Play Therapy in Viera, FL
![Photo of Kerry Berner, BSW, MA, EdS, LMHC-QS, RPT-S, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d7e520b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
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 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 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 Nicholas Smith, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c04b796-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/6/320x400.jpeg)
Rev. Nick is the Founder and Director of New Hope Counseling Center. He has been a practicing psychotherapist in the Space Coast since 1990. He received his Master of Arts in Counseling from Rollins College. He also holds a Bachelor of Arts in Religion from Mount Vernon Nazarene University. He is a Certified LMHC Supervisor with the State of Florida and a charter member of the American Association of Christian Counselors.
Rev. Nick is the Founder and Director of New Hope Counseling Center. He has been a practicing psychotherapist in the Space Coast since 1990. He received his Master of Arts in Counseling from Rollins College. He also holds a Bachelor of Arts in Religion from Mount Vernon Nazarene University. He is a Certified LMHC Supervisor with the State of Florida and a charter member of the American Association of Christian Counselors.
![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.
![Photo of Candace Soliz, MSW, RCSWI, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cdde3280-e523-45d9-bbcd-6116d0e8d15b/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a Brainspotting Practitioner, it's incredibly rewarding to witness positive changes in people's lives as they navigate various challenges. Anxiety, depression, OCD, relationship issues, and many other mental health disorders can be effectively treated. The transformative power of therapy lies in creating a safe and supportive space where individuals can explore their challenges, fostering a collaborative journey toward healing and well-being.
As a Brainspotting Practitioner, it's incredibly rewarding to witness positive changes in people's lives as they navigate various challenges. Anxiety, depression, OCD, relationship issues, and many other mental health disorders can be effectively treated. The transformative power of therapy lies in creating a safe and supportive space where individuals can explore their challenges, fostering a collaborative journey toward healing and well-being.
![Photo of 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 LaTonia Simmons, MEd, MA, RMHCI](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3e1e91a-d5f8-44c4-bf27-3f3523eeec71/2/320x400.jpeg)
LaTonia Simmons
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MEd, MA, RMHCI
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Viera, FL 32940
You are the expert of your life. I will show you how to be vulnerable and genuine by being that way myself.
You are the expert of your life. I will show you how to be vulnerable and genuine by being that way myself.
![Photo of Dr. Kerri Guadagni, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/add00bdf-405a-44b4-8abd-1473ca8f5ae8/1/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that healing occurs when one fully connects to heart. As human beings, we require safety and connection based firmly on trust, compassion, and integrity. Through connection, you can experience the benefit of allowing your heart to have a voice and gain insight into your needs as you move forward on your individual journey. Every individual has a unique story that deserves to be heard and I am dedicated to transforming the experiences of each of my client's by focusing on their values, processing interpersonal trauma, and developing a conceptual picture of what it would mean to embody well-being.
I believe that healing occurs when one fully connects to heart. As human beings, we require safety and connection based firmly on trust, compassion, and integrity. Through connection, you can experience the benefit of allowing your heart to have a voice and gain insight into your needs as you move forward on your individual journey. Every individual has a unique story that deserves to be heard and I am dedicated to transforming the experiences of each of my client's by focusing on their values, processing interpersonal trauma, and developing a conceptual picture of what it would mean to embody well-being.
![Photo of Jennifer Smith, LMHC, MA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8e5f3e6-2409-42f8-b9c6-77ab2b05349e/1/320x400.jpeg)
I primarily work with older children, preteens, adolescencents, and adults. My goal is to help my clients overcome life issues and to build their self worth. I also do Psycho-educational assessments. I use mostly Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and other therapies when deemed appropriate to help my clients set attainable goals, work through anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, self identity issues, self harm, social and relational issues, and ADHD. I will give you the tools/ coping mechanisms that you will need to move forward in life and be the best version of yourself that you can be. There is hope!
I primarily work with older children, preteens, adolescencents, and adults. My goal is to help my clients overcome life issues and to build their self worth. I also do Psycho-educational assessments. I use mostly Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and other therapies when deemed appropriate to help my clients set attainable goals, work through anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, self identity issues, self harm, social and relational issues, and ADHD. I will give you the tools/ coping mechanisms that you will need to move forward in life and be the best version of yourself that you can be. There is hope!
![Photo of Brianna Doran, MS, LMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57f8050f-6e6e-4b5f-b5ea-43f83e87c1fa/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brianna Doran
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Viera, FL 32955 (Online Only)
Accepting help can be incredibly difficult and very scary; especially when you don't know what you're looking for! I recognize that mental health is complex, and I take a very person-forward approach to help you and/or your family reach healthy goals and feel better! Hi, I’m Brianna! I am a mental health counselor specializing in anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, and parent education! Currently pursuing my Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology (focusing in childhood and adolescence)! I especially love working with kids and teens!
Accepting help can be incredibly difficult and very scary; especially when you don't know what you're looking for! I recognize that mental health is complex, and I take a very person-forward approach to help you and/or your family reach healthy goals and feel better! Hi, I’m Brianna! I am a mental health counselor specializing in anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, and parent education! Currently pursuing my Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology (focusing in childhood and adolescence)! I especially love working with kids and teens!
![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 Dr. Cristi M Salinas, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/354cb8fe-f4d8-4861-88e7-1df1188a8ef2/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Cristi is an expert neuropsychologist, author, international speaker, and mama of a 2e son who has worked with 6,000 children and adults. She worked at the number 1 rated Children’s Hospital in the US, Boston Children’s, and contributed to best practices at Harvard, Emory & Advent Health Orlando. She has the unique expertise to identify your strengths and the root cause of your concerns plus she will develop a practical roadmap of interventions/solutions. Dr. Cristi specializes in the assessment and treatment of ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Learning Disabilities, Gifted, Brain Injury, and Epilepsy.
