Play Therapy in Ingersoll, ON
Courageous Counselling and Play Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, CCC, CPT
Verified Verified
Ingersoll, ON N5C
It can be hard watching our child struggle whether it be with anxiety, fear, anger, big emotions, loss, trauma or significant life changes and if any of this is resonating with you I believe you are in the right place. As a Certified Play Therapist my approach to therapy allows children of all ages to use their natural language of play to process and communicate their inner world in a safe environment where they feel seen, heard and understood. And yes - we can do all of this while also having fun!
It can be hard watching our child struggle whether it be with anxiety, fear, anger, big emotions, loss, trauma or significant life changes and if any of this is resonating with you I believe you are in the right place. As a Certified Play Therapist my approach to therapy allows children of all ages to use their natural language of play to process and communicate their inner world in a safe environment where they feel seen, heard and understood. And yes - we can do all of this while also having fun!
Ann Tichelaar Swerdfeger
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ingersoll, ON N5C
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck because of your grief, trauma experiences, relationship issues or anxiety and want someone to help sort things out, work through effective strategies....Or perhaps your child or teen are feeling overwhelmed? Are you looking for strategies to assist with structuring of routines, support with understanding your child’s individual needs OR maybe you would like individual support or couple counselling? We have a team of skilled therapists that are ready to help!
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck because of your grief, trauma experiences, relationship issues or anxiety and want someone to help sort things out, work through effective strategies....Or perhaps your child or teen are feeling overwhelmed? Are you looking for strategies to assist with structuring of routines, support with understanding your child’s individual needs OR maybe you would like individual support or couple counselling? We have a team of skilled therapists that are ready to help!
Michelle Watson
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ingersoll, ON N5C (Online Only)
I have been honoured and dedicated to work with children, youth and their families for over 27 years. I offer a safe, non-judgmental environment where clients are heard and valued. My easygoing and practical approach allows me to effectively connect with children, youth and their families. Within the therapeutic process, children and families feel understood and develop the tools they need to manage "life's storms". I believe that it is essential to view children and youth within the context of their family and as such, I regularly provide parental guidance and strategies.
I have been honoured and dedicated to work with children, youth and their families for over 27 years. I offer a safe, non-judgmental environment where clients are heard and valued. My easygoing and practical approach allows me to effectively connect with children, youth and their families. Within the therapeutic process, children and families feel understood and develop the tools they need to manage "life's storms". I believe that it is essential to view children and youth within the context of their family and as such, I regularly provide parental guidance and strategies.
Counselling and Play Therapy Services
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ingersoll, ON N5C
Are you feeling stuck? Perhaps you are experiencing a major life transition: grief, divorce, empty nester, new job, retirement and you are wondering where you go next. Do you feel like your anxiety has taken control of your life? You are finding it hard to lean into the uncomfortable; turning down social connections and finding it hard to stay motivated. Or, are you wanting support either individually or with your partner so that you can work towards a healthier relationship?
Are you feeling stuck? Perhaps you are experiencing a major life transition: grief, divorce, empty nester, new job, retirement and you are wondering where you go next. Do you feel like your anxiety has taken control of your life? You are finding it hard to lean into the uncomfortable; turning down social connections and finding it hard to stay motivated. Or, are you wanting support either individually or with your partner so that you can work towards a healthier relationship?
CommYOUnity Counselling & Family Support
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ingersoll, ON N5C
CommYOUnity Counselling & Family Support is a place for children, youth and caregivers to receive mental health support through individual counselling, groups, and more. We are so happy you found us! We are both registered social workers with varying experience in crisis intervention, early childhood, and hospital social work.
CommYOUnity Counselling & Family Support is a place for children, youth and caregivers to receive mental health support through individual counselling, groups, and more. We are so happy you found us! We are both registered social workers with varying experience in crisis intervention, early childhood, and hospital social work.
More Therapists Nearby
Art Therapy, Art Smart Inc. Sarah Leyes
Art Therapist, RP, RCAT, BEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woodstock, ON N4S
I offer talk, art therapy and play-based counselling and psychotherapy for children, youth and families. One of my core beliefs is that, like a compass trying to find its true north, everyone intuitively orientates towards health. I am respectful of each participant's unique journey back to health and wholeness. Most extended insurance plans provide full or partial coverage for psychotherapy services.
