Play Therapy in Oyster Bay, NY

Photo of Allegra Borghese - Better Life Associates, PhD
Better Life Associates
PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oyster Bay, NY 11771
Hi, I'm Dr. Allegra Borghese. I'm passionate about helping people connect to their innate resources for healing and making meaning. Through a warm and committed therapeutic alliance, I foster awareness and growth in children, adolescents, and adults to overcome life's challenges. In addition to my doctorate from Fordham University, my training includes work in psychiatric hospitals, VA hospitals, addiction and eating disorder facilities, college counseling centers, and communities clinics.
Hi, I'm Dr. Allegra Borghese. I'm passionate about helping people connect to their innate resources for healing and making meaning. Through a warm and committed therapeutic alliance, I foster awareness and growth in children, adolescents, and adults to overcome life's challenges. In addition to my doctorate from Fordham University, my training includes work in psychiatric hospitals, VA hospitals, addiction and eating disorder facilities, college counseling centers, and communities clinics.
(516) 309-4863 View (516) 309-4863
Photo of Nicole Berman, PsyD, Psychologist
Nicole Berman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oyster Bay, NY 11771
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in the treatment of children, adolescents, and adults suffering from psychological disorders, such as depression and anxiety. I also work with people who are simply experiencing difficulties coping with various life events, including grief, parenting issues, divorce, and chronic pain. In addition, I have spent many years working with child & adult victims of abuse.
I specialize in the treatment of children, adolescents, and adults suffering from psychological disorders, such as depression and anxiety. I also work with people who are simply experiencing difficulties coping with various life events, including grief, parenting issues, divorce, and chronic pain. In addition, I have spent many years working with child & adult victims of abuse.
(516) 506-0182 View (516) 506-0182
Photo of Joanne Cuneo, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joanne Cuneo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Oyster Bay, NY 11771
Being a parent is one of the most rewarding and challenging jobs you'll ever have. I am a Licensed Social Worker and Parent Coach with over thirty years of experience working with parents and their children. I can help you parent at your very best. Are you feeling overwhelmed and stressed with your home environment? From birth through the young adult years, I coach parents through periods of growth and challenges. Discover healthy ways to cope with conflict and the everyday challenges of parenting. I offer one on one personalized Parent Coaching designed to meet the needs of each individual and family.
Being a parent is one of the most rewarding and challenging jobs you'll ever have. I am a Licensed Social Worker and Parent Coach with over thirty years of experience working with parents and their children. I can help you parent at your very best. Are you feeling overwhelmed and stressed with your home environment? From birth through the young adult years, I coach parents through periods of growth and challenges. Discover healthy ways to cope with conflict and the everyday challenges of parenting. I offer one on one personalized Parent Coaching designed to meet the needs of each individual and family.
(917) 983-4346 View (917) 983-4346
Photo of Christie Sosnowski, PsyD, Psychologist
Christie Sosnowski
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oyster Bay, NY 11771
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!
(347) 514-9397 View (347) 514-9397
Photo of Luis Miguel Amador, LMSW
Luis Miguel Amador
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oyster Bay, NY 11771
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.
(516) 788-8740 View (516) 788-8740

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dan Herschbein, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dan Herschbein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Levittown, NY 11756
As a dedicated therapist specializing in trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, play therapy, and self-esteem, I believe in the power of a multi-faceted approach to healing. With a foundation in psychodynamic theory and cognitive-behavioral techniques, I tailor my methods to empower clients on their unique journeys.
As a dedicated therapist specializing in trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, play therapy, and self-esteem, I believe in the power of a multi-faceted approach to healing. With a foundation in psychodynamic theory and cognitive-behavioral techniques, I tailor my methods to empower clients on their unique journeys.
(516) 962-6804 View (516) 962-6804
Photo of Fran Dalis, PsyD, LMSW, RPT-S, Psychologist
Fran Dalis
Psychologist, PsyD, LMSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
East Norwich, NY 11732
As a Registered Play Therapy – Supervisor (RPT-S), I am dedicated to using cutting-edge, child-focused interventions.
