Play Therapy in Indialantic, FL
![Photo of Janae Gardner, MA, RMHCI, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a5f01917-ae57-44c4-b58c-b0e1a1ffcd40/1/320x400.jpeg)
Janae Gardner
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MA, RMHCI, LPCC
Verified Verified
Indialantic, FL 32903
Her treatment approaches incorporate Brainspotting, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Play and Art Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
Welcome! Janae Gardner is a Registered Mental Health Counseling Intern. She feels every human deserves the opportunity to process, heal, grow, and live their best life. Her counseling style is best described as non-judgmental, supportive, empathetic, and authentic. She helps clients manage behavior and learn how to identify and process emotions in a healthy way. She is passionate about supporting your journey in life and personal growth. Janae enjoys working with adolescents, young adults, and adults.
Her treatment approaches incorporate Brainspotting, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Play and Art Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
Welcome! Janae Gardner is a Registered Mental Health Counseling Intern. She feels every human deserves the opportunity to process, heal, grow, and live their best life. Her counseling style is best described as non-judgmental, supportive, empathetic, and authentic. She helps clients manage behavior and learn how to identify and process emotions in a healthy way. She is passionate about supporting your journey in life and personal growth. Janae enjoys working with adolescents, young adults, and adults.
![Photo of Cristi M Salinas - Neuropsychology Concierge: Dr. Cristi Salinas, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5626b161-1192-46e2-8de9-19ff286726c6/3/320x400.jpeg)
Neuropsychology Concierge: Dr. Cristi Salinas
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indialantic, FL 32903
Dr. Cristi is an expert neuropsychologist, author, international speaker, and mama of a 2e/ADHD son who has worked with more than 6,000 children and adults. She specializes in the assessment and treatment of various conditions such as ADHD, Learning Disability, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Traumatic Brain Injury, Epilepsy. She worked at the number 1 rated Children’s Hospital in the US, Boston Children’s, and contributed to best practices at Harvard, Emory & Advent Health Orlando. She has the unique expertise to identify your strengths and the root cause of your concerns plus she will develop a roadmap of interventions/solutions.
Dr. Cristi is an expert neuropsychologist, author, international speaker, and mama of a 2e/ADHD son who has worked with more than 6,000 children and adults. She specializes in the assessment and treatment of various conditions such as ADHD, Learning Disability, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Traumatic Brain Injury, Epilepsy. She worked at the number 1 rated Children’s Hospital in the US, Boston Children’s, and contributed to best practices at Harvard, Emory & Advent Health Orlando. She has the unique expertise to identify your strengths and the root cause of your concerns plus she will develop a roadmap of interventions/solutions.
![Photo of Margaret Eilts - Restoration Counseling Space Coast, MA, LPC, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1390fcc9-7f27-41a7-906c-01485af99d86/2/320x400.jpeg)
At Restoration Counseling Space Coast we believe that everyone deserves access to high-quality mental health counseling. Our team of compassionate and experienced therapists is dedicated to providing our community with the tools and support they need to achieve emotional wellness, healing and restoration. We provide counseling for issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, abuse, relational conflict, anger, shame and low self esteem. Whatever you are struggling with, we care about you and are honored to connect with you.
At Restoration Counseling Space Coast we believe that everyone deserves access to high-quality mental health counseling. Our team of compassionate and experienced therapists is dedicated to providing our community with the tools and support they need to achieve emotional wellness, healing and restoration. We provide counseling for issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, abuse, relational conflict, anger, shame and low self esteem. Whatever you are struggling with, we care about you and are honored to connect with you.
![Photo of Candace Soliz, MSW, RCSWI, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cdde3280-e523-45d9-bbcd-6116d0e8d15b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Candace Soliz
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, RCSWI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Indialantic, FL 32903
As a Brainspotting Practitioner, it's incredibly rewarding to witness positive changes in people's lives as they navigate various challenges. Anxiety, depression, OCD, relationship issues, and many other mental health disorders can be effectively treated. The transformative power of therapy lies in creating a safe and supportive space where individuals can explore their challenges, fostering a collaborative journey toward healing and well-being.
