Photo of Becky van der Hagen, PhD, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Becky van der Hagen
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tulsa, OK 74119
I am a Registered Play Therapist.
Are you are a guardian who is seeking help for your child? I could be the person you are looking for. I am therapist who specializes in working with children. I work with children starting at age 3. In therapy, I work on helping children have better awareness of their emotions, how to express their emotions in a healthy way, increase frustration tolerance, and process their life experiences. I also work with the children’s guardians to improve the parent/child relationship as well as help the parents be responsive to their children’s emotional and behavioral needs.
I am a Registered Play Therapist.
Are you are a guardian who is seeking help for your child? I could be the person you are looking for. I am therapist who specializes in working with children. I work with children starting at age 3. In therapy, I work on helping children have better awareness of their emotions, how to express their emotions in a healthy way, increase frustration tolerance, and process their life experiences. I also work with the children’s guardians to improve the parent/child relationship as well as help the parents be responsive to their children’s emotional and behavioral needs.
(539) 210-3110 View (539) 210-3110
Photo of Whitney Breshears, LPC, SEP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Whitney Breshears
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tulsa, OK 74145
I am trained in EMDR, (TFCBT), Play Therapy and DDP.
Whitney Breshears, LPC, Somatic Attachment Therapist. I come to Palo Santo with more than 10 years of experience in trauma therapy after working with an Inpatient Facility for children and an outpatient therapist with TFC. I also work with children, adolescents and adults at Anchored in Hope, focusing on developmental and attachment trauma. I offer an intuitive and highly skilled healing process that blends trauma training with traditional and holistic modalities to meet the needs of each unique individual and nervous system.
I am trained in EMDR, (TFCBT), Play Therapy and DDP.
Whitney Breshears, LPC, Somatic Attachment Therapist. I come to Palo Santo with more than 10 years of experience in trauma therapy after working with an Inpatient Facility for children and an outpatient therapist with TFC. I also work with children, adolescents and adults at Anchored in Hope, focusing on developmental and attachment trauma. I offer an intuitive and highly skilled healing process that blends trauma training with traditional and holistic modalities to meet the needs of each unique individual and nervous system.
(539) 200-6226 View (539) 200-6226
Photo of Tiffany Mushegan, LMFT-S, RPT, ITR-TTS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tiffany Mushegan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT-S, RPT, ITR-TTS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tulsa, OK 74105
I am a Registered Play Therapist and play is my primary modality when working with children.
I have been working in the mental health field for more than 20 years. I am passionate about helping children and teens from hard places who have been through trauma, including those who have been adopted or in the foster care system. I also love helping their families learn more about how to help their children and be the best parent possible. My goal is to help people who have experienced trauma in the past and need help in order to succeed in the future with healthier coping mechanisms and relationships.
I am a Registered Play Therapist and play is my primary modality when working with children.
I have been working in the mental health field for more than 20 years. I am passionate about helping children and teens from hard places who have been through trauma, including those who have been adopted or in the foster care system. I also love helping their families learn more about how to help their children and be the best parent possible. My goal is to help people who have experienced trauma in the past and need help in order to succeed in the future with healthier coping mechanisms and relationships.
(918) 265-3369 View (918) 265-3369
Photo of Christene R Scott - Leader Professional Services LLC, LPC—S, RPT—S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leader Professional Services LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC—S, RPT—S
Verified Verified
Tulsa, OK 74133
Waitlist for new clients
Christene Scott is EMDR trained, Play therapy trained and certified, SSP trained and certified, substance abuse trained and certified, trauma trained.
LPC Supervisor and a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor through the Association for Play Therapy., EMDR trained and certified in substance abuse evaluations for adults and adolescents. Christene believes in catering to the therapeutic needs to of her clients. She utilizes a range of therapeutic modalities such as Gestalt, Play Therapy, Adlerian, Trauma Focused CBT and EMDR. Christene works with individuals to help them to work through issues of trauma, grief, anxiety, depression and adjusting to significant life changes. She works along side you to help develop the skills needed to meet your needs and achieve your desired goals.
Christene Scott is EMDR trained, Play therapy trained and certified, SSP trained and certified, substance abuse trained and certified, trauma trained.
LPC Supervisor and a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor through the Association for Play Therapy., EMDR trained and certified in substance abuse evaluations for adults and adolescents. Christene believes in catering to the therapeutic needs to of her clients. She utilizes a range of therapeutic modalities such as Gestalt, Play Therapy, Adlerian, Trauma Focused CBT and EMDR. Christene works with individuals to help them to work through issues of trauma, grief, anxiety, depression and adjusting to significant life changes. She works along side you to help develop the skills needed to meet your needs and achieve your desired goals.
