Play Therapy in Langley, BC

Photo of Gisella La Madrid - Strong Ties - Child & Family Services, MA, RCC, ACS, Counsellor
Strong Ties - Child & Family Services
Counsellor, MA, RCC, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Langley, BC V2Y
With children we use play and expressive therapy; our play room has a variety of toys, games, and art material that kids enjoy.
Are you a parent worried that your child might be struggling? Are you considering that your teen might need extra support? Are you a parent in the midst of family changes who needs extra tools to support your kids? We got you. Strong Ties – Child & Family Services is a specialized counselling clinic that focuses on helping children, adolescents and families. Some of the issues we focus on include behavioural issues, anxiety, depression, ADHD, ODD, anger, trauma, relationship/school issues, and separation/divorce.
With children we use play and expressive therapy; our play room has a variety of toys, games, and art material that kids enjoy.
Are you a parent worried that your child might be struggling? Are you considering that your teen might need extra support? Are you a parent in the midst of family changes who needs extra tools to support your kids? We got you. Strong Ties – Child & Family Services is a specialized counselling clinic that focuses on helping children, adolescents and families. Some of the issues we focus on include behavioural issues, anxiety, depression, ADHD, ODD, anger, trauma, relationship/school issues, and separation/divorce.
(604) 862-8763 View (604) 862-8763
Photo of Desiree D'Silva, MEd , RCC, CCC, Counsellor
Desiree D'Silva
Counsellor, MEd , RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Langley, BC V3A
I also offer Play Therapy for children and youth to allow them to express what may be impacting them in their day to day lives.
I am a Registered Clinical Counselor practicing EMDR, CBT and Play Therapy. I work with children, youth and adults. I have experience working with clients struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship difficulties. I work with you to identify the roots of the symptoms you are currently experiencing and make a plan for strategies that may be helpful for you. I strive to better understand your emotions and experiences so I can offer you strategies which may be beneficial for your unique situation. I offer a free consultation.
I also offer Play Therapy for children and youth to allow them to express what may be impacting them in their day to day lives.
I am a Registered Clinical Counselor practicing EMDR, CBT and Play Therapy. I work with children, youth and adults. I have experience working with clients struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship difficulties. I work with you to identify the roots of the symptoms you are currently experiencing and make a plan for strategies that may be helpful for you. I strive to better understand your emotions and experiences so I can offer you strategies which may be beneficial for your unique situation. I offer a free consultation.
(604) 359-5856 View (604) 359-5856
Photo of Lisa Moore - Lisa Moore Clinical Counselor & Play Therapy Supvr, MA, RCC, CCC, Counsellor
Lisa Moore Clinical Counselor & Play Therapy Supvr
Counsellor, MA, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
Langley, BC V3A
Lisa Moore is also a Play Therapist and Supervisor and works with toddlers, children, and youth using play therapy as a therapeutic intervention.
Lisa's mission is to help people heal and grow through periods of transitions in their lives. Many of us struggle with alcohol / addictions, experience loss, grief, unhappiness or a sense of loss when we transition from one role to another in our daily lives. Some of us lose people we love, dreams we can no longer achieve, changes in careers, the diagnosis of a child with special needs, a loved one entering care, or who is ailing in health, Divorce from a spouse, the beginning of a new marriage, perhaps with a blended family. We accept private insurance plans, Victim Services(CVAP), ICBC Claims and Autism
Lisa Moore is also a Play Therapist and Supervisor and works with toddlers, children, and youth using play therapy as a therapeutic intervention.
Lisa's mission is to help people heal and grow through periods of transitions in their lives. Many of us struggle with alcohol / addictions, experience loss, grief, unhappiness or a sense of loss when we transition from one role to another in our daily lives. Some of us lose people we love, dreams we can no longer achieve, changes in careers, the diagnosis of a child with special needs, a loved one entering care, or who is ailing in health, Divorce from a spouse, the beginning of a new marriage, perhaps with a blended family. We accept private insurance plans, Victim Services(CVAP), ICBC Claims and Autism
(604) 532-5340 View (604) 532-5340
Photo of Nisha Ranjtisingh Sangwan, Phd ,  , MACP, RCC, Counsellor
Nisha Ranjtisingh Sangwan
Counsellor, Phd , , MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Langley, BC V2Y
I use different modalities like CBT-Trauma lens, DBT, EFT (tapping techniques), Brain Spotting, and play therapy.
Mental health issues, especially traumatic experiences and major life stressors can significantly impact our daily lives, and make us feel disconnected from ourselves, our loved ones, and other important aspects of our lives. I believe that building such connections is the key to healing. Hence, my work focuses on helping my clients build healthier perceptions of themselves and strengthen their relationships. I am here for you with empathy and compassion. I am here to listen to you and together we will explore what happened.
I use different modalities like CBT-Trauma lens, DBT, EFT (tapping techniques), Brain Spotting, and play therapy.
