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Online Therapists

Photo of Dr Ilan Ben-Zion, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Ilan Ben-Zion
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London N3
I love to play and watch a variety of sports, and employ many of the skills I help others develop whilst watching my frustrating team, Arsenal, play football.
Hi, I’m Ilan! I’m a Clinical Psychologist and Director of The Oak Tree Practice. I want to tell you a bit more about myself, as I realise selecting a psychologist can be a tough task! I feel very privileged to be able to say I love what I do and always have, ever since I started volunteering for ChildLine in 2007. Following this, I’ve had experience working with a wide variety of clients including children, young people, adults, older adults, military personnel, individuals with learning disabilities, neurodevelopmental disorders and neurological conditions. I have also furthered my studies through the completion of undergraduate, masters and doctoral degrees. All this aside, one of the most important parts of my work is building relationships with those sitting opposite me. I have always believed that you can have all the training and knowledge in the world, but if the client doesn’t return, none of this can be put into action. Therefore, my first aim is always to provide a warm, compassionate and non-judgmental space where we can work on the clients’ difficulties together.
I love to play and watch a variety of sports, and employ many of the skills I help others develop whilst watching my frustrating team, Arsenal, play football.
Hi, I’m Ilan! I’m a Clinical Psychologist and Director of The Oak Tree Practice. I want to tell you a bit more about myself, as I realise selecting a psychologist can be a tough task! I feel very privileged to be able to say I love what I do and always have, ever since I started volunteering for ChildLine in 2007. Following this, I’ve had experience working with a wide variety of clients including children, young people, adults, older adults, military personnel, individuals with learning disabilities, neurodevelopmental disorders and neurological conditions. I have also furthered my studies through the completion of undergraduate, masters and doctoral degrees. All this aside, one of the most important parts of my work is building relationships with those sitting opposite me. I have always believed that you can have all the training and knowledge in the world, but if the client doesn’t return, none of this can be put into action. Therefore, my first aim is always to provide a warm, compassionate and non-judgmental space where we can work on the clients’ difficulties together.
020 3974 2820 View 020 3974 2820
Photo of Yasmin Genevieve Watson, BACP, Counsellor
Yasmin Genevieve Watson
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Henley-on-Thames RG9
If you or someone in your family are feeling down, anxious or worried, coming to arts therapy can make all the difference. Arts-based therapy is very effective for dealing with traumatic or difficult life experiences and mental health issues including depression, anxiety, eating disorders, confidence, or other issues that get in the way of our happiness. This mode of therapy is ideal for children and young people, even if they are not 'good at art'. By accessing their creative and intuitive brain, they are able to resolve issues that are bothering them through play and creative techniques.
If you or someone in your family are feeling down, anxious or worried, coming to arts therapy can make all the difference. Arts-based therapy is very effective for dealing with traumatic or difficult life experiences and mental health issues including depression, anxiety, eating disorders, confidence, or other issues that get in the way of our happiness. This mode of therapy is ideal for children and young people, even if they are not 'good at art'. By accessing their creative and intuitive brain, they are able to resolve issues that are bothering them through play and creative techniques.
01586 805832 View 01586 805832
Photo of Priya Vigneswaran, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Priya Vigneswaran
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Bromley BR1
Priya excels in helping children and young people recover from issues of anxiety, depression, bullying, loneliness and stress. Priya has specialist training in: Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Play Therapy, Family Therapy and Child Psychotherapy.
Priya excels in helping children and young people recover from issues of anxiety, depression, bullying, loneliness and stress. Priya has specialist training in: Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Play Therapy, Family Therapy and Child Psychotherapy.
01689 661247 View 01689 661247
Photo of Amy Lyons, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Amy Lyons
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London N2
I also play netball every week where I engage in my competitive side! It’s also really important to me to spend time with my friends and loved ones.
Hi! I’m Amy. I’m a Chartered Clinical Psychologist. I was very lucky to really enjoy going to university to study psychology. I quickly knew it was the area I wanted to work in and so began my journey in training to be one, completing masters and doctorate degrees along the way! I’ve worked with lots of different people, including children and young people, older adults and people with intellectual disabilities, neurodevelopmental and neurological conditions. I have also worked with include both child and adult eating disorders, OCD, psychosis, stroke rehabilitation and people who have offended who are staying in hospital.
I also play netball every week where I engage in my competitive side! It’s also really important to me to spend time with my friends and loved ones.
