Play Therapy in Huntington, NY
![Photo of Mary D Gnieser, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f65ae9ae-26ad-4791-aa3c-cf4d70743a9f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mary D Gnieser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Huntington, NY 11743
It is a courageous act, reaching out to a stranger for help. This courage that brought you to this webpage is real and will take you to the next step of healing. Whether you are looking for answers for yourself or for someone you love, you are making the right decision by reaching out. Through a unique blend of Psychotherapy, Integrative Hypnotherapy, Bazi Analysis, Qi Gong, Mindfulness, I help move my clients to a better understanding of themselves, their relationships and the world in which they live, love and play. Thank you for stopping by today and I hope I hear from you soon!
It is a courageous act, reaching out to a stranger for help. This courage that brought you to this webpage is real and will take you to the next step of healing. Whether you are looking for answers for yourself or for someone you love, you are making the right decision by reaching out. Through a unique blend of Psychotherapy, Integrative Hypnotherapy, Bazi Analysis, Qi Gong, Mindfulness, I help move my clients to a better understanding of themselves, their relationships and the world in which they live, love and play. Thank you for stopping by today and I hope I hear from you soon!
![Photo of Jadwiga Cutrone, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/957bcbf4-e7e6-4736-bbb0-bacb339f3e01/1/320x400.jpeg)
When working with young children, I utilize play therapy & creative-expressive techniques that will enable children to communicate & process complex emotions & experiences.
I am a licensed psychologist providing treatment to children, adolescents & adults experiencing a range of social-emotional difficulties, such as anxiety, depression, trauma & stress. I believe that everyone attempts to cope with life's challenges the best way they can, however, at times the issues we face overwhelm our capacity to cope or move forward. The reasons that have lead you to seek therapy at this time are unique to your lived experience. During our first session, we will explore your needs and goals and develop a plan that will lead to deep insight, growth and healing.
When working with young children, I utilize play therapy & creative-expressive techniques that will enable children to communicate & process complex emotions & experiences.
I am a licensed psychologist providing treatment to children, adolescents & adults experiencing a range of social-emotional difficulties, such as anxiety, depression, trauma & stress. I believe that everyone attempts to cope with life's challenges the best way they can, however, at times the issues we face overwhelm our capacity to cope or move forward. The reasons that have lead you to seek therapy at this time are unique to your lived experience. During our first session, we will explore your needs and goals and develop a plan that will lead to deep insight, growth and healing.
![Photo of Barbara McMahon, MS, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c5c5e40a-5362-41dd-88e3-6d3a0e1cb6e5/1/320x400.jpeg)
My office is fully equipped for art therapy and play therapy.
I offer compassionate and experienced support, guidance and psychotherapy for adults , children and families. My approach is person-centered as opposed to being overly directive and involves the development of a treatment plan tailored to the individual. I welcome my clients to a safe, ambient, and confidential space, and invite them to trust in the process of developing a therapeutic relationship. Within this relationship, transformation will occur. With over thirty years of experience as a mental health professional, I am a seasoned guide.
My office is fully equipped for art therapy and play therapy.
I offer compassionate and experienced support, guidance and psychotherapy for adults , children and families. My approach is person-centered as opposed to being overly directive and involves the development of a treatment plan tailored to the individual. I welcome my clients to a safe, ambient, and confidential space, and invite them to trust in the process of developing a therapeutic relationship. Within this relationship, transformation will occur. With over thirty years of experience as a mental health professional, I am a seasoned guide.
![Photo of Leslie Portillo, MA, LCAT, ATR-BC, Art Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b964ffce-a0cb-4697-8bb0-4e2a9bdb00fd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Every so often, we just need to be silly, laugh, play, and create no matter how old we are.
Do you feel intimidated to express your personal life and struggles? Does this leave you feeling overwhelmed or stressed? You are not alone and I encourage you to take this next step in your healing journey. Although you may struggle to see your worth today, I'm here to remind you that you deserve a fulfilling future full of peace, self-love, and happiness. I love creating healing spaces where one can connect with their higher self. I use the creative process to explore emotions, reduce anxiety, increase self-esteem, and resolve other psychological conflicts.
