Play Therapy in Cameron Park, CA

Photo of Tanner Hickman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tanner Hickman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cameron Park, CA 95682
In my therapy, I use cognitive behavioral therapy, and aspects of play therapy, and I enjoy parenting interventions—I am informed in the evidenced-based parenting model generation PMTO.
Hi, I hope your browsing or search for a therapist is going well. I know it can be a lot of pressure to find and choose a therapist based on a picture and bio on a website. If you feel like we would be a good match I would be excited to work with you and if not, I wish you wellness. I am an LCSW and have been practicing therapy for 5 years. I am currently seeking my Ph.D. in Human Development and Family Studies in the Couple and Family Therapy track.
In my therapy, I use cognitive behavioral therapy, and aspects of play therapy, and I enjoy parenting interventions—I am informed in the evidenced-based parenting model generation PMTO.
Hi, I hope your browsing or search for a therapist is going well. I know it can be a lot of pressure to find and choose a therapist based on a picture and bio on a website. If you feel like we would be a good match I would be excited to work with you and if not, I wish you wellness. I am an LCSW and have been practicing therapy for 5 years. I am currently seeking my Ph.D. in Human Development and Family Studies in the Couple and Family Therapy track.
(209) 457-7601 View (209) 457-7601
Photo of Gerry Chase Williams, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gerry Chase Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cameron Park, CA 95682
Having worked with children in play and sand tray therapy for many years I can be most helpful in consultation regarding behavioral issues with your child; plus with family interactions that need assistance in a collaborative manner such as the need to sort our marital issues from parenting issues.
I can offer you both short-term therapy or longer term therapy to address marital, couples, family, or individual concerns. Together with assessment of your presenting problem we can decide what is best. Resolution and change is possible. I have experience working with adults with adult children issues and with couples in getting beyond repeating communication patterns that are stressful.
Having worked with children in play and sand tray therapy for many years I can be most helpful in consultation regarding behavioral issues with your child; plus with family interactions that need assistance in a collaborative manner such as the need to sort our marital issues from parenting issues.
I can offer you both short-term therapy or longer term therapy to address marital, couples, family, or individual concerns. Together with assessment of your presenting problem we can decide what is best. Resolution and change is possible. I have experience working with adults with adult children issues and with couples in getting beyond repeating communication patterns that are stressful.
(916) 347-9822 View (916) 347-9822
Photo of Jennifer Stockslager - Developing Minds Psychology, LLC, LEP, NCC, NCSP
Developing Minds Psychology, LLC
LEP, NCC, NCSP
Verified Verified
Cameron Park, CA 95682
She utilizes collaborative problem solving, CBT, solutions-focused therapy, play based therapy, and mindfulness.
Mental health is an important part of an individual's overall health and well-being. It impacts how an individual thinks, feels, and acts; as well as how one handles stress, performs in school, relates or interacts with others, and makes healthy choices. Jen offers consultation, psychoeducational testing, and psychological counseling. She works with children, adolescents, and young adults with learning disabilities, ADHD, ASD, Anxiety, Depression, trauma and loss, suicidal ideation, behavioral challenges, and school adjustment issues of all kinds.
She utilizes collaborative problem solving, CBT, solutions-focused therapy, play based therapy, and mindfulness.
Mental health is an important part of an individual's overall health and well-being. It impacts how an individual thinks, feels, and acts; as well as how one handles stress, performs in school, relates or interacts with others, and makes healthy choices. Jen offers consultation, psychoeducational testing, and psychological counseling. She works with children, adolescents, and young adults with learning disabilities, ADHD, ASD, Anxiety, Depression, trauma and loss, suicidal ideation, behavioral challenges, and school adjustment issues of all kinds.
(916) 587-8044 View (916) 587-8044
Photo of Linda O'Heron, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Linda O'Heron
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cameron Park, CA 95682
I provide a safe, compassionate and judgement free space for individuals and for families seeking resolution for problems such as mental health issues, relationship challenges and difficult circumstances. While sometimes painful, therapy can lead to overcoming challenges and the ability to thrive in life.
I provide a safe, compassionate and judgement free space for individuals and for families seeking resolution for problems such as mental health issues, relationship challenges and difficult circumstances. While sometimes painful, therapy can lead to overcoming challenges and the ability to thrive in life.
