Play Therapy in Saint Petersburg, FL

Photo of Dan Ceske, Counselor in Saint Petersburg, FL
Dan Ceske
Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
In my online practice, I use video games like Minecraft as a tool for play therapy, allowing your child to express themselves without words.
Does your inner-critic scream when you make a mistake? Do people seem to like you more than you like yourself? Maybe you just feel lost, wanting things to be different even though you don't know exactly what that means. That’s okay. Life can be challenging, but challenging is not impossible. Sometimes, we just need some support. I would like to offer you my support in a space where you can feel free to be who you are, free from the pressure of who you're supposed to be, and free to discover what's important to you. Let's work together to identify the changes you want to make in life so you can work on making them.
In my online practice, I use video games like Minecraft as a tool for play therapy, allowing your child to express themselves without words.
Does your inner-critic scream when you make a mistake? Do people seem to like you more than you like yourself? Maybe you just feel lost, wanting things to be different even though you don't know exactly what that means. That’s okay. Life can be challenging, but challenging is not impossible. Sometimes, we just need some support. I would like to offer you my support in a space where you can feel free to be who you are, free from the pressure of who you're supposed to be, and free to discover what's important to you. Let's work together to identify the changes you want to make in life so you can work on making them.
(727) 947-1927 View (727) 947-1927
Photo of Ashley Rhodes-Courter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Petersburg, FL
Ashley Rhodes-Courter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CBHCM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702
Our interventions include play and Art Therapy, Gardening, Essential Oils, Mindfulness, Yoga, and Therapeutic Urban Chickens! Clinical passions include work with: Advocates, Allies, Survivors, Professionals in high-stress jobs, LGBTQIA+ Community, Education, Adoption, Foster Care, Advocacy, Compassion Fatigue.
This is an affirming, no hate, no judgment space. Growing up in the foster care system gave me a unique perspective on the key elements of resiliency and processing trauma. We offer a Therapeutic After School program M-F, as well as In-Person and Telehealth Services. I chronicle my journey as a foster child turned foster and adoptive parent in my New York Times Bestselling book, “Three Little Words” and sequel, “Three More Words.” Though it may be hard to see this now, your hardships and diversity are what make you that much more capable of tremendous success. Let's see how our comprehensive team can help you or your family!
Our interventions include play and Art Therapy, Gardening, Essential Oils, Mindfulness, Yoga, and Therapeutic Urban Chickens! Clinical passions include work with: Advocates, Allies, Survivors, Professionals in high-stress jobs, LGBTQIA+ Community, Education, Adoption, Foster Care, Advocacy, Compassion Fatigue.
This is an affirming, no hate, no judgment space. Growing up in the foster care system gave me a unique perspective on the key elements of resiliency and processing trauma. We offer a Therapeutic After School program M-F, as well as In-Person and Telehealth Services. I chronicle my journey as a foster child turned foster and adoptive parent in my New York Times Bestselling book, “Three Little Words” and sequel, “Three More Words.” Though it may be hard to see this now, your hardships and diversity are what make you that much more capable of tremendous success. Let's see how our comprehensive team can help you or your family!
(727) 945-6845 View (727) 945-6845
Photo of Bay Kids FL, Psychologist in Saint Petersburg, FL
Bay Kids FL
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33701
I am trained in play therapy, as well as relational and interpersonal approaches to help treat anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and relationship problems.
I help to identify and clearly understand why your child is struggling academically, behaviorally and socially. Through neuropsychological testing, clinical interviewing, and observations, I help to uncover your child's strengths and weaknesses. I provide detailed and specialized recommendations for interventions and treatments to address areas of weakness and capitalize on your child's talents. With a doctoral degree in school and clinical psychology, I can help navigate the school's approach to educating and accommodating your child. Together, let's uncover how your child learns best.
I am trained in play therapy, as well as relational and interpersonal approaches to help treat anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and relationship problems.
I help to identify and clearly understand why your child is struggling academically, behaviorally and socially. Through neuropsychological testing, clinical interviewing, and observations, I help to uncover your child's strengths and weaknesses. I provide detailed and specialized recommendations for interventions and treatments to address areas of weakness and capitalize on your child's talents. With a doctoral degree in school and clinical psychology, I can help navigate the school's approach to educating and accommodating your child. Together, let's uncover how your child learns best.
(844) 311-4318 View (844) 311-4318
Photo of Gloria DeMaio-Herrera At Nassau Psychology Pc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Petersburg, FL
Gloria DeMaio-Herrera At Nassau Psychology Pc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33701
A few of which include motivational interviewing, play therapy, mindfulness techniques, social skills training, behavior modification.
