Play Therapy & Practice FAQs

Why play therapy?

Play is how children naturally make sense of the world around them. It’s their way of expressing emotions, working through challenges, and learning new skills. Because children’s brains develop emotional and creative areas much faster than language skills, it can be hard for them to articulate feelings or experiences. Play therapy provides a safe and engaging space for children to express themselves without the pressure of having to find the right words.

As a trained play therapist, I am skilled at interpreting the themes and actions in play to better understand what your child is communicating. This approach helps identify the root causes of their challenges and provides valuable insights for both you and your child. Unlike traditional talk therapy, play therapy is often more engaging for kids, motivating them to participate in their healing journey.

What challenges can play therapy help with?

• Emotional Regulation: Managing big feelings like anger, anxiety, and sadness

• Trauma & PTSD: Processing and healing from past traumatic experiences

• Behavioral Issues: Addressing aggression, meltdowns, and disruptive behaviors at home and school

• Social Struggles: Navigating separation anxiety, phobias, and difficulties with relationships

• Life Changes: Coping with grief, divorce, or major life transitions

• Self-Esteem: Building confidence and addressing issues like depression, self-harm, or negative self-talk

What makes Synergetic Play Therapy unique?

Synergetic Play Therapy (SPT) is an evidence-based approach that integrates research from neuroscience, interpersonal neurobiology, and attachment theory. It focuses on experiential learning—where I model emotional regulation and behavior, giving your child the opportunity to practice new skills in a safe, supportive environment. Through this process, children develop new patterns of response, building resilience and expanding their capacity to handle challenges.

SPT’s emphasis on nervous system re-patterning helps children heal in a way that lasts, giving them lifelong tools to cope with life’s difficulties. This makes SPT especially effective for children struggling with complex emotions, behavioral issues, or trauma. For more information, visit Synergetic Play Therapy.

How do sessions work?

Session Structure
Each therapy session is 50 minutes long and includes:

• 40 minutes of one-on-one time with your child to explore and process through play

• 10 minutes of a parent-only meeting to discuss progress, insights, and strategies for supporting your child at home

Sessions typically start on a weekly or biweekly basis, adjusting as your child progresses. The number of sessions needed depends on your child's specific needs and challenges, which we will discuss in-depth at the intake appointment, along with goals for sessions.

Telehealth & In-Person Options
I offer flexible scheduling, including before and after-school appointments for your convenience. Parent-only meetings (like intakes or coaching) can also be done via telehealth. Individual child therapy is typically conducted in-person to foster connection and engagement.

How do you work with separated and/or divorced families?

Many of the families I work with are going through separation or divorce. When parents have shared decision-making rights, both parents will need to sign consent forms before services can start, and we also require that you provide a current copy of your parenting agreement for our records. During the intake process, we will discuss in detail what each parent’s involvement will look like, including how parents will receive updates, parent meetings, and financial components. The goal is to figure out an agreement that works for everyone so we can work as a team to support your child. It is important to note that as a play therapist, it is not my role to make custody or parenting time recommendations. I work closely with a referral network that specializes in supporting parents navigating contentious divorce and/or co-parenting if outside referrals are needed.

How do I get started? What are the next steps?

I offer free 15-minute consultations via phone where we can discuss your child’s challenges, answer any questions, and determine if we’re a good fit to work together. During this call, we’ll also cover important details like scheduling and medical decision-making to ensure we’re ready to begin therapy. After that, we’re ready to schedule an intake appointment and set up ongoing sessions. Fill out the contact form below to start the process!