Play Therapy in Williamston, MI
![Photo of Elizabeth Sawyer Danowski, LMSW, ACSW, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c213de1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth Sawyer Danowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Williamston, MI 48895
Are you frustrated with the chaos, but don't know how to change it? Does your child need help? Is your family stuck in a rut? Are your kids hurting inside or struggling with life's challenges? I offer specialized therapy services to children and families, combining traditional talk therapy with the latest developments in play therapy. Because play is one of the fundamental building blocks of all communication; it works, even with very young children.
Are you frustrated with the chaos, but don't know how to change it? Does your child need help? Is your family stuck in a rut? Are your kids hurting inside or struggling with life's challenges? I offer specialized therapy services to children and families, combining traditional talk therapy with the latest developments in play therapy. Because play is one of the fundamental building blocks of all communication; it works, even with very young children.
![Photo of Elisabeth J Smith, MA, Limited Licensed Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/74363eca-33a3-42cd-abbf-a87e9a347c8e/1/320x400.jpeg)
She utilizes a number of techniques including mindfulness, mind-body integration, relaxation skills, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and Play Therapy.
Elisabeth specializes in the assessment and treatment of children and adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder, learning disabilities, anxiety, depression, behavior and impulse management, and ADHD. She conducts psychological and neuropsychological evaluations of children, adolescents, teens, adults, and elderly clients, and works with Jackson County guardian ad litem attorneys for cases regarding guardianship, conservatorship, and competency. Elisabeth also works extensively with adults with severe anxiety, depression, ADHD and a number of other diagnoses.
She utilizes a number of techniques including mindfulness, mind-body integration, relaxation skills, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and Play Therapy.
Elisabeth specializes in the assessment and treatment of children and adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder, learning disabilities, anxiety, depression, behavior and impulse management, and ADHD. She conducts psychological and neuropsychological evaluations of children, adolescents, teens, adults, and elderly clients, and works with Jackson County guardian ad litem attorneys for cases regarding guardianship, conservatorship, and competency. Elisabeth also works extensively with adults with severe anxiety, depression, ADHD and a number of other diagnoses.
![Photo of Melinda Lee - Ennis Counseling Center, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0e68eaf-1b2d-44ea-96c7-e169494f0062/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ennis Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Williamston, MI 48895
My ideal client seeks support navigating life transitions or trauma, such as those involved in foster care, adoption, or the military. They grapple with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or adjustment issues. Their needs revolve around feeling heard, validated, and equipped with tools to cope and thrive. Their goal is to reclaim control, process experiences, and find resilience. They seek healing, understanding, and empowerment to lead fulfilling lives.
My ideal client seeks support navigating life transitions or trauma, such as those involved in foster care, adoption, or the military. They grapple with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or adjustment issues. Their needs revolve around feeling heard, validated, and equipped with tools to cope and thrive. Their goal is to reclaim control, process experiences, and find resilience. They seek healing, understanding, and empowerment to lead fulfilling lives.
![Photo of Jennifer Harper, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2db28e34-a96d-49dd-a35c-a8c0667d6a6e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Life can feel stressful and overwhelming at times. We might struggle with everyday stressors like work and family obligations. We might face mental health concerns like depression and anxiety. Sometimes, our past, family of origin issues, or trauma catch up with us. Life's complexities can leave us feeling overwhelmed and stressed. Daily stressors such as work and family obligations can weigh heavily on our minds. Sometimes, the burdens of our past, family of origin issues, or traumatic experiences come knocking at our door. Therapy offers a beacon of hope in navigating these challenges.
Life can feel stressful and overwhelming at times. We might struggle with everyday stressors like work and family obligations. We might face mental health concerns like depression and anxiety. Sometimes, our past, family of origin issues, or trauma catch up with us. Life's complexities can leave us feeling overwhelmed and stressed. Daily stressors such as work and family obligations can weigh heavily on our minds. Sometimes, the burdens of our past, family of origin issues, or traumatic experiences come knocking at our door. Therapy offers a beacon of hope in navigating these challenges.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Shana Bombrys, LMSW, ADS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/527c645e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Shana Bombrys
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ADS
Verified Verified
Okemos, MI 48864
Waitlist for new clients
Clinical social worker as well as a certified alcohol and drug counselor. Extensive training surrounding trauma and the impact trauma has on our lives. I have worked with people from a variety of backgrounds and experiences. Drawing from my work with Refugees to my work with people struggling with addiction issues.Strengths based and client centered approach. I work with children utilizing child centered play therapy. I have over six years of training in Sandtray World play technique. Trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma Focused CBT (TF-CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Theraplay.
