Photo of Wilkinson Family Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Murfreesboro, TN
Wilkinson Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC-MHS, PhD, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
Therapy is more than talking about the past. It is a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere in which past hurts are resolved and healing takes place. Traumatic experiences can serve as blocks, preventing present and future peace.  At Wilkinson Family Therapy, we enjoy connecting with our clients as they travel along their journey. Through intentionality and training, we create a comfortable, supportive space for our clients to grow and process their experiences.
Therapy is more than talking about the past. It is a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere in which past hurts are resolved and healing takes place. Traumatic experiences can serve as blocks, preventing present and future peace.  At Wilkinson Family Therapy, we enjoy connecting with our clients as they travel along their journey. Through intentionality and training, we create a comfortable, supportive space for our clients to grow and process their experiences.
(615) 908-2505 View (615) 908-2505
Photo of Jill Harcrow, Licensed Professional Counselor in Murfreesboro, TN
Jill Harcrow
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
"Speak in such a way that others love to listen to you and listen in such a way that others love to speak to you." We are all going through own our journey through life and many times the path ahead feels and appears impossible. Or maybe there is so much damage from a road that blew up on you and now you can't see which way to go. No matter what age, we can all find pieces of our life that we can control and influence positively even in the midst of impossibility. Anxiety, anger, family conflict, behavioral issues, blended families, stress management. trauma, depression, and the list goes on of things that can impair our daily life.
"Speak in such a way that others love to listen to you and listen in such a way that others love to speak to you." We are all going through own our journey through life and many times the path ahead feels and appears impossible. Or maybe there is so much damage from a road that blew up on you and now you can't see which way to go. No matter what age, we can all find pieces of our life that we can control and influence positively even in the midst of impossibility. Anxiety, anger, family conflict, behavioral issues, blended families, stress management. trauma, depression, and the list goes on of things that can impair our daily life.
(615) 724-1019 View (615) 724-1019
Photo of Corbett Hinkle, Licensed Professional Counselor in Murfreesboro, TN
Corbett Hinkle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37128
I have immense passion for helping people navigate through difficult times. Do you find yourself struggling in one or more ways? Perhaps you need a little guidance and support; I am here for you. My goal is to form a solid base of trust and a collaborative relationship with each individual I work with. I focus on empowering you while assisting you in finding healthy resolutions to issues you are facing. My therapeutic approach is holistic in nature, with emphasis on your feelings, behaviors, thoughts, and beliefs. I am committed to assisting you to build upon your existing strengths to live your best possible life.
I have immense passion for helping people navigate through difficult times. Do you find yourself struggling in one or more ways? Perhaps you need a little guidance and support; I am here for you. My goal is to form a solid base of trust and a collaborative relationship with each individual I work with. I focus on empowering you while assisting you in finding healthy resolutions to issues you are facing. My therapeutic approach is holistic in nature, with emphasis on your feelings, behaviors, thoughts, and beliefs. I am committed to assisting you to build upon your existing strengths to live your best possible life.
(615) 410-9837 View (615) 410-9837
Photo of Michelle C. Stevens, Licensed Professional Counselor in Murfreesboro, TN
Michelle C. Stevens
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, MHSP, ACS
Not Verified Not Verified
3 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37128
Empowering you to reach your full potential is the focal point of my practice. We will use your strengths to work towards being the best you you can be! I have worked in the profession for over 15 years, and I love being able to help my clients develop through various techniques. I work with children and adolescents, emerging adults, adults, and parents. In addition to individual services, I offer social skills, coping skills, self-esteem, and grief groups. I am LGBT+ friendly, and simply love working with my clients in an open and caring environment.
Empowering you to reach your full potential is the focal point of my practice. We will use your strengths to work towards being the best you you can be! I have worked in the profession for over 15 years, and I love being able to help my clients develop through various techniques. I work with children and adolescents, emerging adults, adults, and parents. In addition to individual services, I offer social skills, coping skills, self-esteem, and grief groups. I am LGBT+ friendly, and simply love working with my clients in an open and caring environment.
(615) 908-2271 View (615) 908-2271
Photo of Grace Wellness , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Murfreesboro, TN
Grace Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
The ability to meet people right where they are is such a powerful and sacred space. We at Grace Wellness embrace any opportunity to be allowed into that space during some of the most difficult times in life. It is our ultimate goal as therapists to provide the support, guidance, and listening ear to help you navigate this sometimes, tumultuous journey called life. You are already equipped with every tool within you to overcome obstacles, We are here to help you discover those tools. With an inviting, safe, and confidential atmosphere we here at Grace can help you learn and understand how to use those tools to enhance your life.
