benefits of play therapy Archives - Crossroads Collective

What Is Play Therapy and How Is It Beneficial?

by Crossroads Collective | Feb 28, 2020 | Physical Health

Has your child ever showed signs of emotional, behavioral, social, or academic issues? Have they recently gone through something disruptive or traumatic? If so, play therapy could be the perfect solution for your family. Since traditional therapy can be too intense...

Google Rating

4.5

Based on 105 reviews

Crossroads Collective

4.5

Theresa Gill

05:36 24 Sep 24

If you’re looking for a skilled and attentive massage therapist, Shawna Middleton is the one to see. I cannot recommend her highly enough. Shawna always takes the time to understand my needs and preferences, creating a personalized experience that targets my specific areas of tension. Her technique is exceptional, providing me with tremendous relief and improved mobility, leaving me pain-free and relaxed every time.Her expertise is evident, and every massage with Shawna is outstanding. I always look forward to my appointments!

Bradley Drake

15:08 28 Jul 24

Talia Spear is hands down one of the better family mediators out there these days. She’s clever, thoughtful and upfront. There’s no judgement about where you’ve been or what’s happened when you speak to her. She doesn’t gouge you for money, and you’ll end up talking productively about what could work and your kids instead of arguing. I was surprised that productive discussion was even possible after the years of needing judges to step in. My ex and I have used her a few times now. Each time somehow we’ve agreed on what we were originally disagreeing about. It’s been a fraction of the cost of what other mediators and lawyers charged us and Talia actually got us somewhere. I’ve recommended her to just about everyone who says they’re going to family court and I’ve only heard positive feedback about her. She even gives us links to resources for the agreements we come to. It makes it easy to get started on the right path. I think she made our lives easier, and it feels like we understand each other better than we ever have.

Amber Wood

02:04 05 Jul 24

My daughter absolutely loved seeing Mansi here. She has such a playful demeanor with littles and was able to get her to open up, as well as give her tools to use in her day to day life.

Amanda Bradley

16:56 21 Jun 24

We've had great experiences at the Langley office and continue to utilize their services.

Mars :P

23:00 30 May 24

Jennifer Peter

18:45 03 May 24

Nisha Sangwan was wonderful, she's very warm and personable. I highly recommend Nisha for anyone looking for Trauma Therapy.

Dianne mckay

01:40 26 Mar 24

Mary T is such a kind empathetic counselor. She worked with our Daughter for a year and it really made a difference. Our daughter enjoyed their visits and always left feeling heard. Thank you Mary.

Meagan Taylor

03:18 25 Mar 24

Good experience always. Responsive admin staff. Respectful of privacy. Nice clean comfortable space.

Kate Halovich

03:07 23 Feb 24

I've been seeing Mary Tuhkala since the beginning of 2024 to help me navigate divorce and co-parenting. I really trust her guidance and appreciate how well she listens and offers tools that specifically assist the challenges I'm facing. Her calm demeanor and reassurance have helped me define my boundaries, identify my strengths and weaknesses, and implement the tools she's teaching me. I would highly recommend seeing Mary if you're looking to improve yourself in a safe and caring environment. I'm so thankful to have the opportunity to invest in my wellbeing with Mary.

Caleb Wust

04:29 14 Feb 24

Warm and Welcoming. Great experience.I was with Shannon Lawrence and she worked hard and helped me in some tough times.

Nicole Burt

16:36 20 Nov 23

I have been attending counseling with Shannon Lawrence for almost a year now, and am so blessed by her warmth and compassion, support and encouragement, every time I see her.As an adult who has come through trauma during my formative years, I hadn’t been to a counselor since I was 13 years old. Shannon’s heart for her clients, the wisdom and practical knowledge she imparts, and the genuine concern and care she shows, permeates beyond the walls of her office.

Vienna Sparrow

22:37 19 Nov 23

Katrina Lacson - Aperocho

19:29 25 Oct 23

Got nothing to say but thank you to Shannon Lawrence for helping me overcome my issues. She was so willing to listen and showed compassion every session I had with her. Didn't judge but instead focused in helping me out and gave me steps to get back in shape. One of the best decision I've made is to go to her and seek for help highly recommended and will advise anyone to go and talk to her should anyone needs a hand.