Hi! I’m Amy. I’m a Chartered Clinical Psychologist. I was very lucky to really enjoy going to university to study psychology. I quickly knew it was the area I wanted to work in and so began my journey in training to be one, completing masters and doctorate degrees along the way! I’ve worked with lots of different people, including children and young people, older adults and people with intellectual disabilities, neurodevelopmental and neurological conditions. I have also worked with include both child and adult eating disorders, OCD, psychosis, stroke rehabilitation and people who have offended who are staying in hospital.
020 3870 2957 View 020 3870 2957
Photo of Marta Benko, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Marta Benko
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London NW3
Additionally trained in different therapeutic approaches like CBT, ACT, CFT, mindfulness, play and creative arts therapy, filial therapy, narrative approaches.
Supporting kids, YP, parents and adults with: mental health difficulties in the context of a physical illness (especially with endometriosis, asthma, CF, oncology, haematology, gastroenterology, dermatology, neurosurgery, and surgery), health anxiety, functional presentation/ medically unexplained symptom, relationship breakdown and divorce, children and young people, school avoidance/school anxiety, ex-pats and 3rd country children, mood difficulties (anxiety, panic attacks, fear and phobias, low mood) , stress , OCD, body repetitive behaviours (hair pulling, skin picking, nail biting) , sleep, non-underweight eating disorders.
Additionally trained in different therapeutic approaches like CBT, ACT, CFT, mindfulness, play and creative arts therapy, filial therapy, narrative approaches.
Supporting kids, YP, parents and adults with: mental health difficulties in the context of a physical illness (especially with endometriosis, asthma, CF, oncology, haematology, gastroenterology, dermatology, neurosurgery, and surgery), health anxiety, functional presentation/ medically unexplained symptom, relationship breakdown and divorce, children and young people, school avoidance/school anxiety, ex-pats and 3rd country children, mood difficulties (anxiety, panic attacks, fear and phobias, low mood) , stress , OCD, body repetitive behaviours (hair pulling, skin picking, nail biting) , sleep, non-underweight eating disorders.
020 8016 3516 View 020 8016 3516
Photo of Christine Langhoff - Circle Psychology Partners Ltd, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Circle Psychology Partners Ltd
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London SE21
My team at Circle Psychology Partners is made up of highly skilled Doctors of Clinical and Counselling Psychology, Counsellors, CBT Therapists, Psychotherapists and Play Therapists.
I am Dr Christine Langhoff, Clinical Psychologist and the director of Clinical Psychology Partners. I have worked as a psychologist since 2008. I manage a team of more than 30 therapists (clinical and counselling psychologists, psychotherapists, family therapists, CBT therapists) who offer therapy for children, adolescents, families, adults and couples in Southeast London and Sutton. We offer therapy incl. CBT, CFT, EMDR and ACT therapy for Depression (incl. Postnatal), Anxiety, Relationship Problems, Stress, Bereavement, Bereavement and More.
My team at Circle Psychology Partners is made up of highly skilled Doctors of Clinical and Counselling Psychology, Counsellors, CBT Therapists, Psychotherapists and Play Therapists.
I am Dr Christine Langhoff, Clinical Psychologist and the director of Clinical Psychology Partners. I have worked as a psychologist since 2008. I manage a team of more than 30 therapists (clinical and counselling psychologists, psychotherapists, family therapists, CBT therapists) who offer therapy for children, adolescents, families, adults and couples in Southeast London and Sutton. We offer therapy incl. CBT, CFT, EMDR and ACT therapy for Depression (incl. Postnatal), Anxiety, Relationship Problems, Stress, Bereavement, Bereavement and More.
020 3823 6543 View 020 3823 6543
Photo of Madeleine Vieira, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Madeleine Vieira
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London SW7
Madeleine Vieira offers Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Behavioural Play Therapy, Play and Creative Arts Therapy, and Diagnostic Assessments to children and adolescents.
Dr. Madeleine Vieira is a Clinical Child & Adolescent Psychologist specialised in Anxiety Disorders and has also extensively worked with the following: Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, ADD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Third Culture Kids' Issues, Grief, Family Change, Cultural Adaptation, Transitions, Friendships, Academic Achievement, Learning Difficulties, Behavioural Difficulties, Illness, Social Isolation, Teenager / Adolescent Issues.
Madeleine Vieira offers Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Behavioural Play Therapy, Play and Creative Arts Therapy, and Diagnostic Assessments to children and adolescents.
