Play Therapy in Vaughan, ON

Photo of Jodi Miller, MEdPsy, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Jodi Miller
Registered Psychotherapist, MEdPsy, RP
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4J
This includes play therapy (which is a child's natural language and way of communicating and exploring their inner world), talk therapy for adolescents and adults, family therapy, parent support (including parent-infant psychotherapy) as well as support groups for children.
I have worked with children adolescents, parents and families for over 20 years in the fields of Education and Psychology. I have a passion for giving children and adolescents a voice, working across cultures, with intergenerational and complex trauma, as well as behavioral and attachment challenges. These challenges can present in multiple ways including anxiety, depression, behavioural challenges, difficulty with relationships and poor school performance. I work from a systemic, trauma informed, client-centered perspective helping children, adolescents, parents and families to feel validated, connected and understood.
This includes play therapy (which is a child's natural language and way of communicating and exploring their inner world), talk therapy for adolescents and adults, family therapy, parent support (including parent-infant psychotherapy) as well as support groups for children.
I have worked with children adolescents, parents and families for over 20 years in the fields of Education and Psychology. I have a passion for giving children and adolescents a voice, working across cultures, with intergenerational and complex trauma, as well as behavioral and attachment challenges. These challenges can present in multiple ways including anxiety, depression, behavioural challenges, difficulty with relationships and poor school performance. I work from a systemic, trauma informed, client-centered perspective helping children, adolescents, parents and families to feel validated, connected and understood.
(365) 398-0602 View (365) 398-0602
Photo of Sam Gasilan, RPQ, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Sam Gasilan
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RPQ
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4L
Sam has an extensive background in the application of Applied Behavioural Analysis to assist individuals of any age with Autism Spectrum Disorder in acquiring foundational social and emotion regulation skills through the modality of play therapy.
Samuel is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapist of Ontario. He was conferred two degrees: a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at York University and a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University. Samuel is a Certified Trauma-Informed Therapist who emphasizes helping clients explore and understand how traumatic experiences lead to the development of adaptive responses that help them cope and survive through difficulties in life but may no longer be adaptive in tackling their day-to-day challenges in the present moment.
Sam has an extensive background in the application of Applied Behavioural Analysis to assist individuals of any age with Autism Spectrum Disorder in acquiring foundational social and emotion regulation skills through the modality of play therapy.
Samuel is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapist of Ontario. He was conferred two degrees: a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at York University and a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University. Samuel is a Certified Trauma-Informed Therapist who emphasizes helping clients explore and understand how traumatic experiences lead to the development of adaptive responses that help them cope and survive through difficulties in life but may no longer be adaptive in tackling their day-to-day challenges in the present moment.
(289) 276-8792 View (289) 276-8792
Photo of Kayla Marques, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Kayla Marques
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4K
I have skills and knowledge in how to engage clients in treatment and incorporate strategies and techniques from a variety of modalities (talk therapy, play therapy, mindfulness, CBT).
Hi! My name is Kayla and I am a registered Social Worker in Ontario and Saskatchewan. I completed my Masters of Social Work at the University of Toronto and have been working in the field of Mental Health as a Clinical Therapist since 2018. I have worked from a young age with youth, adolescents and adults in a variety of settings and environments that has helped me develop diverse and unique skills to work collaboratively and effectively with these population. My work within different environments varying needs and how to ensure a client-centered approach to treatment.
I have skills and knowledge in how to engage clients in treatment and incorporate strategies and techniques from a variety of modalities (talk therapy, play therapy, mindfulness, CBT).
Hi! My name is Kayla and I am a registered Social Worker in Ontario and Saskatchewan. I completed my Masters of Social Work at the University of Toronto and have been working in the field of Mental Health as a Clinical Therapist since 2018. I have worked from a young age with youth, adolescents and adults in a variety of settings and environments that has helped me develop diverse and unique skills to work collaboratively and effectively with these population. My work within different environments varying needs and how to ensure a client-centered approach to treatment.
(289) 210-5963 View (289) 210-5963
Photo of Saba Golchin - Life in Harmony Counselling Services , MA, RP, RSW, Registered Psychotherapist
Life in Harmony Counselling Services
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, RSW
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4L
