Photo of Anna Docurral, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Anna Docurral
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02130  (Online Only)
I utilize a wide variety of techniques including trauma informed care, play therapy, CBT, DBT, and narrative therapy.
My clients are typically between ages 3-19 years old and present with a wide variety of strengths and opportunities for further growth. My passion is working with young children, latency age youth, adolescents, and their families who have experienced trauma. I firmly believe that children and families are resilient and have the power to heal and recreate narratives that reflect their inner strength.
I utilize a wide variety of techniques including trauma informed care, play therapy, CBT, DBT, and narrative therapy.
My clients are typically between ages 3-19 years old and present with a wide variety of strengths and opportunities for further growth. My passion is working with young children, latency age youth, adolescents, and their families who have experienced trauma. I firmly believe that children and families are resilient and have the power to heal and recreate narratives that reflect their inner strength.
(617) 855-0382 View (617) 855-0382
Photo of Monique Sisson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Boston, MA
Monique Sisson
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02215  (Online Only)
I utilize a comprehensive and collaborative approach that may encompass play, narrative, art, client-centered therapy, strengths-based therapy, play-based interventions, and solution-focused therapy.
I am a queer-identifying (they/them) person of color, and a masters-level social work student intern in my last year of field placement. I am an activist and social justice-oriented individual. I have 6 years of experience working with children, youth, and guardians. I have worked with adolescence and families who have gone through major life transitions, children on the autism spectrum, ADHD, and adults with disabilities. My approach to therapy aligns with my core values, assisting individuals in their life journey with honor and consideration, and acknowledging that each person holds the authority on their own unique experiences.
I utilize a comprehensive and collaborative approach that may encompass play, narrative, art, client-centered therapy, strengths-based therapy, play-based interventions, and solution-focused therapy.
I am a queer-identifying (they/them) person of color, and a masters-level social work student intern in my last year of field placement. I am an activist and social justice-oriented individual. I have 6 years of experience working with children, youth, and guardians. I have worked with adolescence and families who have gone through major life transitions, children on the autism spectrum, ADHD, and adults with disabilities. My approach to therapy aligns with my core values, assisting individuals in their life journey with honor and consideration, and acknowledging that each person holds the authority on their own unique experiences.
(339) 215-1833 View (339) 215-1833
Photo of Ariel Hopes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Ariel Hopes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02135  (Online Only)
I specialize in work with children, adolescents, and parents, women and non-binary individuals, and adults of all ages struggling with a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and work, school, and relationship stress. I have experience with neurodivergent populations, LGBTQIA+, and various faith communities. I use a variety of treatment modalities, including CBT, DBT, psychodynamic psychotherapy, mindfulness, and play and art therapies. I provide treatment from a strengths-based and trauma-informed perspective and am focused on empowering my clients to meet their goals and live happier, more fulfilling lives.
I specialize in work with children, adolescents, and parents, women and non-binary individuals, and adults of all ages struggling with a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and work, school, and relationship stress. I have experience with neurodivergent populations, LGBTQIA+, and various faith communities. I use a variety of treatment modalities, including CBT, DBT, psychodynamic psychotherapy, mindfulness, and play and art therapies. I provide treatment from a strengths-based and trauma-informed perspective and am focused on empowering my clients to meet their goals and live happier, more fulfilling lives.
(781) 808-2356 View (781) 808-2356
Photo of Teresa G Dias, Counselor in Boston, MA
Teresa G Dias
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02110
I am a registered play therapist with advanced training and supervision in the use of play and sandtray for healing.
I am now accepting new in person clients for the fall! My new office is in downtown Boston, on Franklin St. I offer a welcoming and secure place for your child to explore issues of anxiety, depression, PTSD and more. I am a Registered play therapist, and Licensed mental health counselor who engages in children's natural play language to unpack and examine life's challenges. I also use art, sandtray and mindfulness to teach coping tools, and help children and teens understand their internal world. I am available to see children, teens, and adults. Together we will co-create a creative and productive therapeutic experience.
I am a registered play therapist with advanced training and supervision in the use of play and sandtray for healing.
I am now accepting new in person clients for the fall! My new office is in downtown Boston, on Franklin St. I offer a welcoming and secure place for your child to explore issues of anxiety, depression, PTSD and more. I am a Registered play therapist, and Licensed mental health counselor who engages in children's natural play language to unpack and examine life's challenges. I also use art, sandtray and mindfulness to teach coping tools, and help children and teens understand their internal world. I am available to see children, teens, and adults. Together we will co-create a creative and productive therapeutic experience.