(530) 364-5354 View (530) 364-5354
Photo of Victoria L Clark, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Victoria L Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Cameron Park, CA 95682
Trauma, anxiety, abuse, relationship challenges, you are not alone. I am someone who will work hard to understand and build a therapuetic relationship with you. I would like to help you through. As we know, life is about many things; the ups, the downs and the in betweens. Life can be wonderful and sometimes, life can be filled with challenges. There are those moments in our lives when we need support . I want to work with peope who wish to learn how to face difficulties and to learn lasting coping skills. My goal is to help you to obtain your goals, face difficult times, and live your life to the fullest.
Trauma, anxiety, abuse, relationship challenges, you are not alone. I am someone who will work hard to understand and build a therapuetic relationship with you. I would like to help you through. As we know, life is about many things; the ups, the downs and the in betweens. Life can be wonderful and sometimes, life can be filled with challenges. There are those moments in our lives when we need support . I want to work with peope who wish to learn how to face difficulties and to learn lasting coping skills. My goal is to help you to obtain your goals, face difficult times, and live your life to the fullest.
(530) 418-6349 View (530) 418-6349
Photo of Marie Y. Nieto - Cameron Park Counseling Center, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cameron Park Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cameron Park, CA 95682
As the Director of CAMERON PARK COUNSELING CENTER, I have assembled a wonderful team of knowledgeable, talented and passionate therapists who specialize in the wide array of psychotherapeutic approaches and areas of specialization. When you call our office, you will be paired up with the therapist best suited to your issue.
As the Director of CAMERON PARK COUNSELING CENTER, I have assembled a wonderful team of knowledgeable, talented and passionate therapists who specialize in the wide array of psychotherapeutic approaches and areas of specialization. When you call our office, you will be paired up with the therapist best suited to your issue.
(530) 677-4404 View (530) 677-4404
Photo of Kimberly Salmon - Better Life Counseling Center, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Better Life Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cameron Park, CA 95682
Better Life Counseling Center is a practice with multiple therapists with varying experience and expertise. Please visit our website to learn more about each therapist. Kimberly Salmon will be able to get you scheduled and begin your journey to reach your own goals.
Better Life Counseling Center is a practice with multiple therapists with varying experience and expertise. Please visit our website to learn more about each therapist. Kimberly Salmon will be able to get you scheduled and begin your journey to reach your own goals.
(916) 299-8172 View (916) 299-8172
Photo of Michelle Harris, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle Harris
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cameron Park, CA 95682
Recognizing that mental health services are needed for oneself or family can often cause feelings of overwhelm, confusion, shame, guilt and fear. My goal is to support you in sorting out these emotions while re-establishing a sense of hope. For the last 15 years I have worked with children and adults with various mental health needs and in various settings, including local school campuses, ER, jail, county facilities and homes. I have specialized in treating complex trauma, behavioral concerns and high-risk behaviors. Other areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, trauma, social and attention deficits and self-harm.
Recognizing that mental health services are needed for oneself or family can often cause feelings of overwhelm, confusion, shame, guilt and fear. My goal is to support you in sorting out these emotions while re-establishing a sense of hope. For the last 15 years I have worked with children and adults with various mental health needs and in various settings, including local school campuses, ER, jail, county facilities and homes. I have specialized in treating complex trauma, behavioral concerns and high-risk behaviors. Other areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, trauma, social and attention deficits and self-harm.
(530) 317-4088 View (530) 317-4088
Photo of Lisa Kristen Sloan, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa Kristen Sloan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cameron Park, CA 95682  (Online Only)
I believe everyone can benefit from therapy and tailor each experience to meet the needs of you. I specialize in Anxiety and Trauma and am EMDR trained. I also have experience in depression, agoraphobia, overwhelm, anger, and emotional reactivity. Each treatment plan, like each client is unique and I cater our time together to be ideal to reach your potential. I have lot of experiences with youth, teens, and young adults. I feel confident in helping you through any life challenge or struggle and can help guide you on a new and helpful path.
I believe everyone can benefit from therapy and tailor each experience to meet the needs of you. I specialize in Anxiety and Trauma and am EMDR trained. I also have experience in depression, agoraphobia, overwhelm, anger, and emotional reactivity. Each treatment plan, like each client is unique and I cater our time together to be ideal to reach your potential. I have lot of experiences with youth, teens, and young adults. I feel confident in helping you through any life challenge or struggle and can help guide you on a new and helpful path.
