Photo of Brenda Estrada - Brenda Estrada (Deep Wellness Center), MS, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Brenda Estrada (Deep Wellness Center)
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ceres, CA 95307
In my practice I utilize a variety of techniques such as DBT, CBT, Person Centered, art therapy and play therapy.
Hello! My name is Brenda Estrada Ramirez, and I am a bilingual Associate Marriage and Family Therapist. I have a genuine interest in helping children, adults and families achieve a greater sense of wellness in their lives. Throughout our time we experience life changes that are unexpected or difficult to manage. During tough times one can find themselves overwhelmed, stressed, and feeling alone. It is important for individuals who are experiencing life changes or mental health challenges to reach out for additional support.
In my practice I utilize a variety of techniques such as DBT, CBT, Person Centered, art therapy and play therapy.
Hello! My name is Brenda Estrada Ramirez, and I am a bilingual Associate Marriage and Family Therapist. I have a genuine interest in helping children, adults and families achieve a greater sense of wellness in their lives. Throughout our time we experience life changes that are unexpected or difficult to manage. During tough times one can find themselves overwhelmed, stressed, and feeling alone. It is important for individuals who are experiencing life changes or mental health challenges to reach out for additional support.
(209) 457-5850 View (209) 457-5850
Photo of Ana M Calderon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ana M Calderon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ceres, CA 95307
Life is full of challenges, these challenges can impede our personal growth, make us feel stuck, lose sight and question our desicions. I provide a safe, non-judgmental, empathic and supportive environment so that we can work together to take on these challenges. We will work together in navigating life challenges and successfully overcoming these no matter how difficult these may seem.
Life is full of challenges, these challenges can impede our personal growth, make us feel stuck, lose sight and question our desicions. I provide a safe, non-judgmental, empathic and supportive environment so that we can work together to take on these challenges. We will work together in navigating life challenges and successfully overcoming these no matter how difficult these may seem.
(209) 505-1031 View (209) 505-1031
Photo of Carol Neyfeldt Benak, RN, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carol Neyfeldt Benak
Marriage & Family Therapist, RN, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ceres, CA 95307
Often a person's dreams and/or the sand play process will guide us in relieving symptoms.
I enjoy working with transitions in life--childhood into adolescence, adolescence into adulthood, midlife and then towards the aging process. My goal is to enable a child or adult or a couple to experience life with purpose and meaning. I treat symptomatic depression, anxiety, and stress which can occur during these developmental transitions. Also, past trauma often surfaces at these junctions. An exploration of the past in connection with a thorough understanding of the present contributes to the healing process. Using my background as a nurse and nurse practitioner, together we examine how symptoms manifest in a person's physical being and their implications for living healthfully today. .
Often a person's dreams and/or the sand play process will guide us in relieving symptoms.
I enjoy working with transitions in life--childhood into adolescence, adolescence into adulthood, midlife and then towards the aging process. My goal is to enable a child or adult or a couple to experience life with purpose and meaning. I treat symptomatic depression, anxiety, and stress which can occur during these developmental transitions. Also, past trauma often surfaces at these junctions. An exploration of the past in connection with a thorough understanding of the present contributes to the healing process. Using my background as a nurse and nurse practitioner, together we examine how symptoms manifest in a person's physical being and their implications for living healthfully today. .
(209) 720-4987 View (209) 720-4987
Photo of Yvette Allivato (De Los Santos), LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Yvette Allivato (De Los Santos)
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ceres, CA 95307
Welcome! Are you ready to make positive changes in yourself and in relationships? If you are not sure that’s okay too. You took the first step by coming here. I am a Marriage Family Therapist with over 9 years of experience, working with children, adolescents, adults, families and couples. I have the tools and professional experience to help you get back on track and support you on your journey. Therapy is a process that leads to self-discovery and change, let me assist you in gaining the skills you need to be a better version of you and reaching your goals and gaining a positive outlook on life.
Welcome! Are you ready to make positive changes in yourself and in relationships? If you are not sure that’s okay too. You took the first step by coming here. I am a Marriage Family Therapist with over 9 years of experience, working with children, adolescents, adults, families and couples. I have the tools and professional experience to help you get back on track and support you on your journey. Therapy is a process that leads to self-discovery and change, let me assist you in gaining the skills you need to be a better version of you and reaching your goals and gaining a positive outlook on life.
