Play Therapy in Saint Clair Shores, MI
![Photo of Kayla Nabozny, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/855dcabf-66be-49a4-9b53-d515c8cf8d38/1/320x400.jpeg)
My therapeutic approaches and techniques include cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, motivational interviewing, supportive listening, and enhancing skill strengths.
I believe that it is healthy and natural for people to attend counseling. I view therapy as a partnership between client and therapist, both working towards an agreed upon goal. Every counseling session is entered with optimism and open mindedness. I received my Master’s degree from Oakland University in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
My therapeutic approaches and techniques include cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, motivational interviewing, supportive listening, and enhancing skill strengths.
I believe that it is healthy and natural for people to attend counseling. I view therapy as a partnership between client and therapist, both working towards an agreed upon goal. Every counseling session is entered with optimism and open mindedness. I received my Master’s degree from Oakland University in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
![Photo of Belinda Aliahmad, LLMSW, CCATP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/686f2d15-786f-41e0-8bb8-e73a20c9ff25/3/320x400.jpeg)
Belinda Aliahmad
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW, CCATP
Verified Verified
Saint Clair Shores, MI 48080
With an educational background in Criminal Justice and Social Work, Belinda is also a committed member of the National Association of Social Workers. Belinda has 5 years of experience in a variety of settings such as, child welfare, crisis counseling, adoption services and school settings. Belinda works with a variety of clients, including adolescents, young adults and women suffering from domestic violence and sexual assault. Belinda uses trauma-focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, parent-child psychotherapy, while also incorporating meditative practices, relaxation techniques and similar strategies.
With an educational background in Criminal Justice and Social Work, Belinda is also a committed member of the National Association of Social Workers. Belinda has 5 years of experience in a variety of settings such as, child welfare, crisis counseling, adoption services and school settings. Belinda works with a variety of clients, including adolescents, young adults and women suffering from domestic violence and sexual assault. Belinda uses trauma-focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, parent-child psychotherapy, while also incorporating meditative practices, relaxation techniques and similar strategies.
![Photo of Sylvia Johnson, LMSW, CTP-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/532231e9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sylvia Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CTP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Clair Shores, MI 48081
Waitlist for new clients
Working with children as young as four, adolescents, and adults, I am extensively trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, play therapy, trauma-focused interventions, and utilize techniques that will best suit your needs.
Your experiences may be bringing up new feelings, thoughts, and experiences, or may be bringing up old ones. I provide a safe and non-judgmental environment where we can explore your feelings and experiences to gain self-awareness, understanding, and discover how to get back to the life you love. I am extremely passionate about helping others get to the root of their current behaviors, thoughts, and feelings. My specialty is in processing trauma, complex trauma, and secondary trauma. I also am experienced in treating other difficulties such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, relationships difficulties, and grief.
Working with children as young as four, adolescents, and adults, I am extensively trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, play therapy, trauma-focused interventions, and utilize techniques that will best suit your needs.
Your experiences may be bringing up new feelings, thoughts, and experiences, or may be bringing up old ones. I provide a safe and non-judgmental environment where we can explore your feelings and experiences to gain self-awareness, understanding, and discover how to get back to the life you love. I am extremely passionate about helping others get to the root of their current behaviors, thoughts, and feelings. My specialty is in processing trauma, complex trauma, and secondary trauma. I also am experienced in treating other difficulties such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, relationships difficulties, and grief.
![Photo of Mary Jane Gazda, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/517ebb47-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Jane Gazda
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Clair Shores, MI 48082
Waitlist for new clients
I particularly enjoy working with children utilizing Play Therapy.
I began my practice in 1984 as a Social Worker. I returned to school and earned a Ph.D in Psychology. I specialize in working with adults of all ages, children, adolescence, couples and families. I employ a variety of techniques such as mindfulness, insight oriented inquiry, Yoga and traditional talk therapies. I do believe that we can change our lives if we change our thinking. At times we come to a place when our thoughts become unbearable and feel overwhelmed and confused. When we are open to acknowledging our suffering we then become willing to explore our pain.
