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.
View
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

More Therapists Nearby

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 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 Emma Virden, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in White Bear Lake, MN
Emma Virden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
Stillwater, MN 55082
With children, I use non-directive play therapy to build self-esteem and confidence by providing a space to process and integrate their experiences.
I specialize in working with young children, adults, and parents struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, healthy eating, life transitions, emotional regulation, and parenting concerns. My focus is to first build trust and relationship, establishing a safe space where clients can feel comfortable being vulnerable and voicing experiences. Sessions with me feel like a conversation where you are seen and heard, tailoring the approach to best fit your needs. Client’s can expect lots of humor, transparency, honesty, and compassion.
With children, I use non-directive play therapy to build self-esteem and confidence by providing a space to process and integrate their experiences.
I specialize in working with young children, adults, and parents struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, healthy eating, life transitions, emotional regulation, and parenting concerns. My focus is to first build trust and relationship, establishing a safe space where clients can feel comfortable being vulnerable and voicing experiences. Sessions with me feel like a conversation where you are seen and heard, tailoring the approach to best fit your needs. Client’s can expect lots of humor, transparency, honesty, and compassion.
(651) 427-3139 View (651) 427-3139
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 Lindsey Crumpton, Licensed Professional Counselor in White Bear Lake, MN
Lindsey Crumpton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Woodbury, MN 55125
I use a person-centered approach to build rapport, evidence-based techniques for change, mindfulness to connect the mind and body, and play therapy for those who communicate through the language of play.
I believe in providing my clients with a safe and non-judgmental environment. I like to work together to build an open, honest, and trusting relationship to help clients overcome life's struggles. Everyone deserves the opportunity to be their best selves, and I am here to support each client's full potential. Through experience and education, I have learned the understanding of self-awareness, behavior, and trauma. My therapeutic approach is determined on my client's needs and what works best for fulfillment.
I use a person-centered approach to build rapport, evidence-based techniques for change, mindfulness to connect the mind and body, and play therapy for those who communicate through the language of play.
I believe in providing my clients with a safe and non-judgmental environment. I like to work together to build an open, honest, and trusting relationship to help clients overcome life's struggles. Everyone deserves the opportunity to be their best selves, and I am here to support each client's full potential. Through experience and education, I have learned the understanding of self-awareness, behavior, and trauma. My therapeutic approach is determined on my client's needs and what works best for fulfillment.
(651) 564-7203 x103 View (651) 564-7203 x103
Photo of Beyond the Brain Therapies, Marriage & Family Therapist in White Bear Lake, MN
Beyond the Brain Therapies
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hugo, MN 55038
I offer pet assisted therapy and utilize play and art therapy techniques as well.
Hello. If you are looking for someone to support you through a difficult time, you will receive compassion, healing and wisdom from me. I specialize in helping people heal from depression, anxiety, injury, divorce, trauma and abuse. If you are interested in regaining or reaching new levels of accomplishment, I can also help. I believe we need one another to maximize our potential. We have a cutting edge collaborative team of professionals committed to assisting you with positive mind-body-spirit connection. Offering Consulting, Counseling, Biofeedback, & Mediation. We are here to help maximize your potential!
I offer pet assisted therapy and utilize play and art therapy techniques as well.
Hello. If you are looking for someone to support you through a difficult time, you will receive compassion, healing and wisdom from me. I specialize in helping people heal from depression, anxiety, injury, divorce, trauma and abuse. If you are interested in regaining or reaching new levels of accomplishment, I can also help. I believe we need one another to maximize our potential. We have a cutting edge collaborative team of professionals committed to assisting you with positive mind-body-spirit connection. Offering Consulting, Counseling, Biofeedback, & Mediation. We are here to help maximize your potential!
(651) 401-8622 View (651) 401-8622
Photo of Paula Achenbach, Marriage & Family Therapist in White Bear Lake, MN
Paula Achenbach
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Stillwater, MN 55082
Integrating supportive approaches: art, EMDR, Somatic healing, nature, animals, sand play, and play.
