Play Therapy in Maple Ridge, BC
![Photo of Michelle Popielarz, BA, MC, CCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38d3629d-1a22-444f-98df-b6c28cb7e298/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Mary Stanwood, MA, BCAT-R, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d7a1020-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Besides being a Registered Clinical Counsellor, I have experience and training in Play Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, and am a Registered Art Therapist.
Ridge Meadows Counselling works with children, youth, and parents on issues including anxiety, anger management, depression and behaviour or emotional issues. I have worked with families for over 25 years, and as a mother of four girls, I understand the struggles of family life, of dealing with different personalities, needs, and the constant struggles that can occur. Ridge Meadows Counselling helps parents and children navigate through the tough childhood years, helps adolescence and young adults through their difficult times, and help people renew their sense of hope.
Besides being a Registered Clinical Counsellor, I have experience and training in Play Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, and am a Registered Art Therapist.
Ridge Meadows Counselling works with children, youth, and parents on issues including anxiety, anger management, depression and behaviour or emotional issues. I have worked with families for over 25 years, and as a mother of four girls, I understand the struggles of family life, of dealing with different personalities, needs, and the constant struggles that can occur. Ridge Meadows Counselling helps parents and children navigate through the tough childhood years, helps adolescence and young adults through their difficult times, and help people renew their sense of hope.
![Photo of Jasmine Alexander, MA, RPC, RCC, CCC, CCPCPR, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a5172513-e88e-40fa-a066-386309e695be/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jasmine Alexander
Counsellor, MA, RPC, RCC, CCC, CCPCPR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maple Ridge, BC V2X
For children, I have a Play Therapy Room that is warm and inviting in offering a positive and healing therapeutic experience.
Are you going through something emotionally painful? Experiencing anxiety, panic, depression? Struggling from addiction? I will work efficiently and effectively with you to find the root of your struggles, and with my highly specialized training, I can help you find *permanent resolution* to the emotional upset you are experiencing. Whether you have been to counselling before, or have never been to counselling, my therapeutic approach can help restore happiness and clarity in your life, regardless of how complex or upsetting your situation may be.
For children, I have a Play Therapy Room that is warm and inviting in offering a positive and healing therapeutic experience.
Are you going through something emotionally painful? Experiencing anxiety, panic, depression? Struggling from addiction? I will work efficiently and effectively with you to find the root of your struggles, and with my highly specialized training, I can help you find *permanent resolution* to the emotional upset you are experiencing. Whether you have been to counselling before, or have never been to counselling, my therapeutic approach can help restore happiness and clarity in your life, regardless of how complex or upsetting your situation may be.
![Photo of Gisella La Madrid - Strong Ties - Child & Family Services, MA, RCC, ACS, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10bb16e5-728a-40ab-b008-216d5879c78a/1/320x400.png)
Strong Ties - Child & Family Services
Counsellor, MA, RCC, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maple Ridge, BC V2W
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.
![Photo of Farah Haq, MA, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b73aba30-a8e8-4551-ad54-7838cc3564c4/2/320x400.jpeg)
I feel it is a privilege to be a therapist. I love my work. I take a creative and collaborative approach in my practice; researching innovative techniques and information to help you make the changes you desire. Both my hours and my methods are flexible and are tailored to the needs of each individual.
I feel it is a privilege to be a therapist. I love my work. I take a creative and collaborative approach in my practice; researching innovative techniques and information to help you make the changes you desire. Both my hours and my methods are flexible and are tailored to the needs of each individual.
![Photo of Lorna Demedeiros - LD Counselling & Consulting, RSW, MSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c209385-383a-49e8-98d7-25d6c368d21e/1/320x400.jpeg)
LD Counselling & Consulting
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maple Ridge, BC V2X
I specialize in helping children aged 0-12, along with their families. When kiddos experience trauma, their brains do their best to keep them safe, but this often results in behaviours and circumstances that are very challenging. I take a systems-level approach, speaking with family members, school teams, doctors, and whoever else I am given consent to collaborate with, so that all of us can be on the same page about interventions and strategies. If a child sees all of the adults in their world working together to care for them, they thrive. It takes a village to help a family. I hope you'll consider me for your village!
