Play Therapy in South Lyon, MI
![Photo of Katie Holden Sheffler, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4173bc81-e781-4651-bb11-82ec75cb3dc4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katie utilizes therapies such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral, Psychodynamic, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Art Therapy, and Play Therapy to compliment and deepen the healing process.
At The Well Counseling we focus on providing a safe, caring, and a nonjudgmental environment, supporting you as you begin to address and cope with the challenges in your life. Drawing from your strengths, we will work together to develop new strategies, skills and perspectives in order that you may live a full and joyful life. We utilize creative therapies in order to compliment and deepen the healing process. We now offer academic and intelligence testing as well!
Katie utilizes therapies such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral, Psychodynamic, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Art Therapy, and Play Therapy to compliment and deepen the healing process.
At The Well Counseling we focus on providing a safe, caring, and a nonjudgmental environment, supporting you as you begin to address and cope with the challenges in your life. Drawing from your strengths, we will work together to develop new strategies, skills and perspectives in order that you may live a full and joyful life. We utilize creative therapies in order to compliment and deepen the healing process. We now offer academic and intelligence testing as well!
![Photo of Laura Hutchison - Dr. Laura Hutchison & Associates, PsyD, LP, RPTS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5338ca8d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Laura Hutchison & Associates
Psychologist, PsyD, LP, RPTS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
South Lyon, MI 48178
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.
![Photo of Isaac Janda-Orr - Limited License Professional Counselor, MA, LLPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/179848b6-92d3-4040-b14f-01df658fa2a3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Isaac Janda-Orr - Limited License Professional Counselor
MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South Lyon, MI 48178
Have you ever found yourself thinking unhelpful thoughts? Has someone ever told you something about yourself you don't like or think is unfair? Have others tried to tell you what you should do or what is "right"? If you are looking for support on how to navigate life's stressful situations, I would love to assist. I work with a wide variety of clients and am passionate to help those who feel like others have treated them unfairly. This includes areas like relationship issues, potential traumatic or distressing situations, unfair treatment due to religious mindsets, adjusting to new boundaries, distressing life situations, plus more!
Have you ever found yourself thinking unhelpful thoughts? Has someone ever told you something about yourself you don't like or think is unfair? Have others tried to tell you what you should do or what is "right"? If you are looking for support on how to navigate life's stressful situations, I would love to assist. I work with a wide variety of clients and am passionate to help those who feel like others have treated them unfairly. This includes areas like relationship issues, potential traumatic or distressing situations, unfair treatment due to religious mindsets, adjusting to new boundaries, distressing life situations, plus more!
![Photo of Reema Beri, PhD, LP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44d1995f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
"Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass, it's about learning to dance in the rain" - Anonymous. My therapy style is warm and compassionate as I work with clients who desire to not just cope with life, but to thrive. My goal is to help you achieve and live the life you want and deserve, and I do this by helping you remove the blocks of personal growth, improve relationships with yourself and others, and find relief from your struggles. I use a diverse set of therapy "techniques" but mostly prefer to base our therapy on your specific needs.
"Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass, it's about learning to dance in the rain" - Anonymous. My therapy style is warm and compassionate as I work with clients who desire to not just cope with life, but to thrive. My goal is to help you achieve and live the life you want and deserve, and I do this by helping you remove the blocks of personal growth, improve relationships with yourself and others, and find relief from your struggles. I use a diverse set of therapy "techniques" but mostly prefer to base our therapy on your specific needs.
![Photo of Richard Kneip - Great Lakes Psychology Group - Novi, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ddb7656-c09d-44c7-bf7c-65213812bf5a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new patients! Whether you are new to therapy or looking to start again, Great Lakes Psychology Group - Novi understands that starting therapy can be overwhelming. That’s why we simplified the process with Find My Therapist. Get started by telling us about yourself, your location, and your insurance. Once you find your best-fit therapist, pick a time that works for you and book an appointment instantly through their calendar. Find My Therapist aims to make your journey as stress-free as possible, so you can start feeling better sooner.
Accepting new patients! Whether you are new to therapy or looking to start again, Great Lakes Psychology Group - Novi understands that starting therapy can be overwhelming. That’s why we simplified the process with Find My Therapist. Get started by telling us about yourself, your location, and your insurance. Once you find your best-fit therapist, pick a time that works for you and book an appointment instantly through their calendar. Find My Therapist aims to make your journey as stress-free as possible, so you can start feeling better sooner.
![Photo of Sandra Kumm, MS, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f1b4dc5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Assessment can be an incredible tool in seeking solutions for children and adolescents experiencing significant difficulties in their daily lives. I aspire to be the key to unlock the door with solutions so each child can strive to reach their maximum potential. My training and education include a Masters Degree in Clinical Health Psychology from the University of Michigan. This approach to evaluation includes the biological, psychological, and social contributions to our lives that make each of us the person we are today.
