Play Therapy in Lexington, KY

Photo of Matt Dodson, MA, LPCA, Counselor
Matt Dodson
Counselor, MA, LPCA
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40513
I have a calm but fun loving, positive nature and we can work in a beautiful, fully equipped play therapy room.
Are you at your wits end as a parent? It may seem like you have tried everything, but nothing works. You may even feel like you are a "bad parent" because your child gets dismissed from preschool, refuses to go to school, can't find friends, or has terrible emotional outbursts at home. It's heart breaking. Plus, it seems unfair when you work hard to improve, but the chaos and confusion remain. I can help.
I have a calm but fun loving, positive nature and we can work in a beautiful, fully equipped play therapy room.
Are you at your wits end as a parent? It may seem like you have tried everything, but nothing works. You may even feel like you are a "bad parent" because your child gets dismissed from preschool, refuses to go to school, can't find friends, or has terrible emotional outbursts at home. It's heart breaking. Plus, it seems unfair when you work hard to improve, but the chaos and confusion remain. I can help.
(859) 780-5618 View (859) 780-5618
Photo of Joan Marie Miller - The Provision Counseling, RPT-S
The Provision Counseling
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40517
We offer specialized counseling for children especially foster and adopted children using play therapy and TBRI (R) Trust-based Relational Intervention.
Are you looking for a counselor that you can trust to share your worries, conflicts, hurts or struggles? We are a group of multi-generational counselors, who share a common calling to serve the community of Central Kentucky including children, adolescents, young adults, families, veterans, and Boomers.
We offer specialized counseling for children especially foster and adopted children using play therapy and TBRI (R) Trust-based Relational Intervention.
Are you looking for a counselor that you can trust to share your worries, conflicts, hurts or struggles? We are a group of multi-generational counselors, who share a common calling to serve the community of Central Kentucky including children, adolescents, young adults, families, veterans, and Boomers.
(859) 809-2952 View (859) 809-2952
Photo of Jessica Shannon, LCSW, CMNCS, C-DBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Shannon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CMNCS, C-DBT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40515
I have experience and/or training utilizing the following treatment approaches: DBT, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Collaborative Problem Solving, Motivational Interviewing, Care Skills, Behavioral Therapy, and more.
I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist certified as a Dialectical Behavior Therapist and as a certified Mental Health and Nutrition Clinical Specialist. I have gained a wide range of experience working with children, teens and adults of all diversities across settings. I have training and experience helping individuals address an array of concerns, but primarily focus on assisting children, adolescents, teens and young adults cope with a variety of mental health concerns, including trauma, mood related disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, emotional dysregulation, self harm, nutritional concerns, relationship concerns, and self esteem.
I have experience and/or training utilizing the following treatment approaches: DBT, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Collaborative Problem Solving, Motivational Interviewing, Care Skills, Behavioral Therapy, and more.
I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist certified as a Dialectical Behavior Therapist and as a certified Mental Health and Nutrition Clinical Specialist. I have gained a wide range of experience working with children, teens and adults of all diversities across settings. I have training and experience helping individuals address an array of concerns, but primarily focus on assisting children, adolescents, teens and young adults cope with a variety of mental health concerns, including trauma, mood related disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, emotional dysregulation, self harm, nutritional concerns, relationship concerns, and self esteem.
(502) 883-6636 View (502) 883-6636
Photo of Jessica Jaramillo - Southland Child, Adult, and Family Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Southland Child, Adult, and Family Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40503
Per age and clinical needs, play therapy, anxiety interventions, trauma treatments, DBT, EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, & other interventions may be utilized.
We are a private counseling practice in Lexington. Our team of mental health therapists consist of Jessica Jaramillo, Vicki Von Almen Gray, Jennifer Congleton, Emma Lovely, Leeann Hayslett, Monica Stewart, Dr. Imelda Bratton, Joan Scales, Emily Porter, Dr. Becky Hill, Rachel O'Farrell, Donna Armstrong, and Ashley Spears. We have a variety of specialties, experiences, and skills. As our name reflects, we focus on the clinical needs for all ages: young children, school aged children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. We offer day, evening, and Saturday sessions, to support diverse individual and family needs.
Per age and clinical needs, play therapy, anxiety interventions, trauma treatments, DBT, EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, & other interventions may be utilized.
