Play Therapy in Lemont, IL

Photo of Jennifer Millette, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Millette
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lemont, IL 60439
I have training in Play Therapy, Trauma Sensitive Yoga and am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Certified Compassion Fatigue Professional and Advanced Adolescent and Child Trauma Professional.
I practice from a holistic mental health viewpoint that incorporates mindfulness and bodywork with traditional therapy. I specialize in working with women, children and adolescents, particularly those dealing with chronic stress, anxiety, burnout, sleep difficulties, chronic pain, complex trauma and PTSD.
I have training in Play Therapy, Trauma Sensitive Yoga and am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Certified Compassion Fatigue Professional and Advanced Adolescent and Child Trauma Professional.
I practice from a holistic mental health viewpoint that incorporates mindfulness and bodywork with traditional therapy. I specialize in working with women, children and adolescents, particularly those dealing with chronic stress, anxiety, burnout, sleep difficulties, chronic pain, complex trauma and PTSD.
(779) 237-8981 View (779) 237-8981
Photo of Reem K Cutinello, LCSW, RRT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Reem K Cutinello
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RRT
Verified Verified
Lemont, IL 60439
As a therapist, I am focused on being genuine and mindful with client(s). My individualized approach, along with working together produces the best results. It helps you identify and explore sources of stress, set specific goals, and identify methods to achieve the desired outcome(s). Often times, simply shifting our choices, behaviors, expectations or perceptions can lead to significant improvements in how we feel. Positive outcomes are created with desire and guidance.
As a therapist, I am focused on being genuine and mindful with client(s). My individualized approach, along with working together produces the best results. It helps you identify and explore sources of stress, set specific goals, and identify methods to achieve the desired outcome(s). Often times, simply shifting our choices, behaviors, expectations or perceptions can lead to significant improvements in how we feel. Positive outcomes are created with desire and guidance.
(630) 239-1054 View (630) 239-1054
Photo of Jennifer Lynn Galle, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Jennifer Lynn Galle
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lemont, IL 60439
Hello, and thanks for visiting! My name is Jennifer Galle MA, LCPC, and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois. As a clinician, I pride myself on taking both an eclectic and holistic approach to treatment, and work collaboratively with my clients to identify their therapeutic goals, and then we develop a plan to achieve them together. My therapeutic methods focus on tackling the most problematic emotions and behaviors quickly to provide the most immediate results possible. Overall, I view myself as a knowledgeable guide and source of support along this journey, and recognize that my clients are the focus.
Hello, and thanks for visiting! My name is Jennifer Galle MA, LCPC, and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois. As a clinician, I pride myself on taking both an eclectic and holistic approach to treatment, and work collaboratively with my clients to identify their therapeutic goals, and then we develop a plan to achieve them together. My therapeutic methods focus on tackling the most problematic emotions and behaviors quickly to provide the most immediate results possible. Overall, I view myself as a knowledgeable guide and source of support along this journey, and recognize that my clients are the focus.
(708) 328-3481 View (708) 328-3481
Photo of Shannon M Mannix - Shannon Mannix Services Inc, MSW, LCSW, type 73, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Mannix Services Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, type 73
Verified Verified
Lemont, IL 60439
Ms. Mannix's clinical practice focuses on providing cognitive behavioral therapy to children, adolescents & adults. Ms. Mannix also provides family therapy to clients of all ages. She has worked extensively with children, adolescents and adults who have Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Behavioral Problems & ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Autism, Divorce, Grief and loss, family conflicts, learning difficulties, school concerns. Ms. Mannix focuses on post traumatic stress, relational/behavioral problems in children, school difficulties, adolescences and adults as well. Ms. Mannix is also a strong advocate for persons with disabilities.
Ms. Mannix's clinical practice focuses on providing cognitive behavioral therapy to children, adolescents & adults. Ms. Mannix also provides family therapy to clients of all ages. She has worked extensively with children, adolescents and adults who have Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Behavioral Problems & ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Autism, Divorce, Grief and loss, family conflicts, learning difficulties, school concerns. Ms. Mannix focuses on post traumatic stress, relational/behavioral problems in children, school difficulties, adolescences and adults as well. Ms. Mannix is also a strong advocate for persons with disabilities.
