Play Therapy in Oakley, CA

Photo of Amy L W Scott, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amy L W Scott
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakley, CA 94561
In my practice, I work with children, adolescents, adults, and couples. I offer both short-term therapy and longer insight-oriented work. I utilize my years of experience, intuition, compassion, and humor to support my clients in addressing the issues that brought them into therapy. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, anger, abuse/trauma, parenting/divorce/blended family issues, foster care, as well as other social, emotional, and behavioral issues. Through my dynamic approach, I provide a safe and nurturing environment to explore and resolve various issues. I draw from the following theories and techniques: psychodynamic, client-centered, humanistic, play therapy, mindfulness, and somatic psychology.
In my practice, I work with children, adolescents, adults, and couples. I offer both short-term therapy and longer insight-oriented work. I utilize my years of experience, intuition, compassion, and humor to support my clients in addressing the issues that brought them into therapy. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, anger, abuse/trauma, parenting/divorce/blended family issues, foster care, as well as other social, emotional, and behavioral issues. Through my dynamic approach, I provide a safe and nurturing environment to explore and resolve various issues. I draw from the following theories and techniques: psychodynamic, client-centered, humanistic, play therapy, mindfulness, and somatic psychology.
(925) 259-3954 View (925) 259-3954
Photo of Megan Bradley, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Megan Bradley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakley, CA 94561
I also utilize Art and Play Therapy techniques and use clear and concrete self-regulation interventions.
During stressful times, constant worrying, anxiety, anger, and sadness surfaces and causes disruption with relationships, sleep, eating habits, and health. I strongly believe in the mind and body connection and, with help, stress can be an opportunity for emotional growth. I utilize my clinical experience and evidence-based therapeutic interventions to motivate clients and families towards their own emotional growth. I tailor various therapeutic approaches according to what works for my client and what my client needs to meet their goals.
I also utilize Art and Play Therapy techniques and use clear and concrete self-regulation interventions.
During stressful times, constant worrying, anxiety, anger, and sadness surfaces and causes disruption with relationships, sleep, eating habits, and health. I strongly believe in the mind and body connection and, with help, stress can be an opportunity for emotional growth. I utilize my clinical experience and evidence-based therapeutic interventions to motivate clients and families towards their own emotional growth. I tailor various therapeutic approaches according to what works for my client and what my client needs to meet their goals.
(925) 318-9684 View (925) 318-9684
Photo of Beatriz Velasquez, LMFT, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Beatriz Velasquez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Oakley, CA 94561
My name is Beatriz Velasquez and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Southern California and working with clients statewide via Telehealth. I’m a bilingual (English and Spanish) therapist with many years of experience working with different populations and ethnic groups. I focus on young adults, children, and families concerning issues of transitions, depression, anxiety, with a specialization in trauma and perinatal mental health. I use a strength-based and trauma-informed approach that uses mindfulness, Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) techniques, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
My name is Beatriz Velasquez and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Southern California and working with clients statewide via Telehealth. I’m a bilingual (English and Spanish) therapist with many years of experience working with different populations and ethnic groups. I focus on young adults, children, and families concerning issues of transitions, depression, anxiety, with a specialization in trauma and perinatal mental health. I use a strength-based and trauma-informed approach that uses mindfulness, Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) techniques, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
(559) 206-1934 View (559) 206-1934
Photo of Stacy Elliott, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stacy Elliott
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakley, CA 94561
Hi, my name is Stacy Elliott, and I'm a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who is based in Northern California but sees clients statewide via Telehealth. I work with adolescents, teens, and adults. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, school/work issues as well as relationship issues with self and others. I use mindfulness, coping strategies, body-based interventions (Somatic), and CBT to help my clients begin to feel better. My therapeutic approach varies based on the needs of my clients and what they desire out of therapy.
Hi, my name is Stacy Elliott, and I'm a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who is based in Northern California but sees clients statewide via Telehealth. I work with adolescents, teens, and adults. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, school/work issues as well as relationship issues with self and others. I use mindfulness, coping strategies, body-based interventions (Somatic), and CBT to help my clients begin to feel better. My therapeutic approach varies based on the needs of my clients and what they desire out of therapy.