Mental health issues, especially traumatic experiences and major life stressors can significantly impact our daily lives, and make us feel disconnected from ourselves, our loved ones, and other important aspects of our lives. I believe that building such connections is the key to healing. Hence, my work focuses on helping my clients build healthier perceptions of themselves and strengthen their relationships. I am here for you with empathy and compassion. I am here to listen to you and together we will explore what happened.
(604) 532-5340 View (604) 532-5340
Photo of Mary Tuhkala, MA, Counsellor
Mary Tuhkala
Counsellor, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Langley, BC V3A
I would love to connect and talk more about how play therapy can make a positive difference in your child's life.
Does your child struggle with expressing their emotions? Are they facing challenges that seem difficult to talk about? Are they struggling with confidence and self-esteem? My play therapy approach helps children navigate their emotions, behaviors, and challenges through the power of play. My playroom work is a gentle, effective way for children to communicate their thoughts and feelings in an age-appropriate way such as through toys, games, and creative activities.
I would love to connect and talk more about how play therapy can make a positive difference in your child's life.
Does your child struggle with expressing their emotions? Are they facing challenges that seem difficult to talk about? Are they struggling with confidence and self-esteem? My play therapy approach helps children navigate their emotions, behaviors, and challenges through the power of play. My playroom work is a gentle, effective way for children to communicate their thoughts and feelings in an age-appropriate way such as through toys, games, and creative activities.
(873) 710-3287 View (873) 710-3287
Photo of Lisa Wahl, RCC, CCC, Counsellor
Lisa Wahl
Counsellor, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Langley, BC V1M
As a licensed professional counsellor, Lisa is trained in trauma-informed practice, child-centered play therapy, somatic therapy, person-centered, CBT, emotion focused and attachment theory. Through her studies she completed extensive research on children with learning disabilities and their families and provides guidance, coping skills, support and hope to these families. Along with families and children, Lisa works closely with individual adults with mental and emotional health difficulties such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress as well as offering couples counselling.
As a licensed professional counsellor, Lisa is trained in trauma-informed practice, child-centered play therapy, somatic therapy, person-centered, CBT, emotion focused and attachment theory. Through her studies she completed extensive research on children with learning disabilities and their families and provides guidance, coping skills, support and hope to these families. Along with families and children, Lisa works closely with individual adults with mental and emotional health difficulties such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress as well as offering couples counselling.
(236) 904-0193 View (236) 904-0193
Photo of Haylee O'Doherty, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Haylee O'Doherty
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Langley, BC V3A
As a trauma-informed clinical counsellor and play therapist, I am dedicated to helping children, youth, and families feel more connected and confident. I believe that individuals have an innate wisdom and creativity that guides their healing journey. Working with children, I draw from an integrative non-directive play therapy approach. Through art and play, children can freely process their experiences in a safe and non-judgemental environment. Working with youth, I integrate art, somatic, and talk-based therapies to help clients navigate social-emotional concerns, anxiety, depression, sexuality and gender concerns, and trauma.
As a trauma-informed clinical counsellor and play therapist, I am dedicated to helping children, youth, and families feel more connected and confident. I believe that individuals have an innate wisdom and creativity that guides their healing journey. Working with children, I draw from an integrative non-directive play therapy approach. Through art and play, children can freely process their experiences in a safe and non-judgemental environment. Working with youth, I integrate art, somatic, and talk-based therapies to help clients navigate social-emotional concerns, anxiety, depression, sexuality and gender concerns, and trauma.
(236) 201-9852 View (236) 201-9852
Photo of Gisella La Madrid, MA, RCC, ACS, Counsellor
Gisella La Madrid
Counsellor, MA, RCC, ACS
Verified Verified
Langley, BC V2Y
With children we use toys and games as play/art therapy has proven to be an effective way to help kids.
Are you a parent worried that your child might be struggling? Are you considering that your teen might need extra support? Are you a parent in the midst of family changes who needs extra tools to support your kids? We got you. Strong Ties – Child & Family Services is a specialized counselling clinic that focuses on helping children, adolescents and families. Some of the issues we focus on include behavioural issues, emotional dysregulation, anxiety, depression, ADHD, ASD, ODD, anger, trauma, relationship/school issues, and separation/divorce.
With children we use toys and games as play/art therapy has proven to be an effective way to help kids.
Are you a parent worried that your child might be struggling? Are you considering that your teen might need extra support? Are you a parent in the midst of family changes who needs extra tools to support your kids? We got you. Strong Ties – Child & Family Services is a specialized counselling clinic that focuses on helping children, adolescents and families. Some of the issues we focus on include behavioural issues, emotional dysregulation, anxiety, depression, ADHD, ASD, ODD, anger, trauma, relationship/school issues, and separation/divorce.
(604) 862-8763 View (604) 862-8763
Photo of Tamana Shahsamand - Tamana Shahsamand Counselling, MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tamana Shahsamand Counselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Langley, BC V3A
