Photo of Jean Bell-Dumas - Crested Butte Counseling Service, LLC, MS, LPC, LLC, Counselor
Crested Butte Counseling Service, LLC
Counselor, MS, LPC, LLC
Verified Verified
Crested Butte, CO 81224
Waitlist for new clients
Crested Butte Counseling Service, LLC, provides Holistic Psychotherapy for all ages. Jean Bell-Dumas, M.S.,LPC, is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado. She has been a Mental Health Counselor in Gunnison Valley for 20+ years, and is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Hypnosis, with much experience in working with: Depression, Anxiety, Relational Issues, Trauma, Stress, PTSD, Parenting Issues, Anger Management, ADHD, Eating Disorders, Autism, Addictions, Growth, & Spiritual Issues. If you have a counseling need, and would like to reach your goals for greater health and happiness, call for a brief consult.
Crested Butte Counseling Service, LLC, provides Holistic Psychotherapy for all ages. Jean Bell-Dumas, M.S.,LPC, is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado. She has been a Mental Health Counselor in Gunnison Valley for 20+ years, and is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Hypnosis, with much experience in working with: Depression, Anxiety, Relational Issues, Trauma, Stress, PTSD, Parenting Issues, Anger Management, ADHD, Eating Disorders, Autism, Addictions, Growth, & Spiritual Issues. If you have a counseling need, and would like to reach your goals for greater health and happiness, call for a brief consult.
(970) 387-8976 View (970) 387-8976

Online Therapists

Photo of Kathryn J. Raley - 2nd Star Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor
2nd Star Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Granby, CO 80446
At 2nd Star Counseling, our clinicians Kathryn Raley, NCC, LPC, RPT-S, ACS and Maggie Daggett, MA, LPCC offer individual therapy, adolescent therapy, play therapy, and family therapy.
At 2nd Star Counseling, our clinicians Kathryn Raley, NCC, LPC, RPT-S, ACS and Maggie Daggett, MA, LPCC offer individual therapy, adolescent therapy, play therapy, and family therapy.
(720) 928-9829 View (720) 928-9829
Photo of Megan Stanton, LPC, PMH-C, IMH-E, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Stanton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PMH-C, IMH-E
Verified Verified
Buena Vista, CO 81211
I am a bicultural licensed professional counselor, registered play therapist, perinatal, and infant mental health specialist, and certified IFS therapist working with individuals across the lifespan. I have found a deep love of holding space for individuals walking through the sacred seasons around grief and loss, healing from trauma, and the journey of parenting. I love to work with those who are longing for holistic healing and ready to engage body, mind, and spirit.
I am a bicultural licensed professional counselor, registered play therapist, perinatal, and infant mental health specialist, and certified IFS therapist working with individuals across the lifespan. I have found a deep love of holding space for individuals walking through the sacred seasons around grief and loss, healing from trauma, and the journey of parenting. I love to work with those who are longing for holistic healing and ready to engage body, mind, and spirit.
(719) 735-8132 View (719) 735-8132
Photo of Kelsey Koenig Carder, MS, CRC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelsey Koenig Carder
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, CRC, LPC
Verified Verified
Aspen, CO 81611
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, with a certificate in Animal-Assisted Therapy. I work with individuals 3 years old and up. I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Synergetic Play Therapy. Most of my work entails treating symptoms of trauma, depression and anxiety. I also offer parenting consultation and skill building. For those interested, I offer canine-assisted therapy services. I will work with you to uncover, reduce or eliminate whatever barriers are getting in the way of achieving the lifestyle you want.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, with a certificate in Animal-Assisted Therapy. I work with individuals 3 years old and up. I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Synergetic Play Therapy. Most of my work entails treating symptoms of trauma, depression and anxiety. I also offer parenting consultation and skill building. For those interested, I offer canine-assisted therapy services. I will work with you to uncover, reduce or eliminate whatever barriers are getting in the way of achieving the lifestyle you want.
(970) 409-1347 View (970) 409-1347
Photo of Jennifer Santopietro - KidStuff Child And Family Counseling, PC, Licensed Professional Counselor
KidStuff Child And Family Counseling, PC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Grand Junction, CO 81504
Our therapists utilize many effective modalities including art and dance therapy, play therapy, EMDR therapy, and engaging talk therapy.