(442) 223-0374 View (442) 223-0374
Photo of Margaret Barry, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margaret Barry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakley, CA 94561
For over 25 years, I have helped individuals and families heal from the impact of mental illness, trauma and loss in their lives. Past experiences can affect a persons ability to care for themselves in healthy ways and enjoy intimate relationships. If you are feeling stuck in unhealthy patterns, whether with a partner, or other important people in your life, call for a free consultation to see if therapy might be right for you.
For over 25 years, I have helped individuals and families heal from the impact of mental illness, trauma and loss in their lives. Past experiences can affect a persons ability to care for themselves in healthy ways and enjoy intimate relationships. If you are feeling stuck in unhealthy patterns, whether with a partner, or other important people in your life, call for a free consultation to see if therapy might be right for you.
(562) 620-8083 View (562) 620-8083
Photo of Anne Marie Whitaker, MA, LPCC, NCC
Anne Marie Whitaker
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakley, CA 94561
Current openings for new clients! Are you experiencing distressing thoughts that scare you? Do you feel compelled to complete certain tasks (even mentally) due to your thoughts? Do others often comment that you are anxious or always on edge? Or perhaps you're struggling with peer or family relationships, major life changes and use unhealthy means of coping with stress? If you or your teen have answered yes to any of these questions, I may be able to help. As a client-centered therapist, I believe that healing begins with a strong therapeutic relationship; one that is genuine and compassionate.
Current openings for new clients! Are you experiencing distressing thoughts that scare you? Do you feel compelled to complete certain tasks (even mentally) due to your thoughts? Do others often comment that you are anxious or always on edge? Or perhaps you're struggling with peer or family relationships, major life changes and use unhealthy means of coping with stress? If you or your teen have answered yes to any of these questions, I may be able to help. As a client-centered therapist, I believe that healing begins with a strong therapeutic relationship; one that is genuine and compassionate.
(510) 399-2459 View (510) 399-2459
Photo of Hope Springs Psychotherapy And Consulting - Hope Springs Psychotherapy and Consulting, LMFT, PsyD, LCSW, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hope Springs Psychotherapy and Consulting
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakley, CA 94561
We are a mental health practice focused on tailoring therapy to your needs, while providing an environment to promote healing and wellness. We believe in "Building resilience, one life experience at a time". There are many options when it comes to seeking therapy. We believe that trust, and a willingness to be vulnerable is not something that should be taken lightly. We believe a therapeutic relationship in a safe environment can be healing. Regardless of what has caused you to consider therapy, know that our passion to help others means that we are committed to helping you.
We are a mental health practice focused on tailoring therapy to your needs, while providing an environment to promote healing and wellness. We believe in "Building resilience, one life experience at a time". There are many options when it comes to seeking therapy. We believe that trust, and a willingness to be vulnerable is not something that should be taken lightly. We believe a therapeutic relationship in a safe environment can be healing. Regardless of what has caused you to consider therapy, know that our passion to help others means that we are committed to helping you.
(925) 643-2014 View (925) 643-2014
Marjory J Giustino
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Oakley, CA 94561
Life can be less frustrating when we learn to respond to others instead of reacting to them. I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist with experience providing therapy to individuals, children, adults, families and couples. My specialties include anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, relationship and life changes and parenting and couples issues.
Life can be less frustrating when we learn to respond to others instead of reacting to them. I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist with experience providing therapy to individuals, children, adults, families and couples. My specialties include anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, relationship and life changes and parenting and couples issues.
(925) 521-8834 View (925) 521-8834
Photo of Elizabeth Iannaccone, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elizabeth Iannaccone
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakley, CA 94561
If you are looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you as a team to achieve your goals. I'm a Bilingual Licensed Psychotherapist who offers individual, couples and family therapy. I am an active cognitive therapist who offers a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my clients. I have been a therapist for over 20 years and look forward to helping each one of my clients.
