Play Therapy in Buckeye, AZ

Photo of Crystal Alvarez - Little Hands & Heart Counseling LLC, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Little Hands & Heart Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Buckeye, AZ 85326
Waitlist for new clients
Using play therapy, experiential activities, and CBT, I support families in learning healthier ways of connecting with one another.
I believe in the importance of relationships and connecting with others in the healing process. I find my passion in working with children and their families to improve challenges that may be negatively affecting relationships and the family constellation. Everyone deserves to live a happy and fulfilling life, I feel it is important to meet others where they are at in their journey and provide a nurturing and supportive environment to allow healing and personal growth. Whether a child or adult, we all need someone to hold a space for understanding that life can be difficult and connecting with others for support is courageous.
Using play therapy, experiential activities, and CBT, I support families in learning healthier ways of connecting with one another.
I believe in the importance of relationships and connecting with others in the healing process. I find my passion in working with children and their families to improve challenges that may be negatively affecting relationships and the family constellation. Everyone deserves to live a happy and fulfilling life, I feel it is important to meet others where they are at in their journey and provide a nurturing and supportive environment to allow healing and personal growth. Whether a child or adult, we all need someone to hold a space for understanding that life can be difficult and connecting with others for support is courageous.
(623) 232-0051 View (623) 232-0051
Photo of Sumita Punia, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Sumita Punia
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Buckeye, AZ 85396
Life’s transitions can get the best of us sometimes. It is not easy to see the rainbow behind the clouds when you are amid the storm. Difficult times of adjusting to these transitions are also the opportunity to grow. I believe having a supportive & non-judgmental environment helps us heal. If you are struggling with a relationship question, want more out of your relationship, trying to figure out parenting during changing relationship dynamics, or if you or your child are struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, or trauma, etc., then I would feel privileged to create a safe space to start your healing journey.
Life’s transitions can get the best of us sometimes. It is not easy to see the rainbow behind the clouds when you are amid the storm. Difficult times of adjusting to these transitions are also the opportunity to grow. I believe having a supportive & non-judgmental environment helps us heal. If you are struggling with a relationship question, want more out of your relationship, trying to figure out parenting during changing relationship dynamics, or if you or your child are struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, or trauma, etc., then I would feel privileged to create a safe space to start your healing journey.
(623) 286-2743 View (623) 286-2743
Photo of Mercy Warigia Mwangi, EdD BH, LPC, Counselor
Mercy Warigia Mwangi
Counselor, EdD BH, LPC
Verified Verified
Buckeye, AZ 85396  (Online Only)
Living a life where life challenges don't hold us back from having deeper healthy relationships with others and worry less is everyone's dream. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, we can think about our issues from a different lens and empower ourselves to enact change. In my practice, we work towards developing a trusting relationship in which you feel heard.
Living a life where life challenges don't hold us back from having deeper healthy relationships with others and worry less is everyone's dream. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, we can think about our issues from a different lens and empower ourselves to enact change. In my practice, we work towards developing a trusting relationship in which you feel heard.
(928) 267-6110 View (928) 267-6110
Photo of Melissa L Vermilyea, Pre-Licensed Professional
Melissa L Vermilyea
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Buckeye, AZ 85396  (Online Only)
My style is to meet patients where they are and to be as honest and transparent as possible. I will not sugar coat challenges or obstacles, I will however help you to identify ways to overcome them. I don’t pretend to have all the answers and when I don’t have an answer I’ll help you navigate through it and finding one.
My style is to meet patients where they are and to be as honest and transparent as possible. I will not sugar coat challenges or obstacles, I will however help you to identify ways to overcome them. I don’t pretend to have all the answers and when I don’t have an answer I’ll help you navigate through it and finding one.
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Photo of Jenny Baumgardner, PhD, Psychologist
Jenny Baumgardner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Buckeye, AZ 85396  (Online Only)
Feeling anxious, depressed or don't know how to cope? You may feel frustrated, but determined to find relief. Using best practices, including teletherapy, you can have confidence in working with me to be happy again! We will work to clear up your problem and return you quickly to your work and hobbies. I often tell new patients, "You're not telling me anything I don't think we can work through". Reach out and find out how I can help you! I want you to thrive and be happy!