I specialize in helping children aged 0-12, along with their families. When kiddos experience trauma, their brains do their best to keep them safe, but this often results in behaviours and circumstances that are very challenging. I take a systems-level approach, speaking with family members, school teams, doctors, and whoever else I am given consent to collaborate with, so that all of us can be on the same page about interventions and strategies. If a child sees all of the adults in their world working together to care for them, they thrive. It takes a village to help a family. I hope you'll consider me for your village!
![Photo of Diviam Gounden, MA, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5058621e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Enlighten Counselling & Psychotherapy was formed to provide counselling services to anyone needing assistance in various aspects of life. These include transitional life experiences, mental health issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, etc., and/or help addressing issues of stress, self-esteem, peer pressure, social isolation etc. The focus is you, the client. Your needs are important. I work collaboratively with you to find ways to overcome your concerns and reach your goals.
Enlighten Counselling & Psychotherapy was formed to provide counselling services to anyone needing assistance in various aspects of life. These include transitional life experiences, mental health issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, etc., and/or help addressing issues of stress, self-esteem, peer pressure, social isolation etc. The focus is you, the client. Your needs are important. I work collaboratively with you to find ways to overcome your concerns and reach your goals.
![Photo of Andria Weiser, MAC, CCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/457c7038-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Andria Weiser is a clinical counsellor providing individual and group therapy to children, adolescents and adults. Andria is committed to providing competent, caring, and confidential treatment to her clients. Andria uses an integrative and flexible approach in working with her clients. She believes that the relationship and fit between the client and therapist is a significant factor in the success of therapy. She also believes that treatment should be based on the goals of her clients. As such, she draws from several different treatment modalities and theoretical approaches in order to best meet the individual needs of her clients.
Andria Weiser is a clinical counsellor providing individual and group therapy to children, adolescents and adults. Andria is committed to providing competent, caring, and confidential treatment to her clients. Andria uses an integrative and flexible approach in working with her clients. She believes that the relationship and fit between the client and therapist is a significant factor in the success of therapy. She also believes that treatment should be based on the goals of her clients. As such, she draws from several different treatment modalities and theoretical approaches in order to best meet the individual needs of her clients.
![Photo of Sam Fattahi, MSc, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f9651fdd-2d57-4e7b-b1b3-88c00c42b2eb/2/320x400.jpeg)
With over 10 years of professional experience, I have had the privilege of assisting individuals, couples, and families from diverse cultural backgrounds who have encountered trauma-related challenges resulting in conditions such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and grief. My specialization lies in employing an integrative approach to ensure that every client receives personalized and empathetic care. As a trauma-informed counselor, I firmly believe in the unique strengths and narratives that each individual carries, recognizing the intrinsic value of their life journey in shaping their present circumstances.
With over 10 years of professional experience, I have had the privilege of assisting individuals, couples, and families from diverse cultural backgrounds who have encountered trauma-related challenges resulting in conditions such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and grief. My specialization lies in employing an integrative approach to ensure that every client receives personalized and empathetic care. As a trauma-informed counselor, I firmly believe in the unique strengths and narratives that each individual carries, recognizing the intrinsic value of their life journey in shaping their present circumstances.
![Photo of Ivy Huang, MA, RCC, CCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e11dbcd7-7c6e-4b5d-a23c-767f52dec670/1/320x400.jpeg)
Life is not only about enduring what it throws at you. Whether you feel like you have tried everything you can, or you need immediate support on what you are facing now, this is the space for you. I am here for you. I am here to open your dialogues with the world and with yourself, and to help you find and live with your inner consent – the feeling of “this is right for me”, “this is what I want for my life!” What you can expect is a warm, safe, non-judgmental, and open place, where I will walk alongside you, listening to you and your needs, supporting you when you feel down or lost, affirming you when you make change happen!
Life is not only about enduring what it throws at you. Whether you feel like you have tried everything you can, or you need immediate support on what you are facing now, this is the space for you. I am here for you. I am here to open your dialogues with the world and with yourself, and to help you find and live with your inner consent – the feeling of “this is right for me”, “this is what I want for my life!” What you can expect is a warm, safe, non-judgmental, and open place, where I will walk alongside you, listening to you and your needs, supporting you when you feel down or lost, affirming you when you make change happen!