I offer talk, art therapy and play-based counselling and psychotherapy for children, youth and families. One of my core beliefs is that, like a compass trying to find its true north, everyone intuitively orientates towards health. I am respectful of each participant's unique journey back to health and wholeness. Most extended insurance plans provide full or partial coverage for psychotherapy services.
Sara Collings Wilken
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Woodstock, ON N4S
I enjoy working with children and adults of all ages and I specialize in perinatal mental health and play therapy.
Therapy offers a profound opportunity to make sense of overwhelming emotions, heal from painful relationships, and address past traumas that impact your present life. My goal is to build a relationship with you where you feel deeply accepted and genuinely understood. Through this connection, we can gently explore your inner world, helping you gain insight into your emotions and nurturing a stronger sense of self. For adults, this journey unfolds through meaningful conversations, while for children, emotions are expressed and understood through the language of play, fostering growth in a safe, supportive environment.
I enjoy working with children and adults of all ages and I specialize in perinatal mental health and play therapy.
Therapy offers a profound opportunity to make sense of overwhelming emotions, heal from painful relationships, and address past traumas that impact your present life. My goal is to build a relationship with you where you feel deeply accepted and genuinely understood. Through this connection, we can gently explore your inner world, helping you gain insight into your emotions and nurturing a stronger sense of self. For adults, this journey unfolds through meaningful conversations, while for children, emotions are expressed and understood through the language of play, fostering growth in a safe, supportive environment.
I may often draw from modalities such as CBT, Music, Art, and Play.
Do you or your child struggle with depression, anxiety, separation, grief/loss, family changes, anger/aggression, or Neuro-Divergence (ADHD, ASD, learning difficulties) that affects your day-to-day life, relationships, or ability to function? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, or alone by the demands of work, relationships, just getting through the day, or the pressures of parenting? My name is Sarah and I am a Registered Psychotherapist (RP) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) and a Certified Music Therapist (MTA) with the Canadian Association of Music Therapists (CAMT).
I may often draw from modalities such as CBT, Music, Art, and Play.
Do you or your child struggle with depression, anxiety, separation, grief/loss, family changes, anger/aggression, or Neuro-Divergence (ADHD, ASD, learning difficulties) that affects your day-to-day life, relationships, or ability to function? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, or alone by the demands of work, relationships, just getting through the day, or the pressures of parenting? My name is Sarah and I am a Registered Psychotherapist (RP) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) and a Certified Music Therapist (MTA) with the Canadian Association of Music Therapists (CAMT).
Whether it be behavioural issues, shyness, grief, or anger, we will use art, talk, and/or play-based therapy to best suit the client's interests and needs.
Children and adolescents want to feel understood, supported, and empowered to overcome their challenges. They desire acceptance, validation, and the tools necessary to navigate their world successfully. Ultimately, they seek happiness, fulfillment, and the opportunity to grow into confident, capable individuals. They want to be heard because their experiences, emotions, and perspectives are valid and important. By addressing their needs and goals, we can help them build a foundation for a brighter future.
Whether it be behavioural issues, shyness, grief, or anger, we will use art, talk, and/or play-based therapy to best suit the client's interests and needs.
Children and adolescents want to feel understood, supported, and empowered to overcome their challenges. They desire acceptance, validation, and the tools necessary to navigate their world successfully. Ultimately, they seek happiness, fulfillment, and the opportunity to grow into confident, capable individuals. They want to be heard because their experiences, emotions, and perspectives are valid and important. By addressing their needs and goals, we can help them build a foundation for a brighter future.
Currently Accepting New Clients for Virtual Appointments Only. Do you suffer from feelings of anxiety, overwhelm, nervousness, racing thoughts, panic attacks, difficulty relaxing, exhaustion, or burn out? Having overcome my own struggle with anxiety as a young person, I have developed a strong passion for assisting others who are suffering from similar challenges. Let’s work together to transform your struggles into stepping stones, leading you towards a peaceful and empowered life. No challenge is too big or too small – I’m dedicated to helping you find your way and ensuring you no longer feel held back by your troubles.
Currently Accepting New Clients for Virtual Appointments Only. Do you suffer from feelings of anxiety, overwhelm, nervousness, racing thoughts, panic attacks, difficulty relaxing, exhaustion, or burn out? Having overcome my own struggle with anxiety as a young person, I have developed a strong passion for assisting others who are suffering from similar challenges. Let’s work together to transform your struggles into stepping stones, leading you towards a peaceful and empowered life. No challenge is too big or too small – I’m dedicated to helping you find your way and ensuring you no longer feel held back by your troubles.