We are a private counseling practice in Lexington. Our team of mental health therapists consist of Jessica Jaramillo, Vicki Von Almen Gray, Jennifer Congleton, Emma Lovely, Leeann Hayslett, Monica Stewart, Dr. Imelda Bratton, Joan Scales, Emily Porter, Dr. Becky Hill, Rachel O'Farrell, Donna Armstrong, and Ashley Spears. We have a variety of specialties, experiences, and skills. As our name reflects, we focus on the clinical needs for all ages: young children, school aged children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. We offer day, evening, and Saturday sessions, to support diverse individual and family needs.
(859) 904-5796 View (859) 904-5796
Photo of Daisy E Brown - The Champion Therapy Center LLC, MSW, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Champion Therapy Center LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40505  (Online Only)
We offer play therapy, solution focus therapy, task center approach and behavior modification techniques.
My focus is to help individuals heal, become inspired, and aware of their inner strengths. I achieve this by listening to your concerns, customizing a treatment plan, and being a part of your support team.
We offer play therapy, solution focus therapy, task center approach and behavior modification techniques.
My focus is to help individuals heal, become inspired, and aware of their inner strengths. I achieve this by listening to your concerns, customizing a treatment plan, and being a part of your support team.
(859) 666-6087 View (859) 666-6087
Photo of Marisol Weaver, LPC
Marisol Weaver
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40503
I am trained and experienced in EMDR, Trauma, Group Therapy, Play Therapy, and Family Counseling.
"Healing doesn't mean the damage never existed, it means the damage no longer controls our lives" (Unknown). I seek to provide a safe place where you can heal in order that the damage that was done no longer controls your life. Email today and get started. You will begin to heal when you are in an environment that is safe and caring enough to allow you the confidence and courage to move forward.
I am trained and experienced in EMDR, Trauma, Group Therapy, Play Therapy, and Family Counseling.
"Healing doesn't mean the damage never existed, it means the damage no longer controls our lives" (Unknown). I seek to provide a safe place where you can heal in order that the damage that was done no longer controls your life. Email today and get started. You will begin to heal when you are in an environment that is safe and caring enough to allow you the confidence and courage to move forward.
View
Photo of Sadie Mathew, MAEd, LPCA
Sadie Mathew
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MAEd, LPCA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40517
Waitlist for new clients
At a time when mental health is being recognized with the importance it deserves, there is still much to understand; with the same passion that I express for the essential things in my life, I have decided to reciprocate with gratitude, spending time to guide those who need to recognize their value, potential and purpose in this life. I use various evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, and A.R.T. (accelerated Resolution Therapy).
At a time when mental health is being recognized with the importance it deserves, there is still much to understand; with the same passion that I express for the essential things in my life, I have decided to reciprocate with gratitude, spending time to guide those who need to recognize their value, potential and purpose in this life. I use various evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, and A.R.T. (accelerated Resolution Therapy).
(859) 328-5710 View (859) 328-5710
Photo of Leanna Daniel, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leanna Daniel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40509
I utilize evidence-based practices and therapeutic techniques including Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, EMDR, Play Therapy, and Parent Child Interactive Therapy.
I have extensive experience in working community mental health, where I worked with all ages but my main focus was working with children and adolescents. I have worked with a wide range of mental health concerns including but not limited to anxiety, depression behavioral concerns, trauma, and life transitions.
I utilize evidence-based practices and therapeutic techniques including Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, EMDR, Play Therapy, and Parent Child Interactive Therapy.
I have extensive experience in working community mental health, where I worked with all ages but my main focus was working with children and adolescents. I have worked with a wide range of mental health concerns including but not limited to anxiety, depression behavioral concerns, trauma, and life transitions.
(859) 297-4305 View (859) 297-4305
Photo of Janet Vessels, PhD, LPCC-S, RPT-S
Janet Vessels
PhD, LPCC-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40502
I am trained and certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, and various play therapies, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and I have experience in helping a culturally diverse individuals and families.
Do you feel you are hanging onto the knot at the end of your rope with your own life? Are trauma memories or a single event or a "pile up" of bad experiences overwhelm you when you least expect it? You want a counselor/therapist who offers in person or virtual sessions at convenient day, evening, and weekend hours. You want someone who can collaboratively help you address issues/needs/trauma memories. If you want trauma therapy specialist in the area? Call or email now for more information.
