Play Therapy in Rockledge, FL
![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 Joey Jachec - Joey Jachec, Flourish Counseling Services, LLC, MS, LMHC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a5a7af37-7731-4ef3-abe1-f6b023f73738/1/320x400.jpeg)
Joey Jachec, Flourish Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockledge, FL 32955
We may incorporate expressive arts or play based approaches.
Do you find yourself stuck, frustrated, or struggling in some way? Maybe you’re not sure why things are hard, or perhaps you have experienced something awful and wonder how you’ll ever move past it? When painful things happen, we can be left feeling confused, out of control, or unsure how to move forward and heal. You deserve to feel better and I would be honored to help.
We may incorporate expressive arts or play based approaches.
Do you find yourself stuck, frustrated, or struggling in some way? Maybe you’re not sure why things are hard, or perhaps you have experienced something awful and wonder how you’ll ever move past it? When painful things happen, we can be left feeling confused, out of control, or unsure how to move forward and heal. You deserve to feel better and I would be honored to help.
![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 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
Rockledge, FL 32955
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 Cecilia Land, LCSW-R, LCAT, ATR-BC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48959c3a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cecilia Land
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockledge, FL 32955
Welcome! I am a therapist with a wide range of experience who listens closely and pinpoints the issue(s) we should focus on. This way, as we work together, we can understand and unknot whatever gets in the way of your ability to get what you want out of life.
Welcome! I am a therapist with a wide range of experience who listens closely and pinpoints the issue(s) we should focus on. This way, as we work together, we can understand and unknot whatever gets in the way of your ability to get what you want out of life.
![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
Rockledge, FL 32955
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 Tommy Shoriak, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8198f3c0-74ee-471e-932f-11c339a9ef33/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed mental health counselor with over 12 years of clinical experience in various settings including inpatient residential, therapeutic foster care, community outpatient, and community crisis response. I specialize in working with children and adolescents with anxiety, depression, ADHD, oppositional behaviors, as well as various other diagnoses. I also work with adults who struggle with depression, suicidal ideation, anxiety, relationship issues, and divorce recovery. I have been trained in EMDR, Trauma Focused CBT, and the Parenting with Love and Limits program.
I am a licensed mental health counselor with over 12 years of clinical experience in various settings including inpatient residential, therapeutic foster care, community outpatient, and community crisis response. I specialize in working with children and adolescents with anxiety, depression, ADHD, oppositional behaviors, as well as various other diagnoses. I also work with adults who struggle with depression, suicidal ideation, anxiety, relationship issues, and divorce recovery. I have been trained in EMDR, Trauma Focused CBT, and the Parenting with Love and Limits program.
![Photo of Shetress Woods, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d9b3436-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Counseling is a therapeutic relationship that is developed between the therapist and the patient to achieve victory over challenges in life. Shetress Woods is a Christian Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a PH.D student in clinical sexology. She has had the pleasure, of providing therapeutic and social support for over 10 years. She desires to continue to assist others in achieving victory with a non-judgmental attitude, empathy, and encouragement. Shetress provides therapeutic services in areas that consist of, depression, anxiety, grief, domestic violence, and mental, emotional, and sexual abuse.
Counseling is a therapeutic relationship that is developed between the therapist and the patient to achieve victory over challenges in life. Shetress Woods is a Christian Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a PH.D student in clinical sexology. She has had the pleasure, of providing therapeutic and social support for over 10 years. She desires to continue to assist others in achieving victory with a non-judgmental attitude, empathy, and encouragement. Shetress provides therapeutic services in areas that consist of, depression, anxiety, grief, domestic violence, and mental, emotional, and sexual abuse.
![Photo of Alex Oropallo, RMHCI](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a9aa657-f810-41a7-8a9b-b5750cb54bea/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alex Oropallo
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, RMHCI
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rockledge, FL 32955
Greetings! I'm Alex Oropallo, a compassionate and dedicated therapist committed to providing support and guidance to individuals navigating the complexities of their emotional well-being. I specialize in working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community, survivors of complex trauma and sexual abuse, those who have faced ritualized abuse, and adolescents. I aim to foster a safe and confidential space for those seeking healing, growth, and understanding. My mission is to empower clients to overcome challenges, explore their identities, and build resilience.
