Play Therapy in Ridgefield, WA
As both an entrepreneur and clinician, I maintain a caseload of in-person and telehealth clients while training clinicians and managing a multi-state mental health practice. I’ve worked with diverse clients and challenges, with a current focus on women navigating transitions, anxiety, depression, perinatal/postpartum issues, and OCD; children and teens facing emotional, social, or developmental stress; and families—including LDS couples—seeking support. My background includes medical family therapy and collaborative pediatric diagnostics.
As both an entrepreneur and clinician, I maintain a caseload of in-person and telehealth clients while training clinicians and managing a multi-state mental health practice. I’ve worked with diverse clients and challenges, with a current focus on women navigating transitions, anxiety, depression, perinatal/postpartum issues, and OCD; children and teens facing emotional, social, or developmental stress; and families—including LDS couples—seeking support. My background includes medical family therapy and collaborative pediatric diagnostics.
With children I use CBT, family systems, play/sand tray therapy, emotion recognition & expression and parent skills training.
Hi! There's a lot of reasons that people come to therapy. Typically, the first time is always the most challenging and scary; you don't know what to expect, you aren’t sure if the therapist is going to pry in to your deepest darkest memories, and you don’t know if you will even like the therapist. Whatever your preexisting ideas are about counseling, it’s ok. I invite your fears and hopes alike. My job as a therapist is to provide a welcoming, safe atmosphere in which you feel comfortable, relaxed and free to talk about whatever it is that’s on your mind, as well as help you gain insight and make positive changes in your life.
With children I use CBT, family systems, play/sand tray therapy, emotion recognition & expression and parent skills training.
Hi! There's a lot of reasons that people come to therapy. Typically, the first time is always the most challenging and scary; you don't know what to expect, you aren’t sure if the therapist is going to pry in to your deepest darkest memories, and you don’t know if you will even like the therapist. Whatever your preexisting ideas are about counseling, it’s ok. I invite your fears and hopes alike. My job as a therapist is to provide a welcoming, safe atmosphere in which you feel comfortable, relaxed and free to talk about whatever it is that’s on your mind, as well as help you gain insight and make positive changes in your life.
Catherine Haley Epstein
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, MA, NBCC
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in psychodynamic, ACT, DBT, Adlerian therapy, EMDR and play therapies.
Welcome!
As a licensed therapist, I have the privilege of working with individuals across the lifespan, from children to adults. My approach is grounded in the belief that every person is unique, with their own strengths, experiences, and challenges. I use a holistic approach in my practice, understanding that the mind and body are deeply interconnected. I believe true healing comes when we look at the whole person and work to create balance and well-being in all areas of life. As a therapist with lived experience of ADHD, I have a distinct lens in understanding how ADHD affects our relationships and how we experience the world.
I am trained in psychodynamic, ACT, DBT, Adlerian therapy, EMDR and play therapies.
Welcome!
As a licensed therapist, I have the privilege of working with individuals across the lifespan, from children to adults. My approach is grounded in the belief that every person is unique, with their own strengths, experiences, and challenges. I use a holistic approach in my practice, understanding that the mind and body are deeply interconnected. I believe true healing comes when we look at the whole person and work to create balance and well-being in all areas of life. As a therapist with lived experience of ADHD, I have a distinct lens in understanding how ADHD affects our relationships and how we experience the world.
You’ve seen enough videos, listened to enough podcasts, and read enough articles to know what you should do to fix your problems. Yet, you always seem to find yourself back in the same patterns you wanted out of. Whether it’s porn, substance use, procrastination, stress, or anger, you can’t shake the feeling that you're stuck with them. You may have even started to wonder if change is possible. Often, we feel this way because we are so focused on the symptoms, that we cannot address the deeper pain that is causing them.
You’ve seen enough videos, listened to enough podcasts, and read enough articles to know what you should do to fix your problems. Yet, you always seem to find yourself back in the same patterns you wanted out of. Whether it’s porn, substance use, procrastination, stress, or anger, you can’t shake the feeling that you're stuck with them. You may have even started to wonder if change is possible. Often, we feel this way because we are so focused on the symptoms, that we cannot address the deeper pain that is causing them.
