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Online Therapists

Photo of Teresa I. Otoya-Mcadams, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Teresa I. Otoya-Mcadams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
When working with children I also integrate other approaches to therapy such as play and sand tray therapy as well as the use of art.
Hello! Welcome to your healing Journey. My name is Teresa and I have been in practice for almost 20 years. I believe in the importance of creating a therapeutic alliance where clients feel safe and free to explore and learn about themselves without fear of judgment. I understand that at times it can be difficult to take the first step and look for professional help, my personal stance is to empower my clients and guide them so they can find their own answers. I have worked with individuals and families from multiple backgrounds and age groups. I specialize in PTSD, anxiety, depression and life transitions.
When working with children I also integrate other approaches to therapy such as play and sand tray therapy as well as the use of art.
Hello! Welcome to your healing Journey. My name is Teresa and I have been in practice for almost 20 years. I believe in the importance of creating a therapeutic alliance where clients feel safe and free to explore and learn about themselves without fear of judgment. I understand that at times it can be difficult to take the first step and look for professional help, my personal stance is to empower my clients and guide them so they can find their own answers. I have worked with individuals and families from multiple backgrounds and age groups. I specialize in PTSD, anxiety, depression and life transitions.
(412) 899-2714 View (412) 899-2714
Photo of Emily Kane, MSCP, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Kane
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Time in community play spaces and Montessori education informs my work.
I help the helpers: people who are building and maintaining their families, medical caregivers, teachers, and anyone engaged in difficult care work. I support people through infertility, reproductive health journeys, and navigating caregiver challenges with children ages 0-5. I’m experienced in supporting caregivers of twins & triplets, medically fragile children, neurodivergence, processing whole-family traumatic experiences with young children, and caregiving-driven career pivots. I’ve previously worked in Biometrics Research, Community Mental Health, Tech Operations, and Education. I’m deeply committed to our local community.
Time in community play spaces and Montessori education informs my work.
I help the helpers: people who are building and maintaining their families, medical caregivers, teachers, and anyone engaged in difficult care work. I support people through infertility, reproductive health journeys, and navigating caregiver challenges with children ages 0-5. I’m experienced in supporting caregivers of twins & triplets, medically fragile children, neurodivergence, processing whole-family traumatic experiences with young children, and caregiving-driven career pivots. I’ve previously worked in Biometrics Research, Community Mental Health, Tech Operations, and Education. I’m deeply committed to our local community.
(412) 204-6741 View (412) 204-6741
Photo of Sydney Stephenson, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sydney Stephenson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15218
I welcome you to reach out if you are curious how play therapy or AAT can benefit you or your child.
In the words of Mr. Rogers, “ Play is really the work of childhood." I see kids who have prenatal, preverbal, or early childhood trauma; attachment and behavioral issues; or struggle with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and anger. I will work with you to create a flexible treatment plan tailored to your child's individual needs, using techniques like prescriptive play therapy, filial therapy, expressive arts, sandtray, geek therapy, and attachment-based activities to directly address and heal the impact of stress on the body and brain. I help identify the reasons for children’s behavior and healthier ways to meet those needs.
I welcome you to reach out if you are curious how play therapy or AAT can benefit you or your child.
In the words of Mr. Rogers, “ Play is really the work of childhood." I see kids who have prenatal, preverbal, or early childhood trauma; attachment and behavioral issues; or struggle with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and anger. I will work with you to create a flexible treatment plan tailored to your child's individual needs, using techniques like prescriptive play therapy, filial therapy, expressive arts, sandtray, geek therapy, and attachment-based activities to directly address and heal the impact of stress on the body and brain. I help identify the reasons for children’s behavior and healthier ways to meet those needs.
(412) 214-8961 View (412) 214-8961
Photo of Alyssa Linville, MEd, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alyssa Linville
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canonsburg, PA 15317
Waitlist for new clients
Other therapeutic approaches I use include play, CBT, Mindfulness/Meditative practices, Narrative, and Solution-Focused interventions.
Welcome to the start of your healing journey! I am a Telehealth therapist for Ohio clients and offer in person and Telehealth services for Pennsylvania clients. I work with my clients to navigate and overcome life's many challenges and to process the emotions that come with them. I utilize a person-centered approach to allow clients the space to explore their strengths, reach their goals while feeling supported and validated. I believe that we are doing the best we can with what we have. I have worked with most age groups and have experience treating anxiety, depression, sexual abuse, trauma, mood disorders and ADHD.
