Play Therapy in Levittown, PA

Photo of Marcus DeMott, MSW, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marcus DeMott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Levittown, PA 19054
Way to go! Just by being here and looking on this site, you are talking the first steps to being your whole self. You should feel proud today for this! As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of therapy experience, I work with clients to find ways through the struggles they are experiencing to reach a place of solace where they feel able to manage the pressures of life. I use evidence-based approaches to help clients create lasting changes, and not just “Band-Aid” solutions.
Way to go! Just by being here and looking on this site, you are talking the first steps to being your whole self. You should feel proud today for this! As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of therapy experience, I work with clients to find ways through the struggles they are experiencing to reach a place of solace where they feel able to manage the pressures of life. I use evidence-based approaches to help clients create lasting changes, and not just “Band-Aid” solutions.
(609) 219-1600 View (609) 219-1600
Photo of Sammy Chebolio - Sammy Chebolio,LCSW, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sammy Chebolio,LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Levittown, PA 19057
I believe that we are all going through something in our lives and that from time to time we need the help of someone else to get through particularly rough patches. This is where a therapist can be very helpful. I am a compassionate, Board Certified, Licensed Clinical Social Worker who uses a variety of therapeutic approaches to help my clients heal and grow. I provide both individual and family therapy for persons ages 9 and up. I use many different therapeutic approaches because I tailor the therapy to each individual client, based on their specific needs.
I believe that we are all going through something in our lives and that from time to time we need the help of someone else to get through particularly rough patches. This is where a therapist can be very helpful. I am a compassionate, Board Certified, Licensed Clinical Social Worker who uses a variety of therapeutic approaches to help my clients heal and grow. I provide both individual and family therapy for persons ages 9 and up. I use many different therapeutic approaches because I tailor the therapy to each individual client, based on their specific needs.
(267) 833-4101 View (267) 833-4101
Photo of Alyssa Earlen, MA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alyssa Earlen
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Levittown, PA 19056
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, & young adults experiencing emotional dysregulation, low self-esteem, anxiety & stress, disordered eating/eating disorders, body image issues, & other mental health concerns. I have experience providing individual counseling in a private practice setting. I often draw concepts from motivational interviewing, CBT, solution-focused therapy, DBT, & ACT, but will always meet clients where they are. I assist clients in recognizing their personal strengths to utilize during hardships.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, & young adults experiencing emotional dysregulation, low self-esteem, anxiety & stress, disordered eating/eating disorders, body image issues, & other mental health concerns. I have experience providing individual counseling in a private practice setting. I often draw concepts from motivational interviewing, CBT, solution-focused therapy, DBT, & ACT, but will always meet clients where they are. I assist clients in recognizing their personal strengths to utilize during hardships.
(267) 656-7212 View (267) 656-7212

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Beenish Rashid, PsyD, Psychologist
Beenish Rashid
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Newtown, PA 18940
I believe in tailoring treatment to the unique needs of each client, drawing from a range of therapeutic approaches including CBT, DBT, ACT, and play therapy.
Do you ever wonder how your thoughts can influence your actions and emotions? Are you ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing? If so, I'd be happy to help. My goal is to provide caring and effective support to individuals facing life's challenges. In therapy, I approach each session with empathy, understanding, and evidence-based methods. Together, in a collaborative and encouraging therapeutic relationship, my aim is to create a welcoming space where you can explore your feelings, challenge negative thought patterns, and nurture self-compassion.
I believe in tailoring treatment to the unique needs of each client, drawing from a range of therapeutic approaches including CBT, DBT, ACT, and play therapy.
Do you ever wonder how your thoughts can influence your actions and emotions? Are you ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing? If so, I'd be happy to help. My goal is to provide caring and effective support to individuals facing life's challenges. In therapy, I approach each session with empathy, understanding, and evidence-based methods. Together, in a collaborative and encouraging therapeutic relationship, my aim is to create a welcoming space where you can explore your feelings, challenge negative thought patterns, and nurture self-compassion.
(267) 662-1599 View (267) 662-1599
Photo of Sadé Graves, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sadé Graves
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bensalem, PA 19020
Meeting you where you are with intention, we work to enhance coping & confidence skills with realistic, flexible & consistent goals you've set strength based rooted in CBT, EMDR, Play Therapy etc.
