Play Therapy in Dexter, MI

Photo of Allie Lyn VanSickle, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allie Lyn VanSickle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Dexter, MI 48130
My work is primarily focused in the areas of safe Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and play therapy.
There is a reason you have decided to seek therapy for yourself or a loved one. The world is becoming an increasingly challenging place for those of any age to navigate. Whatever the reason that brings you to treatment, I am prepared to support you in identifying and treating the root cause(s) of problems that you are facing. While you are the expert in your own life, I will use only evidence-based approaches in assisting your exploration in what underlies the challenges you face. Also, for most younger kids and families, I develop individualized treatment manuals, so that parents can be directly involved in the treatment process.
My work is primarily focused in the areas of safe Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and play therapy.
There is a reason you have decided to seek therapy for yourself or a loved one. The world is becoming an increasingly challenging place for those of any age to navigate. Whatever the reason that brings you to treatment, I am prepared to support you in identifying and treating the root cause(s) of problems that you are facing. While you are the expert in your own life, I will use only evidence-based approaches in assisting your exploration in what underlies the challenges you face. Also, for most younger kids and families, I develop individualized treatment manuals, so that parents can be directly involved in the treatment process.
(734) 547-6373 View (734) 547-6373
Photo of Amanda Davis Scott, LPC-S, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda Davis Scott
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dexter, MI 48130
I am certified as a CAADC and in TF-CBT, PMTO, PTC, and trained in EMDR, CFTSI, PSB-CBT, Trauma Play Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
As a seasoned professional with over 12 years of experience, I am deeply committed to providing a safe and nurturing space for individuals to explore their challenges and embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing. My approach is rooted in empathy, compassion, and a profound respect for each client's unique journey. I firmly believe in the importance of creating a space where clients feel both challenged and supported. While growth often requires stepping outside of one's comfort zone, it is essential to honor the pace at which each individual is ready to process and integrate new insights.
I am certified as a CAADC and in TF-CBT, PMTO, PTC, and trained in EMDR, CFTSI, PSB-CBT, Trauma Play Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
As a seasoned professional with over 12 years of experience, I am deeply committed to providing a safe and nurturing space for individuals to explore their challenges and embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing. My approach is rooted in empathy, compassion, and a profound respect for each client's unique journey. I firmly believe in the importance of creating a space where clients feel both challenged and supported. While growth often requires stepping outside of one's comfort zone, it is essential to honor the pace at which each individual is ready to process and integrate new insights.
(517) 306-4812 View (517) 306-4812
Photo of Joshua Costa, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joshua Costa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Dexter, MI 48130
Hello if you are starting your mental health journey I am glad you stopped by. I enjoy working with Children, teens, and adults. If you have anxiety, depression, or anger that you need help working on please feel free to reach out. I enjoy helping empower people on their journey to feel better.
Hello if you are starting your mental health journey I am glad you stopped by. I enjoy working with Children, teens, and adults. If you have anxiety, depression, or anger that you need help working on please feel free to reach out. I enjoy helping empower people on their journey to feel better.
(734) 219-0985 View (734) 219-0985
Photo of Elyse Danielson, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elyse Danielson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dexter, MI 48130
Waitlist for new clients
I have over fourteen years of clinical experience initially in a hospital setting so I have a special passion for all things medical, I transitioned into private practice and fell in love with helping clients achieve their best quality of life. In session, I utilize EMDR and find it a huge asset to a client’s healing journey. I also will use a collaborative approach borrowing from several different therapy modalities Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, strength-based counseling, solution focused therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) routinely in sessions. I look forward to helping you on your journey to wellness.
I have over fourteen years of clinical experience initially in a hospital setting so I have a special passion for all things medical, I transitioned into private practice and fell in love with helping clients achieve their best quality of life. In session, I utilize EMDR and find it a huge asset to a client’s healing journey. I also will use a collaborative approach borrowing from several different therapy modalities Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, strength-based counseling, solution focused therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) routinely in sessions. I look forward to helping you on your journey to wellness.
