Play Therapy in Grantham, PA

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Photo of Kiersten Lenz, LPC, NCC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kiersten Lenz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Camp Hill, PA 17011  (Online Only)
My practice includes a fusion of interpersonal skills and therapeutic techniques, encompassing trauma-sensitivity, mindfulness, creativity, play, and above all, active empathic listening.
Welcome to Just Be Counseling, a sound space for you to freely 'just be.' Together we will create a safe space for your voice to be truly heard at your pace, in your own way. There is beauty in the sacred art of all self-expression. I am honored to share in your expression as a source of support and wholehearted acceptance. I am committed to my role on your path as you embrace your inner truths and seek changes you wish to make. I offer diverse therapy models tailored for young adults and adults, addressing a wide spectrum of areas such as life transitions, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationships, healing and growth.
My practice includes a fusion of interpersonal skills and therapeutic techniques, encompassing trauma-sensitivity, mindfulness, creativity, play, and above all, active empathic listening.
Welcome to Just Be Counseling, a sound space for you to freely 'just be.' Together we will create a safe space for your voice to be truly heard at your pace, in your own way. There is beauty in the sacred art of all self-expression. I am honored to share in your expression as a source of support and wholehearted acceptance. I am committed to my role on your path as you embrace your inner truths and seek changes you wish to make. I offer diverse therapy models tailored for young adults and adults, addressing a wide spectrum of areas such as life transitions, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationships, healing and growth.
(717) 864-5950 View (717) 864-5950
Photo of Bernadette Cachara - Cachara and Associates LLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Cachara and Associates LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mechanicsburg, PA 17050
We specialize in trauma focused therapies including TF-CBT, EMDR, Play Therapy and Sand Tray.
We are a small, private psychological practice providing services in both the Carlisle and Chambersburg areas. We are passionate about our work. We view our therapeutic relationship as the medium in which change happens, allowing your time spent in therapy to be beneficial and worthwhile for you and/or your child. We work with a variety of presenting problems including anxiety, depression, situational stress, childhood trauma, grief/loss, behavioral disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders as well as perinatal health.
We specialize in trauma focused therapies including TF-CBT, EMDR, Play Therapy and Sand Tray.
We are a small, private psychological practice providing services in both the Carlisle and Chambersburg areas. We are passionate about our work. We view our therapeutic relationship as the medium in which change happens, allowing your time spent in therapy to be beneficial and worthwhile for you and/or your child. We work with a variety of presenting problems including anxiety, depression, situational stress, childhood trauma, grief/loss, behavioral disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders as well as perinatal health.
(717) 978-0129 View (717) 978-0129
Photo of Alyssa Drake, MA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alyssa Drake
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
A few types include child-centered play therapy, child-parent relationship therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), cognitive processing therapy (CPT), psychodynamic therapy, and strengths-based therapy.
My hope is to ensure each client will feel seen, heard & accepted. I am passionate about working with the child, adolescent, teen, & young adult population. Dedicated to making my client's therapeutic experience a positive one, I work with clients to navigate through difficulties, explore and explain developmental processes, establish/enhance behavior management, adjust both socially and emotionally, and develop coping skills. I understand the importance of working with the family of the client as well and welcome a collaborative approach to give clients and their families a sense of security and support.
A few types include child-centered play therapy, child-parent relationship therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), cognitive processing therapy (CPT), psychodynamic therapy, and strengths-based therapy.
My hope is to ensure each client will feel seen, heard & accepted. I am passionate about working with the child, adolescent, teen, & young adult population. Dedicated to making my client's therapeutic experience a positive one, I work with clients to navigate through difficulties, explore and explain developmental processes, establish/enhance behavior management, adjust both socially and emotionally, and develop coping skills. I understand the importance of working with the family of the client as well and welcome a collaborative approach to give clients and their families a sense of security and support.
(717) 930-2881 View (717) 930-2881
Photo of Kalyani G Broderick, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kalyani G Broderick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Mechanicsburg, PA 17050  (Online Only)
Life is hard enough, counseling shouldn't be! I provide warm, supportive counseling to people of all ages, both in-person and virtually. Sessions with me are peaceful and nurturing, giving you the time and space to really relax and get in touch with your natural healing capacity. I specialize in families with children under 10, including preschool and younger, offering a variety of play and art activities that help reduce stress and improve coping skills. I actively involve caregivers during sessions and with bonding activities for home.