As a Brainspotting Practitioner, it's incredibly rewarding to witness positive changes in people's lives as they navigate various challenges. Anxiety, depression, OCD, relationship issues, and many other mental health disorders can be effectively treated. The transformative power of therapy lies in creating a safe and supportive space where individuals can explore their challenges, fostering a collaborative journey toward healing and well-being.
![Photo of Joseph Weidenbenner, LMHC, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cd6730d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Joseph Weidenbenner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Indialantic, FL 32903
I am a skilled therapist who helps clients manage and overcome life's challenges with a gentle, interactive approach. I work with individuals of all ages and ethnicities, married and pre-married couples, families, individuals and mental disabilities. I have actively counseled since 2003, and has received training in several areas including grief, anxiety and depression. I received a BA in Physical Education at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater and he received his MA in Community Counseling at Regent University in Virginia Beach, Virginia.
I am a skilled therapist who helps clients manage and overcome life's challenges with a gentle, interactive approach. I work with individuals of all ages and ethnicities, married and pre-married couples, families, individuals and mental disabilities. I have actively counseled since 2003, and has received training in several areas including grief, anxiety and depression. I received a BA in Physical Education at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater and he received his MA in Community Counseling at Regent University in Virginia Beach, Virginia.
![Photo of Dr. Cristi M Salinas, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/354cb8fe-f4d8-4861-88e7-1df1188a8ef2/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Cristi is an expert neuropsychologist, author, international speaker, and mama of a 2e son who has worked with 6,000 children and adults. She worked at the number 1 rated Children’s Hospital in the US, Boston Children’s, and contributed to best practices at Harvard, Emory & Advent Health Orlando. She has the unique expertise to identify your strengths and the root cause of your concerns plus she will develop a practical roadmap of interventions/solutions. Dr. Cristi specializes in the assessment and treatment of ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Learning Disabilities, Gifted, Brain Injury, and Epilepsy.
Dr. Cristi is an expert neuropsychologist, author, international speaker, and mama of a 2e son who has worked with 6,000 children and adults. She worked at the number 1 rated Children’s Hospital in the US, Boston Children’s, and contributed to best practices at Harvard, Emory & Advent Health Orlando. She has the unique expertise to identify your strengths and the root cause of your concerns plus she will develop a practical roadmap of interventions/solutions. Dr. Cristi specializes in the assessment and treatment of ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Learning Disabilities, Gifted, Brain Injury, and Epilepsy.
![Photo of Dr. Neuropsychology Concierge: Cristi Salinas, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38118bcc-16a8-4013-bd6e-14b8f3264339/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Neuropsychology Concierge: Cristi Salinas
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Indialantic, FL 32903
Dr. Cristi is an expert neuropsychologist, author, international speaker, and mama of a 2e/ADHD son who has worked with 6,000 children and adults. Dr. Cristi specializes in the assessment and treatment of ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Learning Disabilities, Gifted, Brain Injury, and Epilepsy. She worked at the number 1 rated Children’s Hospital in the US, Boston Children’s, and contributed to best practices at Harvard, Emory & Advent Health Orlando. She has the unique expertise to identify your strengths and the root cause of your concerns plus she will develop a practical roadmap of interventions/solutions.
Dr. Cristi is an expert neuropsychologist, author, international speaker, and mama of a 2e/ADHD son who has worked with 6,000 children and adults. Dr. Cristi specializes in the assessment and treatment of ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Learning Disabilities, Gifted, Brain Injury, and Epilepsy. She worked at the number 1 rated Children’s Hospital in the US, Boston Children’s, and contributed to best practices at Harvard, Emory & Advent Health Orlando. She has the unique expertise to identify your strengths and the root cause of your concerns plus she will develop a practical roadmap of interventions/solutions.
![Photo of Marleigh Fallon, MSW, RCSWI, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c5698aa4-6505-413d-8c70-4c511738e572/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! I have experience with a variety of issues ranging from depressive symptoms, anxiety, inattentiveness, grief, irritability, psychotic symptoms, domestic violence, etc. I will assess your situation and create a treatment plan that will best fit your needs. I utilize various treatment modalities from cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, solutions-focused therapy, etc to decrease negative symptoms and improve your quality of life. I offer in home services as well as Telehealth options. I offer private-pay as well as accept various insurances through my contracting with Positive Behavioral Solutions.