Book an appointment online through our website www.nassaupsychology.org! ONLINE THERAPY AVAILABLE. Gloria DeMaio-Herrera completed her Master of Social Work at SUNY Stonybrook and completed her training at elementary and charter schools in the Long Island area. Gloria is skilled in providing structured therapy for children with ADHD, and therapy focusing on social skills development with children. She has also worked extensively with children who have experienced divorce, neglect, and trauma.
A few of which include motivational interviewing, play therapy, mindfulness techniques, social skills training, behavior modification.
Book an appointment online through our website www.nassaupsychology.org! ONLINE THERAPY AVAILABLE. Gloria DeMaio-Herrera completed her Master of Social Work at SUNY Stonybrook and completed her training at elementary and charter schools in the Long Island area. Gloria is skilled in providing structured therapy for children with ADHD, and therapy focusing on social skills development with children. She has also worked extensively with children who have experienced divorce, neglect, and trauma.
(904) 849-2844 View (904) 849-2844
Photo of Deborah K Lewis, Counselor in Saint Petersburg, FL
Deborah K Lewis
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CAP
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33707
I am encouraged by the research that talks about how our brain does not stop growing, and there are things we can do to encourage brain growth such as struggling with new and challenging information. This may be learning to play an instrument or learning to speak a foreign language. This is good news for us intellectually and the same principle applies emotionally. We do have the capacity to grow, and change and learn new ways to think, and I have tools that will help you in this process. I would love to witness your courage in this journey.
I am encouraged by the research that talks about how our brain does not stop growing, and there are things we can do to encourage brain growth such as struggling with new and challenging information. This may be learning to play an instrument or learning to speak a foreign language. This is good news for us intellectually and the same principle applies emotionally. We do have the capacity to grow, and change and learn new ways to think, and I have tools that will help you in this process. I would love to witness your courage in this journey.
(727) 388-1661 View (727) 388-1661
Photo of Jessica Gilbert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Petersburg, FL
Jessica Gilbert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, QS, RPT™
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702
I am also a Registered Play Therapist and EMDR trained clinician.
I have a passion for helping children, teens and young adults become empowered in finding their voice and developing ways to express themselves. My work with parents and caregivers helps them discover ways to navigate communicating and strengthening their relationships with their children. With adults, I'm here to help you develop healthy relationships, create positive boundaries, manage stress, and overcome self-criticism.
I am also a Registered Play Therapist and EMDR trained clinician.
I have a passion for helping children, teens and young adults become empowered in finding their voice and developing ways to express themselves. My work with parents and caregivers helps them discover ways to navigate communicating and strengthening their relationships with their children. With adults, I'm here to help you develop healthy relationships, create positive boundaries, manage stress, and overcome self-criticism.
(727) 594-0742 View (727) 594-0742
Photo of Child and Family Therapy Center, Counselor in Saint Petersburg, FL
Child and Family Therapy Center
Counselor, LMHC, CTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702
I offer free consultations and use animal therapy (when desired) as well as play and art therapy to engage with your child and make therapy a positive and successful experience for the whole family.
As a parent, there is nothing more upsetting than seeing your child in distress. And when your child is in distress, it effects the whole family. The challenges kids face today are unique and plentiful. Reactions from kids such as anxiety, depressed mood and behavioral outbursts are common. As a therapist, my goal is to help kids navigate these challenges and reactions by providing them with successful coping and communication skills. By working with your child to enhance his peer and familial relationships, my goal is to benefit the whole family through reducing stress.
I offer free consultations and use animal therapy (when desired) as well as play and art therapy to engage with your child and make therapy a positive and successful experience for the whole family.
As a parent, there is nothing more upsetting than seeing your child in distress. And when your child is in distress, it effects the whole family. The challenges kids face today are unique and plentiful. Reactions from kids such as anxiety, depressed mood and behavioral outbursts are common. As a therapist, my goal is to help kids navigate these challenges and reactions by providing them with successful coping and communication skills. By working with your child to enhance his peer and familial relationships, my goal is to benefit the whole family through reducing stress.
(727) 474-0825 View (727) 474-0825
Photo of Amanda de Armas, Psychologist in Saint Petersburg, FL
Amanda de Armas
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
I assist adults facing depression, emotional disruptions, life changes, and challenges using methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Play Therapy, and Art Therapy.
Does the global panorama depress you and impact your daily life? I understand what you're going through. But don't worry, I can teach you how to confront these challenges with greater resilience. I specialize in assisting individuals in overcoming the tumult of emotions linked to anger, anxiety, depression, grief, and significant life changes.
