Dr. Erica Tatum-Sheade, DSW, LCSW, CAdPT, RPT-S

I’m Dr. Erica Tatum-Sheade, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, and families through life’s most complex challenges. My passion lies in creating safe, empowering spaces for young people to explore who they are, build emotional strength, and connect with others in meaningful ways.

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As a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor and Certified Adlerian Play Therapist, I believe that play is not just for fun; it’s how children communicate, heal, and grow. Whether I’m working with a 6-year-old navigating anxiety, a teen struggling with identity, or a family adjusting to major life changes, I meet my clients where they are, with compassion, curiosity, and clinical expertise.

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I integrate Adlerian theory, attachment-focused care, and trauma-informed practices into every session. My style is warm, direct, creative, and collaborative. Therapy with me often includes expressive play, movement,  and storytelling, tools that help kids process their experiences and discover their own inner strengths.

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Specialties

• Play Therapy for Children and Tweens

• Anxiety, Depression, and Emotional Regulation

• Identity Development & Self-Esteem

• Empowerment-Based Therapy for Girls (Ages 8–18)

• Trauma-Informed Family Support

• Parenting Strategies & Support

• Clinical Supervision for Play Therapists

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Programs & Services

G.E.M.S.® (Girls Empowered, Motivated, and Strong):  G.E.M.S. is where girls ages 8–18 transform from self-doubt to self-love, from isolation to connection, and from uncertainty to unshakeable confidence. An Adlerian skills-based program that helps a girl in your life discover she's already a gem, and gives her the tools she needs to learn how to shine.

Play Well with Dr. Erica: A supervision and training program for clinicians pursuing advanced certification in play therapy.

Author of Layla Goes to Therapy: A children’s book designed to help families understand and normalize the therapy process. More information

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Professional Highlights

• Doctorate of Social Work, University of Southern California

• Licensed Clinical Social Worker-Supervisor, Arizona

• Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor (RPT-S)

• Certified Adlerian Play Therapist (CAdPT)

• Speaker, Trainer, and Advocate

• Social Worker of The Year, NASW-AZ (2022)

• Excellence in Play Therapy-BPS (2024)

• Clinician of The Year- BTAZ (2025)

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Get in Touch

I  currently have a waitlist for new clients and new supervisees. If you're interested in services for your child, joining a G.E.M.S.® group, or pursuing play therapy supervision, I’d love to connect.

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