Play Therapy in Dundas, ON
Christine Frances Robinson
Occupational Therapist, B, Sc, Dip, CICAPP
Verified Verified
Dundas, ON L9H
My combined psychotherapy and occupational therapy approach looks like play and conversation therapy with younger children and youth.
I, Christine (Chris) Robinson, enjoy working with children and adolescents who are having difficulties behaviourally and emotionally, such that they are struggling to become calm and regulated enough to be engaged fully in their own lives. My clients have a variety of developmental, emotional, and learning difficulties. Parents are included in the process. My approaches are coaching DIR Floortime and Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy.
My combined psychotherapy and occupational therapy approach looks like play and conversation therapy with younger children and youth.
I, Christine (Chris) Robinson, enjoy working with children and adolescents who are having difficulties behaviourally and emotionally, such that they are struggling to become calm and regulated enough to be engaged fully in their own lives. My clients have a variety of developmental, emotional, and learning difficulties. Parents are included in the process. My approaches are coaching DIR Floortime and Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy.
I am a Child and Family Counsellor and Certified Parent Coach. I help individuals, children, teens and families move from simply surviving life's challenges to thriving. My work focuses on challenges of self-esteem, anxiety, sadness, bullying, divorce. I work along side parents when they find teens off track and struggling with the demands of our disordered society. I also offer individual counselling where through story, education, and gentle reflection, we find new ways to understand, new eyes to see, and new words to speak.
I am a Child and Family Counsellor and Certified Parent Coach. I help individuals, children, teens and families move from simply surviving life's challenges to thriving. My work focuses on challenges of self-esteem, anxiety, sadness, bullying, divorce. I work along side parents when they find teens off track and struggling with the demands of our disordered society. I also offer individual counselling where through story, education, and gentle reflection, we find new ways to understand, new eyes to see, and new words to speak.
Get There: Psychotherapy Services
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Dundas, ON L9H (Online Only)
Hey there! Welcome to Get There Therapy. We're a small group of Social Workers/Psychotherapists here to support you. Learning coping strategies, how to self-regulate, increase communication and ability to set boundaries are areas we often work on with clients. We bring over 15 years of experience working specifically with tweens, teens, adults, couples and families through social work and counseling. We are trained in evidence-informed practices, like Theraplay, EFT, CBT, EMDR and DBT. We support our clients struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma work, dating/relationships, parenting, separation and divorce, to name a few.
Hey there! Welcome to Get There Therapy. We're a small group of Social Workers/Psychotherapists here to support you. Learning coping strategies, how to self-regulate, increase communication and ability to set boundaries are areas we often work on with clients. We bring over 15 years of experience working specifically with tweens, teens, adults, couples and families through social work and counseling. We are trained in evidence-informed practices, like Theraplay, EFT, CBT, EMDR and DBT. We support our clients struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma work, dating/relationships, parenting, separation and divorce, to name a few.
I can imagine that you are going through a difficult time and want to get 'un-stuck' and feel better, but you know that you need someone to confide in that will really listen. It's so hard to find the right therapist, but you are welcome to reach out without any obligations.
I can imagine that you are going through a difficult time and want to get 'un-stuck' and feel better, but you know that you need someone to confide in that will really listen. It's so hard to find the right therapist, but you are welcome to reach out without any obligations.
Are you struggling with an addiction and or low self esteem? Do you find yourself turning to your addiction especially in those moments when you are feeling down on yourself? Maybe you don’t realize your self esteem is impacting your addiction? One thing is for sure, you need some support. You're ready to address your addiction and the way you feel about yourself internally and externally. Most importantly you are ready to wake up and feel good about yourself and be in control of your desires and impulses.
Are you struggling with an addiction and or low self esteem? Do you find yourself turning to your addiction especially in those moments when you are feeling down on yourself? Maybe you don’t realize your self esteem is impacting your addiction? One thing is for sure, you need some support. You're ready to address your addiction and the way you feel about yourself internally and externally. Most importantly you are ready to wake up and feel good about yourself and be in control of your desires and impulses.
Erin Harding
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dundas, ON L9H (Online Only)
Life throws A LOT of challenges our way. . Are you currently going through it? Are you, your family members, children or your partner and you starting to feel like you can't keep afloat? Perhaps you're worrying 24/7, you can't seem to stop your thoughts. Maybe you experience physical symptoms of the stress or anxiety you've been feeling. Maybe you're trying to support a loved one, but aren't sure what the solution is. Whatever the struggle, I'm here to help. I work with clients of all ages to help them find the solutions that work for them. I help clients to find satisfaction again, to ease worry, become confident & commited.