Other therapeutic approaches I use include play, CBT, Mindfulness/Meditative practices, Narrative, and Solution-Focused interventions.
Welcome to the start of your healing journey! I am a Telehealth therapist for Ohio clients and offer in person and Telehealth services for Pennsylvania clients. I work with my clients to navigate and overcome life's many challenges and to process the emotions that come with them. I utilize a person-centered approach to allow clients the space to explore their strengths, reach their goals while feeling supported and validated. I believe that we are doing the best we can with what we have. I have worked with most age groups and have experience treating anxiety, depression, sexual abuse, trauma, mood disorders and ADHD.
(234) 262-9072 View (234) 262-9072
Photo of Tessa McArdle, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tessa McArdle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
I draw from a toolbox filled with diverse approaches like psychodynamic practices, play therapy techniques, and skill-based interventions, always through a trauma-informed lens and with an eye on systemic change.
Hey there! I'm Tess, a Licensed Social Worker and psychotherapist, and my pronouns are she/her/hers. Picture me as your ally in the journey toward justice and healing! My path started at the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Social Policy & Practice, where I cultivated a passion for curiosity, compassion, and imagining bold changes. Now, I bring these qualities to Transitional Characters, where I'm all in on embodying them fully. To me, mental health isn't just about individual well-being; it's about reclaiming our true selves, a cornerstone of building a fairer society.
I draw from a toolbox filled with diverse approaches like psychodynamic practices, play therapy techniques, and skill-based interventions, always through a trauma-informed lens and with an eye on systemic change.
Hey there! I'm Tess, a Licensed Social Worker and psychotherapist, and my pronouns are she/her/hers. Picture me as your ally in the journey toward justice and healing! My path started at the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Social Policy & Practice, where I cultivated a passion for curiosity, compassion, and imagining bold changes. Now, I bring these qualities to Transitional Characters, where I'm all in on embodying them fully. To me, mental health isn't just about individual well-being; it's about reclaiming our true selves, a cornerstone of building a fairer society.
(412) 615-3418 View (412) 615-3418
Photo of Kem Frasier - Your Counseling Services Inc dba Therapy Corner, LPC, Trauma , MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Your Counseling Services Inc dba Therapy Corner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, Trauma , MA
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237  (Online Only)
The other counselors, and myself, specialize in Trauma Focus, CBT, Client Centered Therapy, Play Therapy, ABA (for those in the autism spectrum), Behavioral Health, Alcohol and Drug, Parent Child Interaction Therapy, etc.
Do you sometimes feel swallowed up by life's problems? Well, you're not alone. I will make it my priority to address your needs as a child, teen or adult. Through talk therapy, I will help you find or learn coping skills that will enable you to start on the path of healing and feeling good again. You will be empowered to utilize strategies that will assist you in making better choices. You will determine the best avenue for yourself while dealing with challenging situations. In addition to the services provided, prompt appointments are scheduled and clients are seen within 24 hrs.
The other counselors, and myself, specialize in Trauma Focus, CBT, Client Centered Therapy, Play Therapy, ABA (for those in the autism spectrum), Behavioral Health, Alcohol and Drug, Parent Child Interaction Therapy, etc.
Do you sometimes feel swallowed up by life's problems? Well, you're not alone. I will make it my priority to address your needs as a child, teen or adult. Through talk therapy, I will help you find or learn coping skills that will enable you to start on the path of healing and feeling good again. You will be empowered to utilize strategies that will assist you in making better choices. You will determine the best avenue for yourself while dealing with challenging situations. In addition to the services provided, prompt appointments are scheduled and clients are seen within 24 hrs.
(412) 618-2989 View (412) 618-2989
Photo of Dr. Yisroel (Jonathan) King, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Yisroel (Jonathan) King
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
When working with children, adolescents, and families, Yisroel utilizes psychodynamic, CBT, play, and art therapy techniques, as well as mindfulness and family systems strategies to support clients in actualizing their goals in treatment.
Yisroel is a clinician at Cardigan Psychological, LLC. He has had extensive training in providing child and adolescent individual therapy, structural family therapy, and school and home-based interventions. His experience includes working in therapeutic and educational settings with children and adolescents struggling with a variety of difficulties including behavioral disorders, depression, trauma, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, and many other mental health concerns.
