Play Therapy in Brighton, MI

Photo of Monica Laming, LMSW, IMH-E, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Monica Laming
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, IMH-E
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brighton, MI 48116
Whether it is through play with a young child or speaking one’s truth with an adult; therapy is a beautiful and powerful process that I believe has endless possibility.
I provide specialized therapy for women, children & families. My services would be ideal for women looking for support with anxiety, depression, parenting concerns, birth trauma, pregnancy loss, post-partum mental health concerns, reproductive challenges, history of trauma etc. I work with women in all stages of life and utilize a variety of modalities to best fit your needs with the deeper understanding that change comes within an authentic relationship. I welcome mothers to bring their babies or young children to therapy if needed as my office space provides a play area for children of many ages.
Whether it is through play with a young child or speaking one’s truth with an adult; therapy is a beautiful and powerful process that I believe has endless possibility.
I provide specialized therapy for women, children & families. My services would be ideal for women looking for support with anxiety, depression, parenting concerns, birth trauma, pregnancy loss, post-partum mental health concerns, reproductive challenges, history of trauma etc. I work with women in all stages of life and utilize a variety of modalities to best fit your needs with the deeper understanding that change comes within an authentic relationship. I welcome mothers to bring their babies or young children to therapy if needed as my office space provides a play area for children of many ages.
(810) 206-1621 View (810) 206-1621
Photo of Maureen Linnell - Root to Rise - Child, Maternal, & Family Therapy, LMSW, LCSW, IMH-E®, IFS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Root to Rise - Child, Maternal, & Family Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW, IMH-E®, IFS
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48116
Utilizing play and talk therapy, I offer you new tools to understand your emotions, your child's behavior, or both.
Overwhelmed with parenthood? Struggling to understand your child’s behavior? Dealing with postpartum depression? You probably imagined parenthood looking quite different. There is no easy fix for managing anxiety surrounding pregnancy, the postpartum period, or infant/early childhood challenges. There is no instruction manual to open when your child is struggling with anxiety, behavioral challenges, or a developmental delay. Your parental instinct is simply to help your baby get better. Whether that baby is an infant, toddler, or school-aged, your goal is to get to the root of the struggle - and ensure a successful & happy future.
Utilizing play and talk therapy, I offer you new tools to understand your emotions, your child's behavior, or both.
Overwhelmed with parenthood? Struggling to understand your child’s behavior? Dealing with postpartum depression? You probably imagined parenthood looking quite different. There is no easy fix for managing anxiety surrounding pregnancy, the postpartum period, or infant/early childhood challenges. There is no instruction manual to open when your child is struggling with anxiety, behavioral challenges, or a developmental delay. Your parental instinct is simply to help your baby get better. Whether that baby is an infant, toddler, or school-aged, your goal is to get to the root of the struggle - and ensure a successful & happy future.
(810) 627-7061 View (810) 627-7061
Photo of Cassandra Jessee, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cassandra Jessee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brighton, MI 48116
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize multiple modalities such as CBT, DBT, ACT, TF-CBT, Solution Based Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, psychotherapy, play therapy and animal therapy.
Anxiety? Panic? Depression? Trauma? Is the world just too much lately? Do you want to feel heard and enjoy life? My therapy dog Timon and I would love to guide and help you. Following a critical illness in my life, I started a quest for purpose and devoted myself to an educational journey to create synergy with my own life experiences. My interest is trauma, anxiety, panic, depression, suicide ideation, past sexual abuse, relationship issues coupled with focus on how interpersonal, cognitive thinking and environmental factors play a part in helping people to change.
I utilize multiple modalities such as CBT, DBT, ACT, TF-CBT, Solution Based Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, psychotherapy, play therapy and animal therapy.
Anxiety? Panic? Depression? Trauma? Is the world just too much lately? Do you want to feel heard and enjoy life? My therapy dog Timon and I would love to guide and help you. Following a critical illness in my life, I started a quest for purpose and devoted myself to an educational journey to create synergy with my own life experiences. My interest is trauma, anxiety, panic, depression, suicide ideation, past sexual abuse, relationship issues coupled with focus on how interpersonal, cognitive thinking and environmental factors play a part in helping people to change.
(810) 634-9065 View (810) 634-9065
Photo of Kisha Hath, AAS, BS, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kisha Hath
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AAS, BS, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48116
I also incorporate mindfulness, play, and art into therapy sessions.
