Sandplay Therapists in 78746

JoAnn Ponder
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
Since much of what motivates human behavior is unconscious, my treatment modalities include play therapy with children, sandplay with children and adults, and dream interpretation, as well as insight-oriented talk therapy.
I'm JoAnn Ponder, psychologist in private practice. I earned my Ph.D. in educational psychology in 1998, but started practicing with my M.A. in 1977. I have over 30 years of experience in working with children and adults in inpatient and outpatient treatment. I've had postgraduate training in play therapy, sandplay, infant-parent intervention, family/couples therapy, and child/adult psychoanalysis. Research has demonstrated that early experiences with significant others affect brain structure; foster individuation, self-esteem, and emotional regulation; and serve as templates for subsequent interpersonal relationships.
Since much of what motivates human behavior is unconscious, my treatment modalities include play therapy with children, sandplay with children and adults, and dream interpretation, as well as insight-oriented talk therapy.
I'm JoAnn Ponder, psychologist in private practice. I earned my Ph.D. in educational psychology in 1998, but started practicing with my M.A. in 1977. I have over 30 years of experience in working with children and adults in inpatient and outpatient treatment. I've had postgraduate training in play therapy, sandplay, infant-parent intervention, family/couples therapy, and child/adult psychoanalysis. Research has demonstrated that early experiences with significant others affect brain structure; foster individuation, self-esteem, and emotional regulation; and serve as templates for subsequent interpersonal relationships.
(512) 496-8244 View (512) 496-8244
Photo of Catherine Lee, MA
Catherine Lee
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
Are you highly motivated and self aware but still finding yourself stuck in your head? Do you struggle to enjoy the present moment by living in the past? What brings you joy? What brings you happiness? How can you become the best version of yourself? I am here to help. I love working with motivated, painfully self-aware people that are struggling to enjoy the present moment because they are stuck in the past or in their heads. Let me walk the journey of healing with you.
Are you highly motivated and self aware but still finding yourself stuck in your head? Do you struggle to enjoy the present moment by living in the past? What brings you joy? What brings you happiness? How can you become the best version of yourself? I am here to help. I love working with motivated, painfully self-aware people that are struggling to enjoy the present moment because they are stuck in the past or in their heads. Let me walk the journey of healing with you.
(737) 758-3500 View (737) 758-3500
Photo of Victoria Shackelford, MFA, MA, LPC, NCC, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Victoria Shackelford
Licensed Professional Counselor, MFA, MA, LPC, NCC, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
If you or you adolescent child are struggling with the effects of life changing stressful and traumatic events, such as domestic violence, sexual assault, the death of a loved one, the breakup of a long term marriage or a once loving relationship and are seeking help to make your way through the chaos---consider archetypal psychotherapy to make meaning from the way we engage these traumatic difficulties and learn skills for transforming your approach to life. I provide Jungian Psychotherapy services for couples, adults and adolescents suffering, Trauma, Anxiety, PTSD, depression, grief, anger and loss of meaning in life.
If you or you adolescent child are struggling with the effects of life changing stressful and traumatic events, such as domestic violence, sexual assault, the death of a loved one, the breakup of a long term marriage or a once loving relationship and are seeking help to make your way through the chaos---consider archetypal psychotherapy to make meaning from the way we engage these traumatic difficulties and learn skills for transforming your approach to life. I provide Jungian Psychotherapy services for couples, adults and adolescents suffering, Trauma, Anxiety, PTSD, depression, grief, anger and loss of meaning in life.
(210) 468-7214 View (210) 468-7214
Photo of Anastasia Barber, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anastasia Barber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
I see therapy as a collaborative process between client and therapist, each with different areas of expertise. I believe the goal of therapy is not only to solve "problems" but to help clients grow and find balance and wholeness. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) , a method of therapy that numerous research studies have shown to be effective in the treatment of trauma. It has been shown to be as effective as cognitive behavioral therapy and often provides relief in fewer sessions.
I see therapy as a collaborative process between client and therapist, each with different areas of expertise. I believe the goal of therapy is not only to solve "problems" but to help clients grow and find balance and wholeness. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) , a method of therapy that numerous research studies have shown to be effective in the treatment of trauma. It has been shown to be as effective as cognitive behavioral therapy and often provides relief in fewer sessions.
