Photo of Nancy R Guertin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rhode Island
Nancy R Guertin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol, RI 02809
I also have experience providing play therapy with younger children who are experiencing emotional dysregulation or other developmental issues.
I have 25+ years working in the field of mental health with children, adolescents, and adults. My wide range of experiences provides me with the knowledge and skills to help people through difficult times in their lives and guide them through the challenges, and sometimes, difficult transitions and adjustments. My job is to provide clients with new skills that empower them to look at their issues from a new perspective and empower them to engage in a change process.
I also have experience providing play therapy with younger children who are experiencing emotional dysregulation or other developmental issues.
I have 25+ years working in the field of mental health with children, adolescents, and adults. My wide range of experiences provides me with the knowledge and skills to help people through difficult times in their lives and guide them through the challenges, and sometimes, difficult transitions and adjustments. My job is to provide clients with new skills that empower them to look at their issues from a new perspective and empower them to engage in a change process.
(401) 396-5356 View (401) 396-5356
Photo of Darlene D'Arezzo, Counselor in Rhode Island
Darlene D'Arezzo
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Providence, RI 02906
D'Arezzo has more than ten years experience providing treatment to children, adolescents, and their families, as well as adults via "talk therapy", play therapy, sand tray, EMDR, and EAP.
“Even a happy life cannot be without a measure of darkness, and the word happy would lose its meaning if it were not balanced by sadness.” – Carl G. Jung.
D'Arezzo has more than ten years experience providing treatment to children, adolescents, and their families, as well as adults via "talk therapy", play therapy, sand tray, EMDR, and EAP.
“Even a happy life cannot be without a measure of darkness, and the word happy would lose its meaning if it were not balanced by sadness.” – Carl G. Jung.
(401) 566-4097 View (401) 566-4097
Photo of Saira I. Qureshi, Counselor in Rhode Island
Saira I. Qureshi
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Providence, RI 02903  (Online Only)
Working with children and adolescents brings up various treatment needs and goals in therapy. Through CBT, DBT, MBSR, PCIT, mentalization based therapeutic strategies and educational resources, role-playing, arts and play therapy as well as self-help worksheets, young clients will be able to develop appropriate expressive skills to share their wants and needs. Parents can collaborate in treatment by proactively learning parenting skills to best engage with their children and adolescents by becoming more responsive in establishing and maintaining secure attachment through consistently building on healthy, nurturing relationships.
Working with children and adolescents brings up various treatment needs and goals in therapy. Through CBT, DBT, MBSR, PCIT, mentalization based therapeutic strategies and educational resources, role-playing, arts and play therapy as well as self-help worksheets, young clients will be able to develop appropriate expressive skills to share their wants and needs. Parents can collaborate in treatment by proactively learning parenting skills to best engage with their children and adolescents by becoming more responsive in establishing and maintaining secure attachment through consistently building on healthy, nurturing relationships.
(866) 754-4973 View (866) 754-4973
Photo of Dale Belluscio, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rhode Island
Dale Belluscio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Warwick, RI 02886
In my practice I use art/play and sand therapy for the children.
I have many years experience working with a wide age range from 3 to 90 yrs old. I believe in helping my clients find a sense of empowerment within. i believe everyone can be supported and helped in working with their mental illness and emotional issues. I create a warm, comfortable and safe environment for all of my clients. I offer day, evening and Saturday appointments, therefore there is usually not a wait list. I have worked with non profit agencies, the federal probation program, and in a group practice. I have worked with clients experiencing depression, ADHD, PTSD, trauma and many other diagnoses.
In my practice I use art/play and sand therapy for the children.
I have many years experience working with a wide age range from 3 to 90 yrs old. I believe in helping my clients find a sense of empowerment within. i believe everyone can be supported and helped in working with their mental illness and emotional issues. I create a warm, comfortable and safe environment for all of my clients. I offer day, evening and Saturday appointments, therefore there is usually not a wait list. I have worked with non profit agencies, the federal probation program, and in a group practice. I have worked with clients experiencing depression, ADHD, PTSD, trauma and many other diagnoses.
(401) 305-2128 View (401) 305-2128
Photo of Deanna Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rhode Island
Deanna Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Warwick, RI 02886
I specialize in using evidence-based treatment modalities tailored to your needs, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Play Therapy techniques, Acceptance & Commitment, and Mindfulness-Based Interventions.
Immediate openings! I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Rhode Island. After graduating from Rhode Island College with my Master of Social Work degree, I worked as a School Social Worker providing mental health, social skill, and behavioral support to children and adolescents. I have additional experience providing outpatient therapy within community mental health and supporting individuals facing stressors resulting from crisis, trauma, life transitions, and structural and systematic challenges.
