Play Therapy in Ponte Vedra, FL

Photo of Abigail Levrini - Psych Ed Connections @ Nocatee, PhD, Psychologist
Psych Ed Connections @ Nocatee
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ponte Vedra, FL 32081
Psych Ed Connections is a psychological and educational practice committed to integrating the best available research with clinical expertise. Owned by Dr. Abigail Levrini, leading ADHD expert and bestselling author, and operated by doctoral level clinicians, Psych Ed Connections desires to serve clients of all ages looking to achieve their educational and life goals, learn more about themselves, or reach their potential. We are experts in areas including ADHD, depression, anxiety, trauma, relationships, parenting, play therapy, and more. Psych Ed also conducts testing for Autism, ADHD, mood disorders, TBI and Giftedness.
Psych Ed Connections is a psychological and educational practice committed to integrating the best available research with clinical expertise. Owned by Dr. Abigail Levrini, leading ADHD expert and bestselling author, and operated by doctoral level clinicians, Psych Ed Connections desires to serve clients of all ages looking to achieve their educational and life goals, learn more about themselves, or reach their potential. We are experts in areas including ADHD, depression, anxiety, trauma, relationships, parenting, play therapy, and more. Psych Ed also conducts testing for Autism, ADHD, mood disorders, TBI and Giftedness.
(904) 342-1262 View (904) 342-1262
Photo of Maren Villavisanis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maren Villavisanis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra, FL 32082
I draw upon multiple creative approaches including play therapy, art therapy and person centered practices to meet individuals of all ages where they are, help them find their answers within, achieve goals and thrive in their relationships.
I have enjoyed counseling, playing with and learning from children, adolescents and their grown ups for the past twenty years. As a mother and therapist, I understand the magic and the challenges of childhood and parenting and the not so magical struggles that children and their families face. No matter our age, life presents many obstacles and opportunities to grow. In the overwhelming confusion, we can lose sight of all the things we are doing right. Through gentleness, compassion and empathy, I can help you find the answers already inside of you, experience joy, strengthen your relationships and have fun while doing so.
I draw upon multiple creative approaches including play therapy, art therapy and person centered practices to meet individuals of all ages where they are, help them find their answers within, achieve goals and thrive in their relationships.
I have enjoyed counseling, playing with and learning from children, adolescents and their grown ups for the past twenty years. As a mother and therapist, I understand the magic and the challenges of childhood and parenting and the not so magical struggles that children and their families face. No matter our age, life presents many obstacles and opportunities to grow. In the overwhelming confusion, we can lose sight of all the things we are doing right. Through gentleness, compassion and empathy, I can help you find the answers already inside of you, experience joy, strengthen your relationships and have fun while doing so.
(904) 587-4681 View (904) 587-4681
Photo of Melissa Dionne - Jax Beach Counseling, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jax Beach Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ponte Vedra, FL 32081
I have extensive training in Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT) and am certified as a play therapist.
Welcome. I'm Melissa Dionne, and my specialty is treating children, teens, couples, and families. While every client is unique, the challenges couples and families face are often similar: from parenting a toddler or a teen (all separate challenges), the day-to-day stressors, school issues, depression, anxiety, infidelity, or contemplating divorce to name just a few. My approach is holistic while utilizing research-based techniques. Remember the decision to enter therapy shows strength. It empowers you to make choices, to find peace and happiness in your life. To learn more visit my website: jaxbchcounseling.com.
I have extensive training in Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT) and am certified as a play therapist.
Welcome. I'm Melissa Dionne, and my specialty is treating children, teens, couples, and families. While every client is unique, the challenges couples and families face are often similar: from parenting a toddler or a teen (all separate challenges), the day-to-day stressors, school issues, depression, anxiety, infidelity, or contemplating divorce to name just a few. My approach is holistic while utilizing research-based techniques. Remember the decision to enter therapy shows strength. It empowers you to make choices, to find peace and happiness in your life. To learn more visit my website: jaxbchcounseling.com.
(904) 877-4911 View (904) 877-4911
Photo of Marcie Thomas, LMHC, Counselor
Marcie Thomas
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ponte Vedra, FL 32081
Life is hard. When you add anxiety, depression, school, and traumatic experiences to the mix, it can be difficult to cope. Life experiences can leave you with low self-esteem, lack of motivation, excessive negative thoughts, intrusive thoughts, feelings of detachment, negative mood, avoidance, and unhelpful behavior patterns. Together we can discover strategies to get unstuck and heal.