Hi! I have experience with a variety of issues ranging from depressive symptoms, anxiety, inattentiveness, grief, irritability, psychotic symptoms, domestic violence, etc. I will assess your situation and create a treatment plan that will best fit your needs. I utilize various treatment modalities from cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, solutions-focused therapy, etc to decrease negative symptoms and improve your quality of life. I offer in home services as well as Telehealth options. I offer private-pay as well as accept various insurances through my contracting with Positive Behavioral Solutions.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Cassie Norsworthy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c9880e5d-6634-4f7f-9867-f2ba2daa6b2c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cassie Norsworthy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Melbourne, FL 32901
Waitlist for new clients
The therapy modalities I most often utilize are cognitive behavioral, solution focused, trauma focused, mindfulness based, strengths based, and play therapies.
Hello! Are you wanting to feel better? Or maybe your child or teen is having some difficulties and could use someone outside of the family to talk with. I am here to help! I work with individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and beliefs. My areas of expertise include grief and loss, emotional regulation, behavior management, trauma, life transitions, self-esteem, ADHD and autism spectrum disorders. Prior to my current role, my professional experience includes 5 years of child and adolescent therapy and 3 years of grief counseling with adults and seniors.
The therapy modalities I most often utilize are cognitive behavioral, solution focused, trauma focused, mindfulness based, strengths based, and play therapies.
Hello! Are you wanting to feel better? Or maybe your child or teen is having some difficulties and could use someone outside of the family to talk with. I am here to help! I work with individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and beliefs. My areas of expertise include grief and loss, emotional regulation, behavior management, trauma, life transitions, self-esteem, ADHD and autism spectrum disorders. Prior to my current role, my professional experience includes 5 years of child and adolescent therapy and 3 years of grief counseling with adults and seniors.
![Photo of Kimberly Hintz, MA, ITDS , CHT, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/401b801d-5b8e-411f-af81-c7484d3a783c/2/320x400.png)
Kimberly specializes in working with children, teens, and women covering a variety of issues. ADHD, Trauma, Anxiety, and Womens are just a few areas she specializes in. Kimberly is a Neurodiversity Affirmating therapist that believes treatment should be centered on a client's strengths, not their weaknesses. Kimberly's approach is to serve client needs through a holistic and client centered approach that fosters hope and recovery. Kimberly utilizes evidenced-based treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-focused behavior therapy, play therapy, EMDR, and EFT (tapping), hypnotherapy, and brainspotting.
Kimberly specializes in working with children, teens, and women covering a variety of issues. ADHD, Trauma, Anxiety, and Womens are just a few areas she specializes in. Kimberly is a Neurodiversity Affirmating therapist that believes treatment should be centered on a client's strengths, not their weaknesses. Kimberly's approach is to serve client needs through a holistic and client centered approach that fosters hope and recovery. Kimberly utilizes evidenced-based treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-focused behavior therapy, play therapy, EMDR, and EFT (tapping), hypnotherapy, and brainspotting.
![Photo of Karen Scalio, MSW, LCSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/518c7bc2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Karen Scalio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Melbourne, FL 32904
To build a working relationship that best meets my client's goals, I use a variety of integrated approaches including play therapy, sand tray therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, relaxation and other creative therapy techniques.
I have experience working with children, adolescents and their families. I am passionate about helping young people thrive. I like to challenge my clients to find their inner strength by helping them to develop effective coping skills. I like to engage my clients with creative interactions; this fosters trust and reinforces the practice of their skills. I believe development of one's strengths will create a lasting healing effect.
To build a working relationship that best meets my client's goals, I use a variety of integrated approaches including play therapy, sand tray therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, relaxation and other creative therapy techniques.
I have experience working with children, adolescents and their families. I am passionate about helping young people thrive. I like to challenge my clients to find their inner strength by helping them to develop effective coping skills. I like to engage my clients with creative interactions; this fosters trust and reinforces the practice of their skills. I believe development of one's strengths will create a lasting healing effect.
![Photo of Ilene A Scharf - Ilene A. Scharf, MSW, LCSW, Child Psychotherapist, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c501f5c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ilene A. Scharf, MSW, LCSW, Child Psychotherapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Melbourne, FL 32940
So depending upon what they present, I may use non-directive or directive play therapy or art therapy.
