Therapists in Philadelphia, PA
Cathy Jacobsen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19118
Children express their feelings through play.
I am a psychotherapist with many years experience working with children, families, teens, adults and couples. Most of my sessions are virtual, though I see children/parents in- person. Most people find me easy to talk to, nonjudgemental and down to earth. I specialize in guiding individuals and families through the transformative and often unacknowledged pain of grief and loss. I also enjoy working with children in family/child play therapy. Children have a natural drive toward health and parents toward empowerment. You will leave our first session feeling understood, more hopeful and with a new perspective.
Children express their feelings through play.
I am a psychotherapist with many years experience working with children, families, teens, adults and couples. Most of my sessions are virtual, though I see children/parents in- person. Most people find me easy to talk to, nonjudgemental and down to earth. I specialize in guiding individuals and families through the transformative and often unacknowledged pain of grief and loss. I also enjoy working with children in family/child play therapy. Children have a natural drive toward health and parents toward empowerment. You will leave our first session feeling understood, more hopeful and with a new perspective.
The Inner Canvas Collective, Dr. Elyssa
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, RPT, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19147
The Inner Canvas Collective is a psychotherapy and play therapy practice that believes in transformation, healing, and listening to your soul. You are worth the time and practice.
The Inner Canvas Collective is a psychotherapy and play therapy practice that believes in transformation, healing, and listening to your soul. You are worth the time and practice.
Jacquelyn Farasat
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19104 (Online Only)
When working with children and families, she often uses play therapy to foster relational skills, develop emotional awareness and self-regulation skills, and promot.
Jacquelyn Farasat is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She holds National Counselor Certification and is also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. She has 8 years of experience supporting the emotional, social, and personal growth and well-being of children, adolescents, and adults in both individual and group formats. Jacquelyn has a Master’s degree in Counseling and a Master’s degree in Education. She strives to develop a caring relationship with the client that is built on trust, respect, and collaboration.
When working with children and families, she often uses play therapy to foster relational skills, develop emotional awareness and self-regulation skills, and promot.
Jacquelyn Farasat is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She holds National Counselor Certification and is also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. She has 8 years of experience supporting the emotional, social, and personal growth and well-being of children, adolescents, and adults in both individual and group formats. Jacquelyn has a Master’s degree in Counseling and a Master’s degree in Education. She strives to develop a caring relationship with the client that is built on trust, respect, and collaboration.
Ellie Mental Health Philadelphia
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Our providers are experts in Individual Therapy, Online Therapy, Family Therapy, Grief Therapy, Trauma Informed Therapy, Art Therapy, Play Therapy, Dance and Movement Therapy, and more.
Ellie Mental Health Philadelphia is accepting patients with immediate availability for both in-person or virtual appointments!
Our providers are experts in Individual Therapy, Online Therapy, Family Therapy, Grief Therapy, Trauma Informed Therapy, Art Therapy, Play Therapy, Dance and Movement Therapy, and more.
Ellie Mental Health Philadelphia is accepting patients with immediate availability for both in-person or virtual appointments!
Carrie Powell
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, EAT, Reiki
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19144
We will balance the depths with levity and play, moving towards a state of expansion.
We have the capacity to express ourselves beyond just talking about our experiences and feelings. It is in our innate nature to access other ways of processing that utilizes art as a language. Cambridge Dictionary defines "art"- a noun synonymous with expression, as: "the making of objects, images, music, etc. that are beautiful or that express feelings". Still Emerging Expressive Arts Therapy offers an unconventional approach to therapeutic work, utilizing various forms of expression, including: visual art, movement, writing and sound. No skill is necessary, just a deep longing and desire to express yourself free of judgment.
We will balance the depths with levity and play, moving towards a state of expansion.
We have the capacity to express ourselves beyond just talking about our experiences and feelings. It is in our innate nature to access other ways of processing that utilizes art as a language. Cambridge Dictionary defines "art"- a noun synonymous with expression, as: "the making of objects, images, music, etc. that are beautiful or that express feelings". Still Emerging Expressive Arts Therapy offers an unconventional approach to therapeutic work, utilizing various forms of expression, including: visual art, movement, writing and sound. No skill is necessary, just a deep longing and desire to express yourself free of judgment.