Brian Hawes

23:04 09 Oct 23

All of my kids go here and always look forward to their next visit with Nadine and especially Oakley

Livia Ribeiro

03:26 05 Oct 23

Maxine Miller

04:23 03 Oct 23

It's hard to fit the impact that Nadine has made in my daughter's and really my whole families life in a Google review. My daughter struggles with ADHD and anxiety and multiple comorbidities that can come along with these diagnoses. Nadine has gone over and above to support her. Wether it be teaching her the skills and tools needed to help her function better in her day to day life. Sitting with her and allowing her to just be who she is. Attending meetings to help advocate for my daughter and the supports she needs. Nadine was detremental in the implementation and execution of her IEP and safety plan within her school. She has helped my daughter through some of her darkest times and celebrated her through some of her best. She has helped me to better understand the way my daughter's brain works and in the process greatly decreased conflict and improved our relationship. My daughter went through many other therapists before we found Nadine. Her ability to connect with my daughter and have her actually listen and put into practice what she's saying, while keeping her feeling safe and accepted is incredible. The fact that she has a therapy dog, Oakley, is just the icing on the cake. All it takes is for my daughter to sit with Oakley and the relief of anxiety from her is palpable. Nadine is truly one of a kind and we are so grateful to have her.

Susan Robertson

22:44 02 Oct 23

My kids have thrived with the guidance from Nadine and her therapy dog, Oakley. Oakley relaxes the kids and puts them at ease. They ask to see him and are very disappointed when he is not there. Nadine has really helped build their confidence and self awareness.

J C

23:38 22 Sep 23

Don COMIA

19:16 01 Sep 23

G Strachan

15:57 26 Jun 23

Aaron Konecsni

13:27 21 Jun 23

I had the pleasure of knowing Brent Hayter for over a decade when he was teaching at the middle school where I worked as a hockey skating and skills coach. Brent served as the teacher and coordinator of the hockey program and fitness program for the class during this time. I can confidently say that in my 25 years of working in the school district, I have never encountered a more respected teacher than Brent.Brent's ability to teach life lessons through the game of hockey and fitness was truly remarkable. His dedication and passion went far beyond his job description. He genuinely cared about his students and always strived to empower them. Brent's empathy allowed him to connect with students on a deep level, while his honest and straightforward approach ensured that they received the truth and practical advice to achieve their goals or overcome challenging situations.Not only was Brent exceptional with children, but he was also an incredible friend and mentor. Personally, I have learned a great deal from him, benefiting from his wisdom and incredible work ethic. Impressed by his teaching abilities, I hired Brent to run camps for me in Northern BC, and the feedback from participants was outstanding. Everyone absolutely loved him!Brent's transition to counselling at Crossroads Collective is a natural fit for his talents and passion for helping others. I have no doubt that his skills as a therapist are as exemplary as his teaching abilities. If you're seeking guidance and support, I highly recommend Brent Hayter without hesitation. Whether it's individual counselling or group counselling, you can trust him to be genuine, empathetic, and offer the honest truth while providing invaluable advice to navigate your way through any situation.Brent's exceptional character, combined with his wealth of experience, make him an invaluable asset for anyone in need of guidance. Don't hesitate to reach out to him - he is the person you want by your side on your journey to personal growth and self-discovery

Marg Rodrigues

02:50 03 Jun 23

Everything from booking appoints to the councillor’s advice has been most appreciative

Pinder Dhillon

14:48 06 May 23

Loved Ritika's Yoga,(Eye) JOINT openingMost recommended

PiNDu DhLlON

14:45 06 May 23

Loved Rikita's yoga,(eye) joint opening. Most recommended.

D Jay

06:14 27 Apr 23

The kids have fun at Music Therapy with Aimee. Music can be used as an effective way to communicate! I like that families have access to a range of therapies at Crossroads Collective.

Daphne Bell

23:28 26 Apr 23

Shannon Lawrence is a fantastic children’s therapist. We’ve benefited from her creative and direct approaches in working with anxiety and PTSD.

