Welcome
Providing pediatric counseling and parent consultation services
we specialize in child centered play therapy and child parent relationship therapy.
For which Populations Does CCPT Work?
The research base for CCPT has evidence supporting its use for children ages 3-10 with these presenting problems:
- ADHD
- Aggression
- Behavioral Problems
- Negative Self-Esteem
- Social Skills Deficits
- Teacher/Student Problems
- Academic Achievement Delays
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Parent/Child Difficulties
- Speech/Language Delays
- Trauma
Who We Are
What is play therapy?
Dr. Garry Landreth (2012)) defines play therapy as "a dynamic interpersonal relationship between a child (or person of any age) and a therapist trained in play therapy procedures who provides selected play materials and facilitates the development of a safe relationship for the child (or person of any age) to fully express and explore self (feelings, thoughts, experiences and behaviors) through play, the child's natural medium of communication, for optimal growth and development."
How does Child-Centered play therapy (CCPT) work?
Just as adults talk about their problems to feel better, children best communicate through play. Through play, children express bothersome feelings and thoughts, and through the therapeutic process, therapists help children develop a better understanding of themselves. Play therapist use specific skills to help children develop appropriate expression of their feelings, develop solutions to their problems, and develop responsibility for their actions. Play therapists foster an environment that helps children feel understood, accepted, and safe, and as a result of this relationship children are less likely to maintain problematic behaviors.
How is CCPT Different form Other Child Therapy Methods?
CCPT is based on knowledge of child development, which acknowledges that for children, play is the most natural means to facilitate learning and expression due to abstract thinking not yet being present. Extensive research shows that CCPT is an effective therapy for children with a variety of presenting problems. The primary goal in CCPT is to help children develop self-control, self-responsibility, and an internal locus of evaluation.
Play Therapist
Kerry Elder, LCPC, CCPT Trained.
We all want to tell our story and be heard. It feels comforting to have a listening ear that will help you find clarity and freedom from overwhelming thoughts and feelings. Child Centered Play Therapy is the chance to be vulnerable in a safe place. It is a place to be listened to and heard. It is a place where your child can formulate understanding. I can provide a space where they will feel safe to share, reflect and contemplate. This will lead to awareness and an understanding of themselves.