I am a Clinical Psychologist and an ally who works with children, adolescents, and their families. I provide a neutral space for young people to express their needs and help families develop adaptive communication skills. As a diagnostician, I provide psychological testing for gifted students and those with special needs who require school accommodations. My approach is to employ integrative, evidence-based interventions, including CBT, ACT, and Psychodynamic therapy. Therapeutic populations include autism spectrum disorder, LGBTQ+ identity formation, chronic pain management, depression, anxiety, and behavioral issues.
As a Registered Play Therapy – Supervisor (RPT-S), I am dedicated to using cutting-edge, child-focused interventions.
I am a Clinical Psychologist and an ally who works with children, adolescents, and their families. I provide a neutral space for young people to express their needs and help families develop adaptive communication skills. As a diagnostician, I provide psychological testing for gifted students and those with special needs who require school accommodations. My approach is to employ integrative, evidence-based interventions, including CBT, ACT, and Psychodynamic therapy. Therapeutic populations include autism spectrum disorder, LGBTQ+ identity formation, chronic pain management, depression, anxiety, and behavioral issues.
(516) 614-3464 View (516) 614-3464
Photo of Emily DiDominica, LMHC, Counselor
Emily DiDominica
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Syosset, NY 11791
I am a LMHC utilizing an integrative Person Centered approach drawing from aspects of CBT, ACT, Trauma-informed, Relational, Motivational Interviewing, and Play Therapy.
Beginning your journey towards improving your mental wellbeing can be overwhelming but my approach to therapy is to meet you where you are and support your healing. Therapy provides you with a safe, non-judgmental space to process and feel heard while supporting you to gain the means and tools to cope with life. I have been trained through a multicultural perspective and my therapeutic style is one of a person centered approach. This means that I take into account your unique perspective of the world and work with you to create the best possible healing space for you personally.
I am a LMHC utilizing an integrative Person Centered approach drawing from aspects of CBT, ACT, Trauma-informed, Relational, Motivational Interviewing, and Play Therapy.
Beginning your journey towards improving your mental wellbeing can be overwhelming but my approach to therapy is to meet you where you are and support your healing. Therapy provides you with a safe, non-judgmental space to process and feel heard while supporting you to gain the means and tools to cope with life. I have been trained through a multicultural perspective and my therapeutic style is one of a person centered approach. This means that I take into account your unique perspective of the world and work with you to create the best possible healing space for you personally.
(631) 202-0790 View (631) 202-0790
Photo of Dr. Leigh Rust, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Leigh Rust
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plainview, NY 11803
Throughout his clinical and school experience, Dr. Rust has gained extensive training in Child/Adolescent Psychology. He specializes in Anxiety, Depression, Behavioral Disorders, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. Dr. Rust often incorporates components of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Play Therapy, and principles of Behavior Analysis in his eclectic approach. He is exceptionally aware of the social, emotional and behavioral needs of a child and utilizes a “whole child” methodology.
Throughout his clinical and school experience, Dr. Rust has gained extensive training in Child/Adolescent Psychology. He specializes in Anxiety, Depression, Behavioral Disorders, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. Dr. Rust often incorporates components of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Play Therapy, and principles of Behavior Analysis in his eclectic approach. He is exceptionally aware of the social, emotional and behavioral needs of a child and utilizes a “whole child” methodology.
(631) 486-0670 View (631) 486-0670
Photo of Jodi L Tafarella-Kunz, PsyD, Psychologist
Jodi L Tafarella-Kunz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jericho, NY 11753
My broad background experience utilizes behavioral, psychodynamic and play therapies.
I received my PsyD in Clinical Psychology/School Psychology from Ferkauf School of Psychology, Yeshiva University, and am certified in NeuroPsych Testing. I have served as supervising psychologist for a group practice and have a private practice serving the greater Nassau Area. I specialize in working with children with developmental delays, divorce, loss, ADHD, as well as anxiety and depression. I serve as a resource for parents in learning to aid their own child's development and improve family communication and relationships. I also work with adults on issues around parenting, personal relationships and growth.
