Photo of Anessa Gilbride, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anessa Gilbride
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Troy, OH 45373
I've had extensive training in various modalities, including traditional talk therapy, trauma-informed and trauma-focused therapy, CBT, play and sand therapy, and am EMDR trained as well.
—Available with NO Waiting List at this time! Taking the leap to begin therapy can sometimes feel overwhelming. My goal is to provide a caring, accepting environment for my clients to feel safe, valued and heard. Through compassion, I approach counseling by viewing each client as an individual, investing time to understand what shapes them and their stories. My collaborative style invites my clients to be partners in identifying and reaching goals in their journey to change.
I've had extensive training in various modalities, including traditional talk therapy, trauma-informed and trauma-focused therapy, CBT, play and sand therapy, and am EMDR trained as well.
—Available with NO Waiting List at this time! Taking the leap to begin therapy can sometimes feel overwhelming. My goal is to provide a caring, accepting environment for my clients to feel safe, valued and heard. Through compassion, I approach counseling by viewing each client as an individual, investing time to understand what shapes them and their stories. My collaborative style invites my clients to be partners in identifying and reaching goals in their journey to change.
(937) 870-1078 View (937) 870-1078
Photo of Matthew Escano, MA , LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Matthew Escano
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPCC
Verified Verified
Troy, OH 45373
I specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, various forms of addiction, autism, & more. Are your goals oriented towards reducing maladaptive symptoms, identifying the behaviors you wish to engage in, being the person you want to be, and, ultimately, the life you aspire to live? Do you desire change and growth & are willing to put the necessary effort in? As your counselor, I do not effect change; that responsibility belongs to you. I aim to empower you to recognize your innate strengths, develop them further, and effectively use them towards your goals in life.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, various forms of addiction, autism, & more. Are your goals oriented towards reducing maladaptive symptoms, identifying the behaviors you wish to engage in, being the person you want to be, and, ultimately, the life you aspire to live? Do you desire change and growth & are willing to put the necessary effort in? As your counselor, I do not effect change; that responsibility belongs to you. I aim to empower you to recognize your innate strengths, develop them further, and effectively use them towards your goals in life.
(937) 857-5743 View (937) 857-5743
Photo of Rachel Keay-McVay, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Keay-McVay
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Troy, OH 45373
There is a curious habit that I've noticed, especially when working with teens, that clients will mostly only work on the "issue of the week." This can have numerous benefits and can also delay the client's progress on any underlying concerns or patterns. Ideally, once a client has agreed to their treatment goals, they continue to take attainable steps towards that goal in therapy and in their daily life. When a client feels comfortable with their therapist to share their thoughts, emotions, and vulnerabilities, then deeper work can happen.
There is a curious habit that I've noticed, especially when working with teens, that clients will mostly only work on the "issue of the week." This can have numerous benefits and can also delay the client's progress on any underlying concerns or patterns. Ideally, once a client has agreed to their treatment goals, they continue to take attainable steps towards that goal in therapy and in their daily life. When a client feels comfortable with their therapist to share their thoughts, emotions, and vulnerabilities, then deeper work can happen.
(937) 807-3667 View (937) 807-3667
Photo of Anna Dykeman, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anna Dykeman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Troy, OH 45373  (Online Only)
You know this sudden rush of emotions, when your heart is racing with memories of a time long gone but not forgotten? Maybe your palms are getting damp, and you feel your throat tightening - almost choking - as you remember painful memories of either childhood abuse, a painful breakup, or other shadows of the past – it's like being caught in a storm of past pain with a ton of emotions. Life is rough and now more than ever people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and uncertain about how they should manage their relationships, careers, and lives — however, you don’t have to walk through this on your own, I'll be right there with you.