Assessment can be an incredible tool in seeking solutions for children and adolescents experiencing significant difficulties in their daily lives. I aspire to be the key to unlock the door with solutions so each child can strive to reach their maximum potential. My training and education include a Masters Degree in Clinical Health Psychology from the University of Michigan. This approach to evaluation includes the biological, psychological, and social contributions to our lives that make each of us the person we are today.
![Photo of Jennifer Boss Mainka - Renewed Relationships Counseling & Psych. Svcs, PhD, LP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dff72c2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Renewed Relationships Counseling & Psych. Svcs
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
South Lyon, MI 48178
When you feel sad, anxious, or overwhelmed by life, you will often notice that your relationships are suffering as well. These can be relationships with your spouse or significant other, your kids, or even your coworkers. Often by improving the relationship, you will see improvement in these other areas. Our therapists use Emotionally Focused Therapy with individuals, couples, and families to enhance relationships and alleviate fears and sadness. We also treat children, teens, and families who are experiencing behavioral issues or difficult family dynamics. When seeing children, we include the parents in the treatment process to facilitate treatment success.
When you feel sad, anxious, or overwhelmed by life, you will often notice that your relationships are suffering as well. These can be relationships with your spouse or significant other, your kids, or even your coworkers. Often by improving the relationship, you will see improvement in these other areas. Our therapists use Emotionally Focused Therapy with individuals, couples, and families to enhance relationships and alleviate fears and sadness. We also treat children, teens, and families who are experiencing behavioral issues or difficult family dynamics. When seeing children, we include the parents in the treatment process to facilitate treatment success.
![Photo of Jenny Parmenter, ACSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ef19575-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you in need of a nurturing place to sort out life's challenges? I feel everyone from time to time can use some extra support and insight to gain greater fulfillment in their lives. Over the years, I have had the privilege of working with individuals, couples and families that were committed to making these positive changes. I welcome the opportunity to assist you in life's journey.
Are you in need of a nurturing place to sort out life's challenges? I feel everyone from time to time can use some extra support and insight to gain greater fulfillment in their lives. Over the years, I have had the privilege of working with individuals, couples and families that were committed to making these positive changes. I welcome the opportunity to assist you in life's journey.
![Photo of Melissa J Knapp - Knapp Psychological Services, MA, LLP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f684801-0ce5-44bd-8a4b-2c3e2adf6950/1/320x400.jpeg)
Knapp Psychological Services
Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
South Lyon, MI 48178
Are you feeling sad, depressed, anxious, or maybe just a little off? Are you looking for someone to talk to, work on personal goals with, and reach your full potential? Our therapists are here to help you! With years of experience in the field, our therapists are here to help you feel better and work towards any goals or aspirations you may have for yourself. We work with children, adolescents and adults, and offer both in-person and virtual appointments. Check out our website! You can read about our clinicians, see what insurances they take, and even book your appointment online! We are also available by phone so give us a call!
Are you feeling sad, depressed, anxious, or maybe just a little off? Are you looking for someone to talk to, work on personal goals with, and reach your full potential? Our therapists are here to help you! With years of experience in the field, our therapists are here to help you feel better and work towards any goals or aspirations you may have for yourself. We work with children, adolescents and adults, and offer both in-person and virtual appointments. Check out our website! You can read about our clinicians, see what insurances they take, and even book your appointment online! We are also available by phone so give us a call!
![Photo of Alyssa Lysko, MA, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4946d9d2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alyssa Lysko
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Lyon, MI 48178
It takes a lot of courage to step outside one's comfort zone to seek help. Therapy makes personal growth, healing, and positive change possible. I work with a wide range of issues, including anxiety disorders, mood disorders, neurodiverse conditions, suicidal ideations, and interpersonal relationship concerns. I use a client-centered approach to promote a genuine, safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental environment.
It takes a lot of courage to step outside one's comfort zone to seek help. Therapy makes personal growth, healing, and positive change possible. I work with a wide range of issues, including anxiety disorders, mood disorders, neurodiverse conditions, suicidal ideations, and interpersonal relationship concerns. I use a client-centered approach to promote a genuine, safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental environment.
![Photo of Lisa Hamburg, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c4efde2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Teens and young adults are experiencing depression and anxiety at higher rates in recent years. Changes in sleep patterns, declining grades, angry outbursts or isolation from friends and family are signs that help may be needed. Plus, the presence of social media has complicated matters. Teens as well as college students and young adults are experiencing stressors that they and their families may not understand or have the skills to manage. I help people who are struggling with emotional and behavioral difficulties find ways to cope with problems and reach their full potential.