Greetings! I'm Alex Oropallo, a compassionate and dedicated therapist committed to providing support and guidance to individuals navigating the complexities of their emotional well-being. I specialize in working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community, survivors of complex trauma and sexual abuse, those who have faced ritualized abuse, and adolescents. I aim to foster a safe and confidential space for those seeking healing, growth, and understanding. My mission is to empower clients to overcome challenges, explore their identities, and build resilience.
![Photo of Rebecca Thipsingh - Allies in Wellness, LLC, LCSW, TCT, LMHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6946660-fe6c-49f3-b344-d63fa7aa5a1f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Allies in Wellness, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, TCT, LMHC
Verified Verified
Rockledge, FL 32955
Allies in Wellness believes each day is an opportunity to become a better version of yourself. We serve children, adolescents, adults, couples / partners, and families who seek clarity, balance, insight, and self-acceptance. We're proud to offer specialized and individualized therapeutic services that are affirming to all and made accessible to many in a private practice group setting. We provide a supportive space to sort through the things that are impacting your daily life, the life of your children, and those you love.
Allies in Wellness believes each day is an opportunity to become a better version of yourself. We serve children, adolescents, adults, couples / partners, and families who seek clarity, balance, insight, and self-acceptance. We're proud to offer specialized and individualized therapeutic services that are affirming to all and made accessible to many in a private practice group setting. We provide a supportive space to sort through the things that are impacting your daily life, the life of your children, and those you love.
![Photo of Alan P. Smith, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e0f4a65-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alan P. Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rockledge, FL 32955 (Online Only)
I have worked over 33 years as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with clients of all ages. Working extensively with individuals, couples, and their families addressing a variety of issues including but not limited to: ADHD, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, divorce and serious mental health diagnoses. My commitment as a therapist has always been to achieve results in a safe environment for all my clients. My passion has been helping people becoming clear in what they want in life and realizing their potential.
I have worked over 33 years as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with clients of all ages. Working extensively with individuals, couples, and their families addressing a variety of issues including but not limited to: ADHD, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, divorce and serious mental health diagnoses. My commitment as a therapist has always been to achieve results in a safe environment for all my clients. My passion has been helping people becoming clear in what they want in life and realizing their potential.
![Photo of Laurie Paquette, PhD, QS-MHC, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40612f48-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Testing Cases only! You're probably here because something in your life isn't going as well as you'd like. Tired of being stuck at home, feeling more alone, isolated from friends and loved ones. These are challenging times and taking care of your mental health needs is important. I have 25 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults who struggle with a variety of challenges including anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and more. Let me help you feel better and lead a happier, healthier life! Thanks for reading my profile, I look forward to seeing you soon.
Accepting New Testing Cases only! You're probably here because something in your life isn't going as well as you'd like. Tired of being stuck at home, feeling more alone, isolated from friends and loved ones. These are challenging times and taking care of your mental health needs is important. I have 25 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults who struggle with a variety of challenges including anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and more. Let me help you feel better and lead a happier, healthier life! Thanks for reading my profile, I look forward to seeing you soon.
![Photo of Jennifer Wolf, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4835f9dc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My mission is to provide optimal psychological care to children, adolescents, adults and families. Services offered include individual and group therapy, consultation and marriage counseling. I have expertise in treating depression, ADHD, disruptive behavior disorders, and marital discord. Therapy goals can include motivating to change, implementing behavioral strategies for children and increasing communication skills to build better relationships. I can help you identify your specific goals and work to reach them by utilizing cognitive strategies that train your brain to work for you.