(339) 230-6499 View (339) 230-6499
Photo of Chelsie Maynard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Chelsie Maynard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, MDiv
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02199  (Online Only)
While everyone's needs are different, I utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities, including CBT, TF-CBT, motivational interviewing, play therapy, sensory interventions, expressive and narrative therapies, and Sensory Motor Arousal Regulation Therapy (SMART).
Hi there! I'm a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with 8 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and families. I have worked with those navigating a variety of different life challenges and changes, though my specialty is in dealing with trauma and grief, particularly pre-verbal trauma in early childhood. I believe one of the most powerful statements we can hear is: "I'm with you" and this is what I try to embody for my clients and their families. I am also an ordained pastor, have a Masters of Divinity, and am happy to incorporate pastoral counseling and Christian spirituality into treatment if desired.
While everyone's needs are different, I utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities, including CBT, TF-CBT, motivational interviewing, play therapy, sensory interventions, expressive and narrative therapies, and Sensory Motor Arousal Regulation Therapy (SMART).
Hi there! I'm a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with 8 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and families. I have worked with those navigating a variety of different life challenges and changes, though my specialty is in dealing with trauma and grief, particularly pre-verbal trauma in early childhood. I believe one of the most powerful statements we can hear is: "I'm with you" and this is what I try to embody for my clients and their families. I am also an ordained pastor, have a Masters of Divinity, and am happy to incorporate pastoral counseling and Christian spirituality into treatment if desired.
(617) 767-0482 View (617) 767-0482
Photo of Judy Ashway, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Judy Ashway
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, BCD, ACSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02108
I do play & talk therapy.
I have been a child & adolescent therapist for 49yrs., & I enjoy my work greatly. I also work with parents who want advice and guidance about parenting skills. Children can change much faster than adults, and that is why I love working with young people. I try to support their strengths, encourage their creativity, relate to them with warmth and humor. I also work with parents with children, and with parents with teens if teens want me to. I like the challenge of connecting with both children and teens, ages 4 to 20. Connecting requires intuition and open-heartedness.
I do play & talk therapy.
I have been a child & adolescent therapist for 49yrs., & I enjoy my work greatly. I also work with parents who want advice and guidance about parenting skills. Children can change much faster than adults, and that is why I love working with young people. I try to support their strengths, encourage their creativity, relate to them with warmth and humor. I also work with parents with children, and with parents with teens if teens want me to. I like the challenge of connecting with both children and teens, ages 4 to 20. Connecting requires intuition and open-heartedness.
(617) 682-9018 View (617) 682-9018
Photo of Caryn Mushlin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Caryn Mushlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02135
Through play therapy and parent guidance you and your family will grow towards becoming a happier family.
Deciding to talk with a therapist about your problems is a courageous step to take especially when you may not feel at your best. It is especially difficult when you've tried numerous times to figure out what gets in the way yet you haven't changed. Together, we can explore the issues so that you obtain what you truly want for yourself. The approach I use is compassionate, warm, and designed especially for you. You will emerge feeling more confident, happier, and more fulfilled. I have 18 years of experience to draw from to help you enliven and enrich your life.
Through play therapy and parent guidance you and your family will grow towards becoming a happier family.
Deciding to talk with a therapist about your problems is a courageous step to take especially when you may not feel at your best. It is especially difficult when you've tried numerous times to figure out what gets in the way yet you haven't changed. Together, we can explore the issues so that you obtain what you truly want for yourself. The approach I use is compassionate, warm, and designed especially for you. You will emerge feeling more confident, happier, and more fulfilled. I have 18 years of experience to draw from to help you enliven and enrich your life.
(617) 446-3163 View (617) 446-3163
Photo of Rachel Fernekees, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Rachel Fernekees
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, SAC, MAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02199  (Online Only)
As a child/adolescent specialist, I engage youth with humor & play therapy.
Are you tired of feeling anxious? Are you finding it difficult to concentrate and juggle demands? Are you looking for a professional you or your child will connect with? We work at a pace that is comfortable for you and draw from your strengths to get you feeling better. You have inner wisdom and choices that will bring you solutions. People meet with me to find relief from symptoms of anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, and OCD. I provide a unique treatment plan to suit your needs which incorporates evidence based practice and the structure of skills & behavior therapy if desired. I am a neurodiversity & LGBTQIA+ affirming provider.
As a child/adolescent specialist, I engage youth with humor & play therapy.
Are you tired of feeling anxious? Are you finding it difficult to concentrate and juggle demands? Are you looking for a professional you or your child will connect with? We work at a pace that is comfortable for you and draw from your strengths to get you feeling better. You have inner wisdom and choices that will bring you solutions. People meet with me to find relief from symptoms of anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, and OCD. I provide a unique treatment plan to suit your needs which incorporates evidence based practice and the structure of skills & behavior therapy if desired. I am a neurodiversity & LGBTQIA+ affirming provider.
