Play Therapy in Lakewood, NJ

Photo of Chana Frumet Yaroslawitz, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chana Frumet Yaroslawitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lakewood, NJ 08701
You wish your child would follow the bedtime or breakfast routine better. Your child seems unable to communicate, problem solve, reflect, or play with friends. Your child has difficulty with homework or following rules. Your child gets into trouble at school or with the kids on the block. You want your child to learn the art of communication, how to express their emotions in appropriate ways or to understand other people’s feelings. Your child needs help! You have tried everything you know including interventions. You feel frustrated and emotionally drained. You agonize about their behavior that is affecting the rest of the family.
You wish your child would follow the bedtime or breakfast routine better. Your child seems unable to communicate, problem solve, reflect, or play with friends. Your child has difficulty with homework or following rules. Your child gets into trouble at school or with the kids on the block. You want your child to learn the art of communication, how to express their emotions in appropriate ways or to understand other people’s feelings. Your child needs help! You have tried everything you know including interventions. You feel frustrated and emotionally drained. You agonize about their behavior that is affecting the rest of the family.
(732) 994-6869 View (732) 994-6869
Photo of Dr. Meir Atkin, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Meir Atkin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Lakewood, NJ 08701
My goal when working with clients is to create a compassionate, caring, and safe therapeutic environment as we work together to overcome their challenges, heal their pain, develop their strengths and resources, and accomplish their goals. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and couples from all backgrounds on a broad range of issues. I have extensive training in a wide range of modalities and interventions and have provided psychotherapy in numerous settings to diverse populations.
My goal when working with clients is to create a compassionate, caring, and safe therapeutic environment as we work together to overcome their challenges, heal their pain, develop their strengths and resources, and accomplish their goals. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and couples from all backgrounds on a broad range of issues. I have extensive training in a wide range of modalities and interventions and have provided psychotherapy in numerous settings to diverse populations.
(848) 222-3587 View (848) 222-3587
Photo of Luz Vargas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Luz Vargas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lakewood, NJ 08701  (Online Only)
Making the decision to embark in the journey of beginning therapy can be nerve racking, therefore finding the therapist that fits your needs is essential. I have experience with child, adolescents, and adult using individual, couples, family therapy from various socio-cultural-economic backgrounds. I believe, providing individuals with the access to appropriate, effective, and accessible Mental Health care can help individuals begin to accomplish their goals and thrive in their lives. I specializes in treating anxiety, depression, adjustment to life transitions, trauma using a holistic and strength-based approach to help clients.
Making the decision to embark in the journey of beginning therapy can be nerve racking, therefore finding the therapist that fits your needs is essential. I have experience with child, adolescents, and adult using individual, couples, family therapy from various socio-cultural-economic backgrounds. I believe, providing individuals with the access to appropriate, effective, and accessible Mental Health care can help individuals begin to accomplish their goals and thrive in their lives. I specializes in treating anxiety, depression, adjustment to life transitions, trauma using a holistic and strength-based approach to help clients.
(718) 550-1660 View (718) 550-1660
We Level Up NJ Addiction Rehab & Detox Therapy
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCADC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, NJ 08701
Nationally Recognized Therapy at We Level Up Treatment Center. Free 24/7 hotline & assessments. Get help, take your first step to get better! Your call is FREE. We're top addiction & behavioral experts backed by Joint Commission's Accreditation pending held by top 10% of treatment centers. Specializing in the treatment of alcohol & substance abuse along with dual-diagnosis mental health cases like depression, mood, & thought disorders. Treatment via cutting-edge therapy programs using advanced evidence-based modalities for improved recovery results. Offering on-site medical detox programs via world-class specialists to counseling.
Nationally Recognized Therapy at We Level Up Treatment Center. Free 24/7 hotline & assessments. Get help, take your first step to get better! Your call is FREE. We're top addiction & behavioral experts backed by Joint Commission's Accreditation pending held by top 10% of treatment centers. Specializing in the treatment of alcohol & substance abuse along with dual-diagnosis mental health cases like depression, mood, & thought disorders. Treatment via cutting-edge therapy programs using advanced evidence-based modalities for improved recovery results. Offering on-site medical detox programs via world-class specialists to counseling.
