Play Therapy in Morrisville, PA

Photo of Erin Fox, MA , LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erin Fox
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPC
Verified Verified
Morrisville, 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 Meaghan Marron, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meaghan Marron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Morrisville, PA 19067
Are you experiencing concerns with anxiety or depression? Are your goals to lead a more fulfilled and satisfied life, increase your self-esteem, and develop self-awareness of the barriers and triggers in your life? Are you committed to making changes and being a collaborative member of your treatment plan?
Are you experiencing concerns with anxiety or depression? Are your goals to lead a more fulfilled and satisfied life, increase your self-esteem, and develop self-awareness of the barriers and triggers in your life? Are you committed to making changes and being a collaborative member of your treatment plan?
(267) 497-3841 View (267) 497-3841
Photo of Zachary Mauro, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Zachary Mauro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Morrisville, PA 19067
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or addiction? Struggling with life transitions or the impact of grief? You’re not alone. As a Licensed Social Worker with over a decade of experience, I specialize in helping you navigate anxiety, depression, substance abuse, grief, LGBTQ+, life transitions, stress, & general mental health concerns to reclaim your sense of well-being. My approach is designed to empower you to understand and manage your emotions, develop effective coping strategies, and build resilience, setting the stage for a more fulfilling life.
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or addiction? Struggling with life transitions or the impact of grief? You’re not alone. As a Licensed Social Worker with over a decade of experience, I specialize in helping you navigate anxiety, depression, substance abuse, grief, LGBTQ+, life transitions, stress, & general mental health concerns to reclaim your sense of well-being. My approach is designed to empower you to understand and manage your emotions, develop effective coping strategies, and build resilience, setting the stage for a more fulfilling life.
(267) 762-1656 View (267) 762-1656
Photo of Kim Burdick, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kim Burdick
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Morrisville, PA 19067
My ideal client would be open to change and exploring more positive ways to see themselves. My ideal client would be someone that values our time together and is present for sessions. My ideal client would be someone who can reflect from within and be willing to do the work, with a sincere desire to change their lifestyle. This client would be flexible and willing to see the other side of the coin, exploring the past and delving into the present.
My ideal client would be open to change and exploring more positive ways to see themselves. My ideal client would be someone that values our time together and is present for sessions. My ideal client would be someone who can reflect from within and be willing to do the work, with a sincere desire to change their lifestyle. This client would be flexible and willing to see the other side of the coin, exploring the past and delving into the present.
(215) 515-2631 View (215) 515-2631
Photo of Kirsten Burks, LPC , NCC , MSEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kirsten Burks
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC , NCC , MSEd
Verified Verified
Morrisville, PA 19067
I support those who are experiencing anxiety & depression and are looking for coping skills to help them. I can assist someone to uncover and understand the relationship that factors in their lives can have on their mental health symptoms. Additionally, I can help uncover negative patterns that maintain a lack of progress. An ideal client would be someone who comes to treatment open-minded, asks questions, and is open to sharing their thoughts, concerns, and questions. This way, the ideal collaboration between therapist and client can occur to achieve the most genuine success through treatment.
I support those who are experiencing anxiety & depression and are looking for coping skills to help them. I can assist someone to uncover and understand the relationship that factors in their lives can have on their mental health symptoms. Additionally, I can help uncover negative patterns that maintain a lack of progress. An ideal client would be someone who comes to treatment open-minded, asks questions, and is open to sharing their thoughts, concerns, and questions. This way, the ideal collaboration between therapist and client can occur to achieve the most genuine success through treatment.
(267) 754-2597 View (267) 754-2597
Photo of Erin Eckman, MSW , LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Eckman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LSW
Verified Verified
Morrisville, PA 19067
Are you dealing with anxiety, depression, and ADHD symptoms that are exacerbated by external life circumstances? Do you want to understand your emotions and learn how to cope with them? My ideal client is seeking support and wants to begin the journey of improving their mental health. The client may have short-term or long-term goals but needs support to achieve them. The client might also want to improve their self-esteem through therapeutic work. Working with a strengths-based, trauma-informed, person-centered eclectic approach can help clients feel supported, develop coping skills, and improve self-esteem.
Are you dealing with anxiety, depression, and ADHD symptoms that are exacerbated by external life circumstances? Do you want to understand your emotions and learn how to cope with them? My ideal client is seeking support and wants to begin the journey of improving their mental health. The client may have short-term or long-term goals but needs support to achieve them. The client might also want to improve their self-esteem through therapeutic work. Working with a strengths-based, trauma-informed, person-centered eclectic approach can help clients feel supported, develop coping skills, and improve self-esteem.
