Play Therapy in Springdale, OH
![Photo of Val Strunk, MSW , LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1c719929-c293-451b-ac7e-cefa4ecb9274/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a dedicated clinical social worker and mental health provider currently licensed to practice in Ohio. My expertise lies in providing compassionate and effective therapy to children and caregivers. I leverage a trauma-informed care approach to facilitate healing and resilience and am trained in TF-CBT, play therapy in training, and EMDR in training. I also employ client-centered techniques such as mindfulness to enhance my therapeutic interactions. Under supervision, I continue to hone my skills and deepen my knowledge, ensuring every client receives the most informed and empathetic care possible.
I am a dedicated clinical social worker and mental health provider currently licensed to practice in Ohio. My expertise lies in providing compassionate and effective therapy to children and caregivers. I leverage a trauma-informed care approach to facilitate healing and resilience and am trained in TF-CBT, play therapy in training, and EMDR in training. I also employ client-centered techniques such as mindfulness to enhance my therapeutic interactions. Under supervision, I continue to hone my skills and deepen my knowledge, ensuring every client receives the most informed and empathetic care possible.
![Photo of Khaila Pride, MSW, LSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df2d2095-8514-49c8-a86d-318f6b2f6734/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! I'd be happy to assist you on your journey of healing! As your therapist, it my role to provide a safe and welcoming space for you to come as you are. I utilize a person-centered approach to ensure you feel supported and accepted as we work together to meet your goals. Throughout our lives, we are faced with a variety of challenges that lead us to feel alone. I believe in taking a collaborative approach to helping each individual reach their full potential. My focus has been providing trauma informed care to individuals from all walks of life. I specialize in childhood adversities, trauma, and other adjustment disorders.
Welcome! I'd be happy to assist you on your journey of healing! As your therapist, it my role to provide a safe and welcoming space for you to come as you are. I utilize a person-centered approach to ensure you feel supported and accepted as we work together to meet your goals. Throughout our lives, we are faced with a variety of challenges that lead us to feel alone. I believe in taking a collaborative approach to helping each individual reach their full potential. My focus has been providing trauma informed care to individuals from all walks of life. I specialize in childhood adversities, trauma, and other adjustment disorders.
![Photo of Barbara Fields, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/60332748-72c8-4707-8c1e-d3ac2190becf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new clients and appointments within in the same week. EMDR Trained. With the current climate, our country has caused an increased number of people feeling overwhelmed, stressed, depressed, anxious and feelings of uncertainty. Battling those feelings can make you feel exhausted, irritable, and even want to give up. Instead of giving in to the very thing that is weighing you down, choose to focus on yourself and reestablish happiness.
Accepting new clients and appointments within in the same week. EMDR Trained. With the current climate, our country has caused an increased number of people feeling overwhelmed, stressed, depressed, anxious and feelings of uncertainty. Battling those feelings can make you feel exhausted, irritable, and even want to give up. Instead of giving in to the very thing that is weighing you down, choose to focus on yourself and reestablish happiness.
A Better You Counseling
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPC, LPCC-S, LSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springdale, OH 45246
Do you suffer from over-thinking , depressed mood, lack of appetite or overeating? Do you find it difficult to find the motivation to do the things that you once loved? Do you struggle with managing your emotions? Do you struggle with communicating how you feel and maintaining healthy relationships? Have you suffered from childhood struggles that seem to be difficult to overcome ?
Do you suffer from over-thinking , depressed mood, lack of appetite or overeating? Do you find it difficult to find the motivation to do the things that you once loved? Do you struggle with managing your emotions? Do you struggle with communicating how you feel and maintaining healthy relationships? Have you suffered from childhood struggles that seem to be difficult to overcome ?
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Katie R Moore, LPCC-S, RPT-S, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f47b5a6-576b-4724-94a4-7955b76ccc2d/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a Play Therapist, I strongly believe in the therapeutic powers of play.
Each individual has their own story outside of their challenges and struggles. We are taught so much if we just slow down and experience someone else's worldview. Children especially, need someone to accept them as they are and help them flourish socially and emotionally. This is the core of my practice; to celebrate each unique individual and help them become better versions of themselves. While I am most passionate about helping young children, I also have experience working with anxiety, depression, PTSD, behavioral and/or emotional concerns, social skills development, attention difficulties, grief and loss, children and families
As a Play Therapist, I strongly believe in the therapeutic powers of play.