(609) 418-4013 View (609) 418-4013
Photo of Margaret Nichols - Institute for Personal Growth - Freehold Office, PhD, LCSW, LPC, LMFT, Psychologist
Institute for Personal Growth - Freehold Office
Psychologist, PhD, LCSW, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lakewood, NJ 08701
Thinking of therapy? Ask for the first session free. IPG has around 30 therapists through 3 offices in Freehold, Highland Park, and Jersey City. Since 1983 we've combined compassionate care with high-level expertise. We provide individual, family, child, and relationship counseling for problems ranging from depression to life transitions to marital strife. We also have many trained sex therapists, a special focus on the LGBTQ community, transgender youth services, therapy for those involved in BDSM/kink, consensual non-monogamy, and other sexual minorities. The size and diversity of our staff means we can treat almost any client.
Thinking of therapy? Ask for the first session free. IPG has around 30 therapists through 3 offices in Freehold, Highland Park, and Jersey City. Since 1983 we've combined compassionate care with high-level expertise. We provide individual, family, child, and relationship counseling for problems ranging from depression to life transitions to marital strife. We also have many trained sex therapists, a special focus on the LGBTQ community, transgender youth services, therapy for those involved in BDSM/kink, consensual non-monogamy, and other sexual minorities. The size and diversity of our staff means we can treat almost any client.
(732) 561-5586 View (732) 561-5586
Photo of Christina Duggan, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Duggan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Lakewood, NJ 08701
This is my 24th year as a private psychotherapist. I specialize in the treatment of emotional/behavioral issues. I treat children, adolescents, and adults. I am an individual, couples, and family therapist. I am also a divorce mediator. I can also provide evaluations for hormone therapy, gender reassignment surgery, and medical marijuana. Give me a call and we can discuss your situation. I hope my positive energy can help you!
This is my 24th year as a private psychotherapist. I specialize in the treatment of emotional/behavioral issues. I treat children, adolescents, and adults. I am an individual, couples, and family therapist. I am also a divorce mediator. I can also provide evaluations for hormone therapy, gender reassignment surgery, and medical marijuana. Give me a call and we can discuss your situation. I hope my positive energy can help you!
(732) 930-1957 View (732) 930-1957
Photo of Danielle Matias, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danielle Matias
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, NJ 08701
The goal of my practice is to improve the quality of life of my clients and assist them reach their full potential and personal goals. Specializing in family and couple therapy. I also specialize in depression and anxiety. The ideal client will be dedicated to their own treatment and have a strong desire to feel better. Together with my client we work as a team to achieve the therapeutic goals and make life worth living and enjoying. I have been working in mental health for over a decade and it is my greatest passion in life.
The goal of my practice is to improve the quality of life of my clients and assist them reach their full potential and personal goals. Specializing in family and couple therapy. I also specialize in depression and anxiety. The ideal client will be dedicated to their own treatment and have a strong desire to feel better. Together with my client we work as a team to achieve the therapeutic goals and make life worth living and enjoying. I have been working in mental health for over a decade and it is my greatest passion in life.
(646) 204-2295 View (646) 204-2295
Photo of Zvi Weiss, PsyD, Psychologist
Zvi Weiss
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lakewood, NJ 08701
Therapy is about both addressing specific issues which may be getting in our way as well as cultivating a healthy curiosity about ourselves, our patterns, and our experiences. Life is wrought with transitions which can catch us off-guard, and it is common to feel unsure as to whether we are on the right path. Thankfully, these can be successfully navigated collaboratively and discreetly through a relationship with a trusted professional. Gaining an understanding of ourselves through identifying our blind spots is the first step in establishing a life that is both purposeful and fulfilling.