When working with children, adolescents, and families, Yisroel utilizes psychodynamic, CBT, play, and art therapy techniques, as well as mindfulness and family systems strategies to support clients in actualizing their goals in treatment.
Yisroel is a clinician at Cardigan Psychological, LLC. He has had extensive training in providing child and adolescent individual therapy, structural family therapy, and school and home-based interventions. His experience includes working in therapeutic and educational settings with children and adolescents struggling with a variety of difficulties including behavioral disorders, depression, trauma, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, and many other mental health concerns.
(724) 573-3647 View (724) 573-3647
Photo of William J Koehler, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
William J Koehler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Erie, PA 16505
Waitlist for new clients
I am experienced in a variety of approaches including Play Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Structural Therapy, Shadow Work and Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
At Journey to a Trauma Informed Life, we are committed to providing a welcoming environment for every client we work with. As a group, we specialize in working with LGBTQ+, HIV+, BIPOC, and those living with a disability. Whether you work with me directly or one of our member therapists, we are skilled in helping people resolve past traumatic events which are interfering with your ability to function from day to day. I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) and trained in Trauma-Focused CBT. Head to our website (www.atraumainformedlife.com) to learn more
I am experienced in a variety of approaches including Play Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Structural Therapy, Shadow Work and Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
At Journey to a Trauma Informed Life, we are committed to providing a welcoming environment for every client we work with. As a group, we specialize in working with LGBTQ+, HIV+, BIPOC, and those living with a disability. Whether you work with me directly or one of our member therapists, we are skilled in helping people resolve past traumatic events which are interfering with your ability to function from day to day. I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) and trained in Trauma-Focused CBT. Head to our website (www.atraumainformedlife.com) to learn more
(814) 261-0381 x1 View (814) 261-0381 x1
Photo of Sandra Maria Pattinato, MEd , LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sandra Maria Pattinato
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd , LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15234
I have 15 years of experience in the mental health field. I have worked in a number of different settings and with clients from a wide variety of backgrounds and cultures. My priority is to meet the client where he or she is and help him or her by providing support, aid and guidance, so the client can work through processing the past, identifying present patterns and taking steps toward long lasting changes while addressing the client’s fears, challenges and worries along the way.
I have 15 years of experience in the mental health field. I have worked in a number of different settings and with clients from a wide variety of backgrounds and cultures. My priority is to meet the client where he or she is and help him or her by providing support, aid and guidance, so the client can work through processing the past, identifying present patterns and taking steps toward long lasting changes while addressing the client’s fears, challenges and worries along the way.
(412) 547-5734 View (412) 547-5734
Photo of Janet Gongloff, LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Janet Gongloff
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Latrobe, PA 15650
I enjoy helping clients that are ready to create positive change in their lives through working on various life issues such as grief and loss, trauma, depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
I enjoy helping clients that are ready to create positive change in their lives through working on various life issues such as grief and loss, trauma, depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
(724) 576-8934 View (724) 576-8934
Photo of Deborah Marie Migyanko, LSW, C-SSWS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah Marie Migyanko
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, C-SSWS
Verified Verified
Uniontown, PA 15401
I create a warm and supportive environment where my clients feel safe in sharing their stories. I specialize in areas such as adolescents, young adults (under 30), families of adolescents, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, sports, health, human performance and trauma. I believe in treating the person as a whole. I can provide you with various coping skills. I am passionate about assisting my clients to move forward in their lives. Therapy provides a safe space for adolescents and young adults to express their feelings and emotions without judgment, helping them process difficult experiences.
I create a warm and supportive environment where my clients feel safe in sharing their stories. I specialize in areas such as adolescents, young adults (under 30), families of adolescents, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, sports, health, human performance and trauma. I believe in treating the person as a whole. I can provide you with various coping skills. I am passionate about assisting my clients to move forward in their lives. Therapy provides a safe space for adolescents and young adults to express their feelings and emotions without judgment, helping them process difficult experiences.
(724) 918-0311 View (724) 918-0311
Photo of Asia Gunter, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Asia Gunter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
Give me a break, are you serious? How did I get here? No one understands me, I'm anxious..I'm depressed. How many times have you said these exact words this week? I sure can relate-and if you can, you’re in the right place. Welcome. Self-empowerment, radical acceptance & authentic human connection will be the cornerstone of our work. I utilize a strength-based humanistic approach to guide us...but healing doesn't happen via theory. It lies within you - your hopes, hardships, successes & infinite wisdom. Sometimes we'll laugh. Often, we'll cry. But either way...
