Play Therapy in Princeton, NC
There are no results for therapists in Princeton
Check out therapists located nearby or offering teletherapy in North Carolina below.More Therapists Nearby
You awaken most days with dread. The anxiety hits you immediately and you feel hopeless. You wonder how you're going to get through the day. These are familiar feelings, as this has been your experience for as long as you can remember. Despite being successful in your career, your relationships are suffering, and you don't know who you are. You are constantly feeling emotionally triggered and you're not sure why. The emotional distress is taking a toll on your health and well-being. You feel disconnected from yourself and others. You know it's time to do something different and put yourself first for a change.
You awaken most days with dread. The anxiety hits you immediately and you feel hopeless. You wonder how you're going to get through the day. These are familiar feelings, as this has been your experience for as long as you can remember. Despite being successful in your career, your relationships are suffering, and you don't know who you are. You are constantly feeling emotionally triggered and you're not sure why. The emotional distress is taking a toll on your health and well-being. You feel disconnected from yourself and others. You know it's time to do something different and put yourself first for a change.
Online Therapists
I utilize Emotionally Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, Play Therapy, and HeartMath biofeedback techniques in a non-judgmental environment to help my clients reach their goals and challenge negative thought patterns.
Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, stuck, anxious, or defeated? Maybe you feel like life has thrown you too many curve balls recently. I am here to help you work towards solutions to improve your every-day life. You might be a parent who is concerned with a behavior your child is exhibiting, a teen who is looking to work through challenges, or a young adult who is figuring out your new roles in life. Through therapy tailored to your needs, I’m looking forward to working with you to discover solutions to challenges you’re facing. I’d love to help you improve your overall mental health and set goals towards a healthier you.
I utilize Emotionally Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, Play Therapy, and HeartMath biofeedback techniques in a non-judgmental environment to help my clients reach their goals and challenge negative thought patterns.
Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, stuck, anxious, or defeated? Maybe you feel like life has thrown you too many curve balls recently. I am here to help you work towards solutions to improve your every-day life. You might be a parent who is concerned with a behavior your child is exhibiting, a teen who is looking to work through challenges, or a young adult who is figuring out your new roles in life. Through therapy tailored to your needs, I’m looking forward to working with you to discover solutions to challenges you’re facing. I’d love to help you improve your overall mental health and set goals towards a healthier you.
Laura T Ashord LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27518
I have a practical, eclectic approach to therapy drawing from a rich resource of experience, employing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), communication therapies, relaxation therapy, Emotional Freedom Therapy (EFT), Play Therapy, Mindfulness therapy, Family Therapy and Parent Training.
I am a native North Carolinian, having lived and worked here most all my life. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have practiced Social Work since 1988. I provide psychotherapy services to individuals, couples, adolescents, children and families. I received my Bachelor's degree in Social Work (BSW) from NC State University in 1986. Through an advanced standing program at University of South Carolina in Columbia, I earned my Master's Degree in Social Work (MSW) with an emphasis in Children and Families in 1988. I became licensed (LCSW) by the NC Certification and Licensure Board in 1993.
I have a practical, eclectic approach to therapy drawing from a rich resource of experience, employing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), communication therapies, relaxation therapy, Emotional Freedom Therapy (EFT), Play Therapy, Mindfulness therapy, Family Therapy and Parent Training.
I am a native North Carolinian, having lived and worked here most all my life. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have practiced Social Work since 1988. I provide psychotherapy services to individuals, couples, adolescents, children and families. I received my Bachelor's degree in Social Work (BSW) from NC State University in 1986. Through an advanced standing program at University of South Carolina in Columbia, I earned my Master's Degree in Social Work (MSW) with an emphasis in Children and Families in 1988. I became licensed (LCSW) by the NC Certification and Licensure Board in 1993.
Horizon Integrated Wellness Group, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CTP, RTP, CFSW, CHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27513
Horizon's Play Therapy Center- We have welcoming and culturally sensitive playroom to address all childhood challenges from anxiety, trauma, sexual abuse, aggression, ODD, ADHD, and other behavioral issues.
