Play Therapy in Whittier, NC

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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Brooklynn Ledford, LCSW Associate in Whittier, NC
Brooklynn Ledford
LCSW Associate, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Sylva, NC 28779
I specialize in working with youth of all ages, from elementary age to teenagers. I take a casual, fun and relatable approach to therapy that allows youth to feel more comfortable in the space. I enjoy helping youth find their voice, improving communication and the quality of their relationships, becoming more mindful in daily practices, etc. I'm passionate about collaborating with kids and their families to manage anxiety, depression, trauma, or any other challenging life phases.
I specialize in working with youth of all ages, from elementary age to teenagers. I take a casual, fun and relatable approach to therapy that allows youth to feel more comfortable in the space. I enjoy helping youth find their voice, improving communication and the quality of their relationships, becoming more mindful in daily practices, etc. I'm passionate about collaborating with kids and their families to manage anxiety, depression, trauma, or any other challenging life phases.
(828) 761-7516 View (828) 761-7516
Photo of Stella Thepaut, Marriage & Family Therapist in Whittier, NC
Stella Thepaut
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sylva, NC 28779
I believe everyone has the capacity to heal. I also believe in the inevitable good naturedness in every human being. I am passionate about supporting others in discovering inner strength, passion, joy and meaning in life. I am a Marriage and Family Therapist with training and experience in Family Systems Theory and understanding relationships from a Family Systems perspective. My expertise is in working with young children, adults, couples and families through a lens of unconditional acceptance, nonjudgement and a positive frame of mind.
I believe everyone has the capacity to heal. I also believe in the inevitable good naturedness in every human being. I am passionate about supporting others in discovering inner strength, passion, joy and meaning in life. I am a Marriage and Family Therapist with training and experience in Family Systems Theory and understanding relationships from a Family Systems perspective. My expertise is in working with young children, adults, couples and families through a lens of unconditional acceptance, nonjudgement and a positive frame of mind.
(828) 554-2998 View (828) 554-2998
Photo of Thuy Do, Counselor in Whittier, NC
Thuy Do
Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sylva, NC 28779
Not accepting new clients
Hi! I’m so glad you are here. My name is Thuy and I believe that as humans, we are deserving of kindness, compassion, and empathy. It is the foundation of the work that I do and I look forward to the possibility of working alongside you. Whether you are simply needing space for yourself, looking to heal your relationships, set boundaries, confront maladaptive and distressing patterns, or address and stabilize trauma, I will always hold space for you to feel seen, heard, and supported. I believe that true healing comes from finding the root causes to undesired emotions, thoughts, and behavior.
Hi! I’m so glad you are here. My name is Thuy and I believe that as humans, we are deserving of kindness, compassion, and empathy. It is the foundation of the work that I do and I look forward to the possibility of working alongside you. Whether you are simply needing space for yourself, looking to heal your relationships, set boundaries, confront maladaptive and distressing patterns, or address and stabilize trauma, I will always hold space for you to feel seen, heard, and supported. I believe that true healing comes from finding the root causes to undesired emotions, thoughts, and behavior.
(828) 374-8747 View (828) 374-8747

Online Therapists

Photo of Spark Counseling and Behavioral Services PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Whittier, NC
Spark Counseling and Behavioral Services PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Morganton, NC 28655
I am a rostered clinician in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral, have experience in play therapy, parent training & behavior modification.
“When we decide to own our stories and live our truth, we bring our light to the darkness.” - Brene Brown Just like therapy, owning your own story is a process. Together we can manage life’s difficulties. Working from an individualistic approach, each session will be tailored to you, your needs & your desires.
I am a rostered clinician in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral, have experience in play therapy, parent training & behavior modification.
“When we decide to own our stories and live our truth, we bring our light to the darkness.” - Brene Brown Just like therapy, owning your own story is a process. Together we can manage life’s difficulties. Working from an individualistic approach, each session will be tailored to you, your needs & your desires.
