Photo of Sarah Boulac, LMHC, RPT™, PMH-C, IMH-E®, Counselor
Sarah Boulac
Counselor, LMHC, RPT™, PMH-C, IMH-E®
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lafayette, IN 47901
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Registered Play Therapist and use the power of play to make therapy developmentally appropriate.
All of us have had experiences that challenge us and push us to our limits. When things are hard, we may start to wonder, “What’s wrong with me?” So often, though, what you’re going through is a natural human response to the stressors in your environment. You don’t need to be fixed; you’re not broken. In therapy we can work together to peel back the layers, take a closer look at your challenges, past or present, become rooted in who you are and the strengths you have so you can rise above and live a life you love.
I am a Registered Play Therapist and use the power of play to make therapy developmentally appropriate.
All of us have had experiences that challenge us and push us to our limits. When things are hard, we may start to wonder, “What’s wrong with me?” So often, though, what you’re going through is a natural human response to the stressors in your environment. You don’t need to be fixed; you’re not broken. In therapy we can work together to peel back the layers, take a closer look at your challenges, past or present, become rooted in who you are and the strengths you have so you can rise above and live a life you love.
(765) 999-4515 View (765) 999-4515
Photo of Alisha Ludwig, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alisha Ludwig
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46256
I have practice with family therapy, CBT techniques, Play therapy techniques, and building a supportive environment for change.
I provide a supportive and non-judgmental environment for children, young adults, and families wanting to make positive change in their lives. I am goal-oriented and solution-focused, supporting my clients in exploring the root of their concerns as well as building solutions and resilience to overcome whatever may be the barriers in their lives. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, and disruptive behaviors in the home, work, and school setting.
I have practice with family therapy, CBT techniques, Play therapy techniques, and building a supportive environment for change.
I provide a supportive and non-judgmental environment for children, young adults, and families wanting to make positive change in their lives. I am goal-oriented and solution-focused, supporting my clients in exploring the root of their concerns as well as building solutions and resilience to overcome whatever may be the barriers in their lives. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, and disruptive behaviors in the home, work, and school setting.
(463) 466-5167 View (463) 466-5167
Photo of Patrick O'Connell, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Patrick O'Connell
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Merrillville, IN 46410
I utilize play therapy and incorporate the creative arts into my work with clients, as well as a good sense of humor and a nurturing heart.
I provide individual and family therapy for children and teenagers. I have worked at alternative schools, inpatient hospitals, and residential treatment centers. I am a staunch advocate for youth, and have extensive knowledge of psychiatric medication for children and teens. I am comfortable working with a wide range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, childhood trauma, suicidal ideation, and self-harm. I utilize sensory integration to help children self-sooth and enhance their independence. I enjoy working with children and families in crisis. I also work with young adults and college students.
I utilize play therapy and incorporate the creative arts into my work with clients, as well as a good sense of humor and a nurturing heart.
I provide individual and family therapy for children and teenagers. I have worked at alternative schools, inpatient hospitals, and residential treatment centers. I am a staunch advocate for youth, and have extensive knowledge of psychiatric medication for children and teens. I am comfortable working with a wide range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, childhood trauma, suicidal ideation, and self-harm. I utilize sensory integration to help children self-sooth and enhance their independence. I enjoy working with children and families in crisis. I also work with young adults and college students.
(219) 544-5163 View (219) 544-5163
Photo of Kristine Cornett, LMHC, Counselor
Kristine Cornett
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Muncie, IN 47302  (Online Only)
I utilize a Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (CBT) approach and incorporate additional approaches such as mindfulness, play therapy, expressive arts, and other techniques as applicable to the client's need.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and a National Certified Counselor (NCC) with experience in working with a variety of issues including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, trauma, child abuse/neglect, ADHD, conduct disorder, behavioral disorders, personality disorders, and adjustment disorders. I work with children, adolescents, teens, adults, families, and couples. My areas of expertise include behavioral issues, family cohesion, crisis and trauma, adjustment, and parenting/co-parenting.
I utilize a Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (CBT) approach and incorporate additional approaches such as mindfulness, play therapy, expressive arts, and other techniques as applicable to the client's need.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and a National Certified Counselor (NCC) with experience in working with a variety of issues including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, trauma, child abuse/neglect, ADHD, conduct disorder, behavioral disorders, personality disorders, and adjustment disorders. I work with children, adolescents, teens, adults, families, and couples. My areas of expertise include behavioral issues, family cohesion, crisis and trauma, adjustment, and parenting/co-parenting.
