Play Therapy in Syracuse, NY

Photo of Sameerah Owens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Syracuse, NY
Sameerah Owens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Syracuse, NY 13201
It’s often said that play is the child’s work and it’s certainly the language they “speak” in therapy.
I work with individuals from all walks of life and all ages to assist them in creating the changes they want in their lives and relationships with themselves and others. I believe that each client is unique and deserves treatment that is based on love and kindness and honors that uniqueness.Our faith is the vehicle that can bring us closer to those changes and help us find meaning and fulfillment. Areas of particular focus in my practice include trauma, learning disabilities, parent-child issues, athletic performance problems, and navigating life transitions a longtime athlete and coach; I’m experienced in the challenges of athletes
It’s often said that play is the child’s work and it’s certainly the language they “speak” in therapy.
I work with individuals from all walks of life and all ages to assist them in creating the changes they want in their lives and relationships with themselves and others. I believe that each client is unique and deserves treatment that is based on love and kindness and honors that uniqueness.Our faith is the vehicle that can bring us closer to those changes and help us find meaning and fulfillment. Areas of particular focus in my practice include trauma, learning disabilities, parent-child issues, athletic performance problems, and navigating life transitions a longtime athlete and coach; I’m experienced in the challenges of athletes
(315) 776-7341 View (315) 776-7341
Photo of Sanctuary Mental Health Counseling Services, PLLC, Counselor in Syracuse, NY
Sanctuary Mental Health Counseling Services, PLLC
Counselor, LMHC, RPT, CCPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Syracuse, NY 13206
At The Sanctuary, we work with people of all ages. We believe that all people have infinite worth, so before working with us, know that is our view of you and/or your child already. Our clinicians have been classically trained in many of the greats (IFS, CBT, DBT, play therapy, etc.). The director has additional training in death and dying. With that being said, "Out of all of my credentials as a therapist, my most significant is that I'm a card carrying member of the human race" (Lori Gottlieb). Initially, our aims are to get to know you or your child from a strengths perspective and building a positive rapport.
At The Sanctuary, we work with people of all ages. We believe that all people have infinite worth, so before working with us, know that is our view of you and/or your child already. Our clinicians have been classically trained in many of the greats (IFS, CBT, DBT, play therapy, etc.). The director has additional training in death and dying. With that being said, "Out of all of my credentials as a therapist, my most significant is that I'm a card carrying member of the human race" (Lori Gottlieb). Initially, our aims are to get to know you or your child from a strengths perspective and building a positive rapport.
(315) 277-6703 View (315) 277-6703
Photo of Joe Perez, Counselor in Syracuse, NY
Joe Perez
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13203
Hi there! I provide talk therapy to adolescents and adults who are experiencing anxiety or depression, I work with individuals who are dealing with problematic behaviors such as ADHD or ODD, and I engage with children using play therapy. Experiences of hardships and trauma play a large role in the work that I do. Have a specific question? Feel free to reach out!
Hi there! I provide talk therapy to adolescents and adults who are experiencing anxiety or depression, I work with individuals who are dealing with problematic behaviors such as ADHD or ODD, and I engage with children using play therapy. Experiences of hardships and trauma play a large role in the work that I do. Have a specific question? Feel free to reach out!
(680) 201-5713 View (680) 201-5713
Photo of Lisa M Clancy-Bruce, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Syracuse, NY
Lisa M Clancy-Bruce
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CCPT, CRM
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13208
I hope to provide a safe, accepting, trusting and confidential atmosphere for those I work with so they can express themselves completely. Within this environment I would be honored to start a relationship with individuals that brings them to the next level they are striving for. Most emotional instability is caused from past trauma, loss and/or multi-systemic patterns/themes which continue to play out in our lives. I use a Family Systems Approach to psychotherapy combined with other interventions as needed. This approach permits individuals to grow from these experiences/patterns allowing their journey of self discovery to unfold.
