Therapists in Linn County, OR
I believe our capacity to connect, both with ourselves and with those we love is vital to our happiness. When we are in a state of disconnection, we can feel anxious, isolated, empty, and depressed. I get this, and feel its my job to provide a safe place where you can trust, feel respected and cared for, in the process of therapy. I understand its difficult to feel worried, discouraged, and overwhelmed by everyday challenges. We all have suffered in silence, waiting for things to get better, because seeking help may seem too scary....I want to help.
I believe our capacity to connect, both with ourselves and with those we love is vital to our happiness. When we are in a state of disconnection, we can feel anxious, isolated, empty, and depressed. I get this, and feel its my job to provide a safe place where you can trust, feel respected and cared for, in the process of therapy. I understand its difficult to feel worried, discouraged, and overwhelmed by everyday challenges. We all have suffered in silence, waiting for things to get better, because seeking help may seem too scary....I want to help.
Laura M. Duncan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Albany, OR 97321
Not accepting new clients
My style of psychotherapy/counseling is Eclectic which incorporates various styles of therapies: EMDR/trauma, Guided imagery therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Gestalt, Family & Marriage therapy, Adolescent/Child counseling, Play therapy, Behavioral Therapy, DBT (light), Emotionally Focus, Psychodynamic, Interpersonal an Reality Therapy.
Welcome! All of us come to a time in our lives where we want to talk to someone. In a safe place to process our thoughts and feelings, while using self-compassion and nonjudgment. To come to a deeper understanding of our behaviors, emotions, and ideas, or what the root may be. We then develop our sense of clarity and pleasures in life. We cooperatively define the direction of your counseling session and goals. We are all unique in our humanity, as our situations and experiences are all different yet the same. And at the beginning of each day, we can all conclude "I am enough".
My style of psychotherapy/counseling is Eclectic which incorporates various styles of therapies: EMDR/trauma, Guided imagery therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Gestalt, Family & Marriage therapy, Adolescent/Child counseling, Play therapy, Behavioral Therapy, DBT (light), Emotionally Focus, Psychodynamic, Interpersonal an Reality Therapy.
Welcome! All of us come to a time in our lives where we want to talk to someone. In a safe place to process our thoughts and feelings, while using self-compassion and nonjudgment. To come to a deeper understanding of our behaviors, emotions, and ideas, or what the root may be. We then develop our sense of clarity and pleasures in life. We cooperatively define the direction of your counseling session and goals. We are all unique in our humanity, as our situations and experiences are all different yet the same. And at the beginning of each day, we can all conclude "I am enough".
Online Therapists
I have earned many certificates and highlights include Play, Nature and Art Therapy; Trauma-Informed Practices; Crisis Prevention and Care; YogaCalm; and Collaborative Problem Solving.
I create a safe, non-judgmental space for children/adolescents/young adults and their families through deep listening and observation, forming an authentic, trusting, compassionate relationship where understanding and healing can begin by processing difficult experiences, thoughts, or behaviors. I take a whole-brain, whole-body approach to customize a treatment plan for each client, building upon their strengths and unique gifts. Utilizing Play, Art, Nature and Book Therapy, as well as YogaCalm and Collaborative Problem Solving, my goal is to have a calm, grounded client that finds joy and can set goals to pursue their dreams.
I have earned many certificates and highlights include Play, Nature and Art Therapy; Trauma-Informed Practices; Crisis Prevention and Care; YogaCalm; and Collaborative Problem Solving.
I create a safe, non-judgmental space for children/adolescents/young adults and their families through deep listening and observation, forming an authentic, trusting, compassionate relationship where understanding and healing can begin by processing difficult experiences, thoughts, or behaviors. I take a whole-brain, whole-body approach to customize a treatment plan for each client, building upon their strengths and unique gifts. Utilizing Play, Art, Nature and Book Therapy, as well as YogaCalm and Collaborative Problem Solving, my goal is to have a calm, grounded client that finds joy and can set goals to pursue their dreams.
Cindy Nesiba Counseling and Supervision
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMHC
Verified Verified
Cottage Grove, OR 97424
Waitlist for new clients
I have specialized training in working with children using play therapy, trauma training, working with families as well as individuals who have struggled with depression and anxiety and severe and persistent mental illness.
Currently accepting new clients with over 25 years of experience, I specialize in working with children and families, as well as trauma work, depression and anxiety, chronic illness and chronic pain. However you define your family, we often need ways to better connect and support each other with tools that can be learned inside and out of a therapy, but are only as good as they are useful.