(918) 262-4944 View (918) 262-4944
Photo of Chris King - Chris King Counseling Services, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chris King Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Not Verified Not Verified
Tulsa, OK 74137
Our therapists have a variety of helpful certifications including play therapy certifications, infant and child certifications, EMDR, and concentrations that include: Clinical social work, Family and Marriage Therapy, and Alcohol and Drug outpatient treatment.
Chris King counseling Services works with all ages and backgrounds of people- aiming to assess needs, build therapeutic relationships and encourage clients to move forward in their behavioral health. Sometimes life can present challenges that may be overwhelming. Our passion is to work with you to navigate through the difficulties by focusing on your strengths so you can achieve your dreams. Chris King Counseling Services is a team of counselors working together to empower individuals and families to heal and grow in their mental, emotional, and behavioral health.
Our therapists have a variety of helpful certifications including play therapy certifications, infant and child certifications, EMDR, and concentrations that include: Clinical social work, Family and Marriage Therapy, and Alcohol and Drug outpatient treatment.
Chris King counseling Services works with all ages and backgrounds of people- aiming to assess needs, build therapeutic relationships and encourage clients to move forward in their behavioral health. Sometimes life can present challenges that may be overwhelming. Our passion is to work with you to navigate through the difficulties by focusing on your strengths so you can achieve your dreams. Chris King Counseling Services is a team of counselors working together to empower individuals and families to heal and grow in their mental, emotional, and behavioral health.
(539) 232-0162 View (539) 232-0162
Photo of Ashley Brown, MS, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Tulsa, OK 74135
With ten years of experience as a counselor and certification as a Registered Play Therapist, I work with clients age five and up.
Currently accepting new in person and telehealth clients. My mission is to provide affirming, inclusive, and strengths-oriented care to help enhance functioning, mental health and emotional well-being. I believe that an orientation toward growth and betterment is inherent in all people. As such, my aim is to provide a counseling relationship that clarifies, nurtures and supports pathways for client-defined growth. My clients often seek support to improve relationships, work through life transitions, and relieve symptoms of depression and anxiety.
With ten years of experience as a counselor and certification as a Registered Play Therapist, I work with clients age five and up.
Currently accepting new in person and telehealth clients. My mission is to provide affirming, inclusive, and strengths-oriented care to help enhance functioning, mental health and emotional well-being. I believe that an orientation toward growth and betterment is inherent in all people. As such, my aim is to provide a counseling relationship that clarifies, nurtures and supports pathways for client-defined growth. My clients often seek support to improve relationships, work through life transitions, and relieve symptoms of depression and anxiety.
(918) 393-5426 View (918) 393-5426
Photo of Summer Minor, LPC-C
Summer Minor
LPC-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tulsa, OK 74133
I am certified in the Gottman Method, EMDR, Trauma Focused CBT, and I’m currently completing the hours to become a Trauma Play Therapist for the state of Oklahoma.
I am humbled every day when clients allow me to walk along side of them through their personal challenges and then cheer them on as they work towards the goals we have set together. We live in a world where there is more time spent on a phone instead of face-to-face conversations. Therapy gets us back to the basics of really hearing each other and figuring out a highly individualized approach. Whether you need a therapist for individual work, couple counseling, or help for your child. I will be honored to help you in your process to a healthier and happier life.
I am certified in the Gottman Method, EMDR, Trauma Focused CBT, and I’m currently completing the hours to become a Trauma Play Therapist for the state of Oklahoma.
I am humbled every day when clients allow me to walk along side of them through their personal challenges and then cheer them on as they work towards the goals we have set together. We live in a world where there is more time spent on a phone instead of face-to-face conversations. Therapy gets us back to the basics of really hearing each other and figuring out a highly individualized approach. Whether you need a therapist for individual work, couple counseling, or help for your child. I will be honored to help you in your process to a healthier and happier life.
(918) 498-5010 View (918) 498-5010
Photo of Sara DeSirey - A New Way Center, LPC, Counselor
A New Way Center
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tulsa, OK 74120
Our therapists offer a variety of specialized training and areas of expertise, including but not limited to: Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI); Internal Family Systems (IFS); Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR); play therapy; drama therapy and psychodrama; and services designed to support children and adults.
We believe both trauma and healing happen in the context of relationships. Beyond treating symptoms, our therapists walk alongside clients to celebrate strengths and identify resources to repair relational trauma. Our diverse community of therapists provide mental health therapy, psychoeducation, and case management to individuals, groups, and families.
