Play Therapy in Huntingdon Valley, PA
![Photo of Shari Michelle Molta, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f5938921-e627-4c24-903e-cf2e56410cc6/3/320x400.jpeg)
Shari Michelle Molta
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006
Deciding to seek therapy can be a wonderful yet intimidating decision. Many of my clients seek therapy to improve their coping skills in managing symptoms of anxiety, depression, ADHD, and other mental health and life struggles. They may be struggling with parenting a tween or teen or working effectively with their co-parent. Some are looking for support in making behavior changes to improve their physical and mental health. My goal is to create a safe and collaborative space to work through whatever your struggles may be.
Deciding to seek therapy can be a wonderful yet intimidating decision. Many of my clients seek therapy to improve their coping skills in managing symptoms of anxiety, depression, ADHD, and other mental health and life struggles. They may be struggling with parenting a tween or teen or working effectively with their co-parent. Some are looking for support in making behavior changes to improve their physical and mental health. My goal is to create a safe and collaborative space to work through whatever your struggles may be.
![Photo of Genevieve Powell - Holtz and Powell Marriage and Family Services LLC, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ee16dd1-9fd7-481e-8517-d2827f2f7bef/2/320x400.png)
Holtz and Powell Marriage and Family Services LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006
Holtz and Powell Marriage and Family Services LLC is a therapy practice that specializes in problems in the family and couple. We work with children, adolescents, and adults of all ages, ethnicities, sexual orientations and religions with no judgement and acceptance. We are an LGBT friendly practice. Marriage and Family Therapy differs from Individual Therapy in that all affected parties are included in therapy to promote lasting change. We conduct individual therapy from a systemic lens and an innate curiosity about the human experience. Feel free to check outer website for more information www.hpmfts.com.
Holtz and Powell Marriage and Family Services LLC is a therapy practice that specializes in problems in the family and couple. We work with children, adolescents, and adults of all ages, ethnicities, sexual orientations and religions with no judgement and acceptance. We are an LGBT friendly practice. Marriage and Family Therapy differs from Individual Therapy in that all affected parties are included in therapy to promote lasting change. We conduct individual therapy from a systemic lens and an innate curiosity about the human experience. Feel free to check outer website for more information www.hpmfts.com.
![Photo of Persida Ghibilic, MA, LPC, LBS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3db74a21-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Persida Ghibilic
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LBS
Verified Verified
Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006
As a Mental Health professional I was always sensitive to individuals' needs and oriented to help them overcome difficulties in their lives. I understand asking for help is a difficult step. Building and maintaining a positive therapeutic relationship based on trust and confidence is essential in interaction with my clients.
As a Mental Health professional I was always sensitive to individuals' needs and oriented to help them overcome difficulties in their lives. I understand asking for help is a difficult step. Building and maintaining a positive therapeutic relationship based on trust and confidence is essential in interaction with my clients.
![Photo of MacKenzie Miller - All Ears Counseling Center, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ddf48dc6-0c52-4732-91bf-c84db271db52/1/320x400.jpeg)
All Ears Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006 (Online Only)
All Ears Counseling Center prioritizes compassion, safety, and trust in all aspects of the therapeutic experience. We offer individual and family counseling services to children, adolescents, and young adults. MacKenzie Miller, LPC has several years of experience in helping children recover from PTSD and other effects of trauma, utilizing evidence-based models such as TF-CBT and EMDR. MacKenzie has also helped individuals cope with symptoms of anxiety, depression, ADHD, and comorbid diagnoses. We also offer licensure supervision for individuals or groups via telehealth, starting 7/1/24.
All Ears Counseling Center prioritizes compassion, safety, and trust in all aspects of the therapeutic experience. We offer individual and family counseling services to children, adolescents, and young adults. MacKenzie Miller, LPC has several years of experience in helping children recover from PTSD and other effects of trauma, utilizing evidence-based models such as TF-CBT and EMDR. MacKenzie has also helped individuals cope with symptoms of anxiety, depression, ADHD, and comorbid diagnoses. We also offer licensure supervision for individuals or groups via telehealth, starting 7/1/24.
![Photo of Stephen Britchkow, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e362e80-9503-4ab8-bbff-ac7ed77b2227/3/320x400.jpeg)
I creatively integrate positive psychology with a holistic spiritual approach to enhance healing and growth for individuals, couples and families. My holistic approach includes an in-depth evaluation to uncover and treat conditions that standard medical practice often overlooks. This includes psychological, social, physical, medical conditions, nutrition, lifestyle changes, vitamins and supplements that are researched and found to safely improve wellness.
I creatively integrate positive psychology with a holistic spiritual approach to enhance healing and growth for individuals, couples and families. My holistic approach includes an in-depth evaluation to uncover and treat conditions that standard medical practice often overlooks. This includes psychological, social, physical, medical conditions, nutrition, lifestyle changes, vitamins and supplements that are researched and found to safely improve wellness.
