Play Therapy in Turlock, CA

Photo of Valerie Lamke - Abalance Counseling (Child Therapy Online), MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Abalance Counseling (Child Therapy Online)
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Turlock, CA 95382  (Online Only)
We utlize techniques from several Play Therapy modalities to create an effective child counseling experience.
Children ages 5-9 can experience challenges in their emotional regulation or behavioral stability. When your own parenting skills are not working, you may consider seeing a professional counselor. Abalance Client-Centered Counseling has a new online program offering introductory mental health care for children ages 5-9, for mild/moderate treatment. We are not a clinic but a Group Private Practice dedicated to providing you the best in Mental Health Care. We accept HPSJ or CCAH Medi-Cal.
We utlize techniques from several Play Therapy modalities to create an effective child counseling experience.
Children ages 5-9 can experience challenges in their emotional regulation or behavioral stability. When your own parenting skills are not working, you may consider seeing a professional counselor. Abalance Client-Centered Counseling has a new online program offering introductory mental health care for children ages 5-9, for mild/moderate treatment. We are not a clinic but a Group Private Practice dedicated to providing you the best in Mental Health Care. We accept HPSJ or CCAH Medi-Cal.
(209) 314-1942 View (209) 314-1942
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
2 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 Lee Bippus Jones, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lee Bippus Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 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 Paige Fisher - Paige Fisher (Deep Wellness Center), ACSW, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Paige Fisher (Deep Wellness Center)
Pre-Licensed Professional, ACSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
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 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
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 Lonniel Myles, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lonniel Myles
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Turlock, CA 95380
My name is Lonniel Myles and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with cross-state licensure in Nevada and California. I work with a wide range of populations and specialize in mood, stress, trauma, addiction, and co-occurring disorders using an integrative approach to help my clients toward sustainable progress toward goals and overall wellness. My approach to therapy varies based on the needs of each client I work with. I most frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
My name is Lonniel Myles and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with cross-state licensure in Nevada and California. I work with a wide range of populations and specialize in mood, stress, trauma, addiction, and co-occurring disorders using an integrative approach to help my clients toward sustainable progress toward goals and overall wellness. My approach to therapy varies based on the needs of each client I work with. I most frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
(209) 651-2243 View (209) 651-2243
Photo of Monika Farhadi, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Monika Farhadi
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Turlock, CA 95380
I have always found it fascinating that so much learning can arise from a simple conversation. I believe that as human beings we are constantly evolving and therefore, I thrive on learning from the professionals that surround me as well as my clients. It is the most humbling and rewarding experience to serve an individual that has courageously put their faith in me to guide them in their healing journey. I see growth not only in the client but also in myself because I believe human beings are meant to learn, evolve and grow from educating one another.
I have always found it fascinating that so much learning can arise from a simple conversation. I believe that as human beings we are constantly evolving and therefore, I thrive on learning from the professionals that surround me as well as my clients. It is the most humbling and rewarding experience to serve an individual that has courageously put their faith in me to guide them in their healing journey. I see growth not only in the client but also in myself because I believe human beings are meant to learn, evolve and grow from educating one another.
(209) 299-2777 View (209) 299-2777
Photo of Haleh Rambod, MA, MFT, PPS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Haleh Rambod
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, PPS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Turlock, CA 95382
We all face challenges in our relationships and in our lives. While many of these challenges can be dealt with on our own, there are times when we need the professional assistance of a guide, a counselor, or a coach to help us learn the skills and tools necessary to overcome the challenges we face and move forward in life with confidence and optimism. As a professional counselor and guide, I believe in your potential for self-discovery. As you consciously make an effort to experience what makes you unique, you'll become aware of your personal power and learn to create the positive, life-altering transformations you seek!
We all face challenges in our relationships and in our lives. While many of these challenges can be dealt with on our own, there are times when we need the professional assistance of a guide, a counselor, or a coach to help us learn the skills and tools necessary to overcome the challenges we face and move forward in life with confidence and optimism. As a professional counselor and guide, I believe in your potential for self-discovery. As you consciously make an effort to experience what makes you unique, you'll become aware of your personal power and learn to create the positive, life-altering transformations you seek!