Every so often, we just need to be silly, laugh, play, and create no matter how old we are.
Do you feel intimidated to express your personal life and struggles? Does this leave you feeling overwhelmed or stressed? You are not alone and I encourage you to take this next step in your healing journey. Although you may struggle to see your worth today, I'm here to remind you that you deserve a fulfilling future full of peace, self-love, and happiness. I love creating healing spaces where one can connect with their higher self. I use the creative process to explore emotions, reduce anxiety, increase self-esteem, and resolve other psychological conflicts.
![Photo of Rebecca Bonanno, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/70199316-b83e-46ac-8574-6d77325fcb81/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Bonanno
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743
Waitlist for new clients
I practice child-centered play therapy with children ages 3-8 years old.
If your young child is struggling with anxiety, behavioral problems, social relationships, or other challenges, I can help. And if you worry about how to set clear limits and communicate lovingly and effectively with your child, I can support you, too. My warm and friendly approach to play therapy and parent coaching will provide the opportunities your family needs to build confidence, new skills, and stronger relationships.
I practice child-centered play therapy with children ages 3-8 years old.
If your young child is struggling with anxiety, behavioral problems, social relationships, or other challenges, I can help. And if you worry about how to set clear limits and communicate lovingly and effectively with your child, I can support you, too. My warm and friendly approach to play therapy and parent coaching will provide the opportunities your family needs to build confidence, new skills, and stronger relationships.
![Photo of Joanna Hurley, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31a8b253-eb7c-45b4-a42b-b7e236d79f3a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with individuals of all ages, and my therapeutic approaches include psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and attachment-based theory, in addition to play therapy for younger children.
My goal is to provide a safe, supportive, and nurturing space for children and adults who are facing difficult emotional struggles from current or past experiences. My approach is rooted in collaboration, aiming to work closely with families, educators, and fellow professionals to create a comprehensive support system. A foundation built on trust allows us to explore experiences, express emotions, and develop coping strategies.
I work with individuals of all ages, and my therapeutic approaches include psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and attachment-based theory, in addition to play therapy for younger children.
My goal is to provide a safe, supportive, and nurturing space for children and adults who are facing difficult emotional struggles from current or past experiences. My approach is rooted in collaboration, aiming to work closely with families, educators, and fellow professionals to create a comprehensive support system. A foundation built on trust allows us to explore experiences, express emotions, and develop coping strategies.
![Photo of Tanairy Fernandez - Balance Mental Health Counseling, PLLC, LMHC, NCC, PMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/040ad3bb-91dc-4d31-a0ab-4dcca326e16a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Balance Mental Health Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, PMHC
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743
We have extensive experience counseling clients with Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs) and Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorder (Pregnancy and postpartum). We treat children, adolescents, and adults. We specialize in working with women during the pregnancy and postpartum period. Motherhood expectations can be a heavy load. We utilize evidence-based therapies such as: Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT) with a focus on Mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), and Play therapy. We have a calm and fun approach to therapy.
We have extensive experience counseling clients with Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs) and Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorder (Pregnancy and postpartum). We treat children, adolescents, and adults. We specialize in working with women during the pregnancy and postpartum period. Motherhood expectations can be a heavy load. We utilize evidence-based therapies such as: Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT) with a focus on Mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), and Play therapy. We have a calm and fun approach to therapy.
![Photo of Philip D Stein, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3be5c47e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychologist with over thirty years experience treating childhood disorders. My experience has been that early childhood therapy and parent-training are most effective, and emotional healing occurs most readily, when parent and child are seen together. Focus during, and between sessions, involves teaching of play skills and modeling of effective limit setting. For older children, self modulation of behavior is a primary objective. Utilizing these techniques, I have successfully treated anxiety problems (such as selective mutism), depressive symptoms, and developmental disorders (such as Aspergers Syndrome).
I am a psychologist with over thirty years experience treating childhood disorders. My experience has been that early childhood therapy and parent-training are most effective, and emotional healing occurs most readily, when parent and child are seen together. Focus during, and between sessions, involves teaching of play skills and modeling of effective limit setting. For older children, self modulation of behavior is a primary objective. Utilizing these techniques, I have successfully treated anxiety problems (such as selective mutism), depressive symptoms, and developmental disorders (such as Aspergers Syndrome).