Give me a break, are you serious? How did I get here? No one understands me, I'm anxious..I'm depressed. How many times have you said these exact words this week? I sure can relate-and if you can, you’re in the right place. Welcome. Self-empowerment, radical acceptance & authentic human connection will be the cornerstone of our work. I utilize a strength-based humanistic approach to guide us...but healing doesn't happen via theory. It lies within you - your hopes, hardships, successes & infinite wisdom. Sometimes we'll laugh. Often, we'll cry. But either way...
(412) 501-9683 View (412) 501-9683
Photo of Dr. Dana Tacca, LPC, NCC, DEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Dana Tacca
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, DEd
Verified Verified
Indiana, PA 15701
Waitlist for new clients
Using a caring, holistic, and insightful approach, we help clients have a better understanding of their emotions and experiences. We are most accustomed to using a cognitive behavioral approach, however we will supplement with a variety of treatment interventions to meet your needs. Together we can explore what area of your life you would like to create change in, and how we can implement this change. Each session is catered towards the individual, to ensure that your therapeutic journey is both helpful and enjoyable. Our goal is to have you feeling good about engaging in therapy, and empower you to become your best self.
Using a caring, holistic, and insightful approach, we help clients have a better understanding of their emotions and experiences. We are most accustomed to using a cognitive behavioral approach, however we will supplement with a variety of treatment interventions to meet your needs. Together we can explore what area of your life you would like to create change in, and how we can implement this change. Each session is catered towards the individual, to ensure that your therapeutic journey is both helpful and enjoyable. Our goal is to have you feeling good about engaging in therapy, and empower you to become your best self.
(724) 560-3924 View (724) 560-3924
Photo of Paula Ann Stahl, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paula Ann Stahl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellefonte, PA 16823
I believe that the ability to grow and change lies within us all. My goal is to provide a supportive environment so that my clients can explore and discover their inner strengths. I enjoy helping individuals navigate through the obstacles and difficulties they are facing. I strive to assist clients in developing the skills necessary for self-empowerment, and improvement of the overall quality of their lives. I use an eclectic blend of therapeutic modalities to achieve this with the individuals that I work with.
I believe that the ability to grow and change lies within us all. My goal is to provide a supportive environment so that my clients can explore and discover their inner strengths. I enjoy helping individuals navigate through the obstacles and difficulties they are facing. I strive to assist clients in developing the skills necessary for self-empowerment, and improvement of the overall quality of their lives. I use an eclectic blend of therapeutic modalities to achieve this with the individuals that I work with.
(814) 389-1964 View (814) 389-1964
Photo of Jennifer Eldridge, PhD, Psychologist
Jennifer Eldridge
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wexford, PA 15090
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, families, and adults (preschool-age 80+). I am fortunate to have helped individuals over the past 20+ years as they strive to overcome life's challenges and access life's joys. While a variety of therapy techniques that I am trained in can be of value, clients and I select the ones that they find to be most helpful to them personally. I primarily see clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, divorce, school/work and family problems, ADHD, Autism, childhood issues, and processing past traumatic or stressful life events.
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, families, and adults (preschool-age 80+). I am fortunate to have helped individuals over the past 20+ years as they strive to overcome life's challenges and access life's joys. While a variety of therapy techniques that I am trained in can be of value, clients and I select the ones that they find to be most helpful to them personally. I primarily see clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, divorce, school/work and family problems, ADHD, Autism, childhood issues, and processing past traumatic or stressful life events.
(724) 397-3040 View (724) 397-3040
Photo of Bethanne Petrylak, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bethanne Petrylak
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensburg, PA 15601
My passion is working with clients who struggle with eating concerns and body image issues. I have experience with anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorder. I can also help if you feel that your relationship with food and/or exercise is complicated but have not been diagnosed with an eating disorder. I practice from a Health at Every Size perspective and offer an inclusive space for all. I value being empathetic while challenging my clients to step outside of their comfort zone and unlock their strengths. Taking the first step to get help and support can be intimidating but it can lead to growth and change!