(408) 622-0125 View (408) 622-0125
Photo of Teresa A. Kellstrom - Teresa A. Kellstrom, LMFT, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Teresa A. Kellstrom, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Turlock, CA 95382
With 15 years in the counseling profession, I have provided therapeutic services to a number of clients of all ages with issues ranging from peer conflicts in school, to domestic violence in the home. I enjoy working with clients of all demographics to assist in helping them find their strengths and focus on a positive future. I enjoy working with clients through life's transitions and hardships by utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy, as well as other modalities tailored to the individual client.
With 15 years in the counseling profession, I have provided therapeutic services to a number of clients of all ages with issues ranging from peer conflicts in school, to domestic violence in the home. I enjoy working with clients of all demographics to assist in helping them find their strengths and focus on a positive future. I enjoy working with clients through life's transitions and hardships by utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy, as well as other modalities tailored to the individual client.
(209) 441-5110 View (209) 441-5110
Photo of Kevin P Padden, MS, LPCC, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Kevin P Padden
Counselor, MS, LPCC, LCPC, NCC
Not Verified Not Verified
4 Endorsed
Turlock, CA 95380
*Not currently accepting new clients* The author Barry Lopez wrote that humans "have a way of talking about beauty as though beauty were only skin deep." He writes that "Real beauty is so deep you have to move into darkness in order to understand what beauty truly is." We do not need to be a conglomeration of our past negative experiences or symptoms. It is possible to actively increase our self-efficacy and not be controlled or dictated to by our pasts. Sometimes we need help from others to not sink into self-doubt. I'm most interested in helping people I work with facilitate the change they would like to see in their lives.
*Not currently accepting new clients* The author Barry Lopez wrote that humans "have a way of talking about beauty as though beauty were only skin deep." He writes that "Real beauty is so deep you have to move into darkness in order to understand what beauty truly is." We do not need to be a conglomeration of our past negative experiences or symptoms. It is possible to actively increase our self-efficacy and not be controlled or dictated to by our pasts. Sometimes we need help from others to not sink into self-doubt. I'm most interested in helping people I work with facilitate the change they would like to see in their lives.
(209) 299-6888 View (209) 299-6888
Photo of Chioma Anago, MFT, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Chioma Anago
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFT, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
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 Yvette Allivato (De Los Santos), LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Yvette Allivato (De Los Santos)
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Turlock, CA 95380
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 Natasha N Cerrillo, LMFT, BCBA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Natasha N Cerrillo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, BCBA
Verified Verified
Turlock, CA 95380  (Online Only)
Natasha’s educational background consists of an Associates Degree in Child Development, a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Sciences (consisting of psychology, sociology and gender studies), and a Master’s Degree in Science for Psychology, Marriage and Family Therapies, and Behavioral Analysis from California State University, Stanislaus. Natasha is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and a Board Certified Behavioral Analyst (BCBA) with an 10-year background in behavioral analysis. Natasha’s clinical experience includes individual therapy for children, adults, couples and family therapy,
Natasha’s educational background consists of an Associates Degree in Child Development, a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Sciences (consisting of psychology, sociology and gender studies), and a Master’s Degree in Science for Psychology, Marriage and Family Therapies, and Behavioral Analysis from California State University, Stanislaus. Natasha is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and a Board Certified Behavioral Analyst (BCBA) with an 10-year background in behavioral analysis. Natasha’s clinical experience includes individual therapy for children, adults, couples and family therapy,
(209) 231-2884 View (209) 231-2884
Photo of Miranda Dinkins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Miranda Dinkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Turlock, CA 95382
Hello! I'm Miranda Dinkins, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I thrive to offer professional therapy services that provide a comforting, warm, and inviting space for individuals to feel safe. Where individuals will have the opportunity to practice experiencing true emotions, processing past traumas, and mending scars in a healthy and appropriate way to eventually develop self-love, acceptance of self and identity, and confidence in taking on the next steps in life.
Hello! I'm Miranda Dinkins, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I thrive to offer professional therapy services that provide a comforting, warm, and inviting space for individuals to feel safe. Where individuals will have the opportunity to practice experiencing true emotions, processing past traumas, and mending scars in a healthy and appropriate way to eventually develop self-love, acceptance of self and identity, and confidence in taking on the next steps in life.
