Therapists in Hawaii
Amelia Rachel Hokulea Borofsky
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Kailua, HI 96734 (Online Only)
I also use play, art.
I approach therapy as a collaborative process and provide a supportive, empowering, and confidential space. Race, gender, class, and power—and how multiple identities intersect--all inform the work. Intergenerational trauma, parenting, postpartum depression, and anxiety are some of the most common struggles. I work with you to co-create small, impactful change. Together we can unlock connection, compassion, and creativity. We all have seeds of growth, change, and healing within us. Confidential telehealth, surf therapy workshops, and Spanish-speaking services available.
I also use play, art.
I approach therapy as a collaborative process and provide a supportive, empowering, and confidential space. Race, gender, class, and power—and how multiple identities intersect--all inform the work. Intergenerational trauma, parenting, postpartum depression, and anxiety are some of the most common struggles. I work with you to co-create small, impactful change. Together we can unlock connection, compassion, and creativity. We all have seeds of growth, change, and healing within us. Confidential telehealth, surf therapy workshops, and Spanish-speaking services available.
Maria F Achaval
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pearl City, HI 96782
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist and I provide the following services in my private practice: Individual psychotherapy, play therapy for children, couple/marital therapy and family therapy.
In 1996, I began working with culturally diverse children, adolescents, adults and families in Oahu through a community health center in Honolulu.. The increasing need for mental health services for this population has challenged me to recognize, accept, and understand the complexities of their problems - challenges that offer potential for personal and professional growth, creativity, and deeper human connection. I had the opportunity since then to draw on various psychological approaches that include Humanistic, Cognitive-Behavioral, Psychodynamic, Existential, System/Family, Developmental and Psychoeducational.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist and I provide the following services in my private practice: Individual psychotherapy, play therapy for children, couple/marital therapy and family therapy.
In 1996, I began working with culturally diverse children, adolescents, adults and families in Oahu through a community health center in Honolulu.. The increasing need for mental health services for this population has challenged me to recognize, accept, and understand the complexities of their problems - challenges that offer potential for personal and professional growth, creativity, and deeper human connection. I had the opportunity since then to draw on various psychological approaches that include Humanistic, Cognitive-Behavioral, Psychodynamic, Existential, System/Family, Developmental and Psychoeducational.
Moani Silva
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kamuela, HI 96743
She incorporates DBT, EMDR, EFT, Sand Play and CBT into her therapy.
Moani Silva is an LMFT who was born and raised in Hawaii. She has experience working with people from all different ethnic backgrounds and believes in treating the whole being. She uses a conscious and holistic approach when working with individuals, families and children to help them thrive and experience living life to its fullest. She works to empower clients to awaken their self-guidance system, embrace their authentic selves, open to a life worth living, and step onto their own unique life-path.
She incorporates DBT, EMDR, EFT, Sand Play and CBT into her therapy.
Moani Silva is an LMFT who was born and raised in Hawaii. She has experience working with people from all different ethnic backgrounds and believes in treating the whole being. She uses a conscious and holistic approach when working with individuals, families and children to help them thrive and experience living life to its fullest. She works to empower clients to awaken their self-guidance system, embrace their authentic selves, open to a life worth living, and step onto their own unique life-path.
Tia Claypool
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, RPT, NCC
Verified Verified
Ewa Beach, HI 96706
I am a Registered Play Therapist, I use play and sandtray therapy for children and adolescents to express themselves in other ways than words.
Do you ever feel misunderstood and emotionally stressed; or have you been affected by unexpected life situations (such as Covid 19)? It may be time to talk about some of these stressors in your life. Going through a pandemic and facing natural life challenges can be overwhelming to adults and adolescents. Remotely working and going to school from home has taken us to a point of limited socialization and staying in the confines of our homes to stay healthy. Changes can be difficult for anyone and the uncertainty of this pandemic can be trying and I would like to help.
I am a Registered Play Therapist, I use play and sandtray therapy for children and adolescents to express themselves in other ways than words.