At Life in Harmony Counselling Services private practice, we help our clients discover their voice, wisdom, and strength by utilizing a range of advanced techniques such as Mindfulness, CBT, Guided Imagery, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Narrative Therapy, DBT, and Trauma Techniques.
Our therapists often hear from clients who say, "I'm aware of what I need to do, but I struggle to take action." This sentiment may resonate with you. It's normal to feel unsure and anxious during times of crisis, family conflict, relationship issues, or any significant life changes. However, if these emotions hinder your progress, ignoring them won't make them go away. It's crucial to acknowledge your fears, pinpoint their origins, and take proactive steps to overcome them for your well-being.
At Life in Harmony Counselling Services private practice, we help our clients discover their voice, wisdom, and strength by utilizing a range of advanced techniques such as Mindfulness, CBT, Guided Imagery, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Narrative Therapy, DBT, and Trauma Techniques.
Our therapists often hear from clients who say, "I'm aware of what I need to do, but I struggle to take action." This sentiment may resonate with you. It's normal to feel unsure and anxious during times of crisis, family conflict, relationship issues, or any significant life changes. However, if these emotions hinder your progress, ignoring them won't make them go away. It's crucial to acknowledge your fears, pinpoint their origins, and take proactive steps to overcome them for your well-being.
(855) 228-1955 View (855) 228-1955
Photo of Daniela Shulman, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Daniela Shulman
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4J
I use a variety of evidence-based approaches such as play therapy, art therapy, narrative therapy, solution-focused therapy and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).
I am a child and family therapist with over a decade of experience working with children and families. I use a collaborative approach to work with you and your child to help foster positive changes in your lives.
I use a variety of evidence-based approaches such as play therapy, art therapy, narrative therapy, solution-focused therapy and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).
I am a child and family therapist with over a decade of experience working with children and families. I use a collaborative approach to work with you and your child to help foster positive changes in your lives.
(647) 370-7622 View (647) 370-7622
Photo of Areej Jaffrani, MSc, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Areej Jaffrani
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4H  (Online Only)
I am a bilingual (offering services in Urdu and English), South Asian therapist and use a combination of Play Therapy, Sand play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CB), and Person-Centered Therapy.
With seven years of experience, I specialise in supporting children, teens, young adults, and parents with a wide range of difficulties including anxiety, depression, trauma, school issues, relationship difficulties, self-esteem issues, and grief. I strive to collaboratively help my clients explore and embrace insight, resilience, and strengths they already possess to overcome life’s challenges. I believe clients are the experts in themselves and take a non-expert stance to understand my clients’ lived experiences. I bring my individuality to my therapeutic work, and often use humour, silliness, fun and the power of ‘presence’.
I am a bilingual (offering services in Urdu and English), South Asian therapist and use a combination of Play Therapy, Sand play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CB), and Person-Centered Therapy.
With seven years of experience, I specialise in supporting children, teens, young adults, and parents with a wide range of difficulties including anxiety, depression, trauma, school issues, relationship difficulties, self-esteem issues, and grief. I strive to collaboratively help my clients explore and embrace insight, resilience, and strengths they already possess to overcome life’s challenges. I believe clients are the experts in themselves and take a non-expert stance to understand my clients’ lived experiences. I bring my individuality to my therapeutic work, and often use humour, silliness, fun and the power of ‘presence’.
(289) 216-5911 x437332 View (289) 216-5911 x437332
Photo of Dr. Julie Cinamon, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Dr. Julie Cinamon
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K
Dr. Cinamon sees individuals and families for a number of reasons including difficulties with mood, anxiety, work and family related stress, emotion regulation, behaviour, and parenting. She supports people experiencing life transitions, parents seeking help for their children and teens, and individuals with symptoms impacting their day-to-day lives. She has a special focus on trauma, including sexual assault. She is skilled in providing a variety of therapy approaches including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, traditional play therapy, family therapy, psychodynamic/family systems talk therapy, and trauma-informed therapy.
Dr. Cinamon sees individuals and families for a number of reasons including difficulties with mood, anxiety, work and family related stress, emotion regulation, behaviour, and parenting. She supports people experiencing life transitions, parents seeking help for their children and teens, and individuals with symptoms impacting their day-to-day lives. She has a special focus on trauma, including sexual assault. She is skilled in providing a variety of therapy approaches including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, traditional play therapy, family therapy, psychodynamic/family systems talk therapy, and trauma-informed therapy.
(647) 370-2966 View (647) 370-2966
Photo of Juanna Nguyen, BMT, MEd, MTA, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist
