Play Therapy in Milton, GA

Photo of Diane Wood, EdS, LPC, CPCS, Counselor
Diane Wood
Counselor, EdS, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milton, GA 30004
I have additional training in Play Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, and Mindfulness.
With 23 years experience working with children and families, previously as a school counselor, I now work as a Licensed Professional Counselor in a busy private practice in downtown Alpharetta. My therapeutic philosophy is based on the belief that a counselor's role is to empower clients with the tools to unlock their fullest potential. I love working with clients of all ages as they strive to overcome their challenges with insight, growth and solutions.
I have additional training in Play Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, and Mindfulness.
With 23 years experience working with children and families, previously as a school counselor, I now work as a Licensed Professional Counselor in a busy private practice in downtown Alpharetta. My therapeutic philosophy is based on the belief that a counselor's role is to empower clients with the tools to unlock their fullest potential. I love working with clients of all ages as they strive to overcome their challenges with insight, growth and solutions.
(770) 545-6995 View (770) 545-6995
Photo of Lauren Brown - Early Connections Child & Family Counseling, MEd, LPC, NCC, CPCS, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Early Connections Child & Family Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC, CPCS, RPT-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Milton, GA 30004
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor, Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor, and Owner at Early Connections Child & Family Counseling.
Sometimes we find ourselves in a challenging season. With changes at home, struggles at school, parenting pitfalls, or increased stress, we can feel uncertain and discouraged. For kids, this can look like increased anxiety, fears, depression, loneliness, and anger. And these BIG feelings can surface as BIG behaviors wreaking havoc at home. As a parent, you need support too - guidance on how to care for your family’s emotional well-being while juggling all, and I mean ALL, the things and taking care of yourself too.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor, Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor, and Owner at Early Connections Child & Family Counseling.
Sometimes we find ourselves in a challenging season. With changes at home, struggles at school, parenting pitfalls, or increased stress, we can feel uncertain and discouraged. For kids, this can look like increased anxiety, fears, depression, loneliness, and anger. And these BIG feelings can surface as BIG behaviors wreaking havoc at home. As a parent, you need support too - guidance on how to care for your family’s emotional well-being while juggling all, and I mean ALL, the things and taking care of yourself too.
(678) 379-1535 View (678) 379-1535
Photo of Fred Thomas Moeller - Moeller and Associates, Inc., LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Moeller and Associates, Inc.
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Milton, GA 30004
Play Therapy offers young children a therapeutic experience through the use of toys and artistic expression.
Moeller and Associates was founded in 1995. All clinicians have a Masters Degree or PhD in Psychology, Social Work, or Counseling along with designated State Licensure and/or Certifications. This team offers expertise in mood disorders, anxiety disorders substance abuse, relationship/marital issues, grief counseling, and workplace issues. Populations served are for children, adolescents, and adults of various multi-national backgrounds. All clinicians within the team participate in ongoing education and training allowing them cutting edge knowledge of behavioral healthcare and interventions to improve one's mental health. We welcome the opportunity to serve our community.
Play Therapy offers young children a therapeutic experience through the use of toys and artistic expression.
Moeller and Associates was founded in 1995. All clinicians have a Masters Degree or PhD in Psychology, Social Work, or Counseling along with designated State Licensure and/or Certifications. This team offers expertise in mood disorders, anxiety disorders substance abuse, relationship/marital issues, grief counseling, and workplace issues. Populations served are for children, adolescents, and adults of various multi-national backgrounds. All clinicians within the team participate in ongoing education and training allowing them cutting edge knowledge of behavioral healthcare and interventions to improve one's mental health. We welcome the opportunity to serve our community.
(770) 691-2307 View (770) 691-2307
Photo of Keren Drits, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Keren Drits
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Milton, GA 30004
Approaches include: Play Therapy, CBT, Exposure Response Prevention Therapy (ERP), Solution Focused Therapy.
Welcome! My practice is open during early EVENING hours to accommodate after school schedules. I have been fortunate to have 20 years of counseling experience in both the school setting and the private sector, working with children ranging in ages 4-21, adults, and with families. While working with children and adolescents, I believe that the family dynamic is an extremely important part of the therapeutic process, and will often involve parents and siblings in therapy when it is helpful. I also work with parents who need support with parenting help in many different scenarios (toddlers to teens).
Approaches include: Play Therapy, CBT, Exposure Response Prevention Therapy (ERP), Solution Focused Therapy.
