Play Therapy Counselling in Hereford

Photo of Jo Hill - The Therapywise Foundation , MSc, Counsellor
The Therapywise Foundation
Counsellor, MSc
Verified Verified
Hereford HR3
I am a play therapist and animal assisted play therapist.
Are you worried about your child's behaviour and don't know what to do? Are you fed up of getting calls from school or of arguing all the time at home? Do you feel like you're letting your child down and just wish you could help them be their best self instead?
I am a play therapist and animal assisted play therapist.
Are you worried about your child's behaviour and don't know what to do? Are you fed up of getting calls from school or of arguing all the time at home? Do you feel like you're letting your child down and just wish you could help them be their best self instead?
01497 701041 View 01497 701041
Photo of Emma Largesse - Emma Largesse Counselling Services, BACP, Counsellor
Emma Largesse Counselling Services
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hereford HR4
Hi I’m Emma and I specialise in working with Children and Young people. I work with adults also, both online and Face to Face. I work in an Person Centred, integrative manner, and creatively with younger children. My therapy caters for individuality. Please ask if you have any questions.
Hi I’m Emma and I specialise in working with Children and Young people. I work with adults also, both online and Face to Face. I work in an Person Centred, integrative manner, and creatively with younger children. My therapy caters for individuality. Please ask if you have any questions.
01432 806068 View 01432 806068
Photo of Pippa Haverly, MBACP, Counsellor
Pippa Haverly
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Hereford HR1
Life can be complex and often overwhelming, leaving us at times feeling isolated and alone even when we are surrounded by people. As such there might be many different reasons why people come into counselling. Sometimes the issues we experience have clear causes and explanations and at other times it might feel less obvious and harder therefore to identify. What I would hope to offer you is a place that feels safe, supportive and confidential where you are able to explore whatever it is for you personally that you want to address without fear of judgement and criticism.
Life can be complex and often overwhelming, leaving us at times feeling isolated and alone even when we are surrounded by people. As such there might be many different reasons why people come into counselling. Sometimes the issues we experience have clear causes and explanations and at other times it might feel less obvious and harder therefore to identify. What I would hope to offer you is a place that feels safe, supportive and confidential where you are able to explore whatever it is for you personally that you want to address without fear of judgement and criticism.
01432 808278 x078274 View 01432 808278 x078274
Photo of Loraine Dryden - Grow Change Strive Thrive Ltd, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Grow Change Strive Thrive Ltd
Psychologist, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Hereford HR1
I found my way to being a Psychologist because I am deeply curious about people and what makes us ‘tick’ and I struggle to see suffering without doing something to help. For most of my week, I work for the NHS in the Complex Needs Service, with people who have experienced trauma and who have complex emotional needs. I am also a DBT Therapist in our NHS Trust’s small DBT Service. Whether you're looking for help with serious mental health difficulties or you're just feeling stuck and struggling with motivation, Psychological Therapy can help!
I found my way to being a Psychologist because I am deeply curious about people and what makes us ‘tick’ and I struggle to see suffering without doing something to help. For most of my week, I work for the NHS in the Complex Needs Service, with people who have experienced trauma and who have complex emotional needs. I am also a DBT Therapist in our NHS Trust’s small DBT Service. Whether you're looking for help with serious mental health difficulties or you're just feeling stuck and struggling with motivation, Psychological Therapy can help!
01684 211414 View 01684 211414

Online Therapists

Photo of Rebecca Kinnear - The Retreat Clinics Manchester - Adults & Children, Psychotherapist
The Retreat Clinics Manchester - Adults & Children
Psychotherapist
Not Verified Not Verified
Manchester M20
Our therapeutic team includes highly experienced clinicians working in a range of modalities: CBT, psychodynamic therapy; integrative therapy, EMDR, Compassion-Focused therapy, Psychosexual therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy skills for individuals, Creative therapies- Art and Play, Transactional Analysis, Counselling and Psychiatry for adults.
Life can be complex, and so can mental health. This is why we have a range of different treatments and therapy approaches available, which we can tailor to suit your mental health needs. We put you at the heart of what we do. We offer choice and expert, individualised care for a very broad range of difficulties. We understand that seeking therapy can be daunting and that taking the first step can be a challenge. We work with you to design a bespoke approach to your therapy, based on exploring and understanding your concerns, needs, preferences and therapy goals.
Our therapeutic team includes highly experienced clinicians working in a range of modalities: CBT, psychodynamic therapy; integrative therapy, EMDR, Compassion-Focused therapy, Psychosexual therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy skills for individuals, Creative therapies- Art and Play, Transactional Analysis, Counselling and Psychiatry for adults.