If you are looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you as a team to achieve your goals. I'm a Bilingual Licensed Psychotherapist who offers individual, couples and family therapy. I am an active cognitive therapist who offers a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my clients. I have been a therapist for over 20 years and look forward to helping each one of my clients.
(925) 232-0793 View (925) 232-0793
Photo of Patricia Wilson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patricia Wilson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakley, CA 94561
If you're feeling anxious, depressed, stressed; if you're having relationship problems, I'm here to help you through the rough times and will work with you to find you new ways to cope. We'll work together to help you live the life you want. I see clients in Antioch on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. I see clients in-person and, only if needed via TeleHealth. I am located in Contra Costa County and prefer to have clients from this area as well.
If you're feeling anxious, depressed, stressed; if you're having relationship problems, I'm here to help you through the rough times and will work with you to find you new ways to cope. We'll work together to help you live the life you want. I see clients in Antioch on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. I see clients in-person and, only if needed via TeleHealth. I am located in Contra Costa County and prefer to have clients from this area as well.
(925) 308-5768 View (925) 308-5768
Photo of Charlin Amber Lumia, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Charlin Amber Lumia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakley, CA 94561  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hello and thank you for taking the time to view my profile and taking the first step in your journey. Everyone has a unique story and circumstances. Sometimes we get so overwhelmed and don't know where to start. I am here to help navigate the process and identify needs and goals. What do you want from therapy? If things were better what would they look like? What is your best possible you and life? Are you as happy as you can be? No goal is too big or too small :) Therapy is a collaborative process and mutual trust is critical to success.
Hello and thank you for taking the time to view my profile and taking the first step in your journey. Everyone has a unique story and circumstances. Sometimes we get so overwhelmed and don't know where to start. I am here to help navigate the process and identify needs and goals. What do you want from therapy? If things were better what would they look like? What is your best possible you and life? Are you as happy as you can be? No goal is too big or too small :) Therapy is a collaborative process and mutual trust is critical to success.
(925) 701-8929 View (925) 701-8929

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Theresa M Searles, Licensed Professional Counselor
Theresa M Searles
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Antioch, CA 94509
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing therapy, hypnotherapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Trauma Informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Play Therapy.
My goal is to work with my clients to increase self-empowerment and learn new tools to overcome life challenges. I enjoy getting to know my clients, then working together to create a reasonable treatment plan where my client can feel confident moving forward with changes in their life. I specialize in trauma informed mental health therapy, which I realize is at the forefront of most of our life problems. I am looking forward to offering compassion, validation, and encouragement to my clients. Change can be challenging but not impossible, especially with extra support.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing therapy, hypnotherapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Trauma Informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Play Therapy.
My goal is to work with my clients to increase self-empowerment and learn new tools to overcome life challenges. I enjoy getting to know my clients, then working together to create a reasonable treatment plan where my client can feel confident moving forward with changes in their life. I specialize in trauma informed mental health therapy, which I realize is at the forefront of most of our life problems. I am looking forward to offering compassion, validation, and encouragement to my clients. Change can be challenging but not impossible, especially with extra support.
(925) 450-2313 View (925) 450-2313
Photo of Kathryn Buys, MFT, ACSP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kathryn Buys
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, ACSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Antioch, CA 94509
If you are a woman ready for more happiness, more peace, & a greater sense of choice, I am here to guide you on your way. Your depression, anxiety, or relationship challenges may be signals that something greater is around the corner. If they persist, though, it’s a good time to find someone who can re-orient you so that you’re on the path of a joyful life, a life of intention, a life where empowerment and “yes!” are within reach. I work with women who feel even just a slight spark of knowing that this path might be available. We may start with mindfulness & how to cope with the effects of trauma and depression so you can thrive.