Life throws A LOT of challenges our way. . Are you currently going through it? Are you, your family members, children or your partner and you starting to feel like you can't keep afloat? Perhaps you're worrying 24/7, you can't seem to stop your thoughts. Maybe you experience physical symptoms of the stress or anxiety you've been feeling. Maybe you're trying to support a loved one, but aren't sure what the solution is. Whatever the struggle, I'm here to help. I work with clients of all ages to help them find the solutions that work for them. I help clients to find satisfaction again, to ease worry, become confident & commited.
Stress highly depletes your energy to deal with problems. When feeling tired, frustrated and hopeless, it can seem like there are no solutions. In a safe, calm environment, where you feel accepted just as you are, you begin to develop self-compassion. By being gentle with yourself, coming from a place of non-judgement, you can attain so much. Trust allows you to open and us to work together to explore what is at the root of the problem. As you explore thoughts, and feelings you become more self-aware. Your energy increases and you become stronger, then able to learn effective coping skills to overcome challenges and to thrive.
Stress highly depletes your energy to deal with problems. When feeling tired, frustrated and hopeless, it can seem like there are no solutions. In a safe, calm environment, where you feel accepted just as you are, you begin to develop self-compassion. By being gentle with yourself, coming from a place of non-judgement, you can attain so much. Trust allows you to open and us to work together to explore what is at the root of the problem. As you explore thoughts, and feelings you become more self-aware. Your energy increases and you become stronger, then able to learn effective coping skills to overcome challenges and to thrive.
Danielle McCallum is a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO). Danielle has a Masters of Counselling Psychology degree from Yorkville University. Danielle has been trained in a number of specific modalities but takes an eclectic, client-centered approach to treatment. She uses a variety of modalities including: emotion focused, mindfulness based interventions, trauma informed practices, CBT, DBT, Family-based, Emotion Coaching for parents, Gottman and Imago for Couples therapy.
Danielle McCallum is a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO). Danielle has a Masters of Counselling Psychology degree from Yorkville University. Danielle has been trained in a number of specific modalities but takes an eclectic, client-centered approach to treatment. She uses a variety of modalities including: emotion focused, mindfulness based interventions, trauma informed practices, CBT, DBT, Family-based, Emotion Coaching for parents, Gottman and Imago for Couples therapy.
Joel Richard Ten Brinke
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, MTS, RP, CPC
Verified Verified
Dundas, ON L9H
Welcome, you have taken a significant step in visiting this site. I am a non-judgmental client-centred therapist who is here to help and support you no matter what your counselling goals are, and no matter where you are in your journey of discovery, coping, or healing. I approach each client with compassion, empathy, and clinical experience. I have worked with a variety of matters and populations, including but not limited to, adolescents, youth, adults, couples, and families, struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, sexuality, stress management, emotion regulation, family issues, grief and loss, and so much more.
Welcome, you have taken a significant step in visiting this site. I am a non-judgmental client-centred therapist who is here to help and support you no matter what your counselling goals are, and no matter where you are in your journey of discovery, coping, or healing. I approach each client with compassion, empathy, and clinical experience. I have worked with a variety of matters and populations, including but not limited to, adolescents, youth, adults, couples, and families, struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, sexuality, stress management, emotion regulation, family issues, grief and loss, and so much more.
Mareas was established as a specialized service provider to meet the needs of individuals, children and families experiencing challenges in the areas of emotional regulation, anxiety, attachment, interfering behaviours. Mareas recognizes that from time to time, everyone including all families need support. Programs and treatment plans are designed with a holistic approach with the client as the focus. Mareas is committed to providing nurturing and dedicated support to individuals, children, youth and families during difficult periods of time to help them get back on course.
Mareas was established as a specialized service provider to meet the needs of individuals, children and families experiencing challenges in the areas of emotional regulation, anxiety, attachment, interfering behaviours. Mareas recognizes that from time to time, everyone including all families need support. Programs and treatment plans are designed with a holistic approach with the client as the focus. Mareas is committed to providing nurturing and dedicated support to individuals, children, youth and families during difficult periods of time to help them get back on course.
More Therapists Nearby
I am trained in several modalities, and lean into anti-oppressive psychotherapy, attachment-based family therapy, play, and trauma-informed approaches.