(512) 861-6489 View (512) 861-6489
Photo of Ellen Meystedt, MA, LPC-A, NCC, LPC Intern
Ellen Meystedt
LPC Intern, MA, LPC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
Welcome! Thank you for taking the time to be here. I'm a licensed & board certified counselor-associate in the state of Texas. I'm the owner of Playful Minds Psychotherapy. I specialize in Play Therapy & Sand Tray Therapy with children ages 3-12. I also see teens and parents utilizing a combination of client-centered, collaborative conversation, & strengths-based techniques. I help clients learn essential skills to become self-sufficient & well-adjusted individuals in an unpredictable world. Areas that I help my clients improve upon are emotion regulation, communication, grief & loss, trauma, depression, & anxiety.
Welcome! Thank you for taking the time to be here. I'm a licensed & board certified counselor-associate in the state of Texas. I'm the owner of Playful Minds Psychotherapy. I specialize in Play Therapy & Sand Tray Therapy with children ages 3-12. I also see teens and parents utilizing a combination of client-centered, collaborative conversation, & strengths-based techniques. I help clients learn essential skills to become self-sufficient & well-adjusted individuals in an unpredictable world. Areas that I help my clients improve upon are emotion regulation, communication, grief & loss, trauma, depression, & anxiety.
(512) 883-3569 View (512) 883-3569
Photo of Laura Rushing, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Rushing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
Welcome! My name is Laura Rushing and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Austin, Texas. If you are searching for a therapist for yourself or preteen/teen you love to help manage anxiety, emotional difficulties or relationship issues, you have come to the right place!
Welcome! My name is Laura Rushing and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Austin, Texas. If you are searching for a therapist for yourself or preteen/teen you love to help manage anxiety, emotional difficulties or relationship issues, you have come to the right place!
(512) 877-8034 View (512) 877-8034
Photo of Kathleen Adams, PhD, CGP, Psychologist
Kathleen Adams
Psychologist, PhD, CGP
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746  (Online Only)
Pain exists to make us pay attention. Trying desperately not to hurt, we compromise our integrity, our hearts and our sense of self, on some misguided mission to be invulnerable, to please, to care-take, or just to belong...Somewhere along the way, our vision of ourselves loses focus. Therapy can help create a new template for living. Research shows us that the brain can actually re-wire itself in the context of a secure relationship, developing new capacities for self-soothing, obtaining perspective, and being intimate. I believe that all suffering bears embedded gifts, if we look hard enough.
Pain exists to make us pay attention. Trying desperately not to hurt, we compromise our integrity, our hearts and our sense of self, on some misguided mission to be invulnerable, to please, to care-take, or just to belong...Somewhere along the way, our vision of ourselves loses focus. Therapy can help create a new template for living. Research shows us that the brain can actually re-wire itself in the context of a secure relationship, developing new capacities for self-soothing, obtaining perspective, and being intimate. I believe that all suffering bears embedded gifts, if we look hard enough.
(361) 596-3981 View (361) 596-3981
Photo of Kat Elrod, MS, LPC-S, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kat Elrod
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, EMDR
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
Are you exhausted from carrying around memories of the past? Do you tend to not feel good enough and like you don't belong? Overwhelmed from all the changes in your life? I understand you're here because you're hurting and tired of the struggle. Your relationships with friends and loved ones are probably hurting too. I would love to help you make sense of everything that is going on and find new and compassionate ways of living.
Are you exhausted from carrying around memories of the past? Do you tend to not feel good enough and like you don't belong? Overwhelmed from all the changes in your life? I understand you're here because you're hurting and tired of the struggle. Your relationships with friends and loved ones are probably hurting too. I would love to help you make sense of everything that is going on and find new and compassionate ways of living.
(512) 881-8920 View (512) 881-8920
Photo of Jessie Floyd, LPC A, MA
Jessie Floyd
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC A, MA
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
Going into this new school year, you want to feel confident that your child will find their way through the struggles, that they will flourish and thrive. Maybe you feel worried or have no idea where to start, but just know that your child may need some extra support. Watching your child navigate through a storm of intense emotions can be challenging, as it seems they are facing battles that aren't always visible or easy to understand. Despite the challenges, your deepest desire is for your child to know they are cherished, resilient, and capable of handling their big feelings.
