Play Therapy in Tucson, AZ

Photo of Karen Michelle Morse, MA, LPC, Counselor
Karen Michelle Morse
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85711
My treatment approaches include both verbal and nonverbal therapies: Art, Sand Tray, Play, and CBT.
Therapy is a process that brings about profound changes and personal growth and I am often amazed at the courage and motivation my clients display. I am honored to be a part of this process with you. I have been a practicing therapist in Tucson for 26 years. I enjoy working with a variety of age groups from teens to adults and provide individual and family therapy. Areas of treatment include Trauma, PTSD, OCD, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, ADHD, Grief, Life Transitions, Codependency, work/career challenges and Parent education. Focus areas include trauma recovery, somatic touch, self-regulation skills and resilience.
My treatment approaches include both verbal and nonverbal therapies: Art, Sand Tray, Play, and CBT.
Therapy is a process that brings about profound changes and personal growth and I am often amazed at the courage and motivation my clients display. I am honored to be a part of this process with you. I have been a practicing therapist in Tucson for 26 years. I enjoy working with a variety of age groups from teens to adults and provide individual and family therapy. Areas of treatment include Trauma, PTSD, OCD, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, ADHD, Grief, Life Transitions, Codependency, work/career challenges and Parent education. Focus areas include trauma recovery, somatic touch, self-regulation skills and resilience.
(520) 441-8399 View (520) 441-8399
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 Camilla Bhagwan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Camilla Bhagwan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85716
Waitlist for new clients
For 15 years, I have provided therapy to children, adults and families of varied backgrounds and experiences. I often work on addressing parent-child relationships, life transitions, emotional regulation, depression/anxiety and trauma where there has been abuse, violence and early childhood trauma. Play is the language of children and is an important part of working with kids and families. I value treatments that include cognitive-based skills and believe reflecting on the underlying meaning of behaviors which can help manage our responses. Whether utilizing play, art or talk, therapy can help us gain greater insight and growth.
For 15 years, I have provided therapy to children, adults and families of varied backgrounds and experiences. I often work on addressing parent-child relationships, life transitions, emotional regulation, depression/anxiety and trauma where there has been abuse, violence and early childhood trauma. Play is the language of children and is an important part of working with kids and families. I value treatments that include cognitive-based skills and believe reflecting on the underlying meaning of behaviors which can help manage our responses. Whether utilizing play, art or talk, therapy can help us gain greater insight and growth.
(520) 655-8609 View (520) 655-8609
Photo of Lisa Gollenberg, LPC, RPT™, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Gollenberg
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT™
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85719
Waitlist for new clients
As a play therapist, I use sandtray, movement, toys, and any other number of creative tools to help kids process, communicate, and learn.
Hi there! My passion is helping children grow and flourish, whether that means helping them cope with big emotions, feel more connected in their families and social communities, heal from trauma, build confidence and self-esteem, or learn some practical skills for daily life. I believe in the power of relationship and helping a child feel seen, understood, and affirmed in the face of whatever life difficulties they are working through. My approach is playful, strengths-based, compassionate, creative, flexible, and affirming of diversity of all kinds.
As a play therapist, I use sandtray, movement, toys, and any other number of creative tools to help kids process, communicate, and learn.
Hi there! My passion is helping children grow and flourish, whether that means helping them cope with big emotions, feel more connected in their families and social communities, heal from trauma, build confidence and self-esteem, or learn some practical skills for daily life. I believe in the power of relationship and helping a child feel seen, understood, and affirmed in the face of whatever life difficulties they are working through. My approach is playful, strengths-based, compassionate, creative, flexible, and affirming of diversity of all kinds.
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Photo of Gretchen Harris, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gretchen Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85718
My approach is person centered, open and trauma informed, and I use a variety of techniques including EMDR, IFS/parts work, attachment work and play therapy.
Hope is an important starting place for therapy. Hope that life can feel different, that relationships can improve and that joy, contentment and peace are possible. I invite you to collaborate with me on getting to know more about your patterns, thoughts and feelings. People often reach out for therapy due to feeling stuck or overwhelmed. We can work together to identify goals and create a plan to help find relief. I work with a wide range of ages, including children and adults.
