Play Therapy in Wickenburg, AZ

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 Rachel Minton, LPC, SEP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Minton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, SEP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wickenburg, AZ 85390
People come into counseling for many reasons. You may be overcome with insecurity, paralyzed with anxiety, or chronically depressed. Perhaps your relationships are a mess, your life feels out of control. You cut yourself to feel something other than emptiness, you drink to numb your pain. Life doesn't have to be this hard. There is hope and you can heal. You already have everything inside of you that you need in order to heal but somehow you have lost track of this truth. Life has led you away from your innate ability to heal. Counseling can help you reconnect with this ability and restore balance and peace to your life.
People come into counseling for many reasons. You may be overcome with insecurity, paralyzed with anxiety, or chronically depressed. Perhaps your relationships are a mess, your life feels out of control. You cut yourself to feel something other than emptiness, you drink to numb your pain. Life doesn't have to be this hard. There is hope and you can heal. You already have everything inside of you that you need in order to heal but somehow you have lost track of this truth. Life has led you away from your innate ability to heal. Counseling can help you reconnect with this ability and restore balance and peace to your life.
(928) 756-8179 View (928) 756-8179
Photo of Elaine Coller, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elaine Coller
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wickenburg, AZ 85390
My Therapeutic approach a trauma centered therapy approach where the horse is able to become part of your healing process. My main focus is to help you have success individually as well as in relationships with others by bringing in the healing methods that of EMDR and IFS. The healing benefits of the horse in relation to these Trama based therapy models promotes courage, self-esteem, empowerment, relational awareness and connections. My goal is not only to help you make the best self I also focus on the life skills horses give us.
My Therapeutic approach a trauma centered therapy approach where the horse is able to become part of your healing process. My main focus is to help you have success individually as well as in relationships with others by bringing in the healing methods that of EMDR and IFS. The healing benefits of the horse in relation to these Trama based therapy models promotes courage, self-esteem, empowerment, relational awareness and connections. My goal is not only to help you make the best self I also focus on the life skills horses give us.
(928) 277-4994 View (928) 277-4994
Photo of Isabel Nino-de-Guzman, PhD, MS, CSAT-S, Psychologist
Isabel Nino-de-Guzman
Psychologist, PhD, MS, CSAT-S
Verified Verified
Wickenburg, AZ 85390
I am a seasoned bilingual Psychologist with more than 30 years in academia, research, and clinical practice, who believes in the power of hope and human resilience. I use evidence-based approaches to improve the quality of life of people dealing with challenging situations due to mood, anxiety, and personality disorders, environmental stressors, trauma, and others. I also specialize in substance and behavioral addictions, compulsive sexual problems, gambling, addiction to pornography and media, and others. I purport to help my patients harness the power for trauma resolution when life happens in ways that leave profound scars.
I am a seasoned bilingual Psychologist with more than 30 years in academia, research, and clinical practice, who believes in the power of hope and human resilience. I use evidence-based approaches to improve the quality of life of people dealing with challenging situations due to mood, anxiety, and personality disorders, environmental stressors, trauma, and others. I also specialize in substance and behavioral addictions, compulsive sexual problems, gambling, addiction to pornography and media, and others. I purport to help my patients harness the power for trauma resolution when life happens in ways that leave profound scars.
(928) 415-2731 View (928) 415-2731

Online Therapists

Photo of Zach Clay, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Zach Clay
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chandler, AZ 85248
Children and families are often in need of healing. This belief led me to earn my Master’s degree in Marriage, Family and Child therapy. What I have been most inspired by after 16 years of working in this field has been the capacity for inner resilience that people have shown in the face of emotional pain, adversity, and trauma. Although other traditional modalities may be incorporated (ex, CBT), I predominately use a creative, play-based approach. This includes therapy interventions such as art, games, and sand tray interventions. Together, we’ll journey toward living brighter, happier lives.
Children and families are often in need of healing. This belief led me to earn my Master’s degree in Marriage, Family and Child therapy. What I have been most inspired by after 16 years of working in this field has been the capacity for inner resilience that people have shown in the face of emotional pain, adversity, and trauma. Although other traditional modalities may be incorporated (ex, CBT), I predominately use a creative, play-based approach. This includes therapy interventions such as art, games, and sand tray interventions. Together, we’ll journey toward living brighter, happier lives.
(623) 303-9812 View (623) 303-9812
Photo of Jeremy Gwizdalski, LAC, Counselor
Jeremy Gwizdalski
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
I use a variety of research-based modalities which are effective and efficient, such as Positive Psychology, Play Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral, EMDR and Dialectical Behavioral.
