Play Therapy in Howell, NJ
![Photo of Stephanie L Sullivan, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3027415-6bb7-4a8e-be7a-2b97fe9e644b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie L Sullivan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Howell, NJ 07731
Stephanie is certified in both Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) and trained in play therapy.
When you have experienced a trauma, developed uncontrollable anxiety, have a child who is overwhelmingly oppositional, or anything in between, it can feel extremely isolating. That is why we are here at Sullivan Counseling Services. No one should ever feel alone when they are going through a difficult time and may need an outside source to help guide them in the right direction. Our goal is to help each person who comes to therapy gain motivation and move in a positive direction to better their current situation.
Stephanie is certified in both Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) and trained in play therapy.
When you have experienced a trauma, developed uncontrollable anxiety, have a child who is overwhelmingly oppositional, or anything in between, it can feel extremely isolating. That is why we are here at Sullivan Counseling Services. No one should ever feel alone when they are going through a difficult time and may need an outside source to help guide them in the right direction. Our goal is to help each person who comes to therapy gain motivation and move in a positive direction to better their current situation.
![Photo of Jennifer DiMarco, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e62ee26-0619-4307-9c8f-c7b63033da1c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer DiMarco
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Howell, NJ 07731
For children and young adolescents, this will be done through play therapy techniques.
Are you currently struggling with raising your child or teen? Do you have difficulty communicating with your child/teen? Does your child/teen have difficulty with regulating emotions? Are you noticing heightened anxiety and/or depression in your child/teen? Is your child/teen having difficulty in school or struggling with sexual/gender identity? Has your child/teen experienced a traumatic event? Is your child/teen struggling with understanding and/or accepting their neurodivergent traits? If you’ve answered yes to at least one of these questions, I’m here to help.
For children and young adolescents, this will be done through play therapy techniques.
Are you currently struggling with raising your child or teen? Do you have difficulty communicating with your child/teen? Does your child/teen have difficulty with regulating emotions? Are you noticing heightened anxiety and/or depression in your child/teen? Is your child/teen having difficulty in school or struggling with sexual/gender identity? Has your child/teen experienced a traumatic event? Is your child/teen struggling with understanding and/or accepting their neurodivergent traits? If you’ve answered yes to at least one of these questions, I’m here to help.
![Photo of Emily Whille, LSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2a074aa0-e06e-42d0-afd9-4d3c118b300e/3/320x400.png)
Exploring the lived human experience involves acknowledging its diverse challenges, wide range of emotions, and the essential role of healthy relationships. Therapy is a blend of empathy, empowerment, unwavering support, and professional guidance. It provides a constructive framework for individuals to explore, understand, and ultimately embrace their authentic selves. The focus should always be on the client's growth and progress. I take immense pride in my clients' accomplishments, celebrating them as if they were my own.
Exploring the lived human experience involves acknowledging its diverse challenges, wide range of emotions, and the essential role of healthy relationships. Therapy is a blend of empathy, empowerment, unwavering support, and professional guidance. It provides a constructive framework for individuals to explore, understand, and ultimately embrace their authentic selves. The focus should always be on the client's growth and progress. I take immense pride in my clients' accomplishments, celebrating them as if they were my own.
![Photo of Chloe Ramirez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eab428f3-b264-4c80-9eaa-9296d01d2ccc/1/320x400.png)
Chloe Ramirez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Howell, NJ 07731
Waitlist for new clients
Hello I'm Chloe Ramirez, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults and have experience working in schools, outpatient, and in-home settings. I utilize various therapeutic modalities tailored to meet your unique needs and highlight your strengths.
Hello I'm Chloe Ramirez, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults and have experience working in schools, outpatient, and in-home settings. I utilize various therapeutic modalities tailored to meet your unique needs and highlight your strengths.
![Photo of Christina Walters, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41928449-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist who has experience working with children, adolescents and adults with a range of psychological disorders including anxiety and mood disorders, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorders, learning disabilities, developmental disabilities and traumatic brain injuries. I have training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and am able to provide services in individual, family or group settings. Additionally, I can perform psychological, psycho-educational and neuropsychological assessments.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist who has experience working with children, adolescents and adults with a range of psychological disorders including anxiety and mood disorders, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorders, learning disabilities, developmental disabilities and traumatic brain injuries. I have training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and am able to provide services in individual, family or group settings. Additionally, I can perform psychological, psycho-educational and neuropsychological assessments.
