Play Therapy

Children think and act differently than adults do and, therefore, need a therapy model that meets them where they are developmentally.  Until age 12, a child’s emotional development far outpaces their verbal development, explaining why most children struggle to verbally express how they feel.  Our Play Therapists are specifically trained to help children express and process their emotions in the way that feels most natural: through play! Research shows that Play Therapy helps children to develop and improve their:

  • Expression of thoughts and feelings
  • Self-esteem & confidence
  • Emotion regulation & mood
  • Self-control & decision-making skills
  • Creative problem-solving skills
  • Stress management
  • Ability to accept responsibility
  • Social skills

Who Benefits from Play Therapy?

Children ages 3 to 12 years old who have behavioral, emotional, or social difficulties can benefit from play therapy, as well as children who have experienced trauma, abuse, or a significant life change. These issues may include, but are not limited to:

  • Loss of a loved one
  • Divorce of parents
  • Moving & changing schools
  • Blending of families
  • Bullying and/or difficulty making friends
  • Anger issues
  • Disrespecting adults
  • Trouble at school
  • ADHD
  • Developmental delays

Play therapy techniques can also be effectively used with teens, adults, and families, and the family is included as an integral part of the play therapy process.

What should I tell my child about why they are coming to Play Therapy?

Some children may wonder why they are coming to Play Therapy. If they ask questions, an appropriate response could be, “Sometimes it can help to have a special place just for you to share and play with someone you can trust.” You can tell your child that they will be meeting a “feelings helper,” or Play Therapist, who can help them with their feelings. Tell your child that the playroom is their very own special place where they can choose to play with lots of toys in many of the ways they would like to.

What is my role as a parent/guardian in the Play Therapy process?

Before meeting with your child, the Play Therapist will meet with you for a parent intake to discuss the initial concerns that bring your child to therapy and to gather more information. This will happen without your child present so that you can speak freely and so that your child does not feel “talked about.” Once the therapist begins to meet with your child, you will fill out an online Parent Report Form before your child’s sessions. This will keep your child’s therapist informed of what is happening both at home and school, as well as give you an opportunity to ask questions and share concerns. Additionally, you will meet with your child’s Play Therapist monthly either in person or over the phone for a parent session to discuss your child’s progress. The play therapist may provide recommendations for skills and tools you can implement at home.

Contact us to schedule an intake.

Play Therapy Photo Gallery

Meet Our Play Therapy Counselors

LeeAnna Perry, Counselor

LeeAnna Perry, MA, LMFT

LeeAnna is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in North and South Carolina and pursuing credentials to become a Registered Play Therapist and Circle of Security program facilitator. She provides supervision for the One:12 play therapy interns and is in training to become an AAMFT supervisor.Read More »
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Kiara Grier, MA, LCMHC

Kiara’s previous experience as an early childhood educator gives her a unique understanding of childhood development and needs.  She has specific training in Child-Centered Play Therapy in which she provides a safe space for children to identify and express emotions, learn conflict resolution, and build social skills.  Kiara also has experience in Child-Parent Relationship Training, providing parents with skills and resources to improve their relationship with their child and confidently address behavior concerns.Read More »
Daynes Crouch, Clinical Intern

Daynes Crouch, MA, LCMHCA

Daynes is a bilingual Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate. Daynes has training and background in the foundations of Child-Centered Play Therapy and Group Dynamic Therapy. Her focus in Child-Centered Play therapy is to provide children a safe place to feel heard and respected so that they can express themselves through the language of play.Read More »
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Katy Wolfe, BS

Katy is completing her Masters in Counseling at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. She uses techniques of play therapy with kids 3 and older. She believes that young children process emotions using toys and is delighted to observe their play in pursuit of understanding. Her experience as a teacher and mother has given her the capacity to relate well to children and families. She is genuine, empathetic, and warm.Read More »

Meet Our Play Therapy Counselors

LeeAnna Perry, Counselor

LeeAnna Perry, MA, LMFT, RPT

LeeAnna is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in North and South Carolina and a Registered Play Therapist. She provides supervision for the One:12 play therapy interns and is in training to become an AAMFT supervisor.Read More »
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Kiara Grier, MA, LCMHC

Kiara’s previous experience as an early childhood educator gives her a unique understanding of childhood development and needs.  She has specific training in Child-Centered Play Therapy in which she provides a safe space for children to identify and express emotions, learn conflict resolution, and build social skills.  Kiara also has experience in Child-Parent Relationship Training, providing parents with skills and resources to improve their relationship with their child and confidently address behavior concerns.Read More »
Daynes Crouch, Clinical Intern

Daynes Crouch, MA, LCMHCA

Daynes is a bilingual Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate. Daynes has training and background in the foundations of Child-Centered Play Therapy and Group Dynamic Therapy. Her focus in Child-Centered Play therapy is to provide children a safe place to feel heard and respected so that they can express themselves through the language of play.Read More »
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Jake Cheek, BA

Jake is currently pursuing his M.A. in Christian Counseling at Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary in Charlotte, NC. He received his B.A. in Interpersonal Communication from North Carolina State University. He works with children through the use of play therapy, helping them process emotions and feelings at any age.Read More »
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Katy Wolfe, BS

Katy is completing her Masters in Counseling at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. She uses techniques of play therapy with kids 3 and older. She believes that young children process emotions using toys and is delighted to observe their play in pursuit of understanding. Her experience as a teacher and mother has given her the capacity to relate well to children and families. She is genuine, empathetic, and warm.Read More »