Licensed Child Counselor Offering Play-based Therapy in Sterling Virginia
Helping your child build confidence, emotional awareness, and resilience, one playful session at a time.
As a licensed child counselor offering play-based therapy in Sterling Virginia, I support children ages 6–12 who are struggling with anxiety, emotional regulation, and low self-esteem. Using a creative and directive approach, I create a space where children feel safe to express themselves, learn skills, and build emotional resilience, all through the power of play.
A Warm, Collaborative Approach to Child Therapy
Hi, I’m Nichole Venable, LPC, and the founder of My Healing Haven. I specialize in helping children feel heard, supported, and capable of facing life’s challenges. With a background in both clinical counseling and parenting, I understand how hard it can be to watch your child struggle and not know how to help.
That’s why I offer individualized, play-based sessions designed to meet your child where they are, whether that’s acting out, shutting down, or quietly internalizing big feelings. Through creative expression, skill-building activities, and consistent support, I help your child gain the tools they need to feel confident and connected.
From Overwhelm to Emotional Strength
Many of the families I work with come to me feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, or unsure of what to do next. Maybe your child is anxious about school, struggling with social connections, or seems to melt down over small things. Perhaps you’ve tried books, parenting advice, or even other therapists, and nothing seems to stick.
As a licensed child counselor offering play-based therapy in Sterling Virginia, I view these struggles not as signs of failure, but as entry points for healing. Children often lack the words to describe their experiences, but through play, they naturally express what's happening inside. Together, we can turn emotional challenges into opportunities for growth, insight, and resilience.
What to Expect When Starting Play-Based Therapy
When you reach out to My Healing Haven, we’ll start with a 15-minute consultation to discuss your child’s needs and goals. Next comes an intake session with you as the parent or caregiver to explore your child’s unique story, strengths, and challenges.
Your child will then attend weekly therapy sessions that blend structured play, creative expression, and emotional skill-building. As a licensed child counselor offering play-based therapy in Sterling Virginia, I tailor each session to your child’s personality, pace, and needs, making therapy something they look forward to. We’ll check in regularly so you feel supported and informed every step of the way.
Why Families Choose My Healing Haven
Therapy with me isn’t about “fixing” your child; it’s about helping them build the internal tools they need to thrive. Some of the benefits families experience include:
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Improved emotional regulation and coping strategies
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Stronger parent-child communication
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Reduced anxiety and acting-out behaviors
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Better confidence and self-image
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A sense of safety, fun, and belonging in therapy
Because play is a child’s natural language, it opens doors to healing that talk therapy alone can’t always access. With the right support, your child can begin to feel calmer, more capable, and ready to take on the world, one small step at a time.
Take the First Step Toward Healing
If you’re ready to explore how a licensed child counselor offering play-based therapy in Sterling Virginia can help your child thrive, I invite you to reach out today. I offer a free 15-minute consultation to answer your questions and help you decide if My Healing Haven is the right fit for your family.
Let’s work together to give your child the tools they need to grow with confidence, resilience, and joy.
the tools they need to grow with confidence, resilience, and joy.