![Photo of Magdalena Bania, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5641448b-4744-44c5-876b-93371229c4be/3/320x400.png)
Coming from a marriage and family therapy training background, I tend to view client issues from a systemic and trauma informed lens. I am passionate about helping you learn how to manage your current stressors, process past trauma and give you the tools you will need to lead a healthy and fulfilling life. I want to help you grow and maybe even elevate your self esteem along the way! I guarantee that you will leave my office feeling at least 1 % better if not more! I like to challenge my clients with self reflective questions, while also being sensitive to their trauma, by going at their pace.
Coming from a marriage and family therapy training background, I tend to view client issues from a systemic and trauma informed lens. I am passionate about helping you learn how to manage your current stressors, process past trauma and give you the tools you will need to lead a healthy and fulfilling life. I want to help you grow and maybe even elevate your self esteem along the way! I guarantee that you will leave my office feeling at least 1 % better if not more! I like to challenge my clients with self reflective questions, while also being sensitive to their trauma, by going at their pace.
![Photo of Samantha Shultz, LAC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9ddcfc7f-460f-4f70-b33e-d7275d6ad1e4/1/320x400.png)
I have always viewed counseling as an opportunity for me to work alongside my clients to assist them in their journey toward personal discovery. I strive to ensure that each counseling session is one that will help you explore your goals and make meaningful progress. My biggest joy is helping my clients find their true aspirations and goals in life and being by their side through the process!
I have always viewed counseling as an opportunity for me to work alongside my clients to assist them in their journey toward personal discovery. I strive to ensure that each counseling session is one that will help you explore your goals and make meaningful progress. My biggest joy is helping my clients find their true aspirations and goals in life and being by their side through the process!
![Photo of Dr. Margaret Maghan, LCSW, SSW, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af34e69e-e87f-4143-ab78-d89e8c8b067b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Margaret Maghan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Howell, NJ 07731
Hello, my name is Margaret Maghan and I want to congratulate you on practicing self-care in mental health. I firmly believe a therapeutic relationship is a positive step toward a balanced future. The relationships developed in a therapeutic setting help our personal gifts shine. Each client has their own specific set of strengths and goals which are utilized in session to help achieve deeper self-understanding and enlightenment. I offer supportive therapy with a skills-based approach.
Hello, my name is Margaret Maghan and I want to congratulate you on practicing self-care in mental health. I firmly believe a therapeutic relationship is a positive step toward a balanced future. The relationships developed in a therapeutic setting help our personal gifts shine. Each client has their own specific set of strengths and goals which are utilized in session to help achieve deeper self-understanding and enlightenment. I offer supportive therapy with a skills-based approach.
![Photo of Jill Portaro | Healing Through The Heart Center | Trauma Anxiety Stress, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16b102b6-b2f3-430e-aecb-d4d58600fdfc/1/320x400.png)
Jill Portaro | Healing Through The Heart Center | Trauma Anxiety Stress
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Howell, NJ 07731
Are change and uncertainty making you feel anxious? Do you feel that it's a struggle to work through challenges in your life? If you are tired of trying to make things better on your own, I am here to help you and your family learn healthy coping strategies to manage the emotions and behaviors that trouble you. In therapy, find the clarity and balance you need to connect deeply to your inner strengths to create lasting, positive changes in your life. I am focused on helping you meet your goals and make the changes to your life that you want to see.
Are change and uncertainty making you feel anxious? Do you feel that it's a struggle to work through challenges in your life? If you are tired of trying to make things better on your own, I am here to help you and your family learn healthy coping strategies to manage the emotions and behaviors that trouble you. In therapy, find the clarity and balance you need to connect deeply to your inner strengths to create lasting, positive changes in your life. I am focused on helping you meet your goals and make the changes to your life that you want to see.