Bianca Di Castri

19:12 26 Apr 23

I came to crossroads because my 4 year old son was struggling with not seeing his dad. Shannon has been able to help my son during this difficult time and even his daycare has made comments about the change in him too. I am so grateful for Shannon and crossroads for being there for my son!

Chantelle Mochrie

20:55 16 Apr 23

Nadine has had such a positive impact on our anxious daughter. She has given us practical strategies and ways to help our daughter (and us!) cope with her big worries. Our daughter absolutely loves her sessions with Nadine (and your pups!) Thank you for your kindness, experience, and ability to instil confidence in our daughter!

Madi Ziehr

00:10 29 Mar 23

My experience (online) has been nothing short of pleasant and helpful. I truly could not recommend them more.

Emily K

19:32 21 Mar 23

I have been going through a very hard time and I have never reached out for extra help but today it got to be too much and I searched online for a counselor which led me here. I called in tears and unfortunately I cannot remember if her name was Cindy and Sandy but she calmed me down right away, and set me up for an appointment with Stacey who was a very comforting person. I’m very grateful for their quick action and I’m excited to see where things go.

Danika Inwood

05:23 22 Jan 23

If I could give 5+ stars I would. The office is clean and always very calm. I don't normally have to interact with the office staff but when I do they have been very sweet and helpful! To the important part... I've been seeing Jeanne, since the end of August 2022. I had such an awful experience with therapy when I was a teen, that I was soooo scared to give it another chance. After my first appointment with Jeanne, I knew that this was going to be so good for me in the long run. She's really good at making me feel heard, and help organize my feelings and thoughts. I reaaaaallly am working on just being more self-aware and putting a self-care action plan into place and having Jeanne there every week has definitely helped me with my accountability. I'm really glad that I have her in my corner, because I honestly believe that a lot of my happiness now is due to the work we've been doing in therapy.

Cody Young

23:44 28 Dec 22

I had a great time with Michael at crossroads. Not only am I feeling 10 better, but I am feeling empowered with the tools to fight depression and be happy!

Anima Abscond

22:29 13 Dec 22

We have two children who have been seeing Shannon Lawrence for a year, and find the service to be fantastic. She is truly excellent with our kids, in both play and non-play therapies.

Emily Kats

15:15 21 Oct 22

Amazing. Super helpful office staff. Was comfortable and welcoming. We were matched up with Lisa and it’s been a wonderful experience so far. My Husband and I are looking forward to continuing our work with Lisa in our sessions. I think that speaks for itself.

Leisha Kennedy

02:23 05 Oct 22

I take my daughter to see Nadine and we are so happy with the help and tools that she has provided our family. My daughter loves the play based therapy and looks forward to each session. All the staff we have worked with have been helpful and kind.

Ana Cecilia Alvarez

17:14 22 Sep 22

It makes such a difference having the opportunity to talk about every day situations that seem normal but are actually creating a lot of stress in our daily lives. Shannon has been amazing, listening patiently and asking the right questions to help me understand how to manage my expectations. She’s also given me tools and tips to improve my daily habits and I can finally feel myself again.I am a better person, mom and partner.I highly recommend her services.

Elyse

18:46 20 Sep 22

Both of my young daughters see Shannon Lawrence for play therapy to assist with general anxiety and one for OCD. Both of my girls love going and are always excited to go to their appointments, they are always very disappointed when it is time to leave. Having children struggle with anxiety is very emotional as a parent, Shannon has been very supportive and creative with how she is helping not only my kids, but myself and my spouse combat the challenges and individual needs of my kids. I cannot recommend her enough, she is absolutely amazing!

Maninder Kaur

22:48 22 Aug 22

My child received very good services from Mansi Parekh at crossroads collective. She is so friendly and polite and my child learns a lot from her. I wish if we can continue services from Mansi but because of moving I can’t bring my child again there and my child miss that place a lot he always miss the time he spend during session. I Want to says thanks to Mansi Parekh to teach so many things to my child.