(209) 850-7646 View (209) 850-7646
Photo of Roberta Phillips-Copeland, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Roberta Phillips-Copeland
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ceres, CA 95307
I focus on healing the wounds that have created internal negative "stories" about ourselves and the world to help people reconnect with their original creative, powerful, loving selves. Clients learn stress reduction and self-nurturing techniques to support themselves on the journey through processing trauma and throughout their lives. As clients heal from the past, they then learn new ways to communicate and interact effectively with others and to create the lives they wish to live.
I focus on healing the wounds that have created internal negative "stories" about ourselves and the world to help people reconnect with their original creative, powerful, loving selves. Clients learn stress reduction and self-nurturing techniques to support themselves on the journey through processing trauma and throughout their lives. As clients heal from the past, they then learn new ways to communicate and interact effectively with others and to create the lives they wish to live.
(916) 426-8942 View (916) 426-8942
Photo of Julelisa Beltran, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julelisa Beltran
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ceres, CA 95307
Hi, my name is Julelisa Beltran. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who is passionate about supporting others through life's challenges. Together we will create goals to help you overcome internal struggles and to experience healing and growth in your life. I have experience working with children and adolescents who struggle with anxiety and depression, PTSD, victims of abuse (e.g., child abuse, witnessed a crime or domestic violence), behavioral concerns associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Conduct Disorder, and Emotional Disturbance.
Hi, my name is Julelisa Beltran. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who is passionate about supporting others through life's challenges. Together we will create goals to help you overcome internal struggles and to experience healing and growth in your life. I have experience working with children and adolescents who struggle with anxiety and depression, PTSD, victims of abuse (e.g., child abuse, witnessed a crime or domestic violence), behavioral concerns associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Conduct Disorder, and Emotional Disturbance.
(562) 374-8908 View (562) 374-8908

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Laisa Jamison, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laisa Jamison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Turlock, CA 95380
I believe building rapport with clients is the most important and strongly believe that parents/caregivers play a huge role in addressing their child's mental health needs.
Hello! I am Laisa Jamison, LCSW and I have experience working with children and adolescents. I spent the past 11 years working primarily with children and their families working with the following population: children who have experienced complex trauma, children with psychiatric hospitalizations, children who are system involved with Child Welfare, children struggling with depression, anxiety, anger, oppositional behaviors, impairments in family and school setting, adjustments disorders, life stressors, and self-esteem issues.
I believe building rapport with clients is the most important and strongly believe that parents/caregivers play a huge role in addressing their child's mental health needs.
Hello! I am Laisa Jamison, LCSW and I have experience working with children and adolescents. I spent the past 11 years working primarily with children and their families working with the following population: children who have experienced complex trauma, children with psychiatric hospitalizations, children who are system involved with Child Welfare, children struggling with depression, anxiety, anger, oppositional behaviors, impairments in family and school setting, adjustments disorders, life stressors, and self-esteem issues.
(209) 395-1529 View (209) 395-1529
Photo of Mariana Sandoval, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Mariana Sandoval
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Turlock, CA 95380
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT),Narrative Therapy, Art/ Play Therapy, Solution-Focused, Motivational Interview, Person-Centered as well as other psychotherapy approaches.
I am a Bilingual (Spanish & English) Associate Marriage and Family Therapist currently working with diverse populations experiencing trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, life transitions, family conflict, and relationship problems, among other issues. In May of 2021, I completed a Masters in Psychology with a dual concentration in Marriage Family Therapy and Professional Clinical Counseling. My experience consists of serving numerous Stanislaus County schools ranging from K-12 and private practice working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families.
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT),Narrative Therapy, Art/ Play Therapy, Solution-Focused, Motivational Interview, Person-Centered as well as other psychotherapy approaches.
I am a Bilingual (Spanish & English) Associate Marriage and Family Therapist currently working with diverse populations experiencing trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, life transitions, family conflict, and relationship problems, among other issues. In May of 2021, I completed a Masters in Psychology with a dual concentration in Marriage Family Therapy and Professional Clinical Counseling. My experience consists of serving numerous Stanislaus County schools ranging from K-12 and private practice working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families.
