Play Therapy in Parkland, FL
![Photo of Lauren Fisher, LMHC, EdS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7c71764e-6895-49f1-88a0-0d5cc64a8257/1/320x400.jpeg)
I also have training in play techniques as well as child development and mental health.
Welcome! I am so glad you are here. My name is Lauren, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Coral Springs, FL, and virtually throughout Florida. In my approach to counseling I value developing a strong therapeutic relationship with all of my clients as I believe it is vital for personal growth and healing to occur. I tailor treatment to each individual as I maintain ongoing collaboration and communication with them. I truly understand that individuals are resilient and they have the power within themselves to gain self-awareness and make positive changes in their lives.
I also have training in play techniques as well as child development and mental health.
Welcome! I am so glad you are here. My name is Lauren, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Coral Springs, FL, and virtually throughout Florida. In my approach to counseling I value developing a strong therapeutic relationship with all of my clients as I believe it is vital for personal growth and healing to occur. I tailor treatment to each individual as I maintain ongoing collaboration and communication with them. I truly understand that individuals are resilient and they have the power within themselves to gain self-awareness and make positive changes in their lives.
![Photo of Andrea Vargas, LMHC, RPT-S™, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a3fd01ba-bce5-485e-a86c-77230eecd56c/3/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in child and adolescent counseling and I'm a Registered Play Therapist, Play Therapy is known as the most effective treatment modality for children ages 3-12.
You have been trying to help your child for a few months now. You are frustrated, tired and worried. All you want is for your child to feel good about themselves, get along with others and be successful. You have tried sticker charts, time-out, taking things away, talking and reasoning with them. Lately, what usually happens is you lose your patience and then regret yelling at them. You never imagined you would be looking for therapy for your child. Maybe it's the school that has suggested you get help for your child. At this point, you just want a professional to take over because you just don't know what else to do anymore.
I specialize in child and adolescent counseling and I'm a Registered Play Therapist, Play Therapy is known as the most effective treatment modality for children ages 3-12.
You have been trying to help your child for a few months now. You are frustrated, tired and worried. All you want is for your child to feel good about themselves, get along with others and be successful. You have tried sticker charts, time-out, taking things away, talking and reasoning with them. Lately, what usually happens is you lose your patience and then regret yelling at them. You never imagined you would be looking for therapy for your child. Maybe it's the school that has suggested you get help for your child. At this point, you just want a professional to take over because you just don't know what else to do anymore.
![Photo of Joanna Marko - Autism And Child Therapist, LMHC, ASDCS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c35cef2-2bbb-4c0a-bbc7-3eade20a696c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Joanna Marko - Autism And Child Therapist
Counselor, LMHC, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Parkland, FL 33067
I take a unique approach in utilizing Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy with Client-Centered Play Therapy to meet the individualized needs of children both typical and neurodiverse.
Healthy relationships are the foundation of your child’s resilience. Sense of Resiliency Counseling offers child and family therapy, specializing in trauma, behavioral challenges and Autism Spectrum Disorder. When we begin to focus not on the behaviors, but on the root cause and emotional needs, that is when healing truly begins.
I take a unique approach in utilizing Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy with Client-Centered Play Therapy to meet the individualized needs of children both typical and neurodiverse.
Healthy relationships are the foundation of your child’s resilience. Sense of Resiliency Counseling offers child and family therapy, specializing in trauma, behavioral challenges and Autism Spectrum Disorder. When we begin to focus not on the behaviors, but on the root cause and emotional needs, that is when healing truly begins.
![Photo of Kristen Camacho, MS, MSB, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1ae99a25-66f7-4c88-a002-159a38cb2a03/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kristen Camacho
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MSB, LMFT
Verified Verified
Parkland, FL 33067 (Online Only)
Greetings! I'm Kristen, a dedicated therapist with a passion for guiding individuals and families through the transformative power of Narrative and Collaborative Therapy. Embarking on a therapeutic journey requires courage, and I am honored to walk alongside you. Together, we will unravel patterns, explore untold stories, and co-author a narrative that reflects your authentic self. Whether you're navigating challenges in your marriage, family dynamics, or personal growth, I am committed to providing a safe and compassionate space for your unique narrative to unfold.