My mission is to provide optimal psychological care to children, adolescents, adults and families. Services offered include individual and group therapy, consultation and marriage counseling. I have expertise in treating depression, ADHD, disruptive behavior disorders, and marital discord. Therapy goals can include motivating to change, implementing behavioral strategies for children and increasing communication skills to build better relationships. I can help you identify your specific goals and work to reach them by utilizing cognitive strategies that train your brain to work for you.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Mary Alice Green, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e51c7a6-1362-4b6c-9bc5-0f49f92e2775/3/320x400.jpeg)
Individual and family meetings using play and behavior therapy, filial therapy, anxiety management / relaxation and cognitive behavioral interventions.
Licensed Mental Health Counselor since 1992, serving adults, children and their families. Over 30 yrs experience specializing in children and adolescent issues: school, behavioral, anxiety/mood disorders, special needs, ADHD, ASD (Autism Spectrum disorders) and developmental delays. Internship completed at Devereux Children's Hospital working with Autism Spectrum and behavioral disorders. Experienced working in-home and schools with children and families regarding abuse and neglect, foster care, adoption, attachment disorders and behavioral issues. Coordinated on-site counseling programs for children and families in schools and home
Individual and family meetings using play and behavior therapy, filial therapy, anxiety management / relaxation and cognitive behavioral interventions.
Licensed Mental Health Counselor since 1992, serving adults, children and their families. Over 30 yrs experience specializing in children and adolescent issues: school, behavioral, anxiety/mood disorders, special needs, ADHD, ASD (Autism Spectrum disorders) and developmental delays. Internship completed at Devereux Children's Hospital working with Autism Spectrum and behavioral disorders. Experienced working in-home and schools with children and families regarding abuse and neglect, foster care, adoption, attachment disorders and behavioral issues. Coordinated on-site counseling programs for children and families in schools and home
![Photo of Kerry Berner, BSW, MA, EdS, LMHC-QS, RPT-S, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d7e520b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kerry Berner
Counselor, BSW, MA, EdS, LMHC-QS, RPT-S
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Merritt Island, FL 32952
Now accepting Counselor Supervision and Play Therapy Supervision! At Brevard Counseling, we have counselors who work with CHILDREN as young as 4 using Play Therapy in our Play Therapy Rooms, ADOLESCENTS (struggling with peer pressure, anxiety, divorce, and school issues), INDIVIDUALS (with grief, anxiety, depression, substance issues), and COUPLES/MARRIAGE utilizing the Gottman Method. We have 2 locations! Merritt Island (4 counseling rooms & 1 Play Therapy room) Rockledge (2 counseling rooms & 1 Play Therapy room). We offer many different rate plans including sliding fees if needed and some insurance plans.
Now accepting Counselor Supervision and Play Therapy Supervision! At Brevard Counseling, we have counselors who work with CHILDREN as young as 4 using Play Therapy in our Play Therapy Rooms, ADOLESCENTS (struggling with peer pressure, anxiety, divorce, and school issues), INDIVIDUALS (with grief, anxiety, depression, substance issues), and COUPLES/MARRIAGE utilizing the Gottman Method. We have 2 locations! Merritt Island (4 counseling rooms & 1 Play Therapy room) Rockledge (2 counseling rooms & 1 Play Therapy room). We offer many different rate plans including sliding fees if needed and some insurance plans.
![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
Merritt Island, FL 32952
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 Sherry Welch - Counseling-Consulting-Coaching of Brevard, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aed5a6e9-aefc-4ee3-a8c0-8d67e1a47667/5/320x400.jpeg)
Counseling-Consulting-Coaching of Brevard
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Merritt Island, FL 32952
Her approach to therapy incorporates Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Solution Focused, Mindfulness and Play Therapy.
Sherry is a mental health counselor who works with children, adolescents, and adults. She has experience working in grief and addiction counseling with both individuals and in family settings. Sherry works with both children and adults who are working through post-traumatic stress, attachment disorders, and ADHD management.
Her approach to therapy incorporates Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Solution Focused, Mindfulness and Play Therapy.
