Ms. Kati's Play Therapy Room

We provide play therapy services for children ages 2-10.

What is Play Therapy?

Play therapy refers to a large number of treatment methods, all applying the therapeutic benefits of play. Play therapy helps children to address and resolve their own problems and builds on the natural way that children learn about themselves and their relationships in the world around them.

The Association for Play Therapy defines play therapy as the “systematic use of a theoretical model to establish an interpersonal process wherein trained play therapists use the therapeutic powers of play to help clients prevent or resolve psychosocial difficulties and achieve optimal growth and development.”

Primary Play Therapy Modalities Used at Bloom:

    •    Child-Centered Play Therapy: A non-directive approach that allows children to lead sessions through play, helping them express emotions and resolve challenges in a safe, supportive environment.

    •    Synergetic Play Therapy: Integrates neuroscience with play to support nervous system regulation, helping children process emotions and build resilience through authentic connection and co-regulation.

    •    AutPlay® Therapy: A play-based approach designed for neurodivergent children, especially those with autism, ADHD, or other developmental differences. It combines play therapy with behavioral and relationship strategies to support emotional and social growth.

    •    Filial Therapy: A family-centered approach that trains and supports parents to conduct special play sessions with their child, strengthening attachment, improving communication, and empowering parents as agents of change

Concerns we address and how Bloom can help: 

• Anxiety and Fears -Helps children express and process worries through symbolic play, reducing internal tension.
• Depression or Low Mood -Offers a safe outlet for emotional expression, helping children reconnect with joy and meaning.
• Trauma and PTSD- Provides a developmentally appropriate way to process overwhelming experiences at the child’s pace.
• Grief and Loss- Supports emotional expression.
• Behavioral Challenges- Addresses the underlying emotional needs behind outbursts, defiance, or aggression through connection and play.
• Attachment and Relationship Difficulties- Strengthens secure relationships and promotes trust and co-regulation with caregivers and others.
• Family Transitions- Helps children make sense of change and cope with shifting family dynamics.
• Social Skill Difficulties- Encourages practicing peer interaction, empathy, and problem-solving in a supportive environment.
• Low Self-Esteem or Identity Struggles- Builds self-awareness, confidence, and a sense of competence through success in play.
• Regulation Challenges (e.g., sensory sensitivities, emotional reactivity)- Supports nervous system regulation and helps children learn to recognize and manage emotional states.
• Academic or School-Related Stress- Offers a space to explore feelings around school pressure, learning differences, or peer conflict.
• ADHD, Autistic, Sensory Processing Differences, and Learning Differences- offers neuro-affirming approach by honoring each child's unique way of thinking, feeling, and experiencing the world.  Creating a safe space to celebrate strengths and support regulation.

Play therapy aims to help a child’s growth and development. The practice of play therapy requires extensive, specialized education, training, and experience. With my knowledge and background, I am confident that you and I can set your child up for success.

If you’re interested in learning more about play therapy and how it can help your child grow, contact me today for a free consultation.