Do you ever feel misunderstood and emotionally stressed; or have you been affected by unexpected life situations (such as Covid 19)? It may be time to talk about some of these stressors in your life. Going through a pandemic and facing natural life challenges can be overwhelming to adults and adolescents. Remotely working and going to school from home has taken us to a point of limited socialization and staying in the confines of our homes to stay healthy. Changes can be difficult for anyone and the uncertainty of this pandemic can be trying and I would like to help.
Sarah Monique Williams, PsyD
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Makawao, HI 96768 (Online Only)
Through play and talk therapy, I can help children or teens improve their self-esteem.
We all experience challenges in our lives, but with insight and strong relationships we can explore new perspectives together. I can assist you with expressing yourself with greater ease and confidence, coping with grief and loss, uncovering and remembering your authentic self, identifying priorities and skills, and developing more peace in your life. Whether you are adjusting to a life change, struggling with anxiety, trauma, or depression, or facing challenges in your relationships, I offer a range of individualized services to help foster awareness, resilience, and positivity.
Through play and talk therapy, I can help children or teens improve their self-esteem.
We all experience challenges in our lives, but with insight and strong relationships we can explore new perspectives together. I can assist you with expressing yourself with greater ease and confidence, coping with grief and loss, uncovering and remembering your authentic self, identifying priorities and skills, and developing more peace in your life. Whether you are adjusting to a life change, struggling with anxiety, trauma, or depression, or facing challenges in your relationships, I offer a range of individualized services to help foster awareness, resilience, and positivity.
Carol l Nowak
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Kaneohe, HI 96744 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I use both individual play therapy, parent consultation, and family therapy and utilize behavioral interventions to assist with problems and challenges.
I specialize in working with adults, adolescents, and children in individual, couples and family therapy. I primarily use a psychodynamic, interpersonal, and family systems approach. Having been in practice for more than 25 years, I have a well rounded and broad background of experience which includes working with all types of clients of all ages with many varying presenting issues. Clients who are best suited for my practice want to become more aware of their issues as they relate to the underlying patterns and dynamics that replicate again and again and cause dysfunction in their lives.
I use both individual play therapy, parent consultation, and family therapy and utilize behavioral interventions to assist with problems and challenges.
I specialize in working with adults, adolescents, and children in individual, couples and family therapy. I primarily use a psychodynamic, interpersonal, and family systems approach. Having been in practice for more than 25 years, I have a well rounded and broad background of experience which includes working with all types of clients of all ages with many varying presenting issues. Clients who are best suited for my practice want to become more aware of their issues as they relate to the underlying patterns and dynamics that replicate again and again and cause dysfunction in their lives.
Sophia Bullard
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Hilo, HI 96720
Sophia Bullard studied at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, receiving her Bachelors of Science in Psychology in 2021 and her Masters of Science in Community and Trauma Counseling in May of 2022. Sophia is currently working towards the LMHC (Licensed Mental Health Counselor) credential in the state of Hawaii. Additionally, she has future goals of becoming a Registered Play Therapist and Certified Yoga Therapist. Sophia’s clinical experience stems from working as a counseling intern at various public elementary and middle schools in the Greater Philadelphia area.
Sophia Bullard studied at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, receiving her Bachelors of Science in Psychology in 2021 and her Masters of Science in Community and Trauma Counseling in May of 2022. Sophia is currently working towards the LMHC (Licensed Mental Health Counselor) credential in the state of Hawaii. Additionally, she has future goals of becoming a Registered Play Therapist and Certified Yoga Therapist. Sophia’s clinical experience stems from working as a counseling intern at various public elementary and middle schools in the Greater Philadelphia area.
Mary Greaney
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, RPT, MA
Verified Verified
Kailua, HI 96734
I use the modalities of art and play therapy to help you to connect with your child.