I am a licensed therapist who provides a safe nurturing environment for children and adolescents. I focus on topics such as life adjustment, depression, anxiety, relationship and family issues, life transitions, ADHD, autism spectrum and neurodivergent individuals, and attachment issues. I specializes in ADHD and Autism spectrum disorders, childhood attachment issues which tend to impede emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual growth. I also have an extensive background in assisting individuals with spectrum disorders.
I use a variety of research-based modalities which are effective and efficient, such as Positive Psychology, Play Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral, EMDR and Dialectical Behavioral.
I am a licensed therapist who provides a safe nurturing environment for children and adolescents. I focus on topics such as life adjustment, depression, anxiety, relationship and family issues, life transitions, ADHD, autism spectrum and neurodivergent individuals, and attachment issues. I specializes in ADHD and Autism spectrum disorders, childhood attachment issues which tend to impede emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual growth. I also have an extensive background in assisting individuals with spectrum disorders.
(480) 525-9735 View (480) 525-9735
Photo of Linda C Gray - Heartful Solutions for Families, MA, LPC, Counselor
Heartful Solutions for Families
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85014
Waitlist for new clients
Weekend and afternoon/evening appointments. I offer family and individual therapy for children ages 2 to 12 using child-friendly tools: Play therapy, Sand Tray, Expressive Arts, EMDR, Somatic Therapy. Rhythmic Movement and Mindfulness training. Whether you are seeking help for common childhood concerns, learning, and attention problems, or more traumatic life events, my playful approach will help your child connect emotionally, learn new behaviors, communicate and navigate through times of change.
Weekend and afternoon/evening appointments. I offer family and individual therapy for children ages 2 to 12 using child-friendly tools: Play therapy, Sand Tray, Expressive Arts, EMDR, Somatic Therapy. Rhythmic Movement and Mindfulness training. Whether you are seeking help for common childhood concerns, learning, and attention problems, or more traumatic life events, my playful approach will help your child connect emotionally, learn new behaviors, communicate and navigate through times of change.
(602) 529-3972 View (602) 529-3972
Photo of Kristy Baker, MSSA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristy Baker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85233
I provide therapy for children, families and individuals. My approach is playful, creative and fun. I practice from a Social Work perspective, taking into account all of the relationships, stressors, strengths and support a person has surrounding them. My approach is a collaborative effort with parents, who bring the most important perspective and knowledge regarding their children. Working together will only make us more successful in creating real change. I utilize many therapeutic techniques, including Brainspotting, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Expressive Arts, Play, Sensory, Behavior Modification and more.
I provide therapy for children, families and individuals. My approach is playful, creative and fun. I practice from a Social Work perspective, taking into account all of the relationships, stressors, strengths and support a person has surrounding them. My approach is a collaborative effort with parents, who bring the most important perspective and knowledge regarding their children. Working together will only make us more successful in creating real change. I utilize many therapeutic techniques, including Brainspotting, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Expressive Arts, Play, Sensory, Behavior Modification and more.
(602) 497-1643 View (602) 497-1643
Photo of Megan Kaiser-Southwick, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Megan Kaiser-Southwick
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85051
I specialize in Solution-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Medical Family Therapy, and Play Therapy.
I work with families experiencing life transitions, couples wanting to strengthen their communication, individuals experiencing trauma, grief, depression, or substance abuse, and children with childhood disorders.
I specialize in Solution-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Medical Family Therapy, and Play Therapy.
I work with families experiencing life transitions, couples wanting to strengthen their communication, individuals experiencing trauma, grief, depression, or substance abuse, and children with childhood disorders.
(480) 351-6897 View (480) 351-6897
Photo of Sofia Philips, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sofia Philips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Glendale, AZ 85308  (Online Only)
I have decades of experience and training in Play therapy, Art Therapy, Expressive Arts, Mindfulness, Relationship-based, Parent-Child Psychotherapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and other reflective, complementary & alternative modalities.
Hi, I'm Sofia, and I love helping kids, families, and couples reconnect with each other and find the joy in spending time together! I am a Licensed Master Social Worker and have worked with families in the valley for over 18 years. During this time, I've had the opportunity to watch many different family dynamics. When someone asks what makes the difference between "surviving" families and "thriving" families, I say it's the quality of those fundamental relationships. My goal is to help you and your family develop the understanding and habits that allow you to strengthen and foster healthy relationships.
I have decades of experience and training in Play therapy, Art Therapy, Expressive Arts, Mindfulness, Relationship-based, Parent-Child Psychotherapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and other reflective, complementary & alternative modalities.