Hello, everyone! My name is Kisha Hath, I am a LMSW graduate from Michigan State. I specialize in working with children, teens, and young adults. I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, family conflict, trauma, sexuality/sexual identity, and more. My passion for helping others has been years in the making and working with my clients to see their progress and strengths! I understand that life is always changing and barriers can create feelings of helplessness, fear, and feeling overwhelmed. I believe each person has their own story, and I work with them to identify barriers and insights about their life.
I also incorporate mindfulness, play, and art into therapy sessions.
Hello, everyone! My name is Kisha Hath, I am a LMSW graduate from Michigan State. I specialize in working with children, teens, and young adults. I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, family conflict, trauma, sexuality/sexual identity, and more. My passion for helping others has been years in the making and working with my clients to see their progress and strengths! I understand that life is always changing and barriers can create feelings of helplessness, fear, and feeling overwhelmed. I believe each person has their own story, and I work with them to identify barriers and insights about their life.
(810) 255-5153 View (810) 255-5153
Photo of Samantha Hughes, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Hughes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brighton, MI 48116
My primary interventions include CBT, behavioral management and play therapy with children.
My background in various human services settings has allowed me space to develop skills and understand people in a different way than most. My goal is to help you attain the skills to be who you want to be and have a place to let your feelings be heard. I love to help people start from where they are now and grow into who they want to be. My passion is working with children and young adults, focusing on becoming more independent through aquiring knowledge and skills for success and to better manage life stressors, anxiety, depression, transition, divorce, family changes, behavioral problems and school related issues.
My primary interventions include CBT, behavioral management and play therapy with children.
My background in various human services settings has allowed me space to develop skills and understand people in a different way than most. My goal is to help you attain the skills to be who you want to be and have a place to let your feelings be heard. I love to help people start from where they are now and grow into who they want to be. My passion is working with children and young adults, focusing on becoming more independent through aquiring knowledge and skills for success and to better manage life stressors, anxiety, depression, transition, divorce, family changes, behavioral problems and school related issues.
(734) 865-2766 View (734) 865-2766
Photo of Isaac Janda-Orr - Limited License Professional Counselor, MA, LLPC
Isaac Janda-Orr - Limited License Professional Counselor
MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brighton, MI 48116
Have you ever found yourself thinking unhelpful thoughts? Has someone ever told you something about yourself you don't like or think is unfair? Have others tried to tell you what you should do or what is "right"? If you are looking for support on how to navigate life's stressful situations, I would love to assist. I work with a wide variety of clients and am passionate to help those who feel like others have treated them unfairly. This includes areas like relationship issues, potential traumatic or distressing situations, unfair treatment due to religious mindsets, adjusting to new boundaries, distressing life situations, plus more!
Have you ever found yourself thinking unhelpful thoughts? Has someone ever told you something about yourself you don't like or think is unfair? Have others tried to tell you what you should do or what is "right"? If you are looking for support on how to navigate life's stressful situations, I would love to assist. I work with a wide variety of clients and am passionate to help those who feel like others have treated them unfairly. This includes areas like relationship issues, potential traumatic or distressing situations, unfair treatment due to religious mindsets, adjusting to new boundaries, distressing life situations, plus more!
(810) 255-0901 View (810) 255-0901
Photo of Sandra Kumm, MS, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Sandra Kumm
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MS, LLP
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48116
Assessment can be an incredible tool in seeking solutions for children and adolescents experiencing significant difficulties in their daily lives. I aspire to be the key to unlock the door with solutions so each child can strive to reach their maximum potential. My training and education include a Masters Degree in Clinical Health Psychology from the University of Michigan. This approach to evaluation includes the biological, psychological, and social contributions to our lives that make each of us the person we are today.
Assessment can be an incredible tool in seeking solutions for children and adolescents experiencing significant difficulties in their daily lives. I aspire to be the key to unlock the door with solutions so each child can strive to reach their maximum potential. My training and education include a Masters Degree in Clinical Health Psychology from the University of Michigan. This approach to evaluation includes the biological, psychological, and social contributions to our lives that make each of us the person we are today.