(708) 315-6302 View (708) 315-6302
Photo of Eric Brown, LCPC, CADC
Eric Brown
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Lemont, IL 60439
Eric is a therapist that has been working the fields of adolescent, chemical dependency, couple’s counseling, domestic violence, and mental health since 2004. Prior to obtaining licensure and certification, he was educated at Governors State University (GSU) where he received both his Masters of Health Sciences (MHS) in Addiction Studies, and his Masters of Arts (MA) degree in clinical psychology. Following this, completed post graduate work at the Illinois School of Professional Psychology (ISPP).
Eric is a therapist that has been working the fields of adolescent, chemical dependency, couple’s counseling, domestic violence, and mental health since 2004. Prior to obtaining licensure and certification, he was educated at Governors State University (GSU) where he received both his Masters of Health Sciences (MHS) in Addiction Studies, and his Masters of Arts (MA) degree in clinical psychology. Following this, completed post graduate work at the Illinois School of Professional Psychology (ISPP).
(779) 213-0650 View (779) 213-0650
Photo of Swati Varma, PsyD, PMH-C, Psychologist
Swati Varma
Psychologist, PsyD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Lemont, IL 60439
Are you pregnant or have you recently given birth? Are you struggling with managing your emotions, new responsibilities, and a new identity? You are not alone. I am here to help you navigate your way through this complex life transition by providing you support and tools to cope with changes during the perinatal stage. I also specialize in working with individual in various transitions in life (ie: high school to college, college to working life etc.). In addition, I incorporate a strong cultural lens within my work and work closely with the South Asian Population.
Are you pregnant or have you recently given birth? Are you struggling with managing your emotions, new responsibilities, and a new identity? You are not alone. I am here to help you navigate your way through this complex life transition by providing you support and tools to cope with changes during the perinatal stage. I also specialize in working with individual in various transitions in life (ie: high school to college, college to working life etc.). In addition, I incorporate a strong cultural lens within my work and work closely with the South Asian Population.
(872) 216-5893 View (872) 216-5893
Photo of Erin M Shelden - Erin Shelden, LSW, PEL, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Shelden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, PEL
Verified Verified
Lemont, IL 60439
My biggest therapeutic success is to incorporate things in my therapy session such as playing games, playing sports, dancing, art, team building, executive functioning, self-esteem checks, charades, role-plays, and music therapy that are so enjoyable to the children that it makes them feel more open and honest to share about the things they want to work on, what they need to work on, but gets them excited to come back each week and learn the skills that they want and need, but have fun while doing it.
My biggest therapeutic success is to incorporate things in my therapy session such as playing games, playing sports, dancing, art, team building, executive functioning, self-esteem checks, charades, role-plays, and music therapy that are so enjoyable to the children that it makes them feel more open and honest to share about the things they want to work on, what they need to work on, but gets them excited to come back each week and learn the skills that they want and need, but have fun while doing it.
(708) 726-3768 View (708) 726-3768

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kaitlyn “Kat” Evans (She They), LPC , Intern, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kaitlyn “Kat” Evans (She They)
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC , Intern
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Some other specialities I offer include play and art therapy, and Trauma-Informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT).
Do you feel like you are just barely surviving in life? Does your child show some signs of anxiety and struggle to socialize with others? Or maybe you have gone through a traumatic experience in your past that lingers in the present and keeps you from feeling like yourself. If you resonate with any of these and don’t know what to do, I could be the therapist for you. I like to think that the bravest thing a person can do is ask for help. Although life inevitably comes with its hardships, it does not have to be an endless experience consisting of anxiety, depression, loneliness, and past traumas constantly coming to the surface.
Some other specialities I offer include play and art therapy, and Trauma-Informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT).
