Play Therapy in Honolulu, HI

Photo of Sandal Gap - Sandal Gap Comprehensive Services, LMHC, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sandal Gap Comprehensive Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96817
With younger clients, I enjoy integrating play-based approaches and expressive arts into our sessions, blending creativity with talk therapy to enhance engagement and self-expression.
As a therapist, my goal is for my clients to feel heard, understood, valued & respected without fear of judgment. Through meaningful relationships that are rooted in trust & safety, my mission is to empower individuals to regain a sense of control over their lives. I believe that trust, safety, and collaboration are at the core of the therapeutic relationship and are critical to establish in order to begin the healing process. Through this approach, I work alongside my clients, respecting their unique journeys and fostering resilience, self-compassion, and empowerment as we navigate life’s challenges together.
With younger clients, I enjoy integrating play-based approaches and expressive arts into our sessions, blending creativity with talk therapy to enhance engagement and self-expression.
As a therapist, my goal is for my clients to feel heard, understood, valued & respected without fear of judgment. Through meaningful relationships that are rooted in trust & safety, my mission is to empower individuals to regain a sense of control over their lives. I believe that trust, safety, and collaboration are at the core of the therapeutic relationship and are critical to establish in order to begin the healing process. Through this approach, I work alongside my clients, respecting their unique journeys and fostering resilience, self-compassion, and empowerment as we navigate life’s challenges together.
(808) 646-2834 View (808) 646-2834
Photo of Elizabeth 'liz' Kong, MA, LMFT, RPT-S, LSC, RSP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elizabeth 'liz' Kong
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RPT-S, LSC, RSP
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96813
I am a Registered Play Therapy Supervisor (Association for Play Therapy).
I provide psychotherapy services to children, adults and couples. I specialize in Child Centered Play Therapy (age 4+) usingvarious modalities ( puppets, clay and art materials). Due to demand for my services, I only accept referrals from physicians or psychologists or insurance care managers at this time. Referrals can be faxed (808) 892-3683 for review by my office to determine if it is appropriate. I do not accept court referrals for child custody or divorce cases or sibling therapy as my office is only open part time
I am a Registered Play Therapy Supervisor (Association for Play Therapy).
I provide psychotherapy services to children, adults and couples. I specialize in Child Centered Play Therapy (age 4+) usingvarious modalities ( puppets, clay and art materials). Due to demand for my services, I only accept referrals from physicians or psychologists or insurance care managers at this time. Referrals can be faxed (808) 892-3683 for review by my office to determine if it is appropriate. I do not accept court referrals for child custody or divorce cases or sibling therapy as my office is only open part time
(808) 638-3786 View (808) 638-3786
Photo of Carmenne Anne Chiasson, PhD, Psychologist
Carmenne Anne Chiasson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96813
I believe that all people are equal and deserve respect regardless of your history or your circumstances. I will collaborate with you towards positive change. I treat most diagnoses including anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, and Autism. I treat clients of all ages and offer individual, couple, family and play therapy and Neurofeedback. I completed my APA approved internship at Kapiolani Counseling Center for women and children and I have previously worked as the child and adolescent psychologist at Kahi Mohala. I was the lead psychologist at my last position, providing consultation for child, adolescent and adult therapists.
I believe that all people are equal and deserve respect regardless of your history or your circumstances. I will collaborate with you towards positive change. I treat most diagnoses including anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, and Autism. I treat clients of all ages and offer individual, couple, family and play therapy and Neurofeedback. I completed my APA approved internship at Kapiolani Counseling Center for women and children and I have previously worked as the child and adolescent psychologist at Kahi Mohala. I was the lead psychologist at my last position, providing consultation for child, adolescent and adult therapists.
(808) 419-3414 View (808) 419-3414
Photo of Ellen Marie Roberts, MSCP, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ellen Marie Roberts
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSCP, LMFT
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96822
Waitlist for new clients
The space offers comfort, art supplies, somatic & play therapy tools.
Currently accepting new clients, and welcoming in-person, tele-health, and eco-therapy sessions. Are you struggling to overcome emotional pain, heal from past hurt or trauma, get “un-stuck”, and create positive changes? I understand what it feels like to feel stuck, to want something different, to know that what you are doing isn’t working and that there is a better way but being unable to let go of unhelpful habits, patterns, social constructs, and/or relationships that are keeping us there. Change is possible and is most possible when one decides they just can’t keep living this way anymore and something must give.