(339) 330-1478 View (339) 330-1478
Photo of Whitney Brooks, Counselor in Boston, MA
Whitney Brooks
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02105  (Online Only)
I am currently accepting new clients! Do you often find yourself feeling sad or anxious? Do you worry about yourself or your child? Do you wish you could be your best self? With over fifteen years of clinical experience, my style is fluid and catered to best suit the concerns and experience of my clients. I have worked with clients of all ages in the context of individual, couples, and family therapy. I offer a goal-oriented and strength-based approach and incorporate CBT, ACT, art/narrative therapy, interpersonal therapy, solution-focused therapy, and play therapy depending on needs and preferences of each client.
I am currently accepting new clients! Do you often find yourself feeling sad or anxious? Do you worry about yourself or your child? Do you wish you could be your best self? With over fifteen years of clinical experience, my style is fluid and catered to best suit the concerns and experience of my clients. I have worked with clients of all ages in the context of individual, couples, and family therapy. I offer a goal-oriented and strength-based approach and incorporate CBT, ACT, art/narrative therapy, interpersonal therapy, solution-focused therapy, and play therapy depending on needs and preferences of each client.
(617) 863-9572 View (617) 863-9572
Photo of Carrie Pekor Jasper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Carrie Pekor Jasper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSEd, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02115  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have specialized training in divorce-related adjustment, play therapy, mediation, forensic child and family mental health, grief and loss, high conflict divorce, trauma, children with special needs, supervised visitation, and reunification therapy.
Separation and divorce often present families with significant challenges. I provide specialized therapeutic services which can help children and parents to navigate these transitions.
I have specialized training in divorce-related adjustment, play therapy, mediation, forensic child and family mental health, grief and loss, high conflict divorce, trauma, children with special needs, supervised visitation, and reunification therapy.
Separation and divorce often present families with significant challenges. I provide specialized therapeutic services which can help children and parents to navigate these transitions.
(617) 764-9504 View (617) 764-9504
Photo of Mark Jimerson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Mark Jimerson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02134  (Online Only)
My approach to therapy is broad-based and holistic, incorporating the training and experience I have gained over many years. I use evidence-based approaches that are adapted to the needs of the individual, remaining open to the need for creativity and inspiration. Every person has a story to tell, and a key part of my work is to listen and understand. In working with children, the story is often told through the language they know best: play. I am licensed to provide therapy in both Massachusetts and Puerto Rico. I also offer life coaching, which is not limited by geographic location.
My approach to therapy is broad-based and holistic, incorporating the training and experience I have gained over many years. I use evidence-based approaches that are adapted to the needs of the individual, remaining open to the need for creativity and inspiration. Every person has a story to tell, and a key part of my work is to listen and understand. In working with children, the story is often told through the language they know best: play. I am licensed to provide therapy in both Massachusetts and Puerto Rico. I also offer life coaching, which is not limited by geographic location.
(844) 421-9710 View (844) 421-9710
Photo of Ann Wheeler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Ann Wheeler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02130
I have a background in play therapy, movement-based therapy, and early childhood consultation.
Are you a parent of a child who is struggling? Do you feel like you have to do it all? You don’t have to do this alone. Humans develop in relationship to others, and we heal that way too. My focus is on childrens’ relationships with their caregivers - from processing challenging life events to managing hard feelings. The children I work with may be struggling with worry about friendships and family relationships, challenges with big emotions, doubts about their worth or appearance, academic difficulties, or navigating grief and loss. I support children in navigating these and many other challenging realities of growing up.
I have a background in play therapy, movement-based therapy, and early childhood consultation.
Are you a parent of a child who is struggling? Do you feel like you have to do it all? You don’t have to do this alone. Humans develop in relationship to others, and we heal that way too. My focus is on childrens’ relationships with their caregivers - from processing challenging life events to managing hard feelings. The children I work with may be struggling with worry about friendships and family relationships, challenges with big emotions, doubts about their worth or appearance, academic difficulties, or navigating grief and loss. I support children in navigating these and many other challenging realities of growing up.
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Photo of Sevkiye Berfin Isik Yilmaz, Pre-Licensed Professional in Boston, MA
Sevkiye Berfin Isik Yilmaz
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MSc, PhD(c)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02130
I utilize evidence-based methods like Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) alongside art and play therapy to create a safe space for children to express themselves, addressing emotional and behavioral issues.
