Play Therapy in Sonora, CA

Photo of Kathy Di Giacomo, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Kathy Di Giacomo
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sonora, CA 95370
Imagine....Peace in your mind and enjoying a beautiful moment. Do you feel anxious or overwhelmed, trapped, afraid, stuck, sad, or depressed? Get relief. After a couple of visits, you will feel hope & empowerment. Come feel how wonderful freedom feels in a safe, confidential, non-judgmental environment. Utilizing "play therapy" and art classes to help children & adults. Empathy & understanding changes your perspective & brings Powerful results. You are unique & created for happiness & success. Be courageous today, change your life! Unlimited relationship Confidence Coaching With Kathy Call now! 209.536.4296
Imagine....Peace in your mind and enjoying a beautiful moment. Do you feel anxious or overwhelmed, trapped, afraid, stuck, sad, or depressed? Get relief. After a couple of visits, you will feel hope & empowerment. Come feel how wonderful freedom feels in a safe, confidential, non-judgmental environment. Utilizing "play therapy" and art classes to help children & adults. Empathy & understanding changes your perspective & brings Powerful results. You are unique & created for happiness & success. Be courageous today, change your life! Unlimited relationship Confidence Coaching With Kathy Call now! 209.536.4296
(209) 583-5832 View (209) 583-5832
Photo of Susan B Day, PhD, Psychologist
Susan B Day
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sonora, CA 95370
We offer Psychological Evaluation & Testing, Substance Abuse Evaluation & Counseling, Depression Screening, Sand Tray/Play/Art Therapies, Biofeedback, and Hypnosis services.
What We Do... Every person holds unique experiences, stories, and gifts. Due to trauma or other concerns, our experiences can turn into intolerable burdens. When this occurs, our thoughts can become negative, relaying disheartening messages to us. Overwhelmed, our minds and bodies become depressed, anxious, or hurt. Imagine, however, that our suffering carries meaningful messages. Through therapy that seeks to support and honor our life experiences, we can learn to express, befriend, and transform our uncomfortable symptoms. "In order to change what is, we need to give speech to what has been, to imagine what might be." Adrienne Rich
We offer Psychological Evaluation & Testing, Substance Abuse Evaluation & Counseling, Depression Screening, Sand Tray/Play/Art Therapies, Biofeedback, and Hypnosis services.
What We Do... Every person holds unique experiences, stories, and gifts. Due to trauma or other concerns, our experiences can turn into intolerable burdens. When this occurs, our thoughts can become negative, relaying disheartening messages to us. Overwhelmed, our minds and bodies become depressed, anxious, or hurt. Imagine, however, that our suffering carries meaningful messages. Through therapy that seeks to support and honor our life experiences, we can learn to express, befriend, and transform our uncomfortable symptoms. "In order to change what is, we need to give speech to what has been, to imagine what might be." Adrienne Rich
(209) 740-4445 View (209) 740-4445
Photo of Claudia Forster - Claudia Forster, LMFT, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Claudia Forster, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sonora, CA 95370
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 Shaune Brady, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shaune Brady
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sonora, CA 95370
Because play is the work of children, I use art and play therapy techniques, role playing, and games to help give words for their thoughts and behaviors.
I enjoy working with children from preschool through 5th grade who are dealing with challenging behaviors, big emotions, social difficulties, and learning struggles. My desire is to help children to regulate (calm) their nervous systems so they can express their needs in a more productive way. When they understand what is going on within themselves and the world around them, they can make better choices. When children CAN do better, they WILL do better. I also like coming alongside parents/caregivers to support them in the significant work of raising their child and understanding how to best meet their needs.
Because play is the work of children, I use art and play therapy techniques, role playing, and games to help give words for their thoughts and behaviors.
I enjoy working with children from preschool through 5th grade who are dealing with challenging behaviors, big emotions, social difficulties, and learning struggles. My desire is to help children to regulate (calm) their nervous systems so they can express their needs in a more productive way. When they understand what is going on within themselves and the world around them, they can make better choices. When children CAN do better, they WILL do better. I also like coming alongside parents/caregivers to support them in the significant work of raising their child and understanding how to best meet their needs.
(209) 340-8697 View (209) 340-8697
Photo of Natalie A Gray, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Natalie A Gray
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sonora, CA 95370
In providing individual adult, child and family counseling services, my integration of therapeutic modalities allows for specialized treatment for each client. As a certified Advanced Level Clinical Trauma Practitioner my work with clients dealing with complex or emotional traumas is specific to the education on the effects of trauma and utilizing coping skills that can build resiliency. This approach has helped many families and individuals work through complex trauma, and work toward, and achieve, attainable goals.