(989) 264-1857 View (989) 264-1857
Photo of Keri Warren, PhD, DMin, LMFT, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Keri Warren
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, DMin, LMFT, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Dexter, MI 48130
Waitlist for new clients
I have a passion for individuals, couples and families who are experiencing the darkness of grief, the heartache of broken relationships, the discomfort and uncertainty that promotes overwhelming fear and anxiety; the trials of family life and the stress of difficult careers. I integrate my deep faith and trust in God's provision to help guide my work with my clients or for those whom I am supervising. My greatest desire is for you, my client, to know your great value and worth as you grow deeper in the own knowledge and wisdom of your calling and purpose in life. I invite you to learn more about me at my website: KareCounseling.com
I have a passion for individuals, couples and families who are experiencing the darkness of grief, the heartache of broken relationships, the discomfort and uncertainty that promotes overwhelming fear and anxiety; the trials of family life and the stress of difficult careers. I integrate my deep faith and trust in God's provision to help guide my work with my clients or for those whom I am supervising. My greatest desire is for you, my client, to know your great value and worth as you grow deeper in the own knowledge and wisdom of your calling and purpose in life. I invite you to learn more about me at my website: KareCounseling.com
(734) 838-4716 View (734) 838-4716
Photo of Sheila Burns - Refreshing Waters Counseling . Sheila Burns, MA, LPC, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Refreshing Waters Counseling . Sheila Burns
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dexter, MI 48130
Are you ready to move forward in your life, free from circumstances and emotions that have held you back? Making the investment in your wellbeing can help you become the person you want to be, living the life you hoped for. Risk and change are scary ideas, but together we can examine what is holding you back and develop a plan that will lead to positive, lasting life changes. So often people live a compromised life that leaves them feeling unfulfilled and unhappy. At RWCC our passion is to help you overcome barriers and make changes towards a more satisfying life for you and your family.
Are you ready to move forward in your life, free from circumstances and emotions that have held you back? Making the investment in your wellbeing can help you become the person you want to be, living the life you hoped for. Risk and change are scary ideas, but together we can examine what is holding you back and develop a plan that will lead to positive, lasting life changes. So often people live a compromised life that leaves them feeling unfulfilled and unhappy. At RWCC our passion is to help you overcome barriers and make changes towards a more satisfying life for you and your family.
(810) 775-5165 View (810) 775-5165
Photo of Roger E Lauer, PhD, Psychologist
Roger E Lauer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Dexter, MI 48130
My private practice is strength-based and focused extensively on neuropsychological testing and intervention. I approach my work by focusing on 'islands of competence' to improve self-esteem around learning, work and performance . I work with children, adolescents and adults who have multiple or tough-to-diagnose issues. In other words, I specialize in complex cases. My focus is on "intervention plans" that are personalized for your needs, comprehensive and effective. You will not only find out what things you need help with, but your strengths will be recognized as well. Please visit our website at www.CNLD.org.
My private practice is strength-based and focused extensively on neuropsychological testing and intervention. I approach my work by focusing on 'islands of competence' to improve self-esteem around learning, work and performance . I work with children, adolescents and adults who have multiple or tough-to-diagnose issues. In other words, I specialize in complex cases. My focus is on "intervention plans" that are personalized for your needs, comprehensive and effective. You will not only find out what things you need help with, but your strengths will be recognized as well. Please visit our website at www.CNLD.org.
(734) 994-9466 View (734) 994-9466
Photo of Christine Omilion-Sugg, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christine Omilion-Sugg
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Dexter, MI 48130
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 Samantha Cecil, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Cecil
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Dexter, MI 48130
You are the expert of your life and your family. My goal is to create a non-judgmental, therapeutic space for us to work together to explore any doubts, overwhelming feelings, or past experiences that are affecting the present. Whatever you are going through, you do not have to feel alone. I would love to be invited into your world as a partner in working through this time together. I enjoy working with people of all ages and have a special interest in working with children, those transitioning into parenthood, or finding parenting harder than they expected.
You are the expert of your life and your family. My goal is to create a non-judgmental, therapeutic space for us to work together to explore any doubts, overwhelming feelings, or past experiences that are affecting the present. Whatever you are going through, you do not have to feel alone. I would love to be invited into your world as a partner in working through this time together. I enjoy working with people of all ages and have a special interest in working with children, those transitioning into parenthood, or finding parenting harder than they expected.
(734) 822-0354 View (734) 822-0354
Photo of Samantha Friedman Davids, PhD, LMSW, Psychologist
Samantha Friedman Davids
Psychologist, PhD, LMSW
Verified Verified
Dexter, MI 48130  (Online Only)
* I am only counseling via telehealth currently and not able to offer evaluations to test for ADHD. I have a doctorate in clinical psychology and a master's in social work. I attained my degrees from the UC Berkeley, Fordham University, and Saybrook University. I have experience providing treatment to individuals, couples, and families. My areas of interest include: mood and anxiety disorders, behavior management, divorce, adjustment, and relationship issues. I strive to provide exceptional services by adopting a practical approach, utilizing cognitive behavioral and other therapeutic methods to meet the unique needs of each client.
