Play Therapy in Huntley, IL

Photo of Dan Blair - Blair Counseling and Mediation, LMFT, LCPC, NCPC
Blair Counseling and Mediation
LMFT, LCPC, NCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntley, IL 60142
Our clients enjoy humor, are honest, and are wanting to try new things if it makes sense to them. Some want relief from depression, or various forms of anxiety including trauma and grief. Others struggle with addictions and addictive behavior and are looking for ways to feel more in control. Or, they have concerns about their kids, ADHD, autism, or other behavior, and would like someone to come along side them to help support them or their child. Services are also available in Spanish. Christian counseling can be requested. Prefer Communication Coaching to Therapy? Find our app (MinuteMood.com) on Google Play and Apple Play stores.
Our clients enjoy humor, are honest, and are wanting to try new things if it makes sense to them. Some want relief from depression, or various forms of anxiety including trauma and grief. Others struggle with addictions and addictive behavior and are looking for ways to feel more in control. Or, they have concerns about their kids, ADHD, autism, or other behavior, and would like someone to come along side them to help support them or their child. Services are also available in Spanish. Christian counseling can be requested. Prefer Communication Coaching to Therapy? Find our app (MinuteMood.com) on Google Play and Apple Play stores.
(815) 450-9902 View (815) 450-9902
Photo of Melissa Carlson - Melissa Carlson Counseling, MAT, MSEd, LCPC, Counselor
Melissa Carlson Counseling
Counselor, MAT, MSEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Huntley, IL 60142
Waitlist for new clients
When working with children I believe Play Therapy is the most appropriate modality.
My approach to counseling is a balance of a straightforward communication with the belief that clients are the experts of themselves. My goal is to help clients to discover their own inner wisdom and support a plan to move out of their stuckness. I believe that our early childhood experiences along with traumas we have experienced play a leading part in the stories we tell ourselves about who we are today.
When working with children I believe Play Therapy is the most appropriate modality.
My approach to counseling is a balance of a straightforward communication with the belief that clients are the experts of themselves. My goal is to help clients to discover their own inner wisdom and support a plan to move out of their stuckness. I believe that our early childhood experiences along with traumas we have experienced play a leading part in the stories we tell ourselves about who we are today.
(815) 516-5001 View (815) 516-5001
Photo of Judy Flores Sender, MS, MSEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Judy Flores Sender
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MSEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntley, IL 60142
My approach to counseling is that I believe in the power of a therapeutic relationship to help overcome many obstacles in a non-judgmental, nurturing, and safe environment for adults, children, & teens. I specialize in integrative, culturally sensitive, person centered psychotherapy services that help clients lead more fulfilling lives. I use Play and Sandtray Therapy in my work with children. Play therapy can provide a child with opportunities to express complex feelings, learn developmental skills and empower the child to grow and heal. I encourage different forms of self-expression such as art and play therapy.
My approach to counseling is that I believe in the power of a therapeutic relationship to help overcome many obstacles in a non-judgmental, nurturing, and safe environment for adults, children, & teens. I specialize in integrative, culturally sensitive, person centered psychotherapy services that help clients lead more fulfilling lives. I use Play and Sandtray Therapy in my work with children. Play therapy can provide a child with opportunities to express complex feelings, learn developmental skills and empower the child to grow and heal. I encourage different forms of self-expression such as art and play therapy.
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Photo of Pete B Marcelo - Dr. Pete Marcelo Psychologist & Counseling Huntley, MSW, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Pete Marcelo Psychologist & Counseling Huntley
Psychologist, MSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Huntley, IL 60142
Together, we will focus on solutions and help you learn to cope with life's challenges; so you can enjoy it to the fullest. I have over 25 years of experience guiding clients to achieve optimal well being and performance. Taking a team approach with my clients and strongly believing in the value of the therapeutic relationship, I empower you to make decisions in the treatment process. As opposed to some approaches of therapy which may take several years, I believe in the efficacy of a briefer counseling model which includes solution focused and cognitive behavioral therapies. Visit www.drpetemarcelo.org for more information.
Together, we will focus on solutions and help you learn to cope with life's challenges; so you can enjoy it to the fullest. I have over 25 years of experience guiding clients to achieve optimal well being and performance. Taking a team approach with my clients and strongly believing in the value of the therapeutic relationship, I empower you to make decisions in the treatment process. As opposed to some approaches of therapy which may take several years, I believe in the efficacy of a briefer counseling model which includes solution focused and cognitive behavioral therapies. Visit www.drpetemarcelo.org for more information.