Our therapists offer a variety of specialized training and areas of expertise, including but not limited to: Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI); Internal Family Systems (IFS); Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR); play therapy; drama therapy and psychodrama; and services designed to support children and adults.
We believe both trauma and healing happen in the context of relationships. Beyond treating symptoms, our therapists walk alongside clients to celebrate strengths and identify resources to repair relational trauma. Our diverse community of therapists provide mental health therapy, psychoeducation, and case management to individuals, groups, and families.
(918) 599-7277 View (918) 599-7277
Photo of Regina Underwood, MAMFT, LPC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Regina Underwood
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAMFT, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Tulsa, OK 74145
She is a Licensed Professional Counselor, a trained Play Therapist, and a trained EMDR (Eye Movement and Desensitization and Reprocessing) Therapist.
ReGina believes everyone carries their own baggage. Some baggage is heavy & might consist of unresolved conflicts, destructive behaviors, poor self esteem, sadness, worries, relationship dissatisfaction, divorce, loss, trauma, or other adverse life experience. Is your family struggling through transition? She helps individuals and families navigate through a variety of difficulties when their coping skills fail. She believes that everyone brings their own unique story to counseling, and to honor each client's story, she uses a variety of therapeutic approaches, to fit individual client needs.
She is a Licensed Professional Counselor, a trained Play Therapist, and a trained EMDR (Eye Movement and Desensitization and Reprocessing) Therapist.
ReGina believes everyone carries their own baggage. Some baggage is heavy & might consist of unresolved conflicts, destructive behaviors, poor self esteem, sadness, worries, relationship dissatisfaction, divorce, loss, trauma, or other adverse life experience. Is your family struggling through transition? She helps individuals and families navigate through a variety of difficulties when their coping skills fail. She believes that everyone brings their own unique story to counseling, and to honor each client's story, she uses a variety of therapeutic approaches, to fit individual client needs.
(918) 205-7635 x000 View (918) 205-7635 x000
Photo of Wakie Irene Johnson - Therapeutic Services Inc. P.C. - Wakie Johnson, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Therapeutic Services Inc. P.C. - Wakie Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Tulsa, OK 74105
YOUR well-being is my primary focus. The desired outcome is YOUR ability to maintain healthy resolutions to psychological issues or life stressors. Compassionate professional counseling is provided for children (utilizing play therapy techniques), teens, adults, and families with relational issues, emotional disturbances, trauma, depression, anxiety, and life stressors. The thrust of my eclectic approach is to ENHANCE the quality of YOUR WELL-BEING.
YOUR well-being is my primary focus. The desired outcome is YOUR ability to maintain healthy resolutions to psychological issues or life stressors. Compassionate professional counseling is provided for children (utilizing play therapy techniques), teens, adults, and families with relational issues, emotional disturbances, trauma, depression, anxiety, and life stressors. The thrust of my eclectic approach is to ENHANCE the quality of YOUR WELL-BEING.
(918) 631-7725 View (918) 631-7725
Photo of Jackie Flaherty, PhDcand, MS, LPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jackie Flaherty
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhDcand, MS, LPCS
Verified Verified
Tulsa, OK 74103  (Online Only)
I have had training and experience in Trauma-Focused CBT, marital counseling, EMDR, expressive arts/ play, mindfulness and attachment.
Life, at some point, will be messy. I provide counseling to adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, and/or clients that seek to improve quality of life, communication and relationships with partners, peers, colleagues, friends, and family.
I have had training and experience in Trauma-Focused CBT, marital counseling, EMDR, expressive arts/ play, mindfulness and attachment.
Life, at some point, will be messy. I provide counseling to adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, and/or clients that seek to improve quality of life, communication and relationships with partners, peers, colleagues, friends, and family.
(918) 842-8218 View (918) 842-8218
Photo of Crystal Rose Hoffman Faulkenberry, LPC, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Crystal Rose Hoffman Faulkenberry
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PLLC
Verified Verified
Tulsa, OK 74105
With little ones, I specialize in play therapy and attachment therapy to help parents/guardians find their child's unique needs and implement supportive tactics for everyday life.
At any stage in life difficulties along the way can cause positive parts of ourselves to get a little buried, blocked, or hidden. Using your own creative process, I aim to help you reconnect with the parts of yourself that are confident, courageous, caring, compassionate, curious, calm, and connected. This process can be done individually, with couples, and in family sessions.
With little ones, I specialize in play therapy and attachment therapy to help parents/guardians find their child's unique needs and implement supportive tactics for everyday life.
