Play Therapy in Devon, PA
![Photo of Tari Lyn Getz, LPC, CHT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/06b7390b-5666-40d8-83e7-7a0d91ee2f54/2/320x400.jpeg)
I began my career as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Certified Hypnotherapist (CHT) later in life, and I have great passion for the work I do. I have 10+ years of experience as a therapist for children/teens, adults, and families. I have worked in outpatient, school-based, in-home, and community settings. With younger children and parents, I use the principles of Parent-Child Interactive Therapy, focusing on relationship-building through play. For family therapy, I use a relational approach based on positive communication, mutual respect, and active listening skills. I enjoy guiding my clients toward desired change.
I began my career as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Certified Hypnotherapist (CHT) later in life, and I have great passion for the work I do. I have 10+ years of experience as a therapist for children/teens, adults, and families. I have worked in outpatient, school-based, in-home, and community settings. With younger children and parents, I use the principles of Parent-Child Interactive Therapy, focusing on relationship-building through play. For family therapy, I use a relational approach based on positive communication, mutual respect, and active listening skills. I enjoy guiding my clients toward desired change.
![Photo of Michele Dietrich, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e1763250-c375-45cb-8a72-553efddf749f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Here, Michele utilizes Cognitive, Play, Sand Tray, Psycho-educational, Supportive, Affirmation, Insight, Behavioral and Modeling Therapies.
Michele was raised in eastern Pennsylvania where she received both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in psychology. She has held a Pennsylvania counseling license since 2002 and Michele is an Advanced ART Practitioner. She is the founder of Heart of the Matter LLC. Michele focuses on a broad range of treatment issues including PTSD, Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, OCD from preschool through adult clients. Also, Michele works with families to improve family dynamics and relationships.
Here, Michele utilizes Cognitive, Play, Sand Tray, Psycho-educational, Supportive, Affirmation, Insight, Behavioral and Modeling Therapies.
Michele was raised in eastern Pennsylvania where she received both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in psychology. She has held a Pennsylvania counseling license since 2002 and Michele is an Advanced ART Practitioner. She is the founder of Heart of the Matter LLC. Michele focuses on a broad range of treatment issues including PTSD, Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, OCD from preschool through adult clients. Also, Michele works with families to improve family dynamics and relationships.
![Photo of Paul Kesselman - Kesselman Clinical Associates, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ab06b26-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
At Kesselman Clinical Associates, we are creating a community where you and your family can find understanding and support. We have clinicians who specialize in an array of areas, from anxiety, depression, and personality disorders to parenting and family issues, addiction, trauma, ADD/ADHD, ASD, and impulse control disorders. We provide individual treatment for children, teens, and adults, as well as group, couples, and family therapy, and we offer in-person or telehealth sessions.
At Kesselman Clinical Associates, we are creating a community where you and your family can find understanding and support. We have clinicians who specialize in an array of areas, from anxiety, depression, and personality disorders to parenting and family issues, addiction, trauma, ADD/ADHD, ASD, and impulse control disorders. We provide individual treatment for children, teens, and adults, as well as group, couples, and family therapy, and we offer in-person or telehealth sessions.
![Photo of Tracy Sciulli, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8966094f-7da6-4af2-8834-548b1fad232d/1/320x400.jpeg)
I encourage personal growth and support my clients through the joys and challenges of life. My expertise is in helping adolescents, adults, and parents build strategies that support their goals toward a more fulfilling life. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in anxiety, stress, and significant life transitions. I focus on the values of my clients to help them create a balance in our work together including educational tools, therapeutic skills, processing, and celebrating progress. Therapy takes courage and compassion to talk about the challenges and celebrate meaningful, positive changes.
I encourage personal growth and support my clients through the joys and challenges of life. My expertise is in helping adolescents, adults, and parents build strategies that support their goals toward a more fulfilling life. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in anxiety, stress, and significant life transitions. I focus on the values of my clients to help them create a balance in our work together including educational tools, therapeutic skills, processing, and celebrating progress. Therapy takes courage and compassion to talk about the challenges and celebrate meaningful, positive changes.