Parenting is the most demanding job many of us will ever experience. You want the best for your child, so it can be painful to witness your child struggling with their emotions and anxiety. Therapy can help to enhance your child's emotional IQ and equip them with tools to deal with life's ups and downs. All relationships have ups and downs. So it is easy to get stuck in a frustrating cycle when your child doesn't listen, leaving you both feeling upset and disconnected. There is an alternative. You can enhance the relationship with your child, improve compliance and foster positive behaviors.
I use the modalities of art and play therapy to help you to connect with your child.
Parenting is the most demanding job many of us will ever experience. You want the best for your child, so it can be painful to witness your child struggling with their emotions and anxiety. Therapy can help to enhance your child's emotional IQ and equip them with tools to deal with life's ups and downs. All relationships have ups and downs. So it is easy to get stuck in a frustrating cycle when your child doesn't listen, leaving you both feeling upset and disconnected. There is an alternative. You can enhance the relationship with your child, improve compliance and foster positive behaviors.
Nick Osborne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CIMHP
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96814
While working together, we can explore creative approaches such as Walk & Talk Therapy and Outdoor Play Therapy in a scenic Honolulu park.
God created you for greatness. However, challenges in life are attempting to hinder you from being the person you are meant to be. I am here to help. With my laid-back and compassionate approach, I create a warm and safe environment where you will feel validated, empowered, and at times challenged. I value providing holistic therapy, where together we will develop mental, emotional, and spiritual tools that will assist you in becoming your best self. I enjoy working with children, teens, and young adults who seek help with identity issues, spiritual development, anger, anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, and athletic performance.
While working together, we can explore creative approaches such as Walk & Talk Therapy and Outdoor Play Therapy in a scenic Honolulu park.
God created you for greatness. However, challenges in life are attempting to hinder you from being the person you are meant to be. I am here to help. With my laid-back and compassionate approach, I create a warm and safe environment where you will feel validated, empowered, and at times challenged. I value providing holistic therapy, where together we will develop mental, emotional, and spiritual tools that will assist you in becoming your best self. I enjoy working with children, teens, and young adults who seek help with identity issues, spiritual development, anger, anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, and athletic performance.
Jenny M. Unno-Lee
Counselor, EdD, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Aiea, HI 96701
My primary treatment modality is play therapy, a developmentally responsive intervention that aims to treat emotional and behavioral problems.
I was born and raised in Hawaii and my passion is to support children, teens, and adults within my local community. I have been in practice for the past 14+ years, and it is my desire is to provide a family-friendly environment with professional and ethical services to meet the emotional, physical, and social well-being of children, teens, adults and their families.
My primary treatment modality is play therapy, a developmentally responsive intervention that aims to treat emotional and behavioral problems.
I was born and raised in Hawaii and my passion is to support children, teens, and adults within my local community. I have been in practice for the past 14+ years, and it is my desire is to provide a family-friendly environment with professional and ethical services to meet the emotional, physical, and social well-being of children, teens, adults and their families.
Molly Rauterkus
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Lihue, HI 96766
I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Gottman Method, Play Therapy, and Family Systems Therapy.
Currently not accepting new clients! I believe we all need support from time to time. As a systemic and compassionate therapist, I believe in walking alongside my clients, through the trenches and up the hill. I meet my clients where they are by building a safe haven to work through the difficulties of life.
I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Gottman Method, Play Therapy, and Family Systems Therapy.
Currently not accepting new clients! I believe we all need support from time to time. As a systemic and compassionate therapist, I believe in walking alongside my clients, through the trenches and up the hill. I meet my clients where they are by building a safe haven to work through the difficulties of life.
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Marriage & Family Therapist, EdS, MFT, CSAC, RPT
Verified Verified
Kalaheo, HI 96741 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Creative Therapy, Inc. was established in 1999. I became certified as a Substance Abuse Counselor in 2002, registered as a Play Therapist in 2006, licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist in Colorado and Hawaii in 2013, Virginia in 2023, and recognized as an EMDR Therapist in 2014. Additionally, I was certified in School Psychology in 1995, and as a Special Education Teacher in 1985. I have assisted children, families, and individuals with complex issues for over 35 years.