(847) 456-6498 View (847) 456-6498
Photo of Kelly Canavan, MSEd, LCPC, NBCC
Kelly Canavan
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MSEd, LCPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Huntley, IL 60142
Hello and Welcome - My journey into counseling began with a passion for helping others navigate life's challenges and find fulfillment. I opened my practice in 2014 after meeting and working with Brene Brown’s team in San Antonio, Texas. If her work resonates with you our office is named after the “Man in the Arena Quote” - Arena Counseling LLC. With close to 20 years of experience. I've had the privilege of working with individuals, couples, and families facing various issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts, and trauma. My approach to counseling is rooted in empathy, collaboration, and empowerment.
Hello and Welcome - My journey into counseling began with a passion for helping others navigate life's challenges and find fulfillment. I opened my practice in 2014 after meeting and working with Brene Brown’s team in San Antonio, Texas. If her work resonates with you our office is named after the “Man in the Arena Quote” - Arena Counseling LLC. With close to 20 years of experience. I've had the privilege of working with individuals, couples, and families facing various issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts, and trauma. My approach to counseling is rooted in empathy, collaboration, and empowerment.
(815) 769-5331 View (815) 769-5331
Photo of Debra K Hirschberg, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debra K Hirschberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntley, IL 60142
Don't let your life or your relationships spiral out of control any longer. If you feel like you don't have a voice or are struggling with life or relationships we can help. We at Hope Reins are committed to helping you experience hope again, a sense of purpose and real change. We work with individuals, couples, children, teens and families who are struggling with trust, depression, anxiety, relationship and other problems. If you have not found help with traditional therapy, we offer fun, adventurous and creative alternative therapies such as horse and art therapy.
Don't let your life or your relationships spiral out of control any longer. If you feel like you don't have a voice or are struggling with life or relationships we can help. We at Hope Reins are committed to helping you experience hope again, a sense of purpose and real change. We work with individuals, couples, children, teens and families who are struggling with trust, depression, anxiety, relationship and other problems. If you have not found help with traditional therapy, we offer fun, adventurous and creative alternative therapies such as horse and art therapy.
(847) 513-9160 View (847) 513-9160
Photo of Shayna Duval, MA, CAGS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Shayna Duval
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CAGS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntley, IL 60142
Shayna Duval graduated with a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies in Expressive and Creative Arts from Salve Regina University. Shayna has extensive experience in working with children, adolescents, and their families struggling with anxiety, social phobia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, trauma, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and academic challenges. Her commonly utilized therapeutic approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy, Mindfulness, and Person-centered Therapy.
Shayna Duval graduated with a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies in Expressive and Creative Arts from Salve Regina University. Shayna has extensive experience in working with children, adolescents, and their families struggling with anxiety, social phobia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, trauma, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and academic challenges. Her commonly utilized therapeutic approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy, Mindfulness, and Person-centered Therapy.
(847) 613-1647 View (847) 613-1647
Photo of Melia Carter, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Melia Carter
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntley, IL 60142
Melia is a dedicated Professional Social Worker specializing in neurodiversity-affirming therapy. In her private practice, Melia works collaboratively with clients to explore their strengths, preferences, and goals, while also addressing any challenges they may face in navigating a neurotypical world. Melia has experience working with autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, situational mutism, behavioral concerns, and parenting concerns. She provides a safe space for individuals to explore their identities, develop coping strategies, and cultivate self-acceptance and resilience.
Melia is a dedicated Professional Social Worker specializing in neurodiversity-affirming therapy. In her private practice, Melia works collaboratively with clients to explore their strengths, preferences, and goals, while also addressing any challenges they may face in navigating a neurotypical world. Melia has experience working with autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, situational mutism, behavioral concerns, and parenting concerns. She provides a safe space for individuals to explore their identities, develop coping strategies, and cultivate self-acceptance and resilience.
(847) 393-9779 View (847) 393-9779
Photo of Snonita Marcus, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Snonita Marcus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Huntley, IL 60142  (Online Only)
I believe that you are the expert in your story and understand that it can be difficult to ask for support, especially when you aren’t sure what to expect. Within you are the answers to many of the challenges you are trying to overcome. My role is to come along side you to help clear the obstacles that are preventing real growth and change. I am always honored to observe my clients through their journey and am truly passionate about supporting you in managing symptoms and gaining coping skills on the path to healing.