Life can sometimes feel like a tough puzzle, and it's okay to admit when you need help putting the pieces together. By reading this, you've shown incredible bravery in seeking support, and I'm here to be your guide. My ideal clients are children with developmental delays or social-emotional and behavioral challenges. Additionally, I work with parents or guardians deeply committed to their children's well-being, seeking assistance in addressing these challenges. They require understanding, support, and effective strategies to help their children thrive.
I utilize evidence-based methods like Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) alongside art and play therapy to create a safe space for children to express themselves, addressing emotional and behavioral issues.
Life can sometimes feel like a tough puzzle, and it's okay to admit when you need help putting the pieces together. By reading this, you've shown incredible bravery in seeking support, and I'm here to be your guide. My ideal clients are children with developmental delays or social-emotional and behavioral challenges. Additionally, I work with parents or guardians deeply committed to their children's well-being, seeking assistance in addressing these challenges. They require understanding, support, and effective strategies to help their children thrive.
(508) 938-8623 View (508) 938-8623
Photo of Rhys Triolo Rodriguez, Pre-Licensed Professional in Boston, MA
Rhys Triolo Rodriguez
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02101
Rhys utilizes multiple treatment approaches including mindfulness, play therapy, various modalities within the expressive arts, humanistic, motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy, and internal family systems.
Rhys Triolo-Rodriguez is an LMHC-eligible Expressive Arts Therapist, with 5 years experience working in the field. She is passionate about working with all ages and walks of life. Through the modalities of Expressive Arts therapy and her background in Holistic psychology, she connects with clients and creates a space that allows for vulnerability, reflection, healing, creativity, and encouragement. Rhys specializes in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship issues, self-esteem, life transitions, art therapy, bibliotherapy, holistic approaches, and play therapy. She is an alumnus of Lesley University.
Rhys utilizes multiple treatment approaches including mindfulness, play therapy, various modalities within the expressive arts, humanistic, motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy, and internal family systems.
Rhys Triolo-Rodriguez is an LMHC-eligible Expressive Arts Therapist, with 5 years experience working in the field. She is passionate about working with all ages and walks of life. Through the modalities of Expressive Arts therapy and her background in Holistic psychology, she connects with clients and creates a space that allows for vulnerability, reflection, healing, creativity, and encouragement. Rhys specializes in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship issues, self-esteem, life transitions, art therapy, bibliotherapy, holistic approaches, and play therapy. She is an alumnus of Lesley University.
(617) 675-4989 View (617) 675-4989
Photo of Courtney Aldrich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Courtney Aldrich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02101  (Online Only)
Group offers separate spaces for adults and youth to do just that using art, play, and genuine connection.
I am a clinical social worker and an expressive art therapist. I enjoy working with people of all ages. My approach integrates Expressive Art Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, EMDR, and Trauma Sensitive Movement. I help clients build skills to challenge anxious thoughts, manage difficult emotions, and fall in love with the present.
Group offers separate spaces for adults and youth to do just that using art, play, and genuine connection.
I am a clinical social worker and an expressive art therapist. I enjoy working with people of all ages. My approach integrates Expressive Art Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, EMDR, and Trauma Sensitive Movement. I help clients build skills to challenge anxious thoughts, manage difficult emotions, and fall in love with the present.
(978) 928-6635 View (978) 928-6635
Photo of Dr. Kristen Dreyfus, Psychologist in Boston, MA
Dr. Kristen Dreyfus
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02215
I see therapy as a place to practice courage and honesty, with the goal of creating more joy, humor, flexibility, and play in one's life, relationships, and work. I often see individuals dealing with complex issues such as depression, grief/loss, anxiety, recovery from trauma/abuse or neglect, postpartum or parenting issues, child emotional or behavioral concerns, relationship conflicts, or identity/life transitions. My approach is collaborative, empathic, and interactive, creating an environment in which to help you better understand, relate to, and address the challenges you are experiencing.
I see therapy as a place to practice courage and honesty, with the goal of creating more joy, humor, flexibility, and play in one's life, relationships, and work. I often see individuals dealing with complex issues such as depression, grief/loss, anxiety, recovery from trauma/abuse or neglect, postpartum or parenting issues, child emotional or behavioral concerns, relationship conflicts, or identity/life transitions. My approach is collaborative, empathic, and interactive, creating an environment in which to help you better understand, relate to, and address the challenges you are experiencing.
(857) 226-8704 View (857) 226-8704
Photo of Emily Kinney, Pre-Licensed Professional in Boston, MA
Emily Kinney
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02115  (Online Only)
With children, I like to use play-centered therapy and have been able to successfully use this form of therapy virtually!.