I am trained and certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, and various play therapies, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and I have experience in helping a culturally diverse individuals and families.
Do you feel you are hanging onto the knot at the end of your rope with your own life? Are trauma memories or a single event or a "pile up" of bad experiences overwhelm you when you least expect it? You want a counselor/therapist who offers in person or virtual sessions at convenient day, evening, and weekend hours. You want someone who can collaboratively help you address issues/needs/trauma memories. If you want trauma therapy specialist in the area? Call or email now for more information.
(859) 212-3659 View (859) 212-3659
Photo of Janet Vessels - Integrative Counseling Center, Counselor
Integrative Counseling Center
Counselor
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40502
We are a group of clinicians with a wide variety of specialities including play therapy, EMDR, CBT, couples and family therapies. With over 30 years of experience our clinicians treat age groups starting at 2 years through adult.
We are a group of clinicians with a wide variety of specialities including play therapy, EMDR, CBT, couples and family therapies. With over 30 years of experience our clinicians treat age groups starting at 2 years through adult.
(859) 903-0168 View (859) 903-0168
Photo of C Beth Lewis, MA, LMFT-S, RPT, TBRI, Marriage & Family Therapist
C Beth Lewis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT-S, RPT, TBRI
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40503
Beth is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), Registered Play Therapist (RPT), certified in Child Centered Play Therapy & Filial Therapy, and Trust Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) Practitioner.
Families, parents and ages 2-18. Are you looking for positive change in your child's behavior? Does your family need to break unhealthy cycles and find a way to re-connect and interact in healthy ways? Beth is passionate about children and adolescents receiving healing from trauma, attachment concerns, families formed through foster care and adoption, and children struggling from the impacts of addiction. Through a specific program, Beth offers a 10 week intensive program for kids ages 3-7 to heal who are fostered or adopted.
Beth is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), Registered Play Therapist (RPT), certified in Child Centered Play Therapy & Filial Therapy, and Trust Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) Practitioner.
Families, parents and ages 2-18. Are you looking for positive change in your child's behavior? Does your family need to break unhealthy cycles and find a way to re-connect and interact in healthy ways? Beth is passionate about children and adolescents receiving healing from trauma, attachment concerns, families formed through foster care and adoption, and children struggling from the impacts of addiction. Through a specific program, Beth offers a 10 week intensive program for kids ages 3-7 to heal who are fostered or adopted.
(859) 428-8122 View (859) 428-8122
Photo of Nicole Stiles, LMFT, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicole Stiles
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40504  (Online Only)
I am certified in play and filial therapy, and have been trained in Relationship Enhancement, EMDR, Gottman Couples Therapy, and Family Systems therapy.
Feeling Overwhelmed? Constantly in fight, flight, or freeze mode? I can help. Although it may start as only one hour a week, my clients can spend that time checking in with themselves. Take a break from the stress of work, relationships, or daily tasks that keep the world spinning. Together we can calm those racing thoughts and overwhelm and uncover your deeper concerns and desires. You can develop a more secure relationship with yourself so you can feel stronger to tackle the anxieties of life. ¿Se siente abrumado? ¿Está constantemente en modo de lucha, huida o congelamiento? Puedo ayudarlo.
I am certified in play and filial therapy, and have been trained in Relationship Enhancement, EMDR, Gottman Couples Therapy, and Family Systems therapy.
Feeling Overwhelmed? Constantly in fight, flight, or freeze mode? I can help. Although it may start as only one hour a week, my clients can spend that time checking in with themselves. Take a break from the stress of work, relationships, or daily tasks that keep the world spinning. Together we can calm those racing thoughts and overwhelm and uncover your deeper concerns and desires. You can develop a more secure relationship with yourself so you can feel stronger to tackle the anxieties of life. ¿Se siente abrumado? ¿Está constantemente en modo de lucha, huida o congelamiento? Puedo ayudarlo.
(859) 295-6147 View (859) 295-6147
Photo of Leila Goodpaster, LPCC, NCC, ART, CBT, Counselor
Leila Goodpaster
Counselor, LPCC, NCC, ART, CBT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40509
Virtual and in- person sessions being offered. I work with all ages, and families to address a wide range of emotional and behavioral problems. I discover and get to know each person individually. I base my counseling style on my clients needs, strengths and goals. I utilize multiple models in the counseling experience: Advanced Accelerated Resolution; ART, Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral and Play Therapies. I apply Therapeutic Art Techniques to the treatment process. I also have had real life experiences dealing and overcoming life stressors of my own. I offer Mental Health, ADHD and Parenting Assessments/ Classes.