Greetings! I'm Kristen, a dedicated therapist with a passion for guiding individuals and families through the transformative power of Narrative and Collaborative Therapy. Embarking on a therapeutic journey requires courage, and I am honored to walk alongside you. Together, we will unravel patterns, explore untold stories, and co-author a narrative that reflects your authentic self. Whether you're navigating challenges in your marriage, family dynamics, or personal growth, I am committed to providing a safe and compassionate space for your unique narrative to unfold.
![Photo of Deborah Eve Grayson, PhD, LMHC, PTR, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/488cb80a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am humbled to work in a profession where I am often the first person to bear witness to stories of strength, transition, pain, loss and celebration from diverse populations; individuals, couples, LGBTQ populations and families in need of tools to better understand, navigate, balance and enjoy their lives. It is both a science and an art to be able to counsel effectively. I specialize in Sex Therapy, Brief Solution-Focused Therapy, Clinical Hypnosis, Eating Disorders, Expressive Arts Therapies and Cognitive Behavioral modalities for over 35 years and I am continuously learning new skills to better serve my client base.
I am humbled to work in a profession where I am often the first person to bear witness to stories of strength, transition, pain, loss and celebration from diverse populations; individuals, couples, LGBTQ populations and families in need of tools to better understand, navigate, balance and enjoy their lives. It is both a science and an art to be able to counsel effectively. I specialize in Sex Therapy, Brief Solution-Focused Therapy, Clinical Hypnosis, Eating Disorders, Expressive Arts Therapies and Cognitive Behavioral modalities for over 35 years and I am continuously learning new skills to better serve my client base.
![Photo of Joseph Rabinovitz, EdD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48df69c3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
This summer marks 37 years that I have had the pleasure and privilege of working with children and families in Boca Raton and the surrounding areas. Having grown up in Boston and trained at Boston University and Massachusetts General Hospital I need to disclose I am still a Red Sox fan. My expertise lies in rendering therapy to children and families and consulting with parents to help them make sense of and deal with the myriad of challenges that our children present. I do not conduct conduct Psychological/Educational Evaluations so if necessary I will refer families to our local experts.
This summer marks 37 years that I have had the pleasure and privilege of working with children and families in Boca Raton and the surrounding areas. Having grown up in Boston and trained at Boston University and Massachusetts General Hospital I need to disclose I am still a Red Sox fan. My expertise lies in rendering therapy to children and families and consulting with parents to help them make sense of and deal with the myriad of challenges that our children present. I do not conduct conduct Psychological/Educational Evaluations so if necessary I will refer families to our local experts.
![Photo of Janelle Yvonne Perritte, LCSW, MPA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4917a8e7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Janelle Yvonne Perritte
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parkland, FL 33076 (Online Only)
Transitioning from a traumatic event or other major life experience can be challenging and may create problems at work, school, or with family and friends. I specialize in treating individuals with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder as well as the disorders (depression, anxiety, substance abuse) that accompany trauma. I use evidence-based therapies, which are gold standard interventions, proven to decrease symptoms associated with mental health disorders. These therapies help develop skills that can greatly improve your quality of life.
Transitioning from a traumatic event or other major life experience can be challenging and may create problems at work, school, or with family and friends. I specialize in treating individuals with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder as well as the disorders (depression, anxiety, substance abuse) that accompany trauma. I use evidence-based therapies, which are gold standard interventions, proven to decrease symptoms associated with mental health disorders. These therapies help develop skills that can greatly improve your quality of life.
![Photo of Laurie Shoats, BS, MMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/629c96ae-d8d4-4910-a3b8-3b8b8a377610/6/320x400.jpeg)
Laurie Shoats
Marriage & Family Therapist, BS, MMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Parkland, FL 33067 (Online Only)
With almost 40 years experience, Laurie Shoats specializes in Couples, including infidelity recovery, trust and communication issues , Anger Management, Women's Issues, including intimacy and empowerment and Parenting Skills. Laurie Shoats is a dedicated professional who is adept in assisting her clients reach their personal goals. Laurie believes in finding Real Life Solutions for life's challenges. Laurie is referred to as patient, knowledgeable and easy to talk to. Laurie's ideal clients want to start finding solutions from day 1. I am currently doing Telemental Health/Remote sessions so I am able to serve ALL of Florida.