![Photo of Ashley Kronen Marotta, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6059923c-a788-4488-919f-498d168678d0/3/320x400.jpeg)
As a therapist, I strive to be genuine and to create a nonjudgmental environment in which clients can be open and feel accepted. Therapy is a collaborative effort in which I work together with my clients to understand their challenges, identify their obstacles, and set realistic goals to bring about meaningful change in their lives. Therapy is not "one size fits all" and I utilize a style that integrates cognitive-behavioral, interpersonal, and dynamic interventions, tailoring treatment to the individual needs of each client. Life is challenging and sometimes we can all use a little extra support.
As a therapist, I strive to be genuine and to create a nonjudgmental environment in which clients can be open and feel accepted. Therapy is a collaborative effort in which I work together with my clients to understand their challenges, identify their obstacles, and set realistic goals to bring about meaningful change in their lives. Therapy is not "one size fits all" and I utilize a style that integrates cognitive-behavioral, interpersonal, and dynamic interventions, tailoring treatment to the individual needs of each client. Life is challenging and sometimes we can all use a little extra support.
![Photo of Schela Brun, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52816c12-4a19-4d8a-a116-713821bdeff0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Schela Brun
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743 (Online Only)
At my practice, the primary focus centers on the well-being of you and your unique challenges. I firmly believe that establishing a strong connection built on trust and rapport is essential in creating a safe space where you can comfortably embrace vulnerability. If you are dealing with mental health issues, such as: anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, life transitions, relationship challenges, or self-exploration and you would like to improve your emotional resilience, self-esteem, healthy relationships, personal growth, and mental wellness. My commitment will guide you into making things make sense.
At my practice, the primary focus centers on the well-being of you and your unique challenges. I firmly believe that establishing a strong connection built on trust and rapport is essential in creating a safe space where you can comfortably embrace vulnerability. If you are dealing with mental health issues, such as: anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, life transitions, relationship challenges, or self-exploration and you would like to improve your emotional resilience, self-esteem, healthy relationships, personal growth, and mental wellness. My commitment will guide you into making things make sense.
![Photo of Maria Claudia Gomez, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a04b5658-582a-48c4-b870-b2202fb6546e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, and welcome. Soy una terapeuta de salud mental bilingüe (inglés/español). I’ve been working to help children and families in various roles for 10 years. It is an honor for me to translate that experience into the mental health field. I have worked with various populations to help by listening, offering feedback, and by helping them to discover a deeper knowledge about their emotional wellbeing. Are you feeling hurt, depressed, or anxious? Do you feel trapped in abusive relationships, complicated family dynamics, addiction, or trauma? Are you torn between choices, feeling alone, or struggling with grief and loss?
Hello, and welcome. Soy una terapeuta de salud mental bilingüe (inglés/español). I’ve been working to help children and families in various roles for 10 years. It is an honor for me to translate that experience into the mental health field. I have worked with various populations to help by listening, offering feedback, and by helping them to discover a deeper knowledge about their emotional wellbeing. Are you feeling hurt, depressed, or anxious? Do you feel trapped in abusive relationships, complicated family dynamics, addiction, or trauma? Are you torn between choices, feeling alone, or struggling with grief and loss?
![Photo of Fanchette (Fanny) Grunblatt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e208da3-0b89-42cd-b654-195058be32e5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Fanchette (Fanny) Grunblatt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743 (Online Only)
Welcome! I’m Fanny, a therapist dedicated to helping clients navigate complex issues with empathy and practical support. Whether you're managing ADHD, feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, grappling with existential questions, or transitioning into adulthood, I offer I offer personalized guidance tailored to your needs. support. My practice is grounded in embracing individuality, whether through neurodivergence, LGBTQ+ identities, or simply being unique. I have extensive experience addressing anxiety and existential concerns, especially in the context of Gen-Z and Millennials facing the challenges of young adulthood.
