Play Therapy in Walled Lake, MI

Photo of Whitney Rudis, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Whitney Rudis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walled Lake, MI 48390
Hi! I am so glad you are here. I am a Limited Licensed Master Social Worker with a passionate commitment to helping others. I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work and a Masters in Social Work (with a clinical focus) from Michigan State University. During my studies, I earned a Child Welfare certificate and a Health and Aging certificate. I have professional experience working with all ages, from young children to the geriatric population, and in different clinical settings, such as nonprofits and healthcare.
Hi! I am so glad you are here. I am a Limited Licensed Master Social Worker with a passionate commitment to helping others. I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work and a Masters in Social Work (with a clinical focus) from Michigan State University. During my studies, I earned a Child Welfare certificate and a Health and Aging certificate. I have professional experience working with all ages, from young children to the geriatric population, and in different clinical settings, such as nonprofits and healthcare.
(248) 940-3285 x830 View (248) 940-3285 x830
Photo of Adrienne Fragatos, MA, LPC, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Adrienne Fragatos
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Walled Lake, MI 48390
In my personal and professional experience, I have seen therapy change lives. I recommend therapy for anyone, even those not in crisis. My practice is person-centered. I believe therapy is a conversation, and comfortability with your therapist is key. In my previous career as a television producer, I had to rely heavily on my communication skills, which feed directly into what I am doing now with my clients. Communication and understanding are the backbone of my therapy practice. I do individual sessions with kids, pre-teens, adolescents, adults, and work with families, and couples.
In my personal and professional experience, I have seen therapy change lives. I recommend therapy for anyone, even those not in crisis. My practice is person-centered. I believe therapy is a conversation, and comfortability with your therapist is key. In my previous career as a television producer, I had to rely heavily on my communication skills, which feed directly into what I am doing now with my clients. Communication and understanding are the backbone of my therapy practice. I do individual sessions with kids, pre-teens, adolescents, adults, and work with families, and couples.
(248) 817-4542 View (248) 817-4542
Photo of Sarah K Redwood, NCC, LPC, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah K Redwood
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
Walled Lake, MI 48390
Waitlist for new clients
Having difficulties in life is something that we will all face and asking for help can be incredibly difficult. As a counselor I work to provide a judgement free comfortable environment to my clients in hopes that we can work together to address and overcome their difficulties and concerns.
Having difficulties in life is something that we will all face and asking for help can be incredibly difficult. As a counselor I work to provide a judgement free comfortable environment to my clients in hopes that we can work together to address and overcome their difficulties and concerns.
(248) 266-1144 View (248) 266-1144
Photo of Sherry DeGrazia, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sherry DeGrazia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Walled Lake, MI 48390
We start therapy due to situational stressors or an ongoing stressor, such as mood disorders, anxiety or depression. I have been providing guidance, coaching and understanding for over 9 years. Our brains as well as our bodies are complicated yet amazing! To maintain mind, body and spiritual balance is difficult, but not impossible, As a therapist, I have experience working with adults, teens, and children. I specialize in working with individuals with Trauma, anxiety, depression and ADHD. My role, as a therapist is to support each client in learning how to listen and properly respond to their mind/bodies on a daily basis.
We start therapy due to situational stressors or an ongoing stressor, such as mood disorders, anxiety or depression. I have been providing guidance, coaching and understanding for over 9 years. Our brains as well as our bodies are complicated yet amazing! To maintain mind, body and spiritual balance is difficult, but not impossible, As a therapist, I have experience working with adults, teens, and children. I specialize in working with individuals with Trauma, anxiety, depression and ADHD. My role, as a therapist is to support each client in learning how to listen and properly respond to their mind/bodies on a daily basis.
(248) 669-9500 x714 View (248) 669-9500 x714

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Samantha Hughes, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Hughes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Novi, MI 48374
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.
(734) 865-2766 View (734) 865-2766
Photo of Hasti Raveau, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Hasti Raveau
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Farmington Hills, MI 48331
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, somatic therapy, mindfulness, emotion focused couples/family 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 neurodiversity, trauma, anxiety/OCD, parenting, ethnic minorities, and family level challenges. She helps clients end intergenerational cycles of trauma, form safe relationships, embrace their neurodiversity and cultural background, and build authentic lives filled with a sense of belonging and inner peace. Dr. Raveau embraces working with individuals and families who identify with a range of ethnicities, religions, sexual orientations, and gender identities. To learn more, visit www.malafamily.org.