Life is hard. When you add anxiety, depression, school, and traumatic experiences to the mix, it can be difficult to cope. Life experiences can leave you with low self-esteem, lack of motivation, excessive negative thoughts, intrusive thoughts, feelings of detachment, negative mood, avoidance, and unhelpful behavior patterns. Together we can discover strategies to get unstuck and heal.
(904) 675-3773 View (904) 675-3773
Photo of Bobbie Jean Schorr-Way - Enlightened Way Therapy Services LLC, LMFT, PsyD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Enlightened Way Therapy Services LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra, FL 32081  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), I specialize in guiding couples, military personnel, combat veterans, and individuals through difficult life situations. I work with clients to address anxiety, depression, relational problems, self-esteem, trauma, PTSD, as well as grief and loss. Serving as both therapist and coach, my approach aims to instill hope and increase motivation in order to help clients achieve their goals. Let's navigate the complexities together, fostering healing, resilience, and personal growth. Your journey toward improved mental health and fulfilling relationships begins here.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), I specialize in guiding couples, military personnel, combat veterans, and individuals through difficult life situations. I work with clients to address anxiety, depression, relational problems, self-esteem, trauma, PTSD, as well as grief and loss. Serving as both therapist and coach, my approach aims to instill hope and increase motivation in order to help clients achieve their goals. Let's navigate the complexities together, fostering healing, resilience, and personal growth. Your journey toward improved mental health and fulfilling relationships begins here.
(858) 386-1673 View (858) 386-1673
Photo of Chelsie Coleman, MS, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Chelsie Coleman
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra, FL 32081
Waitlist for new clients
Sometimes sh*t happens. And It can be an overwhelming decision to ask for help, especially when contacting a stranger. What happens when the story I have for my life doesn’t go as planned? My dream job isn’t bringing the fulfillment I thought it would. I envisioned myself fully showing up in this world, but now my trauma leaves me powerless beneath my anxiety and depression. I identified with a religion that once gave me freedom, but now it leaves me in bondage. My family was once a safe haven, but now dad is drinking too much and everything I knew is gone.
Sometimes sh*t happens. And It can be an overwhelming decision to ask for help, especially when contacting a stranger. What happens when the story I have for my life doesn’t go as planned? My dream job isn’t bringing the fulfillment I thought it would. I envisioned myself fully showing up in this world, but now my trauma leaves me powerless beneath my anxiety and depression. I identified with a religion that once gave me freedom, but now it leaves me in bondage. My family was once a safe haven, but now dad is drinking too much and everything I knew is gone.
(904) 474-3715 View (904) 474-3715
Photo of Suzanne Marie Sierp, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Suzanne Marie Sierp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra, FL 32081
I consider my work to be less of a job and more of a calling. When you enter into therapy with me, I devote myself to our partnership. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is paramount and sacred. Your individuality is valued in our treatment; all treatment goals, plans, and activities are specifically curated to meet your needs. My knowledge spans various approaches to and applications of therapy. I am confident in the therapy I provide, and I am qualified to help you. I am licensed in two states and have many years of experience supervising newer therapists and Masters-level students.
I consider my work to be less of a job and more of a calling. When you enter into therapy with me, I devote myself to our partnership. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is paramount and sacred. Your individuality is valued in our treatment; all treatment goals, plans, and activities are specifically curated to meet your needs. My knowledge spans various approaches to and applications of therapy. I am confident in the therapy I provide, and I am qualified to help you. I am licensed in two states and have many years of experience supervising newer therapists and Masters-level students.
(904) 590-2930 View (904) 590-2930
Photo of Nelsy Villalobos, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nelsy Villalobos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra, FL 32082  (Online Only)
My name is Nelsy Villalobos. I am a licensed therapist with over 20 years of experience providing clinical and social work services. I specialize in the treatment of Trauma, Anxiety and Depression by employing Mindfulness Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Trauma Focused Therapy. My ideal client, the best match to my particular approach to therapy is the person with trauma and abuse history, anxiety, boundary problems, those who experience chronic unhappiness, chronic depression, self-esteem issues, or those who have experienced narcissistic and other forms of emotional abuse. Those in need of mindfulness or stress reduction.