Therapy is about both addressing specific issues which may be getting in our way as well as cultivating a healthy curiosity about ourselves, our patterns, and our experiences. Life is wrought with transitions which can catch us off-guard, and it is common to feel unsure as to whether we are on the right path. Thankfully, these can be successfully navigated collaboratively and discreetly through a relationship with a trusted professional. Gaining an understanding of ourselves through identifying our blind spots is the first step in establishing a life that is both purposeful and fulfilling.
(347) 434-6291 View (347) 434-6291
Photo of Alexandra Goldstein, LCSW, LMSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexandra Goldstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, NJ 08701  (Online Only)
When you are overwhelmed with emotions like doubt, anxiety or even emptiness, it may feel as though you are drowning in an ocean of despair. You’ve probably told the closest people in your life about what you’re experiencing, but you fear being a burden to someone else and you can’t seem to shut off the negative thoughts that continue to invade your brain. The worry and loss of control you feel may manifest into an eating disorder, OCD, and various anxiety disorders in order to temporarily relieve pain. That's when a mental health professional can help!
When you are overwhelmed with emotions like doubt, anxiety or even emptiness, it may feel as though you are drowning in an ocean of despair. You’ve probably told the closest people in your life about what you’re experiencing, but you fear being a burden to someone else and you can’t seem to shut off the negative thoughts that continue to invade your brain. The worry and loss of control you feel may manifest into an eating disorder, OCD, and various anxiety disorders in order to temporarily relieve pain. That's when a mental health professional can help!
(732) 592-5710 View (732) 592-5710
Photo of Julianna Calleo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julianna Calleo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lakewood, NJ 08701  (Online Only)
Honestly, you've probably looked through many provider profiles by now and are wondering who to pick. It can be a tough decision and so I offer a 30 minute screening phone call to help decide if we would be a good fit for each other. I'll answer any questions that you may have and will refer you to another provider if I believe that they will be better suited to meet your mental health needs. I am person-centered and will be happy to serve you along this journey, making sure that your wants and needs are heard and making sure that you are the priority in your own treatment.
Honestly, you've probably looked through many provider profiles by now and are wondering who to pick. It can be a tough decision and so I offer a 30 minute screening phone call to help decide if we would be a good fit for each other. I'll answer any questions that you may have and will refer you to another provider if I believe that they will be better suited to meet your mental health needs. I am person-centered and will be happy to serve you along this journey, making sure that your wants and needs are heard and making sure that you are the priority in your own treatment.
(732) 385-9320 View (732) 385-9320
Photo of Nina Garland - Footprints to Feel Better, Licensed Professional Counselor
Footprints to Feel Better
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Lakewood, NJ 08701
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Footprints began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Footprints began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
(646) 204-2295 View (646) 204-2295
Photo of Dominique Cecil - Yellow Bird Counseling LLC, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Yellow Bird Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, NJ 08701
The focus of our practice, is to assist adults, children, and families with obtaining relatable therapy. We assess past situations in your life which contribute to current emotions behaviors and thought patterns. With child and adolescent clients our focus is similar, with the addition of close communication with the family. Moreover, with child and adolescents, we will focus on depression, impulsive behavior, limited attention span, oppositional/defiant behaviors, dishonesty, and social issues in school/home. Family and/or friends are welcome in your sessions for support. We do offer 430p-630p, and weekend appointments.
The focus of our practice, is to assist adults, children, and families with obtaining relatable therapy. We assess past situations in your life which contribute to current emotions behaviors and thought patterns. With child and adolescent clients our focus is similar, with the addition of close communication with the family. Moreover, with child and adolescents, we will focus on depression, impulsive behavior, limited attention span, oppositional/defiant behaviors, dishonesty, and social issues in school/home. Family and/or friends are welcome in your sessions for support. We do offer 430p-630p, and weekend appointments.