Clinical social worker as well as a certified alcohol and drug counselor. Extensive training surrounding trauma and the impact trauma has on our lives. I have worked with people from a variety of backgrounds and experiences. Drawing from my work with Refugees to my work with people struggling with addiction issues.Strengths based and client centered approach. I work with children utilizing child centered play therapy. I have over six years of training in Sandtray World play technique. Trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma Focused CBT (TF-CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Theraplay.
![Photo of Kat Fraus, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e89a64b6-cbbb-4d99-baa7-5df630bfe212/1/320x400.jpeg)
Finding the right therapist for you or your child can feel like a challenge. As someone who is passionate about working with children, teens, and young adults, I strive to make therapy an experience that is both approachable and engaging for everyone. Through a warm and non-judgmental approach, I create a safe space for open expression and exploration, empowering you and your child to take an active role in the healing journey. I believe that therapy is not a "one-size-fits-all" process, which is why I bring creativity into our sessions, such as art, movement, and play to encourage self-expression and build on your strengths.
Finding the right therapist for you or your child can feel like a challenge. As someone who is passionate about working with children, teens, and young adults, I strive to make therapy an experience that is both approachable and engaging for everyone. Through a warm and non-judgmental approach, I create a safe space for open expression and exploration, empowering you and your child to take an active role in the healing journey. I believe that therapy is not a "one-size-fits-all" process, which is why I bring creativity into our sessions, such as art, movement, and play to encourage self-expression and build on your strengths.
![Photo of Domenica Dalla-Vecchia, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c89ca92a-1d9e-4c3c-b728-c716bab3e8dd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Domenica Dalla-Vecchia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Okemos, MI 48864
She has additional training in play therapy and animal assisted therapy.
Domenica practices as a Limited License Master of Social Work (LLMSW) and specializes in working with children and adolescents. Domenica works to create a collaborative, strengths-based space for her clients. She practices from a trauma informed lens and strives to empower every client to write the narrative of their healing journey.
She has additional training in play therapy and animal assisted therapy.
Domenica practices as a Limited License Master of Social Work (LLMSW) and specializes in working with children and adolescents. Domenica works to create a collaborative, strengths-based space for her clients. She practices from a trauma informed lens and strives to empower every client to write the narrative of their healing journey.
![Photo of J Robin Bell, LMSW-C, LCSW, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52368c17-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
J Robin Bell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Okemos, MI 48864
I work with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of mental health needs. I have a special interest in treating trauma and loss as well as religious trauma and deconstruction. I am a relational therapist using an integrative approach, drawing on the strategies that best fit the person I am working with. Parts work, play therapy, sandtray and art therapy-informed techniques are mediums that I use in addition to traditional therapy techniques. Above all, the success of therapy depends on the relationship between client and therapist. I aim to cater to the individual needs of those I work with and what they respond to best.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of mental health needs. I have a special interest in treating trauma and loss as well as religious trauma and deconstruction. I am a relational therapist using an integrative approach, drawing on the strategies that best fit the person I am working with. Parts work, play therapy, sandtray and art therapy-informed techniques are mediums that I use in addition to traditional therapy techniques. Above all, the success of therapy depends on the relationship between client and therapist. I aim to cater to the individual needs of those I work with and what they respond to best.
![Photo of Rebekah Cottrell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7e3a43e9-d2c6-4023-8b62-ba4404ccea01/2/320x400.jpeg)
I utilize a collaborative approach to play therapy, building meaningful relationships with youth & their families & using numerous activities, such as arts & crafts, coloring & journaling.
Hello! I have over 15 years of experience working: with youth & adults of varying ages, races, cultures & gender identities; with emotionally & behaviorally challenged youth & adults, youth in the foster care system & domestic violence survivors & their children; with youth & adults of diverse backgrounds in various settings including school, foster care, religious & clinical settings; in peer mediation & justice resolution, helping others find common ground so they can work together or build their relationship; with LGBTQIA+ youth. I provide a trauma-informed space, as well as an LGBTQIA+ & gender-affirming environment.