Horizon Integrated Wellness Group, PLLC was developed with the idea that peoples' struggles and challenges are not a reflection of them having failed in their lives, but rather, an array of experiences, exchanges, and relationships the individual has in the context of some or all of them. We offer a unique approach that considers people's relationships, families, work/career, and the implications/barriers they may have on an individual's well-being, resilience, empowerment, their happiness, and ultimately their self-acceptance/self-love.
Horizon's Play Therapy Center- We have welcoming and culturally sensitive playroom to address all childhood challenges from anxiety, trauma, sexual abuse, aggression, ODD, ADHD, and other behavioral issues.
Horizon Integrated Wellness Group, PLLC was developed with the idea that peoples' struggles and challenges are not a reflection of them having failed in their lives, but rather, an array of experiences, exchanges, and relationships the individual has in the context of some or all of them. We offer a unique approach that considers people's relationships, families, work/career, and the implications/barriers they may have on an individual's well-being, resilience, empowerment, their happiness, and ultimately their self-acceptance/self-love.
Julia Wheeler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587
Waitlist for new clients
My experience also includes play therapy with an emphasis on coaching parents in promoting healthy development in their children, reducing problematic behaviors, and improving relationships.
I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor providing supportive therapy for individuals, couples and families of all ages. Using a systems approach, we can work together to recognize patterns in thoughts, feelings, behaviors and relationships that have developed through your unique experiences. Providing support with issues of depression, anxiety, sexual orientation, physical and emotional abuse, grief, divorce, parenting, adjustment, spiritual and relationship concerns is a priority. I have also, received level one training in the Gottman Method for couples therapy.
My experience also includes play therapy with an emphasis on coaching parents in promoting healthy development in their children, reducing problematic behaviors, and improving relationships.
I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor providing supportive therapy for individuals, couples and families of all ages. Using a systems approach, we can work together to recognize patterns in thoughts, feelings, behaviors and relationships that have developed through your unique experiences. Providing support with issues of depression, anxiety, sexual orientation, physical and emotional abuse, grief, divorce, parenting, adjustment, spiritual and relationship concerns is a priority. I have also, received level one training in the Gottman Method for couples therapy.
Suzanne Nardozzi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Play-based therapies are what I utilize the most, since that is how children communicate and learn.
Accepting new clients - evening and weekends available! I am passionate about working with children and their families. Children are learning about the world around them and they often don't know what their feelings mean or how to communicate them quite yet. When children have been through stressful things, it is even harder for them to express their feelings. And those feelings can come out of kids in big ways! As adults, we can struggle to understand how to help young ones when their emotions get really big. As their adult, you want to help your child and you also need someone to support you. That is where I can help.
Play-based therapies are what I utilize the most, since that is how children communicate and learn.
Accepting new clients - evening and weekends available! I am passionate about working with children and their families. Children are learning about the world around them and they often don't know what their feelings mean or how to communicate them quite yet. When children have been through stressful things, it is even harder for them to express their feelings. And those feelings can come out of kids in big ways! As adults, we can struggle to understand how to help young ones when their emotions get really big. As their adult, you want to help your child and you also need someone to support you. That is where I can help.
Using methods like DBT, CBT, play therapy, art therapy, and narrative therapy, we will explore your self-identity, identify strengths, and set achievable goals.
Are you or your child feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or not quite “yourself?” Whether dealing with emotional regulation, anxiety, or self-criticism, I am here to help. My practice supports individuals and families in creating meaningful change, providing a warm, supportive environment for growth and healing. Persistent sadness, anxiety, or low self-esteem can be isolating. I specialize in helping individuals navigate these emotions and relationship stresses, with a deep commitment to supporting the BIPOC community and understanding the unique challenges faced by those in these communities.
Using methods like DBT, CBT, play therapy, art therapy, and narrative therapy, we will explore your self-identity, identify strengths, and set achievable goals.
Are you or your child feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or not quite “yourself?” Whether dealing with emotional regulation, anxiety, or self-criticism, I am here to help. My practice supports individuals and families in creating meaningful change, providing a warm, supportive environment for growth and healing. Persistent sadness, anxiety, or low self-esteem can be isolating. I specialize in helping individuals navigate these emotions and relationship stresses, with a deep commitment to supporting the BIPOC community and understanding the unique challenges faced by those in these communities.