Life is hard enough, counseling shouldn't be! I provide warm, supportive counseling to people of all ages, both in-person and virtually. Sessions with me are peaceful and nurturing, giving you the time and space to really relax and get in touch with your natural healing capacity. I specialize in families with children under 10, including preschool and younger, offering a variety of play and art activities that help reduce stress and improve coping skills. I actively involve caregivers during sessions and with bonding activities for home.
(717) 660-0761 View (717) 660-0761
Photo of Jonathan C Burchard - In Him Christian Wellness, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
In Him Christian Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lemoyne, PA 17043
Offering individual, group, family, couples and play therapy, nutrition counseling, massage therapy, creative arts, spiritual direction, biblical life coaching and financial counseling, IHCW promotes healing for the whole person.
Feeling stuck is discouraging. Low self-esteem, worry about the future, and wounds from the past can hold us back from the freedom we crave to truly live and become 'unstuck.' Moving into that freedom requires both trust and a commitment to change. Change occurs as trust develops between a client and a compassionate therapist who serves as a guide through a journey of self-discovery and transformation. IHCW is a community is which pain and suffering meet hope and healing.
Offering individual, group, family, couples and play therapy, nutrition counseling, massage therapy, creative arts, spiritual direction, biblical life coaching and financial counseling, IHCW promotes healing for the whole person.
Feeling stuck is discouraging. Low self-esteem, worry about the future, and wounds from the past can hold us back from the freedom we crave to truly live and become 'unstuck.' Moving into that freedom requires both trust and a commitment to change. Change occurs as trust develops between a client and a compassionate therapist who serves as a guide through a journey of self-discovery and transformation. IHCW is a community is which pain and suffering meet hope and healing.
(717) 707-7683 View (717) 707-7683
Photo of Valley Counseling Center - Valley Counseling Center, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Valley Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
Our areas of focus include play therapy, anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, grief, school issues, behavioral concerns, recent transitions, ADHD, and family problems.
Life can be difficult. As a parent, you want your children to be happy and healthy so seeing them struggle can be difficult. Teenagers and young adults are faced with new challenges every day. Families can struggle to communicate and can feel disconnected. We strive to reduce the stress and stigma associated with mental health issues by creating a positive and up-beat learning environment where we can focus on one’s strengths to develop strategies to deal with challenges that you face. Through therapy, you’ll be able to find happiness in yourself, in relationships, and in your family to be empowered towards a bright future.
Our areas of focus include play therapy, anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, grief, school issues, behavioral concerns, recent transitions, ADHD, and family problems.
Life can be difficult. As a parent, you want your children to be happy and healthy so seeing them struggle can be difficult. Teenagers and young adults are faced with new challenges every day. Families can struggle to communicate and can feel disconnected. We strive to reduce the stress and stigma associated with mental health issues by creating a positive and up-beat learning environment where we can focus on one’s strengths to develop strategies to deal with challenges that you face. Through therapy, you’ll be able to find happiness in yourself, in relationships, and in your family to be empowered towards a bright future.
(717) 546-9541 View (717) 546-9541
Photo of Lynn Brooks, MS, MFT
Lynn Brooks
MS, MFT
Verified Verified
Lemoyne, PA 17043
For children, I work from a play therapy framework and I am trained in sand tray therapy.
Is now the time for you? Life is a journey and can be both rewarding and challenging. If you decide to make yourself a priority and come in for therapy, I will provide you with a relaxed, safe environment which nurtures positive growth. I will coach, encourage and support you on your personal process and journey. It is important to focus on your strengths and help empower you with awareness and resources. You matter and there is HOPE for you. Where there is hope, there is healing and new beginnings are ignited.
For children, I work from a play therapy framework and I am trained in sand tray therapy.
Is now the time for you? Life is a journey and can be both rewarding and challenging. If you decide to make yourself a priority and come in for therapy, I will provide you with a relaxed, safe environment which nurtures positive growth. I will coach, encourage and support you on your personal process and journey. It is important to focus on your strengths and help empower you with awareness and resources. You matter and there is HOPE for you. Where there is hope, there is healing and new beginnings are ignited.
(717) 516-5032 View (717) 516-5032
Photo of Amanda Levison, MS, LMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda Levison
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Camp Hill, PA 17001
I use a variety of approaches from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to play therapy to art therapy.