I believe that you are the expert in your story and understand that it can be difficult to ask for support, especially when you aren’t sure what to expect. Within you are the answers to many of the challenges you are trying to overcome. My role is to come along side you to help clear the obstacles that are preventing real growth and change. I am always honored to observe my clients through their journey and am truly passionate about supporting you in managing symptoms and gaining coping skills on the path to healing.
(847) 233-1755 View (847) 233-1755
Photo of Erin Miller, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Huntley, IL 60142
Do you feel like your emotions are getting the best of you? Do you feel like you could be a better parent or partner? Do you feel like you are drowning with no hope in sight? My purpose in working with you is to help you deal with your emotions more effectively so that you can improve your life. Too often people have all the ability and just don't know what step to take next. My purpose is to help you make those decisions so that can feel more confident and happy. My specialties include working with children to adults with a variety of problems including depression, anxiety, anger, low self-esteem and difficulties adjusting to life
Do you feel like your emotions are getting the best of you? Do you feel like you could be a better parent or partner? Do you feel like you are drowning with no hope in sight? My purpose in working with you is to help you deal with your emotions more effectively so that you can improve your life. Too often people have all the ability and just don't know what step to take next. My purpose is to help you make those decisions so that can feel more confident and happy. My specialties include working with children to adults with a variety of problems including depression, anxiety, anger, low self-esteem and difficulties adjusting to life
(779) 246-3831 View (779) 246-3831
Photo of Jackie Ann Rhew - Center for Emotional Wellness of the Northwest, CADC, LCPC, Counselor
Center for Emotional Wellness of the Northwest
Counselor, CADC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Huntley, IL 60142
At the Center for Emotional Wellness, we are committed to helping our clients live their best life. Our team of clinicians are devoted to providing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other best practices in treating diverse disorders affecting children, adolescents, and adults. We are continually working to bring the most effective and innovative techniques and approaches to our center in order to better serve the individuals and families in our community. With over 10 therapists, we will match each client with the clinician with the most appropriate style and expertise to match individual needs.
At the Center for Emotional Wellness, we are committed to helping our clients live their best life. Our team of clinicians are devoted to providing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other best practices in treating diverse disorders affecting children, adolescents, and adults. We are continually working to bring the most effective and innovative techniques and approaches to our center in order to better serve the individuals and families in our community. With over 10 therapists, we will match each client with the clinician with the most appropriate style and expertise to match individual needs.
(847) 550-3946 View (847) 550-3946

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Domenica Doro, MS, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Domenica Doro
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Cary, IL 60013
Waitlist for new clients
The therapy I offer is centered around fun and play-based activities that help foster an environment which feels safe, inviting, and engaging for children.
I have worked with young children, adolescents, adults, couples, families, and groups with a variety of mental health and behavioral struggles. While I am open to and enjoy working with people of all ages and backgrounds, my area of expertise includes therapy with children and adolescents. I have worked with many children and adolescents throughout my lifetime in various settings, including private practice, a variety of schools, a residential school, a childcare center, several sports leagues and more. Despite my array of experience, I have always felt most drawn to the counseling setting.
The therapy I offer is centered around fun and play-based activities that help foster an environment which feels safe, inviting, and engaging for children.
I have worked with young children, adolescents, adults, couples, families, and groups with a variety of mental health and behavioral struggles. While I am open to and enjoy working with people of all ages and backgrounds, my area of expertise includes therapy with children and adolescents. I have worked with many children and adolescents throughout my lifetime in various settings, including private practice, a variety of schools, a residential school, a childcare center, several sports leagues and more. Despite my array of experience, I have always felt most drawn to the counseling setting.
(630) 526-7546 x27 View (630) 526-7546 x27
Photo of Judith A Marquardt, LCPC, ATR-BC, Counselor
Judith A Marquardt
Counselor, LCPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60012
My ideal client is one who is seeking help with the desire to heal. My mission is walking with them through their traumas, fears and pain - to help them find their path to inner peace and wellness. I utilize the therapy approach that is safe and comfortable for the client- whether it is Cognitive, Art Therapy or Sand Play Therapy. I address each client as an individual with their special needs. Many of my clients have faced the ramifications of divorce, domestic violence, sexual abuse and other change of life events.
