Play Therapy in Ypsilanti, MI
![Photo of Brittany Nicole Knox - Monarch Counseling Services, PLLC, PsyD, DLLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49ce2ba2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Monarch Counseling Services, PLLC
Limited Licensed Psychologist, PsyD, DLLP
Verified Verified
Ypsilanti, MI 48198 (Online Only)
It is important to understand that you play a vital role in the outcome of your therapy.
Making the decision to come to therapy is often one of the hardest decisions for a person to make. You might know that you're having a hard time but perhaps you don't know what to expect from therapy. What will your therapist be like? Can you really trust them? Why would you tell a complete stranger everything about you? These are just a few questions that potential clients sometimes ask themselves before coming in. Although it can be an intimidating experience, it can also be one of the most rewarding experiences.
It is important to understand that you play a vital role in the outcome of your therapy.
Making the decision to come to therapy is often one of the hardest decisions for a person to make. You might know that you're having a hard time but perhaps you don't know what to expect from therapy. What will your therapist be like? Can you really trust them? Why would you tell a complete stranger everything about you? These are just a few questions that potential clients sometimes ask themselves before coming in. Although it can be an intimidating experience, it can also be one of the most rewarding experiences.
![Photo of LaKeisha Thomas, PHDc, LCSW, MSW, AAT, BA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/55546ccf-6e06-4f62-8325-7aea66bc2c44/1/320x400.jpeg)
LaKeisha Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PHDc, LCSW, MSW, AAT, BA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ypsilanti, MI 48198
Specializing in play therapy, AAT, trauma,& neurodivergence.
My goal is to support individuals in creating a culture of emotional awareness that leads to healing, joy, and empowerment. I am passionate about working with children, teens, adults, POC, and LGBTQ individuals who may struggle with a range of issues including neurodivergence, anxiety, depression, substance use, trauma, self-esteem, PTSD, grief & loss, LGBTQ-related concerns, sexual issues, anger management, parenting challenges, life stressors, and work-life balance. Additionally, I specialize in supporting individuals with executive functioning difficulties such as ASD and ADHD. I take a holistic approach, addressing the needs
Specializing in play therapy, AAT, trauma,& neurodivergence.
My goal is to support individuals in creating a culture of emotional awareness that leads to healing, joy, and empowerment. I am passionate about working with children, teens, adults, POC, and LGBTQ individuals who may struggle with a range of issues including neurodivergence, anxiety, depression, substance use, trauma, self-esteem, PTSD, grief & loss, LGBTQ-related concerns, sexual issues, anger management, parenting challenges, life stressors, and work-life balance. Additionally, I specialize in supporting individuals with executive functioning difficulties such as ASD and ADHD. I take a holistic approach, addressing the needs
![Photo of Jewel E McGowan, MA, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40a11740-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a very experienced tele-health therapy provider. I specialize in treating all ages with depression and anxiety, as well as adults, children and families with difficulties in their relationships, difficulties with parenting and problems with school. I use a relaxed personal approach to find the root causes of problems and resolve them at a pace that is comfortable for you. You will not have to add one more place to be to your busy schedule. Telemedicine is a covered benefit for many insurances. Even play therapy can be done online. If you are having unwanted outcomes, I can help you turn that around with Power Counseling.
I am a very experienced tele-health therapy provider. I specialize in treating all ages with depression and anxiety, as well as adults, children and families with difficulties in their relationships, difficulties with parenting and problems with school. I use a relaxed personal approach to find the root causes of problems and resolve them at a pace that is comfortable for you. You will not have to add one more place to be to your busy schedule. Telemedicine is a covered benefit for many insurances. Even play therapy can be done online. If you are having unwanted outcomes, I can help you turn that around with Power Counseling.
![Photo of Susan Barrow, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cf5ecc5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I use play interventions and various art forms extensively in my work.
Relationships are central to my work, whether it be the relationship between a child or adult and myself, or the complex web of relationships within a family. My training and experience in Infant Mental Health--a type of therapy focusing on the attachment relationship between a primary caregiver and and an infant or young child--permeates all aspects of my work. I believe that therapy cannot separate an individual from the context of his or her relationships, past or present. I am creative and flexible in my approach to working with the children, teens, adults and families that I serve.
I use play interventions and various art forms extensively in my work.
Relationships are central to my work, whether it be the relationship between a child or adult and myself, or the complex web of relationships within a family. My training and experience in Infant Mental Health--a type of therapy focusing on the attachment relationship between a primary caregiver and and an infant or young child--permeates all aspects of my work. I believe that therapy cannot separate an individual from the context of his or her relationships, past or present. I am creative and flexible in my approach to working with the children, teens, adults and families that I serve.
![Photo of Michelle Avery Ferguson, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4646f886-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I provide play therapy for children to address a variety of concerns.