My approach is person centered, open and trauma informed, and I use a variety of techniques including EMDR, IFS/parts work, attachment work and play therapy.
Hope is an important starting place for therapy. Hope that life can feel different, that relationships can improve and that joy, contentment and peace are possible. I invite you to collaborate with me on getting to know more about your patterns, thoughts and feelings. People often reach out for therapy due to feeling stuck or overwhelmed. We can work together to identify goals and create a plan to help find relief. I work with a wide range of ages, including children and adults.
(520) 397-3477 View (520) 397-3477
Photo of Alex Baxter, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alex Baxter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85704
My primary modalities include Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and a person centered approach that aims to build a strong and trustworthy therapeutic relationship, the cornerstone to change.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in working with children, adolescents, and young adults. My passion is working with children (ages 2+), teens, and young adults in an effort to connect them with internal happiness, capability, courage, and resiliency as they navigate the different stages of life. I strive to provide a nurturing, welcoming, and safe atmosphere that allows my clients to explore their emotional experience, learn effective skills, and make changes that push them toward healing and wellness. I aim to meet them, where they are, in any given moment.
My primary modalities include Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and a person centered approach that aims to build a strong and trustworthy therapeutic relationship, the cornerstone to change.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in working with children, adolescents, and young adults. My passion is working with children (ages 2+), teens, and young adults in an effort to connect them with internal happiness, capability, courage, and resiliency as they navigate the different stages of life. I strive to provide a nurturing, welcoming, and safe atmosphere that allows my clients to explore their emotional experience, learn effective skills, and make changes that push them toward healing and wellness. I aim to meet them, where they are, in any given moment.
(520) 389-5283 View (520) 389-5283
Photo of Virginia Pope, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Virginia Pope
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85718  (Online Only)
Hey there! Many of us can benefit from having a therapist help navigate our everyday challenges. Whatever your reason for seeking therapy, I am grateful you are reading my profile and considering me. I work heavily with emotions and focus on understanding the “why” behind our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. So, if you find yourself trying to understand those on a deeper level, I believe we would be a great fit! I received my Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Northcentral University. I also have my Graduate Certificate in Play Therapy from Capella University.
Hey there! Many of us can benefit from having a therapist help navigate our everyday challenges. Whatever your reason for seeking therapy, I am grateful you are reading my profile and considering me. I work heavily with emotions and focus on understanding the “why” behind our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. So, if you find yourself trying to understand those on a deeper level, I believe we would be a great fit! I received my Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Northcentral University. I also have my Graduate Certificate in Play Therapy from Capella University.
(520) 341-6293 View (520) 341-6293
Photo of Kambra Deitz - Mindfulness Matters Behavioral Health, LLC, MSW, LCSWPIP, RTP-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mindfulness Matters Behavioral Health, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWPIP, RTP-S
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85750
Kambra Deitz, MSW, LCSW, RPT-S, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor.
Our mission at Mindfulness Matters Behavioral Health, LLC is to promote optimal mental health services through advocacy, education, and support while providing culturally competent, holistic, and wellness-focused services. To promote and foster the well-being of all individuals, as well as promote and foster children’s social-emotional development and address social-emotional problems that currently exist. We will do this by using evidence-based strategies in our services, supporting staff training and well-being, implementing effective mental health consultations, facilitating mental health services for parents who need them.
Kambra Deitz, MSW, LCSW, RPT-S, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor.
Our mission at Mindfulness Matters Behavioral Health, LLC is to promote optimal mental health services through advocacy, education, and support while providing culturally competent, holistic, and wellness-focused services. To promote and foster the well-being of all individuals, as well as promote and foster children’s social-emotional development and address social-emotional problems that currently exist. We will do this by using evidence-based strategies in our services, supporting staff training and well-being, implementing effective mental health consultations, facilitating mental health services for parents who need them.