I assist adults facing depression, emotional disruptions, life changes, and challenges using methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Play Therapy, and Art Therapy.
Does the global panorama depress you and impact your daily life? I understand what you're going through. But don't worry, I can teach you how to confront these challenges with greater resilience. I specialize in assisting individuals in overcoming the tumult of emotions linked to anger, anxiety, depression, grief, and significant life changes.
(727) 732-4479 View (727) 732-4479
Photo of Laura Adamgbo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Petersburg, FL
Laura Adamgbo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702
Are you going through a major change in your life? Divorce, remarriage, blending a family, new job, new baby? Have you hit a road block in your career? Is anxiety keeping you from living an enriching lifestyle? Do you have unresolved trauma? Do you have a difficult to manage child? I can help you with these sudden roadblocks. During these transitional phases of life, we need a support system to help us gain strength, resilience and maintain a healthy living. I use EMDR, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) in working with adult clients and play therapy with my child clients. I act as an advocate, sounding board and gentle challenger.
Are you going through a major change in your life? Divorce, remarriage, blending a family, new job, new baby? Have you hit a road block in your career? Is anxiety keeping you from living an enriching lifestyle? Do you have unresolved trauma? Do you have a difficult to manage child? I can help you with these sudden roadblocks. During these transitional phases of life, we need a support system to help us gain strength, resilience and maintain a healthy living. I use EMDR, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) in working with adult clients and play therapy with my child clients. I act as an advocate, sounding board and gentle challenger.
(314) 925-1850 View (314) 925-1850
Photo of Mick D Rehrig, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Petersburg, FL
Mick D Rehrig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702
I provide play therapy and family support and coaching for transgender and non-binary folks.
Welcome! I believe in therapy that affirms, empowers, and supports people to recognize patterns, navigate changes, bolster personal growth and self-worth, and figure things out.Collaboration with the folks I work with is of utmost importance to me, guided by clinical theory and evidence-based therapeutic techniques that work for you.I utilize a strengths based, anti-racist, intersectional feminist approach. I work with clients navigating healthy masculinity, internalized oppression, gender dysphoria, addiction recovery, depression, sexuality, relationship stressors & boundaries, family of origin challenges, life transitions, & more.
I provide play therapy and family support and coaching for transgender and non-binary folks.
Welcome! I believe in therapy that affirms, empowers, and supports people to recognize patterns, navigate changes, bolster personal growth and self-worth, and figure things out.Collaboration with the folks I work with is of utmost importance to me, guided by clinical theory and evidence-based therapeutic techniques that work for you.I utilize a strengths based, anti-racist, intersectional feminist approach. I work with clients navigating healthy masculinity, internalized oppression, gender dysphoria, addiction recovery, depression, sexuality, relationship stressors & boundaries, family of origin challenges, life transitions, & more.
(678) 335-1270 View (678) 335-1270
Photo of Leighann Avery, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Saint Petersburg, FL
Leighann Avery
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33716
My passion is to provide evidence based therapy to children and adults utilizing play in session as well as Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), Accelerated resolution therapy (ART), and Person-centered therapy. I specialize in treating clients suffering with depression, anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, and coping skills. In the first session, clients can expect a warm, welcoming environment where they can share confidential information. Together as a team, the client (and family) and I will set goals for therapy and come up with a plan to help the client reach those goals.
My passion is to provide evidence based therapy to children and adults utilizing play in session as well as Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), Accelerated resolution therapy (ART), and Person-centered therapy. I specialize in treating clients suffering with depression, anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, and coping skills. In the first session, clients can expect a warm, welcoming environment where they can share confidential information. Together as a team, the client (and family) and I will set goals for therapy and come up with a plan to help the client reach those goals.
(727) 295-3077 View (727) 295-3077
Photo of Sonne Goode, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Saint Petersburg, FL
Sonne Goode
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702
Play therapy, mindfulness, and a strength-based approach are found within her counseling.
Sonne Goode is the founder of Goode Thoughts Therapy! She is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in addition to a Professional School Counselor and a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC). Sonne is devoted to supporting clients in achieving their goals and making positive change through an eclectic approach including cognitive behavioral and solution focused perspectives.
Play therapy, mindfulness, and a strength-based approach are found within her counseling.
Sonne Goode is the founder of Goode Thoughts Therapy! She is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in addition to a Professional School Counselor and a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC). Sonne is devoted to supporting clients in achieving their goals and making positive change through an eclectic approach including cognitive behavioral and solution focused perspectives.
