Play Therapy in Hudsonville, MI

Photo of Raymond P Herzog, MA, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Raymond P Herzog
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hudsonville, MI 49426
Waitlist for new clients
I believe in a Client-centered, Cognitive-Behavioral approach with an emphasis on personal responsibility, accountability, and ownership of problem solving to bring about personal change. I specifically use the Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) model. The goal of ACT is acceptance of what is out of personal control, and a commitment to action for life improvement and enrichment. Additionally, mindfulness training including meditation, relaxation, and guided imagery can be used for therapeutic intervention.
I believe in a Client-centered, Cognitive-Behavioral approach with an emphasis on personal responsibility, accountability, and ownership of problem solving to bring about personal change. I specifically use the Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) model. The goal of ACT is acceptance of what is out of personal control, and a commitment to action for life improvement and enrichment. Additionally, mindfulness training including meditation, relaxation, and guided imagery can be used for therapeutic intervention.
(616) 414-0954 View (616) 414-0954
Photo of Ashton G Campbell, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashton G Campbell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Hudsonville, MI 49426
Thank you for viewing my profile. I am a professional mental health counselor that specializes in adolescent care. I specialize in working with teens and young adults that struggle with numerous difficulties, including ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, and Trauma. While I currently serve many younger children and their families, I am currently only accepting teens and young adults (college age) in order to diversify my practice.
Thank you for viewing my profile. I am a professional mental health counselor that specializes in adolescent care. I specialize in working with teens and young adults that struggle with numerous difficulties, including ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, and Trauma. While I currently serve many younger children and their families, I am currently only accepting teens and young adults (college age) in order to diversify my practice.
(616) 319-2602 View (616) 319-2602
Amber Carowick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hudsonville, MI 49426
Being a kid in this day in age is hard and being the parent and raising kids right now can be so difficult at times. With the stressors of academics, social media peer pressure, creating and maintaining healthy relationships are often things that cause your child to lash out or isolate and creates frustration as the parent and often begs the question, “why don’t they just come and talk to me?” I am here to help! I want your child to be successful with utilizing healthy coping skills and clearly communicate how they are feeling to avoid isolation and/or anger outbursts in the home and school.
Being a kid in this day in age is hard and being the parent and raising kids right now can be so difficult at times. With the stressors of academics, social media peer pressure, creating and maintaining healthy relationships are often things that cause your child to lash out or isolate and creates frustration as the parent and often begs the question, “why don’t they just come and talk to me?” I am here to help! I want your child to be successful with utilizing healthy coping skills and clearly communicate how they are feeling to avoid isolation and/or anger outbursts in the home and school.
(616) 727-7134 View (616) 727-7134
Photo of Sophia J Leimgruber, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sophia J Leimgruber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Hudsonville, MI 49426
My ideal client would be a child or teen, but can do adults if needed! Their issues could span a variety of areas. Coping with trauma, self-esteem issues, eating disorders and behavioral disorders are just a few areas of issues I can address. Their needs and goals may vary but adjusting to life situations, learning coping strategies and recognizing themselves as worthwhile people would be my goals.
My ideal client would be a child or teen, but can do adults if needed! Their issues could span a variety of areas. Coping with trauma, self-esteem issues, eating disorders and behavioral disorders are just a few areas of issues I can address. Their needs and goals may vary but adjusting to life situations, learning coping strategies and recognizing themselves as worthwhile people would be my goals.
(616) 577-8834 View (616) 577-8834
Photo of Cassie Alderink, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cassie Alderink
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Hudsonville, MI 49426
Let's get real and dig into your true self, exploring your feelings, actions, and thoughts. Our therapy journey will focus on the present, but we might take a peek at the past too. Here's the deal: you're not a puzzle to solve or a project to fix. I see you as a complete, amazing human being! Together, we'll track down those toxic trains of thought and flex those mental muscles to boost your confidence. My mission is to create a safe space for you to find peace, recover, and thrive. Just a heads up, I'm pretty chill, and there's a good chance we'll share a tear or two and bust a gut laughing.