In providing individual adult, child and family counseling services, my integration of therapeutic modalities allows for specialized treatment for each client. As a certified Advanced Level Clinical Trauma Practitioner my work with clients dealing with complex or emotional traumas is specific to the education on the effects of trauma and utilizing coping skills that can build resiliency. This approach has helped many families and individuals work through complex trauma, and work toward, and achieve, attainable goals.
(209) 236-9137 View (209) 236-9137
Photo of Cherie D Owens, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cherie D Owens
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Sonora, CA 95370
Every individual, couple or family is uniquely different and I have found over the years that one approach does not fit all. I offer a safe and confidential environment for understanding and resolving challenges in your life. I will assess your needs and create a treatment plan that is uniquely suited to you. You deserve emotional healing...I would like to help.
Every individual, couple or family is uniquely different and I have found over the years that one approach does not fit all. I offer a safe and confidential environment for understanding and resolving challenges in your life. I will assess your needs and create a treatment plan that is uniquely suited to you. You deserve emotional healing...I would like to help.
(209) 975-7756 View (209) 975-7756
Photo of Jason R Frye, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jason R Frye
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sonora, CA 95370
Dr. Jason R. Frye is a passionate scholar-practitioner in the field of clinical psychology who divides his time between clinical practice and studying the physical aspects of psychology.  When he is not providing excellent counseling services, he is studying evidence-based practices, as well as the Neurological basis of behavior.  In his clinical practice, he delivers cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based treatments to adult, adolescents, and early childhood clients with a wide range of emotional, behavioral, and adjustment problems, such as anxiety, stress, depression, and relationship problems.
Dr. Jason R. Frye is a passionate scholar-practitioner in the field of clinical psychology who divides his time between clinical practice and studying the physical aspects of psychology.  When he is not providing excellent counseling services, he is studying evidence-based practices, as well as the Neurological basis of behavior.  In his clinical practice, he delivers cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based treatments to adult, adolescents, and early childhood clients with a wide range of emotional, behavioral, and adjustment problems, such as anxiety, stress, depression, and relationship problems.
(209) 583-3988 View (209) 583-3988
Photo of Sara Ray, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Ray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sonora, CA 95370  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with self-doubt and low self-esteem? Do you love your spouse, but cannot figure out how to get along? Do you feel hurt, alone, or unheard often? Are you struggling with overthinking and feeling sad, overwhelmed, irritable and/or exhausted? If you are looking for a non-judgmental, safe and skilled therapist, I invite you to contact me to see if I might be the right therapist for you.
Do you struggle with self-doubt and low self-esteem? Do you love your spouse, but cannot figure out how to get along? Do you feel hurt, alone, or unheard often? Are you struggling with overthinking and feeling sad, overwhelmed, irritable and/or exhausted? If you are looking for a non-judgmental, safe and skilled therapist, I invite you to contact me to see if I might be the right therapist for you.
(559) 780-8435 View (559) 780-8435
Photo of Katie Colunga, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katie Colunga
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sonora, CA 95370
Are you longing to feel peace in your body again…or perhaps you’ve never felt peace. Life is messy and full of transitions. Sometimes these transitions are manageable, but often times they bring up hard feelings, thoughts, or reactions that we weren’t anticipating. Everyone struggles from time to time. Maybe you have experienced trauma in your lifetime and have never had the space to give it the proper narrative it deserves. My approach to counseling is collaborative as I see myself as a support person along your journey. My focus is on providing a secure space to develop a trusting, authentic therapeutic relationship.
Are you longing to feel peace in your body again…or perhaps you’ve never felt peace. Life is messy and full of transitions. Sometimes these transitions are manageable, but often times they bring up hard feelings, thoughts, or reactions that we weren’t anticipating. Everyone struggles from time to time. Maybe you have experienced trauma in your lifetime and have never had the space to give it the proper narrative it deserves. My approach to counseling is collaborative as I see myself as a support person along your journey. My focus is on providing a secure space to develop a trusting, authentic therapeutic relationship.
(626) 691-4103 View (626) 691-4103
Photo of Rebecca Schimp
Rebecca Schimp
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Verified Verified
Sonora, CA 95370  (Online Only)
After doing some self exploration did you realize deep down you are struggling with worry, stress, low self-esteem, trauma, or just every day functioning? Do you feel out of balance and overwhelmed with work, home, or in your relationships? Then you have taken a step in the right direction. I have a passion for working with children, first responders and their families, and anyone who is ready to start making changes to live a fulfilling and purposeful life.