![Photo of Amy LeFurge, LCSW, ASDCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4eda1dc7-b093-4130-a070-6f4b440be379/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amy LeFurge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Devon, PA 19333 (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Amy - a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist dedicated to helping children and teens identify and build upon strengths to overcome challenges. I have 10 years of experience working directly with children in individual and group settings. I rely heavily on CBT, Motivational Interviewing and DBT Principles to assist clients with identifying changes they want to make in their lives. I believe firmly that the best way to help teens and children is to build a strong rapport and assist them in building confidence and enhance their skills.
Hi, I'm Amy - a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist dedicated to helping children and teens identify and build upon strengths to overcome challenges. I have 10 years of experience working directly with children in individual and group settings. I rely heavily on CBT, Motivational Interviewing and DBT Principles to assist clients with identifying changes they want to make in their lives. I believe firmly that the best way to help teens and children is to build a strong rapport and assist them in building confidence and enhance their skills.
![Photo of Jennifer May Torresson - Main Line Therapy Center, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d92d77b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jen is certified in Eco-Systemic Structural Family Therapy and has extensive knowledge, training, and experience in Brain Based Trauma Informed Care working with children and adolescents. She is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years’ hands-on experience with children, adolescents, and families. Jen combines a customized variety of evidence-based techniques and skills to create growth and healing in her treatment with individuals and families. Jen works closely with parents to support their unique individual child and family by helping them better understand early brain development and promote change.
Jen is certified in Eco-Systemic Structural Family Therapy and has extensive knowledge, training, and experience in Brain Based Trauma Informed Care working with children and adolescents. She is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years’ hands-on experience with children, adolescents, and families. Jen combines a customized variety of evidence-based techniques and skills to create growth and healing in her treatment with individuals and families. Jen works closely with parents to support their unique individual child and family by helping them better understand early brain development and promote change.
![Photo of Sally A. McAfee, MEd, LPC, BCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/854df802-2169-42c1-8154-a73639776714/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you overwhelmed, trying to orchestrate family, job and more? You are the center of many people's world. Who is supporting you? Do you or someone in your family suffer from disorganization, a frantic pace, no time to sit down and breathe? You have come to the right place. As the center of the hub, you know who needs what. Child with special needs? Let's talk, and I'll help you sort it out. Together we can lift some of that weight from your shoulders.
Are you overwhelmed, trying to orchestrate family, job and more? You are the center of many people's world. Who is supporting you? Do you or someone in your family suffer from disorganization, a frantic pace, no time to sit down and breathe? You have come to the right place. As the center of the hub, you know who needs what. Child with special needs? Let's talk, and I'll help you sort it out. Together we can lift some of that weight from your shoulders.
![Photo of William Morgan - Paoli Psychological Associates, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/475858ca-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Paoli Psychological Associates is a group of mental health professionals dedicated to helping people develop the skills they need for life's challenges. Our counseling services offer personalized attention and an individualized approach to helping individuals, couples, and families overcome life's challenges, grow, and develop greater satisfaction and success. Our services include psychotherapy, counseling, testing, and psychological evaluation. We specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Dr. Bill Morgan, director of PPA, is a licensed psychologist with over 20 years experience. Within our group we have a number of highly trained professionals covering a variety of specialties. We are committed to providing high quality services.
Paoli Psychological Associates is a group of mental health professionals dedicated to helping people develop the skills they need for life's challenges. Our counseling services offer personalized attention and an individualized approach to helping individuals, couples, and families overcome life's challenges, grow, and develop greater satisfaction and success. Our services include psychotherapy, counseling, testing, and psychological evaluation. We specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Dr. Bill Morgan, director of PPA, is a licensed psychologist with over 20 years experience. Within our group we have a number of highly trained professionals covering a variety of specialties. We are committed to providing high quality services.
![Photo of Kristin Page, LPC, MSEd, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5f6b00b4-5667-42c4-959e-597ce9e9e13e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kristin Page
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MSEd, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Devon, PA 19333
I am dedicated to helping you gain insight and develop tools to cultivate personal growth and relief from symptoms. You don’t have to face your struggles alone. I work holistically, meaning I consider the mind, body, and spirit. We will work together in a safe, compassionate, curious, and healing environment to understand yourself better and begin to feel connected, whole, and healthy. You can feel free to share your life and whatever you are facing. This type of work creates deep and lasting change.
