Play Therapy in Casa Grande, AZ

Photo of Dana Howard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dana Howard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Casa Grande, AZ 85122  (Online Only)
Experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a demonstrated history of working in the individual and family services industry. Strong community and social services professionally skilled as a Registered Play Therapist in populations of Adolescent/Child, family, marriage, adult individual. Current modalities used are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), TFCBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Eagala Equine therapy.
Experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a demonstrated history of working in the individual and family services industry. Strong community and social services professionally skilled as a Registered Play Therapist in populations of Adolescent/Child, family, marriage, adult individual. Current modalities used are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), TFCBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Eagala Equine therapy.
(520) 523-5420 View (520) 523-5420
Photo of Brianna Reinhold - Northern Lights Therapy, PLLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Northern Lights Therapy, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Casa Grande, AZ 85122
"You are not broken. You are breaking through." Do you feel like no one understands you or can truly help you the way you need? There are times that our perceptions of life situations differs from those around us, causing us to feel unheard or unsupported. These are the times we need support the most. Even if you aren't certain counseling is for you, call us to discuss your options. We provide a variety of services that are tailored to fit your individual needs such as EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Play Therapy, Sand Tray, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Couples/Families, First Responders/Veterans, PTSD/trauma, etc.
"You are not broken. You are breaking through." Do you feel like no one understands you or can truly help you the way you need? There are times that our perceptions of life situations differs from those around us, causing us to feel unheard or unsupported. These are the times we need support the most. Even if you aren't certain counseling is for you, call us to discuss your options. We provide a variety of services that are tailored to fit your individual needs such as EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Play Therapy, Sand Tray, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Couples/Families, First Responders/Veterans, PTSD/trauma, etc.
(623) 253-8640 View (623) 253-8640
Photo of Mike Hoza, MSC , Pre-Licensed Professional
Mike Hoza
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSC
Verified Verified
Casa Grande, AZ 85122
Do you want more for yourself, but cant quite picture what that looks like? Perhaps you know exactly what changes you'd like to see? Are you ready? As a skilled therapist, I have many tools to assist others in clearly identifying, and meeting, their goals. However, the most valuable tool in this process is us: our relationship. Being able to feel connected, be yourself, and feel seen is hugely healing in itself. I am flexible in my approach, adapting my skills to your needs. I will help you clearly identify what gives you meaning and purpose, while cultivating your strengths to live in alignment with your values.
Do you want more for yourself, but cant quite picture what that looks like? Perhaps you know exactly what changes you'd like to see? Are you ready? As a skilled therapist, I have many tools to assist others in clearly identifying, and meeting, their goals. However, the most valuable tool in this process is us: our relationship. Being able to feel connected, be yourself, and feel seen is hugely healing in itself. I am flexible in my approach, adapting my skills to your needs. I will help you clearly identify what gives you meaning and purpose, while cultivating your strengths to live in alignment with your values.
(480) 690-3942 View (480) 690-3942
Photo of Christine Hayes, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christine Hayes
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Casa Grande, AZ 85122  (Online Only)
I am a licensed professional counselor. I have a private practice called Sunnyshores Counseling. I graduated from Grand Canyon University with a Masters degree in Professional Counseling in 2012. I have a decade of experience in helping people to use their strengths in empowering them to enjoy their lives and increase their overall happiness.
I am a licensed professional counselor. I have a private practice called Sunnyshores Counseling. I graduated from Grand Canyon University with a Masters degree in Professional Counseling in 2012. I have a decade of experience in helping people to use their strengths in empowering them to enjoy their lives and increase their overall happiness.
(520) 317-1961 View (520) 317-1961
Photo of Lauren Shavers, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lauren Shavers
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Casa Grande, AZ 85122  (Online Only)
She completed her BS in psychology at Troy University in 2008 and her Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy at the University of Southern Mississippi in 2012. She is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in AZ. She loves working with children, teens, families, and couples. She has an extensive background working with children and families who have experienced trauma.
She completed her BS in psychology at Troy University in 2008 and her Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy at the University of Southern Mississippi in 2012. She is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in AZ. She loves working with children, teens, families, and couples. She has an extensive background working with children and families who have experienced trauma.