You are feeling overwhelmed w/ anxiety, sad, & irritable because your thoughts won't let you rest. New transitions, grief, trauma, burn out or stress left you feeling stuck. Traits o/ imposter syndrome birthed self doubt & overthinking. If not showing up for you while presenting for others has you drained, then its time to prioritize your needs while healing at your own pace. Life doesn't come with a manual neither do you, but with patience & individualized plan the journey to evolution is limitless. Balancing life has its struggles when you are trying to advocate & positively learn about you! Take back control & emit your MAGIC!
Meeting you where you are with intention, we work to enhance coping & confidence skills with realistic, flexible & consistent goals you've set strength based rooted in CBT, EMDR, Play Therapy etc.
You are feeling overwhelmed w/ anxiety, sad, & irritable because your thoughts won't let you rest. New transitions, grief, trauma, burn out or stress left you feeling stuck. Traits o/ imposter syndrome birthed self doubt & overthinking. If not showing up for you while presenting for others has you drained, then its time to prioritize your needs while healing at your own pace. Life doesn't come with a manual neither do you, but with patience & individualized plan the journey to evolution is limitless. Balancing life has its struggles when you are trying to advocate & positively learn about you! Take back control & emit your MAGIC!
(267) 573-8639 View (267) 573-8639
Photo of Joel Sperling, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joel Sperling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Holland, PA 18966
Helping children reach their full potential, means meeting their needs not only academically, but also socially and emotionally. The pressure to succeed in school can be anxiety producing and lower a child's self-esteem. Through Cognitive Behavioral techniques and play therapy, I help students of all ages take more pride in their accomplishments and help them to overcome the obstacles standing in their way. I will work with children, adolescents and their families as they work to become more resilient and help them reach their goals.
Helping children reach their full potential, means meeting their needs not only academically, but also socially and emotionally. The pressure to succeed in school can be anxiety producing and lower a child's self-esteem. Through Cognitive Behavioral techniques and play therapy, I help students of all ages take more pride in their accomplishments and help them to overcome the obstacles standing in their way. I will work with children, adolescents and their families as they work to become more resilient and help them reach their goals.
(215) 688-5720 View (215) 688-5720
Photo of Dr. Elyssa Smith -  Dr. Elyssa B. Smith; The Inner Canvas Collective, PhD, LPC, RPT-S, NCC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Elyssa B. Smith; The Inner Canvas Collective
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, RPT-S, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Langhorne, PA 19047
Family Based Play Therapy, Therapy for Psychotherapists (psychodynamic), Clinical Supervision (pre-licensure, LPC, post-licensure, play therapy), Approved Training and Continued Education, Consultation/Assessment, In-Service Training.
I lead a private practice focused on psychodynamic and depth-informed psychotherapy and family-based play therapy. I am passionate about improving the quality of care provided to children, young adults, and their families. I am also committed to addressing professional burnout and enhancing therapist wellness. My goal is to contribute to the advancement of therapeutic methods and the professional development of my peers, creating a community of therapists equipped to guide others toward more fulfilling lives.
Family Based Play Therapy, Therapy for Psychotherapists (psychodynamic), Clinical Supervision (pre-licensure, LPC, post-licensure, play therapy), Approved Training and Continued Education, Consultation/Assessment, In-Service Training.
I lead a private practice focused on psychodynamic and depth-informed psychotherapy and family-based play therapy. I am passionate about improving the quality of care provided to children, young adults, and their families. I am also committed to addressing professional burnout and enhancing therapist wellness. My goal is to contribute to the advancement of therapeutic methods and the professional development of my peers, creating a community of therapists equipped to guide others toward more fulfilling lives.
(267) 641-1527 View (267) 641-1527
Photo of Lyndsey Hansen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lyndsey Hansen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Newtown, PA 18940
Treatment is unique to the individual using developmentally appropriate techniques such as CBT, DBT, and/or play therapy aimed at building coping skills and fostering resilience.
Today’s teens and young adults are juggling endless expectations. The overwhelming demands of school, work, relationships, social media, and unexpected life events can feel so heavy at times. It is human to respond with negative thoughts, strong emotions, or changes in behavior that are not reflections of the best version of yourself. Remember: asking for help through therapy reveals how capable and courageous you truly are. If you’re experiencing depression, anxiety, ADHD, grief, a history of trauma, or family conflict, you can trust that healing is within reach. My role is to hold a safe, nurturing space for you along the way.
Treatment is unique to the individual using developmentally appropriate techniques such as CBT, DBT, and/or play therapy aimed at building coping skills and fostering resilience.