(408) 539-3092 View (408) 539-3092
Photo of Raman Dhaliwal - Raman Dhaliwal (Deep Wellness Center), MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Raman Dhaliwal (Deep Wellness Center)
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Turlock, CA 95380
Depression, anxiety, stress, anger, marital issues, cultural adjustments, and even death of someone close can cause you to feel stuck. No matter what you are facing there is always support, hope and healing. Working with a therapist can help provide you with insight, solutions, and help you develop new strategies for all types of life challenges. We can work together to find ways to improve your health, self-awareness, and well-being.
Depression, anxiety, stress, anger, marital issues, cultural adjustments, and even death of someone close can cause you to feel stuck. No matter what you are facing there is always support, hope and healing. Working with a therapist can help provide you with insight, solutions, and help you develop new strategies for all types of life challenges. We can work together to find ways to improve your health, self-awareness, and well-being.
(209) 817-8654 View (209) 817-8654
Photo of Linsey Kapoor - Dr. Linsey Kapoor, PsyD, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Linsey Kapoor
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Turlock, CA 95381
Life can get difficult sometimes and leave you feeling vulnerable, anxious or sad. Seeking support can make all the difference. Change does not happen overnight but I am confident that with consistency and motivation, we can get there by collaboratively working together. I strongly believe that each of us have the power to change and create the life that we want. The answers to your problems are already within you, you just need to know how to access them. My goal is to help guide you through your self-discovery, work with you to set goals and teach coping strategies
Life can get difficult sometimes and leave you feeling vulnerable, anxious or sad. Seeking support can make all the difference. Change does not happen overnight but I am confident that with consistency and motivation, we can get there by collaboratively working together. I strongly believe that each of us have the power to change and create the life that we want. The answers to your problems are already within you, you just need to know how to access them. My goal is to help guide you through your self-discovery, work with you to set goals and teach coping strategies
(209) 791-7261 View (209) 791-7261
Photo of Sierra Ríos, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sierra Ríos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Turlock, CA 95380
Hi there, my name is Sierra Ríos, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have worked with Children and Families for 5 years in different settings as a therapist, and I have an extensive background working with children in preschool to summer camps. I love to connect with people and learn how I can help them with situations in their lives where they may need extra support. I am trained in Cognitive Behavior therapy and interpersonal therapy. Let me know how I can help you today!
Hi there, my name is Sierra Ríos, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have worked with Children and Families for 5 years in different settings as a therapist, and I have an extensive background working with children in preschool to summer camps. I love to connect with people and learn how I can help them with situations in their lives where they may need extra support. I am trained in Cognitive Behavior therapy and interpersonal therapy. Let me know how I can help you today!
(562) 600-5628 View (562) 600-5628
Photo of Doris Muchirahondo, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Doris Muchirahondo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Turlock, CA 95380
Hello, my name is Doris Anne Muchirahondo and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am passionate about supporting all my clients through various challenging times and walking with them through the healing process. I work with various populations including children/elderly, adolescents, and abuse related issued. Working with adolescents/college students has been part of my practice. Helping people in distress to reconnect with those feelings that they once experienced is my goal.
Hello, my name is Doris Anne Muchirahondo and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am passionate about supporting all my clients through various challenging times and walking with them through the healing process. I work with various populations including children/elderly, adolescents, and abuse related issued. Working with adolescents/college students has been part of my practice. Helping people in distress to reconnect with those feelings that they once experienced is my goal.
(323) 443-3566 View (323) 443-3566
Photo of Sidney Bragdon - Sidney Bragdon (Deep Wellness Center), MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Sidney Bragdon (Deep Wellness Center)
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Turlock, CA 95380
Hello. My name is Sidney Bragdon and my aim is to work to reduce the impacts of traumatic, interpersonal, and emotional stress for individuals and the community through the use of evidence-based interventions for adult and adolescent clients. I specialize in working with OCD, anxiety, depression, addiction, and anger management. I am also currently obtaining my PhD in Psychology, Public Policy, and Law through a forensic science program, which lends itself to working with a diverse population of clients.
Hello. My name is Sidney Bragdon and my aim is to work to reduce the impacts of traumatic, interpersonal, and emotional stress for individuals and the community through the use of evidence-based interventions for adult and adolescent clients. I specialize in working with OCD, anxiety, depression, addiction, and anger management. I am also currently obtaining my PhD in Psychology, Public Policy, and Law through a forensic science program, which lends itself to working with a diverse population of clients.
(209) 231-9579 View (209) 231-9579
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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.