(205) 236-9136 View (205) 236-9136

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Debbie Galletta - Ocean Counseling and Wellness, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ocean Counseling and Wellness, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
I will help you find emotional balance through the use of psychotherapy, sand play therapy and mindfulness principles that will be tailored to your specific needs, challenges and concerns.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience working with individuals, teens, couples and families. Recognizing your need for help with life's challenges and choosing to begin therapy takes hope and a great deal of courage. My practice offers a safe, warm and calming environment where you can share your life story and begin the journey of healing, growth and change. I can help you with life's transitions, relationship and communication issues and personal growth, specializing in women's empowerment and strengthening families.
I will help you find emotional balance through the use of psychotherapy, sand play therapy and mindfulness principles that will be tailored to your specific needs, challenges and concerns.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience working with individuals, teens, couples and families. Recognizing your need for help with life's challenges and choosing to begin therapy takes hope and a great deal of courage. My practice offers a safe, warm and calming environment where you can share your life story and begin the journey of healing, growth and change. I can help you with life's transitions, relationship and communication issues and personal growth, specializing in women's empowerment and strengthening families.
(732) 585-1790 View (732) 585-1790
Photo of Amy L Young - By Design Counseling Center, MS Ed, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
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.
(862) 304-5183 View (862) 304-5183
Photo of Erin Parks, MSW, LCSW , LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Parks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW , LCADC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
I take a compassionate and informed, personal approach to helping children, families and adults to heal from trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence, military and first response related trauma, anxiety, depression, fear, loss, substance abuse and compulsive behaviors, and every day stressors. My passion is to help each client reach their highest potential for joy, success and peace. Children, families and individuals gain competency and regulation, increase health and attachment .Utilizing the scientifically proven techniques of Child Play Therapy, psychotherapy, and EMDR with honest care, clients find relief, healing and growth .
I take a compassionate and informed, personal approach to helping children, families and adults to heal from trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence, military and first response related trauma, anxiety, depression, fear, loss, substance abuse and compulsive behaviors, and every day stressors. My passion is to help each client reach their highest potential for joy, success and peace. Children, families and individuals gain competency and regulation, increase health and attachment .Utilizing the scientifically proven techniques of Child Play Therapy, psychotherapy, and EMDR with honest care, clients find relief, healing and growth .
(848) 246-2385 View (848) 246-2385
Photo of Lauren Casas - Symbol of Hope Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Symbol of Hope Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Brielle, NJ 08730
I offer sand play therapy, mandalas and art, music, reiki, yoga and meditation for all ages, in addition to traditional talk therapy.
Congratulations on taking the first step towards self improvement for yourself or your child! I often tell my clients, family and friends that therapy is the ultimate gift you can give yourself or your child. Imagine devoting a set time each week in a comfortable and calm environment to focus on yourself. This time is devoted to you and only you. I will ensure that the space is held and that you, or your child, feel safe and supported during this time of healing. With over a decade's worth of experience, I help individuals with challenges stemming from issues such of anxiety, depression, trauma, inattention, and family conflict.
I offer sand play therapy, mandalas and art, music, reiki, yoga and meditation for all ages, in addition to traditional talk therapy.
Congratulations on taking the first step towards self improvement for yourself or your child! I often tell my clients, family and friends that therapy is the ultimate gift you can give yourself or your child. Imagine devoting a set time each week in a comfortable and calm environment to focus on yourself. This time is devoted to you and only you. I will ensure that the space is held and that you, or your child, feel safe and supported during this time of healing. With over a decade's worth of experience, I help individuals with challenges stemming from issues such of anxiety, depression, trauma, inattention, and family conflict.
(848) 256-0671 View (848) 256-0671
Photo of Julia Ann Gollas, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia Ann Gollas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brick, NJ 08724
A combination of behavioral, cognitive, and psychosocial theories are incorporated into my approach as well as a combination of play, strength-based, cognitive-behavioral, and solution-focused therapy.
Once stated by Erik Erickson, "Children love and want to be loved and they very much prefer the joy of accomplishment". My passion comes from working with children, adolescents, and families as they learn and grow together while celebrating the joys of their own accomplishments. Providing support while managing a variety of life stressors including but not limited to school difficulties, ADHD, anxiety, and defiance are my specialty. I have gained this specialty through my work while providing therapy in Partial Hospitalization, Intensive Outpatient, and School Based Programs. Having the privilege to provide you with empathy, warmth, and empowerment on this journey is my hope.