Katherine M Schneider
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19129
Everyone has a story and it is my privilege to be invited into yours. My unique blend of warmth and tenacity set me apart as a therapist and allow me to work with clients towards meaningful change. I value the relationships I form with clients and my goal is to make everyone I work with feel safe, respected and accepted for who they are. My practice is shaped by a combination of formal education and hands-on experience, including training in psychoanalysis, couples counseling, ExRP, play therapy and family therapy.
Everyone has a story and it is my privilege to be invited into yours. My unique blend of warmth and tenacity set me apart as a therapist and allow me to work with clients towards meaningful change. I value the relationships I form with clients and my goal is to make everyone I work with feel safe, respected and accepted for who they are. My practice is shaped by a combination of formal education and hands-on experience, including training in psychoanalysis, couples counseling, ExRP, play therapy and family therapy.
Holly Olshefski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19147
Mindfulness Based Play and Family Therapy and Parenting by Connection training have provided me with experience and interventions to help parents empathically listen to and respond to a wide variety of issues facing children.
I specialize in therapy care for children, teens, young adults & families. Parents are included as part of the therapy process from start to finish. Individual clients are seen as well using a relational and humanistic lens. Issues you may want to focus on: building cooperation & fostering openness instead of hostility & defiance; growing self esteem & confidence instead of fearfulness, clinging & sadness; increasing tolerance, self control instead of tantrums & aggression. Our work will heal family patterns of discord, hurt & division & will help children along their journey of becoming a confident, well rounded individual.
Mindfulness Based Play and Family Therapy and Parenting by Connection training have provided me with experience and interventions to help parents empathically listen to and respond to a wide variety of issues facing children.
I specialize in therapy care for children, teens, young adults & families. Parents are included as part of the therapy process from start to finish. Individual clients are seen as well using a relational and humanistic lens. Issues you may want to focus on: building cooperation & fostering openness instead of hostility & defiance; growing self esteem & confidence instead of fearfulness, clinging & sadness; increasing tolerance, self control instead of tantrums & aggression. Our work will heal family patterns of discord, hurt & division & will help children along their journey of becoming a confident, well rounded individual.
Blair Pomerantz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19147
My hope is for you to leave each session feeling lighter and with tools to help you manage whatever challenges come your way. I am by nature a good listener, empathetic, caring, and have a passion for helping others. It is my priority to create a trusting therapeutic relationship, as this sets the foundation for the work we will do together. I provide a safe space for you to share past & present experiences without any judgement, and together we can work towards understanding how these experiences are affecting your life. When working with children, I use various modalities including play, art, sand, creating, movement & meditation.
My hope is for you to leave each session feeling lighter and with tools to help you manage whatever challenges come your way. I am by nature a good listener, empathetic, caring, and have a passion for helping others. It is my priority to create a trusting therapeutic relationship, as this sets the foundation for the work we will do together. I provide a safe space for you to share past & present experiences without any judgement, and together we can work towards understanding how these experiences are affecting your life. When working with children, I use various modalities including play, art, sand, creating, movement & meditation.
Grace Kinkler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19144
I integrate the following theories/therapies into my work: mindfulness-based practices, cognitive behavioral therapies, family therapy, trauma-informed practice, humanistic psychology, & play therapy.
Life is often stressful. Modern life keeps moving, even when we might really need a moment to reflect and connect. In my practice, I hope to offer children, adolescents, young adults, and families time to pause and process their experiences. In the pause, we might find new paths and connections to forge. I support clients experiencing anxiety disorders (GAD, OCD, Social Anxiety, etc.), mood disorders (depression, adjustment disorders, etc.), neurodiversity, family conflict, stress management concerns, and aid parents in need of support.
