Play Therapy in Baltimore, MD

Photo of Emily Kallay, LCSW-C, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Kallay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MEd
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21212  (Online Only)
I offer a wide variety of feminist theory based, client centered treatments incorporating play, art, and sand tray techniques, as well as Narrative and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy based approach to talk therapy.
I have over a decade of professional experience working within the LGBTQ+ community, with specialized skills for kids, adolescents, adults, or families who are navigating a gender journey, a kinky relationship, a non-monogamous connection, sex as employment, as well as many other beautiful different ways we live our lives.
I offer a wide variety of feminist theory based, client centered treatments incorporating play, art, and sand tray techniques, as well as Narrative and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy based approach to talk therapy.
I have over a decade of professional experience working within the LGBTQ+ community, with specialized skills for kids, adolescents, adults, or families who are navigating a gender journey, a kinky relationship, a non-monogamous connection, sex as employment, as well as many other beautiful different ways we live our lives.
(410) 469-8674 View (410) 469-8674
Photo of Elizabeth McCarthy, MS, LCPC, RYT, Counselor
Elizabeth McCarthy
Counselor, MS, LCPC, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21209
Waitlist for new clients
Deepak Chopra, in The Healing Self says, "The dividing line between what happens automatically and what happens voluntarily isn’t fixed. Choices matter, and thus the healing self comes into play. On its own the body knows how to survive; it’s up to us to teach it how to thrive.” Welcome to your life! It's yours for the choosing, the healing, the awareness building, the perception changing, and the whole self loving. I can be a grounded guide in this journey. I love helping caregivers, students, and helping professionals by nurturing relationship with their inner wisdom to build stress resilence, strength, and peace.
Deepak Chopra, in The Healing Self says, "The dividing line between what happens automatically and what happens voluntarily isn’t fixed. Choices matter, and thus the healing self comes into play. On its own the body knows how to survive; it’s up to us to teach it how to thrive.” Welcome to your life! It's yours for the choosing, the healing, the awareness building, the perception changing, and the whole self loving. I can be a grounded guide in this journey. I love helping caregivers, students, and helping professionals by nurturing relationship with their inner wisdom to build stress resilence, strength, and peace.
(443) 280-6003 View (443) 280-6003
Photo of Grace Brown, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Grace Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21210
I also provide play therapy to children who are struggling with emotional and behavioral regulation related to anxiety, autism, and trauma.
ASD group! Call for info! I specialize in working with people of all ages who are navigating anxiety, OCD, autism, and trauma. I also specialize in working with people of all ages who are questioning their gender or sexual orientation. Through gender affirming care, I hope to validate and empower you to feel comfortable being your truest self. As a therapist, I tailor my practice and treatment approach to each individual and family, while working to meet my clients where they are. I believe that providing a safe and welcoming space for my clients is essential to the therapeutic process, and promotes emotional growth and change.
I also provide play therapy to children who are struggling with emotional and behavioral regulation related to anxiety, autism, and trauma.
ASD group! Call for info! I specialize in working with people of all ages who are navigating anxiety, OCD, autism, and trauma. I also specialize in working with people of all ages who are questioning their gender or sexual orientation. Through gender affirming care, I hope to validate and empower you to feel comfortable being your truest self. As a therapist, I tailor my practice and treatment approach to each individual and family, while working to meet my clients where they are. I believe that providing a safe and welcoming space for my clients is essential to the therapeutic process, and promotes emotional growth and change.
(443) 232-1698 View (443) 232-1698
Photo of Batsheva (Beth) Hartstein, LCSW-C, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Batsheva (Beth) Hartstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21208
In conjunction with play therapy I engage parents in parenting skills as well to help them understand and engage with their child more effectively, bringing the skills from session into their home which is crucial in maintaining the work done in sessions.
Play therapy is my passion! As a registered play therapist, I conduct therapy using play to facilitate growth, change, communication, and work through a variety of issues using play techniques. Additionally, I work as a trainer sharing my knowledge and excitement of the incredible work that can be done using play!
In conjunction with play therapy I engage parents in parenting skills as well to help them understand and engage with their child more effectively, bringing the skills from session into their home which is crucial in maintaining the work done in sessions.
Play therapy is my passion! As a registered play therapist, I conduct therapy using play to facilitate growth, change, communication, and work through a variety of issues using play techniques. Additionally, I work as a trainer sharing my knowledge and excitement of the incredible work that can be done using play!