A combination of behavioral, cognitive, and psychosocial theories are incorporated into my approach as well as a combination of play, strength-based, cognitive-behavioral, and solution-focused therapy.
Once stated by Erik Erickson, "Children love and want to be loved and they very much prefer the joy of accomplishment". My passion comes from working with children, adolescents, and families as they learn and grow together while celebrating the joys of their own accomplishments. Providing support while managing a variety of life stressors including but not limited to school difficulties, ADHD, anxiety, and defiance are my specialty. I have gained this specialty through my work while providing therapy in Partial Hospitalization, Intensive Outpatient, and School Based Programs. Having the privilege to provide you with empathy, warmth, and empowerment on this journey is my hope.
(848) 404-5057 View (848) 404-5057
Photo of Kendall Marquard - Kendall Marquard:  Kids, Teens, Couples, Adults, MS, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kendall Marquard: Kids, Teens, Couples, Adults
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LSW
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
I love to work with kids, teens, adults, and couples to support clients facing things like anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief & loss as well as school and peer issues. With young people, I combine play therapy with parental collaboration to heal and grow. With adults, I focus on helping you feel safe, supported, and empowered in our sessions and we'll draw on techniques like CBT, DBT, and motivational work to help you gain insight and bring about change. In couples therapy, I use the Gottman Method to help couples feel understood and connected. See if I am taking new clients and book here: bit.ly/KendallM
I love to work with kids, teens, adults, and couples to support clients facing things like anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief & loss as well as school and peer issues. With young people, I combine play therapy with parental collaboration to heal and grow. With adults, I focus on helping you feel safe, supported, and empowered in our sessions and we'll draw on techniques like CBT, DBT, and motivational work to help you gain insight and bring about change. In couples therapy, I use the Gottman Method to help couples feel understood and connected. See if I am taking new clients and book here: bit.ly/KendallM
(201) 890-7339 View (201) 890-7339
Photo of Courtney Sarro, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Sarro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
Courtney uses multiple treatment approaches including CBT, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and play therapy.
Courtney Sarro is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 8 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about working with children and adults to learn appropriate coping skills to difficult feelings and adjusting to lifes daily changes and stressors. Courtney specializes in adjustment disorder, anxiety, depression, aggression, and trauma. Courtney completed her Master's degree in Social Work (MSW) at Stockton University.
Courtney uses multiple treatment approaches including CBT, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and play therapy.
Courtney Sarro is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 8 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about working with children and adults to learn appropriate coping skills to difficult feelings and adjusting to lifes daily changes and stressors. Courtney specializes in adjustment disorder, anxiety, depression, aggression, and trauma. Courtney completed her Master's degree in Social Work (MSW) at Stockton University.
(848) 229-9094 View (848) 229-9094
Photo of Melissa Schwaner - Swan Therapy Group, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Swan Therapy Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08753
We also specialize in Play Therapy for the younger children and have a fun and unique approaches for the teenagers.
If you're looking for help with your child/teenager, family dynamic or you yourself, you've come to the right place! We also provide adult therapy and couples therapy. At Swan Therapy Group, we strive on helping everyone in the community one family at a time, on the most personalized basis that we can. Through empathy and support we can provide you or your family the tools to navigate through any life challenges that come your way in a positive and healthy manner. Please visit our website to see each of our individualized profiles!
We also specialize in Play Therapy for the younger children and have a fun and unique approaches for the teenagers.
If you're looking for help with your child/teenager, family dynamic or you yourself, you've come to the right place! We also provide adult therapy and couples therapy. At Swan Therapy Group, we strive on helping everyone in the community one family at a time, on the most personalized basis that we can. Through empathy and support we can provide you or your family the tools to navigate through any life challenges that come your way in a positive and healthy manner. Please visit our website to see each of our individualized profiles!
(732) 573-6968 View (732) 573-6968
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.