* I am only counseling via telehealth currently and not able to offer evaluations to test for ADHD. I have a doctorate in clinical psychology and a master's in social work. I attained my degrees from the UC Berkeley, Fordham University, and Saybrook University. I have experience providing treatment to individuals, couples, and families. My areas of interest include: mood and anxiety disorders, behavior management, divorce, adjustment, and relationship issues. I strive to provide exceptional services by adopting a practical approach, utilizing cognitive behavioral and other therapeutic methods to meet the unique needs of each client.
(734) 547-3389 View (734) 547-3389
Photo of Carol Diane Psaila, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol Diane Psaila
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dexter, MI 48130
All of us encounter challenges in life that at times overwhelm our capacity to cope. It could be a loss, a significant change, an ongoing strained or conflicted relationship or chronic struggles with disorganization and procrastination. All of us at one point or another are going to get to a place where we realize we need some help. Therapy is a safe place where you can sort through confusing feelings, thoughts and reactions, increase your confidence in yourself and your ability to cope, identify your strengths, and find what brings you peace and joy.
All of us encounter challenges in life that at times overwhelm our capacity to cope. It could be a loss, a significant change, an ongoing strained or conflicted relationship or chronic struggles with disorganization and procrastination. All of us at one point or another are going to get to a place where we realize we need some help. Therapy is a safe place where you can sort through confusing feelings, thoughts and reactions, increase your confidence in yourself and your ability to cope, identify your strengths, and find what brings you peace and joy.
(734) 315-2066 View (734) 315-2066

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Susan Barrow, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Barrow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
I use play interventions and various art forms extensively in my work.
Relationships are central to my work, whether it be the relationship between a child or adult and myself, or the complex web of relationships within a family. My training and experience in Infant Mental Health--a type of therapy focusing on the attachment relationship between a primary caregiver and and an infant or young child--permeates all aspects of my work. I believe that therapy cannot separate an individual from the context of his or her relationships, past or present. I am creative and flexible in my approach to working with the children, teens, adults and families that I serve.
I use play interventions and various art forms extensively in my work.
Relationships are central to my work, whether it be the relationship between a child or adult and myself, or the complex web of relationships within a family. My training and experience in Infant Mental Health--a type of therapy focusing on the attachment relationship between a primary caregiver and and an infant or young child--permeates all aspects of my work. I believe that therapy cannot separate an individual from the context of his or her relationships, past or present. I am creative and flexible in my approach to working with the children, teens, adults and families that I serve.
(734) 984-4562 View (734) 984-4562
Photo of Kisha Hath, AAS, BS, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kisha Hath
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AAS, BS, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
Waitlist for new clients
I also incorporate mindfulness, play, and art into therapy sessions.
Hello, everyone! My name is Kisha Hath, I am a LCSW graduate from Michigan State. I specialize in working with children and teens, and young adults. I am practiced 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 ever-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 LCSW graduate from Michigan State. I specialize in working with children and teens, and young adults. I am practiced 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 ever-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 Cynthia Swartz, LPC, Counselor
Cynthia Swartz
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chelsea, MI 48118  (Online Only)
Therefore, I often adopt art and play therapies, along with a cognitive behavioral counseling and solution-oriented approaches.
I believe that when people seek counseling it is because they want to make a change in their lives, improve a life situation, make a decision, solve a problem or have greater understanding and insight to their lives. Counseling is a trusting partnership between client and counselor. A process of looking at and integrating thoughts, feelings and actions in a safe environment. It is not about telling you how or when to change, but rather finding what works best for you. Effective counseling requires a commitment of time, energy, and active participation by both client and counselor.
Therefore, I often adopt art and play therapies, along with a cognitive behavioral counseling and solution-oriented approaches.
I believe that when people seek counseling it is because they want to make a change in their lives, improve a life situation, make a decision, solve a problem or have greater understanding and insight to their lives. Counseling is a trusting partnership between client and counselor. A process of looking at and integrating thoughts, feelings and actions in a safe environment. It is not about telling you how or when to change, but rather finding what works best for you. Effective counseling requires a commitment of time, energy, and active participation by both client and counselor.
(517) 441-3106 View (517) 441-3106
Photo of Adam Sensoli, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Adam Sensoli
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
With children, I utilize child-centered play therapy and expressive therapies while integrating behavioral interventions with parents.
I work with individuals across the lifespan, from age three through older adults while establishing an environment of safety, collaboration, and growth. Whether it's through play therapy with a child or insight development with adults, individuals are treated as unique and celebrated for what makes them different as we work together to help you reach your goals. I prioritize patients feeling heard while being challenged to grow toward and through their stressors in a manner that maximizes their potential and leads to confidence, self-esteem, and empowerment.