Dr. Madeleine Vieira is a Clinical Child & Adolescent Psychologist specialised in Anxiety Disorders and has also extensively worked with the following: Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, ADD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Third Culture Kids' Issues, Grief, Family Change, Cultural Adaptation, Transitions, Friendships, Academic Achievement, Learning Difficulties, Behavioural Difficulties, Illness, Social Isolation, Teenager / Adolescent Issues.
020 3828 0681 View 020 3828 0681
Photo of Rebeca Robertson - Children & Adults Therapy Services Practice, PsychD
Children & Adults Therapy Services Practice
PsychD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London W1U
Hello there! We hear that you are looking for a suitable therapist…someone with compassion, understanding, experience, and insight into the difficulties that you may be looking to overcome. Therapy is personal, and all of our needs are different. This is why our practice offers a range of approaches to therapy; low-fee, short-term/long-term therapy, online/in-person therapy, and psychology assessments we can help! Our practitioners are trained in multiple modalities, including CBT, EMDR, trauma-informed, psychodynamic therapy, ADHD/ ASC assessments etc. Please note: not all of our therapists are registered with insurance providers.
Hello there! We hear that you are looking for a suitable therapist…someone with compassion, understanding, experience, and insight into the difficulties that you may be looking to overcome. Therapy is personal, and all of our needs are different. This is why our practice offers a range of approaches to therapy; low-fee, short-term/long-term therapy, online/in-person therapy, and psychology assessments we can help! Our practitioners are trained in multiple modalities, including CBT, EMDR, trauma-informed, psychodynamic therapy, ADHD/ ASC assessments etc. Please note: not all of our therapists are registered with insurance providers.
020 3984 9116 View 020 3984 9116
Photo of Dora Bernardes, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dora Bernardes
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Exeter EX1
Hi, I am a Clinical Psychologist working with Children and Young People in Exeter. My aim is to provide a light and trusting space based on collaboration between myself, children/young people and parents so that as a team we can support children and young people. I have more than 15 years experience of working with young people with a wide range of presentations such as low mood, anxiety, school difficulties, coping with health concerns and other challenging issues. Fees: £80 (self-funded) - but contact me if this is an obstacle as I have a sliding scale in order to be able to reach out to families- or £110 (with insurance).
Hi, I am a Clinical Psychologist working with Children and Young People in Exeter. My aim is to provide a light and trusting space based on collaboration between myself, children/young people and parents so that as a team we can support children and young people. I have more than 15 years experience of working with young people with a wide range of presentations such as low mood, anxiety, school difficulties, coping with health concerns and other challenging issues. Fees: £80 (self-funded) - but contact me if this is an obstacle as I have a sliding scale in order to be able to reach out to families- or £110 (with insurance).
01392 321331 View 01392 321331
Photo of Dr Rozina Anwar, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Rozina Anwar
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
London WC2H
Hello, I'm Rozina. I'm a HCPC registered Counselling Psychologist and Lecturer. I've worked in the NHS, educational and charitable sectors, and in academia. My doctorate training has equipped me with the academic and clinical expertise which guide me during practice. My role as a university lecturer also roots me in the theory and philosophy behind practice which aids me in understanding the lived experience of my clients.
Hello, I'm Rozina. I'm a HCPC registered Counselling Psychologist and Lecturer. I've worked in the NHS, educational and charitable sectors, and in academia. My doctorate training has equipped me with the academic and clinical expertise which guide me during practice. My role as a university lecturer also roots me in the theory and philosophy behind practice which aids me in understanding the lived experience of my clients.
020 3835 6050 View 020 3835 6050
Photo of Mel Riley, MBACP Snr. Accred, Psychotherapist
Mel Riley
Psychotherapist, MBACP Snr. Accred
Verified Verified
Wolverhampton WV1  (Online Only)
Hello, if you would like someone to talk to then maybe I can help, take a look around my profile/website and if you think I might be good fit for you get in touch. I know its not easy showing up to see someone you have never met so I'll do my best to make the process as friendly and informal as possible. If you would rather walk & talk or have creative therapies that's OK too. I offer online for those who are further afield. . I aim to call you back the same or next day.
Hello, if you would like someone to talk to then maybe I can help, take a look around my profile/website and if you think I might be good fit for you get in touch. I know its not easy showing up to see someone you have never met so I'll do my best to make the process as friendly and informal as possible. If you would rather walk & talk or have creative therapies that's OK too. I offer online for those who are further afield. . I aim to call you back the same or next day.