Let's get real and dig into your true self, exploring your feelings, actions, and thoughts. Our therapy journey will focus on the present, but we might take a peek at the past too. Here's the deal: you're not a puzzle to solve or a project to fix. I see you as a complete, amazing human being! Together, we'll track down those toxic trains of thought and flex those mental muscles to boost your confidence. My mission is to create a safe space for you to find peace, recover, and thrive. Just a heads up, I'm pretty chill, and there's a good chance we'll share a tear or two and bust a gut laughing.
(616) 737-0563 View (616) 737-0563
Photo of James Love, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
James Love
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hudsonville, MI 49426
If you are someone looking for a open-minded therapist with a great deal of life experience across multiple states and decades, then you are in the right place. As a therapist who has had two different careers in the past, I work to speak your language and not clinical-speak. For adults, I work with both men and women going through a variety of issues. I have a particular expertise working with men dealing with life transitions, relationship troubles, identity & masculinity, addictions, anger, and sexual troubles. I have great deal of empathy for women as well and enjoy helping women through difficulties in life.
If you are someone looking for a open-minded therapist with a great deal of life experience across multiple states and decades, then you are in the right place. As a therapist who has had two different careers in the past, I work to speak your language and not clinical-speak. For adults, I work with both men and women going through a variety of issues. I have a particular expertise working with men dealing with life transitions, relationship troubles, identity & masculinity, addictions, anger, and sexual troubles. I have great deal of empathy for women as well and enjoy helping women through difficulties in life.
(616) 528-9451 View (616) 528-9451
Photo of Dr. Edward P Schmitt, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Edward P Schmitt
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hudsonville, MI 49426
I feel privileged when I am invited into your life to share in your pain and suffering in order to try to help you understand, heal and grow from the emotional wounds and trauma you have experienced. I believe our relationship is one between two equal individuals who will work hard to help heal and understand your wounds. We will be travelers on the journey of healing together and both be changed by our time together. A good therapy experience offers opportunities to learn important things about yourself, to acquire helpful life skills, and to integrate both the past and present to achieve a much better quality of life.
I feel privileged when I am invited into your life to share in your pain and suffering in order to try to help you understand, heal and grow from the emotional wounds and trauma you have experienced. I believe our relationship is one between two equal individuals who will work hard to help heal and understand your wounds. We will be travelers on the journey of healing together and both be changed by our time together. A good therapy experience offers opportunities to learn important things about yourself, to acquire helpful life skills, and to integrate both the past and present to achieve a much better quality of life.
(616) 201-3562 View (616) 201-3562
Photo of Kristi Pike-Beld - Kristi Pike-Beld Counseling and Consulting, LLC, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristi Pike-Beld Counseling and Consulting, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hudsonville, MI 49426
Not accepting new clients
My background includes providing trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy, family therapy, parenting techniques, and play therapy.
Currently, all late afternoon appointment slots are full. However, I do have daytime slots available. Thank you for stopping by my page! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience in helping others reach their full potential and navigate life’s journey. I provide a safe and judgement-free environment where my clients can express themselves, grow, and overcome life’s challenges. My passion is helping others to achieve balance and harmony in their life and embrace their authentic self.
My background includes providing trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy, family therapy, parenting techniques, and play therapy.
Currently, all late afternoon appointment slots are full. However, I do have daytime slots available. Thank you for stopping by my page! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience in helping others reach their full potential and navigate life’s journey. I provide a safe and judgement-free environment where my clients can express themselves, grow, and overcome life’s challenges. My passion is helping others to achieve balance and harmony in their life and embrace their authentic self.
(616) 202-5955 View (616) 202-5955
Photo of Michelle VanNoord, MA,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle VanNoord
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Hudsonville, MI 49426
Not accepting new clients
My name is Michelle VanNoord and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with experience in working with children, adolescents and adults. As children grow and change, they often think and respond differently than adults would. I meet kids where they are at to help them through their struggles in a way that makes sense to them. I help parents understand the limits of the developing brain and how that can play into some of the struggles their child might be experiencing. I have worked in the school setting, taught college level classes and continue to speak to local teachers about the ways children grow and understand the world.
My name is Michelle VanNoord and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with experience in working with children, adolescents and adults. As children grow and change, they often think and respond differently than adults would. I meet kids where they are at to help them through their struggles in a way that makes sense to them. I help parents understand the limits of the developing brain and how that can play into some of the struggles their child might be experiencing. I have worked in the school setting, taught college level classes and continue to speak to local teachers about the ways children grow and understand the world.