My name is Nelsy Villalobos. I am a licensed therapist with over 20 years of experience providing clinical and social work services. I specialize in the treatment of Trauma, Anxiety and Depression by employing Mindfulness Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Trauma Focused Therapy. My ideal client, the best match to my particular approach to therapy is the person with trauma and abuse history, anxiety, boundary problems, those who experience chronic unhappiness, chronic depression, self-esteem issues, or those who have experienced narcissistic and other forms of emotional abuse. Those in need of mindfulness or stress reduction.
(904) 867-8457 View (904) 867-8457
Photo of Catherine Tillinghast, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Catherine Tillinghast
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra, FL 32082
Currently accepting new online clients only. Hello! You can call me Cat. I work with ages 10+ and specialize in bipolar disorder, major depression, and addiction. I am a compassionate and fun-loving therapist who welcomes everyone regardless of gender, race, identity, beliefs, or sexual orientation. This journey is about you and that is who I am here for. My passion lies in building meaningful and lasting therapeutic relationships with my clients. I take a humanistic and person-centered approach to treatment, focusing on you, your journey, your goals, and how to get there. (Don’t worry – we will figure that out together!)
Currently accepting new online clients only. Hello! You can call me Cat. I work with ages 10+ and specialize in bipolar disorder, major depression, and addiction. I am a compassionate and fun-loving therapist who welcomes everyone regardless of gender, race, identity, beliefs, or sexual orientation. This journey is about you and that is who I am here for. My passion lies in building meaningful and lasting therapeutic relationships with my clients. I take a humanistic and person-centered approach to treatment, focusing on you, your journey, your goals, and how to get there. (Don’t worry – we will figure that out together!)
(689) 336-7257 View (689) 336-7257
Photo of Rebecca Jones, LCSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra, FL 32081
Transitions in life can be extremely difficult. Do you find that you are second-guessing yourself and your choices? Would you like a neutral third party to help you process and facilitate your ability to make healthy boundaries with those around you? I specialize in women's issues in regards to new moms and transitions in parenting. I enjoy working with strong-willed children and teens while helping their family support them. Because of my passion for these populations, I provide weekend hours to work with my clients' busy schedules. I believe in creating a safe place for each client to unload and work through emotional issues.
Transitions in life can be extremely difficult. Do you find that you are second-guessing yourself and your choices? Would you like a neutral third party to help you process and facilitate your ability to make healthy boundaries with those around you? I specialize in women's issues in regards to new moms and transitions in parenting. I enjoy working with strong-willed children and teens while helping their family support them. Because of my passion for these populations, I provide weekend hours to work with my clients' busy schedules. I believe in creating a safe place for each client to unload and work through emotional issues.
(904) 606-8765 View (904) 606-8765

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Anna L Farrin - The Healing Playroom PLLC, LCSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Healing Playroom PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
We provide play therapy at 3 locations in Jacksonville: Neptune Beach, Riverside, and Ponte Vedra Beach. Children have a limited verbal ability to communicate how they think and feel about the world. Young children (ages 2-12) most naturally process and share emotionally significant experiences though play. Play is their language. At The Healing Playroom, Registered Play Therapists use the child's most natural form of communication, instead of asking them to use ours. Play Therapy is a respectful, effective, and developmentally appropriate way to help young children who are experiencing social, emotional, or behavioral problems.
We provide play therapy at 3 locations in Jacksonville: Neptune Beach, Riverside, and Ponte Vedra Beach. Children have a limited verbal ability to communicate how they think and feel about the world. Young children (ages 2-12) most naturally process and share emotionally significant experiences though play. Play is their language. At The Healing Playroom, Registered Play Therapists use the child's most natural form of communication, instead of asking them to use ours. Play Therapy is a respectful, effective, and developmentally appropriate way to help young children who are experiencing social, emotional, or behavioral problems.
