Photo of Brianna White, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nashville, TN
Brianna White
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37228
Using techniques like Cognitive Behavior Therapy and play, I hope to help you identify the strengths you already possess to meet your goals.
Is your kid having big feelings all of the time and you're trying your best to support them, but nothing is working? Are you feeling overwhelmed with parenting and wish you could start fresh with a new outlook? Are you feeling the weight of the world on your shoulders and need a space to decompress? Let's chat!
Using techniques like Cognitive Behavior Therapy and play, I hope to help you identify the strengths you already possess to meet your goals.
Is your kid having big feelings all of the time and you're trying your best to support them, but nothing is working? Are you feeling overwhelmed with parenting and wish you could start fresh with a new outlook? Are you feeling the weight of the world on your shoulders and need a space to decompress? Let's chat!
(615) 682-0139 View (615) 682-0139
Photo of Tricia E Thornton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nashville, TN
Tricia E Thornton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37215
As a Registered Play Therapist and a Licensed Professional Counselor, I use play therapy tools to develop the heart, mind and soul of children. After working with children and families in private practice and in school settings for many years, my passion is to empower my clients through play. Through their natural language, play, children can express their emotions and start to heal. I specialize in working with children ages 4 years to 12 years but can work with all ages and adults. Common issues I treat are: trauma, fear, anxiety, anger, loss and grief, ADHD, change in their families, and social anxiety, various school issues.
As a Registered Play Therapist and a Licensed Professional Counselor, I use play therapy tools to develop the heart, mind and soul of children. After working with children and families in private practice and in school settings for many years, my passion is to empower my clients through play. Through their natural language, play, children can express their emotions and start to heal. I specialize in working with children ages 4 years to 12 years but can work with all ages and adults. Common issues I treat are: trauma, fear, anxiety, anger, loss and grief, ADHD, change in their families, and social anxiety, various school issues.
(615) 492-9258 View (615) 492-9258
Photo of Megan Barbee, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nashville, TN
Megan Barbee
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37207
Healing is multidimensional, so I use many experiential/somatic interventions including EMDR, play/expressive arts therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and mindfulness.
I work with kids, adolescents, and adults who feel stuck; they are experiencing symptoms such as anxiety, depression, relationship problems, and disordered eating. Many have carried the weight of traumatic experiences for as long as they can remember. Many feel that they spend excess time worrying about food and their bodies and find it hard to engage fully in their lives. They continue to feel out of control of their relationships, their bodies, and their emotions. They feel numb and isolated on the surface, and deep down feel hurt and helpless.
Healing is multidimensional, so I use many experiential/somatic interventions including EMDR, play/expressive arts therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and mindfulness.
I work with kids, adolescents, and adults who feel stuck; they are experiencing symptoms such as anxiety, depression, relationship problems, and disordered eating. Many have carried the weight of traumatic experiences for as long as they can remember. Many feel that they spend excess time worrying about food and their bodies and find it hard to engage fully in their lives. They continue to feel out of control of their relationships, their bodies, and their emotions. They feel numb and isolated on the surface, and deep down feel hurt and helpless.
(615) 326-6352 View (615) 326-6352
Photo of Hannah Pipher, Licensed Social Worker in Nashville, 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 Gabriela Aguirre-Iriarte, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nashville, TN
Gabriela Aguirre-Iriarte
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC-MHS, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203  (Online Only)
I am a Registered Play Therapist and believe in the power of play and expressive arts.
Growing is a complicated affair, it challenges us to face the unfaceable. Changes can be unpredictable and frightening. Life is scary like facing a dragon, but the paradox is that facing our fears is the only path to complete healing. A counselor is a companion and an ally through the journey. A mirror that helps us see ourselves better, that can help us change the way we see the world and that gives us the opportunity to modify what bother us.
I am a Registered Play Therapist and believe in the power of play and expressive arts.