(616) 213-1645 View (616) 213-1645
Photo of Perianne VanBelois, MA, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Perianne VanBelois
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hudsonville, MI 49426
Not accepting new clients
Our lives can take many different paths, and finding the path that meets our needs and values can be hard to navigate. It can leave us in a place of feeling lost, overwhelmed, broken, and disconnected from our sense of self. This sense of hopelessness can prevent us from seeing the power within ourselves. I would be honored to meet you where you are at, and be your hope holder until you are able to see the hope that is in every situation.
Our lives can take many different paths, and finding the path that meets our needs and values can be hard to navigate. It can leave us in a place of feeling lost, overwhelmed, broken, and disconnected from our sense of self. This sense of hopelessness can prevent us from seeing the power within ourselves. I would be honored to meet you where you are at, and be your hope holder until you are able to see the hope that is in every situation.
(616) 219-8357 View (616) 219-8357

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kristine Berryman, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristine Berryman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Zeeland, MI 49464
Kris is skilled with treating a variety of life’s challenges, including adoption and foster care, identity, relationships, depression, anxiety, trauma, personality disorders, body image/self-esteem issues, Obsessive-compulsive disorders and life transitions. She is expertly trained in numerous clinical utilities, including Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Attachment Focused EMDR, Brainspotting, Child-Centered play therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy, Prolonged Exposure, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Kris is skilled with treating a variety of life’s challenges, including adoption and foster care, identity, relationships, depression, anxiety, trauma, personality disorders, body image/self-esteem issues, Obsessive-compulsive disorders and life transitions. She is expertly trained in numerous clinical utilities, including Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Attachment Focused EMDR, Brainspotting, Child-Centered play therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy, Prolonged Exposure, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
(616) 952-3398 View (616) 952-3398
Photo of Nate Reicha, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nate Reicha
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Jenison, MI 49428
My therapeutic approach is person-centered. I take the time to get to know my clients and their families, and work with them to create a unique plan that best-fits the needs of the youth and their family. Every person and every family are different, and I always strive to honor the unique set of values and strengths each person brings through my door and integrate those strengths into our work together. I utilize a variety of therapeutic interventions including cognitive interventions, sensory-motor interventions, mindfulness, and play therapy in order to meet the unique needs of each individual youth and family.
My therapeutic approach is person-centered. I take the time to get to know my clients and their families, and work with them to create a unique plan that best-fits the needs of the youth and their family. Every person and every family are different, and I always strive to honor the unique set of values and strengths each person brings through my door and integrate those strengths into our work together. I utilize a variety of therapeutic interventions including cognitive interventions, sensory-motor interventions, mindfulness, and play therapy in order to meet the unique needs of each individual youth and family.
(616) 522-8168 View (616) 522-8168
Photo of Rebecca Rozema - Ripples of Change Counseling , LMSW, LCSW, ACSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ripples of Change Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Zeeland, MI 49464
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced trauma and their families. I am trained in TBRI, certified in TF-CBT, and experienced with foster care and adoption struggles. I also have a passion for working with military service members and their families. I work hard to meet people where they are, from ages 3-55. I utilized play therapy, talk therapy, art therapy, individual, family and couples therapy. I want to support you in the changes you want to make in your life and will work with you to move forward in meeting your goals.
I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced trauma and their families. I am trained in TBRI, certified in TF-CBT, and experienced with foster care and adoption struggles. I also have a passion for working with military service members and their families. I work hard to meet people where they are, from ages 3-55. I utilized play therapy, talk therapy, art therapy, individual, family and couples therapy. I want to support you in the changes you want to make in your life and will work with you to move forward in meeting your goals.
(616) 404-4229 View (616) 404-4229
Photo of Kari Nicole Allen, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kari Nicole Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Zeeland, MI 49464
Waitlist for new clients
I have also found play therapy to be very effective in helping children to become more comfortable to talk as they are doing things that bring them joy.
Have you ever wished for a way to feel better and learn to manage your emotions or a way to a better future? I work with children and adolescents, and those who care for them. I have experience in the areas of stress reduction/coping, post-partum depression, anxiety, and grief and loss. With children, I treat trauma, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, grief, and behavioral disorders such as ADHD and Oppositional Defiant Disorder. I have also worked with PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System) with children who have autism and are nonverbal.