(765) 305-4786 View (765) 305-4786
Photo of Hailey Rhodes, LMHC, Counselor
Hailey Rhodes
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46226
Based on the client's needs, my approach can include play therapy techniques, Thera play-informed practices, creative arts techniques, and cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques.
Everyone wants to support their child and see them thrive. When your child struggles with conditions like anxiety, ADHD, depression, emotion regulation, post-traumatic stress or challenges related to neurodivergent conditions like autism, you may feel overwhelmed and unsure how to help. Therapy, especially play therapy, can be an important tool for helping your child express their emotions, process difficult experiences and learn healthier ways to deal with challenges. My job as a therapist is to provide space for your child to grow and heal while collaborating with you to support them.
Based on the client's needs, my approach can include play therapy techniques, Thera play-informed practices, creative arts techniques, and cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques.
Everyone wants to support their child and see them thrive. When your child struggles with conditions like anxiety, ADHD, depression, emotion regulation, post-traumatic stress or challenges related to neurodivergent conditions like autism, you may feel overwhelmed and unsure how to help. Therapy, especially play therapy, can be an important tool for helping your child express their emotions, process difficult experiences and learn healthier ways to deal with challenges. My job as a therapist is to provide space for your child to grow and heal while collaborating with you to support them.
(463) 282-2992 View (463) 282-2992
Photo of Becca Childs, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Becca Childs
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Westfield, IN 46074
I use a variety of therapeutic approaches to match client needs, but I specialize in using Exposure and Response Prevention to treat OCD, using Brainspotting to treat trauma and “stuck” places, and using Play Therapies and Sand Tray with children.
Your life matters! Therapy can help take you from where you are to where you want to be. I enjoy offering clients ages 6+ an atmosphere of acceptance, understanding, and compassion to help them reach their goals.
I use a variety of therapeutic approaches to match client needs, but I specialize in using Exposure and Response Prevention to treat OCD, using Brainspotting to treat trauma and “stuck” places, and using Play Therapies and Sand Tray with children.
Your life matters! Therapy can help take you from where you are to where you want to be. I enjoy offering clients ages 6+ an atmosphere of acceptance, understanding, and compassion to help them reach their goals.
(317) 804-3697 View (317) 804-3697
Photo of Dr. Kyle Surace, PsyD, HSPP, Psychologist
Dr. Kyle Surace
Psychologist, PsyD, HSPP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46260
I often utilize client-centered, cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, play, and family therapy techniques to help clients explore well-being and find balance as they learn and grow.
While I am specifically interested in guiding children ages 3-11 who present with trauma, mood disorders, and/or disruptive externalizing behaviors towards a place of emotional regulation, I have worked with adolescents, adults, and adults older than the age of 65.
I often utilize client-centered, cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, play, and family therapy techniques to help clients explore well-being and find balance as they learn and grow.
While I am specifically interested in guiding children ages 3-11 who present with trauma, mood disorders, and/or disruptive externalizing behaviors towards a place of emotional regulation, I have worked with adolescents, adults, and adults older than the age of 65.
(765) 202-9707 View (765) 202-9707
Photo of Margarita Lora, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Margarita Lora
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Lafayette, IN 47905
In my work with children, I do play therapy, and implement elements of Trauma Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
I am a Licensed Mental Counselor with a Masters degree from Purdue University and 12 years of experience working with children, adults and families. I was born and raised in Colombia, South America. I am fluent in both, Spanish and English and able to provide therapy in either language. My areas of expertise include: children who present mild through severe emotional and behavioral problems due to a history of trauma and/or difficult life events (i.e., death in the family, illness, divorce, other losses and family changes); working with parents struggling with parenting issues, adjustment to life events and parent/child relationship difficulties; and working with adults in a variety of problems including, adjustment disorders, post traumatic stress, anxiety, depression, grieving, and post-partum depression.
In my work with children, I do play therapy, and implement elements of Trauma Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
I am a Licensed Mental Counselor with a Masters degree from Purdue University and 12 years of experience working with children, adults and families. I was born and raised in Colombia, South America. I am fluent in both, Spanish and English and able to provide therapy in either language. My areas of expertise include: children who present mild through severe emotional and behavioral problems due to a history of trauma and/or difficult life events (i.e., death in the family, illness, divorce, other losses and family changes); working with parents struggling with parenting issues, adjustment to life events and parent/child relationship difficulties; and working with adults in a variety of problems including, adjustment disorders, post traumatic stress, anxiety, depression, grieving, and post-partum depression.
