Play Therapy in Henderson County, NC

Photo of Grace Davis, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Henderson County, NC
Grace Davis
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Adult play therapy is rooted in narrative, existential theory, while engaging a variety of creative and expressive arts techniques.
My ideal client is willing to rethink what therapy looks and feels like - being open to a variety of techniques; collaborating; and engaging body, mind, and emotions, particularly in the outdoors. I conduct experiential outdoor sessions (when weather permits), helping clients in connecting with themselves by grounding in the supportive power of nature. Walking and talking in an outdoor space allows us to engage in an informal environment, while still providing therapeutic benefits.
Adult play therapy is rooted in narrative, existential theory, while engaging a variety of creative and expressive arts techniques.
My ideal client is willing to rethink what therapy looks and feels like - being open to a variety of techniques; collaborating; and engaging body, mind, and emotions, particularly in the outdoors. I conduct experiential outdoor sessions (when weather permits), helping clients in connecting with themselves by grounding in the supportive power of nature. Walking and talking in an outdoor space allows us to engage in an informal environment, while still providing therapeutic benefits.
(828) 360-8386 View (828) 360-8386
Photo of David Von Kohorn, Marriage & Family Therapist in Henderson County, NC
David Von Kohorn
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT-S, C-EFT
Not Verified Not Verified
2 Endorsed
With children I incorporate Play Therapy, allowing them to "tell their story" and express their feelings with artwork, imagery & puppets.
My primary focus in therapy – with individuals, couples or families – is to support and facilitate my clients in their journey to a deeper understanding and awareness of themselves. This goal is best achieved, I believe, by encouraging self-acceptance and insight, and by forming with each client a safe and nonjudgmental relationship. It is within this alliance that, together, we can explore, understand, and begin to gently dismantle the obstacles and unproductive patterns of coping that, although once useful in dealing with painful life events or childhood relationships, may now be keeping them from enjoying a more fulfilling life.
With children I incorporate Play Therapy, allowing them to "tell their story" and express their feelings with artwork, imagery & puppets.
My primary focus in therapy – with individuals, couples or families – is to support and facilitate my clients in their journey to a deeper understanding and awareness of themselves. This goal is best achieved, I believe, by encouraging self-acceptance and insight, and by forming with each client a safe and nonjudgmental relationship. It is within this alliance that, together, we can explore, understand, and begin to gently dismantle the obstacles and unproductive patterns of coping that, although once useful in dealing with painful life events or childhood relationships, may now be keeping them from enjoying a more fulfilling life.
(828) 708-7590 View (828) 708-7590
Photo of Jillian Kelly-Wavering, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Henderson County, NC
Jillian Kelly-Wavering
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
With over 10 years of post-graduate experience in the field of child psychotherapy, I combine my knowledge of Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness along with the awareness that each child is special and precious.
I'm a therapist for grieving children and their families in Asheville, NC, and previously in the Bronx, NY. My training includes a Master’s degree from Columbia University, service with the National Health Service Corps, certification in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and the Registered Play Therapist Supervisor credential. I've served as the VP of the NY Association for Play Therapy, and authored several publications (from chapters in textbooks for psychology students, to children's books addressing grief). My practice focus is to be a therapeutic companion to children and their families along their grief journey.
With over 10 years of post-graduate experience in the field of child psychotherapy, I combine my knowledge of Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness along with the awareness that each child is special and precious.
I'm a therapist for grieving children and their families in Asheville, NC, and previously in the Bronx, NY. My training includes a Master’s degree from Columbia University, service with the National Health Service Corps, certification in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and the Registered Play Therapist Supervisor credential. I've served as the VP of the NY Association for Play Therapy, and authored several publications (from chapters in textbooks for psychology students, to children's books addressing grief). My practice focus is to be a therapeutic companion to children and their families along their grief journey.
(828) 827-5861 View (828) 827-5861
Photo of Cheryl Lynn Childers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Henderson County, NC
Cheryl Lynn Childers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ATR-BC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flat Rock, NC 28731
You may use art, music, written word, play—or you may prefer curling up on the couch under a soft blanket and talking.