The space offers comfort, art supplies, somatic & play therapy tools.
Currently accepting new clients, and welcoming in-person, tele-health, and eco-therapy sessions. Are you struggling to overcome emotional pain, heal from past hurt or trauma, get “un-stuck”, and create positive changes? I understand what it feels like to feel stuck, to want something different, to know that what you are doing isn’t working and that there is a better way but being unable to let go of unhelpful habits, patterns, social constructs, and/or relationships that are keeping us there. Change is possible and is most possible when one decides they just can’t keep living this way anymore and something must give.
(808) 435-5685 View (808) 435-5685
Photo of Shelley Schweitzer, LCSW, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shelley Schweitzer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96819
I am an EMDR trained therapist, a Registered Play Therapist (RPT-S) and a Behavioral Analyst (BCBA).
Life can bring joy and fulfilment, yet at times we all need support. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience. My practice serves children and their families as well as adults. Contact me for support in anxiety, depression, parenting, behavior, social skills, family issues, grief and trauma. I welcome all new clients and will tailor my approach to meet your needs.
I am an EMDR trained therapist, a Registered Play Therapist (RPT-S) and a Behavioral Analyst (BCBA).
Life can bring joy and fulfilment, yet at times we all need support. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience. My practice serves children and their families as well as adults. Contact me for support in anxiety, depression, parenting, behavior, social skills, family issues, grief and trauma. I welcome all new clients and will tailor my approach to meet your needs.
(808) 277-2850 View (808) 277-2850
Photo of Jina Uyeda, MA, LMFT, CSAC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jina Uyeda
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CSAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96814  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am wholistic, systems based, Licensed Marriage and Family therapist and Certified Substance Abuse Counselor. I am fluent in Korean. I provide Substance Abuse Assessments and early intervention education. I work with families, couples, individuals and children. I have experience working with trauma, depression, dual diagnosis, children with autism, ADHD, and ADD.I have training in play therapy, EMDR, Gottman methods and mindfulness based treatment modalities. I have also worked as a domestic violence advocate for the Navy and worked with military families.
I am wholistic, systems based, Licensed Marriage and Family therapist and Certified Substance Abuse Counselor. I am fluent in Korean. I provide Substance Abuse Assessments and early intervention education. I work with families, couples, individuals and children. I have experience working with trauma, depression, dual diagnosis, children with autism, ADHD, and ADD.I have training in play therapy, EMDR, Gottman methods and mindfulness based treatment modalities. I have also worked as a domestic violence advocate for the Navy and worked with military families.
(808) 425-9811 View (808) 425-9811
Photo of Dr. Marija Colic, PhD, BCBA
Dr. Marija Colic
PhD, BCBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96815
Please feel free to reach out if you’re interested in learning more about ABA, play-based interventions, or how we can work together toward meaningful progress.
Aloha! Thank you for taking the time to learn about me. I specialize in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and play-based interventions for individuals with autism and developmental disabilities. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, blending behavioral principles with insights from developmental psychology to support meaningful growth. I work with children and adults with autism and developmental disabilities who may face challenges with communication, social skills, or daily tasks. I also support parents in understanding strategies to support their children.
Please feel free to reach out if you’re interested in learning more about ABA, play-based interventions, or how we can work together toward meaningful progress.
Aloha! Thank you for taking the time to learn about me. I specialize in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and play-based interventions for individuals with autism and developmental disabilities. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, blending behavioral principles with insights from developmental psychology to support meaningful growth. I work with children and adults with autism and developmental disabilities who may face challenges with communication, social skills, or daily tasks. I also support parents in understanding strategies to support their children.
(808) 645-4970 View (808) 645-4970
Photo of Nick Osborne, MSW, LCSW, CIMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nick Osborne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CIMHP
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96814
While working together, we can explore creative approaches such as Walk & Talk Therapy and Outdoor Play Therapy in a scenic Honolulu park.
God created you for greatness. However, challenges in life are attempting to hinder you from being the person you are meant to be. I am here to help. With my laid-back and compassionate approach, I create a warm and safe environment where you will feel validated, empowered, and at times challenged. I value providing holistic therapy, where together we will develop mental, emotional, and spiritual tools that will assist you in becoming your best self. I enjoy working with children, teens, and young adults who seek help with identity issues, anger, anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, and athletic performance.