My broad background experience utilizes behavioral, psychodynamic and play therapies.
I received my PsyD in Clinical Psychology/School Psychology from Ferkauf School of Psychology, Yeshiva University, and am certified in NeuroPsych Testing. I have served as supervising psychologist for a group practice and have a private practice serving the greater Nassau Area. I specialize in working with children with developmental delays, divorce, loss, ADHD, as well as anxiety and depression. I serve as a resource for parents in learning to aid their own child's development and improve family communication and relationships. I also work with adults on issues around parenting, personal relationships and growth.
(917) 563-4607 View (917) 563-4607
Photo of Joanna Freda, MHC-LP, MSEd
Joanna Freda
MHC-LP, MSEd
Verified Verified
Syosset, NY 11791
Through an integrative approach combining evidence-based techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy, play therapy, mindfulness practices, and more, I help you develop healthy coping mechanisms and cultivate emotional resilience.
Are you or a loved one struggling with persistent feelings of anxiety, depression, anger, or stress? Perhaps you're facing challenges with relationships, social situations, or finding purpose in your life. Regardless of age or circumstance, you desire a sense of emotional well-being, fulfillment, and the ability to navigate life's difficulties with resilience and confidence. Your goal is to develop effective coping strategies, cultivate emotional intelligence, and better understand yourself and your experiences. Whether a child, adolescent, or adult, you long for a safe space to explore your thoughts and emotions without judgment.
Through an integrative approach combining evidence-based techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy, play therapy, mindfulness practices, and more, I help you develop healthy coping mechanisms and cultivate emotional resilience.
Are you or a loved one struggling with persistent feelings of anxiety, depression, anger, or stress? Perhaps you're facing challenges with relationships, social situations, or finding purpose in your life. Regardless of age or circumstance, you desire a sense of emotional well-being, fulfillment, and the ability to navigate life's difficulties with resilience and confidence. Your goal is to develop effective coping strategies, cultivate emotional intelligence, and better understand yourself and your experiences. Whether a child, adolescent, or adult, you long for a safe space to explore your thoughts and emotions without judgment.
(516) 518-2907 View (516) 518-2907
Photo of Lori Zlotoff, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lori Zlotoff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Roslyn Heights, NY 11577
Waitlist for new clients
The children I have worked with feel comfortable engaging in a combination of play, art and drama therapy techniques that give them a voice to express their feelings.
Are you or your child: Emotionally exhausted? Struggling socially? Having a hard time in school or work? Unable to express themselves? Anxious? Experiencing a major life change? Experienced a trauma? Nervous about going to camp? The victim of bullying or conflictual sibling relationships? Being the bully? Struggling with learning disabilities or ADHD? Unable to communicate properly? A sibling of a child with a disability? Are you ready to make a change? If you answer yes to these questions, you and/or your child are ready to get to work!
The children I have worked with feel comfortable engaging in a combination of play, art and drama therapy techniques that give them a voice to express their feelings.
Are you or your child: Emotionally exhausted? Struggling socially? Having a hard time in school or work? Unable to express themselves? Anxious? Experiencing a major life change? Experienced a trauma? Nervous about going to camp? The victim of bullying or conflictual sibling relationships? Being the bully? Struggling with learning disabilities or ADHD? Unable to communicate properly? A sibling of a child with a disability? Are you ready to make a change? If you answer yes to these questions, you and/or your child are ready to get to work!
(917) 924-5191 View (917) 924-5191
Photo of Robin Bryman, PhD, Psychologist
Robin Bryman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Roslyn Heights, NY 11577
I often treat anxiety and depression, as well as conduct play therapy and parent training.
I believe that the essence of therapy is to provide the tools necessary to make changes that can help someone improve their life or the lives of those around them. Therapy can be short-term or long-term, there are always effective strategies. I provide a safe and comfortable setting to facilitate growth and self awareness. I teach coping skills that will lead to lasting independence. In addition, I urge my clients over time to become introspective, explore their actions, and to eradicate unhealthy behavioral patterns.
I often treat anxiety and depression, as well as conduct play therapy and parent training.