At any stage in life difficulties along the way can cause positive parts of ourselves to get a little buried, blocked, or hidden. Using your own creative process, I aim to help you reconnect with the parts of yourself that are confident, courageous, caring, compassionate, curious, calm, and connected. This process can be done individually, with couples, and in family sessions.
(918) 351-2922 View (918) 351-2922
Photo of Janet Leane Shannon, MS, LPC, RPT™, Licensed Professional Counselor
Janet Leane Shannon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RPT™
Verified Verified
Tulsa, OK 74137
This is where play therapy is such a valuable tool.
You love your child, but you just don't know what to do. Maybe she seems to worry about everything. She can't fall asleep at night without you by her side. She bites her nails constantly and gets headaches and stomachaches more days than not. Maybe your son whom you adopted and was the sweetest angel just a few months ago suddenly seems to get angry with little to no provocation, throwing tantrums or hitting you, other children, or even his teachers. Or maybe your child suddenly seems withdrawn or anxious or just not quite themselves but they won't talk to you? You've tried everything you can or you just want some professional help.
This is where play therapy is such a valuable tool.
You love your child, but you just don't know what to do. Maybe she seems to worry about everything. She can't fall asleep at night without you by her side. She bites her nails constantly and gets headaches and stomachaches more days than not. Maybe your son whom you adopted and was the sweetest angel just a few months ago suddenly seems to get angry with little to no provocation, throwing tantrums or hitting you, other children, or even his teachers. Or maybe your child suddenly seems withdrawn or anxious or just not quite themselves but they won't talk to you? You've tried everything you can or you just want some professional help.
(918) 818-3486 View (918) 818-3486
Photo of Shelly Kennedy-Gonzalez, MS, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shelly Kennedy-Gonzalez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tulsa, OK 74133
I am trained in written exposure therapy, play therapy, trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy.
As a therapist I am committed to helping individuals find hope in even the most hopeless situations. My goal is to help you be the best version of yourself, to feel comfortable in the uncomfortable and build healthy positive relationships. Through the power of the therapeutic relationship, I can help you identify positive changes and create new thought patterns to help you accomplish your goals and be the person you have always wanted to be. I believe that making positive changes to improve your life may be difficult, but it will be one of the most rewarding gifts an individual can offer themselves.
I am trained in written exposure therapy, play therapy, trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy.
As a therapist I am committed to helping individuals find hope in even the most hopeless situations. My goal is to help you be the best version of yourself, to feel comfortable in the uncomfortable and build healthy positive relationships. Through the power of the therapeutic relationship, I can help you identify positive changes and create new thought patterns to help you accomplish your goals and be the person you have always wanted to be. I believe that making positive changes to improve your life may be difficult, but it will be one of the most rewarding gifts an individual can offer themselves.
(539) 224-2987 View (539) 224-2987
Photo of Callie Keith, LPC, IMH-E, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Callie Keith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, IMH-E, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tulsa, OK 74136
For children, I will utilize play and empathy to create a space where they can have their feelings and learn how to cope with them in healthy, safe ways.
Parenting is hard work! Being a child can also be hard work! Both roles come with moments of joy and hope. Both roles also come with frequent change and stress. For children, learning how to balance this mixture of emotions with their experiences can sometimes be challenging and lead to big behaviors. For parents, helping their children cope with big feelings and behaviors can be overwhelming. For some, conceiving and starting a family has felt impossible and isolating. Wherever you are in your parenting journey, my hope is to provide you and your family with a safe and secure place to learn and grow.
For children, I will utilize play and empathy to create a space where they can have their feelings and learn how to cope with them in healthy, safe ways.
Parenting is hard work! Being a child can also be hard work! Both roles come with moments of joy and hope. Both roles also come with frequent change and stress. For children, learning how to balance this mixture of emotions with their experiences can sometimes be challenging and lead to big behaviors. For parents, helping their children cope with big feelings and behaviors can be overwhelming. For some, conceiving and starting a family has felt impossible and isolating. Wherever you are in your parenting journey, my hope is to provide you and your family with a safe and secure place to learn and grow.
(918) 393-3590 View (918) 393-3590
Photo of Victoria Aviv, MA, LPCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Victoria Aviv
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Tulsa, OK 74136
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in child-centered play therapy, using psychodynamic and evidence-based interventions for children aged 3-13 dealing with ADHD, ODD, life transitions, parenting issues, anxiety, and depression.