(209) 307-7388 View (209) 307-7388
Photo of Juan Teran - Juan Teran (Deep Wellness Center), MS, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Juan Teran (Deep Wellness Center)
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
Turlock, CA 95380
I use CBT, Family systems, Motivational Interviewing, & play therapy to help me find triggers & provided clients with the appropriate coping skills to move forward during everyday struggles.
Hello! I am passionate about working together with individuals to guide them through any struggles, emotional barriers and challenges they might be facing. I am an Associate Marriage & Family Therapist with over 10 years working within the mental health field with at-risk youth, young adults, families, parenting, & adults of a diverse background. I am here to assist you in gaining more tools to help you move forward with your mental health needs. I enjoy working with children & adults with ADHD, anxiety, relationships issues, oppositional defiance, family conflict, suicidal ideation, sexual assault, & behavioral issues.
I use CBT, Family systems, Motivational Interviewing, & play therapy to help me find triggers & provided clients with the appropriate coping skills to move forward during everyday struggles.
Hello! I am passionate about working together with individuals to guide them through any struggles, emotional barriers and challenges they might be facing. I am an Associate Marriage & Family Therapist with over 10 years working within the mental health field with at-risk youth, young adults, families, parenting, & adults of a diverse background. I am here to assist you in gaining more tools to help you move forward with your mental health needs. I enjoy working with children & adults with ADHD, anxiety, relationships issues, oppositional defiance, family conflict, suicidal ideation, sexual assault, & behavioral issues.
(209) 231-4088 View (209) 231-4088
Photo of Chasity M Bustos, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Chasity M Bustos
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Modesto, CA 95355  (Online Only)
How do you know you're healing? You have already taken the first step. I will guide you with creating empowerment and the confidence needed to overcome any of life's struggles. In my practice with children, I utilize sand tray play and art therapy to assist with building resilience and coping skills. Some of my passions include working with families and providing a safe place to open up allowing the family to feel whole again.
How do you know you're healing? You have already taken the first step. I will guide you with creating empowerment and the confidence needed to overcome any of life's struggles. In my practice with children, I utilize sand tray play and art therapy to assist with building resilience and coping skills. Some of my passions include working with families and providing a safe place to open up allowing the family to feel whole again.
(209) 340-0526 View (209) 340-0526
Photo of Cynthia Wilson - UniQue ImAging, PhD, MA, ATR-BC, Art Therapist
UniQue ImAging
Art Therapist, PhD, MA, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Modesto, CA 95350  (Online Only)
I'm a PhD level registered/board-certified art therapist (AT). Along with AT, I use Photo Therapy, play, sand tray, bilateral & sensory techniques. Words alone aren't enough to express what is felt. We have emotion, body & mind memories when individuals are faced with the complex issues of grief, violence, abuse, neglect or coping with a disability. That is why AT needs to become an integral part of the treatment. Art therapy gives you a voice to express a wide range of emotions/experiences & helps you work through conflicts & traumas. (Any age or issues. NO ART SKILLS NEEDED. )
I'm a PhD level registered/board-certified art therapist (AT). Along with AT, I use Photo Therapy, play, sand tray, bilateral & sensory techniques. Words alone aren't enough to express what is felt. We have emotion, body & mind memories when individuals are faced with the complex issues of grief, violence, abuse, neglect or coping with a disability. That is why AT needs to become an integral part of the treatment. Art therapy gives you a voice to express a wide range of emotions/experiences & helps you work through conflicts & traumas. (Any age or issues. NO ART SKILLS NEEDED. )
(208) 656-2003 View (208) 656-2003
Photo of Claudia Forster - Claudia Forster, LMFT, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Claudia Forster, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Modesto, CA 95352
I use art, sand and play therapy.
Are you worried, fearful or depressed? Would you like guidance, options and a new perspective? I can help you live a more satisfying life through compassionate listening, honest feedback, and a focus on results. My goal is that you learn skills to maintain the changes that satisfy you. If you desire a greater ability to understand and control your emotions and feel content, I can help you. Discover opportunities to see yourself differently than you currently do and create an effective, positive and lasting change. We will focus on getting the results you need to live a more satisfying life.
I use art, sand and play therapy.