I have specialized training in working with children using play therapy, trauma training, working with families as well as individuals who have struggled with depression and anxiety and severe and persistent mental illness.
Currently accepting new clients with over 25 years of experience, I specialize in working with children and families, as well as trauma work, depression and anxiety, chronic illness and chronic pain. However you define your family, we often need ways to better connect and support each other with tools that can be learned inside and out of a therapy, but are only as good as they are useful.
I offer individual counseling for adults, in-person play therapy for children 3-10, group therapy for women and femmes of color, and clinical supervision for registered associates in Oregon.
Welcome! I’m glad you’re here. I provide affirming, empowering care to children and adults in Oregon. We might be a good fit if you are Asian, Black, Indigenous, Latinx, first generation, queer, or gender expansive. I help people find relief from the pain and stress of grief, anxiety, depression, parenting, intergenerational trauma, chronic illness, and systemic oppression. I am currently offering both in-person therapy and secure telehealth video sessions for clients in Oregon during the COVID-19 pandemic.
I offer individual counseling for adults, in-person play therapy for children 3-10, group therapy for women and femmes of color, and clinical supervision for registered associates in Oregon.
Welcome! I’m glad you’re here. I provide affirming, empowering care to children and adults in Oregon. We might be a good fit if you are Asian, Black, Indigenous, Latinx, first generation, queer, or gender expansive. I help people find relief from the pain and stress of grief, anxiety, depression, parenting, intergenerational trauma, chronic illness, and systemic oppression. I am currently offering both in-person therapy and secure telehealth video sessions for clients in Oregon during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Emily Anne Weidlich
Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97215
Everyone needs support and encouragement, and though our friends and family play an integral role in our lives, they often struggle with finding the words to say when we face truly troubling experiences. As a trained counselor, my goal is to skillfully and empathetically help you navigate your challenges by working together to develop greater insight into your experience, foster an honest and compassionate stance towards your previous efforts, and develop more adaptive skills and perspectives to aid you moving forward.
Everyone needs support and encouragement, and though our friends and family play an integral role in our lives, they often struggle with finding the words to say when we face truly troubling experiences. As a trained counselor, my goal is to skillfully and empathetically help you navigate your challenges by working together to develop greater insight into your experience, foster an honest and compassionate stance towards your previous efforts, and develop more adaptive skills and perspectives to aid you moving forward.
Teresa Heesacker Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, CSD, LPC, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newberg, OR 97132
Waitlist for new clients
Clients can choose from various modalities: play, art and sand tray therapies, outdoor therapy, talk therapy, trauma therapy and EMDR.
I am passionate about well-being. For some, that might mean healing from trauma or growth into the person you want to become. It might mean understanding how to have a happier, healthy relationship with a parent, partner or child. I believe that every person is worthy of a life that is fully-alive and I am dedicated to partnering with people in their journey toward their vision of well-being. I provide clients with a safe, confidential and affirming environment in which they can explore their story, consider what is meaningful to them, cultivate their personal strengths and apply new insights and growth.
Clients can choose from various modalities: play, art and sand tray therapies, outdoor therapy, talk therapy, trauma therapy and EMDR.
I am passionate about well-being. For some, that might mean healing from trauma or growth into the person you want to become. It might mean understanding how to have a happier, healthy relationship with a parent, partner or child. I believe that every person is worthy of a life that is fully-alive and I am dedicated to partnering with people in their journey toward their vision of well-being. I provide clients with a safe, confidential and affirming environment in which they can explore their story, consider what is meaningful to them, cultivate their personal strengths and apply new insights and growth.
Kelle DeBruin Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223
Life transitions bring new opportunities for personal growth, communication development, and emotional connectedness. With couples & families, our approach is to deepen the bond by focusing more effective communication while understanding the needs of the relationship, Individual therapy centers from life experiences of resilience & strength, redefinition of self, challenges around family history, or a recognition of new life boundaries. As we work with younger clients, we utilize interventions in our play therapy room to provide an environment open and welcoming to the needs of everyone.
Life transitions bring new opportunities for personal growth, communication development, and emotional connectedness. With couples & families, our approach is to deepen the bond by focusing more effective communication while understanding the needs of the relationship, Individual therapy centers from life experiences of resilience & strength, redefinition of self, challenges around family history, or a recognition of new life boundaries. As we work with younger clients, we utilize interventions in our play therapy room to provide an environment open and welcoming to the needs of everyone.
EMDR, Energy Psychology, DBT which incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with Mindfulness, and Play Therapy for children all tend to relieve anxiety & depression.