The ability to meet people right where they are is such a powerful and sacred space. We at Grace Wellness embrace any opportunity to be allowed into that space during some of the most difficult times in life. It is our ultimate goal as therapists to provide the support, guidance, and listening ear to help you navigate this sometimes, tumultuous journey called life. You are already equipped with every tool within you to overcome obstacles, We are here to help you discover those tools. With an inviting, safe, and confidential atmosphere we here at Grace can help you learn and understand how to use those tools to enhance your life.
(931) 442-7021 View (931) 442-7021

Online Therapists

Photo of Sacred Lotus Journey, LLC, Pre-Licensed Professional in Murfreesboro, TN
Sacred Lotus Journey, LLC
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37219
My areas of expertise include: Person Centered, Reality Therapy, Choice Theory, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), anger management, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, herbalism, aromatherapy, play therapy, and creative arts.
As a therapist, I love to walk alongside you during your self discovery journey of becoming your true authentic self. And on this journey of well being, one will learn the importance of self love, self care, boundary setting, effective communication, problem solving, emotional regulation, and displaying your true authentic self. And first things first, you MUST start with your mind, body, and spirit and I will like to assist you in every goal you set for yourself in a holistic way.
My areas of expertise include: Person Centered, Reality Therapy, Choice Theory, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), anger management, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, herbalism, aromatherapy, play therapy, and creative arts.
As a therapist, I love to walk alongside you during your self discovery journey of becoming your true authentic self. And on this journey of well being, one will learn the importance of self love, self care, boundary setting, effective communication, problem solving, emotional regulation, and displaying your true authentic self. And first things first, you MUST start with your mind, body, and spirit and I will like to assist you in every goal you set for yourself in a holistic way.
(615) 257-9289 View (615) 257-9289
Photo of Hannah Pipher, Licensed Social Worker in Murfreesboro, TN
Hannah Pipher
Licensed Social Worker, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37221  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
During sessions you can expect me to pull from child-led play therapy, different forms of expressive arts, animal-assisted therapy, Cognitive Processing (CPT), Solution Focused Therapy (SFBT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
I am passionate about working with teens and adolescents as they navigate the stressors that come with growing up. This could present in a multitude of ways consisting of emotional regulation, exploring sexuality/identity, navigating transitions in school, conflicts with family and peers, high acuity depression or self-harm, or living through parents divorce/separation. Additionally, young adults exhibiting symptoms of PTSD and complex trauma who are ready to process and return to their life before the trauma are another sweet spot of mine.
During sessions you can expect me to pull from child-led play therapy, different forms of expressive arts, animal-assisted therapy, Cognitive Processing (CPT), Solution Focused Therapy (SFBT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
I am passionate about working with teens and adolescents as they navigate the stressors that come with growing up. This could present in a multitude of ways consisting of emotional regulation, exploring sexuality/identity, navigating transitions in school, conflicts with family and peers, high acuity depression or self-harm, or living through parents divorce/separation. Additionally, young adults exhibiting symptoms of PTSD and complex trauma who are ready to process and return to their life before the trauma are another sweet spot of mine.
(303) 732-8347 View (303) 732-8347
Photo of Caitlin Coile, Licensed Professional Counselor in Murfreesboro, TN
Caitlin Coile
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
I have training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), EMDR for Children, Play Therapy, Brainspotting, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Assessing and Managing Suicide Risk (AMSR).
People start to heal the moment they feel heard. That is my goal in sitting with clients - to move towards healing by hearing their stories, strifes, and successes. I incorporate multiple modalities of treatment to give each client a unique experience that meets their specific needs. My hope is to join my clients in achieving meaningful and deep healing, identifying resources for continued growth, and developing secure attachments in their relationships. I am passionate about working with individuals and families of all ages who are processing through life transitions, identity, relationship issues, trauma, and grief and loss.
I have training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), EMDR for Children, Play Therapy, Brainspotting, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Assessing and Managing Suicide Risk (AMSR).
People start to heal the moment they feel heard. That is my goal in sitting with clients - to move towards healing by hearing their stories, strifes, and successes. I incorporate multiple modalities of treatment to give each client a unique experience that meets their specific needs. My hope is to join my clients in achieving meaningful and deep healing, identifying resources for continued growth, and developing secure attachments in their relationships. I am passionate about working with individuals and families of all ages who are processing through life transitions, identity, relationship issues, trauma, and grief and loss.
(615) 471-7684 View (615) 471-7684
Photo of Abigail Weatherly, Pre-Licensed Professional in Murfreesboro, TN
Abigail Weatherly
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37064
For children, I use play therapy to provide a space to feel seen, heard, and understood.