With almost 40 years experience, Laurie Shoats specializes in Couples, including infidelity recovery, trust and communication issues , Anger Management, Women's Issues, including intimacy and empowerment and Parenting Skills. Laurie Shoats is a dedicated professional who is adept in assisting her clients reach their personal goals. Laurie believes in finding Real Life Solutions for life's challenges. Laurie is referred to as patient, knowledgeable and easy to talk to. Laurie's ideal clients want to start finding solutions from day 1. I am currently doing Telemental Health/Remote sessions so I am able to serve ALL of Florida.
![Photo of Judy Gunn, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c9ec203-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As human beings, we are hard-wired to be securely connected in relationship. We are happier and even live longer lives. At the same time, we are hard-wired to protect ourselves which can create a lot of conflict in relationship with others and with our authenticate self.
As human beings, we are hard-wired to be securely connected in relationship. We are happier and even live longer lives. At the same time, we are hard-wired to protect ourselves which can create a lot of conflict in relationship with others and with our authenticate self.
![Photo of Hayley Kirchoff, LMHC, NCC, RPT, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3fc5678-8e90-4bc9-a426-65e72bc275a0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hayley Kirchoff
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, RPT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Parkland, FL 33067
Waitlist for new clients
You wish you could make it stop. The little voice inside your head that tells you, “You’ll never be good enough.” You’re losing sleep. You feel exhausted. And yet you just can’t seem to get that little voice to be quiet, even for just a few minutes a day. It started when you were a child, from a critical parent who demanded you get straight As on your report card, participate in numerous sports, and volunteer on the weekend. And when you weren’t perfect, their disappointment was known. You were used to the silent treatment. You were used to being afraid of their reaction. You were used to the unachievable standard.
You wish you could make it stop. The little voice inside your head that tells you, “You’ll never be good enough.” You’re losing sleep. You feel exhausted. And yet you just can’t seem to get that little voice to be quiet, even for just a few minutes a day. It started when you were a child, from a critical parent who demanded you get straight As on your report card, participate in numerous sports, and volunteer on the weekend. And when you weren’t perfect, their disappointment was known. You were used to the silent treatment. You were used to being afraid of their reaction. You were used to the unachievable standard.
![Photo of Christina Sullivan - Broward Therapy Group, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/812aa50e-1155-437d-82d4-03228c4c636b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Broward Therapy Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parkland, FL 33067
We are dedicated to empowering individuals—children, adolescents, and adults—navigating the complexities of ADHD, autism/Asperger’s, anxiety, OCD, and other neurodiversities, facilitating success through a thoughtful and expert approach. We employ a personalized, neuro-affirming, and comprehensive strategy, utilizing multi-disciplinary interventions. This approach not only addresses immediate challenges but also cultivates connections, enhances confidence, and fosters independence. Our focus extends beyond short-term goals, aiming to equip individuals with the skills essential for sustained social, emotional and academic success.
We are dedicated to empowering individuals—children, adolescents, and adults—navigating the complexities of ADHD, autism/Asperger’s, anxiety, OCD, and other neurodiversities, facilitating success through a thoughtful and expert approach. We employ a personalized, neuro-affirming, and comprehensive strategy, utilizing multi-disciplinary interventions. This approach not only addresses immediate challenges but also cultivates connections, enhances confidence, and fosters independence. Our focus extends beyond short-term goals, aiming to equip individuals with the skills essential for sustained social, emotional and academic success.
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![Photo of Samantha Carella - Pediatric Psychology Associates, PsyD, ABPP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46db8081-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Pediatric Psychology Associates
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parkland, FL 33067
Pediatric Psychology Associates (PPA) is a specialized practice composed of highly qualified and dedicated clinicians. Our therapists are caring and experienced in dealing with a range of issues affecting children and their families. Services provided include comprehensive psychological/psychoeducational evaluations, neuropsychological evaluations, individual and family psychotherapy, social thinking and psychotherapy groups, and consults/trainings to schools, medical professionals in the community. Clinicians at PPA have expertise in the assessment and treatment of ADHD, autism, learning disabilities, eating disorders, anxiety and OCD, behavioral medicine issues, and general emotional/psychological concerns. Our practice also focuses on aspects of positive psychology and general enhancement of quality of life.