(240) 679-8448 View (240) 679-8448
Photo of Natacha Moten At Nassau Psychology Pc, Licensed Master Social Worker in Saint Petersburg, FL
Natacha Moten At Nassau Psychology Pc
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
Natacha utilizes approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused and play therapy.
Book an appointment online through our website www.nassaupsychology.org! Natacha graduated with a Master of Social Work from Syracuse University with a focus on child development and family systems. She trained in a variety of settings such as high schools, group homes and foster care while working with adolescents in crisis due to trauma. Natacha has 20+ years of experience supporting women, children and families in various applications of therapy.
Natacha utilizes approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused and play therapy.
Book an appointment online through our website www.nassaupsychology.org! Natacha graduated with a Master of Social Work from Syracuse University with a focus on child development and family systems. She trained in a variety of settings such as high schools, group homes and foster care while working with adolescents in crisis due to trauma. Natacha has 20+ years of experience supporting women, children and families in various applications of therapy.
(518) 989-5851 View (518) 989-5851
Photo of Matthew Anthony Fahy, Counselor in Saint Petersburg, FL
Matthew Anthony Fahy
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33714
By using play therapy, role play games, and gamification - therapy can become engaging! Play is a natural way to learn and it makes great therapy for everyone, children, teens, and adults.
Now accepting new clients (children, teens and adults). Everyone is different and the treatments are too. I specialize in finding what works best and keeping it interesting, so you want to keep making changes. I love using insightful and creative therapy approaches supported by research. Data always matters. You will have access to various treatment options such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy and more. In short, I prefer to use treatments that are shown to be beneficial in scientific reviews. Join me during one of my therapeutic role play games groups.
By using play therapy, role play games, and gamification - therapy can become engaging! Play is a natural way to learn and it makes great therapy for everyone, children, teens, and adults.
Now accepting new clients (children, teens and adults). Everyone is different and the treatments are too. I specialize in finding what works best and keeping it interesting, so you want to keep making changes. I love using insightful and creative therapy approaches supported by research. Data always matters. You will have access to various treatment options such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy and more. In short, I prefer to use treatments that are shown to be beneficial in scientific reviews. Join me during one of my therapeutic role play games groups.
(727) 202-5539 View (727) 202-5539
Photo of Dr. Anne Pesacov, Marriage & Family Therapist in Saint Petersburg, FL
Dr. Anne Pesacov
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, , LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33706
Throughout my over 40 year career, I have applied specialized training and certifications in Hypnosos/Hypnotherapy, Trauma Therapy, Divorce and Family Mediation, Parenting Coordination, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Psycho drama.
Creating and managing relationships in today's world is difficult! Maintaining intimacy with a spouse or significant other, handling children and teens with behavioral problems or special needs, and balancing career, home, family and your own personal needs sometimes seems impossible. For over 40 years, I have maintained a practice in Clearwater, Florida, teaching individuals, couples and families better communication skills and conflict resolution. I will work together with you to adjust to the losses, new challenges, and unexpected events which create anxiety, depression, and a lack of direction.
Throughout my over 40 year career, I have applied specialized training and certifications in Hypnosos/Hypnotherapy, Trauma Therapy, Divorce and Family Mediation, Parenting Coordination, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Psycho drama.
Creating and managing relationships in today's world is difficult! Maintaining intimacy with a spouse or significant other, handling children and teens with behavioral problems or special needs, and balancing career, home, family and your own personal needs sometimes seems impossible. For over 40 years, I have maintained a practice in Clearwater, Florida, teaching individuals, couples and families better communication skills and conflict resolution. I will work together with you to adjust to the losses, new challenges, and unexpected events which create anxiety, depression, and a lack of direction.
(727) 459-6999 View (727) 459-6999
Photo of Laura Gooding, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Petersburg, FL
Laura Gooding
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33714
Have kids? I also specialize in working with children ages 3-12 using play therapy & other techniques; and with parents teaching parenting strategies and providing support to host a happier home.
Are you a millennial or gen z looking for a therapist who gets you? I am thoroughly experienced working with your age group and I understand the unique stressors of these generations as I am a millennial myself and have a gen z sister! Whether you are dealing with job or school stress, relationship conflicts, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, or just feeling angry and upset with the world, it's important to have support. I am here to listen and help you find your path to healing and strength. I am a trauma informed therapist, and I use a person-centered approach along with CBT and other evidenced based practices like mindfulness.
Have kids? I also specialize in working with children ages 3-12 using play therapy & other techniques; and with parents teaching parenting strategies and providing support to host a happier home.