M Mohammed

23:06 18 Aug 22

Colleen Franklin is the SHIZZNITT!! She has not only helped me navigate the challenging times that I have experienced with the utmost care and knowledge and skillfully articulate way on how she does her job! Colleen you get a 20 outta 10 !! You have not only helped reprogram me for the better but you have been the BEST counsellor this place has to offer! Hands down 100%. I highly recommend Colleen Franklin to anyone who needs a mental tune up and she has a 100 bay garage to take care of that old engine that needs repairs! Make ya feel good as new!!

Alan Yamamoto

01:03 29 Jul 22

Highly recommended to help with toddler issues. Gave many options with an organized summary of talking points.

Arianne Pelchat

04:01 07 Jul 22

Cass is amazing!! She is full of knowledge and such a helpful tool in my journey to healing

Wilson Gladman

01:37 05 Jul 22

Cassandra is amazing. She’s easy to get along with, but challenges you to work hard at healing without making you uncomfortable. 10/10 would recommend her to anyone

Tara Grant

00:40 30 Jun 22

Absolutely AMAZING! With COVID our son has experienced extreme anxiety and Cassandra at Crossroads Collective has helped make such a difference in his and our lives. Our son looks forward to his weekly sessions and the improvement with his anxiety has been amazing. The skills he takes home is something he is really leaning into and even sharing with the family. Our son is very comfortable in the office, and thankfully Cassandra is very welcoming and allows a little couch jumping and some science experiments to keep him engaged.We highly recommend Cassandra and Crossroad Collective!

Isaiah Collins

02:12 14 Jun 22

The team at crossroads has helped give my son the tools to help express his emotions. Thank you! I highly recommend

Margaret McGee

16:48 12 Jun 22

My 5 year old daughter started seeing Shannon from Crossroads after she was showing signs of separation anxiety. Shannon really helped her to use her words when she is feeling nervous and different strategies to help in those situations. Thank you so much Shannon, the progress has been wonderful!

Mathing Around

01:28 18 May 22

My son started seeing Shannon for play therapy to help him cope with his big emotions. He loves going and I have seen him working on goals that he has set with her. I feel more confident as a parent knowing that he has someone to talk to about things that he might not be ready to share with me. Everyone at the office has always been super helpful and friendly. I’m so glad that my friend recommended Crossroads Collective.

Jocelyn M

20:14 11 May 22

A. Cumiskey

00:09 07 May 22

My daughter has had a wonderful experience working with Mansi at Crossroads Collective. She immediately made a connection and felt comfortable. She always looks forward to her sessions and it has helped her immensely to cope with her anxiety.

Amanda Britten

16:59 23 Apr 22

My daughter has been seeing Nadine for over a year now and she has been a tremendous help. My daughter has really connected with Nadine and has been making huge strides. She has really helped us with our communication. I am so grateful that we have found her.

Tyson Konecny

04:38 14 Apr 22

I have been a patient of Erin McKay for a few years now. She is excellent. I had tingling in my hands due to my back being a mess. She fixed the right up. She is friendly, professional and extremely knowledgeable. I would recommend her to my friends. And I have!

Annette Gibson

16:43 09 Apr 22

We have been seeing Shannon Lawrence for the past 6 weeks and my Son is doing much better. So many kids are suffering from Anxiety since this pandemic and Shannon has given us some valuable tools to help deal with the increased challenges.

Denise Shindak

04:37 07 Apr 22

I recently had the pleasure to meet with your newest member of crossroads collective. Melissa White. Our group session was an excellent 1st time experience for myself and she connected with everyone. It was magical and life changing. Thanks so much Melissa! We look forward to meeting again!

jim stephenson

01:51 07 Apr 22

After getting into a car accident four years ago, Erin has the experience, correct pressure to take care of my situations. My wife and son also go see her I’ve recommended friends to go.Great staff, helpful and friendly

Jill Simpson

20:06 06 Apr 22

Erin is so good at what she does. She is extremely accommodating to any injury and has helped relive my pain post MVA’s tremendously. Highly recommend her as a massage therapist.

Niki Penz

21:59 05 Apr 22

The offices are clean and quiet with a relaxed and therapeutic atmosphere. The professional staff are kind and helpful with flexible hours. We took time to choose the right therapist for our child. Shannon is warm and calm, she established a strong connection with our child from the start. We have come to rely on her as a crucial member of our care team. She offers consistent and practical approaches for our child to learn about herself and the world around her. Shannon has been a strong support in our lives as we navigate anxiety, ADHD and an understaffed school district.