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, somatic therapy, mindfulness, emotion focused couples/family 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 neurodiversity, trauma, anxiety/OCD, parenting, ethnic minorities, and family level challenges. She helps clients end intergenerational cycles of trauma, form safe relationships, embrace their neurodiversity and cultural background, and build authentic lives filled with a sense of belonging and inner peace. Dr. Raveau embraces working with individuals and families who identify with a range of ethnicities, religions, sexual orientations, and gender identities. To learn more, visit www.malafamily.org.
(734) 245-2279 View (734) 245-2279
Photo of Kaitlyn Smith, MA, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Kaitlyn Smith
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
White Lake, MI 48383
Waitlist for new clients
My approach integrates Humanistic Psychology with techniques from CBT, mindfulness, and play therapy tailored to your needs.
Prioritizing our well-being can be one of life’s greatest challenges. Acknowledging our struggles and seeking support can lead to significant rewards. As a compassionate therapist, I am dedicated to helping you achieve your individual goals in a way that resonates best with you. Central to our therapeutic journey is a foundation of respect and trust, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment where your voice is heard and valued.
My approach integrates Humanistic Psychology with techniques from CBT, mindfulness, and play therapy tailored to your needs.
Prioritizing our well-being can be one of life’s greatest challenges. Acknowledging our struggles and seeking support can lead to significant rewards. As a compassionate therapist, I am dedicated to helping you achieve your individual goals in a way that resonates best with you. Central to our therapeutic journey is a foundation of respect and trust, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment where your voice is heard and valued.
(810) 931-2273 View (810) 931-2273
Photo of Diana R Jennings, MS, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Diana R Jennings
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MS, LLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Novi, MI 48375
Along with CBT, I incorporate play therapy, sandtray therapy and art therapy techniques.
I provide individual counseling for children, adolescents and adults in an outpatient setting. I utilize evidence-based practices with an emphasis on Cognitive Behavior Therapy and a Client-Centered Approach.
Along with CBT, I incorporate play therapy, sandtray therapy and art therapy techniques.
I provide individual counseling for children, adolescents and adults in an outpatient setting. I utilize evidence-based practices with an emphasis on Cognitive Behavior Therapy and a Client-Centered Approach.
(248) 309-8058 View (248) 309-8058
Photo of Katie Holden Sheffler, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Holden Sheffler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Milford, MI 48381
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!
(248) 256-5838 View (248) 256-5838
Photo of Linnea Sieh, MA, LPC, Counselor
Linnea Sieh
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West Bloomfield, MI 48322
Waitlist for new clients
I currently have space in the Pre-Teen and Teen Therapeutic Tabletop Role Play groups at Lillybrook.
It can be challenging to address your mental health concerns alone. As your counselor, I woud be honored to work together with you, or your child/teen, in a collaborative effort to discover new ways to cope with stressors and improve the quality of life. I utilize creative strength and interest based interventions to ensure an affirming and welcoming environment for clients from ages 4 and up- both neurodiverse and neurotypical. My counseling style is non-judgemental and is flexible to better respond to individual client needs. I also offer Supervision for Michigan LLC clinicians who are seeking full licensure.
I currently have space in the Pre-Teen and Teen Therapeutic Tabletop Role Play groups at Lillybrook.
It can be challenging to address your mental health concerns alone. As your counselor, I woud be honored to work together with you, or your child/teen, in a collaborative effort to discover new ways to cope with stressors and improve the quality of life. I utilize creative strength and interest based interventions to ensure an affirming and welcoming environment for clients from ages 4 and up- both neurodiverse and neurotypical. My counseling style is non-judgemental and is flexible to better respond to individual client needs. I also offer Supervision for Michigan LLC clinicians who are seeking full licensure.
(248) 846-0345 View (248) 846-0345
Photo of Jamie DeKraker, LMSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jamie DeKraker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Bloomfield, MI 48322
Does your child struggle with overwhelming emotions and challenging behaviors? Do you feel lost as a parent on how to best support your child, as well as yourself? I specialize in providing trauma-informed, compassionate care to develop effective coping skills for growing children and parents to manage life’s challenges and increase the joy of childhood. Utilizing play therapy and trauma treatment techniques along with advanced perinatal training, you and your child can expect caring encouragement and patience grounded in clinical expertise.
Does your child struggle with overwhelming emotions and challenging behaviors? Do you feel lost as a parent on how to best support your child, as well as yourself? I specialize in providing trauma-informed, compassionate care to develop effective coping skills for growing children and parents to manage life’s challenges and increase the joy of childhood. Utilizing play therapy and trauma treatment techniques along with advanced perinatal training, you and your child can expect caring encouragement and patience grounded in clinical expertise.
(248) 653-5038 View (248) 653-5038
Photo of Farah Qureshi, MA, TLLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Farah Qureshi
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, TLLP
Verified Verified
Novi, MI 48375
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!