KidStuff Child & Family Counseling, P.C. specializes in helping kids, families and adults navigate life's challenges and improve overall wellness. LifeStuff, HardStuff, AdultStuff: whatever your reasons for seeking therapy, our therapists will collaborate with you to create a therapeutic experience to meet your needs. Our therapists are open and welcoming while supporting clients through their healing process. If you have Medicaid health insurance, commercial insurance, or are looking for a reasonably affordable cash-pay option, we have options for in-office and telehealth services.
Our therapists utilize many effective modalities including art and dance therapy, play therapy, EMDR therapy, and engaging talk therapy.
KidStuff Child & Family Counseling, P.C. specializes in helping kids, families and adults navigate life's challenges and improve overall wellness. LifeStuff, HardStuff, AdultStuff: whatever your reasons for seeking therapy, our therapists will collaborate with you to create a therapeutic experience to meet your needs. Our therapists are open and welcoming while supporting clients through their healing process. If you have Medicaid health insurance, commercial insurance, or are looking for a reasonably affordable cash-pay option, we have options for in-office and telehealth services.
(970) 329-7741 View (970) 329-7741
Photo of Natalie (Willey) Hanks, MA, LPC, RPT, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Natalie (Willey) Hanks
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT, NCC
Verified Verified
Rifle, CO 81650
Depending on my client's unique life stage and goals, I utilize child-centered play therapy, sand tray, Internal Family Systems (IFS) interventions, and I have advanced training in EMDR for clients of all ages.
I specialize in working with children in search of their center. I adore supporting foster care youth and adopted children (as well as their parents) in individual, emotional and behavioral growth. I especially love working with teenagers and women discovering their most authentic self and dealing with issues such as trauma, women’s issues, eating disorders and chronic illness. I hope our paths cross to help you further in your journey to healing. You are seen. You are heard. You have value. LGBTQIA friendly.
Depending on my client's unique life stage and goals, I utilize child-centered play therapy, sand tray, Internal Family Systems (IFS) interventions, and I have advanced training in EMDR for clients of all ages.
I specialize in working with children in search of their center. I adore supporting foster care youth and adopted children (as well as their parents) in individual, emotional and behavioral growth. I especially love working with teenagers and women discovering their most authentic self and dealing with issues such as trauma, women’s issues, eating disorders and chronic illness. I hope our paths cross to help you further in your journey to healing. You are seen. You are heard. You have value. LGBTQIA friendly.
(970) 709-7871 View (970) 709-7871
Photo of Elizabeth Dianne Aubert - Credence Counseling Services, LLC., MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Credence Counseling Services, LLC.
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Grand Junction, CO 81505
We are a team of mental health clinicians working together to serve the Grand Valley. Our clinicians provide both in-person and telehealth services to best meet the needs of our clientele. Our clinicians accept most insurances and our supervised LPCCs/LCSWs are able to accept Medicaid and Second Wind Funding. Our team members employ a variety of skills and techniques in therapy, including EMDR, TF-CBT, DBT, ACT, Geek Therapeutics, CAMS, and Play Therapy. Please refer to our website for more information about our clinicians and their areas of specialty. We work with children, adolescents, young adults, adults, couples, and elderly.
We are a team of mental health clinicians working together to serve the Grand Valley. Our clinicians provide both in-person and telehealth services to best meet the needs of our clientele. Our clinicians accept most insurances and our supervised LPCCs/LCSWs are able to accept Medicaid and Second Wind Funding. Our team members employ a variety of skills and techniques in therapy, including EMDR, TF-CBT, DBT, ACT, Geek Therapeutics, CAMS, and Play Therapy. Please refer to our website for more information about our clinicians and their areas of specialty. We work with children, adolescents, young adults, adults, couples, and elderly.
(970) 409-1310 View (970) 409-1310
Photo of Jessie Huffman, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessie Huffman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Basalt, CO 81621
When working with children, I primarily utilize directive and non-directive play therapy as this is the language through which children communicate.
As a licensed therapist, I enjoy working with individuals in all stages of life (adults, children, teens, and families). After spending years as a Denver based mental health clinician, I am thrilled to return to private practice in my hometown of the Roaring Fork Valley. I am able to address a wide range of challenges that we all struggle with at certain points in our lives, including anxiety, trauma, grief, motivation, relationships, depression, and more. Sessions are always grounded in my clients' sense of a trusting and positive therapeutic relationship. This is the foundation from which our work together begins.
When working with children, I primarily utilize directive and non-directive play therapy as this is the language through which children communicate.