My ideal client is one who is seeking help with the desire to heal. My mission is walking with them through their traumas, fears and pain - to help them find their path to inner peace and wellness. I utilize the therapy approach that is safe and comfortable for the client- whether it is Cognitive, Art Therapy or Sand Play Therapy. I address each client as an individual with their special needs. Many of my clients have faced the ramifications of divorce, domestic violence, sexual abuse and other change of life events.
(815) 661-2448 View (815) 661-2448
Photo of Catherine Radosevich, PsyD, ASDCS, Psychologist
Catherine Radosevich
Psychologist, PsyD, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Waitlist for new clients
I believe all humans have relationship patterns that play out with each person in their lives, therapist included.
Do you or your child have difficulties with regulating emotions, staying focused and organized, or maintaining social and personal relationships? Have you been feeling overwhelmed, under-stimulated, or burned out on life? Are you a young person struggling to launch into adulthood post-pandemic? I work with people who are neurodivergent across all ages with diagnoses such as ASD & ADHD. I also find great joy in helping people with trauma, mood disorders, relationship conflicts, life adjustments, or difficulties with grief and loss. I practice therapy that is affirming of all identities, orientations, and cultures.
I believe all humans have relationship patterns that play out with each person in their lives, therapist included.
Do you or your child have difficulties with regulating emotions, staying focused and organized, or maintaining social and personal relationships? Have you been feeling overwhelmed, under-stimulated, or burned out on life? Are you a young person struggling to launch into adulthood post-pandemic? I work with people who are neurodivergent across all ages with diagnoses such as ASD & ADHD. I also find great joy in helping people with trauma, mood disorders, relationship conflicts, life adjustments, or difficulties with grief and loss. I practice therapy that is affirming of all identities, orientations, and cultures.
(779) 237-1378 View (779) 237-1378
Photo of Kim Wilson, AMFT, CPT
Kim Wilson
AMFT, CPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
As a Certified Play Therapist, offering Play Therapy for children two and up.
As a Marrriage and Famiy Therapist, Committed to assisting each individual as they build on their existing strengths to live their best life possible. The approach is to meet the clients where they are and help create a safe, nonjudgmental space where they can process and heal. Working with each client(s) to determine the best therapeutic approach. Experienced working with play therapy, anxiety, depression, ADHD, LGBTQ+ Community Members, abuse, trauma, grief, life transitions, family relational problems, BPD, and other life experiences and diagnosis. -we do not accept Medicaid or Medicare at this time-
As a Certified Play Therapist, offering Play Therapy for children two and up.
As a Marrriage and Famiy Therapist, Committed to assisting each individual as they build on their existing strengths to live their best life possible. The approach is to meet the clients where they are and help create a safe, nonjudgmental space where they can process and heal. Working with each client(s) to determine the best therapeutic approach. Experienced working with play therapy, anxiety, depression, ADHD, LGBTQ+ Community Members, abuse, trauma, grief, life transitions, family relational problems, BPD, and other life experiences and diagnosis. -we do not accept Medicaid or Medicare at this time-
(847) 916-8473 View (847) 916-8473
Photo of Lindsey Traudt, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Lindsey Traudt
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodstock, IL 60098
Lindsey utilizes a variety of techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), talk therapy, play therapy, relaxation, and other expressive therapies.
Lindsey strongly believes that the therapeutic relationship is the forefront of therapy and the foundation for change. She utilizes a variety of treatment approaches and techniques in order to meet the client's individual needs and keep therapy at a level at which they are comfortable. She works with children, adolescents, and adults, dealing with a wide range of issues; however, she specializes in anxiety based disorders, including Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Lindsey is a creative and caring person who is passionate about helping others to improve their quality of life and succeed in their goals.
Lindsey utilizes a variety of techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), talk therapy, play therapy, relaxation, and other expressive therapies.
Lindsey strongly believes that the therapeutic relationship is the forefront of therapy and the foundation for change. She utilizes a variety of treatment approaches and techniques in order to meet the client's individual needs and keep therapy at a level at which they are comfortable. She works with children, adolescents, and adults, dealing with a wide range of issues; however, she specializes in anxiety based disorders, including Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Lindsey is a creative and caring person who is passionate about helping others to improve their quality of life and succeed in their goals.