![Photo of Christina Radziejewski - Innova Therapy Inc., MA, MEd, MSc, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5c2bc97-5b18-44aa-8624-41689b37ab65/1/320x400.png)
Immediate weekend and evening availability for new clients in Vancouver, Coquitlam, Cobble Hill and Maple Ridge. We are compassionate, experienced and effective multi-cultural, neuro-diversity affirming Relationship and Trauma counsellors who have served our community for many years. If you are in conflict with the significant people in your life or have experienced a traumatic event in the past that you are still struggling with today, look no further. We will work with you to access your inner resources to heal and to empower you to build healthy, peaceful and loving relationships, and to make meaningful connections with others.
Immediate weekend and evening availability for new clients in Vancouver, Coquitlam, Cobble Hill and Maple Ridge. We are compassionate, experienced and effective multi-cultural, neuro-diversity affirming Relationship and Trauma counsellors who have served our community for many years. If you are in conflict with the significant people in your life or have experienced a traumatic event in the past that you are still struggling with today, look no further. We will work with you to access your inner resources to heal and to empower you to build healthy, peaceful and loving relationships, and to make meaningful connections with others.
15 Second Videos
Strong Ties - Child & Family Services
LD Counselling & Consulting
Sam Fattahi
Ivy Huang
Raelene Hurry
Strength Counselling Services
Shannon Lawrence
![Photo of Dawn Selena Buckley - Soulful Solutions Counselling & Consultancy, BSc Hon, MA, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/038bbcfe-0c72-4bef-9ed4-8380c8447760/2/320x400.jpeg)
Soulful Solutions Counselling & Consultancy
Counsellor, BSc Hon, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Maple Ridge, BC V2X
Sometimes life can feel hectic and overwhelming. Whether you're experiencing depression, anxiety, loneliness, addiction, divorce, injustice, stagnant decision-making, lack of coping, grief or loss, I am here to help. You seek harmony, you seek emotional equilibrium, and most of all you seek peace. I understand the intense difficulties of life you may be facing, and can help you shift from a place of suffering to a place of rational calm to help you manouvre through the storm you are feeling. In the words of Rumi, "Do not feel lonely, the entire universe is inside you," and I can help you find new opportunities to feel better.
Sometimes life can feel hectic and overwhelming. Whether you're experiencing depression, anxiety, loneliness, addiction, divorce, injustice, stagnant decision-making, lack of coping, grief or loss, I am here to help. You seek harmony, you seek emotional equilibrium, and most of all you seek peace. I understand the intense difficulties of life you may be facing, and can help you shift from a place of suffering to a place of rational calm to help you manouvre through the storm you are feeling. In the words of Rumi, "Do not feel lonely, the entire universe is inside you," and I can help you find new opportunities to feel better.
![Photo of Margaret MacGillivray, MEd,, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/99dee83f-1e45-4d73-9e81-dfed638cc6da/1/320x400.jpeg)
I believe in a non-judgemental person centered form of counselling. In particular, I work with children and youth who identify as neurodivergent. Together with parent(s)/and/or caregiver(s) I provide support and care for the daunting challenges that can occur when a person is neurodivergent. I have been working in the school system for over 21 years. I have experience working with children and youth from ages 5-17 as a support teacher and school counsellor. I understand the importance of providing a safe, caring, and secure relationship with all students but particularly with neurodiverse children.
I believe in a non-judgemental person centered form of counselling. In particular, I work with children and youth who identify as neurodivergent. Together with parent(s)/and/or caregiver(s) I provide support and care for the daunting challenges that can occur when a person is neurodivergent. I have been working in the school system for over 21 years. I have experience working with children and youth from ages 5-17 as a support teacher and school counsellor. I understand the importance of providing a safe, caring, and secure relationship with all students but particularly with neurodiverse children.
