Madison & Waunakee, WI | Online Across Wisconsin

Play Therapy

Helping kids heal, process big feelings, and grow through play.

Schedule a Free Consultation
Play therapy for children in Madison, WI

What Is Play Therapy?

At Modern Thrive Counseling, we believe play is the work of children. It is how they learn about and experience the world. Many children do not have a safe space to explore their inner world, and that is where we come in.

Play therapy is a developmentally appropriate, evidence-based approach that helps children express thoughts, feelings, and experiences through play, their natural language. Instead of relying on words alone, children use toys, art, storytelling, and imaginative play to process emotions, build coping skills, and work through challenges.

What big feelings can feel like

  • Their big feelings come out as meltdowns or shutdowns

  • They are anxious, withdrawn, or easily overwhelmed

  • Their behavior has changed after a move, loss, or hard event

  • They struggle with friendships or at school

  • They do not have the words yet for what they feel

Modern Thrive Counseling play therapy office in Madison, Wisconsin.

How We Help

Our trained therapists provide a safe, supportive space for play. Through it, we help children build confidence, emotional regulation, problem-solving, and stronger relationships, so they can heal, grow, and thrive.

Play therapy can support:

  • Emotional regulation and big feelings

  • Anxiety, worry, and fears

  • Adjusting to change, loss, or a hard experience

  • Confidence and self-esteem

  • Social skills and relationships

What Can Change

✓ Big feelings become more manageable

✓ Meltdowns happen less often

✓ Home and school feel calmer

✓ Trust grows, and hard feelings get easier to share

Taking The First Step

Step 1
Reach Out

Call 608-683-8188 or schedule a free consultation online. Our team helps with scheduling and insurance.

Step 2
Talk with Amy

Your consultation is with Amy, our founder. She learns about your child and personally matches them with the right therapist.

Step 3
Begin Play Therapy

Your child starts play therapy in a safe, welcoming space, with parent guidance along the way.

Free 10-minute Consultation

Meet Our Play Therapists

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Play therapy is designed for young children, ages 6-17, who process the world through play.

  • Play is a child’s natural language. Through toys, art, and storytelling, children process emotions and build skills, guided by a trained therapist. It is evidence-based.

  • Yes. We partner with parents and caregivers and share guidance to support your child at home.

  • Yes. In network with Quartz,, Dean Health Plan, Group Health Cooperative, and The Alliance. Superbill available for out-of-network.

  • Yes, we offer sessions in person at our Madison offices and online across Wisconsin.

Modern Thrive Counseling play therapy office in Madison, Wisconsin. Display of plush toys and small figurines on white shelving, with a puppet on a stand to the right, all arranged in a room with carpeted floor.

Ready to Get Started?

Your child does not have to struggle alone. Play therapy meets them in their own language and helps them grow. Reach out for a free consultation.

Schedule a Free Consultation