Play Therapy in Snellville, GA

Photo of Tonia D Morris, MA, LPC, NCC, CAMS-II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tonia D Morris
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Snellville, GA 30039  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Tonia Morris and I am here to help you see things differently! I enjoy working with individuals, families, children, and adolescents on a variety of issues such as anger management, depression, anxiety, trauma, and positive communication. I specialize in children and adolescents, and have been teaching for over 18 years reaching children of all grade Ievels. I address your challenges using individual, family, group therapy and play therapy. I am available for day and evening appointments. Thank you for reading my profile and I look forward to serving you!
Hello, my name is Tonia Morris and I am here to help you see things differently! I enjoy working with individuals, families, children, and adolescents on a variety of issues such as anger management, depression, anxiety, trauma, and positive communication. I specialize in children and adolescents, and have been teaching for over 18 years reaching children of all grade Ievels. I address your challenges using individual, family, group therapy and play therapy. I am available for day and evening appointments. Thank you for reading my profile and I look forward to serving you!
(470) 280-1694 View (470) 280-1694
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
Snellville, GA 30078  (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 Whitney Molette - Hope, Health, & Healing Center (3HC) , M'Ed, NCC, APC, Counselor
Hope, Health, & Healing Center (3HC)
Counselor, M'Ed, NCC, APC
Verified Verified
Snellville, GA 30078
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 Christine Burrell, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Burrell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Snellville, GA 30078
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 Latoya Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Latoya Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Snellville, GA 30078  (Online Only)
I am experienced in working with Art therapy, Play therapy, CBT, Solution Focused, Narrative Therapy, DBT, and TFCBT.
Mental Health is not a destination, but a process. It's about how you drive, not where you're going. My name is Latoya Davis. I have been working as a Mental Health Therapist for a duration of five years and specialize in working with children, teenagers, adults, and families. I specialize in working with the following diagnosis: General Mental Health, Anxiety and Panic Disorder, Depression, Grief and Loss, ADD/ ADHD, Trauma related diagnosis. We will work together collaboratively to decrease all symptoms related to each mental health diagnosis with evidence-based modalities within different treatment approaches.
I am experienced in working with Art therapy, Play therapy, CBT, Solution Focused, Narrative Therapy, DBT, and TFCBT.
Mental Health is not a destination, but a process. It's about how you drive, not where you're going. My name is Latoya Davis. I have been working as a Mental Health Therapist for a duration of five years and specialize in working with children, teenagers, adults, and families. I specialize in working with the following diagnosis: General Mental Health, Anxiety and Panic Disorder, Depression, Grief and Loss, ADD/ ADHD, Trauma related diagnosis. We will work together collaboratively to decrease all symptoms related to each mental health diagnosis with evidence-based modalities within different treatment approaches.
(912) 616-7241 View (912) 616-7241
Photo of Lera Less, LPC, CPCS, RPT, CAMS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lera Less
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS, RPT, CAMS
Verified Verified
Snellville, GA 30078  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Registered Play therapist and Certified Anger Management Specialist with over 23 years experience working with Adolescents and Adults.
Life stressors can gravely impact significant areas of one's life such as Family, life Transtions, Academics and Relationships. Coping with and resolving these issues alone can sometimes prove to be challenging. You do not have to face it alone. Therapy can help to empower you to regain better control of your life. I understand that every client has individualized treatment needs,thus therapy is tailored as such to achieve maximum growth potential.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Registered Play therapist and Certified Anger Management Specialist with over 23 years experience working with Adolescents and Adults.
Life stressors can gravely impact significant areas of one's life such as Family, life Transtions, Academics and Relationships. Coping with and resolving these issues alone can sometimes prove to be challenging. You do not have to face it alone. Therapy can help to empower you to regain better control of your life. I understand that every client has individualized treatment needs,thus therapy is tailored as such to achieve maximum growth potential.
(770) 212-3577 View (770) 212-3577
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
Snellville, GA 30039
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 Quovadis Pallord, RBT, ABDA, CM, M Psych, Pre-Licensed Professional
Quovadis Pallord
Pre-Licensed Professional, RBT, ABDA, CM, M Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Snellville, GA 30039  (Online Only)
I incorporate motivational life skills coaching, with the inclusion of therapeutic healing. My approach is personal-centered and cognitive behavioral therapy techniques. I aspire to support individuals, families, and couples to reach their desired goals. I am inspired to produce a nonjudgmental environment with comfortability. My commitment to my clients would include helping you find the best solutions to your problem. Some people may think of therapy as a negative indication. However, my approach is centered around improving your well-being and helping you with life challenges.