(916) 249-7113 View (916) 249-7113

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kami Kazel, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Kami Kazel
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
I utilize play, art and sand tray when working with children and have a special interest in supporting athletes of all ages in the area of anxiety and sports performance issues.
Reaching out for support takes courage, especially when facing difficulties that seem overwhelming. I provide a safe and expertly guided space where we can explore and navigate the issues that trouble you or your family. My heart lies in offering holistic therapy, with a focus on children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. In addition to my background in traditional therapy, I have a keen interest and specialization in sports psychology. I offer parenting support and guidance in addition to trauma therapy, support for athletes and a specialization in anxiety coping skills. I'm here to help.
I utilize play, art and sand tray when working with children and have a special interest in supporting athletes of all ages in the area of anxiety and sports performance issues.
Reaching out for support takes courage, especially when facing difficulties that seem overwhelming. I provide a safe and expertly guided space where we can explore and navigate the issues that trouble you or your family. My heart lies in offering holistic therapy, with a focus on children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. In addition to my background in traditional therapy, I have a keen interest and specialization in sports psychology. I offer parenting support and guidance in addition to trauma therapy, support for athletes and a specialization in anxiety coping skills. I'm here to help.
(279) 400-1795 View (279) 400-1795
Photo of Dr. Kirsten Kuzirian, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Kirsten Kuzirian
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
Waitlist for new clients
Hi! I am a neurodivergent (ADHD, Autism, Anxiety) affirming child/adolescent clinician. I enjoy supporting parents (check out my mindful parenting podcast at WideAwakeParenting.com) and kids with in person DBT, CBT and play therapy tools. I also complete ADHD, Autism and Specific Learning Disorder evaluations to identify your child's cognitive and emotional profile and make social, emotional and educational recommendations. My favorite part of this work is getting to know your family. We will use your family's strengths and value system to create comfortable solutions for you and your child.
Hi! I am a neurodivergent (ADHD, Autism, Anxiety) affirming child/adolescent clinician. I enjoy supporting parents (check out my mindful parenting podcast at WideAwakeParenting.com) and kids with in person DBT, CBT and play therapy tools. I also complete ADHD, Autism and Specific Learning Disorder evaluations to identify your child's cognitive and emotional profile and make social, emotional and educational recommendations. My favorite part of this work is getting to know your family. We will use your family's strengths and value system to create comfortable solutions for you and your child.
(707) 309-6688 View (707) 309-6688
Photo of Manvel Ter-Pogosyan, MEd, BCBA
Manvel Ter-Pogosyan
MEd, BCBA
Verified Verified
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
Aura promotes a naturalistic, play-based and assent-based approach to ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) treatment.
Manvel Ter-Pogosyan, BCBA, is the CEO of Aura Behavioral Health. Aura is a healthcare group founded and led by clinicians who share the goal of fostering hope for children and families impacted by autism and other developmental disabilities. We hold a firm belief that all clients are deserving of a better quality of life despite their cultural, developmental or socioeconomic background.
Aura promotes a naturalistic, play-based and assent-based approach to ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) treatment.
Manvel Ter-Pogosyan, BCBA, is the CEO of Aura Behavioral Health. Aura is a healthcare group founded and led by clinicians who share the goal of fostering hope for children and families impacted by autism and other developmental disabilities. We hold a firm belief that all clients are deserving of a better quality of life despite their cultural, developmental or socioeconomic background.
(747) 223-8589 View (747) 223-8589
Photo of Paige G. Thornton, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paige G. Thornton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Folsom, CA 95630
The many roles one is expected to play can be depleting.
How do I choose the right therapist for me? What if I don't like my therapist? Aren't all therapist the same? Research continues to show that good fit is the most important factor to a successful outcome and choosing the right clinical expert is fundamental. Not all clinicians are the same. Education, experience and clinical expertise are distinguishing factors. My long time practice focuses on treating individuals and couples who are addressing stress management, relationship satisfaction, anxiety, depression, trauma, or phase of life adjustment such as divorce, parenting, teen parent relationship or school/work challenges.
The many roles one is expected to play can be depleting.
How do I choose the right therapist for me? What if I don't like my therapist? Aren't all therapist the same? Research continues to show that good fit is the most important factor to a successful outcome and choosing the right clinical expert is fundamental. Not all clinicians are the same. Education, experience and clinical expertise are distinguishing factors. My long time practice focuses on treating individuals and couples who are addressing stress management, relationship satisfaction, anxiety, depression, trauma, or phase of life adjustment such as divorce, parenting, teen parent relationship or school/work challenges.