Each individual has their own story outside of their challenges and struggles. We are taught so much if we just slow down and experience someone else's worldview. Children especially, need someone to accept them as they are and help them flourish socially and emotionally. This is the core of my practice; to celebrate each unique individual and help them become better versions of themselves. While I am most passionate about helping young children, I also have experience working with anxiety, depression, PTSD, behavioral and/or emotional concerns, social skills development, attention difficulties, grief and loss, children and families
![Photo of Dani Brown, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/caae6085-7fbe-4804-b620-d6e0eafeedad/5/320x400.jpeg)
Dani Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45213
Waitlist for new clients
Come HEAL, PLAY and GROW with me!.
Hello! I'm Dani Brown, I specialize in working with children under 12 years old. I have been working with children and their families in various communities and settings for over 9 years. I specialize in working with children under 8 years old, using primarily play therapy and sand play to help children and their families better understand their unique needs and strengths. We will work together to develop an individualized treatment plan that will teach you and your child strategies to decrease concerning behaviors and improve your child's and your family's quality of life.
Come HEAL, PLAY and GROW with me!.
Hello! I'm Dani Brown, I specialize in working with children under 12 years old. I have been working with children and their families in various communities and settings for over 9 years. I specialize in working with children under 8 years old, using primarily play therapy and sand play to help children and their families better understand their unique needs and strengths. We will work together to develop an individualized treatment plan that will teach you and your child strategies to decrease concerning behaviors and improve your child's and your family's quality of life.
![Photo of Mackenzie Smith, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/223b5e9b-441c-4af9-8baf-e3632f3a0532/3/320x400.jpeg)
My favorite counseling modalities include Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy (ERP), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Play Therapy, Art Therapy and Narrative Therapy.
Are you struggling to cope with obsessive thoughts or anxiety? Are you searching for hope in a situation that almost feels hopeless? In my practice, I view it as an honor and a privilege to walk through these times alongside you. Sometimes a helping hand, a steady voice, and a listening ear can make all the difference. It is my goal to help you find the freedom you are looking for no matter how long you’ve struggled with these unwanted thoughts or behaviors. I hope that you might take a leap of faith to reach out for the help you deserve.
My favorite counseling modalities include Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy (ERP), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Play Therapy, Art Therapy and Narrative Therapy.
Are you struggling to cope with obsessive thoughts or anxiety? Are you searching for hope in a situation that almost feels hopeless? In my practice, I view it as an honor and a privilege to walk through these times alongside you. Sometimes a helping hand, a steady voice, and a listening ear can make all the difference. It is my goal to help you find the freedom you are looking for no matter how long you’ve struggled with these unwanted thoughts or behaviors. I hope that you might take a leap of faith to reach out for the help you deserve.
![Photo of Joy A Wilson - New Journey Counseling LLC, LPCC-S, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44bcd805-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Weekend appointments are available NOW in our office, by phone and through TeleHealth. Following insurances accepted: CareSource, Paramount, Molina, Aetna, Anthem, Cigna, Humana, Medical Mutual, Optum, etc. PLAY THERAPY for children via Telehealth and in person available. Also therapy for ADOLESCENTS, AND ADULTS is available for many concerns at our office or via telehealth or phone. We can help with ANXIETY, BEHAVIORAL PROBLEMS, CO-DEPENDENCY, DEPRESSION, GRIEF, ADDICTIONS, DIVORCE SUPPORT, SELF-ESTEEM, and other life stress.
Weekend appointments are available NOW in our office, by phone and through TeleHealth. Following insurances accepted: CareSource, Paramount, Molina, Aetna, Anthem, Cigna, Humana, Medical Mutual, Optum, etc. PLAY THERAPY for children via Telehealth and in person available. Also therapy for ADOLESCENTS, AND ADULTS is available for many concerns at our office or via telehealth or phone. We can help with ANXIETY, BEHAVIORAL PROBLEMS, CO-DEPENDENCY, DEPRESSION, GRIEF, ADDICTIONS, DIVORCE SUPPORT, SELF-ESTEEM, and other life stress.