Going into this new school year, you want to feel confident that your child will find their way through the struggles, that they will flourish and thrive. Maybe you feel worried or have no idea where to start, but just know that your child may need some extra support. Watching your child navigate through a storm of intense emotions can be challenging, as it seems they are facing battles that aren't always visible or easy to understand. Despite the challenges, your deepest desire is for your child to know they are cherished, resilient, and capable of handling their big feelings.
(512) 866-8836 View (512) 866-8836
Photo of Gary G F Yorke, PhD, Psychologist
Gary G F Yorke
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
Dr. Yorke has a diverse practice. He enjoys working with parents, children, and adolescents. Dr. Yorke began working as a therapist in 1982 and in 1989 he received his Ph.D. from St. John's university. Dr. Yorke is a Licensed Psychologist and has a Diplomate in Child Psychology, American Board of Psychological Specialties. He has taught numerous workshops to parents and professionals on Attention-Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Autism Spectrum, and engaging difficult clients in treatment.
Dr. Yorke has a diverse practice. He enjoys working with parents, children, and adolescents. Dr. Yorke began working as a therapist in 1982 and in 1989 he received his Ph.D. from St. John's university. Dr. Yorke is a Licensed Psychologist and has a Diplomate in Child Psychology, American Board of Psychological Specialties. He has taught numerous workshops to parents and professionals on Attention-Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Autism Spectrum, and engaging difficult clients in treatment.
(737) 204-7804 View (737) 204-7804
Photo of Ali Houshmand, MA, LMFT, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ali Houshmand
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
Seeking support after the death of a loved one, or preparing for the death of a loved one, can be overwhelming. The focus of my work is to support individuals, families, couples, and children/teenagers when they are dealing with the challenges of loss due to an illness or other issues related to loss. I strive to help my clients cope with the difficult prospects of loss such as death, suicide, divorce, marital discord, terminal illness, chronic illness, job loss, and the challenges it brings to the client, and their family.
Seeking support after the death of a loved one, or preparing for the death of a loved one, can be overwhelming. The focus of my work is to support individuals, families, couples, and children/teenagers when they are dealing with the challenges of loss due to an illness or other issues related to loss. I strive to help my clients cope with the difficult prospects of loss such as death, suicide, divorce, marital discord, terminal illness, chronic illness, job loss, and the challenges it brings to the client, and their family.
(512) 764-1045 View (512) 764-1045
Photo of Michelle Beyer, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle Beyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746  (Online Only)
I’m dedicated to helping parents-to-be and parents of all kinds, including moms, dads, and LGBTQ+ parents. I specialize in anxiety, relationship issues, pregnancy/postpartum, family dynamics, positive discipline, and self-worth. Together, we can work through difficulties, bring hope, healing, and ultimately growth.
I’m dedicated to helping parents-to-be and parents of all kinds, including moms, dads, and LGBTQ+ parents. I specialize in anxiety, relationship issues, pregnancy/postpartum, family dynamics, positive discipline, and self-worth. Together, we can work through difficulties, bring hope, healing, and ultimately growth.
(512) 877-4423 View (512) 877-4423
Photo of Darla Dawn Absher, PsyD, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Darla Dawn Absher
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
Dr. Darla Absher is a a Licensed Professional Counselor, Supervisor LPC-S #62089, located in Austin and Bastrop, Texas. Dr. Absher treats the full spectrum of disorders and life adjustments. I received my Master of Arts in Counseling from St. Edward's University, in Austin, Texas in August 2005. In 2003, I received my Master of Arts in Human Services from St. Edward's. In 2001 I graduated from St. Edward's University with a Bachelor of Arts with a concentration in Psychology. In December 2011, I graduated from Argosy University in Dallas, Texas with a Doctor of Clinical Psychology.
Dr. Darla Absher is a a Licensed Professional Counselor, Supervisor LPC-S #62089, located in Austin and Bastrop, Texas. Dr. Absher treats the full spectrum of disorders and life adjustments. I received my Master of Arts in Counseling from St. Edward's University, in Austin, Texas in August 2005. In 2003, I received my Master of Arts in Human Services from St. Edward's. In 2001 I graduated from St. Edward's University with a Bachelor of Arts with a concentration in Psychology. In December 2011, I graduated from Argosy University in Dallas, Texas with a Doctor of Clinical Psychology.
(512) 900-2584 View (512) 900-2584
