Photo of Sarah Beth McMurray, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Beth McMurray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Lowry, CO 80230
As women in the world we are faced with unique challenges and experiences throughout our lives. My passion and expertise is in working alongside women to help them towards improved self-awareness, more satisfying interpersonal relationships, and relief from emotional pain.
As women in the world we are faced with unique challenges and experiences throughout our lives. My passion and expertise is in working alongside women to help them towards improved self-awareness, more satisfying interpersonal relationships, and relief from emotional pain.
(303) 622-5168 View (303) 622-5168
Photo of Diane Reichmuth, PsyD, Psychologist
Diane Reichmuth
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Lowry, CO 80230
I am a licensed clinical psychologist, who works with children, adolescents and adults. I also work at the Children's Hospital, Colorado, and work with children and families, who are struggling with a variety of issues. I work with both adults and children. My goal is to help children, adolescents and adults come up with ways to cope and manage life stressors, and focus on sustained solutions to their problems. I provide clients with state-of-the-art, empirically-supported behavioral health interventions shown to result in fast and sustainable relief from a variety of emotions.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist, who works with children, adolescents and adults. I also work at the Children's Hospital, Colorado, and work with children and families, who are struggling with a variety of issues. I work with both adults and children. My goal is to help children, adolescents and adults come up with ways to cope and manage life stressors, and focus on sustained solutions to their problems. I provide clients with state-of-the-art, empirically-supported behavioral health interventions shown to result in fast and sustainable relief from a variety of emotions.
(720) 613-2790 View (720) 613-2790
Photo of Erin Johnson, LCSW, MFTC, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MFTC, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lowry, CO 80230
My approach to supporting clients relies on the neurobiological and systemic processes at work when challenging and traumatic events occur. I have been providing therapy and coaching services in Colorado for over a decade and specialize in delivering therapeutic care to complex trauma survivors of all ages. I have extensive knowledge in working with those who have a desire to increase their ability to navigate and process traumatic experiences, connect more meaningfully with their loved ones, and be more present and satisfied in their lives. Trauma isolates us; I believe that connection is our most powerful tool to fight back.
My approach to supporting clients relies on the neurobiological and systemic processes at work when challenging and traumatic events occur. I have been providing therapy and coaching services in Colorado for over a decade and specialize in delivering therapeutic care to complex trauma survivors of all ages. I have extensive knowledge in working with those who have a desire to increase their ability to navigate and process traumatic experiences, connect more meaningfully with their loved ones, and be more present and satisfied in their lives. Trauma isolates us; I believe that connection is our most powerful tool to fight back.
(720) 764-9261 View (720) 764-9261
Photo of Sarah Spurlock - Denver Counseling Solutions, Marriage & Family Therapist
Denver Counseling Solutions
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Lowry, CO 80230
As counselors and therapists, our team is here to facilitate change in your life, to offer you hope, and to motivate you to achieve your potential and goals. Everyone has a story. We want to hear your story and help you create a narrative for the future. Life is a constant state of growth and transition. Let's process your situation together. We provide guidance and solutions to help you achieve your desires and goals. The beginning of the healing process begins here.
As counselors and therapists, our team is here to facilitate change in your life, to offer you hope, and to motivate you to achieve your potential and goals. Everyone has a story. We want to hear your story and help you create a narrative for the future. Life is a constant state of growth and transition. Let's process your situation together. We provide guidance and solutions to help you achieve your desires and goals. The beginning of the healing process begins here.
(720) 710-0399 View (720) 710-0399

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tiffany Nerguizian, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tiffany Nerguizian
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80246  (Online Only)
My training includes certification in Cognitive Behavioral/ Dialectical Behavioral Therapies, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Certified Family Trauma Certification, and training in art and play therapy.
Are you ready to feel and function better? Feel in control of your emotions and take better care of yourself. It's time to heal Psych Today. There is hope as you begin your journey to wellness.. Let's explore a personal plan for healing in a calm and trusting manner. I work with families, adults and adolescents to help heal from anxiety, depression and trauma. Formerly, I was the USA counselor for Colorado, where I had the joy of working with military families. I received my Masters degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University and opened my practice in 2009.
My training includes certification in Cognitive Behavioral/ Dialectical Behavioral Therapies, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Certified Family Trauma Certification, and training in art and play therapy.