I have the privilege to work with parents who want to support their child and their development through connection and understanding, preteens/teens who are navigating life changes as they grow up and want to build new skills, and children who are learning about themselves and the world without the tools to communicate their needs. I love being able to advocate for my clients to support them in achieving the goals they set for themselves.
For children, I use play therapy to provide a space to feel seen, heard, and understood.
I have the privilege to work with parents who want to support their child and their development through connection and understanding, preteens/teens who are navigating life changes as they grow up and want to build new skills, and children who are learning about themselves and the world without the tools to communicate their needs. I love being able to advocate for my clients to support them in achieving the goals they set for themselves.
(615) 488-5720 View (615) 488-5720
Photo of Megan Tresh, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Murfreesboro, TN
Megan Tresh
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37405
Embracing life's uncertainties, transitions, & unmet expectations can be challenging, but we are able to move forward with meaning & purpose. Sometimes building a level of resilience & mental fortitude is required for us to progress. By using an underlying attachment-based approach, I’m able to provide therapeutic services that are safe, authentic, & non-judgemental to allow for healing & growth. I have found that tailoring the modalities used to each client provides positive outcomes in various situations. EMDR, exposure & response prevention (ERP), experiential activities, & play therapy are among those that I am trained in.
Embracing life's uncertainties, transitions, & unmet expectations can be challenging, but we are able to move forward with meaning & purpose. Sometimes building a level of resilience & mental fortitude is required for us to progress. By using an underlying attachment-based approach, I’m able to provide therapeutic services that are safe, authentic, & non-judgemental to allow for healing & growth. I have found that tailoring the modalities used to each client provides positive outcomes in various situations. EMDR, exposure & response prevention (ERP), experiential activities, & play therapy are among those that I am trained in.
(423) 370-0124 View (423) 370-0124
Photo of Christa Riches, Licensed Professional Counselor in Murfreesboro, TN
Christa Riches
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
I incorporate expressive art, play, and sand tray into sessions where applicable.
When challenges, uncertainty, and major changes occur in our lives, it can be hard to know how to move forward. I am here not to provide “the answer”, but to be the guide and companion on your healing journey – the one shining the light down the path as we navigate the unknown together and find your answers together. We will set goals, face challenges head-on, and explore what it looks like to apply new skills and practice healthy and sustainable care of self within a safe environment.
I incorporate expressive art, play, and sand tray into sessions where applicable.
When challenges, uncertainty, and major changes occur in our lives, it can be hard to know how to move forward. I am here not to provide “the answer”, but to be the guide and companion on your healing journey – the one shining the light down the path as we navigate the unknown together and find your answers together. We will set goals, face challenges head-on, and explore what it looks like to apply new skills and practice healthy and sustainable care of self within a safe environment.
(629) 500-2951 View (629) 500-2951
Photo of Elizabeth Arnold, Pre-Licensed Professional in Murfreesboro, TN
Elizabeth Arnold
Pre-Licensed Professional, MMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37215
I believe in a non-pathologizing and collaborative approach grounded in the values and techniques of Narrative Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Client-Centered Play Therapy.
Hi, I'm Elizabeth! I'm pleased to serve the Nashville community by working with individuals, couples, and family groups of every age and stage who are looking for compassionate care addressing grief, trauma, and sudden life changes. Sometimes major life shifts and painful losses can cause mind/body disconnect, challenges in aligning thoughts and emotions, conflict with loved ones, confusion, volatility, and loneliness. Integrating new realizations or new circumstances with how you've seen the world can be incredibly difficult but you are not alone. There is hope, healing, and a future worth shaping.
I believe in a non-pathologizing and collaborative approach grounded in the values and techniques of Narrative Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Client-Centered Play Therapy.
Hi, I'm Elizabeth! I'm pleased to serve the Nashville community by working with individuals, couples, and family groups of every age and stage who are looking for compassionate care addressing grief, trauma, and sudden life changes. Sometimes major life shifts and painful losses can cause mind/body disconnect, challenges in aligning thoughts and emotions, conflict with loved ones, confusion, volatility, and loneliness. Integrating new realizations or new circumstances with how you've seen the world can be incredibly difficult but you are not alone. There is hope, healing, and a future worth shaping.
(615) 471-6836 View (615) 471-6836
Photo of Laura Susan Sikes, Counselor in Murfreesboro, TN
Laura Susan Sikes
Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, MHSP, RPT
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37409
Play Therapy is a developmentally appropriate means of treating children's issues.