(904) 572-4895 View (904) 572-4895
Photo of Elizabeth Flostrand, LMHC, QS, NCC, RPT, Counselor
Elizabeth Flostrand
Counselor, LMHC, QS, NCC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32081
Elizabeth is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Qualified Supervisor, and Registered Play Therapist. She earned a BA in Psychology from Flagler College, a MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and her certification in Play Therapy at Stetson University. She specializes in working with adolescents and adults to address symptoms of anxiety, depression, relationship/matiral issues, trauma, poor peer relations, grief, lack of coping skills, chronic illness and low self-esteem. She believes in a holistic approach to counseling and is able to adapt and alter her therapeutic approaches with each client based on their individual needs.
Elizabeth is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Qualified Supervisor, and Registered Play Therapist. She earned a BA in Psychology from Flagler College, a MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and her certification in Play Therapy at Stetson University. She specializes in working with adolescents and adults to address symptoms of anxiety, depression, relationship/matiral issues, trauma, poor peer relations, grief, lack of coping skills, chronic illness and low self-esteem. She believes in a holistic approach to counseling and is able to adapt and alter her therapeutic approaches with each client based on their individual needs.
(904) 844-0735 View (904) 844-0735
Photo of Macy Grim, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Macy Grim
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
As both a therapist and professor at the University of North Florida, I specialize in young children and parenting. I help families facilitate a healthy, loving relationship with each other while helping children learn how to feel, process, and communicate feelings. This leads to more connection and understanding of themselves and others. As a parenting and play therapist specialist, I work with children of divorce, anger, tantrums, trauma, sibling rivalry, anxiety, depression, academic difficulties, and self esteem issues.
As both a therapist and professor at the University of North Florida, I specialize in young children and parenting. I help families facilitate a healthy, loving relationship with each other while helping children learn how to feel, process, and communicate feelings. This leads to more connection and understanding of themselves and others. As a parenting and play therapist specialist, I work with children of divorce, anger, tantrums, trauma, sibling rivalry, anxiety, depression, academic difficulties, and self esteem issues.
(904) 736-7734 View (904) 736-7734
Photo of Jennifer Ferguson, EdD, LMHC, QSS, NCC, Counselor
Jennifer Ferguson
Counselor, EdD, LMHC, QSS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32081
The suite has a warm and inviting play therapy room, providing a safe environment for children and adolescents.
Helping kids, teens, families & individuals get past hurts & life challenges. I am committed to working with patients to discover and reach their goals. My value system and philosophies rest upon the belief; that individuals have tremendous strength, spirit, and a powerful capacity for change.
The suite has a warm and inviting play therapy room, providing a safe environment for children and adolescents.
Helping kids, teens, families & individuals get past hurts & life challenges. I am committed to working with patients to discover and reach their goals. My value system and philosophies rest upon the belief; that individuals have tremendous strength, spirit, and a powerful capacity for change.
(904) 900-5412 View (904) 900-5412
Photo of Christie Castner, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christie Castner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
My background is in working with young children to adults in their senior years, along with working with a clientele that spans across varying cultures, socioeconomic classes and family structures. I truly love what I do. I am constantly in awe of the people I meet and the bravery they show in their journey to confront issues and to lead a more balanced and satisfying life. Additionally, the genuine empathy and a sense of humor I bring to therapy assists in building the therapeutic relationship.
My background is in working with young children to adults in their senior years, along with working with a clientele that spans across varying cultures, socioeconomic classes and family structures. I truly love what I do. I am constantly in awe of the people I meet and the bravery they show in their journey to confront issues and to lead a more balanced and satisfying life. Additionally, the genuine empathy and a sense of humor I bring to therapy assists in building the therapeutic relationship.
(904) 853-3300 View (904) 853-3300
Photo of Valerie Paige Brink, LMHC, PA, Counselor
Valerie Paige Brink
Counselor, LMHC, PA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
My practice focuses on the most precious of all people, your children. From resolving family crises to empowering your child through life transitions, I guide the way in a nurturing environment. Counseling is a fun, playful process where your kids learn the skills they need to successfully navigate life.
My practice focuses on the most precious of all people, your children. From resolving family crises to empowering your child through life transitions, I guide the way in a nurturing environment. Counseling is a fun, playful process where your kids learn the skills they need to successfully navigate life.