As someone who has experienced past sexual / physical abuse, or chronic illness, do you often wonder how you can move past the overwhelming shame and pain? Have you tried “everything” but nothing seems to alleviate the flashbacks or unwanted memories. Do you want to stop dissociating? Do you long be free of anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts; longing for connection, worthiness, and to tell your story with a safe, non-judgmental person. Are you willing to examine thoughts, emotions, behaviors and learn how to utilize your whole self, develop shame resilience—transforming the way you live & love in your current relationships?
You may use art, music, written word, play—or you may prefer curling up on the couch under a soft blanket and talking.
As someone who has experienced past sexual / physical abuse, or chronic illness, do you often wonder how you can move past the overwhelming shame and pain? Have you tried “everything” but nothing seems to alleviate the flashbacks or unwanted memories. Do you want to stop dissociating? Do you long be free of anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts; longing for connection, worthiness, and to tell your story with a safe, non-judgmental person. Are you willing to examine thoughts, emotions, behaviors and learn how to utilize your whole self, develop shame resilience—transforming the way you live & love in your current relationships?
(984) 204-7280 View (984) 204-7280
Photo of Michael James Tui- II, Counselor in Henderson County, NC
Michael James Tui- II
Counselor, MSCP, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
Life can be such a challenge especially if we find ourselves walking our path alone. On this journey, my hope is to help guide and provide skill training that will help you increase confidence, self-worth, and self-empowerment. I serve all ages and have specialized training to address disorders and challenges in ages 3 years old - 100+ My love and passion is supporting the health of our families. I passionately that by healing our families we heal the world.
Life can be such a challenge especially if we find ourselves walking our path alone. On this journey, my hope is to help guide and provide skill training that will help you increase confidence, self-worth, and self-empowerment. I serve all ages and have specialized training to address disorders and challenges in ages 3 years old - 100+ My love and passion is supporting the health of our families. I passionately that by healing our families we heal the world.
(828) 523-8936 View (828) 523-8936
Photo of Katie M Bailey, Counselor in Henderson County, NC
Katie M Bailey
Counselor, MS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flat Rock, NC 28731  (Online Only)
Our culture is one that has taught us that certain emotions should be avoided at all costs. My belief is that no feelings are "bad", and we were made to feel all of them. As a therapist, I work to destigmatize the assumptions that accompany mental health diagnoses, with a focus on helping those working through trauma. Re-integrating the whole self into a post-pandemic world is a transitional experience that invite the whole gamut of emotions to be felt. We all have light and dark inside of us, but we are not our thoughts or feelings. Pain is an innate part of being human, but it is my belief that we do not have to struggle alone.
Our culture is one that has taught us that certain emotions should be avoided at all costs. My belief is that no feelings are "bad", and we were made to feel all of them. As a therapist, I work to destigmatize the assumptions that accompany mental health diagnoses, with a focus on helping those working through trauma. Re-integrating the whole self into a post-pandemic world is a transitional experience that invite the whole gamut of emotions to be felt. We all have light and dark inside of us, but we are not our thoughts or feelings. Pain is an innate part of being human, but it is my belief that we do not have to struggle alone.
(828) 392-5193 View (828) 392-5193
Photo of Erin Larramendi, Art Therapist in Henderson County, NC
Erin Larramendi
Art Therapist, LCAT, ATR
Verified Verified
Fletcher, NC 28732
Erin (she/her/hers) is a Licensed Creative Arts Therapist who has extensive experience working with children, adolescents and adults who have experienced major life-altering (traumatic) events that have contributed to mental health concerns (e.g. anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, addictions and more). With over 10 years working in the mental health field, Erin is well-versed in meeting each client where they are at, facilitating a safe, open and honest therapy experience.
Erin (she/her/hers) is a Licensed Creative Arts Therapist who has extensive experience working with children, adolescents and adults who have experienced major life-altering (traumatic) events that have contributed to mental health concerns (e.g. anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, addictions and more). With over 10 years working in the mental health field, Erin is well-versed in meeting each client where they are at, facilitating a safe, open and honest therapy experience.