(520) 593-7999 View (520) 593-7999
Photo of Kristen Kaveloh, MA, LAC, Counselor
Kristen Kaveloh
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85704
Are you an adult with anxiety or depression, perfectionistic tendencies, or a harsh inner critic? Are you seeking counseling for your teenage girl who is stressed, struggling to fit in, or being bullied? Are you parenting an elementary school-aged child who is hyperactive or neurodivergent? I enjoy working with these populations because I understand them. I engage children in play therapy, teach coping & communication skills, and help explore and regulate emotions. With teens, I try to connect with exactly where they're at & partner with them & you as parents. With adults, I use talk therapy and parts works to help you get unstuck.
Are you an adult with anxiety or depression, perfectionistic tendencies, or a harsh inner critic? Are you seeking counseling for your teenage girl who is stressed, struggling to fit in, or being bullied? Are you parenting an elementary school-aged child who is hyperactive or neurodivergent? I enjoy working with these populations because I understand them. I engage children in play therapy, teach coping & communication skills, and help explore and regulate emotions. With teens, I try to connect with exactly where they're at & partner with them & you as parents. With adults, I use talk therapy and parts works to help you get unstuck.
(520) 438-4397 View (520) 438-4397
Photo of Jessica Perkins, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Perkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85743  (Online Only)
I provide a therapeutic client-centered approach to assisting my clients work towards their goals. I utilize CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), TF-CBT (Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), MI (Motivational Interviewing), Solution Focused, Family Systems, Structural Family Therapy, Art therapy techniques, Play therapy. I am trained in Trauma Informed Care and utilize approach in my practice. I have history of working with children, youth and families. I am honored to have worked alongside my clients as they have traveled down their own personal roads towards wellness.
I provide a therapeutic client-centered approach to assisting my clients work towards their goals. I utilize CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), TF-CBT (Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), MI (Motivational Interviewing), Solution Focused, Family Systems, Structural Family Therapy, Art therapy techniques, Play therapy. I am trained in Trauma Informed Care and utilize approach in my practice. I have history of working with children, youth and families. I am honored to have worked alongside my clients as they have traveled down their own personal roads towards wellness.
(520) 214-7434 View (520) 214-7434
Photo of Marissa Bell, Pre-Licensed Professional
Marissa Bell
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85712
Waitlist for new clients
My treatment modalities are cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, play/sandtray therapy, motivational interviewing, and Christian/biblical counseling.
Welcome! I’m Marissa and I have a genuine passion and dedication for supporting individuals on their unique paths to well-being. I am experienced and find passion working with children, adolescents, teens, and young adults on a wide variety of issues including anxiety disorders, depression and mood disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders, stress/anger management, navigating major life transitions/adjustment disorders, PTSD, childhood behavioral issues, racial and religious trauma, relationship conflict, self-esteem, and grief and loss.
My treatment modalities are cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, play/sandtray therapy, motivational interviewing, and Christian/biblical counseling.
Welcome! I’m Marissa and I have a genuine passion and dedication for supporting individuals on their unique paths to well-being. I am experienced and find passion working with children, adolescents, teens, and young adults on a wide variety of issues including anxiety disorders, depression and mood disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders, stress/anger management, navigating major life transitions/adjustment disorders, PTSD, childhood behavioral issues, racial and religious trauma, relationship conflict, self-esteem, and grief and loss.
(520) 412-5668 View (520) 412-5668
Photo of Sherrill Koogler, LCSW, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sherrill Koogler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85704
Are you frustrated with your child’s behavior? Are you receiving phone calls from your child’s school? Is your child having difficulty regulating emotions and following directions? Both parents and children become frustrated and their relationship suffers. I use the language of play to connect with children and help them learn to express their needs in a safe manner. I specialize in working with children who have difficulty managing emotions and behavior at home and at school.
Are you frustrated with your child’s behavior? Are you receiving phone calls from your child’s school? Is your child having difficulty regulating emotions and following directions? Both parents and children become frustrated and their relationship suffers. I use the language of play to connect with children and help them learn to express their needs in a safe manner. I specialize in working with children who have difficulty managing emotions and behavior at home and at school.
