Children don’t always have the words to explain what they are feeling, but they often express it through play.
Play therapy offers a developmentally appropriate way for children to explore emotions, experiences, and challenges in a space that feels safe, supportive, and grounded in connection.
Through play, children are able to communicate in the way that comes most naturally to them.
At Orange Tree Psychotherapy, we offer play therapy and teen therapy in Phoenix for children and families, with both in-person sessions and limited availability for this specialized service.
Because of the nature of this work, play therapy at our practice is currently offered on a limited basis.
What Play Therapy Can Support
Anxiety or emotional overwhelm
Behavioral changes or difficulty regulating emotions
Trauma or stressful life experiences
Family changes such as divorce, separation, or blended families
Difficulty with transitions (school, home, social environments)
Neurodivergence, including ADHD-related emotional or behavioral challenges
Play therapy also supports caregivers in better understanding their child’s emotional world and needs.
Play therapy can be helpful for children experiencing:
How Play Therapy Works
In play therapy, children are given a safe and structured space to express themselves through toys, creative activities, storytelling, and other forms of play.
The therapist observes, reflects, and engages in ways that help the child:
Build emotional awareness and regulation
Process difficult experiences at their own pace
Develop coping and communication skills
Strengthen self-expression and confidence
Feel seen, understood, and supported
Caregiver involvement is an important part of the process, and we work collaboratively with parents and guardians to support growth outside of sessions as well.
Our Approach
Our approach to play therapy is gentle, relational, and grounded in respect for each child’s developmental stage.
We do not rush the process or impose expectations on how healing should look. Instead, we focus on creating safety, consistency, and trust so that children can express themselves freely and naturally.
Play therapy is currently offered on a limited basis with Kayla Messinger, LPC, RPT.
Because of this, waitlist availability may apply, and openings can vary throughout the year.
Limited Availability
In-Person Play Therapy in Phoenix
Play therapy and teen therapy sessions are offered in-person at our Midtown Phoenix location.
Getting Started
If you are interested in play therapy for your child, we encourage you to reach out to learn more about current availability and fit.
We’re here to help you take the next step.
Meet the Therapists Who Support This Work
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![A woman with glasses, a nose piercing, and green earrings smiling, wearing a yellow and black patterned top. She has long, dark hair, with one side shaved. The background features a colorful, intricate design or tapestry.]()
Kayla Messinger, LPC, RPT (they/she)
Neurodivergence-affirming, trauma-informed support grounded in connection and nervous system awareness