Where do you you heal? Is it always talk? I have worked with children/families/ individuals most of my career and have had to think of different ways to process feelings. For young children it's play, for older children doing art or games. For adults it may be changing one’s perspective. Brain science confirms that these methods are effective for emotional regulation. The most successful factor in therapy is the therapeutic relationship. I honor that. I partner with you on this journey. Some clients bring two session issues,others bring trauma that may need neuropsychological approaches.
Integrating supportive approaches: art, EMDR, Somatic healing, nature, animals, sand play, and play.
Where do you you heal? Is it always talk? I have worked with children/families/ individuals most of my career and have had to think of different ways to process feelings. For young children it's play, for older children doing art or games. For adults it may be changing one’s perspective. Brain science confirms that these methods are effective for emotional regulation. The most successful factor in therapy is the therapeutic relationship. I honor that. I partner with you on this journey. Some clients bring two session issues,others bring trauma that may need neuropsychological approaches.
(952) 479-5056 View (952) 479-5056
Photo of Lori Migdal, Psychologist in White Bear Lake, MN
Lori Migdal
Psychologist, PhD , LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakdale, MN 55128
My approach to therapy includes insight, mindfulness, shame resilience, play therapy, cognitive skill building, vagus nerve training, among others.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in psychological evaluations for ADHD, 2e autism, gifted and talented, and learning disorders. My specialty is twice-exceptional youth and adults. I enjoy assessing both children and adults to help you understand more about your own or your child's brain and how it works. I am able to help you figure out the next steps for yourself or your child in their journey through school or work. In addition, I provide psychotherapy for ages 5 on up and offer parent guidance support. My unique approaches to therapy include nutrition and supplement guidance.
My approach to therapy includes insight, mindfulness, shame resilience, play therapy, cognitive skill building, vagus nerve training, among others.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in psychological evaluations for ADHD, 2e autism, gifted and talented, and learning disorders. My specialty is twice-exceptional youth and adults. I enjoy assessing both children and adults to help you understand more about your own or your child's brain and how it works. I am able to help you figure out the next steps for yourself or your child in their journey through school or work. In addition, I provide psychotherapy for ages 5 on up and offer parent guidance support. My unique approaches to therapy include nutrition and supplement guidance.
(651) 409-5143 View (651) 409-5143
Photo of Kelly Heagle, Marriage & Family Therapist in White Bear Lake, MN
Kelly Heagle
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
Roseville, MN 55113
I am honored to offer space to process and reflect and help clients connect to themselves and others in a deeper way. I believe we each have our own inner widsom and therapy is a place to discover that wisdom. Clients describe me as down to earth, creative, compassionate, funny, direct, warm and intuitive. I specialize in grief and loss, education, healthcare and mental health professionals, secondary and primary trauma and clients who have connection with adoption or foster care. I work from strength based and trauma informed models and draw from IFS, Attachment, Narrative and Somatic/Experiential/Sandtray modalities.
I am honored to offer space to process and reflect and help clients connect to themselves and others in a deeper way. I believe we each have our own inner widsom and therapy is a place to discover that wisdom. Clients describe me as down to earth, creative, compassionate, funny, direct, warm and intuitive. I specialize in grief and loss, education, healthcare and mental health professionals, secondary and primary trauma and clients who have connection with adoption or foster care. I work from strength based and trauma informed models and draw from IFS, Attachment, Narrative and Somatic/Experiential/Sandtray modalities.