Life can get a little overwhelming at times. Whether it's stress at work, problems at home, or you just haven't been feeling like yourself; therapy can help. I help by engaging with individuals and families by providing guidance and support through active listening and communication to overcome obstacles, utilizing calming techniques and guided imagery through Neurofeedback to alleviate symptoms related to health and behavior conditions. It also improves focus, attention, and memory by training your brain to maximize achievement, performance, and productivity.
I use a variety of approaches from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to play therapy to art therapy.
Life can get a little overwhelming at times. Whether it's stress at work, problems at home, or you just haven't been feeling like yourself; therapy can help. I help by engaging with individuals and families by providing guidance and support through active listening and communication to overcome obstacles, utilizing calming techniques and guided imagery through Neurofeedback to alleviate symptoms related to health and behavior conditions. It also improves focus, attention, and memory by training your brain to maximize achievement, performance, and productivity.
(717) 977-4017 View (717) 977-4017
Photo of Brooke Serina, MA, LPC, NCC, CCATP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brooke Serina
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CCATP
Verified Verified
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
Brooke’s previous experience includes Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy, Play Therapy, college counseling, sports performance, and school-based interventions in K-12th.
Accepting New Clients - - - Brooke specializes in working with the adolescent, teen/teenager & young adult population. She enjoys building positive & empathetic relationships with her clients & supporting them in their own growth. Brooke offers a holistic, non-judgmental approach to therapy, focusing on each client's unique needs & goals. She meets clients where they are & collaborates with them to determine the most effective therapy for their individual journey. Through a client-center & strengths-based approach, individuals have the opportunity to tap into their potential, resilience, & sense of self-worth.
Brooke’s previous experience includes Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy, Play Therapy, college counseling, sports performance, and school-based interventions in K-12th.
Accepting New Clients - - - Brooke specializes in working with the adolescent, teen/teenager & young adult population. She enjoys building positive & empathetic relationships with her clients & supporting them in their own growth. Brooke offers a holistic, non-judgmental approach to therapy, focusing on each client's unique needs & goals. She meets clients where they are & collaborates with them to determine the most effective therapy for their individual journey. Through a client-center & strengths-based approach, individuals have the opportunity to tap into their potential, resilience, & sense of self-worth.
(717) 613-6304 View (717) 613-6304
Photo of Sara Bupp - West Shore Wellness, LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
West Shore Wellness, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Camp Hill, PA 17011
Our counselors have expertise in the following treatment modalities: Drug & Alcohol Treatment, Premarital Counseling, Play Therapy for Children, Domestic Violence Experience for Women, Trauma Counseling and Couples work.
Hello! We at West Shore Wellness are eager to meet you! We are able to work with children, adolescents, young adults and adults at all stages of life. We enjoy helping clients reach their wellness goals, whatever they may be. We have immediate openings available for daytime appointments & limited evening appointments at this time. Feel free to contact us for more information.
Our counselors have expertise in the following treatment modalities: Drug & Alcohol Treatment, Premarital Counseling, Play Therapy for Children, Domestic Violence Experience for Women, Trauma Counseling and Couples work.
Hello! We at West Shore Wellness are eager to meet you! We are able to work with children, adolescents, young adults and adults at all stages of life. We enjoy helping clients reach their wellness goals, whatever they may be. We have immediate openings available for daytime appointments & limited evening appointments at this time. Feel free to contact us for more information.
(717) 301-4044 View (717) 301-4044
Photo of Raamah Thomas Johnson - Breathe Christian Art Therapy & Therapeutic Svcs., LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Breathe Christian Art Therapy & Therapeutic Svcs.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17101
My goal is to help you express “that feeling” through emphasis on Expressive Art therapy (painting, drawing, music, movement and play) in addition to traditional therapy.
You know you need help, but don’t know who to talk to or if talking will even change anything. You’ve experienced a trauma and you are tired of talking about it, but you don’t want to feel “that feeling" anymore. You know that something is wrong, but you can’t seem to put words to it. Or maybe you have been to therapy before and just talking about it didn’t seem to help. Perhaps your child is not behaving in school like he or she used to, they’re no longer talking, grades are falling and their getting into fights. Maybe your family just doesn’t get it, if you could just do or be what they want things will be ok, but there not.
My goal is to help you express “that feeling” through emphasis on Expressive Art therapy (painting, drawing, music, movement and play) in addition to traditional therapy.