My therapeutic approach is integrative, utilizing a combination of CBT, ACT, SFT, mindfulness, art and play therapy.
You may find yourself dealing with challenges that have altered the structure of your life, as you knew it before. When things around us change, we can sometimes feel overwhelmed by the unknown and not feel prepared to adjust to new realities. These factors can trigger different emotions making us feel stuck or not able to move forward. My area of focus is diverse and includes; anxiety, depression, addiction, low self-esteem, grief, loss, unexpected life changes, crises, relationship issues, difficult family dynamics, health challenges, work, and school stress. My aim remains steadfast in helping clients find healthy ways to cope.
My therapeutic approach is integrative, utilizing a combination of CBT, ACT, SFT, mindfulness, art and play therapy.
You may find yourself dealing with challenges that have altered the structure of your life, as you knew it before. When things around us change, we can sometimes feel overwhelmed by the unknown and not feel prepared to adjust to new realities. These factors can trigger different emotions making us feel stuck or not able to move forward. My area of focus is diverse and includes; anxiety, depression, addiction, low self-esteem, grief, loss, unexpected life changes, crises, relationship issues, difficult family dynamics, health challenges, work, and school stress. My aim remains steadfast in helping clients find healthy ways to cope.
(604) 239-6228 View (604) 239-6228
Photo of Mansi Parekh, Pre-Licensed Professional
Mansi Parekh
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Langley, BC V3A
My great passion is bringing healing to people using various approaches like play therapy, career guidance, CBT and academic difficulties.
“My ideal client is focused upon personal growth and healing.” Your story, your pain and your collection of struggles and memories are unique to you, so let me pour you a cup of tea or coffee, and let’s talk. Let me be there to help and guide you through your life transitions and adapting through changes. I can help! I have experience in Play and Art Therapy, CBT, Narrative Therapy, Solution-focused Therapy, Grief Therapy, and applied behaviour intervention.
My great passion is bringing healing to people using various approaches like play therapy, career guidance, CBT and academic difficulties.
“My ideal client is focused upon personal growth and healing.” Your story, your pain and your collection of struggles and memories are unique to you, so let me pour you a cup of tea or coffee, and let’s talk. Let me be there to help and guide you through your life transitions and adapting through changes. I can help! I have experience in Play and Art Therapy, CBT, Narrative Therapy, Solution-focused Therapy, Grief Therapy, and applied behaviour intervention.
(604) 532-5340 View (604) 532-5340
Photo of Erin Miller Schumann, MCP-AT, RCC, Counsellor
Erin Miller Schumann
Counsellor, MCP-AT, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Langley, BC V1M
Waitlist for new clients
My areas of expertise include trauma-informed care for those with neurodivergence, members of the LGBTQ+ community, gender and sexuality counselling, religious trauma, somatic body based counselling, and play therapy.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Counselling Art Therapist. I am CVAP and FNHA qualified. I believe that everyone should have access to holistic equity-based counselling. As such, I am passionate about creating a safe, respectful, and validating space for you to explore your mental health and lived experiences through traditional talk therapy with the option of art and the art making process. Sometimes words do not get our important thoughts and feelings quite right, and art can be a great way to explore what lies within. No art experience needed!
My areas of expertise include trauma-informed care for those with neurodivergence, members of the LGBTQ+ community, gender and sexuality counselling, religious trauma, somatic body based counselling, and play therapy.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Counselling Art Therapist. I am CVAP and FNHA qualified. I believe that everyone should have access to holistic equity-based counselling. As such, I am passionate about creating a safe, respectful, and validating space for you to explore your mental health and lived experiences through traditional talk therapy with the option of art and the art making process. Sometimes words do not get our important thoughts and feelings quite right, and art can be a great way to explore what lies within. No art experience needed!
(819) 410-9576 View (819) 410-9576
Photo of Lindsay Anne Jarman, MEd, RCC, Counsellor
Lindsay Anne Jarman
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Langley, BC V2Y
I work as a play therapist and a coach for parents, working alongside families to deepen understanding by guiding them on their journey.
I am a RCC who specializes in working with children, youth and families to achieve balance, harmony and connection to self through various play modalities. I am an Advanced Neuroscience in the Sand Tray therapist (NSST), who trained with Madeleine DeLittle in Fort Langley. I also have training in Synergetic Play Therapy (SPT) and Observed Experiential Integration (OEI), born out of EMDR to help those with PTSD, or traumatic experiences. I work from an attachment lens, built on family systems, mindfulness & person cantered approach. I attune to each individual clients needs to help them deepen their healing experience.
I work as a play therapist and a coach for parents, working alongside families to deepen understanding by guiding them on their journey.