As a licensed therapist, I enjoy working with individuals in all stages of life (adults, children, teens, and families). After spending years as a Denver based mental health clinician, I am thrilled to return to private practice in my hometown of the Roaring Fork Valley. I am able to address a wide range of challenges that we all struggle with at certain points in our lives, including anxiety, trauma, grief, motivation, relationships, depression, and more. Sessions are always grounded in my clients' sense of a trusting and positive therapeutic relationship. This is the foundation from which our work together begins.
(970) 474-5196 View (970) 474-5196
Photo of Lu Kellum - Kidstuff Child And Family Counseling, PC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kidstuff Child And Family Counseling, PC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Grand Junction, CO 81504
Our therapists utilize many effective modalities including art and dance therapy, play therapy, EMDR therapy, and engaging talk therapy.
KidStuff Child & Family Counseling, P.C. specializes in helping kids, families and adults navigate life's challenges and improve overall wellness. LifeStuff, HardStuff, AdultStuff: whatever your reasons for seeking therapy, our therapists will collaborate with you to create a therapeutic experience to meet your needs. Our therapists are open and welcoming while supporting clients through their healing process. If you have Medicaid health insurance, commercial insurance, or are looking for a reasonably affordable cash-pay option, we have options for in-office and telehealth services.
Our therapists utilize many effective modalities including art and dance therapy, play therapy, EMDR therapy, and engaging talk therapy.
KidStuff Child & Family Counseling, P.C. specializes in helping kids, families and adults navigate life's challenges and improve overall wellness. LifeStuff, HardStuff, AdultStuff: whatever your reasons for seeking therapy, our therapists will collaborate with you to create a therapeutic experience to meet your needs. Our therapists are open and welcoming while supporting clients through their healing process. If you have Medicaid health insurance, commercial insurance, or are looking for a reasonably affordable cash-pay option, we have options for in-office and telehealth services.
(970) 394-3036 View (970) 394-3036
Photo of Melinda Fouts, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melinda Fouts
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Basalt, CO 81621
With over 20 years as a Jungian based psychotherapist working with individuals, couples, and children, I provide therapy carefully tailored to the need of each individual client in conjunction with the goals set by my clients. I often apply CBT with children and offer Neurofeedback and sand play therapy. I have successfully treated individuals struggling with life transitions, depression, anxiety, and self-esteem issues. I am an expert witness in court on domestic violence and child abuse.
With over 20 years as a Jungian based psychotherapist working with individuals, couples, and children, I provide therapy carefully tailored to the need of each individual client in conjunction with the goals set by my clients. I often apply CBT with children and offer Neurofeedback and sand play therapy. I have successfully treated individuals struggling with life transitions, depression, anxiety, and self-esteem issues. I am an expert witness in court on domestic violence and child abuse.
(970) 447-4383 View (970) 447-4383
Photo of Derrick Jones, LPCC, MA
Derrick Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, LPCC, MA
Verified Verified
Conifer, CO 80433
I invite you to reach out to Conifer Play Therapy to see if my calm therapeutic style fits with your child.
The past decade of working with children has allowed me to fully understand how every child is unique, and their needs and behaviors can vary greatly. For example, a child with Autism might have specific sensory sensitivities or communication preferences, while a child with ADHD might bring high energy and impulsivity into the room. In play therapy, my approach is to take time to truly understand the child through our interactions to discover their needs and find the right tools and strategies for managing their emotions and behaviors, while building coping skills and gaining confidence in themselves.
I invite you to reach out to Conifer Play Therapy to see if my calm therapeutic style fits with your child.
The past decade of working with children has allowed me to fully understand how every child is unique, and their needs and behaviors can vary greatly. For example, a child with Autism might have specific sensory sensitivities or communication preferences, while a child with ADHD might bring high energy and impulsivity into the room. In play therapy, my approach is to take time to truly understand the child through our interactions to discover their needs and find the right tools and strategies for managing their emotions and behaviors, while building coping skills and gaining confidence in themselves.
(720) 699-3830 View (720) 699-3830
Photo of Lauren Ferguson, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lauren Ferguson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Conifer, CO 80433
At Conifer Play Therapy, children's social and emotional needs are the top priority.
I've always wanted to help children and families thrive. This passion is what drove me to become a therapist and it's what guides my commitment to delivering a positive therapy experience to each family I see. More than anything, I believe that families have unique strengths that will guide them through life's challenging times. I believe in the process of therapy - play therapy and EMDR in particular - as tools to cultivate resiliency, attachment, and problem-solving skills for children and their families.