Hi, I'm Sofia, and I love helping kids, families, and couples reconnect with each other and find the joy in spending time together! I am a Licensed Master Social Worker and have worked with families in the valley for over 18 years. During this time, I've had the opportunity to watch many different family dynamics. When someone asks what makes the difference between "surviving" families and "thriving" families, I say it's the quality of those fundamental relationships. My goal is to help you and your family develop the understanding and habits that allow you to strengthen and foster healthy relationships.
(602) 281-0345 View (602) 281-0345
Photo of Kimberly Anne Popkey, MA, LPC, CEDS, SEP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kimberly Anne Popkey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CEDS, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
I have had additional training in EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, art and play therapy.
I have been in private practice in the Scottsdale area for 23 years. I attended Arizona State University as an undergrad and completed my graduate work at the University of San Francisco. I work with individuals, couples, families and children. Divorce, grief, addiction, sexually alternative lifestyles, eating disorders, trauma, anxiety/depression & ADD/ADHD are just a few of my specialties. I have flexible morning and evening hours a couple days a week. I am a Board-Certified Telemental Health Provider & have flexibility for Telehealth counseling sessions. I am on numerous insurance plans as well as working on a sliding scale.
I have had additional training in EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, art and play therapy.
I have been in private practice in the Scottsdale area for 23 years. I attended Arizona State University as an undergrad and completed my graduate work at the University of San Francisco. I work with individuals, couples, families and children. Divorce, grief, addiction, sexually alternative lifestyles, eating disorders, trauma, anxiety/depression & ADD/ADHD are just a few of my specialties. I have flexible morning and evening hours a couple days a week. I am a Board-Certified Telemental Health Provider & have flexibility for Telehealth counseling sessions. I am on numerous insurance plans as well as working on a sliding scale.
(480) 646-3952 View (480) 646-3952
Photo of Rosa Ruales - Beyond Counseling LLC, MSMFT, MBA, JD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Beyond Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSMFT, MBA, JD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85233
Ruales is a Story Play Practitioner and play therapist which provides her with a unique specialization when working with children and adolescents.
Ms. Rosa Ruales has a Juris Doctor Degree, a Master in Business Administration, and a Master Degree in Marital, Couple, and Family Counseling, which she graduated with distinction. Her intensive education, bilingual skills, and training combined with her rich multicultural experience has resulted in a solution focused counseling experience for a wide variety of clients. She works with children, families, and couples. She also provides pre-marital counseling. Whether as a couple or as an individual with sexual concerns, infidelity, conflict resolution, communication and connection Ms. Ruales will work with you to help resolve your concerns.
Ruales is a Story Play Practitioner and play therapist which provides her with a unique specialization when working with children and adolescents.
Ms. Rosa Ruales has a Juris Doctor Degree, a Master in Business Administration, and a Master Degree in Marital, Couple, and Family Counseling, which she graduated with distinction. Her intensive education, bilingual skills, and training combined with her rich multicultural experience has resulted in a solution focused counseling experience for a wide variety of clients. She works with children, families, and couples. She also provides pre-marital counseling. Whether as a couple or as an individual with sexual concerns, infidelity, conflict resolution, communication and connection Ms. Ruales will work with you to help resolve your concerns.
(480) 680-9387 View (480) 680-9387
Photo of Ashley Franchetto, MA, LAC, Counselor
Ashley Franchetto
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
I use an eclectic approach to treatment including cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and play therapy.
Mental health is fluid, I work to address the issues you're experiencing with humor and acceptance. I encompass compassion and authenticity to help you process generational trauma and symptoms associated with PTSD, ADHD, anxiety, depression or just general life transitions. Working together we will create your individualized treatment plan to fit your current needs and concerns.
I use an eclectic approach to treatment including cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and play therapy.
Mental health is fluid, I work to address the issues you're experiencing with humor and acceptance. I encompass compassion and authenticity to help you process generational trauma and symptoms associated with PTSD, ADHD, anxiety, depression or just general life transitions. Working together we will create your individualized treatment plan to fit your current needs and concerns.
(480) 428-2944 View (480) 428-2944
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 Gabrielle Lawrence Phd, PhD, MA, RPT-S, Psychologist
Gabrielle Lawrence Phd
Psychologist, PhD, MA, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
I am an attachment based psychologist. I specialize in traumatic loss, marriage and family, bereavement, Play therapy, Parenting coaching, EMDR, and Somatic Experiencing, child, adolescents, and adult and relationship therapy. I am a solution-focused, brief therapist. The client sets the goals and we work collaboratively, using the skills and strategies mentioned above to achieve his or her goals. I try to create a warm, caring, safe relationship in which my client can discover his or her answers within.