More Therapists Nearby
![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 Kim Finnie, MSW, CSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d8cd49c-b994-48cf-8d80-9414cdbf0a52/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kim Finnie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19115
The primary therapeutic approaches Kim uses are: Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Sand Play, EMDR.
Some of human suffering is about the way we experience the events of our lives rather than the things themselves. Therapy offers an opportunity to bring awareness to our experiences and change our relationship to them rather than try to change the events themselves. Through this approach, we gain a sense of control in our lives and positively experience and influence its direction. If we believe that we have power within us to achieve health and happiness, then the events in our lives that cause us pain and suffering can be seen as an opportunity to learn about ourselves and experience personal growth.
The primary therapeutic approaches Kim uses are: Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Sand Play, EMDR.
Some of human suffering is about the way we experience the events of our lives rather than the things themselves. Therapy offers an opportunity to bring awareness to our experiences and change our relationship to them rather than try to change the events themselves. Through this approach, we gain a sense of control in our lives and positively experience and influence its direction. If we believe that we have power within us to achieve health and happiness, then the events in our lives that cause us pain and suffering can be seen as an opportunity to learn about ourselves and experience personal growth.
![Photo of Elif Dogru, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9ad006a9-72f8-42f7-bef4-82bcdc2adbec/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! My name is Elif, and I am a pre-licensed psychotherapist at StoneBridge Counseling. I completed my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Northwestern University. As a Mental Health Counselor, my aim is to create an environment filled with support and safety for self-exploration and growth toward healing and change. I believe that every individual is an expert of themselves. This is why I focus on working together in a more person-centered approach. From infancy to adulthood, I am here to form a safe therapeutic space for everyone knocking on my door.
Hi! My name is Elif, and I am a pre-licensed psychotherapist at StoneBridge Counseling. I completed my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Northwestern University. As a Mental Health Counselor, my aim is to create an environment filled with support and safety for self-exploration and growth toward healing and change. I believe that every individual is an expert of themselves. This is why I focus on working together in a more person-centered approach. From infancy to adulthood, I am here to form a safe therapeutic space for everyone knocking on my door.
![Photo of Jessica G Dashevsky, MS, LPC, PMH-C, CSTIP, CLC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/90c26bec-6eef-4a71-9bb3-43e16e9ace19/1/320x400.png)
Jessica G Dashevsky
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, PMH-C, CSTIP, CLC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19115 (Online Only)
Currently accepting Superviseed! As a therapist with over 15 years of experience, I specialize in perinatal mood disorders, fertility challenges, intimacy and sex issues, sexual kink, and lactation difficulties. As a mother who has personally struggled with fertility and loss, I understand how difficult these issues can be. That's why I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings and receive customized treatment that meets your unique needs. I do also have expertise in the poly/Enm lifestyle and can help navigate your journey of exploration.
Currently accepting Superviseed! As a therapist with over 15 years of experience, I specialize in perinatal mood disorders, fertility challenges, intimacy and sex issues, sexual kink, and lactation difficulties. As a mother who has personally struggled with fertility and loss, I understand how difficult these issues can be. That's why I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings and receive customized treatment that meets your unique needs. I do also have expertise in the poly/Enm lifestyle and can help navigate your journey of exploration.
![Photo of Justin Levitan, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9e15b0f-2f00-4ce4-82a5-714dc243857f/1/320x400.png)
I am a Licensed Social Worker dedicated to supporting individuals in overcoming life's challenges. I obtained my MSW from the University of Pennsylvania and have since focused my practice on assisting clients with Learning Disabilities, Anxiety Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Social Skills Groups, Difficult & Oppositional Adolescents, and Therapeutic Wilderness Program Transitions. My approach to therapy is client-centered and collaborative, emphasizing empathy and understanding. I believe in the importance of meeting clients where they are and working together to achieve their goals.
I am a Licensed Social Worker dedicated to supporting individuals in overcoming life's challenges. I obtained my MSW from the University of Pennsylvania and have since focused my practice on assisting clients with Learning Disabilities, Anxiety Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Social Skills Groups, Difficult & Oppositional Adolescents, and Therapeutic Wilderness Program Transitions. My approach to therapy is client-centered and collaborative, emphasizing empathy and understanding. I believe in the importance of meeting clients where they are and working together to achieve their goals.