With children, I utilize child-centered play therapy and expressive therapies while integrating behavioral interventions with parents.
I work with individuals across the lifespan, from age three through older adults while establishing an environment of safety, collaboration, and growth. Whether it's through play therapy with a child or insight development with adults, individuals are treated as unique and celebrated for what makes them different as we work together to help you reach your goals. I prioritize patients feeling heard while being challenged to grow toward and through their stressors in a manner that maximizes their potential and leads to confidence, self-esteem, and empowerment.
(734) 985-2094 View (734) 985-2094
Photo of Chris Sanderson, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chris Sanderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Waitlist for new clients
In working with kids, I become an interpreter of the language kids know best: play! With all of my clients, I emphasize a climate of safety and compassionate awareness of underlying emotion.
Are you often not getting what you want out of your relationships? Are you feeling guilt and shame far more than contentment or pride? Are you the parent of a child who is struggling to feel safe and protected in a chaotic world? I collaborate with individuals across the lifespan in addressing the causal factors underlying conditions like anxiety, depression and trauma. I completed an internship and a two year fellowship at University of Michigan Outpatient Psychiatry, where I had the unique opportunity to develop expertise in providing integrative, attachment-oriented psychotherapy for both adults and children.
In working with kids, I become an interpreter of the language kids know best: play! With all of my clients, I emphasize a climate of safety and compassionate awareness of underlying emotion.
Are you often not getting what you want out of your relationships? Are you feeling guilt and shame far more than contentment or pride? Are you the parent of a child who is struggling to feel safe and protected in a chaotic world? I collaborate with individuals across the lifespan in addressing the causal factors underlying conditions like anxiety, depression and trauma. I completed an internship and a two year fellowship at University of Michigan Outpatient Psychiatry, where I had the unique opportunity to develop expertise in providing integrative, attachment-oriented psychotherapy for both adults and children.
(734) 375-1129 View (734) 375-1129
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
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
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 Vanessa Marry, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vanessa Marry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
I am also experienced in play therapy for working with young children.
The cornerstone of any effective therapy experience is a good relationship. The relationship between therapist and client can provide an opportunity for working through difficult emotions and experiences, both past and present. I strive to develop a nonjudgmental partnership with each person I see in therapy, keeping in mind that every person and situation is unique. This allows us, together, to explore and understand the issues that bring you to therapy and how to begin to resolve them.
I am also experienced in play therapy for working with young children.
The cornerstone of any effective therapy experience is a good relationship. The relationship between therapist and client can provide an opportunity for working through difficult emotions and experiences, both past and present. I strive to develop a nonjudgmental partnership with each person I see in therapy, keeping in mind that every person and situation is unique. This allows us, together, to explore and understand the issues that bring you to therapy and how to begin to resolve them.
(734) 393-4307 View (734) 393-4307
Photo of Miah Hamdan, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Miah Hamdan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Waitlist for new clients
Specializing in ADHD, anxiety,depression, and anger. I blen neurodiversity-affirming care with the magic of art, play and conversation. Let’s unlock your child’s strengths and turn challenges into triumphs. Therapy with me isn’t just about healing; it’s about thriving through creativity and laughter. Ready to see your child shine? Let’s connect!
Specializing in ADHD, anxiety,depression, and anger. I blen neurodiversity-affirming care with the magic of art, play and conversation. Let’s unlock your child’s strengths and turn challenges into triumphs. Therapy with me isn’t just about healing; it’s about thriving through creativity and laughter. Ready to see your child shine? Let’s connect!
(517) 929-8859 View (517) 929-8859
Photo of Onna Solomon, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Onna Solomon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Waitlist for new clients
I use a collaborative and empathetic approach with clients, drawing on internal family systems, cognitive-behavioral, play therapy, mindfulness-based, and psychodynamic models.
I am dedicated to helping individuals and families find meaning and joy in relationships. I treat a wide variety of concerns, including anxiety, depression, relationship problems, major life transitions, and parenting issues. I welcome clients from all backgrounds and belief systems.
I use a collaborative and empathetic approach with clients, drawing on internal family systems, cognitive-behavioral, play therapy, mindfulness-based, and psychodynamic models.
I am dedicated to helping individuals and families find meaning and joy in relationships. I treat a wide variety of concerns, including anxiety, depression, relationship problems, major life transitions, and parenting issues. I welcome clients from all backgrounds and belief systems.
(734) 219-6977 View (734) 219-6977
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.