(828) 672-3013 View (828) 672-3013
Photo of Your Next Chapter Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Henderson County, NC
Your Next Chapter Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
At Your Next Chapter Counseling, we believe that every person is deserving of love, acceptance, and authenticity. We believe that humans are hardwired for healing, and we strive to provide a therapeutic, supportive environment for all of our clients on their healing journey.
At Your Next Chapter Counseling, we believe that every person is deserving of love, acceptance, and authenticity. We believe that humans are hardwired for healing, and we strive to provide a therapeutic, supportive environment for all of our clients on their healing journey.
(828) 554-2752 View (828) 554-2752
Photo of DC Wellness, Licensed Professional Counselor in Henderson County, NC
DC Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, MS/P, NCC
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
Damaris works as an outpatient/school-based counselor providing services to both children and adults in English, Spanish, and American Sign Language (ASL). Damaris loves to listen to people and guide them to identify and build their strengths on what they truly love. Some of the issues she currently addresses include understanding and managing anxiety, defiant behaviors, bipolar disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), as well as navigating new mental health and physical health diagnosis, grief or divorce.
Damaris works as an outpatient/school-based counselor providing services to both children and adults in English, Spanish, and American Sign Language (ASL). Damaris loves to listen to people and guide them to identify and build their strengths on what they truly love. Some of the issues she currently addresses include understanding and managing anxiety, defiant behaviors, bipolar disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), as well as navigating new mental health and physical health diagnosis, grief or divorce.
(828) 385-5535 View (828) 385-5535
Photo of Michelle Geiser, Counselor in Henderson County, NC
Michelle Geiser
Counselor, NBCC, LCMHC, LCAS, CSI
Verified Verified
Each person's therapeutic journey is unique. The biggest step is the willingness and desire to seek help, especially when things are difficult. Openness and engagement are the pillars of a strong therapeutic relationship. My clinical practice focuses on the needs of the client. Allowing your needs to guide the treatment process. Determining which pathways work best for your needs.
Each person's therapeutic journey is unique. The biggest step is the willingness and desire to seek help, especially when things are difficult. Openness and engagement are the pillars of a strong therapeutic relationship. My clinical practice focuses on the needs of the client. Allowing your needs to guide the treatment process. Determining which pathways work best for your needs.
(828) 330-9255 View (828) 330-9255
Photo of Ryan Zelov, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Henderson County, NC
Ryan Zelov
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
I am excited about working with people that have come to a place where they recognize a shift is needed. Whatever your experience is that has brought you to that place - I welcome you and would like to help you identify the steps needed to make those changes. So can build a foundation that leads to long-lasting improvement.
I am excited about working with people that have come to a place where they recognize a shift is needed. Whatever your experience is that has brought you to that place - I welcome you and would like to help you identify the steps needed to make those changes. So can build a foundation that leads to long-lasting improvement.
(828) 520-2583 View (828) 520-2583
Photo of Full Circle Community Wellness, Licensed Professional Counselor in Henderson County, NC
Full Circle Community Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, PsyD, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Full Circle Counseling and Wellness provides access to high quality, experienced counselors and integrative wellness practitioners who operate in a holistic, community oriented environment. Our counselors have experience with a wide range of emotional and psychological health challenges and seek to make effective treatment strategies affordable and sustainable. We employ the power of relationship for therapeutic benefit and to help foster belonging and connection by surrounding you with resources and support. Whether making art together, weeding gardens, or playing a board game, we hope to provide community oriented opportunities for everyone.
Full Circle Counseling and Wellness provides access to high quality, experienced counselors and integrative wellness practitioners who operate in a holistic, community oriented environment. Our counselors have experience with a wide range of emotional and psychological health challenges and seek to make effective treatment strategies affordable and sustainable. We employ the power of relationship for therapeutic benefit and to help foster belonging and connection by surrounding you with resources and support. Whether making art together, weeding gardens, or playing a board game, we hope to provide community oriented opportunities for everyone.