If you are a woman ready for more happiness, more peace, & a greater sense of choice, I am here to guide you on your way. Your depression, anxiety, or relationship challenges may be signals that something greater is around the corner. If they persist, though, it’s a good time to find someone who can re-orient you so that you’re on the path of a joyful life, a life of intention, a life where empowerment and “yes!” are within reach. I work with women who feel even just a slight spark of knowing that this path might be available. We may start with mindfulness & how to cope with the effects of trauma and depression so you can thrive.
(925) 291-5873 View (925) 291-5873
Photo of Frances Barry, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Frances Barry
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513
Parenting is the most important but toughest job on the planet. But parenting is really hard when your child is struggling. It's so painful to see how fear, anger, sadness can take hold of your child. Big emotions turn a simple activity or transition into an overwhelming event. You walk on eggshells to prevent a blow up. Coaxing your child to participate in life is exhausting. You’ve talked gently with your child, encouraged them, tried consequences and rewards. But it’s difficult for your child to verbalize their feelings or they push you away. You feel stuck. You worry how this behavior will impact their future.
Parenting is the most important but toughest job on the planet. But parenting is really hard when your child is struggling. It's so painful to see how fear, anger, sadness can take hold of your child. Big emotions turn a simple activity or transition into an overwhelming event. You walk on eggshells to prevent a blow up. Coaxing your child to participate in life is exhausting. You’ve talked gently with your child, encouraged them, tried consequences and rewards. But it’s difficult for your child to verbalize their feelings or they push you away. You feel stuck. You worry how this behavior will impact their future.
(424) 251-8095 View (424) 251-8095
Photo of Glenn L Farr - A Guided Journey Counseling       (Glenn L. Farr), MSW, LCSW, Individ, Relatio, Family, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
A Guided Journey Counseling (Glenn L. Farr)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, Individ, Relatio, Family
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513
Hi, do you want deeper peace, acceptance, love & joy for yourself, your relationships, and your family? Providing you with tools, perspective, and support is one of the most rewarding aspects of life for me. My name's Glenn and thank you for visiting my profile. I can't wait for you to turn life's challenges from stumbling blocks into stepping stones to a much better life than you ever thought possible. I look forward to our meeting, until then, take care. Your journey to a better life awaits. Call for a free phone consultation: 442-888-0873. Glenn Farr
Hi, do you want deeper peace, acceptance, love & joy for yourself, your relationships, and your family? Providing you with tools, perspective, and support is one of the most rewarding aspects of life for me. My name's Glenn and thank you for visiting my profile. I can't wait for you to turn life's challenges from stumbling blocks into stepping stones to a much better life than you ever thought possible. I look forward to our meeting, until then, take care. Your journey to a better life awaits. Call for a free phone consultation: 442-888-0873. Glenn Farr
(442) 244-9159 View (442) 244-9159
Photo of Dave Hunter Fein, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Dave Hunter Fein
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513
I am a registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT 117039 ), working under the supervision of Cristy Pareti, PsyD, LMFT. I earned my Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology at Pepperdine University and received my Bachelors Degree from Emerson College. My Clinical experience includes working with individuals whom struggle with anxiety, depression, life skills, substance abuse, eating disorders, trauma and interpersonal relationship difficulties.My modality is a mixture of of many psychological techniques as well as creative skills. This includes a blend of existentialism, mindfulness, humor, art and behavioral skills.
I am a registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT 117039 ), working under the supervision of Cristy Pareti, PsyD, LMFT. I earned my Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology at Pepperdine University and received my Bachelors Degree from Emerson College. My Clinical experience includes working with individuals whom struggle with anxiety, depression, life skills, substance abuse, eating disorders, trauma and interpersonal relationship difficulties.My modality is a mixture of of many psychological techniques as well as creative skills. This includes a blend of existentialism, mindfulness, humor, art and behavioral skills.
(475) 234-0201 View (475) 234-0201
Joan Wenters
Psychologist, P, h, D
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513
Dr. Joan Wenters is an experienced clinical psychologist whose work spans the life cycle from young children through the elderly. She specializes in the treatment of depression, anxiety disorders, disorders of childhood and adolescents, coping with traumatic events, life change challenges and transitions. She has expertise working with military families, divorced families and adoption issues. She also offers psychological testing and evaluations for ADHD, learning disabilities and developmental evaluations for autism spectrum disorder, and developmental delays.