(443) 679-5085 View (443) 679-5085
Photo of Mariel Stadick, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mariel Stadick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21210
I also provide play and talk therapy for children ages 3-12 to support self-expression, self-awareness, and confidence in navigating big feelings and responses.
Taking the first step to begin therapy can feel vulnerable, and sharing painful feelings and experiences is an act of great trust. I help my clients become aware of patterns and dynamics in relationships, life choices, and sense of self, along with the emotions and beliefs that underlie them, so they can choose new paths that more closely match their values. I offer an accepting, warm, and honest therapeutic relationship, through which you may gain a sense of confidence, self-compassion, and growth that helps you feel more comfortable and capable in your life.
I also provide play and talk therapy for children ages 3-12 to support self-expression, self-awareness, and confidence in navigating big feelings and responses.
Taking the first step to begin therapy can feel vulnerable, and sharing painful feelings and experiences is an act of great trust. I help my clients become aware of patterns and dynamics in relationships, life choices, and sense of self, along with the emotions and beliefs that underlie them, so they can choose new paths that more closely match their values. I offer an accepting, warm, and honest therapeutic relationship, through which you may gain a sense of confidence, self-compassion, and growth that helps you feel more comfortable and capable in your life.
(717) 356-9681 View (717) 356-9681
Photo of Tesha N Tinsley, LMSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tesha N Tinsley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21229
I am trained and experienced in providing psychotherapy in multiple modalities such as play therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and equine-assisted psychotherapy.
Refresh Wellness and Behavioral Health is an outpatient, private counseling practice offering comprehensive services to meet the needs of those seeking a holistic approach to mental health care. We provide therapeutic services to individuals, families, adolescents, and couples with compassion and respect for unique situations. There is no need to continue suffering in silence! Help is available! Refresh Wellness may be your answer to relationship issues, anxiety, depression, and other disorders. No matter what the problem is, I look forward to working with you.
I am trained and experienced in providing psychotherapy in multiple modalities such as play therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and equine-assisted psychotherapy.
Refresh Wellness and Behavioral Health is an outpatient, private counseling practice offering comprehensive services to meet the needs of those seeking a holistic approach to mental health care. We provide therapeutic services to individuals, families, adolescents, and couples with compassion and respect for unique situations. There is no need to continue suffering in silence! Help is available! Refresh Wellness may be your answer to relationship issues, anxiety, depression, and other disorders. No matter what the problem is, I look forward to working with you.
(410) 618-4528 View (410) 618-4528
Photo of Susan Pizzi - Bayview Counseling Group, LMFT, LMSW, LCPC, LGPC, LCSW, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bayview Counseling Group
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LMSW, LCPC, LGPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21211  (Online Only)
At Bayview Counseling Group we provide a safe, respectful, nonjudgmental environment for adults, children and adolescents to share their stories and gain insight into their current needs and challenges. Our clinicians can help build upon your skills to find balance and relief. Our approach is eclectic utilizing different techniques to fit the needs of the individual client. Some of those techniques include CBT, Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness, Family Therapy and Play Therapy.
At Bayview Counseling Group we provide a safe, respectful, nonjudgmental environment for adults, children and adolescents to share their stories and gain insight into their current needs and challenges. Our clinicians can help build upon your skills to find balance and relief. Our approach is eclectic utilizing different techniques to fit the needs of the individual client. Some of those techniques include CBT, Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness, Family Therapy and Play Therapy.
(424) 401-2655 View (424) 401-2655
Photo of Sky Koch, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sky Koch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21210
I also provide child-centered play therapy to children who are struggling with emotional and behavioral regulation, anxiety, and trauma.
I specialize in working with college age adults, mothers of young children, and families who are struggling with anxiety, trauma, and life stress, utilizing holistic, evidence-based approaches to meet your needs. As a therapist, I am passionate about helping individuals improve their emotional well-being and find a sense of peace and fulfillment in their lives. Therapy provides an opportunity to make growth in all areas from the inside out.
I also provide child-centered play therapy to children who are struggling with emotional and behavioral regulation, anxiety, and trauma.
I specialize in working with college age adults, mothers of young children, and families who are struggling with anxiety, trauma, and life stress, utilizing holistic, evidence-based approaches to meet your needs. As a therapist, I am passionate about helping individuals improve their emotional well-being and find a sense of peace and fulfillment in their lives. Therapy provides an opportunity to make growth in all areas from the inside out.
