University Park Counseling & Testing Center, PLLC

06/12/2026

These words are beautifully written. Garry Landreth was a wonderful human being and made an incredible impact on the lives of so many people. He will be greatly missed. To know him and learn from him was an honor.

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Garry L. Landreth, EdD, LPC, RPT-S. While the world knew him as a foundational pioneer, author, and beloved leader in the play therapy community, his greatest pride and joy was his family. Garry was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, and our thoughts are foremost with his loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.

Garry dedicated his life to championing the emotional lives of children through his teaching, research, and unwavering mentorship that will continue to inspire generations of professionals. As the founder of the Center for Play Therapy at the University of North Texas and a longtime, cherished pillar of the Association for Play Therapy, Garry helped shape the play therapy profession from the ground up. His groundbreaking work in Child-Centered Play Therapy and his influential book, Play Therapy: The Art of the Relationship, taught us all how to truly connect with the healing power of a child's world.

To the APT community, Garry was so much more than a leader in play therapy. He shared his knowledge as a teacher, his wisdom as a mentor, and his heart as a friend. His strong sense of humility and deep belief in the capacity of every child to heal left an indelible mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Garry’s remarkable legacy lives on through the thousands of clinicians, he trained the countless children and families touched by his legacy, and the gentle wisdom he brought to our field.

On behalf of the Association for Play Therapy, we extend our deepest, most heartfelt condolences to his family, his friends, his former students, and all those around the world who are mourning this immense loss.

06/11/2026

🌀 What does it actually feel like to heal from trauma in EMDR therapy?

A new study asked 8 people who experienced "adaptive resolution" — the moment trauma is truly processed — to describe it in their own words. What they shared goes way beyond "my symptoms got better."

Participants described the healing process like a spiral: descending into painful memories, then re-emerging with new clarity and freedom. Common experiences included:

- Sudden "aha" moments that shifted how they saw themselves and their past

- Rediscovering strengths and parts of themselves they'd forgotten

- A new way of seeing the world: colors seeming brighter and feeling genuine joy for the first time

- Some described spiritual or transcendent experiences that helped unlock healing

The study found that healing didn't just reduce symptoms — people reported learning to love themselves, connecting more deeply with others, and living more authentically.

📄 Dekker (2026), Journal of EMDR Practice and Research 🔗

This study investigated the lived experience of adaptive resolution in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy as both a process and outcome, from the perspectives of adult clients in outpatient mental health settings in the United ...

06/02/2026

Summer break is here! While a break from school can be exciting, children often benefit from having some structure and predictability throughout the summer months. Read our latest blog to learn more!

Learn how to create a summer routine that supports your child's mental health, reduces stress, encourages healthy habits, and promotes emotional well-being.

05/31/2026

As Mental Health Awareness Month comes to a close, let’s keep the conversation going. This month, we have shared resources, information, and inspirational messages to highlight the importance of mental well-being, but mental health matters every day.

Whether you are taking the first step or continuing your journey, know that support is always here. At UPC, we are committed to walking alongside you with compassion, understanding, and care.

Let’s carry the awareness, kindness, and self-care into every month ahead.

05/30/2026

Today we are highlighting Rebecca Farrar, our Administrative Coordinator at University Park Counseling & Testing Center. Rebecca has been part of UPC since the very beginning, and she plays a central role in keeping everything running smoothly behind the scenes. From coordinating schedules to supporting families and providers, she brings consistency, organization, and care to every part of her work. For many of the families we serve, Rebecca is one of the first points of contact and she helps create a welcoming, supportive experience from the very start. We are incredibly grateful for the dedication, reliability, and heart Rebecca brings to our team each day.

05/29/2026

Self-compassion isn’t about being perfect. It is about showing up for yourself with gentleness, especially when it’s hard.

05/28/2026

As we approach the end of May, we are revisiting two of our blogs that are relevant to summer. While summer is often associated with fun and ease, it can also bring changes in routine, sleep, expectations, and emotional well-being. For some, this can lead to increased stress, low mood, or feeling a bit out of sync.

These two blogs offer helpful information:

☀️ Summer Depression
A reminder that it’s okay if you’re not feeling your best this season — and ways to better understand and support your mental health.

💊 Summer Safety + SSRIs
Helpful guidance on staying safe, supported, and informed when it comes to medication and the impact of heat, routines, and seasonal changes.

Read both blogs:
https://www.universityparkcounseling.com/post/summer-depression
https://www.universityparkcounseling.com/post/summer-safety-tips-ssris

If you find yourself feeling more irritable, tired, or emotionally off during the warmer months, you're not alone. Summer depression is real, and understanding it is the first step toward feeling better.

05/27/2026

Ella brings a warm, thoughtful presence to her work with individuals and families. She focuses on creating a space where clients feel safe, understood, and supported as they work through challenges and build new skills. Her approach is grounded in connection and curiosity, helping clients make sense of their experiences while developing tools for emotional regulation, communication, and confidence. We are grateful for the care, intention, and authenticity Ella brings to the families we serve.

05/26/2026

Life isn’t always predictable, but your choices, your values, and your voice matter more than you think. Every small step you take, every boundary you set, every time you listen to your inner truth, you are shaping your path.

You don’t have to have it all figured out. You just have to keep choosing what aligns with your growth, your healing, and your hope.

Your future isn’t written for you. It is created by you.

05/25/2026

Memorial Day is a time to pause and remember.

We honor those who have lost their lives in service, and we hold space for the families and loved ones who carry that loss every day.

For some, today includes gatherings and time together.
For others, it may bring grief, reflection, or quiet moments of remembrance.

However this day meets you, we invite space for both gratitude and whatever emotions may come with it.