I am dedicated to helping you gain insight and develop tools to cultivate personal growth and relief from symptoms. You don’t have to face your struggles alone. I work holistically, meaning I consider the mind, body, and spirit. We will work together in a safe, compassionate, curious, and healing environment to understand yourself better and begin to feel connected, whole, and healthy. You can feel free to share your life and whatever you are facing. This type of work creates deep and lasting change.
![Photo of Keneley Bautista, MS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0233e7ee-8ade-4727-b213-34bd05056be8/3/320x400.jpeg)
How often do you feel like life is spiraling out of your control? Establishing control can help you regain a sense of stability and improve your overall well-being. It can positively impact your relationships and daily interactions. Imagine a life where you are in charge of your choices and reactions. While it may be challenging, you have the ability to take control and create a balanced, fulfilling life for yourself.
How often do you feel like life is spiraling out of your control? Establishing control can help you regain a sense of stability and improve your overall well-being. It can positively impact your relationships and daily interactions. Imagine a life where you are in charge of your choices and reactions. While it may be challenging, you have the ability to take control and create a balanced, fulfilling life for yourself.
![Photo of Addie Smith, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d77461b5-1b3b-438b-abb5-6ae8042c83f3/2/320x400.jpeg)
When our children hurt, we hurt. Teaching young children, adolescents and young adults coping skills that they will use for a lifetime is a wonderful gift for the entire family. Adult women experience a tremendous amount of stress. Habitual behaviors or ways of thinking that served us as children are often of no use and even harmful during adulthood. Feeling better requires challenging these old habits and creating new pathways to suit our current goals.
When our children hurt, we hurt. Teaching young children, adolescents and young adults coping skills that they will use for a lifetime is a wonderful gift for the entire family. Adult women experience a tremendous amount of stress. Habitual behaviors or ways of thinking that served us as children are often of no use and even harmful during adulthood. Feeling better requires challenging these old habits and creating new pathways to suit our current goals.
15 Second Videos
Kesselman Clinical Associates
Main Line Therapy Center
Sally A. McAfee
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Samantha A Duranti, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a874cb21-fd08-41d7-9658-4189f0ea14ec/2/320x400.jpeg)
Samantha A Duranti
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Wayne, PA 19087 (Online Only)
Knowing that therapy is not a one size fits all, I employ the use of play therapy, CBT, psychodynamic, structural family therapy, solution focused, narrative and attachment-based therapy.
Are you struggling in your relationships? Maybe disruptive behavior is making it difficult to connect with your child or teenager. Maybe you are struggling in your relationship with your partner or even in the relationship you have with yourself. Hi! I’m Samantha and I work together with my clients, who include children, adolescents, adults, and families, to find realistic and creative solutions to the struggles they are facing. I enjoy drawing on the strengths of my clients and being a part of their journey of making the changes they want in their lives.
Knowing that therapy is not a one size fits all, I employ the use of play therapy, CBT, psychodynamic, structural family therapy, solution focused, narrative and attachment-based therapy.
Are you struggling in your relationships? Maybe disruptive behavior is making it difficult to connect with your child or teenager. Maybe you are struggling in your relationship with your partner or even in the relationship you have with yourself. Hi! I’m Samantha and I work together with my clients, who include children, adolescents, adults, and families, to find realistic and creative solutions to the struggles they are facing. I enjoy drawing on the strengths of my clients and being a part of their journey of making the changes they want in their lives.
![Photo of Kelly Pohlig, MS, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c18da705-137d-4d9e-85fc-0c0f910d8de1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kelly Pohlig
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Berwyn, PA 19312 (Online Only)
I use a trauma informed approach to therapy which combines client focused therapy, psychodynamic applications, play therapy, and EMDR.
Hey there! It can be highly challenging it can be to reach out for help; you are taking the best step in seeking a partner for personal healing. I will work with you to create positive changes in your life, resolve conflicts, and towards the goals you desire. As a counselor, I work with individuals coping with various concerns related to neurodiversity, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, PTSD/ complex trauma, caregiver concerns, relationship issues, parenting struggles, communication skills, and general life dissatisfaction.
I use a trauma informed approach to therapy which combines client focused therapy, psychodynamic applications, play therapy, and EMDR.