I am a RCC who specializes in working with children, youth and families to achieve balance, harmony and connection to self through various play modalities. I am an Advanced Neuroscience in the Sand Tray therapist (NSST), who trained with Madeleine DeLittle in Fort Langley. I also have training in Synergetic Play Therapy (SPT) and Observed Experiential Integration (OEI), born out of EMDR to help those with PTSD, or traumatic experiences. I work from an attachment lens, built on family systems, mindfulness & person cantered approach. I attune to each individual clients needs to help them deepen their healing experience.
(431) 813-6712 View (431) 813-6712
Photo of Ruby Sall, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ruby Sall
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Langley, BC V3A
With children I use play therapy to help foster their developmental needs.
The process of self-learning and connecting to our stories to make sense of our experiences, can be challenging and uncomfortable. In this journey, we can experience many difficult realties. You may find yourself lost and overwhelmed, while carrying the immense heaviness of these struggles. Therapy can be a transformative tool to support you in this journey. It is a profound honour to support children and adults foster their healing and make space for their collective emotions so they may engage in life with a larger capacity. My intention is to provide a safe therapeutic place where your voice is supported.
With children I use play therapy to help foster their developmental needs.
The process of self-learning and connecting to our stories to make sense of our experiences, can be challenging and uncomfortable. In this journey, we can experience many difficult realties. You may find yourself lost and overwhelmed, while carrying the immense heaviness of these struggles. Therapy can be a transformative tool to support you in this journey. It is a profound honour to support children and adults foster their healing and make space for their collective emotions so they may engage in life with a larger capacity. My intention is to provide a safe therapeutic place where your voice is supported.
(604) 532-5340 View (604) 532-5340
Photo of Laura Abraham, BA, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Laura Abraham
Counsellor, BA, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Langley, BC V1M
Using a combination of CBT, solution focused, emotion-focused and/or play/art therapy, we will create a plan around your goals.
Do you often feel anxiety crowding your thoughts? Or do you worry about “little things” and cannot understand why others dismiss your worries so easily? You are not alone. Together we can work on coping strategies to help manage your anxiety, stress, and general overwhelming feelings in daily life. I bring experience, education, and passion to my practice. With over a decade of professional experience counselling children, teens, and adults, I help support them through anxiety, stress, parenting, spiritual questions, and other life challenges.
Using a combination of CBT, solution focused, emotion-focused and/or play/art therapy, we will create a plan around your goals.
Do you often feel anxiety crowding your thoughts? Or do you worry about “little things” and cannot understand why others dismiss your worries so easily? You are not alone. Together we can work on coping strategies to help manage your anxiety, stress, and general overwhelming feelings in daily life. I bring experience, education, and passion to my practice. With over a decade of professional experience counselling children, teens, and adults, I help support them through anxiety, stress, parenting, spiritual questions, and other life challenges.
(604) 256-5531 View (604) 256-5531
Photo of Michelle Popielarz, BA, MC, CCC, Counsellor
Michelle Popielarz
Counsellor, BA, MC, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Langley, BC V2Y
My practice is dedicated to supporting children ages 5 to 12 years of age who are experiencing difficulties associated with anxiety-related disorders and general anxious thoughts and feelings. I offer evidence-based practice and intervention using effective treatment modalities, such as Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), play therapy, expressive therapy, and mindfulness, to address a number of challenges related to childhood anxiety. I utilize a child-centered approach to build balance and connection through a focus on a child's strengths, problem-solving, coping skills, and play.
My practice is dedicated to supporting children ages 5 to 12 years of age who are experiencing difficulties associated with anxiety-related disorders and general anxious thoughts and feelings. I offer evidence-based practice and intervention using effective treatment modalities, such as Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), play therapy, expressive therapy, and mindfulness, to address a number of challenges related to childhood anxiety. I utilize a child-centered approach to build balance and connection through a focus on a child's strengths, problem-solving, coping skills, and play.
(825) 501-0386 View (825) 501-0386
Photo of Jashmesh Sidhu - Wellness North Counselling, MEd, RCC, Counsellor
Wellness North Counselling
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
Langley, BC V3A
Do you struggle with Anxiety, ADHD, OCD or depression? Do you get overwhelmed easily? Have challenges with your child/ youth's behaviour? I understand South Asian family dynamics and interpersonal difficulties. As a BIPOC professional with more than a decade experience in the field, I help you find peace and solutions. I support families and children/youth using CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, play therapy, EFT and Family systems. I am trained to help neuro-diverse folks and with couples I use Gottman method to make their marriage fulfilling. I am also an approved clinical supervisor. After therapy with me, people leave feeling hopeful.