Welcome! My practice is open during early EVENING hours to accommodate after school schedules. I have been fortunate to have 20 years of counseling experience in both the school setting and the private sector, working with children ranging in ages 4-21, adults, and with families. While working with children and adolescents, I believe that the family dynamic is an extremely important part of the therapeutic process, and will often involve parents and siblings in therapy when it is helpful. I also work with parents who need support with parenting help in many different scenarios (toddlers to teens).
(770) 629-8015 View (770) 629-8015
Photo of Dawn M Foster, EdS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dawn M Foster
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Milton, GA 30004
I have 20+ years of experience, as well as having worked as a Registered Play Therapist/Supervisor for 17 years.
I help persons of all ages whose anxiety is spoiling their ability to participate fully in life. Chronic untreated anxiety is a deep form of suffering not visible to others. Treatment starts when you feel really heard and understood. I always begin by listening deeply. The journey of healing and change can be made a bit lighter when shared with a caring therapist. I provide safe, supportive and interactive help to enable you, or your loved one, to manage and overcome anxieties and fears. Together we can make your life and relationships better.
I have 20+ years of experience, as well as having worked as a Registered Play Therapist/Supervisor for 17 years.
I help persons of all ages whose anxiety is spoiling their ability to participate fully in life. Chronic untreated anxiety is a deep form of suffering not visible to others. Treatment starts when you feel really heard and understood. I always begin by listening deeply. The journey of healing and change can be made a bit lighter when shared with a caring therapist. I provide safe, supportive and interactive help to enable you, or your loved one, to manage and overcome anxieties and fears. Together we can make your life and relationships better.
(770) 299-4482 View (770) 299-4482
Photo of Zack McMaster
Zack McMaster
Verified Verified
Milton, GA 30004
By integrating play therapy, cognitive-behavioral techniques, and family collaboration, I help children and teens gain insight and practical tools to thrive.
Watching your child struggle with emotions, behavior, or social interactions can be challenging. I specialize in working with children and teenagers to provide a safe and supportive space where they can express themselves, build resilience, and develop skills to manage life's challenges. I use evidence-based approaches tailored to your child’s unique needs, focusing on fostering trust and open communication. My goal is to partner with you, as parents, to understand and support your child’s mental health journey.
By integrating play therapy, cognitive-behavioral techniques, and family collaboration, I help children and teens gain insight and practical tools to thrive.
Watching your child struggle with emotions, behavior, or social interactions can be challenging. I specialize in working with children and teenagers to provide a safe and supportive space where they can express themselves, build resilience, and develop skills to manage life's challenges. I use evidence-based approaches tailored to your child’s unique needs, focusing on fostering trust and open communication. My goal is to partner with you, as parents, to understand and support your child’s mental health journey.
(470) 613-8387 View (470) 613-8387
Photo of David Smith - The Summit Counseling Center, Licensed Professional Counselor
The Summit Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Milton, GA 30004
The Summit is a trusted 501(c)(3) nonprofit community counseling organization that has helped individuals, couples, and families in north metro Atlanta experience hope, healing, and restoration since 1990. With over 30 therapists in 7 office locations and 31 public and private schools in North Fulton, Gwinnett, and DeKalb counties, we firmly believe that everyone deserves access to quality mental health care, regardless of their background or financial means.
The Summit is a trusted 501(c)(3) nonprofit community counseling organization that has helped individuals, couples, and families in north metro Atlanta experience hope, healing, and restoration since 1990. With over 30 therapists in 7 office locations and 31 public and private schools in North Fulton, Gwinnett, and DeKalb counties, we firmly believe that everyone deserves access to quality mental health care, regardless of their background or financial means.