Photo of Catherine Mok, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catherine Mok
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
I am a bilingual therapist (fluent in English, Cantonese and Mandarin) licensed in both Texas and New Jersey. I work collaboratively with my clients – individual, parents, couples, and families – using a relational, humanistic and client-centered therapeutic approach. As a culturally-competent and trauma-informed therapist, my priority is to create a non-judgmental, compassionate, safe, and inclusive space for all my clients. I am passionate about helping individuals recognize their possibilities, inner strengths and feel empowered.
I am a bilingual therapist (fluent in English, Cantonese and Mandarin) licensed in both Texas and New Jersey. I work collaboratively with my clients – individual, parents, couples, and families – using a relational, humanistic and client-centered therapeutic approach. As a culturally-competent and trauma-informed therapist, my priority is to create a non-judgmental, compassionate, safe, and inclusive space for all my clients. I am passionate about helping individuals recognize their possibilities, inner strengths and feel empowered.
(512) 768-7007 View (512) 768-7007
Photo of Brittany L Jones, MA, LPC-S, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brittany L Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Rollingwood, TX 78746
I specialize in play therapy and mental health counseling for children, adolescents, and young adults. I have fifteen years of experience working with children presenting with anxiety, behavioral challenges, twice exceptional/gifted, autism, ADHD, OCD, high achieving/perfectionism, depression, and more. I prioritize an authentic relationship with clients and use a strength-based approach that is child-led to ensure kids feel safe and connected. I am also passionate about supporting parents and caregivers throughout the process. My office is a warm and inviting space where kids can be fully themselves.
I specialize in play therapy and mental health counseling for children, adolescents, and young adults. I have fifteen years of experience working with children presenting with anxiety, behavioral challenges, twice exceptional/gifted, autism, ADHD, OCD, high achieving/perfectionism, depression, and more. I prioritize an authentic relationship with clients and use a strength-based approach that is child-led to ensure kids feel safe and connected. I am also passionate about supporting parents and caregivers throughout the process. My office is a warm and inviting space where kids can be fully themselves.
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Photo of Susannah D. Kirksey, MA, LPC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susannah D. Kirksey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Rollingwood, TX 78746
We live in an extraordinary stressful time. Do you find yourself feeling anxious, depressed, or lonely? Maybe you face issues of love and relationship, career and money, health and happiness, or bereavement and loss. Perhaps you are simply sick of repeating the same self-defeating patterns. Whatever the case, we can figure it out together. I will guide you in the journey of self-inquiry that will lead to creating something beautiful and extraordinary in your life no matter the circumstance. Life will take on new meaning and purpose as you begin to explore and discover and love who you are.
We live in an extraordinary stressful time. Do you find yourself feeling anxious, depressed, or lonely? Maybe you face issues of love and relationship, career and money, health and happiness, or bereavement and loss. Perhaps you are simply sick of repeating the same self-defeating patterns. Whatever the case, we can figure it out together. I will guide you in the journey of self-inquiry that will lead to creating something beautiful and extraordinary in your life no matter the circumstance. Life will take on new meaning and purpose as you begin to explore and discover and love who you are.
(512) 598-4239 View (512) 598-4239
Photo of Sumayah Luxton, MA, LPC, RPT, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sumayah Luxton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT, NCC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
Accepting New Clients Sept. 2024! Hey, howdy, hi! :) I’m happy you’re here. Life can be challenging at times and it can be extremely difficult when deciding to start therapy for you or your child. Give yourself a pat on the back for at least even researching therapy options. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Registered Play Therapist. I believe counseling can be beneficial for anyone at any point in their life, young or old. It’s okay to ask for help, even counselors need counselors. My desire is to provide the safe and accepting space you or your child needs to take the lead and process what is on their heart and mind.
Accepting New Clients Sept. 2024! Hey, howdy, hi! :) I’m happy you’re here. Life can be challenging at times and it can be extremely difficult when deciding to start therapy for you or your child. Give yourself a pat on the back for at least even researching therapy options. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Registered Play Therapist. I believe counseling can be beneficial for anyone at any point in their life, young or old. It’s okay to ask for help, even counselors need counselors. My desire is to provide the safe and accepting space you or your child needs to take the lead and process what is on their heart and mind.