(443) 232-0654 View (443) 232-0654
Photo of Adam J. Freitag, LCSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adam J. Freitag
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21211  (Online Only)
I also have experience in age-appropriate play therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and use the Gottman approach with couples.
There comes a time when all of us need help finding the path forward. Sometimes we need a "reality check." Sometimes we just need someone to listen without judgment. Regardless of what therapist you decide on, you deserve nothing less than the latest treatment models backed by rigorous research. For years, I have helped clients from all walks of life bringing a wide range of challenges, including difficulties with productivity, impulsivity, extreme mood changes, anxiety, marriage/relationship problems, and more. I treat adults, couples, and families, and maintain a safe space to openly discuss gender identity and sexual orientation.
I also have experience in age-appropriate play therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and use the Gottman approach with couples.
There comes a time when all of us need help finding the path forward. Sometimes we need a "reality check." Sometimes we just need someone to listen without judgment. Regardless of what therapist you decide on, you deserve nothing less than the latest treatment models backed by rigorous research. For years, I have helped clients from all walks of life bringing a wide range of challenges, including difficulties with productivity, impulsivity, extreme mood changes, anxiety, marriage/relationship problems, and more. I treat adults, couples, and families, and maintain a safe space to openly discuss gender identity and sexual orientation.
(667) 206-3815 View (667) 206-3815
Photo of Lora Speake, LCSW-C, PMH-C, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lora Speake
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, PMH-C, RPT
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21210
Are you seeking support for you or your child’s emotional development or navigating the challenges of pregnancy and new parenthood? As a licensed mental health therapist specializing in play therapy and perinatal mental health, I am here to help! With a warm, compassionate approach, I create a safe space for children, adolescents and adults to express themselves through play, fostering resilience and emotional growth.
Are you seeking support for you or your child’s emotional development or navigating the challenges of pregnancy and new parenthood? As a licensed mental health therapist specializing in play therapy and perinatal mental health, I am here to help! With a warm, compassionate approach, I create a safe space for children, adolescents and adults to express themselves through play, fostering resilience and emotional growth.
(443) 233-1353 View (443) 233-1353
Photo of Jade Vega, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jade Vega
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21218
In my work with children, I am passionate about Child Centered Play Therapy and other play therapy modalities, as well as expressive arts techniques.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who graduated from University of Southern California in 2015. I currently primarily provide therapeutic support to children with a variety of emotional and social needs. I have experience working with children and families within the child welfare system as well as working with clients with a variety of needs and diagnoses in their schools, homes, communities, and inpatient settings. I have more than eight years of experience supporting children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental disabilities, as well as their families.
In my work with children, I am passionate about Child Centered Play Therapy and other play therapy modalities, as well as expressive arts techniques.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who graduated from University of Southern California in 2015. I currently primarily provide therapeutic support to children with a variety of emotional and social needs. I have experience working with children and families within the child welfare system as well as working with clients with a variety of needs and diagnoses in their schools, homes, communities, and inpatient settings. I have more than eight years of experience supporting children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental disabilities, as well as their families.
(240) 589-7318 View (240) 589-7318
Photo of Hannah Guidry, LICSW, LCSW, HFRM
Hannah Guidry
LICSW, LCSW, HFRM
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21212  (Online Only)
My training includes Play therapy, Cognitive behavioral Therapy, Behavior Therapy, motivational interviewing, Trauma Focused Therapy and mindfulness practices.
Currently offering virtual sessions! - Life can be really hard at times; however, therapy can help. I listen non-judgmentally and empathetically. Together, we can think through possibilities and options for change in your life. I use cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and mindfulness approaches to help you strengthen and develop your own life skills.
My training includes Play therapy, Cognitive behavioral Therapy, Behavior Therapy, motivational interviewing, Trauma Focused Therapy and mindfulness practices.
Currently offering virtual sessions! - Life can be really hard at times; however, therapy can help. I listen non-judgmentally and empathetically. Together, we can think through possibilities and options for change in your life. I use cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and mindfulness approaches to help you strengthen and develop your own life skills.
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Photo of Jeanne M Deignan-Kosmides Ms Ncc C-Iayt E-Ryt, LCPC, NCC , E-RYT, C-IAYT, MS
Jeanne M Deignan-Kosmides Ms Ncc C-Iayt E-Ryt
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC , E-RYT, C-IAYT, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21209
Each therapy session is influenced by experience with natural healing, ayurveda, homeopathy, yoga and mindfulness meditation, play/sandtray therapy, guided relaxation and imagery.