You know you need help, but don’t know who to talk to or if talking will even change anything. You’ve experienced a trauma and you are tired of talking about it, but you don’t want to feel “that feeling" anymore. You know that something is wrong, but you can’t seem to put words to it. Or maybe you have been to therapy before and just talking about it didn’t seem to help. Perhaps your child is not behaving in school like he or she used to, they’re no longer talking, grades are falling and their getting into fights. Maybe your family just doesn’t get it, if you could just do or be what they want things will be ok, but there not.
(717) 883-6187 View (717) 883-6187
Photo of Samantha Gregg, LCSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Gregg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17101
I offer an eclectic mix of therapeutic modalities including Motivational Interviewing, play/art therapy techniques, and trauma/sensory-based interventions.
My name is Samantha Gregg. I am a LCSW in Pennsylvania and an LMSW in Maryland. I offer telehealth services to those residing in PA and in-person or telehealth services to those residing in MD. A client who would be a good fit for my services is likely a child, teen, tween, or adult who may be struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, ASD, neurodivergence, identity issues, difficulty finding providers fluent in ASL, the effects of trauma, and/or part of the LGBTQIA+ community. In outpatient therapy, internal motivation is important; I also hold the understanding that motivation can take time to build.
I offer an eclectic mix of therapeutic modalities including Motivational Interviewing, play/art therapy techniques, and trauma/sensory-based interventions.
My name is Samantha Gregg. I am a LCSW in Pennsylvania and an LMSW in Maryland. I offer telehealth services to those residing in PA and in-person or telehealth services to those residing in MD. A client who would be a good fit for my services is likely a child, teen, tween, or adult who may be struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, ASD, neurodivergence, identity issues, difficulty finding providers fluent in ASL, the effects of trauma, and/or part of the LGBTQIA+ community. In outpatient therapy, internal motivation is important; I also hold the understanding that motivation can take time to build.
(301) 965-1876 View (301) 965-1876
Photo of Bethany Swartz, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bethany Swartz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
life can be a challenge. We all go through difficult experiences and have complex thoughts and feelings. I am here to sit with you during those difficult times. I will join you in the darkness and guide you to the light. If you need support, resources, strength, growth, or healing call on me to be there for you. Step by step we will work together to create your ideal life.
life can be a challenge. We all go through difficult experiences and have complex thoughts and feelings. I am here to sit with you during those difficult times. I will join you in the darkness and guide you to the light. If you need support, resources, strength, growth, or healing call on me to be there for you. Step by step we will work together to create your ideal life.
(272) 359-7221 View (272) 359-7221
Photo of Nicole Woods, LCSW-C, MSW, CEDS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Woods
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MSW, CEDS
Verified Verified
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
Welcome. At Northeastern Counseling Services we understand that life can sometimes be overwhelming, stressful, and challenging. From experiencing everyday stress to feelings of anxiety and depression- our skilled and experienced licensed counselors can help provide you with the client-centered, tailored support you need to achieve emotional and behavioral well-being. At Northeastern Counseling Services we pride ourselves on taking a complete and thoughtful approach to your emotional and behavioral wellness goals. We look forward to assisting you in enhancing the life you ideally imagine living.
Welcome. At Northeastern Counseling Services we understand that life can sometimes be overwhelming, stressful, and challenging. From experiencing everyday stress to feelings of anxiety and depression- our skilled and experienced licensed counselors can help provide you with the client-centered, tailored support you need to achieve emotional and behavioral well-being. At Northeastern Counseling Services we pride ourselves on taking a complete and thoughtful approach to your emotional and behavioral wellness goals. We look forward to assisting you in enhancing the life you ideally imagine living.
(717) 402-6524 View (717) 402-6524
Photo of Jill Hollar, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jill Hollar
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17101  (Online Only)
We all face times when life can be difficult, and as a parent it can be overwhelming when we are looking for ways to try to help and support our children. I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, families, and adults to help with any challenges that you may be facing. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, low self esteem, anger management, grief and loss, school issues, and addiction.
We all face times when life can be difficult, and as a parent it can be overwhelming when we are looking for ways to try to help and support our children. I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, families, and adults to help with any challenges that you may be facing. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, low self esteem, anger management, grief and loss, school issues, and addiction.