![Photo of Judi Sargent, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/508b1aa5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Judi Sargent
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Howell, NJ 07731 (Online Only)
I am accepting new clients for Teletherapy Only. You can do a video or phone session. I have 27 years of experience and specialize in anxiety, depression, relationship issues, PTSD/trauma, addiction, grief and loss. I accept most insurances but will verify yours to be sure at the start. To request an appt you can call me at 732-581-5051 or send me an online request for an appointment at: https:/www.judisargentlcsw.online (Its HIPAA compliant and secured)
I am accepting new clients for Teletherapy Only. You can do a video or phone session. I have 27 years of experience and specialize in anxiety, depression, relationship issues, PTSD/trauma, addiction, grief and loss. I accept most insurances but will verify yours to be sure at the start. To request an appt you can call me at 732-581-5051 or send me an online request for an appointment at: https:/www.judisargentlcsw.online (Its HIPAA compliant and secured)
![Photo of Rebecca A Sears, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/426fb0bd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Sears received her Doctoral Degree from Pace University in Manhattan, and began her career as a school psychologist. She has worked in a Community Mental Health setting in Asbury Park for 5-years, and sees children, adolescents, and young adults in private practice. Therapeutic techniques utilized include those from EMDR, Positive Psychotherapy, Polyvagal Theory, CBT/TF-CBT, and DBT.
Rebecca Sears received her Doctoral Degree from Pace University in Manhattan, and began her career as a school psychologist. She has worked in a Community Mental Health setting in Asbury Park for 5-years, and sees children, adolescents, and young adults in private practice. Therapeutic techniques utilized include those from EMDR, Positive Psychotherapy, Polyvagal Theory, CBT/TF-CBT, and DBT.
![Photo of Pauline L. Bailo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/823ed931-dc04-4c16-ab59-8b01db774cdd/2/320x400.jpeg)
I elicit hope when the world seems hopeless. My approach is to develop a therapeutic relationship where authenticity is encouraged in a compassionate, judgement free space. Majority of the children I work with simply want to just be kids, but there is a concern or barrier that needs to be addressed or removed first. Majority of the youth I work with are trying to figure out their purpose and how to focus on the future. The families I work with want to reduce stress and be cohesive. The couples I work with want to be unified and feel like they are together in their relationship. The adults want to be happy and content.
I elicit hope when the world seems hopeless. My approach is to develop a therapeutic relationship where authenticity is encouraged in a compassionate, judgement free space. Majority of the children I work with simply want to just be kids, but there is a concern or barrier that needs to be addressed or removed first. Majority of the youth I work with are trying to figure out their purpose and how to focus on the future. The families I work with want to reduce stress and be cohesive. The couples I work with want to be unified and feel like they are together in their relationship. The adults want to be happy and content.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Jamie Barry - Jamie L. Barry, LLC, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/465c13c6-f75e-45cd-baaa-7b3d6b932915/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jamie L. Barry, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Wall, NJ 07719
I also offer play therapy to children and adolescents.
Therapy is a great opportunity for individuals to improve their overall quality of life. As a therapist I provide unconditional support and listening in a relaxed and comfortable therapeutic environment. I work with a large variety of age groups and offer individual, couples and family therapy sessions. I specialize in treating patients with anxiety and depression and help others with developing healthy coping skills to alleviate everyday stress. I also teach individuals how to use effective strategies to help improve communication skills as well as their relationships with others.
I also offer play therapy to children and adolescents.
Therapy is a great opportunity for individuals to improve their overall quality of life. As a therapist I provide unconditional support and listening in a relaxed and comfortable therapeutic environment. I work with a large variety of age groups and offer individual, couples and family therapy sessions. I specialize in treating patients with anxiety and depression and help others with developing healthy coping skills to alleviate everyday stress. I also teach individuals how to use effective strategies to help improve communication skills as well as their relationships with others.
![Photo of Marisol Samol, LCSW, RPT™, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cb83af2-0049-4441-bef7-6f447d408c7c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Marisol Samol
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT™
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Freehold, NJ 07728
As an LCSW and RPT specializing in sand tray therapy and play therapy, I offer a blend of therapeutic modalities, including CBT, DBT, Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), and mindfulness techniques.