I provide compassionate counseling when you are facing mental health challenges - transitions in your life, relationship issues, trauma, grief, personal growth, anxiety, depression and stress related issues. I use a variety of counseling methods & incorporate mindfulness & relaxation into my counseling sessions when appropriate. I hope to bring a broad, warm and unique quality of experience, knowledge and nurturing support to the counseling sessions. I am also a Kripalu senior level yoga teacher, Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapist and Reiki Master.
Each therapy session is influenced by experience with natural healing, ayurveda, homeopathy, yoga and mindfulness meditation, play/sandtray therapy, guided relaxation and imagery.
I provide compassionate counseling when you are facing mental health challenges - transitions in your life, relationship issues, trauma, grief, personal growth, anxiety, depression and stress related issues. I use a variety of counseling methods & incorporate mindfulness & relaxation into my counseling sessions when appropriate. I hope to bring a broad, warm and unique quality of experience, knowledge and nurturing support to the counseling sessions. I am also a Kripalu senior level yoga teacher, Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapist and Reiki Master.
(410) 587-0201 View (410) 587-0201
Photo of Lisa K. Schkloven - Lisa K. Schkloven, LCSW-C, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa K. Schkloven, LCSW-C
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21209
I utilize a variety of techniques including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, solution focused and play therapy.
At any stage of life, it is possible to change your perceptions and actions and head in a new direction. My goal is to foster an interactive therapeutic experience, providing support and practical feedback to effectively address personal life challenges. I offer a personalized approach tailored to your needs. With compassion and understanding, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns and negative perceptions that are holding you back while we build on your strengths to help you attain the personal growth you are committed to accomplishing. I Iook forward to working with you in achieving your goals and experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
I utilize a variety of techniques including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, solution focused and play therapy.
At any stage of life, it is possible to change your perceptions and actions and head in a new direction. My goal is to foster an interactive therapeutic experience, providing support and practical feedback to effectively address personal life challenges. I offer a personalized approach tailored to your needs. With compassion and understanding, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns and negative perceptions that are holding you back while we build on your strengths to help you attain the personal growth you are committed to accomplishing. I Iook forward to working with you in achieving your goals and experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(410) 324-7121 View (410) 324-7121
Photo of Kimberly Waibogha - Wellbrook Therapy Services, DSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wellbrook Therapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21217  (Online Only)
Waibogha holds a certificate in Advanced Trauma Treatment, from the Institute for Advanced Psychotherapy Training and Education and a Sandtray Therapy Certificate from The Canadian Association of Play Therapy.
Dr. Kimberly Waibogha. received her BSW and MSW from West Virginia University, and her DSW from Rutgers University. Dr. Waibogha has twenty-seven years of professional post-masters experience. She has provided mental health therapy in the in-home setting, inpatient setting, partial inpatient setting, and outpatient setting, Dr. Waibogha has taught in academia, has experience working with addictions, trauma survivors, adults, children, and clients diagnosed with psychosis.
Waibogha holds a certificate in Advanced Trauma Treatment, from the Institute for Advanced Psychotherapy Training and Education and a Sandtray Therapy Certificate from The Canadian Association of Play Therapy.
Dr. Kimberly Waibogha. received her BSW and MSW from West Virginia University, and her DSW from Rutgers University. Dr. Waibogha has twenty-seven years of professional post-masters experience. She has provided mental health therapy in the in-home setting, inpatient setting, partial inpatient setting, and outpatient setting, Dr. Waibogha has taught in academia, has experience working with addictions, trauma survivors, adults, children, and clients diagnosed with psychosis.
(443) 241-2375 View (443) 241-2375
Photo of Jonathan Christophel, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jonathan Christophel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21211
I use Trauma focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, CBT, and Eco-therapy based concepts in my work.
I look forward to working with you, or your children, in overcoming current obstacles and life challenges. In my experience in working with adults, children, and families, they have all the strengths and resources they need within themselves, and can reach their full potential within a safe, empathic therapeutic relationship.
I use Trauma focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, CBT, and Eco-therapy based concepts in my work.