I hope to provide a safe, accepting, trusting and confidential atmosphere for those I work with so they can express themselves completely. Within this environment I would be honored to start a relationship with individuals that brings them to the next level they are striving for. Most emotional instability is caused from past trauma, loss and/or multi-systemic patterns/themes which continue to play out in our lives. I use a Family Systems Approach to psychotherapy combined with other interventions as needed. This approach permits individuals to grow from these experiences/patterns allowing their journey of self discovery to unfold.
(315) 842-4663 View (315) 842-4663
Photo of Amy Mack, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Syracuse, NY
Amy Mack
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Syracuse, NY 13201
As a registered play therapist, I am dedicated to working with younger clients from a place that incorporates play, attachment, and neuroscience together.
Hello and welcome! Whether you’re seeking counseling for yourself or your child, I am here to help. I specialize in counseling for adults & children. I am a trauma responsive therapist, whose approach is grounded in the understanding the science of connection and that the brain has the capacity to change and heal. I understand that the process of internalizing someone who is safe, connected, and coregulated, leads to growth in regulation. My goal is to create a therapeutic relationship and environment in which goodness and worth are reflected, as well as support you as the client, to cultivate the same experiences in your own life.
As a registered play therapist, I am dedicated to working with younger clients from a place that incorporates play, attachment, and neuroscience together.
Hello and welcome! Whether you’re seeking counseling for yourself or your child, I am here to help. I specialize in counseling for adults & children. I am a trauma responsive therapist, whose approach is grounded in the understanding the science of connection and that the brain has the capacity to change and heal. I understand that the process of internalizing someone who is safe, connected, and coregulated, leads to growth in regulation. My goal is to create a therapeutic relationship and environment in which goodness and worth are reflected, as well as support you as the client, to cultivate the same experiences in your own life.
(315) 322-9372 View (315) 322-9372
Photo of Caitlyn Lipschitz in Syracuse, NY
Caitlyn Lipschitz
MA, LPMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Syracuse, NY 13202
I have specific experience working with children through the therapeutic power of play therapy to help children resolve psychosocial challenges.
I believe that the therapy process should support clients in their further investment in themselves and help them to grow into the person they desire to be. This therapy process applies to the various client systems I work with, which include individuals, children, adolescents, couples, and family systems. I firmly believe that change occurs when we become aware of negative patterns/cycles; it is my role to cultivate an emotionally safe environment to allow for such exploration and restructuring.
I have specific experience working with children through the therapeutic power of play therapy to help children resolve psychosocial challenges.
I believe that the therapy process should support clients in their further investment in themselves and help them to grow into the person they desire to be. This therapy process applies to the various client systems I work with, which include individuals, children, adolescents, couples, and family systems. I firmly believe that change occurs when we become aware of negative patterns/cycles; it is my role to cultivate an emotionally safe environment to allow for such exploration and restructuring.
(315) 903-7583 View (315) 903-7583
Photo of Mariya Pawlikowski, Counselor in Syracuse, NY
Mariya Pawlikowski
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Syracuse, NY 13220  (Online Only)
I have worked with many age ranges, using play therapy for children, talk and narrative therapy for teens and adults, and CBT for those individuals who need more structure.
Hello! My name is Mariya and I received my Master's in Counseling, with an undergrad degree in Human Development. I became a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in June 2020. I have worked with many individuals from many walks of life, including depression, anxiety, grief/loss, ADHD, job changes, relationship concerns/issues, parenting stress and much more. I am here to provide hope, a different perspective or guidance on whatever concerns you may have.
I have worked with many age ranges, using play therapy for children, talk and narrative therapy for teens and adults, and CBT for those individuals who need more structure.
Hello! My name is Mariya and I received my Master's in Counseling, with an undergrad degree in Human Development. I became a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in June 2020. I have worked with many individuals from many walks of life, including depression, anxiety, grief/loss, ADHD, job changes, relationship concerns/issues, parenting stress and much more. I am here to provide hope, a different perspective or guidance on whatever concerns you may have.