(734) 666-0705 View (734) 666-0705
Photo of Lorie Ausel - Gentle Strength Counseling and Holistic Center, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gentle Strength Counseling and Holistic Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48114
We honor the continuous journey of healing. Our compassionate, comprehensive, and personalized approach to therapy focuses on the needs of the individual. Whether you are dealing with past traumas, depression, anxiety, self-image, co-dependency, challenging life circumstances or family dynamics, we will meet you where you are at in your journey. We offer a variety therapeutic modalities, including CBT, DBT, TFT/EFT, Hypnosis & NLP, life coaching, and several patented bio-feedback services that focus on emotional and physical health.
We honor the continuous journey of healing. Our compassionate, comprehensive, and personalized approach to therapy focuses on the needs of the individual. Whether you are dealing with past traumas, depression, anxiety, self-image, co-dependency, challenging life circumstances or family dynamics, we will meet you where you are at in your journey. We offer a variety therapeutic modalities, including CBT, DBT, TFT/EFT, Hypnosis & NLP, life coaching, and several patented bio-feedback services that focus on emotional and physical health.
(517) 375-8175 View (517) 375-8175
Photo of Heather Harris, MA,  LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Heather Harris
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48116
Everyone can use someone to talk to. Whether they just need to have a person to vent to or someone to help realign their life perspective, it is important to have a person. I want to be that person to others. I want to help to encourage others, provide positive change, promote health and stability and have open communication to others. A person who seeks therapy knows that their life journey is easier when shared with someone who can help manage the struggles and celebrate the joys that our journey has and they are willing to navigate them and are ready for a change.
Everyone can use someone to talk to. Whether they just need to have a person to vent to or someone to help realign their life perspective, it is important to have a person. I want to be that person to others. I want to help to encourage others, provide positive change, promote health and stability and have open communication to others. A person who seeks therapy knows that their life journey is easier when shared with someone who can help manage the struggles and celebrate the joys that our journey has and they are willing to navigate them and are ready for a change.
(810) 474-4249 View (810) 474-4249
Photo of Jeri Lea Kroll, LMSW, IMH-E®, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeri Lea Kroll
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, IMH-E®
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brighton, MI 48116
Have you been in survival mode for too long? Are you working so hard to reparent yourself while simultaneously parenting small people with big needs? Or are you parenting a child with big behaviors or emotions? Parenting a child who is struggling is stressful and isolating. Maybe the thought "this isn't what (or the child) I was expecting" has even run through your mind. Whether you planned for pregnancy, fostering or adopting, you likely dreamed of love, connection and joy. And now you are not sure how to get there from here. Or if it is even possible. It really is! There is always room for hope.
Have you been in survival mode for too long? Are you working so hard to reparent yourself while simultaneously parenting small people with big needs? Or are you parenting a child with big behaviors or emotions? Parenting a child who is struggling is stressful and isolating. Maybe the thought "this isn't what (or the child) I was expecting" has even run through your mind. Whether you planned for pregnancy, fostering or adopting, you likely dreamed of love, connection and joy. And now you are not sure how to get there from here. Or if it is even possible. It really is! There is always room for hope.
(810) 255-0948 View (810) 255-0948
Photo of Jennifer Diane Marshall - Healing Pathways Center, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Healing Pathways Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48114
The mission of Healing Pathways Center is to assist individuals and families in meeting life's challenges. Through the process of engagement, relationship building and mindful practices, we tap into the heart of the matter. Whether depression, anxiety, autism, life transitions, behavioral or parenting concerns, pain issues and loss of a loved one our goal is to empower individuals towards healing, and coping. Without preconceived notions, therapy becomes a vehicle for you to explore and uncover goals, road blocks, stepping stones and more. All with a desire to live a healthier and happier life.
The mission of Healing Pathways Center is to assist individuals and families in meeting life's challenges. Through the process of engagement, relationship building and mindful practices, we tap into the heart of the matter. Whether depression, anxiety, autism, life transitions, behavioral or parenting concerns, pain issues and loss of a loved one our goal is to empower individuals towards healing, and coping. Without preconceived notions, therapy becomes a vehicle for you to explore and uncover goals, road blocks, stepping stones and more. All with a desire to live a healthier and happier life.
(810) 206-0945 View (810) 206-0945
Photo of Taylor Paige Villano, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Taylor Paige Villano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brighton, MI 48116  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients and offering EMDR therapy. Welcome! I am a dedicated mental health provider specializing in therapy for children, teens, young adults, and families facing challenges such as anxiety, trauma, and low self-esteem. With a compassionate approach, I utilize a variety of therapeutic methods to help clients uncover the root of their struggles and foster healing. I am committed to creating a supportive environment where individuals can explore their experiences and unlock their full potential, empowering them to lead fulfilling and resilient lives.