(737) 377-1755 View (737) 377-1755
Photo of Julia Small, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia Small
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
As a parent, you often wonder if you’re getting it right. You might be noticing some concerning changes in your child, or maybe your family has just gone through something that shook your world. You may be exhausted by the emotional rollercoaster or wondering if you are enough. It might even be hard to remember when things got this way, or remember how things used to be. To be sure, you are ready for relief. You’re ready to feel more peace, and have confidence that you and your child have the support you need. Most of all, you’re ready to enjoy and connect with your children in deeper ways.
As a parent, you often wonder if you’re getting it right. You might be noticing some concerning changes in your child, or maybe your family has just gone through something that shook your world. You may be exhausted by the emotional rollercoaster or wondering if you are enough. It might even be hard to remember when things got this way, or remember how things used to be. To be sure, you are ready for relief. You’re ready to feel more peace, and have confidence that you and your child have the support you need. Most of all, you’re ready to enjoy and connect with your children in deeper ways.
(512) 540-3178 View (512) 540-3178
Photo of Tara Sen Pitt, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tara Sen Pitt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
Are you ready for a new day? I'm a fully licensed therapist interested in helping you achieve your goals. Areas of specialty include ANXIETY, DEPRESSION, POSTPARTUM WORK, and multicultural issues (I am half-Asian). I also work with clients with perinatal issues (surrounding the birth experience and beyond), and adoption. I love doing sandtray work and EMDR with clients. I work with kids, teens and adults.
Are you ready for a new day? I'm a fully licensed therapist interested in helping you achieve your goals. Areas of specialty include ANXIETY, DEPRESSION, POSTPARTUM WORK, and multicultural issues (I am half-Asian). I also work with clients with perinatal issues (surrounding the birth experience and beyond), and adoption. I love doing sandtray work and EMDR with clients. I work with kids, teens and adults.
(512) 710-6920 View (512) 710-6920
Photo of Lara Long, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lara Long
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
Is stress, anxiety and depression plaguing you? Do you feel more disconnected than ever in this post-pandemic world? Have you ever been curious about what therapy with horses might be like? I'd love to offer you the experience of something different, through a felt experience of change either through in-person talk therapy or equine assisted psychotherapy (I also offer Telehealth!). Therapy can be a place to feel safe, seen and find pathways to new ways of being in the world. I hope to meet you soon!
Is stress, anxiety and depression plaguing you? Do you feel more disconnected than ever in this post-pandemic world? Have you ever been curious about what therapy with horses might be like? I'd love to offer you the experience of something different, through a felt experience of change either through in-person talk therapy or equine assisted psychotherapy (I also offer Telehealth!). Therapy can be a place to feel safe, seen and find pathways to new ways of being in the world. I hope to meet you soon!
(512) 729-8213 View (512) 729-8213
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Sandplay Therapists

What problems are best treated with sandplay therapy?

Research has examined this therapy’s utility in young people and found positive results. It has been shown to be useful for those who suffer from autism, attention deficit disorder, anxiety, and or aggressive behavior. Children who have suffered abuse, neglect, or trauma have also seen improvement through this therapy. Abused children are often fearful and anxious about their safety, making verbal communication more difficult.

Is sandplay therapy suitable for children and teenagers?

Children and adolescents are good candidates for sandplay therapy. Many kids and teens are often unable to form and communicate their thoughts, let alone the emotions they are experiencing. Through this play therapy, they will hopefully make connections between what they feel inside and how the world works outside.

Is sandplay suitable for adults?

This type of therapy can be useful for adults who have difficulties expressing themselves. People who have suffered neurological changes after a brain injury or because of a traumatic event might be good candidates for this therapy. In fact, anything that has had an effect on the brain, such as substance abuse, can make non-verbal sandplay a valuable option.

Does sandplay therapy work?

There have been studies on the effectiveness of sandplay therapy, and it appears to improve difficult behaviors in children. It may also enhance self-esteem and lessen feelings of physical anxiety as well as hypersensitivity. This type of therapy is based on non-verbal communication and may feel less threatening to the individual.