Are you looking for a therapist who will celebrate you for you as you explore connecting to your truths and healing? Would you like to feel seen, have your voice heard, and get active support when going through a life transition? I offer a kind and gentle approach to address the impacts of trauma, anxiety, depression, and complex stressors. As a therapist who is black, trans, and queer, I bring my whole authentic self to create a safer container for the therapist and client relationship. Together we can process trauma or complex situations, and develop tools for advocating and supporting you.
I am trained in several modalities, and lean into anti-oppressive psychotherapy, attachment-based family therapy, play, and trauma-informed approaches.
Are you looking for a therapist who will celebrate you for you as you explore connecting to your truths and healing? Would you like to feel seen, have your voice heard, and get active support when going through a life transition? I offer a kind and gentle approach to address the impacts of trauma, anxiety, depression, and complex stressors. As a therapist who is black, trans, and queer, I bring my whole authentic self to create a safer container for the therapist and client relationship. Together we can process trauma or complex situations, and develop tools for advocating and supporting you.
We all have our own stories and experiences that contribute to who we are and how we face challenges. Sometimes, we get so lost in the difficulties of the outside world that we forget to take care of our inner self. This can lead to us struggling with things such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, identity-based oppression, stress management, relationship concerns, immigrant struggles, and life changes. I understand how challenging these difficulties can be, and I am passionate about helping others move from fighting with their feelings to reaching their own inner peace. I also, provide child and play therapy.
We all have our own stories and experiences that contribute to who we are and how we face challenges. Sometimes, we get so lost in the difficulties of the outside world that we forget to take care of our inner self. This can lead to us struggling with things such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, identity-based oppression, stress management, relationship concerns, immigrant struggles, and life changes. I understand how challenging these difficulties can be, and I am passionate about helping others move from fighting with their feelings to reaching their own inner peace. I also, provide child and play therapy.
Can you imagine if therapy took place while hiking through the forest, sunbathing in a field of wildflowers, chilling with some chickens, sitting around a campfire or simply from the comfort of your kitchen table? I believe that therapy has a real image problem that could be improved by embracing a healing realm which includes mother nature, play and genuine human connection. If you are considering therapy for you or someone you care about, but the thought of sitting in an office turns you off, then let's connect where you're at, or where I'm at: on 25 aces in Hamilton's wild west Flamborough!
Can you imagine if therapy took place while hiking through the forest, sunbathing in a field of wildflowers, chilling with some chickens, sitting around a campfire or simply from the comfort of your kitchen table? I believe that therapy has a real image problem that could be improved by embracing a healing realm which includes mother nature, play and genuine human connection. If you are considering therapy for you or someone you care about, but the thought of sitting in an office turns you off, then let's connect where you're at, or where I'm at: on 25 aces in Hamilton's wild west Flamborough!
Acorn Counselling -Child Youth Family Therapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CYC-P
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L9C
We are trained in and use a blend of various approaches including CBT, DBT, ACT, emotion focused and narrative therapy, mindfulness, creativity and play.
Is your child or teen struggling with anxiety or depression? Feeling worried and overthinking seemingly ordinary situations, or feeling unmotivated and having a hard time getting involved in daily activities? We are here to help! If you’re noticing low self-esteem, poor confidence, trouble focusing, mood swings, or have concern for your or your young person’s mental health, we'd love to connect with you.
We are trained in and use a blend of various approaches including CBT, DBT, ACT, emotion focused and narrative therapy, mindfulness, creativity and play.
Is your child or teen struggling with anxiety or depression? Feeling worried and overthinking seemingly ordinary situations, or feeling unmotivated and having a hard time getting involved in daily activities? We are here to help! If you’re noticing low self-esteem, poor confidence, trouble focusing, mood swings, or have concern for your or your young person’s mental health, we'd love to connect with you.
Valley Connections Child Life Therapists
Pre-Licensed Professional, BSc, MSc, CCLS
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L9H
We use evidence-based approaches including CBT and DBT, as well as Play-based therapies, Art, and Mindfulness to help your child feel safe and comfortable as they learn to connect and share in our cozy clinics.
Hi! We are Elena, Meghan, and Heather, and we are Certified Child Life Specialists. We are trained to provide therapeutic support for children from birth to 18 years old. We each have Master's Degrees in Pediatric Psychosocial Care and we have several years of experience supporting children and their families through some of the most difficult times in their lives. Whether your child is experiencing a loss, divorce, a traumatic event, grief, or psychosocial issues such as anxiety or depression, we are trained to meet your child where they are, and build their resilience as they heal.