I am a clinical individual, couple and family therapist. Issues typically addressed in my practice include trauma, depression, anxiety, adjustment problems, emotional regulation, and relationship issues. I am certified in the use of EMDR, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. I have extensive training in Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples (Completed Externship and all Core Skills trainings: Supervision and Certification in process). I am a Registered Play Therapist and work with children ages 3+.
Play Therapy is a developmentally appropriate means of treating children's issues.
I am a clinical individual, couple and family therapist. Issues typically addressed in my practice include trauma, depression, anxiety, adjustment problems, emotional regulation, and relationship issues. I am certified in the use of EMDR, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. I have extensive training in Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples (Completed Externship and all Core Skills trainings: Supervision and Certification in process). I am a Registered Play Therapist and work with children ages 3+.
(423) 271-3353 View (423) 271-3353
Photo of Kerisha Tidwell, Pre-Licensed Professional in Murfreesboro, TN
Kerisha Tidwell
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37205
My preferred modalities include but are not limited to cognitive behavioral therapy, emotion-focused therapy, solution-focused therapy, and play therapy.
I bet you’re wondering what kind of therapist I am. Well, I am just like you, a regular person working to become the best version of myself every day. I provide a non-judgmental space for you to work through and understand your situation. I want to assist you on your journey and challenge you as I see the potential in all of my clients. I will advocate for you, encourage you, and be your safe space. I value individuality and embrace multiculturism, so come as your authentic self. Building a therapeutic relationship is my primary goal, and I strive to lead with empathy and understanding. I look forward to working with you.
My preferred modalities include but are not limited to cognitive behavioral therapy, emotion-focused therapy, solution-focused therapy, and play therapy.
I bet you’re wondering what kind of therapist I am. Well, I am just like you, a regular person working to become the best version of myself every day. I provide a non-judgmental space for you to work through and understand your situation. I want to assist you on your journey and challenge you as I see the potential in all of my clients. I will advocate for you, encourage you, and be your safe space. I value individuality and embrace multiculturism, so come as your authentic self. Building a therapeutic relationship is my primary goal, and I strive to lead with empathy and understanding. I look forward to working with you.
(615) 437-8817 View (615) 437-8817
Photo of Julia B Coffin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Murfreesboro, TN
Julia B Coffin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37408
I have formal training in a variety of therapeutic techniques - including psychoanalytic psychotherapy, CBT, EMDR, mindfulness, play therapy, and Circle of Security Parenting.
Good therapy helps promote clarity and progress toward change. I believe that therapy can provide the safety needed for self-exploration and for support in times of stress. And I believe that this safety is created through a trusting therapeutic alliance, which I rely heavily on in my practice. As a clinical social worker, I provide psychotherapy to children, adolescents, and adults who have a broad range of reasons for seeking therapy - these may include anxiety, depression, family conflict, low self-esteem, relationship struggles, parenting concerns, trauma, and loss.
I have formal training in a variety of therapeutic techniques - including psychoanalytic psychotherapy, CBT, EMDR, mindfulness, play therapy, and Circle of Security Parenting.
Good therapy helps promote clarity and progress toward change. I believe that therapy can provide the safety needed for self-exploration and for support in times of stress. And I believe that this safety is created through a trusting therapeutic alliance, which I rely heavily on in my practice. As a clinical social worker, I provide psychotherapy to children, adolescents, and adults who have a broad range of reasons for seeking therapy - these may include anxiety, depression, family conflict, low self-esteem, relationship struggles, parenting concerns, trauma, and loss.
(423) 401-9306 View (423) 401-9306
Photo of Deborah E Doineau, Psychologist in Murfreesboro, TN
Deborah E Doineau
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37212
With younger children, I use play and art therapy and behavior modification for behavior disorders.
My clientele consists of children, adolescents, and adults. I use a variety of approaches in working with my clients in an attempt to find the most efficacious approach to meet the particular client's needs. As a psychologist, I also perform psychological evaluations for diagnostic purposes. For example, I evaluate cognitive ability, learning disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, and many other issues. Finding oneself can be a daunting task in our complex society. I aspire to help my clients achieve self understanding, a sense of efficacy, and develop tools to assist them in navigating life's challenges on their own.
With younger children, I use play and art therapy and behavior modification for behavior disorders.
My clientele consists of children, adolescents, and adults. I use a variety of approaches in working with my clients in an attempt to find the most efficacious approach to meet the particular client's needs. As a psychologist, I also perform psychological evaluations for diagnostic purposes. For example, I evaluate cognitive ability, learning disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, and many other issues. Finding oneself can be a daunting task in our complex society. I aspire to help my clients achieve self understanding, a sense of efficacy, and develop tools to assist them in navigating life's challenges on their own.