I believe that the essence of therapy is to provide the tools necessary to make changes that can help someone improve their life or the lives of those around them. Therapy can be short-term or long-term, there are always effective strategies. I provide a safe and comfortable setting to facilitate growth and self awareness. I teach coping skills that will lead to lasting independence. In addition, I urge my clients over time to become introspective, explore their actions, and to eradicate unhealthy behavioral patterns.
(516) 704-9926 View (516) 704-9926
Photo of Sharise Wilson, PhD, Psychologist
Sharise Wilson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Levittown, NY 11756  (Online Only)
For younger children, there is an emphasis on play & sensory therapies.
I am a Licensed Psychologist offering services that may meet your needs. If you are dealing with tough life problems, mental illness, grief, or temporary distress- individual therapy might be the way to go. We will work to enhance your self discovery and receive guidance and support in changing your life situation. My previous patients have spoken about increased clarity, better relationships & work, improved decision-making skills, and enhanced coping skills. Children who I have worked with have increased their understanding of changes in their families, have learned to use support networks, and have had greater use of healthy outlets.
For younger children, there is an emphasis on play & sensory therapies.
I am a Licensed Psychologist offering services that may meet your needs. If you are dealing with tough life problems, mental illness, grief, or temporary distress- individual therapy might be the way to go. We will work to enhance your self discovery and receive guidance and support in changing your life situation. My previous patients have spoken about increased clarity, better relationships & work, improved decision-making skills, and enhanced coping skills. Children who I have worked with have increased their understanding of changes in their families, have learned to use support networks, and have had greater use of healthy outlets.
(917) 473-9656 View (917) 473-9656
Photo of Danielle Schimel, MA, MHC-LP
Danielle Schimel
MA, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Syosset, NY 11791
I utilize multiple interventions from CBT, DBT, Play therapy, Gestalt, SFBT, Reality, Person-centered, Family systems, and Mindfulness.
I want to begin by applauding your initiative in seeking counseling services. Acknowledging the need for help and reaching out is a commendable and courageous step. It demonstrates self-awareness and a willingness to prioritize your well-being. I want to help individuals manage ADHD, Relationship and Interpersonal issues, Anxiety, Self-Esteem, Life Transitions, Stress, Burnout, and more.
I utilize multiple interventions from CBT, DBT, Play therapy, Gestalt, SFBT, Reality, Person-centered, Family systems, and Mindfulness.
I want to begin by applauding your initiative in seeking counseling services. Acknowledging the need for help and reaching out is a commendable and courageous step. It demonstrates self-awareness and a willingness to prioritize your well-being. I want to help individuals manage ADHD, Relationship and Interpersonal issues, Anxiety, Self-Esteem, Life Transitions, Stress, Burnout, and more.
(631) 735-6979 View (631) 735-6979
Photo of Alexandra Studnicky, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexandra Studnicky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manhasset, NY 11030
Alongside a variety of traditional techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-focused therapy, I also work with my clients’ innate creativity and communication by integrating elements of Play Therapy, art, games, journaling, and other outlets.
Navigating the world of childhood and adolescence can be both exciting and challenging! I believe therapy for this age group isn’t just about addressing problems and providing unconditional support - it's about fostering growth, building resilience, and unlocking potential. With over 8 years of experience working as a School Social Worker, I have significant experience helping young people navigate everything from developmental and transitional challenges to academic stress and behavioral issues to family dynamics and mental health concerns, like anxiety, depression, ADHD, and Autism.
Alongside a variety of traditional techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-focused therapy, I also work with my clients’ innate creativity and communication by integrating elements of Play Therapy, art, games, journaling, and other outlets.
Navigating the world of childhood and adolescence can be both exciting and challenging! I believe therapy for this age group isn’t just about addressing problems and providing unconditional support - it's about fostering growth, building resilience, and unlocking potential. With over 8 years of experience working as a School Social Worker, I have significant experience helping young people navigate everything from developmental and transitional challenges to academic stress and behavioral issues to family dynamics and mental health concerns, like anxiety, depression, ADHD, and Autism.
