Play Therapy in Owosso, MI

Photo of Molly Biondo - Journey through the Seasons Mental Wellness Svc, MA, LPC, LMSW, Licensed Professional Counselor
Journey through the Seasons Mental Wellness Svc
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Owosso, MI 48867
Life is difficult, and it sometimes makes it seem nearly impossible to find the help needed to get through those challenging times. Whether it be anxiety, depression, substance use, addiction, impulse problems, empowerment or self esteem issues, we are here to empower you, meeting your needs.
Life is difficult, and it sometimes makes it seem nearly impossible to find the help needed to get through those challenging times. Whether it be anxiety, depression, substance use, addiction, impulse problems, empowerment or self esteem issues, we are here to empower you, meeting your needs.
(810) 442-4963 View (810) 442-4963
Photo of Danielle Wray, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danielle Wray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Owosso, MI 48867  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with people from all walks of life, backgrounds, beliefs, and cultures. I have experience working with men, women, and children. I believe showing up authentically with ourselves and others is one of the bravest and most liberating things we can do in our lives. Therapy is a safe place to remember who we truly are and discover the power that each of us possess to create a life that we enjoy.
I enjoy working with people from all walks of life, backgrounds, beliefs, and cultures. I have experience working with men, women, and children. I believe showing up authentically with ourselves and others is one of the bravest and most liberating things we can do in our lives. Therapy is a safe place to remember who we truly are and discover the power that each of us possess to create a life that we enjoy.
(810) 209-9117 View (810) 209-9117
Photo of Heather Akers, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Akers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Owosso, MI 48867
Waitlist for new clients
Life can be overwhelming and challenging at times. Being willing to make a change and reaching out for help are the first steps! My approach is collaborative and unique to each person I meet. Whether you would like to develop interpersonal skills to improve relationships, regulate emotions, manage symptoms of depression and anxiety, address history of trauma, cope with grief and loss, have parenting/co-parenting concerns or interpersonal challenges due to life changes, together we can engage in a therapeutic process to meet your needs.
Life can be overwhelming and challenging at times. Being willing to make a change and reaching out for help are the first steps! My approach is collaborative and unique to each person I meet. Whether you would like to develop interpersonal skills to improve relationships, regulate emotions, manage symptoms of depression and anxiety, address history of trauma, cope with grief and loss, have parenting/co-parenting concerns or interpersonal challenges due to life changes, together we can engage in a therapeutic process to meet your needs.
(989) 625-4186 View (989) 625-4186
Photo of Nichole O'Keefe, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nichole O'Keefe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Owosso, MI 48867
Daily living can become easily stressful and overwhelming. Sometimes daily struggles are more than a challenge, which can be a result of personal changes, thoughts, feelings, or due to difficult situations. Here at Epic Counseling, PLLC, we aim to help clients achieve their personal goals, along with reducing symptoms, identifying triggers or stressors, and assisting in developing coping skills. Epic Counseling, PLLC works with a variety of ages from children, teenagers, adults, to even senior citizens.​
Daily living can become easily stressful and overwhelming. Sometimes daily struggles are more than a challenge, which can be a result of personal changes, thoughts, feelings, or due to difficult situations. Here at Epic Counseling, PLLC, we aim to help clients achieve their personal goals, along with reducing symptoms, identifying triggers or stressors, and assisting in developing coping skills. Epic Counseling, PLLC works with a variety of ages from children, teenagers, adults, to even senior citizens.​
(810) 428-1794 View (810) 428-1794

Online Therapists

Photo of Liz Campbell, LMSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liz Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, RYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ada, MI 49301
Hi there! I began working in human services 10 years ago and have worked extensively with survivors of sexual assault, incest, domestic violence, and child abuse. I specialize in working with individuals and children who have experienced trauma, abuse, neglect, life transitions, housing instability, anxiety, and depression. I primarily use somatic interventions, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness, yoga, play therapy, art interventions, parts work, DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) skills, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) in sessions with my clients.