I particularly enjoy working with children utilizing Play Therapy.
I began my practice in 1984 as a Social Worker. I returned to school and earned a Ph.D in Psychology. I specialize in working with adults of all ages, children, adolescence, couples and families. I employ a variety of techniques such as mindfulness, insight oriented inquiry, Yoga and traditional talk therapies. I do believe that we can change our lives if we change our thinking. At times we come to a place when our thoughts become unbearable and feel overwhelmed and confused. When we are open to acknowledging our suffering we then become willing to explore our pain.
![Photo of Christine Elizabeth Crawford, MSW, ACSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/12ffe52c-be7c-4bcc-8de0-1d78a023713e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christine Elizabeth Crawford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, ACSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Saint Clair Shores, MI 48081
I have also learned that play is the language of children.
I have been practicing social work for the past 36 years with children, teens, and families. I started My career working for a youth residential care facility. This experience working with the child welfare and juvenile court system has taught me that most parents are doing the best job they know how to do. I spent the last 24 years working in the Michigan public school system with k-5 students. I have worked with students diagnosed with various emotional and developmental disorders during my tenure. I work with individuals, groups and families.
I have also learned that play is the language of children.
I have been practicing social work for the past 36 years with children, teens, and families. I started My career working for a youth residential care facility. This experience working with the child welfare and juvenile court system has taught me that most parents are doing the best job they know how to do. I spent the last 24 years working in the Michigan public school system with k-5 students. I have worked with students diagnosed with various emotional and developmental disorders during my tenure. I work with individuals, groups and families.
![Photo of Sylwia Wach, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/efba9ddd-5673-40b7-b0cf-7a8b7fd5c74f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sylwia Wach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Clair Shores, MI 48080
I use a variety of therapeutic approaches such as Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Therapy, and Child Play Therapy.
Taking the first steps towards a better life can be scary and intimidating, I am so happy and excited to take those steps with you. I will be by your side and work with you on your healing journey. I believe in finding the right therapeutic technique to fit your healing journey and I'm eager to create a safe and comfortable space to achieve your goals. I believe that achieving your best self is done by giving you the proper tools and guiding you with support, compassion, and empathy.
I use a variety of therapeutic approaches such as Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Therapy, and Child Play Therapy.
Taking the first steps towards a better life can be scary and intimidating, I am so happy and excited to take those steps with you. I will be by your side and work with you on your healing journey. I believe in finding the right therapeutic technique to fit your healing journey and I'm eager to create a safe and comfortable space to achieve your goals. I believe that achieving your best self is done by giving you the proper tools and guiding you with support, compassion, and empathy.
![Photo of Sandra Marie Tysar-Gilbert, LMSW, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4df2082a-5c38-4fdb-8177-334611987a4e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sandra Marie Tysar-Gilbert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Clair Shores, MI 48081
Hello and thank you for looking into my profile. I am a licensed clinical social worker with over a decade of experience working with people. I have worked with clients who are experiencing a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, struggles with parenting, adjustment and traumatic experiences including healing from abuse. My counseling style is strengths based and client centered. I believe in treating everyone with respect and compassion. My approach starts with empathy and utilizes integrative dynamics from cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy and motivational interviewing.
Hello and thank you for looking into my profile. I am a licensed clinical social worker with over a decade of experience working with people. I have worked with clients who are experiencing a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, struggles with parenting, adjustment and traumatic experiences including healing from abuse. My counseling style is strengths based and client centered. I believe in treating everyone with respect and compassion. My approach starts with empathy and utilizes integrative dynamics from cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy and motivational interviewing.
