Photo of Terri Lynn Jorstad, Marriage & Family Therapist in White Bear Lake, MN
Terri Lynn Jorstad
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
White Bear Lake, MN 55127
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize Developmental Trajectories, Mindfulness, Trauma Informed treatments for Physiological Self Regulation and Emotional Distress Tolerance, Art and Play Therapy, and variations on CBT, Narrative Therapy, and Experiential Therapy.
"Have you felt Distant or Disconnected from your self or your relationships? Do you struggle with Barriers to achieving goals? All of us have biological, psychological, sociological and spiritual components to our mental health. My approaches in therapy match this philosophy; I want people to feel integrated with themselves and the world around them. I have 14 years experience in treating individual adults and children, couples, and families experiencing; Anxiety Disorders, Depression and Long Term Management of Symptoms, Autism Spectrum and ADHD, Couples Issues- Understanding Attachment and Temperament, Family Adjustments, and Co-occuring Chemical Dependency.
I utilize Developmental Trajectories, Mindfulness, Trauma Informed treatments for Physiological Self Regulation and Emotional Distress Tolerance, Art and Play Therapy, and variations on CBT, Narrative Therapy, and Experiential Therapy.
"Have you felt Distant or Disconnected from your self or your relationships? Do you struggle with Barriers to achieving goals? All of us have biological, psychological, sociological and spiritual components to our mental health. My approaches in therapy match this philosophy; I want people to feel integrated with themselves and the world around them. I have 14 years experience in treating individual adults and children, couples, and families experiencing; Anxiety Disorders, Depression and Long Term Management of Symptoms, Autism Spectrum and ADHD, Couples Issues- Understanding Attachment and Temperament, Family Adjustments, and Co-occuring Chemical Dependency.
(763) 600-7321 View (763) 600-7321
Photo of Kris Anderson, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in White Bear Lake, MN
Kris Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LAMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
White Bear Lake, MN 55110
I believe that peace on earth starts with peace in the home. I'm able to help adults, couples, and families find this peace by using healthy communication techniques, recognize their emotions and heal from past pain. This helps clients foster deeper connections in their relationships and within themselves. I work with couples needing support with communication, conflict resolution and gaining trust. I help parents establish loving limits with their children to help them learn while also maintaining connection. I can help clients cope with anxiety, depression, trauma, and postpartum.
I believe that peace on earth starts with peace in the home. I'm able to help adults, couples, and families find this peace by using healthy communication techniques, recognize their emotions and heal from past pain. This helps clients foster deeper connections in their relationships and within themselves. I work with couples needing support with communication, conflict resolution and gaining trust. I help parents establish loving limits with their children to help them learn while also maintaining connection. I can help clients cope with anxiety, depression, trauma, and postpartum.
(651) 967-7892 View (651) 967-7892
Photo of Lyon Counseling, Counselor in White Bear Lake, MN
Lyon Counseling
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
White Bear Lake, MN 55110  (Online Only)
I frequently hear my clients say some version of “If people ever knew what I’m struggling with on the inside…” Maybe you're a "people-pleaser" or someone with invisible chronic illness or maybe you're a high functioning individual who manages to hold it all together while feeling like a mess on the inside. If you're searching for some space to be heard and understood and sift through the internal dynamics, I can help.
I frequently hear my clients say some version of “If people ever knew what I’m struggling with on the inside…” Maybe you're a "people-pleaser" or someone with invisible chronic illness or maybe you're a high functioning individual who manages to hold it all together while feeling like a mess on the inside. If you're searching for some space to be heard and understood and sift through the internal dynamics, I can help.
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Photo of Claudia Petcu, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in White Bear Lake, MN
Claudia Petcu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LPsy, LGSW
Verified Verified
White Bear Lake, MN 55110
You know by now that the process of transitioning through whatever situation you are dealing with in your life can be very difficult and painful. Partnering with a professional will help you get through the stormy waters, manage the difficulties and the pain, and access the resources you really need to get out of the storm. My areas of expertise are relationships, depression, loss of motivation, anxiety, stress, trauma, sexual abuse and sexual addiction and issues, domestic abuse, and fears of all kinds. I help people release their blockages so they can free themselves and continue to continue to live their lives to the fullest.
You know by now that the process of transitioning through whatever situation you are dealing with in your life can be very difficult and painful. Partnering with a professional will help you get through the stormy waters, manage the difficulties and the pain, and access the resources you really need to get out of the storm. My areas of expertise are relationships, depression, loss of motivation, anxiety, stress, trauma, sexual abuse and sexual addiction and issues, domestic abuse, and fears of all kinds. I help people release their blockages so they can free themselves and continue to continue to live their lives to the fullest.