Do you feel like you are just barely surviving in life? Does your child show some signs of anxiety and struggle to socialize with others? Or maybe you have gone through a traumatic experience in your past that lingers in the present and keeps you from feeling like yourself. If you resonate with any of these and don’t know what to do, I could be the therapist for you. I like to think that the bravest thing a person can do is ask for help. Although life inevitably comes with its hardships, it does not have to be an endless experience consisting of anxiety, depression, loneliness, and past traumas constantly coming to the surface.
(331) 253-4714 View (331) 253-4714
Photo of Jennifer C Froemel - Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, MA, LPC, LSW, LCPC, LCSW, Counselor
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LPC, LSW, LCPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hinsdale, IL 60521
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues-Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward and Integrative approach and have our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues-Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward and Integrative approach and have our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
(773) 312-3612 View (773) 312-3612
Photo of Tracey Kim Snow, PhD, LCPC, LFT, RMT, CFT, Counselor
Tracey Kim Snow
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, LFT, RMT, CFT
Verified Verified
Homer Glen, IL 60491
Counseling is my calling. I feel honored to play a role in assisting people to overcome obstacles and to become the person that they always felt was possible. I am hear to guide people on their journey of self discovery while also providing the skills and tools necessary to overcome what ever challenges life has brought their way. I truly love what I do and provide caring acceptance and support to my clients. I am proud to say that my biggest referral base is former clients and I could not ask for a biggest compliment. Looking forward to helping you.
Counseling is my calling. I feel honored to play a role in assisting people to overcome obstacles and to become the person that they always felt was possible. I am hear to guide people on their journey of self discovery while also providing the skills and tools necessary to overcome what ever challenges life has brought their way. I truly love what I do and provide caring acceptance and support to my clients. I am proud to say that my biggest referral base is former clients and I could not ask for a biggest compliment. Looking forward to helping you.
(708) 265-3858 View (708) 265-3858
Photo of Dana Wick, Counselor
Dana Wick
Counselor
Verified Verified
Homer Glen, IL 60491
I use play therapy in sessions with children.
I am an LCPC and own my own practice, Hope and Prosper. I see many children from divorce, children who need to develop self-esteem, better coping strategies, improve peer relations and work on anger management. I have experience working with special needs children and behavioral disorders. I also see families and focus on creating bonds and opening the lines of communication. I see individuals wanting to lessen their anxiety and depression. I am a mother of five children and deeply believe in creating a safe environment for children and individuals to share their feelings and feel validated.
I use play therapy in sessions with children.
I am an LCPC and own my own practice, Hope and Prosper. I see many children from divorce, children who need to develop self-esteem, better coping strategies, improve peer relations and work on anger management. I have experience working with special needs children and behavioral disorders. I also see families and focus on creating bonds and opening the lines of communication. I see individuals wanting to lessen their anxiety and depression. I am a mother of five children and deeply believe in creating a safe environment for children and individuals to share their feelings and feel validated.
(708) 438-5651 View (708) 438-5651
Photo of Abigail Williams-Butler, MSW, PhD, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abigail Williams-Butler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, PhD, LSW
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
Williams-Butler draws techniques from many sources including: client-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, play therapy, and mindfulness techniques.
Dr. Abigail Williams-Butler is a therapist with experience in adolescent residential treatment, child welfare, justice-involved youth, pregnant and parenting teens, and those with a trauma history broadly. She is motivated by developing trusting and authentic relationships with clients and provides services to youth, their families, and individuals across the life span. She utilizes a strengths-based approach and collaborates with multi-disciplinary teams particularly focusing on youth involved in child-serving systems. She also specializes in culturally sensitive therapy.
Williams-Butler draws techniques from many sources including: client-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, play therapy, and mindfulness techniques.
Dr. Abigail Williams-Butler is a therapist with experience in adolescent residential treatment, child welfare, justice-involved youth, pregnant and parenting teens, and those with a trauma history broadly. She is motivated by developing trusting and authentic relationships with clients and provides services to youth, their families, and individuals across the life span. She utilizes a strengths-based approach and collaborates with multi-disciplinary teams particularly focusing on youth involved in child-serving systems. She also specializes in culturally sensitive therapy.