I incorporate motivational life skills coaching, with the inclusion of therapeutic healing. My approach is personal-centered and cognitive behavioral therapy techniques. I aspire to support individuals, families, and couples to reach their desired goals. I am inspired to produce a nonjudgmental environment with comfortability. My commitment to my clients would include helping you find the best solutions to your problem. Some people may think of therapy as a negative indication. However, my approach is centered around improving your well-being and helping you with life challenges.
(678) 736-8812 View (678) 736-8812
Photo of Lorna Beverly Bowen - Live Balanced Counseling Services LLC, NCC, LPC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Live Balanced Counseling Services LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, NCC, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Snellville, GA 30078
Are your relationships not what you want them to be, filled with conflicts and you feel alone? Are you anxious, depressed, and feel that no one recognizes your potential or worth? You wake up every day and go about your routine, but you have lost your zest for life? Let me help you. You are in need of a therapist like me, who will first acknowledge the way you are feeling and not tell you "just get over it." I will empower you and give you the tools you need to get and feel connected again, to find joy and fulfillment in life, to "smell the roses again." COME SEE ME! I work with children, teens, adults, couples and families.
Are your relationships not what you want them to be, filled with conflicts and you feel alone? Are you anxious, depressed, and feel that no one recognizes your potential or worth? You wake up every day and go about your routine, but you have lost your zest for life? Let me help you. You are in need of a therapist like me, who will first acknowledge the way you are feeling and not tell you "just get over it." I will empower you and give you the tools you need to get and feel connected again, to find joy and fulfillment in life, to "smell the roses again." COME SEE ME! I work with children, teens, adults, couples and families.
(678) 582-1340 View (678) 582-1340
Photo of Melania Soto Garcia, MA, LPC, NCC, CMHC, CAMS
Melania Soto Garcia
MA, LPC, NCC, CMHC, CAMS
Verified Verified
Snellville, GA 30078
I am a bilingual (English - Spanish) therapist, EMDR training and Certified Anger Management Specialist. I’ve had experience with different mental health illnesses including, Anxiety, Depression, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. My passion is to help people through transitions in life. I aim to be an unbiased guide that helps my clients and advocates for them in their journey towards self-actualization. My experience is helping individuals with relationships and family issues and I had helped teens in crisis reconcile with their families. I will enjoy the opportunity to get to know you and be added to your support system.
I am a bilingual (English - Spanish) therapist, EMDR training and Certified Anger Management Specialist. I’ve had experience with different mental health illnesses including, Anxiety, Depression, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. My passion is to help people through transitions in life. I aim to be an unbiased guide that helps my clients and advocates for them in their journey towards self-actualization. My experience is helping individuals with relationships and family issues and I had helped teens in crisis reconcile with their families. I will enjoy the opportunity to get to know you and be added to your support system.
(678) 635-9216 View (678) 635-9216
Photo of Ameleo D Manuel, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ameleo D Manuel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Snellville, GA 30078  (Online Only)
While many of the things life throws at us can be challenging and painful, they can also become a catalyst to showcase our strengths, resiliency, and opportunity for growth. I feel that our experiences, both positive and negative, help shape who we are, and make us unique. Through counseling, developing a better understanding of our histories, along with the connection to this and current functioning in various aspects of our lives; we can greatly enhance insight into ourselves as to why we do what we do.
While many of the things life throws at us can be challenging and painful, they can also become a catalyst to showcase our strengths, resiliency, and opportunity for growth. I feel that our experiences, both positive and negative, help shape who we are, and make us unique. Through counseling, developing a better understanding of our histories, along with the connection to this and current functioning in various aspects of our lives; we can greatly enhance insight into ourselves as to why we do what we do.
(678) 931-9683 View (678) 931-9683
Photo of Christine Burrell Townsend - Sunrise Counseling, Inc, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sunrise Counseling, Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Snellville, GA 30078
Sometimes, life can seem challenging and overwhelming - this can be frustrating for many of us. At Sunrise Counseling, we offer you or your child support that encourages understanding, changes, and growth. Sunrise Counseling is a private practice in Snellville, Georgia and we enjoy working with children, families, and adults who are feeling stuck and need help finding a way to forward and manage behavior, depression, or anxiety that interfere with your success.