I use child-centered play therapy which supports the child by creating an environment in which they can feel empowered as they learn to cope with their emotions in adaptive and socially appropriate ways.
I work with adults and college students to address maladaptive behaviors, overcome histories of trauma, and gain deeper personal insight. I use an integrative approach that draws on humanistic, Gestalt, and psychodynamic therapies to help clients develop a sense of wholeness, congruence, and self-actualization.
I use child-centered play therapy which supports the child by creating an environment in which they can feel empowered as they learn to cope with their emotions in adaptive and socially appropriate ways.
I work with adults and college students to address maladaptive behaviors, overcome histories of trauma, and gain deeper personal insight. I use an integrative approach that draws on humanistic, Gestalt, and psychodynamic therapies to help clients develop a sense of wholeness, congruence, and self-actualization.
Cathy C Hedgepeth
Psychological Associate, MA, HSP, LPA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
Waitlist for new clients
In my part time private practice I offer counseling/therapy to adults, children, adolescents, and parents. My areas of special interest include anxiety, depression, and parent education. I enjoy working with adults who are dealing with life challenges, loss, and seeking personal growth. When seeing children or adolescents, I typically use a child centered approach with the opportunity for play therapy. I also have experience with CBT, EFT, and mindfulness. These techniques are helpful in treating individuals who are experiencing anxiety, regulation of attention and impulse control, and trauma.
In my part time private practice I offer counseling/therapy to adults, children, adolescents, and parents. My areas of special interest include anxiety, depression, and parent education. I enjoy working with adults who are dealing with life challenges, loss, and seeking personal growth. When seeing children or adolescents, I typically use a child centered approach with the opportunity for play therapy. I also have experience with CBT, EFT, and mindfulness. These techniques are helpful in treating individuals who are experiencing anxiety, regulation of attention and impulse control, and trauma.
With kids, I teach them how to identify and manage their emotions through play, and work with families to best support their child.
You’re exhausted from trying desperately to balance your needs with the demands of kids, school, or work. As a parent you’re struggling to understand where your child is coming from. Does the “parent guilt” creep in while you’re trying to keep all the plates spinning? Maybe you have a child who is anxious, worried, has difficulty sleeping or going to school, or expects perfection. Perhaps you are learning how to parent differently than how you were parented. Balancing caring for you vs. others is hard. Thoughts of anxiety, self-doubt, and concern that you aren't good enough can become a negative self-talk loop in your head.
With kids, I teach them how to identify and manage their emotions through play, and work with families to best support their child.
You’re exhausted from trying desperately to balance your needs with the demands of kids, school, or work. As a parent you’re struggling to understand where your child is coming from. Does the “parent guilt” creep in while you’re trying to keep all the plates spinning? Maybe you have a child who is anxious, worried, has difficulty sleeping or going to school, or expects perfection. Perhaps you are learning how to parent differently than how you were parented. Balancing caring for you vs. others is hard. Thoughts of anxiety, self-doubt, and concern that you aren't good enough can become a negative self-talk loop in your head.
Kimberly (Kim) Cook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28306
Kim works with families, couples, individuals, groups on many issues, including relationships, mental health, spiritual growth, behavioral problems, trauma, parenting, adoption/foster care, play therapy & crisis response. She has 20+ yrs experience helping children, teens, adults, professionals, ministers, & leadership in non-profit organizations. Univ of MD, School of Social Work; Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary; Messiah College; Approved Supervisor for Clinical /Licensure Supervision (SW'ers). Kim is on faculty at Covenant College & Dordt University teaching social work & counseling.
Kim works with families, couples, individuals, groups on many issues, including relationships, mental health, spiritual growth, behavioral problems, trauma, parenting, adoption/foster care, play therapy & crisis response. She has 20+ yrs experience helping children, teens, adults, professionals, ministers, & leadership in non-profit organizations. Univ of MD, School of Social Work; Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary; Messiah College; Approved Supervisor for Clinical /Licensure Supervision (SW'ers). Kim is on faculty at Covenant College & Dordt University teaching social work & counseling.
Estrella Rogers-Without Limits Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , RPT-S, CCC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, NC 28540
As a Registered Play Therapist, I nurture children's emotional growth using play-based methods.