Life can be complex, and so can mental health. This is why we have a range of different treatments and therapy approaches available, which we can tailor to suit your mental health needs. We put you at the heart of what we do. We offer choice and expert, individualised care for a very broad range of difficulties. We understand that seeking therapy can be daunting and that taking the first step can be a challenge. We work with you to design a bespoke approach to your therapy, based on exploring and understanding your concerns, needs, preferences and therapy goals.
0161 524 7409 View 0161 524 7409
Photo of Franeen McDonald, MA, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Franeen McDonald
Psychotherapist, MA, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL50
CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), BSP (Brainspotting), NLP (Neurolinguistic Programming), Play Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, Psychotherapy, Hypnosis, , Timeline therapyTM), Counselling, Family Therapy, Life- and Executive Coaching.
I am an accredited Psychotherapist, CBT and Brainspotting Practitioner, providing help and guidance to adults, children, and teenagers. I use a variety of proven approaches and with 38 years of experience, I take great care to consider your specific needs to establish the best approach to help you with any emotional block or problem you are experiencing. My aim is to help you to achieve your goals for therapy and together we work collaboratively to achieve them. My office is situated in such a way that clients can access therapy in a private and confidential setting.
CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), BSP (Brainspotting), NLP (Neurolinguistic Programming), Play Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, Psychotherapy, Hypnosis, , Timeline therapyTM), Counselling, Family Therapy, Life- and Executive Coaching.
I am an accredited Psychotherapist, CBT and Brainspotting Practitioner, providing help and guidance to adults, children, and teenagers. I use a variety of proven approaches and with 38 years of experience, I take great care to consider your specific needs to establish the best approach to help you with any emotional block or problem you are experiencing. My aim is to help you to achieve your goals for therapy and together we work collaboratively to achieve them. My office is situated in such a way that clients can access therapy in a private and confidential setting.
01452 941705 View 01452 941705
Photo of Claire Rhodes, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Claire Rhodes
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Birmingham B13
I offer young children therapeutically informed play therapy, to help them process their emotions and difficulties.
Hi, my name is Claire and I am a child and adult psychotherapist. Often people don't fully understand why they feel bad and this can lead to confusion and feeling ashamed. The feelings are experienced throughout the whole body and can be so overwhelming that they can lead to panic, depression, anxiety and challenging or self-destructive behaviours. I help clients understand how things are for them right now, validate their challenges and help them see their unique strengths, all within the context of an accepting and compassionate relationship. I use neuro-scientifically informed approaches to help heal
I offer young children therapeutically informed play therapy, to help them process their emotions and difficulties.
Hi, my name is Claire and I am a child and adult psychotherapist. Often people don't fully understand why they feel bad and this can lead to confusion and feeling ashamed. The feelings are experienced throughout the whole body and can be so overwhelming that they can lead to panic, depression, anxiety and challenging or self-destructive behaviours. I help clients understand how things are for them right now, validate their challenges and help them see their unique strengths, all within the context of an accepting and compassionate relationship. I use neuro-scientifically informed approaches to help heal
01905 975370 View 01905 975370
Photo of Angharad E Rees - Turning Point Child Therapy Ltd, MSc, Psychotherapist
Turning Point Child Therapy Ltd
Psychotherapist, MSc
Verified Verified
Haverfordwest SA62
Play therapy supports a child to being able to trust, respect, empathise, share, and co-operate with people.
My name is Angharad and I have over 20 years of primary teaching experience, including 8 years as a head teacher, I have seen first hand the difficulties many children face, coupled with the lack of provision available to support their emotional and mental health needs. I am a qualified Child Therapist specialising in Play Therapy, with a MSc in Play Therapy. I believe the benefits of play therapy to be transformative - hence retraining to become a child therapist. Play Therapy is an effective therapy that helps children modify their behaviours, clarify their self-concept, and build healthy relationships.
Play therapy supports a child to being able to trust, respect, empathise, share, and co-operate with people.
My name is Angharad and I have over 20 years of primary teaching experience, including 8 years as a head teacher, I have seen first hand the difficulties many children face, coupled with the lack of provision available to support their emotional and mental health needs. I am a qualified Child Therapist specialising in Play Therapy, with a MSc in Play Therapy. I believe the benefits of play therapy to be transformative - hence retraining to become a child therapist. Play Therapy is an effective therapy that helps children modify their behaviours, clarify their self-concept, and build healthy relationships.
01437 809025 View 01437 809025
Photo of Kim Lewin, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Kim Lewin
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG1
I can offer talking sessions, art and play based sessions and also use Polyagal theory and somatic experiencing techniques.
