EXPERTISE
Virtual Play Therapy: Real Connection, Real Results
Therapy for Real Life
From Meltdowns to Milestones
What Is Telehealth Play Therapy?
Telehealth play therapy brings the connection, rapport, and creativity of in-person sessions online. Using video calls and a specialized virtual playroom called TELEO, I create a secure environment where children can:
Draw, build, and play in real time
Choose from digital toys and expressive tools
Play interactive games
Tell stories and process emotions
Feel seen, heard, and supported —even through a screen
How Does TELEO Work?
TELEO is a secure, kid-friendly program that acts like a virtual playroom. During the session, your child and I are together on the screen. They can “pick up” virtual toys, draw, and interact just as they would in my office. No downloads are required; you only need a computer or tablet with internet access.
Is It Secure?
Absolutely. I use only secure, HIPAA-compliant video platforms, and TELEO ensures your child’s privacy and safety. No sessions are recorded, and parents are welcome to ask questions about online security at any time.
How Does TELEO Work?
All you need is:
A quiet, private space for your child during sessions
A computer or tablet with internet access
Parent/caregiver nearby (especially for setup)
Willingness to try something new!
Yes! Research and real-world experience show that with the right tools and an experienced therapist, children can form genuine connections and do meaningful work through telehealth. I use a warm, playful approach and adapt the flow of each session to each child’s unique personality.
Can Kids Really Build Rapport Online?
Is Virtual Play Therapy Effective?
Virtual play therapy is effective for a wide range of needs, including anxiety, grief, trauma, life changes, and behavioral struggles. Kids are naturally creative and adapt quickly to interactive digital play.
This is my virtual playroom! It’s just an example, kids can make it their own by changing how it looks, adding or removing activities, and exploring all kinds of creative play. Every session is unique, just like every child.
FAQs
Do parents stay in the session?
1
For the first few sessions—especially with younger children—I often invite parents to join at the start to help the child feel comfortable and to share any updates or concerns. Once the child is engaged, most sessions are one-on-one. I always check in with parents at the end or offer a brief recap.
What if my child is hesitant to talk or engage online?
2
It’s completely normal for children to feel unsure about virtual sessions at first! I use playful, gentle approaches and tools within TELEO to help your child ease in at their own pace. Sometimes, the first session may be shorter or just about exploring the platform together. Most children warm up after a few sessions and become comfortable expressing themselves.
Is my child’s information secure and private?
3
Yes, privacy and security are top priorities. I use only secure, HIPAA-compliant video platforms. The TELEO virtual playroom is designed for confidentiality, and no sessions are recorded or stored. If you have any concerns, I am happy to answer your security questions directly.
Sometimes, working with siblings or family members can be helpful, especially if the therapy focus includes relationships or family change. We will decide together if and when to invite others into a session for specific activities or support.
Play therapy can support children with anxiety, sadness, grief, loss, family changes, trauma, confidence, coping skills, behavior struggles, and more. It’s also effective for building healthy communication and emotional awareness—even when “big problems” aren’t present.
What ages is virtual play therapy best for?
4
What if my child has trouble focusing or staying “on task” online?
Can siblings or family members join a session?
5
6
7
Virtual play therapy works well for most children ages 5 and up. The approach is tailored to your child’s developmental stage, interests, and comfort level. If you have a younger child and are unsure if this is a fit, please book a consultation and we can discuss strategies together.
Many kids do! That’s okay—sessions can be adapted to include movement breaks, fidget toys, or guided activities. The interactive features in TELEO help keep kids engaged, and I provide plenty of encouragement and positive reinforcement.
What kinds of challenges can virtual play therapy help with?
Getting started is simple!
Book a free consultation through my website
We’ll discuss your child’s needs and answer your questions
If it’s a good fit, we’ll schedule a first virtual play session, and I’ll provide clear instructions for logging in.