At Conifer Play Therapy, children's social and emotional needs are the top priority.
I've always wanted to help children and families thrive. This passion is what drove me to become a therapist and it's what guides my commitment to delivering a positive therapy experience to each family I see. More than anything, I believe that families have unique strengths that will guide them through life's challenging times. I believe in the process of therapy - play therapy and EMDR in particular - as tools to cultivate resiliency, attachment, and problem-solving skills for children and their families.
(720) 903-2313 View (720) 903-2313
Photo of Mia E Wilson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mia E Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Basalt, CO 81621
Play, Art & Sand play therapies are modes for young clients.
Life certainly has its ups and downs and I am a firm believer in getting the support that best suits you. Therapy is for anyone who would like to feel better, experience more fulfillment, have more clarity, overcome obstacles, and grow stronger & wiser. I believe we can all benefit from taking the time to better ourselves, yet this process is different for each client. For some it might mean putting proven strategies in place to accomplish goals. For others it might include healing from past traumas in order to move past what is holding them back. Developing effective coping skills is at the foundation of it all.
Play, Art & Sand play therapies are modes for young clients.
Life certainly has its ups and downs and I am a firm believer in getting the support that best suits you. Therapy is for anyone who would like to feel better, experience more fulfillment, have more clarity, overcome obstacles, and grow stronger & wiser. I believe we can all benefit from taking the time to better ourselves, yet this process is different for each client. For some it might mean putting proven strategies in place to accomplish goals. For others it might include healing from past traumas in order to move past what is holding them back. Developing effective coping skills is at the foundation of it all.
(970) 632-7436 View (970) 632-7436
Photo of Lauren Nicole Hughes - Counseling Colorado, PLLC, MA, LPC, LAC, NCC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Counseling Colorado, PLLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Winter Park, CO 80482
Trained play therapist for younger children.
Are you living the life you want? Recovery is a choice and I am here to help. Getting help is not a sign of weakness; it is the empowerment of one's internal strength. I have a passion for creating a therapeutic alliance with clients to help them achieve their goals and to become their best self. Utilizing evidence based therapies, I am able to peel back the layers and get to the heart of one's core issues, resulting in healing. Choosing to seek professional help is a big decision and choosing the right counselor is essential to achieving success."
Trained play therapist for younger children.
Are you living the life you want? Recovery is a choice and I am here to help. Getting help is not a sign of weakness; it is the empowerment of one's internal strength. I have a passion for creating a therapeutic alliance with clients to help them achieve their goals and to become their best self. Utilizing evidence based therapies, I am able to peel back the layers and get to the heart of one's core issues, resulting in healing. Choosing to seek professional help is a big decision and choosing the right counselor is essential to achieving success."
(720) 548-1604 View (720) 548-1604
Photo of Kathryn Raley, LPC, NCC, RPT-S, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathryn Raley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, RPT-S, ACS
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Granby, CO 80446
What is play therapy? I believe children and teens best express emotion in the language of play, imagery and artistic expression.
Everyone needs support from time to time. I work with clients to find answers to questions surrounding relationships, sadness and day to day intentional living. As a Jungian therapist, our work may involve exploration of imagery and pattern and your individual expression. We may utilize dreams, sand and other techniques to access the unconscious, as well as some traditional methods all to address anxiety and depression. I am dedicated to assisting anyone on this journey with the support they need to achieve their individual goals in overall wellness.
What is play therapy? I believe children and teens best express emotion in the language of play, imagery and artistic expression.
Everyone needs support from time to time. I work with clients to find answers to questions surrounding relationships, sadness and day to day intentional living. As a Jungian therapist, our work may involve exploration of imagery and pattern and your individual expression. We may utilize dreams, sand and other techniques to access the unconscious, as well as some traditional methods all to address anxiety and depression. I am dedicated to assisting anyone on this journey with the support they need to achieve their individual goals in overall wellness.
(720) 575-1597 View (720) 575-1597
Photo of Mili Sarmiento Shoemaker (Latina-Bilingual), MA, LPC, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mili Sarmiento Shoemaker (Latina-Bilingual)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frisco, CO 80443
My systemic-focused approach includes Gestalt Therapy, Family Constellation, EMDR, and Synergetic Play Therapy.
