Berkeley Play Therapy works with children using play therapy, EMDR, and yoga.
About Kristen
Kristen Hurvitz, LCSW, RPT is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Registered Play Therapist, and certified EMDR Therapist.
Kristen’s clinical work is influenced by current research on play therapy, neurobiology, and the mind-body connection. Kristen incorporates EMDR, play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and body-based interventions such as yoga, mindful movement, and sensory awareness into treatment.
Kristen’s area of focus includes anxiety, giftedness/twice exceptional, high sensitivity, and sensory processing challenges.
Families often want to seek therapy for their child, but the difficulty in doing so can be due to time constraints or a child that is uncomfortable/resistant to therapy. Berkeley Play Therapy provides sessions in the child’s home, which can be less stressful and time-consuming than office based visits.
Location
Berkeley Play Therapy can provide services in the following communities: Berkeley, Albany, El Cerrito, Kensington, and Oakland.
Contact Information
Phone: 510.280.3811
Email: kristen@berkeleyplaytherapy.com
Education / License
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
State of California Board of Behavioral Sciences, 74154
Master in Social Work (MSW)
University of Washington
Master in Human Services (MS)
Springfield College
Cultural Anthropology (BA)
Western Washington University
Certifications/Training
Registered Play Therapist-Association for Play Therapy
Certified EMDR Therapist & EMDR Consultant In Training
SPACE-Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotion-Yale Child Study Center
Yoga Calm
Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (TF-CBT)
Professional Affiliations
California Association for Play Therapy (CALAPT), Past President
EMDR International Association
Supporting Emotional Needs of the Gifted (SENG)
What does “Registered Play Therapist” Mean?
Many therapists with varying levels of training work with children and may utilize play as part of their therapy. Registered Play Therapists are credentialed through the National Association for Play Therapy. To be credentialed, a play therapist must go through a rigorous training program including 150 approved play therapy education hours, 500 hours of supervised play therapy experience that includes 50 supervision hours by a Registered Play Therapy Supervisor.
Play Therapy
Play Therapy involves the use of play to communicate with children and to help children learn to solve problems and change negative behaviors. Children naturally engage in play to create meaning and organize experiences. This allows children to distance themselves from difficult feelings and memories through symbolic expression, using the toys as the medium to disclose these feelings.
To learn more about Play Therapy visit the Association for Play Therapy website
EMDR
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro is validated as an evidence-based approach and included in SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) and the National Registry of Evidence-Based Programs and Practices. EMDR therapy has been used with children and adolescents and is accepted by The California Evidence-Based Clearinghouse for Child Welfare as an evidence-based therapy for children. For additional information on EMDR, visit EMDR International Association www.emdria.org.
Yoga
Yoga, mindful movement, and body based awareness can assist in developing social/emotional awareness, sensory integration, regulation, communication, and attention.
School Consultation Services
At times your child may be struggling in school and may benefit from specialized school supports. With a signed release of information, I am able to communicate with schools to advocate for your child’s social, emotional, and behavioral needs.
Fees
$250 for the first 75-minute intake session and $175 for each 50 minute session. Individual EMDR consultation is offered at $175 for each session; group EMDR consultation is also available.
Payment is cash, check, or credit card and due at the time of service. Reduced fee services are available on a limited basis. Berkeley Play Therapy does not accept insurance but would be happy to provide you with a monthly invoice of services that can be submitted to your insurance provider.
Cancellation Policy
Because an appointment slot is saved for you, there will be a $95 charge for appointments cancelled or missed with less than 24 hours notice.