Are you ready to feel and function better? Feel in control of your emotions and take better care of yourself. It's time to heal Psych Today. There is hope as you begin your journey to wellness.. Let's explore a personal plan for healing in a calm and trusting manner. I work with families, adults and adolescents to help heal from anxiety, depression and trauma. Formerly, I was the USA counselor for Colorado, where I had the joy of working with military families. I received my Masters degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University and opened my practice in 2009.
(720) 817-4531 View (720) 817-4531
Photo of Irene Gutierrez Ellis, PsyD, Psychologist
Irene Gutierrez Ellis
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80012
I also use Play Therapy, Sand Tray, Solution Focused Therapy and Parenting.
In life we have joyful and enlightening experiences, and painful challenges that are best handled with help. Therapy helps you build awareness and increase your ability to deal with problems of life like depression, anxiety or fear. Counseling, enables you to recover the joy of life. We provide an atmosphere of understanding and trust where we listen empathetically to understand your perspective and issues. We use culturally centered Evidence and Practice Based therapy to find your strengths and equip you with tools to overcome challenges and to make positive changes so you can lead a better life.
I also use Play Therapy, Sand Tray, Solution Focused Therapy and Parenting.
In life we have joyful and enlightening experiences, and painful challenges that are best handled with help. Therapy helps you build awareness and increase your ability to deal with problems of life like depression, anxiety or fear. Counseling, enables you to recover the joy of life. We provide an atmosphere of understanding and trust where we listen empathetically to understand your perspective and issues. We use culturally centered Evidence and Practice Based therapy to find your strengths and equip you with tools to overcome challenges and to make positive changes so you can lead a better life.
(720) 650-0906 View (720) 650-0906
Photo of Darah Meyer - Mount Saint Vincent, MSW, LCSW
Mount Saint Vincent
MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Aurora, CO 80010
Mount Saint Vincent has been helping children and families in the Denver area for over 135 years. Let us help you and your child with our Pediatric Behavioral Health services: Outpatient Therapy, In-Home Therapy and Day Treatment. Our Masters level clinicians offer evidenced based counseling modalities specific to client needs, including: Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), Play Therapy, Trauma Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Mount Saint Vincent has been helping children and families in the Denver area for over 135 years. Let us help you and your child with our Pediatric Behavioral Health services: Outpatient Therapy, In-Home Therapy and Day Treatment. Our Masters level clinicians offer evidenced based counseling modalities specific to client needs, including: Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), Play Therapy, Trauma Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
(720) 640-8471 View (720) 640-8471
Photo of Leigh Bates Play Therapist, LPC, RPT, ATR-BC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leigh Bates Play Therapist
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Glendale, CO 80246
I am a Licensed Professional Art Therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor who loves using Art Therapy and Play Therapy interventions as a safe and fun way to connect with children and adolescents.
As parents, often face several pain points when considering therapy for their child, such as concerns about stigma, fear of labeling, uncertainty about the therapeutic process, and worries about the child's comfort and willingness to participate. At Creative Counseling in Colorado, we address these concerns by providing a warm, non-judgmental environment where children feel safe and understood. We use a personalized approach, incorporating play, art, and other creative therapies to make sessions engaging and non-intimidating.
I am a Licensed Professional Art Therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor who loves using Art Therapy and Play Therapy interventions as a safe and fun way to connect with children and adolescents.
As parents, often face several pain points when considering therapy for their child, such as concerns about stigma, fear of labeling, uncertainty about the therapeutic process, and worries about the child's comfort and willingness to participate. At Creative Counseling in Colorado, we address these concerns by providing a warm, non-judgmental environment where children feel safe and understood. We use a personalized approach, incorporating play, art, and other creative therapies to make sessions engaging and non-intimidating.
(720) 730-3143 View (720) 730-3143
Photo of Claire Morrow, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Claire Morrow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80220
I am currently accepting new clients. Imagine a life where you are able to play, explore, and feel empowered to be exactly who you are. We exist in a world with an abundance of talent, ideas, possibilities and strengths; yet many of the current conditions stifle, exclude, and limit us. I am here to partner with you and your family to support growth through life transitions, emotional and behavioral challenges, school or work-related difficulties, childhood trauma- so that you can fully experience life's abundance.