Pediatric Psychology Associates (PPA) is a specialized practice composed of highly qualified and dedicated clinicians. Our therapists are caring and experienced in dealing with a range of issues affecting children and their families. Services provided include comprehensive psychological/psychoeducational evaluations, neuropsychological evaluations, individual and family psychotherapy, social thinking and psychotherapy groups, and consults/trainings to schools, medical professionals in the community. Clinicians at PPA have expertise in the assessment and treatment of ADHD, autism, learning disabilities, eating disorders, anxiety and OCD, behavioral medicine issues, and general emotional/psychological concerns. Our practice also focuses on aspects of positive psychology and general enhancement of quality of life.
![Photo of Margie Engle, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9eb019c7-0c19-43e0-a30b-763e44e639fb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you tired of feeling stressed, anxious or depressed? Seeking support is the first step and I can help. My masters degree is in school and mental health counseling. I have years experience working with children, adults and families with depression, anxiety, self-harm, eating disorders and behavioral issues. I am a certified special educator, certified school counselor and a licensed mental health counselor. My focus is identifying the antecedents to the behavior(s) that need to be shaped. I then develop a successful treatment plan that specifically meets the needs of the child and family. Free consultations available
Are you tired of feeling stressed, anxious or depressed? Seeking support is the first step and I can help. My masters degree is in school and mental health counseling. I have years experience working with children, adults and families with depression, anxiety, self-harm, eating disorders and behavioral issues. I am a certified special educator, certified school counselor and a licensed mental health counselor. My focus is identifying the antecedents to the behavior(s) that need to be shaped. I then develop a successful treatment plan that specifically meets the needs of the child and family. Free consultations available
![Photo of Kathryn Doll - Kathryn Doll LLC, LCSW, MA, ATR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42bc88d8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kathryn Doll LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA, ATR
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Parkland, FL 33076
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling with emptiness, sadness, or constant worry? Do you feel controlled by anxiety or difficult events from the past? Do you use up all your energy to trudge through life, barely managing what needs to be done? If you have experienced trauma, you may feel hopeless about the future and haunted by the past. Are you in search of a supportive and caring healing process? If you or someone you love is feeling lost, broken, or depleted, I can help. If you are struggling to move forward, there is hope to overcome barriers and live a healthier, happier life.
Are you struggling with emptiness, sadness, or constant worry? Do you feel controlled by anxiety or difficult events from the past? Do you use up all your energy to trudge through life, barely managing what needs to be done? If you have experienced trauma, you may feel hopeless about the future and haunted by the past. Are you in search of a supportive and caring healing process? If you or someone you love is feeling lost, broken, or depleted, I can help. If you are struggling to move forward, there is hope to overcome barriers and live a healthier, happier life.
![Photo of Marie Therese Rogers, PhD, RYT, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59b809c2-5867-41d4-b73b-8f467ffa099e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! There is no limit to how good, how healthy and how energized you can feel! I am the host of the LIFE in FOCUS podcast, which has an accompanying blog by the same name, and am all about connecting the fields of psychoneuroimmunology (the mind -body connection), executive functioning and mindfulness. I invite you to check out my podcast and blog.
Welcome! There is no limit to how good, how healthy and how energized you can feel! I am the host of the LIFE in FOCUS podcast, which has an accompanying blog by the same name, and am all about connecting the fields of psychoneuroimmunology (the mind -body connection), executive functioning and mindfulness. I invite you to check out my podcast and blog.
![Photo of Eric J Nach, PhD, MEd, ASDc, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e8158237-5c7f-40a3-9fe9-883b3e76ef6e/3/320x400.jpeg)
WE PROVIDE THE SERVICES, SCHOOLS JUST CAN'T! With a Ph.D. focusing on “Instructional Use of Research-Based Interventions for Students with an Autism Spectrum Disorder”, I am a former ESE Department Chairperson and teacher, past and current National Speaker on many topics relating to ASD, ADHD and behaviors. At our “Counseling and Learning Center”, since 2012, my team of Counselors, Coaches and I conduct *College Life Skills, *Individual and Family Counseling, *Therapeutic Social Skills, *Executive Functioning, and *Behavior Modification Programs, Parent Training and much more.
WE PROVIDE THE SERVICES, SCHOOLS JUST CAN'T! With a Ph.D. focusing on “Instructional Use of Research-Based Interventions for Students with an Autism Spectrum Disorder”, I am a former ESE Department Chairperson and teacher, past and current National Speaker on many topics relating to ASD, ADHD and behaviors. At our “Counseling and Learning Center”, since 2012, my team of Counselors, Coaches and I conduct *College Life Skills, *Individual and Family Counseling, *Therapeutic Social Skills, *Executive Functioning, and *Behavior Modification Programs, Parent Training and much more.