“The fundamental principle in care of the soul is that the soul needs tending. If we do not tend to things in their suffering, and decay, we risk living the life of the walking dead.” ~Thomas Moore. As I acquire experience as a therapist, it has become apparent that the therapeutic relationship between the counselor and the client is crucial to the success of the client. Counseling is based on trust and the professional connection, and through that connection, the counseling session becomes a co-creation that can unlock the client’s barriers to a fulfilling life.
“The fundamental principle in care of the soul is that the soul needs tending. If we do not tend to things in their suffering, and decay, we risk living the life of the walking dead.” ~Thomas Moore. As I acquire experience as a therapist, it has become apparent that the therapeutic relationship between the counselor and the client is crucial to the success of the client. Counseling is based on trust and the professional connection, and through that connection, the counseling session becomes a co-creation that can unlock the client’s barriers to a fulfilling life.
Supporting women and teen girls through life’s transitions with empathy, care, and mindful presence. Together, we’ll uncover the strength, clarity, and wisdom already within.
Supporting women and teen girls through life’s transitions with empathy, care, and mindful presence. Together, we’ll uncover the strength, clarity, and wisdom already within.
I am also trained in Sand Tray Therapy and Play therapy.
I have been working in mental health for 15 years I enjoy working with kids starting from the age of 7 years of age up to 18 yrs of age who are struggling with fitting in, school difficulties, ADHD, Depression, Autism spectrum disorder, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder and adjustment disorders. I also enjoy working with adults who struggle with life changing events, PTSD, depression and anxiety. It has been my experience that many of the difficulties listed above involve more than just the individual. Many times, they encompass a partner and or family system. I am qualified and trained to work with couples and families.
I am also trained in Sand Tray Therapy and Play therapy.
I have been working in mental health for 15 years I enjoy working with kids starting from the age of 7 years of age up to 18 yrs of age who are struggling with fitting in, school difficulties, ADHD, Depression, Autism spectrum disorder, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder and adjustment disorders. I also enjoy working with adults who struggle with life changing events, PTSD, depression and anxiety. It has been my experience that many of the difficulties listed above involve more than just the individual. Many times, they encompass a partner and or family system. I am qualified and trained to work with couples and families.
Melissa Cantwell
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA Ed, LHMC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I’m a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor at A Better Way Counseling. This is a second career for me. I have spent the last 18 years in the world of public education with a master's degree in Special Education. The majority of my career has been spent supporting families and their children through the education system with the resources they need to succeed. I have worked with children ages 3-21 with a wide variety of disabilities such as autism, ADHD, visual impairments, dyslexia, communication disorders, anxiety, depression, and more.
I’m a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor at A Better Way Counseling. This is a second career for me. I have spent the last 18 years in the world of public education with a master's degree in Special Education. The majority of my career has been spent supporting families and their children through the education system with the resources they need to succeed. I have worked with children ages 3-21 with a wide variety of disabilities such as autism, ADHD, visual impairments, dyslexia, communication disorders, anxiety, depression, and more.
Times of overwhelm and discomfort often draw our attention to our fears and anxieties, but they also illuminate the things that are most important to us. Whether you’re wanting to learn more about yourself; worrying about your child’s well-being; suffering the loss of a loved one; processing abuse or trauma; experiencing a major life transition; feeling unsatisfied in your relationships; or are just wanting more out of life, therapy may be a great place to start. My work with individuals and families focuses on supporting your journey toward wellness, balance, and intentionality.
Times of overwhelm and discomfort often draw our attention to our fears and anxieties, but they also illuminate the things that are most important to us. Whether you’re wanting to learn more about yourself; worrying about your child’s well-being; suffering the loss of a loved one; processing abuse or trauma; experiencing a major life transition; feeling unsatisfied in your relationships; or are just wanting more out of life, therapy may be a great place to start. My work with individuals and families focuses on supporting your journey toward wellness, balance, and intentionality.
I draw on somatic, play, art, sand, and narrative therapies, as well as TF-CBT and TBRI, to help clients heal in ways that go beyond just talking about their problems.
I work with adults and teens 16+ who have spent years doing everything right but still feel stuck in anxiety, self-doubt, people-pleasing, or burnout. Many of my clients carry trauma they have never fully addressed, or feel misunderstood because of neurodivergent wiring like ADHD or Autism. I also support parents of autistic children and helping professionals who are running on empty. I help clients move past surviving into a life that feels genuinely peaceful and their own.