Hey there! It can be highly challenging it can be to reach out for help; you are taking the best step in seeking a partner for personal healing. I will work with you to create positive changes in your life, resolve conflicts, and towards the goals you desire. As a counselor, I work with individuals coping with various concerns related to neurodiversity, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, PTSD/ complex trauma, caregiver concerns, relationship issues, parenting struggles, communication skills, and general life dissatisfaction.
![Photo of Elizabeth B. Briganti, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bedb286-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
My approach involves bringing change about from the inside out. We will work towards understanding how the problems that brought you here developed, what they mean, and the purpose that they serve. This approach goes beyond simply treating symptoms and strives to help you make changes that are deeply-rooted and long-lasting. It has been proven that the therapeutic relationship actually creates healthier connections in your brain. In younger children this deeper type of therapeutic change is often accomplished through therapeutic play. Play is the natural language of children and allows them to express their thoughts and feelings.
My approach involves bringing change about from the inside out. We will work towards understanding how the problems that brought you here developed, what they mean, and the purpose that they serve. This approach goes beyond simply treating symptoms and strives to help you make changes that are deeply-rooted and long-lasting. It has been proven that the therapeutic relationship actually creates healthier connections in your brain. In younger children this deeper type of therapeutic change is often accomplished through therapeutic play. Play is the natural language of children and allows them to express their thoughts and feelings.
![Photo of Jeannine C Alvare', MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c9c320e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
In addition to a Psycho-dynamic approach I offer expertise in Play Therapy with children, Experiential/Wilderness Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Techniques as well as Mindfulness methods.
I believe that mental health reflects a balance between an individual's emotional functioning and his/her family, friends and community. I support patients in their personal awareness and integration of the mind, body and spirit. I have extensive clinical experience with individuals and families addressing concerns such as: Anxiety, Autistic Spectrum, Attention Deficit Disorders, Bi-Polar Disorder, Depression, Eating Disorders, Learning Differences, Oppositional/Defiant Behaviors, Personality Disorders, Postpartum Depression and Psychological responses to life changes. I offer additional expertise in bi-cultural/racial issues, chronic illness, co-parenting, LGBT community, interfaith marriage and sibling rivalry.
In addition to a Psycho-dynamic approach I offer expertise in Play Therapy with children, Experiential/Wilderness Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Techniques as well as Mindfulness methods.
I believe that mental health reflects a balance between an individual's emotional functioning and his/her family, friends and community. I support patients in their personal awareness and integration of the mind, body and spirit. I have extensive clinical experience with individuals and families addressing concerns such as: Anxiety, Autistic Spectrum, Attention Deficit Disorders, Bi-Polar Disorder, Depression, Eating Disorders, Learning Differences, Oppositional/Defiant Behaviors, Personality Disorders, Postpartum Depression and Psychological responses to life changes. I offer additional expertise in bi-cultural/racial issues, chronic illness, co-parenting, LGBT community, interfaith marriage and sibling rivalry.
![Photo of Zoe Morris, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49bc99ea-48e4-4556-9a4c-04f04475c66d/1/320x400.jpeg)
In my practice with children, I utilize evidence-based techniques such as play therapy and mindfulness to promote stability and emotional well-being.
I am a licensure-track therapist that values client-centered approaches to meet you where you are in your journey towards healing. I am here to listen, validate and support you in exploring what is causing distress for you, your child, or your family to promote a better quality of life. I have worked with clients and families that come from a range of life stages, backgrounds and diagnosis- specifically anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD and autism.
In my practice with children, I utilize evidence-based techniques such as play therapy and mindfulness to promote stability and emotional well-being.
I am a licensure-track therapist that values client-centered approaches to meet you where you are in your journey towards healing. I am here to listen, validate and support you in exploring what is causing distress for you, your child, or your family to promote a better quality of life. I have worked with clients and families that come from a range of life stages, backgrounds and diagnosis- specifically anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD and autism.
