Play Therapy in Wyoming, MI

Photo of Lisa Williams Bratsburg, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Williams Bratsburg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Wyoming, MI 49519
I am a fully licensed Clinical Social Worker and I most often go by "Miss Lisa." For over 15 years I have supported children across residential, school and outpatient therapy settings. I have training in a variety of psychotherapy approaches including Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP) and complimentary therapeutic play strategies with an interoception focus.
I am a fully licensed Clinical Social Worker and I most often go by "Miss Lisa." For over 15 years I have supported children across residential, school and outpatient therapy settings. I have training in a variety of psychotherapy approaches including Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP) and complimentary therapeutic play strategies with an interoception focus.
View
Photo of Amy Brace, LMSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Brace
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wyoming, MI 49519
My specialty often involves working with young children utilizing play therapy techniques to help them express themselves.
Amy is a Licensed Master’s Social Worker, Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor, Certified Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, and Certified EAGALA Professional. Since 1994, Amy has been working with children, teens, adults and families. She has provided direct clinical services, supervision, instruction, and program development locally, nationally and internationally. Amy has a passion for working with children, particularly young children with histories of complex trauma. Her intention is to partner with individuals to experience hope in their lives within a safe and compassionate environment.
My specialty often involves working with young children utilizing play therapy techniques to help them express themselves.
Amy is a Licensed Master’s Social Worker, Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor, Certified Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, and Certified EAGALA Professional. Since 1994, Amy has been working with children, teens, adults and families. She has provided direct clinical services, supervision, instruction, and program development locally, nationally and internationally. Amy has a passion for working with children, particularly young children with histories of complex trauma. Her intention is to partner with individuals to experience hope in their lives within a safe and compassionate environment.
(616) 378-6478 x112 View (616) 378-6478 x112
Photo of Kristen Barry, LMSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen Barry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Wyoming, MI 49418
My therapeutic approach has a foundation in building a healthy relationship that is grounded in the values of safety and respect while mindfully applying principles from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Strength-Based Therapy, Interpersonal Neurobiology, and using play in order to promote positive, empowering change.
I have developed specialized clinical skills through experiences working with individuals and families with early childhood to adolescent difficulties. I have helped families obtain better balance while struggling with distressing symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, social/peer issues, difficulty at school, behavior problems, ADHD, and developmental delays. I have competency in understanding youth and their families’ individualistic relational challenges with separation, divorce, and co-parenting. I help youth, and their families, in developing skills and tools to increase the likelihood of success.
My therapeutic approach has a foundation in building a healthy relationship that is grounded in the values of safety and respect while mindfully applying principles from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Strength-Based Therapy, Interpersonal Neurobiology, and using play in order to promote positive, empowering change.
I have developed specialized clinical skills through experiences working with individuals and families with early childhood to adolescent difficulties. I have helped families obtain better balance while struggling with distressing symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, social/peer issues, difficulty at school, behavior problems, ADHD, and developmental delays. I have competency in understanding youth and their families’ individualistic relational challenges with separation, divorce, and co-parenting. I help youth, and their families, in developing skills and tools to increase the likelihood of success.
(616) 253-6084 x723 View (616) 253-6084 x723
Photo of Alex Brito - Alex Brito Counseling LLC, MA, LPC, TLLP, Counselor
Alex Brito Counseling LLC
Counselor, MA, LPC, TLLP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wyoming, MI 49509
My particular passions include empowering youth – using techniques such as play therapy – as they navigate their own particular struggles, and working with people from diverse cultural backgrounds.
Do you need someone to walk alongside you as you navigate difficult times and seek personal growth? I am honored to offer a safe place for healing conversations. I have over 10 years of experience working with youth, families and individuals both in Latin America, as well as in the United States.
My particular passions include empowering youth – using techniques such as play therapy – as they navigate their own particular struggles, and working with people from diverse cultural backgrounds.