Do you struggle with Anxiety, ADHD, OCD or depression? Do you get overwhelmed easily? Have challenges with your child/ youth's behaviour? I understand South Asian family dynamics and interpersonal difficulties. As a BIPOC professional with more than a decade experience in the field, I help you find peace and solutions. I support families and children/youth using CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, play therapy, EFT and Family systems. I am trained to help neuro-diverse folks and with couples I use Gottman method to make their marriage fulfilling. I am also an approved clinical supervisor. After therapy with me, people leave feeling hopeful.
(506) 501-9363 View (506) 501-9363
Photo of Autumn Stepanyants, RCC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Autumn Stepanyants
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RCC
Verified Verified
Langley, BC V1M
Some of my training includes Synergetic Play Therapy, Expressive Therapy, Narrative Therapy and Nature-Based Therapy.
Hello, I am Autumn! I work largely with play, expressive and nature based therapy. I work with children, teens, and adults. Play is how children communicate so there is no better way to work with the concerns that are close at heart then through play for little ones. Don't think that play is only for kids though - expressive therapy like painting, clay, movement, and other creative ways of being can help even those of us that doubt we are "artistic" reach a deeper level of self-connection and authenticity. Nature is a wonderful way to feel connection to something bigger than us while increasing our grounding and mindfulness skills.
Some of my training includes Synergetic Play Therapy, Expressive Therapy, Narrative Therapy and Nature-Based Therapy.
Hello, I am Autumn! I work largely with play, expressive and nature based therapy. I work with children, teens, and adults. Play is how children communicate so there is no better way to work with the concerns that are close at heart then through play for little ones. Don't think that play is only for kids though - expressive therapy like painting, clay, movement, and other creative ways of being can help even those of us that doubt we are "artistic" reach a deeper level of self-connection and authenticity. Nature is a wonderful way to feel connection to something bigger than us while increasing our grounding and mindfulness skills.
(672) 648-0419 View (672) 648-0419
Photo of Francine De Los Reyes, MEd, BCBA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Francine De Los Reyes
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, BCBA
Verified Verified
Langley, BC V3A
Feeling overwhelmed or stuck at some point in your life is a universal experience. You don’t have to navigate life's challenges alone. As a counsellor, I aim to provide a compassionate space where you can explore your thoughts, gain insights, and find practical support tailored to your unique needs. Let’s work together to uncover your strengths and navigate your journey towards a more fulfilling life. I specialize in working with those navigating mental health struggles and complex life situations. I’m here to support you with interpersonal issues, whether they’re related to romantic relationships, friendships, or family dynamics.
Feeling overwhelmed or stuck at some point in your life is a universal experience. You don’t have to navigate life's challenges alone. As a counsellor, I aim to provide a compassionate space where you can explore your thoughts, gain insights, and find practical support tailored to your unique needs. Let’s work together to uncover your strengths and navigate your journey towards a more fulfilling life. I specialize in working with those navigating mental health struggles and complex life situations. I’m here to support you with interpersonal issues, whether they’re related to romantic relationships, friendships, or family dynamics.
(604) 532-5340 View (604) 532-5340
Photo of Hao Yen Lim, MA, CCC, Counsellor
Hao Yen Lim
Counsellor, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Langley, BC V2Y  (Online Only)
Hurting people hurt people, but they also tend to hurt themselves in the long run. The need for an unbiased and non-judgemental person to talk to can serve to provide a sense of relief from the stress you may be facing in the moment. I believe that is what we may need in our lives, and I am able to serve you in this area. For whatever your needs may be, I will tailor the treatment plan accordingly and strive to find the best approach to meet them.
Hurting people hurt people, but they also tend to hurt themselves in the long run. The need for an unbiased and non-judgemental person to talk to can serve to provide a sense of relief from the stress you may be facing in the moment. I believe that is what we may need in our lives, and I am able to serve you in this area. For whatever your needs may be, I will tailor the treatment plan accordingly and strive to find the best approach to meet them.
(778) 717-2344 x800 View (778) 717-2344 x800
Photo of Erin Dass, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Erin Dass
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Langley, BC V3A
Erin is a clinical counsellor with a Masters in Counselling Psychology. She has worked with children, youth, and adults through individual, family, and group counselling. Her background is in trauma therapy. Erin grew up as a third-culture kid and from a young age, she observed that no matter the ethnicity, culture, religion, etc., humans were not created to be alone. She believes that healing takes place within relationships (with self, others, animals, etc.). In her therapeutic relationships, she meets people where they are at and walks with them where they want to go.
Erin is a clinical counsellor with a Masters in Counselling Psychology. She has worked with children, youth, and adults through individual, family, and group counselling. Her background is in trauma therapy. Erin grew up as a third-culture kid and from a young age, she observed that no matter the ethnicity, culture, religion, etc., humans were not created to be alone. She believes that healing takes place within relationships (with self, others, animals, etc.). In her therapeutic relationships, she meets people where they are at and walks with them where they want to go.
(226) 640-5398 View (226) 640-5398
1