Ever since I was young, my passion for making a difference in people's lives drove me toward Social Work. It's an honor to be entrusted with the opportunity to help you find balance and peace in your life. Your trust in me is paramount, and I'm fully committed to utilizing all my knowledge, skills, and personal attributes to support you. As we embark on this journey together, I understand the significance of the personal information you'll share." "My primary dedication lies in nurturing relationships, assisting couples facing communication challenges and simultaneously, aiding children in their emotional growth.
As a Registered Play Therapist, I nurture children's emotional growth using play-based methods.
Ever since I was young, my passion for making a difference in people's lives drove me toward Social Work. It's an honor to be entrusted with the opportunity to help you find balance and peace in your life. Your trust in me is paramount, and I'm fully committed to utilizing all my knowledge, skills, and personal attributes to support you. As we embark on this journey together, I understand the significance of the personal information you'll share." "My primary dedication lies in nurturing relationships, assisting couples facing communication challenges and simultaneously, aiding children in their emotional growth.
Ping-Tzu Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27704
Changes often raise fear and curiosity. I particularly enjoy working with clients who are full of curiosities and who are willing to explore unknowns and perceive unknowns as gifts. I am interested in supporting clients’ fear related to changes, and helping clients work on variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, traumas, identity development (e.g., sexual orientation and cultural identities), etc. Prior to arriving in the US, I was a mental health provider in Taiwan. In my early career, I practiced child play therapy and animal-assisted psychotherapy.
Changes often raise fear and curiosity. I particularly enjoy working with clients who are full of curiosities and who are willing to explore unknowns and perceive unknowns as gifts. I am interested in supporting clients’ fear related to changes, and helping clients work on variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, traumas, identity development (e.g., sexual orientation and cultural identities), etc. Prior to arriving in the US, I was a mental health provider in Taiwan. In my early career, I practiced child play therapy and animal-assisted psychotherapy.
Integrated Journey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27703 (Online Only)
Specializing in trauma treatment, hypnotherapy, play therapy and behavioral consulting for children, adults and families.
No matter what life brings you, treatment can bring you "home." All walks of life and all experiences are unique, so your treatment will be tailored to fit for you. Direction, support, guidance and healing available now.
Specializing in trauma treatment, hypnotherapy, play therapy and behavioral consulting for children, adults and families.
No matter what life brings you, treatment can bring you "home." All walks of life and all experiences are unique, so your treatment will be tailored to fit for you. Direction, support, guidance and healing available now.
Kendall Panciera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA, EMDR-T
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
I infuse creativity into sessions, welcoming curiosity and play at any age by creating a safe and nurturing environment where individuals feel comfortable to explore and express themselves.
I approach my practice with a comprehensive, whole-brain, patient-centered, and strengths-based perspective. My expertise includes additional specialized training in EMDR therapy. I am dedicated to creating a warm and compassionate environment for my clients. My goal is to meet individuals where they are and build a supportive relationship that empowers them to rediscover their resilience and well-being.
I infuse creativity into sessions, welcoming curiosity and play at any age by creating a safe and nurturing environment where individuals feel comfortable to explore and express themselves.
I approach my practice with a comprehensive, whole-brain, patient-centered, and strengths-based perspective. My expertise includes additional specialized training in EMDR therapy. I am dedicated to creating a warm and compassionate environment for my clients. My goal is to meet individuals where they are and build a supportive relationship that empowers them to rediscover their resilience and well-being.
Jenna Lavoie
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, RPT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401
Waitlist for new clients
I am also a registered play therapist and specialize in counseling children and teens.
Whether you are adjusting to life as a college student, somewhere along the journey of pregnancy and motherhood, or seeking additional support for your children, it is my goal to focus on the relationship as the foundation for the counseling process. I will seek to strengthen our relationship by providing a relaxed, compassionate, and non-judgmental environment. I approach therapy from a person-centered perspective, focusing on your individual needs and goals.
I am also a registered play therapist and specialize in counseling children and teens.