![Photo of Antonella Pontoriero, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8aa23e72-5b76-44a8-8da0-dd9c35fefa01/2/320x400.jpeg)
Antonella Pontoriero
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hatboro, PA 19040 (Online Only)
Being a parent is a scary &exciting lifelong journey.The journey begins as a new mom learning to balance this new role without losing yourself.Needing support is never something to be ashamed of.Sometimes our thoughts& emotions can make us believe that we are failing while trying to adapt to these changes.I will work along side you to move past this obstacle. As your child grows, other challenges may arise along this journey. I am also here to support parents whose child has just received a mental health diagnosis. Receiving a diagnosis can be overwhelming& sometimes we don’t know where to start.
Being a parent is a scary &exciting lifelong journey.The journey begins as a new mom learning to balance this new role without losing yourself.Needing support is never something to be ashamed of.Sometimes our thoughts& emotions can make us believe that we are failing while trying to adapt to these changes.I will work along side you to move past this obstacle. As your child grows, other challenges may arise along this journey. I am also here to support parents whose child has just received a mental health diagnosis. Receiving a diagnosis can be overwhelming& sometimes we don’t know where to start.
![Photo of Bethany Jo Frazee, MSEd, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c404ba36-55f6-47c1-baa7-292895952eff/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bethany Jo Frazee
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19019 (Online Only)
Bethany is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Nationally Certified Counselor, and School Counselor whose passion is helping others become the best version of themselves. Bethany’s vision as a licensed practitioner is to “create a calm, relaxed, and non-judgmental environment for her clients to share their stories and to reach their goals.”
Bethany is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Nationally Certified Counselor, and School Counselor whose passion is helping others become the best version of themselves. Bethany’s vision as a licensed practitioner is to “create a calm, relaxed, and non-judgmental environment for her clients to share their stories and to reach their goals.”
![Photo of Debra M Szymanski, EdD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/908164f2-fb90-4a37-bc62-c7f69a3c0e67/2/320x400.jpeg)
Debra M Szymanski
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19116 (Online Only)
Have you struggled with issues concerning impulsiveness, distractibility, or hyperactivity? If so you may be one of millions of adults or children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Many adults suffer with these issues and never know they are part of a larger diagnosis of ADHD. I have provided therapy for several years to individuals who are experiencing these symptoms, but these alone may not be the whole picture. You may also experience anxiety, depression, learning issues or relationship struggles. Together we can assess if you are struggling with ADHD and find solutions to your difficulties.
Have you struggled with issues concerning impulsiveness, distractibility, or hyperactivity? If so you may be one of millions of adults or children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Many adults suffer with these issues and never know they are part of a larger diagnosis of ADHD. I have provided therapy for several years to individuals who are experiencing these symptoms, but these alone may not be the whole picture. You may also experience anxiety, depression, learning issues or relationship struggles. Together we can assess if you are struggling with ADHD and find solutions to your difficulties.
![Photo of Bonnie Jean Kane - Mind Body Soul Wellness Center, LPC, NCC, TF-CBT, LMT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f1ccdaed-3acc-4f17-8e14-c7b382d39b73/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mind Body Soul Wellness Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, TF-CBT, LMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19115
Finally science and spirit integrated services... Bonnie combines the mind, the body and the soul into my therapy and offers multiple services to treat each aspect of them. We specialize in helping those who are still spiritually connected and still treat all. Our team also does massage and myofascial Release. however, these services are at an out-of-pocket expense. Our waitlist is with Bonnie for mental health, our out-of-pocket services have limited spaces open.
Finally science and spirit integrated services... Bonnie combines the mind, the body and the soul into my therapy and offers multiple services to treat each aspect of them. We specialize in helping those who are still spiritually connected and still treat all. Our team also does massage and myofascial Release. however, these services are at an out-of-pocket expense. Our waitlist is with Bonnie for mental health, our out-of-pocket services have limited spaces open.
![Photo of Shanee Oiknine, LCSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d49c5509-ed0f-45b0-885e-548040e9c01c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shanee Oiknine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19115 (Online Only)
As a mother to teen and school-aged kids, I know how worried we can get when our kids are sad or not acting like their 'regular ' selves. That said, I also know that with the right support, positive change is possible. As a child-adolescent counselor with over 21 years of experience, I understand how to foster a trusting therapeutic relationship with my clients to explore what they are experiencing and how best to help them overcome challenges. I also encourage you, as parents, to work with me to uncover the strengths, insights, and resources that will enable your teen or child to achieve their goals to live a more fulfilling life.
As a mother to teen and school-aged kids, I know how worried we can get when our kids are sad or not acting like their 'regular ' selves. That said, I also know that with the right support, positive change is possible. As a child-adolescent counselor with over 21 years of experience, I understand how to foster a trusting therapeutic relationship with my clients to explore what they are experiencing and how best to help them overcome challenges. I also encourage you, as parents, to work with me to uncover the strengths, insights, and resources that will enable your teen or child to achieve their goals to live a more fulfilling life.