(928) 770-2454 View (928) 770-2454
Photo of Sheila Reed - Repairing The Bridge , LASAC, TIC,  CI, IMH, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Repairing The Bridge
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LASAC, TIC, CI, IMH
Verified Verified
Casa Grande, AZ 85130  (Online Only)
Our Mission… To bring others to the realization that success in recovery comes from within by prioritizing our relationship with SELF. To guide a healthy lifestyle in mind, body, and spirit by helping to build protective factors. We help you prioritize surrounding yourself with supportive people who listen, offer valuable guidance, and model positive behaviors. We promote awareness that can significantly enhance your ability to overcome obstacles and cultivate resilience in your personal life, family, and community.
Our Mission… To bring others to the realization that success in recovery comes from within by prioritizing our relationship with SELF. To guide a healthy lifestyle in mind, body, and spirit by helping to build protective factors. We help you prioritize surrounding yourself with supportive people who listen, offer valuable guidance, and model positive behaviors. We promote awareness that can significantly enhance your ability to overcome obstacles and cultivate resilience in your personal life, family, and community.
(520) 650-3452 View (520) 650-3452
Photo of Raleisa Parker, MS, NCC, LAC, Counselor
Raleisa Parker
Counselor, MS, NCC, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Casa Grande, AZ 85122  (Online Only)
When you can't look on the bright side, I will sit with you in the dark. - Alice in Wonderland My goal is to assist individuals on their healing journey, while unlocking any superpowers they may have. By creating a warm, safe, non-judgmental, and supportive environment, I invite you to create your own healing journey and begin anew! The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step. -Lao Tzu
When you can't look on the bright side, I will sit with you in the dark. - Alice in Wonderland My goal is to assist individuals on their healing journey, while unlocking any superpowers they may have. By creating a warm, safe, non-judgmental, and supportive environment, I invite you to create your own healing journey and begin anew! The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step. -Lao Tzu
(623) 294-6963 View (623) 294-6963

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jennifer Cheatham - Blue Heaven Therapy, L.L.C., MSPS, LPC, CHT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Blue Heaven Therapy, L.L.C.
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSPS, LPC, CHT
Verified Verified
Arizona City, AZ 85123
My goal as a mental health therapist is to assist individuals and families in enriching their lives by providing quality therapeutic techniques. Clients are encouraged to direct their own therapy and it is upon each individual/family to decide the rate of completion through active participation in therapy techniques. I believe strongly in personal empowerment as clients have been extremely successful in achieving a sense of wellbeing and security in their everyday lives. It is also my intention to assist each client in building coping skills for various live stressors that they can utilize throughout the rest of their lives.
My goal as a mental health therapist is to assist individuals and families in enriching their lives by providing quality therapeutic techniques. Clients are encouraged to direct their own therapy and it is upon each individual/family to decide the rate of completion through active participation in therapy techniques. I believe strongly in personal empowerment as clients have been extremely successful in achieving a sense of wellbeing and security in their everyday lives. It is also my intention to assist each client in building coping skills for various live stressors that they can utilize throughout the rest of their lives.
(405) 454-8257 View (405) 454-8257

Online Therapists

Photo of Jordan M Helms, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jordan M Helms
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85225
Based on your unique needs, you may experience CBT,DBT, play therapy, art therapy,mindfulness techniques, gender-affirming care,& animal-assisted therapy.
Jordan Helms, MSW, LCSW, received her Master of Social Work from Syracuse University and is a licensed clinical social worker in Arizona. She also has a specialty certification in animal-assisted therapy from the Institute for Human-Animal Connection. Jordan is part of the Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) community. She is social justice-oriented, culturally responsive, and LGBTQ+ affirming. She enjoys working with individuals ten years of age through young adulthood and has deep experience working with LGBTQ+, ADHD/ASD, anxiety, depression, and self-injurious behavior.
Based on your unique needs, you may experience CBT,DBT, play therapy, art therapy,mindfulness techniques, gender-affirming care,& animal-assisted therapy.
Jordan Helms, MSW, LCSW, received her Master of Social Work from Syracuse University and is a licensed clinical social worker in Arizona. She also has a specialty certification in animal-assisted therapy from the Institute for Human-Animal Connection. Jordan is part of the Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) community. She is social justice-oriented, culturally responsive, and LGBTQ+ affirming. She enjoys working with individuals ten years of age through young adulthood and has deep experience working with LGBTQ+, ADHD/ASD, anxiety, depression, and self-injurious behavior.
(480) 376-7227 View (480) 376-7227
Photo of Kelsey Kjellsen, MC, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelsey Kjellsen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
18 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85224
I have specialized training in ACT Therapy, Anxiety, Trauma, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Parent Training, and Play Therapy and use a tailored approach for each client to help support their unique and individualized needs.