Hello! My name is Emily. I am a pre-licensed clinician under the supervision of an LMHC at Compass Social Skills and Counseling. I have worked with children and families for nearly 8 years. I have experience with a range of ages including children as young as 5, adolescents, teens, college students, and young adults, as well as parents and family members. I have been seeing clients virtually through a Telehealth platform for over a year now and have found so many wonderful benefits to this new modality, and find that kids are far more adaptive and responsive to virtual than originally imagined.
With children, I like to use play-centered therapy and have been able to successfully use this form of therapy virtually!.
Hello! My name is Emily. I am a pre-licensed clinician under the supervision of an LMHC at Compass Social Skills and Counseling. I have worked with children and families for nearly 8 years. I have experience with a range of ages including children as young as 5, adolescents, teens, college students, and young adults, as well as parents and family members. I have been seeing clients virtually through a Telehealth platform for over a year now and have found so many wonderful benefits to this new modality, and find that kids are far more adaptive and responsive to virtual than originally imagined.
(774) 520-0145 View (774) 520-0145
Photo of Family Support Program & Autism Diagnosis- MA & NY, Counselor in Boston, MA
Family Support Program & Autism Diagnosis- MA & NY
Counselor, Psy D, LICSW, LMHC, MSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02102  (Online Only)
Each family will receive an in-depth family assessment, customized Family Support Plan, individualized Therapeutic Developmental LEGO Kit (TDLK) play kit, and support for overall mental wellbeing.
NEW- Availability for clients seeking neuropsychological evaluations in MA! We partner with The LEGO Foundation to support families of neurodivergent children, those with developmental delays, and children in need of a diagnosis that are between the ages of 3-12. Through our Family Support Program we create a customized Family Support Plan that works on language development, adaptive skills, cognitive skills, social skills, family mental health support, and self care and support. The goal of our program is to provide continuous training and support to families that will improve the families overall well-being and quality of life.
Each family will receive an in-depth family assessment, customized Family Support Plan, individualized Therapeutic Developmental LEGO Kit (TDLK) play kit, and support for overall mental wellbeing.
NEW- Availability for clients seeking neuropsychological evaluations in MA! We partner with The LEGO Foundation to support families of neurodivergent children, those with developmental delays, and children in need of a diagnosis that are between the ages of 3-12. Through our Family Support Program we create a customized Family Support Plan that works on language development, adaptive skills, cognitive skills, social skills, family mental health support, and self care and support. The goal of our program is to provide continuous training and support to families that will improve the families overall well-being and quality of life.
(508) 501-6332 View (508) 501-6332
Photo of Raihaan Attawala, Counselor in Boston, MA
Raihaan Attawala
Counselor, LMHC, MaCCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02110
With life becoming increasingly demanding, it can feel like we are always battling on a new frontier. We do not, however, have to power through it alone! Whether it’s with relationships, family, jobs, college, new cultural environments or even ourselves, I aim to support my clients with recognizing and managing the emotional impact that life’s torrent of changes has on us all. My therapeutic approach is to create an accepting relationship so sessions can be a comfortable and judgment free zone.
With life becoming increasingly demanding, it can feel like we are always battling on a new frontier. We do not, however, have to power through it alone! Whether it’s with relationships, family, jobs, college, new cultural environments or even ourselves, I aim to support my clients with recognizing and managing the emotional impact that life’s torrent of changes has on us all. My therapeutic approach is to create an accepting relationship so sessions can be a comfortable and judgment free zone.
(857) 290-4328 View (857) 290-4328
Photo of Dr. Madeleine Gordon, Psychologist in Boston, MA
Dr. Madeleine Gordon
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02130
Often, we find ourselves stuck. We repeat ineffective and painful patterns of behavior, and think worrisome and self-critical thoughts. Our past creeps in and impacts our present functioning. We struggle with conflict and communication in our most important relationships. It takes courage to tell your story, whether it is your first time or you have previously engaged in therapy. It is a privilege for me to learn about, and partner with you in pursuit of your goals. I see therapy as a safe and collaborative space to explore yourself, your areas of strength and of growth, and your relationships, without judgement.
Often, we find ourselves stuck. We repeat ineffective and painful patterns of behavior, and think worrisome and self-critical thoughts. Our past creeps in and impacts our present functioning. We struggle with conflict and communication in our most important relationships. It takes courage to tell your story, whether it is your first time or you have previously engaged in therapy. It is a privilege for me to learn about, and partner with you in pursuit of your goals. I see therapy as a safe and collaborative space to explore yourself, your areas of strength and of growth, and your relationships, without judgement.
(617) 545-0882 View (617) 545-0882

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.