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Online Therapists

Photo of Jen Aleixo, RMHCI, RBT, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jen Aleixo
Pre-Licensed Professional, RMHCI, RBT, MS
Verified Verified
Port Saint Lucie, FL 34984
With a masters in counseling and behavior analysis, I tailor my approach with holistic and evidence-based practices including Solution Focused Therapy, Behavioral Therapy, Positive Psychology, Art Therapy, Play Therapy, Self-Awareness Meditation, Sound Healing, Motivational Interviewing, Humanistic Perspective, and Self Care Advocacy.
Welcome to a sanctuary of healing! I am dedicated to cultivating a safe and nurturing environment where clients can freely explore their emotions, beliefs, and experiences without judgment. I specialize in crafting personalized solutions for clients facing life transitions, relationship dynamics, self-worth struggles, and behavior modification. Additionally, I provide support and guidance to both children and women navigating the complexities of anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. It is my passion to empower women and children to harness their inner strengths and resources on their personal journey.
With a masters in counseling and behavior analysis, I tailor my approach with holistic and evidence-based practices including Solution Focused Therapy, Behavioral Therapy, Positive Psychology, Art Therapy, Play Therapy, Self-Awareness Meditation, Sound Healing, Motivational Interviewing, Humanistic Perspective, and Self Care Advocacy.
Welcome to a sanctuary of healing! I am dedicated to cultivating a safe and nurturing environment where clients can freely explore their emotions, beliefs, and experiences without judgment. I specialize in crafting personalized solutions for clients facing life transitions, relationship dynamics, self-worth struggles, and behavior modification. Additionally, I provide support and guidance to both children and women navigating the complexities of anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. It is my passion to empower women and children to harness their inner strengths and resources on their personal journey.
(772) 404-3829 View (772) 404-3829
Photo of Katie Ingram, LMHC, RPT-S, Counselor
Katie Ingram
Counselor, LMHC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Royal Palm Beach, FL 33411
Her approach to therapy embraces a distinct range of psychological, behavioral, and spiritual perspectives including play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and brief solution-focused therapy.
Katie Ingram has worked in the mental health industry since 2007 and provided psychotherapy services in Florida since 2016. In addition to being a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Qualified Supervisor, Katie is a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor and uses play therapy with children ages 5+. She is a Guardian ad Litem in the 15th Circuit, Palm Beach County, and a Certified Emergency Responder and Public Safety Clinician. Katie is also certified to conduct Juvenile Competency Evaluations in the State of Florida.
Her approach to therapy embraces a distinct range of psychological, behavioral, and spiritual perspectives including play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and brief solution-focused therapy.
Katie Ingram has worked in the mental health industry since 2007 and provided psychotherapy services in Florida since 2016. In addition to being a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Qualified Supervisor, Katie is a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor and uses play therapy with children ages 5+. She is a Guardian ad Litem in the 15th Circuit, Palm Beach County, and a Certified Emergency Responder and Public Safety Clinician. Katie is also certified to conduct Juvenile Competency Evaluations in the State of Florida.
(561) 462-8758 View (561) 462-8758
Photo of Jada Holmes, MEd, LMHC, NCC
Jada Holmes
MEd, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Coral Springs, FL 33065  (Online Only)
Play therapy is used with children who need help with emotional regulation skills.
What brings you here today? What are you unclear about in your life, that if you figured it out, would make the biggest difference? You can't always be prepared to handle work-life, relationships, loss, and life transitions that cause anxiety and depression. Life happens and it's "OK" to have a few bad days. Through the therapeutic process, I want to help you embark on a journey to diagnose hidden symptoms of mental and emotional trauma that hinders your ability to cultivate healthy narratives. I want you to take control of your PURPOSE, GOALS, and become the BEST version of YOU.
Play therapy is used with children who need help with emotional regulation skills.
What brings you here today? What are you unclear about in your life, that if you figured it out, would make the biggest difference? You can't always be prepared to handle work-life, relationships, loss, and life transitions that cause anxiety and depression. Life happens and it's "OK" to have a few bad days. Through the therapeutic process, I want to help you embark on a journey to diagnose hidden symptoms of mental and emotional trauma that hinders your ability to cultivate healthy narratives. I want you to take control of your PURPOSE, GOALS, and become the BEST version of YOU.
(754) 238-2274 View (754) 238-2274
Photo of Kelly Griffin, LMHC, Counselor
Kelly Griffin
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33431
Kelly uses a humanistic approach that integrates evidence-based practices such as cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, play therapy, and medical models.