Hi my name is Kelsey Kjellsen and I am a licensed professional counselor, clinical supervisor, and owner of Just Be Counseling Services, LLC. I work with individuals and families who are looking to make life-changing improvements. My primary passion is to help young adults (18-35) who are working to create the life that feels meaningful to them. Clients I see may be dealing with anxiety, low self-esteem, life transitions, chronic health conditions, relationships, depression, troubling behaviors, high stress, and trauma to name a few. I also work with youth (7+) and their families to promote positive and healthy family connections.
I have specialized training in ACT Therapy, Anxiety, Trauma, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Parent Training, and Play Therapy and use a tailored approach for each client to help support their unique and individualized needs.
Hi my name is Kelsey Kjellsen and I am a licensed professional counselor, clinical supervisor, and owner of Just Be Counseling Services, LLC. I work with individuals and families who are looking to make life-changing improvements. My primary passion is to help young adults (18-35) who are working to create the life that feels meaningful to them. Clients I see may be dealing with anxiety, low self-esteem, life transitions, chronic health conditions, relationships, depression, troubling behaviors, high stress, and trauma to name a few. I also work with youth (7+) and their families to promote positive and healthy family connections.
(480) 405-0615 View (480) 405-0615
Photo of Rachel Beth Wininger, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Beth Wininger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85206
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience and training in working with Faith Expansions, (Christian and LDS/Mormon church) ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Betrayal Trauma, Child-Centered Play, Relationship Issues and more.
Hi! I offer a casual, open approach to therapy that includes humor, swearing, art, mental exercises, tears, and hope for the future. My approach is based on working to learn more about why we are the way we are to then show understanding and compassion. As we explore with curiosity we discover the reasons behind what makes us the way we are and gives us a sense of compassion, empathy, and validation towards the parts of ourselves we like the least. I believe that nothing is TMI (too much information) and work to develop a strong supportive relationship to learn about and celebrate my clients.
I have experience and training in working with Faith Expansions, (Christian and LDS/Mormon church) ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Betrayal Trauma, Child-Centered Play, Relationship Issues and more.
Hi! I offer a casual, open approach to therapy that includes humor, swearing, art, mental exercises, tears, and hope for the future. My approach is based on working to learn more about why we are the way we are to then show understanding and compassion. As we explore with curiosity we discover the reasons behind what makes us the way we are and gives us a sense of compassion, empathy, and validation towards the parts of ourselves we like the least. I believe that nothing is TMI (too much information) and work to develop a strong supportive relationship to learn about and celebrate my clients.
(480) 864-4188 View (480) 864-4188
Photo of Liz Plotkin - Liz Plotkin, Crestview Child Counseling, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Liz Plotkin, Crestview Child Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85284
I enjoy helping children make positive changes in their lives. I provide child therapy services for children who are experiencing social, emotional, and/or behavioral challenges. These challenges include emotional outbursts; uncooperative and aggressive behaviors; difficulty managing emotions including anger, anxiety, and sadness; and decreased self-confidence. Life experiences can be difficult for children to understand and navigate. My treatment approach combines play therapy interventions and structured problem solving to help children learn coping strategies and make positive changes.
I enjoy helping children make positive changes in their lives. I provide child therapy services for children who are experiencing social, emotional, and/or behavioral challenges. These challenges include emotional outbursts; uncooperative and aggressive behaviors; difficulty managing emotions including anger, anxiety, and sadness; and decreased self-confidence. Life experiences can be difficult for children to understand and navigate. My treatment approach combines play therapy interventions and structured problem solving to help children learn coping strategies and make positive changes.
(480) 616-4141 View (480) 616-4141
Photo of Ericka J Valdez, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ericka J Valdez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85016
I utilize an array therapy modalities like EMDR, DBT, IFS, and play therapy.
Finding a therapist is like dating, not everyone who takes you out to dinner will be “the one”. The number one factor that assist people in reaching their full potential in therapy, is the relationship between the Client and therapist. Ericka has a reputation of quickly establishing trust and rapport with Clients, and individuals from all walks of life. Expect a caring and energetic creative therapist, who utilizes science and humor to help you, help yourself! My ideal Clients are children, adolescents and adults ages 4-50 who may be full of energy, creativity, loudness, craziness, sadness, and even madness.
I utilize an array therapy modalities like EMDR, DBT, IFS, and play therapy.