Juanna Nguyen
Registered Psychotherapist, BMT, MEd, MTA, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4L
I use music-based interventions (such as therapeutic songwriting, music improvisation, and guided meditation with music) as well as various art, play, and counselling-based approaches in externalizing and processing experiences.
Hello! My name is Juanna and I am a Certified Music Therapist, a Canadian Certified Counsellor, and a Registered Psychotherapist. I am open to seeing clients of any age. Whether you are experiencing feelings of depression or anxiety, performance anxiety, family/relationship issues, trauma, grief, and/or otherwise, I am here to guide you in 1) exploring and understanding your emotions in a non-judgmental space and 2) finding meaning and gaining insight into your experiences.
I use music-based interventions (such as therapeutic songwriting, music improvisation, and guided meditation with music) as well as various art, play, and counselling-based approaches in externalizing and processing experiences.
Hello! My name is Juanna and I am a Certified Music Therapist, a Canadian Certified Counsellor, and a Registered Psychotherapist. I am open to seeing clients of any age. Whether you are experiencing feelings of depression or anxiety, performance anxiety, family/relationship issues, trauma, grief, and/or otherwise, I am here to guide you in 1) exploring and understanding your emotions in a non-judgmental space and 2) finding meaning and gaining insight into your experiences.
(226) 917-9225 View (226) 917-9225
Photo of Ariana Adibrad, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Ariana Adibrad
Registered Social Worker, MSW
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4J
I generally combine Attachment and Client-Centered Theory in practice and I frequently use CBT, ACT, EMDR, play therapy techniques, art therapy techniques and nature therapy techniques in sessions.
I am a Registered Clinical Social Worker who exclusively work with children, teens and young adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma and ADHD. I also help teens and adults in their career development journeys and body positivity by helping teens embrace their unique selves and develop healthy relationship with their bodies. My goal is to empower clients to cultivate self love and confidence. I earned my Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work from Wilfred Laurier University in Kitchener, Ontario.
I generally combine Attachment and Client-Centered Theory in practice and I frequently use CBT, ACT, EMDR, play therapy techniques, art therapy techniques and nature therapy techniques in sessions.
I am a Registered Clinical Social Worker who exclusively work with children, teens and young adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma and ADHD. I also help teens and adults in their career development journeys and body positivity by helping teens embrace their unique selves and develop healthy relationship with their bodies. My goal is to empower clients to cultivate self love and confidence. I earned my Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work from Wilfred Laurier University in Kitchener, Ontario.
(289) 807-0907 View (289) 807-0907
Photo of Dr. Mursal Srosh, PhD, CPsych, (Sup, Prac), Psychologist
Dr. Mursal Srosh
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych, (Sup, Prac)
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4L
I am a psychologist under supervised practice, and have over ten years of experience. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. Most of my therapy work has been helping those suffering from anxiety, depression, trauma, phobias, OCD, and attentional difficulties. I also help those dealing with relationship difficulties, suffering from loss, and anger. Additionally, I specialize with those that have suffered from motor vehicle accidents and rehabilitation psychology.
I am a psychologist under supervised practice, and have over ten years of experience. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. Most of my therapy work has been helping those suffering from anxiety, depression, trauma, phobias, OCD, and attentional difficulties. I also help those dealing with relationship difficulties, suffering from loss, and anger. Additionally, I specialize with those that have suffered from motor vehicle accidents and rehabilitation psychology.
(289) 802-6334 View (289) 802-6334
Photo of Seagal Eben-Ezra, MA, Psyc
Seagal Eben-Ezra
MA, Psyc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4J
I believe that each one of us is the sum of all the journeys we have taken and all the people we have met along the way. We navigate peaks and valleys, traveling up or downstream. At different junctures in our lives, we find ourselves in an ‘in-between’ not knowing which path to take. It is through my own journey and the ones I have taken with others that I have come to bear witness to the strength, courage, and wisdom we each have within us. In my work with individuals, couples, children and youth, I explore challenges, crisis, loss and struggle within the context of one’s interpersonal relationships.
I believe that each one of us is the sum of all the journeys we have taken and all the people we have met along the way. We navigate peaks and valleys, traveling up or downstream. At different junctures in our lives, we find ourselves in an ‘in-between’ not knowing which path to take. It is through my own journey and the ones I have taken with others that I have come to bear witness to the strength, courage, and wisdom we each have within us. In my work with individuals, couples, children and youth, I explore challenges, crisis, loss and struggle within the context of one’s interpersonal relationships.
(877) 260-2699 View (877) 260-2699
Photo of Patricia A Weinberg, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Patricia A Weinberg
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4K