(717) 539-4875 View (717) 539-4875
Photo of Chou Hallegra - Grace & Hope for Families, MA
Grace & Hope for Families
MA
Verified Verified
Camp Hill, PA 17011  (Online Only)
The life you are living might not feel like the life you want. Do you feel controlled by your emotions instead of being in control of them? Do you feel like a prisoner of your circumstances? Are you overwhelmed and frustrated but can't find a way out? As soon as you deal with one thing, something else would happen and just bring you down. All this would leave you feeling emotionally, mentally, and spiritually depleted. Sounds familiar?
The life you are living might not feel like the life you want. Do you feel controlled by your emotions instead of being in control of them? Do you feel like a prisoner of your circumstances? Are you overwhelmed and frustrated but can't find a way out? As soon as you deal with one thing, something else would happen and just bring you down. All this would leave you feeling emotionally, mentally, and spiritually depleted. Sounds familiar?
(717) 502-9314 View (717) 502-9314
Photo of Stefanie Bolio - Emdr, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stefanie Bolio - Emdr
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mechanicsburg, PA 17050
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, it is my passion to walk along side my clients in difficult situations and help my clients to find hope. Life can become difficult, I help my clients in finding insight, support and manage situations that feel unmanageable. My approach is personal and unique to each of my client's personality and situations.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, it is my passion to walk along side my clients in difficult situations and help my clients to find hope. Life can become difficult, I help my clients in finding insight, support and manage situations that feel unmanageable. My approach is personal and unique to each of my client's personality and situations.
(223) 204-4046 View (223) 204-4046
Photo of Marjorie Koch - Jewish Family Service of Greater Harrisburg, LCSW, LPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jewish Family Service of Greater Harrisburg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPC
Verified Verified
Mechanicsburg, PA 17050
Now more than ever, we know how important it is to reach out for help if you need it. If you are going through a difficult time and feel overwhelmed or simply want to make improvements, why not take the first steps to sit down and talk to someone? Our capable, nonjudgmental clinicians offer therapy services for all stages of life. Mynd Works has 3 full time therapists, and 2 part time therapists. Please visit our website to view their profiles.
Now more than ever, we know how important it is to reach out for help if you need it. If you are going through a difficult time and feel overwhelmed or simply want to make improvements, why not take the first steps to sit down and talk to someone? Our capable, nonjudgmental clinicians offer therapy services for all stages of life. Mynd Works has 3 full time therapists, and 2 part time therapists. Please visit our website to view their profiles.
(717) 233-1681 View (717) 233-1681
Photo of Dr. Timothy Stephen Zeiger - Timothy S Zeiger PsyD PLLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Timothy S Zeiger PsyD PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
Dr. Zeiger specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for anxiety and depressive disorders in pediatric patients. ​ He also specializes in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF CBT) for pediatric patients with trauma backgrounds and histories. ​ Dr. Zeiger is certified in Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT). He works with pediatric patients with Tics, Tourette’s and other Movement Disorders. ​ Dr. Zeiger has extensive knowledge and treatment background for individuals with PANS/PANDAS (associated behavioral health symptoms associated with this condition).
Dr. Zeiger specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for anxiety and depressive disorders in pediatric patients. ​ He also specializes in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF CBT) for pediatric patients with trauma backgrounds and histories. ​ Dr. Zeiger is certified in Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT). He works with pediatric patients with Tics, Tourette’s and other Movement Disorders. ​ Dr. Zeiger has extensive knowledge and treatment background for individuals with PANS/PANDAS (associated behavioral health symptoms associated with this condition).
(223) 338-0418 View (223) 338-0418
Photo of Tracie Maille - Seasons of Hope and Healing LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Seasons of Hope and Healing LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Camp Hill, PA 17011
Become the best version of you. When we become complacent and just “settle”, we have cut off our opportunity for happiness. We understand that each client that we work with is a unique individual who has been and continues to be influenced by their culture, family, friends, values, beliefs, and personal traits. Treatment first begins with clearly understanding you, as a unique individual, and then identifying the goals in which you wish to achieve, followed by developing a treatment plan based on those individualized goals.
Become the best version of you. When we become complacent and just “settle”, we have cut off our opportunity for happiness. We understand that each client that we work with is a unique individual who has been and continues to be influenced by their culture, family, friends, values, beliefs, and personal traits. Treatment first begins with clearly understanding you, as a unique individual, and then identifying the goals in which you wish to achieve, followed by developing a treatment plan based on those individualized goals.
(717) 904-7474 View (717) 904-7474

See more therapy options for Grantham

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.