CORE VALUES
At the heart of our play therapy center is a deep reverence for the unique inner world of each child. We believe that healing and growth emerge from nurturing relationships, symbolic expression, and the integration of the self.
Relationship as foundation:
We honor the therapeutic relationship as a secure base from which the child can explore, express, and reorganize internal object relations. Every interaction is grounded in empathy, attunement, and respect for the unique emotional landscape of each child.
Play as the child’s natural language:
Play is the primary medium through which children communicate their inner worlds. We value the spontaneous, imaginative, and often transformative nature of play as a path to understanding and healing.
Congruence:
​We hold congruence as a core clinical and ethical value—providing care that is authentic, aligned, and within the scope of our depth-oriented, play-based approach. We recognize that we cannot meet every need, and that we are not big enough to provide play therapy for all of Jefferson County. When a child’s healing requires a different modality or level of support, we provide referrals and limited support to the family. In this way, we remain both inclusive and clinically grounded—offering care that is both accessible and appropriately responsive.
The Power of the unconscious:
We recognize the vital role of the unconscious in a child's emotional life. Through symbolic play and creative expression, we create a space where archetypal themes, fantasies, and unspoken experiences can safely emerge and be held. By doing process-oriented depth work, we see changes occur from the inside out, and we honor each child’s unique path to healing.
​Commitment to equity:
We believe that every child deserves access to high-quality mental health care, regardless of socioeconomic status, race, identity, or background. We are committed to reducing barriers to care, advocating for equity, and creating inclusive spaces where all children and families feel seen, valued, and supported.