Do you need someone to walk alongside you as you navigate difficult times and seek personal growth? I am honored to offer a safe place for healing conversations. I have over 10 years of experience working with youth, families and individuals both in Latin America, as well as in the United States.
(616) 317-8599 View (616) 317-8599
Photo of Andrew David Clay - Bethany Christian Services - Grand Rapids, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bethany Christian Services - Grand Rapids
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Wyoming, MI 49508
Treatments utilized vary by your needs and the counselor's expertise, and may include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), TF-CBT, EMDR, Play Therapy, Interpersonal Process, and more.
Are you or your family going through a difficult time? Maybe you are experiencing relational challenges, feeling anxious or depressed, struggling to make sense of traumatic experiences, or worrying about your child's emotional or social functioning. At Bethany, we have an expert team of trauma-informed, culturally responsive counseling and psychiatric professionals who will walk alongside you in the pursuit of personal and relational wellbeing. As a community rooted in hope, our clinicians create an inclusive space that is open to all. No matter what you are facing, we are here to help.
Treatments utilized vary by your needs and the counselor's expertise, and may include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), TF-CBT, EMDR, Play Therapy, Interpersonal Process, and more.
Are you or your family going through a difficult time? Maybe you are experiencing relational challenges, feeling anxious or depressed, struggling to make sense of traumatic experiences, or worrying about your child's emotional or social functioning. At Bethany, we have an expert team of trauma-informed, culturally responsive counseling and psychiatric professionals who will walk alongside you in the pursuit of personal and relational wellbeing. As a community rooted in hope, our clinicians create an inclusive space that is open to all. No matter what you are facing, we are here to help.
(616) 523-3525 View (616) 523-3525
Photo of Nate Apel, LLPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nate Apel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LLPC
Verified Verified
Wyoming, MI 49519
While therapeutic methods vary based on the age of my client (from play therapy to trauma-focused CBT, and IFS), the goal is always: greater wellbeing.
Hi, I’m Nate Apel, LLPC, a Limited Licensed Professional Counselor, and I'm currently accepting new clients, so, for the time being anyway, there's no waiting to get in to see me. I specialize in working with children, youth, adults, families, and couples, and I look forward to helping you, and those in your care, achieve a greater sense of calm and wellbeing. I completed my Master’s in Counseling, and my Bachelors in Family Life Education from Spring Arbor University, and I bring 15 years of clinical and life experience working with youth, families and adults in schools, churches, and private practice.
While therapeutic methods vary based on the age of my client (from play therapy to trauma-focused CBT, and IFS), the goal is always: greater wellbeing.
Hi, I’m Nate Apel, LLPC, a Limited Licensed Professional Counselor, and I'm currently accepting new clients, so, for the time being anyway, there's no waiting to get in to see me. I specialize in working with children, youth, adults, families, and couples, and I look forward to helping you, and those in your care, achieve a greater sense of calm and wellbeing. I completed my Master’s in Counseling, and my Bachelors in Family Life Education from Spring Arbor University, and I bring 15 years of clinical and life experience working with youth, families and adults in schools, churches, and private practice.
(616) 504-6212 View (616) 504-6212
Integrative Health Consultants
Counselor, RN, LPC, MSW, LP, MD
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Wyoming, MI 49509
We are a team of dedicated therapists located in Grand Rapids, Michigan with a passion for helping people of all ages along their journey toward more balanced, fulfilled, and authentic living. We are deeply committed to creating a culture and environment that is welcoming and inclusive of all people; a place where authentic relationships can be built and honest experiences can be shared.
We are a team of dedicated therapists located in Grand Rapids, Michigan with a passion for helping people of all ages along their journey toward more balanced, fulfilled, and authentic living. We are deeply committed to creating a culture and environment that is welcoming and inclusive of all people; a place where authentic relationships can be built and honest experiences can be shared.