I look forward to working with you, or your children, in overcoming current obstacles and life challenges. In my experience in working with adults, children, and families, they have all the strengths and resources they need within themselves, and can reach their full potential within a safe, empathic therapeutic relationship.
(202) 902-8779 View (202) 902-8779
Photo of Dorcas K. Hutton, MS, LCPC, NCC
Dorcas K. Hutton
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21210
With children, I may use Expressive Art Therapies, including Jungian Sand Play, to help them express their thoughts and feelings.
I provide a safe place for you to discuss your issues. I work with clients on life transitions, relationship issues, anger management, grief and loss, parenting, and childhood trauma. My treatment approach is a combination of cognitive-behavior, solution-focused, and family systems. My goal is to bring hope to your situation and help you construct positive changes in your life's journey.
With children, I may use Expressive Art Therapies, including Jungian Sand Play, to help them express their thoughts and feelings.
I provide a safe place for you to discuss your issues. I work with clients on life transitions, relationship issues, anger management, grief and loss, parenting, and childhood trauma. My treatment approach is a combination of cognitive-behavior, solution-focused, and family systems. My goal is to bring hope to your situation and help you construct positive changes in your life's journey.
(443) 692-7936 View (443) 692-7936
Photo of Ariella Bernstein, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ariella Bernstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21209
I use child centered play therapy with young children, which is a very different experience than therapy for adults.
I'm passionate about giving people the space and skills to find relief and meaning in their lives. I would describe my approach as warm, person-centered, and practical. I work frequently with two different populations: young adults and children. With young adults, we work on building practical skills, strengthening self compassion, and moving towards a more meaningful and valued life. When working with children, I utilize child centered play therapy, using a mix of non directive and directive approaches, meeting the needs of each child.
I use child centered play therapy with young children, which is a very different experience than therapy for adults.
I'm passionate about giving people the space and skills to find relief and meaning in their lives. I would describe my approach as warm, person-centered, and practical. I work frequently with two different populations: young adults and children. With young adults, we work on building practical skills, strengthening self compassion, and moving towards a more meaningful and valued life. When working with children, I utilize child centered play therapy, using a mix of non directive and directive approaches, meeting the needs of each child.
(410) 883-8508 View (410) 883-8508
Photo of Sara B Samedi, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara B Samedi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21239  (Online Only)
In addition to traditional therapeutic methods, Sara believes in the power of nature, journaling, art, and play as transformative tools to understanding and overcoming trauma, stressors, and mental illness.
Sara has extensive training and experience in supporting children and adults encountering difficult feelings, behaviors, traumas, and transitions. Sara has experience supporting children and families involved in the child welfare system, working with adolescents in residential and community settings, and supporting children and families in schools. Sara also served as Psychiatric Therapist for adults at Johns Hopkins Hospital and received training and experience with CBT, supporting individuals with complex mental health diagnosis and psychosis.
In addition to traditional therapeutic methods, Sara believes in the power of nature, journaling, art, and play as transformative tools to understanding and overcoming trauma, stressors, and mental illness.
Sara has extensive training and experience in supporting children and adults encountering difficult feelings, behaviors, traumas, and transitions. Sara has experience supporting children and families involved in the child welfare system, working with adolescents in residential and community settings, and supporting children and families in schools. Sara also served as Psychiatric Therapist for adults at Johns Hopkins Hospital and received training and experience with CBT, supporting individuals with complex mental health diagnosis and psychosis.
(410) 705-0402 View (410) 705-0402
Photo of Jade Marie Vega, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jade Marie Vega
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21201
In my work with children and adults, I am passionate about incorporating play therapy modalities (ie.
Since I was a child, I have thrived on connecting and having deep discussions with others. I am authentic, am not afraid to have a sense of humor and personality, and ultimately strive meet my clients where they are. Rather than talking the talk, I prefer to walk the walk; my ideal client would ideally appreciate this approach and be looking for a therapist who is willing to grow and learn through the therapeutic relationship with them, just as you will grow.
In my work with children and adults, I am passionate about incorporating play therapy modalities (ie.
Since I was a child, I have thrived on connecting and having deep discussions with others. I am authentic, am not afraid to have a sense of humor and personality, and ultimately strive meet my clients where they are. Rather than talking the talk, I prefer to walk the walk; my ideal client would ideally appreciate this approach and be looking for a therapist who is willing to grow and learn through the therapeutic relationship with them, just as you will grow.
(240) 986-3056 View (240) 986-3056
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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.