Julie

18:10 30 Mar 22

My son is a teen and sees Nadine Viker. She's approachable and engaging with my teen (which can be challenging with this age). He can really relate to her and finds her easy to talk with her. He has appointments with her alone and with me as well. She helps to mediate issues between us as needed and I love that she'll call either of us out if we're the one out of line. She's also saved my sanity with some parenting sessions as well. I would definitely recommend Nadine as a counsellor.

NV Queen

03:11 17 Jan 22

I don't have much to say about this place. The staff are super sweet and it's a nice waiting area. The rooms are pretty cute and spacy. It's overall really nice.

KRISTY S

22:22 11 Jan 22

After a couple years of my son struggling in peer environments, I decided to reach out to Crossroad Collective for some Play Therapy/Anxiety support. We met with Lisa initially, who instantly made us comfortable and took the time to listen to our needs. She paired us up with a fabulous Counsellor, Shannon, that was familiar with the school district dynamic as well. My son felt very comfortable with Shannon and we both noticed some positive changes through out the months of sessions. We have reached a point that sessions are no longer required, to which I give all the credit to Shannon and the clinic. Should we ever need future support, I will not hesitate to come back. The hours are flexible, which works for busy families. The physical space itself is also expanding and beautiful!

Nicole Ziegler

06:48 17 Dec 21

We have been seeing Shannon weekly for behaviour play therapy and my son loves going!! We have already noticed some small improvements it’s been wonderful. Everyone in the clinic is warm and welcoming it’s been a great experience.

Tyson Robertson

01:30 30 Nov 21

Sheena T

22:48 27 Nov 21

Such a welcoming and calming environment! A very comfortable space to wait while my son had his appointments! We did not feel judged or uncomfortable at all and got very realistic and applicable help here with Shannon! Great clinic, great staff, so grateful.

Mark Stoklosa

02:30 05 Nov 21

M B

00:55 20 Sep 21

Tracy Tillapaugh

23:58 18 Sep 21

Rebecca Steward

16:32 13 Sep 21

Shannon has been amazing with my 11 year old daughter, she’s been dealing with some anxiety and sensory overload for the last few years and she instantly connected with Shannon. She was excited to go and we noticed a change in her attitude right away!

Jasmine Kullar

08:58 02 Aug 21

Tj Sandhu has helped me in ways that I cannot explain. In simply 3 sessions, she has already pulled me out of a place that I didn’t think I could get out of. She’s so caring and you feel so comfortable around her. I would recommend her to anyone. I’m so happy I found her as I will be keeping her as my counsellor as long as I can throughout life.

Monica Leclair

02:33 27 Jul 21

I researched numerous counselling centres online and ultimately decided to contact Crossroads Collective based off their positive reviews. After calling them, I was impressed with how quickly Shannon Lawrence connected with me for an initial consultation. Shannon was easy to talk to and completely understanding of the situation. My son struggles with anxiety, but was totally at ease around Shannon from the very beginning. Her approachable and enthusiastic nature has exceeded expectations; my son always looks forward to his play therapy sessions!

Michelle Young

02:29 07 May 21

Both of my daughters go to Crossroads Collective and I often recommend their services to others. My youngest is Autistic and sees Shannon for play therapy and behavioural consulting and she has made such a difference in our home life by helping Sophie be able to express her emotions in a more functional manner. Sophie looks forward to her time with her and we love and appreciate all the gains we are seeing at home. I am seriously so thankful for the insight she has given me into our girl during our conversations as well.My oldest is a preteen and sees Nadine for counselling. She has anxiety and Nadine has been teaching her tools to cope with her anxiety and work through it. Recently we had to start going a little less frequently and my daughter was very sad to not be able to see Nadine each week. I would say that itself shows how much she feels Nadine is helping her.Everyone I have had contact with at Crossroads have been professional and warm, my girls love it there and I can’t recommend them enough.