My passion is working with clients who struggle with eating concerns and body image issues. I have experience with anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorder. I can also help if you feel that your relationship with food and/or exercise is complicated but have not been diagnosed with an eating disorder. I practice from a Health at Every Size perspective and offer an inclusive space for all. I value being empathetic while challenging my clients to step outside of their comfort zone and unlock their strengths. Taking the first step to get help and support can be intimidating but it can lead to growth and change!
(878) 645-3667 View (878) 645-3667
Photo of Catia Fath - Creating Connections Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor
Creating Connections Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Anyone can benefit from counseling. At Creating Connections Counseling, our team of clinicians are available to guide you through the journey of self-examination and personal growth that everyone deserves. Counseling can be a vehicle for finding or maintaining healthy relationships, uncovering hidden passions, managing symptoms of mental illness, or establishing life goals for those who feel stuck.
Anyone can benefit from counseling. At Creating Connections Counseling, our team of clinicians are available to guide you through the journey of self-examination and personal growth that everyone deserves. Counseling can be a vehicle for finding or maintaining healthy relationships, uncovering hidden passions, managing symptoms of mental illness, or establishing life goals for those who feel stuck.
(412) 844-2922 View (412) 844-2922
Photo of Jessica Gurley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Gurley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206  (Online Only)
We believe nobody wants to live a life below their own values and expectations. Humans are complex & still need love, understanding, & valued even in the worse circumstances. We are currently accepting new clients for EAP, Highmark, Optum, United Healthcare, Medicare & UPMC commercial plans. EAP is an easy and affordable way to get therapy for free with no copay. If you work for UPMC, University of Pitt, PPS Schools, City of Pgh, Port Authority, Woodland Hills, PWSA, or Allegheny County you can request us to be your EAP provider. See our website for more information about EAP services.
We believe nobody wants to live a life below their own values and expectations. Humans are complex & still need love, understanding, & valued even in the worse circumstances. We are currently accepting new clients for EAP, Highmark, Optum, United Healthcare, Medicare & UPMC commercial plans. EAP is an easy and affordable way to get therapy for free with no copay. If you work for UPMC, University of Pitt, PPS Schools, City of Pgh, Port Authority, Woodland Hills, PWSA, or Allegheny County you can request us to be your EAP provider. See our website for more information about EAP services.
(412) 838-3522 View (412) 838-3522
Photo of Kathryn Eberle Cotter, MMT, MT-BC, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kathryn Eberle Cotter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MMT, MT-BC, MFT
Verified Verified
Butler, PA 16002
My goal as a therapist is to engage authentically, share honestly, and think openly. I have been fortunate to work with people in end of life care, chronic illness, grief and loss, incarceration, addiction, autism, depression, anxiety, trauma, and have spent most of my career supporting youth and families through a variety of life stages and challenges. I provide opportunities for people to engage in experiences that will expand their understanding, explore their circumstances, and develop resources for their unique journey.
My goal as a therapist is to engage authentically, share honestly, and think openly. I have been fortunate to work with people in end of life care, chronic illness, grief and loss, incarceration, addiction, autism, depression, anxiety, trauma, and have spent most of my career supporting youth and families through a variety of life stages and challenges. I provide opportunities for people to engage in experiences that will expand their understanding, explore their circumstances, and develop resources for their unique journey.
(724) 200-8560 View (724) 200-8560
Photo of Terrance Martin - Terrance Martin , MS, EMDR, CAADC, DNMS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Terrance Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, EMDR, CAADC, DNMS
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Terrance is passionate about the field of psychotherapy and helping people to recover and heal. The individuals that he sees tell him that they appreciate his humanistic based, nonjudgmental approach to therapy. He works with people from all cultures regardless of race, national origin or sexual orientations or legal backgrounds. Based on his observations and his own personal experiences, he is entirely convinced Everyone can heal from his or her past experiences and lead healthy, rewarding and exciting lives right here and now. You are invited to contact Terrance; he only desires to help you be your best self.
Terrance is passionate about the field of psychotherapy and helping people to recover and heal. The individuals that he sees tell him that they appreciate his humanistic based, nonjudgmental approach to therapy. He works with people from all cultures regardless of race, national origin or sexual orientations or legal backgrounds. Based on his observations and his own personal experiences, he is entirely convinced Everyone can heal from his or her past experiences and lead healthy, rewarding and exciting lives right here and now. You are invited to contact Terrance; he only desires to help you be your best self.
(412) 219-5955 View (412) 219-5955
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.