I draw on somatic, play, art, sand, and narrative therapies, as well as TF-CBT and TBRI, to help clients heal in ways that go beyond just talking about their problems.
I work with adults and teens 16+ who have spent years doing everything right but still feel stuck in anxiety, self-doubt, people-pleasing, or burnout. Many of my clients carry trauma they have never fully addressed, or feel misunderstood because of neurodivergent wiring like ADHD or Autism. I also support parents of autistic children and helping professionals who are running on empty. I help clients move past surviving into a life that feels genuinely peaceful and their own.
Samantha C Cunningham
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
3 Endorsed
Ridgefield, WA 98642
Not accepting new clients
People thrive when they are connected to others, but the pain, stress, and struggles of life often leave us feeling very alone. My practice includes individuals, couples, and families who are wanting to find solace in their experiences. I connect with clients by creating safety, understanding their unique point of view, focusing on their strengths, and collaborating with them to build a plan for treatment. My clients find space in their world to find hope in the midst of pain, courageously explore change, set goals, embrace healthy beliefs, learn new skills, make positive life choices, achieve balance, and heal.
People thrive when they are connected to others, but the pain, stress, and struggles of life often leave us feeling very alone. My practice includes individuals, couples, and families who are wanting to find solace in their experiences. I connect with clients by creating safety, understanding their unique point of view, focusing on their strengths, and collaborating with them to build a plan for treatment. My clients find space in their world to find hope in the midst of pain, courageously explore change, set goals, embrace healthy beliefs, learn new skills, make positive life choices, achieve balance, and heal.
I am NOT accepting new clients at this time. I have a passion for working with people of all ages, but there is a special place in my heart for kids and teens. I believe clients should feel comfortable in therapy. As a former foster parent and an adoptive mom of 3 boys, I know that families are complicated and messy. I would love to work with you and your family to strengthen your relationships. I work with neurodivergence (ADHD, Autism, etc.), trauma, depression, anxiety, social skills issues and general wellness. I use techniques from DBT, Family Systems, and Attachment Theory and more.
I am NOT accepting new clients at this time. I have a passion for working with people of all ages, but there is a special place in my heart for kids and teens. I believe clients should feel comfortable in therapy. As a former foster parent and an adoptive mom of 3 boys, I know that families are complicated and messy. I would love to work with you and your family to strengthen your relationships. I work with neurodivergence (ADHD, Autism, etc.), trauma, depression, anxiety, social skills issues and general wellness. I use techniques from DBT, Family Systems, and Attachment Theory and more.
More Therapists Nearby
Hello! Welcome to therapy. I’m Madeleine. If you are seeking therapy, you may be struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, family/relationship issues, or perhaps you just need someone to talk to without fear of being judged. I use a collaborative approach and believe that you are the expert in your own life. We will work together to identify any patterns of behavior that you feel are interfering with your life, discuss the ways your family, environment, and society may be reinforcing these, and develop the skills to alter or cope with these patterns more effectively.
Hello! Welcome to therapy. I’m Madeleine. If you are seeking therapy, you may be struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, family/relationship issues, or perhaps you just need someone to talk to without fear of being judged. I use a collaborative approach and believe that you are the expert in your own life. We will work together to identify any patterns of behavior that you feel are interfering with your life, discuss the ways your family, environment, and society may be reinforcing these, and develop the skills to alter or cope with these patterns more effectively.
I have extensive practice with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, attachment trauma, and stress related to major life changes. I work with many clients who are diagnosed or identify as neurodiverse and neurodivergent.
I have extensive practice with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, attachment trauma, and stress related to major life changes. I work with many clients who are diagnosed or identify as neurodiverse and neurodivergent.
My professional experiences include the provision of Individual, Clinical, Consultation, Group, Family, Couples Counseling, and Psychotherapy.
My professional experiences include the provision of Individual, Clinical, Consultation, Group, Family, Couples Counseling, and Psychotherapy.
Play therapy is a mental health, educational, or developmental intervention designed to help children grow as happy and well-adjusted as possible.