I have also found play therapy to be very effective in helping children to become more comfortable to talk as they are doing things that bring them joy.
Have you ever wished for a way to feel better and learn to manage your emotions or a way to a better future? I work with children and adolescents, and those who care for them. I have experience in the areas of stress reduction/coping, post-partum depression, anxiety, and grief and loss. With children, I treat trauma, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, grief, and behavioral disorders such as ADHD and Oppositional Defiant Disorder. I have also worked with PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System) with children who have autism and are nonverbal.
(616) 441-0521 View (616) 441-0521
Photo of Kaitlyn Wright, LPC, NCC, CAADC, Counselor
Kaitlyn Wright
Counselor, LPC, NCC, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Zeeland, MI 49464
Kaitlyn graduated with a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adams State University in 2018. She holds a License in Counseling in the State of Michigan and is a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. She enjoys helping clients through a wide range of struggles including anxiety, mood disorders, and substance abuse. She often incorporates a person-centered approach and play therapy into her practice. She believes that everyone deserves the opportunity to heal.
Kaitlyn graduated with a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adams State University in 2018. She holds a License in Counseling in the State of Michigan and is a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. She enjoys helping clients through a wide range of struggles including anxiety, mood disorders, and substance abuse. She often incorporates a person-centered approach and play therapy into her practice. She believes that everyone deserves the opportunity to heal.
(616) 441-0624 View (616) 441-0624
Photo of Jill Suzann Vander Bent - Abundance of Hope, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abundance of Hope
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Zeeland, MI 49464
Waitlist for new clients
I am certified and trained in Play Therapy, AF-CBT (Alternatives for Families Cognitive Behavior Therapy), TFCBT (Trauma Focused CBT), ADOPTS (Trauma treatment for adoption/foster care), & TBRI (Trust Based Relational Care).
I have a heart for helping people and walking alongside them in their journey of healing. Life can bring unexpected pain and suffering. Often times you can feel lost and confused with no one to turn to. Counseling is a beautiful way to seek help from someone who will guide you through the littlest to most difficult times in your life. Everyone can benefit from talking to someone who is not a family member or friend. Someone who will truly hear your needs and unconditionally support you. I am here for you! Please Call Today!
I am certified and trained in Play Therapy, AF-CBT (Alternatives for Families Cognitive Behavior Therapy), TFCBT (Trauma Focused CBT), ADOPTS (Trauma treatment for adoption/foster care), & TBRI (Trust Based Relational Care).
I have a heart for helping people and walking alongside them in their journey of healing. Life can bring unexpected pain and suffering. Often times you can feel lost and confused with no one to turn to. Counseling is a beautiful way to seek help from someone who will guide you through the littlest to most difficult times in your life. Everyone can benefit from talking to someone who is not a family member or friend. Someone who will truly hear your needs and unconditionally support you. I am here for you! Please Call Today!
(616) 952-2019 View (616) 952-2019
Photo of Nate Apel, LLPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nate Apel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LLPC
Verified Verified
Byron Center, MI 49315
While therapeutic methods vary based on the age of my client (from play therapy to trauma-focused CBT, and IFS), the goal is always: greater wellbeing.
Hi, I’m Nate Apel, LLPC, a Limited Licensed Professional Counselor, and I'm currently accepting new clients, so, for the time being anyway, there's no waiting to get in to see me. I specialize in working with children, youth, adults, families, and couples, and I look forward to helping you, and those in your care, achieve a greater sense of calm and wellbeing. I completed my Master’s in Counseling, and my Bachelors in Family Life Education from Spring Arbor University, and I bring 15 years of clinical and life experience working with youth, families and adults in schools, churches, and private practice.
While therapeutic methods vary based on the age of my client (from play therapy to trauma-focused CBT, and IFS), the goal is always: greater wellbeing.