(630) 534-1961 View (630) 534-1961
Photo of Melissa Howard, NCC, MT-BC, SBD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Melissa Howard
Pre-Licensed Professional, NCC, MT-BC, SBD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Homer Glen, IL 60491
I specialize in supporting children ages 5-10 who struggle with big emotions, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem and more. I use a child centered play therapy model in working with children. Fred Rogers said, "Play is really the work of childhood." I meet children in this work, providing therapeutic support, to help build emotional intelligence and vocabulary, process life events, build self-esteem and self-trust. I am a parent of two children and one Angel baby. My life experience deepens my passion to support parents through challenges beginning in the prenatal period of life.
I specialize in supporting children ages 5-10 who struggle with big emotions, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem and more. I use a child centered play therapy model in working with children. Fred Rogers said, "Play is really the work of childhood." I meet children in this work, providing therapeutic support, to help build emotional intelligence and vocabulary, process life events, build self-esteem and self-trust. I am a parent of two children and one Angel baby. My life experience deepens my passion to support parents through challenges beginning in the prenatal period of life.
(708) 742-7332 View (708) 742-7332
Innovative Counseling Partners PLLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues-Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tenhers and fathers navigating prenatal/postpartum depression.
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues-Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tenhers and fathers navigating prenatal/postpartum depression.
(773) 312-3612 View (773) 312-3612
Photo of Kenneth J Stanek, PhD, LCPC, Counselor
Kenneth J Stanek
Counselor, PhD, LCPC
Verified Verified
La Grange, IL 60525
I have been in practice for 40 years. I treat children with behavioral problems, children-teens-adults with depression, panic/anxiety attacks, bipolar disorder, phobias, family conflicts, coping skills, academic issues, Employee Assistance, relationship counseling. Therapeutic approaches are designed specifically for the individual. Play therapy is used with children under 12. I set goals to measure progress and modify treatment based on goals obtainment and how the person feels. I focus on therapy teaching individuals better coping skills to use outside the office. Cognitive-Behavior therapy is most effective.
I have been in practice for 40 years. I treat children with behavioral problems, children-teens-adults with depression, panic/anxiety attacks, bipolar disorder, phobias, family conflicts, coping skills, academic issues, Employee Assistance, relationship counseling. Therapeutic approaches are designed specifically for the individual. Play therapy is used with children under 12. I set goals to measure progress and modify treatment based on goals obtainment and how the person feels. I focus on therapy teaching individuals better coping skills to use outside the office. Cognitive-Behavior therapy is most effective.
(708) 787-3573 View (708) 787-3573
Photo of Asma Halim, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Asma Halim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
Our emotional health and well-being play a large role in the choices we make. If you find that issues such as anxiety and depression are consuming your life, psychotherapy can help you to take control over your feelings, and ultimately allow you to have more positive experiences.
Our emotional health and well-being play a large role in the choices we make. If you find that issues such as anxiety and depression are consuming your life, psychotherapy can help you to take control over your feelings, and ultimately allow you to have more positive experiences.
(312) 470-6933 View (312) 470-6933
Photo of Maria Catanzaro, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Maria Catanzaro
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hinsdale, IL 60521  (Online Only)
Currently accepting new clients. There are many issues that impact and pull at us in life. It can come in the form of pressures from the outside world, the inner criticisms we feel, or trauma and stress we have experienced. Some may have felt they’ve lost connections within themselves because of the chaos and devastation that life sometimes brings. All these factors can play a role in making someone feel unbalanced.
Currently accepting new clients. There are many issues that impact and pull at us in life. It can come in the form of pressures from the outside world, the inner criticisms we feel, or trauma and stress we have experienced. Some may have felt they’ve lost connections within themselves because of the chaos and devastation that life sometimes brings. All these factors can play a role in making someone feel unbalanced.