(615) 745-1058 View (615) 745-1058
Photo of Ashley Elaine Dantzler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Murfreesboro, TN
Ashley Elaine Dantzler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
Through mindfulness, thought and behavior modification, art, play, and more, I work with my clients to help them create growth.
The world we live in is full of opportunities to disconnect, avoid emotions, and escape reality. I believe that healing is often found through connection to people around us, connection to nature, and the ability to sit with both comfortable and uncomfortable emotions. In therapy, I work to create an authentic, non- judgmental, welcoming, and trustworthy environment through which healing and growth may occur. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is crucial to the success of counseling, and place great importance on it.
Through mindfulness, thought and behavior modification, art, play, and more, I work with my clients to help them create growth.
The world we live in is full of opportunities to disconnect, avoid emotions, and escape reality. I believe that healing is often found through connection to people around us, connection to nature, and the ability to sit with both comfortable and uncomfortable emotions. In therapy, I work to create an authentic, non- judgmental, welcoming, and trustworthy environment through which healing and growth may occur. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is crucial to the success of counseling, and place great importance on it.
(615) 471-7165 View (615) 471-7165
Photo of Darden Wilson in Murfreesboro, TN
Darden Wilson
MMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37205
I specialize in Depression, Anxiety, and Relationship Issues using research-based CBT, EFT, solution-focused therapy, and play therapy focusing on sand tray treatments for individuals and couples.
I love helping clients with boundary work, adult ADHD, intimacy issues, attachment wounds, unlearning fatphobia, and practicing health at every size. I strive to empower clients and give context while assisting them to reach their long and short-term goals. I support any gender, sexual orientation, or kink; however you choose to identify, everyone deserves therapy and a safe place to heal.
I specialize in Depression, Anxiety, and Relationship Issues using research-based CBT, EFT, solution-focused therapy, and play therapy focusing on sand tray treatments for individuals and couples.
I love helping clients with boundary work, adult ADHD, intimacy issues, attachment wounds, unlearning fatphobia, and practicing health at every size. I strive to empower clients and give context while assisting them to reach their long and short-term goals. I support any gender, sexual orientation, or kink; however you choose to identify, everyone deserves therapy and a safe place to heal.
(615) 282-5304 View (615) 282-5304
Photo of Scoville Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Murfreesboro, TN
Scoville Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, RPT, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37205
I am relational and utilize evidence-based treatment modalities including play therapy and expressive arts, cognitive behavioral therapy, and EMDR.
I am a licensed professional counselor in Nashville, TN. I am passionate about helping others and I work with children, adolescents, and adults with a wide variety of presenting issues. Life is messy, full of hurts, disappointments, stressors, and grief – past and present. I want to help you get “unstuck” so you can live your best life, whatever that is for you. I have been where you are which makes me uniquely qualified to sit with you and to walk alongside you on your journey of healing. I cannot give you the answers, but I promise you will not have to find them alone.
I am relational and utilize evidence-based treatment modalities including play therapy and expressive arts, cognitive behavioral therapy, and EMDR.
I am a licensed professional counselor in Nashville, TN. I am passionate about helping others and I work with children, adolescents, and adults with a wide variety of presenting issues. Life is messy, full of hurts, disappointments, stressors, and grief – past and present. I want to help you get “unstuck” so you can live your best life, whatever that is for you. I have been where you are which makes me uniquely qualified to sit with you and to walk alongside you on your journey of healing. I cannot give you the answers, but I promise you will not have to find them alone.
(615) 235-5988 View (615) 235-5988
Photo of Lauren Haley, Pre-Licensed Professional in Murfreesboro, TN
Lauren Haley
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37419  (Online Only)
When working with younger clients, I use a variety of play therapy techniques for its powerful therapeutic benefits.
I enjoy working with people across the lifespan as they navigate through life's challenges. I see clients for a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, school/behavior issues, grief/loss, self-esteem, shame/guilt, and trauma. I especially enjoy working with neurodivergent individuals. My clients are looking for positive change in their lives and are ready to explore, grow, and challenge themselves.
When working with younger clients, I use a variety of play therapy techniques for its powerful therapeutic benefits.
I enjoy working with people across the lifespan as they navigate through life's challenges. I see clients for a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, school/behavior issues, grief/loss, self-esteem, shame/guilt, and trauma. I especially enjoy working with neurodivergent individuals. My clients are looking for positive change in their lives and are ready to explore, grow, and challenge themselves.
(423) 436-8306 View (423) 436-8306

See more therapy options for Murfreesboro

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.