Growing is a complicated affair, it challenges us to face the unfaceable. Changes can be unpredictable and frightening. Life is scary like facing a dragon, but the paradox is that facing our fears is the only path to complete healing. A counselor is a companion and an ally through the journey. A mirror that helps us see ourselves better, that can help us change the way we see the world and that gives us the opportunity to modify what bother us.
(629) 260-5433 View (629) 260-5433
Photo of Ashley Elaine Dantzler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nashville, 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 Winn Thomas Simmons, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nashville, TN
Winn Thomas Simmons
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
I practice an evidence-based approach to therapy that includes cognitive-behavioral, play therapy, and emotionally focused interventions.
You are not alone in your struggle. The way you feel does not have to be permanent. Change is possible and you do not have to figure it out alone. Individuals I specialize in providing compassionate, authentic, nonjudgmental therapy in a safe environment, in which clients no longer feel they have to struggle alone. I can help you with anxiety, trauma recovery, depression, grief, life transitions, parenting and relationship difficulties. I believe that we are in charge of the story we tell ourselves about the world around us. Change is possible and you do not have to figure it out alone.
I practice an evidence-based approach to therapy that includes cognitive-behavioral, play therapy, and emotionally focused interventions.
You are not alone in your struggle. The way you feel does not have to be permanent. Change is possible and you do not have to figure it out alone. Individuals I specialize in providing compassionate, authentic, nonjudgmental therapy in a safe environment, in which clients no longer feel they have to struggle alone. I can help you with anxiety, trauma recovery, depression, grief, life transitions, parenting and relationship difficulties. I believe that we are in charge of the story we tell ourselves about the world around us. Change is possible and you do not have to figure it out alone.
(615) 492-6777 View (615) 492-6777
Photo of Elizabeth Arnold, Pre-Licensed Professional in Nashville, 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 Deborah E Doineau, Psychologist in Nashville, 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 Catherine Stutzner, Counselor in Nashville, TN
Catherine Stutzner
Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37205
Catherine has additional training and certifications in Play Therapy, Mindfulness Meditation, Positive Discipline, and Be Body Positive which add to her traditional counseling toolbox.
Catherine is a unique therapist with a breadth of lifetime experience that makes her an ideal therapist for adolescents and teens through adulting and on into parenting phases of life. Her background as a coach, entrepreneur, non-profit leader, and mom are life experiences she can draw from to guide you through your journey towards healing. Using a person-centered approach to counseling, Catherine uses multiple evidence-based techniques tailored to each stage of life and the problems that arise. Life doesn't happen in a straight line. Sometimes we get stuck and need a little help getting back onto our path.
Catherine has additional training and certifications in Play Therapy, Mindfulness Meditation, Positive Discipline, and Be Body Positive which add to her traditional counseling toolbox.
Catherine is a unique therapist with a breadth of lifetime experience that makes her an ideal therapist for adolescents and teens through adulting and on into parenting phases of life. Her background as a coach, entrepreneur, non-profit leader, and mom are life experiences she can draw from to guide you through your journey towards healing. Using a person-centered approach to counseling, Catherine uses multiple evidence-based techniques tailored to each stage of life and the problems that arise. Life doesn't happen in a straight line. Sometimes we get stuck and need a little help getting back onto our path.
(615) 392-3580 View (615) 392-3580
Photo of Julia Hoge, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nashville, TN
Julia Hoge
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, NCC, LPCtemp
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37216
Waitlist for new clients
By incorporating play and art therapy techniques, cognitive strategies, Brain spotting, and whole-hearted healing techniques, My goal is to unearth each client's story and to help them find their own path to healing.
I believe in the counseling process; the space it opens internally and the shifting it can provide for clients and families on their life's journey. With over a decade of counseling children and adolescents in Metro Nashville Public Schools, I have a unique and expansive experience working with children, adolescents, and their families as they find togetherness, and themselves.
By incorporating play and art therapy techniques, cognitive strategies, Brain spotting, and whole-hearted healing techniques, My goal is to unearth each client's story and to help them find their own path to healing.