(315) 871-0016 View (315) 871-0016
Photo of Serenity Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Syracuse, NY
Serenity Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Syracuse, NY 13201
Play therapy offered.
Life can be tricky sometimes leaving us feeling stuck, alone, and confused. Taking the first step toward change can seem overwhelming and scary. I appreciate the strength it takes to even consider the possibility of making a change. I provide counseling support to individuals with a wide range of emotional and behavioral challenges. As a therapist, I offer a safe, supportive, and comfortable environment with an individualized approach to each client to promote personal growth. I encourage recognition and development of inner strengths and self-compassion to facilitate the process of change as well as resolve challenging issues.
Play therapy offered.
Life can be tricky sometimes leaving us feeling stuck, alone, and confused. Taking the first step toward change can seem overwhelming and scary. I appreciate the strength it takes to even consider the possibility of making a change. I provide counseling support to individuals with a wide range of emotional and behavioral challenges. As a therapist, I offer a safe, supportive, and comfortable environment with an individualized approach to each client to promote personal growth. I encourage recognition and development of inner strengths and self-compassion to facilitate the process of change as well as resolve challenging issues.
(607) 208-9007 View (607) 208-9007
Photo of Ashlee Lyn Flood, Counselor in Syracuse, NY
Ashlee Lyn Flood
Counselor, LMHC, CCPT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Syracuse, NY 13219
Therapy can be a challenging process of becoming self-aware and accepting. However, this can be eased when you are provided with a safe place to explore your emotions, which is my goal. I have over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescent, and adults doing just this. It is an honor to hear my client's stories and aiding them in their journeys.
Therapy can be a challenging process of becoming self-aware and accepting. However, this can be eased when you are provided with a safe place to explore your emotions, which is my goal. I have over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescent, and adults doing just this. It is an honor to hear my client's stories and aiding them in their journeys.
(315) 407-5927 View (315) 407-5927
Photo of Susan Hart Presley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Syracuse, NY
Susan Hart Presley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13206  (Online Only)
I treat anxiety, depression, narcissism, couples, adults and more with science and care. I focus on comfort, precision and thoroughness to strengthen the dynamics and boundaries of life, event and issue strategies. Learn specific skills and understand how education, career, boundaries and justice combine to express themselves into human behavior and thought. All ages, experiences, education and careers, individual, marriage, family, career, sport, and court. Decades as a therapist, teacher, coach, and in investigation and research. Best performance outcomes in a diversity of settings and factors. CBT if desired. Private.
I treat anxiety, depression, narcissism, couples, adults and more with science and care. I focus on comfort, precision and thoroughness to strengthen the dynamics and boundaries of life, event and issue strategies. Learn specific skills and understand how education, career, boundaries and justice combine to express themselves into human behavior and thought. All ages, experiences, education and careers, individual, marriage, family, career, sport, and court. Decades as a therapist, teacher, coach, and in investigation and research. Best performance outcomes in a diversity of settings and factors. CBT if desired. Private.
(315) 302-1750 View (315) 302-1750
Photo of Chanel Beard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Syracuse, NY
Chanel Beard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13202
My name is Chanel Beard, LMSW of B&F Consulting & Therapeutic Services. As a clinician, I can ensure that clients have a safe space and are met with compassionate and culturally sensitive care. I have extensive experience working with adults, and teens ages 14 & up. I have worked in a variety of settings, including a special education high school, a level one trauma center, suicide prevention, trauma focused group facilitator, and as an administrative leader of foster care programs
My name is Chanel Beard, LMSW of B&F Consulting & Therapeutic Services. As a clinician, I can ensure that clients have a safe space and are met with compassionate and culturally sensitive care. I have extensive experience working with adults, and teens ages 14 & up. I have worked in a variety of settings, including a special education high school, a level one trauma center, suicide prevention, trauma focused group facilitator, and as an administrative leader of foster care programs
(315) 300-1510 View (315) 300-1510
Craig W Snyder
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Syracuse, NY 13210  (Online Only)
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist who works intensively with individuals, couples, families and children. I have over thirty-five years of experience and supervise both other therapists and graduate students in their therapeutic work. Families of all types are welcome, as are children of all ages. Couples who have endured long-standing conflicts often recover and find their way back together again. My goal is to help you discover the source of pain and relationship troubles, resolve trauma, and create a more loving and happy life.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist who works intensively with individuals, couples, families and children. I have over thirty-five years of experience and supervise both other therapists and graduate students in their therapeutic work. Families of all types are welcome, as are children of all ages. Couples who have endured long-standing conflicts often recover and find their way back together again. My goal is to help you discover the source of pain and relationship troubles, resolve trauma, and create a more loving and happy life.