Teens and young adults are experiencing depression and anxiety at higher rates in recent years. Changes in sleep patterns, declining grades, angry outbursts or isolation from friends and family are signs that help may be needed. Plus, the presence of social media has complicated matters. Teens as well as college students and young adults are experiencing stressors that they and their families may not understand or have the skills to manage. I help people who are struggling with emotional and behavioral difficulties find ways to cope with problems and reach their full potential.
![Photo of Tyler Arban, MS, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ecb1f199-83b4-41ba-b9f0-2cc636690289/3/320x400.jpeg)
Tyler Arban
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MS, LLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Lyon, MI 48178
Have you ever felt sad, anxious, irritable, angry, or depressed? Are things not going the way you intended them to? At times, life can be hard, and having someone listen to your story and help support you can make a huge difference. I am offering online or in-person sessions based on your preference with afternoon and evening appointments available.
Have you ever felt sad, anxious, irritable, angry, or depressed? Are things not going the way you intended them to? At times, life can be hard, and having someone listen to your story and help support you can make a huge difference. I am offering online or in-person sessions based on your preference with afternoon and evening appointments available.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Besa McDonald, MA, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/741f211a-28ad-4d45-a0a3-e3228365a0a4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Besa McDonald
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northville, MI 48167
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.
![Photo of Samantha Hughes, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77e4f8c9-940c-49fc-87cb-2bb94fc14748/2/320x400.jpeg)
Samantha Hughes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brighton, MI 48116
My primary interventions include CBT, behavioral management and play therapy with children.
My background in various human services settings has allowed me space to develop skills and understand people in a different way than most. My goal is to help you attain the skills to be who you want to be and have a place to let your feelings be heard. I love to help people start from where they are now and grow into who they want to be. My passion is working with children and young adults, focusing on becoming more independent through aquiring knowledge and skills for success and to better manage life stressors, anxiety, depression, transition, divorce, family changes, behavioral problems and school related issues.
My primary interventions include CBT, behavioral management and play therapy with children.
My background in various human services settings has allowed me space to develop skills and understand people in a different way than most. My goal is to help you attain the skills to be who you want to be and have a place to let your feelings be heard. I love to help people start from where they are now and grow into who they want to be. My passion is working with children and young adults, focusing on becoming more independent through aquiring knowledge and skills for success and to better manage life stressors, anxiety, depression, transition, divorce, family changes, behavioral problems and school related issues.
![Photo of Farah Qureshi, MA, TLLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ef2bce9-c5f5-4db3-880b-26bb642665f7/2/320x400.jpeg)
I utilize CBT, DBT and play therapy with child and adolescent populations presenting with ADHD, autism, depression, anxiety, etc.
Hello and welcome! My name is Farah Qureshi, and I specialize in working with kiddos!
I utilize CBT, DBT and play therapy with child and adolescent populations presenting with ADHD, autism, depression, anxiety, etc.
Hello and welcome! My name is Farah Qureshi, and I specialize in working with kiddos!
![Photo of Susan Barrow, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cf5ecc5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I use play interventions and various art forms extensively in my work.
Relationships are central to my work, whether it be the relationship between a child or adult and myself, or the complex web of relationships within a family. My training and experience in Infant Mental Health--a type of therapy focusing on the attachment relationship between a primary caregiver and and an infant or young child--permeates all aspects of my work. I believe that therapy cannot separate an individual from the context of his or her relationships, past or present. I am creative and flexible in my approach to working with the children, teens, adults and families that I serve.
I use play interventions and various art forms extensively in my work.
Relationships are central to my work, whether it be the relationship between a child or adult and myself, or the complex web of relationships within a family. My training and experience in Infant Mental Health--a type of therapy focusing on the attachment relationship between a primary caregiver and and an infant or young child--permeates all aspects of my work. I believe that therapy cannot separate an individual from the context of his or her relationships, past or present. I am creative and flexible in my approach to working with the children, teens, adults and families that I serve.
![Photo of Maureen Linnell - Root to Rise - Child, Maternal, & Family Therapy, LMSW, LCSW, IMH-E®, IFS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d5f94de-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Root to Rise - Child, Maternal, & Family Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW, IMH-E®, IFS
Verified Verified
Brighton, MI 48116
Utilizing play and talk therapy, I offer you new tools to understand your emotions, your child's behavior, or both.
Overwhelmed with parenthood? Struggling to understand your child’s behavior? Dealing with postpartum depression? You probably imagined parenthood looking quite different. There is no easy fix for managing anxiety surrounding pregnancy, the postpartum period, or infant/early childhood challenges. There is no instruction manual to open when your child is struggling with anxiety, behavioral challenges, or a developmental delay. Your parental instinct is simply to help your baby get better. Whether that baby is an infant, toddler, or school-aged, your goal is to get to the root of the struggle - and ensure a successful & happy future.