Today’s teens and young adults are juggling endless expectations. The overwhelming demands of school, work, relationships, social media, and unexpected life events can feel so heavy at times. It is human to respond with negative thoughts, strong emotions, or changes in behavior that are not reflections of the best version of yourself. Remember: asking for help through therapy reveals how capable and courageous you truly are. If you’re experiencing depression, anxiety, ADHD, grief, a history of trauma, or family conflict, you can trust that healing is within reach. My role is to hold a safe, nurturing space for you along the way.
(267) 209-3652 View (267) 209-3652
Photo of Patricia Gunerman - Licensed Professional Counseling Services, LPC, EdS-MFT, MA, MS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Licensed Professional Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EdS-MFT, MA, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Yardley, PA 19067
I provide Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Family Systems, Strategic/Structural, psychodynamic, play and creative therapies in order to resolve psychological symptoms for people ages 4-84 years old.
Reaching out to a professional takes courage. When struggles and unexpected challenges arise, it can lead to symptoms of anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, OCD, and many other psychological and emotional symptoms. Sometimes stress leads to compulsive behaviors, including; over indulging in alcohol and substance misuse. We encourage self-exploration into the patterns that keep individuals stuck, and prevent them from moving forward. We help client's capitalize on their strengths to focus on reaching their highest potential.
I provide Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Family Systems, Strategic/Structural, psychodynamic, play and creative therapies in order to resolve psychological symptoms for people ages 4-84 years old.
Reaching out to a professional takes courage. When struggles and unexpected challenges arise, it can lead to symptoms of anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, OCD, and many other psychological and emotional symptoms. Sometimes stress leads to compulsive behaviors, including; over indulging in alcohol and substance misuse. We encourage self-exploration into the patterns that keep individuals stuck, and prevent them from moving forward. We help client's capitalize on their strengths to focus on reaching their highest potential.
(267) 833-2425 View (267) 833-2425
Photo of Rosalie Marion Jacobs, MEd, BCB, LLC
Rosalie Marion Jacobs
MEd, BCB, LLC
Verified Verified
Richboro, PA 18954
When working with children, I may incorporate, art therapy, play therpay, movement therapy, relaxaton skills, puppetry, desensitization skills, stress/anger management, biofeedback, behavioral learning skills, coping skills training and supportive psychotherapy as well as other creative therapeutic techniques will which help the client back to a comfort level of emotionality.
Allow me to help you over those hurdles that life puts in our paths. Let me assist you to an emotionally healthy lifestyle where you can enjoy life to it's fullest ! I treat individuals, couples, and families. My specialty is working with children, teens and adults, who are transitioning through their lives, and those who may be suffering from anxiety, and panic disorder, when road blocks interfere with life's journeys. I am a Psychoeducational Therapist/ Behavioral Specialist and a Certified Biofeedback Specialist; and have been practicing with successful outcomes for over 35+ years.
When working with children, I may incorporate, art therapy, play therpay, movement therapy, relaxaton skills, puppetry, desensitization skills, stress/anger management, biofeedback, behavioral learning skills, coping skills training and supportive psychotherapy as well as other creative therapeutic techniques will which help the client back to a comfort level of emotionality.
Allow me to help you over those hurdles that life puts in our paths. Let me assist you to an emotionally healthy lifestyle where you can enjoy life to it's fullest ! I treat individuals, couples, and families. My specialty is working with children, teens and adults, who are transitioning through their lives, and those who may be suffering from anxiety, and panic disorder, when road blocks interfere with life's journeys. I am a Psychoeducational Therapist/ Behavioral Specialist and a Certified Biofeedback Specialist; and have been practicing with successful outcomes for over 35+ years.
(215) 392-2282 View (215) 392-2282
Photo of Lauren M. Ondrejack, MS, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lauren M. Ondrejack
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newtown, PA 18940
Lauren has a focus in working with children (ages 4+) through a child-centered play therapy approach.
Lauren Ondrejack, MS, NCC, is a Masters Level Counselor at Bucks Support Services. Lauren graduated from Villanova University’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling graduate program. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Delaware, where she graduated Magna Cum Laude. Lauren completed her Practicum at Banyan Philadelphia’s Eating Disorder Unit at the Intensive Outpatient and Partial Hospitalization levels of care. Her internship was completed in a private practice setting in Yardley, PA. Lauren practices under the supervision of Mark Ludwig, LMFT, CAADC. She is in pursuit of licensure.
Lauren has a focus in working with children (ages 4+) through a child-centered play therapy approach.