My ideal clients are children, teenagers, young adults, adults, and athletes facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral issues, and family dynamics. They seek effective, compassionate support to address these concerns and aim for strategies that promote healing, personal growth, and resilience. They desire tailored interventions that not only resolve immediate issues but also foster long-term emotional well-being and success in their personal and professional lives. These clients want a therapeutic approach that resonates with their unique circumstances and helps them achieve their goals.
As an LCSW and RPT specializing in sand tray therapy and play therapy, I offer a blend of therapeutic modalities, including CBT, DBT, Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), and mindfulness techniques.
My ideal clients are children, teenagers, young adults, adults, and athletes facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral issues, and family dynamics. They seek effective, compassionate support to address these concerns and aim for strategies that promote healing, personal growth, and resilience. They desire tailored interventions that not only resolve immediate issues but also foster long-term emotional well-being and success in their personal and professional lives. These clients want a therapeutic approach that resonates with their unique circumstances and helps them achieve their goals.
![Photo of Amy L Young - By Design Counseling Center, MS Ed, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b9a075e-e6d6-43a8-bc14-c95651245845/2/320x400.jpeg)
By Design Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS Ed, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Wall Township, NJ 07719
In young children who are learning to express their emotions and develop coping strategies, Amy has found great success with a play-based therapy approach.
Everyone faces a unique set of challenges in life; there is no single approach or therapy modality that works best for everyone. This is why By Design Social Skills provides a variety of services to assist those struggling with behavioral, emotional, or school-based difficulties. Whether you are looking to enhance your child’s social skills through our popular Lego Clubs, seeking treatment for their issues with anxiety, or are interested in counseling for yourself to help navigate life’s challenges, we are here to help. Amy L. Young is a Licensed Professional Counselor providing assistance in a nurturing, safe, caring environment.
In young children who are learning to express their emotions and develop coping strategies, Amy has found great success with a play-based therapy approach.
Everyone faces a unique set of challenges in life; there is no single approach or therapy modality that works best for everyone. This is why By Design Social Skills provides a variety of services to assist those struggling with behavioral, emotional, or school-based difficulties. Whether you are looking to enhance your child’s social skills through our popular Lego Clubs, seeking treatment for their issues with anxiety, or are interested in counseling for yourself to help navigate life’s challenges, we are here to help. Amy L. Young is a Licensed Professional Counselor providing assistance in a nurturing, safe, caring environment.
![Photo of Erica Hansen, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2868fc69-4da1-47b2-b90d-5bfb3260b614/2/320x400.png)
Anxiety and worry play a role in all of our lives. It can cause us feel stuck or make even the smallest decision seem impossible. You are not alone, many feel the same way everyday. Having children, parenting, illness, the loss of a loved one, divorce/relationship ending and changing jobs can all be sources of increased stress and worry. These stressors can impact our emotions causing our anxiety to become overwhelming. Learning to handle strong emotions and developing emotional intelligence is key to managing our life stressors.
Anxiety and worry play a role in all of our lives. It can cause us feel stuck or make even the smallest decision seem impossible. You are not alone, many feel the same way everyday. Having children, parenting, illness, the loss of a loved one, divorce/relationship ending and changing jobs can all be sources of increased stress and worry. These stressors can impact our emotions causing our anxiety to become overwhelming. Learning to handle strong emotions and developing emotional intelligence is key to managing our life stressors.
![Photo of Amanda Levitt, MS, LAC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71503f96-dc43-4e23-a49c-5d5a712c1727/1/320x400.jpeg)
Have you been looking for ways to handle change, loss, or the unknowns of life? Being human means experiencing a wide range of emotions and finding a balance. It takes a lot of courage to reach out and connect with a therapist and I am here to support you and meet you where you are at! I work with children, teens, and adults mainly experiencing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and adjustment issues. I love to bring creativity into the therapeutic setting utilizing art, play, and ecotherapy along with creating a safe atmosphere for clients to fully express themselves and work towards healing.
Have you been looking for ways to handle change, loss, or the unknowns of life? Being human means experiencing a wide range of emotions and finding a balance. It takes a lot of courage to reach out and connect with a therapist and I am here to support you and meet you where you are at! I work with children, teens, and adults mainly experiencing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and adjustment issues. I love to bring creativity into the therapeutic setting utilizing art, play, and ecotherapy along with creating a safe atmosphere for clients to fully express themselves and work towards healing.
