Meredith Haugen was an avid volunteer for the Rape and Abuse Crisis Center. With a degree in Child Psychology she held a particular concern for children experiencing domestic violence in their homes or who were survivors of sexual abuse. In her memory, Meredith's family and friends established a Play Therapy Room a beautiful space where trust is built, relationships are made, and healing begins.

Children affected by domestic violence or sexual assault may struggle to express themselves verbally. The Meredeth Haugen play therapy room provides a safe and comfortable space where children can communicate and process their feelings through play. By exploring feelings through play, kids learn to overcome obstacles while having fun, and learn life skills and how to express themselves. Role-play, sand, and other types of art develop ways for children to express their traumatic experiences and promote a new sense of courage and trust.

Children may feel intimidated or overwhelmed in traditional counseling settings. Our Play Therapy room offers a non-threatening environment where kids can relax and engage in therapeutic activities more naturally. Through play, they can develop a sense of safety and trust and helps them to build trust and rapport with their counselor. The room is home to many unique therapeutic toys, it is where counselors prepare children for court and where children feel most safe to tell their stories of abuse and violence and begin to heal.

This specialized room enhances the effectiveness of counseling services for children affected by domestic or sexual violence by providing a developmentally appropriate and trauma-informed approach to healing and recovery.