Lauren Ondrejack, MS, NCC, is a Masters Level Counselor at Bucks Support Services. Lauren graduated from Villanova University’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling graduate program. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Delaware, where she graduated Magna Cum Laude. Lauren completed her Practicum at Banyan Philadelphia’s Eating Disorder Unit at the Intensive Outpatient and Partial Hospitalization levels of care. Her internship was completed in a private practice setting in Yardley, PA. Lauren practices under the supervision of Mark Ludwig, LMFT, CAADC. She is in pursuit of licensure.
(267) 204-2704 View (267) 204-2704
Photo of Karen M Sheridan, PhD, Psychologist
Karen M Sheridan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Yardley, PA 19067
I am a Licensed Psychologist with a Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology. I specialize in therapy for children, pre-school through adolescence, and their families. I also work with a broad spectrum of adults and couples. I combine therapeutic play, mind-body and brain-based therapies, mindfulness, and cognitive-behavioral techniques to help children better understand their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. Through therapy, children can then learn to make better choices, have healthier relationships, and feel positive about themselves. My work with children includes trauma, grief, adjustment to parent separation/divorce, difficulties with mood, problem behaviors, social challenges, ADD/ADHD; Asperger's Disorder, and Autism.
I am a Licensed Psychologist with a Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology. I specialize in therapy for children, pre-school through adolescence, and their families. I also work with a broad spectrum of adults and couples. I combine therapeutic play, mind-body and brain-based therapies, mindfulness, and cognitive-behavioral techniques to help children better understand their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. Through therapy, children can then learn to make better choices, have healthier relationships, and feel positive about themselves. My work with children includes trauma, grief, adjustment to parent separation/divorce, difficulties with mood, problem behaviors, social challenges, ADD/ADHD; Asperger's Disorder, and Autism.
(267) 281-6006 View (267) 281-6006
Photo of Zoe Morris, Pre-Licensed Professional
Zoe Morris
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19019
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.
(484) 760-0398 View (484) 760-0398
Photo of Alexis R. Lee - Evergreen Counseling & Wellness, LPC, NCC, LCSW, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Evergreen Counseling & Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Southampton, PA 18966
Accepting New Clients as of August 2024 — Life can be challenging and it is our job to provide you with the tools to cope well with whatever difficulties/demands life may present to you. At Evergreen Counseling & Wellness, we tailor therapy to your needs and strengths to help you achieve realistic goals. We want you to feel you can handle whatever is thrown your way. We believe that establishing a healthy, supportive therapeutic relationship & providing an environment where you feel safe and able to openly express yourself without feeling judged is critical to heal and grow.
Accepting New Clients as of August 2024 — Life can be challenging and it is our job to provide you with the tools to cope well with whatever difficulties/demands life may present to you. At Evergreen Counseling & Wellness, we tailor therapy to your needs and strengths to help you achieve realistic goals. We want you to feel you can handle whatever is thrown your way. We believe that establishing a healthy, supportive therapeutic relationship & providing an environment where you feel safe and able to openly express yourself without feeling judged is critical to heal and grow.
(215) 642-8058 View (215) 642-8058
Photo of Jacob Warner, MA,  LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jacob Warner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newtown, PA 18940
Tired of not hearing back from providers? I personally guarantee a call back in 24 hours. Reaching out to find help can be a difficult & stressful process. It is my goal to try & make that process as easy & comfortable as possible. I specialize in helping children/teens during transitional periods of development & the impact on the family. This most often presents as anxiety, depression & relationship conflict. I specialize in working with couples. When working with couples, I utilize different techniques to help work through conflicts & create more clear communication. I have also worked heavily in the LGBTQIA+ community.
Tired of not hearing back from providers? I personally guarantee a call back in 24 hours. Reaching out to find help can be a difficult & stressful process. It is my goal to try & make that process as easy & comfortable as possible. I specialize in helping children/teens during transitional periods of development & the impact on the family. This most often presents as anxiety, depression & relationship conflict. I specialize in working with couples. When working with couples, I utilize different techniques to help work through conflicts & create more clear communication. I have also worked heavily in the LGBTQIA+ community.
(267) 214-2502 View (267) 214-2502
Photo of Erin Fox, MA , LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erin Fox
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPC
Verified Verified
Yardley, PA 19067
Are you facing challenges like anxiety, depression, life transitions, or identity issues? Are you seeking a safe, nonjudgmental space, craving validation, understanding, and guidance? You may be open to self-exploration, aiming for personal growth, seeking insights, coping strategies, and resilience. My ideal client values seeking support and actively participates in therapy. Motivated to improve their lives and relationships, they seek empowerment and self-discovery in therapy.
