Finding the right play therapist for your child can feel overwhelming. You want someone who understands anxiety, neurodivergence, and family dynamics — and who makes the process feel safe. We've rounded up five standout practices across South Carolina that specialize
Why Play Therapy Matters More Than Ever
Play therapy isn't just fun and games — it's a clinically proven approach that helps children process emotions, build social skills, and work through trauma. In South Carolina, demand for child-centered mental health services has grown steadily, with practices expanding to meet the need. From the Upstate to the Lowcountry, therapists are using play to unlock communication with kids who may not have the words for what they're feeling. The best practices combine evidence-based techniques with a warm, welcoming environment that puts both children and parents at ease.
How We Ranked These Practices
We evaluated each practice on specialization in play therapy, range of issues addressed (anxiety, neurodivergence, trauma, etc.), parent involvement, accessibility (location, hours, pricing), and overall reputation. We also considered how clearly each practice communicates its scope of services and crisis protocols — because transparency matters when your child's well-being is on the line.
Here's a quick look at how these five practices compare, from pricing and specialties to what makes each one stand out.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| The Counseling and Play Therapy Center of Charleston | Comprehensive, award-winning play therapy with multiple locations |
| Modern Wellness Counseling | Families in the Upstate seeking a large team with diverse specialties |
| Choices Counseling | A balanced approach combining play therapy with other evidence-based methods |
| Chapin Children's Counseling | Affordable, specialized play therapy in the Chapin/Columbia area |
| Ann Mac Prevost Counseling | Parent-involved play therapy with a warm, individual approach |
The Top 5 Play Therapy Practices in South Carolina
#1 The Counseling and Play Therapy Center of Charleston
A screenshot of The Counseling and Play Therapy Center of Charleston website.
Voted Best Child Therapy Practice of South Carolina in 2026, this center has three convenient locations across Charleston — James Island, Mount Pleasant, and West Ashley. Their team includes specialized play therapists who partner with parents, pediatricians, and occupational therapists to create a holistic support system. Clinical Director Hannah Miller, LPC, offers virtual Child Parent Relationship Training (CPRT) to empower parents at home. With a focus on inclusivity and courageous self-exploration, this practice sets the bar high for child-centered care.
#2 Modern Wellness Counseling
A screenshot of the Modern Wellness Counseling website.
With locations in Greenville and Spartanburg, Modern Wellness Counseling brings a large, multidisciplinary team to the table — including therapists trained specifically in play therapy. They emphasize that play relieves stress and helps children express themselves naturally, building on how kids learn about relationships and themselves. The practice also offers family counseling, anxiety therapy, and support for new mothers, making it a one-stop shop for families. Their clear rates and insurance information make getting started straightforward.
#3 Choices Counseling
A screenshot of the Choices Counseling website.
Based in Lexington, Choices Counseling offers play therapy as part of a broad menu of services including cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma recovery, and family counseling. They follow the Association for Play Therapy's model, using play to help children resolve psychosocial difficulties and build self-awareness. The practice is transparent about its approach and makes it easy to book an appointment online. Their team's depth in both play therapy and traditional modalities gives families flexibility.
#4 Chapin Children's Counseling
A screenshot of the Chapin Children's Counseling website.
Located in Chapin and serving the Irmo and Columbia areas, this private practice is led by Hannah Andreychik, LPC, who specializes in play-based therapy for children dealing with anxiety, anger, obsessive thoughts, neurodivergence (including autism), and family relationship challenges. Sessions run 53-55 minutes at a flat rate of $140, with superbills provided for out-of-network reimbursement. The practice is clear about its limits — it does not handle suicidal ideation or legal proceedings — and provides direct crisis resources. Office hours are Monday through Thursday, 9:00 am to 1:00 pm, making it a focused, accessible option for local families.
#5 Ann Mac Prevost Counseling
A screenshot of the Ann Mac Prevost Counseling website.
Ann Mac Prevost Counseling, based in Columbia, SC, uses play therapy to help younger children communicate their inner world — because kids often express themselves through play rather than words. Ann Mac works on issues like anxiety, grief, adjustment to family changes, and trauma recovery, always involving parents for the best outcomes. The practice also offers counseling for teens, adults, and new mothers, creating a full-family resource. With a straightforward appointment process and a child-friendly space, it's a solid choice for families seeking a personal touch.
How to Pick the Right Play Therapist for Your Child
Start by identifying your child's primary needs — are you looking for help with anxiety, neurodivergence, trauma, or general behavioral challenges? Look for a practice that clearly states its specialties and any limitations, like whether they handle crisis situations or legal matters. Consider location and hours: some practices offer multiple locations or virtual options, while others have limited in-person windows. Pricing and insurance matter too — some accept insurance directly, while others provide superbills for out-of-network reimbursement. Finally, trust your gut: a warm, communicative therapist who involves parents in the process can make all the difference.
Streamline Your Search with Smart Workflows
You can automate your search for the right therapist by setting up Google Alerts for keywords like 'play therapy South Carolina' or 'child counselor Columbia SC.' Use a spreadsheet to track each practice's specialties, pricing, and hours, then set reminders to check for new openings or updated availability. If you're a busy parent, consider using a scheduling tool like Calendly to book initial consultations without back-and-forth emails. These small automations free up mental energy so you can focus on what matters most — your child's well-being.
Your Child's Journey Starts Here
Play therapy is a powerful tool, and South Carolina is home to several exceptional practices that put children first. Whether you choose the award-winning team at The Counseling and Play Therapy Center of Charleston, the multidisciplinary approach at Modern Wellness Counseling, or the focused care at Chapin Children's Counseling, the key is finding a therapist who connects with your child and supports your family. Take the first step — reach out, ask questions, and trust the process. Your child's emotional health is worth it.