(828) 483-4232 View (828) 483-4232
Photo of Alec Rothschild, Counselor in Henderson County, NC
Alec Rothschild
Counselor, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Welcome! Thank you for stopping by. My name is Alec Rothschild, and I am an Asheville based counselor working with adolescents and young adults. I specialize in working with neurodiverse individuals, LGBTQIA+ individuals, those struggling with relationships, processing trauma, or struggling with their mood, anxiety, or depression. My approach incorporates mindfulness, somatic techniques, and in-the-moment experiments. I'm committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone, regardless of their background. Members of the LGBTQIA+ community, BIPOC individuals, and people of all religions are warmly welcomed.
Welcome! Thank you for stopping by. My name is Alec Rothschild, and I am an Asheville based counselor working with adolescents and young adults. I specialize in working with neurodiverse individuals, LGBTQIA+ individuals, those struggling with relationships, processing trauma, or struggling with their mood, anxiety, or depression. My approach incorporates mindfulness, somatic techniques, and in-the-moment experiments. I'm committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone, regardless of their background. Members of the LGBTQIA+ community, BIPOC individuals, and people of all religions are warmly welcomed.
(828) 355-4599 View (828) 355-4599
Photo of Hope Hinson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Henderson County, NC
Hope Hinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Navigating the complexities of life can be a daunting task, especially when accompanied by intrusive thoughts and feelings of inadequacy. It's all too easy to feel like nobody truly comprehends what you're going through. You or your child may experience anxiety, depression, or life transitions, seeking understanding and effective coping strategies. Together, we can embark on a journey of self-discovery, fostering self-awareness, and harnessing your inner resilience. Let's collaborate to cultivate healthier relationships, navigate life's transitions, and uncover the authentic self within you or your child.
Navigating the complexities of life can be a daunting task, especially when accompanied by intrusive thoughts and feelings of inadequacy. It's all too easy to feel like nobody truly comprehends what you're going through. You or your child may experience anxiety, depression, or life transitions, seeking understanding and effective coping strategies. Together, we can embark on a journey of self-discovery, fostering self-awareness, and harnessing your inner resilience. Let's collaborate to cultivate healthier relationships, navigate life's transitions, and uncover the authentic self within you or your child.
(828) 618-4177 View (828) 618-4177
Photo of Tiffany Justice, Five Stones Christian Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Henderson County, NC
Tiffany Justice, Five Stones Christian Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, CCATP, CCTP
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that anyone can benefit from counseling. Regardless of your reason for seeking counseling, I would like the opportunity to work with you. I offer a counseling approach that uses proven techniques combined with a Christian perspective that looks to God's word for wisdom and understanding. If you are seeking a mental health professional that is also a practicing follower of Christ, I invite you to reach out.
I believe that anyone can benefit from counseling. Regardless of your reason for seeking counseling, I would like the opportunity to work with you. I offer a counseling approach that uses proven techniques combined with a Christian perspective that looks to God's word for wisdom and understanding. If you are seeking a mental health professional that is also a practicing follower of Christ, I invite you to reach out.
(828) 392-1694 View (828) 392-1694
Photo of Abide Inclusive, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Henderson County, NC
Abide Inclusive
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Have you been struggling to feel like you belong or feel overwhelmed? Are you feeling like your family is not communicating with everyone's nose stuck in a screen? At Abide Inclusive we have a talented group of therapists who work with a variety of struggles including life transitions, anxiety, imposter syndrome, depression, and trauma. We are an inclusive agency with strong roots in supporting the LGBTQ2IA+ community. For more information on each clinician please visit our website www.abideinclusive.org
Have you been struggling to feel like you belong or feel overwhelmed? Are you feeling like your family is not communicating with everyone's nose stuck in a screen? At Abide Inclusive we have a talented group of therapists who work with a variety of struggles including life transitions, anxiety, imposter syndrome, depression, and trauma. We are an inclusive agency with strong roots in supporting the LGBTQ2IA+ community. For more information on each clinician please visit our website www.abideinclusive.org
(828) 547-4697 View (828) 547-4697
Photo of Geoffrey B. Brookshire, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Henderson County, NC
Geoffrey B. Brookshire
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Geoffrey is a passionate professional who incorporates music, art, and purposeful movement into therapeutic sessions. He teaches preteens, teens, and adults creative strategies to overcome symptoms of anxiety, depression, and trauma. With over 25 years of professional experience, Geoffrey has learned how to communicate with and advocate for individuals who feel misunderstood and undervalued, and teach those individuals how to take ownership of their lives and exceed expectations. Geoffrey also offers parenting and behavior modification strategies to reduce parent-child power struggles and encourage healthy coping and communication.