Hi there! I began working in human services 10 years ago and have worked extensively with survivors of sexual assault, incest, domestic violence, and child abuse. I specialize in working with individuals and children who have experienced trauma, abuse, neglect, life transitions, housing instability, anxiety, and depression. I primarily use somatic interventions, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness, yoga, play therapy, art interventions, parts work, DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) skills, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) in sessions with my clients.
(616) 512-2052 View (616) 512-2052
Photo of Debra Powell, MS, LPC, Counselor
Debra Powell
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Okemos, MI 48864
I am a trauma-informed therapist and I utilize a number of different approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, play therapy, solution focused therapy and motivational interviewing.
Life can be really challenging under the best of circumstances, sometimes we can get stuck and need some help to move forward or to get back on track. Maybe its to find peace when times are difficult. Your needs will guide how we work together and I strive to create a safe and supportive environment. I want to work with people to help them to realize their own therapeutic goals, identify their own strengths and overcome the barriers that will help them to move forward.
I am a trauma-informed therapist and I utilize a number of different approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, play therapy, solution focused therapy and motivational interviewing.
Life can be really challenging under the best of circumstances, sometimes we can get stuck and need some help to move forward or to get back on track. Maybe its to find peace when times are difficult. Your needs will guide how we work together and I strive to create a safe and supportive environment. I want to work with people to help them to realize their own therapeutic goals, identify their own strengths and overcome the barriers that will help them to move forward.
(517) 645-3801 View (517) 645-3801
Photo of Jen Armstrong, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jen Armstrong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Are you and your child going through really difficult circumstances? Are you feeling lost about how to help? I have worked with children from birth to 18 in hospital, school, foster care, and community settings. I specialize in supporting families through school issues, grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, as well as through medical experiences/chronic illness. My therapeutic approach prioritizes safety in relationships, understanding the ‘why’ of a child’s behavior, and helping children and caregivers develop new ways to cope and find joy together. I use play, sand tray, movement and expressive arts to meet children where they are!
Are you and your child going through really difficult circumstances? Are you feeling lost about how to help? I have worked with children from birth to 18 in hospital, school, foster care, and community settings. I specialize in supporting families through school issues, grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, as well as through medical experiences/chronic illness. My therapeutic approach prioritizes safety in relationships, understanding the ‘why’ of a child’s behavior, and helping children and caregivers develop new ways to cope and find joy together. I use play, sand tray, movement and expressive arts to meet children where they are!
(616) 636-2167 View (616) 636-2167
Photo of Angelique Suzanne Rinearson - Spirit Counseling Services LLC, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Spirit Counseling Services LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Midland, MI 48640
TF-CBT is available for children to help them express their emotions and tell their story in a safe environment (not to mention that there is lots of play!).
To me, spirit is about what is inside you regardless of your circumstances. My goal for providing therapy is teaching people how to function within how their lives actually are; good or bad, struggle or peace, history of trauma or not. Faith is a crucial part of it. In Acts 27 Paul is on a boat being tossed by a terrible storm. He tells the crew we should not have sailed BUT NOW we can manage the storm. In the Buddhist Eight Fold path Right Judgment is make choices based on how things truly are and not driven by emotion. The storm teaches us things and makes us stronger.
TF-CBT is available for children to help them express their emotions and tell their story in a safe environment (not to mention that there is lots of play!).
To me, spirit is about what is inside you regardless of your circumstances. My goal for providing therapy is teaching people how to function within how their lives actually are; good or bad, struggle or peace, history of trauma or not. Faith is a crucial part of it. In Acts 27 Paul is on a boat being tossed by a terrible storm. He tells the crew we should not have sailed BUT NOW we can manage the storm. In the Buddhist Eight Fold path Right Judgment is make choices based on how things truly are and not driven by emotion. The storm teaches us things and makes us stronger.
(989) 270-0389 View (989) 270-0389
Photo of Julie French, MA, LPC, CAADC, Counselor
Julie French
Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
Plainwell, MI 49080
Feeling stressed and anxious due to worldly events? Need some help navigating life? I offer both in person and teletherapy sessions. I have over 10 years of experience working with families, adolescents, adults, and children. Helping people reach their full potential is my passion. I am easy going, down to earth and use a person-centered approach to counseling. I am trained in DBT, CBT and play therapy. My area of expertise is working with those who struggle with addictions, spirituality, trauma, depression and anxiety.
