Play Therapy for Children in Vaughan & Thornhill

We combine a clinical, professional approach with genuine warmth. Our therapists are fully licensed and experienced in child development. All sessions follow proven protocols and are regularly reviewed for progress. We continually adapt activities to keep children engaged and learning. You’ll find:
Experienced Staff: Our clinicians include Registered Psychotherapists (Qualifying) and certified play therapists. Many have advanced training in child psychology and developmental disorders.
Child-Friendly Environment: Our clinic has colorful playrooms stocked with toys, games, art supplies and more, designed to make a child feel at home.
Family-Centered Care: We involve parents through regular updates and teachable moments. Families often comment how reliefing it is to have a partner in their child’s journey.
Evidence-Based: We use methods supported by research (as cited above) and continuously update our training.
Convenient Location: Our office is at 9131 Keele Street, Vaughan (Keele Rutherford Corporate Centre), just minutes from Highway 7. We serve Thornhill and all of York Region.

Play therapy is a therapeutic approach where a child’s natural medium – play – is used to address psychological issues. It’s based on the idea that play is how children communicate and learn. Any child who has difficulty expressing feelings verbally (due to age, trauma, or developmental issues) can benefit. Research shows play therapy can help with anxiety, behavioral problems, ADHD, autism, and even trauma. It helps kids develop coping and social skills in a low-pressure way

The Miller Method is a holistic, developmental therapy mainly used for autism. Unlike behaviorist approaches like ABA, Miller Method focuses on the child’s whole development through movement and communication. For example, it uses an “elevated board” to improve posture and walking, while simultaneously teaching sign language or social games. It addresses motor, sensory and emotional needs together. Many parents choose it as an ABA alternative because it can be gentler and more engaging for the child.

We treat children from preschool through early adolescence (approximately 3–12 years old), though this can vary by individual readiness. We help children with autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, anxiety disorders, oppositional behaviors, learning challenges, sensory processing issues, and more. As noted earlier, play therapy is versatile: it has shown benefits in improving social skills and emotional regulation in autism, and studies also report significant improvements in self-control and cooperation in children with ADHD. We conduct a thorough assessment to identify each child’s needs.

Every child is different. Some children start showing positive changes (like calmer behavior or increased speech) within a few weeks. Others may need several months of weekly sessions. Research suggests that play therapy often requires a series of sessions (for example, 15–20 sessions) for substantial progress. We regularly review progress and set new goals with families. Our aim is gradual, lasting improvement in skills and self-confidence

Many extended health insurance plans cover Registered Psychotherapy and counseling, which may include play therapy. Coverage varies by plan and therapist credentials. We can provide invoices and receipts (with our R.P. number) for insurance claims. We also offer a free initial consultation to discuss fees and options.

Yes. Our clinics in Vaughan serve the Thornhill area (just a short drive away). Some of our therapists may also offer home or school-based consultations in Thornhill with special arrangements. We strive to be accessible to families across York Region.

Simply contact us by phone or email to arrange a convenient time for an intake. In the first visit, we will learn about your child’s history and concerns, and often have a short, informal play session. Then we design a treatment plan. Parents always have time at the end of the session to ask questions. Our goal is to make the process smooth and supportive from day one.