Welcome! I’m Fanny, a therapist dedicated to helping clients navigate complex issues with empathy and practical support. Whether you're managing ADHD, feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, grappling with existential questions, or transitioning into adulthood, I offer I offer personalized guidance tailored to your needs. support. My practice is grounded in embracing individuality, whether through neurodivergence, LGBTQ+ identities, or simply being unique. I have extensive experience addressing anxiety and existential concerns, especially in the context of Gen-Z and Millennials facing the challenges of young adulthood.
![Photo of Keri Schumacher, LCSW, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4548a11f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Keri Schumacher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743
Waitlist for new clients
Keri Schumacher is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been in private practice providing child and adolescent services since 2012. She has received training in evidenced-based practices in the child traumatic stress field, particularly in Psychological First Aid (PFA), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Structured Psychotherapy for Adolescents Responding to Chronic Stress (SPARCS) and Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP). Ms. Schumacher primarily treats children, adolescents and young adults.
Keri Schumacher is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been in private practice providing child and adolescent services since 2012. She has received training in evidenced-based practices in the child traumatic stress field, particularly in Psychological First Aid (PFA), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Structured Psychotherapy for Adolescents Responding to Chronic Stress (SPARCS) and Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP). Ms. Schumacher primarily treats children, adolescents and young adults.
![Photo of Helen Ballas, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40577c08-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
My theoretical orientation is integrative, which means I use a combination of humanistic, solution-focused, person-centered, cognitive behavioral, mindfulness based /contemplative approaches, stress management, and insight oriented techniques-depending on the needs of the client. I understand how critical the relationship between client and therapist is to the success of the therapeutic experience. As such, my hope always is to provide a warm, empathetic, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment-one in which my clients will feel safe and encouraged to build trust and work towards self-empowerment. To that end, I employ a collaborative, strengths-oriented approach.
My theoretical orientation is integrative, which means I use a combination of humanistic, solution-focused, person-centered, cognitive behavioral, mindfulness based /contemplative approaches, stress management, and insight oriented techniques-depending on the needs of the client. I understand how critical the relationship between client and therapist is to the success of the therapeutic experience. As such, my hope always is to provide a warm, empathetic, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment-one in which my clients will feel safe and encouraged to build trust and work towards self-empowerment. To that end, I employ a collaborative, strengths-oriented approach.
![Photo of Baine Dawson And Associates, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5f8b0747-b4d1-4085-9d84-8234614cf8b5/1/320x400.png)
Baine Dawson And Associates
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntington, NY 11743
My goal is to create a safe and supportive environment for couples to explore their problems, change unhealthy patterns, and find effective solutions. Healthy relationships where we feel close, connected, and understood by each other are important for overall happiness. Through therapy, I help clients effectively communicate, gain understanding of each other, and move past hurtful experiences. I work with couples struggling with trust issues, infidelity, communication struggles, and family conflict. Over the past twelve years, I have gained extensive experience working with couples and families.
My goal is to create a safe and supportive environment for couples to explore their problems, change unhealthy patterns, and find effective solutions. Healthy relationships where we feel close, connected, and understood by each other are important for overall happiness. Through therapy, I help clients effectively communicate, gain understanding of each other, and move past hurtful experiences. I work with couples struggling with trust issues, infidelity, communication struggles, and family conflict. Over the past twelve years, I have gained extensive experience working with couples and families.
![Photo of Kaitlin Loughren, MHC, CASAC-T, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d9c0bbaf-1543-4561-afb8-033612486c7a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kaitlin Loughren
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC, CASAC-T
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntington, NY 11743
Have you been feeling overwhelmed? Are you having difficulty managing your emotions? Are you feeling lost and without direction? Are you hoping to learn more about yourself? We will collaborate to create the life that you dream off. We will collaborate to create a safe space for you to learn more about your patterns and behaviors, and set and achieve realistic goals to improve your quality of life!
Have you been feeling overwhelmed? Are you having difficulty managing your emotions? Are you feeling lost and without direction? Are you hoping to learn more about yourself? We will collaborate to create the life that you dream off. We will collaborate to create a safe space for you to learn more about your patterns and behaviors, and set and achieve realistic goals to improve your quality of life!