(815) 246-3646 x704 View (815) 246-3646 x704
Photo of Sarah Jones, LCPC, MA, BS, Counselor
Sarah Jones
Counselor, LCPC, MA, BS
Verified Verified
Woodstock, IL 60098
"My passion is working with children and adolescents ranging in age from 3-17; I also have experience with young adults. My specialty areas include ADHD, behavioral issues/aggression, anxiety, struggles with self-esteem and/or identity, emotional/mood difficulties, and childhood trauma/abuse. I also enjoy providing parent training and support. I have engaged in the practices of talk, play, sand tray, cognitive behavioral, lifestyle assessment, and other forms of expressive therapies to assist my clients in altering their behaviors, communicating their needs effectively, managing their anxiety/ mood, or processing past trauma.
"My passion is working with children and adolescents ranging in age from 3-17; I also have experience with young adults. My specialty areas include ADHD, behavioral issues/aggression, anxiety, struggles with self-esteem and/or identity, emotional/mood difficulties, and childhood trauma/abuse. I also enjoy providing parent training and support. I have engaged in the practices of talk, play, sand tray, cognitive behavioral, lifestyle assessment, and other forms of expressive therapies to assist my clients in altering their behaviors, communicating their needs effectively, managing their anxiety/ mood, or processing past trauma.
(779) 246-3679 x703 View (779) 246-3679 x703
Photo of Stephanie C Lafontaine, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Stephanie C Lafontaine
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Not accepting new clients
I specialize working with younger clients, but have worked with a variety of individuals! I feel very passionately about the work I do with children, it is a privilege to be a part of their imaginative world in play.
“Investing in yourself is the best investment you will ever make. It will not only improve your life, it will improve the lives of all those around you”- Robin Sharma. Robin Sharma's words echo in many ways what occurs within the therapeutic relationship. When we invest in ourselves through the work we do in therapy, we are more likely to make decisions that impact us for the better. This not only improves our quality of life, but it enriches our interactions with others. The ideal client would be an individual who is aware they need change, but are not sure as to how to go about creating it for themselves.
I specialize working with younger clients, but have worked with a variety of individuals! I feel very passionately about the work I do with children, it is a privilege to be a part of their imaginative world in play.
“Investing in yourself is the best investment you will ever make. It will not only improve your life, it will improve the lives of all those around you”- Robin Sharma. Robin Sharma's words echo in many ways what occurs within the therapeutic relationship. When we invest in ourselves through the work we do in therapy, we are more likely to make decisions that impact us for the better. This not only improves our quality of life, but it enriches our interactions with others. The ideal client would be an individual who is aware they need change, but are not sure as to how to go about creating it for themselves.
(815) 900-5261 View (815) 900-5261
Photo of Cassie Khurana, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Cassie Khurana
Pre-Licensed Professional, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Algonquin, IL 60102
I incorporate play therapy and expressive arts to engage and encourage self-expression and emotional regulation.
Are you a parent looking for support for your child? I specialize in providing therapy for children, adolescents, and teens experiencing ADHD, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and self-esteem issues. I provide a safe, non-judgmental environment where your child can process their emotions, develop coping skills, and create positive change.
I incorporate play therapy and expressive arts to engage and encourage self-expression and emotional regulation.
Are you a parent looking for support for your child? I specialize in providing therapy for children, adolescents, and teens experiencing ADHD, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and self-esteem issues. I provide a safe, non-judgmental environment where your child can process their emotions, develop coping skills, and create positive change.
(847) 558-1059 View (847) 558-1059
Photo of Alexandria Viegas, MA, LPC Intern
Alexandria Viegas
LPC Intern, MA
Verified Verified
Lake In The Hills, IL 60156
Alexandria Viegas is a master’s level clinical intern, completing her Master of Art at Roosevelt University. She has been named a National Board for Certified Counselors Minority Master’s Fellow and is committed to providing culturally-competent and LGBTQIA+ inclusive counseling services. She is passionate about working with children, adolescents and young adults dealing with life transitions, depression, anxiety, grief, identity, self-injury, trauma and various comorbidities. She uses a client-centered approach and integrates internal family systems, expressive arts, narrative work and play into her practice
Alexandria Viegas is a master’s level clinical intern, completing her Master of Art at Roosevelt University. She has been named a National Board for Certified Counselors Minority Master’s Fellow and is committed to providing culturally-competent and LGBTQIA+ inclusive counseling services. She is passionate about working with children, adolescents and young adults dealing with life transitions, depression, anxiety, grief, identity, self-injury, trauma and various comorbidities. She uses a client-centered approach and integrates internal family systems, expressive arts, narrative work and play into her practice
(847) 999-7541 View (847) 999-7541
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.