We offer adult, child, teenager, family and couple's counselling. Focusing on the strengths, abilities and feelings of our patients, we can help them move forward and make positive changes in their lives. We help to improve relationships, behaviours and academic performance, as well as to deal positively with difficult situations and work on emotional issues. As we’re a group of professionals from different cultural backgrounds, we can offer services in different languages, and with an understanding of different cultures. Our services are covered by most insurance companies and we offer reduced fees through our internship program.
We offer adult, child, teenager, family and couple's counselling. Focusing on the strengths, abilities and feelings of our patients, we can help them move forward and make positive changes in their lives. We help to improve relationships, behaviours and academic performance, as well as to deal positively with difficult situations and work on emotional issues. As we’re a group of professionals from different cultural backgrounds, we can offer services in different languages, and with an understanding of different cultures. Our services are covered by most insurance companies and we offer reduced fees through our internship program.
(289) 236-3253 View (289) 236-3253
Photo of Dr. Marina Heifetz - Mindful Psychology & Wellness Centre, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Mindful Psychology & Wellness Centre
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4L
"How do I help my child keep their cool?" "How do I connect with my teen?" Parenting is hard. In fact, it may be the hardest thing we do in our lives. We live in a world that is increasingly becoming busier, competitive, and full of stressors. At Mindful Psychology and Wellness Centre we are here to support your family's journey and guide you in nurturing kindness, resilience, and confidence in your child and your relationship with them. As parents and professionals, we know how tricky life can get and we are here to help you find the right care for you.
"How do I help my child keep their cool?" "How do I connect with my teen?" Parenting is hard. In fact, it may be the hardest thing we do in our lives. We live in a world that is increasingly becoming busier, competitive, and full of stressors. At Mindful Psychology and Wellness Centre we are here to support your family's journey and guide you in nurturing kindness, resilience, and confidence in your child and your relationship with them. As parents and professionals, we know how tricky life can get and we are here to help you find the right care for you.
(289) 271-0569 View (289) 271-0569
Photo of Lina Vishnevsky - LV Therapy , MSW, RSW, BEd, Registered Social Worker
LV Therapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, BEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4J
Welcome! My name is Lina and I am a Registered Social Worker. Life is all about relationships; relationship with ourselves, our parents, our partners, children, friends, neighbors, colleagues, etc. Relationships often bring us joy, purpose and meaning in life but can also be the source of feelings of anger, sadness, grief, worry and disappointment. I am here to help support you with the various relationships in your life and to help you feel more happy and fulfilled.
Welcome! My name is Lina and I am a Registered Social Worker. Life is all about relationships; relationship with ourselves, our parents, our partners, children, friends, neighbors, colleagues, etc. Relationships often bring us joy, purpose and meaning in life but can also be the source of feelings of anger, sadness, grief, worry and disappointment. I am here to help support you with the various relationships in your life and to help you feel more happy and fulfilled.
(647) 952-2123 View (647) 952-2123
Photo of Nilgun Turkcan Ataoglu, PhD,  MA, BCT, RDT, Art Therapist
Nilgun Turkcan Ataoglu
Art Therapist, PhD, MA, BCT, RDT
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4H  (Online Only)
I am a Creative Arts Therapist, a Registered Drama Therapist - RDT, a Board-Certified Trainer - BCT, a supervisor and I am the founder and the director of Creative Arts Therapy Center. As board certified creative arts therapist, I have over 22 years of experience in promoting growth and healing through engagement in the arts. "During my twenty-two years of clinical experience, I have been privileged to help and witness so many people discover the meaning of their shattered life, and be empowered by creating and rewriting their life stories through drama, art, dance and music.
I am a Creative Arts Therapist, a Registered Drama Therapist - RDT, a Board-Certified Trainer - BCT, a supervisor and I am the founder and the director of Creative Arts Therapy Center. As board certified creative arts therapist, I have over 22 years of experience in promoting growth and healing through engagement in the arts. "During my twenty-two years of clinical experience, I have been privileged to help and witness so many people discover the meaning of their shattered life, and be empowered by creating and rewriting their life stories through drama, art, dance and music.
(437) 747-6529 View (437) 747-6529
Photo of Camilla Lofranco - Life Solutions Counselling & Coaching Services, BSc, MACP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Life Solutions Counselling & Coaching Services
Registered Psychotherapist, BSc, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4L
As a seasoned therapist since 1996, you will work with a mature professional. I provide a confidential, compassionate, and safe therapeutic environment to help you explore your thoughts and emotions and help you to develop new tools for empowerment. A free 10 minute telephone consultation is welcomed. Please visit www.letstalkwithcamilla.ca for more information.