Feeling stressed and anxious due to worldly events? Need some help navigating life? I offer both in person and teletherapy sessions. I have over 10 years of experience working with families, adolescents, adults, and children. Helping people reach their full potential is my passion. I am easy going, down to earth and use a person-centered approach to counseling. I am trained in DBT, CBT and play therapy. My area of expertise is working with those who struggle with addictions, spirituality, trauma, depression and anxiety.
(269) 248-5474 View (269) 248-5474
Photo of Andrew David Clay - Bethany Christian Services - Grand Rapids, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bethany Christian Services - Grand Rapids
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Treatments utilized vary by your needs and the counselor's expertise, and may include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), TF-CBT, EMDR, Play Therapy, Interpersonal Process, and more.
Are you or your family going through a difficult time? Maybe you are experiencing relational challenges, feeling anxious or depressed, struggling to make sense of traumatic experiences, or worrying about your child's emotional or social functioning. At Bethany, we have an expert team of trauma-informed, culturally responsive counseling and psychiatric professionals who will walk alongside you in the pursuit of personal and relational wellbeing. As a community rooted in hope, our clinicians create an inclusive space that is open to all. No matter what you are facing, we are here to help.
Treatments utilized vary by your needs and the counselor's expertise, and may include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), TF-CBT, EMDR, Play Therapy, Interpersonal Process, and more.
Are you or your family going through a difficult time? Maybe you are experiencing relational challenges, feeling anxious or depressed, struggling to make sense of traumatic experiences, or worrying about your child's emotional or social functioning. At Bethany, we have an expert team of trauma-informed, culturally responsive counseling and psychiatric professionals who will walk alongside you in the pursuit of personal and relational wellbeing. As a community rooted in hope, our clinicians create an inclusive space that is open to all. No matter what you are facing, we are here to help.
(616) 523-3525 View (616) 523-3525
Photo of Besa McDonald, MA, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Besa McDonald
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Farmington Hills, MI 48334
I combine my expertise in child development, attachment theory, and play therapy to support children and families.
I specialize in working with children, parents, & women in the perinatal period. I help children as young as two understand and express their emotions more appropriately, feel more regulated, & improve their social-emotional functioning. Children I support struggle with anxiety, trauma, anger and behavior challenges, or are adjusting to a life change. I provide compassionate and sensitive care to all mamas, and particularly mothers who have endured the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), birth trauma, or struggle with perinatal anxiety or depression.
I combine my expertise in child development, attachment theory, and play therapy to support children and families.
I specialize in working with children, parents, & women in the perinatal period. I help children as young as two understand and express their emotions more appropriately, feel more regulated, & improve their social-emotional functioning. Children I support struggle with anxiety, trauma, anger and behavior challenges, or are adjusting to a life change. I provide compassionate and sensitive care to all mamas, and particularly mothers who have endured the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), birth trauma, or struggle with perinatal anxiety or depression.
(248) 573-3814 View (248) 573-3814
Photo of Karie Glide, LMSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karie Glide
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomfield, MI 48302
Additionally, for children and younger clients, I incorporate play therapy to provide a safe and expressive space in both direct and non-directive capacities.
When I work with clients, I'm committed to creating an empowering environment where growth, reflection, and nurturing connection flourish. I offer a compassionate approach to support you on your journey with specific experience in working with anxiety and ADHD. Life is filled with moments of triumph, and challenges that test our resilience. Amidst these fluctuations, our sense of security can falter. My mission is to cultivate a space where safety is restored alongside regulation while holding a deep commitment to accountability, gently guiding and supporting you as you set and achieve your therapeutic goals.
Additionally, for children and younger clients, I incorporate play therapy to provide a safe and expressive space in both direct and non-directive capacities.