While working together, we can explore creative approaches such as Walk & Talk Therapy and Outdoor Play Therapy in a scenic Honolulu park.
God created you for greatness. However, challenges in life are attempting to hinder you from being the person you are meant to be. I am here to help. With my laid-back and compassionate approach, I create a warm and safe environment where you will feel validated, empowered, and at times challenged. I value providing holistic therapy, where together we will develop mental, emotional, and spiritual tools that will assist you in becoming your best self. I enjoy working with children, teens, and young adults who seek help with identity issues, anger, anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, and athletic performance.
(808) 435-7178 View (808) 435-7178
Photo of Moani Silva, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Moani Silva
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96816
She incorporates IFS,DBT, EMDR, EFT, Sand Play and CBT into her therapy.
Moani Silva is an LMFT who was born and raised in Hawaii. She has experience working with people from all different ethnic backgrounds and believes in treating the whole being. She uses a conscious and holistic approach when working with individuals, families and children to help them thrive and experience living life to its fullest. She works to empower clients to awaken their self-guidance system, embrace their authentic selves, open to a life worth living, and step onto their own unique life-path.
She incorporates IFS,DBT, EMDR, EFT, Sand Play and CBT into her therapy.
Moani Silva is an LMFT who was born and raised in Hawaii. She has experience working with people from all different ethnic backgrounds and believes in treating the whole being. She uses a conscious and holistic approach when working with individuals, families and children to help them thrive and experience living life to its fullest. She works to empower clients to awaken their self-guidance system, embrace their authentic selves, open to a life worth living, and step onto their own unique life-path.
(808) 278-9415 View (808) 278-9415
Photo of Carol l Nowak, PhD, Psychologist
Carol l Nowak
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96813  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I use both individual play therapy, parent consultation, and family therapy and utilize behavioral interventions to assist with problems and challenges.
I specialize in working with adults, adolescents, and children in individual, couples and family therapy. I primarily use a psychodynamic, interpersonal, and family systems approach. Having been in practice for more than 25 years, I have a well rounded and broad background of experience which includes working with all types of clients of all ages with many varying presenting issues. Clients who are best suited for my practice want to become more aware of their issues as they relate to the underlying patterns and dynamics that replicate again and again and cause dysfunction in their lives.
I use both individual play therapy, parent consultation, and family therapy and utilize behavioral interventions to assist with problems and challenges.
I specialize in working with adults, adolescents, and children in individual, couples and family therapy. I primarily use a psychodynamic, interpersonal, and family systems approach. Having been in practice for more than 25 years, I have a well rounded and broad background of experience which includes working with all types of clients of all ages with many varying presenting issues. Clients who are best suited for my practice want to become more aware of their issues as they relate to the underlying patterns and dynamics that replicate again and again and cause dysfunction in their lives.
(808) 664-4929 View (808) 664-4929
Photo of Jenny M. Unno-Lee, EdD, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Jenny M. Unno-Lee
Counselor, EdD, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96801
My primary treatment modality is play therapy, a developmentally responsive intervention that aims to treat emotional and behavioral problems.
I was born and raised in Hawaii and my passion is to support children, teens, and adults within my local community. I have been in practice for the past 14+ years, and it is my desire is to provide a family-friendly environment with professional and ethical services to meet the emotional, physical, and social well-being of children, teens, adults and their families.
My primary treatment modality is play therapy, a developmentally responsive intervention that aims to treat emotional and behavioral problems.
I was born and raised in Hawaii and my passion is to support children, teens, and adults within my local community. I have been in practice for the past 14+ years, and it is my desire is to provide a family-friendly environment with professional and ethical services to meet the emotional, physical, and social well-being of children, teens, adults and their families.
(808) 425-9070 View (808) 425-9070
Photo of Amelia Rachel Hokulea Borofsky, PsyD, Psychologist
Amelia Rachel Hokulea Borofsky
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96801  (Online Only)
I also use play, art.
Do you want more tools to navigate life's oceans? Facing parenting struggles? General anxiety and overwhelm? Together we can unlock the keys for a calmer nervous system. I approach therapy as a collaborative somatic process and provide a supportive, empowering, and confidential space. Race, gender, class, and power—and how multiple identities intersect--all inform the work. I specialize in parenting, trauma, postpartum depression, and anxiety. I work with you to co-create small, impactful change. Together we can unlock connection, compassion, creativity, and community.