I integrate the following theories/therapies into my work: mindfulness-based practices, cognitive behavioral therapies, family therapy, trauma-informed practice, humanistic psychology, & play therapy.
Life is often stressful. Modern life keeps moving, even when we might really need a moment to reflect and connect. In my practice, I hope to offer children, adolescents, young adults, and families time to pause and process their experiences. In the pause, we might find new paths and connections to forge. I support clients experiencing anxiety disorders (GAD, OCD, Social Anxiety, etc.), mood disorders (depression, adjustment disorders, etc.), neurodiversity, family conflict, stress management concerns, and aid parents in need of support.
Peter Andrew Danzig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSS, MA, CTP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Psychotherapist, toy analyst, Senior Leadership Strategist, and Diversity and Inclusion Professional in the Greater Philadelphia region. Peter’s research and practice interests are invested in community mental health, theories on adult play and the ways it frames our social interactions, and trauma informed work with clients and artists/creatives. Peter’s clinical approach is rooted in holistic, relational and humanistic theory. Peter’s research and Op-Eds have been featured in the Psychology Today, The Wall Street Journal, Philadelphia Gay News, The Mighty, and others.
Psychotherapist, toy analyst, Senior Leadership Strategist, and Diversity and Inclusion Professional in the Greater Philadelphia region. Peter’s research and practice interests are invested in community mental health, theories on adult play and the ways it frames our social interactions, and trauma informed work with clients and artists/creatives. Peter’s clinical approach is rooted in holistic, relational and humanistic theory. Peter’s research and Op-Eds have been featured in the Psychology Today, The Wall Street Journal, Philadelphia Gay News, The Mighty, and others.
Frances G Martin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
With children, I work through the modality of play.
I believe in the Talking Cure. Life can be fraught with disappointments, losses, stressors and challenges that feel overwhelming and discouraging. Finding words to describe thoughts, feelings, past and present experiences, in presence of a compassionate and non-judgmental other, affords profound and lasting relief from the emotional discomfort that interferes with the ability to live the life one desires. Undigested emotional pain from the past can interfere with ones ability to live a full and satisfying life in the present. Identifying those emotions whose roots are in the past, frees us to live more fully in the here and now.
With children, I work through the modality of play.
I believe in the Talking Cure. Life can be fraught with disappointments, losses, stressors and challenges that feel overwhelming and discouraging. Finding words to describe thoughts, feelings, past and present experiences, in presence of a compassionate and non-judgmental other, affords profound and lasting relief from the emotional discomfort that interferes with the ability to live the life one desires. Undigested emotional pain from the past can interfere with ones ability to live a full and satisfying life in the present. Identifying those emotions whose roots are in the past, frees us to live more fully in the here and now.
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Hannah Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19119
My style of therapy is greatly informed by Gestalt Therapy, Play Therapy, mindfulness, somatic-work, body-mind awareness and Parts work.
Imagine a space where you can express yourself in many different forms as you feel most comfortable; where you can try out new ways of being in your life and in your relationships. I strive to provide a space like this; where your thoughts, feelings and most tender parts can be revealed, nurtured, heard and seen. I enjoy the limitless diversity of brain chemistries, ethnicities, sexualities and gender expressions that exist among us. I also appreciate the diversity of life experience that each of us holds, and believe that there is wisdom and expertise within each of us to enable healing, but we don't always know how to access it.
My style of therapy is greatly informed by Gestalt Therapy, Play Therapy, mindfulness, somatic-work, body-mind awareness and Parts work.
Imagine a space where you can express yourself in many different forms as you feel most comfortable; where you can try out new ways of being in your life and in your relationships. I strive to provide a space like this; where your thoughts, feelings and most tender parts can be revealed, nurtured, heard and seen. I enjoy the limitless diversity of brain chemistries, ethnicities, sexualities and gender expressions that exist among us. I also appreciate the diversity of life experience that each of us holds, and believe that there is wisdom and expertise within each of us to enable healing, but we don't always know how to access it.