Are you facing challenges like anxiety, depression, life transitions, or identity issues? Are you seeking a safe, nonjudgmental space, craving validation, understanding, and guidance? You may be open to self-exploration, aiming for personal growth, seeking insights, coping strategies, and resilience. My ideal client values seeking support and actively participates in therapy. Motivated to improve their lives and relationships, they seek empowerment and self-discovery in therapy.
(267) 727-2734 View (267) 727-2734
Photo of Jacquelyn Schriver, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jacquelyn Schriver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newtown, PA 18940
Life is full of transitions and changes, bringing about wonderful memories and moments we'd rather forget. Being human is exciting and rewarding, although complex and confusing at times. Feeling secure in relationships, at work, or as a parent can be daunting! At times, it is easy to fall into a vortex of feeling like a failure. Stress, anxious thoughts and feelings, sadness, and loneliness can sometimes feel bigger than any possible solution. With all this said, actual help and support exists! Hope can be felt again. Let me help you with the up's and down's. Let's walk through this together!
Life is full of transitions and changes, bringing about wonderful memories and moments we'd rather forget. Being human is exciting and rewarding, although complex and confusing at times. Feeling secure in relationships, at work, or as a parent can be daunting! At times, it is easy to fall into a vortex of feeling like a failure. Stress, anxious thoughts and feelings, sadness, and loneliness can sometimes feel bigger than any possible solution. With all this said, actual help and support exists! Hope can be felt again. Let me help you with the up's and down's. Let's walk through this together!
(267) 369-2747 View (267) 369-2747
Photo of Aria Craig, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Aria Craig
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Newtown, PA 18940
My goal is to provide each client an opportunity to express their thoughts, and feelings, in a nonjudgmental safe space. It is central to me that you feel heard and understood. The therapeutic process is a collaborated approach meeting each individual where they are currently at, and developing a style that works best for their well-being. My style is warm and welcoming with an emphasis on interpersonal strength and the encouragement of positive mindsets to enhance daily functioning.
My goal is to provide each client an opportunity to express their thoughts, and feelings, in a nonjudgmental safe space. It is central to me that you feel heard and understood. The therapeutic process is a collaborated approach meeting each individual where they are currently at, and developing a style that works best for their well-being. My style is warm and welcoming with an emphasis on interpersonal strength and the encouragement of positive mindsets to enhance daily functioning.
(267) 263-7035 View (267) 263-7035
Photo of Grace Cain, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Grace Cain
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newtown, PA 18940
My ideal clients are children between 5-18, and adult women looking for a grounded counselor as we build new skills and change old behaviors. You may be going through a time of loss, behavioral issues with your children, a tumultuous relationship, or feeling emotionally stuck in the past. I am excited to partner with clients to create a plan that addresses symptoms and explores old pains in order to find healing and adapt to day-to-day life. If you are a Christian looking for faith-integrated help, I am qualified to help you explore Biblical concepts in your faith.
My ideal clients are children between 5-18, and adult women looking for a grounded counselor as we build new skills and change old behaviors. You may be going through a time of loss, behavioral issues with your children, a tumultuous relationship, or feeling emotionally stuck in the past. I am excited to partner with clients to create a plan that addresses symptoms and explores old pains in order to find healing and adapt to day-to-day life. If you are a Christian looking for faith-integrated help, I am qualified to help you explore Biblical concepts in your faith.
(215) 515-0563 View (215) 515-0563
Photo of Mary Ellen Cook - Newtown Psychotherapy Center, Licensed Professional Counselor
Newtown Psychotherapy Center
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Langhorne, PA 19047
As licensed therapists, we have extensive experience working with individuals, families, and couples to build trusted therapeutic relationships. We provide strategies and support to help you recognize your strengths and explore your possibilities. Our approach is designed to make you feel comfortable, help you to overcome life's challenges, and ultimately to discover,(or rediscover) the life you desire.
As licensed therapists, we have extensive experience working with individuals, families, and couples to build trusted therapeutic relationships. We provide strategies and support to help you recognize your strengths and explore your possibilities. Our approach is designed to make you feel comfortable, help you to overcome life's challenges, and ultimately to discover,(or rediscover) the life you desire.
(215) 352-3129 View (215) 352-3129

See more therapy options for Levittown

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.