(616) 326-2961 View (616) 326-2961
Photo of Daniel Ryan Zomerlei - Alliance Counseling Group and Prescribing, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alliance Counseling Group and Prescribing
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Wyoming, MI 49418
Are you looking for BOTH high quality counseling AND mental health prescribing all-in-one? Alliance Counseling Group is the place for you! We have a team of friendly and highly skilled therapists who can meet your mental, emotional, relational, and behavioral health needs. We also have a mental health prescriber who can talk with you to understand if the addition of medication is the right fit for you. Our team of therapists and prescribers will work closely in collaboration to best manage your treatment, giving you the support you need to have the best chance of achieving your mental health goals.
Are you looking for BOTH high quality counseling AND mental health prescribing all-in-one? Alliance Counseling Group is the place for you! We have a team of friendly and highly skilled therapists who can meet your mental, emotional, relational, and behavioral health needs. We also have a mental health prescriber who can talk with you to understand if the addition of medication is the right fit for you. Our team of therapists and prescribers will work closely in collaboration to best manage your treatment, giving you the support you need to have the best chance of achieving your mental health goals.
(616) 918-3110 View (616) 918-3110
Photo of Richard Kneip - Great Lakes Psychology Group - Wyoming, Psychologist
Great Lakes Psychology Group - Wyoming
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Wyoming, MI 49519
The GLPG support staff will personally match you with a best-fit therapist who accepts your insurance and is available to see you online or in person at a time that works for you. The GLPG provider network comprises doctoral and master’s level psychologists, marriage and family therapists, professional counselors, and social workers. Benefits include online and in-person therapy options, night and weekend availability, and most insurance plans accepted. Additionally, our knowledgeable and helpful support staff are available to answer your questions or help with anything you might need at any point along the therapy journey.
The GLPG support staff will personally match you with a best-fit therapist who accepts your insurance and is available to see you online or in person at a time that works for you. The GLPG provider network comprises doctoral and master’s level psychologists, marriage and family therapists, professional counselors, and social workers. Benefits include online and in-person therapy options, night and weekend availability, and most insurance plans accepted. Additionally, our knowledgeable and helpful support staff are available to answer your questions or help with anything you might need at any point along the therapy journey.
(231) 403-0701 View (231) 403-0701
Photo of Claire Benton - Great Lakes Psychology Group - Grand Rapids, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Great Lakes Psychology Group - Grand Rapids
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Wyoming, MI 49519
Accepting new patients! Whether you are new to therapy or looking to start again, Great Lakes Psychology Group - Grand Rapids 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 - Grand Rapids 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.
(734) 802-2995 View (734) 802-2995
Photo of Richard Kneip - Great Lakes Psychology Group - Kalamazoo, Psychologist
Great Lakes Psychology Group - Kalamazoo
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Wyoming, MI 49519
Accepting new patients! Whether you are new to therapy or looking to start again, Great Lakes Psychology Group - Kalamazoo 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 - Kalamazoo 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.
(269) 215-5714 View (269) 215-5714
Photo of Susan Jane Powers, MA, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Susan Jane Powers
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
Wyoming, MI 49418
I offer a full range of services to individuals, couples, and families. My services include psychotherapy and assessment for issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship problems, parenting issues, personal growth and development, grief and loss. My ideal client would be someone who wants to live life to the fullest and is committed to developing the skills he or shee needs to reach that goal!
I offer a full range of services to individuals, couples, and families. My services include psychotherapy and assessment for issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship problems, parenting issues, personal growth and development, grief and loss. My ideal client would be someone who wants to live life to the fullest and is committed to developing the skills he or shee needs to reach that goal!
(616) 328-6958 View (616) 328-6958
Photo of Kimberly Culp - Kimberly Culp Counseling, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kimberly Culp Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wyoming, MI 49519
Difficult past? Chaotic present? Uncertain future? These are the questions that can plague us with anxiety and slowly take over our lives. You want relief from the constant worrying, or relief for your child who cannot stop worrying. You want freedom from the childhood experiences that, despite your best efforts, continue to impact your current life. You want to understand how to survive as an introvert in a world catering to extroverts. You want to find a way to communicate with a distant partner. You are in the right place and on your way to a better life.