Virtual and in- person sessions being offered. I work with all ages, and families to address a wide range of emotional and behavioral problems. I discover and get to know each person individually. I base my counseling style on my clients needs, strengths and goals. I utilize multiple models in the counseling experience: Advanced Accelerated Resolution; ART, Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral and Play Therapies. I apply Therapeutic Art Techniques to the treatment process. I also have had real life experiences dealing and overcoming life stressors of my own. I offer Mental Health, ADHD and Parenting Assessments/ Classes.
(859) 317-2579 View (859) 317-2579
Photo of Megan Farrar, LPC, Counselor
Megan Farrar
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40502
Through the use of art, writing, and play, we will work collaboratively to overcome hardships and build a path towards healing and growth.
Feeling lost, overwhelmed, or stuck? You’re not alone. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, family dynamics, or simply finding meaning and purpose, I’m here for you. Change is never easy. Everyone wants to be the best version of themselves, and I hope to be someone that can help you reach your personal goals in a welcoming environment.
Through the use of art, writing, and play, we will work collaboratively to overcome hardships and build a path towards healing and growth.
Feeling lost, overwhelmed, or stuck? You’re not alone. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, family dynamics, or simply finding meaning and purpose, I’m here for you. Change is never easy. Everyone wants to be the best version of themselves, and I hope to be someone that can help you reach your personal goals in a welcoming environment.
(859) 724-5868 View (859) 724-5868
Photo of Anna Stephens, MS, LPCC, RPT
Anna Stephens
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC, RPT
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40503
In this time of unrest, feelings of anxiety, stress and depression are heightened and can affect children and adults alike. I am a Registered Play Therapist with three years of experience working with children dealing with these issues and more. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and am certified in Trauma Focused -Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Processing Therapy. My approach to counseling is to work conjointly with the client to help them achieve their goals. I am currently accepting new clients and am available to speak to you via phone or online. I am here to help.
In this time of unrest, feelings of anxiety, stress and depression are heightened and can affect children and adults alike. I am a Registered Play Therapist with three years of experience working with children dealing with these issues and more. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and am certified in Trauma Focused -Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Processing Therapy. My approach to counseling is to work conjointly with the client to help them achieve their goals. I am currently accepting new clients and am available to speak to you via phone or online. I am here to help.
(859) 470-8187 View (859) 470-8187
Photo of Kara Fresh McMeekin, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kara Fresh McMeekin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40509
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I'm trained in relational/marital issues, PTSD, play therapy, parenting and blended families, symptoms of depression and anxiety, divorce, grief, etc.
Therapy serves a unique purpose to each individual. I'm committed to helping you, your partner, or your family work towards the goals and individual hopes you identify as important to your life and relationships. I focus on creating an atmosphere that is safe and provides you with a place to share your story without fear of judgment. Therapy can help you find solutions and learn skills to help you cope with daily stresses, relational and marital problems, past trauma, job stress, grief and loss, etc. I can offer professional guidance and support as you identify and work towards your goals.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I'm trained in relational/marital issues, PTSD, play therapy, parenting and blended families, symptoms of depression and anxiety, divorce, grief, etc.
Therapy serves a unique purpose to each individual. I'm committed to helping you, your partner, or your family work towards the goals and individual hopes you identify as important to your life and relationships. I focus on creating an atmosphere that is safe and provides you with a place to share your story without fear of judgment. Therapy can help you find solutions and learn skills to help you cope with daily stresses, relational and marital problems, past trauma, job stress, grief and loss, etc. I can offer professional guidance and support as you identify and work towards your goals.
(859) 904-2789 View (859) 904-2789
Photo of Patricia Brown, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40509  (Online Only)
I have been trained in play therapy, EMDR therapy and multiple other interventions.
I graduated with my masters degree from Spalding University in 2005. I began working as a full time therapist in 2014. I have worked in the in home setting doing family therapy. I have worked in an in-patient adolescent psychiatric facility for two years. I also practice grief counseling with a Hospice facility.
I have been trained in play therapy, EMDR therapy and multiple other interventions.