(734) 323-4897 View (734) 323-4897
Photo of Laura Hutchison - Dr. Laura Hutchison & Associates, PsyD, LP, RPTS, Psychologist
Dr. Laura Hutchison & Associates
Psychologist, PsyD, LP, RPTS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Farmington Hills, MI 48334
Our main office is conveniently located at the northwest corner of Orchard Lake Rd and 11 Mile in Farmington Hills, with satellite offices in South Lyon, Fenton, Plymouth & Ann Arbor. Being a fully licensed psychologist and Registered Play Therapist Supervisor (RPT/S), I also offer supervision and training for clinicians. My associates add even wider range of clinical experience to the practice, including attachment issues, behavior problems, mood disorders, testing/assessments, and concerns of the LBGTQ community. We offer HIPPA compliant TeleHealth therapy services, as well as in-person sessions.
Our main office is conveniently located at the northwest corner of Orchard Lake Rd and 11 Mile in Farmington Hills, with satellite offices in South Lyon, Fenton, Plymouth & Ann Arbor. Being a fully licensed psychologist and Registered Play Therapist Supervisor (RPT/S), I also offer supervision and training for clinicians. My associates add even wider range of clinical experience to the practice, including attachment issues, behavior problems, mood disorders, testing/assessments, and concerns of the LBGTQ community. We offer HIPPA compliant TeleHealth therapy services, as well as in-person sessions.
(248) 283-3447 View (248) 283-3447
Photo of Hasti A Raveau - Mala Child & Family Institute, PhD, Psychologist
Mala Child & Family Institute
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Farmington Hills, MI 48331
We offer play therapy to children as young as two, individual and group therapy to teens, family and couples therapy, parent coaching, individual therapy for parents and grandparents, biofeedback training, executive function coaching, yoga, and comprehensive psychological testing.
We are dedicated to supporting children, couples, and families. We are built on the principle that every family, no matter their background or presenting issues, deserves a compassionate, caring, and resourceful village to help them repair, grow, and thrive. We work hard to make sure that families have access to high quality, evidence-based, holistic mental health care. And the best part is that we tailor every service to each client's unique needs so they can experience the best possible. We use a team approach and work closely with parents and extended family, schools, and other medical professionals to provide clients the best ca
We offer play therapy to children as young as two, individual and group therapy to teens, family and couples therapy, parent coaching, individual therapy for parents and grandparents, biofeedback training, executive function coaching, yoga, and comprehensive psychological testing.
We are dedicated to supporting children, couples, and families. We are built on the principle that every family, no matter their background or presenting issues, deserves a compassionate, caring, and resourceful village to help them repair, grow, and thrive. We work hard to make sure that families have access to high quality, evidence-based, holistic mental health care. And the best part is that we tailor every service to each client's unique needs so they can experience the best possible. We use a team approach and work closely with parents and extended family, schools, and other medical professionals to provide clients the best ca
(734) 219-0541 View (734) 219-0541
Photo of Robyn E. Gothelf, LMSW , MEd, IMH EII, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robyn E. Gothelf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW , MEd, IMH EII
Verified Verified
Farmington, MI 48335
I use Play Therapy with young children; and pre teens who find it hard to discuss feelings; Psychotherapy with Adolescents; Psycho Education and Behavioral Consultation with Parents.
Is your child or Family in crisis? Divorce and joint custody? Separation Anxiety? Lack of emotional regulation? Need help understanding your child? Issues in school with socialization or academics? At every Developmental Stage the issues and concerns are different. Let me help interpret your child's behavior using Feeling Identification and Reflection Meaning so we can help them understand who they are. Let's work together so when the child uses Social Referencing he/she sees a parent that understands them and feels good about the world they live in. Your communication will improve and at that point so will your relationship.
I use Play Therapy with young children; and pre teens who find it hard to discuss feelings; Psychotherapy with Adolescents; Psycho Education and Behavioral Consultation with Parents.
Is your child or Family in crisis? Divorce and joint custody? Separation Anxiety? Lack of emotional regulation? Need help understanding your child? Issues in school with socialization or academics? At every Developmental Stage the issues and concerns are different. Let me help interpret your child's behavior using Feeling Identification and Reflection Meaning so we can help them understand who they are. Let's work together so when the child uses Social Referencing he/she sees a parent that understands them and feels good about the world they live in. Your communication will improve and at that point so will your relationship.
(248) 218-9376 View (248) 218-9376
Megan E Branstetter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302
I am dedicated to working with children, adolescents, young adults and their families. My specialize in working with those who are experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, loss, and trauma. I also work with young people diagnosed with Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder, ADHD and behavioral disorders. In my work I am creative and person centered. I believe that when working with children and youth, effective engagement is critical; therefore my work includes play therapy, game play and hands on activities to help children express their feelings and identify healthy coping strategies. I also provide support and education to parents to help meet their child's needs.