![Photo of Katherine Hannan, MS, R-DMT, LCAT, Art Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/570f8fde-560d-42c6-af62-b7e4aebc194f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! I am a Licensed Creative Arts Therapist and member of the American Dance Therapy Association (ADTA) specializing in dance movement therapy to assist clients and help them to increase self-esteem, body image, attentiveness, communication, and spatial awareness. I use a variety of techniques, music and props to reduce stress, fears, and anxieties, empathetically addressing the needs of each person in front of me. I love to harness the power of movement in a therapeutic setting, using it to promote cognitive, social, emotional, and behavioral growth.
Hi! I am a Licensed Creative Arts Therapist and member of the American Dance Therapy Association (ADTA) specializing in dance movement therapy to assist clients and help them to increase self-esteem, body image, attentiveness, communication, and spatial awareness. I use a variety of techniques, music and props to reduce stress, fears, and anxieties, empathetically addressing the needs of each person in front of me. I love to harness the power of movement in a therapeutic setting, using it to promote cognitive, social, emotional, and behavioral growth.
![Photo of Erika Orbon, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47ecbcb9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Is your child having behavior issues? Do big emotions get in the way of your child being successful at school, making friends, or getting along with family? As a parent, it can be so frustrating and heartbreaking to deal with. You've probably tried many different ways to help, but you're not getting the results you hoped for. An experienced therapist can help both child and parent learn effective strategies to manage issues like ADHD, anxiety, ODD, and mood disorders.
Is your child having behavior issues? Do big emotions get in the way of your child being successful at school, making friends, or getting along with family? As a parent, it can be so frustrating and heartbreaking to deal with. You've probably tried many different ways to help, but you're not getting the results you hoped for. An experienced therapist can help both child and parent learn effective strategies to manage issues like ADHD, anxiety, ODD, and mood disorders.
![Photo of Christie Sosnowski, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f2e1b235-f88e-4846-b986-6b81bd053670/1/320x400.jpeg)
Often times the most challenging periods of life are when we are in transition or beginning a new chapter. Are you a young adult, maybe beginning college or not sure of next steps to take. Perhaps you’re feeling overwhelmed at all the new expectations, social dynamics, freedom and responsibilities. Parenthood is another huge life transition. Perhaps you are pregnant, newly postpartum or your child is going through a difficult time? Anxiety & depression are common feelings during such times. How are you coping? I would love to help you explore and grow as you move through this moment in your life!
Often times the most challenging periods of life are when we are in transition or beginning a new chapter. Are you a young adult, maybe beginning college or not sure of next steps to take. Perhaps you’re feeling overwhelmed at all the new expectations, social dynamics, freedom and responsibilities. Parenthood is another huge life transition. Perhaps you are pregnant, newly postpartum or your child is going through a difficult time? Anxiety & depression are common feelings during such times. How are you coping? I would love to help you explore and grow as you move through this moment in your life!
![Photo of Luis Miguel Amador, LMSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b34fbf68-f9a6-49f1-bc55-2a33a0804814/2/320x400.jpeg)
Luis Miguel Amador
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntington, NY 11743
I aim to support and guide clients through their struggles, transitions, and successes with empathy and courage. I am dedicated to helping families and each member within the family unit grow and communicate more effectively. My career has allowed me to assist families with behavior concerns at home, improve parent-child communication, and support children and young adults through the challenges of growing up. I also bring extensive experience in helping individuals manage anxiety, depression, stress, and a general sense of being stuck.
I aim to support and guide clients through their struggles, transitions, and successes with empathy and courage. I am dedicated to helping families and each member within the family unit grow and communicate more effectively. My career has allowed me to assist families with behavior concerns at home, improve parent-child communication, and support children and young adults through the challenges of growing up. I also bring extensive experience in helping individuals manage anxiety, depression, stress, and a general sense of being stuck.
See more therapy options for Huntington
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Huntington
- Cold Spring Harbor
- Commack
- Dix Hills
- East Northport
- Greenlawn
- Huntington Station
- Melville
- Northport
- Oyster Bay
- Plainview
- Syosset
- Woodbury
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.