(678) 824-2837 View (678) 824-2837
Photo of Alison Kelly, LPC, MA, CDBT, NCC, CCATP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alison Kelly
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, CDBT, NCC, CCATP
Verified Verified
Milton, GA 30004
Are you worried that your teen daughter is stressed or depressed? Are you frustrated with the lack of communication or defiant behavior? Are you concerned about your teen's difficulties in regu? Modern teen-hood for girls is a very difficult time in life, one that needs a specific set of coping skills. The rise in peer pressure, competitive conflicts, and unhealthy social media messages are all likely contributors to a national increase in anxiety, depression and low self-worth in girls. Counseling can help teen girls to improve decision-making, managing stress, and learning coping strategies to better set them up for future success
Are you worried that your teen daughter is stressed or depressed? Are you frustrated with the lack of communication or defiant behavior? Are you concerned about your teen's difficulties in regu? Modern teen-hood for girls is a very difficult time in life, one that needs a specific set of coping skills. The rise in peer pressure, competitive conflicts, and unhealthy social media messages are all likely contributors to a national increase in anxiety, depression and low self-worth in girls. Counseling can help teen girls to improve decision-making, managing stress, and learning coping strategies to better set them up for future success
(678) 792-3240 View (678) 792-3240
Photo of Joanna Goulding Kester, LPC, NCC, CBTS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joanna Goulding Kester
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CBTS
Verified Verified
Milton, GA 30004
As a Nationally Certified Counselor, I rely on evidence-based practices like Brainspotting and Mindful Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (M-CBT), to help children, adults, and families heal from the past, find stability in the present and hope for the future. My training and experience includes working with the effects of trauma (PTSD) and stressful experiences (e.g. emotional and sexual abuse, affairs, divorce, family conflict, grief, work stress, medical etc). I also work with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, gender and sexuality, OCD, Maternal Mental Health, self-harm, behavior disorders and Insomnia.
As a Nationally Certified Counselor, I rely on evidence-based practices like Brainspotting and Mindful Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (M-CBT), to help children, adults, and families heal from the past, find stability in the present and hope for the future. My training and experience includes working with the effects of trauma (PTSD) and stressful experiences (e.g. emotional and sexual abuse, affairs, divorce, family conflict, grief, work stress, medical etc). I also work with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, gender and sexuality, OCD, Maternal Mental Health, self-harm, behavior disorders and Insomnia.
(770) 940-7468 View (770) 940-7468
Photo of Susan P Richardson, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susan P Richardson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milton, GA 30009
I have a deep passion for the healing, resilience, and growth of children and families. My clients are parents and families who may feel that they are at the end of their rope with their children and struggling to find ways to help them heal, connect, and grow. It is an honor to join clients and be a part of helping to build greater resiliency, peace of mind and relationship satisfaction. While adoption is one of my core specialties, the issues of connection, attachment, emotional regulation, and relational healing are common to everyone, and pervasive in our mood and anxiety levels. I welcome all wanting to improve relationships.
I have a deep passion for the healing, resilience, and growth of children and families. My clients are parents and families who may feel that they are at the end of their rope with their children and struggling to find ways to help them heal, connect, and grow. It is an honor to join clients and be a part of helping to build greater resiliency, peace of mind and relationship satisfaction. While adoption is one of my core specialties, the issues of connection, attachment, emotional regulation, and relational healing are common to everyone, and pervasive in our mood and anxiety levels. I welcome all wanting to improve relationships.
(678) 658-2037 View (678) 658-2037
Photo of Whitney Rudd, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Whitney Rudd
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milton, GA 30004
In life, there are times when we feel stuck, either in a negative mindset, bad habit or situation wondering what happened and how we arrived at such a place. Often times our problems/situations are prolonged or hidden by shame, defense, hurt or anger. In these situations, what is needed is a safe nonjudgmental space where we feel seen and understood, and to explore challenges in our lives, and the possibility of change. Therapy is meant to create a safe space that allows emotional healing and restoration to take place through rapport building, openness, trust, and awareness.
In life, there are times when we feel stuck, either in a negative mindset, bad habit or situation wondering what happened and how we arrived at such a place. Often times our problems/situations are prolonged or hidden by shame, defense, hurt or anger. In these situations, what is needed is a safe nonjudgmental space where we feel seen and understood, and to explore challenges in our lives, and the possibility of change. Therapy is meant to create a safe space that allows emotional healing and restoration to take place through rapport building, openness, trust, and awareness.
(470) 619-1327 View (470) 619-1327
Photo of Erica Chesser, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erica Chesser
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milton, GA 30004
Have you noticed that you have been feeling anxious, down, stressed, or stuck? Are you ready to improve how you feel and think? I can provide support with issues related to depression, anxiety, relationships, school, and many other issues. I am LGBTQIA+ affirming and enjoy helping clients with concerns related to gender identity and sexual orientation. My background has included pediatrics and adult counseling.
Have you noticed that you have been feeling anxious, down, stressed, or stuck? Are you ready to improve how you feel and think? I can provide support with issues related to depression, anxiety, relationships, school, and many other issues. I am LGBTQIA+ affirming and enjoy helping clients with concerns related to gender identity and sexual orientation. My background has included pediatrics and adult counseling.