Feeling anxious, depressed or don't know how to cope? You may feel frustrated, but determined to find relief. Using best practices, including teletherapy, you can have confidence in working with me to be happy again! We will work to clear up your problem and return you quickly to your work and hobbies. I often tell new patients, "You're not telling me anything I don't think we can work through". Reach out and find out how I can help you! I want you to thrive and be happy!
(832) 305-5996 View (832) 305-5996
Photo of Angie Warren, LCSW, CFTP, CCTSI, CCTSS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angie Warren
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CFTP, CCTSI, CCTSS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buckeye, AZ 85396
​I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who provides therapeutic counseling for adults, children, youth and families with expertise in treating trauma, grief, and anxiety. Death of a loved one, miscarriage, bullying, divorce, constant moves, and chronic stress can create symptoms of trauma that become debilitating and create barriers to healthy, happy relationships. I work with a wholistic approach that incorporates body, mind, and heart to help people find peace amidst the chaos and pain that can sometimes arise in life.
​I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who provides therapeutic counseling for adults, children, youth and families with expertise in treating trauma, grief, and anxiety. Death of a loved one, miscarriage, bullying, divorce, constant moves, and chronic stress can create symptoms of trauma that become debilitating and create barriers to healthy, happy relationships. I work with a wholistic approach that incorporates body, mind, and heart to help people find peace amidst the chaos and pain that can sometimes arise in life.
(623) 288-4150 View (623) 288-4150
Photo of Eduardo Corona Torres, MS, MBA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Eduardo Corona Torres
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MBA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buckeye, AZ 85396
I utilize a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy approach (CBT) to help clients identify their internal strengths and ability to function productively despite facing life's challenges and, to live a more meaningful, purposeful, and productive life. ---Uso el modelo de Terapia Cognoscitiva Conductual (CBT) para ayudar a los clientes a identificar sus fuertes internos y habilidad de funcionar productivamente aun con los desafíos de la vida y, para vivir una vida mas significante, productiva y con propósito.
I utilize a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy approach (CBT) to help clients identify their internal strengths and ability to function productively despite facing life's challenges and, to live a more meaningful, purposeful, and productive life. ---Uso el modelo de Terapia Cognoscitiva Conductual (CBT) para ayudar a los clientes a identificar sus fuertes internos y habilidad de funcionar productivamente aun con los desafíos de la vida y, para vivir una vida mas significante, productiva y con propósito.
(623) 400-6732 View (623) 400-6732
Photo of Angela Christian, MAEd, LAC, Counselor
Angela Christian
Counselor, MAEd, LAC
Verified Verified
Buckeye, AZ 85396
My practice is client-driven, meaning that each session is focused only on the client's needs and goals - not on my personal agenda. I want each client to feel as though they are making measurable progress, so all of my clients are involved in creating their own treatment plan. My approach is straight-forward, compassionate, and non-judgmental. My number one desire is to work with each client to achieve peace, happiness, and hope.
My practice is client-driven, meaning that each session is focused only on the client's needs and goals - not on my personal agenda. I want each client to feel as though they are making measurable progress, so all of my clients are involved in creating their own treatment plan. My approach is straight-forward, compassionate, and non-judgmental. My number one desire is to work with each client to achieve peace, happiness, and hope.
(623) 294-0257 View (623) 294-0257
Photo of Vienna Aslanian, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vienna Aslanian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Buckeye, AZ 85396  (Online Only)
I chose to become a therapist after doing social work with children and families. Witnessing the trauma and the way that trauma impacted those individual lives caused me to develop an interest in and concern for individuals struggling with CPTSD, PTSD and childhood trauma. I have always enjoyed listening to people's stories and making a genuine connection. I believe in the healing power of therapy and the importance of the therapeutic relationship. I believe in the importance of active listening and making you feel truly heard, cared about, safe, and understood. The majority of my experience is as a child and family therapist.