Finding a therapist is like dating, not everyone who takes you out to dinner will be “the one”. The number one factor that assist people in reaching their full potential in therapy, is the relationship between the Client and therapist. Ericka has a reputation of quickly establishing trust and rapport with Clients, and individuals from all walks of life. Expect a caring and energetic creative therapist, who utilizes science and humor to help you, help yourself! My ideal Clients are children, adolescents and adults ages 4-50 who may be full of energy, creativity, loudness, craziness, sadness, and even madness.
(602) 780-0331 View (602) 780-0331
Photo of Kerri Dominguez, LAC, CCTS-I, Counselor
Kerri Dominguez
Counselor, LAC, CCTS-I
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85715
Mindfulness, self regulation, understanding the brain/body connection, and play are all used in my practice to achieve healing.
I love riding along in the journey with clients as they fulfill their wish of becoming the person that they desire to be. I believe we are adapted to our experiences and that we can identify and utilize the strengths that have been developed in us because of those experiences. Whether the need is to manage anxiety, depression, life transitions, relational conflict, or to heal from trauma; my clients find in themselves their resiliency and the tools they need to continue to forge their path to achieving their ideal self.
Mindfulness, self regulation, understanding the brain/body connection, and play are all used in my practice to achieve healing.
I love riding along in the journey with clients as they fulfill their wish of becoming the person that they desire to be. I believe we are adapted to our experiences and that we can identify and utilize the strengths that have been developed in us because of those experiences. Whether the need is to manage anxiety, depression, life transitions, relational conflict, or to heal from trauma; my clients find in themselves their resiliency and the tools they need to continue to forge their path to achieving their ideal self.
(520) 858-0446 View (520) 858-0446
Photo of Aislinn Stewart, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Aislinn Stewart
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Surprise, AZ 85379
I offer a safe, inclusive place to learn, grow, & be challenged; to play & talk about the hard stuff; & to feel all the feels.
Nurturing Wonder: Empowering families to Live, Rise, & Thrive Together. I serve children (birth to 12) and their families. A Million Little Wonders LLC was founded on the belief that profound change is created from the accumulation of “a million little wonders,” small but significant moments of connection, progress, & healing. If your child is struggling to regulate their emotions, or if your family is going through a challenging period of change, upheaval, or loss, & you're feeling overwhelmed, defeated, or uncertain about how it's affecting your relationship with your child & their future, I'm here to offer support & guidance.
I offer a safe, inclusive place to learn, grow, & be challenged; to play & talk about the hard stuff; & to feel all the feels.
Nurturing Wonder: Empowering families to Live, Rise, & Thrive Together. I serve children (birth to 12) and their families. A Million Little Wonders LLC was founded on the belief that profound change is created from the accumulation of “a million little wonders,” small but significant moments of connection, progress, & healing. If your child is struggling to regulate their emotions, or if your family is going through a challenging period of change, upheaval, or loss, & you're feeling overwhelmed, defeated, or uncertain about how it's affecting your relationship with your child & their future, I'm here to offer support & guidance.
(623) 303-9477 View (623) 303-9477
Photo of Chelsey Saperstein, MEd, LAC, NCC, Counselor
Chelsey Saperstein
Counselor, MEd, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
Drawing from my background in play therapy and my experience working with neurodivergent individuals, I incorporate creative and engaging techniques to help children express themselves and develop healthy coping mechanisms.
I am a dedicated Licensed Associate Counselor with a Master of Counseling degree from Northern Arizona University. I have a passion for supporting children and adolescents and have years of experience as a school counselor. I understand the unique challenges young individuals face in today's world and I am committed to providing a safe and nurturing space for them to explore their emotions and navigate life's complexities. My approach is warm, empathetic, and tailored to meet the specific needs of each child or teenager I work with.
Drawing from my background in play therapy and my experience working with neurodivergent individuals, I incorporate creative and engaging techniques to help children express themselves and develop healthy coping mechanisms.
I am a dedicated Licensed Associate Counselor with a Master of Counseling degree from Northern Arizona University. I have a passion for supporting children and adolescents and have years of experience as a school counselor. I understand the unique challenges young individuals face in today's world and I am committed to providing a safe and nurturing space for them to explore their emotions and navigate life's complexities. My approach is warm, empathetic, and tailored to meet the specific needs of each child or teenager I work with.