Are you a millennial or gen z looking for a therapist who gets you? I am thoroughly experienced working with your age group and I understand the unique stressors of these generations as I am a millennial myself and have a gen z sister! Whether you are dealing with job or school stress, relationship conflicts, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, or just feeling angry and upset with the world, it's important to have support. I am here to listen and help you find your path to healing and strength. I am a trauma informed therapist, and I use a person-centered approach along with CBT and other evidenced based practices like mindfulness.
(561) 763-4931 View (561) 763-4931
Photo of Melissa Figley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Petersburg, FL
Melissa Figley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33703
In my session, I use a strengths-based approach, and various theoretical orientations (CBT, SFT, MIT, play therapy interventions, etc.
Now Accepting New Clients! At ClearPath Health, we view therapy as a collaborative process in which clients are encouraged to explore thoughts, feeling, and behaviors in a supportive, non-judgmental, and compassionate setting. Clients who have completed treatment leave with new coping skills, a renewed sense of confidence and fresh perspectives on their lives. In my years of service, I've worked with clients dealing with low self-esteem, anxiety, addiction, depression, LGBTQ+ issues, and stress-related issues, to name a few.
In my session, I use a strengths-based approach, and various theoretical orientations (CBT, SFT, MIT, play therapy interventions, etc.
Now Accepting New Clients! At ClearPath Health, we view therapy as a collaborative process in which clients are encouraged to explore thoughts, feeling, and behaviors in a supportive, non-judgmental, and compassionate setting. Clients who have completed treatment leave with new coping skills, a renewed sense of confidence and fresh perspectives on their lives. In my years of service, I've worked with clients dealing with low self-esteem, anxiety, addiction, depression, LGBTQ+ issues, and stress-related issues, to name a few.
(727) 382-4711 View (727) 382-4711
Photo of Vynaska Corriere, Mental Health Counselor in Saint Petersburg, FL
Vynaska Corriere
Mental Health Counselor, MA, MSL, NCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33701
You have made a good first step because you are scrolling through psychologytoday to find the best treatment for your needs. Good for you! Opening up to a stranger about your life challenges is not easy, but I am glad you are considering therapy. My approach to therapy is integrative because together we will identify your needs and create a treatment plan that best fits you. I have been a therapist for 24 years in practice and training. I provide therapy to individuals ages 4 to 60's plus. I have specialized training in, play therapy, couples/family therapy, and therapy for those with physical limitations such as blindness.
You have made a good first step because you are scrolling through psychologytoday to find the best treatment for your needs. Good for you! Opening up to a stranger about your life challenges is not easy, but I am glad you are considering therapy. My approach to therapy is integrative because together we will identify your needs and create a treatment plan that best fits you. I have been a therapist for 24 years in practice and training. I provide therapy to individuals ages 4 to 60's plus. I have specialized training in, play therapy, couples/family therapy, and therapy for those with physical limitations such as blindness.
(727) 349-1352 View (727) 349-1352
Photo of Vanessa K Guidry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Petersburg, FL
Vanessa K Guidry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33716
When life gives you challenges the process of managing those challenges can be real difficult. Having someone to process and find solutions to real life issues can be helpful and supportive. I have a very well rounded background in both adult and child therapy. I have worked with Oncology clients, clients in crisis, couples, families and children with different emotional needs. When I meet a client it is important to meet them where they are and develop a strong therapeutic relationship.
When life gives you challenges the process of managing those challenges can be real difficult. Having someone to process and find solutions to real life issues can be helpful and supportive. I have a very well rounded background in both adult and child therapy. I have worked with Oncology clients, clients in crisis, couples, families and children with different emotional needs. When I meet a client it is important to meet them where they are and develop a strong therapeutic relationship.
(832) 376-6971 View (832) 376-6971
Photo of Melissa A Overton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Saint Petersburg, FL
Melissa A Overton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33713  (Online Only)
My area of focus has been child development, family transitions, marital counselling, and Post Traumatic Stress (PTS). Specialty areas include addressing parenting/behavioral issues with young children, marital conflict, and any individual or dyad working with trauma. Client-centered and culturally sensitive treatment is always a goal of mine. Individual talk therapy and working within the context of building relationships are typical modalities client would expect from my services. Trauma therapy is often conducted individually.
My area of focus has been child development, family transitions, marital counselling, and Post Traumatic Stress (PTS). Specialty areas include addressing parenting/behavioral issues with young children, marital conflict, and any individual or dyad working with trauma. Client-centered and culturally sensitive treatment is always a goal of mine. Individual talk therapy and working within the context of building relationships are typical modalities client would expect from my services. Trauma therapy is often conducted individually.
(727) 312-1324 View (727) 312-1324

See more therapy options for Saint Petersburg

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.