![Photo of Kara Dibble, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88fee15a-6507-4dff-b914-2d3778509f23/2/320x400.png)
I take a nonjudgmental, biopsychosocial approach with each client in order to address all components that could be leading to discomfort, dysfunction, or need for support in any area of life. Through various somatic trainings, and personal experience in utilizing these modalities over the last decade, my goal as a therapist is to offer compassionate understanding, as well as share with you the various tools that I've acquired along the way to support you in your self-regulation, healing, growth, and empowerment. I am trained in EMDR, Sand Play Therapy, DIR, Trauma-Informed Yoga, and meditations for brain health.
I take a nonjudgmental, biopsychosocial approach with each client in order to address all components that could be leading to discomfort, dysfunction, or need for support in any area of life. Through various somatic trainings, and personal experience in utilizing these modalities over the last decade, my goal as a therapist is to offer compassionate understanding, as well as share with you the various tools that I've acquired along the way to support you in your self-regulation, healing, growth, and empowerment. I am trained in EMDR, Sand Play Therapy, DIR, Trauma-Informed Yoga, and meditations for brain health.
![Photo of Dr. Tara Chalakani, PsyD , LPC, ACS, NCC, RN, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4f880fe-5223-49eb-be59-86667057b9ae/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Tara Chalakani
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD , LPC, ACS, NCC, RN
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Brielle, NJ 08730
Waitlist for new clients
), Trauma (sexual, physical, emotional), Grief/Loss, Infertility, Self-Defeating Thoughts/Behaviors (low self-esteem), Improving Relationships, Communication, Personal Growth/Self-Improvement, Co-dependency, Sand Play Therapy, Holistic therapy (Reiki/Acupressure/Nutrition), Clinical Supervision.
Dr. Tara is a Licensed Professional Counselor who is passionate about her work. To help people grow, heal, and overcome obstacles brings her great joy. Her expansive knowledge makes her a well-known expert in her field. She believes that her clients possess the capacity to heal, but sometimes they need the right environment to foster their true potential. She is holistic and views each person as an individual. Dr. Tara has extensive experience and is well versed in several counseling modalities and understands that each person's needs are unique.
), Trauma (sexual, physical, emotional), Grief/Loss, Infertility, Self-Defeating Thoughts/Behaviors (low self-esteem), Improving Relationships, Communication, Personal Growth/Self-Improvement, Co-dependency, Sand Play Therapy, Holistic therapy (Reiki/Acupressure/Nutrition), Clinical Supervision.
Dr. Tara is a Licensed Professional Counselor who is passionate about her work. To help people grow, heal, and overcome obstacles brings her great joy. Her expansive knowledge makes her a well-known expert in her field. She believes that her clients possess the capacity to heal, but sometimes they need the right environment to foster their true potential. She is holistic and views each person as an individual. Dr. Tara has extensive experience and is well versed in several counseling modalities and understands that each person's needs are unique.
![Photo of Trish J Parratt, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46e3831b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I use approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, and other modalities to work with clients towards the development of coping skills, improvement of communication, and overall happiness in their lives.
CLINICAL SUPERVISION AVAILABLE Therapy can help you change and improve your life. A therapist is an unconditional, non-judgemental listener. I am committed to your goals and want to make therapy comfortable and refreshing. I work with a variety of age groups, including children and adolescents, and conduct individual and family sessions. CERTIFIED CLINICAL ANXIETY TREATMENT PROFESSIONAL (CCATP)
I use approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, and other modalities to work with clients towards the development of coping skills, improvement of communication, and overall happiness in their lives.
CLINICAL SUPERVISION AVAILABLE Therapy can help you change and improve your life. A therapist is an unconditional, non-judgemental listener. I am committed to your goals and want to make therapy comfortable and refreshing. I work with a variety of age groups, including children and adolescents, and conduct individual and family sessions. CERTIFIED CLINICAL ANXIETY TREATMENT PROFESSIONAL (CCATP)
See more therapy options for Howell
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Howell
- Belmar
- Brick
- Brielle
- Freehold
- Jackson
- Lakewood
- Manasquan
- Neptune City
- Point Pleasant
- Spring Lake
- Wall
- Wall Township
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.