Please leave the name of your insurance when you contact me so I can best serve you. Adults, children, adolescents, and their families are welcomed in my private practice, and playroom for the children. My specialty for over 25 years has been working with children, adolescents, and their families. After becoming a Level II EMDR trauma therapist in the past 20 years, I have worked with many adults challenged by difficulties. Both my adult and child clients are often faced with depression, anxiety, and grief commonly created by divorce, death, adoption, abuse, and feelings of hopelessness, anger, and poor self-esteem.
EMDR, Energy Psychology, DBT which incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with Mindfulness, and Play Therapy for children all tend to relieve anxiety & depression.
Please leave the name of your insurance when you contact me so I can best serve you. Adults, children, adolescents, and their families are welcomed in my private practice, and playroom for the children. My specialty for over 25 years has been working with children, adolescents, and their families. After becoming a Level II EMDR trauma therapist in the past 20 years, I have worked with many adults challenged by difficulties. Both my adult and child clients are often faced with depression, anxiety, and grief commonly created by divorce, death, adoption, abuse, and feelings of hopelessness, anger, and poor self-esteem.
Teresa Northy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CSWA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
My interests include children’s play therapy, trauma recovery, and attachment theory.
I welcome clients of all ages, experiences, and backgrounds. Diversity, equity, cultural humility, and empathy are foundational to my work. Seeking therapy can be scary and talking about the hard stuff requires vulnerability and bravery. In this nurturing space, I'm here to support you every step of the way on your journey to self-discovery, personal growth, and a brighter, more empowered future. I offer both virtual and in-person therapy sessions, providing a client-centered, strength-based and trauma informed approach.
My interests include children’s play therapy, trauma recovery, and attachment theory.
I welcome clients of all ages, experiences, and backgrounds. Diversity, equity, cultural humility, and empathy are foundational to my work. Seeking therapy can be scary and talking about the hard stuff requires vulnerability and bravery. In this nurturing space, I'm here to support you every step of the way on your journey to self-discovery, personal growth, and a brighter, more empowered future. I offer both virtual and in-person therapy sessions, providing a client-centered, strength-based and trauma informed approach.
Lisa Dunning
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFTA
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97701
Waitlist for new clients
In therapy I use solution focused, collaborative problem solving, cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, to list a few and will meet where you are.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Oregon. I specialize in working with children, teens, young adults, couples, and families. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, life changes, grief, loss, anger, trauma, ADHD, and LGBTQIA+ challenges. Life can be hard and I am here to help teach you how to guide yourself to feeling better. One step at a time!
In therapy I use solution focused, collaborative problem solving, cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, to list a few and will meet where you are.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Oregon. I specialize in working with children, teens, young adults, couples, and families. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, life changes, grief, loss, anger, trauma, ADHD, and LGBTQIA+ challenges. Life can be hard and I am here to help teach you how to guide yourself to feeling better. One step at a time!
Dana Denny
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
I incorporate Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Child-Centered Play Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy and Mindfulness into therapy sessions.
I believe that therapy is a collaborative, sacred space where clients bring themselves and their stories. Using your stories and experiences, our work together will center on your present circumstance as well as your hopes and expectations for the future. As a systems and attachment trained intern, our work together may involve exploring your patterns in relationships, responses to trauma, what you value, social challenges you experience, and/or your strengths and resources. Our therapeutic relationship is of utmost importance to me. Honesty and vulnerability will be a crucial aspect of our therapeutic relationship.
I incorporate Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Child-Centered Play Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy and Mindfulness into therapy sessions.
I believe that therapy is a collaborative, sacred space where clients bring themselves and their stories. Using your stories and experiences, our work together will center on your present circumstance as well as your hopes and expectations for the future. As a systems and attachment trained intern, our work together may involve exploring your patterns in relationships, responses to trauma, what you value, social challenges you experience, and/or your strengths and resources. Our therapeutic relationship is of utmost importance to me. Honesty and vulnerability will be a crucial aspect of our therapeutic relationship.
In order to assist in creating balance in your life I use a wide variety of treatment modalities including, attachment, mindfulness techniques, behavioral strategies, strength based learning, solution focused therapy, play therapy, yoga and eco therapy.
Therapy is a process of self discovery. I have been working with children, teens and adults for 10 years now and what I have come to realize is that in order to live a life where you are not just surviving but rather thriving, it is best to find a balance with the mind, body and spirit. When we are not in balance life can feel overwhelming, sad, frustrating and challenging. When we experience trauma, grief, addictions, lack of self worth and purpose or any other issues, life can feel out of control and just too much. Sometimes we need a bounce board, assistance or guidance to find our way forward.
