Play Therapy in Saline, MI
![Photo of Jen Burke, JD, LMSW, IMH-E, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c218aec5-3b5a-4bd2-b369-0de82ae723f9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jen Burke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, LMSW, IMH-E
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saline, MI 48176
I utilize a variety of collaborative treatment approaches, including play therapy, parent-child psychotherapy, relational psychotherapy, CBT, ACT, and somatic and attachment based EMDR.
In my practice, I welcome individuals at various stages of life who are seeking support and guidance in their journey toward mental health and well-being. Whether it is a child and their family managing anxiety, attachment concerns, or trauma, or a new parent looking to strengthen their bond with their children or navigate perinatal mental health challenges, I seek to offer a space that offers the empathy and empowerment needed for healing and growth.
I utilize a variety of collaborative treatment approaches, including play therapy, parent-child psychotherapy, relational psychotherapy, CBT, ACT, and somatic and attachment based EMDR.
In my practice, I welcome individuals at various stages of life who are seeking support and guidance in their journey toward mental health and well-being. Whether it is a child and their family managing anxiety, attachment concerns, or trauma, or a new parent looking to strengthen their bond with their children or navigate perinatal mental health challenges, I seek to offer a space that offers the empathy and empowerment needed for healing and growth.
![Photo of Kristyn Driver, LMSW, IMH-E, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/126ea898-d3e9-4ad7-b016-74cb2db8944d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kristyn Driver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, IMH-E
Verified Verified
Saline, MI 48176 (Online Only)
Becoming a parent can often feel like it isn’t all that you’ve dreamed, and this can feel isolating, worried that you are the only one experiencing hard times with your child. I can offer support if you are struggling with prenatal adjustment, new or heightened anxiety or depression or are experiencing difficulties connecting with your baby. I can help you manage overwhelming thoughts, or work through past trauma to be more present. If you have a young child who has struggles getting through the day or have concerns about their emotional development and you aren’t sure what else to do, I am here to help you figure out what is next.
Becoming a parent can often feel like it isn’t all that you’ve dreamed, and this can feel isolating, worried that you are the only one experiencing hard times with your child. I can offer support if you are struggling with prenatal adjustment, new or heightened anxiety or depression or are experiencing difficulties connecting with your baby. I can help you manage overwhelming thoughts, or work through past trauma to be more present. If you have a young child who has struggles getting through the day or have concerns about their emotional development and you aren’t sure what else to do, I am here to help you figure out what is next.
![Photo of Aimee Tuck - Rise Wellness Collaborative, MS, LLP, PMH-C, Limited Licensed Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d678342c-2c89-449b-a04a-65bc3e295fa7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rise Wellness Collaborative
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MS, LLP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saline, MI 48176
Early childhood is a dynamic and transitional time that can feel simultaneously joyous and chaotic (for both the child and the parent!). Children sometimes experience a myriad of big feelings that feel difficult to cope with - here at Rise, we aim to provide support, skills, and resources to help you and your child navigate the challenges. We have three new-to-us therapists who are accepting new clients in January. We recognize the shortage of mental health professionals for young children and parents and are so happy to fill the gap!
Early childhood is a dynamic and transitional time that can feel simultaneously joyous and chaotic (for both the child and the parent!). Children sometimes experience a myriad of big feelings that feel difficult to cope with - here at Rise, we aim to provide support, skills, and resources to help you and your child navigate the challenges. We have three new-to-us therapists who are accepting new clients in January. We recognize the shortage of mental health professionals for young children and parents and are so happy to fill the gap!
![Photo of Sheila Burns - Refreshing Waters Counseling . Sheila Burns, MA, LPC, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c8d7a701-7ca3-4e9f-ac17-6c2a1d6903fa/1/320x400.png)
Refreshing Waters Counseling . Sheila Burns
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saline, MI 48176
Are you ready to move forward in your life, free from circumstances and emotions that have held you back? Making the investment in your wellbeing can help you become the person you want to be, living the life you hoped for. Risk and change are scary ideas, but together we can examine what is holding you back and develop a plan that will lead to positive, lasting life changes. So often people live a compromised life that leaves them feeling unfulfilled and unhappy. At RWCC our passion is to help you overcome barriers and make changes towards a more satisfying life for you and your family.