Sometimes, life can seem challenging and overwhelming - this can be frustrating for many of us. At Sunrise Counseling, we offer you or your child support that encourages understanding, changes, and growth. Sunrise Counseling is a private practice in Snellville, Georgia and we enjoy working with children, families, and adults who are feeling stuck and need help finding a way to forward and manage behavior, depression, or anxiety that interfere with your success.
(770) 691-0437 View (770) 691-0437
Photo of Chelsia Mckie, MS, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Chelsia Mckie
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, MA
Verified Verified
Snellville, GA 30078
I am a dedicated and compassionate Professional Counselor with a passion for helping children, couples, and families navigate the complexities of life and relationships. My goal is to provide a safe and supportive environment where individuals and families can explore their challenges, develop resilience, and foster positive change. Chelsia focus is on three main areas: children, teens, couples, and families. She specializes in providing comprehensive counseling for children, teens, couples, and families. She is passionate about helping young individuals navigate the challenges of growing up, supporting couples in building.
I am a dedicated and compassionate Professional Counselor with a passion for helping children, couples, and families navigate the complexities of life and relationships. My goal is to provide a safe and supportive environment where individuals and families can explore their challenges, develop resilience, and foster positive change. Chelsia focus is on three main areas: children, teens, couples, and families. She specializes in providing comprehensive counseling for children, teens, couples, and families. She is passionate about helping young individuals navigate the challenges of growing up, supporting couples in building.
(470) 634-1957 View (470) 634-1957
Photo of Sabrina Y Byirt - Balance & Growth Wellness LLC ( Sabrina Byirt), MS, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Balance & Growth Wellness LLC ( Sabrina Byirt)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LMSW
Verified Verified
Snellville, GA 30078  (Online Only)
Have depression and anxiety been interfering with your life daily, and nothing is working? You are not stuck; most of all, you are not alone in experiencing these symptoms. I will support your healing journey if you are ready to change and turn over a new leaf. It is time to reach your full potential as an individual. I am skilled in treating adults and children who are experiencing depression and anxiety symptoms, bipolar mood disorder, ADHD, and substance abuse, domestic violence, family therapy. Allow me to assist you on this new journey.
Have depression and anxiety been interfering with your life daily, and nothing is working? You are not stuck; most of all, you are not alone in experiencing these symptoms. I will support your healing journey if you are ready to change and turn over a new leaf. It is time to reach your full potential as an individual. I am skilled in treating adults and children who are experiencing depression and anxiety symptoms, bipolar mood disorder, ADHD, and substance abuse, domestic violence, family therapy. Allow me to assist you on this new journey.
(256) 445-9134 View (256) 445-9134
Photo of Kristena Martin, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristena Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Snellville, GA 30039  (Online Only)
She is passionate about helping empowering women to be their best and navigating relationships! Do you suffer from depression, anxiety, or trauma? Do you have relationship problems? Are you suffering from depression, anxiety, or trauama? Do you have broken relationships? Are you in the midst of dealing with a narcissist? Kristena can help you and help you to find relief. The therapist has worked in many diverse settings and diverse populations. After graduating from UGA with a BS in cellular biology she worked with many people who suffered from traumatic experiences in the states as well as South Africa.
She is passionate about helping empowering women to be their best and navigating relationships! Do you suffer from depression, anxiety, or trauma? Do you have relationship problems? Are you suffering from depression, anxiety, or trauama? Do you have broken relationships? Are you in the midst of dealing with a narcissist? Kristena can help you and help you to find relief. The therapist has worked in many diverse settings and diverse populations. After graduating from UGA with a BS in cellular biology she worked with many people who suffered from traumatic experiences in the states as well as South Africa.