(928) 693-7851 View (928) 693-7851
Photo of Brianne Bennett, LAC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Brianne Bennett
Pre-Licensed Professional, LAC
Verified Verified
Wickenburg, AZ 85390
Brianne specialize in working with children, adolescents and adults with: depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, grief, behavioral issues, peer relationships, family conflict, trauma and substance use; modalities including: Equine therapy, EMDR, play therapy, sand tray, trauma-focused CBT, and experiential therapy techniques.
Brianne believes that each of her clients are an expert and the ultimate healer of what troubles them. Often the inability to identify or communicate their troubles is the real issues that prevents them from feeling better. That is where her specialties can bridge the gap.
Brianne specialize in working with children, adolescents and adults with: depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, grief, behavioral issues, peer relationships, family conflict, trauma and substance use; modalities including: Equine therapy, EMDR, play therapy, sand tray, trauma-focused CBT, and experiential therapy techniques.
Brianne believes that each of her clients are an expert and the ultimate healer of what troubles them. Often the inability to identify or communicate their troubles is the real issues that prevents them from feeling better. That is where her specialties can bridge the gap.
(928) 569-6779 View (928) 569-6779
Photo of Jack Dawson, LAC, Counselor
Jack Dawson
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85028
And if you're into sports or have performance-related issues, I've got you covered there! I have experience working with clients that play baseball, football, basketball, as well as other sports.
If you're reading this, you're probably someone who's looking for a little extra support for yourself or your child. You're in the right place! Maybe you're dealing with stress, anxiety, or seeing some mood shifts. Perhaps you're struggling with anger, low self-esteem, or relationship issues. Whatever it is, I get it. Life throws us all sorts of curveballs, and sometimes we just need someone to help us navigate through them. You want to feel better, find some clarity and peace of mind, and ultimately, live a happier, more fulfilling life. And that's exactly what we're here to work towards together.
And if you're into sports or have performance-related issues, I've got you covered there! I have experience working with clients that play baseball, football, basketball, as well as other sports.
If you're reading this, you're probably someone who's looking for a little extra support for yourself or your child. You're in the right place! Maybe you're dealing with stress, anxiety, or seeing some mood shifts. Perhaps you're struggling with anger, low self-esteem, or relationship issues. Whatever it is, I get it. Life throws us all sorts of curveballs, and sometimes we just need someone to help us navigate through them. You want to feel better, find some clarity and peace of mind, and ultimately, live a happier, more fulfilling life. And that's exactly what we're here to work towards together.
(623) 343-3909 View (623) 343-3909
Photo of Haley Anderson, MA, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Haley Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
The evidence-based modalities I mainly utilize include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Mindfulness approaches and strategies used in play therapy.
Welcome to my profile! I understand that embarking on a path toward healing requires a tremendous amount of courage, and I am here to offer you support every step of the way. I have a vast array of experience working with children and teens as well as families and adults in clinical settings, community programs, and educational environments. This background has equipped me to navigate the complexities of various life experiences and perspectives, ensuring that my approach remains inclusive. I can offer help to those struggling with school or general anxiety, eating disorders, phobias, PTSD and trauma, family issues, grief and more.
The evidence-based modalities I mainly utilize include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Mindfulness approaches and strategies used in play therapy.
Welcome to my profile! I understand that embarking on a path toward healing requires a tremendous amount of courage, and I am here to offer you support every step of the way. I have a vast array of experience working with children and teens as well as families and adults in clinical settings, community programs, and educational environments. This background has equipped me to navigate the complexities of various life experiences and perspectives, ensuring that my approach remains inclusive. I can offer help to those struggling with school or general anxiety, eating disorders, phobias, PTSD and trauma, family issues, grief and more.
(520) 412-4789 View (520) 412-4789
Photo of Courtney Denevi, BCBA, LBA, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Denevi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BCBA, LBA, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85004
Empowering your mental health journey with an evidenced based approach. Are you seeking services for yourself, child, your relationship, or maybe a family member? Want to focus on increasing motivation, creativity, self esteem, confidence, or organizational skills? Then I’m your gal. With a diverse range of expertise, I specialize in Play therapy, behavioral therapy, art expression, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution focused therapy, Positive Psychology, and mindfulness techniques.
Empowering your mental health journey with an evidenced based approach. Are you seeking services for yourself, child, your relationship, or maybe a family member? Want to focus on increasing motivation, creativity, self esteem, confidence, or organizational skills? Then I’m your gal. With a diverse range of expertise, I specialize in Play therapy, behavioral therapy, art expression, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution focused therapy, Positive Psychology, and mindfulness techniques.
(602) 860-6647 View (602) 860-6647

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.