Kelly has worked with clients of all ages (3+) to help navigate depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, health conditions, caregiving, and family systems. She is passionate about helping you structure your goals to find the most effective methods of achieving them.
Kelly uses a humanistic approach that integrates evidence-based practices such as cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, play therapy, and medical models.
Kelly has worked with clients of all ages (3+) to help navigate depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, health conditions, caregiving, and family systems. She is passionate about helping you structure your goals to find the most effective methods of achieving them.
(561) 909-9331 View (561) 909-9331
Photo of Dr. Rachel Tramell - Angels Among Us Services Inc., PhD, MS, MHC, BS
Angels Among Us Services Inc.
PhD, MS, MHC, BS
Verified Verified
Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418  (Online Only)
Angels Among us services Inc areas of focus. Concierge Mental Health Services, Custody/Divorce/Mediation/Legal/Litigation Consulting/ Trial Preparation/Legal Consulting/Failure to Launch Syndrome/Mental Health Consulting/Coaching/ Expert Court Witness/Parenting Coach/Supervised Visitations/Supervised Parental Drop off Reunification Therapy. Family Coach/Geriatric Care Management. Grief and Loss issues, Trauma, Hoarding/ Personality Disorders. Chronic Illness/ESA Consult/Weight loss/Palliative Support/ Relationship Issues, Couples, Lesbian/Gay/Plural/Asperger's Relationships. Addictions/Relationship.
Angels Among us services Inc areas of focus. Concierge Mental Health Services, Custody/Divorce/Mediation/Legal/Litigation Consulting/ Trial Preparation/Legal Consulting/Failure to Launch Syndrome/Mental Health Consulting/Coaching/ Expert Court Witness/Parenting Coach/Supervised Visitations/Supervised Parental Drop off Reunification Therapy. Family Coach/Geriatric Care Management. Grief and Loss issues, Trauma, Hoarding/ Personality Disorders. Chronic Illness/ESA Consult/Weight loss/Palliative Support/ Relationship Issues, Couples, Lesbian/Gay/Plural/Asperger's Relationships. Addictions/Relationship.
(561) 902-1904 View (561) 902-1904
Photo of Charity Thomas, LMHC
Charity Thomas
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Casselberry, FL 32707
Hello, my name is Charity and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida. As a trauma-trained therapist, I work with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, parental issues, life adjustments, PTSD, abuse, attachments, and relationship problems. I enjoy working with individuals who are experiencing challenges and difficult stressors. Counseling is where you should be allowed to express yourself in a non-judgment atmosphere while being supported, gaining new skills, and learning to make positive changes. Together we will find the best strategy that will help you reach your individual goals.
Hello, my name is Charity and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida. As a trauma-trained therapist, I work with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, parental issues, life adjustments, PTSD, abuse, attachments, and relationship problems. I enjoy working with individuals who are experiencing challenges and difficult stressors. Counseling is where you should be allowed to express yourself in a non-judgment atmosphere while being supported, gaining new skills, and learning to make positive changes. Together we will find the best strategy that will help you reach your individual goals.
(904) 441-6446 View (904) 441-6446
Photo of Joseph Noecker, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Joseph Noecker
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Longwood, FL 32750  (Online Only)
<Is Balance, relief of anxiety or depression, improving relationships, clarifying perspective, or increased performance important to you? Meaningful experience matters a great deal! With over 20 years of helping clients and a focus on results, I utilize Depth Psychology for Whole Self awareness and strategies an actions to rediscover and restore Balance and Joy in all areas of your life. My passion is in helping you find your best you, discover new found strengths, and more effective strategies to navigate life's complexities using a Holistic, Psychological, and Spiritual perspective to meet you as you are. From INSIGHT to ACTION.
<Is Balance, relief of anxiety or depression, improving relationships, clarifying perspective, or increased performance important to you? Meaningful experience matters a great deal! With over 20 years of helping clients and a focus on results, I utilize Depth Psychology for Whole Self awareness and strategies an actions to rediscover and restore Balance and Joy in all areas of your life. My passion is in helping you find your best you, discover new found strengths, and more effective strategies to navigate life's complexities using a Holistic, Psychological, and Spiritual perspective to meet you as you are. From INSIGHT to ACTION.