I specialize in using evidence-based treatment modalities tailored to your needs, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Play Therapy techniques, Acceptance & Commitment, and Mindfulness-Based Interventions.
Immediate openings! I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Rhode Island. After graduating from Rhode Island College with my Master of Social Work degree, I worked as a School Social Worker providing mental health, social skill, and behavioral support to children and adolescents. I have additional experience providing outpatient therapy within community mental health and supporting individuals facing stressors resulting from crisis, trauma, life transitions, and structural and systematic challenges.
(401) 388-6973 View (401) 388-6973
Photo of Tina Leavitt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rhode Island
Tina Leavitt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CGS, LICSW
Verified Verified
Cranston, RI 02910
Is it hard coping with daily stressors? My passion is working with children, teens, and families to help them understand and manage their emotions and behaviors in a supportive therapeutic environment. I assist parents and children with working through barriers that affect their everyday life through a warm and collaborative, strength-based approach. I utilize creative interventions to support children/adolescents to enhance their skills including play therapy, art therapy, mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, and collaborative/proactive problem-solving.
Is it hard coping with daily stressors? My passion is working with children, teens, and families to help them understand and manage their emotions and behaviors in a supportive therapeutic environment. I assist parents and children with working through barriers that affect their everyday life through a warm and collaborative, strength-based approach. I utilize creative interventions to support children/adolescents to enhance their skills including play therapy, art therapy, mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, and collaborative/proactive problem-solving.
(401) 246-8519 View (401) 246-8519
Photo of Mind Body Rise, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rhode Island
Mind Body Rise
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLC
Verified Verified
Westerly, RI 02891
Mind Body Rise is a Connecticut-based behavioral health practice supporting adults, adolescents and children through proven psychotherapeutic treatments. We provide a holistic approach to mental health care to support our clients while focusing on creating a better quality of life for the future. We are a supportive, safe community that focuses on individualized care through multiple therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), play therapy, mindfulness and much more.
Mind Body Rise is a Connecticut-based behavioral health practice supporting adults, adolescents and children through proven psychotherapeutic treatments. We provide a holistic approach to mental health care to support our clients while focusing on creating a better quality of life for the future. We are a supportive, safe community that focuses on individualized care through multiple therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), play therapy, mindfulness and much more.
(860) 792-5049 View (860) 792-5049
Photo of Holly Brown, Psychologist in Rhode Island
Holly Brown
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, RI 02871
I help to build a bright future for children and families. The Center for Learning and Psychological Services offers comprehensive psychological and learning based services to individuals birth to age 25. My specialty areas include;psychological and neuropsychological evaluations, behavioral services, diagnostic evaluations, and individual and group counseling, and play based therapy. I also coordinate all learning based services through our center for; tutoring, executive functioning coaching, and learning based support.
I help to build a bright future for children and families. The Center for Learning and Psychological Services offers comprehensive psychological and learning based services to individuals birth to age 25. My specialty areas include;psychological and neuropsychological evaluations, behavioral services, diagnostic evaluations, and individual and group counseling, and play based therapy. I also coordinate all learning based services through our center for; tutoring, executive functioning coaching, and learning based support.
(720) 833-8849 View (720) 833-8849
Photo of Hannah Gilbert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rhode Island
Hannah Gilbert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Warwick, RI 02886
Hi! I’m Hannah. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor that has years of experience working with diverse individuals of all ages. Recognizing and understanding the value of your mental health is important. I am here to encourage you every step of the way to achieve your goals and embrace the therapy process in a calm, safe and supportive environment.
Hi! I’m Hannah. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor that has years of experience working with diverse individuals of all ages. Recognizing and understanding the value of your mental health is important. I am here to encourage you every step of the way to achieve your goals and embrace the therapy process in a calm, safe and supportive environment.
(401) 200-4355 View (401) 200-4355
Photo of Rebecca Flores (Expressive Art Therapist), Art Therapist in Rhode Island
Rebecca Flores (Expressive Art Therapist)
Art Therapist, MS, CAGS, REAT
Verified Verified
Cranston, RI 02920
It can be challenging to recognize that changes need to be made in your life and in your relationships. Yet, when conflicts begin to resolve and life becomes “smoother,” therapy becomes its own reward. As a therapist, I focus on creating a trusting and compassionate environment where you will feel safe in areas that await healing. I offer a shelter where you will learn to identify patterns that keep you ‘stuck’ and where you can explore new approaches and strategies that will allow your potential to blossom.
It can be challenging to recognize that changes need to be made in your life and in your relationships. Yet, when conflicts begin to resolve and life becomes “smoother,” therapy becomes its own reward. As a therapist, I focus on creating a trusting and compassionate environment where you will feel safe in areas that await healing. I offer a shelter where you will learn to identify patterns that keep you ‘stuck’ and where you can explore new approaches and strategies that will allow your potential to blossom.