(904) 478-8564 View (904) 478-8564
Photo of Jessi Holesko - Rivers Of Hope Counseling, LMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessi Holesko - Rivers Of Hope Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082  (Online Only)
Hi! My name is Jessi and I am here for all of your therapeutic needs! Many of our current ‘issues’ are deep rooted within ourselves, coming from relationships and environments from long ago, and up until today. Together we can explore this and figure out the best way for you to move forward. There is never any judgement here, I have worked with people of all ages, backgrounds, faiths, lifestyles, and classes. I like to keep things positive, many of my clients have said that therapy with me feels more comfortable and easier than they expected.
Hi! My name is Jessi and I am here for all of your therapeutic needs! Many of our current ‘issues’ are deep rooted within ourselves, coming from relationships and environments from long ago, and up until today. Together we can explore this and figure out the best way for you to move forward. There is never any judgement here, I have worked with people of all ages, backgrounds, faiths, lifestyles, and classes. I like to keep things positive, many of my clients have said that therapy with me feels more comfortable and easier than they expected.
(904) 872-8468 View (904) 872-8468
Photo of Jennifer Wolford, PsyD, Psychologist
Jennifer Wolford
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
Hello! I am passionate about the work I do helping children (ages 6+), adolescents, adults, and families find hope, peace, and healing in their lives. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, social phobia, grief, adjustment disorders, divorce-related issues, and post-abortion issues. I employ an eclectic mix of cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused, and child-centered family systems. I also frequently provide psychological testing to children and adults to evaluate emotional, personality, and behavioral concerns, as well as educational testing to assess learning problems, attention deficits, behavioral disturbances, developmental delays, and giftedness.
Hello! I am passionate about the work I do helping children (ages 6+), adolescents, adults, and families find hope, peace, and healing in their lives. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, social phobia, grief, adjustment disorders, divorce-related issues, and post-abortion issues. I employ an eclectic mix of cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused, and child-centered family systems. I also frequently provide psychological testing to children and adults to evaluate emotional, personality, and behavioral concerns, as well as educational testing to assess learning problems, attention deficits, behavioral disturbances, developmental delays, and giftedness.
(904) 423-8680 View (904) 423-8680
Photo of Robi E Tamargo, PsyD, Psychologist
Robi E Tamargo
Psychologist, PsyD
Not Verified Not Verified
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
I am an interactive, solution focused clinical psychologist with a treatment approach providing support and practical feedback to help you address your current life challenges or long-standing issues. With compassion and understanding, I will help you solve your problems. I have a Master's degree in Child Clinical Psychology with a cognitive-behavioral orientation and a Doctor of Psychology degree with a psychodynamic orientation. I draw from my extensive education, training, & practical experience to design an individualized, collaborative treatment plan. Call or e-mail me today!
I am an interactive, solution focused clinical psychologist with a treatment approach providing support and practical feedback to help you address your current life challenges or long-standing issues. With compassion and understanding, I will help you solve your problems. I have a Master's degree in Child Clinical Psychology with a cognitive-behavioral orientation and a Doctor of Psychology degree with a psychodynamic orientation. I draw from my extensive education, training, & practical experience to design an individualized, collaborative treatment plan. Call or e-mail me today!
(904) 513-9617 View (904) 513-9617
Photo of Zoe Trifilio Pfaffman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Zoe Trifilio Pfaffman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
I've had the great honor of walking with many on their amazing journey into happiness, serenity, mindful living, peaceful relations, and self-enlightenment. I am humbled to continue this work. Our journey will begin with meeting where you are, and with an understanding that everything is interconnected. This yields well to a holistic therapy form that encompasses mind, body, soul, social and spiritual. I am caring, results driven, analytical, emotionally and client focused, goal-oriented/solution focused, tactful, yet direct. I will educate you and give you practical guidance...even in your first session!
I've had the great honor of walking with many on their amazing journey into happiness, serenity, mindful living, peaceful relations, and self-enlightenment. I am humbled to continue this work. Our journey will begin with meeting where you are, and with an understanding that everything is interconnected. This yields well to a holistic therapy form that encompasses mind, body, soul, social and spiritual. I am caring, results driven, analytical, emotionally and client focused, goal-oriented/solution focused, tactful, yet direct. I will educate you and give you practical guidance...even in your first session!
(904) 479-1357 View (904) 479-1357

See more therapy options for Ponte Vedra

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.