I believe in the counseling process; the space it opens internally and the shifting it can provide for clients and families on their life's journey. With over a decade of counseling children and adolescents in Metro Nashville Public Schools, I have a unique and expansive experience working with children, adolescents, and their families as they find togetherness, and themselves.
(615) 985-6821 View (615) 985-6821
Photo of Sacred Lotus Journey, LLC, Pre-Licensed Professional in Nashville, 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 Maggie Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nashville, TN
Maggie Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP, RPT
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37212
Waitlist for new clients
As a Registered Play Therapist, I utilize expressive arts, sand tray, and play therapy frequently, especially with children and teenage clients.
I strive to provide you with a safe and nonjudgmental, empathetic space in order to support you through life's most challenging seasons. I believe in an egalitarian therapeutic relationship and that, with the right support and tools provided, you have the answers within you to facilitate positive changes in your life. Whether you or your child are seeking help for anxiety, to improve self esteem, process past trauma, or to navigate school or work issues, I would be honored to walk alongside you.
As a Registered Play Therapist, I utilize expressive arts, sand tray, and play therapy frequently, especially with children and teenage clients.
I strive to provide you with a safe and nonjudgmental, empathetic space in order to support you through life's most challenging seasons. I believe in an egalitarian therapeutic relationship and that, with the right support and tools provided, you have the answers within you to facilitate positive changes in your life. Whether you or your child are seeking help for anxiety, to improve self esteem, process past trauma, or to navigate school or work issues, I would be honored to walk alongside you.
(615) 640-1057 View (615) 640-1057
Photo of Emily Simpson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nashville, TN
Emily Simpson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37210
I am trained in EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, attachment-based interventions, and play therapy.
All of us can benefit from having someone walk with us through life's challenges. Reaching out takes courage. I'm passionate about building relationships with clients of all ages, rooted in developing trust and safety, to create the space and awareness to be who you were created to be. I believe we are designed to heal. Sometimes the strategies we developed to navigate the world initially helped us to survive, but they are no longer serving us, and are actually keeping us from living life fully. I journey alongside my clients as they reconnect with their true selves, rediscover hope, and step into a richer experience of life.
I am trained in EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, attachment-based interventions, and play therapy.
All of us can benefit from having someone walk with us through life's challenges. Reaching out takes courage. I'm passionate about building relationships with clients of all ages, rooted in developing trust and safety, to create the space and awareness to be who you were created to be. I believe we are designed to heal. Sometimes the strategies we developed to navigate the world initially helped us to survive, but they are no longer serving us, and are actually keeping us from living life fully. I journey alongside my clients as they reconnect with their true selves, rediscover hope, and step into a richer experience of life.
(615) 857-3890 View (615) 857-3890
Photo of Caroline Cubillo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
Caroline Cubillo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37205
I use an integrated approach that blends evidence-based modalities including EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Theraplay, Play therapy, TF-CBT, Circle of Security and specialized trauma informed yoga training in order to individualize therapy to each client based on their wants and needs.
As a therapist, I believe deeply in the power of relationship. My goal is to create a safe, nurturing, trusting therapeutic relationship from which my clients can find healing and growth. I am a licensed clinical social worker in Nashville, TN working from a relational, client-centered lens, with a background in trauma and attachment. I provide services for children, young adults and families with a wide variety of presenting issues including trauma, loss, family conflict, adoption, depression, anxiety and difficulties with emotional regulation.
I use an integrated approach that blends evidence-based modalities including EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Theraplay, Play therapy, TF-CBT, Circle of Security and specialized trauma informed yoga training in order to individualize therapy to each client based on their wants and needs.
As a therapist, I believe deeply in the power of relationship. My goal is to create a safe, nurturing, trusting therapeutic relationship from which my clients can find healing and growth. I am a licensed clinical social worker in Nashville, TN working from a relational, client-centered lens, with a background in trauma and attachment. I provide services for children, young adults and families with a wide variety of presenting issues including trauma, loss, family conflict, adoption, depression, anxiety and difficulties with emotional regulation.
