Presenter Spotlight: Brian L. Bethel, Ph.D., LPCC-S, LCDC III, RPT-S

Meet Brian L. Bethel, Ph.D., LPCC-S, LCDC III, RPT-S, who is conducting the Navigating the Ethical Waters of Play Therapy workshop aboard our inaugural Play Therapy Symposium at Sea!

Who is Brian?

Brian L. Bethel is a Professional Clinical Counselor-Supervisor, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, and Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor with specialized training in counseling children, adolescents, and families. He brings more than twenty-five years of clinical experience and a deep commitment to trauma-informed, child-centered care.

What does Brian do?

Brian operates a private counseling practice and provides educational services to community organizations. He also serves as a trauma therapist for a Child Advocacy Center supporting children and families across southern and southeastern Ohio. In addition, Brian works as an independent trainer and consultant, providing consultation to schools, social service agencies, court systems, and foster care agencies.

How does Brian work?

Brian uses an integrative play therapy philosophy and draws from multiple evidence-based frameworks in his clinical work. He is certified in TF-CBT, EMDR, PCIT, and CFTSI, and is trained as a forensic interviewer. His approach emphasizes empowerment, ethical practice, and the belief that play is a powerful medium for helping children process experiences and build resilience.

Why play therapy?

Early in his career, Brian worked as a child and adolescent therapist in a community mental health center, an experience that inspired his journey toward becoming a Registered Play Therapist. Through his work, he has consistently witnessed the transformative impact of play therapy and its ability to give children a voice when words feel insufficient.

What drives Brian?

Brian is passionate about working with children who have experienced trauma, including survivors of abuse, violence, and other adverse childhood experiences. He is a strong advocate for children and is continually inspired by their resilience and capacity for healing.

Why does Brian's session matter?

Ethical challenges frequently arise within play therapy practice, and clinicians often navigate complex situations in the play environment. Brian’s session will provide important ethical considerations, guidance, and practical insight to help clinicians approach these challenges with confidence, competence, and integrity.

What are some fun facts about Brian?

• Brian lives in Chillicothe, Ohio

• He has strong Appalachian roots and was raised on his family’s farm

• Brian currently works with a competitive marching band, and was originally a music major before getting into counseling work

Learn more about Brian on his website!