In order to assist in creating balance in your life I use a wide variety of treatment modalities including, attachment, mindfulness techniques, behavioral strategies, strength based learning, solution focused therapy, play therapy, yoga and eco therapy.
Therapy is a process of self discovery. I have been working with children, teens and adults for 10 years now and what I have come to realize is that in order to live a life where you are not just surviving but rather thriving, it is best to find a balance with the mind, body and spirit. When we are not in balance life can feel overwhelming, sad, frustrating and challenging. When we experience trauma, grief, addictions, lack of self worth and purpose or any other issues, life can feel out of control and just too much. Sometimes we need a bounce board, assistance or guidance to find our way forward.
Jack Montana Lander
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97301
I use several forms of therapy when counseling including cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, and person centered therapy.
Do you or your child need a help? Are you going through a difficult time? Or are you concerned for you or your child's mental health? Seeking help can be difficult and frustrating for both you and your loved ones. I believe that youth and young adults need counselors who truly care about them. In my experience with this demographic I have come to learn how important it is for them to have a safe place where they can open up and express themselves without shame or judgement. I want to help you and your loved ones find freedom and safety and I believe that counseling is a wonderful way to do that.
I use several forms of therapy when counseling including cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, and person centered therapy.
Do you or your child need a help? Are you going through a difficult time? Or are you concerned for you or your child's mental health? Seeking help can be difficult and frustrating for both you and your loved ones. I believe that youth and young adults need counselors who truly care about them. In my experience with this demographic I have come to learn how important it is for them to have a safe place where they can open up and express themselves without shame or judgement. I want to help you and your loved ones find freedom and safety and I believe that counseling is a wonderful way to do that.
Alison Newey
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, ATR-P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97229 (Online Only)
I am a queer integrative client-centered art therapist, trained in play therapy and anchored in mindfulness-based and neurobiologically-informed theory.
I specialize in creating a safe and accepting space for the LGBTQ+ community and other marginalized groups and cultures. I am passionate about exploring creative approaches to healing, while honoring each individual's unique journey and culture. I've witnessed the power of art-making to build connections and trust when working with people struggling with a variety of issues, including traumatic experiences, depression and anxiety, neurodiversity and everyday stressors to name a few. Art therapy is a powerful tool to help create new meanings of experience and supports self-expression without the use of words.
I am a queer integrative client-centered art therapist, trained in play therapy and anchored in mindfulness-based and neurobiologically-informed theory.
I specialize in creating a safe and accepting space for the LGBTQ+ community and other marginalized groups and cultures. I am passionate about exploring creative approaches to healing, while honoring each individual's unique journey and culture. I've witnessed the power of art-making to build connections and trust when working with people struggling with a variety of issues, including traumatic experiences, depression and anxiety, neurodiversity and everyday stressors to name a few. Art therapy is a powerful tool to help create new meanings of experience and supports self-expression without the use of words.
Harini Sukumaran
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97221
I use Mindfulness based stress reduction, ACT and guided meditation to help women accomplish their goals & primarily play therapy, art therapy, CBT, yoga with children.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! Offering online therapy & in- office visits. Your child's anxiety and depression may have increased with isolation from friends, adjustment to online schooling, and disruption in schedule. Maybe you're a parent or caregiver who is frustrated with your child/teen's behavior at home? May be you are a parent who is overwhelmed and wants to parent mindfully. May be your child is struggling with anxiety &depression, and you are unsure how to help them and need a holistic approach. You may have noticed your child struggling with self regulation, high anxiety, sadness, anger issues, ADHD, and learning difficulties.
I use Mindfulness based stress reduction, ACT and guided meditation to help women accomplish their goals & primarily play therapy, art therapy, CBT, yoga with children.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! Offering online therapy & in- office visits. Your child's anxiety and depression may have increased with isolation from friends, adjustment to online schooling, and disruption in schedule. Maybe you're a parent or caregiver who is frustrated with your child/teen's behavior at home? May be you are a parent who is overwhelmed and wants to parent mindfully. May be your child is struggling with anxiety &depression, and you are unsure how to help them and need a holistic approach. You may have noticed your child struggling with self regulation, high anxiety, sadness, anger issues, ADHD, and learning difficulties.
Casadi 'khaki' Marino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, CADCIII
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oregon City, OR 97045
Therapeutic approaches I use include CBT, Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT), EMDR, and Play Therapy.
Do you need to be heard in a non-judgmental manner? Have you been hurt or disrespected? Are you struggling in a relationship or moving through grief or loss? Are you anxious, depressed, or uncertain? Do you care for a child who has experienced "big hurts," overwhelming emotions, or been challenged to cope? We are all doing the best we can. It takes courage to seek help. I hope to explore your story, concerns, and life goals. I see adults and children ages 3-12 and their caregivers. In addition I have lived experience with autoimmune conditions and can offer an empathetic perspective to those who experience such challenges.