I utilize a collaborative approach to play therapy, building meaningful relationships with youth & their families & using numerous activities, such as arts & crafts, coloring & journaling.
Hello! I have over 15 years of experience working: with youth & adults of varying ages, races, cultures & gender identities; with emotionally & behaviorally challenged youth & adults, youth in the foster care system & domestic violence survivors & their children; with youth & adults of diverse backgrounds in various settings including school, foster care, religious & clinical settings; in peer mediation & justice resolution, helping others find common ground so they can work together or build their relationship; with LGBTQIA+ youth. I provide a trauma-informed space, as well as an LGBTQIA+ & gender-affirming environment.
![Photo of Allison Dennis, LMSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3998cc92-6a4f-4c98-8981-0cc9f665079e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Allison Dennis is a Licensed Master Social Worker. She works with children and adolescents age 7-18 and young adults up to about age 25. She uses a client-centered and strength-based approach to meet clients where they are at and help them reach their goals. Allison specializes in depression, mood disorders, anxiety, adjustment to life changes, parenting, peer/relationship struggles, and family conflict. She has been trained in Dialectal Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Play Therapy.
Allison Dennis is a Licensed Master Social Worker. She works with children and adolescents age 7-18 and young adults up to about age 25. She uses a client-centered and strength-based approach to meet clients where they are at and help them reach their goals. Allison specializes in depression, mood disorders, anxiety, adjustment to life changes, parenting, peer/relationship struggles, and family conflict. She has been trained in Dialectal Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Play Therapy.
![Photo of Teddy Jay, MSW, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/907dc7c0-e9ea-418d-b855-8e49a0e73a3b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Teddy Jay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Lansing, MI 48823
Waitlist for new clients
I also have training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), group therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and play therapy.
My name is Teddy and I'm an individual therapist who loves working with kids, teens, and adults. I'm LGBTQIA+ aligned and allied. I work with a diverse set of clients coming from all walks of life. Some of my areas of interest include LBTQ teens and young adults, anxiety, depression, trauma, smoking cessation, foster/adoptive families, religious trauma, and financial health. I enjoy working with both adults and kids so please reach out and let me know how I may help you or your family. Unfortunately I'm full at this time! However, please feel free to reach out as I may have openings in the next few months.
I also have training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), group therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and play therapy.
My name is Teddy and I'm an individual therapist who loves working with kids, teens, and adults. I'm LGBTQIA+ aligned and allied. I work with a diverse set of clients coming from all walks of life. Some of my areas of interest include LBTQ teens and young adults, anxiety, depression, trauma, smoking cessation, foster/adoptive families, religious trauma, and financial health. I enjoy working with both adults and kids so please reach out and let me know how I may help you or your family. Unfortunately I'm full at this time! However, please feel free to reach out as I may have openings in the next few months.
![Photo of Jason R Mott, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b562e74-6437-4624-8760-909fab6d21d5/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am certified in Mindfulness activities, Motivational Interviewing, Emotion Focused, and Gottman Method Couples Therapy, and have experience with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Art and Music Therapy, and Play Therapy.
I provide an environment of safety, cooperation, and compassion to guide you in finding hope and facing difficulty within your life. I believe we all have an ability to improve ourselves. I specialize in working with middle aged and older adults, but also help youth and adolescents. Physical and emotional crises impact how we feel, think, and treat ourselves and others, which also affects relationships. My goal is to help people accept, appreciate, and value themselves in addition to discovering hope, purpose, worth, direction, and joy in their lives. I believe in the uniqueness of the individual and our ability to improve.
I am certified in Mindfulness activities, Motivational Interviewing, Emotion Focused, and Gottman Method Couples Therapy, and have experience with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Art and Music Therapy, and Play Therapy.
I provide an environment of safety, cooperation, and compassion to guide you in finding hope and facing difficulty within your life. I believe we all have an ability to improve ourselves. I specialize in working with middle aged and older adults, but also help youth and adolescents. Physical and emotional crises impact how we feel, think, and treat ourselves and others, which also affects relationships. My goal is to help people accept, appreciate, and value themselves in addition to discovering hope, purpose, worth, direction, and joy in their lives. I believe in the uniqueness of the individual and our ability to improve.