I'm committed to helping kids, adults and families experience greater enjoyment in their relationships and increased well-being and resilience at home, school, work and play. With the nervous system in mind, I help clients to increase their ability to cope with stressors. I address concerns about mood, attention, learning, behavior, and social and emotional development, and help families who are feeling stuck find new ways of relating.
I provide play therapy for children to address a variety of concerns.
I'm committed to helping kids, adults and families experience greater enjoyment in their relationships and increased well-being and resilience at home, school, work and play. With the nervous system in mind, I help clients to increase their ability to cope with stressors. I address concerns about mood, attention, learning, behavior, and social and emotional development, and help families who are feeling stuck find new ways of relating.
![Photo of Carla Michelle Hines - Carla Hines Inc, LMSW, ACSW, CTS-C, CIRT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42791321-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Carla Hines Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACSW, CTS-C, CIRT
Verified Verified
Ypsilanti, MI 48197
I specialize in working with trauma survivors, couples, parenting issues, play therapy, adoption related issues, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, adjustment, and immigration issues.
My goal is to create an atmosphere where every person that enters my office feels it is a safe place to learn and grow. I honor the unique strengths that each individual already possesses while challenging them to grow and develop in other areas. While I encourage people to stretch beyond their comfort zones, I respect and accept each person where they are at in their growth process. I have 19 years experience as a Psychotherapist. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and couples. When working with children, I feel it is important to become a team with their parents.
I specialize in working with trauma survivors, couples, parenting issues, play therapy, adoption related issues, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, adjustment, and immigration issues.
My goal is to create an atmosphere where every person that enters my office feels it is a safe place to learn and grow. I honor the unique strengths that each individual already possesses while challenging them to grow and develop in other areas. While I encourage people to stretch beyond their comfort zones, I respect and accept each person where they are at in their growth process. I have 19 years experience as a Psychotherapist. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and couples. When working with children, I feel it is important to become a team with their parents.
![Photo of Chris Sanderson, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f29aa497-1255-456d-9811-21aab4b6995c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Chris Sanderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ypsilanti, MI 48197
Waitlist for new clients
In working with kids, I become an interpreter of the language kids know best: play! With all of my clients, I emphasize a climate of safety and compassionate awareness of underlying emotion.
Are you often not getting what you want out of your relationships? Are you feeling guilt and shame far more than contentment or pride? Are you the parent of a child who is struggling to feel safe and protected in a chaotic world? I collaborate with individuals across the lifespan in addressing the causal factors underlying conditions like anxiety, depression and trauma. I completed an internship and a two year fellowship at University of Michigan Outpatient Psychiatry, where I had the unique opportunity to develop expertise in providing integrative, attachment-oriented psychotherapy for both adults and children.
In working with kids, I become an interpreter of the language kids know best: play! With all of my clients, I emphasize a climate of safety and compassionate awareness of underlying emotion.
Are you often not getting what you want out of your relationships? Are you feeling guilt and shame far more than contentment or pride? Are you the parent of a child who is struggling to feel safe and protected in a chaotic world? I collaborate with individuals across the lifespan in addressing the causal factors underlying conditions like anxiety, depression and trauma. I completed an internship and a two year fellowship at University of Michigan Outpatient Psychiatry, where I had the unique opportunity to develop expertise in providing integrative, attachment-oriented psychotherapy for both adults and children.
![Photo of Amber Silva, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/73b5e531-240d-4373-8759-b48aacfe551c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amber Silva
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Ypsilanti, MI 48198
Waitlist for new clients
My clients can play with fidgets, color/draw, and/or read to best describe how they are feeling and to be able to communicate that.
Hey there! I am passionate about creating a safe and open-minded space for all identities in their therapy. I believe the most important aspect when it comes to therapy is having it be collaborative, compassionate, empathetic, and fun! I have experience working with youth and adults who present with anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, lack of motivation, and substance use. I look at each symptom that the individual presents through a trauma-focused lens. Outside of work, I enjoy cuddling my three cats (pictures below), watching crime shows, and playing videogames.
My clients can play with fidgets, color/draw, and/or read to best describe how they are feeling and to be able to communicate that.
Hey there! I am passionate about creating a safe and open-minded space for all identities in their therapy. I believe the most important aspect when it comes to therapy is having it be collaborative, compassionate, empathetic, and fun! I have experience working with youth and adults who present with anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, lack of motivation, and substance use. I look at each symptom that the individual presents through a trauma-focused lens. Outside of work, I enjoy cuddling my three cats (pictures below), watching crime shows, and playing videogames.