(520) 462-8867 View (520) 462-8867
Photo of Victoria Spencer, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Victoria Spencer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85715
I have a background in experiential, cognitive and play therapies, but I am invested in always learning more.
My ideal client is someone who has experienced trauma and is seeking a safe, supportive environment to heal. This client may be navigating the complexities of sexual health after abuse, struggling with identity, or struggling to manage healthy relationships . They are motivated to discover what they truly want out of their life and find relief from the struggles they face.
I have a background in experiential, cognitive and play therapies, but I am invested in always learning more.
My ideal client is someone who has experienced trauma and is seeking a safe, supportive environment to heal. This client may be navigating the complexities of sexual health after abuse, struggling with identity, or struggling to manage healthy relationships . They are motivated to discover what they truly want out of their life and find relief from the struggles they face.
(520) 380-4295 View (520) 380-4295
Photo of Robin Memel Fox, MA, BC-DMT, LPC, Counselor
Robin Memel Fox
Counselor, MA, BC-DMT, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85715
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize relational, psychodynamic, body-centered/somatic psychotherapy, neuro-psychotherapy, EMDR, mindfulness, play therapy, dance/movement therapy & expressive arts.
I believe that clients are co-creators in the process. Healing and growth occurs when we are willing to share openly and work towards developing an authentic, therapeutic relationship. I have extensive experience with survivors of all types of trauma, relationship issues, domestic abuse, mood disorders, infertility issues, eating disorders, substance use, women's/men's issues & lifestyle changes. The therapeutic process will focus on helping you to re-discover & develop strengths, resiliency and coping skills. Join me as I create a safe space for you to dive into exploring the source of your current struggles and innate wisdom.
I utilize relational, psychodynamic, body-centered/somatic psychotherapy, neuro-psychotherapy, EMDR, mindfulness, play therapy, dance/movement therapy & expressive arts.
I believe that clients are co-creators in the process. Healing and growth occurs when we are willing to share openly and work towards developing an authentic, therapeutic relationship. I have extensive experience with survivors of all types of trauma, relationship issues, domestic abuse, mood disorders, infertility issues, eating disorders, substance use, women's/men's issues & lifestyle changes. The therapeutic process will focus on helping you to re-discover & develop strengths, resiliency and coping skills. Join me as I create a safe space for you to dive into exploring the source of your current struggles and innate wisdom.
(520) 332-6144 View (520) 332-6144
Photo of Luanna Bozzolo, PhD, Psychologist
Luanna Bozzolo
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85715
I specialize in play therapy, allowing children to express their needs through their means of communication.
Together with my patients, I help them gain insight and learn new tools aimed at improving their well-being, mood, and relationships. I believe everyone can grow and improve. In therapy, a journey of healing begins and new understandings are made to assist in the growth that is possible. I see children of all ages and work with adolescents, adults and couples. As a native Spanish speaker, I focus on cultural sensitivity. I work with English and Spanish patients.
I specialize in play therapy, allowing children to express their needs through their means of communication.
Together with my patients, I help them gain insight and learn new tools aimed at improving their well-being, mood, and relationships. I believe everyone can grow and improve. In therapy, a journey of healing begins and new understandings are made to assist in the growth that is possible. I see children of all ages and work with adolescents, adults and couples. As a native Spanish speaker, I focus on cultural sensitivity. I work with English and Spanish patients.
(520) 614-0667 View (520) 614-0667
Photo of Nicole Linn, MEd, MC, LPC, Counselor
Nicole Linn
Counselor, MEd, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85704
Does your child have big emotions, anger, worries, or behaviors that you are struggling to understand? Has your child been through something difficult or just isn’t acting like themselves? If your child is expressing symptoms of anxiety, depression, or unexplained difficulties, a play-based model allows a safe environment to explore their feelings and needs affecting healthy functioning. I specialize in using a genuine, non-judgmental, supportive approach to helping children and families develop new ways of thinking and feeling, as well as learning new sets of skills for making choices and having healthier relationships.