After doing some self exploration did you realize deep down you are struggling with worry, stress, low self-esteem, trauma, or just every day functioning? Do you feel out of balance and overwhelmed with work, home, or in your relationships? Then you have taken a step in the right direction. I have a passion for working with children, first responders and their families, and anyone who is ready to start making changes to live a fulfilling and purposeful life.
(209) 780-0539 View (209) 780-0539

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of E. Arlyn Osborne, MA, LMFT, #109608, Marriage & Family Therapist
E. Arlyn Osborne
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, #109608
Verified Verified
Jamestown, CA 95327  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I believe the brain constantly seeks healing and balance. In my experience, no matter what happens to a person, the deepest parts of oneself hold wisdom and strengths. Once we accept, appreciate, and access more of what’s inside of us, we can grow into the life we want and into our unique selves. I work from a client-centered, culturally competent, and strengths-based perspective. I meet you where you are; we identify your needs, perspectives, wisdom, and strengths, and collaborate on the goals you set for therapy. I provide a non-judgmental therapeutic space
I believe the brain constantly seeks healing and balance. In my experience, no matter what happens to a person, the deepest parts of oneself hold wisdom and strengths. Once we accept, appreciate, and access more of what’s inside of us, we can grow into the life we want and into our unique selves. I work from a client-centered, culturally competent, and strengths-based perspective. I meet you where you are; we identify your needs, perspectives, wisdom, and strengths, and collaborate on the goals you set for therapy. I provide a non-judgmental therapeutic space
(209) 682-0175 View (209) 682-0175

Online Therapists

Photo of Dana Goldstein, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dana Goldstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
I work with clients of all ages and groupings: adults, couples, families, and children from preschool through teens. When working with adults and adolescents, I personalize the therapeutic sessions using a blend of art therapy, mindfulness techniques, sand tray, and traditional talk therapy to explore and transform areas of difficulty. Young children often manifest their emotions and experiences through their behavior, and I use art therapy, play therapy, sandtray techniques, and a positive, warm connection to help work through and translate their inner experience, as well as work with the family system to provide support at home.
I work with clients of all ages and groupings: adults, couples, families, and children from preschool through teens. When working with adults and adolescents, I personalize the therapeutic sessions using a blend of art therapy, mindfulness techniques, sand tray, and traditional talk therapy to explore and transform areas of difficulty. Young children often manifest their emotions and experiences through their behavior, and I use art therapy, play therapy, sandtray techniques, and a positive, warm connection to help work through and translate their inner experience, as well as work with the family system to provide support at home.
(925) 315-4465 View (925) 315-4465
Photo of Tricia Lara - Connections Family and Behavioral Services, MFT, AMFT, ASW, Marriage & Family Therapist
Connections Family and Behavioral Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, AMFT, ASW
Verified Verified
Madera, CA 93637
Connections Family and Behavioral Services focuses on play, mentoring, role-playing, behavioral and cognitive behavioral methods designed to improve the lives of individuals, children and families; to bring peace to the home and greater ease to life.
Does the world seem chaotic and to not make sense? Does it seem like you should be able to do more, but just can’t? Does it seem like there are rules to life everyone else knows? Are you exhausted from ‘playing the role' of yourself in your life, trying to ‘do it right'? All families want peace, all individuals want greater ease and understanding in their lives. With over 25 years of providing services to exceptional individuals, I know the importance of having the right support for the need at hand.
Connections Family and Behavioral Services focuses on play, mentoring, role-playing, behavioral and cognitive behavioral methods designed to improve the lives of individuals, children and families; to bring peace to the home and greater ease to life.
Does the world seem chaotic and to not make sense? Does it seem like you should be able to do more, but just can’t? Does it seem like there are rules to life everyone else knows? Are you exhausted from ‘playing the role' of yourself in your life, trying to ‘do it right'? All families want peace, all individuals want greater ease and understanding in their lives. With over 25 years of providing services to exceptional individuals, I know the importance of having the right support for the need at hand.
(559) 517-3902 View (559) 517-3902
Photo of Catherine Pollard, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Catherine Pollard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roseville, CA 95678
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
C O P E Family Support, Inc
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94598
Individual (adult and teen) Therapy, Play Therapy, Couples Therapy, Parenting Groups, and Anger Management.
C.O.P.E. Family Support Center creates space where children, youth, and families of all backgrounds can gain access to quality counseling programs and therapy services in a supportive and safe environment, free from stigma or judgement.
Individual (adult and teen) Therapy, Play Therapy, Couples Therapy, Parenting Groups, and Anger Management.