Difficult past? Chaotic present? Uncertain future? These are the questions that can plague us with anxiety and slowly take over our lives. You want relief from the constant worrying, or relief for your child who cannot stop worrying. You want freedom from the childhood experiences that, despite your best efforts, continue to impact your current life. You want to understand how to survive as an introvert in a world catering to extroverts. You want to find a way to communicate with a distant partner. You are in the right place and on your way to a better life.
(616) 541-2891 View (616) 541-2891
Photo of Kaeleigh Veldboom, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kaeleigh Veldboom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wyoming, MI 49508
If you’re dealing with anxiety and depression, you might sometimes feel alone in your struggles. I’ve been there, and the truth is, so have many others! It’s my goal to provide a safe place for you to share what you’re experiencing, a place where you can express your feelings in an open environment without judgment. As a young college student facing anxiety, finding therapy was eye-opening for me. In fact, it led me to become a therapist myself: I wanted to help others see that they aren’t alone and that they have the ability to bring about real change in their lives.
If you’re dealing with anxiety and depression, you might sometimes feel alone in your struggles. I’ve been there, and the truth is, so have many others! It’s my goal to provide a safe place for you to share what you’re experiencing, a place where you can express your feelings in an open environment without judgment. As a young college student facing anxiety, finding therapy was eye-opening for me. In fact, it led me to become a therapist myself: I wanted to help others see that they aren’t alone and that they have the ability to bring about real change in their lives.
(616) 344-6178 View (616) 344-6178
Photo of Lindsey Beaver, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsey Beaver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wyoming, MI 49508  (Online Only)
Have you ever found yourself unable to feel better, despite past attempts to think your way out and move forward? Have you found that the same types of hardships keep happening over and over with your behaviors, family, friends, work, school, or partners, like a cycle you can't seem to escape? Maybe you've seen talk therapists or doctors for your symptoms before but didn't seem to get better for long. Or maybe you hold pain that's difficult to talk about. Are you tired of feeling stuck? Are you looking to get to the root of these challenges and heal them for good?
Have you ever found yourself unable to feel better, despite past attempts to think your way out and move forward? Have you found that the same types of hardships keep happening over and over with your behaviors, family, friends, work, school, or partners, like a cycle you can't seem to escape? Maybe you've seen talk therapists or doctors for your symptoms before but didn't seem to get better for long. Or maybe you hold pain that's difficult to talk about. Are you tired of feeling stuck? Are you looking to get to the root of these challenges and heal them for good?
(616) 727-7188 View (616) 727-7188
Photo of Kelley Charles, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelley Charles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Wyoming, MI 49418
I provide counseling for children, teenagers, young adults, and new mothers. I have years of experience working directly with children - including working with children in the foster care system, caring for children in the public school system, and therapeutically supporting children. My goal is to work with individuals who need guidance in the struggles of life. I am open to all walks of life and strive to create a supportive mentorship role with all clients.
I provide counseling for children, teenagers, young adults, and new mothers. I have years of experience working directly with children - including working with children in the foster care system, caring for children in the public school system, and therapeutically supporting children. My goal is to work with individuals who need guidance in the struggles of life. I am open to all walks of life and strive to create a supportive mentorship role with all clients.
(616) 439-6512 View (616) 439-6512
Photo of Ardrace D Morris, MS, MA, TLLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Ardrace D Morris
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MS, MA, TLLP
Verified Verified
Wyoming, MI 49418
Are you feeling powerless? Is your fear, anger, confusion, and indecision getting the best of you? Unfortunately, we cannot control the experiences that impact us. At times, your lens of experience can lead you to a place of depression, anxiety, stress, or not living your best life. I will support you in facing adversity and reclaiming your power of self-love. Taking this step towards therapy is commendable. At 1 Verse Counseling and Consulting we believe you deserve to be "Mentally Well" 1 Verse at a time!