My focus of my practice is that of relationship counselling. Relationship to self, others and the world is extremely important for healthy living. When something gets in the way of good relationship then sometimes it is really important to have a third parties insight into what might be going wrong and how to make changes to overcome what might be standing in the way. I see children, teens, individuals, couples, and families. We offer: anger management, domestic violence, relapse prevention, weight loss, anxiety, depression, conflict resolution, trauma resolution and Christian counselling programs.
My focus of my practice is that of relationship counselling. Relationship to self, others and the world is extremely important for healthy living. When something gets in the way of good relationship then sometimes it is really important to have a third parties insight into what might be going wrong and how to make changes to overcome what might be standing in the way. I see children, teens, individuals, couples, and families. We offer: anger management, domestic violence, relapse prevention, weight loss, anxiety, depression, conflict resolution, trauma resolution and Christian counselling programs.
Tina J. Smith & Associates
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Woodstock, ON N4S
Tina J. Smith & Associates supports the "whole family" (children, adolescents, teens, adults, couples, and families). It is our passion to help restore hope and healing by walking a journey alongside you. Everyone is faced with suffering in their life, and "at times" this suffering seems overwhelming. Counselling and psychotherapy provide an opportunity to gain insight, tools, and treatment toward restoration and healing. We believe hope and healing are greater when individuals, couples, and families receive care and support from our specialized therapists from within our "family team."
Tina J. Smith & Associates supports the "whole family" (children, adolescents, teens, adults, couples, and families). It is our passion to help restore hope and healing by walking a journey alongside you. Everyone is faced with suffering in their life, and "at times" this suffering seems overwhelming. Counselling and psychotherapy provide an opportunity to gain insight, tools, and treatment toward restoration and healing. We believe hope and healing are greater when individuals, couples, and families receive care and support from our specialized therapists from within our "family team."
Lyndall Hewitt
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Dorchester, ON N0L
Waitlist for new clients
A warm hello from a therapist with a humanistic approach. I believe everyone deserves a sense of belonging and healthy relationships, and I strive to cultivate a therapeutic relationship that allows you to be yourself. I understand that not everyone can come to an office for therapy and I offer virtual appointments for your convenience and accessibility.
A warm hello from a therapist with a humanistic approach. I believe everyone deserves a sense of belonging and healthy relationships, and I strive to cultivate a therapeutic relationship that allows you to be yourself. I understand that not everyone can come to an office for therapy and I offer virtual appointments for your convenience and accessibility.
Cobblestone Counselling Group
Registered Social Worker
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodstock, ON N4S
We offer private In-person, phone and video Counselling and Psychotherapy services in Paris, Ontario. Are you struggling to understand and cope with challenges in your personal or professional life? Cobblestone Counselling and Psychotherapy group offers children, individuals, families and couples counselling. Like all services at Cobblestone, Counselling services are focused on treating people holistically. We see the person as a whole and employ a person centred, collaborative and integrative approach to counselling and therapy. Finding a therapist uniquely fitting to your needs is significant to us at Cobblestone.
We offer private In-person, phone and video Counselling and Psychotherapy services in Paris, Ontario. Are you struggling to understand and cope with challenges in your personal or professional life? Cobblestone Counselling and Psychotherapy group offers children, individuals, families and couples counselling. Like all services at Cobblestone, Counselling services are focused on treating people holistically. We see the person as a whole and employ a person centred, collaborative and integrative approach to counselling and therapy. Finding a therapist uniquely fitting to your needs is significant to us at Cobblestone.
Online Therapists
Wendy Roza
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MDiv, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newmarket, ON L3X
I work with individuals of all ages, including children ages 6+, using play therapy to help them express their feelings & experiences.
Are you on a journey of self-discovery & personal growth? As a dedicated and compassionate therapist, I'm here to walk alongside you through life's challenges with an approach that respects your unique experiences. In our sessions, I see you as a whole person, not just a list of symptoms. We'll create a safe and supportive space where you can freely explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours without fear of judgment. My goal is to empower you to uncover underlying issues, gain insights into your patterns, and develop effective coping strategies.