I chose to become a therapist after doing social work with children and families. Witnessing the trauma and the way that trauma impacted those individual lives caused me to develop an interest in and concern for individuals struggling with CPTSD, PTSD and childhood trauma. I have always enjoyed listening to people's stories and making a genuine connection. I believe in the healing power of therapy and the importance of the therapeutic relationship. I believe in the importance of active listening and making you feel truly heard, cared about, safe, and understood. The majority of my experience is as a child and family therapist.
(928) 421-2385 View (928) 421-2385
Photo of Samantha White, LPC, RPT, Counselor
Samantha White
Counselor, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Buckeye, AZ 85396
Not accepting new clients
Credentials: Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Registered Play Therapist (RPT).
Certified EMDR Therapist. I am passionate about helping adolescents and adults heal and reclaim joy that is often disrupted by trauma, abuse, neglect, or crime victimization. My approach is integrated, blending modalities from EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Sand Tray, and Play Therapy. My goal is to help individuals and families tap into their potential to make positive changes, with a commitment to support clients as they build capacity and resilience for a brighter future.
Credentials: Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Registered Play Therapist (RPT).
Certified EMDR Therapist. I am passionate about helping adolescents and adults heal and reclaim joy that is often disrupted by trauma, abuse, neglect, or crime victimization. My approach is integrated, blending modalities from EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Sand Tray, and Play Therapy. My goal is to help individuals and families tap into their potential to make positive changes, with a commitment to support clients as they build capacity and resilience for a brighter future.
(623) 288-2662 View (623) 288-2662

Online Therapists

Photo of Jennifer Redwitz, LPC, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Redwitz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85207
I have advanced training in Play Therapy, EMDR, EFT, Mindfulness, Guided Imagery, and Sandtray Therapy.
If you, your relationships, or your child feel stuck or overwhelmed, you don't have to struggle alone. You also don't have to relive painful memories or feel blamed or shamed to overcome the past. This is a safe and welcoming place for clients of all ages, couples, and families to heal and feel better. Therapy with me includes fun, creative, informative, bonding, and restorative moments; where everyone can feel welcome, seen, safe, and accepted. My goal is to help create deeply connected and authentic experiences where my clients can heal, grow, and create the life and the relationships that they've always wanted.
I have advanced training in Play Therapy, EMDR, EFT, Mindfulness, Guided Imagery, and Sandtray Therapy.
If you, your relationships, or your child feel stuck or overwhelmed, you don't have to struggle alone. You also don't have to relive painful memories or feel blamed or shamed to overcome the past. This is a safe and welcoming place for clients of all ages, couples, and families to heal and feel better. Therapy with me includes fun, creative, informative, bonding, and restorative moments; where everyone can feel welcome, seen, safe, and accepted. My goal is to help create deeply connected and authentic experiences where my clients can heal, grow, and create the life and the relationships that they've always wanted.
(928) 569-8180 View (928) 569-8180
Photo of Marlena Gonzales-Gabaldon - Fit Mind Wellness, DBH, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Fit Mind Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, DBH, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
Therapists utilize EMDR, meditation, mindfulness, breathwork, somatic movement, play therapy and traditional talk therapy.
** Accepting new clients both virtually and in person at both our North Scottsdale and North Phoenix offices. Emergent appointments available!" ** Treatment for Relationships/Couples Therapy, Individual, Family, Children, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Grief & Loss, Life Changes, Work/Life Balance, Family Issues, Substance Abuse, Mental Health Evaluations.
Therapists utilize EMDR, meditation, mindfulness, breathwork, somatic movement, play therapy and traditional talk therapy.
** Accepting new clients both virtually and in person at both our North Scottsdale and North Phoenix offices. Emergent appointments available!" ** Treatment for Relationships/Couples Therapy, Individual, Family, Children, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Grief & Loss, Life Changes, Work/Life Balance, Family Issues, Substance Abuse, Mental Health Evaluations.
