Play Therapy in Lawrenceville, GA

Photo of Kevin Hanchett, BA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kevin Hanchett
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30046
Additionally, I specialize in Play Therapy, primarily utilized in my work with children and adolescents, though it remains a valuable tool for clients of all age groups.
As a counselor, I maintain an inclusive approach, extending my services to a diverse clientele, including couples, children, adolescents, adults, and individuals within the LGTBQ+ community. My clients often battle with anxiety, depression, identity concerns, grief, and relationship issues. My clients typically want to better understand their purpose, express themselves, and live fulfilling lives. During sessions, I walk alongside and sit with my clients as they build a road toward their goals and purpose using the gifts they were blessed with. As a Christian, I believe we were all born with gifts that can be used to bless others.
Additionally, I specialize in Play Therapy, primarily utilized in my work with children and adolescents, though it remains a valuable tool for clients of all age groups.
As a counselor, I maintain an inclusive approach, extending my services to a diverse clientele, including couples, children, adolescents, adults, and individuals within the LGTBQ+ community. My clients often battle with anxiety, depression, identity concerns, grief, and relationship issues. My clients typically want to better understand their purpose, express themselves, and live fulfilling lives. During sessions, I walk alongside and sit with my clients as they build a road toward their goals and purpose using the gifts they were blessed with. As a Christian, I believe we were all born with gifts that can be used to bless others.
(678) 647-9562 View (678) 647-9562
Photo of Brandy Rogers - Bright Path Counseling and Consulting, LLC, LPC, CPCS, RPT-S, CFMHE, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bright Path Counseling and Consulting, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS, RPT-S, CFMHE
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lawrenceville, GA 30043
We are trained in various models of treatment such as Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Child Parent Psychotherapy, EMDR, Play Therapy, Couples Counseling and Expressive Arts.
At Bright Path Counseling we have a focus on strengthening families from the child parent relationship, parenting, marital issues. We have a variety of counselors with specialties in areas such as play therapy, couples counseling, or individual or family trauma. We work with both children and their families as well as adults who have experienced the life changing events or who just want to to change the path their life has taken. We have counselors who are able to help clients move through the most difficult times in their lives. We help them to move towards healing in a safe and trusting relationship.
We are trained in various models of treatment such as Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Child Parent Psychotherapy, EMDR, Play Therapy, Couples Counseling and Expressive Arts.
At Bright Path Counseling we have a focus on strengthening families from the child parent relationship, parenting, marital issues. We have a variety of counselors with specialties in areas such as play therapy, couples counseling, or individual or family trauma. We work with both children and their families as well as adults who have experienced the life changing events or who just want to to change the path their life has taken. We have counselors who are able to help clients move through the most difficult times in their lives. We help them to move towards healing in a safe and trusting relationship.
(678) 506-2480 View (678) 506-2480
Photo of Nicolette Shackelford-Martin, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicolette Shackelford-Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lawrenceville, GA 30046
My specialty techniques are Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT).
As a eclectic therapist, I provide services that best meet the clients current needs. My goal is to meet you where you are and work with you to get where you want to go. I work with young adults, adolescents, and children as young as preschool age that are having difficulty adjusting in the classroom environment, home environment and/or any life transition. I understand that the most effective way to assist the client is to also work with the family; therefore, parenting and family sessions may be encouraged. Congratulations on taking the first step to do the work.
My specialty techniques are Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT).
As a eclectic therapist, I provide services that best meet the clients current needs. My goal is to meet you where you are and work with you to get where you want to go. I work with young adults, adolescents, and children as young as preschool age that are having difficulty adjusting in the classroom environment, home environment and/or any life transition. I understand that the most effective way to assist the client is to also work with the family; therefore, parenting and family sessions may be encouraged. Congratulations on taking the first step to do the work.
(404) 586-4267 View (404) 586-4267
Photo of Jennifer Mejias (Bilingual), LMFT, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Mejias (Bilingual)
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Lawrenceville, GA 30043  (Online Only)
I am an LMFT and Registered Play Therapist (in Florida and Georgia) treating children and adults with trauma histories.
Treatment is about feeling better and gaining confidence to navigate life. I'm here to support you, leveraging your strengths and helping you develop new skills for an emotionally healthy life you can ENJOY. If trauma is part of your history, I'll guide you through healing safely. My approach considers your entire life context – culture, work, city, family, relationships – because it shapes who you are. Ready to embark on this journey towards well-being? Let's take the first step together and create a path for positive change. I'm available now for new clients.
