helping children and families find hope and healing
the heart of what I do
Every child deserves to feel safe, heard, and whole. My passion is helping children and teens heal from trauma, abuse, and emotional wounds through Attachment-Centered Play Therapy™. There’s nothing more powerful than seeing a child—who once carried so much hurt—genuinely laugh again and find their inner voice. That moment of transformation is why I do this work.
about clair
I'm married to a wonderful man who is my best friend and partner in all that I do. Before anything else, I’m a mom to three wild and wonderful kids—my “insanity makers and sanity savers.” I’m also a sister and friend. These relationships are the heart of my life and the foundation of my work. They remind me every day why connection, play, and presence matter so deeply.
My journey as a therapist began helping children find their voices and heal through play. From my very first days in graduate school to the therapy room today, I’ve specialized in treating trauma, attachment disruptions, and emotional dysregulation using the language kids know best—play. For over 20 years, I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside children and families as they rediscover safety, joy, and connection.
Wife & Mother
child therapist
Over time, I saw a clear gap in traditional therapy: children would make progress in session, but often return to chaos at home. That’s when I dove deep into the science of attachment—and built a model that brings healing to the whole family system. Attachment-Centered Play Therapy was born out of this work
Attachment-Centered Play Therapy™
My passion for teaching and advocacy led me to stages and screens around the world. From television interviews and podcasts to keynote addresses and therapist retreats, I’ve had the joy of training thousands of professionals on the power of play and attachment. Whether I’m presenting at international conferences or consulting with clinics, I’m always focused on one mission: helping therapists and parents become a lilypad of healing for the kids they serve.
speaking & Media appearances
Today, I’ve stepped fully into my voice and vision as Dr. Clair—speaker, author, trainer, and guide. Through my certification program, courses, books, and public work, I’m bringing Attachment-Centered Play Therapy to the masses and creating a movement rooted in healing, hope, and playful connection. This isn’t just a career—it’s my calling.
stepped into my role as dr Clair
core principles
Diverse
Supportive
Independent
Authentic
Healing is not one-size-fits-all—true connection honors cultural, emotional, and individual diversity in every child and family.
Therapy is about showing up, not fixing—offering a steady lilypad of safety as others navigate their own healing path.
My role is to empower and support so that children, families, and therapists can discover their own inner strength and resilience.
Healing begins with integrity—we show up with honesty, consistency, and a commitment to do what’s right, even when it’s hard.
Professional Bio
Dr. Clair Mellenthin, PhD, LCSW, RPT-S, is an internationally recognized speaker, award-winning author, and a distinguished Registered Play Therapist Supervisor. She is the visionary behind Attachment Centered Play Therapy, a transformative approach that enhances the therapeutic experience for children, teens, and their families.
With a rich career dedicated to play therapy, Clair shares her expertise both nationally and internationally, captivating audiences with her insights into professional play therapy and family therapy. As the Past President of the Utah Association for Play Therapy, she has played a pivotal role in advancing the field.
Clair is the author of several influential books, including Attachment Centered Play Therapy, Play Therapy: Engaging & Powerful Techniques for the Treatment of Childhood Disorders, and My Many Colors of Me Workbook. In addition to her books, she has contributed numerous chapters and articles to the field, further solidifying her reputation as a thought leader.
A sought-after media expert, Clair frequently appears on local and national television and radio, sharing her knowledge on children and family issues. Her passion for helping others shines through in every aspect of her work.
Dr Clair Mellenthin, LCSW, RPT-S
online courses
live workshops
supervision
Clair helps clinicians deepen their skills, build confidence, and reconnect with the heart of their work.
Whether you're beginning your journey or looking to expand your impact, Clair provides a safe, encouraging space—a lilypad—where you can grow and prepare to take your next leap as a healer in your community.
for therapists
parenting support
live workshops
family or group therapy
For families navigating big emotions, challenging behaviors, or disconnection, Clair Mellenthin offers hope, guidance, and healing.
With over two decades of experience supporting children and parents, Clair helps families understand the needs beneath the surface and build tools rooted in attachment, play, and connection.
for families
play therapy
group therapy
Through play therapy, Clair helps children express what words can’t always say—using toys, stories, and creativity to explore big emotions and build trust.
for kids
Clair creates a safe place for kids to land, feel seen, and gather the courage to leap forward with confidence.
family therapy
Learn. Grow.
Discover four powerful ways to connect with Clair Mellenthin.