(765) 358-7154 x84 View (765) 358-7154 x84
Photo of Francia Siler, LCSW, PMH-C, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Francia Siler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C, MA
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032  (Online Only)
Additionally, I can help with PTSD, including birth trauma, and offer play therapy interventions for adults and children for anxiety, depression, friendships, school stress, and grief.
Do you find yourself struggling with feelings of depression or anxiety? Perhaps you’re feeling dissatisfied with your current life situation, whether it’s due to a difficult relationship, job, or family issues. It’s possible that you don’t even recognize yourself anymore, as stress and anxiety can change your behavior and how you interact with others.
Additionally, I can help with PTSD, including birth trauma, and offer play therapy interventions for adults and children for anxiety, depression, friendships, school stress, and grief.
Do you find yourself struggling with feelings of depression or anxiety? Perhaps you’re feeling dissatisfied with your current life situation, whether it’s due to a difficult relationship, job, or family issues. It’s possible that you don’t even recognize yourself anymore, as stress and anxiety can change your behavior and how you interact with others.
View
Photo of Janel B Quillin, MSW, LCSW, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janel B Quillin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Terre Haute, IN 47804
Since children and adolescents have difficulty expressing themself through words, I use play therapy with my young clients.
Over the past several years I have enjoyed working with children, adolescents and adults. Helping people as they journey through a variety of life circumstances, has been a privilege. Parenting, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, abuse, adoptive families and behavioral problems are some areas in which I have the most experience.
Since children and adolescents have difficulty expressing themself through words, I use play therapy with my young clients.
Over the past several years I have enjoyed working with children, adolescents and adults. Helping people as they journey through a variety of life circumstances, has been a privilege. Parenting, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, abuse, adoptive families and behavioral problems are some areas in which I have the most experience.
(812) 362-5136 View (812) 362-5136
Photo of Rachel L Nelson, LCSW, CCTP-II, ADHD-CC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel L Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP-II, ADHD-CC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Evansville, IN 47715
I am now accepting new clients! I am Licensed Clinical Therapist in Indiana. My passion is working with children and adolescence experiencing situational stressors, maladaptive and disruptive behaviors, and family conflicts. My approach to Therapy is guided by a Trauma Focused Model, supported through CBT, DBT, Art and Play Therapy. I believe most, have been impacted whether, directly or indirectly, by trauma. The amount or severity of the trauma impacts each person differently, no matter how small it might seem. It is my goal to allow each client feel comfortable, in able to identify and work through their trauma. I am devoted
I am now accepting new clients! I am Licensed Clinical Therapist in Indiana. My passion is working with children and adolescence experiencing situational stressors, maladaptive and disruptive behaviors, and family conflicts. My approach to Therapy is guided by a Trauma Focused Model, supported through CBT, DBT, Art and Play Therapy. I believe most, have been impacted whether, directly or indirectly, by trauma. The amount or severity of the trauma impacts each person differently, no matter how small it might seem. It is my goal to allow each client feel comfortable, in able to identify and work through their trauma. I am devoted
(812) 648-9341 View (812) 648-9341
Photo of Aimee Dershowitz, PsyD, HSPP, Psychologist
Aimee Dershowitz
Psychologist, PsyD, HSPP
Verified Verified
Zionsville, IN 46077
I utilize a combination of play therapy, behavioral interventions, and talk therapy.
In my practice I see clients of all ages with a wide variety of concerns. I practice from a person-centered approach, which means that your goals are my goals and we will work on them together. I offer individual and family psychotherapy as well as psychological testing. Within this practice I want to help you or your child make positive changes in life to reduce struggle. I create a warm, nonjudgmental environment that allows you to have the space to explore various solutions and find what works best for you. Clients who work with me see functional improvements and behavioral changes in their lives.
I utilize a combination of play therapy, behavioral interventions, and talk therapy.
In my practice I see clients of all ages with a wide variety of concerns. I practice from a person-centered approach, which means that your goals are my goals and we will work on them together. I offer individual and family psychotherapy as well as psychological testing. Within this practice I want to help you or your child make positive changes in life to reduce struggle. I create a warm, nonjudgmental environment that allows you to have the space to explore various solutions and find what works best for you. Clients who work with me see functional improvements and behavioral changes in their lives.