I am an LMFT and Registered Play Therapist (in Florida and Georgia) treating children and adults with trauma histories.
Treatment is about feeling better and gaining confidence to navigate life. I'm here to support you, leveraging your strengths and helping you develop new skills for an emotionally healthy life you can ENJOY. If trauma is part of your history, I'll guide you through healing safely. My approach considers your entire life context – culture, work, city, family, relationships – because it shapes who you are. Ready to embark on this journey towards well-being? Let's take the first step together and create a path for positive change. I'm available now for new clients.
(561) 781-5683 View (561) 781-5683
Photo of Deidra L Mays (678) 852-0265, LPC, ACS, NCC, LMFT, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Deidra L Mays (678) 852-0265
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ACS, NCC, LMFT, CPCS
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30043  (Online Only)
I am a Professional Counselor specializing in therapy for children, adolescents, individuals, couples, families, and groups. I maintain a private practice in Snellville, GA. My clinical experience has focused on family relationships, depression; anxiety; ADHD; relationship issues; parenting; children and adolescent issues; anger management, assessments for mental health services; sexual abuse, and play therapy. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Family Systems Therapy to meet my clients needs. I have been certified by the National Board of Certified Counselors as an Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS).
I am a Professional Counselor specializing in therapy for children, adolescents, individuals, couples, families, and groups. I maintain a private practice in Snellville, GA. My clinical experience has focused on family relationships, depression; anxiety; ADHD; relationship issues; parenting; children and adolescent issues; anger management, assessments for mental health services; sexual abuse, and play therapy. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Family Systems Therapy to meet my clients needs. I have been certified by the National Board of Certified Counselors as an Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS).
(678) 820-4898 View (678) 820-4898
Photo of Melissa Brown - A Place to Grow Counseling & Consulting Services , LPC, CPCS, RPT, CAMS, Licensed Professional Counselor
A Place to Grow Counseling & Consulting Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS, RPT, CAMS
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30044
  I utilize a variety of techniques in my work with children, such as Play Therapy, Crisis Intervention, Trauma Recovery, Behavior Management, and other Creative and Expressive Approaches that foster resiliency and growth.
Does your child have social and emotional challenges  that impact their academic performance and the ability to build healthy relationships?  Do they have difficulty paying attention, difficulty cooperating with peers and adults, and unable to control their feelings?  At a Place to Grow Counseling we are here to serve you.
  I utilize a variety of techniques in my work with children, such as Play Therapy, Crisis Intervention, Trauma Recovery, Behavior Management, and other Creative and Expressive Approaches that foster resiliency and growth.
Does your child have social and emotional challenges  that impact their academic performance and the ability to build healthy relationships?  Do they have difficulty paying attention, difficulty cooperating with peers and adults, and unable to control their feelings?  At a Place to Grow Counseling we are here to serve you.
(678) 498-7053 View (678) 498-7053
Photo of Christine Burrell, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Burrell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lawrenceville, GA 30044
I am trained in CBT, ERP, EMDR, and ACT and incorporate these with traditional talk therapy or play therapy.
People need solutions that work in real life! What truly inspires me is witnessing people who initially come to therapy feeling lost, challenged, or confused, and as we work together, I see them find the courage and strength to change! Helping people discover that life can be different is rewarding - whether it's struggles at school or work, depression, self harm, anxiety, a life stressor, or a past traumatic event - we can tackle it and help you (or your child) re-write or edit this story.
I am trained in CBT, ERP, EMDR, and ACT and incorporate these with traditional talk therapy or play therapy.
People need solutions that work in real life! What truly inspires me is witnessing people who initially come to therapy feeling lost, challenged, or confused, and as we work together, I see them find the courage and strength to change! Helping people discover that life can be different is rewarding - whether it's struggles at school or work, depression, self harm, anxiety, a life stressor, or a past traumatic event - we can tackle it and help you (or your child) re-write or edit this story.
(770) 450-5283 View (770) 450-5283
Photo of Caché Archer, PhD, Psychologist
Caché Archer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30044
I incorporate a variety of activities during sessions, including role- play, art, and games to foster a safe, inclusive, and fun environment for working through conflict together.
Welcome to a place where young minds find solace, growth, and resilience. As a dedicated psychologist specializing in cognitive behavioral therapy, I am here to help children, adolescents, and young adults navigate life's challenges, build positive thought patterns, and unleash their full potential. Together, we will embark on a transformative journey towards emotional well-being and a brighter future.