(470) 458-4473 View (470) 458-4473
Photo of Larisa Hanger, APC, NCC, Counselor
Larisa Hanger
Counselor, APC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Milton, GA 30004
Waitlist for new clients
Have you experienced sexual abuse, dissociation, an eating disorder, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, or similar issues? Therapy is a space where I can hold hope for you and be in your pain with you. My approach is warm, collaborative, creative, and trauma-sensitive. I want you to know nothing is “too much” or “too dark” to share, and you're safe here. I offer EMDR in addition to therapies such as Parts Work, Somatic (body-based), TF-CBT, Creative Art, and Sand Tray.
Have you experienced sexual abuse, dissociation, an eating disorder, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, or similar issues? Therapy is a space where I can hold hope for you and be in your pain with you. My approach is warm, collaborative, creative, and trauma-sensitive. I want you to know nothing is “too much” or “too dark” to share, and you're safe here. I offer EMDR in addition to therapies such as Parts Work, Somatic (body-based), TF-CBT, Creative Art, and Sand Tray.
(770) 651-0393 View (770) 651-0393
Photo of Brandi Smallwood, LPC, NCC, ASDCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brandi Smallwood
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Milton, GA 30004
I enjoy helping children, teens, and adults face their current challenges and find a path to wellness that allows them to flourish. I have experience working with a variety of clients of all ages. Areas of focus often include anxiety/stress, ADHD, depression, self-esteem, behavioral problems at home or school, social skills, life changes/transitions, toxic job recovery, OCD, compulsive thoughts, ASD, and more. I strive to create a nonjudgmental space where all that enter my door feel heard, empowered and safe to examine what is not working for them and find new habits.
I enjoy helping children, teens, and adults face their current challenges and find a path to wellness that allows them to flourish. I have experience working with a variety of clients of all ages. Areas of focus often include anxiety/stress, ADHD, depression, self-esteem, behavioral problems at home or school, social skills, life changes/transitions, toxic job recovery, OCD, compulsive thoughts, ASD, and more. I strive to create a nonjudgmental space where all that enter my door feel heard, empowered and safe to examine what is not working for them and find new habits.
(678) 257-7290 View (678) 257-7290
Photo of Alma Gardarsdottir, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alma Gardarsdottir
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Milton, GA 30004
Are you an athlete or a parent of an athlete that has been struggling with Anxiety, Trauma, or performance issues and you are not sure where to start or how to help yourself or your child? I specialize in utilizing EMDR to support the mental health and treatment of sports performance problems caused by negative experiences, trauma, or injury. These experiences, commonly known as slumps, mental blocks, and yips, can often lead to Lost Move Syndrome (LMS) and hinder an athlete's peak performance.
Are you an athlete or a parent of an athlete that has been struggling with Anxiety, Trauma, or performance issues and you are not sure where to start or how to help yourself or your child? I specialize in utilizing EMDR to support the mental health and treatment of sports performance problems caused by negative experiences, trauma, or injury. These experiences, commonly known as slumps, mental blocks, and yips, can often lead to Lost Move Syndrome (LMS) and hinder an athlete's peak performance.
(678) 750-1893 View (678) 750-1893

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Monique Johnson, LPC, RPT-S, CCBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Monique Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT-S, CCBT
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30005
I specialize in play therapy, couple's therapy, individual therapy, and group therapy.
Mrs. Johnson-Hill is committed to supporting individuals and families through a comprehensive approach. She strongly believes that, with the appropriate resources, everyone can achieve their fullest potential and is dedicated to ensuring they receive the utmost quality of service to make that possible. Her focus is on promoting the well-being of individuals, families, and the broader community by providing education, intervention, effective treatment, and prevention.
I specialize in play therapy, couple's therapy, individual therapy, and group therapy.
Mrs. Johnson-Hill is committed to supporting individuals and families through a comprehensive approach. She strongly believes that, with the appropriate resources, everyone can achieve their fullest potential and is dedicated to ensuring they receive the utmost quality of service to make that possible. Her focus is on promoting the well-being of individuals, families, and the broader community by providing education, intervention, effective treatment, and prevention.
(470) 600-2964 View (470) 600-2964
Photo of Cheryl Renita Underwood, LCMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cheryl Renita Underwood
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30009
My approach draws from evidence-based techniques CBT, DBT, mindfulness, art therapies, play therapies, and trauma therapies.