Creative Therapy, Inc. was established in 1999. I became certified as a Substance Abuse Counselor in 2002, registered as a Play Therapist in 2006, licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist in Colorado and Hawaii in 2013, Virginia in 2023, and recognized as an EMDR Therapist in 2014. Additionally, I was certified in School Psychology in 1995, and as a Special Education Teacher in 1985. I have assisted children, families, and individuals with complex issues for over 35 years.
Ellen Marie Roberts
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSCP, LMFT
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96822
Waitlist for new clients
The space offers comfort, art supplies, somatic & play therapy tools.
Currently accepting new clients, and welcoming in-person, tele-health, and eco-therapy sessions. Are you struggling to overcome emotional pain, heal from past hurt or trauma, get “un-stuck”, and create positive changes? I understand what it feels like to feel stuck, to want something different, to know that what you are doing isn’t working and that there is a better way but being unable to let go of unhelpful habits, patterns, social constructs, and/or relationships that are keeping us there. Change is possible and is most possible when one decides they just can’t keep living this way anymore and something must give.
The space offers comfort, art supplies, somatic & play therapy tools.
Currently accepting new clients, and welcoming in-person, tele-health, and eco-therapy sessions. Are you struggling to overcome emotional pain, heal from past hurt or trauma, get “un-stuck”, and create positive changes? I understand what it feels like to feel stuck, to want something different, to know that what you are doing isn’t working and that there is a better way but being unable to let go of unhelpful habits, patterns, social constructs, and/or relationships that are keeping us there. Change is possible and is most possible when one decides they just can’t keep living this way anymore and something must give.
D. Kalei Pi'ena
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hilo, HI 96720
I use Ia variety of theoretical approaches such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Solution Focused, Experiential, and Play Therapy to name a few.
Therapy can help to provide some guidance and understanding the obstacles of your life. I offer a safe and supportive environment to start the process of exploring those obstacles and embrace change. I use a client centered approach in my work with my clients and have a strong behaviorist background. I am comfortable in working with children, adolescents, adults individually
I use Ia variety of theoretical approaches such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Solution Focused, Experiential, and Play Therapy to name a few.
Therapy can help to provide some guidance and understanding the obstacles of your life. I offer a safe and supportive environment to start the process of exploring those obstacles and embrace change. I use a client centered approach in my work with my clients and have a strong behaviorist background. I am comfortable in working with children, adolescents, adults individually
Carmenne Anne Chiasson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96813
I believe that all people are equal and deserve respect regardless of your history or your circumstances. I will collaborate with you towards positive change. I treat most diagnoses including anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, and Autism. I treat clients of all ages and offer individual, couple, family and play therapy and Neurofeedback. I completed my APA approved internship at Kapiolani Counseling Center for women and children and I have previously worked as the child and adolescent psychologist at Kahi Mohala. I was the lead psychologist at my last position, providing consultation for child, adolescent and adult therapists.
I believe that all people are equal and deserve respect regardless of your history or your circumstances. I will collaborate with you towards positive change. I treat most diagnoses including anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, and Autism. I treat clients of all ages and offer individual, couple, family and play therapy and Neurofeedback. I completed my APA approved internship at Kapiolani Counseling Center for women and children and I have previously worked as the child and adolescent psychologist at Kahi Mohala. I was the lead psychologist at my last position, providing consultation for child, adolescent and adult therapists.
Shelley Schweitzer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96819
I am an EMDR trained therapist, a Registered Play Therapist (RPT-S) and a Behavioral Analyst (BCBA).
Life can bring joy and fulfilment, yet at times we all need support. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience. My practice serves children and their families as well as adults. Contact me for support in anxiety, depression, parenting, behavior, social skills, family issues, grief and trauma. I welcome all new clients and will tailor my approach to meet your needs.
I am an EMDR trained therapist, a Registered Play Therapist (RPT-S) and a Behavioral Analyst (BCBA).