(516) 363-3326 View (516) 363-3326
Photo of Alexis Kahoud, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexis Kahoud
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Roslyn, NY 11576
I offer psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, play therapy, couples counseling and more.
I offer therapy to adults, teens and children with a focus on each individual's strengths and goals. I am dedicated to helping each client find and express their true selves.
I offer psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, play therapy, couples counseling and more.
I offer therapy to adults, teens and children with a focus on each individual's strengths and goals. I am dedicated to helping each client find and express their true selves.
(516) 614-5081 View (516) 614-5081
Photo of Holly Albro, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Holly Albro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mineola, NY 11501  (Online Only)
Hi! I am currently accepting new virtual morning & day-time clients! Are you or a loved one experiencing ongoing feelings of anxiety, panic, or stress? Are life’s daily struggles becoming harder to cope with? I promise, you are not alone! My goal is to help children, adolescents, and young adults find happiness and balance in their lives through using a mindful, compassionate, client centered approach. I use compassion, humor, play and art therapy, and strategic therapeutic interventions. My focus areas include anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, school related issues, and trauma.
Hi! I am currently accepting new virtual morning & day-time clients! Are you or a loved one experiencing ongoing feelings of anxiety, panic, or stress? Are life’s daily struggles becoming harder to cope with? I promise, you are not alone! My goal is to help children, adolescents, and young adults find happiness and balance in their lives through using a mindful, compassionate, client centered approach. I use compassion, humor, play and art therapy, and strategic therapeutic interventions. My focus areas include anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, school related issues, and trauma.
(516) 540-2388 View (516) 540-2388
Photo of Catherine A Bottari, LCSW, Child, Teen, Parents, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catherine A Bottari
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, Child, Teen, Parents
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Roslyn, NY 11576
They don’t need to be a “talker”; many experience benefits from creative therapy methods like art, play, or expressive activities.
If you’re reading this, your child is likely facing significant challenges. Are they worrying, acting out, highly emotional, maybe hyperactive or inattentive? Their struggles are affecting their happiness, leaving you feeling anxious and unsure. Understanding and managing childhood behaviors can be tough. Navigating the teenage years adds another layer of complexity. Emotional outbursts can create conflict making you feel helpless. Teens retreat to their room, shut down; raising worries about their well-being. Their grades may be slipping, socially they seem lost, little self esteem; leaving you puzzled about these rapid changes.
They don’t need to be a “talker”; many experience benefits from creative therapy methods like art, play, or expressive activities.
If you’re reading this, your child is likely facing significant challenges. Are they worrying, acting out, highly emotional, maybe hyperactive or inattentive? Their struggles are affecting their happiness, leaving you feeling anxious and unsure. Understanding and managing childhood behaviors can be tough. Navigating the teenage years adds another layer of complexity. Emotional outbursts can create conflict making you feel helpless. Teens retreat to their room, shut down; raising worries about their well-being. Their grades may be slipping, socially they seem lost, little self esteem; leaving you puzzled about these rapid changes.
(516) 513-8329 View (516) 513-8329
Photo of Anna Kalliagas - Anna Kalliagas, LCSW-R, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Kalliagas, LCSW-R
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manhasset, NY 11030  (Online Only)
I utilize play therapy and art therapy for children.
I have over 20 years of experience providing psychotherapy to children, adolescents and adults. I utilize a supportive approach to create a comfortable environment in which you can achieve your goals. I have experience treating trauma, depression, low self-esteem, bereavement, stress, anxiety, psychosis, relationship issues, parenting issues, and behavioral issues. I offer evidence based psychotherapy, which has been proven to be effective by the best available research.
I utilize play therapy and art therapy for children.
I have over 20 years of experience providing psychotherapy to children, adolescents and adults. I utilize a supportive approach to create a comfortable environment in which you can achieve your goals. I have experience treating trauma, depression, low self-esteem, bereavement, stress, anxiety, psychosis, relationship issues, parenting issues, and behavioral issues. I offer evidence based psychotherapy, which has been proven to be effective by the best available research.
(917) 652-6859 View (917) 652-6859
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.