![Photo of Rebecca Sievers - Rebecca Sievers Counseling, MA, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0c976551-b20e-4126-8faf-2f7af7565ded/3/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Sievers Counseling
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indian Hill, OH 45243
My orientation is one of wellness and connection, helping people to identify obstacles while accessing their natural strengths to cultivate healing within themselves or their relationships. I have background in mindfulness, Dialectical and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (DBT/CBT), attachment, family and play therapies. I also hold certification in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and trained with the EMDR Institute. The arts and nature can be integrated into session to deepen the work if desired. My office in old Milford has easy access to the abundant natural resources near the Little Miami River and trail.
My orientation is one of wellness and connection, helping people to identify obstacles while accessing their natural strengths to cultivate healing within themselves or their relationships. I have background in mindfulness, Dialectical and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (DBT/CBT), attachment, family and play therapies. I also hold certification in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and trained with the EMDR Institute. The arts and nature can be integrated into session to deepen the work if desired. My office in old Milford has easy access to the abundant natural resources near the Little Miami River and trail.
![Photo of Maggie Botts, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3cf6838-a525-48b5-81f7-2e56312ee6c7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Maggie Botts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45240 (Online Only)
Does your child struggle with anxiety? Are you working to build their confidence or self esteem but still feel stuck? If you have been searching for a therapist to assist your family in working through these challenging times, I encourage you to reach out today. As a child therapist who uses play therapy components in addition to other appropriate modalities, I have successfully helped many families through this time in their lives.
Does your child struggle with anxiety? Are you working to build their confidence or self esteem but still feel stuck? If you have been searching for a therapist to assist your family in working through these challenging times, I encourage you to reach out today. As a child therapist who uses play therapy components in addition to other appropriate modalities, I have successfully helped many families through this time in their lives.
![Photo of Cheryl Catron, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a91a8fbf-2a01-4e56-8681-18289b1b6753/1/320x400.png)
I am a long-time educator and mental health clinician with over 19 years experience serving students with a wide variety of academic and mental health needs. I worked for over 12 years as a teacher and then as a school-based mental health clinician. As a counselor, I draw on my experience as a teacher and a school counselor to help families. I am licensed as both a Professional Clinical Counselor and Supervisor in the state of Ohio and a Registered Play Therapist and Supervisor through The Association for Play Therapy.
I am a long-time educator and mental health clinician with over 19 years experience serving students with a wide variety of academic and mental health needs. I worked for over 12 years as a teacher and then as a school-based mental health clinician. As a counselor, I draw on my experience as a teacher and a school counselor to help families. I am licensed as both a Professional Clinical Counselor and Supervisor in the state of Ohio and a Registered Play Therapist and Supervisor through The Association for Play Therapy.
![Photo of Chad S Ricks - Counseling Center of Southwest Ohio, MA, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83646113-844f-4dd0-9b3a-7af65123e402/1/320x400.jpeg)
Counseling Center of Southwest Ohio
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Sharonville, OH 45241
Adults - Adolescents - Children - Couples - Families - Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) - Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) - Eye Movement Desensitization (EMDR) - Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) - Attachment Theory - Person-Centered Therapy - Positive Psychology - Play Therapy - Christian Counseling.
The Counseling Center of Southwest Ohio is proud to serve a wide range of areas across our great state, including the Greater Cincinnati Area. We specialize in providing timely and effective help for depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and trauma. We are dedicated to helping you reach your goals, whatever they may be. We believe the key to personal transformation resides in understanding your personal journey so far and identifying the experiences that have shaped you. Our empathetic professionals will offer a listening ear, compassionate support, and targeted strategies to help you craft a new path forward.
Adults - Adolescents - Children - Couples - Families - Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) - Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) - Eye Movement Desensitization (EMDR) - Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) - Attachment Theory - Person-Centered Therapy - Positive Psychology - Play Therapy - Christian Counseling.