Accepting new clients and offering EMDR therapy. Welcome! I am a dedicated mental health provider specializing in therapy for children, teens, young adults, and families facing challenges such as anxiety, trauma, and low self-esteem. With a compassionate approach, I utilize a variety of therapeutic methods to help clients uncover the root of their struggles and foster healing. I am committed to creating a supportive environment where individuals can explore their experiences and unlock their full potential, empowering them to lead fulfilling and resilient lives.
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Photo of Celine M Klecker, MS, LPC, CADC, NBCC, Counselor
Celine M Klecker
Counselor, MS, LPC, CADC, NBCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brighton, MI 48116
You don’t have to be diagnosed with a mental health problem to benefit from therapy. Many people in therapy seek help for everyday concerns: relationship problems, anxiety, job stress, low self-esteem or self-doubt, Others turn to therapy during difficult times, such as a trauma, depression bipolar, mood disorders, or relationship problems. But in order to reap its benefits, it’s important to choose the right therapist—someone you trust who makes you feel cared for and has the experience to help you make changes for the better in your life.
You don’t have to be diagnosed with a mental health problem to benefit from therapy. Many people in therapy seek help for everyday concerns: relationship problems, anxiety, job stress, low self-esteem or self-doubt, Others turn to therapy during difficult times, such as a trauma, depression bipolar, mood disorders, or relationship problems. But in order to reap its benefits, it’s important to choose the right therapist—someone you trust who makes you feel cared for and has the experience to help you make changes for the better in your life.
(810) 379-9974 View (810) 379-9974
Photo of Emrielle VanCleave, MA, LLMFT, CTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Emrielle VanCleave
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LLMFT, CTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brighton, MI 48116  (Online Only)
As an integrative therapist, I’m here to help you feel whole again. If you struggle with complex trauma, dissociation, a personality disorder, or other experiences that are difficult to let go of, I’m here to help you reconnect with all your parts and come together as a whole person, whether this be in individual, couples, or family sessions. Through our treatment together, you’ll be able to recognize the resiliency within you that is needed to take on life’s challenges and heal from those challenges you have already faced.
As an integrative therapist, I’m here to help you feel whole again. If you struggle with complex trauma, dissociation, a personality disorder, or other experiences that are difficult to let go of, I’m here to help you reconnect with all your parts and come together as a whole person, whether this be in individual, couples, or family sessions. Through our treatment together, you’ll be able to recognize the resiliency within you that is needed to take on life’s challenges and heal from those challenges you have already faced.
(810) 269-4152 View (810) 269-4152
Photo of Jenny Parmenter, ACSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenny Parmenter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ACSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48116
Are you in need of a nurturing place to sort out life's challenges? I feel everyone from time to time can use some extra support and insight to gain greater fulfillment in their lives. Over the years, I have had the privilege of working with individuals, couples and families that were committed to making these positive changes. I welcome the opportunity to assist you in life's journey.
Are you in need of a nurturing place to sort out life's challenges? I feel everyone from time to time can use some extra support and insight to gain greater fulfillment in their lives. Over the years, I have had the privilege of working with individuals, couples and families that were committed to making these positive changes. I welcome the opportunity to assist you in life's journey.
(810) 696-8018 View (810) 696-8018
Photo of Jennifer Boss Mainka - Renewed Relationships Counseling & Psych. Svcs, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Renewed Relationships Counseling & Psych. Svcs
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48116
When you feel sad, anxious, or overwhelmed by life, you will often notice that your relationships are suffering as well. These can be relationships with your spouse or significant other, your kids, or even your coworkers. Often by improving the relationship, you will see improvement in these other areas. Our therapists use Emotionally Focused Therapy with individuals, couples, and families to enhance relationships and alleviate fears and sadness. We also treat children, teens, and families who are experiencing behavioral issues or difficult family dynamics. When seeing children, we include the parents in the treatment process to facilitate treatment success.
When you feel sad, anxious, or overwhelmed by life, you will often notice that your relationships are suffering as well. These can be relationships with your spouse or significant other, your kids, or even your coworkers. Often by improving the relationship, you will see improvement in these other areas. Our therapists use Emotionally Focused Therapy with individuals, couples, and families to enhance relationships and alleviate fears and sadness. We also treat children, teens, and families who are experiencing behavioral issues or difficult family dynamics. When seeing children, we include the parents in the treatment process to facilitate treatment success.