Life is a journey full of changes, and sometimes, these changes can be overwhelming. For children and families, it can be challenging to overcome the struggles that come with daily life, trauma, or a diagnosis. However, it is essential to know that seeking help is a valid option, and you don't have to face it alone. Therapy can give you the knowledge and tools to recognize your strengths and abilities. It can help you heal, no matter your age or life stage. Don't let the struggles of life hold you back. Remember, seeking support is a sign of strength, and therapy can be a powerful source of healing.
I specialize in child-centered play therapy, using psychodynamic and evidence-based interventions for children aged 3-13 dealing with ADHD, ODD, life transitions, parenting issues, anxiety, and depression.
Life is a journey full of changes, and sometimes, these changes can be overwhelming. For children and families, it can be challenging to overcome the struggles that come with daily life, trauma, or a diagnosis. However, it is essential to know that seeking help is a valid option, and you don't have to face it alone. Therapy can give you the knowledge and tools to recognize your strengths and abilities. It can help you heal, no matter your age or life stage. Don't let the struggles of life hold you back. Remember, seeking support is a sign of strength, and therapy can be a powerful source of healing.
(918) 303-7406 View (918) 303-7406
Photo of Simonne Jones, MS, LPC-S, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Simonne Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tulsa, OK 74129
I offer play therapy for children ages 3 to 18.
I work with children, adolescents, and female adults whom are in distress, confused and need help with coping skills. I assist with helping them understand what happened, who they are and where they are going. Talking with someone other than family helps. It helps to not feel judged and feel accepted. We all have a place where we belong.
I offer play therapy for children ages 3 to 18.
I work with children, adolescents, and female adults whom are in distress, confused and need help with coping skills. I assist with helping them understand what happened, who they are and where they are going. Talking with someone other than family helps. It helps to not feel judged and feel accepted. We all have a place where we belong.
(539) 224-5456 View (539) 224-5456
Photo of Amy Clare, MA, LPC-S, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Clare
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tulsa, OK 74105
I believe clients will benefit from either psychotherapy and play therapy techniques to express emotions, build trust, improve problem-solving and resolve trauma.
My goal is to provide an environment for clients to feel safe. I have competence in working with children, adults, and families that have been affected by traumatic experiences. The hope is that all clients have the opportunity to heal, grow, and flourish in everyday life.
I believe clients will benefit from either psychotherapy and play therapy techniques to express emotions, build trust, improve problem-solving and resolve trauma.
My goal is to provide an environment for clients to feel safe. I have competence in working with children, adults, and families that have been affected by traumatic experiences. The hope is that all clients have the opportunity to heal, grow, and flourish in everyday life.
(918) 608-1244 View (918) 608-1244
Photo of Ashley Beers - Anchored In Hope, LLC, MHR, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anchored In Hope, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MHR, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tulsa, OK 74133
Areas of focus include but are not limited to: adult and child counseling, couples and parenting. ADHD/ADD, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Perinatal & Postpartum mental health, OCD, Self harm, eating disorders, play therapy, EMDR, Sex Therapy, Grief & Loss, family therapy, pain management, life transitions, neuro-developmental disorders, combat trauma, bi-polar, ODD, women's issues, self esteem, and many more. Call for details to determine which of our amazing practitioners will be the best fit for your needs.
Areas of focus include but are not limited to: adult and child counseling, couples and parenting. ADHD/ADD, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Perinatal & Postpartum mental health, OCD, Self harm, eating disorders, play therapy, EMDR, Sex Therapy, Grief & Loss, family therapy, pain management, life transitions, neuro-developmental disorders, combat trauma, bi-polar, ODD, women's issues, self esteem, and many more. Call for details to determine which of our amazing practitioners will be the best fit for your needs.
(918) 578-4423 View (918) 578-4423
Photo of Sally Sullivan, MA, LPC-C, LMFT-C
Sally Sullivan
LPC Candidate, MA, LPC-C, LMFT-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tulsa, OK 74136
My first career was in education. I taught school for many years while my husband and I raised our two sons. I enjoy working with people of all ages with a variety of challenges such as family and relationship challenges, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorder. I lead support and psychoeducational groups for families affected by autism. I also provide Therapeutic Supervised Visitation, Play Therapy, and Reconciliation Counseling to court-involved families.
My first career was in education. I taught school for many years while my husband and I raised our two sons. I enjoy working with people of all ages with a variety of challenges such as family and relationship challenges, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorder. I lead support and psychoeducational groups for families affected by autism. I also provide Therapeutic Supervised Visitation, Play Therapy, and Reconciliation Counseling to court-involved families.
(918) 480-2032 x110 View (918) 480-2032 x110
1
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.