(612) 324-5088 View (612) 324-5088
Photo of Peter Meilahn, MA, LPCC, Counselor in White Bear Lake, MN
Peter Meilahn, MA, LPCC
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55101
My clients can change anxiety, ADHD, autism, or pain with live heart and brain feedback called biofeedback or neurofeedback in online visits. Clients control music volume on their phones with their calm attention levels with free biofeedback equipment I provide. It is easy mindfulness therapy for kids and adults. It is proven to work as well as medication for anxiety, ADHD, and pain. I have years of experience as a therapist, and have taught clinicians at The University of MN Medical Center and elsewhere. Insurance covers this service. To schedule a 20 minute call, click here: https://neurotherapy.intakeq.com/booking
My clients can change anxiety, ADHD, autism, or pain with live heart and brain feedback called biofeedback or neurofeedback in online visits. Clients control music volume on their phones with their calm attention levels with free biofeedback equipment I provide. It is easy mindfulness therapy for kids and adults. It is proven to work as well as medication for anxiety, ADHD, and pain. I have years of experience as a therapist, and have taught clinicians at The University of MN Medical Center and elsewhere. Insurance covers this service. To schedule a 20 minute call, click here: https://neurotherapy.intakeq.com/booking
(651) 349-6846 View (651) 349-6846
Photo of Peter Meilahn, MA, LPCC, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in White Bear Lake, MN
Peter Meilahn, MA, LPCC
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Willernie, MN 55090
My clients can change anxiety, ADHD, autism, or pain with live heart and brain feedback called biofeedback or neurofeedback in online visits. Clients control music volume on their phones with their calm attention levels with free biofeedback equipment I provide. It is easy mindfulness therapy for kids and adults. It is proven to work as well as medication for anxiety, ADHD, and pain. I have years of experience as a therapist, and have taught clinicians at The University of MN Medical Center and elsewhere. Insurance covers this service. To schedule a 20 minute call, click here: https://neurotherapy.intakeq.com/booking
My clients can change anxiety, ADHD, autism, or pain with live heart and brain feedback called biofeedback or neurofeedback in online visits. Clients control music volume on their phones with their calm attention levels with free biofeedback equipment I provide. It is easy mindfulness therapy for kids and adults. It is proven to work as well as medication for anxiety, ADHD, and pain. I have years of experience as a therapist, and have taught clinicians at The University of MN Medical Center and elsewhere. Insurance covers this service. To schedule a 20 minute call, click here: https://neurotherapy.intakeq.com/booking
(763) 363-7655 View (763) 363-7655
Photo of Kristy Dunham, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in White Bear Lake, MN
Kristy Dunham
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55117
Many people often feel disconnected or experienced a recent loss or change. I enjoy assisting clients in getting to know themselves better. Other times, Brief counseling (8 sessions or less) can be just as rewarding. It depends on what you are looking for, which is not set in stone! Relationships are hard, therapy is the real safe space to dig deep, evaluate, address the not-so-fun things that brings discomfort or that have been avoided. Therapy is a journey. Each experience is valuable in the big picture.
Many people often feel disconnected or experienced a recent loss or change. I enjoy assisting clients in getting to know themselves better. Other times, Brief counseling (8 sessions or less) can be just as rewarding. It depends on what you are looking for, which is not set in stone! Relationships are hard, therapy is the real safe space to dig deep, evaluate, address the not-so-fun things that brings discomfort or that have been avoided. Therapy is a journey. Each experience is valuable in the big picture.
(952) 522-6650 View (952) 522-6650
Photo of Antoine D Jackson in White Bear Lake, MN
Antoine D Jackson
MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55101  (Online Only)
We can all benefit from having someone to talk to while we work things out in our head. Whether it's COVID related stress, anxiety over bills, having difficulty expressing the way you feel, or parent / child reunification and communication difficulties, having the support of your therapist can make a big difference in the outcomes. You want someone that can consistently be there by your side as you work through these challenges but also help remind you of how incredibly strong and resilient you are as well. There is no need to travel through life without a little help from an encourager, an ally, a Therapist!