You know this sudden rush of emotions, when your heart is racing with memories of a time long gone but not forgotten? Maybe your palms are getting damp, and you feel your throat tightening - almost choking - as you remember painful memories of either childhood abuse, a painful breakup, or other shadows of the past – it's like being caught in a storm of past pain with a ton of emotions. Life is rough and now more than ever people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and uncertain about how they should manage their relationships, careers, and lives — however, you don’t have to walk through this on your own, I'll be right there with you.
(380) 207-1133 View (380) 207-1133

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Rebecca Hunt, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Hunt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Tipp City, OH 45371
Welcome! I'm glad that you are showing an interest in your own or a family member's emotional and mental well being. I'm Becky Hunt, though the official name is Rebecca. I have been working with children and families since 2004. I have provided many different kinds of case management and therapeutic services in my social work career. My work-joy is found in play therapy. Through play therapy child, families, and (yes!) adults can work through many issues in their lives. The best part is all the hard work doesn't feel like work, it feels like play.
Welcome! I'm glad that you are showing an interest in your own or a family member's emotional and mental well being. I'm Becky Hunt, though the official name is Rebecca. I have been working with children and families since 2004. I have provided many different kinds of case management and therapeutic services in my social work career. My work-joy is found in play therapy. Through play therapy child, families, and (yes!) adults can work through many issues in their lives. The best part is all the hard work doesn't feel like work, it feels like play.
(937) 696-7541 View (937) 696-7541

Online Therapists

Photo of Jennifer L. Newby, MSEd , LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
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.
(513) 643-0709 x3 View (513) 643-0709 x3
Photo of Michelle Jordan-Frias, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Jordan-Frias
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43220
Waitlist for new clients
I primarily utilize Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR, mindfulness, and expressive arts/play therapies, depending on my client's unique needs.
Choosing the right therapist to hear your story and support your healing process is a very personal and important decision. I provide therapy that is affirming, holistic, and collaborative, and I create an environment where honest self-exploration and healing can occur. Individuals see me for a range of concerns including anxiety and mood disorders, trauma, grief and loss, and gender and sexuality concerns.
I primarily utilize Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR, mindfulness, and expressive arts/play therapies, depending on my client's unique needs.
Choosing the right therapist to hear your story and support your healing process is a very personal and important decision. I provide therapy that is affirming, holistic, and collaborative, and I create an environment where honest self-exploration and healing can occur. Individuals see me for a range of concerns including anxiety and mood disorders, trauma, grief and loss, and gender and sexuality concerns.
View
Photo of Brenton Ryan Beckley - Circleville Community Counseling, MA, LPCC-S
Circleville Community Counseling
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Circleville, OH 43113  (Online Only)
I work from a multi-modal style of counseling and believe that one size does not fit al! I've been trained in trauma informed care, cognitive behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, dialectical behavior therapy, play therapy, and person centered therapy.
Stressed? Feeling down and depressed? Overwhelmed at changes in your life? Counselors function to address some of life’s biggest challenges and these are just some of the most common ones that all people will experience at some point in their lives. While all people may experience these same problems, every person will experience them differently. We will begin by meeting once a week to work on addressing the challenges associated with your problem and will most likely be assigned a form of “homework” to assist in addressing your goals. Obtaining a sense of peace and freedom takes time but it is one that you will not regret!
I work from a multi-modal style of counseling and believe that one size does not fit al! I've been trained in trauma informed care, cognitive behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, dialectical behavior therapy, play therapy, and person centered therapy.
Stressed? Feeling down and depressed? Overwhelmed at changes in your life? Counselors function to address some of life’s biggest challenges and these are just some of the most common ones that all people will experience at some point in their lives. While all people may experience these same problems, every person will experience them differently. We will begin by meeting once a week to work on addressing the challenges associated with your problem and will most likely be assigned a form of “homework” to assist in addressing your goals. Obtaining a sense of peace and freedom takes time but it is one that you will not regret!