(317) 344-8736 View (317) 344-8736
Photo of Tiffany Green, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tiffany Green
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portage, IN 46368
I have over 15 years of social service and clinical experience. I have had the honor of serving at risk children and their families in Chicago and Northwest Indiana in a variety of capacities. Every clinical intervention I utilize is evidence based, and tailor made to fit each consumer. Some interventions included play and art inspired therapy, Trauma Informed CBT, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy. I also offer Wellness options including Holistic Psychotherapy,Mindfulness and Meditation practice, Restorative, and Trauma Informed Yoga.
I have over 15 years of social service and clinical experience. I have had the honor of serving at risk children and their families in Chicago and Northwest Indiana in a variety of capacities. Every clinical intervention I utilize is evidence based, and tailor made to fit each consumer. Some interventions included play and art inspired therapy, Trauma Informed CBT, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy. I also offer Wellness options including Holistic Psychotherapy,Mindfulness and Meditation practice, Restorative, and Trauma Informed Yoga.
(219) 912-2142 View (219) 912-2142
Photo of Dianna Stringham, LMHA, Counselor
Dianna Stringham
Counselor, LMHA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Noblesville, IN 46060
I utilize play therapy, art therapy, CBT, talk therapy with children and teens.
If you have made it this far, you are wanting to find some answers. Together, we can come up with a plan to help you come up with a solution. Do you need guidance on guidance on parenting, setting appropriate boundaries, and dealing with behaviors from your children that seem out of control. Maybe your child needs help with emotional regulation and behavior modification or your teen is dealing with anxiety or depression symptoms. You may need help yourself dealing with these challenges or have experienced childhood trauma or struggle with the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
I utilize play therapy, art therapy, CBT, talk therapy with children and teens.
If you have made it this far, you are wanting to find some answers. Together, we can come up with a plan to help you come up with a solution. Do you need guidance on guidance on parenting, setting appropriate boundaries, and dealing with behaviors from your children that seem out of control. Maybe your child needs help with emotional regulation and behavior modification or your teen is dealing with anxiety or depression symptoms. You may need help yourself dealing with these challenges or have experienced childhood trauma or struggle with the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
(317) 659-6154 View (317) 659-6154
Photo of Tabitha Glenn, MsPsy, TFCBT, CSAYC
Tabitha Glenn
MsPsy, TFCBT, CSAYC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46254
Extensive background in domestic violence, depression, anxiety, sexually abusive youth, play therapy, and much more.
Life gets hard, Life gets difficult, and at times, you may feel like everything you're doing is wrong. I am here to tell you that we all have our times where we feel this way and YOU CAN and WILL get through it. I am a mental & behavioral health provider and life coach with an extensive background in domestic violence, depression, anxiety, sexually abusive youth, play therapy, and much more. My focus is to provide services to families and individuals of all ages, from various communities who have found life's challenges to be overwhelming. UYS Hotline is available for 45-minute flat rate consultation 317-440-1696/no commitment.
Extensive background in domestic violence, depression, anxiety, sexually abusive youth, play therapy, and much more.
Life gets hard, Life gets difficult, and at times, you may feel like everything you're doing is wrong. I am here to tell you that we all have our times where we feel this way and YOU CAN and WILL get through it. I am a mental & behavioral health provider and life coach with an extensive background in domestic violence, depression, anxiety, sexually abusive youth, play therapy, and much more. My focus is to provide services to families and individuals of all ages, from various communities who have found life's challenges to be overwhelming. UYS Hotline is available for 45-minute flat rate consultation 317-440-1696/no commitment.
(765) 217-4188 x46254 View (765) 217-4188 x46254
Photo of Whitney Eaton, LCSW, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Whitney Eaton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newburgh, IN 47630
I use play therapy and sand tray techniques to help clients work through and gain better understanding of the stressors in their lives.
I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and Registered Play Therapist Supervisor (RPT-S). I specialize in play therapy, First Play, individual counseling with children and adolescents, and family therapy. I have over 12 years experience as a therapist. I work with infants, children, adolescents, adults, and families all struggling with a variety of difficulties such as PTSD, anxiety, attachment, depression, ADHD, trauma issues, emotional regulation, and coping skills. My goal is to help you through your journey of healing and to help bring peace and comfort back into your life.
I use play therapy and sand tray techniques to help clients work through and gain better understanding of the stressors in their lives.
I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and Registered Play Therapist Supervisor (RPT-S). I specialize in play therapy, First Play, individual counseling with children and adolescents, and family therapy. I have over 12 years experience as a therapist. I work with infants, children, adolescents, adults, and families all struggling with a variety of difficulties such as PTSD, anxiety, attachment, depression, ADHD, trauma issues, emotional regulation, and coping skills. My goal is to help you through your journey of healing and to help bring peace and comfort back into your life.