![Photo of Debra Powell, MS, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44b82f85-85e7-41bb-b712-482a764a1464/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a trauma-informed therapist and I utilize a number of different approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, play therapy, solution focused therapy and motivational interviewing.
Life can be really challenging under the best of circumstances, sometimes we can get stuck and need some help to move forward or to get back on track. Maybe its to find peace when times are difficult. Your needs will guide how we work together and I strive to create a safe and supportive environment. I want to work with people to help them to realize their own therapeutic goals, identify their own strengths and overcome the barriers that will help them to move forward.
I am a trauma-informed therapist and I utilize a number of different approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, play therapy, solution focused therapy and motivational interviewing.
Life can be really challenging under the best of circumstances, sometimes we can get stuck and need some help to move forward or to get back on track. Maybe its to find peace when times are difficult. Your needs will guide how we work together and I strive to create a safe and supportive environment. I want to work with people to help them to realize their own therapeutic goals, identify their own strengths and overcome the barriers that will help them to move forward.
![Photo of Rebecca Starr, LMSW, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a0c0dbe9-cf44-47d1-a313-f21b7dde55e5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Starr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Okemos, MI 48864
If your child would benefit from treatment methods tailored for their specific developmental level and believe your child would respond to play therapy, then I may be a good fit.
Children face challenges in life, just like adults do, but many children struggle with knowing how to navigate these challenges. As a parent you may feel like you have tried everything that you know to help your child but they continue to struggle. I am a highly experienced mental health professional that can help your child develop self-awareness that will give them insight into their own strengths to navigate these emotional and behavioral challenges. I can also assist you and your child in creating meaningful shifts in your relationship that support this growth.
If your child would benefit from treatment methods tailored for their specific developmental level and believe your child would respond to play therapy, then I may be a good fit.
Children face challenges in life, just like adults do, but many children struggle with knowing how to navigate these challenges. As a parent you may feel like you have tried everything that you know to help your child but they continue to struggle. I am a highly experienced mental health professional that can help your child develop self-awareness that will give them insight into their own strengths to navigate these emotional and behavioral challenges. I can also assist you and your child in creating meaningful shifts in your relationship that support this growth.
![Photo of Laura Darnell, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/988ddd0a-a49f-42b4-b5b2-baf0b382079e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Darnell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
East Lansing, MI 48824
Welcome to a space where empathy, authenticity, and a sprinkle of humor meet warmth and understanding. Picture your favorite cozy sweater combined with a good laugh over coffee – that's the vibe here. Life throws all sorts of curveballs, from anxiety to family dynamics and past traumas. But guess what? You don't have to navigate it alone. Whether you're an adult feeling overwhelmed by the chaos of adulthood or a teen trying to make sense of a world that seems too big, I'm here to help. I'm passionate about working with anxiety, perfectionism, family conflicts, and the LGBTQ+ community.
Welcome to a space where empathy, authenticity, and a sprinkle of humor meet warmth and understanding. Picture your favorite cozy sweater combined with a good laugh over coffee – that's the vibe here. Life throws all sorts of curveballs, from anxiety to family dynamics and past traumas. But guess what? You don't have to navigate it alone. Whether you're an adult feeling overwhelmed by the chaos of adulthood or a teen trying to make sense of a world that seems too big, I'm here to help. I'm passionate about working with anxiety, perfectionism, family conflicts, and the LGBTQ+ community.
![Photo of Hilary Langin, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/955b53a8-81a5-43b9-9490-89cc6913b3ec/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hilary Langin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Lansing, MI 48823
Waitlist for new clients
As a dedicated grief therapist, my primary focus lies in offering support and guidance to individuals grappling with the profound impact of chronic illness, depression, anxiety, trauma, and loss. My practice is open to individuals across all age groups, acknowledging that grief and its accompanying challenges do not discriminate by age. My core objective is to assist my clients in navigating the significant changes and upheavals in their lives brought on by their unique circumstances. I firmly believe in the power of a strengths-based perspective to foster resilience and healing.