I graduated with my masters degree from Spalding University in 2005. I began working as a full time therapist in 2014. I have worked in the in home setting doing family therapy. I have worked in an in-patient adolescent psychiatric facility for two years. I also practice grief counseling with a Hospice facility.
(859) 251-2350 View (859) 251-2350
Photo of Christopher Griggs Westerman, MA, LPCC-S, NCC, RPT-S, LCADC, Counselor
Christopher Griggs Westerman
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S, NCC, RPT-S, LCADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40502
I use play therapy, family therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy to help assess the issues that are causing distress and then promote change to improve the family life.
Many feel overwhelmed at times with family life. Feeling that a child's problem is overwhelming or out of control. This can often lead to break downs in parenting or just relationships in the family. I have found over the years I help best when things look the worst and that many families have what it takes to change and make things feel more in control. I hope to help families and children feel like they can meet the challenges that life throws at them. Besides counseling I also offer supervision for Drug and Alcohol Counselors, Play therapy, and professional counselors in Kentucky.
I use play therapy, family therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy to help assess the issues that are causing distress and then promote change to improve the family life.
Many feel overwhelmed at times with family life. Feeling that a child's problem is overwhelming or out of control. This can often lead to break downs in parenting or just relationships in the family. I have found over the years I help best when things look the worst and that many families have what it takes to change and make things feel more in control. I hope to help families and children feel like they can meet the challenges that life throws at them. Besides counseling I also offer supervision for Drug and Alcohol Counselors, Play therapy, and professional counselors in Kentucky.
(859) 217-4905 View (859) 217-4905
Photo of Amanda Lyons, LMFT, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amanda Lyons
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40503
I use evidence-based practices like play therapy, CBT, and solution-focused therapy, tailoring my methods to meet your unique situation.
Hi! I'm Amanda, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Registered Play Therapist (RPT). I earned my Bachelor's degree in Sociology from Wofford College and my Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy from Converse College. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and families in various settings, including outpatient, shelter, and residential environments. I work with children aged 3 and up, as well as adolescents and parents, in both individual and family sessions. Together, we'll determine the best approach to support your family's needs.
I use evidence-based practices like play therapy, CBT, and solution-focused therapy, tailoring my methods to meet your unique situation.
Hi! I'm Amanda, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Registered Play Therapist (RPT). I earned my Bachelor's degree in Sociology from Wofford College and my Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy from Converse College. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and families in various settings, including outpatient, shelter, and residential environments. I work with children aged 3 and up, as well as adolescents and parents, in both individual and family sessions. Together, we'll determine the best approach to support your family's needs.
(859) 295-6478 View (859) 295-6478
Photo of Paul D Dalton - Paul D Dalton, MS, LPCC-S, LCADC, MS, LPCC-S, LCADC
Paul D Dalton, MS, LPCC-S, LCADC
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC-S, LCADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40509
Our specialties include general mental health for adults, adolescents and children, including depression, anxiety, relationships, family issues, grief, stress, adolescent issues, play therapy, substance abuse, marriage, work stress, and separation/divorce.
Hello! Our office of over 50 counselors, therapists, nurse practitioners and psychologists provide counseling, therapy, psychological and psychiatric services to all ages. We are committed to helping you. We care about our professional roles and the people we serve. We help all ages and most every mental health and life issue. Our goal is your success and well being. Most of our referrals come from the thousands of people we have helped like you. Please call today. If we can't help, we will find someone that can. Never, ever give up! Over 25 years. Five locations. Hundreds of years of combined experience. Call 859.338.0466 today.
Our specialties include general mental health for adults, adolescents and children, including depression, anxiety, relationships, family issues, grief, stress, adolescent issues, play therapy, substance abuse, marriage, work stress, and separation/divorce.
Hello! Our office of over 50 counselors, therapists, nurse practitioners and psychologists provide counseling, therapy, psychological and psychiatric services to all ages. We are committed to helping you. We care about our professional roles and the people we serve. We help all ages and most every mental health and life issue. Our goal is your success and well being. Most of our referrals come from the thousands of people we have helped like you. Please call today. If we can't help, we will find someone that can. Never, ever give up! Over 25 years. Five locations. Hundreds of years of combined experience. Call 859.338.0466 today.
(859) 308-6896 View (859) 308-6896
1
Play Therapy