Utilizing play and talk therapy, I offer you new tools to understand your emotions, your child's behavior, or both.
Overwhelmed with parenthood? Struggling to understand your child’s behavior? Dealing with postpartum depression? You probably imagined parenthood looking quite different. There is no easy fix for managing anxiety surrounding pregnancy, the postpartum period, or infant/early childhood challenges. There is no instruction manual to open when your child is struggling with anxiety, behavioral challenges, or a developmental delay. Your parental instinct is simply to help your baby get better. Whether that baby is an infant, toddler, or school-aged, your goal is to get to the root of the struggle - and ensure a successful & happy future.
![Photo of Cassandra Jessee, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c88bd2b2-7432-410e-bb7a-9b1aa5b9e959/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cassandra Jessee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brighton, MI 48116
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize multiple modalities such as CBT, DBT, ACT, TF-CBT, Solution Based Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, psychotherapy, play therapy and animal therapy.
Anxiety? Panic? Depression? Trauma? Is the world just too much lately? Do you want to feel heard and enjoy life? My therapy dog Timon and I would love to guide and help you. Following a critical illness in my life, I started a quest for purpose and devoted myself to an educational journey to create synergy with my own life experiences. My interest is trauma, anxiety, panic, depression, suicide ideation, past sexual abuse, relationship issues coupled with focus on how interpersonal, cognitive thinking and environmental factors play a part in helping people to change.
I utilize multiple modalities such as CBT, DBT, ACT, TF-CBT, Solution Based Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, psychotherapy, play therapy and animal therapy.
Anxiety? Panic? Depression? Trauma? Is the world just too much lately? Do you want to feel heard and enjoy life? My therapy dog Timon and I would love to guide and help you. Following a critical illness in my life, I started a quest for purpose and devoted myself to an educational journey to create synergy with my own life experiences. My interest is trauma, anxiety, panic, depression, suicide ideation, past sexual abuse, relationship issues coupled with focus on how interpersonal, cognitive thinking and environmental factors play a part in helping people to change.
![Photo of Kisha Hath, AAS, BS, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0be6accd-59fd-4698-a686-24826028de5d/1/320x400.jpeg)
I also incorporate mindfulness, play, and art into therapy sessions.
Hello, everyone! My name is Kisha Hath, I am a LMSW graduate from Michigan State. I specialize in working with children, teens, and young adults. I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, family conflict, trauma, sexuality/sexual identity, and more. My passion for helping others has been years in the making and working with my clients to see their progress and strengths! I understand that life is always changing and barriers can create feelings of helplessness, fear, and feeling overwhelmed. I believe each person has their own story, and I work with them to identify barriers and insights about their life.
I also incorporate mindfulness, play, and art into therapy sessions.
Hello, everyone! My name is Kisha Hath, I am a LMSW graduate from Michigan State. I specialize in working with children, teens, and young adults. I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, family conflict, trauma, sexuality/sexual identity, and more. My passion for helping others has been years in the making and working with my clients to see their progress and strengths! I understand that life is always changing and barriers can create feelings of helplessness, fear, and feeling overwhelmed. I believe each person has their own story, and I work with them to identify barriers and insights about their life.
![Photo of Monica Laming, LMSW, IMH-E, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50615cdd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Monica Laming
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, IMH-E
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brighton, MI 48116
Whether it is through play with a young child or speaking one’s truth with an adult; therapy is a beautiful and powerful process that I believe has endless possibility.
I provide specialized therapy for women, children & families. My services would be ideal for women looking for support with anxiety, depression, parenting concerns, birth trauma, pregnancy loss, post-partum mental health concerns, reproductive challenges, history of trauma etc. I work with women in all stages of life and utilize a variety of modalities to best fit your needs with the deeper understanding that change comes within an authentic relationship. I welcome mothers to bring their babies or young children to therapy if needed as my office space provides a play area for children of many ages.
Whether it is through play with a young child or speaking one’s truth with an adult; therapy is a beautiful and powerful process that I believe has endless possibility.
I provide specialized therapy for women, children & families. My services would be ideal for women looking for support with anxiety, depression, parenting concerns, birth trauma, pregnancy loss, post-partum mental health concerns, reproductive challenges, history of trauma etc. I work with women in all stages of life and utilize a variety of modalities to best fit your needs with the deeper understanding that change comes within an authentic relationship. I welcome mothers to bring their babies or young children to therapy if needed as my office space provides a play area for children of many ages.
See more therapy options for South Lyon
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for South Lyon
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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.