Dr. Joan Wenters is an experienced clinical psychologist whose work spans the life cycle from young children through the elderly. She specializes in the treatment of depression, anxiety disorders, disorders of childhood and adolescents, coping with traumatic events, life change challenges and transitions. She has expertise working with military families, divorced families and adoption issues. She also offers psychological testing and evaluations for ADHD, learning disabilities and developmental evaluations for autism spectrum disorder, and developmental delays.
(510) 230-0077 View (510) 230-0077
Photo of Sarah Jane Cella Kutrumbos, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarah Jane Cella Kutrumbos
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513
In my work with children and teenagers, I see behavior as having meaning. Difficult behaviors such as defiance, tantrums, aggression, and isolation are often the youth’s maladaptive attempts at communicating emotions. I see my role as a facilitator of effective communication, collaborating with youth to understand their experiences and identify/verbalize their thoughts and feelings. With a decade of working with kids in a variety of settings, I work primarily from a relational and attachment-based foundation, which utilizes compassion, attunement, and co-regulation to promote wellbeing through enhanced relationships and self-worth.
In my work with children and teenagers, I see behavior as having meaning. Difficult behaviors such as defiance, tantrums, aggression, and isolation are often the youth’s maladaptive attempts at communicating emotions. I see my role as a facilitator of effective communication, collaborating with youth to understand their experiences and identify/verbalize their thoughts and feelings. With a decade of working with kids in a variety of settings, I work primarily from a relational and attachment-based foundation, which utilizes compassion, attunement, and co-regulation to promote wellbeing through enhanced relationships and self-worth.
(475) 256-5321 View (475) 256-5321
Photo of Dr. Sarah Muñoz, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Sarah Muñoz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513  (Online Only)
Dr. Sarah Muñoz is a Licensed Psychologist with 15 years of counseling experience in educational and community settings. She attended Hofstra University in Long Island, NY for her graduate training, and has worked in university, primary/secondary school and community mental health clinic settings since that time. Dr. Muñoz has worked extensively with adolescents, adults, and families presenting with a wide variety of mental health concerns. She is a strong advocate of all aspects of positive psychology, including mindfulness and health psychology, and believes that life enrichment is an integral part of the therapeutic process.
Dr. Sarah Muñoz is a Licensed Psychologist with 15 years of counseling experience in educational and community settings. She attended Hofstra University in Long Island, NY for her graduate training, and has worked in university, primary/secondary school and community mental health clinic settings since that time. Dr. Muñoz has worked extensively with adolescents, adults, and families presenting with a wide variety of mental health concerns. She is a strong advocate of all aspects of positive psychology, including mindfulness and health psychology, and believes that life enrichment is an integral part of the therapeutic process.
(925) 255-9477 View (925) 255-9477
Photo of Nadia Kakar - Dr. Nadia Kakar, LMFT, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Nadia Kakar, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513
Welcome to my therapy practice! In our collaborative work together, we will embark on a journey of self-exploration and growth. I incorporate techniques from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, and mindfulness-based practices to help you gain insight, develop effective coping strategies, and foster lasting positive change. Drawing upon evidence-based approaches and over a decade of experience, I am committed to providing a professional and compassionate therapeutic experience tailored to your unique needs. My areas of expertise include relationship issues, anxiety, depression, and personal growth.
Welcome to my therapy practice! In our collaborative work together, we will embark on a journey of self-exploration and growth. I incorporate techniques from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, and mindfulness-based practices to help you gain insight, develop effective coping strategies, and foster lasting positive change. Drawing upon evidence-based approaches and over a decade of experience, I am committed to providing a professional and compassionate therapeutic experience tailored to your unique needs. My areas of expertise include relationship issues, anxiety, depression, and personal growth.
(925) 393-0614 View (925) 393-0614

See more therapy options for Oakley

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.