I am currently accepting new clients. Imagine a life where you are able to play, explore, and feel empowered to be exactly who you are. We exist in a world with an abundance of talent, ideas, possibilities and strengths; yet many of the current conditions stifle, exclude, and limit us. I am here to partner with you and your family to support growth through life transitions, emotional and behavioral challenges, school or work-related difficulties, childhood trauma- so that you can fully experience life's abundance.
(720) 806-6744 View (720) 806-6744
Photo of Laura Stuart - Aspire Counseling Denver Inc., MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Aspire Counseling Denver Inc.
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80246
We combine Brainspotting, animal-assisted therapy, DBT, CBT, faith-based therapy upon request, play therapy with kids, brain mapping, and neurofeedback.
We have therapists available 7 days a week, in person or virtual! Check out our website for a list of our available therapists. We work with all ages and a variety of issues including PTSD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, grief, divorce, eating disorders, ADHD, Autism, addiction, bullying, major life transitions, sports performance, and self esteem.
We combine Brainspotting, animal-assisted therapy, DBT, CBT, faith-based therapy upon request, play therapy with kids, brain mapping, and neurofeedback.
We have therapists available 7 days a week, in person or virtual! Check out our website for a list of our available therapists. We work with all ages and a variety of issues including PTSD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, grief, divorce, eating disorders, ADHD, Autism, addiction, bullying, major life transitions, sports performance, and self esteem.
(727) 475-7611 View (727) 475-7611
Photo of Bree Bessette - Holistic And Spiritual Counseling, MA, LLPC, Counselor
Bree Bessette - Holistic And Spiritual Counseling
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, CO 80010
I use Synergetic Play Therapy for children and PACT for couples.
Starting the healing process is challenging and takes courage. Within all of us is a drive or desire to become whole, happy and connected to our self and our world. I see the importance of integrating all parts and aspects of our Self and becoming more whole and complete human beings. This journey into wholeness in the realization of our potential, underpins our personal journey of transformation and healing. This philosophy is at the core of my approach.
I use Synergetic Play Therapy for children and PACT for couples.
Starting the healing process is challenging and takes courage. Within all of us is a drive or desire to become whole, happy and connected to our self and our world. I see the importance of integrating all parts and aspects of our Self and becoming more whole and complete human beings. This journey into wholeness in the realization of our potential, underpins our personal journey of transformation and healing. This philosophy is at the core of my approach.
(720) 764-9304 View (720) 764-9304
Photo of Mary Margaret Hagen, LCSW, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Margaret Hagen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80246
In my work with children, I utilize Synergetic Play Therapy, a research-informed model of play therapy that helps re-wire the brain and supports children in finding new ways to respond to stress and challenges.
Is your child struggling in school? Are you feeling overwhelmed with emotional outbursts and behavior challenges? Do you feel like you’re not connecting with your child and don’t know what to do? Are you looking for ways to help your child after a significant loss or traumatic experience? I want you to know there's help available! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who specializes in working with children struggling with grief, anger and aggression, anxiety, depression, and symptoms related to trauma. I seek to create a safe, non-judgmental, non-intrusive atmosphere for children to truly express their emotions and desires.
In my work with children, I utilize Synergetic Play Therapy, a research-informed model of play therapy that helps re-wire the brain and supports children in finding new ways to respond to stress and challenges.
Is your child struggling in school? Are you feeling overwhelmed with emotional outbursts and behavior challenges? Do you feel like you’re not connecting with your child and don’t know what to do? Are you looking for ways to help your child after a significant loss or traumatic experience? I want you to know there's help available! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who specializes in working with children struggling with grief, anger and aggression, anxiety, depression, and symptoms related to trauma. I seek to create a safe, non-judgmental, non-intrusive atmosphere for children to truly express their emotions and desires.
(806) 541-5021 View (806) 541-5021
Photo of Phebe Davis, MA, LPCC, NCC
Phebe Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80230
I work with kids, t(w)eens, and young adults experiencing anxiety, depression, grief/loss, life adjustments/transitions (relationships, career/work, school), body image, identity/self-esteem, LGBTQIA+ issues, and insomnia. I am trained through an eclectic array of therapeutic modalities, often working through a Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) lens, or Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT) with younger clients. When working with sleep issues/insomnia, I am trained in CBT-I (CBT for insomnia).