Dr. Cristi is an expert neuropsychologist, author, international speaker, and mama of a 2e son who has worked with 6,000 children and adults. She worked at the number 1 rated Children’s Hospital in the US, Boston Children’s, and contributed to best practices at Harvard, Emory & Advent Health Orlando. She has the unique expertise to identify your strengths and the root cause of your concerns plus she will develop a practical roadmap of interventions/solutions. Dr. Cristi specializes in the assessment and treatment of ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Learning Disabilities, Gifted, Brain Injury, and Epilepsy.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Audrey Jean Jones, MS, RMHCI](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/369c3e76-c914-4429-999a-77471721923f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Audrey Jean Jones
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS, RMHCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melbourne, FL 32940
My specialties include healing through play therapy, expressive arts, sandtray therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapy, and I am an EMDRIA approved clinician for trauma treatment through Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR).
As a mindfulness-based clinician, I serve individuals, couples, families, and children. It is my intention to guide clients in growing beyond the conflicts that initiated therapy. Often times, people embark on therapy, unknowing why problems persist. Therapy is a journey in which I intend to assist clients in uncovering the unknowns to create a more meaningful life, to better navigate life stressors/unexpected events, and increase confidence in decision making. With intervention and therapeutic alliance, we will work together to reduce the internal conflicts that may contribute to the external problems.
My specialties include healing through play therapy, expressive arts, sandtray therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapy, and I am an EMDRIA approved clinician for trauma treatment through Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR).
As a mindfulness-based clinician, I serve individuals, couples, families, and children. It is my intention to guide clients in growing beyond the conflicts that initiated therapy. Often times, people embark on therapy, unknowing why problems persist. Therapy is a journey in which I intend to assist clients in uncovering the unknowns to create a more meaningful life, to better navigate life stressors/unexpected events, and increase confidence in decision making. With intervention and therapeutic alliance, we will work together to reduce the internal conflicts that may contribute to the external problems.
![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 Nancy A Johnson, EdD, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/926c835b-4629-4dc1-82fb-fd4518002e56/3/320x400.jpeg)
"I believe that everyone can have a redemptive story. If you are feeling helpless or hopeless, let me walk along side of you exploring ways to bring life and hope back to your life so that you will have a redemptive story to share." I am a licensed mental health counselor with a doctoral degree in counseling psychology. My passion is for children and families and I try to make it possible to help anyone who has a need. I have over 18 years of experience seeing optimal results in stabilizing clients and witnessing growth and change. I am passionate about what I do and I am committed to the community I serve.
"I believe that everyone can have a redemptive story. If you are feeling helpless or hopeless, let me walk along side of you exploring ways to bring life and hope back to your life so that you will have a redemptive story to share." I am a licensed mental health counselor with a doctoral degree in counseling psychology. My passion is for children and families and I try to make it possible to help anyone who has a need. I have over 18 years of experience seeing optimal results in stabilizing clients and witnessing growth and change. I am passionate about what I do and I am committed to the community I serve.
![Photo of Kimberly Mehl, MS, NCC, RMHCI](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7234fe92-77aa-4285-bd5c-9f176e40fa68/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly Mehl
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS, NCC, RMHCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melbourne, FL 32940
Life comes with an array of challenges and building resilience is the key to navigating these stressors. I work with individuals, couples, and children to help build healthy coping skills, a strong self-esteem, and skills to assist with success in life. Using many strategies, I focus on strengths and current issues while helping you find happiness through various techniques, interventions, and fun activities while providing a safe space for you to feel comfortable sharing your personal stories and struggles.
Life comes with an array of challenges and building resilience is the key to navigating these stressors. I work with individuals, couples, and children to help build healthy coping skills, a strong self-esteem, and skills to assist with success in life. Using many strategies, I focus on strengths and current issues while helping you find happiness through various techniques, interventions, and fun activities while providing a safe space for you to feel comfortable sharing your personal stories and struggles.
![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 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 Cristi M Salinas - Neuropsychology Concierge: Dr. Cristi Salinas, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5626b161-1192-46e2-8de9-19ff286726c6/3/320x400.jpeg)
Neuropsychology Concierge: Dr. Cristi Salinas
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melbourne, FL 32940
Dr. Cristi is an expert neuropsychologist, author, international speaker, and mama of a 2e/ADHD son who has worked with more than 6,000 children and adults. She specializes in the assessment and treatment of various conditions such as ADHD, Learning Disability, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Traumatic Brain Injury, Epilepsy. She worked at the number 1 rated Children’s Hospital in the US, Boston Children’s, and contributed to best practices at Harvard, Emory & Advent Health Orlando. She has the unique expertise to identify your strengths and the root cause of your concerns plus she will develop a roadmap of interventions/solutions.
Dr. Cristi is an expert neuropsychologist, author, international speaker, and mama of a 2e/ADHD son who has worked with more than 6,000 children and adults. She specializes in the assessment and treatment of various conditions such as ADHD, Learning Disability, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Traumatic Brain Injury, Epilepsy. She worked at the number 1 rated Children’s Hospital in the US, Boston Children’s, and contributed to best practices at Harvard, Emory & Advent Health Orlando. She has the unique expertise to identify your strengths and the root cause of your concerns plus she will develop a roadmap of interventions/solutions.
See more therapy options for Viera
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Viera
- Cocoa
- Cocoa Beach
- Indialantic
- Melbourne
- Merritt Island
- Palm Bay
- Rockledge
- Saint Cloud
- Satellite Beach
- Sebastian
- Titusville
- 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.