We use evidence-based approaches including CBT and DBT, as well as Play-based therapies, Art, and Mindfulness to help your child feel safe and comfortable as they learn to connect and share in our cozy clinics.
Hi! We are Elena, Meghan, and Heather, and we are Certified Child Life Specialists. We are trained to provide therapeutic support for children from birth to 18 years old. We each have Master's Degrees in Pediatric Psychosocial Care and we have several years of experience supporting children and their families through some of the most difficult times in their lives. Whether your child is experiencing a loss, divorce, a traumatic event, grief, or psychosocial issues such as anxiety or depression, we are trained to meet your child where they are, and build their resilience as they heal.
Dayana Romero
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MACP, MScF(c)
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L9H
The practice of RD Psychotherapy is located in Hamilton, ON. Clients can utilize virtual sessions or in person sessions. We provide services for individuals, families, couples and group sessions. We provide services to the general population and specialize with Military and Veteran community, as well as the Indigenous population. Services available in English, Spanish, Italian and Polish.
The practice of RD Psychotherapy is located in Hamilton, ON. Clients can utilize virtual sessions or in person sessions. We provide services for individuals, families, couples and group sessions. We provide services to the general population and specialize with Military and Veteran community, as well as the Indigenous population. Services available in English, Spanish, Italian and Polish.
Hey there - my name is Maddie (she/they) and I’m a Lebanese Canadian offering support to children and youth 10+, students, and young adults experiencing anxieties, school and life stressors, ADHD, relationship challenges, identity exploration, people pleasing, perfectionism, depression, grief, liberation, and the overall pressures of being a human. We will explore topics of self-awareness, attachment, emotions, thoughts, behaviours, protective patterns and narrative themes; relationship with our true selves, communities, nature; power dynamics and the impact of systems we live in; and many more mental health topics.
Hey there - my name is Maddie (she/they) and I’m a Lebanese Canadian offering support to children and youth 10+, students, and young adults experiencing anxieties, school and life stressors, ADHD, relationship challenges, identity exploration, people pleasing, perfectionism, depression, grief, liberation, and the overall pressures of being a human. We will explore topics of self-awareness, attachment, emotions, thoughts, behaviours, protective patterns and narrative themes; relationship with our true selves, communities, nature; power dynamics and the impact of systems we live in; and many more mental health topics.
Building Bridges Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L9C
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: IN-PERSON & PHONE/VIDEO*** We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We have helped individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: IN-PERSON & PHONE/VIDEO*** We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We have helped individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
Child and Family Pathways
Registered Psychotherapist, CYW, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L9C (Online Only)
Accepting new virtual clients! Devin from Child and Family Pathways has over 20 years of success and experience working with school age children, parents and teens. Devin also works with young adults 18-21 who may need support transitioning into adulthood. She is comfortable working along side parents, teachers and health care teams with the intent to best support the needs of the client. Specialization's in Trauma and Attachment work, DBT, CBT and some EFT. As well as parent coaching to support behaviours related too; ADHD, ODD, ASD, Anxiety and OCD. Please don't hesitate to reach out with any questions you might have.
Accepting new virtual clients! Devin from Child and Family Pathways has over 20 years of success and experience working with school age children, parents and teens. Devin also works with young adults 18-21 who may need support transitioning into adulthood. She is comfortable working along side parents, teachers and health care teams with the intent to best support the needs of the client. Specialization's in Trauma and Attachment work, DBT, CBT and some EFT. As well as parent coaching to support behaviours related too; ADHD, ODD, ASD, Anxiety and OCD. Please don't hesitate to reach out with any questions you might have.
Deanna Khes-Grabiec
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8P (Online Only)
I focus on children, teenagers and young adults struggling with eating disorders/disordered eating, body image, anxiety, and perfectionism. I promote wellness beyond weight and address related social justice issues by approaching care from a Health at Every Size theoretical lens. Intrusive thoughts related to food, weight, and self-image can be overwhelming and by using a collaborative approach to discover self-compassion, food freedom, body acceptance, and self-confidence, patients can feel empowered.
I focus on children, teenagers and young adults struggling with eating disorders/disordered eating, body image, anxiety, and perfectionism. I promote wellness beyond weight and address related social justice issues by approaching care from a Health at Every Size theoretical lens. Intrusive thoughts related to food, weight, and self-image can be overwhelming and by using a collaborative approach to discover self-compassion, food freedom, body acceptance, and self-confidence, patients can feel empowered.