The path to healing and self knowledge can be hard. The therapeutic relationship offers a safe space to reflect on life experiences, change negative patterns and work through trauma. I am a fully qualified person centred and experiential psychotherapist , trained to MSc level and BACP registered, also holding a degree in Creative, Expressive therapies. I offer a supportive and confidential environment, where we can work together through any experiences and thought processes that you choose to bring to session. Together we will work towards self understanding and personal growth.
I can offer talking sessions, art and play based sessions and also use Polyagal theory and somatic experiencing techniques.
The path to healing and self knowledge can be hard. The therapeutic relationship offers a safe space to reflect on life experiences, change negative patterns and work through trauma. I am a fully qualified person centred and experiential psychotherapist , trained to MSc level and BACP registered, also holding a degree in Creative, Expressive therapies. I offer a supportive and confidential environment, where we can work together through any experiences and thought processes that you choose to bring to session. Together we will work towards self understanding and personal growth.
0115 647 7340 View 0115 647 7340
Photo of Elaine Hutchinson, Counsellor
Elaine Hutchinson
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Wells BA5
I support children and young people with ASD and PANDAS and I am one of very few Aut Play and Trauma Play practitioners in the UK.
Hi, I'm Elaine. I'm a child & adolescent therapist & counsellor who supports children, teens & their families to manage big feelings, stressful situations and other life challenges. I work with children & young people aged 6-25 (as well as some adults) and support them with a huge range of issues from anxiety and worries about school, fostering and adoption, to trauma, bereavement, sexual abuse and domestic violence, covering pretty much everything you can think of in-between. I'm an accredited therapist who offers play & creative arts therapy, Trauma Play and talking therapy. I have a therapy dog who loves to be involved.
I support children and young people with ASD and PANDAS and I am one of very few Aut Play and Trauma Play practitioners in the UK.
Hi, I'm Elaine. I'm a child & adolescent therapist & counsellor who supports children, teens & their families to manage big feelings, stressful situations and other life challenges. I work with children & young people aged 6-25 (as well as some adults) and support them with a huge range of issues from anxiety and worries about school, fostering and adoption, to trauma, bereavement, sexual abuse and domestic violence, covering pretty much everything you can think of in-between. I'm an accredited therapist who offers play & creative arts therapy, Trauma Play and talking therapy. I have a therapy dog who loves to be involved.
01749 605317 View 01749 605317
Photo of Philippa Casement, MBACP, Counsellor
Philippa Casement
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Marlborough SN8  (Online Only)
CBT, creative counselling, play therapy, person-centred.
I am a BACP registered therapist working with people to make practical positive steps to making changes to improve their lives. You will be heard in a non-judgmental, confidential caring way.
CBT, creative counselling, play therapy, person-centred.
I am a BACP registered therapist working with people to make practical positive steps to making changes to improve their lives. You will be heard in a non-judgmental, confidential caring way.
01672 550788 View 01672 550788
Photo of Tasha Conn - The Therapeutic Rainbow , MA, PTUK Accred, Counsellor
The Therapeutic Rainbow
Counsellor, MA, PTUK Accred
Verified Verified
Lutterworth LE17
Hi I'm Tash and I'm a fully qualified and accredited Play Therapist & Filali Play Coach. Play is a child's natural language: it speaks the worries and feelings too confusing for words. Where adults may speak about their worries and problems, children can express themselves through play long before they can articulate thoughts and feelings through the complexities of language. Often they do not know the words to describe their internal world but are ready to share it with opportunities through play and creative arts. Play builds trust, tells stories and takes us on brave adventures to wonderful places of safety, hope and happiness.
Hi I'm Tash and I'm a fully qualified and accredited Play Therapist & Filali Play Coach. Play is a child's natural language: it speaks the worries and feelings too confusing for words. Where adults may speak about their worries and problems, children can express themselves through play long before they can articulate thoughts and feelings through the complexities of language. Often they do not know the words to describe their internal world but are ready to share it with opportunities through play and creative arts. Play builds trust, tells stories and takes us on brave adventures to wonderful places of safety, hope and happiness.
01455 243895 View 01455 243895
Photo of Christian Dixon - The AoC Trust / The Arts of Change Trust, HCPC-Drama Therap., Counsellor
The AoC Trust / The Arts of Change Trust
Counsellor, HCPC-Drama Therap.
Verified Verified
Dudley DY1
We offer a wide range of modalities including art therapy, integrative counselling, play therapy, psychotherapy, person-centred, gestalt, CBT, art therapy and more.