(828) 677-2332 View (828) 677-2332
Photo of Tara Tecce, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Whittier, NC
Tara Tecce
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor , MEdS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Brevard, NC 28712
I work with children, adolescents, young adults, and families, and specialize in concerns related to anxiety, self-esteem, family conflict, challenging behaviors, grief, life transitions, communication, trauma, and attachment. I believe learning often happens best through play and connection, positive change is most supported when you are an active participant in the process, and, although failure is inevitable, through failure can come resilience. I believe we are all doing the best we can with what we have, and everyone needs to be nurtured, cared for, and believed in.
I work with children, adolescents, young adults, and families, and specialize in concerns related to anxiety, self-esteem, family conflict, challenging behaviors, grief, life transitions, communication, trauma, and attachment. I believe learning often happens best through play and connection, positive change is most supported when you are an active participant in the process, and, although failure is inevitable, through failure can come resilience. I believe we are all doing the best we can with what we have, and everyone needs to be nurtured, cared for, and believed in.
(828) 209-8034 View (828) 209-8034
Photo of Maggie Jenkins, Counselor in Whittier, NC
Maggie Jenkins
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Spindale, NC 28160
Waitlist for new clients
The journey to meeting the best version of yourself starts here. My goal as a therapist is to provide you with tools and skills that will assist you in achieving your therapeutic goals while providing you with a safe and non judgmental space. I work with clients of a variety of ages (3+) and cultural backgrounds in individual and group sessions. I often use person centered, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and play therapy techniques and approaches. Areas of concerns I address include anxiety,depression, grief, and emotion regulation. I offer office and school based, and telehealth. I am accepting new clients.
The journey to meeting the best version of yourself starts here. My goal as a therapist is to provide you with tools and skills that will assist you in achieving your therapeutic goals while providing you with a safe and non judgmental space. I work with clients of a variety of ages (3+) and cultural backgrounds in individual and group sessions. I often use person centered, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and play therapy techniques and approaches. Areas of concerns I address include anxiety,depression, grief, and emotion regulation. I offer office and school based, and telehealth. I am accepting new clients.
(828) 662-3441 View (828) 662-3441
Photo of Andrea Exley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Whittier, NC
Andrea Exley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Murphy, NC 28906
Waitlist for new clients
I have training in EMDR, CBT, DBT, somatic experiences, play therapy, and other evidence based practices that can assist in breaking down walls, reprocessing trauma, and changing the things that has kept individuals in darkness.
I am not afraid of hearing the hard truths that you don't share with others. I find it an honor and a privilege to come along side someone who trusts me enough to share their life, the good and the bad. I have supported people who have experienced things that they believe others think to be unreal, people who believe there is no reason to keep living, people who partake in activities they know are not good for them, people who struggle to have healthy relationships, and people that have been living in darkness. I want to help you break away from that darkness. I want to provide a space that fosters security, hope, and healing.
I have training in EMDR, CBT, DBT, somatic experiences, play therapy, and other evidence based practices that can assist in breaking down walls, reprocessing trauma, and changing the things that has kept individuals in darkness.
I am not afraid of hearing the hard truths that you don't share with others. I find it an honor and a privilege to come along side someone who trusts me enough to share their life, the good and the bad. I have supported people who have experienced things that they believe others think to be unreal, people who believe there is no reason to keep living, people who partake in activities they know are not good for them, people who struggle to have healthy relationships, and people that have been living in darkness. I want to help you break away from that darkness. I want to provide a space that fosters security, hope, and healing.
(704) 396-8736 View (704) 396-8736
Photo of Tami Grossens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Whittier, NC
Tami Grossens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morganton, NC 28655
Through multiple therapeutic techniques including EMDR, cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution focused, mindfulness, play therapy, and Motivational Interviewing I work with each client to assist them in developing their own insight and positive change.
Every situation presents us with the opportunity to view things from 2 perspectives. My goal is to help each client find their own clear perspective. I work with the person's own strengths and abilities to help each person achieve their fullest potential. I have experience working with and enjoy treating a variety of symptoms and issues including depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, victims of abuse, PTSD, stress management, phase of life issues, grief and loss, relationship stressors, academic and vocational issues.
Through multiple therapeutic techniques including EMDR, cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution focused, mindfulness, play therapy, and Motivational Interviewing I work with each client to assist them in developing their own insight and positive change.