Hi, I’m Nate Apel, LLPC, a Limited Licensed Professional Counselor, and I'm currently accepting new clients, so, for the time being anyway, there's no waiting to get in to see me. I specialize in working with children, youth, adults, families, and couples, and I look forward to helping you, and those in your care, achieve a greater sense of calm and wellbeing. I completed my Master’s in Counseling, and my Bachelors in Family Life Education from Spring Arbor University, and I bring 15 years of clinical and life experience working with youth, families and adults in schools, churches, and private practice.
(616) 504-6212 View (616) 504-6212
Photo of Debra Peters, LMSW, LPC, MA, MBA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debra Peters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LPC, MA, MBA
Verified Verified
Byron Center, MI 49315
We offer a wide range of treatment modalities, including play therapy for children.
If your life has been disrupted by anxiety, anger, depression, an addiction or the crisis of a divorce/break-up, job loss, financial difficulty or parenting challenge, know that you are not alone and that counseling can help you - heal; conquer any type of challenge; establish a workable life plan; repair relationships; renew your faith; and restore your emotional health. If your child is struggling with a behavior problem, ADHD, a learning difficulty or worrisome levels of stress and anxiety, counseling can help them gain self-control, alter disruptive behavior, use effective coping skills and restore their self-confidence.
We offer a wide range of treatment modalities, including play therapy for children.
If your life has been disrupted by anxiety, anger, depression, an addiction or the crisis of a divorce/break-up, job loss, financial difficulty or parenting challenge, know that you are not alone and that counseling can help you - heal; conquer any type of challenge; establish a workable life plan; repair relationships; renew your faith; and restore your emotional health. If your child is struggling with a behavior problem, ADHD, a learning difficulty or worrisome levels of stress and anxiety, counseling can help them gain self-control, alter disruptive behavior, use effective coping skills and restore their self-confidence.
(616) 536-8111 View (616) 536-8111
Photo of Amanda Cole, MLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Amanda Cole
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Byron Center, MI 49315
My experience in play therapy has been particularly effective for individuals dealing with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, and Autism.
My primary goal in therapy is to create a nonjudgmental, safe space for expressing feelings and emotions. I am deeply committed to helping children aged 8 and older with issues related to school, peers, anxiety, executive functioning, and self-esteem. Additionally, I enjoy supporting young adults as they navigate life transitions, depression, and anxiety. My approach is warm and compassionate, focusing on engaging children creatively to foster enthusiasm and interest in their therapeutic journey.
My experience in play therapy has been particularly effective for individuals dealing with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, and Autism.
My primary goal in therapy is to create a nonjudgmental, safe space for expressing feelings and emotions. I am deeply committed to helping children aged 8 and older with issues related to school, peers, anxiety, executive functioning, and self-esteem. Additionally, I enjoy supporting young adults as they navigate life transitions, depression, and anxiety. My approach is warm and compassionate, focusing on engaging children creatively to foster enthusiasm and interest in their therapeutic journey.
(269) 301-6217 View (269) 301-6217
Photo of Kristen Barry, LMSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen Barry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Wyoming, MI 49418
Waitlist for new clients
My therapeutic approach has a foundation in building a healthy relationship that is grounded in the values of safety and respect while mindfully applying principles from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Strength-Based Therapy, Interpersonal Neurobiology, and using play in order to promote positive, empowering change.
I have developed specialized clinical skills through experiences working with individuals and families with early childhood to adolescent difficulties. I have helped families obtain better balance while struggling with distressing symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, social/peer issues, difficulty at school, behavior problems, ADHD, and developmental delays. I have competency in understanding youth and their families’ individualistic relational challenges with separation, divorce, and co-parenting. I help youth, and their families, in developing skills and tools to increase the likelihood of success.
My therapeutic approach has a foundation in building a healthy relationship that is grounded in the values of safety and respect while mindfully applying principles from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Strength-Based Therapy, Interpersonal Neurobiology, and using play in order to promote positive, empowering change.
I have developed specialized clinical skills through experiences working with individuals and families with early childhood to adolescent difficulties. I have helped families obtain better balance while struggling with distressing symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, social/peer issues, difficulty at school, behavior problems, ADHD, and developmental delays. I have competency in understanding youth and their families’ individualistic relational challenges with separation, divorce, and co-parenting. I help youth, and their families, in developing skills and tools to increase the likelihood of success.
(616) 253-6084 x723 View (616) 253-6084 x723

See more therapy options for Hudsonville

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.