Therapeutic approaches I use include CBT, Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT), EMDR, and Play Therapy.
Do you need to be heard in a non-judgmental manner? Have you been hurt or disrespected? Are you struggling in a relationship or moving through grief or loss? Are you anxious, depressed, or uncertain? Do you care for a child who has experienced "big hurts," overwhelming emotions, or been challenged to cope? We are all doing the best we can. It takes courage to seek help. I hope to explore your story, concerns, and life goals. I see adults and children ages 3-12 and their caregivers. In addition I have lived experience with autoimmune conditions and can offer an empathetic perspective to those who experience such challenges.
I have an integrative approach to my personal practice that includes yoga, meditation/mindfulness, child centered play therapy, expressive arts, Synergetic Play therapy, CBT, and various trauma modalities across the lifespan.
NOT CURRENTLY ACCEPTING SUPERVISION CLIENTS------------All therapists and social workers have moments in this field where we need someone to debrief an experience with. Sometimes we just need someone to hold space for our experiences and bare witness to the challenges and heartbreak this profession often brings. No matter what stage you are at in your career, just starting out or 15 years in, a good supervisor can feel like a lifeline. I specialize in offering supervision to CSWAs, LPC-I and licensed professionals seeking supervision in the state of Oregon.
I have an integrative approach to my personal practice that includes yoga, meditation/mindfulness, child centered play therapy, expressive arts, Synergetic Play therapy, CBT, and various trauma modalities across the lifespan.
NOT CURRENTLY ACCEPTING SUPERVISION CLIENTS------------All therapists and social workers have moments in this field where we need someone to debrief an experience with. Sometimes we just need someone to hold space for our experiences and bare witness to the challenges and heartbreak this profession often brings. No matter what stage you are at in your career, just starting out or 15 years in, a good supervisor can feel like a lifeline. I specialize in offering supervision to CSWAs, LPC-I and licensed professionals seeking supervision in the state of Oregon.
Robin L Magdahlen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MFT, RDT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97239
These approaches include drama/play therapy, psychodrama, art, guided imagery and sand tray.
My intention for you is to gently but dynamically create opportunities for growth and healing through flexible and creative alternatives to break through old patterns. I like to collaborate with motivated clients who are willing to work to change their lives. My goal is to help you discover your own solutions to your problems and concerns in an environment that is welcoming, empathetic and non-judgmental. I do that by carefully attending to your thoughts and feelings. Although I will offer specific "interventions" I believe that change occurs during therapy when there is strong motivation combined with the quality of our connection.
These approaches include drama/play therapy, psychodrama, art, guided imagery and sand tray.
My intention for you is to gently but dynamically create opportunities for growth and healing through flexible and creative alternatives to break through old patterns. I like to collaborate with motivated clients who are willing to work to change their lives. My goal is to help you discover your own solutions to your problems and concerns in an environment that is welcoming, empathetic and non-judgmental. I do that by carefully attending to your thoughts and feelings. Although I will offer specific "interventions" I believe that change occurs during therapy when there is strong motivation combined with the quality of our connection.
Crystal Leavitt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MBA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97702
I use a combination of Brain Spotting, Person Centered, Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Compassion Focused lens, Gottman Method.
Accepting NEW clients. Everyone has a story, that should be heard, and have a space where their healing journey can begin. I aid to create a safe, non-judgement space and a therapeutic relationship for clients to share their story, process their pain, and find healing. I specialize in working with children (5+), teens (12+), women, and couples struggling with feeling stuck, behavioral issues, emotional regulation, anxious distress, depressed mood, grief/loss, postpartum issues, trauma, eating disorders, unhealthy body and food relationship, and communication issues and high conflict. I'm also a certified Brainspotting therapist.
I use a combination of Brain Spotting, Person Centered, Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Compassion Focused lens, Gottman Method.
Accepting NEW clients. Everyone has a story, that should be heard, and have a space where their healing journey can begin. I aid to create a safe, non-judgement space and a therapeutic relationship for clients to share their story, process their pain, and find healing. I specialize in working with children (5+), teens (12+), women, and couples struggling with feeling stuck, behavioral issues, emotional regulation, anxious distress, depressed mood, grief/loss, postpartum issues, trauma, eating disorders, unhealthy body and food relationship, and communication issues and high conflict. I'm also a certified Brainspotting therapist.
See more therapy options for Linn County
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.