Every situation presents us with the opportunity to view things from 2 perspectives. My goal is to help each client find their own clear perspective. I work with the person's own strengths and abilities to help each person achieve their fullest potential. I have experience working with and enjoy treating a variety of symptoms and issues including depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, victims of abuse, PTSD, stress management, phase of life issues, grief and loss, relationship stressors, academic and vocational issues.
(828) 615-4074 View (828) 615-4074
Photo of Emily Cox, Licensed Professional Counselor in Whittier, NC
Emily Cox
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
I use a client-focused approach that adds creative and expressive arts techniques, including Sand Tray, play-based, EMDR, and narrative practices when useful.
Things can feel off and you're not sure why. Maybe noticing your teen pulling away, shut behind a closed door. Your child changing, giving one word answers when they are usually a chatterbox. You may feel that everything is getting on your nerves, having ADHD overwhelm, or like things are in a funk. You know that something is wrong, but are stuck on how to fix it. The disconnect can get to a point where we need some more support. Feeling unheard, unseen, or misunderstood can lead us to seek that help to reconnect to ourselves and our inner strengths. You can find your strengths again and use them to heal and feel better.
I use a client-focused approach that adds creative and expressive arts techniques, including Sand Tray, play-based, EMDR, and narrative practices when useful.
Things can feel off and you're not sure why. Maybe noticing your teen pulling away, shut behind a closed door. Your child changing, giving one word answers when they are usually a chatterbox. You may feel that everything is getting on your nerves, having ADHD overwhelm, or like things are in a funk. You know that something is wrong, but are stuck on how to fix it. The disconnect can get to a point where we need some more support. Feeling unheard, unseen, or misunderstood can lead us to seek that help to reconnect to ourselves and our inner strengths. You can find your strengths again and use them to heal and feel better.
(828) 374-0958 View (828) 374-0958
Photo of David Von Kohorn, Marriage & Family Therapist in Whittier, NC
David Von Kohorn
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT-S, C-EFT
Not Verified Not Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
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 Liz Lucarelli, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Whittier, NC
Liz Lucarelli
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, BCC, RPT-S, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803
I specialize in working with children, preteens, and adolescents ages 8 - 16+. I also offer therapy/coaching for parents raising a challenging child/teen and family therapy to help mend the parent-child relationship. I work best with clients who may be anxious, depressed, working through grief/loss or trauma, and have low self-esteem, and need social, life, coping, or relationship skills. My approach is playful, authentic, and honest! I blend play and expressive arts - sand tray, drawing, role-playing, and other experiential activities. I want to help my clients become more calm, curious, connected, resilient, and empowered!
I specialize in working with children, preteens, and adolescents ages 8 - 16+. I also offer therapy/coaching for parents raising a challenging child/teen and family therapy to help mend the parent-child relationship. I work best with clients who may be anxious, depressed, working through grief/loss or trauma, and have low self-esteem, and need social, life, coping, or relationship skills. My approach is playful, authentic, and honest! I blend play and expressive arts - sand tray, drawing, role-playing, and other experiential activities. I want to help my clients become more calm, curious, connected, resilient, and empowered!
(828) 523-9624 View (828) 523-9624
Photo of Sharon Collins, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Whittier, NC
Sharon Collins
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I utilize a variety of theoretical approaches including Structural Family Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Trauma-Informed Therapy, Attachment-Based Therapy, Child-Centered Play Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Welcome! I specialize in counseling for children (ages 2-12) addressing mental health concerns related to anger, anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress, self-esteem, emotional dysregulation, disruptive behaviors and interpersonal conflicts with others. I also specialize in counseling for parents and caregivers addressing concerns related to parenting, behavior management, and strained family relationships.
I utilize a variety of theoretical approaches including Structural Family Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Trauma-Informed Therapy, Attachment-Based Therapy, Child-Centered Play Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Welcome! I specialize in counseling for children (ages 2-12) addressing mental health concerns related to anger, anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress, self-esteem, emotional dysregulation, disruptive behaviors and interpersonal conflicts with others. I also specialize in counseling for parents and caregivers addressing concerns related to parenting, behavior management, and strained family relationships.
(828) 471-4402 View (828) 471-4402
Photo of Laurie J. Walter-Hadley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Whittier, NC
Laurie J. Walter-Hadley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Of special interest to me is assisting parents with infants through teenage children; using play therapy in my work with children.