![Photo of Chris Rensch - Treehouse Trauma Centre, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/588c5874-8c47-442d-a30d-66d405dad98a/1/320x400.jpeg)
At Treehouse Trauma Centre, we help children, teens and adults overcome the hardships—trauma, abuse, anxiety or stress—that keep them from living fully. Our person-centred, humanistic approach helps adults and children break out of unhealthy relationship patterns that undermine their inner strength and equips them to move forward with security, certainty and joy
At Treehouse Trauma Centre, we help children, teens and adults overcome the hardships—trauma, abuse, anxiety or stress—that keep them from living fully. Our person-centred, humanistic approach helps adults and children break out of unhealthy relationship patterns that undermine their inner strength and equips them to move forward with security, certainty and joy
![Photo of Raelene Hurry, MEd, RCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b95afc7-9c13-462f-b61a-32a1e470310c/1/320x400.jpeg)
No issue is too small or too big for counselling! Maybe you are dealing with past or present circumstances that have left you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, stressed, angry or sad. Perhaps you need help navigating big or small transitions or events in your life; these may be deeply painful or even wonderful, yet anxiety provoking. Struggling with pregnancy/postpartum/birth trauma? Maybe you want to develop mind+body health, self-compassion, and rediscover your true self. If you're ready to feel heard and supported and you're willing to engage in the counselling process with courage and openness, therapy can help.
No issue is too small or too big for counselling! Maybe you are dealing with past or present circumstances that have left you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, stressed, angry or sad. Perhaps you need help navigating big or small transitions or events in your life; these may be deeply painful or even wonderful, yet anxiety provoking. Struggling with pregnancy/postpartum/birth trauma? Maybe you want to develop mind+body health, self-compassion, and rediscover your true self. If you're ready to feel heard and supported and you're willing to engage in the counselling process with courage and openness, therapy can help.
![Photo of Amanda Dewar - Strength Counselling Services, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/179620b9-661f-4c0c-baf6-f2c1cb1deefd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Maple Ridge, BC V2W (Online Only)
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
![Photo of Shannon Lawrence, RPC-C, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6270d101-0620-465d-a39b-8231aa6c4f01/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you feeling stuck at a crossroads, unsure of the right direction for yourself or your family? I’m here to support you in navigating life’s challenges, whether you’re seeking personal growth for yourself, guidance for your child, or both. For adults, particularly those dealing with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, or anger, I offer a compassionate approach to help you develop coping strategies, regain control, and move toward a more peaceful state of mind. Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, but with the right support, you can build resilience and find calm amidst the chaos. Whether you're dealing with a recent separation, divorce,
Are you feeling stuck at a crossroads, unsure of the right direction for yourself or your family? I’m here to support you in navigating life’s challenges, whether you’re seeking personal growth for yourself, guidance for your child, or both. For adults, particularly those dealing with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, or anger, I offer a compassionate approach to help you develop coping strategies, regain control, and move toward a more peaceful state of mind. Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, but with the right support, you can build resilience and find calm amidst the chaos. Whether you're dealing with a recent separation, divorce,
![Photo of Lynsey Henry, MA, RCC, MEd, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2c31f282-5660-4d31-9f51-cdddb70ce4fc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lynsey Henry
Counsellor, MA, RCC, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maple Ridge, BC V2W
Not accepting new clients
I completed additional training in synergetic play therapy, which is trauma informed approach good for children and teens.
I am a registered clinical counsellor that specializes in working with children, adolescents, and teens. I have worked as a counsellor in Surrey elementary schools for 6 years. I was also a classroom teacher and substitute teacher for 9 years. I have experience working with teenagers in a group home setting (for 3 years) and have provided group therapy. Most of my children and teen clients are working on finding coping strategies for dealing with big feelings (anxiety, anger, depression, suicidal ideation, impulse control etc.).
I completed additional training in synergetic play therapy, which is trauma informed approach good for children and teens.
I am a registered clinical counsellor that specializes in working with children, adolescents, and teens. I have worked as a counsellor in Surrey elementary schools for 6 years. I was also a classroom teacher and substitute teacher for 9 years. I have experience working with teenagers in a group home setting (for 3 years) and have provided group therapy. Most of my children and teen clients are working on finding coping strategies for dealing with big feelings (anxiety, anger, depression, suicidal ideation, impulse control etc.).
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Autumn Stepanyants, RCC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7270eff9-1cc7-49f6-89df-a8929a28a1fc/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
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.
![Photo of Mansi Parekh, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/307fdd28-c13c-4ecd-a4ec-c1db0c731b4c/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
See more therapy options for Maple Ridge
Nearby Play Therapy Counsellors Searches for Maple Ridge
- Abbotsford
- Burnaby
- Coquitlam
- Delta
- Langley
- Mission
- New Westminster
- Pitt Meadows
- Port Coquitlam
- Port Moody
- Surrey
- White Rock
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.