I was born and raised in Argentina. I'm a bilingual, cross-cultural and international therapist and supervisor. My background allows me to navigate the challenges and benefits of being in one place and experience more than one culture at the same time. I have always held a profound curiosity about human psychology, relationships, child development, and the intricate tapestry of family and social dynamics. I am committed to guiding and supporting clients on the profound journey of understanding and embracing their family dynamics, recognizing their place within it, and learning how to take what they need from it to thrive in life
My systemic-focused approach includes Gestalt Therapy, Family Constellation, EMDR, and Synergetic Play Therapy.
I was born and raised in Argentina. I'm a bilingual, cross-cultural and international therapist and supervisor. My background allows me to navigate the challenges and benefits of being in one place and experience more than one culture at the same time. I have always held a profound curiosity about human psychology, relationships, child development, and the intricate tapestry of family and social dynamics. I am committed to guiding and supporting clients on the profound journey of understanding and embracing their family dynamics, recognizing their place within it, and learning how to take what they need from it to thrive in life
(205) 953-4747 View (205) 953-4747
Photo of Melissa Seigle, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa Seigle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aspen, CO 81611
I work with adults, adolescents, and children on finding happiness, healthy coping skills, and better balance. It’s time to scrape off the judgements, and with a good dose of self-compassion, figure out how you can live better. We’ll work together to gain understanding, build an emotional toolbox, set goals, and try on new perspectives. My expertise and experience show up in every session to create a safe space for you to make the changes you are seeking. I will challenge you, laugh with you, and sit in emotion with you.
I work with adults, adolescents, and children on finding happiness, healthy coping skills, and better balance. It’s time to scrape off the judgements, and with a good dose of self-compassion, figure out how you can live better. We’ll work together to gain understanding, build an emotional toolbox, set goals, and try on new perspectives. My expertise and experience show up in every session to create a safe space for you to make the changes you are seeking. I will challenge you, laugh with you, and sit in emotion with you.
(970) 825-1140 View (970) 825-1140
Photo of Marian Pierce, Pre-Licensed Professional
Marian Pierce
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Paonia, CO 81428
I am continually inspired by the resilience, courage, and humanity that define us all. As your therapist, my commitment is to collaborate with you in uncovering and nurturing the innate wisdom that already exists within you. Together, we can challenge the barriers that stand in your way, cultivate resilience and strength, and forge a path towards a life of greater balance, fulfillment, and purpose.
I am continually inspired by the resilience, courage, and humanity that define us all. As your therapist, my commitment is to collaborate with you in uncovering and nurturing the innate wisdom that already exists within you. Together, we can challenge the barriers that stand in your way, cultivate resilience and strength, and forge a path towards a life of greater balance, fulfillment, and purpose.
(970) 410-2653 View (970) 410-2653
Photo of Christina M Cruz - CC Counseling , MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
CC Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Grand Junction, CO 81503
Do you want to create a better, happier, more successful version of yourself? Maybe you feel your current life is already pretty good, or at least comfortable… and you’re simply hoping to “fine tune” or “level up.” Perhaps you’re considering a career change, craving better relationships, or wanting to accomplish a personal goal. Or maybe there’s an issue you’ve struggled with for years – anxiety, self-doubt, disorganization, or time management problems – which you believe is keeping you from being as happy or successful as you’d like.
Do you want to create a better, happier, more successful version of yourself? Maybe you feel your current life is already pretty good, or at least comfortable… and you’re simply hoping to “fine tune” or “level up.” Perhaps you’re considering a career change, craving better relationships, or wanting to accomplish a personal goal. Or maybe there’s an issue you’ve struggled with for years – anxiety, self-doubt, disorganization, or time management problems – which you believe is keeping you from being as happy or successful as you’d like.
(970) 436-4226 View (970) 436-4226
Photo of Katie Schuckman, MA, LPC, SSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie Schuckman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, SSP
Verified Verified
Grand Junction, CO 81501
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with ten years of experience in the mental health field. I specialize in working with women, teens and children that have experienced trauma in their life. I am passionate about helping others find their own path and find healing and growth within themselves. I strongly believe that there is a mind, body connection and through exploring and healing that connection that true change can occur.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with ten years of experience in the mental health field. I specialize in working with women, teens and children that have experienced trauma in their life. I am passionate about helping others find their own path and find healing and growth within themselves. I strongly believe that there is a mind, body connection and through exploring and healing that connection that true change can occur.
(970) 436-5473 View (970) 436-5473

See more therapy options for Crested Butte

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.