(407) 494-6287 View (407) 494-6287
Photo of Brooke E Hillary, PhD, Psychologist
Brooke E Hillary
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Deerfield Beach, FL 33442
I am an adult and pediatric psychologist. Having been a practicing psychologist for over 20 years, my focus is cognitive behavior therapy. This involves changing the irrational beliefs behind stress, anxiety, and depression. Some of my specialties include women's issues, trauma, rape, OCD, teens, children, divorce, drug & alcohol related issues. Life is stressful. It sometimes feels like it's just too much to handle. Perhaps you are feeling tired all the time, anxious, depressed, unfulfilled in your relationships or job, or as though you are going through the motions of life experiencing little joy. You are not alone.
I am an adult and pediatric psychologist. Having been a practicing psychologist for over 20 years, my focus is cognitive behavior therapy. This involves changing the irrational beliefs behind stress, anxiety, and depression. Some of my specialties include women's issues, trauma, rape, OCD, teens, children, divorce, drug & alcohol related issues. Life is stressful. It sometimes feels like it's just too much to handle. Perhaps you are feeling tired all the time, anxious, depressed, unfulfilled in your relationships or job, or as though you are going through the motions of life experiencing little joy. You are not alone.
(954) 860-8313 View (954) 860-8313
Photo of Christina A Remek, PsyD, Psychologist
Christina A Remek
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Coral Springs, FL 33067
Your own mental health and well-being can seem like a long journey. I specialize in strategies to help you change your perspective whether you are someone struggling on their fertility journey, managing the stressors of parenting or just trying to find yourself and your purpose while struggling with your mental health issues. My office offers holistic services to address your current challenges.
Your own mental health and well-being can seem like a long journey. I specialize in strategies to help you change your perspective whether you are someone struggling on their fertility journey, managing the stressors of parenting or just trying to find yourself and your purpose while struggling with your mental health issues. My office offers holistic services to address your current challenges.
(561) 771-5172 View (561) 771-5172
Photo of Deborah Eve Grayson, PhD, LMHC, PTR, Counselor
Deborah Eve Grayson
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, PTR
Verified Verified
Coral Springs, FL 33076
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.
(754) 600-8861 View (754) 600-8861
Photo of Stephanie Lippman, PsyD, Psychologist
Stephanie Lippman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Wellington, FL 33467
When life feels like more of a struggle than a set of experiences to embrace, you may feel ready for change. Are you coping with depression & worry? Is there a part of your past that needs resolving? Are you concerned about your child/teen's emotional, social, or academic welfare? Is there family stress? Do you worry your romantic relationship is not nurturing & supportive? I welcome the opportunity to help and serve as a source of support through this challenging journey. I am a clinical psychologist whose experiences include treating depression, anxiety, relationship conflict, family adjustment, & child behavioral disturbances.
When life feels like more of a struggle than a set of experiences to embrace, you may feel ready for change. Are you coping with depression & worry? Is there a part of your past that needs resolving? Are you concerned about your child/teen's emotional, social, or academic welfare? Is there family stress? Do you worry your romantic relationship is not nurturing & supportive? I welcome the opportunity to help and serve as a source of support through this challenging journey. I am a clinical psychologist whose experiences include treating depression, anxiety, relationship conflict, family adjustment, & child behavioral disturbances.
(561) 855-3945 View (561) 855-3945
Photo of Tomeccia Maxwell, LMHC, Counselor
Tomeccia Maxwell
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32835  (Online Only)
Tomeccia therapy style is helping others find themselves and grow mentally. She is versed in issues such as anxiety, depression, anger management, grief, trauma, addictions, self-esteem. Its her goal to grow individuals from the inside out, by allowing them learn and build the proper skills to understand their mental health while growing through healthy parts of themselves. Tomeccia approach is motivated by the solution-focused therapy, cognitive behavioral, and rational- emotive therapy. Her ability to transform the minds of others while helping them understand their mental health has been her biggest success as a therapist.
Tomeccia therapy style is helping others find themselves and grow mentally. She is versed in issues such as anxiety, depression, anger management, grief, trauma, addictions, self-esteem. Its her goal to grow individuals from the inside out, by allowing them learn and build the proper skills to understand their mental health while growing through healthy parts of themselves. Tomeccia approach is motivated by the solution-focused therapy, cognitive behavioral, and rational- emotive therapy. Her ability to transform the minds of others while helping them understand their mental health has been her biggest success as a therapist.