(401) 208-2264 View (401) 208-2264
Photo of Kenneth Patterson, Counselor in Rhode Island
Kenneth Patterson
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrington, RI 02806
I have a history working with adults, children, couples and families. I enjoy working with a diverse population. Change is inevitable in life however how one moves through it is up to the individual. Behavior is changeable but only by the person that has the behavior not by his/her partner, parent, friend etc.
I have a history working with adults, children, couples and families. I enjoy working with a diverse population. Change is inevitable in life however how one moves through it is up to the individual. Behavior is changeable but only by the person that has the behavior not by his/her partner, parent, friend etc.
(401) 489-7724 View (401) 489-7724
Photo of Jody Vieira, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rhode Island
Jody Vieira
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Bristol, RI 02809
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I have worked with children, families and adults for the last 23 years. I have a passion for working with individuals that are struggling with concerns related to anxiety, depression and life stressors. I have worked extensively with children as well as adults and enjoy working with individuals and families to build healthy communication skills between family members.
Hello! I have worked with children, families and adults for the last 23 years. I have a passion for working with individuals that are struggling with concerns related to anxiety, depression and life stressors. I have worked extensively with children as well as adults and enjoy working with individuals and families to build healthy communication skills between family members.
(401) 307-4239 View (401) 307-4239
Photo of Erica Sousa, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Rhode Island
Erica Sousa
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCDP, LADC1, CTP, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Warwick, RI 02886
I have training and experience in many aspects of human development including the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of mental health problems, adjustment issues, and educational challenges. My professional experience includes clinical work in both inpatient and outpatient mental health settings. I have worked with children who have attention problems, learning difficulties, behavioral issues, anxiety, mood disturbances as well as serious mental health disorders. My experience also includes helping adults with depressive symptoms, anxiety, adjustment issues, and marital concerns. I am also certified in child and adolescent trauma
I have training and experience in many aspects of human development including the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of mental health problems, adjustment issues, and educational challenges. My professional experience includes clinical work in both inpatient and outpatient mental health settings. I have worked with children who have attention problems, learning difficulties, behavioral issues, anxiety, mood disturbances as well as serious mental health disorders. My experience also includes helping adults with depressive symptoms, anxiety, adjustment issues, and marital concerns. I am also certified in child and adolescent trauma
(401) 337-8013 View (401) 337-8013
Photo of Kathleen O'Rourke, Counselor in Rhode Island
Kathleen O'Rourke
Counselor, MA, CAGS, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Warwick, RI 02886
The depression, anxiety, panic and relationship issues we experience are often signals that we need to stop and explore new ways of managing or new ways of thinking. Sometimes the stressors in our lives become overwhelming. Transitions for children, teens, young adults and even older adults can be daunting, scary and full of stress. It is often so helpful to take the time to explore new solutions or new perspectives and in my office we work together to make this happen. In this therapeutic process, you will safely and effectively learn to manage present time difficulties as well as heal past emotional injuries and loss.
The depression, anxiety, panic and relationship issues we experience are often signals that we need to stop and explore new ways of managing or new ways of thinking. Sometimes the stressors in our lives become overwhelming. Transitions for children, teens, young adults and even older adults can be daunting, scary and full of stress. It is often so helpful to take the time to explore new solutions or new perspectives and in my office we work together to make this happen. In this therapeutic process, you will safely and effectively learn to manage present time difficulties as well as heal past emotional injuries and loss.
(401) 523-8968 View (401) 523-8968
Photo of Jessica Brickle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rhode Island
Jessica Brickle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Warwick, RI 02888
I work with a wide age range, 10-70. I specialize in working with middle and high school students struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, peer pressure, trauma and trauma related mental health issues and body issues. I have extensive experience working with adolescents and adults on the spectrum as well as living with a myriad of personality disorders. I utilize psychological testing, CBT, DBT, Behavioral therapy, holistic, motivational interviewing and supportive therapies. Offering a safe environment and building a trusting working relationship is paramount. My style is strength based and consistently client centered.
I work with a wide age range, 10-70. I specialize in working with middle and high school students struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, peer pressure, trauma and trauma related mental health issues and body issues. I have extensive experience working with adolescents and adults on the spectrum as well as living with a myriad of personality disorders. I utilize psychological testing, CBT, DBT, Behavioral therapy, holistic, motivational interviewing and supportive therapies. Offering a safe environment and building a trusting working relationship is paramount. My style is strength based and consistently client centered.