(740) 276-2833 View (740) 276-2833
Photo of Carrie Kroner, MSEd, LPCC-S, CTRP, NCC, BCTP-I
Carrie Kroner
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MSEd, LPCC-S, CTRP, NCC, BCTP-I
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43220
I am Carrie Kroner, a licensed supervising professional clinical counselor. I work with children, adolescents, and adults to learn the skills they need to manage symptoms of anxiety and depression on their own. I truly enjoy guiding others and helping them to grow into the best version of themselves. I use my expertise and experience to tailor our time together to individual needs, whether that means getting on the floor to play a game to help a child feel comfortable, guiding families through productive conversation, or meeting with an individual to let them vent and gently pushing them toward productive discussion.
I am Carrie Kroner, a licensed supervising professional clinical counselor. I work with children, adolescents, and adults to learn the skills they need to manage symptoms of anxiety and depression on their own. I truly enjoy guiding others and helping them to grow into the best version of themselves. I use my expertise and experience to tailor our time together to individual needs, whether that means getting on the floor to play a game to help a child feel comfortable, guiding families through productive conversation, or meeting with an individual to let them vent and gently pushing them toward productive discussion.
(614) 412-0759 View (614) 412-0759
Photo of Christina Huster, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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.
(513) 790-5695 View (513) 790-5695
Photo of Stephanie Heston, MSW, LSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Heston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Worthington, OH 43085
I specialize in play, grief, divorce, trauma, and similar life issues.
I work primarily with children, as well as their families, to help them have their best lives. Life can be tough and it's my job to help your child work through that by giving them, and you as the parent, tools to help them through that. I have experience in a plethora of settings and utilize this to help you reach your goals.
I specialize in play, grief, divorce, trauma, and similar life issues.
I work primarily with children, as well as their families, to help them have their best lives. Life can be tough and it's my job to help your child work through that by giving them, and you as the parent, tools to help them through that. I have experience in a plethora of settings and utilize this to help you reach your goals.
(380) 777-5665 View (380) 777-5665
Photo of Angela S Hackney, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela S Hackney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
Do you need a safe, non-judgmental environment, where you feel heard? I offer solution-focused, strengths-based interventions to help you move forward. I love to be creative; offering art, music and play to help each client best express themselves. I am an active listener, focused on empowering you. I started my social work journey at an in-patient adult hospital, then moved to intensive community based therapy with children. Now I am accepting new clients for private practice. I welcome any person, any age, who wants to feel more empowered in their lives, to overcome their challenges and reach their full potential.
Do you need a safe, non-judgmental environment, where you feel heard? I offer solution-focused, strengths-based interventions to help you move forward. I love to be creative; offering art, music and play to help each client best express themselves. I am an active listener, focused on empowering you. I started my social work journey at an in-patient adult hospital, then moved to intensive community based therapy with children. Now I am accepting new clients for private practice. I welcome any person, any age, who wants to feel more empowered in their lives, to overcome their challenges and reach their full potential.
(380) 201-9214 View (380) 201-9214
Photo of Abigail Griffith, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abigail Griffith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43214
My therapeutic style is holistic, integrating evidence based techniques with innovative approaches and I am currently on track for certification in Play Therapy and EMDR.
While I have experience working with a range of ages and issues, my speciality is working with teens and young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and childhood wounds. Many folx who I work with seek therapy wanting to eliminate their anxiety and depression, but often move on with a deeper understanding of where these issues stem from. They rediscover power in their voice and are able to set healthy boundaries. They explore patterns of thoughts, feelings and behaviors, increasing a sense of self awareness. Folx move on feeling more connected and compassionate within themselves.
My therapeutic style is holistic, integrating evidence based techniques with innovative approaches and I am currently on track for certification in Play Therapy and EMDR.
While I have experience working with a range of ages and issues, my speciality is working with teens and young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and childhood wounds. Many folx who I work with seek therapy wanting to eliminate their anxiety and depression, but often move on with a deeper understanding of where these issues stem from. They rediscover power in their voice and are able to set healthy boundaries. They explore patterns of thoughts, feelings and behaviors, increasing a sense of self awareness. Folx move on feeling more connected and compassionate within themselves.