(407) 759-3212 View (407) 759-3212
Photo of Deborah Galvin, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah Galvin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Windermere, FL 34786
As a therapist, I feel it is most important for a client to feel heard, safe, cared for, and understood by the therapist they choose. I believe that when a client experiences this level of comfort with their therapist, that is when the most positive changes occur. I enjoy working with motivated clients who are seeking to make positive changes in their lives. I support my clients with patience, guidance, empathy, and understanding throughout each unique journey.
As a therapist, I feel it is most important for a client to feel heard, safe, cared for, and understood by the therapist they choose. I believe that when a client experiences this level of comfort with their therapist, that is when the most positive changes occur. I enjoy working with motivated clients who are seeking to make positive changes in their lives. I support my clients with patience, guidance, empathy, and understanding throughout each unique journey.
(407) 641-3826 View (407) 641-3826
Photo of Jan Rosenstein, LCSW, Child, Teen, Spec, Trauma, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jan Rosenstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, Child, Teen, Spec, Trauma
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33433
Welcome to my friendly, nonjudgmental practice where I provide relief from anxiety, depression, suicidality, painful childhood beliefs and complex trauma. I will teach you how to be happy. I will guide you (CBT/DBT) to a stable, calmer, more confident mental health. Concierge 24/7 access available for fee. I am a Certified-CBT/ and Dialectical Behavioral Therapist, a Clinical Anxiety Specialist CATP, using Neuroscience for treating panic, anxiety, trauma. I am a Clinical Supervisor. I have successfully helped all ages, however my practice has grown primarily on hospital recommendations for children, teens and young adults ......
Welcome to my friendly, nonjudgmental practice where I provide relief from anxiety, depression, suicidality, painful childhood beliefs and complex trauma. I will teach you how to be happy. I will guide you (CBT/DBT) to a stable, calmer, more confident mental health. Concierge 24/7 access available for fee. I am a Certified-CBT/ and Dialectical Behavioral Therapist, a Clinical Anxiety Specialist CATP, using Neuroscience for treating panic, anxiety, trauma. I am a Clinical Supervisor. I have successfully helped all ages, however my practice has grown primarily on hospital recommendations for children, teens and young adults ......
(561) 418-6575 View (561) 418-6575
Photo of Diane Andreou - Psychological Wellness Center, Psychologist
Psychological Wellness Center
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wellington, FL 33467
Psychological Wellness Center was founded by two licensed psychologists with over 40 years of combined clinical experience. Our practice is dedicated to providing the highest quality care to help clients achieve goals, improve life satisfaction,and promote overall well-being. In a comfortable, relaxed, and professional environment, our skilled therapists will work together with you to help you set goals and identify and use your strengths to overcome areas you may be struggling with. To help our goal of giving back to our community, we offer fast, flexible scheduling and flexible rates.
Psychological Wellness Center was founded by two licensed psychologists with over 40 years of combined clinical experience. Our practice is dedicated to providing the highest quality care to help clients achieve goals, improve life satisfaction,and promote overall well-being. In a comfortable, relaxed, and professional environment, our skilled therapists will work together with you to help you set goals and identify and use your strengths to overcome areas you may be struggling with. To help our goal of giving back to our community, we offer fast, flexible scheduling and flexible rates.
(561) 600-9458 View (561) 600-9458
Photo of Level Up Treatment Center - We Level Up Addiction & Mental Health Treatment, MCAP, LMFT
We Level Up Addiction & Mental Health Treatment
MCAP, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pompano Beach, FL 33064
Nationally Recognized Therapy at We Level Up Treatment Center. Free 24/7 hotline & assessments. Get help, take your first step to get better! Your call is FREE. We're top addiction & behavioral experts backed by the Joint Commission's Accreditation held by the top 10% of treatment centers. Specializing in the treatment of alcohol & substance abuse along with dual diagnosis mental health cases like depression, mood and thought disorders. Treatment via cutting-edge therapy programs using advanced evidence-base modalities for improved recovery results. Offering on-site medical detox programs via world-class specialists to counseling..
Nationally Recognized Therapy at We Level Up Treatment Center. Free 24/7 hotline & assessments. Get help, take your first step to get better! Your call is FREE. We're top addiction & behavioral experts backed by the Joint Commission's Accreditation held by the top 10% of treatment centers. Specializing in the treatment of alcohol & substance abuse along with dual diagnosis mental health cases like depression, mood and thought disorders. Treatment via cutting-edge therapy programs using advanced evidence-base modalities for improved recovery results. Offering on-site medical detox programs via world-class specialists to counseling..
