Welcome to our space!
We are Dr. Maggie Parker and Dr. Kristie Opiola—dedicated play therapy experts passionate about helping children heal and grow. We hold PhDs from the University of North Texas, the world’s leading play therapy program taught by the renowned Drs. Landreth, Bratton, and Ray. Our extensive training is complemented by our roles as Licensed Professional Counselors, Supervisors, Registered Play Therapist-Supervisors, and Child-Centered Play Therapist Supervisors and Trainers.
Dr. Maggie Parker
PhD, LPC, RPT-S, Certified CCPT-S; Certified CPRT-S
Dr. Parker is an associate professor and department leader, renowned for her transformative work in child mental health. With a Ph.D. from the University of North Texas, the world’s leading play therapy program taught by Drs. Landreth, Bratton, and Ray, she combines rigorous academic research with heartfelt clinical practice. Her extensive career spans diverse settings—from community mental health centers and juvenile detention facilities to pre-schools and elementary schools—ensuring that every child’s unique voice is heard through the language of play. As a Registered Play Therapist and Child-Centered Play Therapist-Supervisor, Dr. Parker has held influential leadership roles, including her tenure as President of the Virginia Association for Play Therapy and her recent appointment as President Elect of the Association for Child and Adolescent Counseling.
Dr. Parker’s work in trauma, diversity, and expressive arts therapy is regularly featured in national forums and peer-reviewed journals, such as the International Journal of Play Therapy and the Journal of Individual Psychology. Her passion for integrating play therapy into school settings and training educators and parents underscores her commitment to expanding access to transformative mental health care. For a personal glimpse into her approach, listen to one of her favorite play therapy moments on our podcast.
Expertise:
Play Therapy
Child Development
Childhood Trauma
Counseling
Expressive Arts Therapy
School Counseling
Child Mental Health
Education:
Ph.D., University of North Texas
M.A., Southern Methodist University
B.A., University of Richmond
A favorite play therapy moment:
“One of the funniest (and let’s be honest, slightly gross) moments in play therapy is when a child feels so safe and comfortable with you and themselves that they toot. It’s an oddly heartwarming sign of trust—like a little unfiltered way of saying, ‘I feel at home here.’ Or maybe they’re sick. Either way, I choose to take it as a good sign!”
-Dr. Parker
Dr. Kristie Opiola
PhD, LCMHC, RPT, Certified CCPT-S; Certified CPRT-S
Dr. Opiola is an Assistant Professor and department leader at a public university on the east coast, whose journey began at an early age babysitting neighborhood kids. Dr. Opiola always knew she wanted her career to focus and help kids grow. After graduating college, she began a career as a certified child life specialist working with acutely and terminally ill children. With a Ph.D. from the University of North Texas, along with advanced degrees in Mental Health Counseling and Child Life, she seamlessly blends academic excellence with compassionate, hands-on care.
Dr. Opiola’s expertise lies in play therapy, filial therapy, and community-based interventions designed to nurture resilience in children who have experienced trauma, whether medical, relational, or through adoption. Her career transition from direct child life support to academia has enriched her teaching and research, making her a passionate advocate for innovative, child-centered therapeutic practices.
Active in professional organizations such as the Association for Play Therapy and the Association of Humanistic Counseling, Dr. Opiola continually seeks new ways to empower the next generation of therapists. Her dynamic approach invites you to explore one of her favorite play therapy moments on our podcast, offering insight into how play can serve as a powerful catalyst for healing and growth.
Expertise:
Play Therapy
Filial Therapy
Adoption
Trauma
Community based interventions
Education
Ph. D., University of North Texas, Counselor Education
M. Ed., University of North Texas, May 2012, Mental Health Counseling, specialization Play Therapy
M. S.- Wheelock College, August 2001, Child Life
B. S.- University of Pittsburgh, May 1998, Child Development and Family Centered Care
A favorite play therapy moment:
“One of my absolute favorite moments in play therapy is when a child realizes they’re truly seen, heard, and accepted exactly as they are. That subtle tilt of their head and the way their eyes soften in surprise is pure magic—like they can hardly believe someone understands them so fully.“
-Dr. Opiola
Get in touch
We’d love to hear from you—whether you have a question, need consultation, or want to learn more.