Does your child have big emotions, anger, worries, or behaviors that you are struggling to understand? Has your child been through something difficult or just isn’t acting like themselves? If your child is expressing symptoms of anxiety, depression, or unexplained difficulties, a play-based model allows a safe environment to explore their feelings and needs affecting healthy functioning. I specialize in using a genuine, non-judgmental, supportive approach to helping children and families develop new ways of thinking and feeling, as well as learning new sets of skills for making choices and having healthier relationships.
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Photo of Crystal Waites, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Crystal Waites
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85704  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with children, teens and adults and use a variety of cognitive and play therapy approaches.
Maybe you're feeling tired or lost and are in need of a safe space to explore your latest challenges. Perhaps you are a parent who is fostering, adopting or struggling with your child's emotions and behaviors or you are looking for your own support as an adult to navigate life. I offer a warm and down to earth approach to counseling and hold a nonjudgmental, empathic space to help you navigate whatever stressors you are facing. Whether you are a parent, child, teen or adult, I am here to offer compassion and hold space for you. I'm an LPC in AZ, NC, SC, NV and VA and I am excited to help you figure out your next steps!
I enjoy working with children, teens and adults and use a variety of cognitive and play therapy approaches.
Maybe you're feeling tired or lost and are in need of a safe space to explore your latest challenges. Perhaps you are a parent who is fostering, adopting or struggling with your child's emotions and behaviors or you are looking for your own support as an adult to navigate life. I offer a warm and down to earth approach to counseling and hold a nonjudgmental, empathic space to help you navigate whatever stressors you are facing. Whether you are a parent, child, teen or adult, I am here to offer compassion and hold space for you. I'm an LPC in AZ, NC, SC, NV and VA and I am excited to help you figure out your next steps!
(520) 636-8418 View (520) 636-8418
Photo of George Kelly, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
George Kelly
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85711
I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focus therapy, and play therapy techniques.
As a former professional athlete, I know what it takes to overcome adversity. I incorporate my experience in sports and counseling to help work towards your goals. Together, we set goals for improved mental well-being, healthier relationships, increased self-confidence, and better coping skills. I'm passionate about instilling personal growth, healing from traumas, enhancing self-awareness, and finding life satisfaction. Whether seeking clarity, relief, resilience, communication improvement, or healthier behaviors, I'm committed to helping clients reach their fullest potential and promoting well-being.
I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focus therapy, and play therapy techniques.
As a former professional athlete, I know what it takes to overcome adversity. I incorporate my experience in sports and counseling to help work towards your goals. Together, we set goals for improved mental well-being, healthier relationships, increased self-confidence, and better coping skills. I'm passionate about instilling personal growth, healing from traumas, enhancing self-awareness, and finding life satisfaction. Whether seeking clarity, relief, resilience, communication improvement, or healthier behaviors, I'm committed to helping clients reach their fullest potential and promoting well-being.
(520) 263-9019 View (520) 263-9019
Photo of Rebecca Rae Palmer, MA, CRC, LPC, Counselor
Rebecca Rae Palmer
Counselor, MA, CRC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85716
I am trained in EMDR, Play Therapy, Psychodynamic approach.
My aim is to provide a therapeutic environment that is conducive to change, growth, and healing. I take an integrated approach to therapy, treating each individual with interventions best suited to a client's unique experiences. I have had the opportunity to work with individuals with disabilities in a vocational rehabilitation setting. I have worked with kids of all ages. I am also experienced in working with individuals adjusting to major life changes due to illness, traumatic events, and those experiencing grief, loss, anxiety, and depression.
I am trained in EMDR, Play Therapy, Psychodynamic approach.
My aim is to provide a therapeutic environment that is conducive to change, growth, and healing. I take an integrated approach to therapy, treating each individual with interventions best suited to a client's unique experiences. I have had the opportunity to work with individuals with disabilities in a vocational rehabilitation setting. I have worked with kids of all ages. I am also experienced in working with individuals adjusting to major life changes due to illness, traumatic events, and those experiencing grief, loss, anxiety, and depression.
(520) 462-2229 View (520) 462-2229
Photo of Dana Howard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dana Howard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85710  (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
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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.