(480) 525-7091 View (480) 525-7091
Photo of Callie Slife, LMSW
Callie Slife
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85296  (Online Only)
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Play Therapy, and Trauma-Informed Yoga and Mindfulness.
Hello and welcome, I am so happy you’re here! I provide individual, trauma-informed therapy to adults and children. Living in a world of constant changes and obstacles can be challenging. People seek therapy for many different reasons, but everyone has a story worth sharing. Together, we can find and build the strength you have inside to face life’s inevitable uncertainties.
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Play Therapy, and Trauma-Informed Yoga and Mindfulness.
Hello and welcome, I am so happy you’re here! I provide individual, trauma-informed therapy to adults and children. Living in a world of constant changes and obstacles can be challenging. People seek therapy for many different reasons, but everyone has a story worth sharing. Together, we can find and build the strength you have inside to face life’s inevitable uncertainties.
(480) 485-4172 x5 View (480) 485-4172 x5
Photo of Ashleigh Fall, MA, LPC, RPT-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashleigh Fall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT-S, NCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
Waitlist for new clients
Ashleigh is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor, providing individual and family therapy with people of all ages. She specializes in working with young children 2-6 years old, as well as teens and young adults. She also provides supervision to associate therapists seeking independent licensure, as well as therapists looking to earn their Registered Play Therapist credentials. Her primarily styles of therapy are Client-Centered and Adlerian approaches.
Ashleigh is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor, providing individual and family therapy with people of all ages. She specializes in working with young children 2-6 years old, as well as teens and young adults. She also provides supervision to associate therapists seeking independent licensure, as well as therapists looking to earn their Registered Play Therapist credentials. Her primarily styles of therapy are Client-Centered and Adlerian approaches.
(480) 212-5531 View (480) 212-5531
Photo of Ethelyn Lara, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ethelyn Lara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016  (Online Only)
I use modalities such as, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), EMDR, Sand Tray Play, Theraplay.
Whether you are considering therapy for the first time or have attended therapy in the past, I welcome you! My approach is supportive and collaborative using a trauma informed and strength based perspective to create a healing and safe environment to address life challenges, transitions, self esteem issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, and emotional and behavioral concerns. Therapy can give you the opportunity to heal and create the life you want.
I use modalities such as, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), EMDR, Sand Tray Play, Theraplay.
Whether you are considering therapy for the first time or have attended therapy in the past, I welcome you! My approach is supportive and collaborative using a trauma informed and strength based perspective to create a healing and safe environment to address life challenges, transitions, self esteem issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, and emotional and behavioral concerns. Therapy can give you the opportunity to heal and create the life you want.
(480) 568-3569 View (480) 568-3569
Photo of Stephanie Tomaszewski, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Tomaszewski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85296
I utilize aspects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Play Therapy while providing an individualized approach tailored to your child and family dynamic.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in working with children ages birth-5 and their families.  I have extensive experience in counseling children struggling with anxiety, selective mutism, separation anxiety, impulse control, attention regulation, anger management, developmental delays and disabilities, trauma, family conflict, and more.  I offer individual counseling for children, social-emotional skills group counseling for children, parent counseling, parenting skills group counseling, and family counseling.
I utilize aspects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Play Therapy while providing an individualized approach tailored to your child and family dynamic.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in working with children ages birth-5 and their families.  I have extensive experience in counseling children struggling with anxiety, selective mutism, separation anxiety, impulse control, attention regulation, anger management, developmental delays and disabilities, trauma, family conflict, and more.  I offer individual counseling for children, social-emotional skills group counseling for children, parent counseling, parenting skills group counseling, and family counseling.