Are you ready to move forward in your life, free from circumstances and emotions that have held you back? Making the investment in your wellbeing can help you become the person you want to be, living the life you hoped for. Risk and change are scary ideas, but together we can examine what is holding you back and develop a plan that will lead to positive, lasting life changes. So often people live a compromised life that leaves them feeling unfulfilled and unhappy. At RWCC our passion is to help you overcome barriers and make changes towards a more satisfying life for you and your family.
![Photo of Anna Richards (Arciero), MA, LPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/416f4c96-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anna Richards (Arciero)
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Saline, MI 48176 (Online Only)
My main focus is on the importance of emotional wellbeing. I believe that everyone experiences difficulties in their lives and see the counseling office as a space for clients to express and normalize difficult feelings in a safe environment. I believe that people have all of the components for a happy and healthy life but sometimes need help processing and navigating through their feelings and experiences to learn new and more effective ways to cope. I operate through the Polyvagal Theory lens to assess emotional regulation and work to stabilize and co-regulate clients as this is essential to healing.
My main focus is on the importance of emotional wellbeing. I believe that everyone experiences difficulties in their lives and see the counseling office as a space for clients to express and normalize difficult feelings in a safe environment. I believe that people have all of the components for a happy and healthy life but sometimes need help processing and navigating through their feelings and experiences to learn new and more effective ways to cope. I operate through the Polyvagal Theory lens to assess emotional regulation and work to stabilize and co-regulate clients as this is essential to healing.
![Photo of Catherine Hiltz, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d126a39-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I provide individual and family therapy for children, adolescents, and adults with a wide range of concerns, difficulties, and/or challenges. May you or your child be looking for support and guidance through a challenging situation, ready to move in a new direction in life, or want to develop increased insight into your self and your life, I look forward to working with you and/or your child to better understand and resolve personal or life challenges.
I provide individual and family therapy for children, adolescents, and adults with a wide range of concerns, difficulties, and/or challenges. May you or your child be looking for support and guidance through a challenging situation, ready to move in a new direction in life, or want to develop increased insight into your self and your life, I look forward to working with you and/or your child to better understand and resolve personal or life challenges.
![Photo of Roger E Lauer, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/611f28ec-f871-483f-9ccc-090d99c33e73/2/320x400.jpeg)
My private practice is strength-based and focused extensively on neuropsychological testing and intervention. I approach my work by focusing on 'islands of competence' to improve self-esteem around learning, work and performance . I work with children, adolescents and adults who have multiple or tough-to-diagnose issues. In other words, I specialize in complex cases. My focus is on "intervention plans" that are personalized for your needs, comprehensive and effective. You will not only find out what things you need help with, but your strengths will be recognized as well. Please visit our website at www.CNLD.org.
My private practice is strength-based and focused extensively on neuropsychological testing and intervention. I approach my work by focusing on 'islands of competence' to improve self-esteem around learning, work and performance . I work with children, adolescents and adults who have multiple or tough-to-diagnose issues. In other words, I specialize in complex cases. My focus is on "intervention plans" that are personalized for your needs, comprehensive and effective. You will not only find out what things you need help with, but your strengths will be recognized as well. Please visit our website at www.CNLD.org.
![Photo of Samantha Friedman Davids, PhD, LMSW, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/04abc457-e4f4-4f77-a04b-d6ebab8864cd/1/320x400.jpeg)
* I am only counseling via telehealth currently and not able to offer evaluations to test for ADHD. I have a doctorate in clinical psychology and a master's in social work. I attained my degrees from the UC Berkeley, Fordham University, and Saybrook University. I have experience providing treatment to individuals, couples, and families. My areas of interest include: mood and anxiety disorders, behavior management, divorce, adjustment, and relationship issues. I strive to provide exceptional services by adopting a practical approach, utilizing cognitive behavioral and other therapeutic methods to meet the unique needs of each client.