I work exclusively with children aging 18 months to 18 years. I have been treating children in private practice for over 24 years. I treat ADHD, ADD, Anxiety, Asperger's Syndrome, Depression, Grief/Loss due to death, separation/divorce or deployment, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), verbal, physical, sexual abuse, and neglect. I have extensive training and experience in treating children of separating & divorcing parents. I work with divorcing parents and their children in the Collaborative Divorce process. I provide them with insight and the tools to make the process go as smoothly as possible.
So depending upon what they present, I may use non-directive or directive play therapy or art therapy.
I work exclusively with children aging 18 months to 18 years. I have been treating children in private practice for over 24 years. I treat ADHD, ADD, Anxiety, Asperger's Syndrome, Depression, Grief/Loss due to death, separation/divorce or deployment, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), verbal, physical, sexual abuse, and neglect. I have extensive training and experience in treating children of separating & divorcing parents. I work with divorcing parents and their children in the Collaborative Divorce process. I provide them with insight and the tools to make the process go as smoothly as possible.
![Photo of Susan M Whitney, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b2412214-6158-4583-b3fb-531643531694/2/320x400.jpeg)
I incorporate several techniques including person-centered, cognitive behavioral (CBT), play/art therapy, solution focused, and mindfulness to help you feel more compassionate toward yourself and others.
Life can be difficult, unfair, and unpredictable. Sometimes we find ourselves feeling lost, overwhelmed, anxious or having difficulty facing life transitions. Everyone needs a little support once in a while. You do not have to face your challenges alone. Together, we can find a way to make new meaning of your life; change behaviors that leave you feeling disconnected, lost or alone; and focus on your personal strengths and goals. I will work alongside you to help you understand yourself better and learn new ways of thinking about your life and yourself.
I incorporate several techniques including person-centered, cognitive behavioral (CBT), play/art therapy, solution focused, and mindfulness to help you feel more compassionate toward yourself and others.
Life can be difficult, unfair, and unpredictable. Sometimes we find ourselves feeling lost, overwhelmed, anxious or having difficulty facing life transitions. Everyone needs a little support once in a while. You do not have to face your challenges alone. Together, we can find a way to make new meaning of your life; change behaviors that leave you feeling disconnected, lost or alone; and focus on your personal strengths and goals. I will work alongside you to help you understand yourself better and learn new ways of thinking about your life and yourself.
![Photo of Elana Breiner, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3aa14511-c062-46e7-a519-4bdbf682ca77/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elana Breiner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Melbourne, FL 32940
For children, I incorporate CBT into play techniques.
Sometimes we need support from a non-biased professional in a safe, calm environment. If you'd like to develop healthy ways to cope with stress, interact with others, or re-train your thought processes to have more self-control, I am happy to help!
For children, I incorporate CBT into play techniques.
Sometimes we need support from a non-biased professional in a safe, calm environment. If you'd like to develop healthy ways to cope with stress, interact with others, or re-train your thought processes to have more self-control, I am happy to help!
![Photo of Mary Weiss, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/09515fe4-25b6-4939-8b46-9388f2a9d626/1/320x400.png)
Mary is a board-certified licensed mental health counselor in Florida as well as a board-certified licensed professional counselor in Michigan. With close to 20 years of experience, Mary can assist you in overcoming many of the life challenges we all face. Her eclectic approach to therapy is very relaxed, non-judgmental, and respectful. Mary’s education and professional background in both mind and body provide a unique and effective therapeutic experience. She is sensitive to your needs as well as your past and present life experiences.
Mary is a board-certified licensed mental health counselor in Florida as well as a board-certified licensed professional counselor in Michigan. With close to 20 years of experience, Mary can assist you in overcoming many of the life challenges we all face. Her eclectic approach to therapy is very relaxed, non-judgmental, and respectful. Mary’s education and professional background in both mind and body provide a unique and effective therapeutic experience. She is sensitive to your needs as well as your past and present life experiences.
![Photo of Kinasya Craven, MS, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/472d1fe3-68e8-4e46-98c4-a2af8a2c9e3c/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who specializes in working with children, adolescents, and families. I have a passion for people and consider it a great privilege to serve my community by addressing the mental health needs of individuals from all walks of life.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who specializes in working with children, adolescents, and families. I have a passion for people and consider it a great privilege to serve my community by addressing the mental health needs of individuals from all walks of life.
