play therapy
play is the child's natural form of self-expression
Play Therapy allows the child to work through difficulties just as adults do in "talk" therapy. Only the child uses "play."
Therapists are trained specifically in this theoretical model, just as in other models, such as cognitive behavioral therapy. This is different from regular play because the therapist helps children find resolution by addressing their challenges or problems.
Everyone benefits from play.
According to the Association for Play Therapy, Play therapy is especially appropriate for children ages 3 through 12. Research indicates that play is crucial for teens and adults alike.
Benefits of play therapy include:
- increased confidence
- enhanced problem-solving skills
- decreased challenging behaviors
- increased ability to self-regulate
- ability to foster positive relationships
Play Therapy is evidence-based.
Research studies support the use of play as the primary communication tool for young children.
Research indicates that play therapy is an effective intervention for children who present with: externalizing and internalizing problems, self-concept issues, reactions to traumatic events and complexities, developmental delays, social-emotional challenges, and relationship difficulties.
My approach to all therapy is person-centered. This translates well into play therapy by allowing the child autonomy and agency over their experience and process. This is the foundation for neurodiversity-affirming and gender diversity-affirming practices.
Child-Centered Play Therapy is the evidence-based theoretical model that provides the foundation for my work with children. I use a prescriptive approach consisting of evidence-based modalities that support the whole child through interpersonal neurobiology, mindfulness, connection, and cognitive-behavioral strategies adapted to align with neurodiversity-affirming practices.
I have completed certifications and intensive training programs in the following areas to better support my clients and their families:
- AutPlay Therapy Certification (a neurodiversity model informed and designed to help address the mental health needs of neurodivergent children ages 3-18 (including autistic children, ADHDers, social anxiety, sensory differences, learning differences, and developmental and physical disabilities)
- PDA Certified Professional (Pathological Demand Avoidance (non-preferred term) / Persistent Desire for Autonomy: a profile that describes those whose main characteristic is to seek autonomy to manage overwhelming feelings of anxiety and loss of agency when navigating everyday routine tasks. PDA is recognized in the UK and Australia as a profile of Autism. PDA North America is leading advocacy for the US. PDA is not recognized in the DSM-5 TR)
- Synergetic Play Therapy (6-month intensive introduction course with Lisa Dion, LPC, an evidence-based integrative approach based in neurobiology promoting co-regulation through the neuroception of safety)
- The Essential Guide to Gender Diversity in Children and Adolescents intensive course
- Autistic-led continuing education courses through AuSome Ireland
- LGBTQIA+ and gender diversity affirming monthly clinical skills training (through The Affirmative Couch annual membership)
- Inference Based - Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (evidence-based treatment for (OCD) obsessive-compulsive disorder, an alternative to (ERP) Exposure Response Prevention)
- Growing Up Mindful Level 1 certification (with Dr. Christopher Willard)
- Internal Family Systems immersion course (with Frank Anderson, M.D., evidence-based treatment often for attachment, complex trauma, shame, anxiety, depression)
Additional continuing education and training courses:
- The Neurobiology of Play Therapy
- Infants, Toddlers & Neurosensory Play
- Neurodiversity-Affirming Play Therapy
- Working with Aggression & Intensity in Play Therapy
- Polyvagal Puppet Play in Play Therapy: Making Neuroscience Educational and Fun!
- Treating Anxiety Through Play Therapy
- Child Parent Relationship Therapy (CPRT) with Toddlers
my clients
My clients are often neurodivergent and benefit from an unconditional acceptance that fosters self-compassion, self-awareness, and self-acceptance. I support clients in rebelling against the societal standards that suggest everyone "normalize" their behaviors to fit those standards (eye contact, sitting still, masking stimming, performing neurotypical social reciprocity). We work to find strategies that allow authentic expression while navigating a world that can sometimes feel overwhelming.
I work with children, teens, and adults who have often experienced trauma or attachment ruptures. I also find myself working with gender-diverse children and teens. I support my clients first and foremost from a person-centered perspective. Further approaches are individualized for each client to meet their specific needs.
My work with children and teens always involves working with caregivers and parents. Young people cannot solely manage their environment. They are reliant on adult caregivers for that support. They learn through observation, so I work with their adults to support them in work outside of the playroom.
All therapeutic services are provided through the private practice where I am employed, Family & Child Therapy serving Vienna, VA and surrounding northern Virgina areas.
a little more about play therapy