01922 663716 View 01922 663716
Photo of Samina Latif, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Samina Latif
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hounslow TW3
I wonder if you have been feeling sad, stressed or anxious? Have these feelings been with you for a long time? Are you wondering when they will reappear? It’s like dreading what is around the corner and finding it hard to enjoy or feel good in the present. Other people look like they’re having fun but your world is a shade of grey. Things that you loved doing no longer give you happiness and it's hard to concentrate. At times it takes lots of energy to go out or spend time with people who care about you. Your confidence and ability to cope disappear as you become stuck and the people around you become as worn down as you feel.
I wonder if you have been feeling sad, stressed or anxious? Have these feelings been with you for a long time? Are you wondering when they will reappear? It’s like dreading what is around the corner and finding it hard to enjoy or feel good in the present. Other people look like they’re having fun but your world is a shade of grey. Things that you loved doing no longer give you happiness and it's hard to concentrate. At times it takes lots of energy to go out or spend time with people who care about you. Your confidence and ability to cope disappear as you become stuck and the people around you become as worn down as you feel.
01748 902463 View 01748 902463
Photo of Juliette Victoria Canham, MA, HCPC-Art Therap., Psychotherapist
Juliette Victoria Canham
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
Weybridge KT13
I am a qualified, HCPC, BACP registered Psychotherapist I qualified with an MA in Art Psychotherapy from Roehampton University.
I am a qualified, HCPC, BACP registered Psychotherapist I qualified with an MA in Art Psychotherapy from Roehampton University.
01372 233495 View 01372 233495
Photo of Mel Wilson, MSc, MNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Mel Wilson
Psychotherapist, MSc, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Loughborough LE12
Welcome to my practice, where I bring together the precision of science and the warmth of compassion to facilitate profound self-exploration and enhance our understanding of relationships. I am an Integrative Therapist and Evolutionary Psychologist, dedicated to guiding individuals, families, and young minds on a journey of personal growth and connection. In my therapeutic approach, I firmly believe in the transformative power of blending scientific insights with empathetic understanding. By creatively combining these elements, we embark on a unique exploration into the intricacies of ourselves and the dynamics of our relationships.
Welcome to my practice, where I bring together the precision of science and the warmth of compassion to facilitate profound self-exploration and enhance our understanding of relationships. I am an Integrative Therapist and Evolutionary Psychologist, dedicated to guiding individuals, families, and young minds on a journey of personal growth and connection. In my therapeutic approach, I firmly believe in the transformative power of blending scientific insights with empathetic understanding. By creatively combining these elements, we embark on a unique exploration into the intricacies of ourselves and the dynamics of our relationships.
01509 275257 View 01509 275257
Photo of Karin Scott, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Karin Scott
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Derby DE65
Hello! I am a registered member of the BACP with an MA in Integrative Counselling offering counselling and therapy to individuals, couples and young people. I feel that we all need help sometimes and talking in a safe and confidential space can help you to make changes in your life that will benefit you and your family.
Hello! I am a registered member of the BACP with an MA in Integrative Counselling offering counselling and therapy to individuals, couples and young people. I feel that we all need help sometimes and talking in a safe and confidential space can help you to make changes in your life that will benefit you and your family.
01332 325337 View 01332 325337
Photo of Harriet Schofield, MSc, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Harriet Schofield
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Askerswell DT2  (Online Only)
My name is Harriet Schofield and I really believe in the potential for counselling to change lives. More than I in 4 people access counselling or psychotherapy at some point in their lives (BACP, 2014), therefore if you are unhappy or life feels like a struggle, you are not alone. I understand how frightening it can be to feel stuck and like there is no way out, but I want you to know that if you are ready for things to change, then they can, however difficult things are feeling now.
My name is Harriet Schofield and I really believe in the potential for counselling to change lives. More than I in 4 people access counselling or psychotherapy at some point in their lives (BACP, 2014), therefore if you are unhappy or life feels like a struggle, you are not alone. I understand how frightening it can be to feel stuck and like there is no way out, but I want you to know that if you are ready for things to change, then they can, however difficult things are feeling now.