(267) 310-1961 View (267) 310-1961
Photo of Mary Ellen Cook - Newtown Psychotherapy Center, Licensed Professional Counselor
Newtown Psychotherapy Center
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morrisville, PA 19067
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

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lyndsey Hansen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lyndsey Hansen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Yardley, PA 19067
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 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 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 Christina A Fantauzzo, PhD, Psychologist
Christina A Fantauzzo
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Yardley, PA 19067
Your treatment might include family systems therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, play therapy and behavior modification, as well as interpersonal and insight-oriented therapies.
Many of my clients come to me feeling overwhelmed, anxious or depressed. They may be struggling with life transitions, dealing with anger or tantrum behaviors, or have problems focusing or paying attention. I encourage you to share your story through carefully guided questions and together we will explore the factors contributing to your struggles, work to uncover your personal strengths, and develop effective strategies to cope with stress. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families, specializing in treating individuals with Anxiety and Mood Disorders, ADHD, and Autistic Spectrum Disorders.
Your treatment might include family systems therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, play therapy and behavior modification, as well as interpersonal and insight-oriented therapies.
Many of my clients come to me feeling overwhelmed, anxious or depressed. They may be struggling with life transitions, dealing with anger or tantrum behaviors, or have problems focusing or paying attention. I encourage you to share your story through carefully guided questions and together we will explore the factors contributing to your struggles, work to uncover your personal strengths, and develop effective strategies to cope with stress. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families, specializing in treating individuals with Anxiety and Mood Disorders, ADHD, and Autistic Spectrum Disorders.
(267) 202-0701 View (267) 202-0701
Photo of Lauren M. Ondrejack, MS, NCC, LAPC
Lauren M. Ondrejack
Associate Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LAPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Yardley, PA 19067
Lauren has a focus in working with children (ages 4+) through a Child-Centered Play Therapy approach.
Lauren Ondrejack, MS, NCC, LAPC, 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, LAPC, 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 Patricia M G, LPCS, EdS-MFT, MA, MS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Patricia M G
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCS, EdS-MFT, MA, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Yardley, PA 19067
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, and overly emotional? Trying to "fix" things on your own without success? Untreated, these feelings often lead to anxiety, depression, family conflict and increase stress; this prevents you from living your life to the fullest. Coping during stressful times requires talking to a compassionate professional who will treat you with dignity and respect. The goal of therapy is for each person to reach their highest potential in all areas of their lives. I treat children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families experiencing various emotional and psychological symptoms.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, and overly emotional? Trying to "fix" things on your own without success? Untreated, these feelings often lead to anxiety, depression, family conflict and increase stress; this prevents you from living your life to the fullest. Coping during stressful times requires talking to a compassionate professional who will treat you with dignity and respect. The goal of therapy is for each person to reach their highest potential in all areas of their lives. I treat children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families experiencing various emotional and psychological symptoms.
(215) 839-1215 View (215) 839-1215
Photo of Lori Weiniger, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lori Weiniger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Yardley, PA 19067
For over 25+ years, I have been providing therapy to children, adolescents and adults in the Newtown and Langhorne area . Sometimes life throws curve balls. Children and teens can struggle at home and at school. Parenting may be challenging. Separation and divorce often stresses families, and the death of someone close can leave you grieving, sad and depressed. I use my extensive experience to help you find resolution with these issues and the ability to move forward.
For over 25+ years, I have been providing therapy to children, adolescents and adults in the Newtown and Langhorne area . Sometimes life throws curve balls. Children and teens can struggle at home and at school. Parenting may be challenging. Separation and divorce often stresses families, and the death of someone close can leave you grieving, sad and depressed. I use my extensive experience to help you find resolution with these issues and the ability to move forward.
(215) 977-4692 View (215) 977-4692
Photo of Michelle Maddalena-Domboski, MA, LAC, Counselor
Michelle Maddalena-Domboski
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
Yardley, PA 19067
In my 5 years of counseling experience I have had the opportunity to work with a wide variety of individuals, families, and groups. I have had the privilege to work with many children and have experience with ADHD, autism, emotional regulation, and PTSD. I have also lead youth groups focusing on the building of social and coping skills which have included working on the art of conversation (putting down the devices), and anger management. I have worked with families identifying conflicts and working on strategies to better manage children. Additionally I have experience with relationship counseling, divorce, anxiety and depression.