* I am only counseling via telehealth currently and not able to offer evaluations to test for ADHD. I have a doctorate in clinical psychology and a master's in social work. I attained my degrees from the UC Berkeley, Fordham University, and Saybrook University. I have experience providing treatment to individuals, couples, and families. My areas of interest include: mood and anxiety disorders, behavior management, divorce, adjustment, and relationship issues. I strive to provide exceptional services by adopting a practical approach, utilizing cognitive behavioral and other therapeutic methods to meet the unique needs of each client.
![Photo of Mickie Dobrusin, LLMSW, IMH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/abed2500-b83d-4fdc-91a8-8d12abe6e808/1/320x400.png)
Mickie Dobrusin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW, IMH
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Saline, MI 48176
NOTICE: My 0-18 caseload is currently full. As of 7/5/24, I am currently only taking new ADULT clients (18+). I am an Ann Arbor born and raised LLMSW-IMH that specializes in infant mental health, children and families, trauma/abuse, anxiety, depression, OCD and ADHD. Whether you/your child are new to therapy or have years of experience, I'm here to help. I see each client as an individual and will tailor my approach based on their needs. I pride myself in being a fun, bubbly and passionate therapist who truly loves what I do!
NOTICE: My 0-18 caseload is currently full. As of 7/5/24, I am currently only taking new ADULT clients (18+). I am an Ann Arbor born and raised LLMSW-IMH that specializes in infant mental health, children and families, trauma/abuse, anxiety, depression, OCD and ADHD. Whether you/your child are new to therapy or have years of experience, I'm here to help. I see each client as an individual and will tailor my approach based on their needs. I pride myself in being a fun, bubbly and passionate therapist who truly loves what I do!
![Photo of Sara F Stein Phd, PhD, LMSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c7b0e7a-c01a-4508-bfef-13c079b958ee/2/320x400.jpeg)
I focus on the treatment of trauma using a mind-body and mindfulness framework and work from the understanding that our life experiences are stored in the body. It’s important to pay attention not only to our thoughts and emotions, but also to the clues our body gives us. My goal is to help clients create their own sense of safety, enhance relationship to self, and to move towards a space of presence and increased well-being. I also offer consultation to clinicians hoping to deepen their understanding of parts work using a trauma-informed perspective.
I focus on the treatment of trauma using a mind-body and mindfulness framework and work from the understanding that our life experiences are stored in the body. It’s important to pay attention not only to our thoughts and emotions, but also to the clues our body gives us. My goal is to help clients create their own sense of safety, enhance relationship to self, and to move towards a space of presence and increased well-being. I also offer consultation to clinicians hoping to deepen their understanding of parts work using a trauma-informed perspective.
![Photo of Anne Costello, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/002d719b-87aa-4bd7-854c-abce6323b99a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anne Costello
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saline, MI 48176
Not accepting new clients
Anne graduated from Western Michigan University with a Bachelor of Social Work and earned her master's in social work from the University of Michigan. Anne is a certified trauma specialist from the National Institute of Trauma and Loss in Children (TLC) and uses TLC's Structured Sensory Interventions for Traumatized Children, Adolescents and Parents (SITCAP). Anne is also trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) - a psychotherapy approach that focuses on both the child and the parent. Anne has a passion for working with children and families that have been impacted by trauma, grief, and loss.
Anne graduated from Western Michigan University with a Bachelor of Social Work and earned her master's in social work from the University of Michigan. Anne is a certified trauma specialist from the National Institute of Trauma and Loss in Children (TLC) and uses TLC's Structured Sensory Interventions for Traumatized Children, Adolescents and Parents (SITCAP). Anne is also trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) - a psychotherapy approach that focuses on both the child and the parent. Anne has a passion for working with children and families that have been impacted by trauma, grief, and loss.
![Photo of Betsy Stoelt, PhD, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4661209a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Betsy Stoelt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LMSW
Verified Verified
Saline, MI 48176
Not accepting new clients
**Currently I am not taking new clients** I focus on the client's strengths to help cope with the challenges that life brings. I take a behavioral approach to understanding ourselves, our relationships, and how change is possible. Working with parents and families to bring understanding and skills of how to make our relationships stronger and more functional day to day.