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Photo of Bandna Rekhi - Questa Psychological Services , DCounsPsych, AFBPSsS, Psychologist
Questa Psychological Services
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, AFBPSsS
Verified Verified
Farnborough GU14
I'm Bandna and I'm the Clinical Director of Questa. We're a small, specialist practice offering gold standard psychological services for children, teenagers, adults and families across Hampshire and Surrey. Our clinicians and support team are here to help you through; whether you want an assessment/diagnosis for autism, ADHD, family support, psychological therapy or supportive psychological coaching (SPC) we can help - and if we can't we'll do our utmost to help you find someone who can. Call or email us today to discuss how we may be able to help you.
I'm Bandna and I'm the Clinical Director of Questa. We're a small, specialist practice offering gold standard psychological services for children, teenagers, adults and families across Hampshire and Surrey. Our clinicians and support team are here to help you through; whether you want an assessment/diagnosis for autism, ADHD, family support, psychological therapy or supportive psychological coaching (SPC) we can help - and if we can't we'll do our utmost to help you find someone who can. Call or email us today to discuss how we may be able to help you.
01252 412471 View 01252 412471
Photo of Theresa Dubicka-Keen, MBACP, Counsellor
Theresa Dubicka-Keen
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Sutton Coldfield B75
Providing psychotherapy is my passion and I cover a wide range of issues namely- All Abuse, ADD / ADHD, Addictions, AIDS/HIV, Anger management, Anxiety, Asperger syndrome, Bereavement, Cancer, Child related issues, Chronic fatigue syndrome / ME, Cultural issues, Depression, Disability, Eating disorders, Health related issues, Identity issues, Infertility, Loss, Men's issues, Obsessions, OCD, Phobias, Post-traumatic stress, Pregnancy related issues, Redundancy, Relationships, Self esteem, Self-harm, Sex-related issues, Sexual identity, Sexuality, Spirituality, Stress, Trauma, Women's issues, Work related issues.
Providing psychotherapy is my passion and I cover a wide range of issues namely- All Abuse, ADD / ADHD, Addictions, AIDS/HIV, Anger management, Anxiety, Asperger syndrome, Bereavement, Cancer, Child related issues, Chronic fatigue syndrome / ME, Cultural issues, Depression, Disability, Eating disorders, Health related issues, Identity issues, Infertility, Loss, Men's issues, Obsessions, OCD, Phobias, Post-traumatic stress, Pregnancy related issues, Redundancy, Relationships, Self esteem, Self-harm, Sex-related issues, Sexual identity, Sexuality, Spirituality, Stress, Trauma, Women's issues, Work related issues.
01827 214705 View 01827 214705
Photo of Barbara Paczkowska, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Barbara Paczkowska
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Windsor SL4
Valuing the importance of a therapeutic relationship, I base my relationships with clients on trust and partnership. Drawing on extensive experience I aim to provide a safe and non- judgmental environment where you the client feels acknowledged, listened to and supported. As we are all unique no one type of therapy 'fits' all and I therefore integrate the therapeutic models in which I have been trained to meet your particular individual needs.
Valuing the importance of a therapeutic relationship, I base my relationships with clients on trust and partnership. Drawing on extensive experience I aim to provide a safe and non- judgmental environment where you the client feels acknowledged, listened to and supported. As we are all unique no one type of therapy 'fits' all and I therefore integrate the therapeutic models in which I have been trained to meet your particular individual needs.
01753 907660 View 01753 907660
Photo of Dr Tanya McDonnaugh, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Tanya McDonnaugh
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London W4
My name is Dr Tanya McDonnaugh and I am an HCPC registered Clinical Psychologist (DClinPsy). Being human can be a wonderful experience, full of joy and connection, but it can also be overwhelming, bewildering, and exhausting. I am experienced at assessing, and treating most psychological, emotional, behavioural and relationship difficulties, big and small. You might be struggling with a specific problem like anxiety or low mood, or maybe you just have a sense that you aren't functioning at your best. Perhaps you have noticed difficulties in relationships, with your self-esteem, or in your ability to manage your emotions.
My name is Dr Tanya McDonnaugh and I am an HCPC registered Clinical Psychologist (DClinPsy). Being human can be a wonderful experience, full of joy and connection, but it can also be overwhelming, bewildering, and exhausting. I am experienced at assessing, and treating most psychological, emotional, behavioural and relationship difficulties, big and small. You might be struggling with a specific problem like anxiety or low mood, or maybe you just have a sense that you aren't functioning at your best. Perhaps you have noticed difficulties in relationships, with your self-esteem, or in your ability to manage your emotions.
07498 205173 View 07498 205173

See more therapy options for Tetbury

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.