Sherry is a mental health counselor who works with children, adolescents, and adults. She has experience working in grief and addiction counseling with both individuals and in family settings. Sherry works with both children and adults who are working through post-traumatic stress, attachment disorders, and ADHD management.
![Photo of Stephanie Gray Registered Play Therapist, LMHC, NCC, RPT, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a49e268-f41f-452c-916c-6e3431621149/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Gray Registered Play Therapist
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Merritt Island, FL 32952
Sometimes life sucks - Maybe right now, it’s one of those times. Most people feel stuck repeating the same painful patterns - Perhaps you can relate. Maybe you know you’d be happier if you made changes but it feels safer and more comfortable to stay the same. Stuck in negativity and feeling out of control, you may feel like life is out of control. Since you're reading this, there is likely a fire inside you that wants to take control.
Sometimes life sucks - Maybe right now, it’s one of those times. Most people feel stuck repeating the same painful patterns - Perhaps you can relate. Maybe you know you’d be happier if you made changes but it feels safer and more comfortable to stay the same. Stuck in negativity and feeling out of control, you may feel like life is out of control. Since you're reading this, there is likely a fire inside you that wants to take control.
![Photo of Prof. Tammy M Lajoie - Tammy Lajoie Therapeutic Behavior Health Wellness , MA, NASMBCS, ACT, TF-CBT, PRELMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be5bb31f-3c88-4158-a4ab-7e0940e9ad2d/4/320x400.jpeg)
Tammy Lajoie Therapeutic Behavior Health Wellness
MA, NASMBCS, ACT, TF-CBT, PRELMHC
Verified Verified
Viera, FL 32955
Lifes unique journey requires empowering souls to understand their triggers and need for healthy coping skills and addressing concerns. I believe counseling helps individuals better understand their behaviors, thoughts, and feelings, while discovering and implementing more effective communication and interaction skills. Counseling is a professional therapeutic relationship and I am dedicated to helping all individuals who struggle. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, adjustment, PTSD, emotional dysregulation, trauma, chronic illness and diagnosis, relationships, and social factors, together we can make progress.
Lifes unique journey requires empowering souls to understand their triggers and need for healthy coping skills and addressing concerns. I believe counseling helps individuals better understand their behaviors, thoughts, and feelings, while discovering and implementing more effective communication and interaction skills. Counseling is a professional therapeutic relationship and I am dedicated to helping all individuals who struggle. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, adjustment, PTSD, emotional dysregulation, trauma, chronic illness and diagnosis, relationships, and social factors, together we can make progress.
![Photo of Nicolle Conley, RMHCI, MC, MEd](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d65c996-09f7-4e07-992a-172fd0cce6b6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nicolle Conley
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, RMHCI, MC, MEd
Verified Verified
Merritt Island, FL 32952 (Online Only)
Experience and education have taught me to sit along side... and to listen to the needs of my clients. Allow me the opportunity to share in your experience. Through conversation, activities, and warmth, I will help you move through barriers to find your joy! As a counselor, my primary focus is to help individuals overcome their personal challenges and achieve their goals. I provide a safe and non-judgmental environment for my clients to explore their thoughts and feelings, and work towards developing a better understanding of themselves. My counseling style is warm, empathetic, and supportive, yet also challenging when needed.
Experience and education have taught me to sit along side... and to listen to the needs of my clients. Allow me the opportunity to share in your experience. Through conversation, activities, and warmth, I will help you move through barriers to find your joy! As a counselor, my primary focus is to help individuals overcome their personal challenges and achieve their goals. I provide a safe and non-judgmental environment for my clients to explore their thoughts and feelings, and work towards developing a better understanding of themselves. My counseling style is warm, empathetic, and supportive, yet also challenging when needed.
See more therapy options for Rockledge
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Rockledge
- Cocoa
- Cocoa Beach
- Indialantic
- Melbourne
- Merritt Island
- Oviedo
- Palm Bay
- Saint Cloud
- Satellite Beach
- Titusville
- 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.