![Photo of Jasmine Hemans, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc58cde6-4159-4cbb-a19c-a0d9104c00dd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jasmine Hemans
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19019
Hi There! - Welcome to my profile. My approach to therapy is founded on using client’s strengths and inner resilience to work through struggles that are holding them back from their full potential. I will help you to learn more about yourself and allow that to help you to grow into the person you would like to become. I believe that using a collaborative approach to therapy is key to having a successful therapeutic relationship. Together, we will work to define achievable goals and expectations to outline a therapeutic experience that works for you.
Hi There! - Welcome to my profile. My approach to therapy is founded on using client’s strengths and inner resilience to work through struggles that are holding them back from their full potential. I will help you to learn more about yourself and allow that to help you to grow into the person you would like to become. I believe that using a collaborative approach to therapy is key to having a successful therapeutic relationship. Together, we will work to define achievable goals and expectations to outline a therapeutic experience that works for you.
![Photo of Shanelle Clay, LPC, NCC, ACS, , Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5135bde7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shanelle Clay
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19019 (Online Only)
When we are in the middle of finding out about ourselves, solving the problems that we sometimes have no solutions, or mourning what life has brought us, we are growing- Mentally, Emotionally, and Spiritually. Therapy is a place where you can embrace all those things through holding space for wellness and healing. As a clinician who specializes in the healing of Black and Brown people, I ensure that I use therapy modalities and the lived experience to assist in the healing process.
When we are in the middle of finding out about ourselves, solving the problems that we sometimes have no solutions, or mourning what life has brought us, we are growing- Mentally, Emotionally, and Spiritually. Therapy is a place where you can embrace all those things through holding space for wellness and healing. As a clinician who specializes in the healing of Black and Brown people, I ensure that I use therapy modalities and the lived experience to assist in the healing process.
![Photo of Jose Guzman-Corrales, LAPC, ATR-P, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d9a81ed-2bf4-4ca5-84bf-710062880c51/1/320x400.png)
Seeking help requires courage and strength, and I applaud you for the steps you have already taken in your journey. The demands of life are vast, but I believe they can feel a little lighter with a supportive, affirming presence by your side. I am committed to providing a compassionate, accepting, collaborative, and empowering space for you. I firmly believe each person possess an incredible capacity for enhancing their well-being, and I am honored to accompany you on your journey of healing and personal growth.
Seeking help requires courage and strength, and I applaud you for the steps you have already taken in your journey. The demands of life are vast, but I believe they can feel a little lighter with a supportive, affirming presence by your side. I am committed to providing a compassionate, accepting, collaborative, and empowering space for you. I firmly believe each person possess an incredible capacity for enhancing their well-being, and I am honored to accompany you on your journey of healing and personal growth.
![Photo of Tara M Wiker, LCSW, CCTP-II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/91d234c0-ee03-4e87-8ff8-d1d906ea3f7b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tara M Wiker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19019 (Online Only)
Are you having difficulty managing tough emotions? Do you find that past stuff is getting in your way of living life to the fullest? I can help! I am a Bilingual (English/ Spanish) Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 13 years experience in the therapy domain. I received my Bachelor's in Social Work from Temple University in 2004 and my Master's in Social Work from Millersville University in 2012.
Are you having difficulty managing tough emotions? Do you find that past stuff is getting in your way of living life to the fullest? I can help! I am a Bilingual (English/ Spanish) Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 13 years experience in the therapy domain. I received my Bachelor's in Social Work from Temple University in 2004 and my Master's in Social Work from Millersville University in 2012.
![Photo of Brittany N Hoover - Revival Therapy LLC, PhD, LPC, CCTP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc6f6a38-1b75-41b2-9a2a-45cf8eacdcec/2/320x400.jpeg)
Revival Therapy LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CCTP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19019
Yes, you are strong and courageous. You have done well to make it this far in your life. No, you probably don't need therapy, but it's also okay to go to therapy! I believe that everyone deserves and longs for connection, not only within themselves, but within all components of their life. I take pride in being able to provide a safe, open space for fostering that sense of connection toward building stronger relationships and connections. I help clients with vulnerability and building intimacy while finding balance in their personal lifestyles.
Yes, you are strong and courageous. You have done well to make it this far in your life. No, you probably don't need therapy, but it's also okay to go to therapy! I believe that everyone deserves and longs for connection, not only within themselves, but within all components of their life. I take pride in being able to provide a safe, open space for fostering that sense of connection toward building stronger relationships and connections. I help clients with vulnerability and building intimacy while finding balance in their personal lifestyles.
See more therapy options for Huntingdon Valley
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Huntingdon Valley
- Abington
- Cheltenham
- Elkins Park
- Glenside
- Hatboro
- Horsham
- Jenkintown
- Langhorne
- Richboro
- Southampton
- Warminster
- Willow Grove
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.