(315) 707-4331 View (315) 707-4331
Photo of Harvest House Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Syracuse, NY
Harvest House Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Syracuse, NY 13224
Harvest House is a dream that was born out of a passion for promoting healthy relationships in families, marriages, and individuals as they work toward hope and healing. You don’t have to be going through a difficult personal time, suffering from anxiety, or grieving in order to take advantage of all we have to offer. Therapy is designed to help you find insight, support, and new strategies for life's struggles. With the potentiality to gain benefits such as personal responsibility, self-awareness, objectivity, healthy communication skills, and healthy boundaries, there is little reason to wait any longer.
Harvest House is a dream that was born out of a passion for promoting healthy relationships in families, marriages, and individuals as they work toward hope and healing. You don’t have to be going through a difficult personal time, suffering from anxiety, or grieving in order to take advantage of all we have to offer. Therapy is designed to help you find insight, support, and new strategies for life's struggles. With the potentiality to gain benefits such as personal responsibility, self-awareness, objectivity, healthy communication skills, and healthy boundaries, there is little reason to wait any longer.
(315) 800-0011 View (315) 800-0011
Photo of Lindsay M. Rowe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Syracuse, NY
Lindsay M. Rowe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Syracuse, NY 13204
Reaching out for support for you or your loved one takes courage. With one of the hardest steps behind you, I am pleased you have found my private practice. My goal is to engage with clients of all ages in an interactive and collaborative effort to find sustainable change through growth and learning experiences in the context of an encouraging and nonjudgemental environment. My clients are my passion.
Reaching out for support for you or your loved one takes courage. With one of the hardest steps behind you, I am pleased you have found my private practice. My goal is to engage with clients of all ages in an interactive and collaborative effort to find sustainable change through growth and learning experiences in the context of an encouraging and nonjudgemental environment. My clients are my passion.
(315) 895-1182 View (315) 895-1182
Photo of Staceyann Reid, Counselor in Syracuse, NY
Staceyann Reid
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Syracuse, NY 13212
There are times throughout one’s life where we come up against seemingly overwhelming challenges that may leave us feeling lost, scared, and alone. My goal as a therapist is to offer a compassionate space that will allow you to navigate through and overcome these challenges. In doing so, I believe that together we will be able to create positive changes that will lead to growth and healing.
There are times throughout one’s life where we come up against seemingly overwhelming challenges that may leave us feeling lost, scared, and alone. My goal as a therapist is to offer a compassionate space that will allow you to navigate through and overcome these challenges. In doing so, I believe that together we will be able to create positive changes that will lead to growth and healing.
(315) 610-8475 View (315) 610-8475
Photo of Harvest House Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Syracuse, NY
Harvest House Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Syracuse, NY 13224
Harvest House is a dream that was born out of a passion for promoting healthy relationships in families, marriages, and individuals as they work toward hope and healing. You don’t have to be going through a difficult personal time, suffering from anxiety, or grieving in order to take advantage of all we have to offer. Therapy is designed to help you find insight, support, and new strategies for life's struggles. With the potentiality to gain benefits such as personal responsibility, self-awareness, objectivity, healthy communication skills, and healthy boundaries, there is little reason to wait any longer.