Victoria Galperin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19106
I utilize a variety of modalities, including Internal Family Systems (IFS), CBT, Play Therapy, behavior modification, solution focused, and strength based.
Whether you are trying to navigate day-to-day challenges, improve your awareness and the quality of your relationships, or resolve issues from your past, my goal for our sessions is for you to feel seen, supported and empowered to release the burdens that may hold you back and to move forward. I have twelve years of experience working in community mental and health and group practices with adults and children, in a one on one as well as in a group setting. Currently providing in person and virtual sessions.
I utilize a variety of modalities, including Internal Family Systems (IFS), CBT, Play Therapy, behavior modification, solution focused, and strength based.
Whether you are trying to navigate day-to-day challenges, improve your awareness and the quality of your relationships, or resolve issues from your past, my goal for our sessions is for you to feel seen, supported and empowered to release the burdens that may hold you back and to move forward. I have twelve years of experience working in community mental and health and group practices with adults and children, in a one on one as well as in a group setting. Currently providing in person and virtual sessions.
Julia Gladstone
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFA, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I have training in Internal Family Systems, Psychodynamic, EMDR, AEDP, Somatic and Mindfulness techniques, Psychedelic-assisted therapy, Play therapy, and Expressive Arts.
Each of us has the capacity to flourish into our true potential. I work with children, adolescents, and adults to uncover their wholeness and belonging, which may be clouded by challenging behaviors or feelings such as shame, guilt, anger, anxiety, grief, or hopelessness. I specialize in working with people of all ages who are struggling with anxiety, depression, complex PTSD, attachment and relationship issues, sexuality and gender expression, creativity and self-esteem.
I have training in Internal Family Systems, Psychodynamic, EMDR, AEDP, Somatic and Mindfulness techniques, Psychedelic-assisted therapy, Play therapy, and Expressive Arts.
Each of us has the capacity to flourish into our true potential. I work with children, adolescents, and adults to uncover their wholeness and belonging, which may be clouded by challenging behaviors or feelings such as shame, guilt, anger, anxiety, grief, or hopelessness. I specialize in working with people of all ages who are struggling with anxiety, depression, complex PTSD, attachment and relationship issues, sexuality and gender expression, creativity and self-esteem.
Luke Romano
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19106
My work with children and youth emphasizes the roles of free play and family involvement in healing, self-expression, and healthy development.
My areas of expertise include challenges navigating social life, relationships, and life transitions, coping with traumatic experiences, and understanding complex family dynamics. With advanced training in relational psychodynamic therapy, I specialize in trauma informed mental health treatment based on the development of a strong therapeutic relationship. My goal is to create a comfortable and judgment free therapeutic space within which children, youth, and adults can explore, heal, and grow.
My work with children and youth emphasizes the roles of free play and family involvement in healing, self-expression, and healthy development.
My areas of expertise include challenges navigating social life, relationships, and life transitions, coping with traumatic experiences, and understanding complex family dynamics. With advanced training in relational psychodynamic therapy, I specialize in trauma informed mental health treatment based on the development of a strong therapeutic relationship. My goal is to create a comfortable and judgment free therapeutic space within which children, youth, and adults can explore, heal, and grow.
Susan Kaye-Huntington
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19118
I use many different approaches in helping individuals and families deal with problems that concern them but have special training in the use of the visual arts and play in therapy, and in hypnosis.
I believe an important part of the therapy process is developing a flexible and collaborative relationship in which the client feels safe to explore, understand, and change relationships and behaviors, so that he or she may grow in a satisfying, creative, and life enhancing way. I have worked as a clinician for over twenty years and maintain a general practice for adults, families and children.
I use many different approaches in helping individuals and families deal with problems that concern them but have special training in the use of the visual arts and play in therapy, and in hypnosis.
I believe an important part of the therapy process is developing a flexible and collaborative relationship in which the client feels safe to explore, understand, and change relationships and behaviors, so that he or she may grow in a satisfying, creative, and life enhancing way. I have worked as a clinician for over twenty years and maintain a general practice for adults, families and children.