(916) 945-9479 View (916) 945-9479
Photo of Heather Peterson, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Heather Peterson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
I offer play, art & sand tray therapy as well as traditional talk therapy.
The search for a therapist can be difficult, so I am very glad you're here. I have over 15 years of experience in treating children and adolescents through an attachment and relational parent-child lens. I incorporate parenting support into each session in order to best support both you and your child. Much of my therapy with children also includes family therapy as I view parents and families as an integral part of treatment. When working with adults, the work tends to be longer term. I use an attachment and values based lens to get to the core of what my clients are struggling with in order to create new, healthier patterns.
I offer play, art & sand tray therapy as well as traditional talk therapy.
The search for a therapist can be difficult, so I am very glad you're here. I have over 15 years of experience in treating children and adolescents through an attachment and relational parent-child lens. I incorporate parenting support into each session in order to best support both you and your child. Much of my therapy with children also includes family therapy as I view parents and families as an integral part of treatment. When working with adults, the work tends to be longer term. I use an attachment and values based lens to get to the core of what my clients are struggling with in order to create new, healthier patterns.
(279) 400-1551 View (279) 400-1551
Photo of Sarah Lesko - Sarah Lesko, LMFT - Couples and Individual Therapy, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarah Lesko, LMFT - Couples and Individual Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
If we can increase you and your partner’s understanding of each other and the dynamics that exist between you then we can then better address the issues that are at play.
You are here because you are looking for help. Perhaps you need this help within the context of your most intimate relationships. When you are in romantic relationships, are you prone to over-thinking, ruminating over what you said or should have said in a heated moment? Do you find yourself acting out in ways that you are not proud of but can’t seem to stop? Or do you find yourself withdrawing, feeling apathy and putting distance between yourself and your loved one? You may long for the closeness and connection you used to have with your partner. Or you may have none of this and wonder why you are without a partner or community.
If we can increase you and your partner’s understanding of each other and the dynamics that exist between you then we can then better address the issues that are at play.
You are here because you are looking for help. Perhaps you need this help within the context of your most intimate relationships. When you are in romantic relationships, are you prone to over-thinking, ruminating over what you said or should have said in a heated moment? Do you find yourself acting out in ways that you are not proud of but can’t seem to stop? Or do you find yourself withdrawing, feeling apathy and putting distance between yourself and your loved one? You may long for the closeness and connection you used to have with your partner. Or you may have none of this and wonder why you are without a partner or community.
(916) 866-8682 View (916) 866-8682
Photo of Michelle Lynn Godwin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Lynn Godwin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762  (Online Only)
We might talk, play, interact with animals, practice grounding skills, drum, learn new ways of thinking, behaving and living, process disturbance using movement and other experiential methods.
Every human is inherently meant to be the best version of themselves that they can be, and my job is to help you figure out what that is and how to be a healthy and well-rounded person. Whatever the cause, the human body/brain can get get programmed to live in a state of distress leading to extreme disturbance in life. Worry, sadness, lack of energy, grief, difficulty interacting with people, chronic stress, angry outbursts, difficulty adjusting to change and engaging in unhealthy habits are just some of the reasons you may be seeking help.
We might talk, play, interact with animals, practice grounding skills, drum, learn new ways of thinking, behaving and living, process disturbance using movement and other experiential methods.
Every human is inherently meant to be the best version of themselves that they can be, and my job is to help you figure out what that is and how to be a healthy and well-rounded person. Whatever the cause, the human body/brain can get get programmed to live in a state of distress leading to extreme disturbance in life. Worry, sadness, lack of energy, grief, difficulty interacting with people, chronic stress, angry outbursts, difficulty adjusting to change and engaging in unhealthy habits are just some of the reasons you may be seeking help.
(916) 619-4260 View (916) 619-4260
Photo of Lisa Androvich, LMFT, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa Androvich
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
When working with children, I engage in play, sandtray and expressive arts.
Are there areas in life that you find challenging to manage? Parenting? Relationships? Stress? Do you need to strengthen the relationship lines with your partner, your children, your parents? Are past wounds preventing you to live the life you once imagined for yourself? I feel strongly about developing a collaborative relationship with you, and about helping you see choices you have to move toward an experience that is rewarding and gratifying. If you are unsure of where to begin, I am happy to assist you in that process.