The Counseling Center of Southwest Ohio is proud to serve a wide range of areas across our great state, including the Greater Cincinnati Area. We specialize in providing timely and effective help for depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and trauma. We are dedicated to helping you reach your goals, whatever they may be. We believe the key to personal transformation resides in understanding your personal journey so far and identifying the experiences that have shaped you. Our empathetic professionals will offer a listening ear, compassionate support, and targeted strategies to help you craft a new path forward.
![Photo of Faith Beddick, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/11a9896f-5243-418e-899e-33a341d7f5ca/1/320x400.png)
Faith Beddick
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45231 (Online Only)
Faith, a Clinical Counselor with play therapy certification, utilizes diverse methods including talk therapy, art, play, mindfulness, and meditation.
Desiring to live authentically, you seek support to shed what no longer serves you and embrace your true self. With Faith by your side, you'll embark on a journey of self-discovery, collaboratively setting goals and finding personalized paths to achieve them. Whether facing anxiety, depression, or relationship challenges, Faith offers hope and companionship, illuminating your path with compassion and understanding.
Faith, a Clinical Counselor with play therapy certification, utilizes diverse methods including talk therapy, art, play, mindfulness, and meditation.
Desiring to live authentically, you seek support to shed what no longer serves you and embrace your true self. With Faith by your side, you'll embark on a journey of self-discovery, collaboratively setting goals and finding personalized paths to achieve them. Whether facing anxiety, depression, or relationship challenges, Faith offers hope and companionship, illuminating your path with compassion and understanding.
![Photo of Megan Niehauser, LPCC, RPT™, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b980dbd-c82a-4737-898b-e738c4773c92/2/320x400.jpeg)
Play is a child's language.
Sometimes, especially as a parent, you feel like you have tried everything, but yet, nothing seems to be working or helping. This could relate to a number of concerns regarding your child such as behavioral concerns, emotional concerns, school difficulties, anxiety, trauma, etc. My goal as a therapist is to create a sense of safety and trust to support children, adolescents, their families, and young adults through various challenges in their life, whether that be past, present, or future!
Play is a child's language.
Sometimes, especially as a parent, you feel like you have tried everything, but yet, nothing seems to be working or helping. This could relate to a number of concerns regarding your child such as behavioral concerns, emotional concerns, school difficulties, anxiety, trauma, etc. My goal as a therapist is to create a sense of safety and trust to support children, adolescents, their families, and young adults through various challenges in their life, whether that be past, present, or future!
![Photo of Ebony Davis, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b47607e8-a5c0-4ccc-bd2e-da8c2be8defe/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ebony Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Blue Ash, OH 45242
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize expressive arts and play therapy interventions in my practice to help children and adults get in touch with emotions they don't have words to express.
I utilize a multi-modal approach to help children develop healthy coping skills, overcome trauma, build self-esteem and gain mastery over their emotions and behaviors. I have dedicated my career to supporting individuals across the lifespan, from children to adults.
I utilize expressive arts and play therapy interventions in my practice to help children and adults get in touch with emotions they don't have words to express.
I utilize a multi-modal approach to help children develop healthy coping skills, overcome trauma, build self-esteem and gain mastery over their emotions and behaviors. I have dedicated my career to supporting individuals across the lifespan, from children to adults.
![Photo of Christina Huster, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eef1d370-740e-4945-918d-ee947bc54c1f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christina Huster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45241 (Online Only)
She has training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (thoughts/feelings/actions), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (Emotional/Rational/Wise Mind), and Play Therapy modalities.
Her specialty is empowering clients through therapy providing a nurturing and safe environment to explore difficult feelings, promote growth, facilitate behavior changes, and improve relationships. Christina has experience providing Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) groups, mental health assessments, and individual therapy in the Cincinnati area. Her passion is working with children and young adults in which she pulls from her experience working with youth in foster care and school-based day treatment.
She has training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (thoughts/feelings/actions), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (Emotional/Rational/Wise Mind), and Play Therapy modalities.
Her specialty is empowering clients through therapy providing a nurturing and safe environment to explore difficult feelings, promote growth, facilitate behavior changes, and improve relationships. Christina has experience providing Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) groups, mental health assessments, and individual therapy in the Cincinnati area. Her passion is working with children and young adults in which she pulls from her experience working with youth in foster care and school-based day treatment.