Harvest House is a dream that was born out of a passion for promoting healthy relationships in families, marriages, and individuals as they work toward hope and healing. You don’t have to be going through a difficult personal time, suffering from anxiety, or grieving in order to take advantage of all we have to offer. Therapy is designed to help you find insight, support, and new strategies for life's struggles. With the potentiality to gain benefits such as personal responsibility, self-awareness, objectivity, healthy communication skills, and healthy boundaries, there is little reason to wait any longer.
(315) 800-0011 View (315) 800-0011
Photo of Christine Wassel, Counselor in Syracuse, NY
Christine Wassel
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13204  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I believe the relationship I create with my clients is the most important. Our time is sacred and the alliance we establish is the real facilitator of change and growth. My goal when working together is to ensure that we connect. Ultimately, I want clients to feel heard, understood, safe, and secure. I work with people of all ages and abilities and my specialties include trauma recovery, crisis intervention and suicide prevention. My hopes are that I can assist clients in creating an authentic and fulfilling life they feel equipped to navigate, no matter what obstacles come up along the way.
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I believe the relationship I create with my clients is the most important. Our time is sacred and the alliance we establish is the real facilitator of change and growth. My goal when working together is to ensure that we connect. Ultimately, I want clients to feel heard, understood, safe, and secure. I work with people of all ages and abilities and my specialties include trauma recovery, crisis intervention and suicide prevention. My hopes are that I can assist clients in creating an authentic and fulfilling life they feel equipped to navigate, no matter what obstacles come up along the way.
(315) 659-7007 View (315) 659-7007
Photo of Julia Massay-Donato, Marriage & Family Therapist in Syracuse, NY
Julia Massay-Donato
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13204
Hello! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist and have been practicing for over 7 years working with individuals, couples, families, and minors. I specialize in issues including anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, self esteem, trauma, women’s issues, and family issues. I primarily employ attachment based theory and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). I feel strongly that all individuals deserve to feel and experience their best selves, no matter what has happened in their lives. We have one life, and I want everyone to feel that they can make the most of it.
Hello! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist and have been practicing for over 7 years working with individuals, couples, families, and minors. I specialize in issues including anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, self esteem, trauma, women’s issues, and family issues. I primarily employ attachment based theory and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). I feel strongly that all individuals deserve to feel and experience their best selves, no matter what has happened in their lives. We have one life, and I want everyone to feel that they can make the most of it.
(518) 516-5357 View (518) 516-5357
Photo of Giles Sieburg, Marriage & Family Therapist in Syracuse, NY
Giles Sieburg
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Syracuse, NY 13219  (Online Only)
As a Marriage and Family Therapist and Gallup Certified Strengths Coach, I believe that therapy is a journey that can provide valuable perspective and facilitate healing. In my sessions, I aim to create a supportive and safe environment where my clients can work to reclaim their lives from fear, pain, and hopelessness. By exploring the systems, families, and relationships that shape their experiences, my clients can gain insight into their inner selves and learn how to cope with past traumas and current stressors. Together, we can work towards moving forward rather than remaining stuck.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist and Gallup Certified Strengths Coach, I believe that therapy is a journey that can provide valuable perspective and facilitate healing. In my sessions, I aim to create a supportive and safe environment where my clients can work to reclaim their lives from fear, pain, and hopelessness. By exploring the systems, families, and relationships that shape their experiences, my clients can gain insight into their inner selves and learn how to cope with past traumas and current stressors. Together, we can work towards moving forward rather than remaining stuck.
(315) 888-4609 View (315) 888-4609
Photo of Harriet Marcia Casey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Syracuse, NY
Harriet Marcia Casey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DCC
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13215  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I offer a caring and compassionate place to do your healing work. I have over thirty years of experience working with adults, adolescents and children. My goal is to help you find the tools you need to bring harmony and balance to your life.
I offer a caring and compassionate place to do your healing work. I have over thirty years of experience working with adults, adolescents and children. My goal is to help you find the tools you need to bring harmony and balance to your life.
(315) 895-1494 View (315) 895-1494
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.