C.O.P.E. Family Support Center creates space where children, youth, and families of all backgrounds can gain access to quality counseling programs and therapy services in a supportive and safe environment, free from stigma or judgement.
(925) 892-3457 View (925) 892-3457
Photo of Alta Briggs, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Alta Briggs
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roseville, CA 95661
Through art, play, talk, or nature therapy I hope to connect with you on your journey of healing and self-discovery.
I'm so happy you are here! Deciding to seek out therapy for yourself or someone you love is a big step. I'm so proud of you and would be honored to work with you on your journey. Growing up as a human on Earth can be an emotional experience. Whether you are a child now or looking to connect with your inner child, therapy can be a great place to find hope, healing, and happiness.
Through art, play, talk, or nature therapy I hope to connect with you on your journey of healing and self-discovery.
I'm so happy you are here! Deciding to seek out therapy for yourself or someone you love is a big step. I'm so proud of you and would be honored to work with you on your journey. Growing up as a human on Earth can be an emotional experience. Whether you are a child now or looking to connect with your inner child, therapy can be a great place to find hope, healing, and happiness.
(530) 427-6535 View (530) 427-6535
Photo of Xochitl Yazmin Zaragoza, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Xochitl Yazmin Zaragoza
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fresno, CA 93711
I have worked with a variety of populations such as domestic violence victims & perpetrators, children ranging from toddler age to teenagers, grief & loss, autism, behavioral issues, transitional life changes, & couple work. I work from an integrative Humanistic & Existential Theoretical approach as my belief is that loss is something that is experienced by everyone during many times in our lives & use nondirective play therapy when working with children & explore any issues that might be present in their lives. I have worked in private practice, agency & school based setting as a therapist & honing in my expertise.
I have worked with a variety of populations such as domestic violence victims & perpetrators, children ranging from toddler age to teenagers, grief & loss, autism, behavioral issues, transitional life changes, & couple work. I work from an integrative Humanistic & Existential Theoretical approach as my belief is that loss is something that is experienced by everyone during many times in our lives & use nondirective play therapy when working with children & explore any issues that might be present in their lives. I have worked in private practice, agency & school based setting as a therapist & honing in my expertise.
(559) 206-5374 View (559) 206-5374
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
1 Endorsed
Modesto, CA 95356
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 Joy Lise Steuer, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joy Lise Steuer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nevada City, CA 95959
I specialize in working with the existential nature of the human journey, complex childhood trauma, spiritual path work, play therapy, integration of psychedelics, relational connections, addiction, sexuality and grief.
Therapy is a safe place to explore the depths of your being for the purposes of growth. You are invited to safely explore the wonders of your heart while also feeling held in the pain of your darkness and traumas. Your psyche, your heart, your soul and your personal story are ready for you to explore, transmute, alchemize, rediscover, rewrite and heal in a therapeutic container with intention and care. If you feel called to venture on this path, I would be honored to walk beside you in the bravery of your journey towards your authentic and integrated self. I will hold a compassionate & nurturing container for your process.
I specialize in working with the existential nature of the human journey, complex childhood trauma, spiritual path work, play therapy, integration of psychedelics, relational connections, addiction, sexuality and grief.
Therapy is a safe place to explore the depths of your being for the purposes of growth. You are invited to safely explore the wonders of your heart while also feeling held in the pain of your darkness and traumas. Your psyche, your heart, your soul and your personal story are ready for you to explore, transmute, alchemize, rediscover, rewrite and heal in a therapeutic container with intention and care. If you feel called to venture on this path, I would be honored to walk beside you in the bravery of your journey towards your authentic and integrated self. I will hold a compassionate & nurturing container for your process.
(530) 464-1272 View (530) 464-1272
Photo of Shanise Lewis, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Shanise Lewis
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Fresno, CA 93710
I enjoy working with clients motivated to change while being open to the therapeutic process. With my non-directive approach, I aim to collaborate with you through your therapeutic journey while being directive as needed. I enjoy working with children, teens, adults, couples and families. I work from a trauma-informed lens utilizing systemic, expressive, and behavioral modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, Internal Family Systems, Play Therapy, and Art Therapy. I am trained in Emotion Focused Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), and the FLASH Technique.
I enjoy working with clients motivated to change while being open to the therapeutic process. With my non-directive approach, I aim to collaborate with you through your therapeutic journey while being directive as needed. I enjoy working with children, teens, adults, couples and families. I work from a trauma-informed lens utilizing systemic, expressive, and behavioral modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, Internal Family Systems, Play Therapy, and Art Therapy. I am trained in Emotion Focused Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), and the FLASH Technique.
(559) 702-1011 View (559) 702-1011
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.