I've been practicing therapy for over 30 years. Perhaps more importantly, I have a family of my own. I have been married for 30 years. I have 3 daughters, a dog and two cats. I think kids are wonderful and my favorite people in the world! I work with individuals of all ages, and couples including marital, engaged and long-term relationships. I especially like doing family therapy, addressing parenting issues and individual work with children; in-depth work with individual adults, focusing on healing and recovery from such debilitating experiences as abuse, chronic depression, anxiety, and identity/self-esteem issues.
Of special interest to me is assisting parents with infants through teenage children; using play therapy in my work with children.
I've been practicing therapy for over 30 years. Perhaps more importantly, I have a family of my own. I have been married for 30 years. I have 3 daughters, a dog and two cats. I think kids are wonderful and my favorite people in the world! I work with individuals of all ages, and couples including marital, engaged and long-term relationships. I especially like doing family therapy, addressing parenting issues and individual work with children; in-depth work with individual adults, focusing on healing and recovery from such debilitating experiences as abuse, chronic depression, anxiety, and identity/self-esteem issues.
(828) 373-1741 View (828) 373-1741
Photo of Jillian Kelly-Wavering, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Whittier, NC
Jillian Kelly-Wavering
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
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 Madeline Cohen, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Whittier, NC
Madeline Cohen
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Green Mountain, NC 28740  (Online Only)
My specialties are play therapy for children ages 3+, teenagers, young adults, women and parents.
As of 2/9/24 I am currently accepting children 6+, teen and adult clients via telehealth. Staying true to ourselves may be one of the hardest but most important tasks we encounter as we mature into adults. Family, social needs, achievements, anxiety, depression, and many other factors often get in the way of our ability to express ourselves in our fullest capacity. During our time in counseling, you will get to know your truest self, and practice expressing yourself authentically with curiosity and mindfulness.
My specialties are play therapy for children ages 3+, teenagers, young adults, women and parents.
As of 2/9/24 I am currently accepting children 6+, teen and adult clients via telehealth. Staying true to ourselves may be one of the hardest but most important tasks we encounter as we mature into adults. Family, social needs, achievements, anxiety, depression, and many other factors often get in the way of our ability to express ourselves in our fullest capacity. During our time in counseling, you will get to know your truest self, and practice expressing yourself authentically with curiosity and mindfulness.
(828) 539-4533 View (828) 539-4533
Photo of Asheville Counseling & Wellness Center, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Whittier, NC
Asheville Counseling & Wellness Center
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LPC, BCN, CCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803
We offer state-of-the-art neurofeedback services in addition to art/play therapy, EMDR, and a wide range of somatic based therapies.
The staff and clinicians at Asheville Counseling & Wellness Center are dedicated to improving the quality of life of our Clients. We offer a multitude of treatment modalities in order to provide the best care possible. Our clients can expect to receive effective and efficient treatments, while we provide the best possible client/clinician experience. Our focus is helping the public achieve health, healing and well-being. We look forward to working with you and your family.
We offer state-of-the-art neurofeedback services in addition to art/play therapy, EMDR, and a wide range of somatic based therapies.
The staff and clinicians at Asheville Counseling & Wellness Center are dedicated to improving the quality of life of our Clients. We offer a multitude of treatment modalities in order to provide the best care possible. Our clients can expect to receive effective and efficient treatments, while we provide the best possible client/clinician experience. Our focus is helping the public achieve health, healing and well-being. We look forward to working with you and your family.
(828) 482-0346 View (828) 482-0346
Photo of Hans Rosario-Singer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Whittier, NC
Hans Rosario-Singer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803
I specialize in using creative, expressive interventions including but not limited to play, sandtray, and movement.
I believe every child and adolescent has the potential within themselves to become healthier and happier, and it is my job to help them unlock that potential. Traditional cognitive and behavioral approaches often fail to create meaningful change, which can lead to feelings of failure or discouragement rather than empowerment. Whether your child or adolescent is struggling with self-esteem, social challenges, or regulation skills, I can help them recognize and unlock the skills and strengths that they already have to over come those challenges.