![Photo of Sara Morgan, MA, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33c54946-58fc-4242-8b13-17bc30096263/2/320x400.jpeg)
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. I have over 10 years experience working in the mental health field. I specialize in play therapy with children (age 3 and up) and cognitive behavior therapy with teens and adults.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. I have over 10 years experience working in the mental health field. I specialize in play therapy with children (age 3 and up) and cognitive behavior therapy with teens and adults.
![Photo of Sarah M Bricker, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/30aff12b-4929-4a02-bb82-122d04fab744/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah M Bricker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ypsilanti, MI 48197 (Online Only)
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS (09/19/23) TELETHERAPY ONLY AT THIS TIME Life can be challenging, and unexpected changes are a part of the journey. It's okay not to be okay. You don't have to face these challenges alone. I believe in the power of human connection and the strength it takes to seek help and embark on a journey of personal growth. I work with individuals of all ages and identities who are dealing with anxiety, relationship challenges, family conflicts, and life changes.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS (09/19/23) TELETHERAPY ONLY AT THIS TIME Life can be challenging, and unexpected changes are a part of the journey. It's okay not to be okay. You don't have to face these challenges alone. I believe in the power of human connection and the strength it takes to seek help and embark on a journey of personal growth. I work with individuals of all ages and identities who are dealing with anxiety, relationship challenges, family conflicts, and life changes.
![Photo of Olivia M Mielke, MA, LPC, NCC, CAADC, ICAADC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1491bf60-fb81-4372-8003-9193ad4c91b1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Olivia M Mielke
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CAADC, ICAADC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Ypsilanti, MI 48197 (Online Only)
I am focused on helping you live your best life, mentally, physically, spiritually, and culturally, to have a deeper connection with those around you, and finally begin the process of self-acceptance & healing. Why continue down the same path, only to yield the same results? Allow yourself the opportunity to heal, love, and grow.
I am focused on helping you live your best life, mentally, physically, spiritually, and culturally, to have a deeper connection with those around you, and finally begin the process of self-acceptance & healing. Why continue down the same path, only to yield the same results? Allow yourself the opportunity to heal, love, and grow.
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Welcome, welcome, welcome…to a space, in Michigan, where you can let your stress down and be you! I have been in practice over a decade helping individuals with mental and behavioral health concerns that are disrupting their day, their relationships, their family and work life…Shoot, just their all around ability to function in a healthy way. And I am here to assist you, too! From depression to anxiety to PTSD/Trauma and more…We can work together to help with you having a more fulfilling life!
Welcome, welcome, welcome…to a space, in Michigan, where you can let your stress down and be you! I have been in practice over a decade helping individuals with mental and behavioral health concerns that are disrupting their day, their relationships, their family and work life…Shoot, just their all around ability to function in a healthy way. And I am here to assist you, too! From depression to anxiety to PTSD/Trauma and more…We can work together to help with you having a more fulfilling life!
![Photo of Jamillah Berry, PhD, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/458f0a49-d0bd-41bf-85f8-b6840d50bc0c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jamillah Berry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LLMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ypsilanti, MI 48197
As a Psychotherapist at Holistic Therapy and Wellness, I work with children, adults, and families who face mental health challenges, trauma, abuse, substance use disorders, and family reunification issues. My ideal client is someone seeking healing and growth, motivated to overcome obstacles and achieve personal goals. They may struggle with emotional pain, anxiety, or relationship issues, and desire a compassionate, supportive space to explore these concerns. Together, we will set achievable goals and work towards resilience and empowerment, fostering a unified, healthy path forward.
As a Psychotherapist at Holistic Therapy and Wellness, I work with children, adults, and families who face mental health challenges, trauma, abuse, substance use disorders, and family reunification issues. My ideal client is someone seeking healing and growth, motivated to overcome obstacles and achieve personal goals. They may struggle with emotional pain, anxiety, or relationship issues, and desire a compassionate, supportive space to explore these concerns. Together, we will set achievable goals and work towards resilience and empowerment, fostering a unified, healthy path forward.
![Photo of Kayla Jarrells, LLMSW, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c36b3b83-29ca-42a3-9e9f-c67b3519278c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kayla Jarrells
Marriage & Family Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Ypsilanti, MI 48197 (Online Only)
Trauma, Grief, and unexpected life changes affect many in the world today. Just know you are not alone! Therapy helps individuals work through life’s challenges in order to strengthen and support those in need. Therapy also lends out a helping hand in a judgement free and safe space where you can speak your mind and express how you feel openly and honestly. I value giving all Client’s this experience. I specialize in working with adolescents, adults, and couples with numerous different life challenges such as Trauma, Grief and Loss, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, OCD, ODD, and Healthy Relationships.