Who is play therapy for?

Play therapy is generally targeted to children between the ages of 3 and 11 who have social, emotional, or behavioral difficulties. Play therapy has also been found helpful for children who have experienced physical or emotional abuse or witnessed atrocities. Play therapy is also often recommended for children who are undergoing major medical procedures or who are suffering from chronic illness; many children’s hospitals are equipped to offer play therapy on-site. Play therapy is also sometimes used for adults; creative writing, music, and art are expressive forms that can all be adapted for therapeutic purposes.

Why do people need play therapy?

Children often do not have the language skills or words to know or to express what is troubling them. Yet they often spontaneously draw or use playthings to depict scenarios that reflect problems in their everyday life. Play therapy provides children with an array of objects and play situations to act out their feelings or experiences so that therapists can get a clear picture of what children might be struggling with and help them find solutions. In addition, play therapists are skilled at helping children understand their inner experience and find words for them, necessary steps toward helping children learn to control their own behavior and come up with solutions to problems they encounter.

What happens in play therapy?

A child enters a comfortable playroom where they are free to choose the objects they want to play with. The play therapist will typically observe how they play with the toys—whether a sandbox, puppets, dolls and action figures, trucks, costumes, drawing and painting materials, or more—because such play provides clues to a child’s family and social relationships, difficulties they are encountering in the world, and what going on inside themselves. Sometimes the therapist may ask the child to use the play objects to tell a story about their family. Using the same instruments of play, therapists can help children discover more advantageous ways of thinking and behaving.

What kinds of problems do play therapists treat?

Play therapy can help children who display destructive or self-destructive impulses; children who seem angry, sad, or fearful; children who experience frequent social, emotional, family, or school difficulty. Play therapy is often of value to children who have experienced a loss or distressing family experience, who are regularly exposed to family conflict, or who have been physically or emotionally abused. Play therapy can help children who are perpetrators of bullying as well as those who are targets of bullying. It helps children learn to identify their feelings, to express them in constructive ways, and to regulate them so they can get on with the business of development.

How long does play therapy last?

Play therapy sessions may last for 30 to 45 minutes, and they usually occur weekly for about 20 sessions. Each session is tailored to the individual child and the kinds of problems they are struggling with. Play that is highly repetitive often indicates a problem requiring further exploration. Therapists typically measure progress through session-to-session changes in play behavior.