I incorporate a variety of activities during sessions, including role- play, art, and games to foster a safe, inclusive, and fun environment for working through conflict together.
Welcome to a place where young minds find solace, growth, and resilience. As a dedicated psychologist specializing in cognitive behavioral therapy, I am here to help children, adolescents, and young adults navigate life's challenges, build positive thought patterns, and unleash their full potential. Together, we will embark on a transformative journey towards emotional well-being and a brighter future.
(470) 649-1294 View (470) 649-1294
Photo of Whitney Molette - Hope, Health, & Healing Center (3HC) , M'Ed, NCC, APC, Counselor
Hope, Health, & Healing Center (3HC)
Counselor, M'Ed, NCC, APC
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30046
As a dedicated counselor with a passion for nurturing young minds, I specialize in supporting children and adolescents as they navigate the complexities of growing up in today's world. With 4 years of experience in child and adolescent counseling, I am committed to providing a safe, nurturing, and empowering environment where young clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. My approach to counseling children is rooted in empathy, creativity, and play. I believe in meeting each child where they are and tailoring therapy to their unique developmental needs and interests.
As a dedicated counselor with a passion for nurturing young minds, I specialize in supporting children and adolescents as they navigate the complexities of growing up in today's world. With 4 years of experience in child and adolescent counseling, I am committed to providing a safe, nurturing, and empowering environment where young clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. My approach to counseling children is rooted in empathy, creativity, and play. I believe in meeting each child where they are and tailoring therapy to their unique developmental needs and interests.
(770) 999-9986 View (770) 999-9986
Photo of Sara Lopez-Viquez, LMSW
Sara Lopez-Viquez
LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lawrenceville, GA 30043
I work under directed experience and clinical supervision of Rebecca Muyres, LPC, RPT-S, CPCS, additional clinical supervision of Shannon Mathis Meyer, LCSW, CACII, and training to become a Registered Play Therapist.
I have a passion for supporting children and families in addressing trauma as early in life as possible, including working with young mothers and their infants, and at the source, which in some cases is imprinted in intergenerational practices and narratives. I also help adults identify childhood trauma causing them to feel stuck and struggle in their relationships and attachments. I enjoy coaching parents and caregivers to develop and enhance the emotional connection with their children. I support people in reducing distress and improving relationships by improving interpersonal skills and social functioning.
I work under directed experience and clinical supervision of Rebecca Muyres, LPC, RPT-S, CPCS, additional clinical supervision of Shannon Mathis Meyer, LCSW, CACII, and training to become a Registered Play Therapist.
I have a passion for supporting children and families in addressing trauma as early in life as possible, including working with young mothers and their infants, and at the source, which in some cases is imprinted in intergenerational practices and narratives. I also help adults identify childhood trauma causing them to feel stuck and struggle in their relationships and attachments. I enjoy coaching parents and caregivers to develop and enhance the emotional connection with their children. I support people in reducing distress and improving relationships by improving interpersonal skills and social functioning.
(470) 465-9024 View (470) 465-9024
Photo of Alfredo Morales Celedon, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alfredo Morales Celedon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30042
On my leisure time, I exercising, I play sports and I enjoy doing obstacles races.
OFFERING ONLINE COUNSELING SERVICES. I am a bilingual SPANISH/ENGLISH counselor committed to helping individuals and families accomplish goals. My clinical focus is working with children, adolescents, and adults experiencing a varied of emotional, relational and systemic difficulties leading to anxiety, depression adjustment issues, trauma related complaints and behavioral misconduct at school. I strive to work with children/teens and parents and adults to develop effective treatments uniquely to every individual and or family.
On my leisure time, I exercising, I play sports and I enjoy doing obstacles races.
OFFERING ONLINE COUNSELING SERVICES. I am a bilingual SPANISH/ENGLISH counselor committed to helping individuals and families accomplish goals. My clinical focus is working with children, adolescents, and adults experiencing a varied of emotional, relational and systemic difficulties leading to anxiety, depression adjustment issues, trauma related complaints and behavioral misconduct at school. I strive to work with children/teens and parents and adults to develop effective treatments uniquely to every individual and or family.
(404) 948-5916 View (404) 948-5916
Photo of Trenice Morton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Trenice Morton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lawrenceville, GA 30043  (Online Only)
I offer an eclectic approach to counseling, utilizing CBT, Motivational Interviewing, EMDR, TF-CBT, TF-IPT, Sandtray Therapy, Play Therapy, Expressive Arts, and solution-focused techniques.