When I work with clients, I'm committed to creating an empowering environment where growth, reflection, and nurturing connection flourish. I offer a compassionate approach to support you on your journey with specific experience in working with anxiety and ADHD. Life is filled with moments of triumph, and challenges that test our resilience. Amidst these fluctuations, our sense of security can falter. My mission is to cultivate a space where safety is restored alongside regulation while holding a deep commitment to accountability, gently guiding and supporting you as you set and achieve your therapeutic goals.
(248) 963-7293 View (248) 963-7293
Photo of Ann Goodfellow, LLC, Counselor
Ann Goodfellow
Counselor, LLC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49504
I enjoy working with individuals of all ages, as well as couples and families. I have over 20 years of experience working with children and families, including over a decade of experience working within the child welfare system. Some of the issues I have experience with include child behavioral and parenting concerns, attachment/trust issues, Autism, abuse and neglect, and generational trauma. I offer traditional talk therapy, Play Therapy, and Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them identify underlying barriers, find empowerment, and take action to achieve their goals.
I enjoy working with individuals of all ages, as well as couples and families. I have over 20 years of experience working with children and families, including over a decade of experience working within the child welfare system. Some of the issues I have experience with include child behavioral and parenting concerns, attachment/trust issues, Autism, abuse and neglect, and generational trauma. I offer traditional talk therapy, Play Therapy, and Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them identify underlying barriers, find empowerment, and take action to achieve their goals.
(616) 207-2727 View (616) 207-2727
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.
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Photo of Shari M Almanza, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shari M Almanza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
However small a role I can play in your growth and journey would be an honor.
It can be difficult to find someone with availability to meet your needs. To be transparent I currently DO have immediate openings; Monday-Thursday, daytime, both in person and virtual.....There isn’t a one size “fix” all package for mental health. What works for one; may not work for another. I will be the first one to tell you that I am not the expert in your pain, your life, or your journey. You are. I am simply here to walk alongside you and be a resource for your growth. I believe one of the hardest and bravest things you can do for yourself, is to not only understand your story, but to continue growing from it.
However small a role I can play in your growth and journey would be an honor.
It can be difficult to find someone with availability to meet your needs. To be transparent I currently DO have immediate openings; Monday-Thursday, daytime, both in person and virtual.....There isn’t a one size “fix” all package for mental health. What works for one; may not work for another. I will be the first one to tell you that I am not the expert in your pain, your life, or your journey. You are. I am simply here to walk alongside you and be a resource for your growth. I believe one of the hardest and bravest things you can do for yourself, is to not only understand your story, but to continue growing from it.
(616) 208-5484 View (616) 208-5484
Photo of Jesilee Bonofiglio, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jesilee Bonofiglio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Due to my training in Play Therapy, I see children as young as 2.
Have a cup of tea or coffee. Sit back, and maybe even wrap in a blanket. Take this time to go wherever you need to go emotionally, knowing this is a judgment free room. As your therapist, I will not be able to solve your problems for you. Actually, I would not want to even if I could. I do not presume that I have answers to your problems, or that my way is the best or only way. I fully believe that you have the answers you need within you, we just need to uncover them. I will walk with you for as long as you want and need.
Due to my training in Play Therapy, I see children as young as 2.
Have a cup of tea or coffee. Sit back, and maybe even wrap in a blanket. Take this time to go wherever you need to go emotionally, knowing this is a judgment free room. As your therapist, I will not be able to solve your problems for you. Actually, I would not want to even if I could. I do not presume that I have answers to your problems, or that my way is the best or only way. I fully believe that you have the answers you need within you, we just need to uncover them. I will walk with you for as long as you want and need.
(616) 258-6254 View (616) 258-6254
Photo of Laura Hutchison - Dr. Laura Hutchison & Associates, PsyD, LP, RPTS, Psychologist
Dr. Laura Hutchison & Associates
Psychologist, PsyD, LP, RPTS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Farmington Hills, MI 48334
Our main office is conveniently located at the northwest corner of Orchard Lake Rd and 11 Mile in Farmington Hills, with satellite offices in South Lyon, Fenton, Plymouth & Ann Arbor. Being a fully licensed psychologist and Registered Play Therapist Supervisor (RPT/S), I also offer supervision and training for clinicians. My associates add even wider range of clinical experience to the practice, including attachment issues, behavior problems, mood disorders, testing/assessments, and concerns of the LBGTQ community. We offer HIPPA compliant TeleHealth therapy services, as well as in-person sessions.