As a dedicated grief therapist, my primary focus lies in offering support and guidance to individuals grappling with the profound impact of chronic illness, depression, anxiety, trauma, and loss. My practice is open to individuals across all age groups, acknowledging that grief and its accompanying challenges do not discriminate by age. My core objective is to assist my clients in navigating the significant changes and upheavals in their lives brought on by their unique circumstances. I firmly believe in the power of a strengths-based perspective to foster resilience and healing.
![Photo of Caitlyn VanArman, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87688cc6-f31f-4417-9fc1-e0d8ab600d98/1/320x400.jpeg)
Caitlyn VanArman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Lansing, MI 48823
Hello, and welcome. I believe one of the most important aspects of therapy is prioritizing a collaborative, compassionate, and safe environment. I like to take a client-centered approach, making sure you are in charge of your goals but supporting you as you work to achieve them. Everyone has unique experiences and needs that I believe should be considered when it comes to therapy. I have a background in child welfare and development but have worked in a variety of settings.
Hello, and welcome. I believe one of the most important aspects of therapy is prioritizing a collaborative, compassionate, and safe environment. I like to take a client-centered approach, making sure you are in charge of your goals but supporting you as you work to achieve them. Everyone has unique experiences and needs that I believe should be considered when it comes to therapy. I have a background in child welfare and development but have worked in a variety of settings.
![Photo of Sheila (Henderson) Bender, LMSW, IMH-E, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ffb70b4-2b2a-4c0e-9ce3-a2f78edb19bd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sheila (Henderson) Bender
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, IMH-E
Verified Verified
Okemos, MI 48864
Are you are dealing with a life transition (birth of baby, postpartum depression, parenting issues, divorce, grief/loss), struggling with anxiety/depression or dealing with boundary issues? Sometimes getting to the next chapter can seem ominous when pain is intense. Transformation is possible…I truly believe it! I have also experienced such as a cancer survivor and more. There is hope, a ‘second chance’ and restoration for you. I have worked as a therapist over 25 years with various situations.
Are you are dealing with a life transition (birth of baby, postpartum depression, parenting issues, divorce, grief/loss), struggling with anxiety/depression or dealing with boundary issues? Sometimes getting to the next chapter can seem ominous when pain is intense. Transformation is possible…I truly believe it! I have also experienced such as a cancer survivor and more. There is hope, a ‘second chance’ and restoration for you. I have worked as a therapist over 25 years with various situations.
![Photo of Danielle Germaine, LPC, MA, QMHP, CMHP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3163f85a-da9c-4983-b08a-f4c2f963d277/1/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Germaine
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, QMHP, CMHP
Verified Verified
Okemos, MI 48864 (Online Only)
I take pride in bringing healing to people who have been through trauma/stressful experiences and those who are struggling with day to day life transitions and concerns. My job is to help my clients who include adults, children and families to find healthy perceptions of themselves, different coping skills and a new found strength within themselves to take on the world and thrive. I work with each client to create individual goals that best suit you to help you achieve your desired outcome.
I take pride in bringing healing to people who have been through trauma/stressful experiences and those who are struggling with day to day life transitions and concerns. My job is to help my clients who include adults, children and families to find healthy perceptions of themselves, different coping skills and a new found strength within themselves to take on the world and thrive. I work with each client to create individual goals that best suit you to help you achieve your desired outcome.
![Photo of Ashley Nicole Hampton, LLPC, NBCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46cc6e5f-2bc6-4a12-8d34-a39e05ca73d1/1/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal client would want to express and identify tough emotions and learn to communicate those emotions and their needs to the people around them. My client would work to be empowered with tools to listen to their body, and regulate their minds to be clear to make good choices and use the skills that they have inside of them. My client would want to work to understand that they and the people around them are human and humans are not perfect. While I specialize in children and young people, anyone who needs help is welcome with me.
My ideal client would want to express and identify tough emotions and learn to communicate those emotions and their needs to the people around them. My client would work to be empowered with tools to listen to their body, and regulate their minds to be clear to make good choices and use the skills that they have inside of them. My client would want to work to understand that they and the people around them are human and humans are not perfect. While I specialize in children and young people, anyone who needs help is welcome with me.
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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.