What if you could learn how to thrive under the conditions, circumstances, and situations life has placed you in? What if you could find yourself one day moving beyond the people, traumas, situations, setbacks, losses, mistakes, etc. and could feel as if you were truly thriving in life again? What if you could find a way to thrive not just in the end, but in each part of your healing or recovery process until you feel you've truly overcome the very thing(s) you never thought you could? As your therapist, I'm here to offer you that hope, support, guidance, and encouragement as you navigate through it all.
I offer an eclectic approach to counseling, utilizing CBT, Motivational Interviewing, EMDR, TF-CBT, TF-IPT, Sandtray Therapy, Play Therapy, Expressive Arts, and solution-focused techniques.
What if you could learn how to thrive under the conditions, circumstances, and situations life has placed you in? What if you could find yourself one day moving beyond the people, traumas, situations, setbacks, losses, mistakes, etc. and could feel as if you were truly thriving in life again? What if you could find a way to thrive not just in the end, but in each part of your healing or recovery process until you feel you've truly overcome the very thing(s) you never thought you could? As your therapist, I'm here to offer you that hope, support, guidance, and encouragement as you navigate through it all.
(470) 635-3782 View (470) 635-3782
Photo of Shari Grizzle, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shari Grizzle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30043
Waitlist for new clients
Her favorite is play therapy and behavior modification and management to correct the maladaptive "unwanted" behaviors displayed in children and adolescents and giving parents the strength and encouragement needed to parent difficult behaviors.
Shari has worked extensively in the foster care system providing age appropriate therapy for children, their biological families and their foster/adoptive families assisting them with the various life transitions and traumas they have endured and giving them the tools needed to overcome these obstacles. Shari believes that individual therapy is always a good place to start addressing stressors in your life so that the progress can carry over to other areas of your life to include relationships, family and work life. Depression and anxiety should not define you, we all experience it at some point but the key is to OVERCOME!
Her favorite is play therapy and behavior modification and management to correct the maladaptive "unwanted" behaviors displayed in children and adolescents and giving parents the strength and encouragement needed to parent difficult behaviors.
Shari has worked extensively in the foster care system providing age appropriate therapy for children, their biological families and their foster/adoptive families assisting them with the various life transitions and traumas they have endured and giving them the tools needed to overcome these obstacles. Shari believes that individual therapy is always a good place to start addressing stressors in your life so that the progress can carry over to other areas of your life to include relationships, family and work life. Depression and anxiety should not define you, we all experience it at some point but the key is to OVERCOME!
(678) 263-7290 View (678) 263-7290
Photo of Faithe Kimsey - Lighthouse Clinical Counseling, LLC, MS, LPC, RPT, NCC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lighthouse Clinical Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RPT, NCC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30043
Whether your child is 2 years of age or you are looking for a therapist for yourself, I am able to assist you. Each client will be provided with a personalized, professional, and caring approach to help you or your loved one in learning how to navigate through the waters of life. Play, expressive arts, and traditional talk therapy is provided in a safe and caring environment. Both Christian and secular counseling are available
Whether your child is 2 years of age or you are looking for a therapist for yourself, I am able to assist you. Each client will be provided with a personalized, professional, and caring approach to help you or your loved one in learning how to navigate through the waters of life. Play, expressive arts, and traditional talk therapy is provided in a safe and caring environment. Both Christian and secular counseling are available
(678) 853-7423 View (678) 853-7423
Photo of Cathy Arrington, LPC, MFT, NCC, CPCS, MACC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cathy Arrington
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MFT, NCC, CPCS, MACC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lawrenceville, GA 30046
You are courageous and willing to make a positive change! I specialize in working with couples, children, adolescents, and families. We may combine many treatment methods, including solutions and balancing of social, spiritual, environmental, and physical aspects of functioning. By developing specific treatment goals, we have a greater chance of successful outcomes. Also, I'm a Sondermind Provider for additional resources!
You are courageous and willing to make a positive change! I specialize in working with couples, children, adolescents, and families. We may combine many treatment methods, including solutions and balancing of social, spiritual, environmental, and physical aspects of functioning. By developing specific treatment goals, we have a greater chance of successful outcomes. Also, I'm a Sondermind Provider for additional resources!