Our main office is conveniently located at the northwest corner of Orchard Lake Rd and 11 Mile in Farmington Hills, with satellite offices in South Lyon, Fenton, Plymouth & Ann Arbor. Being a fully licensed psychologist and Registered Play Therapist Supervisor (RPT/S), I also offer supervision and training for clinicians. My associates add even wider range of clinical experience to the practice, including attachment issues, behavior problems, mood disorders, testing/assessments, and concerns of the LBGTQ community. We offer HIPPA compliant TeleHealth therapy services, as well as in-person sessions.
(248) 283-3447 View (248) 283-3447
Photo of Jennifer Hayden, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Hayden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
My approach blends traditional cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and talk therapy with play and art interventions.
Is your child struggling right now? Do you have a child with ADHD or Autism? I am an experienced child, adolescent and family therapist. I work with kids ages 5 through young adulthood, and have specialization working with Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, and behavioral challenges. With a background in School Social Work, I am uniquely qualified to help with school challenges and collaborate closely with school staff to help your child thrive academically and socially. In sessions, I integrate art and play, making therapy a fun and meaningful experience for your child.
My approach blends traditional cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and talk therapy with play and art interventions.
Is your child struggling right now? Do you have a child with ADHD or Autism? I am an experienced child, adolescent and family therapist. I work with kids ages 5 through young adulthood, and have specialization working with Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, and behavioral challenges. With a background in School Social Work, I am uniquely qualified to help with school challenges and collaborate closely with school staff to help your child thrive academically and socially. In sessions, I integrate art and play, making therapy a fun and meaningful experience for your child.
(616) 504-2381 View (616) 504-2381
Photo of Kimberly Cena, LMSW, IMH-E, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly Cena
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, IMH-E
Verified Verified
Lansing, MI 48917
Through Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and EMDR, your of a sense of well-being can be reached.
Everyone deserves a sense of control over their lives. When terrible things happen it can feel like the wind has been knocked out of you. The world feels unsafe. Feelings of deep sadness, fear, shame and a rawness seem to linger. Many people feel as though they are damaged goods and wonder if they will ever be themselves again, or if they will ever be happy again. Imagine what it will be like when you have more good days then bad, when you feel the laughter, when you hear your child start to sing again. In a relaxed, safe environment you will receive support, encouragement, and the skills you need to thrive not just survive.
Through Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and EMDR, your of a sense of well-being can be reached.
Everyone deserves a sense of control over their lives. When terrible things happen it can feel like the wind has been knocked out of you. The world feels unsafe. Feelings of deep sadness, fear, shame and a rawness seem to linger. Many people feel as though they are damaged goods and wonder if they will ever be themselves again, or if they will ever be happy again. Imagine what it will be like when you have more good days then bad, when you feel the laughter, when you hear your child start to sing again. In a relaxed, safe environment you will receive support, encouragement, and the skills you need to thrive not just survive.
(517) 201-2834 View (517) 201-2834
Photo of Allison Dennis, LMSW
Allison Dennis
LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Okemos, MI 48864
Allison Dennis is a Licensed Master Social Worker. She works with children and adolescents age 7-18 and young adults up to about age 25. She uses a client-centered and strength-based approach to meet clients where they are at and help them reach their goals. Allison specializes in depression, mood disorders, anxiety, adjustment to life changes, parenting, peer/relationship struggles, and family conflict. She has been trained in Dialectal Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Play Therapy.
Allison Dennis is a Licensed Master Social Worker. She works with children and adolescents age 7-18 and young adults up to about age 25. She uses a client-centered and strength-based approach to meet clients where they are at and help them reach their goals. Allison specializes in depression, mood disorders, anxiety, adjustment to life changes, parenting, peer/relationship struggles, and family conflict. She has been trained in Dialectal Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Play Therapy.
(517) 243-9738 View (517) 243-9738

See more therapy options for Owosso

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.