As a seasoned therapist since 1996, you will work with a mature professional. I provide a confidential, compassionate, and safe therapeutic environment to help you explore your thoughts and emotions and help you to develop new tools for empowerment. A free 10 minute telephone consultation is welcomed. Please visit www.letstalkwithcamilla.ca for more information.
(289) 301-0875 View (289) 301-0875
Photo of Charmaine Tong, MSW, BSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Charmaine Tong
Registered Social Worker, MSW, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K
Charmaine has experience working with individuals and families who require support for psychological issues arising as a result of emotional behavioural issues, relational issues and mental health issues. Charmaine is committed to collaboratively work with her clients by strategically developing treatment planning and intervention that help restore hopes and dreams. She believes every story matters. She is passionate to listen to her clients’ deepest desires and needs, and help empower them to walk on their recovery journeys with boldness and confidence.​
Charmaine has experience working with individuals and families who require support for psychological issues arising as a result of emotional behavioural issues, relational issues and mental health issues. Charmaine is committed to collaboratively work with her clients by strategically developing treatment planning and intervention that help restore hopes and dreams. She believes every story matters. She is passionate to listen to her clients’ deepest desires and needs, and help empower them to walk on their recovery journeys with boldness and confidence.​
(289) 216-6991 View (289) 216-6991
Photo of Krysta Andrews, RSW, PhD, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Krysta Andrews
Registered Social Worker, RSW, PhD, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K
We all have a story to tell that is uniquely ours. These stories can include our positive experiences but also times when we're faced with challenges that can make us feel stressed, overwhelmed, and unmotivated. As a therapist, I'm committed to providing you with a non-judgmental and safe space to tell your story. Whether you're facing a life transition, the effects of trauma, or challenges in your relationships—I want to help you to discover your strengths, embrace self-compassion, and take manageable steps towards your goals. I work holistically and collaboratively to tailor to the specific needs, values, and goals of each client.
We all have a story to tell that is uniquely ours. These stories can include our positive experiences but also times when we're faced with challenges that can make us feel stressed, overwhelmed, and unmotivated. As a therapist, I'm committed to providing you with a non-judgmental and safe space to tell your story. Whether you're facing a life transition, the effects of trauma, or challenges in your relationships—I want to help you to discover your strengths, embrace self-compassion, and take manageable steps towards your goals. I work holistically and collaboratively to tailor to the specific needs, values, and goals of each client.
(289) 301-9606 View (289) 301-9606
Photo of Gauri Mathur - Vaughan Counselling & Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist
Vaughan Counselling & Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4L
Accepting New Clients! Welcome to our page! Whether you stumbled this page because of a recent break-up, divorce, an addiction you want to break, marriage problems or just looking to find ways to cope with your stress, you found the right place. We specialize in CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Inner Child Work and other modalities to assist you. We can provide you with tools to help you cope but can also assist you in finding and healing the core issue.
Accepting New Clients! Welcome to our page! Whether you stumbled this page because of a recent break-up, divorce, an addiction you want to break, marriage problems or just looking to find ways to cope with your stress, you found the right place. We specialize in CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Inner Child Work and other modalities to assist you. We can provide you with tools to help you cope but can also assist you in finding and healing the core issue.
(365) 800-5972 View (365) 800-5972
Photo of Melissa-Ann Roberts, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Melissa-Ann Roberts
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4K  (Online Only)
How do you heal the ache you feel inside? If you are feeling overwhelmed, engaging in therapy can help you feel calm again. You may be facing PANIC, BURNOUT, sadness, and/or frustration with yourself or others. Your feelings may be related to a traumatic re-experience, resulting in recurring negative thoughts, relationships difficulities, or thoughts of uncertainty concerning your future. It takes strength and courage to find help. Reaching out is the first step in the right direction. You’ve got this!
How do you heal the ache you feel inside? If you are feeling overwhelmed, engaging in therapy can help you feel calm again. You may be facing PANIC, BURNOUT, sadness, and/or frustration with yourself or others. Your feelings may be related to a traumatic re-experience, resulting in recurring negative thoughts, relationships difficulities, or thoughts of uncertainty concerning your future. It takes strength and courage to find help. Reaching out is the first step in the right direction. You’ve got this!
(226) 270-6503 View (226) 270-6503
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Play Therapy Counsellors

Who is play therapy for?

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

Why do people need play therapy?

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

What happens in play therapy?

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

What kinds of problems do play therapists treat?

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

How long does play therapy last?

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