![Photo of Michel Gotwals, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/234d220e-32a2-4886-a2a2-ccbe5b27f415/2/320x400.jpeg)
Social worker and counselor who has worked with a variety of populations. Has experience with homeless persons, individuals with physical and mental disabilities, as well as persons with addiction issues. Has been a public school teacher in Pennsylvania and Ohio for twenty plus years. Provides individual, family, and couples counseling. Extensive training in trauma and grief therapy. Can provide play therapy and sand tray therapy. Open to face-to-face and remote counseling. Independently licensed and certified.
Social worker and counselor who has worked with a variety of populations. Has experience with homeless persons, individuals with physical and mental disabilities, as well as persons with addiction issues. Has been a public school teacher in Pennsylvania and Ohio for twenty plus years. Provides individual, family, and couples counseling. Extensive training in trauma and grief therapy. Can provide play therapy and sand tray therapy. Open to face-to-face and remote counseling. Independently licensed and certified.
![Photo of Tracy Mert, MA, LPCC-S, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/257003b1-9739-414d-ac0d-4492524b89f9/2/320x400.jpeg)
I utilize: cognitive behavior therapy, talk therapy, supportive therapy, family systems theory, love and logic parenting theory, art therapy, play therapy, EMDR, and dialectical behavior therapy in my work.
I have experience working with children, adolescents, families, and adults. My main areas of interest and experience include: behavior problems, crisis support, developmental disabilities, ADHD, anger management, depression, grief, trauma, abuse, anxiety, low self- esteem, divorce, and parenting skills/education. Prior to private practice, I worked with substance abuse, homelessness,case-management, provided intensive home-community based therapy, engaged in school- based counseling, managed and provided therapy within a partial hospitalization program with in an alternative behavior school, and frequented the courts and hospitals.
I utilize: cognitive behavior therapy, talk therapy, supportive therapy, family systems theory, love and logic parenting theory, art therapy, play therapy, EMDR, and dialectical behavior therapy in my work.
I have experience working with children, adolescents, families, and adults. My main areas of interest and experience include: behavior problems, crisis support, developmental disabilities, ADHD, anger management, depression, grief, trauma, abuse, anxiety, low self- esteem, divorce, and parenting skills/education. Prior to private practice, I worked with substance abuse, homelessness,case-management, provided intensive home-community based therapy, engaged in school- based counseling, managed and provided therapy within a partial hospitalization program with in an alternative behavior school, and frequented the courts and hospitals.
![Photo of Kerri McLaughlin, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ac03202-42cf-41b6-ad83-e656292d1ebf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kerri McLaughlin
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Liberty Township, OH 45069
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed professional clinical counselor with more than 15 years' experience working with children and families throughout Butler County. My practice is currently located in the city of Hamilton and provides play-based counseling services to children and youth ages 5-20. Please contact me to ask any questions or to make an appointment.
I am a licensed professional clinical counselor with more than 15 years' experience working with children and families throughout Butler County. My practice is currently located in the city of Hamilton and provides play-based counseling services to children and youth ages 5-20. Please contact me to ask any questions or to make an appointment.
![Photo of Jennifer L. Newby, MSEd , LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/69f5c2c4-3a1e-4e8b-9521-6d28226bdbff/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer L. Newby
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd , LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mason, OH 45040
My passion lies in working with children and teenagers to overcome anxiety, build self-confidence, foster stronger family relationships, and navigate challenging social environments. I specialize in treating young children through the use of play therapies and addressing women's issues such as perinatal and postpartum depression and anxiety. I also work with adults dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, loss, and offer support for couples and families in distress.
My passion lies in working with children and teenagers to overcome anxiety, build self-confidence, foster stronger family relationships, and navigate challenging social environments. I specialize in treating young children through the use of play therapies and addressing women's issues such as perinatal and postpartum depression and anxiety. I also work with adults dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, loss, and offer support for couples and families in distress.
See more therapy options for Springdale
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Springdale
- Anderson
- Blue Ash
- Cincinnati
- Fairfield
- Hamilton
- Hyde Park
- Indian Hill
- Liberty Township
- Loveland
- Mason
- Milford
- West Chester
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.