I work with kids, t(w)eens, and young adults experiencing anxiety, depression, grief/loss, life adjustments/transitions (relationships, career/work, school), body image, identity/self-esteem, LGBTQIA+ issues, and insomnia. I am trained through an eclectic array of therapeutic modalities, often working through a Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) lens, or Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT) with younger clients. When working with sleep issues/insomnia, I am trained in CBT-I (CBT for insomnia).
(720) 358-8744 View (720) 358-8744
Photo of Dr. Amber Chambless, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Amber Chambless
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80246  (Online Only)
I am certified in Synergetic Play Therapy.
Therapy is all about you-you're the expert. I take a client-centered, solution-focused approach to therapy. I view the therapeutic relationship as a collaborative one in which you are the expert on yourself, and I come into the session with the experience and skills to help. I have a laid back style and like using humor, when appropriate. I enjoy working with children, adolescent, and adult clients who are struggling with eating disorders, mood issues, life transitions, and chronic health issues.
I am certified in Synergetic Play Therapy.
Therapy is all about you-you're the expert. I take a client-centered, solution-focused approach to therapy. I view the therapeutic relationship as a collaborative one in which you are the expert on yourself, and I come into the session with the experience and skills to help. I have a laid back style and like using humor, when appropriate. I enjoy working with children, adolescent, and adult clients who are struggling with eating disorders, mood issues, life transitions, and chronic health issues.
(720) 778-8034 View (720) 778-8034
Photo of Kim Colna, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kim Colna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80206
Kim Colna is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 12 years of experience providing evidence based mental health services to children, adults and families to include diagnostic assessment, individual, family, and group therapy. Kim uses a variety of individualized treatment modalities to include, but not limited to CBT, ERP, ACT, DBT, Play Therapy, family systems, and strengths based treatment to treat a wide range of mental health symptoms and conditions to include but not limited to, Anxiety, OCD, ADHD, Behavioral Dysregulation, Trauma/PTSD, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Conversion Disorders and Psychosis.
Kim Colna is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 12 years of experience providing evidence based mental health services to children, adults and families to include diagnostic assessment, individual, family, and group therapy. Kim uses a variety of individualized treatment modalities to include, but not limited to CBT, ERP, ACT, DBT, Play Therapy, family systems, and strengths based treatment to treat a wide range of mental health symptoms and conditions to include but not limited to, Anxiety, OCD, ADHD, Behavioral Dysregulation, Trauma/PTSD, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Conversion Disorders and Psychosis.
(970) 825-1096 View (970) 825-1096
Photo of William Bryant - Therapist of Color Collaborative , LPCC, Counselor
Therapist of Color Collaborative
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80231
I believe the world often tells us who we should be. If we don’t fall into accordance with what we should be we are generally ostracized. This is where mental distress comes into play; when we feel shame for not living up to societal expacations. This is especially apparent for minorities where stereotypes and microaggression have a such a large hand in shaping our beliefs and behaviors. Once we are comfortable with who we are, only then are we equipped to deal with the stressors from the outside world. As a therapist, I utilize a number of techniques to help client take of this "mask" through personal awareness and venerability.
I believe the world often tells us who we should be. If we don’t fall into accordance with what we should be we are generally ostracized. This is where mental distress comes into play; when we feel shame for not living up to societal expacations. This is especially apparent for minorities where stereotypes and microaggression have a such a large hand in shaping our beliefs and behaviors. Once we are comfortable with who we are, only then are we equipped to deal with the stressors from the outside world. As a therapist, I utilize a number of techniques to help client take of this "mask" through personal awareness and venerability.
(720) 807-4323 View (720) 807-4323
Photo of Hannah Pitts, LCSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Pitts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80209
She is trained in various forms of play therapy as well as other research backed protocols such as EMDR.
Hannah has provided trauma-informed care to children, teens, and adults for nearly ten years. She is an EMDR and Brainspotting therapist who works through an attachment lens. She provides high quality care for clients of all ages in a compassionate environment conducive to healing and growth. Although Hannah is easy going and kind, she is unafraid to sit with you and/or your family through the challenging and emotionally charged work of therapy.
She is trained in various forms of play therapy as well as other research backed protocols such as EMDR.