I specialize in relationships, addictions, and personal growth. Clients seeking help with issues with anger, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and relationship challenges. I provide therapy with individual diagnosis and tailored treatments. Working with a bachelor's in psychology and a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, I have years of counseling experiences ranging from family, marriage, and the penal systems. I work with patients in person and virtually to achieve patient goals. I use under-developed patient strengths and therapeutic techniques to achieve a positive well being.
My approach draws from evidence-based techniques CBT, DBT, mindfulness, art therapies, play therapies, and trauma therapies.
I specialize in relationships, addictions, and personal growth. Clients seeking help with issues with anger, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and relationship challenges. I provide therapy with individual diagnosis and tailored treatments. Working with a bachelor's in psychology and a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, I have years of counseling experiences ranging from family, marriage, and the penal systems. I work with patients in person and virtually to achieve patient goals. I use under-developed patient strengths and therapeutic techniques to achieve a positive well being.
(912) 715-9754 View (912) 715-9754
Photo of Kelley Dodson, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelley Dodson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30004
I have specialized training in play and art therapy, foster care, and attachment concerns.
Do you feel sad, lonely, hurt, or feel that your life is missing something? Do you have a child who is struggling with mood dysregulation, self-harming thoughts, or is simply "out-of-control?" Would like someone to talk too, process your thoughts, and help you or your family member feel better? If so, I am here to help you! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who specializes in working with children and families struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, anger management, low self-esteem, social skills, and divorce and family transition.
I have specialized training in play and art therapy, foster care, and attachment concerns.
Do you feel sad, lonely, hurt, or feel that your life is missing something? Do you have a child who is struggling with mood dysregulation, self-harming thoughts, or is simply "out-of-control?" Would like someone to talk too, process your thoughts, and help you or your family member feel better? If so, I am here to help you! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who specializes in working with children and families struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, anger management, low self-esteem, social skills, and divorce and family transition.
(678) 647-9987 View (678) 647-9987
Photo of Alex Hopkins, MA, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alex Hopkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30004
I strive to connect, create safety, and I love to play! As a Registered Play Therapist, I use play and other creative therapies like sand tray and art to help clients express themselves.
Hello! I am Alex Hopkins of Early Connections Child & Family Counseling. I specialize in counseling boys ages 8-18, and young men ages 19-22. Many of the young people I work with are recovering from trauma, and need a safe place to heal. Others are struggling to fit in with their peers, and need to know they're not alone. Some of them are navigating the tricky waters of sexual development, or identify as LGBTQ+ and need a place where they are welcomed and affirmed. A lot of the young people I work with feel anxious and/or depressed and want to feel hopeful again. All of the people I work with want to feel safe, seen, and secure.
I strive to connect, create safety, and I love to play! As a Registered Play Therapist, I use play and other creative therapies like sand tray and art to help clients express themselves.
Hello! I am Alex Hopkins of Early Connections Child & Family Counseling. I specialize in counseling boys ages 8-18, and young men ages 19-22. Many of the young people I work with are recovering from trauma, and need a safe place to heal. Others are struggling to fit in with their peers, and need to know they're not alone. Some of them are navigating the tricky waters of sexual development, or identify as LGBTQ+ and need a place where they are welcomed and affirmed. A lot of the young people I work with feel anxious and/or depressed and want to feel hopeful again. All of the people I work with want to feel safe, seen, and secure.
(678) 672-6392 View (678) 672-6392
Photo of Kim McFarland -  Play Therapy and Counseling Center: Kim McFarland, LCSW, RPT-S, Teacher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Play Therapy and Counseling Center: Kim McFarland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S, Teacher
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30004  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Registered Play Therapist Supervisor, therapy for individual counseling, group psychotherapy, and social skills training.
In my therapy sessions, I step away from the traditional "talk-only" approach. Instead, I invite you into a world where therapy is interactive and dynamic, engaging more than just our conversation skills. Clients are from any life stage, ready to engage deeply in therapy beyond conventional talk. They're proactive individuals, from energetic children to reflective seniors, all seeking a therapeutic experience that's as varied and dynamic as life itself.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Registered Play Therapist Supervisor, therapy for individual counseling, group psychotherapy, and social skills training.
In my therapy sessions, I step away from the traditional "talk-only" approach. Instead, I invite you into a world where therapy is interactive and dynamic, engaging more than just our conversation skills. Clients are from any life stage, ready to engage deeply in therapy beyond conventional talk. They're proactive individuals, from energetic children to reflective seniors, all seeking a therapeutic experience that's as varied and dynamic as life itself.
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See more therapy options for Milton

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.