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Business Details
14 Years
experience
Child Counseling and Play Therapy in Athens, GA
Growth Therapy is a dedicated child and adolescent counseling practice founded on the principle that parents are essential partners in their child's therapeutic journey. With over 15 years of specialized experience in play therapy, child development, and trauma-informed care, we provide evidence-based interventions tailored to each child's unique needs. Our approach integrates parent collaboration, offering tools and strategies to reinforce progress beyond the therapy room. Established in 2015 as part of the Athens Center for Counseling and Play Therapy, we serve families through individual counseling, family sessions, and parent coaching.

Our expertise extends to addressing anxiety, behavioral challenges, family transitions, and trauma recovery. We prioritize flexibility with virtual options, evening appointments, and customized payment solutions to ensure accessible care. As a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor, we maintain rigorous professional standards while fostering a supportive environment for children, teens, and their families.
Services
Child Counseling Play Therapy Parent Coaching Family Counseling Online Parenting Support Consultations Supervision Services Court Testimony Speaking Engagements E-Courses
Details
  • Year established: 2012
Highlights and features
  • We offer 15+ years of specialized experience in child therapy and play therapy.
  • Our approach actively involves parents as key agents of change in their child's development.
  • We provide evidence-based interventions for anxiety, trauma, and behavioral challenges.
  • Our practice includes expert witness services for child mental health and abuse cases.
  • Flexible scheduling with evening appointments and virtual parent support options.
Associations and certifications
  • Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor (RPT-S)
  • Association for Play Therapy
Services
Child Counseling
Individualized counseling for children aged 2+ using play therapy techniques to address emotional, behavioral, and social challenges. Sessions focus on building coping skills and improving communication through developmentally appropriate activities tailored to each child's specific needs and interests.
Parent Coaching
Structured coaching sessions to help parents understand child behavior patterns and implement effective strategies at home. We provide practical tools for managing anxiety, behavioral issues, and family transitions while maintaining collaborative therapeutic relationships with both parents and children.
Play Therapy
Evidence-based intervention using play to help children express emotions and develop healthy coping mechanisms. Our Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor utilizes age-appropriate activities like art, games, and role-play to address trauma, anxiety, and behavioral concerns in a safe, supportive environment.
Family Counseling
Sessions involving multiple family members to address relational dynamics and improve communication. We work with families to resolve conflicts, navigate transitions, and strengthen relationships through structured activities and therapeutic guidance tailored to the family's specific challenges.
Court Testimony
Expert witness services for legal cases involving child mental health and abuse issues. Our therapist provides professional testimony based on clinical expertise and case documentation, with fees starting at $1000 plus hourly rates for additional services.
People
Leigh Ellen
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Founder of Growth Therapy and Athens Center for Counseling and Play Therapy. Specializes in child therapy, play therapy, and trauma-informed care with 15+ years of experience. Provides parent coaching, court testimony services, and professional training for therapists.
Questions
What age groups do you work with?
We provide services for children starting at age 2 through adolescence, with family involvement as needed.
Do you accept insurance?
We provide documentation for out-of-network reimbursement but do not bill insurance directly for therapy sessions.
What is your cancellation policy?
We require 24-hour notice for cancellations; missed appointments without notice incur full fees.
Are virtual sessions available?
Yes, we offer virtual play therapy and parenting support sessions for flexible access to care.
What specialized training do you have?
Our lead therapist is a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor with advanced training in trauma and child development.