(954) 231-3294 View (954) 231-3294
Photo of Jolisa Castell, LCSW, CCTP, QS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jolisa Castell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, QS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palm Springs, FL 33461  (Online Only)
Your experiences and reactions are valid and real. You are worthy of care and the opportunity to heal. Congratulations on taking the next step in your journey of healing. This journey is challenging but most importantly, rewarding and life changing. I believe the therapeutic relationship is a partnership in which the client is the expert and will be expected to put in the effort for accountability and be present within the counseling alliance. Together, we will work to deepen your awareness and understanding of your needs, desires, and patterns of relating, so you may experience the authentic and fulfilling life you want.
Your experiences and reactions are valid and real. You are worthy of care and the opportunity to heal. Congratulations on taking the next step in your journey of healing. This journey is challenging but most importantly, rewarding and life changing. I believe the therapeutic relationship is a partnership in which the client is the expert and will be expected to put in the effort for accountability and be present within the counseling alliance. Together, we will work to deepen your awareness and understanding of your needs, desires, and patterns of relating, so you may experience the authentic and fulfilling life you want.
(561) 418-6573 View (561) 418-6573
Photo of Melissa Bryant, Counselor
Melissa Bryant
Counselor
Verified Verified
Ocoee, FL 34761  (Online Only)
Talking to someone new can be extremely difficult. Are you looking to talk to someone non -judgmental and authentic. Someone who will guide you in making changes in your behavior, thought process and emotions. Are you struggling with regulating your emotions, impacted by life circumstances, stressors, or even a traumatic event that wasn’t within your control. Your emotional wellness is important, as we work together you will set goals to achieve a better way of functioning. It's important to be patient with yourself as you set goals. My name is Melissa Bryant. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 13 years of experience.
Talking to someone new can be extremely difficult. Are you looking to talk to someone non -judgmental and authentic. Someone who will guide you in making changes in your behavior, thought process and emotions. Are you struggling with regulating your emotions, impacted by life circumstances, stressors, or even a traumatic event that wasn’t within your control. Your emotional wellness is important, as we work together you will set goals to achieve a better way of functioning. It's important to be patient with yourself as you set goals. My name is Melissa Bryant. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 13 years of experience.
(321) 395-5896 View (321) 395-5896
Photo of Jasmine P Evans - JPE Counseling LLC, MS, LMHC, Counselor
JPE Counseling LLC
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS Therapy is a huge part of Self-Care! I focus on my clients' goals to becoming better people. While unpacking the layers of your life, we will collaborate and discover what makes you unique. We will also explore your world, while conquering daily challenges that you may be facing. Do you need assistance with self/social awareness? Do you struggle with conflict resolution (reasonable thinking)? Do you lack a pure and/or positivity mindset? If so, I can help. I will work diligently to help transform your mind to POSITIVE THINKING. We will plant the seeds of the unknown to grow your control over your life!
NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS Therapy is a huge part of Self-Care! I focus on my clients' goals to becoming better people. While unpacking the layers of your life, we will collaborate and discover what makes you unique. We will also explore your world, while conquering daily challenges that you may be facing. Do you need assistance with self/social awareness? Do you struggle with conflict resolution (reasonable thinking)? Do you lack a pure and/or positivity mindset? If so, I can help. I will work diligently to help transform your mind to POSITIVE THINKING. We will plant the seeds of the unknown to grow your control over your life!
(689) 400-1093 View (689) 400-1093
Photo of Paula Shaw, PsyD, MS, Psychologist
Paula Shaw
Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wellington, FL 33467
Are you feeling stressed-out, anxious, or depressed? Are you going through changes in your life and having a difficult time coping? Maybe you are having difficulties in your relationship or have recently gone through a breakup/divorce? Do you have a child who is struggling with peers or behaviors? Perhaps you are struggling with a loss and need support. If you are looking for a nonjudgmental place to express yourself, I would love to work with you. I can help you identify your strengths, develop solutions, and improve your quality of life.
Are you feeling stressed-out, anxious, or depressed? Are you going through changes in your life and having a difficult time coping? Maybe you are having difficulties in your relationship or have recently gone through a breakup/divorce? Do you have a child who is struggling with peers or behaviors? Perhaps you are struggling with a loss and need support. If you are looking for a nonjudgmental place to express yourself, I would love to work with you. I can help you identify your strengths, develop solutions, and improve your quality of life.
(561) 207-8792 View (561) 207-8792
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.