When working with children, I engage in play, sandtray and expressive arts.
Are there areas in life that you find challenging to manage? Parenting? Relationships? Stress? Do you need to strengthen the relationship lines with your partner, your children, your parents? Are past wounds preventing you to live the life you once imagined for yourself? I feel strongly about developing a collaborative relationship with you, and about helping you see choices you have to move toward an experience that is rewarding and gratifying. If you are unsure of where to begin, I am happy to assist you in that process.
(916) 341-9230 View (916) 341-9230
Photo of Kindra McCall, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Kindra McCall
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Folsom, CA 95630
I utilize CBT, DBT, EMDR, play therapy, and the Nonviolent Communication Model to help my clients create better relationships with themselves and others.
You are tired of simply being along for this CHAOTIC ride that you didn’t sign up for. The weight you carry feels like such a burden, you worry you may be crushed beneath it if you can’t find a way to put it down. You yearn for a day when you can wake up feeling confident in yourself and unburdened by the garbage the world throws your way. Together we will build your understanding of mental health, learn and implement new tools, reduce the various stressors and symptoms that prevent you from being where and who you want to be, and have some FUN along the way!
I utilize CBT, DBT, EMDR, play therapy, and the Nonviolent Communication Model to help my clients create better relationships with themselves and others.
You are tired of simply being along for this CHAOTIC ride that you didn’t sign up for. The weight you carry feels like such a burden, you worry you may be crushed beneath it if you can’t find a way to put it down. You yearn for a day when you can wake up feeling confident in yourself and unburdened by the garbage the world throws your way. Together we will build your understanding of mental health, learn and implement new tools, reduce the various stressors and symptoms that prevent you from being where and who you want to be, and have some FUN along the way!
(279) 529-6098 View (279) 529-6098
Photo of Catherine Pollard, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Catherine Pollard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Folsom, CA 95630
We have a child play therapy room for the younger one’s which include games, art therapy and ways to process in a child’s language.
Your struggling with grief and it seems like the world has continued to go on. You find yourself stuck or doing the same things over and over again. You are tired of not being on the same page with your partner and are growing more and more distant. This is true for many people and I am so glad you are here. There is a way through and I would love to join you on your journey. You will find a compassionate, supportive guide who walks with you and to the other side where there is hope and healing .We will work together in a safe, supportive environment. Using a research based couples counseling method, we can improve your story.
We have a child play therapy room for the younger one’s which include games, art therapy and ways to process in a child’s language.
Your struggling with grief and it seems like the world has continued to go on. You find yourself stuck or doing the same things over and over again. You are tired of not being on the same page with your partner and are growing more and more distant. This is true for many people and I am so glad you are here. There is a way through and I would love to join you on your journey. You will find a compassionate, supportive guide who walks with you and to the other side where there is hope and healing .We will work together in a safe, supportive environment. Using a research based couples counseling method, we can improve your story.
(916) 827-4698 View (916) 827-4698
Photo of Kaitlyn Vo, AMFT
Kaitlyn Vo
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Folsom, CA 95630
Waitlist for new clients
With children, I integrate creative interventions with art and play techniques to help engage them.
Has life become increasingly overwhelming lately? Have you noticed that the stressors in your life are affecting your mood, relationships, or work? Do you wish you could hit pause just to take a moment to reorient yourself? As someone who has been on both ends of therapy, I understand how difficult it can be to reach out and ask for help. In a session with me, you can expect to be deeply heard and listened to in an empathetic and non-judgmental space. I am here to help you explore your thoughts and feelings, and to support you in your journey toward healing, growth, and change.
With children, I integrate creative interventions with art and play techniques to help engage them.
Has life become increasingly overwhelming lately? Have you noticed that the stressors in your life are affecting your mood, relationships, or work? Do you wish you could hit pause just to take a moment to reorient yourself? As someone who has been on both ends of therapy, I understand how difficult it can be to reach out and ask for help. In a session with me, you can expect to be deeply heard and listened to in an empathetic and non-judgmental space. I am here to help you explore your thoughts and feelings, and to support you in your journey toward healing, growth, and change.
(916) 665-0105 View (916) 665-0105

See more therapy options for Cameron Park

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.