(615) 908-5144 View (615) 908-5144
Photo of Kerisha Tidwell, Pre-Licensed Professional in Nashville, 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 Claire Fajardo Belcher, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nashville, TN
Claire Fajardo Belcher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37211
My counseling approach is Person-Centered and I use Motivational Interviewing, (Trauma Focused) Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, and Music Therapy.
I work with adults and teenagers experiencing mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, grief, PTSD, complex PTSD, Schizophrenia, Bi-polar, Emotional Disturbance, Reactive Attachment Disorder and addiction. Additionally, I have an extensive background history working with teenagers and adults diagnosed with Asperger's and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
My counseling approach is Person-Centered and I use Motivational Interviewing, (Trauma Focused) Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, and Music Therapy.
I work with adults and teenagers experiencing mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, grief, PTSD, complex PTSD, Schizophrenia, Bi-polar, Emotional Disturbance, Reactive Attachment Disorder and addiction. Additionally, I have an extensive background history working with teenagers and adults diagnosed with Asperger's and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
(615) 802-4973 View (615) 802-4973
Photo of Sloan S Mankin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nashville, TN
Sloan S Mankin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, RPT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37215
I am a Registered Play Therapist and a Level 1 Trainer of PCIT (Parent Child Interaction Therapy).
Life can often be overwhelming and difficult. I believe that within every person you have the tools to find what you need, but sometimes it is difficult to know where to start. Let me help you and your family sort through and get life back on track. My passion is walking alongside children, families, and adults and helping them to find different ways to navigate life. I strive to individualize therapy for each person, and after the initial intake, you and I will create an individualize treatment plan to match your specific needs.
I am a Registered Play Therapist and a Level 1 Trainer of PCIT (Parent Child Interaction Therapy).
Life can often be overwhelming and difficult. I believe that within every person you have the tools to find what you need, but sometimes it is difficult to know where to start. Let me help you and your family sort through and get life back on track. My passion is walking alongside children, families, and adults and helping them to find different ways to navigate life. I strive to individualize therapy for each person, and after the initial intake, you and I will create an individualize treatment plan to match your specific needs.
(615) 492-8841 View (615) 492-8841
Photo of Paula Rampulla, Psychologist in Nashville, TN
Paula Rampulla
Psychologist, PhD, HSP
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37203
My treatment approaches are: Psychodynamic and Time-limited dynamic psychotherapy, Interpersonal and solution focus brief therapy, Play therapy.
I’m a Licensed Psychologist. I obtained my doctorate degree from the University of Salamanca in Spain. I have 13 years of clinical psychology experience working in different clinical settings including student counseling centers, community mental health services, medical clinics and private practice.
My treatment approaches are: Psychodynamic and Time-limited dynamic psychotherapy, Interpersonal and solution focus brief therapy, Play therapy.
I’m a Licensed Psychologist. I obtained my doctorate degree from the University of Salamanca in Spain. I have 13 years of clinical psychology experience working in different clinical settings including student counseling centers, community mental health services, medical clinics and private practice.
(615) 802-5830 View (615) 802-5830
Photo of Center for Connection and Wellness, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nashville, TN
Center for Connection and Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37212
We have therapists who cover depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, play therapy, brainspotting, EMDR, eating disorders, burnout recovery, addiction support, grief, and so much more.
We work with clients of all ages! We have therapists who work with children, teens, young adults, and adults. Clients who want to work with the difficulties of life benefit the most with us.
We have therapists who cover depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, play therapy, brainspotting, EMDR, eating disorders, burnout recovery, addiction support, grief, and so much more.
We work with clients of all ages! We have therapists who work with children, teens, young adults, and adults. Clients who want to work with the difficulties of life benefit the most with us.
(615) 212-5227 View (615) 212-5227
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.