![Photo of Brooke Botko, MS, LMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/75ff4da1-58e7-4487-8235-74022ad7eebc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brooke Botko
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parkland, FL 33067
Brooke Botko is a dedicated Licensed Mental Health Counselor who earned her Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Nova Southeastern University. Serving clients virtually or in-person in Boca Raton, Florida, Brooke specializes in supporting children, teens, and adults facing behavioral and mental health challenges. With a deep passion for helping others, Brooke has extensive experience working with individuals and groups across a diverse range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, stress management, anger, school-related anxiety, self-harm, and family conflict. Brooke is committed to prov
Brooke Botko is a dedicated Licensed Mental Health Counselor who earned her Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Nova Southeastern University. Serving clients virtually or in-person in Boca Raton, Florida, Brooke specializes in supporting children, teens, and adults facing behavioral and mental health challenges. With a deep passion for helping others, Brooke has extensive experience working with individuals and groups across a diverse range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, stress management, anger, school-related anxiety, self-harm, and family conflict. Brooke is committed to prov
![Photo of Dr. Bianca Howard, PsyD](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2a5ea596-1839-47a9-af89-ebb004378083/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have experience in treating Post Traumatic Stress, high family conflict, reunification therapy, parenting concerns, mood disorders, anxiety, behavioral concerns, and comprehensive psychological evaluations. Additionally, I have extensive experience in treating medical adherence related issues, coping with chronic medical conditions and medical trauma.
I have experience in treating Post Traumatic Stress, high family conflict, reunification therapy, parenting concerns, mood disorders, anxiety, behavioral concerns, and comprehensive psychological evaluations. Additionally, I have extensive experience in treating medical adherence related issues, coping with chronic medical conditions and medical trauma.
![Photo of Nadiya Boyce, RMHCI, MEd, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d306d374-4408-4a03-8f73-c250a5ed3a7d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nadiya Boyce
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, RMHCI, MEd, NCC
Verified Verified
Parkland, FL 33073
Hello! My mission is to create a therapeutic relationship where women, mother, and kids are able to explore their perspectives, learn to thrive in a complicated world, and support parents in assisting their child with their growth. I work with children between the ages of 5 and 18, women, and mothers. I have participated in training on working with neurodiverse individuals, EMDR, perinatal mental health, trauma-informed practices, expressive arts therapy, and Gottman Method Level 1 couples therapy.
Hello! My mission is to create a therapeutic relationship where women, mother, and kids are able to explore their perspectives, learn to thrive in a complicated world, and support parents in assisting their child with their growth. I work with children between the ages of 5 and 18, women, and mothers. I have participated in training on working with neurodiverse individuals, EMDR, perinatal mental health, trauma-informed practices, expressive arts therapy, and Gottman Method Level 1 couples therapy.
![Photo of Alexsey Goodman, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/72bc5c4f-5a0e-4834-9e56-e396f2d2d416/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! My name is Alexsey Goodman. I am an Independent Contract Clinician at Genesis Counseling with locations in Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Coral Springs and virtually throughout the state. I obtained my Master of Science Degree in Social Work at Columbia University. I have multiple years of experience working with children and families in a variety of settings, such as non-profit organizations, schools and outpatient clinics. I have worked with children of all ages, who have a multitude of diagnoses including, Depression, ADHD, Parent/Child Relational Problems, Anxiety, Mood, Adjustment and those on the Autism Spectrum.
Hi! My name is Alexsey Goodman. I am an Independent Contract Clinician at Genesis Counseling with locations in Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Coral Springs and virtually throughout the state. I obtained my Master of Science Degree in Social Work at Columbia University. I have multiple years of experience working with children and families in a variety of settings, such as non-profit organizations, schools and outpatient clinics. I have worked with children of all ages, who have a multitude of diagnoses including, Depression, ADHD, Parent/Child Relational Problems, Anxiety, Mood, Adjustment and those on the Autism Spectrum.
See more therapy options for Parkland
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Parkland
- Boca Raton
- Coconut Creek
- Coral Springs
- Deerfield Beach
- Fort Lauderdale
- Margate
- North Lauderdale
- Plantation
- Pompano Beach
- Sunrise
- Tamarac
- Wilton Manors
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.