(678) 304-8533 View (678) 304-8533
Photo of Weldon Delmer, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Weldon Delmer
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lawrenceville, GA 30043
I am an associate level Marriage and Family Therapist, driven by a deep passion for creating a safe and supportive space where individuals and families can explore their thoughts and feelings. While I primarily work with kids and adolescents, I also extend my care to adults, addressing a wide range of presenting problems, including anxiety, ADHD, OCD, depression (including suicidal ideation), self-esteem issues, challenging behaviors (i.e. tantrums), and the impact of sexual abuse.
I am an associate level Marriage and Family Therapist, driven by a deep passion for creating a safe and supportive space where individuals and families can explore their thoughts and feelings. While I primarily work with kids and adolescents, I also extend my care to adults, addressing a wide range of presenting problems, including anxiety, ADHD, OCD, depression (including suicidal ideation), self-esteem issues, challenging behaviors (i.e. tantrums), and the impact of sexual abuse.
(470) 837-3432 View (470) 837-3432
Photo of Kashana Gaines, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kashana Gaines
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30043
Hi there! My name is Kashana Gaines, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am truly passionate about providing supportive psychotherapy to assist my clients in some of their most difficult and vulnerable life challenges. I truly approach therapy as, meeting clients where they are, meaning engaging the client where they are versus telling them where to be. My treatment approach may be a combination of cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, humanistic, and rational emotive counseling. I tailor my counseling style to each individual's unique situation. I am a very interactive, and kind person with a non-judgmental attitude.
Hi there! My name is Kashana Gaines, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am truly passionate about providing supportive psychotherapy to assist my clients in some of their most difficult and vulnerable life challenges. I truly approach therapy as, meeting clients where they are, meaning engaging the client where they are versus telling them where to be. My treatment approach may be a combination of cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, humanistic, and rational emotive counseling. I tailor my counseling style to each individual's unique situation. I am a very interactive, and kind person with a non-judgmental attitude.
(470) 839-4901 View (470) 839-4901
Photo of Pathways Transition Programs In - Pathways Transition Programs, INC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pathways Transition Programs, INC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30045  (Online Only)
Pathways Transition Programs, INC. is a private, community based mental health services provider. We serve children, adolescents, adults, and families residing in Hall County & the surrounding counties of Georgia. PTP is able to provide therapy, paraprofessional, and psychiatry services to both English & Spanish speaking clients. We offer services in the school, home, and community setting. Our comprehensive array of assessments/therapy services foster change & growth while supporting clients to heal their wounds of trauma & life challenges. We provide training/skill development to enhance coping skills & build resilience.
Pathways Transition Programs, INC. is a private, community based mental health services provider. We serve children, adolescents, adults, and families residing in Hall County & the surrounding counties of Georgia. PTP is able to provide therapy, paraprofessional, and psychiatry services to both English & Spanish speaking clients. We offer services in the school, home, and community setting. Our comprehensive array of assessments/therapy services foster change & growth while supporting clients to heal their wounds of trauma & life challenges. We provide training/skill development to enhance coping skills & build resilience.
(470) 236-5317 x5 View (470) 236-5317 x5
Photo of Lola Josephine Banjoko, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lola Josephine Banjoko
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30043  (Online Only)
Lola Josephine Banjoko is a mental health professional who has over four years of experience supporting children, teens, adults and families struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and adjustment and relationship issues. Her educational background consists of a Bachelor of Science in Biopsychology and a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health from Mercer University. Lola prefers to utilize eclectic techniques to enhance her person-centered approach to therapeutic experience.
Lola Josephine Banjoko is a mental health professional who has over four years of experience supporting children, teens, adults and families struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and adjustment and relationship issues. Her educational background consists of a Bachelor of Science in Biopsychology and a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health from Mercer University. Lola prefers to utilize eclectic techniques to enhance her person-centered approach to therapeutic experience.
(470) 329-7674 View (470) 329-7674
Photo of Karmen Just, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karmen Just
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30043  (Online Only)
Are you seeking compassionate support to navigate life's challenges? Whether you're a child struggling with ADHD, a young adult facing anxiety, or an older adult managing depression, I'm here for you. With over 17 years of experience, I understand the complexities of emotional and behavioral issues across all ages.
Are you seeking compassionate support to navigate life's challenges? Whether you're a child struggling with ADHD, a young adult facing anxiety, or an older adult managing depression, I'm here for you. With over 17 years of experience, I understand the complexities of emotional and behavioral issues across all ages.
(470) 616-9822 View (470) 616-9822
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See more therapy options for Lawrenceville

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.