We can all benefit from having someone to talk to while we work things out in our head. Whether it's COVID related stress, anxiety over bills, having difficulty expressing the way you feel, or parent / child reunification and communication difficulties, having the support of your therapist can make a big difference in the outcomes. You want someone that can consistently be there by your side as you work through these challenges but also help remind you of how incredibly strong and resilient you are as well. There is no need to travel through life without a little help from an encourager, an ally, a Therapist!
(612) 351-6041 View (612) 351-6041
Photo of Peter Meilahn, MA, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor in White Bear Lake, MN
Peter Meilahn, MA, LPCC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Hugo, MN 55038
My clients can change anxiety, ADHD, autism, or pain with live heart and brain feedback called biofeedback or neurofeedback in online visits. Clients control music volume on their phones with their calm attention levels with free biofeedback equipment I provide. It is easy mindfulness therapy for kids and adults. It is proven to work as well as medication for anxiety, ADHD, and pain. I have years of experience as a therapist, and have taught clinicians at The University of MN Medical Center and elsewhere. Insurance covers this service. To schedule a 20 minute call, click here: https://neurotherapy.intakeq.com/booking
My clients can change anxiety, ADHD, autism, or pain with live heart and brain feedback called biofeedback or neurofeedback in online visits. Clients control music volume on their phones with their calm attention levels with free biofeedback equipment I provide. It is easy mindfulness therapy for kids and adults. It is proven to work as well as medication for anxiety, ADHD, and pain. I have years of experience as a therapist, and have taught clinicians at The University of MN Medical Center and elsewhere. Insurance covers this service. To schedule a 20 minute call, click here: https://neurotherapy.intakeq.com/booking
(612) 295-0844 View (612) 295-0844
Photo of Nancy Lawroski, Psychologist in White Bear Lake, MN
Nancy Lawroski
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55101
People come to therapy for many reasons. In the first few sessions, I want to get to know you--what you are struggling with, your hopes and fears for the future, what seems to be getting in the way, what strengths and assets you bring. Together, we arrive at a plan, identifying your goals, sources of distress, and how best to work toward symptom relief and greater satisfaction with life and relationships. My approach integrates several treatment modalities, including psychoanalytic/psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness-based therapies, life-span developmental approaches, attachment theory, family and couples therapy.
People come to therapy for many reasons. In the first few sessions, I want to get to know you--what you are struggling with, your hopes and fears for the future, what seems to be getting in the way, what strengths and assets you bring. Together, we arrive at a plan, identifying your goals, sources of distress, and how best to work toward symptom relief and greater satisfaction with life and relationships. My approach integrates several treatment modalities, including psychoanalytic/psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness-based therapies, life-span developmental approaches, attachment theory, family and couples therapy.
(651) 964-0957 View (651) 964-0957
Photo of Peter Meilahn, MA, LPCC, Counselor in White Bear Lake, MN
Peter Meilahn, MA, LPCC
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
New Brighton, MN 55112
My clients can change anxiety, ADHD, autism, or pain with live heart and brain feedback called biofeedback or neurofeedback in online visits. Clients control music volume on their phones with their calm attention levels with free biofeedback equipment I provide. It is easy mindfulness therapy for kids and adults. It is proven to work as well as medication for anxiety, ADHD, and pain. I have years of experience as a therapist, and have taught clinicians at The University of MN Medical Center and elsewhere. Insurance covers this service. To schedule a 20 minute call, click here: https://neurotherapy.intakeq.com/booking
My clients can change anxiety, ADHD, autism, or pain with live heart and brain feedback called biofeedback or neurofeedback in online visits. Clients control music volume on their phones with their calm attention levels with free biofeedback equipment I provide. It is easy mindfulness therapy for kids and adults. It is proven to work as well as medication for anxiety, ADHD, and pain. I have years of experience as a therapist, and have taught clinicians at The University of MN Medical Center and elsewhere. Insurance covers this service. To schedule a 20 minute call, click here: https://neurotherapy.intakeq.com/booking
(612) 429-5143 View (612) 429-5143

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.