Erin Carlson, MS, LPC-Associate

12/25/2025

The holidays can be joyful 𝙖𝙣𝙙 they can also be loud, busy, unpredictable, and overwhelming.
For kids, that combination often shows up as big feelings and meltdowns.

When we shift from asking, “How do I stop this behavior?”
to asking, “What does their nervous system need right now?”
everything changes.

Co-regulation doesn’t require perfection.
It asks for presence, softness, and repair, even when the season feels like a lot.

If the holidays feel hard for your child (and for you), it doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong.
Their nervous system (and maybe yours) is responding to a very demanding world.

Save this guide for the moments when everyone’s capacity is stretched a little thin.

12/17/2025

Play therapy can feel mysterious from the outside… especially when your child comes out of session saying things like “We played!” or “We made a mess!”

This post uses Elphaba as a fun way to highlight the kinds of things I pay attention to during sessions and how I support kids as they work through big feelings.

Every child’s play looks different and every story has meaning. 💚✨

Who should I feature next? Glinda? Nessarose? Wednesday? Someone from Inside Out?

05/06/2025

Supporting a Child with Insecure Attachment 🧠💛

Insecure attachment doesn’t mean your child is broken—it means their nervous system has learned to protect them in the only ways it knows how.

Whether your child pulls away, clings tightly, or melts down without warning, know this: your consistent presence is the medicine.

Every time you name their feelings, respond with care, and show up again after a hard moment—you’re helping them rewrite the story of what love can feel like.

🌱 Want more strategies like this? Save this post + share with someone who needs the reminder.

04/18/2025

Introducing: Play Therapist Erin, now in action figure form!
(Complete with tiny Play-Doh, feelings books, and the ever-important comfy sneakers.)

As an LPC Associate and play therapist, play is my favorite language. I work with kids ages 3–10 navigating big feelings tied to ADHD, anxiety, depression, attachment trauma, and behavioral challenges. Basically, if there are big feelings and tiny humans, I’m in my zone.

I also work closely with parents to decode tricky behaviors, build connection, and turn “What do I do?!” into “I’ve got this.”

Therapy with me might look like building towers, naming feelings, or having deep conversations with stuffed animals. It’s playful—but it’s powerful.

Fun fact: I once had a client say, “You’re like a Pokémon with calming powers.” I’ll take it.

02/05/2025

MY WHY 🧸🚂🎨

I chose to specialize in play therapy after witnessing firsthand how challenging big emotions and dysregulation can be for both children and their families. Parenting is hard! Through my journey, I realized how powerful understanding and empathy are in fostering emotional growth and connection.

My passion lies in helping families move from frustration to understanding—recognizing that increased empathy and connection lead to regulation and healing. I use play therapy to create a supportive space where children can express themselves, while also empowering parents with the knowledge and tools to strengthen their bond with their child.

The best part is... it really works! I love what I do and I love seeing the joy it brings to families 😊

08/13/2024

04/06/2024

Had a great time at the Texas Association for Play Therapy Conference 🤓 Play is my favorite language!

02/07/2024

Beyond excited to finally announce that I have joined the incredible team at Connect to Thrive, LLC in Plano, under the supervision of Katie Dunham, MS, LPC-S # 75527. Read more below or visit my page at https://www.thriveplano.com/team/erin-carlson . Looking forward to reconnecting with clients and meeting new ones!

As a play therapist, I seek to understand your child's world, offering a nurturing and safe space where they can express themselves freely. Through a combination of talk, play, and expressive techniques, we will work collaboratively to navigate challenges, build coping skills, and promote emotional well-being. As a parent myself, I fully believe in partnering with both parents or guardians to create a solid team of support for the child.

With adult clients, my goal is to understand your unique perspective, experiences, and emotions, providing an open and supportive environment. Together, we will explore your goals, concerns, and challenges to promote self-awareness and personal growth. The therapeutic relationship is crucial, and my role is to facilitate a journey where you feel heard, accepted, and empowered to make choices that align with your values. I take a holistic approach with my clients, addressing the needs of the mind, body, and soul throughout treatment.

11/23/2023

Sending love to ALL 🧡

Holidays can be a difficult time for many.

Remember to practice lots of self care. Reach out to others, do things you enjoy, speak kindly to yourself.

10/07/2023

ADHD is real and often looks different for different people. Below are some common symptoms someone with ADHD might experience.

Play therapy is one tool among many to help children struggling with ADHD.