(810) 346-1839 View (810) 346-1839
Photo of Katherine Dawn Gimmestad, PhD, Psychologist
Katherine Dawn Gimmestad
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brighton, MI 48114
Dr. Katherine Gimmestad is a licensed clinical psychologist with over 18 years of clinical experience and extensive training in research. She has authored peer-reviewed articles in her discipline, and adheres closely to an evidence-based, scientific model in working with her patients. Dr. Gimmestad finds much reward in treating Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and Depression and Anxiety with evidence-based approaches. She has also been affected by autism, having two children on the spectrum and is happy to help other parents undergoing stress related to this diagnosis in their child.
Dr. Katherine Gimmestad is a licensed clinical psychologist with over 18 years of clinical experience and extensive training in research. She has authored peer-reviewed articles in her discipline, and adheres closely to an evidence-based, scientific model in working with her patients. Dr. Gimmestad finds much reward in treating Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and Depression and Anxiety with evidence-based approaches. She has also been affected by autism, having two children on the spectrum and is happy to help other parents undergoing stress related to this diagnosis in their child.
(810) 672-1742 View (810) 672-1742
Photo of Mark Bowers, PhD, Psychologist
Mark Bowers
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48114
Dr. Mark Bowers is a Pediatric Psychologist in Brighton, MI. He is clinical director of the Brighton Center. He has worked with children, adolescents, young adults, and families for over 25 years. He specializes in neurodevelopmental diagnoses (i.e., Autism Spectrum, Asperger's, ADHD, Pathological Demand Avoidance, and Learning Difficulties. Dr. Bowers is Neurodiversity-Affirming. He developed an app (www.mysosh.com) to help children improve their social skills that has been downloaded in over 60 countries and is being used in elementary/high schools and colleges across the US.
Dr. Mark Bowers is a Pediatric Psychologist in Brighton, MI. He is clinical director of the Brighton Center. He has worked with children, adolescents, young adults, and families for over 25 years. He specializes in neurodevelopmental diagnoses (i.e., Autism Spectrum, Asperger's, ADHD, Pathological Demand Avoidance, and Learning Difficulties. Dr. Bowers is Neurodiversity-Affirming. He developed an app (www.mysosh.com) to help children improve their social skills that has been downloaded in over 60 countries and is being used in elementary/high schools and colleges across the US.
(810) 479-5285 View (810) 479-5285
Photo of Christine Omilion-Sugg, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christine Omilion-Sugg
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brighton, MI 48116
Hello and Welcome! I am here to listen, support, advocate, and guide you to your individual wellness goals. I believe in a client-centered approach as I recognize that there is no single path to wellness. We will collaborate to discover the route that is best for you, your child, or your family. I believe each of us can live full and authentic lives with a bit of support and guidance.
Hello and Welcome! I am here to listen, support, advocate, and guide you to your individual wellness goals. I believe in a client-centered approach as I recognize that there is no single path to wellness. We will collaborate to discover the route that is best for you, your child, or your family. I believe each of us can live full and authentic lives with a bit of support and guidance.
(734) 821-6446 View (734) 821-6446
Photo of Michele Wolf - Wolf Psychological Services, PLLC, MA, PsyD, Psychologist
Wolf Psychological Services, PLLC
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48116
Our practice values clinical competence, in person visits, and proven effective modalities. Anyone can listen and provide support. We provide clinical treatment for your symptoms. Psychotherapy works. If you reach out to us, we'll create a compassionate, professional, and nonjudgmental space to sit with you, and assess where you are. You may find options you never knew you had, and a world you never knew existed! Our diverse and highly trained clinicians can help you move forward. It won't be as difficult and heavy as it was before you found us.
Our practice values clinical competence, in person visits, and proven effective modalities. Anyone can listen and provide support. We provide clinical treatment for your symptoms. Psychotherapy works. If you reach out to us, we'll create a compassionate, professional, and nonjudgmental space to sit with you, and assess where you are. You may find options you never knew you had, and a world you never knew existed! Our diverse and highly trained clinicians can help you move forward. It won't be as difficult and heavy as it was before you found us.
(734) 215-9214 View (734) 215-9214
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.