![Photo of Tyler Moreno, MSW, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f637203-28b6-4669-82b2-32576f7537ad/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tyler Moreno
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Saint Clair Shores, MI 48081
Do you behave in ways that you’re not always proud of? Have you been feeling disconnected from yourself and/ or others? Has it become harder to live your life the way you always have? The way we attach to our world was decided for us early on and defines all the ways we think, feel, and respond. Therapy can be a place for you to get to know your ‘early programming’ and receive clarity around what’s happening behind the scenes. Can you imagine having healthier relationships, greater confidence in yourself and your abilities, as well as more motivation to pursue your passions and seek joy?
Do you behave in ways that you’re not always proud of? Have you been feeling disconnected from yourself and/ or others? Has it become harder to live your life the way you always have? The way we attach to our world was decided for us early on and defines all the ways we think, feel, and respond. Therapy can be a place for you to get to know your ‘early programming’ and receive clarity around what’s happening behind the scenes. Can you imagine having healthier relationships, greater confidence in yourself and your abilities, as well as more motivation to pursue your passions and seek joy?
![Photo of Christopher Jon Lecznar, MA , LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee645683-9ebb-4679-b084-5e054f36c48f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christopher Jon Lecznar
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Saint Clair Shores, MI 48082
My goal is to help you thrive and grow by assisting you in overcoming psychological and emotional distresses. I do this by building a relationship with you, empowering you to recognize your authenticity and by promoting personal growth. I am committed in helping you achieve your short and long-term goals through a professional, personal, and confidential process.
My goal is to help you thrive and grow by assisting you in overcoming psychological and emotional distresses. I do this by building a relationship with you, empowering you to recognize your authenticity and by promoting personal growth. I am committed in helping you achieve your short and long-term goals through a professional, personal, and confidential process.
![Photo of Elizabeth Winterholler, MA, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44e36ef3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth Winterholler
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
Saint Clair Shores, MI 48082
I am a Limited Licensed Psychologist who provides individual and family therapy to children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in treating mood disorders, anxiety, grief, trauma, substance abuse, and women's issues. I am certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I have extensive experience working with parents and children to address family conflict, and a variety of childhood emotional and behavioral disorders. I have specialized training in treating children and adolescents with ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, social skills deficits, and academic challenges.
I am a Limited Licensed Psychologist who provides individual and family therapy to children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in treating mood disorders, anxiety, grief, trauma, substance abuse, and women's issues. I am certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I have extensive experience working with parents and children to address family conflict, and a variety of childhood emotional and behavioral disorders. I have specialized training in treating children and adolescents with ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, social skills deficits, and academic challenges.
![Photo of Ashley Collins, LLMSW, SSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4dc9ad46-2639-4752-a66a-2be48e64776c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Collins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW, SSW
Verified Verified
Saint Clair Shores, MI 48080
As a therapist dedicated to the well-being of children, women, and families, my impact is multifaceted. I create a therapeutic space that fosters trust, resilience, and communication, facilitating the healing process for individuals and strengthening family bonds. Through evidence-based interventions, I address a spectrum of issues, from childhood behavioral challenges to women's empowerment and family dynamics. Collaborating with schools, community organizations, and support networks, I extend my influence beyond the therapy room to create a network of support that continues well after our sessions have ended.
As a therapist dedicated to the well-being of children, women, and families, my impact is multifaceted. I create a therapeutic space that fosters trust, resilience, and communication, facilitating the healing process for individuals and strengthening family bonds. Through evidence-based interventions, I address a spectrum of issues, from childhood behavioral challenges to women's empowerment and family dynamics. Collaborating with schools, community organizations, and support networks, I extend my influence beyond the therapy room to create a network of support that continues well after our sessions have ended.
![Photo of Hayley Marlow, LMSW, IMH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b2b6190-43e8-4eb4-bbdd-f8af5f09912e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hayley Marlow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, IMH
Verified Verified
Saint Clair Shores, MI 48080
Everyone has their own unique identity and experiences. As a therapist, my focus is to embrace these differences by working collaboratively with each client to create a personalized plan that will meet them where they’re at in life, best fit their needs, and be comfortable enough to help them learn, grow, and think in a healthy way. My clinical work is devoted to consistently being present for my clients by walking with them through this journey of healing while creating a non-judgmental, therapeutic space for them to be heard, understood, and supported while making behavioral and cognitive changes to enhance their quality of life.