(480) 841-9451 View (480) 841-9451
Photo of Nicole Pryor - Pryor & Associates LLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pryor & Associates LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a private practice in Scottsdale, Arizona. My experience includes working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I specialize in Play Therapy, Multi Systems Family Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Grief, Depression and Anxiety. I have been active in the psychology field for ten years. I have a holistic approach to counseling, incorporating various treatment modalities into the counseling process. Existentialist at heart, I utilize theoretical approaches that are tailored to specific needs of the clientele while on their healing journey and their pursuit to finding happiness.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a private practice in Scottsdale, Arizona. My experience includes working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I specialize in Play Therapy, Multi Systems Family Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Grief, Depression and Anxiety. I have been active in the psychology field for ten years. I have a holistic approach to counseling, incorporating various treatment modalities into the counseling process. Existentialist at heart, I utilize theoretical approaches that are tailored to specific needs of the clientele while on their healing journey and their pursuit to finding happiness.
(480) 442-1896 View (480) 442-1896
Photo of Fernando Martinez, LBA, BCBA, MA
Fernando Martinez
LBA, BCBA, MA
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85016
I am an independent board certified behavior analyst (BCBA) that specializes in using Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to help children, teens, or adults diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and developmental disabilities. I create person centered goals to help clients reach their developmental milestones. I also demonstrate how to improve communication, daily living (e.g. getting dressed), coping, safety (e.g. crossing the street), social, play, and reduce challenging behaviors (e.g. tantrums and aggression). I am currently accepting new clients who need intensive 1:1 ABA in-home and group home settings.
I am an independent board certified behavior analyst (BCBA) that specializes in using Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to help children, teens, or adults diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and developmental disabilities. I create person centered goals to help clients reach their developmental milestones. I also demonstrate how to improve communication, daily living (e.g. getting dressed), coping, safety (e.g. crossing the street), social, play, and reduce challenging behaviors (e.g. tantrums and aggression). I am currently accepting new clients who need intensive 1:1 ABA in-home and group home settings.
(623) 462-1296 View (623) 462-1296
Photo of Cassi Ince, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cassi Ince
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85296
I have training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, and Inner Child Work.
Healing is hard. It’s often ugly and can be a beautiful journey. Not enough people acknowledge how hard it is to heal, grow, and transform. Seeking help is a huge step. Healing starts to take place as soon as someone feels heard. I strive to make children, teens, and adults feel heard, seen, and valued. I provide in-person and virtual individual therapy as well as family therapy. I am passionate about helping people with trauma, anxiety, depression, behavioral challenges in children, improving parenting strategies, and gender and sexual identity challenges.
I have training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, and Inner Child Work.
Healing is hard. It’s often ugly and can be a beautiful journey. Not enough people acknowledge how hard it is to heal, grow, and transform. Seeking help is a huge step. Healing starts to take place as soon as someone feels heard. I strive to make children, teens, and adults feel heard, seen, and valued. I provide in-person and virtual individual therapy as well as family therapy. I am passionate about helping people with trauma, anxiety, depression, behavioral challenges in children, improving parenting strategies, and gender and sexual identity challenges.
(480) 376-7593 View (480) 376-7593
Photo of Kari L Hesketh, MA, LAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kari L Hesketh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85248
I believe people are courageous to face their individual and relationship challenges. My role as a therapist is to assist my clients toward a more desirable future and provide a safe, non-judgmental, supportive environment that nurtures growth and healing. I approach therapy from an integrative holistic perspective. My approach is influenced largely by but not limited to Client-centered, CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), DBT (dialectical behavioral therapy), EMDR (Eye-movement desensitization reprocessing) trauma therapy, play therapy, sandtray, expressive arts, and Neurofeedback Brain Training for individuals and families.
I believe people are courageous to face their individual and relationship challenges. My role as a therapist is to assist my clients toward a more desirable future and provide a safe, non-judgmental, supportive environment that nurtures growth and healing. I approach therapy from an integrative holistic perspective. My approach is influenced largely by but not limited to Client-centered, CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), DBT (dialectical behavioral therapy), EMDR (Eye-movement desensitization reprocessing) trauma therapy, play therapy, sandtray, expressive arts, and Neurofeedback Brain Training for individuals and families.
(520) 376-1502 View (520) 376-1502

See more therapy options for Buckeye

Play Therapy

Who is play therapy for?

Play therapy is generally targeted to children between the ages of 3 and 11 who have social, emotional, or behavioral 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 behavior 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 behavior.