I specialize in using creative, expressive interventions including but not limited to play, sandtray, and movement.
I believe every child and adolescent has the potential within themselves to become healthier and happier, and it is my job to help them unlock that potential. Traditional cognitive and behavioral approaches often fail to create meaningful change, which can lead to feelings of failure or discouragement rather than empowerment. Whether your child or adolescent is struggling with self-esteem, social challenges, or regulation skills, I can help them recognize and unlock the skills and strengths that they already have to over come those challenges.
(828) 761-7605 View (828) 761-7605
Photo of Kelly Rodrigues, Counselor in Whittier, NC
Kelly Rodrigues
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Banner Elk, NC 28604
I have experience providing individual, group, family and play therapy.
I have been working with families for over 10 years. My work has taken me from the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains to as far as the California coast. Throughout my practice I have worked with children, adolescents and adult clients on a variety of issues including PTSD, depression, anxiety, adjustment to life changes, anger & behavior management, as well as development of parenting skills amongst others. I firmly believe that utilizing empathy, unconditional positive regard and genuineness, combined with effective coping skills is the best way to help my clients meet their goals.
I have experience providing individual, group, family and play therapy.
I have been working with families for over 10 years. My work has taken me from the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains to as far as the California coast. Throughout my practice I have worked with children, adolescents and adult clients on a variety of issues including PTSD, depression, anxiety, adjustment to life changes, anger & behavior management, as well as development of parenting skills amongst others. I firmly believe that utilizing empathy, unconditional positive regard and genuineness, combined with effective coping skills is the best way to help my clients meet their goals.
(828) 268-3592 View (828) 268-3592
Photo of Katey Smith, Counselor in Whittier, NC
Katey Smith
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clyde, NC 28721
I conduct therapy by using traditional talk therapy, play therapy, and art therapy.
Watching your daughter struggle with low self-esteem, anxiety, and perfectionism can be heartbreaking. You want nothing more than to see her thrive and to feel good about herself, but sometimes it can feel like you’re not sure how to help. That’s where I come in. Hi there! I'm Katey, a licensed therapist specializing in helping preteen and teen girls overcome all aspects of perfectionism. Before my clients came to see me, they felt inadequate and less than. They were certain they would never be good enough, no matter how hard they tried.
I conduct therapy by using traditional talk therapy, play therapy, and art therapy.
Watching your daughter struggle with low self-esteem, anxiety, and perfectionism can be heartbreaking. You want nothing more than to see her thrive and to feel good about herself, but sometimes it can feel like you’re not sure how to help. That’s where I come in. Hi there! I'm Katey, a licensed therapist specializing in helping preteen and teen girls overcome all aspects of perfectionism. Before my clients came to see me, they felt inadequate and less than. They were certain they would never be good enough, no matter how hard they tried.
(828) 520-0929 View (828) 520-0929
Photo of Christine Halterman, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Whittier, NC
Christine Halterman
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
Banner Elk, NC 28604
I utilize Person-Centered therapy and with children use Child-Centered Play Therapy, which I have a graduate-level concentration in.
I am a therapist that believes in change, that each individual has the ability to self-heal, but sometimes needs some support to do so. Navigating our world and lives can be hard, and you don’t have to go through it alone. My role as your therapist (or your child's) is to act as a supportive agent, where we work collaboratively to achieve the goals you set for yourself. You would be encouraged to express your own experience through activities, verbalizations, or a combination that feels best to you in a safe space. I do my best to make sure everyone who comes into my office feels accepted as themselves, with no judgement whatsoever.
I utilize Person-Centered therapy and with children use Child-Centered Play Therapy, which I have a graduate-level concentration in.
I am a therapist that believes in change, that each individual has the ability to self-heal, but sometimes needs some support to do so. Navigating our world and lives can be hard, and you don’t have to go through it alone. My role as your therapist (or your child's) is to act as a supportive agent, where we work collaboratively to achieve the goals you set for yourself. You would be encouraged to express your own experience through activities, verbalizations, or a combination that feels best to you in a safe space. I do my best to make sure everyone who comes into my office feels accepted as themselves, with no judgement whatsoever.
(828) 202-7938 View (828) 202-7938
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.