(612) 712-5203 View (612) 712-5203
Photo of Wild Tree Psychotherapy, Counselor in White Bear Lake, MN
Wild Tree Psychotherapy
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
White Bear Lake, MN 55110
There are things the world throws at us that can feel overwhelming and we know cookie-cutter approaches to health and wellness don't always work. And, sometimes you need extra help, and support, to learn the skills to better cope with stress you encounter in life. Our collaborative team of professionally trained, compassionate therapists are dedicated to building a trusting relationship with you on your journey to long-term wellness. Each therapist is passionate about finding a therapeutic approach that provides holistic wellness and promotes health in a warm, welcoming environment.
There are things the world throws at us that can feel overwhelming and we know cookie-cutter approaches to health and wellness don't always work. And, sometimes you need extra help, and support, to learn the skills to better cope with stress you encounter in life. Our collaborative team of professionally trained, compassionate therapists are dedicated to building a trusting relationship with you on your journey to long-term wellness. Each therapist is passionate about finding a therapeutic approach that provides holistic wellness and promotes health in a warm, welcoming environment.
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Photo of Jessica Dresden, Psychologist in White Bear Lake, MN
Jessica Dresden
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
White Bear Lake, MN 55110
Hello! I am so glad you are taking the first steps in seeking support. In our work together you can expect me to be down to earth, kind, and personable. Together we will identify practical, concrete solutions to address your concerns while processing and working through deeper issues or stressors that are keeping you stuck. I will both challenge and support you. I am upfront and open with my clients in a gentle way and I flex my approach based upon your unique needs.
Hello! I am so glad you are taking the first steps in seeking support. In our work together you can expect me to be down to earth, kind, and personable. Together we will identify practical, concrete solutions to address your concerns while processing and working through deeper issues or stressors that are keeping you stuck. I will both challenge and support you. I am upfront and open with my clients in a gentle way and I flex my approach based upon your unique needs.
(651) 571-8204 View (651) 571-8204
Photo of Leanne Mairs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in White Bear Lake, MN
Leanne Mairs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
White Bear Lake, MN 55127
My approach is focused on the solutions you want to achieve. When you work with me, we will articulate what it is you want and need to move forward, and then we will harvest the unique strengths you already have to get there. We will collaborate on changing the aspects of your behavior that are not working for you. My approach does not begin and end with problems or the past—we only make those inquiries in order to frame solutions for the present. My work draws from several theoretical frameworks, including CBT, Internal Family Systems, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, CPT, and EMDR to help you achieve your goals and aspirations
My approach is focused on the solutions you want to achieve. When you work with me, we will articulate what it is you want and need to move forward, and then we will harvest the unique strengths you already have to get there. We will collaborate on changing the aspects of your behavior that are not working for you. My approach does not begin and end with problems or the past—we only make those inquiries in order to frame solutions for the present. My work draws from several theoretical frameworks, including CBT, Internal Family Systems, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, CPT, and EMDR to help you achieve your goals and aspirations
(651) 433-6415 View (651) 433-6415
Photo of Jina Wilson, Marriage & Family Therapist in White Bear Lake, MN
Jina Wilson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
White Bear Lake, MN 55110
Not accepting new clients
Play therapy is one form of therapy that I find very beneficial in my work.
Finding a therapist that you feel comfortable with, and connected to is key to a positive and successful therapy experience. Finding one that specializes in your areas of concern is equally important. For the past 20 years, I have focused on helping children, adolescents, and their parents heal and grow through therapy.
Play therapy is one form of therapy that I find very beneficial in my work.
Finding a therapist that you feel comfortable with, and connected to is key to a positive and successful therapy experience. Finding one that specializes in your areas of concern is equally important. For the past 20 years, I have focused on helping children, adolescents, and their parents heal and grow through therapy.
(651) 432-0785 View (651) 432-0785
Photo of Deanna L Towns, Licensed Professional Counselor in White Bear Lake, MN
Deanna L Towns
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPCS-NC, LPCC-MN, NCC
Verified Verified
White Bear Lake, MN 55127
Not accepting new clients
As a therapist, it is my goal to compassionately connect with clients and hear their stories. I will help clients identify personal strengths, define desired changes, and create an individualized plan to move toward health and wholeness. My clientele include families, couples, adults, adolescents, and children. I address trauma, sexual and emotional abuse, eating disorders, self-harm, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, communication issues, forgiveness, shame, cross-cultural stress & adjustment, ministry stress, and premarital counseling (using Prepare/Enrich).