I work with individuals of all ages, including children ages 6+, using play therapy to help them express their feelings & experiences.
Are you on a journey of self-discovery & personal growth? As a dedicated and compassionate therapist, I'm here to walk alongside you through life's challenges with an approach that respects your unique experiences. In our sessions, I see you as a whole person, not just a list of symptoms. We'll create a safe and supportive space where you can freely explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours without fear of judgment. My goal is to empower you to uncover underlying issues, gain insights into your patterns, and develop effective coping strategies.
Nicole uses a holistic, person-centred and empathetic approach to provide therapy to children, young people, and their families. A registered Clinical Social Worker, Nicole holds a Bachelor of Social Work from Memorial University, and a Master’s of Social Work from McGill University. She has received specific training in Cognitive Behaviour and Play Therapy approaches from Laurier University and the Canadian Association of Play Therapy.
Nicole uses a holistic, person-centred and empathetic approach to provide therapy to children, young people, and their families. A registered Clinical Social Worker, Nicole holds a Bachelor of Social Work from Memorial University, and a Master’s of Social Work from McGill University. She has received specific training in Cognitive Behaviour and Play Therapy approaches from Laurier University and the Canadian Association of Play Therapy.
Myckayla Boileau
Registered Social Service Worker, SSW, BSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarnia, ON N7T
I incorporate techniques of CBT, Play therapy, Mindfulness, and modern trauma approaches (i.
I enjoy working with people of all ages who may be experiencing some mental health symptoms due to family, social, or interpersonal issues. I can be a support along side people to figure out what tools benefit them and where they are at in their journey, that can be adapted as they grow and move through life. Coming from a trauma-informed lens is critical to meeting people where they mentally and emotionally are. In applying a polyvagal understanding I aim to create a supportive and healing environment for all of the people I work with.
I incorporate techniques of CBT, Play therapy, Mindfulness, and modern trauma approaches (i.
I enjoy working with people of all ages who may be experiencing some mental health symptoms due to family, social, or interpersonal issues. I can be a support along side people to figure out what tools benefit them and where they are at in their journey, that can be adapted as they grow and move through life. Coming from a trauma-informed lens is critical to meeting people where they mentally and emotionally are. In applying a polyvagal understanding I aim to create a supportive and healing environment for all of the people I work with.
My approach includes diverse modalities like cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness techniques, spiritual therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and play therapy.
Are you motivated to embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth? Are you going through challenges such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues and seeking support to navigate life's complexities? Do you need a safe space to express yourself authentically? Do you want to achieve a greater sense of well-being, and improved mental health?
My approach includes diverse modalities like cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness techniques, spiritual therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and play therapy.
Are you motivated to embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth? Are you going through challenges such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues and seeking support to navigate life's complexities? Do you need a safe space to express yourself authentically? Do you want to achieve a greater sense of well-being, and improved mental health?
I am a licensed psychologist with dual registration as a Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychologist and a Family Psychologist. I provide psychotherapy for toddlers (ages 2-5), play therapy for children (ages 6-11), talk therapy for preteens and teens (ages 12-18), and family therapy. Additionally, I offer comprehensive assessments for children and adolescents, including psychoeducational, ADHD, and diagnostic/social-emotional evaluations. These cover learning disorders, giftedness, mental health disorders, developmental concerns and assessments for post-secondary education planning.
I am a licensed psychologist with dual registration as a Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychologist and a Family Psychologist. I provide psychotherapy for toddlers (ages 2-5), play therapy for children (ages 6-11), talk therapy for preteens and teens (ages 12-18), and family therapy. Additionally, I offer comprehensive assessments for children and adolescents, including psychoeducational, ADHD, and diagnostic/social-emotional evaluations. These cover learning disorders, giftedness, mental health disorders, developmental concerns and assessments for post-secondary education planning.
I utilize a blend of CBT, EFT, Mindfulness, Solution-Focused Therapy, Play Therapy and Art Therapy.
Let me be your guide to the life you hope to for. Psychology and psychotherapy have captivated me for years, driving my dedication to the mental health field since 2011. Whether through in-person sessions or online, I tailor to meet the specific needs of each person I work with. I specialize in Couples Therapy and am certified in Emotion-Focused Couples Therapy. I also support individuals facing various difficulties, including phobias, social anxiety, panic attacks, health-related anxieties, major and persistent depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, OCD, trauma, PTSD, ADHD, anger, weight loss, suicidal ideation, and spirituality.