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Play Therapy Counsellors

Who is play therapy for?

Play therapy is generally targeted to children between the ages of 3 and 11 who have social, emotional, or behavioural difficulties. Play therapy has also been found helpful for children who have experienced physical or emotional abuse or witnessed atrocities. Play therapy is also often recommended for children who are undergoing major medical procedures or who are suffering from chronic illness; many children’s hospitals are equipped to offer play therapy on-site. Play therapy is also sometimes used for adults; creative writing, music, and art are expressive forms that can all be adapted for therapeutic purposes.

Why do people need play therapy?

Children often do not have the language skills or words to know or to express what is troubling them. Yet they often spontaneously draw or use playthings to depict scenarios that reflect problems in their everyday life. Play therapy provides children with an array of objects and play situations to act out their feelings or experiences so that therapists can get a clear picture of what children might be struggling with and help them find solutions. In addition, play therapists are skilled at helping children understand their inner experience and find words for them, necessary steps toward helping children learn to control their own behaviour and come up with solutions to problems they encounter.

What happens in play therapy?

A child enters a comfortable playroom where they are free to choose the objects they want to play with. The play therapist will typically observe how they play with the toys—whether a sandbox, puppets, dolls and action figures, trucks, costumes, drawing and painting materials, or more—because such play provides clues to a child’s family and social relationships, difficulties they are encountering in the world, and what going on inside themselves. Sometimes the therapist may ask the child to use the play objects to tell a story about their family. Using the same instruments of play, therapists can help children discover more advantageous ways of thinking and behaving.

What kinds of problems do play therapists treat?

Play therapy can help children who display destructive or self-destructive impulses; children who seem angry, sad, or fearful; children who experience frequent social, emotional, family, or school difficulty. Play therapy is often of value to children who have experienced a loss or distressing family experience, who are regularly exposed to family conflict, or who have been physically or emotionally abused. Play therapy can help children who are perpetrators of bullying as well as those who are targets of bullying. It helps children learn to identify their feelings, to express them in constructive ways, and to regulate them so they can get on with the business of development.

How long does play therapy last?

Play therapy sessions may last for 30 to 45 minutes, and they usually occur weekly for about 20 sessions. Each session is tailored to the individual child and the kinds of problems they are struggling with. Play that is highly repetitive often indicates a problem requiring further exploration. Therapists typically measure progress through session-to-session changes in play behaviour.