Everyone has their own unique identity and experiences. As a therapist, my focus is to embrace these differences by working collaboratively with each client to create a personalized plan that will meet them where they’re at in life, best fit their needs, and be comfortable enough to help them learn, grow, and think in a healthy way. My clinical work is devoted to consistently being present for my clients by walking with them through this journey of healing while creating a non-judgmental, therapeutic space for them to be heard, understood, and supported while making behavioral and cognitive changes to enhance their quality of life.
![Photo of Alexandra Treat, MA, LLC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d8e26c2e-2f89-4e19-b7ab-fca07136c743/2/320x400.png)
Sometimes we all need a little bit of assistance during our journey of personal discovery. It would be my honor to have the opportunity to view the world from your lens while together we work through life’s complexities. My passion lies in creating an empathetic and judgment free space in order to provide a comfortable and safe environment where you can share your personal experiences. We are the masters of our own lives. By utilizing humanistic and cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques, I aim to encourage personal growth and self discovery.
Sometimes we all need a little bit of assistance during our journey of personal discovery. It would be my honor to have the opportunity to view the world from your lens while together we work through life’s complexities. My passion lies in creating an empathetic and judgment free space in order to provide a comfortable and safe environment where you can share your personal experiences. We are the masters of our own lives. By utilizing humanistic and cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques, I aim to encourage personal growth and self discovery.
Mary Jo Ciani
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LSC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Clair Shores, MI 48080
Life is a journey. We all encounter obstacles and challenges along the way, and my role is to help each individual strive to be their personal best. My therapeutic approach is custom-tailored to meet clients where they are, to help them identify their unique specific needs and achievable goals. I am passionate about helping my clients discover and develop their inner strengths, and build resiliency to achieve a greater sense of well-being and quality of life they deserve.
Life is a journey. We all encounter obstacles and challenges along the way, and my role is to help each individual strive to be their personal best. My therapeutic approach is custom-tailored to meet clients where they are, to help them identify their unique specific needs and achievable goals. I am passionate about helping my clients discover and develop their inner strengths, and build resiliency to achieve a greater sense of well-being and quality of life they deserve.
![Photo of Sarah Kost-Cox, MA, LPC, NCC, SCL, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/08ac6847-dd6e-4cef-b32b-06d72630af91/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Kost-Cox
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, SCL
Verified Verified
Saint Clair Shores, MI 48080
Waitlist for new clients
Currently, I am accepting new clients for Accelerated Resolution Therapy, ART. Let's toss out the idea of a person being ‘ideal’. I am here to help people wherever they are in life. It is an honor to journey alongside another's life as they initiate change and grow. Growth and change are often complex, I want to offer a safe palace for people to learn about themselves and thrive.
Currently, I am accepting new clients for Accelerated Resolution Therapy, ART. Let's toss out the idea of a person being ‘ideal’. I am here to help people wherever they are in life. It is an honor to journey alongside another's life as they initiate change and grow. Growth and change are often complex, I want to offer a safe palace for people to learn about themselves and thrive.
![Photo of Christy Stamper - Christy Stamper, PLLC (LMSW), LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cc5d2df-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christy Stamper, PLLC (LMSW)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Saint Clair Shores, MI 48081
Individuals, couples and families experience challenging times which can cause anxiety, depression or grief making it difficult to cope with school, work and personal relationships. I can assist with stratagies to help you with your personal growth to reach calmness,optimism,and acceptance. I provide a calm, supportive environment to create accessable goals to move forward with the life you desire. Please feel free to visit my Facebook page at Christy Stamper PLLC (LMSW)
Individuals, couples and families experience challenging times which can cause anxiety, depression or grief making it difficult to cope with school, work and personal relationships. I can assist with stratagies to help you with your personal growth to reach calmness,optimism,and acceptance. I provide a calm, supportive environment to create accessable goals to move forward with the life you desire. Please feel free to visit my Facebook page at Christy Stamper PLLC (LMSW)
![Photo of Stephanie Tindale, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6da15396-00d4-485d-8813-10ffed10f9f1/3/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Tindale
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Clair Shores, MI 48080
Everyone deserves a chance to live their best life. I believe that by becoming aware of, and owning, our thoughts, feelings and behaviors, we gain insight and control over our lives.