(470) 745-2106 View (470) 745-2106
Photo of Jennifer Paveglio, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Paveglio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Snellville, GA 30078
Welcome. Here is a little something about me. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Georgia and Florida with 13 years of clinical experience, currently working with clients statewide via telehealth. I believe in treating everyone with genuine care, absolute respect, acceptance, and compassion. Taking the first step in seeking healing and a more fulfilling, happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Welcome. Here is a little something about me. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Georgia and Florida with 13 years of clinical experience, currently working with clients statewide via telehealth. I believe in treating everyone with genuine care, absolute respect, acceptance, and compassion. Taking the first step in seeking healing and a more fulfilling, happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
(770) 766-7567 View (770) 766-7567
Photo of Keshara Rosser, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Keshara Rosser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Snellville, GA 30078  (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Keshara Rosser! Are you feeling stuck, uncertain, or exhausted from trying to do it all? I'm here to help you to prioritize your mental well-being, seek meaningful growth, and regain control over your life. Together, we’ll work to uncover the root of your challenges, explore personalized strategies for resilience, and set achievable goals that bring you closer to a fulfilling, balanced life. If you’re ready to make positive changes, I’m here to help guide you every step of the way!
Hi, I’m Keshara Rosser! Are you feeling stuck, uncertain, or exhausted from trying to do it all? I'm here to help you to prioritize your mental well-being, seek meaningful growth, and regain control over your life. Together, we’ll work to uncover the root of your challenges, explore personalized strategies for resilience, and set achievable goals that bring you closer to a fulfilling, balanced life. If you’re ready to make positive changes, I’m here to help guide you every step of the way!
(470) 339-1985 View (470) 339-1985
Photo of Robinette Muse, Licensed Professional Counselor
Robinette Muse
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Snellville, GA 30039  (Online Only)
Hello I am Dr. Robin Muse. I have been a licensed therapist for 25 years and in the behavioral health field for 38 years. I have practiced in both the public and private sector and have specialized in trauma resolution as well as treating depression, anxiety and mood disorders. I have worked with children and adolescents, families, divorce mediation and substance abusing populations. I have 15 years experience working with military populations. I spend my spare time writing, doing charity work and gardening My education includes a Masters and Education Specialist degree in Counseling and a Ph.D. In Health Psychology.
Hello I am Dr. Robin Muse. I have been a licensed therapist for 25 years and in the behavioral health field for 38 years. I have practiced in both the public and private sector and have specialized in trauma resolution as well as treating depression, anxiety and mood disorders. I have worked with children and adolescents, families, divorce mediation and substance abusing populations. I have 15 years experience working with military populations. I spend my spare time writing, doing charity work and gardening My education includes a Masters and Education Specialist degree in Counseling and a Ph.D. In Health Psychology.
(470) 465-4378 View (470) 465-4378
Photo of Madeline Thompson Smith, APC, MEd
Madeline Thompson Smith
APC, MEd
Verified Verified
Snellville, GA 30078
Sometimes life feels overwhelming, confusing, or painful. In those moments, forming a connection with a counselor can be a powerful experience, and I am grateful to work each day with clients like you. I work with all ages, from 4 to 94, individually or in relationships. We work to understand your emotions, process past experiences, and learn skills to get unstuck. It's never too early or late. I am committed to offering counseling services that embrace the different identifies and experiences that each person brings to the room. I work with you to understand your life experiences and move forward towards the life you want.
Sometimes life feels overwhelming, confusing, or painful. In those moments, forming a connection with a counselor can be a powerful experience, and I am grateful to work each day with clients like you. I work with all ages, from 4 to 94, individually or in relationships. We work to understand your emotions, process past experiences, and learn skills to get unstuck. It's never too early or late. I am committed to offering counseling services that embrace the different identifies and experiences that each person brings to the room. I work with you to understand your life experiences and move forward towards the life you want.
(314) 282-7007 View (314) 282-7007
Photo of Damaris Claudio, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Damaris Claudio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Snellville, GA 30078
Have you been struggling with debilitating anxiety and depression? Do you feel intense emotions daily? Do you feel like you can't breathe? I totally understand how this can impact your daily life to the point that you may not have any motivation to leave the house, get out of bed. Are you sick and tired of being sick and tired? I'm here to let you know that you are not "crazy". Your symptoms are real and I'm here to listen without judgement. I will ensure that you have a safe place where you matter and where you are part of your healing journey.
Have you been struggling with debilitating anxiety and depression? Do you feel intense emotions daily? Do you feel like you can't breathe? I totally understand how this can impact your daily life to the point that you may not have any motivation to leave the house, get out of bed. Are you sick and tired of being sick and tired? I'm here to let you know that you are not "crazy". Your symptoms are real and I'm here to listen without judgement. I will ensure that you have a safe place where you matter and where you are part of your healing journey.
(404) 737-9008 View (404) 737-9008
1
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.