Linda Tran

22:00 08 Apr 21

I hard a time finding a place for my girls and I was recommended by a friend to here and I have been impressed. My oldest daughter sees Shannon and she has been amazing with her. My daughter is very comfortable and happy to see her. Shannon has been understanding, gentle and listens to what she has to say and works with my daughter in ways to combat her anxiety.

Angela Di Pietra

17:26 01 Apr 21

Shannon Lawrence was the first therapist my daughter really liked! She’s awesome.

Shana de Leeuw

15:41 01 Apr 21

Shannon has been amazing with my son. He was recently diagnosed with ASD and she has been a great help with his needs. I highly recommend Shannon.

Jessika Macleod

04:32 01 Apr 21

Nicole Baldin

04:11 14 Jan 21

Shannon is amazing!! My daughter looks forward to her sessions with such excitement every week. I feel so blessed to have stumbled across a Facebook post on the Langley moms group that lead us to her. I have noticed a huge improvement in my daughter’s behaviour and anxiety since working with Shannon and am so happy with her progress. I would recommend her to anyone in a heartbeat.

francesca castro

04:24 13 Jan 21

Honestly, I had called numerous places to inquire about play therapy for my child. And no one was getting back to me. I found Crossroads Collective’s number , and thought maybe I’d give it one last shot. They returned my call immediately. And from the second I heard Shannon’s voice I immediately felt comfortable and knew it was a great fit. There was a good reason no one had called me back from the other businesses. Shannon is friendly, understanding, empathic and great at listening and trying to address our concerns. My child has developed a great relationship with Shannon, in a short period of time, and is comfortable talking to her and is using some of the tools Shannon has suggested for her. I appreciate the time and effort Shannon puts into our appointments and helps provide me with with great material, links, strategies and tools that I can use to assist my child, and our family. I would highly recommend Shannon and her team at Crossroads! We are so thankful for their services.

Christina Mills

20:30 09 Jan 21

AMAZING! I had been having so much trouble finding a team that could help me an my children, for anxiety, behaviours and just general wellness. Super understanding about my financial situation too. After several years of trying to find consistant help for my son, I now finally have that. Nadiene has been spectacular with him! And Lisa was a force to help me get the support I needed, making a case with my EAP progamme to get more sessions as they were being unethical.And what can I say about Kelsy, Nadine's therapy dog? Just wow! What a natural. not only putting my children at ease in an unfamilar surrounding but I could tell she also knew that I was down.What an amazing team at Crossroads. I can't thank them enough!

Ofir Vaisman RCC, MCP, EFT

23:17 03 Dec 20

Wonderful management and effective counsellors. We've worked with Crossroads for a year and have nothing but good things to say. Looking forward to a continued relationship.

Izaak Mclachlen

03:07 21 Oct 20

Marianne has been a pleasure to work with. She brings a warm and welcoming demeanour mixed with her sense of humour to every session. I can't recommend her counselling services enough for any number of issues you may have.

Monica Mindel

13:18 29 Sep 20

Shannon Lawrence is very professional. She has been working with my daughter for the last 6 months. Shannon has developed programs that are very well presented and thought out. Her ability to connect with our daugher is amazing. I would highly recommend her for anyone who has a child dealing with ADHD, Anxiety and autism.

Marie L

00:01 28 Sep 20

Crossroads collective has really helped us immensely! Our daughter has been seeing Shannon for anxiety/fear issues. We have seen so many improvements in such a short time!Well thought out care plan and it is so easy to communicate to Shannon whenever we need to! Text..email....she makes herself available!!We have been so pleased and would recommend Shannon Lawrence/ Crossroads Collective to anyone!

Lina Barrera

01:14 24 Sep 20

Cheryl Santer

15:44 07 Aug 20

Nadine Viker is absolutely fabulous Behavioral Interventionist. She has done wonders with my 16 year old high functioning ASD child. Her therapy dog Kelsey is the highlight of my child’s time with Nadine.

Stephanie Parker

15:30 07 Aug 20

Nadine has been working with my 10 year old for about a year. She has been doing wonders for our child and our family, helping us implement schedules and appropriate natural consequences. She has taken so much of the drama out of our lives by making things clear and concise for our child with ADHD. Thank you Nadine!!

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What Is Play Therapy and How Is It Beneficial?

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