Director of Play Therapies

Betsy Atkins, known to the families that work with her as “Ms. Betsy,” is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Registered Play Therapist- Supervisor™.  She is a lifelong Alaskan, passionate about supporting young children and their families. In 2004 she received her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from The University of Wisconsin Stout and went on to complete a Masters in Social Work from the University of Alaska, Anchorage, in 2010.

Betsy has worked with children of all ages over the past 20 years in environments such as residential treatment centers for youth, classroom setting within the Anchorage School District, care coordination for families, as a psychometrist, and in private practice.

Ms. Betsy offers Filial play therapy, which creates a safe atmosphere for children to express themselves, understand structure and limits, feel heard and validated, and develop family attachments by providing support and interventions to the whole family rather than just the child. Betsy is a nationally recognized Certified Filial Therapist Instructor and is passionate about supporting the growth of this clinical approach.

Ms. Betsy offers group therapy for elementary aged children that utilizes cognitive behavioral play therapy to provide education and interventions focusing on social skills, communication, executive functioning, and emotional regulation. Betsy’s primary approach for individuals is through Child-Centered Play Therapy, but she classifies herself as a “Prescriptive play therapist” which allows her the flexibility to meet a child where they are at and guide families to meet their own emotional needs. Styles of play may include directive and non-directive play therapy, sand tray therapy, synergetic, mindfulness, social skills, bibliotherapy, and Filial Therapy. Ms. Betsy includes parents for a family systems approach towards goal achievement and will work with a variety of family dynamics to ensure each voice is heard.

Betsy is committed to fostering the development of more play therapists in the community through supervision, education, and trainings. She is honored to be the current President of the Alaska Association for Play Therapy. Betsy looks forward to supporting the growth of mental health in Alaska and is excited to do so with the team at Coastal Wellness & Counseling!