Nicole Thompson Cartwright
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102 (Online Only)
For children, I incorporate play therapy techniques to help them gain and practice skills.
Hello, I'm Niki. Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you struggling yourself, or maybe your child is concerning you? Let's talk, and we can work together to find solutions. I help others to find patterns in their lives that are keeping them stuck, and find ways to become unstuck. We'll find what is working and build on your strengths. We'll also find what isn't working, and develop a plan that's right for you.
For children, I incorporate play therapy techniques to help them gain and practice skills.
Hello, I'm Niki. Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you struggling yourself, or maybe your child is concerning you? Let's talk, and we can work together to find solutions. I help others to find patterns in their lives that are keeping them stuck, and find ways to become unstuck. We'll find what is working and build on your strengths. We'll also find what isn't working, and develop a plan that's right for you.
Child and Family Art Therapy Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
We are child-adolescent art & play therapy specialists who help clients ages 3-22 develop powerful coping skills to overcome challenges to succeed at home, school, & in relationships! Parents who engage us in therapy seek an effective therapist with whom their child will feel supremely comfortable & not resist. You found us! We KNOW how children think, & our waiting rooms, offices, & approaches are designed to help children & teens enjoy therapy. We treat a range of emotional-behavioral challenges & have a sub-specialty in social skills groups for neurodiverse children. Located in Haverford, Paoli, Blue Bell, & Center City.
We are child-adolescent art & play therapy specialists who help clients ages 3-22 develop powerful coping skills to overcome challenges to succeed at home, school, & in relationships! Parents who engage us in therapy seek an effective therapist with whom their child will feel supremely comfortable & not resist. You found us! We KNOW how children think, & our waiting rooms, offices, & approaches are designed to help children & teens enjoy therapy. We treat a range of emotional-behavioral challenges & have a sub-specialty in social skills groups for neurodiverse children. Located in Haverford, Paoli, Blue Bell, & Center City.
Kelly Pohlig
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
I use a trauma informed approach to therapy which combines client focused therapy, psychodynamic applications, play therapy, and EMDR.
Hey there! It can be highly challenging it can be to reach out for help; you are taking the best step in seeking a partner for personal healing. I will work with you to create positive changes in your life, resolve conflicts, and towards the goals you desire. As a counselor, I work with individuals coping with various concerns related to neurodiversity, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, PTSD/ complex trauma, caregiver concerns, relationship issues, parenting struggles, communication skills, and general life dissatisfaction.
I use a trauma informed approach to therapy which combines client focused therapy, psychodynamic applications, play therapy, and EMDR.
Hey there! It can be highly challenging it can be to reach out for help; you are taking the best step in seeking a partner for personal healing. I will work with you to create positive changes in your life, resolve conflicts, and towards the goals you desire. As a counselor, I work with individuals coping with various concerns related to neurodiversity, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, PTSD/ complex trauma, caregiver concerns, relationship issues, parenting struggles, communication skills, and general life dissatisfaction.
Lucero Rave
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19134
I use different resources and integrate multiple modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-focused, and play therapy.
Hi there, I'm Lucy! I am a licensed clinical social worker looking to create a connection and an atmosphere where you can feel supported and comfortable to share openly your concerns. I see individuals of all ages and stages and incorporate a range of strategies to best promote growth and healing while creating a fun and engaging experience for those younger clients.
I use different resources and integrate multiple modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-focused, and play therapy.
Hi there, I'm Lucy! I am a licensed clinical social worker looking to create a connection and an atmosphere where you can feel supported and comfortable to share openly your concerns. I see individuals of all ages and stages and incorporate a range of strategies to best promote growth and healing while creating a fun and engaging experience for those younger clients.
See more therapy options for Philadelphia
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Philadelphia
- Ardmore
- Bala Cynwyd
- Cheltenham
- Drexel Hill
- Elkins Park
- Gladwyne
- Havertown
- Jenkintown
- Lansdowne
- Narberth
- Upper Darby
- Wynnewood
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.