I utilize a blend of CBT, EFT, Mindfulness, Solution-Focused Therapy, Play Therapy and Art Therapy.
Let me be your guide to the life you hope to for. Psychology and psychotherapy have captivated me for years, driving my dedication to the mental health field since 2011. Whether through in-person sessions or online, I tailor to meet the specific needs of each person I work with. I specialize in Couples Therapy and am certified in Emotion-Focused Couples Therapy. I also support individuals facing various difficulties, including phobias, social anxiety, panic attacks, health-related anxieties, major and persistent depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, OCD, trauma, PTSD, ADHD, anger, weight loss, suicidal ideation, and spirituality.
*****NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*****Healing Through Play is a child focused therapy center. The therapists are Certified Play Therapists and Registered Psychotherapists. Our focus is on our clients, and providing them with a place of security, comfort and a supportive therapeutic atmosphere. Our belief is that all people are valuable and unique and have the potential for growth and the inner strength to succeed. In play therapy, children do not have to be verbal, it works well for children who are non-verbal or have difficulties putting their thoughts and feelings into words.
*****NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*****Healing Through Play is a child focused therapy center. The therapists are Certified Play Therapists and Registered Psychotherapists. Our focus is on our clients, and providing them with a place of security, comfort and a supportive therapeutic atmosphere. Our belief is that all people are valuable and unique and have the potential for growth and the inner strength to succeed. In play therapy, children do not have to be verbal, it works well for children who are non-verbal or have difficulties putting their thoughts and feelings into words.
I focus primarily on attachment and child development, and I use a combination of therapeutic modalities as needed, including Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, play-based, and trauma-informed therapeutic approaches.
I am a registered Social Worker in Ontario with over 12 years of experience in children’s mental health. I provide treatment for a wide range of childhood issues, including anxiety and anxiety related disorders, emotional regulation, relationship difficulties, developmental trauma, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) & executive function difficulties, depression, oppositional behaviour, self-esteem, sleep problems, and difficulties relating to separation/divorce.
I focus primarily on attachment and child development, and I use a combination of therapeutic modalities as needed, including Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, play-based, and trauma-informed therapeutic approaches.
I am a registered Social Worker in Ontario with over 12 years of experience in children’s mental health. I provide treatment for a wide range of childhood issues, including anxiety and anxiety related disorders, emotional regulation, relationship difficulties, developmental trauma, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) & executive function difficulties, depression, oppositional behaviour, self-esteem, sleep problems, and difficulties relating to separation/divorce.
Gabrielle Arruda
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6G
Utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Gestalt Therapy and Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), I incorporate art therapy and play therapy techniques to facilitate self-expression and healing.
Too often, people endure their obstacles alone, convinced that they must shoulder their burdens in silence. Whether it's a child struggling with emotional regulation, a teenager navigating the complexities of anxiety amid life's changes, or an adult wrestling with depression, everyone can benefit from specialized support at various points in their lives.
Utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Gestalt Therapy and Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), I incorporate art therapy and play therapy techniques to facilitate self-expression and healing.
Too often, people endure their obstacles alone, convinced that they must shoulder their burdens in silence. Whether it's a child struggling with emotional regulation, a teenager navigating the complexities of anxiety amid life's changes, or an adult wrestling with depression, everyone can benefit from specialized support at various points in their lives.
Can be talk, art, play, movement, storytelling, poetry, mindfulness, cultivating compassion.
Are you looking for support through a significant loss, making difficult career or lifestyle changes, in need of greater emotional balance, or want to develop more self-awareness and connection with your life? Life is challenging and can sometimes become overwhelming to be able to rebalance our emotional, mental or physical health on our own. With a compassionate therapist, you can be supported to be present to yourself and explore in a safe space what is happening and what is possible.
Can be talk, art, play, movement, storytelling, poetry, mindfulness, cultivating compassion.
Are you looking for support through a significant loss, making difficult career or lifestyle changes, in need of greater emotional balance, or want to develop more self-awareness and connection with your life? Life is challenging and can sometimes become overwhelming to be able to rebalance our emotional, mental or physical health on our own. With a compassionate therapist, you can be supported to be present to yourself and explore in a safe space what is happening and what is possible.
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.
See more therapy options for Ingersoll
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.