I also use play, art.
Do you want more tools to navigate life's oceans? Facing parenting struggles? General anxiety and overwhelm? Together we can unlock the keys for a calmer nervous system. I approach therapy as a collaborative somatic process and provide a supportive, empowering, and confidential space. Race, gender, class, and power—and how multiple identities intersect--all inform the work. I specialize in parenting, trauma, postpartum depression, and anxiety. I work with you to co-create small, impactful change. Together we can unlock connection, compassion, creativity, and community.
(808) 460-6549 View (808) 460-6549
Photo of Daysi Cortes, MS, LMHC
Daysi Cortes
Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96818
Through the utilization of play, movement, music, and art in therapy sessions, I am able to support youth of all ages.
I place value in providing a safe, open, nonjudgemental, supportive space that encourages individuals to find their inner strengths, self-acceptance and build new skills necessary for healing and coping with future challenges and building resilience. Telling your story is an important part of healing. I look forward to listening and finding a place of wellness, self-acceptance & healing. I work with diverse clients of all ages experiencing various mental health difficulties, including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, self-esteem, relationship issues, and more. I also have a passion for working with children and teens.
Through the utilization of play, movement, music, and art in therapy sessions, I am able to support youth of all ages.
I place value in providing a safe, open, nonjudgemental, supportive space that encourages individuals to find their inner strengths, self-acceptance and build new skills necessary for healing and coping with future challenges and building resilience. Telling your story is an important part of healing. I look forward to listening and finding a place of wellness, self-acceptance & healing. I work with diverse clients of all ages experiencing various mental health difficulties, including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, self-esteem, relationship issues, and more. I also have a passion for working with children and teens.
(808) 746-3591 View (808) 746-3591
Photo of Abby Halston - Dr. Abby Halston Marriage and Family Therapy, EdD, LMFT, NCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Abby Halston Marriage and Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT, NCC
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96826  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping individuals and couples navigate life's challenges and build stronger, more fulfilling relationships. With over 20 years of experience, I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their concerns and work toward positive change. Whether you're struggling with communication issues, intimacy concerns, parenting challenges, or life transitions, I'm here to support you. My goal is to help you develop practical skills, gain deeper insights, and create lasting positive changes in your relationships and personal life.
I specialize in helping individuals and couples navigate life's challenges and build stronger, more fulfilling relationships. With over 20 years of experience, I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their concerns and work toward positive change. Whether you're struggling with communication issues, intimacy concerns, parenting challenges, or life transitions, I'm here to support you. My goal is to help you develop practical skills, gain deeper insights, and create lasting positive changes in your relationships and personal life.
(808) 977-6086 View (808) 977-6086
Photo of Jeanie Li, PhD, Psychologist
Jeanie Li
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96813  (Online Only)
Aloha, Are you or your loved ones struggling with anxiety, depression, or chronic pain? Do you find yourself compulsively eating, drinking, working, or seeking relationships in order to fill the inner void? Do you and your partner sometimes get caught in a negative interaction pattern that prevents you from experiencing love and intimacy? I have years of education, training, and clinical experiences to help you process painful emotions, learn new skills, and find new ways of connecting with self, others, and the world. I am licensed in Hawaii and California to see clients from both states.
Aloha, Are you or your loved ones struggling with anxiety, depression, or chronic pain? Do you find yourself compulsively eating, drinking, working, or seeking relationships in order to fill the inner void? Do you and your partner sometimes get caught in a negative interaction pattern that prevents you from experiencing love and intimacy? I have years of education, training, and clinical experiences to help you process painful emotions, learn new skills, and find new ways of connecting with self, others, and the world. I am licensed in Hawaii and California to see clients from both states.
(808) 419-7832 View (808) 419-7832
Photo of Lauren Ashley Oiye, LMHC, MFT, MSCP, RYT200, Counselor
Lauren Ashley Oiye
Counselor, LMHC, MFT, MSCP, RYT200
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96817
Waitlist for new clients
The healing process is one that is infinite and the beauty of that rests in the fact that there are an abundance of healing methods and forms of healing. Sourcing the appropriate path is contingent upon our present state and what we need in that particular life moment. I believe that a holistic approach to psychological, emotional, and behavioral issues is the most effective way to reaching the source of our distress. Throughout treatment an individual or family is provided with various coping tools and skills to manage symptoms.