Creative Arts Therapies & Traditional Talking Therapies. At The AoC Trust we really want to support families needing emotional help; couples trying to save their relationship or an individual looking for professional counselling/therapy in order to work through and heal psychological or social difficulties. If you cannot travel to us we can support you via telephone or video call. We are based in Central Dudley just a few minutes from the town centre and local bus station where we have our own lovely therapeutic rooms and training spaces and provide a fantastic team of registered and qualified therapeutic clinicians.
We offer a wide range of modalities including art therapy, integrative counselling, play therapy, psychotherapy, person-centred, gestalt, CBT, art therapy and more.
Creative Arts Therapies & Traditional Talking Therapies. At The AoC Trust we really want to support families needing emotional help; couples trying to save their relationship or an individual looking for professional counselling/therapy in order to work through and heal psychological or social difficulties. If you cannot travel to us we can support you via telephone or video call. We are based in Central Dudley just a few minutes from the town centre and local bus station where we have our own lovely therapeutic rooms and training spaces and provide a fantastic team of registered and qualified therapeutic clinicians.
01384 319264 View 01384 319264
Photo of Carly Read, BACP, Counsellor
Carly Read
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS6  (Online Only)
Hi I’m Carly. I specialise in working with children & young people, survivors and the LGBTQIA+ community (of which I’m a proud member). I have years of experience working with women, children and young people, having worked for charities like National Women's Aid, The NSPCC, Rape Crisis and Off The Record. I’m also an artist, and a big believer in the healing power of play & creativity. I am happy to work with you in this way if you want to, though equally there’s no pressure to.
Hi I’m Carly. I specialise in working with children & young people, survivors and the LGBTQIA+ community (of which I’m a proud member). I have years of experience working with women, children and young people, having worked for charities like National Women's Aid, The NSPCC, Rape Crisis and Off The Record. I’m also an artist, and a big believer in the healing power of play & creativity. I am happy to work with you in this way if you want to, though equally there’s no pressure to.
0117 456 3051 View 0117 456 3051
Photo of Anna Smith, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Anna Smith
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Milton Keynes MK12  (Online Only)
I work in an empathic, non-judgemental and accepting way to ensure that anyone who chooses therapy with me feels as though they have a safe space to talk, explore, play and resolve any difficulties they may be facing.
Life for children, young people and families can be really challenging, a fact that has only been made worse by the pandemic. seeking counselling or therapy for your child or yourself can be a really scary task, but it can also help to resolve the issues that many young people and families face every day. I am currently offering online sessions only. I have a virtual therapy room that is suitable for children aged 3-18. This is a highly effective tool and replicates the 'in person' therapy experience, meaning your child isn't missing out by working online.
I work in an empathic, non-judgemental and accepting way to ensure that anyone who chooses therapy with me feels as though they have a safe space to talk, explore, play and resolve any difficulties they may be facing.
Life for children, young people and families can be really challenging, a fact that has only been made worse by the pandemic. seeking counselling or therapy for your child or yourself can be a really scary task, but it can also help to resolve the issues that many young people and families face every day. I am currently offering online sessions only. I have a virtual therapy room that is suitable for children aged 3-18. This is a highly effective tool and replicates the 'in person' therapy experience, meaning your child isn't missing out by working online.
01908 103294 View 01908 103294
Photo of Nicki Livesey - Achieve360 Ltd individual MBACP Children & Adults, BACP, Counsellor
Achieve360 Ltd individual MBACP Children & Adults
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury SY4  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Nicki, I have been a therapist since 2008 and a member of the BACP, I am very passionate about my work as a person centered counsellor and a Family Mentor. I want to see my clients empowered by gaining confidence, and to get to their desired goals. I offer a very warm welcome, non judgemental environment. For those who may feel uncomfortable just sitting and talking, you can draw, use play dough, paint during our sessions, I would happily bring my therapy d Ness too not yet 12 month old jug jack Russel x Pug)!we have Thumper our Therapy rabbit running around if Ness is in the house ( further training required!
Hello, my name is Nicki, I have been a therapist since 2008 and a member of the BACP, I am very passionate about my work as a person centered counsellor and a Family Mentor. I want to see my clients empowered by gaining confidence, and to get to their desired goals. I offer a very warm welcome, non judgemental environment. For those who may feel uncomfortable just sitting and talking, you can draw, use play dough, paint during our sessions, I would happily bring my therapy d Ness too not yet 12 month old jug jack Russel x Pug)!we have Thumper our Therapy rabbit running around if Ness is in the house ( further training required!