Kennedy McLean Counselling & Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8S (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients-Virtual Only—You feel stressed, anxious, and depressed. Maybe you have lost your sense of joy and hope. Past events or traumas have kept you feeling stuck and frustrated, unable to move forward. Things feel out of control and you aren't even sure how you ended up in this place. Life is filled with challenges and it can feel lonely. Maybe you have been too afraid to try therapy before, or you have tried and it didn't seem like a good fit. That's okay, you are here now.
Accepting New Clients-Virtual Only—You feel stressed, anxious, and depressed. Maybe you have lost your sense of joy and hope. Past events or traumas have kept you feeling stuck and frustrated, unable to move forward. Things feel out of control and you aren't even sure how you ended up in this place. Life is filled with challenges and it can feel lonely. Maybe you have been too afraid to try therapy before, or you have tried and it didn't seem like a good fit. That's okay, you are here now.
Alexander Kunashko
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ancaster, ON L8S
Coronavirus concerns? Video chat (Skype) and phone-based appointments available! Has life become too stressful? Can you no longer cope? Is life not as enjoyable as it used to be? Do you struggle with any of the following: Depression, Trauma, Anxiety, Relationship Issues, Grief, Insomnia, or Stress? Sometimes life can feel overwhelming and seem hopeless. Instead of suffering alone, let me help you. I am a great listener who is compassionate and non-judgmental. I will work hard to earn your trust, understand what the root issues are, and then problem solve effective solutions that will suit your unique needs.
Coronavirus concerns? Video chat (Skype) and phone-based appointments available! Has life become too stressful? Can you no longer cope? Is life not as enjoyable as it used to be? Do you struggle with any of the following: Depression, Trauma, Anxiety, Relationship Issues, Grief, Insomnia, or Stress? Sometimes life can feel overwhelming and seem hopeless. Instead of suffering alone, let me help you. I am a great listener who is compassionate and non-judgmental. I will work hard to earn your trust, understand what the root issues are, and then problem solve effective solutions that will suit your unique needs.
Peachey Counselling & Family Support
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, AccFM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8P
At Peachey Counselling and Family Support we have therapists who are able to support all types of concerns and challenges. We are a team with a variety of expertise from children's counselling, couples counselling, individual work for depression and anxiety and work to explore past or present trauma. We are here to support you in person in Burlington ON or online across Ontario. Our goal is to provide you with a safe space. Book online at https://oab.owlpractice.ca/pcounselling/1/calendar
At Peachey Counselling and Family Support we have therapists who are able to support all types of concerns and challenges. We are a team with a variety of expertise from children's counselling, couples counselling, individual work for depression and anxiety and work to explore past or present trauma. We are here to support you in person in Burlington ON or online across Ontario. Our goal is to provide you with a safe space. Book online at https://oab.owlpractice.ca/pcounselling/1/calendar
Building Bridges Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MSc, MA
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L9C
Accepting New Clients: In-Person & Phone/Video. We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We have helped individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
Accepting New Clients: In-Person & Phone/Video. We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We have helped individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
Where You’re at Support Services
Registered Social Worker, MAECS, MACYC, RSW
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L9H
Feeling burnt out and overwhelmed as a stepmother? This can be an extremely isolating place to live. Parenting can be challenging, and the added complexity of being a stepmother can make it all that more stressful. There is no instruction manual for parents, and there is even less information and support for stepmothers. Are you a parent who is struggling with behavioural challenges and power struggles? Do you need support and strategies on how to reset the chaos and find the joy of parenting once again? I work with parents and children to help them go from conflict, resentment and frustration, to joy, connection and confidence.
Feeling burnt out and overwhelmed as a stepmother? This can be an extremely isolating place to live. Parenting can be challenging, and the added complexity of being a stepmother can make it all that more stressful. There is no instruction manual for parents, and there is even less information and support for stepmothers. Are you a parent who is struggling with behavioural challenges and power struggles? Do you need support and strategies on how to reset the chaos and find the joy of parenting once again? I work with parents and children to help them go from conflict, resentment and frustration, to joy, connection and confidence.
See more therapy options for Dundas
Nearby Play Therapy Counsellors Searches for Dundas
- Ancaster
- Brantford
- Burlington
- Cambridge
- Campbellville
- Grimsby
- Guelph
- Hamilton
- Oakville
- Paris
- Stoney Creek
- Waterdown
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.