Are you worried, fearful or depressed? Would you like guidance, options and a new perspective? I can help you live a more satisfying life through compassionate listening, honest feedback, and a focus on results. My goal is that you learn skills to maintain the changes that satisfy you. If you desire a greater ability to understand and control your emotions and feel content, I can help you. Discover opportunities to see yourself differently than you currently do and create an effective, positive and lasting change. We will focus on getting the results you need to live a more satisfying life.
(209) 323-2952 View (209) 323-2952
Photo of Paige Fisher - Paige Fisher (Deep Wellness Center), ACSW, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Paige Fisher (Deep Wellness Center)
Pre-Licensed Professional, ACSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Turlock, CA 95380
My practice includes principles and techniques founded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Client- Centered Therapy, art/ play therapy, and mindfulness.
Hello there! My name is Paige Fisher and I am an Associate Clinical Social Worker, who specializes in working with children, teens and families. My specialties include working with anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral and school issues, parenting, family conflicts, and autism. I also have a great deal of experience working with children who have an intellectual or developmental disabilities, along with their families who are coping with and adjusting to changes after a diagnosis.
My practice includes principles and techniques founded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Client- Centered Therapy, art/ play therapy, and mindfulness.
Hello there! My name is Paige Fisher and I am an Associate Clinical Social Worker, who specializes in working with children, teens and families. My specialties include working with anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral and school issues, parenting, family conflicts, and autism. I also have a great deal of experience working with children who have an intellectual or developmental disabilities, along with their families who are coping with and adjusting to changes after a diagnosis.
(209) 370-1206 View (209) 370-1206
Photo of Veronica Tovar, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Veronica Tovar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Modesto, CA 95350
I use a variety of therapy modalities including, but are not limited to: child centered play therapy, sand play, synergetic play therapy, Trauma play, First Play, Aut play, CBT, DBT, TF-CBT, and solution-focused therapy.
My practice's focus is children's mental health. My various experiences in child welfare and children’s mental health have led me to realize the unique needs of this population. I have worked with children suffering from depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, trauma responses, family conflict, and situational issues. Although I work with children of all ages, I do specialize in working with very young children, ages 0-5, and have specialized training in various types of play therapy. I work with each of my clients and their families to create a tailored treatment plan that best addresses their needs.
I use a variety of therapy modalities including, but are not limited to: child centered play therapy, sand play, synergetic play therapy, Trauma play, First Play, Aut play, CBT, DBT, TF-CBT, and solution-focused therapy.
My practice's focus is children's mental health. My various experiences in child welfare and children’s mental health have led me to realize the unique needs of this population. I have worked with children suffering from depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, trauma responses, family conflict, and situational issues. Although I work with children of all ages, I do specialize in working with very young children, ages 0-5, and have specialized training in various types of play therapy. I work with each of my clients and their families to create a tailored treatment plan that best addresses their needs.
(209) 783-3029 View (209) 783-3029
Photo of Lee Bippus Jones, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lee Bippus Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Turlock, CA 95380
, CBT, DBT, mindfulness, & art/ play therapy).
Life often presents challenges that may seem insurmountable. Challenges, such as negative feelings of depression or anxiety, chronic illnesses, school based issues, relationship and communication difficulties, can poorly influence all areas of life, leading to distress. Counseling is a process that provides a pathway allowing you and or your family to identify many choices available in positive and effective ways. Healthy relationships are vital for emotional, physical and cognitive growth. The healthier a relationship is the more likely you are able to develop and use coping skills productively and better understand your choices.
, CBT, DBT, mindfulness, & art/ play therapy).
Life often presents challenges that may seem insurmountable. Challenges, such as negative feelings of depression or anxiety, chronic illnesses, school based issues, relationship and communication difficulties, can poorly influence all areas of life, leading to distress. Counseling is a process that provides a pathway allowing you and or your family to identify many choices available in positive and effective ways. Healthy relationships are vital for emotional, physical and cognitive growth. The healthier a relationship is the more likely you are able to develop and use coping skills productively and better understand your choices.
(209) 227-6126 View (209) 227-6126
Photo of Karina Barela, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karina Barela
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Modesto, CA 95350
Hi, my name is Karina Barela. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in southern California. I work with people ages 18 and above and am excited to work with clients throughout the state of California via telehealth. My approach to therapy is tailored to your unique needs. I utilize a variety of client centered approaches but most commonly use Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Trauma Resiliency Model (TRM) and psychodynamic talk therapy.