(614) 683-5421 View (614) 683-5421
Photo of Gina Ley - Anchor & Arrow Therapy and Wellness for Kids, LLC, Occupational Therapist
Anchor & Arrow Therapy and Wellness for Kids, LLC
Occupational Therapist
Verified Verified
Kettering, OH 45440
We use child and family-centered approaches through the primary occupation of childhood, play, to facilitate regulation and meaningful activity engagement and success.
We specialize in coming alongside families to offer help and understanding when caring for children who struggle in the areas of emotional and behavioral regulation. Children have challenges for a variety of reasons, and behaviors are just what we see on the outside that lets us know what is happening on the inside for them. At Anchor & Arrow Therapy, we are committed to looking at the whole child (brain AND body), within the context of the family, and digging deep to find the root causes for the often overwhelming and confusing behaviors children exhibit.
We use child and family-centered approaches through the primary occupation of childhood, play, to facilitate regulation and meaningful activity engagement and success.
We specialize in coming alongside families to offer help and understanding when caring for children who struggle in the areas of emotional and behavioral regulation. Children have challenges for a variety of reasons, and behaviors are just what we see on the outside that lets us know what is happening on the inside for them. At Anchor & Arrow Therapy, we are committed to looking at the whole child (brain AND body), within the context of the family, and digging deep to find the root causes for the often overwhelming and confusing behaviors children exhibit.
(937) 927-8677 View (937) 927-8677
Photo of Maria Ward, MS, LPCC-S, CATP, Counselor
Maria Ward
Counselor, MS, LPCC-S, CATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington Township, OH 45459
I focus on using techniques of CBT, DBT, Play Therapy Techniques, Art Therapy Techniques, and Trauma Focused-CBT as a means of supporting my clients and their families when working through their past and seeking out a healthier future.
Daytime openings available! I have experience working with young children, adolescents, and their families for the last 10 years. I have a background in working with children and families who have experienced significant changes in their family dynamic, behavioral issues, anxiety/depression, children who have experienced trauma, and individuals with developmental delays and Autism. My past work has guided me in teaching others techniques to improve management of their impulses and behaviors impacting their day-to-day functioning, as well as address anxious distress and emotional difficulties.
I focus on using techniques of CBT, DBT, Play Therapy Techniques, Art Therapy Techniques, and Trauma Focused-CBT as a means of supporting my clients and their families when working through their past and seeking out a healthier future.
Daytime openings available! I have experience working with young children, adolescents, and their families for the last 10 years. I have a background in working with children and families who have experienced significant changes in their family dynamic, behavioral issues, anxiety/depression, children who have experienced trauma, and individuals with developmental delays and Autism. My past work has guided me in teaching others techniques to improve management of their impulses and behaviors impacting their day-to-day functioning, as well as address anxious distress and emotional difficulties.
(937) 501-0208 View (937) 501-0208
Photo of Maggie Botts, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maggie Botts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45206  (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.
(513) 790-5751 View (513) 790-5751
Photo of Loreta R De Zuniga-Bandiera, LMSW , OIFP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Loreta R De Zuniga-Bandiera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW , OIFP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pataskala, OH 43062  (Online Only)
I have years of experience working with at risk children and their families. I work with women, complex trauma, childhood trauma , sexual abuse, anxiety disorders, teen girls struggling with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, self harm. I also specialize in domestic violence. I use a play-based client centered approach tailored to each individual or family. I take a non-conventional laid-back approach to therapy, using Art, and Yoga in my sessions to improve symptoms of Anxiety, Depression, and PTSD.
I have years of experience working with at risk children and their families. I work with women, complex trauma, childhood trauma , sexual abuse, anxiety disorders, teen girls struggling with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, self harm. I also specialize in domestic violence. I use a play-based client centered approach tailored to each individual or family. I take a non-conventional laid-back approach to therapy, using Art, and Yoga in my sessions to improve symptoms of Anxiety, Depression, and PTSD.
