Play Therapy

At Alderwood Psych, we recognize that play is a child’s natural way of communicating. Our play therapy services in Charlotte, NC, provide children with a safe, supportive environment where they can express feelings, explore their inner world, and develop healthy coping strategies through play.

Led by Sydney Sarfan, M.A., LCMHC, our play therapy program supports emotional growth, strengthens communication, and helps families navigate behavioral and emotional challenges in a calm, child-centered setting.

child in play therapy session in charlotte nc

What is Play Therapy?

Play therapy is a developmentally appropriate, evidence-based form of therapy for children. Rather than relying only on words, children use play, toys, and creative activities to communicate thoughts and emotions that may be difficult to express verbally.

Through child-centered play therapy, children can process experiences, build problem-solving skills, and practice emotional regulation. Trained play therapists observe patterns in a child’s play and gently support growth within a trusted therapeutic relationship.

 

How is Play Therapy Different from Talk Therapy?

Children often lack the language to explain complex emotions or difficult situations. Play therapy offers a non-directive, creative outlet where children can communicate through play rather than conversation alone.

Using toys, art, and imagination, children work through feelings at their own pace while the therapist provides structure, reflection, and emotional safety. For many children, play therapy feels like being understood without needing to explain everything in words.

 

What Play Therapy Can Help With

Play therapy can support children experiencing a variety of emotional and behavioral difficulties, including:

  • Anxiety, sadness, or big emotions
  • Behavioral struggles at home or school
  • ADHD, Autism, ODD, or other developmental diagnoses
  • Family transitions such as divorce, separation, or loss
  • Social skills challenges or peer difficulties
  • Trauma or other stressful life events

Through play therapy, children learn to express emotions, build self-esteem, and develop healthier ways to cope with everyday life.

Meet our Play Therapist

Sydney Sarfan, M.A., LCMHC

Sydney Sarfan is a Licensed Psychological Associate who specializes in working with children, teens, and families. Her warm, collaborative approach helps young clients feel comfortable expressing themselves, whether through play, art, or conversation.

Sydney is passionate about helping children develop emotional awareness, strengthen communication skills, and build resilience through creative therapeutic methods.

sydney sarfan therapist

Read Sydney’s full bio to learn more about her training and approach.

Our Play Therapy Space

Our play therapy rooms at Alderwood are thoughtfully designed to feel calm, welcoming, and safe. Each space includes carefully selected toys, art materials, and sensory tools that encourage expression and creative problem-solving.

The goal is simple: to create a space where your child feels comfortable enough to open up, play, and grow.

Play therapy room with toys and creative materials during a play therapy session.

Schedule a Play Therapy Consultation

If you think your child may benefit from play therapy, we’re here to help. Our intake process begins with a parent consultation to better understand your child’s needs and determine the best path forward

 

Schedule a Consultation

Play Therapy FAQs

What age range is appropriate for play therapy?

Play therapy is most commonly used with children ages 3–12, though older adolescents may also benefit — especially those who express themselves best through creative activities.

 

How long does play therapy take?

Every child is different. Some show progress in a few sessions, while others benefit from ongoing weekly support. Your therapist will collaborate with you to set goals and adjust the plan as needed.

 

Are parents involved in the play therapy process?

Parent involvement is an important part of the process. Your therapist may meet with you to share updates, discuss progress, and offer guidance for supporting your child at home.

 

What happens during a typical play therapy session?

Sessions take place in a safe, structured environment where children engage in play activities chosen to support expression, emotional regulation, and problem-solving. The therapist observes, reflects, and guides the process based on the child’s needs.

 

Is play therapy covered by insurance?

Alderwood Psychological Services is an out-of-network provider and does not participate directly with any insurance plans. All services are self-pay. However, we can provide a Statement for Insurance Reimbursement (also known as a superbill) that you may submit to your insurance company if your plan offers out-of-network benefits. Your individual insurance policy determines coverage and reimbursement. Some FSA/HSA plans may be used, and we can accept ESA+ payments through Class Wallet.

 

Where is your office located?

We're conveniently located in South Charlotte at 10724 Carmel Commons Blvd, Suite 540, Charlotte, NC 28226, easily accessible for families throughout the Charlotte metro area.

Explore more Play Therapy FAQs or call 704-750-1602 to speak with our team.

You Do Not Have to Figure This Out Alone

If you think your child may benefit from play therapy, we are here to help. Our process begins with a parent consultation to better understand your child’s needs and determine the most appropriate path forward.

Schedule a consultation with us. We’d love to meet your family and help you take the next step toward growth and healing.

 

Schedule a Consultation

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