As a therapist, it is my goal to compassionately connect with clients and hear their stories. I will help clients identify personal strengths, define desired changes, and create an individualized plan to move toward health and wholeness. My clientele include families, couples, adults, adolescents, and children. I address trauma, sexual and emotional abuse, eating disorders, self-harm, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, communication issues, forgiveness, shame, cross-cultural stress & adjustment, ministry stress, and premarital counseling (using Prepare/Enrich).
(919) 648-1218 View (919) 648-1218
Photo of James Pinson, Marriage & Family Therapist in White Bear Lake, MN
James Pinson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
White Bear Lake, MN 55110  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
The most important step a person can take is the next one. With all of the uncertainty we face right now, it is more important than ever to develop resilience. If you're looking to grow more confident in how you approach your relationships, your job, and life in general, or you know someone who is, I can help! I offer easy to use online tele-health from the comfort of your own space, as well as in-person sessions located in the Shoreview area.
The most important step a person can take is the next one. With all of the uncertainty we face right now, it is more important than ever to develop resilience. If you're looking to grow more confident in how you approach your relationships, your job, and life in general, or you know someone who is, I can help! I offer easy to use online tele-health from the comfort of your own space, as well as in-person sessions located in the Shoreview area.
(651) 240-2537 View (651) 240-2537

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Monica Oberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in White Bear Lake, MN
Monica Oberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roseville, MN 55113
I often treat patients experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief & loss, as well as many life stressors. I began my clinical work providing play therapy to children with medical difficulties and traumas. I worked with children, parents and their siblings to help adjust to new diagnoses. Today, I work with children, adolescents & adults with symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, grief & loss, medical challenges and traumas and people having difficulty coping with life’s stressors. My primary goals are to help clients adjust more effectively to the present, and grow into more satisfying & successful futures.
I often treat patients experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief & loss, as well as many life stressors. I began my clinical work providing play therapy to children with medical difficulties and traumas. I worked with children, parents and their siblings to help adjust to new diagnoses. Today, I work with children, adolescents & adults with symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, grief & loss, medical challenges and traumas and people having difficulty coping with life’s stressors. My primary goals are to help clients adjust more effectively to the present, and grow into more satisfying & successful futures.
(651) 504-3079 View (651) 504-3079
Photo of Candiss Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor in White Bear Lake, MN
Candiss Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55109  (Online Only)
Play and Art Therapy allows a child to express themselves.
Virtual Only: I specialize in providing clients with a unique approach to helping them reach specific life goals. I will help you recognize problems and take action to decrease or eliminate potential impacts to your emotional well-being. My customized approach, tailored to individual needs, allows me to help you create achievable goals that are based on your needs and lifestyle. I use state-of-the-art tools to identify your issues easily and effectively. I am committed to helping you make fluid movement in your life. I am licensed to provide services in 3 states:Texas, Missouri and Minnesota.
Play and Art Therapy allows a child to express themselves.
Virtual Only: I specialize in providing clients with a unique approach to helping them reach specific life goals. I will help you recognize problems and take action to decrease or eliminate potential impacts to your emotional well-being. My customized approach, tailored to individual needs, allows me to help you create achievable goals that are based on your needs and lifestyle. I use state-of-the-art tools to identify your issues easily and effectively. I am committed to helping you make fluid movement in your life. I am licensed to provide services in 3 states:Texas, Missouri and Minnesota.
(210) 405-2891 View (210) 405-2891
Photo of Down to Earth Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in White Bear Lake, MN
Down to Earth Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55102
Our therapists each have different areas of expertise- Some of our areas of expertise are in couple/family counseling, adjusting to parenthood, trauma-informed therapy, EMDR & ART, Play Therapy, Somatic work, and holistic mental health.
We have current openings! Our therapists see children as young as 3 and adults as old as one can be. We are a group of therapists who value authenticity, social justice, and relationships. At Down to Earth Therapy we are committed to not only listening, but to actively partnering with you and helping you make the changes you, your partnership, and/or your family desire. We celebrate clients of all class, sexuality, ethnicity, race, gender identity, and spiritual belief. We work with people ages 3-100.
Our therapists each have different areas of expertise- Some of our areas of expertise are in couple/family counseling, adjusting to parenthood, trauma-informed therapy, EMDR & ART, Play Therapy, Somatic work, and holistic mental health.
We have current openings! Our therapists see children as young as 3 and adults as old as one can be. We are a group of therapists who value authenticity, social justice, and relationships. At Down to Earth Therapy we are committed to not only listening, but to actively partnering with you and helping you make the changes you, your partnership, and/or your family desire. We celebrate clients of all class, sexuality, ethnicity, race, gender identity, and spiritual belief. We work with people ages 3-100.