I am dedicated to working with children, adolescents, young adults and their families. My specialize in working with those who are experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, loss, and trauma. I also work with young people diagnosed with Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder, ADHD and behavioral disorders. In my work I am creative and person centered. I believe that when working with children and youth, effective engagement is critical; therefore my work includes play therapy, game play and hands on activities to help children express their feelings and identify healthy coping strategies. I also provide support and education to parents to help meet their child's needs.
(248) 731-5914 x22 View (248) 731-5914 x22
Photo of Lori Rashty, MA, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Lori Rashty
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West Bloomfield, MI 48322
Using cognitive behavior therapy, play therapy and EMDR my clients go on to live full and happy lives.
Are you concerned about the well-being of your child, adolescent, or even yourself? Do you wish to provide your loved ones with the support and care they deserve? With extensive experience spanning from 7-year-olds to adults, I specialize in treating anxiety, ADHD, depression, trauma, parenting challenges, and fostering social skills. My primary objective is to empower children, teens, and adults to achieve their utmost potential within a nurturing and compassionate atmosphere.
Using cognitive behavior therapy, play therapy and EMDR my clients go on to live full and happy lives.
Are you concerned about the well-being of your child, adolescent, or even yourself? Do you wish to provide your loved ones with the support and care they deserve? With extensive experience spanning from 7-year-olds to adults, I specialize in treating anxiety, ADHD, depression, trauma, parenting challenges, and fostering social skills. My primary objective is to empower children, teens, and adults to achieve their utmost potential within a nurturing and compassionate atmosphere.
(248) 923-4693 View (248) 923-4693
Photo of Naomi Schwartz, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Naomi Schwartz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
West Bloomfield, MI 48322
I specialize in working with children and families navigating emotion regulation challenges, anxiety, depression, grief and loss and trauma. I am a Certified Trauma and Resilience Clinician through Starr Commonwealth. My approach is always client centered and based on relationships and connection, as connection is imperative to feeling safe and shifting to the space where growth happens! I am passionate about providing treatment based in relational neuroscience to children, adolescents and their families. I utilize a variety of techniques, including CBT, Solution Focused Therapy, Play Therapy and group therapy.
I specialize in working with children and families navigating emotion regulation challenges, anxiety, depression, grief and loss and trauma. I am a Certified Trauma and Resilience Clinician through Starr Commonwealth. My approach is always client centered and based on relationships and connection, as connection is imperative to feeling safe and shifting to the space where growth happens! I am passionate about providing treatment based in relational neuroscience to children, adolescents and their families. I utilize a variety of techniques, including CBT, Solution Focused Therapy, Play Therapy and group therapy.
(248) 963-6258 View (248) 963-6258
Photo of Makenzie Thomson, MA, LLPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Makenzie Thomson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
Milford, MI 48381
I utilize therapy approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral, Art, and Play Therapy to help aid the therapy process.
I believe that we as people were created for growth and for connection. There is health and healing for those who want to work through trauma and loss. I seek to support you as you discover and build on the strengths you already have. I provide a warm, judgment-free environment for my clients to process, problem-solve, and partake in a collaborative effort toward the wellness of self.
I utilize therapy approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral, Art, and Play Therapy to help aid the therapy process.
I believe that we as people were created for growth and for connection. There is health and healing for those who want to work through trauma and loss. I seek to support you as you discover and build on the strengths you already have. I provide a warm, judgment-free environment for my clients to process, problem-solve, and partake in a collaborative effort toward the wellness of self.
(947) 217-6116 View (947) 217-6116
Photo of Brooklynn Wilton, BSW, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brooklynn Wilton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Farmington Hills, MI 48331
Hi there! Seeking out therapy is not always easy, but I am glad you're here! I provide therapy for all individuals, and would love to help you! Before you make your decision, let me tell you a bit about my practice. I offer both virtual and in-person visits. I stay in the office late 2 days a week to accommodate for work & school schedules. I have an office full of toys for children, and a comfortable sofa for those who are less interested in play. I tailor my care to each individuals needs, and make it my mission to provide a safe & comfortable space.
Hi there! Seeking out therapy is not always easy, but I am glad you're here! I provide therapy for all individuals, and would love to help you! Before you make your decision, let me tell you a bit about my practice. I offer both virtual and in-person visits. I stay in the office late 2 days a week to accommodate for work & school schedules. I have an office full of toys for children, and a comfortable sofa for those who are less interested in play. I tailor my care to each individuals needs, and make it my mission to provide a safe & comfortable space.
(248) 900-0893 View (248) 900-0893

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.