(401) 329-3891 View (401) 329-3891
Photo of Linda L Smith, Pre-Licensed Professional in Rhode Island
Linda L Smith
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Cranston, RI 02910
I am a new clinician with over 30 years of mental health experience. I have worked on a crisis hotline, doing home based treatment, partial hospital, and in three inpatient hospitals. I started working with children as a teacher and switched to mental health because my love was always helping people with making positive changes in their lives. I worked with families, adolescents, and then adults at Butler Hospital. I recently took a position at Brightside Behavioral Health as a clinician. I truly enjoy being a part of the therapeutic process, providing a supportive, caring, non-judgmental setting where growth can occur.
I am a new clinician with over 30 years of mental health experience. I have worked on a crisis hotline, doing home based treatment, partial hospital, and in three inpatient hospitals. I started working with children as a teacher and switched to mental health because my love was always helping people with making positive changes in their lives. I worked with families, adolescents, and then adults at Butler Hospital. I recently took a position at Brightside Behavioral Health as a clinician. I truly enjoy being a part of the therapeutic process, providing a supportive, caring, non-judgmental setting where growth can occur.
(401) 251-0536 View (401) 251-0536
Photo of Mackenzie Hardman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Rhode Island
Mackenzie Hardman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cranston, RI 02921  (Online Only)
Positive change is attainable, and it starts with building safe and healthy connections. My goal as a therapist is to start by taking time in learning what makes you unique and how you'd like to grow. I aim to provide a welcoming and strengths-focused atmosphere to assist in building on the skills that you already have as well as work together to add some new tools and strategies.
Positive change is attainable, and it starts with building safe and healthy connections. My goal as a therapist is to start by taking time in learning what makes you unique and how you'd like to grow. I aim to provide a welcoming and strengths-focused atmosphere to assist in building on the skills that you already have as well as work together to add some new tools and strategies.
(401) 648-3152 View (401) 648-3152
Photo of Dana Freeman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rhode Island
Dana Freeman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CGS
Verified Verified
Barrington, RI 02806
Waitlist for new clients
It can be lonely and scary to navigate the darkness we feel after experiencing adversity, trauma, and issues with mental health. People who have experienced grief, loss, abuse, etc. often feel a sense of confusion and disconnection from their own identity. My intention as a therapist specializing in trauma is to meet you where you are and guide you safely through your unique healing journey. My office is a judgement free zone where you can unpack anything. Everybody deserves to find their way back to themselves, their light, their voice, and their wellness. It is an honor and a privilege to sit with you for this process.
It can be lonely and scary to navigate the darkness we feel after experiencing adversity, trauma, and issues with mental health. People who have experienced grief, loss, abuse, etc. often feel a sense of confusion and disconnection from their own identity. My intention as a therapist specializing in trauma is to meet you where you are and guide you safely through your unique healing journey. My office is a judgement free zone where you can unpack anything. Everybody deserves to find their way back to themselves, their light, their voice, and their wellness. It is an honor and a privilege to sit with you for this process.
(401) 240-2978 View (401) 240-2978
Photo of Jennifer Prendergast, Counselor in Rhode Island
Jennifer Prendergast
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cranston, RI 02910
You are here and you are reading this, the first step has been taken and I am proud of you for that. Facing difficult emotional and interpersonal challenges in our lives can be daunting and can also be a time for growth and healing. Talking with someone who listens without judgment, understands your concerns, and helps you clarify issues, can be invaluable and I am here to provide that to you. I approach every client with an open mind and don't make any assumptions about your life experiences. Every individual faces unique challenges and needs to work on themselves at their own pace, and I’m here to help you on your way..
You are here and you are reading this, the first step has been taken and I am proud of you for that. Facing difficult emotional and interpersonal challenges in our lives can be daunting and can also be a time for growth and healing. Talking with someone who listens without judgment, understands your concerns, and helps you clarify issues, can be invaluable and I am here to provide that to you. I approach every client with an open mind and don't make any assumptions about your life experiences. Every individual faces unique challenges and needs to work on themselves at their own pace, and I’m here to help you on your way..
(401) 205-8956 View (401) 205-8956
Photo of Lauren M. Walker, Counselor in Rhode Island
Lauren M. Walker
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Cranston, RI 02920
I have worked in many environments including community mental health centers, home based environments, public schools, and private practice. These experiences have allowed me to empathize with both children and adults facing varying struggles including poor social skills, traumatic events including sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, socioeconomic concerns, symptoms related to ADHD, as well as family and relationship concerns.
I have worked in many environments including community mental health centers, home based environments, public schools, and private practice. These experiences have allowed me to empathize with both children and adults facing varying struggles including poor social skills, traumatic events including sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, socioeconomic concerns, symptoms related to ADHD, as well as family and relationship concerns.
(401) 537-1054 View (401) 537-1054

See more therapy options for Rhode Island

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.