(812) 889-0615 View (812) 889-0615
Photo of Erin Dickerson, LCSW, LCAC, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Dickerson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46236
While already licensed as a clinical social worker and clinical addictions counselor, I have most recently become certified as a registered play therapist-supervisor.
Please Note: I have a long and slow-moving wait list) Hello! I have enjoyed working as a licensed clinical social worker and clinical addictions counselor for over 20 years. I have a wide range of skills that include, but are not limited to, improving coping skills, stress management, relationship enhancement and managing moods. In addition to these interests, my passion includes working with children, adolescents and their families. I use play and sand tray therapy to compliment the therapy process, allowing children to express themselves, while including the caregivers and siblings, to help the entire family reach their goals.
While already licensed as a clinical social worker and clinical addictions counselor, I have most recently become certified as a registered play therapist-supervisor.
Please Note: I have a long and slow-moving wait list) Hello! I have enjoyed working as a licensed clinical social worker and clinical addictions counselor for over 20 years. I have a wide range of skills that include, but are not limited to, improving coping skills, stress management, relationship enhancement and managing moods. In addition to these interests, my passion includes working with children, adolescents and their families. I use play and sand tray therapy to compliment the therapy process, allowing children to express themselves, while including the caregivers and siblings, to help the entire family reach their goals.
(317) 661-2935 View (317) 661-2935
Photo of Heather Woods, LMHC, RPT, Counselor
Heather Woods
Counselor, LMHC, RPT
Verified Verified
Covington, IN 47932
Therapy should be a place where you feel safe, heard, and validated. I like to gain an understanding of all aspects of a client’s life to better help them through their therapeutic journey. I incorporate Child-Centered Play Therapy, Thera play techniques, relaxation techniques, mindfulness techniques, emotion regulation skills, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and other modalities based upon the needs of the client.
Therapy should be a place where you feel safe, heard, and validated. I like to gain an understanding of all aspects of a client’s life to better help them through their therapeutic journey. I incorporate Child-Centered Play Therapy, Thera play techniques, relaxation techniques, mindfulness techniques, emotion regulation skills, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and other modalities based upon the needs of the client.
(765) 563-5525 View (765) 563-5525
Photo of Kristen Fuquay, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen Fuquay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Noblesville, IN 46060
I have experience with CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma Focused CBT, play and art therapy techniques and EMDR.
My passion is working alongside children/teens, families, and adults as all stages of life can come with different challenges and stressors. I strive to create a safe, comfortable place in the therapy setting for you to be heard and understood. I meet you where you are in your journey to achieve your goals and we work together to create a person-centered treatment plan. I have over 24 years of experience working as a therapist in different levels of care including inpatient, outpatient, residential, and school-based therapy.
I have experience with CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma Focused CBT, play and art therapy techniques and EMDR.
My passion is working alongside children/teens, families, and adults as all stages of life can come with different challenges and stressors. I strive to create a safe, comfortable place in the therapy setting for you to be heard and understood. I meet you where you are in your journey to achieve your goals and we work together to create a person-centered treatment plan. I have over 24 years of experience working as a therapist in different levels of care including inpatient, outpatient, residential, and school-based therapy.
(317) 342-7263 View (317) 342-7263
Photo of Hannah Korti, MSEd, MFT
Hannah Korti
MSEd, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Wayne, IN 46835  (Online Only)
I know that seeking help is not a comfortable space for many. I believe in the resiliency of every individual and appreciate the uniqueness of families. It is humbling to partner with you or someone you love as we address issues that cause distress and play out in different aspects of life. Our shortcomings are many, our strengths enormous, and our weaknesses reveal our humanity, regardless of life experiences, ethnicity, culture, age, religion, or sexual orientation. I am passionate about helping and supporting families and individuals find healing through approaches in my clinical training to help toward wholeness.
I know that seeking help is not a comfortable space for many. I believe in the resiliency of every individual and appreciate the uniqueness of families. It is humbling to partner with you or someone you love as we address issues that cause distress and play out in different aspects of life. Our shortcomings are many, our strengths enormous, and our weaknesses reveal our humanity, regardless of life experiences, ethnicity, culture, age, religion, or sexual orientation. I am passionate about helping and supporting families and individuals find healing through approaches in my clinical training to help toward wholeness.
(260) 264-8611 View (260) 264-8611
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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.