The healing process is one that is infinite and the beauty of that rests in the fact that there are an abundance of healing methods and forms of healing. Sourcing the appropriate path is contingent upon our present state and what we need in that particular life moment. I believe that a holistic approach to psychological, emotional, and behavioral issues is the most effective way to reaching the source of our distress. Throughout treatment an individual or family is provided with various coping tools and skills to manage symptoms.
(808) 202-2762 View (808) 202-2762
Photo of Katelyn Usam, MS, MFT-I, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Katelyn Usam
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MS, MFT-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96817
Life is full of ups and downs, but sometimes, we get stuck in those downs and forget how to come up for air. If left unattended, we can find ourselves feeling depressed, anxious, stressed out, constantly getting emotionally triggered, and maybe even feel as if the relationships in our lives are suffering. However, we don't have to live there forever and we can learn to see that there is light at the end of the tunnel - and I can help you with that.
Life is full of ups and downs, but sometimes, we get stuck in those downs and forget how to come up for air. If left unattended, we can find ourselves feeling depressed, anxious, stressed out, constantly getting emotionally triggered, and maybe even feel as if the relationships in our lives are suffering. However, we don't have to live there forever and we can learn to see that there is light at the end of the tunnel - and I can help you with that.
(808) 435-4814 View (808) 435-4814
Photo of Athena Kim-Romero - Dr Athena Kim LLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr Athena Kim LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96816
Sometimes, you may experience some life obstacles that lower your quality of living. It helps to talk about your difficulties in psychotherapy so that you may learn the strategies and coping mechanisms to better deal with your difficulties, raise your quality of life, and enjoy your relationships with others. In my practice, I provide a safe, nonjudgmental environment where we can discuss these issues and find solutions together. I provide services to individuals (from the toddler to elderly age groups), families, and couples.
Sometimes, you may experience some life obstacles that lower your quality of living. It helps to talk about your difficulties in psychotherapy so that you may learn the strategies and coping mechanisms to better deal with your difficulties, raise your quality of life, and enjoy your relationships with others. In my practice, I provide a safe, nonjudgmental environment where we can discuss these issues and find solutions together. I provide services to individuals (from the toddler to elderly age groups), families, and couples.
(808) 518-3719 View (808) 518-3719
Photo of Sahiti Karumuri, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sahiti Karumuri
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96815  (Online Only)
My priority is creating a safe and nurturing space for my clients, where they feel heard, understood, and respected. I emphasize the client-therapist relationship, recognizing it as a vital cornerstone of the therapeutic process. I believe that by fostering a trusting and supportive environment, clients can feel empowered to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences openly and authentically. My approach is rooted in the belief that confronting the root causes of our challenges can create lasting change and cultivate a deeper sense of self-awareness and resilience.
My priority is creating a safe and nurturing space for my clients, where they feel heard, understood, and respected. I emphasize the client-therapist relationship, recognizing it as a vital cornerstone of the therapeutic process. I believe that by fostering a trusting and supportive environment, clients can feel empowered to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences openly and authentically. My approach is rooted in the belief that confronting the root causes of our challenges can create lasting change and cultivate a deeper sense of self-awareness and resilience.
(808) 320-4968 View (808) 320-4968
Photo of Graham Anthony Dixon, MA, LMHC, PhD, Counselor
Graham Anthony Dixon
Counselor, MA, LMHC, PhD
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96825
Positive psychology - the art and science of ... being happy. You will experience as many laughs as tears, as much playfulness as serious contemplation and as much hope for the future as contemplation of the past. We can learn from experience rather than letting a negative past define us. Online therapy or in person at your home offered at your convenience - no waiting and lack of privacy in a traditional office setting. Couples counseling, depression, anxiety and PTSD are my specialties. Fourteen years experience.
Positive psychology - the art and science of ... being happy. You will experience as many laughs as tears, as much playfulness as serious contemplation and as much hope for the future as contemplation of the past. We can learn from experience rather than letting a negative past define us. Online therapy or in person at your home offered at your convenience - no waiting and lack of privacy in a traditional office setting. Couples counseling, depression, anxiety and PTSD are my specialties. Fourteen years experience.
(808) 482-6950 View (808) 482-6950
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.