**Currently I am not taking new clients** I focus on the client's strengths to help cope with the challenges that life brings. I take a behavioral approach to understanding ourselves, our relationships, and how change is possible. Working with parents and families to bring understanding and skills of how to make our relationships stronger and more functional day to day.
![Photo of Karlin Stern, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5820a2cc-7a54-44df-82a4-013a4ea7361b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Karlin Stern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saline, MI 48176
Not accepting new clients
Karlin Stern is a licensed clinical social worker providing evidence-based treatment in the state of Michigan. Her training has included working with children, adolescents, and young adults experiencing emotional and behavioral concerns such as ADHD, anger, anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief. Karlin also works closely with caregivers to provide assistance in managing stress, improving emotional regulation skills, better understand their child’s needs, and support the parent-child relationship. Karlin received her training at the University of Michigan School of Social Work and Michigan Medicine Department of Psychiatry.
Karlin Stern is a licensed clinical social worker providing evidence-based treatment in the state of Michigan. Her training has included working with children, adolescents, and young adults experiencing emotional and behavioral concerns such as ADHD, anger, anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief. Karlin also works closely with caregivers to provide assistance in managing stress, improving emotional regulation skills, better understand their child’s needs, and support the parent-child relationship. Karlin received her training at the University of Michigan School of Social Work and Michigan Medicine Department of Psychiatry.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Giselle Kendrick, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f6358589-406c-44e1-8696-f7e527e72ac3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Giselle uses eclectic interventions in modalities such as CBT, EFT (EIFT), DBT, Bowlby, and Bowen Family systems, and components of play and art therapy.
Giselle is a therapist who approaches from an empathy-based and person-centered practice. She has a passion for assisting clients in their healing process to assist individuals, couples, and families in discovering, healing, and embracing their best selves from a holistic perspective.
Giselle uses eclectic interventions in modalities such as CBT, EFT (EIFT), DBT, Bowlby, and Bowen Family systems, and components of play and art therapy.
Giselle is a therapist who approaches from an empathy-based and person-centered practice. She has a passion for assisting clients in their healing process to assist individuals, couples, and families in discovering, healing, and embracing their best selves from a holistic perspective.
![Photo of Sara Morgan, MA, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33c54946-58fc-4242-8b13-17bc30096263/2/320x400.jpeg)
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. I have over 10 years experience working in the mental health field. I specialize in play therapy with children (age 3 and up) and cognitive behavior therapy with teens and adults.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. I have over 10 years experience working in the mental health field. I specialize in play therapy with children (age 3 and up) and cognitive behavior therapy with teens and adults.
![Photo of Carla Michelle Hines - Carla Hines Inc, LMSW, ACSW, CTS-C, CIRT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42791321-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Carla Hines Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACSW, CTS-C, CIRT
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
I specialize in working with trauma survivors, couples, parenting issues, play therapy, adoption related issues, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, adjustment, and immigration issues.
My goal is to create an atmosphere where every person that enters my office feels it is a safe place to learn and grow. I honor the unique strengths that each individual already possesses while challenging them to grow and develop in other areas. While I encourage people to stretch beyond their comfort zones, I respect and accept each person where they are at in their growth process. I have 19 years experience as a Psychotherapist. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and couples. When working with children, I feel it is important to become a team with their parents.
I specialize in working with trauma survivors, couples, parenting issues, play therapy, adoption related issues, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, adjustment, and immigration issues.
My goal is to create an atmosphere where every person that enters my office feels it is a safe place to learn and grow. I honor the unique strengths that each individual already possesses while challenging them to grow and develop in other areas. While I encourage people to stretch beyond their comfort zones, I respect and accept each person where they are at in their growth process. I have 19 years experience as a Psychotherapist. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and couples. When working with children, I feel it is important to become a team with their parents.