I am telehealth only at this time. I specialize working with adults, teens, and children (10+ ) and their families. Together we can work on relationships, behavior challenges, depression, stress and anxiety problems, self worth, and trauma. I have a great interactive internet based/HIPPA safe video platform where therapy allows children to communicate and learn to solve problems and change their negative behaviors. I work with adults to assist in processing unexpected life situations. Theories used in treatment: Developmental Psychotherapy, Psychoeducation, Attachment, Person-Centered,
Play therapy is a mental health, educational, or developmental intervention designed to help children grow as happy and well-adjusted as possible.
I am telehealth only at this time. I specialize working with adults, teens, and children (10+ ) and their families. Together we can work on relationships, behavior challenges, depression, stress and anxiety problems, self worth, and trauma. I have a great interactive internet based/HIPPA safe video platform where therapy allows children to communicate and learn to solve problems and change their negative behaviors. I work with adults to assist in processing unexpected life situations. Theories used in treatment: Developmental Psychotherapy, Psychoeducation, Attachment, Person-Centered,
How can you learn to let go? People suffer because of things have happened to them: a bad relationship, family issues, transitions to a new life stage, early childhood trauma. Sometimes it feels like those past injuries hold you in place, make it so you’re barely treading water. These injuries cause anxiety and depression, addiction, nightmares, isolation, a lack of connection.
How can you learn to let go? People suffer because of things have happened to them: a bad relationship, family issues, transitions to a new life stage, early childhood trauma. Sometimes it feels like those past injuries hold you in place, make it so you’re barely treading water. These injuries cause anxiety and depression, addiction, nightmares, isolation, a lack of connection.
If you’re feeling disconnected from your body or stuck in troubling patterns with food, you’re not alone — and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself. Many clients come to me feeling exhausted by the pressure to "fix" themselves. Together, we’ll gently explore where those messages came from and how they’ve shaped your relationship with your body, your emotions, and your sense of self. My work is grounded in the belief that your body isn’t the problem — and that healing happens when you feel safe, seen, and supported in relationship.
If you’re feeling disconnected from your body or stuck in troubling patterns with food, you’re not alone — and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself. Many clients come to me feeling exhausted by the pressure to "fix" themselves. Together, we’ll gently explore where those messages came from and how they’ve shaped your relationship with your body, your emotions, and your sense of self. My work is grounded in the belief that your body isn’t the problem — and that healing happens when you feel safe, seen, and supported in relationship.
Are you (or is your child) struggling with big emotions, depression, anxiety, or trauma? Do you ever feel like you're mourning the childhood you never got? Are you on the cusp of adulthood but don't feel like you're ready to grow up? Are you the parent of a teen that struggles to "just be a kid"? I'm here to help. I specialize in supporting students and young adults who are seeking understanding and guidance. I have a passion for helping young people thrive and find their voice. Together, we'll navigate the challenges of adolescence, tackle life's big questions, and develop strategies to enhance confidence and resilience.
Are you (or is your child) struggling with big emotions, depression, anxiety, or trauma? Do you ever feel like you're mourning the childhood you never got? Are you on the cusp of adulthood but don't feel like you're ready to grow up? Are you the parent of a teen that struggles to "just be a kid"? I'm here to help. I specialize in supporting students and young adults who are seeking understanding and guidance. I have a passion for helping young people thrive and find their voice. Together, we'll navigate the challenges of adolescence, tackle life's big questions, and develop strategies to enhance confidence and resilience.
I am eclectic and creative, and incorporate elements of art and play therapy into my sessions.
I believe that each person carries an innate ability to heal and grow, and so I take a holistic, ‘whole-person’ approach. In sessions, I actively engage with clients to create experiences of emotional and somatic healing which deepen their connection to their body and intuition. This approach can significantly reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
I am eclectic and creative, and incorporate elements of art and play therapy into my sessions.
I believe that each person carries an innate ability to heal and grow, and so I take a holistic, ‘whole-person’ approach. In sessions, I actively engage with clients to create experiences of emotional and somatic healing which deepen their connection to their body and intuition. This approach can significantly reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
See more therapy options for Ridgefield
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Ridgefield
See More Play TherapyNearby Searches for Ridgefield
- Battle Ground
- Brush Prairie
- Camas
- Castle Rock
- Hazel Dell
- Kelso
- La Center
- Longview
- Orchards
- Vancouver
- Washougal
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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.