Trauma, Grief, and unexpected life changes affect many in the world today. Just know you are not alone! Therapy helps individuals work through life’s challenges in order to strengthen and support those in need. Therapy also lends out a helping hand in a judgement free and safe space where you can speak your mind and express how you feel openly and honestly. I value giving all Client’s this experience. I specialize in working with adolescents, adults, and couples with numerous different life challenges such as Trauma, Grief and Loss, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, OCD, ODD, and Healthy Relationships.
![Photo of Stacey M Mack - Intentional Counseling Services, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/148a9953-1005-4025-a6a3-fe5b9ff3e744/1/320x400.jpeg)
Intentional Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ypsilanti, MI 48197
Throughout life, it is possible to find ourselves on a journey we believe is impossible to complete. Through therapy, we learn that no journey is impossible; however sometimes we must detour...delay...revisit...or speed up! This analogy speaks to the true essence of therapy, helping others to navigate obstacles that present themselves along their journey. I will partner with you to find your path to a healthy existence despite any detours you encounter.
Throughout life, it is possible to find ourselves on a journey we believe is impossible to complete. Through therapy, we learn that no journey is impossible; however sometimes we must detour...delay...revisit...or speed up! This analogy speaks to the true essence of therapy, helping others to navigate obstacles that present themselves along their journey. I will partner with you to find your path to a healthy existence despite any detours you encounter.
I have almost 30 years of experience treating children, adolescents, adults and families facing a multitude of life issues and transitions. I enjoy working with clients who are motivated to make positive changes in their lives and strive to provide a safe,supportive, confidential and nurturing environment in which to do this work.
I have almost 30 years of experience treating children, adolescents, adults and families facing a multitude of life issues and transitions. I enjoy working with clients who are motivated to make positive changes in their lives and strive to provide a safe,supportive, confidential and nurturing environment in which to do this work.
![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
Ypsilanti, MI 48197
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 Anthany J Beasley - Beasley Family Therapy Sevices, LLC, LMSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f9a68f3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Beasley Family Therapy Sevices, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Ypsilanti, MI 48197 (Online Only)
Currently Accepting New Medicaid Clients Only! - EMAIL for faster response if possible. It has long been a passion and dream of mine to provide therapeutic services for transgender, non-binary, and gender expansive children, youth, adolescent, adults and their families. As a queer transgender man of color, I passionately believe that when individuals are able to live as their true authentic selves they can live longer, robust, and happier lives. I strive to help my clients and their families grow together on a journey that is enriching and nourishing to the soul.
Currently Accepting New Medicaid Clients Only! - EMAIL for faster response if possible. It has long been a passion and dream of mine to provide therapeutic services for transgender, non-binary, and gender expansive children, youth, adolescent, adults and their families. As a queer transgender man of color, I passionately believe that when individuals are able to live as their true authentic selves they can live longer, robust, and happier lives. I strive to help my clients and their families grow together on a journey that is enriching and nourishing to the soul.
![Photo of LaKeisha Thomas - Holistic Therapy & Wellness, PHDc, LCSW, LLMSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89c6ead8-0b46-4b79-8d63-c3afd6c8c65a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Holistic Therapy & Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PHDc, LCSW, LLMSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ypsilanti, MI 48198
Our group of therapists are available to see children, teens, adults, couples, and families experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, divorcé reactions, stress, parenting concerns, co-parenting, panic attacks, school issues, relationship issues, family communication, conflict management, parent/teen conflict, LGBTQ+ Affirming, and anger management. We also have experience working with addiction, survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault survivors and the family who support them.
Our group of therapists are available to see children, teens, adults, couples, and families experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, divorcé reactions, stress, parenting concerns, co-parenting, panic attacks, school issues, relationship issues, family communication, conflict management, parent/teen conflict, LGBTQ+ Affirming, and anger management. We also have experience working with addiction, survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault survivors and the family who support them.
![Photo of John Rosegrant, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c64d62f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
In over 30 years practicing psychotherapy with people of all ages, I have learned that everyone is unique, and everyone needs to be recognized for who they are. But we also all share certain basic things: needs for satisfying relationships with others, for a meaningful and interesting path in life, and for security and enjoyment. If you are seeking psychological help, you are probably looking for a better way to meet those needs. You may be experiencing unsatisfying relationships, having trouble finding a meaningful life path, or trying to deal with painful emotions like anxiety, depression, shame, guilt, or anger.
In over 30 years practicing psychotherapy with people of all ages, I have learned that everyone is unique, and everyone needs to be recognized for who they are. But we also all share certain basic things: needs for satisfying relationships with others, for a meaningful and interesting path in life, and for security and enjoyment. If you are seeking psychological help, you are probably looking for a better way to meet those needs. You may be experiencing unsatisfying relationships, having trouble finding a meaningful life path, or trying to deal with painful emotions like anxiety, depression, shame, guilt, or anger.
See more therapy options for Ypsilanti
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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.