(651) 376-2749 View (651) 376-2749
Photo of Corinne Ann Sundell, Marriage & Family Therapist in White Bear Lake, MN
Corinne Ann Sundell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55103
My training is in marriage and family therapy, with additional instruction in play, Narrative and geek therapy.
Because I believe we grow and learn throughout our life, I delight in working with all people. I see therapy as a supportive environment created for the purpose of encouraging one another in times of need, as well as joy. I have specialized experience working with children and families, empowering each during tough transitions such as toddlerhood and adolescence, while collaborating during unexpected and challenging issues like ADHD, anxiety, depression, abuse, trauma and more. I utilize play, narrative, feminist, and mindfulness therapies to encourage hope and develop authentic connections with each person I see.
My training is in marriage and family therapy, with additional instruction in play, Narrative and geek therapy.
Because I believe we grow and learn throughout our life, I delight in working with all people. I see therapy as a supportive environment created for the purpose of encouraging one another in times of need, as well as joy. I have specialized experience working with children and families, empowering each during tough transitions such as toddlerhood and adolescence, while collaborating during unexpected and challenging issues like ADHD, anxiety, depression, abuse, trauma and more. I utilize play, narrative, feminist, and mindfulness therapies to encourage hope and develop authentic connections with each person I see.
(651) 401-8497 View (651) 401-8497
Photo of Christina L Kress, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in White Bear Lake, MN
Christina L Kress
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55115
Waitlist for new clients
I enter a child's world of play and imagination to help them overcome problems, cope with difficult situations and achieve healthy development.
Are you (or your family) stuck? Have you been trying the same things over and over and nothing is changing? Time to try a more direct approach! I can help. My work with clients is rooted in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). DBT is not for the faint-hearted! It is direct, evidence-based and it works. DBT has been proven useful in treating mood disorders, suicidal ideation, and for change in behavioral patterns such as self-harm, and substance abuse. At Minnetonka Counseling I lead adolescent and family DBT groups, adult DBT groups as well as advance DBT workshops for DBT graduates.
I enter a child's world of play and imagination to help them overcome problems, cope with difficult situations and achieve healthy development.
Are you (or your family) stuck? Have you been trying the same things over and over and nothing is changing? Time to try a more direct approach! I can help. My work with clients is rooted in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). DBT is not for the faint-hearted! It is direct, evidence-based and it works. DBT has been proven useful in treating mood disorders, suicidal ideation, and for change in behavioral patterns such as self-harm, and substance abuse. At Minnetonka Counseling I lead adolescent and family DBT groups, adult DBT groups as well as advance DBT workshops for DBT graduates.
(651) 967-8762 View (651) 967-8762
Photo of Lindsay K. Sather, Licensed Professional Counselor in White Bear Lake, MN
Lindsay K. Sather
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55101
Orientations I pull from include: CBT, Behavioral Modification, Emotionally Focused, Existential, Family Systems, Humanistic, Interpersonal, Motivational Interviewing, Play Therapy, Relational and Solution Focused.
My philosophy of care focuses on achieving genuine, real, and tangible goals for my clients. I strive to do this through a collaborative working relationship with my clients--using their values and ideas as our guide. I obtained my Bachelor's Degree and Master's Degree from the University of Wisconsin-Stout in Mental Health Counseling with concentrations in Eating Disorders and Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse (AODA). I have also completed all education to obtain my Certified Clinical Trauma Professional Certificate.
Orientations I pull from include: CBT, Behavioral Modification, Emotionally Focused, Existential, Family Systems, Humanistic, Interpersonal, Motivational Interviewing, Play Therapy, Relational and Solution Focused.
My philosophy of care focuses on achieving genuine, real, and tangible goals for my clients. I strive to do this through a collaborative working relationship with my clients--using their values and ideas as our guide. I obtained my Bachelor's Degree and Master's Degree from the University of Wisconsin-Stout in Mental Health Counseling with concentrations in Eating Disorders and Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse (AODA). I have also completed all education to obtain my Certified Clinical Trauma Professional Certificate.
(715) 802-2810 View (715) 802-2810
Photo of Jennifer Kokes, Counselor in White Bear Lake, MN
Jennifer Kokes
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakdale, MN 55128
Summer Counseling has 4 play therapy offices available in addition to standard talk therapy and virtual therapy.
Beginning October 24th, Summer Counseling is moving to Oakdale and adding new afternoon and evening hours! Starting therapy can be scary or intimidating for anyone. At Summer Counseling we offer therapy for ages 4+ with therapists with a wide range of specialties-including EMDR, DBT, Play Therapy, LGBTQIA+ specialists and more. The amazing thing about therapy is that there are so many ways to achieve your goals. We have openings for children and adults for in-person or telehealth appointments and we're happy to introduce you to one of our excellent therapists to help with your mental health needs.