(630) 656-9158 View (630) 656-9158
Photo of Denise Duval Tsioles - Child Therapy Chicago Naperville & Northbrook, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Child Therapy Chicago Naperville & Northbrook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062
Child Therapy Chicago, North Shore and Naperville is a counseling & psychotherapy specialist practice in the Chicagoland area working exclusively with kids from toddlers through teens and parents. We use play therapy and talk therapy to help kids overcome big emotions and behaviors like anxiety, sadness, fears, tantrums, aggression, school and social issues and feelings related to divorce. Offices in Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood (1300 W Belmont Ave), Western Suburbs downtown Naperville (29 S Webster St) and North Shore downtown Northbrook (1330 Shermer Rd).
Child Therapy Chicago, North Shore and Naperville is a counseling & psychotherapy specialist practice in the Chicagoland area working exclusively with kids from toddlers through teens and parents. We use play therapy and talk therapy to help kids overcome big emotions and behaviors like anxiety, sadness, fears, tantrums, aggression, school and social issues and feelings related to divorce. Offices in Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood (1300 W Belmont Ave), Western Suburbs downtown Naperville (29 S Webster St) and North Shore downtown Northbrook (1330 Shermer Rd).
(773) 786-9148 View (773) 786-9148
Photo of Wesley Dapkus - White Oak Institute for Growth and Wellness, LCPC, LMFT , PsyD, LCSW, Counselor
White Oak Institute for Growth and Wellness
Counselor, LCPC, LMFT , PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orland Park, IL 60462
Our professionals excel in many therapeutic approaches including, CBT with Mindfulness, ACT, DBT, Play Therapy, Existential, Psychodynamic, Humanistic etc.
Are you still trying to feel better, adjust to stressors, find balance, better relationships, or cope with mental illness? We will join you. At the White Oak we believe that the relationship with our clients is the paramount of any successful therapeutic endeavor. Your professional specialized counselor will tailor a plan to help you gain insight, develop mental skills, and better balance your life in coordination with your perceived mental health dilemma, stressors, or problem. Our beautiful new facility is located in Orland Park on 143rd Street 1 mile west of Route 45 in a beautifully renovated unique office in Old Orland.
Our professionals excel in many therapeutic approaches including, CBT with Mindfulness, ACT, DBT, Play Therapy, Existential, Psychodynamic, Humanistic etc.
Are you still trying to feel better, adjust to stressors, find balance, better relationships, or cope with mental illness? We will join you. At the White Oak we believe that the relationship with our clients is the paramount of any successful therapeutic endeavor. Your professional specialized counselor will tailor a plan to help you gain insight, develop mental skills, and better balance your life in coordination with your perceived mental health dilemma, stressors, or problem. Our beautiful new facility is located in Orland Park on 143rd Street 1 mile west of Route 45 in a beautifully renovated unique office in Old Orland.
(708) 726-5131 View (708) 726-5131
Photo of Heather L McRoberts, MA, PsyD, Psychologist
Heather L McRoberts
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60565
Depending on my client's needs, I incorporate psychodynamic, relational, narrative, mindfulness, CBT, sandtray, and play therapies.
If you are struggling with feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed or experiencing increased life stressors due to work, family or other responsibilities, psychotherapy can help. Strengthening your interpersonal, behavioral and relational strategies will bring you relief. Together, we will explore how the complex patterns of your experiences are affecting your current life challenges, emotions, and behaviors. Whether working with children, adolescents, teens or adults, my approach is to be compassionate and attuned to your unique set of needs, providing a space for you to feel understood, appreciated and learn self-acceptance, ultimately achieving more effective strategies for dealing with life's stressors.
Depending on my client's needs, I incorporate psychodynamic, relational, narrative, mindfulness, CBT, sandtray, and play therapies.
If you are struggling with feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed or experiencing increased life stressors due to work, family or other responsibilities, psychotherapy can help. Strengthening your interpersonal, behavioral and relational strategies will bring you relief. Together, we will explore how the complex patterns of your experiences are affecting your current life challenges, emotions, and behaviors. Whether working with children, adolescents, teens or adults, my approach is to be compassionate and attuned to your unique set of needs, providing a space for you to feel understood, appreciated and learn self-acceptance, ultimately achieving more effective strategies for dealing with life's stressors.
(773) 888-4771 View (773) 888-4771
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.