Hi, my name is Karina Barela. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in southern California. I work with people ages 18 and above and am excited to work with clients throughout the state of California via telehealth. My approach to therapy is tailored to your unique needs. I utilize a variety of client centered approaches but most commonly use Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Trauma Resiliency Model (TRM) and psychodynamic talk therapy.
(341) 348-8763 View (341) 348-8763
Photo of Courtney Wohld, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Courtney Wohld
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Modesto, CA 95350
My goal is to help walk people through whatever life challenges face them, whether it be something from the past, present, or apprehension about what the future holds. I believe the therapeutic experience should be tailored specifically to the individual, and use client-focused techniques to help people accomplish their goals. Using scientific-based models, I help people develop a deeper understanding of themselves and why we feel or act a certain way.
My goal is to help walk people through whatever life challenges face them, whether it be something from the past, present, or apprehension about what the future holds. I believe the therapeutic experience should be tailored specifically to the individual, and use client-focused techniques to help people accomplish their goals. Using scientific-based models, I help people develop a deeper understanding of themselves and why we feel or act a certain way.
(916) 243-6557 View (916) 243-6557
Photo of Jasmin Loza, LEP, MA, EdS
Jasmin Loza
LEP, MA, EdS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Modesto, CA 95355
Are you seeing signs of academic or social challenges in your child? I’m Jasmin, a licensed educational psychologist dedicated to supporting families through comprehensive evaluations, personalized counseling, and intensive ADHD treatment. With years of experience in school systems, I’ve witnessed how families often feel unsupported when navigating the complexities of special education and mental health services.
Are you seeing signs of academic or social challenges in your child? I’m Jasmin, a licensed educational psychologist dedicated to supporting families through comprehensive evaluations, personalized counseling, and intensive ADHD treatment. With years of experience in school systems, I’ve witnessed how families often feel unsupported when navigating the complexities of special education and mental health services.
(209) 887-6680 View (209) 887-6680
Photo of Chioma Anago, MFT, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Chioma Anago
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFT, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Turlock, CA 95380
I am an immigrant from Nigeran, a wife, and a mother of twin girls. I have experience working with individuals experiencing symptoms of early psychosis and individuals who have experienced extreme traumatic events in childhood/adulthood. I am committed to offering quality, professional, culturally competent, evidence-based clinical services to clients with a wide range of needs. I have a passion for understanding and supporting individuals through symptoms of early psychosis, anxiety, depression, domestic violence, domestic violence victims, family conflict, parenting, childhood/adulthood trauma, addiction, and relationship stress.
I am an immigrant from Nigeran, a wife, and a mother of twin girls. I have experience working with individuals experiencing symptoms of early psychosis and individuals who have experienced extreme traumatic events in childhood/adulthood. I am committed to offering quality, professional, culturally competent, evidence-based clinical services to clients with a wide range of needs. I have a passion for understanding and supporting individuals through symptoms of early psychosis, anxiety, depression, domestic violence, domestic violence victims, family conflict, parenting, childhood/adulthood trauma, addiction, and relationship stress.
(209) 375-4743 x106 View (209) 375-4743 x106
Photo of Brionna Kirkendoll, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brionna Kirkendoll
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Modesto, CA 95355
Hello, my name is Brionna Kirkendoll, and I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, CA. I work with clients statewide via telehealth. I specialize in working with children and teens who are experiencing anxiety, stress, grief, depression, difficulties with life transitions and peer relationships. I have found that my style and approach is a good fit for children and teens who may be dealing with the challenges of life transitions and social pressures. I give praise and support to my clients as they learn and help them understand they are not alone.
Hello, my name is Brionna Kirkendoll, and I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, CA. I work with clients statewide via telehealth. I specialize in working with children and teens who are experiencing anxiety, stress, grief, depression, difficulties with life transitions and peer relationships. I have found that my style and approach is a good fit for children and teens who may be dealing with the challenges of life transitions and social pressures. I give praise and support to my clients as they learn and help them understand they are not alone.
(209) 821-1753 View (209) 821-1753

See more therapy options for Ceres

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.