In my 5 years of counseling experience I have had the opportunity to work with a wide variety of individuals, families, and groups. I have had the privilege to work with many children and have experience with ADHD, autism, emotional regulation, and PTSD. I have also lead youth groups focusing on the building of social and coping skills which have included working on the art of conversation (putting down the devices), and anger management. I have worked with families identifying conflicts and working on strategies to better manage children. Additionally I have experience with relationship counseling, divorce, anxiety and depression.
(609) 834-4789 View (609) 834-4789
Photo of Sara Segal, LMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sara Segal
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Yardley, PA 19067
Choosing a therapist to work with you or your family can be an overwhelming process. I strive to create a warm and supportive environment where my clients feel safe and able to share their thoughts and feelings. I believe that everyone is capable of evolving in a positive way to make improvements in their daily life and relationships. Working collaboratively with my clients I provide the skills and techniques for personal growth and healthy relationships. My services include: family counseling, relationship counseling, child/adolescent therapy, and parenting support.
Choosing a therapist to work with you or your family can be an overwhelming process. I strive to create a warm and supportive environment where my clients feel safe and able to share their thoughts and feelings. I believe that everyone is capable of evolving in a positive way to make improvements in their daily life and relationships. Working collaboratively with my clients I provide the skills and techniques for personal growth and healthy relationships. My services include: family counseling, relationship counseling, child/adolescent therapy, and parenting support.
(267) 756-2417 View (267) 756-2417
Photo of Krista McDemus, MS, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Krista McDemus
Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Yardley, PA 19067
Update 10/3/24- Openings for new clients. The mental health of women and children is my focus at GrowthWork. I have experience working with children, teens and families to build healthier ways to express and regulate emotion and create greater harmony in the home. In addition, I work with women of all ages who are seeking ways to process past trauma, improve mood and experience greater self-esteem. I also have a specialized interest in helping adoptees understand the impact of adoption on their relationships and personal identity, and I work with members of the adoption triad process the joys and losses of adoption.
Update 10/3/24- Openings for new clients. The mental health of women and children is my focus at GrowthWork. I have experience working with children, teens and families to build healthier ways to express and regulate emotion and create greater harmony in the home. In addition, I work with women of all ages who are seeking ways to process past trauma, improve mood and experience greater self-esteem. I also have a specialized interest in helping adoptees understand the impact of adoption on their relationships and personal identity, and I work with members of the adoption triad process the joys and losses of adoption.
(267) 263-7146 View (267) 263-7146
Photo of Brian Alexander Young, MEd, MA, LPC, LBS, BCBA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brian Alexander Young
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MA, LPC, LBS, BCBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Yardley, PA 19067  (Online Only)
The connection one makes with their therapist is what makes or breaks the progress that can be made in therapy. I pride myself in my ability to connect with my clients. If you feel you can’t seem to find the right connection for yourself or your child, I’m the guy to call! I don't treat a diagnosis, disability, or disorder...I treat people. I believe anyone and everyone can benefit from the therapeutic process, if they put the necessary work in. Remember, a healthy mind can have a global impact on one's emotional and physical well being.
The connection one makes with their therapist is what makes or breaks the progress that can be made in therapy. I pride myself in my ability to connect with my clients. If you feel you can’t seem to find the right connection for yourself or your child, I’m the guy to call! I don't treat a diagnosis, disability, or disorder...I treat people. I believe anyone and everyone can benefit from the therapeutic process, if they put the necessary work in. Remember, a healthy mind can have a global impact on one's emotional and physical well being.
(215) 337-2367 View (215) 337-2367
Photo of Patricia M 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
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.
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.
(215) 688-5978 View (215) 688-5978
Photo of Mark Ludwig, MA, LMFT, MS, CAADC, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mark Ludwig
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, MS, CAADC, CCTP
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Yardley, PA 19067
Currently accepting new clients. I specialize in working with children, teen and adult individuals as well as family systems being impacted by depression, anxiety, ADHD, substance abuse, eating disorders, LGBTQ+ topics, trauma processing/PTSD, relational challenges and behavioral disorders. Drawing from a variety of treatment approaches including Experiential, Acceptance and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (one of the most effective treatments for many chronic, recurring, and challenging mental health conditions), I foster connection and the emotional experience, authenticity, empathic understanding and compassion.
Currently accepting new clients. I specialize in working with children, teen and adult individuals as well as family systems being impacted by depression, anxiety, ADHD, substance abuse, eating disorders, LGBTQ+ topics, trauma processing/PTSD, relational challenges and behavioral disorders. Drawing from a variety of treatment approaches including Experiential, Acceptance and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (one of the most effective treatments for many chronic, recurring, and challenging mental health conditions), I foster connection and the emotional experience, authenticity, empathic understanding and compassion.
(215) 883-8354 View (215) 883-8354

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.