![Photo of Onna Solomon, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41fe8086-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Hasti Raveau, PhD, LP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/daa540cd-5278-4ac9-8c17-3528fe0a041c/1/320x400.png)
Raveau works with a wide range of ages and utilizes a combination of approaches, such as IFS, ACT, executive function coaching, exposure therapy, inner child healing, family systemic therapy, mindfulness based interventions, emotion focused couples therapy, play therapy, and parent coaching to support the needs of her clients.
Dr. Raveau is a clinical psychologist and founder of Mala Child & Family Institute. She is an expert in treating ADHD/neurodiversity, trauma, anxiety/OCD/perfectionism, parenting/co-parenting issues, racial minorities, and family level challenges. She helps clients end intergenerational cycles of trauma, form authentic relationships, embrace their neurodiversity and cultural background, and build authentic lives filled with a sense of abundance and inner peace. Dr. Raveau embraces working with individuals and families who identify with a range of ethnicities, religions, sexual orientations, and gender identities.
Raveau works with a wide range of ages and utilizes a combination of approaches, such as IFS, ACT, executive function coaching, exposure therapy, inner child healing, family systemic therapy, mindfulness based interventions, emotion focused couples therapy, play therapy, and parent coaching to support the needs of her clients.
Dr. Raveau is a clinical psychologist and founder of Mala Child & Family Institute. She is an expert in treating ADHD/neurodiversity, trauma, anxiety/OCD/perfectionism, parenting/co-parenting issues, racial minorities, and family level challenges. She helps clients end intergenerational cycles of trauma, form authentic relationships, embrace their neurodiversity and cultural background, and build authentic lives filled with a sense of abundance and inner peace. Dr. Raveau embraces working with individuals and families who identify with a range of ethnicities, religions, sexual orientations, and gender identities.
![Photo of Amber Silva, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/73b5e531-240d-4373-8759-b48aacfe551c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amber Silva
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48108
Waitlist for new clients
My clients can play with fidgets, color/draw, and/or read to best describe how they are feeling and to be able to communicate that.
Hey there! I am passionate about creating a safe and open-minded space for all identities in their therapy. I believe the most important aspect when it comes to therapy is having it be collaborative, compassionate, empathetic, and fun! I have experience working with youth and adults who present with anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, lack of motivation, and substance use. I look at each symptom that the individual presents through a trauma-focused lens. Outside of work, I enjoy cuddling my three cats (pictures below), watching crime shows, and playing videogames.
My clients can play with fidgets, color/draw, and/or read to best describe how they are feeling and to be able to communicate that.
Hey there! I am passionate about creating a safe and open-minded space for all identities in their therapy. I believe the most important aspect when it comes to therapy is having it be collaborative, compassionate, empathetic, and fun! I have experience working with youth and adults who present with anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, lack of motivation, and substance use. I look at each symptom that the individual presents through a trauma-focused lens. Outside of work, I enjoy cuddling my three cats (pictures below), watching crime shows, and playing videogames.
![Photo of Cynthia Swartz, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d77df8d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Therefore, I often adopt art and play therapies, along with a cognitive behavioral counseling and solution-oriented approaches.
I believe that when people seek counseling it is because they want to make a change in their lives, improve a life situation, make a decision, solve a problem or have greater understanding and insight to their lives. Counseling is a trusting partnership between client and counselor. A process of looking at and integrating thoughts, feelings and actions in a safe environment. It is not about telling you how or when to change, but rather finding what works best for you. Effective counseling requires a commitment of time, energy, and active participation by both client and counselor.
Therefore, I often adopt art and play therapies, along with a cognitive behavioral counseling and solution-oriented approaches.
I believe that when people seek counseling it is because they want to make a change in their lives, improve a life situation, make a decision, solve a problem or have greater understanding and insight to their lives. Counseling is a trusting partnership between client and counselor. A process of looking at and integrating thoughts, feelings and actions in a safe environment. It is not about telling you how or when to change, but rather finding what works best for you. Effective counseling requires a commitment of time, energy, and active participation by both client and counselor.
See more therapy options for Saline
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Saline
See More Play TherapyPlay 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.