Everyone deserves a chance to live their best life. I believe that by becoming aware of, and owning, our thoughts, feelings and behaviors, we gain insight and control over our lives.
![Photo of Audra Balcarcel, MA, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b88fb056-c1c9-4861-8ca2-7b0244cbd5d1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Audra Balcarcel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LLC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Clair Shores, MI 48080
Every person deserves a safe, empathetic space to achieve understanding and healing. My goal is to create that space for you. I work diligently with clients to navigate life’s difficulties and help them achieve their goals in order to develop a life they love. I enjoy working with clients through diverse issues, but not limited to, such as anxiety, depression, grief & loss, life transitions, trauma, stress, self-confidence, and relationship challenges.
Every person deserves a safe, empathetic space to achieve understanding and healing. My goal is to create that space for you. I work diligently with clients to navigate life’s difficulties and help them achieve their goals in order to develop a life they love. I enjoy working with clients through diverse issues, but not limited to, such as anxiety, depression, grief & loss, life transitions, trauma, stress, self-confidence, and relationship challenges.
![Photo of Jules Pangborn-Harley, LPC, ATR-P, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6b33ae8-be5a-4876-b069-d2158c4516da/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jules Pangborn-Harley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-P
Verified Verified
Saint Clair Shores, MI 48080
Accepting New Child and teenage clients! I am a licensed professional counselor and art therapist. I have dedicated my career to helping traumatized children, teens and their families heal through art therapy and counseling. I have worked in various environments, from home-based work to outpatient (office) settings in counseling. If you or someone you know has a child or teenager that is struggling with mental illness and trauma, send them my way! I am confident that my eclectic approach to counseling and art therapy will help you and your children heal and grow throughout life's journey.
Accepting New Child and teenage clients! I am a licensed professional counselor and art therapist. I have dedicated my career to helping traumatized children, teens and their families heal through art therapy and counseling. I have worked in various environments, from home-based work to outpatient (office) settings in counseling. If you or someone you know has a child or teenager that is struggling with mental illness and trauma, send them my way! I am confident that my eclectic approach to counseling and art therapy will help you and your children heal and grow throughout life's journey.
![Photo of Rebecca Lee Palen - H3-Hope, Healing & Health, LLC, LMSW, MPA, GC-C, GRS, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/439dea38-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
H3-Hope, Healing & Health, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MPA, GC-C, GRS, EMDR
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Saint Clair Shores, MI 48080
H3 strives to promote optimal mental health by treating the mind, body and spirit. We have (3) Locations: Downtown Detroit, St. Clair Shores & Royal Oak. Your wellness journey is a sacred one for which we hold the greatest respect. We are committed to creating a safe space where you can find passage into a place of peace and well-being. Our key goal is to help our clients become empowered to make informed decisions about themselves, their relationships and their future goals.
H3 strives to promote optimal mental health by treating the mind, body and spirit. We have (3) Locations: Downtown Detroit, St. Clair Shores & Royal Oak. Your wellness journey is a sacred one for which we hold the greatest respect. We are committed to creating a safe space where you can find passage into a place of peace and well-being. Our key goal is to help our clients become empowered to make informed decisions about themselves, their relationships and their future goals.
See more therapy options for Saint Clair Shores
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Saint Clair Shores
- Clinton Township
- Eastpointe
- Grosse Pointe
- Grosse Pointe Woods
- Harper Woods
- Harrison Township
- Macomb
- Madison Heights
- Mount Clemens
- Roseville
- Sterling Heights
- Warren
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.