![Photo of Antonietta Delli Carpini, LPC, RDT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c867a59-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
Antonietta Delli Carpini
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RDT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
King Of Prussia, PA 19406
I specialize in Trauma treatment for adults, children, adolescents, couples and families. Trauma affects all areas of one's life in pervasive and sometimes unexpected ways. I enjoy helping people identify how past events continue to play a part in current patterns, and to work on new and healthy ways of responding to stressors. Other specializations include treating victims of childhood sexual abuse, Dissociative Identity Disorder and Borderline Personality Disorder. I enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, children, adolescents, and couples, and working with families to better understand and support their LGBTQIA+ loved ones.
I specialize in Trauma treatment for adults, children, adolescents, couples and families. Trauma affects all areas of one's life in pervasive and sometimes unexpected ways. I enjoy helping people identify how past events continue to play a part in current patterns, and to work on new and healthy ways of responding to stressors. Other specializations include treating victims of childhood sexual abuse, Dissociative Identity Disorder and Borderline Personality Disorder. I enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, children, adolescents, and couples, and working with families to better understand and support their LGBTQIA+ loved ones.
![Photo of Robin Greenberg - Robin Greenberg, MSW, LCSW, LMFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e2ba550-b2f6-4780-af2c-b9e0b6c5be7a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Robin Greenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wayne, PA 19087
My clinical interests include couples, life transitions, separation/divorce/co-parenting, adult child of divorce, blending families, premarital counseling, sand tray, Mindfulness-Based Play Family Therapy, and sex therapy.
I aspire to make the world, or at least our little microcosm, a more kind and loving place. I believe therapy can help us become better versions of ourselves, deepen connection with each other, and bring more kindness to our relationships. Our innate capacity to heal and grow, both within and in relation with others, is strengthened by the guidance of genuine human connection.
My clinical interests include couples, life transitions, separation/divorce/co-parenting, adult child of divorce, blending families, premarital counseling, sand tray, Mindfulness-Based Play Family Therapy, and sex therapy.
I aspire to make the world, or at least our little microcosm, a more kind and loving place. I believe therapy can help us become better versions of ourselves, deepen connection with each other, and bring more kindness to our relationships. Our innate capacity to heal and grow, both within and in relation with others, is strengthened by the guidance of genuine human connection.
![Photo of Sara Silliman, MFT, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1b17134b-dbf4-4152-b558-306e6b1e3cac/2/320x400.png)
Accepting new clients! Navigating the complexities of life can be challenging, especially when you're dealing with issues like anxiety, self-esteem struggles, negative thought patterns, and relational concerns. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I specialize in working with pre-teens through young adults, couples, and families to address these concerns. Whether you're seeking guidance on improving family dynamics, enhancing your relationship with a partner, or addressing personal struggles, my goal is to help you feel like your best self.
Accepting new clients! Navigating the complexities of life can be challenging, especially when you're dealing with issues like anxiety, self-esteem struggles, negative thought patterns, and relational concerns. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I specialize in working with pre-teens through young adults, couples, and families to address these concerns. Whether you're seeking guidance on improving family dynamics, enhancing your relationship with a partner, or addressing personal struggles, my goal is to help you feel like your best self.
![Photo of Marissa Kiepert Truong, PhD, MS, C-SLDI](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc0389a0-a0ee-4aca-bfb4-a8ad2efaf4e8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Does your child get frustrated easily with homework? Guess frequently at words? Have poor handwriting? Read slowly or inaccurately? Lack self-esteem? Dislike reading? I can help! My practice recognizes the interplay of academics, mental health, cognition, and behavior, which is why we incorporate social-emotional learning, self-regulation strategies, and growth mindset to foster whole child development in addition to using a structured literacy approach. Customized services meet children where they are so they can build the confidence they need and deserve to succeed in the classroom and beyond.
Does your child get frustrated easily with homework? Guess frequently at words? Have poor handwriting? Read slowly or inaccurately? Lack self-esteem? Dislike reading? I can help! My practice recognizes the interplay of academics, mental health, cognition, and behavior, which is why we incorporate social-emotional learning, self-regulation strategies, and growth mindset to foster whole child development in addition to using a structured literacy approach. Customized services meet children where they are so they can build the confidence they need and deserve to succeed in the classroom and beyond.
See more therapy options for Devon
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Devon
- Audubon
- Berwyn
- Broomall
- Bryn Mawr
- Haverford
- King Of Prussia
- Malvern
- Newtown Square
- Paoli
- Radnor
- Villanova
- Wayne
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.