I am an attachment based psychologist. I specialize in traumatic loss, marriage and family, bereavement, Play therapy, Parenting coaching, EMDR, and Somatic Experiencing, child, adolescents, and adult and relationship therapy. I am a solution-focused, brief therapist. The client sets the goals and we work collaboratively, using the skills and strategies mentioned above to achieve his or her goals. I try to create a warm, caring, safe relationship in which my client can discover his or her answers within.
(480) 382-7963 View (480) 382-7963
Photo of Rachel Hodgson, MEd, LAC, NCC, CSC
Rachel Hodgson
Licensed Associate Counselor, MEd, LAC, NCC, CSC
Verified Verified
Prescott, AZ 86303
I utilize a client-centered perspective, mindfulness techniques, and play therapy, incorporating a wide range of creative expression modalities.
Trauma of all kinds can have lasting impact. I work to guide clients through their healing process with empathy and understanding. I recognize the complexity of trauma and offer personalized support to help individuals navigate their unique experiences. By fostering a non-judgmental atmosphere, I encourage clients to express their thoughts and emotions openly, facilitating exploration of underlying wounds and their effects on personal growth. Supporting clients in discovering their true selves allows for profound understanding of one's identity, leading to a more authentic and meaningful life.
I utilize a client-centered perspective, mindfulness techniques, and play therapy, incorporating a wide range of creative expression modalities.
Trauma of all kinds can have lasting impact. I work to guide clients through their healing process with empathy and understanding. I recognize the complexity of trauma and offer personalized support to help individuals navigate their unique experiences. By fostering a non-judgmental atmosphere, I encourage clients to express their thoughts and emotions openly, facilitating exploration of underlying wounds and their effects on personal growth. Supporting clients in discovering their true selves allows for profound understanding of one's identity, leading to a more authentic and meaningful life.
(928) 985-3396 View (928) 985-3396
Photo of Mike Greenwell, DBH, LCSW, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mike Greenwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DBH, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85014
I work with clients throughout the course of the life span. I have skills for working with both youth and adults. I have been working in the helping professions since 2003. And a licensed provider from 2011. I personalized the treatment to each client and each need. I offer both long term and short term treatment options: EMDR, ACT, DBT, TF-CBT, CBT, Hypnotherapy, Play Therapy, SandTray Therapy, and Solution Focused Interviewing.
I work with clients throughout the course of the life span. I have skills for working with both youth and adults. I have been working in the helping professions since 2003. And a licensed provider from 2011. I personalized the treatment to each client and each need. I offer both long term and short term treatment options: EMDR, ACT, DBT, TF-CBT, CBT, Hypnotherapy, Play Therapy, SandTray Therapy, and Solution Focused Interviewing.
(602) 560-7402 View (602) 560-7402
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 use techniqued 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 ABA in-home, school consultation, 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 use techniqued 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 ABA in-home, school consultation, and group home settings.
(623) 462-1296 View (623) 462-1296
Photo of Teena Miller, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Teena Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
My mission is to create a safe and compassionate space where children can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences while developing the skills to navigate life's challenges. Childhood is a precious and transformative time. My approach to psychotherapy revolves around creating a therapeutic journey tailored to your child's individuality. Through play, art, talk therapy, and creative expression, I provide a variety of tools to help your child communicate their thoughts and emotions in ways that resonate with them.
My mission is to create a safe and compassionate space where children can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences while developing the skills to navigate life's challenges. Childhood is a precious and transformative time. My approach to psychotherapy revolves around creating a therapeutic journey tailored to your child's individuality. Through play, art, talk therapy, and creative expression, I provide a variety of tools to help your child communicate their thoughts and emotions in ways that resonate with them.
(480) 841-9160 View (480) 841-9160
Photo of Dalisa Jimenez, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dalisa Jimenez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85048
I provide services including Play Therapy, Sand Tray, and EMDR.
Parenting can be difficult. This is especially true when your child is experiencing behavioral problems. Whether it’s problems within the parent-child relationship, academics, peer relationships, or difficulty managing emotions, I can help. Young children are unique in their experience of the world and the challenges they face. My experience in the Birth to Five field as well as working with individuals of all ages has provided me the opportunity to help families from many different backgrounds with a variety of problems.
I provide services including Play Therapy, Sand Tray, and EMDR.
Parenting can be difficult. This is especially true when your child is experiencing behavioral problems. Whether it’s problems within the parent-child relationship, academics, peer relationships, or difficulty managing emotions, I can help. Young children are unique in their experience of the world and the challenges they face. My experience in the Birth to Five field as well as working with individuals of all ages has provided me the opportunity to help families from many different backgrounds with a variety of problems.
(480) 470-3644 View (480) 470-3644

See more therapy options for Wickenburg

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.