Summer Counseling has 4 play therapy offices available in addition to standard talk therapy and virtual therapy.
Beginning October 24th, Summer Counseling is moving to Oakdale and adding new afternoon and evening hours! Starting therapy can be scary or intimidating for anyone. At Summer Counseling we offer therapy for ages 4+ with therapists with a wide range of specialties-including EMDR, DBT, Play Therapy, LGBTQIA+ specialists and more. The amazing thing about therapy is that there are so many ways to achieve your goals. We have openings for children and adults for in-person or telehealth appointments and we're happy to introduce you to one of our excellent therapists to help with your mental health needs.
(651) 967-7945 View (651) 967-7945
Photo of Alexis Stone, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in White Bear Lake, MN
Alexis Stone
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Blaine, MN 55014
I see clients of any age, however, I focus largely on play therapy with children and their families as it is a growing passion of mine.
If you are looking for a therapist who is present, genuine, and offers a caring and therapeutic space, then we might be a match. I love working with clients who are brand new to therapy and might feel a bit nervous. And clients who have been in therapy previously and may already know what they want out of the experience. Wherever you are on your journey, my mission is to meet you right where you are and walk alongside you to achieve the goals and dreams you have, or perhaps work to develop them altogether. I am also trained in Brainspotting which can be especially powerful for clients with a history of trauma.
I see clients of any age, however, I focus largely on play therapy with children and their families as it is a growing passion of mine.
If you are looking for a therapist who is present, genuine, and offers a caring and therapeutic space, then we might be a match. I love working with clients who are brand new to therapy and might feel a bit nervous. And clients who have been in therapy previously and may already know what they want out of the experience. Wherever you are on your journey, my mission is to meet you right where you are and walk alongside you to achieve the goals and dreams you have, or perhaps work to develop them altogether. I am also trained in Brainspotting which can be especially powerful for clients with a history of trauma.
(651) 409-3487 View (651) 409-3487
Photo of FamilyMeans, Marriage & Family Therapist in White Bear Lake, MN
FamilyMeans
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LICSW, LPCC
Verified Verified
Stillwater, MN 55082
Many of our clinicians have specialized in additional areas such as: EMDR, TFCBT, DBT, Somatic Therapy, Gottman Couples Therapy, and Play Therapy.
FamilyMeans Counseling & Therapy programs have been providing care to adults, adolescents, children, families, and couples for many years. Our counselors are highly trained and experienced in their areas of expertise and truly enjoy helping people through the struggles they bring to counseling. Counselors provide a safe and open environment to make changes within areas of concern. Counseling experiences are unique to each person as are their situations. There is no “one fits all” in counseling and our skilled clinicians work with you to reach your goals.
Many of our clinicians have specialized in additional areas such as: EMDR, TFCBT, DBT, Somatic Therapy, Gottman Couples Therapy, and Play Therapy.
FamilyMeans Counseling & Therapy programs have been providing care to adults, adolescents, children, families, and couples for many years. Our counselors are highly trained and experienced in their areas of expertise and truly enjoy helping people through the struggles they bring to counseling. Counselors provide a safe and open environment to make changes within areas of concern. Counseling experiences are unique to each person as are their situations. There is no “one fits all” in counseling and our skilled clinicians work with you to reach your goals.
(833) 624-0402 View (833) 624-0402
Photo of Kim Surve, Marriage & Family Therapist in White Bear Lake, MN
Kim Surve
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Brighton, MN 55112
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and have been working in the field of psychology for 20+ years. I enjoy providing therapy for children, adolescents, and adults. I utilize Experiential Play Therapy to help children recover from trauma and abuse as well as for children experiencing life stressors such as divorce and difficulties at school. I also practice Filial Therapy to strengthen parent-child relationships and reduce difficult behavior such as tantrums and defiance. I am trained in Somatic Experiencing to address symptoms of trauma such as flashbacks, avoidance, anxiety, depression, self-harm, etc.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and have been working in the field of psychology for 20+ years. I enjoy providing therapy for children, adolescents, and adults. I utilize Experiential Play Therapy to help children recover from trauma and abuse as well as for children experiencing life stressors such as divorce and difficulties at school. I also practice Filial Therapy to strengthen parent-child relationships and reduce difficult behavior such as tantrums and defiance. I am trained in Somatic Experiencing to address symptoms of trauma such as flashbacks, avoidance, anxiety, depression, self-harm, etc.
(612) 255-6133 View (612) 255-6133

See more therapy options for White Bear Lake

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.