighter when shared with a caring therapist. I provide supportive and interactive help to enable you, or your loved one, to overcome anxieties and fears. Together we can make your life and relationships better.
(678) 509-6133 View (678) 509-6133
Photo of Mary Frances Pierce, Counselor in Alpharetta, GA
Mary Frances Pierce
Counselor, MS, APC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30022
I utilize Cognitive behavioral therapy, Play therapy, and Attachment theory approaches to help clients reach their therapeutic goals.
I strongly believe in highlighting the inherent resilience found in every individual, guiding clients to understand that anxiety does not define their identity. My specialization lies in supporting individuals who struggle to articulate their thoughts and overcome self-doubt, recognizing that unaddressed emotional pain and anxiety can manifest in various ways. Whether you're a child or an adult, I'm here to support you on this journey of growth and healing.
I utilize Cognitive behavioral therapy, Play therapy, and Attachment theory approaches to help clients reach their therapeutic goals.
I strongly believe in highlighting the inherent resilience found in every individual, guiding clients to understand that anxiety does not define their identity. My specialization lies in supporting individuals who struggle to articulate their thoughts and overcome self-doubt, recognizing that unaddressed emotional pain and anxiety can manifest in various ways. Whether you're a child or an adult, I'm here to support you on this journey of growth and healing.
(404) 404-3580 View (404) 404-3580
Photo of Monique Johnson-Hill, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alpharetta, GA
Monique Johnson-Hill
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC-S, RPT-S, CCBT, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30005
I specialize in play therapy, couple's therapy, individual therapy, and group therapy.
Mrs. Johnson-Hill is committed to supporting individuals and families through a comprehensive approach. She strongly believes that, with the appropriate resources, everyone can achieve their fullest potential and is dedicated to ensuring they receive the utmost quality of service to make that possible. Her focus is on promoting the well-being of individuals, families, and the broader community by providing education, intervention, effective treatment, and prevention.
I specialize in play therapy, couple's therapy, individual therapy, and group therapy.
Mrs. Johnson-Hill is committed to supporting individuals and families through a comprehensive approach. She strongly believes that, with the appropriate resources, everyone can achieve their fullest potential and is dedicated to ensuring they receive the utmost quality of service to make that possible. Her focus is on promoting the well-being of individuals, families, and the broader community by providing education, intervention, effective treatment, and prevention.
(205) 379-6240 View (205) 379-6240
Photo of Lisa C Bryan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alpharetta, GA
Lisa C Bryan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MEd
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30022
I use Play Therapy with children and am a Christian Counselor at heart.
Are you nervous, having panic attacks, shortness of breath, or maybe your heart is racing and you can't explain it; it could potentially be anxiety. Maybe for lack of better coping skills you have increased your use of alcohol or drugs. Maybe your family is telling you you are addicted to or abusing alcohol or drugs, but you don't know what else to do. Some people don't understand what is happening to their body and are fearful of where to go or how to get help.
I use Play Therapy with children and am a Christian Counselor at heart.
Are you nervous, having panic attacks, shortness of breath, or maybe your heart is racing and you can't explain it; it could potentially be anxiety. Maybe for lack of better coping skills you have increased your use of alcohol or drugs. Maybe your family is telling you you are addicted to or abusing alcohol or drugs, but you don't know what else to do. Some people don't understand what is happening to their body and are fearful of where to go or how to get help.
(770) 450-5374 View (770) 450-5374
Photo of Kristin Ann Coggin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alpharetta, GA
Kristin Ann Coggin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30004
As a Registered Play Therapist, Kristin most frequently utilizes Child Centered Play Therapy as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in her work with children ages 3-12.
Kristin Coggin is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia. She received her B.S degree in Psychology from Columbus State University and a Master's Degree in Community Counseling from The University of Georgia. Kristin has experience working with adults, adolescents and children in both individual and group settings. She also has experience in family counseling and crisis intervention. Her experiences include working with clients of all ages in areas including mood/anxiety disorders, anger management, relationship issues and ADHD. Kristin also utilizes Canine Assisted Therapy in her sessions with her Therapy Dog, Tripp.
As a Registered Play Therapist, Kristin most frequently utilizes Child Centered Play Therapy as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in her work with children ages 3-12.
Kristin Coggin is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia. She received her B.S degree in Psychology from Columbus State University and a Master's Degree in Community Counseling from The University of Georgia. Kristin has experience working with adults, adolescents and children in both individual and group settings. She also has experience in family counseling and crisis intervention. Her experiences include working with clients of all ages in areas including mood/anxiety disorders, anger management, relationship issues and ADHD. Kristin also utilizes Canine Assisted Therapy in her sessions with her Therapy Dog, Tripp.
(678) 929-6147 View (678) 929-6147
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.