Hannah has provided trauma-informed care to children, teens, and adults for nearly ten years. She is an EMDR and Brainspotting therapist who works through an attachment lens. She provides high quality care for clients of all ages in a compassionate environment conducive to healing and growth. Although Hannah is easy going and kind, she is unafraid to sit with you and/or your family through the challenging and emotionally charged work of therapy.
(720) 463-1559 View (720) 463-1559
Photo of Misty Dawn Hughes-Aletheuo, Misty Hughes-Aletheuo, LPCC
Misty Dawn Hughes-Aletheuo
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, Misty Hughes-Aletheuo, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80246
In addition to talk therapy, I offer child play therapy, art therapy, Neurofeedback, pastoral counseling, premarital counseling, career counseling, and self-advocacy coaching.
I have a heart to see breakthrough, healing, and freedom for my clients. My intent is to provide a safe place where individuals can explore self-discovery, find their voice, and experience a release from the trauma that has held them captive. I provide a client-centered integrated counseling approach for children 5+, teenagers, adults, couples, and families.
In addition to talk therapy, I offer child play therapy, art therapy, Neurofeedback, pastoral counseling, premarital counseling, career counseling, and self-advocacy coaching.
I have a heart to see breakthrough, healing, and freedom for my clients. My intent is to provide a safe place where individuals can explore self-discovery, find their voice, and experience a release from the trauma that has held them captive. I provide a client-centered integrated counseling approach for children 5+, teenagers, adults, couples, and families.
(303) 625-6441 View (303) 625-6441
Photo of Jim Winges, PhD, CMPC, MS, BA, BAA
Jim Winges
PhD, CMPC, MS, BA, BAA
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80238
Dr. Jim is a Performance Consultant & Mental Conditioning Coach who provides mental skills training and counseling to athletes of all ages and levels, sports teams, organizations & governing bodies all over the world. He works with Olympic, professional, collegiate, high school, amateur & youth athletes to improve performance both on & off the field of play, welling-being & mental health. He has worked with teams and professional athletes He has worked with & trained thousands of athletes, coaches & parents over the past 22 years. He also works with performing arts, business professionals as an performance coach, & with government &
Dr. Jim is a Performance Consultant & Mental Conditioning Coach who provides mental skills training and counseling to athletes of all ages and levels, sports teams, organizations & governing bodies all over the world. He works with Olympic, professional, collegiate, high school, amateur & youth athletes to improve performance both on & off the field of play, welling-being & mental health. He has worked with teams and professional athletes He has worked with & trained thousands of athletes, coaches & parents over the past 22 years. He also works with performing arts, business professionals as an performance coach, & with government &
(720) 782-8562 View (720) 782-8562
Photo of Summer Flos (Accepting New Clients), LPC, MS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Summer Flos (Accepting New Clients)
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80246
I have worked closely with individuals, couples and families experiencing depression, anxiety, self-harming thoughts, traumas, intensive child behaviors/emotions, life transitions, domestic abuse and much more by using techniques from EMDR, play therapy, art, DBT, CBT, client centered counseling.
Accepting new clients for morning and early afternoon appointment times. I look at everyone's individual healing journey through a collaborative lens focusing on mind & body. Our minds & bodies hold on to traumas, depression, anxiety, etc & store it. I will help you assess the true roots to your issues & walk the path of growth together. I do not believe in “cookie cutter” therapy methods, which is giving every client the same skills and treatment. Instead we get to know the client & personalize their treatment to fit their needs, wants, beliefs & life experiences.
I have worked closely with individuals, couples and families experiencing depression, anxiety, self-harming thoughts, traumas, intensive child behaviors/emotions, life transitions, domestic abuse and much more by using techniques from EMDR, play therapy, art, DBT, CBT, client centered counseling.
Accepting new clients for morning and early afternoon appointment times. I look at everyone's individual healing journey through a collaborative lens focusing on mind & body. Our minds & bodies hold on to traumas, depression, anxiety, etc & store it. I will help you assess the true roots to your issues & walk the path of growth together. I do not believe in “cookie cutter” therapy methods, which is giving every client the same skills and treatment. Instead we get to know the client & personalize their treatment to fit their needs, wants, beliefs & life experiences.
(720) 640-7042 View (720) 640-7042

See more therapy options for Lowry

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.