Geoffrey is a passionate professional who incorporates music, art, and purposeful movement into therapeutic sessions. He teaches preteens, teens, and adults creative strategies to overcome symptoms of anxiety, depression, and trauma. With over 25 years of professional experience, Geoffrey has learned how to communicate with and advocate for individuals who feel misunderstood and undervalued, and teach those individuals how to take ownership of their lives and exceed expectations. Geoffrey also offers parenting and behavior modification strategies to reduce parent-child power struggles and encourage healthy coping and communication.
(828) 475-8513 x551 View (828) 475-8513 x551
Photo of Starr Renee Roberts, Licensed Professional Counselor in Henderson County, NC
Starr Renee Roberts
Licensed Professional Counselor, M ED, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Do you need someone to bear witness to your daily struggles, and pain? Do you need someone to listen to your story about the difficulties you are having in life that leave you feeling stuck and unable to move forward? Do you feel shut down, worried, anxious, tired, sad, or angry? Are you struggling with school, work, or financial issues? Are you struggling to make it through the day because you are having problems adjusting to changes in your life? Do you feel unappreciated or misunderstood by friends, family or your partner? Are you feeling unsteady or afraid because you've been abused.
Do you need someone to bear witness to your daily struggles, and pain? Do you need someone to listen to your story about the difficulties you are having in life that leave you feeling stuck and unable to move forward? Do you feel shut down, worried, anxious, tired, sad, or angry? Are you struggling with school, work, or financial issues? Are you struggling to make it through the day because you are having problems adjusting to changes in your life? Do you feel unappreciated or misunderstood by friends, family or your partner? Are you feeling unsteady or afraid because you've been abused.
(828) 458-7371 View (828) 458-7371
Photo of Crossnore Communities for Children in Henderson County, NC
Crossnore Communities for Children
Verified Verified
Crossnore Communities for Children offers services to outpatient clients utilizing a trauma-informed model of care. We provide each client with a complete clinical assessment to ensure they receive personalized services and the best care for their needs. Our clients work with a therapist in a consistent, structured, and collaborative environment that promotes growth and healing.
Crossnore Communities for Children offers services to outpatient clients utilizing a trauma-informed model of care. We provide each client with a complete clinical assessment to ensure they receive personalized services and the best care for their needs. Our clients work with a therapist in a consistent, structured, and collaborative environment that promotes growth and healing.
(336) 276-0429 View (336) 276-0429
Photo of Mandi Allison, Counselor in Henderson County, NC
Mandi Allison
Counselor, MA, LPCA
Not Verified Not Verified
I offer counseling for a variety of mental and emotional health issues, as well as general life, growth, and relationship topics. I believe counseling is a mutual relationship between counselor and client, in which we work together to reach your goals and desired outcomes - whether those are specific and measurable, or simply an increased level of comfort, authenticity, and satisfaction. I provide a safe environment where you can be open and honest and feel comfortable being yourself. I want you to experience true respect and positive regard when we are together. I work with adults, couples, children, and adolescents.
I offer counseling for a variety of mental and emotional health issues, as well as general life, growth, and relationship topics. I believe counseling is a mutual relationship between counselor and client, in which we work together to reach your goals and desired outcomes - whether those are specific and measurable, or simply an increased level of comfort, authenticity, and satisfaction. I provide a safe environment where you can be open and honest and feel comfortable being yourself. I want you to experience true respect and positive regard when we are together. I work with adults, couples, children, and adolescents.
(828) 559-9789 View (828) 559-9789

See more therapy options for Henderson County

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.