Are you feeling powerless? Is your fear, anger, confusion, and indecision getting the best of you? Unfortunately, we cannot control the experiences that impact us. At times, your lens of experience can lead you to a place of depression, anxiety, stress, or not living your best life. I will support you in facing adversity and reclaiming your power of self-love. Taking this step towards therapy is commendable. At 1 Verse Counseling and Consulting we believe you deserve to be "Mentally Well" 1 Verse at a time!
(616) 207-0354 View (616) 207-0354

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Child Adult Trauma Therapist Amber Jarve, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Child Adult Trauma Therapist Amber Jarve
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49507
I have training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), earned Trauma Across the Lifespan and TF-CBT Specializations, and have training in Trauma Play.
Do my struggles really require counseling? Have you/ your child had experiences that impacted your/ your child's self-confidence, emotional well-being, sleep/appetite, thought patterns, or ability to enjoy relationships and feel safe and secure? Maybe you can't name the cause, but you know you or your child are struggling. Has your life become smaller and smaller as you try to manage anxiety? You can heal from really hard times and reclaim your life. Daring to hope that you could feel better can be the scariest part. I would be honored to accompany, support, and challenge you to process your past so your present is available to you.
I have training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), earned Trauma Across the Lifespan and TF-CBT Specializations, and have training in Trauma Play.
Do my struggles really require counseling? Have you/ your child had experiences that impacted your/ your child's self-confidence, emotional well-being, sleep/appetite, thought patterns, or ability to enjoy relationships and feel safe and secure? Maybe you can't name the cause, but you know you or your child are struggling. Has your life become smaller and smaller as you try to manage anxiety? You can heal from really hard times and reclaim your life. Daring to hope that you could feel better can be the scariest part. I would be honored to accompany, support, and challenge you to process your past so your present is available to you.
(616) 727-7839 View (616) 727-7839
Photo of Rachael J Kelly, MA, LLPC, Counselor
Rachael J Kelly
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49507
Offering services in; anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, family/marital therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), behavioral therapy, play therapy, person-centered therapy.
Rachael has been interested in mental health since she can remember. Growing up, this manifested itself into her being a nosy kiddo :). However, as she aged she turned that "nosiness" into a passion, an education, and a career. Rachael is excited about the relief and clarity offered in working through a therapeutic process. Being a Christian, Rachael is also sure that God cares deeply about the wholeness of His people.
Offering services in; anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, family/marital therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), behavioral therapy, play therapy, person-centered therapy.
Rachael has been interested in mental health since she can remember. Growing up, this manifested itself into her being a nosy kiddo :). However, as she aged she turned that "nosiness" into a passion, an education, and a career. Rachael is excited about the relief and clarity offered in working through a therapeutic process. Being a Christian, Rachael is also sure that God cares deeply about the wholeness of His people.
(616) 369-9206 View (616) 369-9206
Photo of Kristina Thompson, MA, LLPC, Counselor
Kristina Thompson
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49507
I am passionate about supporting children, adolescents, and young adults as they navigate transitions and struggles in their daily lives. I utilize aspects of play therapy, as well as creative and active interventions, and believe that a trusting relationship between the client and therapist is at the center of effective therapy. I am passionate about partnering with children and their families, ensuring that feel respected and supported. In my practice, I work with clients from a variety of different backgrounds and adjust my therapeutic approach to fit each person’s particular needs and developmental level.
I am passionate about supporting children, adolescents, and young adults as they navigate transitions and struggles in their daily lives. I utilize aspects of play therapy, as well as creative and active interventions, and believe that a trusting relationship between the client and therapist is at the center of effective therapy. I am passionate about partnering with children and their families, ensuring that feel respected and supported. In my practice, I work with clients from a variety of different backgrounds and adjust my therapeutic approach to fit each person’s particular needs and developmental level.
(616) 229-3809 View (616) 229-3809
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.