(614) 835-6068 View (614) 835-6068
Photo of Daniel Maust - Darby Creek Counseling, MEd, LPCC-S, Counselor
Darby Creek Counseling
Counselor, MEd, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London, OH 43140
Our clients have access to a wide variety of treatment options including Play Therapy, EMDR, and Poly-Vagal Informed Trauma Counseling.
We provide trauma-informed mental health therapy for children, adolescents, and adults. We work with our clients from our first interaction to make sure their treatment is individualized to meet their mental health needs and personal goals. Our staff of over 30 diverse and skilled therapists provide the highest quality care to serve diverse communities with respect to their spiritual, cultural, and individual differences. Our offices in Hilliard, Ohio and London, Ohio are available to work in-person with community members in Central, Ohio or we are available for Telehealth services throughout the State.
Our clients have access to a wide variety of treatment options including Play Therapy, EMDR, and Poly-Vagal Informed Trauma Counseling.
We provide trauma-informed mental health therapy for children, adolescents, and adults. We work with our clients from our first interaction to make sure their treatment is individualized to meet their mental health needs and personal goals. Our staff of over 30 diverse and skilled therapists provide the highest quality care to serve diverse communities with respect to their spiritual, cultural, and individual differences. Our offices in Hilliard, Ohio and London, Ohio are available to work in-person with community members in Central, Ohio or we are available for Telehealth services throughout the State.
(740) 845-8652 View (740) 845-8652
Photo of Hollie Westendorf, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hollie Westendorf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Fairfield, OH 45014
My approach is holistic and strength-based, drawing from techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, and mindfulness-based interventions.
Hi there! My name is Hollie. I'm a licensed social worker based in Ohio, dedicated to supporting individuals of all ages on their journey towards healing and growth. I have a bachelor's degree in social work from Wright State University and am currently pursuing my master's at Walden University. I bring a blend of academic knowledge and real-world experience to my practice. My diverse background includes working with children, adults, and families facing a range of challenges, from physical disabilities to socioeconomic hardships.
My approach is holistic and strength-based, drawing from techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, and mindfulness-based interventions.
Hi there! My name is Hollie. I'm a licensed social worker based in Ohio, dedicated to supporting individuals of all ages on their journey towards healing and growth. I have a bachelor's degree in social work from Wright State University and am currently pursuing my master's at Walden University. I bring a blend of academic knowledge and real-world experience to my practice. My diverse background includes working with children, adults, and families facing a range of challenges, from physical disabilities to socioeconomic hardships.
(513) 796-4672 View (513) 796-4672
Photo of Janet Fetzer - Anchor Counseling Services, LPCC-S, Counselor
Anchor Counseling Services
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
We offer art and play therapy, couple and premarital counseling, trauma work, grief related issues and behavioral concerns.
Anchor Counseling Services is a Clinical counseling practice with two locations in Mentor and Westerville Ohio. We offer both Faith-Based and non-religious therapy, which is suited to the client's needs. Our staff believes in the inherent strength of all individuals to work toward wholeness and happiness. We recognize that starting the journey of counseling can be intimidating and scary. We work hard to provide a caring, safe, and comfortable environment where we use non-judgmental approaches in our care with clients.
We offer art and play therapy, couple and premarital counseling, trauma work, grief related issues and behavioral concerns.
Anchor Counseling Services is a Clinical counseling practice with two locations in Mentor and Westerville Ohio. We offer both Faith-Based and non-religious therapy, which is suited to the client's needs. Our staff believes in the inherent strength of all individuals to work toward wholeness and happiness. We recognize that starting the journey of counseling can be intimidating and scary. We work hard to provide a caring, safe, and comfortable environment where we use non-judgmental approaches in our care with clients.
(440) 693-2640 View (440) 693-2640
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.