Life can bring joy and fulfilment, yet at times we all need support. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience. My practice serves children and their families as well as adults. Contact me for support in anxiety, depression, parenting, behavior, social skills, family issues, grief and trauma. I welcome all new clients and will tailor my approach to meet your needs.
Keith Scherdt
Counselor, NCC, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Wailuku, HI 96793 (Online Only)
I specialize in Play Therapy.
When you have stress or trauma in your life, it can feel overwhelming and life can unravel. Your children are acting out, your teen is being suspended or involved with law enforcement, or your younger child won't stop misbehaving at school. These are all stressful family situations that can feel overwhelming to anyone. My passion is to bring healing to people who have been through traumatic or stressful experiences.
I specialize in Play Therapy.
When you have stress or trauma in your life, it can feel overwhelming and life can unravel. Your children are acting out, your teen is being suspended or involved with law enforcement, or your younger child won't stop misbehaving at school. These are all stressful family situations that can feel overwhelming to anyone. My passion is to bring healing to people who have been through traumatic or stressful experiences.
Mary L Welsh
Counselor, MS , NCC , LCMHC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96815 (Online Only)
I am licensed in and can see clients who live in Virginia, New Hampshire, Washington and Hawaii. I am currently only seeing clients using Telehealth. I am a Registered Play Therapist and can see children from 10+ online. I am also available as a consultant for parents of younger children and can coach parents in addressing behavioral concerns as well as providing training in Child Parent Relationship Therapy. I can help with most issues including anxiety, depression, grief/loss, divorce, relationship challenges and behavioral concerns.
I am licensed in and can see clients who live in Virginia, New Hampshire, Washington and Hawaii. I am currently only seeing clients using Telehealth. I am a Registered Play Therapist and can see children from 10+ online. I am also available as a consultant for parents of younger children and can coach parents in addressing behavioral concerns as well as providing training in Child Parent Relationship Therapy. I can help with most issues including anxiety, depression, grief/loss, divorce, relationship challenges and behavioral concerns.
Kirsten Wong
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hilo, HI 96720
I accept HMSA/HMSA Quest only. Limited in-office sessions. I am hapa and born and raised on Oahu (Pupukea, Wahiawa, Mililani, Kailua). I have 10 years of experience in mental health research, assessment and diagnostics, and counseling. I specialize in attachment issues; identifying and meeting your emotional needs; managing conflict, avoidance, loneliness, and obsessive thinking; and processing the layers of grief. I use holistic and integrative techniques to help bring more of you into balance. This includes but is not limited to CBT, DBT, ACT, and somatic practices (deep breathing, pranayama, vagal toning, self resourcing).
I accept HMSA/HMSA Quest only. Limited in-office sessions. I am hapa and born and raised on Oahu (Pupukea, Wahiawa, Mililani, Kailua). I have 10 years of experience in mental health research, assessment and diagnostics, and counseling. I specialize in attachment issues; identifying and meeting your emotional needs; managing conflict, avoidance, loneliness, and obsessive thinking; and processing the layers of grief. I use holistic and integrative techniques to help bring more of you into balance. This includes but is not limited to CBT, DBT, ACT, and somatic practices (deep breathing, pranayama, vagal toning, self resourcing).
Linda Anaya
Counselor, MA, MHC, AMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
Aloha, I am a Couples and Family Therapist. My approach emphasizes the importance of working with a couple and family as a system that influence one another. To restructure healthy relationships, I use therapies that promote positive interactions between individuals. My methods include trans-generational, structural family therapy, cognitive-behavioral approaches, and Gottman Therapy. I use exercises such as enactments to help clients set new appropriate boundaries, build love maps to improve interactions and establish loving communication.
Aloha, I am a Couples and Family Therapist. My approach emphasizes the importance of working with a couple and family as a system that influence one another. To restructure healthy relationships, I use therapies that promote positive interactions between individuals. My methods include trans-generational, structural family therapy, cognitive-behavioral approaches, and Gottman Therapy. I use exercises such as enactments to help clients set new appropriate boundaries, build love maps to improve interactions and establish loving communication.
See more therapy options for Hawaii
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.