Whether you are adjusting to life as a college student, somewhere along the journey of pregnancy and motherhood, or seeking additional support for your children, it is my goal to focus on the relationship as the foundation for the counseling process. I will seek to strengthen our relationship by providing a relaxed, compassionate, and non-judgmental environment. I approach therapy from a person-centered perspective, focusing on your individual needs and goals.
Deja D Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27601 (Online Only)
I offer Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Group Therapy and more!.
Come on in, you've clicked the right profile! Do you find yourself unheard, unseen, alienated, or forgotten? Are you a parent who feels they no longer know how to help their child? Well, I've got you covered! I understand the difficulties of everyday life and struggles as a young adult in today's society. My mission is to encourage children, teens, young adults, and adults to develop healthy communication techniques, coping skills, boundaries, and overall mental health security for the years to come.
I offer Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Group Therapy and more!.
Come on in, you've clicked the right profile! Do you find yourself unheard, unseen, alienated, or forgotten? Are you a parent who feels they no longer know how to help their child? Well, I've got you covered! I understand the difficulties of everyday life and struggles as a young adult in today's society. My mission is to encourage children, teens, young adults, and adults to develop healthy communication techniques, coping skills, boundaries, and overall mental health security for the years to come.
Sunlight Therapy, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27610
If you’re looking for a therapist who believes in your resiliency and your ability to overcome barriers that prevent you from achieving your hopes and dreams, consider allowing me to work with you. Working with you from a solution focused and person-centered approach, you will learn strategies and skills that can assist you in moving past challenges that you're experiencing. I focus on working with children & adults who have ADHD, anxiety, depression and personality disorders. I also provide grief therapy, as well as play therapy for children & families. Let's talk to see if we're a good fit for you. Be well and thank you.
If you’re looking for a therapist who believes in your resiliency and your ability to overcome barriers that prevent you from achieving your hopes and dreams, consider allowing me to work with you. Working with you from a solution focused and person-centered approach, you will learn strategies and skills that can assist you in moving past challenges that you're experiencing. I focus on working with children & adults who have ADHD, anxiety, depression and personality disorders. I also provide grief therapy, as well as play therapy for children & families. Let's talk to see if we're a good fit for you. Be well and thank you.
Emmanuel 'manny' Olaiya
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27616
I utilize play therapy and mindfulness techniques to help children communicate their feelings, explore their world and resolve conflicts.
As an African American Licensed Therapist Male, I am particularly drawn to helping all persons (Children, Teens & Adults) overcome mental, physical and emotional issues. I believe in using therapy as a means to be helping people find the tools within themselves to move towards a positive and meaningful mental health. As a social worker, I consider "the whole person" and the systems impacting them to offer a positive therapeutic experience. I support clients of all backgrounds to address various issues including depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, substance abuse, relationship and family conflicts, with particular experience with AA
I utilize play therapy and mindfulness techniques to help children communicate their feelings, explore their world and resolve conflicts.
As an African American Licensed Therapist Male, I am particularly drawn to helping all persons (Children, Teens & Adults) overcome mental, physical and emotional issues. I believe in using therapy as a means to be helping people find the tools within themselves to move towards a positive and meaningful mental health. As a social worker, I consider "the whole person" and the systems impacting them to offer a positive therapeutic experience. I support clients of all backgrounds to address various issues including depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, substance abuse, relationship and family conflicts, with particular experience with AA
Kiana uses Cognitive behavioral therapy, Psychodynamic therapy, Play therapy, etc.
Kiana was born in Trenton, New Jersey. She was raised in Marlton New Jersey and Holly Springs North Carolina. Kiana has a life-long passion for sports, traveling, and outdoor activities. After high school, Kiana obtained a basketball scholarship for college and still is very passionate about basketball. Kiana received her bachelor’s in social work in 2023 from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. She received her master’s in social work in 2024 from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.
Kiana uses Cognitive behavioral therapy, Psychodynamic therapy, Play therapy, etc.
Kiana was born in Trenton, New Jersey. She was raised in Marlton New Jersey and Holly Springs North Carolina. Kiana has a life-long passion for sports, traveling, and outdoor activities. After high school, Kiana obtained a basketball scholarship for college and still is very passionate about basketball. Kiana received her bachelor’s in social work in 2023 from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. She received her master’s in social work in 2024 from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.
See more therapy options for Princeton
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.