![Photo of Katie Ziskind, BS, MA, LMFT, RYT500, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f60272a-75dc-4029-a1ea-80f71eca2288/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katie Ziskind
Marriage & Family Therapist, BS, MA, LMFT, RYT500
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melbourne, FL 32935
Are you fighting or arguing and feeling hopeless afterwards? Do you have a sexless marriage? Wishing you had more frequent sex? Wanting better communication skills, more intimacy and a better sex life? Are you stressed and frustrated with the state of your relationship and feeling sexually rejected, or avoiding sex all together? Stuck and needing help rebuilding sexual desire? It can be overwhelming without a safe place. I help distant couples rebuild their sex life. You get a safe place to talk about sex and intimacy in a confident and comfortable way. And, you can overcome anger, betrayal, secret keeping, and infidelity.
Are you fighting or arguing and feeling hopeless afterwards? Do you have a sexless marriage? Wishing you had more frequent sex? Wanting better communication skills, more intimacy and a better sex life? Are you stressed and frustrated with the state of your relationship and feeling sexually rejected, or avoiding sex all together? Stuck and needing help rebuilding sexual desire? It can be overwhelming without a safe place. I help distant couples rebuild their sex life. You get a safe place to talk about sex and intimacy in a confident and comfortable way. And, you can overcome anger, betrayal, secret keeping, and infidelity.
![Photo of Suzie M Ashmead - Ashmead EMDR & Counseling, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e5bf73a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashmead EMDR & Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Melbourne, FL 32935 (Online Only)
My work is influenced by the integration of several different forms of psychotherapy as well as mindfulness and holistic practices. I integrate EMDR therapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, into many aspects of my work. I have experience working with trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, cutting and self harm, and bereavement. My ongoing professional development includes levels I, II and III of EMDR training. I am currently qualified to practice EMDR based therapy with adults, adolescents, and children. I have received advanced training in attachment trauma in children from the Attachment and Trauma Center of Nebraska.
My work is influenced by the integration of several different forms of psychotherapy as well as mindfulness and holistic practices. I integrate EMDR therapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, into many aspects of my work. I have experience working with trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, cutting and self harm, and bereavement. My ongoing professional development includes levels I, II and III of EMDR training. I am currently qualified to practice EMDR based therapy with adults, adolescents, and children. I have received advanced training in attachment trauma in children from the Attachment and Trauma Center of Nebraska.
![Photo of LaTonia Simmons, MEd, MA, RMHCI](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3e1e91a-d5f8-44c4-bf27-3f3523eeec71/2/320x400.jpeg)
LaTonia Simmons
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MEd, MA, RMHCI
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Viera, FL 32940
You are the expert of your life. I will show you how to be vulnerable and genuine by being that way myself.
You are the expert of your life. I will show you how to be vulnerable and genuine by being that way myself.
![Photo of Tiffany Moore, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2187d854-5390-4334-b98b-61cd51663947/1/320x400.png)
The purpose of therapy is to take what you have learned and apply it outside. It is not always easy to make changes, and change can be scary, but once you put your words into action, the change can be beautiful. I have worked with people who struggle with substance use issues, depression, anxiety, and families. I have a passion for working with people in the BiPOC community. I want my clients to believe in themselves and what they can accomplish without needing external validation. My goal is for you to feel confident in your decision-making to process your needs/issues without relying on others.
The purpose of therapy is to take what you have learned and apply it outside. It is not always easy to make changes, and change can be scary, but once you put your words into action, the change can be beautiful. I have worked with people who struggle with substance use issues, depression, anxiety, and families. I have a passion for working with people in the BiPOC community. I want my clients to believe in themselves and what they can accomplish without needing external validation. My goal is for you to feel confident in your decision-making to process your needs/issues without relying on others.
See more therapy options for Indialantic
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Indialantic
- Cocoa
- Cocoa Beach
- Melbourne
- Merritt Island
- Palm Bay
- Rockledge
- Satellite Beach
- Sebastian
- Titusville
- Vero Beach
- Viera
- West Melbourne
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.