01643 802392 View 01643 802392
Photo of Emma Bengough, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Emma Bengough
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Thatcham RG18
I am trained in play therapy, creative tools, equine therapy and EMDR for more trauma based approaches.
Hi, I’m Emma and I offer a compassionate and containing space for us to explore what it is that has brought you into therapy and how we can understand what is needed for you to have the full life experiencer that you desire. I offer an eclectic approach to therapy, depending on the needs you are coming for and the age, circumstance and appropriateness of how we will work together. I believe the relationship we hold is at the centre of the healing process and so I will be focused on what that needs to be for you and how that needs to be developed with others too.
I am trained in play therapy, creative tools, equine therapy and EMDR for more trauma based approaches.
Hi, I’m Emma and I offer a compassionate and containing space for us to explore what it is that has brought you into therapy and how we can understand what is needed for you to have the full life experiencer that you desire. I offer an eclectic approach to therapy, depending on the needs you are coming for and the age, circumstance and appropriateness of how we will work together. I believe the relationship we hold is at the centre of the healing process and so I will be focused on what that needs to be for you and how that needs to be developed with others too.
023 8235 4895 View 023 8235 4895
Photo of Natalie Mills, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Natalie Mills
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Manchester M21
When counselling I use an integrative approach as it encompasses different therapies such as person-centred, cognitive behavioural therapy, mindfulness, solution-focused therapies, creative therapy, and play therapy.
I know things can be difficult but you don’t need to struggle alone, because I'm here to help. As a qualified therapist, my mission is to help you to overcome your fears and doubts and realise what you are truly capable of. I offer a friendly and confidential one-to-one counselling service supporting adults, young people, and children with a variety of emotional, mental, and physical issues. I will be empathic, honest, and non-judgemental during our sessions.
When counselling I use an integrative approach as it encompasses different therapies such as person-centred, cognitive behavioural therapy, mindfulness, solution-focused therapies, creative therapy, and play therapy.
I know things can be difficult but you don’t need to struggle alone, because I'm here to help. As a qualified therapist, my mission is to help you to overcome your fears and doubts and realise what you are truly capable of. I offer a friendly and confidential one-to-one counselling service supporting adults, young people, and children with a variety of emotional, mental, and physical issues. I will be empathic, honest, and non-judgemental during our sessions.
0161 850 3632 View 0161 850 3632
Photo of Maria Stride - Taking Strides Counselling, MBACP, Counsellor
Taking Strides Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Weston-super-Mare BS23
My name is Maria, and at Taking Strides Counselling, my goal is to provide a warm and compassionate space where we can explore your inner world together. My philosophy centers on viewing clients as unique individuals, catering to their comfort and needs rather than imposing my own perspectives. I offer a warm, empathetic, and open atmosphere, utilizing a range of techniques to support them. Recognizing that verbal communication can be challenging for some, I incorporate art and play therapy to help clients express themselves and begin their journey of self-exploration.
My name is Maria, and at Taking Strides Counselling, my goal is to provide a warm and compassionate space where we can explore your inner world together. My philosophy centers on viewing clients as unique individuals, catering to their comfort and needs rather than imposing my own perspectives. I offer a warm, empathetic, and open atmosphere, utilizing a range of techniques to support them. Recognizing that verbal communication can be challenging for some, I incorporate art and play therapy to help clients express themselves and begin their journey of self-exploration.
01275 402823 View 01275 402823
Photo of Kayleigh Rainbird, PTUK
Kayleigh Rainbird
PTUK
Verified Verified
Reading RG1
Play Therapy is a subtle but powerful therapeutic intervention which helps children overcome difficulties.
I am a therapist who has a holistic approach to helping children to heal by supporting both parents and their children . Through my work I have noticed that children with low confidence and low self-esteem can express this through becoming withdrawn and avoidant or becoming angry and controlling. Parents come to me and tell me their child always wants control or they feel like they are stepping on eggshells when around their child. I offer play therapy, parent coaching, parent-child attachment play and life story therapy which is for fostered or adopted children. Please see rainbirdtherapy.co.uk for more information.
Play Therapy is a subtle but powerful therapeutic intervention which helps children overcome difficulties.
I am a therapist who has a holistic approach to helping children to heal by supporting both parents and their children . Through my work I have noticed that children with low confidence and low self-esteem can express this through becoming withdrawn and avoidant or becoming angry and controlling. Parents come to me and tell me their child always wants control or they feel like they are stepping on eggshells when around their child. I offer play therapy, parent coaching, parent-child attachment play and life story therapy which is for fostered or adopted children. Please see rainbirdtherapy.co.uk for more information.
01256 591396 View 01256 591396

See more therapy options for Hereford

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.